The Taylorville Food Pantry will be receiving much needed donations of non-perishable food and money through the Taylorville Kiwanis Club’s second drive-thru donation day of 2025.  It took place in front of our Taylorville studios on Saturday.  Kiwanis president Bill Assalley and member Sheryl Van Dyke manned the donation booth.

With school out for summer, kids who receive school meals at a low cost during the school year do not have that safety net.  Assalley says this accentuates the need for contributions.

The first donation day of the year took place on May 17.  There will be four more donation days.  They are scheduled for July 12 and 26 along with September 13 and 27.  The Kiwanis volunteers look to make donating as easy as possible for those wishing to give.

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

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 Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is urging people in the state to take precautions amid Canadian wildfire smoke reaching the state.  The agency says weather models showed an increase in fine particulates in northern Illinois and that this would move southward throughout the day.  This is set to linger into Saturday before another round comes in on Sunday.  Air Quality Index (AQI) readings may indicate orange, meaning “unsafe for sensitive groups.”

Particle pollution of this nature can cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart attacks, stroke, and even death.  Children, adults who are active outdoors, and those with respiratory and pulmonary disorders are at a greater risk of these outcomes.  Symptoms of these issues include wheezing, coughing, a fast heartbeat, tiredness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. 

The Illinois Department of Public Health encourages people to stay indoors whenever possible and set air conditioning systems to recirculate or close fresh air intake.  For those who must go outside, wear a high-quality N-95 or N-100 mask, take more frequent breaks, and reduce the length and intensity of activities. 

Current and forecasted air quality readings are available at www.AirNow.gov.

Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller on Friday received a "Letter of Recognition" for his 43 years of leadership in radio, from the office of Illinois State Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza.

Miller is exiting the radio business later this summer with the pending sale to Matt Hart, owner of Hart Media Group and a Taylorville native.

Pictured from left to right:  

Illinois State Comptroller Manager - Eastern Region, Brock Hammond; Randy Miller; Illinois State Comptroller Manager - Metro East Rg., Ross Breckenridge 

State Senator Doris Turner led a measure through the Senate to stop insurance companies from soliciting nursing home residents.

House Bill 1865 would make it illegal to solicit a resident of a nursing home or long-term care facility, or someone over the age of 65 to purchase accident and health insurance unless the insurance company waits 48 hours before making any insurance-related changes and the individual is given the ability to opt out.

Turner’s measure would also make it illegal for a nursing home or long-term care facility to make substantive changes likely to be disruptive to a resident, or move a resident's place of living, without prior approval from a guardian if the resident suffers from dementia or a medical condition that reduces their capacity to make informed decisions.

House Bill 1865 passed the Senate on Wednesday.

All local businesses in Findlay passed a recent alcohol compliance check, according to the Findlay Police Department.

The checks, conducted in partnership with the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, ensured businesses are following state laws and local ordinances regarding alcohol sales, particularly those preventing the sale of alcohol to minors.

Police officers were on standby during the operation to assist if necessary, but no violations were found, and no enforcement actions were needed.

Findlay Police commend the local businesses for their diligence and commitment to following the law. Their cooperation plays an important role in keeping the community safe and setting a positive example.

The Findlay Police Department also expressed appreciation to the Illinois Liquor Control Commission for its continued support in the initiative.
 

An initiative sponsored by State Senator Omar Aquino to expand loan options for student loan borrowers passed the Senate Thursday. 

House Bill 1430 would allow the Illinois State Treasurer to invest in refinanced student loans and work with financial institutions that provide refinancing for student loans. Refinanced loans at lower rates will result in lower payments for borrowers, freeing up spending power and supporting the local economy.

Student debt now totals over $62 billion in Illinois according to the Education Data Initiative. This impacts 13% of Illinoisans – around 1.6 million people. The average debt per borrower in Illinois is just under $40,000.

House Bill 1430 passed the Senate Thursday.
 

With summer coming up, stores that are geared towards the season are seeing much more customer traffic.  This includes Southern Ledge Pools and Patios near the Taylorville square.  The company enjoys this time of year and is kicking off the season with a customer appreciation day on Friday, June 6 from 9 AM to 6 PM.  Samantha Adermann and Christina Cox from Southern Ledge say food, raffles, and special offers highlight the two-day event. 

Southern Ledge carries more than just what’s in their name.  They also have furniture, accessories, and even some summer food.

Whether you are new at owning a swimming pool or have owned one for a long time, they provide testing services and other installation and preparation assistance.

Their service team can help in the store or come out to your pool.  They serve Christian, Sangamon, Macon, and Montgomery Counties. 

More information on Southern Ledge Pools and Patios is available at www.southernledgepoolsandpatios.com or by calling (217) 827-7665.

Samantha Adermann and Christina Cox appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Lake Shelbyville will once again serve as the backdrop for the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) State Bass Fishing Finals, set for Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7, 2025. The event will launch from the Dam West Boat Ramp, with takeoff each morning at 7 a.m. and weigh-ins starting at 3 p.m. both days.

To accommodate the tournament, the Dam West Recreation Area will be closed to the general public beginning at 9 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, and will remain restricted through 9 p.m. Saturday, June 7. Only participating teams, event staff, and spectators will be allowed in the area during that time.
Spectators are encouraged to attend and support the high school anglers. Parking will be available at the beach parking lots, and attendees can walk to the takeoff site and weigh-in area located at the Dam West Large Group Shelter.

Official practice for competing teams is scheduled for Thursday, June 5. While the area remains open to the public that day, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recommends using alternative boat ramps to avoid congestion.

Other recreational spots, including Wolf Creek Beach and all other USACE-operated boat ramps, will remain open to the public throughout the event. Event organizers, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Shelbyville and the City of Shelbyville, expressed their excitement about hosting the student-athletes and thanked the public for its cooperation and support. 

For additional information on the IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals, or for details about boat ramp and beach availability, contact the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951 or email lakeshelbyville@usace.army.mil.

Springfield Clinic’s expanded walk-in hours are making quick medical care easier to access for patients in the area.  They are now open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday to better accommodate common work schedules in the area.  The wide range of offerings is leading to an increase in visits, but it can also create confusion over where to go for any given need.  Crystal Wingerter, a nurse practitioner at Springfield Clinic, says the walk-in clinic is wise for new, short-term concerns not involving pre-existing prescriptions or care plans. 

As an example, Wingerter presents a hypothetical case of chest pain.  The extent and source of the condition play a role in deciding where the patient should go, but staff at the walk-in clinic can provide further guidance. 

Even for visits to the walk-in clinic, staff must occasionally consult with others to ensure they provide the ideal care for their patients.  

Warmer weather means more outdoor activities.  Now is a good time of year to be reminded to apply sunscreen every hour-and-a-half and to watch for poisonous plants in gardens and nature trails. 
 

More information on Springfield Clinic is available at www.SpringfieldClinic.com or by calling (217) 287-8855.

Crystal Wingerter appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 
 

A measure aimed at exploring the challenges young farmers face when trying to acquire farmland has passed the Illinois House with unanimous support.

Senate Bill 2372 would establish a Farmland Transition Commission tasked with examining the barriers that individuals between the ages of 25 and 40 encounter when attempting to purchase or access farmland. The commission will also review existing policies and incentives related to farmland transfers and offer recommendations to improve access for younger and beginning farmers.

Supporters of the legislation include the Illinois Beef Association, American Farmland Trust, the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and the Illinois Farm Bureau.

The bill, which previously passed the Senate, was approved in the House on a 113-0 vote. It now awaits action from the governor.
 

Prospective students interested in starting or restarting college, training for a hands-on career or adding new skills are invited to visit Lincoln Land Community College for Campus Visit Day on Tuesday, June 24, 5:30-8 p.m. The free event will be held at LLCC’s Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Rd.

Guests can personalize their experience by choosing breakout sessions and tours of interest. Breakout sessions cover topics such as choosing a major or career, getting involved, paying for college, student support services and transitioning to college. Tour options include the Workforce Careers Center, health professions, transfer programs and the Kreher Agriculture Center. Prospective students can also apply for admission, speak with financial aid and recruitment, and learn from faculty and staff about LLCC’s programs. Refreshments will be provided.

Registration is encouraged at www.llcc.edu/campus-visit-day, and walk-ins are welcome. Prospective students who are unable to attend and would like a tour on another day can call/text 217-786-2292 or visit www.llcc.edu/visit-llcc.
 

Schools in Nokomis are at the end of an academic year full of progress and extraordinary achievements by its students.  Some high school graduates have gone above and beyond in their educational experiences, and school district leaders hope to keep the momentum going into the fall.

Having previously been a teacher in Nokomis, district superintendent Dr. Scott Doerr took the job when this year’s graduates were in second grade.  He says watching these same students accomplish what they have makes this class extra meaningful to him. 

Doerr also credits the faculty and staff for their work.  He notes that some of them have taken extra steps to ensure students can do the same thing with their studies. 

The school district has been hoping to see improvement in student outcomes, and the data suggest that is what has happened. 

Doerr wants to see his students keep their important skills up over the summer.  A big step in that respect is regular reading. 

More information on Nokomis CUSD #22 is available at www.nokomis.k12.il.us and on their Facebook page. 

Dr. Scott Doerr appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club presented 2 one-thousand dollar scholarships to 2 Taylorville High School seniors at the annual Scholarship Picnic held Tuesday evening at the Kiwanis Park Pavilion.

Alivia Kent (2nd from right), daughter of Barry (left) and Amy (right) Kent of Taylorville, was presented a $1000 Kiwanis Scholarship by Kiwanis President Bill Assalley (2nd from left).

Sophie Robinson (2nd from right), daughter of Curt (left) and Laura (right) Robinson of Taylorville, was presented a $1000 Kiwanis Scholarship by Kiwanis President Bill Assalley (2nd from left).

A good crowd of Kiwanis members and guests, along with the scholarship recipients and parents, enjoyed a meal and a pleasant evening along Lake Taylorville.

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 Taylorville Park District Board Tuesday night officially rejected the one bid for the new Manners Park pool, and announced they’ll start the bidding process over.

The decision came following both comment from Park Board Pool Chair Sherri Craggs, and comments from visitors.

Craggs told the Board she had been in contact with other contractors that expressed interest in the 8-point-6 million dollar project.

Public comment during the meeting came from local resident Evan Mahan questioning whether the new pool should be built in Manners Park or elsewhere.

After discussion, the Park Board agreed with the recommendation from their architect Burbach Associates, to reject the lone bid from O’Shea Builders due it being overbudget.

The Board also heard a report on money being earned on the 6-point-8 million dollars in bond money issued for the pool project while it awaits being spent; they OK’d installation of a flag pole at Jaynes Park with monies donated by Park Board member and Furlove Charitable Resale Shop co-owner Sherri Craggs; and tabled a proposal pending further review, to buy about an acre near the Bragg Sports Complex from Babe Assad for additional parking.

New Park Board member Blake Heimsness was also sworn in at the start of the meeting.

The Taylorville Park District Board went into executive session after a public meeting lasting about an hour and 10 minutes.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the cities of Pana and Taylorville held a ribbon cutting to commemorate the finishing of the new Lincoln Prairie Trail Bridge over Flat Branch.  The bridge completion is the first time the trail has been open in nearly 10 years.  At 15 miles long, the Lincoln Prairie Trail connects Pana and Taylorville along Route 29.  It’s one of the longest paved trails in Illinois south of Chicago, opening in 2001 along the old Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.  

Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi says that these projects are her favorite.

Terry Baker with the Lincoln Prairie Trail Conservancy says that this bridge is step one of a bigger plan to connect other communities together.

Newly elected Taylorville Aldermen Steve Dennis spoke about the project saying that the hope is that with the trail open that it will allow people a chance to explore nature and learn a little more about what is around them.

Pana Mayor Nathan Pastor says a lot of moving parts had to come together to make this project a reality. 

Pana was awarded $1.1 million in 2023 for the removal and replacement of the previous bridge as it was forced to close in 2015 due to its poor condition.  The new bridge is a 200 foot single span steel structure designed for nonmotorized traffic with 72-foot timber decking and railing on each side. 

Find out more information on the bridge and on future IDOT plans by visiting IDOT on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict6.  

An investigation into alleged sex crimes involving a minor has resulted in the arrest of a Pana man.

On May 22, El Paso Police arrested 44-year-old William Carnahan at his home in Pana, concluding an investigation into communication he allegedly had with a child for sexual purposes. Authorities say Carnahan had arranged to meet the minor in person.

The arrest was part of a coordinated effort involving the El Paso Police Department and the C.H.A.O.S. Task Force, a specialized unit that targets child exploitation crimes. The Pana Police Department also assisted in the operation.

Carnahan faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of indecent solicitation of a child, grooming, and distribution of harmful material.

Authorities have not released additional details due to the ongoing nature of the case.

HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital is recognizing its nurses, and a select few received awards for their work.  This came as part of National Nurses Week, which ran from May 6-12.

Tammy Sentel, a registered nurse in the emergency department, was named Nurse of the Year.  Mallory Jones, a radiation therapist, received the award of Ancillary Team Member of the Year.  Abby Russel and Jaclyn Reed, registered nurses in the medical surgical unit, were named Preceptor of the Year and Rookie of the Year, respectively. 

The awards were presented at Good Shepherd Hospital’s 2025 Nursing Exemplar Awards.  Colleagues, physicians, and executives at the healthcare provider nominated fellow nurses for the awards.  Anthony Powers, Chief Administrative Officer for Good Shepherd Hospital, praised the commitment of all hospital nurses to the Shelbyville community. 

More information on HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital can be found at www.hshsgoodshepherd.org. 

Entrepreneurs in the Effingham area will have greater access to business counseling thanks to a new partnership.  It’s between Lake Land College and the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Eastern Illinois University.  As part of the venture, Lake Land will provide space in the Effingham Technology Center for the SBDC. 

The SBDC provides free advising and low-cost training to support local start-ups and small businesses.  SBDC’s across the country receive funding from the state and federal government and support one million business owners nationally every year. 

Lake Land College acquired the Effingham Technology Center in 2023.  The 100,000-square-foot building allows the school to expand its course and resource offerings to the Effingham area as well as partner with local organizations.  Lake Land hopes this new partnership will increase its reach in the future. 

More information about the Small Business Development Center at Eastern Illinois University is available at www.eiu.edu/sbdc. 

Energy provider Ameren says it diverted 2,100 tons of wood waste from landfills in 2024 by repurposing wood utility poles.  The company used the materials for fencing, landscaping, and construction. 

Ameren replaces around 24,000 poles every year.  Storm damage, vehicle crashes, and natural wear and tear necessitate the replacement of these poles.  Local recycling collectors haul the poles to Ameren’s facilities to be broken down and repurposed. Jennifer Spalding, Enviornmental Compliance and Strategy Manager with Ameren, says the initiative highlights their commitment to caring for the environment and reducing waste. 

The program began in 2022 and has seen 5,500 tons of wood waste be recycled.

The Taylorville Park Board of Trustees will hold their regular monthly meeting tonight, May 27, 2025, at 7 p.m.  The meeting will take place in the Manners Park Dining Hall. 

After the call to order, new board member Blake Heimsness will be sworn in.  The board will move to approve the minutes from April’s meeting.  The treasurer’s report will then be discussed. 

In new business, the board will discuss and potentially vote on a contract involving the Lake Shore Golf Course.  There will also be a vote on the bid for the construction of a new swimming pool at Manners Park. 

The agenda also includes reports from the maintenance superintendent, recreation director, office administrator, and finance committee, and approval for payment of bills.  The board will then potentially go into executive session. 

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for updates following the conclusion of this meeting.

Here’s a reminder to Taylorville Kiwanis Club members, that there is no meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.   Instead, the club will be holding its annual scholarship picnic to present Kiwanis scholarships to 2 Taylorville High School seniors.   The picnic begins at 5:30 Tuesday afternoon at the Kiwanis Park Pavilion.   Kiwanis members, their significant others, scholarship award winners and their parents, are all invited.

The Kiwanis Club will return to its regular Tuesday noon meetings at the Moose Lodge, on Tuesday, June 3rd.

State Representative Regan Deering has announced the launch of her first annual Summer Reading Program named "Reading is Sweet." Deering hopes to encourage students to keep reading during their summer break. The program is open to all students in kindergarten through fifth grade, who reside in, or attend school, within her 88th House District.

To participate, students must read eight books over the summer. Longer books with more than 150 pages, can count as two. Books read as part of other summer reading programs also qualify. A parent or guardian must verify that the books were read. Students who complete the program will be invited to an ice cream party hosted by Deering later this summer. Each participant will also receive a certificate from the Illinois House of Representatives to commemorate their achievement.

The deadline to submit completed reading logs is July 15th, 2025. Entries may be submitted online by visiting www.repdeering.com and selecting ‘Summer Reading’ under the Resources tab.

For more information contact Representative Deering’s office at 217-876-1968. You can also email at bcondon@hrs.ilga.gov. 

Illinois Senate Democrats have introduced multiple bills aimed at addressing the ongoing teacher shortage impacting many school districts in the state. Lawmakers say the goal is to break down financial and regulatory barriers that keep potential educators out of the classroom. One reported issue is the requirement for student teaching, which requires months of full-time work, with little to no compensation.

A new proposal led by State Senator Adriane Johnson, prohibits colleges and universities from requiring student teachers to work without pay. While the legislation does not require these institutions to pay student teachers, it would prevent them from enforcing policies that ban compensation. The change is expected to open doors for new payment models, especially in areas that face the most severe staffing shortages.

From there, Senator Dave Koehler is pushing a bill that offers stipends to both student teachers and their mentors. Student teachers would be eligible to receive up to ten thousand dollars per semester, for up to two semesters. Teachers who mentor them could receive up to two thousand dollars per semester, over the same period of time. Koehler hopes the financial support will help ease the stress had on students while recognizing the efforts of the tenured educators guiding them.

A separate bill drafted by Senator Sara Feigenholtz, would allow the Illinois State Board of Education to extend short term licenses for teachers who took time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act. The legislation aims to give educators more flexibility and ensure their path to full certification is not disrupted by personal or family health needs.

All three proposals are currently moving through the legislative process. The Student Teacher Compensation bill and the Licensing Extension measure currently await final votes. The Stipend Program has recently been reviewed by the Senate Appropriations Education Committee.

The University of Illinois Extension is highlighting its efforts to educate youth about agriculture.  Their “Ag In The Classroom” program takes engaging lessons, projects, and experiences directly to students as early as kindergarten.  Rebecca Niemeier, the Extension’s Christian and Montgomery County Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator, leads the effort.  She says she enjoys the work because of the critical role agriculture plays in our lives, as well as the fun interactions she has with students. 

The program’s setup allows Niemeier to craft lessons that are hands-on and creative, and she takes full advantage. 

Unlike other teaching jobs, Niemeier does not have summers off because her work is grant-funded.  Because of that, she spends summers working with other educators and refining lessons for the next year. 

More information on the program is available by calling the Extension’s Taylorville office at (217) 287-7246.

Rebecca Niemeier appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning show. 

Safe Passage Taylorville continues to see a steady amount of clients needing help and soon there will be a new location to seek support. First United Methodist Church of Taylorville has offered Safe Passage additional space to see more clients. With the additional size, Safe Passage Taylorville would like to make some potential changes to how they serve clients and their families. Denise Evans, Coordinator of Safe Passage Taylorville, talks the new relationship with FUMC Taylorville.

Evans tells of some the changes they will be rolling out. Clients could potentially bring their “support person” with them, giving their loved one more information on how to help.

Evans says support is what is needed most in their clients journey to sobriety.

Recognizing you have a problem is the first step to getting the help you need. While there is plenty of hard work still required to stay sober after seeking help, just asking for it can be the most difficult part.

For more on Safe Passage Taylorville, visit them at their Facebook page. You can also call 217-824-2211.

Denise Evans appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Memorial Day will be honored in ceremonies in several Regional Radio listening area communities.

In Assumption, a Memorial Day ceremony takes place at Sunday at 11 a.m. at their Veterans Memorial.

In Shelbyville, their ceremony will be Monday at 10 a.m. in the Blyman Addition at Glenwood Cemetery.

In Taylorville, the Memorial Day ceremony will take place Monday at 10 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery.

And in Pana, their ceremony will be in Kitchell Park Monday at 11 a.m.   It will include reading all the names of Pana veterans who have passed, along with a speaker from the Illinois National Guard.   

South Fork Schools are excited to present their 2025 Senior Class, with their graduation ceremony set for this Friday. On Wednesday night, South Fork held their ‘Eighth Grade Promotion,’ a tradition of celebrating students successfully advancing to their High School years. With the school year complete, now the attention turns to improving curriculum and projects scheduled for the Summer.

South Fork Schools Superintendent Chris Clark, talks their commencement ceremony and eighth grade promotion.

Along with the graduating seniors leaving the district, Kelly Dulakis, former South Fork School Board president, has also retired. Clark talks the May Board meeting and the public’s participation in it.

Curriculum is also changing for all grade levels. South Fork Schools will be making this change prior to the next school year kicking off.

Clark shares a few of the many projects scheduled for this Summer. New scoreboards are also coming to the gym and football field.

Find out more about South Fork Schools at www.southforkschools.com.

Chris Clark appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

With graduations in full swing and summer parties taking place, Ameren Illinois is asking people to take care when using mylar balloons because of the hazards that they present to electrical lines. Ameren Spokesperson Brian Bretsch says that these balloons are a problem because of the metallic properties of the balloon.

While the message against balloons may be harsh, Bretsch isn’t saying that people can’t use them, he just encourages people to dispose of them properly. 

Bretsch offers a couple other safety tips such as knowing where your power lines are located, and keep ribbons on balloons short. 

To report any issues or power outages, please contact Ameren at 1- 800-755-5000.
 

Illinois lawmakers are still scrambling to put together a balanced budget, while also trying to pass the largest ever State budget in Illinois’ history. Between the deficits, disagreements, and tax hike proposals, the passing of a new budget is more contentious than ever before. Illinois State Senator Steve McClure, a Republican representing the 54th District, talks the status of the budget as it is now. McClure notes even the Democrats amongst just themselves, can’t come to a resolution between party members.

McClure says the budget deficit compared to Illinois’ expected earnings, is at least a billion dollars short. His worry is for where the next tax increase might come from, and how it will affect Illinois families.

Senate Republicans are calling for the Illinois Department of Corrections Director Latoya Hughes, to step down from her position. McClure shares that record numbers of wrongdoings within the prison system, have been taking place.

Learn more by visiting www.ilga.gov. Additional information on State Senator Steve McClure can be found on his website, www.senatormcclure.com.

Steve McClure appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Central A&M schools are preparing for a season of transition as the school year comes to a close.  Staff turnover, maintenance projects, and a new sports co-op are on the horizon, and it’s keeping school district administrators busy. 

The high school recently held its graduation, and the seniors were not the only ones departing; several staff and faculty members are retiring, as well.  This includes the high school’s principal Charles Brown.  The district has hired a new principal, Larry Daly, who has served in the same role at St. Teresa High School in Decatur.  As district superintendent Sacha Young describes, the other retiring faculty members also are calling time on long careers.

The district has it all to do to find replacements.  They have been on the recruiting trail to find up-and-coming teachers eager to work and make a difference for young people.

Before the arrival of new faculty, the district will be busy this summer with renovations on the various campuses.  At the forefront are new exterior doors in Moweaqua.

There will also be repairs to parking lots, updates in technology equipment and other projects easiest to complete when students are not in the building. 

Come the next school year, football games at Central A&M will look different.  That’s because the high school has entered into a co-op with Okaw Valley for the fall sport.  Young says the process involved many meetings and community input. 

The co-op will last for two years before the schools must renew, if they choose to.  The schools’ standalone teams know each other well from regional playoff games this year; Okaw Valley beat Central A&M in basketball while the reverse result happened in baseball. 

More information on Central A&M Community Unit District #21 is available at www.camraiders.com. 

Sacha Young appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Park Board will vote on a $12-million pool construction bid at their next regular meeting.  The park board convened a special meeting on Wednesday to open and read sealed bids for the project.

Despite initial interest from several contractors, only one ultimately submitted a bid.  Springfield-based O’Shea Builders’ bid amounts to $12,693,000.  Representatives from O’Shea attended the meeting to break down the costs.  Some components of the estimate have been finalized, while others are based on square footage. 

The project and its cost include both demolition and construction and come with a 10% bid security.

The park board’s next regular meeting is set for Tuesday, May 27. 

The Pana Public Library keeps a fresh rotation of new events to compliment their everyday services. School is nearly to a close, but that doesn’t mean books should stay that way too. Pana Public Library is putting on their Summer Reading program for area children, from June 1st to the 30th. Also in June, the Scovill Mobile Zoo will make a stop in Pana, giving a closer look at the many animals they have. Donna Wagner, a librarian with the Pana Public Library, talks their upcoming events.

While the special events are more irregular, the community can expect endless books and resources any time. The Pana Public Library is also a member of the Illinois Heartland Library System. If they don’t have what you are looking for, they will find someone that does. 

Another perk of the library card is the option to download materials from ‘Cloud Library,’ at no additional cost.

For more information on the Pana Public Library, visit www.panalibrary.org.

Donna Wagner appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

The Taylorville Police Department is looking to clean up the square, bring on more community events, and pilot new mental health protocol. Through a working relationship with the Christian County Health Department, officers will start calling on mental health case managers, to assist in their work when necessary. Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler discusses the program and his hopes for it.

Recently, a large fight broke out on the Taylorville Square with several reported injuries. Wheeler’s concern surrounds the safety of children that use the square and says changes will be made to protect them.

Wheeler shares about a pair of recent events that the Taylorville Police Department hosted. TPD held their 2nd Annual ‘Bunny Hop’ and a ‘Cops, Coffee, and Cold Scoops’ event, with more expected soon.

Find out more about the Taylorville Police Department by visiting them at their Facebook page.

Dwayne Wheeler appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville High School girls' track and field team is rewriting the record books this season—and they’re not done yet. In what’s being described as the most successful run in program history, the Tornadoes are headed to the state meet with a roster stacked with record-holders, conference leaders, and state qualifiers. Coach Robert Dunn came in while these seniors were sophomores, and he says he saw something special in this group.

Led by a powerhouse group of seniors, Taylorville has shattered multiple indoor and outdoor school records in 2024 and made a name for itself on the state stage. From sprints to field events and relays, this team has delivered across the board. Lyla Repscher, Lilliella Vail, Sydney Lowis, Brooke Bonitzer, and Elsie Williamson talked a little about track and what it is about Coach Dunn that unlocked that little extra. 

During the indoor season, senior Alyssa Andreatta cleared 10’4” in the pole vault to set a new school mark, while Lyla Repscher set indoor records in both the 60m (8.21) and 200m (27.37). Distance standout Ella Goodman, now competing at SIUE, clocked a school-best 2:24.73 in the 800m. The 4x200m relay team of Liliella Vail, Sydney Lowis, Brooke Bonitzer, and Repscher also made waves, running 1:51.10 to finish 12th at the prestigious Illinois Top Times indoor meet. Outdoors, the Tornadoes broke a 42-year-old school record in the 4x100 relay at the Mattoon Invite, finishing in 49.97 seconds. That same day, the 4x200 squad ran a blistering 1:46.89, breaking the meet record and earning a current No. 10 state ranking in Class 2A.  The team just finished up sectionals and is doing things that haven’t been done ever or haven’t been done since Allison Curtin.

Senior Lyla Repscher has been at the center of the team’s success, now holding five school records. She ranks first in the conference in the 100m and second in the 200m, and is a key leg on both the 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams, which placed second and first at sectionals, respectively. Liliella Vail continues to build her legacy as one of the program’s most decorated athletes. A state qualifier in both indoor and outdoor seasons three years running, Vail has a shot to qualify for state in three events this year and is part of four school-record performances. Sydney Lowis, another senior standout, is part of three school records and previously competed at state in the 4x400 as a sophomore. She ran at indoor state last season in the 400m and was part of this year’s 4x200 squad that placed 12th in the state.

Coach Dunn says he’s proud of these girls, especially the seniors, for all they’ve accomplished. 

To hear our full interview with the Taylorville girls track stars, see below. 

  Good luck at state, Taylorville track and field!

Lincoln Land Community College just finished out there 2024-25 calendar year with another successful commencement ceremony with Summer class just weeks away. Graduating students and their families gathered at the Bank of Springfield Center last weekend, to celebrate their loved ones hard work. For Dee Krueger, Director of Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville, it’s one of her favorite times all year. Krueger shares about this year’s graduation as it might just be her last ceremony.

For those that are just graduating or looking to get back in to school, the Lincoln Land Community College Visit Day is the perfect place to start.

Summer classes are starting soon and registration is still open. Krueger talks getting prepared for those additional credits.

For Krueger, retirement is coming quickly. As of June 30th, Krueger will be stepping down from her position as director and looks forward to this newest chapter in her life.

Find out more about Lincoln Land Community College at www.llcc.edu. 

Dee Krueger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County Fair is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with new events, returning favorites, and a night of country music on the schedule. For the second year in a row, the fair will host a Friday night concert, and this year’s lineup is a big one with Clay Walker and Casey Donahue set to headline. In addition to the concert, the fair will feature Community Day on Wednesday, celebrating the people and businesses that make Christian County special. Angela Ohl-Marsters, Marketing and Promotions Director with the Christian County Fair Board, talks the concert and community day.

Bear Creek Ranch in Morisonville will again be back at the Christian County Fair. Joe Bloome, Owner of Bear Creek Ranch, gives some background on the business and its growth.

Bear Creek Ranch will deliver virtually any cut of meat to your doorstep and the delivery itself, won’t cost you a dime. Bloome talks how to shop from their wide variety.

Bloome talks the process of growing feed for their livestock and speaks to the difference in the quality of fresh and grass-fed beef and pork.
 

For more information on Bear Creek Ranch, visit them at www.bcrbeef.com. 
More on the Christian County Fair is available at www.christiancountyfair.com. 

Joe Bloome and Angela Ohl-Marsters appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County board met on Tuesday evening at the Christian County Courthouse to discuss and review business and approve and discuss ordinances. The board approved and reviewed their most recent audit, which was a great success.  Chairman Bryan Sharp says the county is looking good after the most recent audit. 

The big talking point of the meeting wasn’t even a motion but a discussion over an ordinance that was put in place concerning nepotism.  The ordinance only applies to certain departments.  The treasurer’s department has struggled to hire someone to help out during the tax season, and a request was filed for hiring extra help. Betty Asmussen, after struggling to find anyone, wanted to hire her daughter to help out in the department. 

A letter had been submitted from the Christian County State’s Attorney informing Bryan Sharp that yes, nepotism was allowed in certain departments. Sharp says that he felt blindsided by the letter. 

Asmussen expressed frustration that there is just too much work to do for too little pay, and at the end of the day, she just wanted to make the tax season go a little smoother. Sharp asked for a little more transparency in the future moving forward. 

A new policy was implemented concerning hiring procedures for the Sheriff’s Office and 9-1-1 call center.  There was too much money being spent to train, and as soon as people were trained, they were quitting and leaving.  A new way to deter that would be to pay back training dollars if they don’t stay for a mandated amount of time, unless there are extenuating circumstances.  That motion passed. 

Lawmakers on Tuesday approved a bill that bans carbon sequestration with an aquifer that has a "sole source" designation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Chairman Sharp says he is thrilled with this landmark case. 

The bill now awaits approval from the governor after passing out of the House on Tuesday with a vote of 91-19. The next county board meeting is set for Tuesday, June 17th at 6 PM. 

The Christian County Board will meet on Tuesday evening at 6 PM.  Denny Stiner is set to be appointed as President of Owaneco Fire District, and a District 4 County Board member will be announced.  Under reports, Ted Chapman, will discuss a 25 year anniversary Memorial for 9/11, Nextlink Tower Fees will be discussed, and an EMA Emergency Action Paln will be reviewed.  

Under new business, the board will look at pre-employment agreements for the Sheriff’s Office and 9-1-1, the board will review a clean up grant application approval for the city of Pana and Taylorville, review a letter of support for Central Commodity Rail Expansion, and discuss a residency waiver request for the Sheriff’s Department.  

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

The 25th annual Taylorville Blackhorse Veterans Pow-Wow is fast approaching.  The three-day event brings the community together for food, and intertribal dancing.  The pow-wow has evolved over many years but continues its tradition of honoring elders of native backgrounds.  Fred DuBay, event President, says the gathering is personal to him because of his background. 

The pow-wow added the “veterans” designation only eight years ago.  That’s because of the many ties to military service among the organizers. 

This year’s pow-wow runs from May 30 to June 1 at the Taylorville Lake Marina, with different activities every day. 

The organization needs volunteers to help the event run smoothly.  People can help out throughout the weekend, but certain roles allow only a subset of people. 

Anyone interested in taking part, or looking for more information, can email blackhorse@ctitech.com or call 1 (217) 823-6878.

Fred DuBay appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening, recognizing June Adermann and hearing and discussing various ordinance issues and reviewing committee reports. All aldermen were present except for Steve Dennis, Chris Skultety, and Kathy Driskell. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry praised June Adermann and prayed for her.  Adermann is a ten-year-old little girl who is legally blind.  She is set to have an eye procedure—the first to have it done in the US. 

June Adermann day is May 19th. 

A motion concerning the authorization of a Master Sales Agreement with the Taylorville Development Association concerning the sale/purchase of Taylorville Industrial Park failed as it didn’t procure enough votes. The motion needed 5, and the vote was 4-2. 

Other motions during the meeting that were approved included a motion to accept the proposal to furnish materials and approval of award from Louis Marsch for MFT Materials, a motion for a Special Events Permit for the Old Timers Boogie August 15-17th, and a motion to recommend approval of a water main replacement for 2024 S Main Street. A motion was also approved for a pay request for work on the SW Booster Pump House.  

Under committee reports, all motions were approved.  Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry announced that the ribbon cutting for the opening of the Bike Trail Bridge will be on Tuesday, May 27th, at 11 AM.

The city council then went into closed session briefly before ending the meeting. The next city council meeting is set for June 2nd.  
 

Following a wave of severe storms that swept through the Midwest last week, COUNTRY Financial has mobilized claims representatives to help clients in the hardest-hit areas. The storms, which impacted several states from May 15 through May 17, brought damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes, leaving behind widespread property and vehicle damage.

As of now, COUNTRY Financial has received 1,107 claims across seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. Of those, 730 are property-related and 377 involve auto damage. The majority of claims are tied to hail, though many also involve wind and tornado damage.

Claims adjusters from the company are already on the ground in affected communities, working directly with policyholders to expedite the claims process.

The company is urging clients who may have experienced storm-related damage to take action immediately. Those with damage should: Report their claim by calling 866-COUNTRY (866-268-6879), visiting countryfinancial.com, or using the mobile app. Document damage with photos and create an inventory of affected property. Photograph spoiled food and refrigerators before disposal. Take temporary measures to prevent additional damage, such as placing tarps on roofs. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or supplies.

Once a claim is filed, it is assigned to a representative who may schedule an in-person inspection depending on the severity of the damage. Clients are encouraged to use COUNTRY’s digital tools to communicate with adjusters, upload documents, and receive payments via electronic funds transfer when eligible.

COUNTRY Financial also reminded homeowners and drivers to review their insurance policies to ensure they understand what is and isn’t covered. Standard home insurance typically covers damage from storms and fires but does not include groundwater flooding, which requires separate flood insurance. Optional endorsements, such as sump pump failure or sewer backup, must be added separately to be covered.

For more information or assistance, COUNTRY Financial clients can call 866-COUNTRY or visit countryfinancial.com.

The Taylorville City Council will meet on Monday evening at 7 for their second regular May meeting to discuss ordinance, review committee reports and hear from the public along with Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry and the city attorney.  The city council will recognize June Adermann. 

The council will also review and potentially approve ordinances concerning a master sales agreement with the Taylorville Development Association, a proposal to furnish materials, and approval of awards from Louis Marsch for MFT Materials, a special events permit for the annual Old Timers Boogie at Mid-America Sport Parachute Club on August 15,16, and 17.  The council will also look at an amendment for a water main replacement on 2024 S Main Street, and a pay request for work on the SW Booster Pump House.  

Under committee reports, the council will look at motions for a new trailer, a deck adapter, and Salt Spreader for the Cemetery Board.  Under ordinance will be motions for a storm sewer ordinance amendment, a through-the-fence agreement, and BDD agreements between 311 South Main Street and 1141 E 1500 North Road.  

The council will hear from the public and adjourn until their next regular monthly meeting on June 2nd. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for all the latest from the event. 
 

HSHS Medical Group is now scheduling physicals for children ahead of school and sports in the fall.  They urge families to schedule these check-ups well in advance to avoid issues later. 

Select locations are offering walk-in physicals for both school and sports.  A list of these locations is available at www.hshsmedicalgroup.org/school.  All HSHS Medical Group locations offer physicals suitable for school, but some offices do not provide the additional screenings needed for sports.  Appointments can be scheduled through September 30.

These physicals – both for walk-ins and appointments – carry a $20 flat fee.  The fee does not include costs for any needed vaccinations.  It is not necessary to be an HSHS Medical Group patient to schedule an appointment for a physical.  Those wishing to schedule an appointment can call 1 (844) 520-8897.

More information on HSHS Medical Group can be found at www.hshsmedicalgroup.org.

May is National Small Business Month, and Wright’s Furniture & Flooring is using this time to celebrate their history in Central Illinois.  John Wright, President of the company, says they are proud of how far they have come and adds this is thanks to the community’s support.

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring has served the community for 136 years.  The company cites research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics which shows that 65% of small businesses fail within ten years.  Alex Wright, company Vice President, encourages consumers to shop at local business whenever possible.  Wright adds this benefits not only the business itself but also the community as a whole. 

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring has locations in Taylorville, Effingham, Dieterich, and Robinson.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is bringing back a popular Safe Sitter course this summer.  It’s designed to give adolescents the confidence and skills to be effective, safe babysitters. 

The class will consist of role playing, games, and activities.  There will also be lessons on safety incidents, including hands-on practice with mannequins for saving a child who is choking. 

The class is scheduled for Thursday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and lunch will be provided.  It will take place in the Community Room at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  Those who would like to participate should register via TMH’s website. 

It was a beautiful Saturday night on the Shelbyville High School football field, when the community saw 84 of their high school seniors graduate.   The commencement ceremony was broadcast live on Cruisin’ 98-point-3 WSVZ.

Principal Kyle Ladd was again master of ceremonies and introduced various speakers and announced the name of each graduating senior.

But before that, Superintendent Shane Schuricht announced that Jack McClain was the Student of the Year Scholarship winner.

Shelbyville High School Salutatorian Sophia Lynch compared this year’s graduates to a blooming flower.

Shelbyville High School's Class of 2025 had 4 Valedictorians and each spoke.   Tessa Koehler talked about the flame inside each 2025 graduate.

Adeline Lockart spoke about the winds of life.

Jack McClain, another Shelbyville High School Valedictorian told graduates to remember where they came from.

And the 4th S-H-S Valedictorian was Lily Woolery told graduates they have the power to make a difference.

The Shelbyville High School Band provided the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” processional at the beginning of the ceremony, and the Bryce Canyon Overture when S-H-S seniors were led off the football field as 2025 graduates.

Listen or download the entire WSVZ Cruisin' 98.3 Shelbyville High School Graduation Ceremony live broadcast HERE.

The Taylorville Food Pantry will be receiving much needed donations of non-perishable food and money through the Taylorville Kiwanis Club’s drive-thru donation day.  It took place in front of our studios on Saturday at 918 East Park in Taylorville.  Kiwanis members Joe Hauser and Larry Kemner supervised the table and accepted donations. 

Joe Hauser says they received plenty of donations and that contributing to the cause is easy for anyone to do.

The need in the community is high, especially as the school year reaches its end.  This is because kids who receive school meals at a low cost during the school year will not have that safety net during the summer.  Larry Kemner says he has seen the need firsthand. 

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

There will be five more donation days this year.  They are scheduled for May 31, July 12 and 26, and September 13 and 27. 

Joe Hauser and Larry Kemner appeared as guests on the Retro Request Show on Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR and on the Saturday Request Show on Groovy 97.3 WRAN. 

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.

United Community Bancorp, Inc. (UCB) is set to acquire Midland Community Bank.  The two Illinois-based banks agreed to the deal on Friday, May 9.  Midland currently has two locations in Kincaid and Taylorville.  UCB currently has $3.9 billion in assets, while Midland has $66.9 million.  The purchase will add to UCB’s family of banks which includes United Community Bank in Chatham, several others in western Illinois, and one in Naples, Florida.

Mary Coy, CEO of Midland Community Bank, says the purchase will preserve their community banking roots and enhance their ability to serve their customers.  Allen Schmale, Chairman and CEO of United Community Bank, says they look forward to welcoming Midland’s team and customers and working together in delivering banking services. 

Provided the acquisition receives regulatory and shareholder approval, the deal is expected to close later this year.  

Miller Media Group radio station WRAN groovy 97-point-3’s main transmitter took a lightning hit around 3:45 Friday afternoon as a result of severe thunderstorms that moved thru the area.

Station engineer John Masters reported the smell of burning electronic components inside the transmitter, when he arrived on scene late Friday afternoon.

As a result, the various modules and other parts that make the transmitter function, are being taken to the manufacturer’s factory in Quincy, Illinois, for repair.

For the time being, WRAN is operating from a backup transmitter and antenna system that covers Christian County and surrounding area.

We appreciate your understanding while we work to get WRAN’s main transmitter back on the air.   

Illinois House Republicans have raised concerns over potential tax increases that might be included in a forthcoming budget proposal by Democratic lawmakers. The discussions come amid ongoing budget negotiations with Governor JB Pritzker’s Office of Management and Budget. While House Republican budgeteers have been actively engaging with the governor’s office, their participation in meetings with House Democrats has been limited.

Recent developments include calls from progressive Democrats for a graduated income tax hike—even as Illinois voters narrowly rejected a proposal for such a tax in a 2020 constitutional amendment. Additionally, the Illinois Revenue Alliance has outlined a series of tax proposals that, collectively, could generate an estimated $6 billion in new revenue.

Republicans have highlighted one proposal in particular: reducing the estate tax exemption from $4 million to $2 million, a change they argue could disproportionately affect family farmers. State Representative Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro), who is also a farmer, says Farmers shouldn’t have to sell the family farm to pay the tax.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle continue to work through various proposals as the state budget process moves forward, with further discussions expected in the coming weeks.
 

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating National Police Officer Week while honoring those that have fallen in the line of duty. On Thursday, May 1st, officers and their families flooded the state’s capitol for the annual Illinois Police Officers Memorial Ceremony. 12 total officers were killed while serving in 2024, 3 of which were K-9 officers, and all were remembered for their sacrifice. Chief Deputy Jim Baker of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, discusses the memorial ceremony and its services.

Baker shares a poem from the ceremony written by Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic, who was killed in 2021 while on shift. Rittmanic had written the poem nearly 20 years prior to her passing.

Baker tells about the activity from the month of April, for the Christian County Sheriff’s Office.

The CCSO, alongside the Illinois Liquor Commission, recently held compliance checks for 25 different locations. Baker talks how these checks are done and the violations that were given.

Find out more about the Christian County Sheriff’s Office by downloading the ‘Christian County Sheriff’s IL’ mobile app from your devices app store. 

Jim Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County Health Department has spent the last year improving, and expanding, their mental health services to area schools. By the start of next school year, the CCHD is hoping to form new relationships with other local schools, to benefit more children in the community. Now that school is almost out however, it’s important to know that the Christian County Health Department still offers their services during the Summer months.

Pauline Williams, Director of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and Peyton Langen, Mental Health Case Manager with the CCHD, first talk about Mental Health Awareness Month here in May.

The Christian County Health Department already works with Morrisonville schools to bring their services to the classroom. Williams and Langen would love to see that extended to other school districts.

For those that can’t make a therapy session trip to the CCHD office, staff members will meet children and their families, closer to home.

Mental health awareness is growing nationally and Williams believes the same could be said here in Christian County. 

Find out more about the Christian County Health Department at www.cchdil.org.

Pauline Williams and Peyton Langen appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The University of Illinois Extension is warning local gardeners of toxic plants appearing in gardens.  The more recent concern is poison hemlock, a plant which is common along highways, railroads, and field edges.  However, it can emerge in vegetable gardens and landscaping.  The weed closely resembles other safe plants but can be deadly if ingested.  Andrew Holsinger – a horticulture educator at the University of Illinois Extension – says plants like these are not only dangerous for people but also destructive to good plants. 

Poison hemlock is a biennial plant, which means its life cycle is two years in length.  The varying appearance of this plant over time can make it difficult to spot. 

There are other toxic plants to watch out for, as well, including the castor bean plant.  This makes planning gardening efforts in advance that much more important. 

If you think you have ingested or inhaled poison hemlock, the University of Illinois Extension recommends you call 911 or the Illinois Poison Center Helpline at 1 (800) 222-1222.  More information on invasive species can be found at www.extension.illinois.edu/invasives.

Andrew Holsinger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Help children and youth in the Taylorville community that have food insecurity, by donating non-perishable food and monetary donations tomorrow at the first Taylorville Kiwanis Club Drive-Thru Donation Day.  It’ll be held from 9 til noon at the Miller Media Group front parking lot, 918 East Park in Taylorville.

Kiwanis members will be on hand to collect your donations of non-perishable food or money.

At the end of tomorrow’s effort, all food and money will be donated to the Taylorville Food Pantry to assist in their ongoing efforts to provide for children, youth, and families that have food insecurity.

This is the 6th consecutive year that the Taylorville Kiwanis Club are assisting the Taylorville Food Pantry to provide food for those in need.

Don’t forget:   That’s tomorrow from 9 til noon in front of our Taylorville studios, the first Kiwanis Drive-Thru Donation Day to benefit the Taylorville Food Pantry.

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for April were presented with their awards recently. Pictured from left to right are.

Freshman Lucas Litton, Sophomore Connor Boarman, Alexis Jokisch, and Aly Douglas.    (Trinity from Family Drug is there to present the award)

Regional Radio News congratulates the Students of the Month!

Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR along with People's Bank and Trust are recognizing the Pana Students of the Month for April. The April Pana Students of the Month are Luke Fitzpatrick, Emma Handy, Ryleigh Casner, and Aaliyah Henschen.

L - R:  Freshman Luke Fitzpatrick; Sophomore Emma Handy; Junior Ryleigh Casner: Senior Aaliyah Henschen; PBT Representative Jennifer Mathis

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for May were presented with their awards recently. Pictured from left to right are.

Freshman Sophia Summers, Sophomore Hayley Key, Junior Judd Snoke, and Senior Jack Jokisch.

Regional Radio News congratulates the Students of the Month!

Peoples Bank and Trust and WTIM Your Information Station have announced their junior high students of the month for April. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes. This month Paige Mollet, Nora Curtin, Maddox Langen, and Claire Sutton are being recognized. 

L - R:  8TH GRADE PAIGE MOLLET; 7TH GRADE NORA CURTIN; 6TH GRADE MADDOX LANGEN; 5TH GRADE CLAIRE SUTTON

A free cooking class focused on safe home canning practices will be held Tuesday, June 17, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. The event is a collaboration between the hospital and the University of Illinois Extension.

The class was developed in response to the recent Community Health Needs Assessment, which revealed a desire among Christian County residents for more nutrition education and better access to healthy foods. Organizers say the program is part of Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s ongoing efforts to address those community concerns.

Participants will receive hands-on instruction in water bath canning, including which recipe modifications are safe and which should be avoided. Attendees will also prepare a no-sugar-needed strawberry jam and a low-sodium dill pickle, using research-backed recipes provided during the session.

Online registration is available at registration.extension.illinois.edu. Free parking for the event will be available in Lot 4 on the northeast side of the hospital.
 

Several area police departments took part in a state-mandated training on high-risk traffic stops Tuesday morning in Stonington. The training, held at the Stonington Fire Department, was instructed by Eric Peden in coordination with Norfolk Railroad.

Officers from Edinburg, Assumption, Morrisonville, and Stonington participated in the session, which focused on best practices and safety protocols during potentially dangerous traffic stops.

The training is part of ongoing efforts to ensure officers across the state are prepared to handle high-risk situations with safety and professionalism.
 

The Taylorville Park District has kept their schedule busy while managing multiple projects. Coming off an eventful Easter Egg Hunt and pickleball clinic, the Park District is gearing up for a Summer full of concerts and events. The Manners Park Pool Project is out for bid and fundraising has begun for the Jayne’s Park tennis courts to be used by Taylorville Tennis teams. Jessica Franks, Recreation Director with the Taylorville Park District, discusses the fundraising already given and the end goal in mind.

As for the Manners Park Pool project, things are starting to move. Bidding will end on May 21st and the Park Board will announce the bid winners at their next monthly meeting.

Franks explains there will still be opportunity for the pool project to employ local contractors for the work needed.

Franks details the lengthy list of events taking place this Summer starting in June through August.

Find out more about the Taylorville Park District at www.taylorvilleparkdistrict.com.

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

May is National Mediterranean Diet Month, and it’s an opportunity to celebrate the foods common in this part of the world.  The initiative is also meant to inspire people around the world to incorporate foods and other lifestyle components from the Mediterranean into their own lives.  Kelsey Bentlage – nutrition educator with the St. Louis Dairy Council – emphasizes this diet because of the top marks it has consistently received.

With a number of foods making up the diet, there are even more recipes which make use of these foods.  But lifestyle plays a major role as well. 

While American culture runs at a faster pace than in Mediterranean countries, Bentlage says working within these means and setting goals are helpful ways to fit the diet in. 

The St. Louis Dairy Council publishes a “recipe of the month” every month.  For May, the dish is a Greek yogurt, chicken, and vegetable recipe which is simple to make.

The full recipe and other information can be found on www.stldairycouncil.org.  You can also visit them at their Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Kelsey Bentlage appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Master Gardeners with the University of Illinois Extension held a successful plant sale and will now focus on local farmers markets and workshops. Coming up are their ‘Four Seasons’ and Native Trees and Shrubs workshops with another plant sale scheduled in Carlinville. For those that are struggling with their new plants, the Master Gardeners HelpDesk is back up and running on Thursday mornings too.

Sandi Klein and Linda Smith, Master Gardeners with the University of Illinois Extension, recap the plant sale while thanking those that attended.

Any questions or concerns regarding your plants at home could be answered with the Master Gardeners HelpDesk. On Thursday mornings from now until September, you may call or provide a sample of your plant, to get the help you need.

Smith talks about the best ways to get detailed information on when and how to plant your garden.

In addition to the stops at local farmers markets, the University of Illinois Extension will be putting on several more workshops. On May 14th, master gardeners will host a native trees and shrubs selection course, followed by a ‘Four Seasons’ class with a focus on Summer, happening May 20th.

Learn more about the Master Gardeners with the University of Illinois Extension by visiting www.extension.illinois.edu/mg.

Sandi Klein and Linda Smith appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

New to Nokomis is “Newkomis,” a recently formed organization that combined the efforts of multiple groups into one, but with the same focus on bettering Nokomis. Farmers markets in Nokomis have been around for years, although this year comes with a change of scenery and added dates. Trevor Loafman, a member of ‘Newkomis,’ discusses the farmers market and the changes made. ‘Newkomis Farmers Market’ now runs on Wednesday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m..

After a well-attended “Breakfast with Beer Bellies” last year, the organization has decided to bring it back on June 7th.

Loafman gives some background as to when ‘Newkomis’ started and how it came to be.

Find out more about ‘Newkomis’ by visiting their Facebook page. You can also email them at newkomisevents@gmail.com.

Trevor Loafman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

On Tuesday evening, the Taylorville CUSD #3 Board of Education sat down for their regular monthly meeting for May, at the Board of Education office. The School Board heard public comments including statements from Adam Vocks and four FFA students on another strong showing from their chapter. Additionally, 6 retiring teachers were present and honored for their years of service, with more than 10 total faculty leaving the district. Board members quickly approved the consent agenda and heard presentations on an amended budget and TJHS handbook, before moving to new business.

Adam Vocks spoke to the Board following the Tommy Award Show held this last Saturday. Vocks wanted to highlight the efforts of 17 total students and talked the importance of the awards themselves.

A motion regarding Taylorville High School seniors that are eligible to graduate was approved. Seniors that qualify will get to walk the stage on May 16th and be recognized for all their achievements.

When discussing approving a 15 million dollar bond for the purpose of improving or repairing school buildings and facilities, questions arose around the wording of the resolution. The item has been tabled for now and will be discussed again in June.

The Board and members of the public also heard from the superintendent during her report. Bruley is thankful for the all the hard work from faculty and staff in the last year and looks forward to a “restful summer.”

Also approved by the Board was their final 24-25 school calendar, a contract with Christian County CEO, approved GIG Energy as their new provider, and the dissolving of the Co-Curricular and Public Relations committees.

The next TCUSD #3 Board of Education meeting is slated for Tuesday, June 10th.
 

The co-owner of the SHADOW Box non-profit thrift store in Taylorville was Tuesday’s guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club at the Moose Lodge.

Keith Boston visited with the Kiwanis Club, sharing how he and his wife Shannon founded the non-profit organization and store in 2005 on the Taylorville square.

The 501C3 non-profit first benefited the SHADOW Home for Women and Children in Taylorville.   Boston said that due to the continued growth of the store, it’s now able to help fund not only the SHADOW Home, but Food Pantries in Taylorville, Edinburg, and Kincaid.

Boston shared his wife’s passion for not only raising money for the SHADOW Home but to help the community.

The non-profit business closed in 2008, re-opened in 2011 in the former Free Methodist Church building on South Shumway.  It then moved to larger quarters in the former Brown and Sons building on Springfield Road in 2016.  Boston told the Kiwanis Club the move to the Springfield Road location enabled their venture to post growth of 10 to 25-percent per year, including when they re-opened after the COVID shutdown in spring 2020.

The SHADOW Box employs 7 people, and continues to accept furniture and clothing donations.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club 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.

Firefighters from across Illinois gathered in Springfield today to remember those who died in the line of duty. The annual Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial was held on the Capitol grounds, where the firefighter statue served as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice many have made.

Following the memorial, the Medal of Honor Ceremony took place at the Bank of Springfield Center. Several members of the Taylorville Fire Department were recognized for their outstanding service.

Assistant Chief Cody Rogers received the Firefighter Excellence Award for his professionalism and dedication while on duty. Firefighters Kobe Wheaton, Andrew Watson, and Lucas Smalley were honored with the Firefighter Excellence Unit Citation, which is given to teams showing exceptional teamwork and service during emergency responses.

The recognition highlights the Taylorville Fire Department’s strong commitment to protecting the community with courage and professionalism.  We here at Regional Radio News Salute the members of the Taylorville Fire Department for their heroic efforts last fall. 

As temperatures rise and more people spend time outdoors, health experts say it’s important to understand how much sun exposure is needed to get a healthy dose of vitamin D without overdoing it.

Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," plays a key role in helping the body absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. According to Maddy Draper, a certified nurse practitioner with OSF OnCall, not getting enough vitamin D can lead to brittle bones, muscle aches, and a greater risk of injury after a fall. In some cases, a deficiency may not present any symptoms but can still be detected with a blood test.

Some groups are more prone to vitamin D deficiency, including pregnant women, infants who are breastfed, older adults, and individuals with darker skin tones.

While vitamin D is important, Draper says getting too much is rare but possible. Symptoms of vitamin D toxicity include nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations, and even kidney damage in extreme cases.
Fortunately, Draper says most people can get enough vitamin D by spending just 10 to 15 minutes in the sun three times a day.

Experts recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplied every two hours. They also advise watching for signs of sunburn, staying hydrated, and checking skin for any unusual changes that could signal skin cancer.

And while specialized lamps are sometimes used to treat seasonal affective disorder, Draper notes that artificial light won’t help with vitamin D levels—natural sunlight is still necessary.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your vitamin D levels, health professionals recommend speaking with your primary care provider.

Residents in central Illinois may have felt a little shake late Monday night as a small earthquake was recorded near the village of Lerna.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck at 11:46 PM local time on Monday, May 13. The epicenter was located about 2 kilometers southwest of Lerna, in Coles County, at a depth of approximately 9.1 kilometers.

While the quake was minor, some residents in the area reportedly felt the tremor. There are no reports of injuries or damage at this time.

Earthquakes of this magnitude are generally not considered dangerous but can be felt depending on their depth and proximity to populated areas. This region of Illinois is part of the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone, which occasionally sees small quakes.

The USGS encourages anyone who may have felt the earthquake to submit a report on their "Did You Feel It?" website to help with data collection.
 

The Taylorville Chamber of Commerce hosted a successful Business After Hours gathering on April 23, bringing members together at the new event venue, Unlimited Possibilities at Suessie's Resale UBNA.

Co-hosted by Suessie's Resale UBNA, Tiger Loans, and The Wolfe Ranch Girl Handcrafted Goods, the event offered a chance for local entrepreneurs to network, collaborate, and support one another. Special guests included two Christian County CEO program students, who shared their business ideas and connected with established professionals.

Attendees also enjoyed giveaways and learned more about local products and services. The event underscored the Chamber’s mission to foster strong community ties and support both established and emerging businesses.
 

The Taylorville Community Unit School District #3 Board of Education is set to hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13th. The evening will start with a reception at 5:30 p.m., to recognize retiring staff members for their service to the district. The official meeting will follow at 6:00 p.m., with several presentations and decisions on the agenda.

Among those being recognized are FFA students who have recently received awards, as well as the Taylorville Junior High School Jazz Band, which earned "Best in Day" honors at a recent IESA competition. Reports will also be given on the amended district budget, updates to the Taylorville High School handbook, and progress from the building committee. These updates come as the board continues its planning for the upcoming academic year.

Board members will vote on the final school calendar for 2024–25 and begin early budget preparations for FY 2026. A proposed $15 million bond issue for facility upgrades is also on the table. Other action items include revisions to job descriptions, student matters, and policy updates. The meeting will conclude with an executive session to discuss personnel and other confidential matters.

How many people can say they are a published author? Probably not many, but the entire 5th grade class at Taylorville Junior High School now can. Following their “Everyday Heroes” Class Book Project, students wrote and illustrated their personal stories about those that impact them most. Students chose their moms and dads, siblings, and others, and then crafted handwritten stories telling of their importance to them.

Kelly Laker, 5th Grade Level Chair for Taylorville School District, discusses the project itself and the work put in by the students.

Laker shares how the idea for the project came about and the time required to see it to completion.

Each 5th grade class created their own book for a total of six individual pieces, which parents still have the opportunity to purchase.

Laker tells of the impact had on the students and staff associated with the project.

Find out more by visiting www.tjhs.tcusd3.org. For your own copy of the book or books created, visit www.studentreasures.com.

Kelly Laker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our Taylorville School District “Good News” segment.

The National Weather Service in Lincoln Monday afternoon reported multiple cold air funnel clouds forming near Pana as part of showers and thunderstorms moving thru the Regional Radio listening area.

N-W-S relayed broadcast media reports of the cold air funnels at 5:40 Monday afternoon.  They added atmospheric conditions favored the formulation of the cold air funnels into Monday evening, adding some may persist before dissipating.

N-W-S pointed out that cold air funnel clouds don’t show signs of a rapid rotation, as they’re low hanging clouds.   An actual funnel cloud, says the Weather Service, exhibits spinning in a counter-clockwise rotation.

In rare instances, a cold air funnel cloud may touch down.   The Weather Service says to always stay vigilant anytime there’s any kind of funnel cloud spotted in your area.

The City of Taylorville has decided to purchase the Taylorville Industrial Park, opening new doors to developers interested in Christian County. This comes after recently expanding the Enterprise Zone, benefiting businesses that already call the county ‘home.’ The Christian County Economic Development Corporation has been spearheading multiple efforts to improve the local economy.

Matt Hart, Executive Director of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, starts out by talking tariffs and their impact on area establishments.

Hart knows that tariffs create trouble in the short term, but still hopes they will cause potential future gains.

Recently announced by the Governor, a $1.2 million State grant is headed to Downtown Pana. Hart explains what the money will be used for.

Now that the City of Taylorville plans to purchase the Industrial Park, Hart believes all parties involved will benefit from it.

Find out more about the Christian County Economic Development Association by visiting www.christiancountyedc.com.

Matt Hart appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Illinois Office of Comptroller is highlighting programs available to help small businesses in the state.  It comes on the heels of National Small Business Week, which ran from May 4-10. 

One service is the Smart Business Program.  This offering teaches business owners about the state’s certification and procurement processes and provides counseling on state contract opportunities.  State contracts are also the focus of the Small Business Set-Aside Program.  Finally, the Business Enterprise Program walks business owners through publicly certifying their businesses as minority/women/veteran/disabled-owned.  Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza says these programs will help businesses bid on state contracts.

The Office of Comptroller recommends that business owners complete the Small Business Set-Aside Program – the registration for which can be found on www.illinoiscomptroller.gov – before entering the Business Enterprise Program.  To register for the Smart Business Program, owners can call Julie Ayres at (312) 814-0034. 

The Illinois Senate will soon vote on a bill regarding driver’s license renewals for senior citizens.  House Bill 1226 would increase age requirements for in-person license renewals and driving tests. 

Currently, drivers 75 and older must complete license renewals in person.  Drivers 79 and older must also take and pass a driving test – much like drivers looking to obtain a license for the first time – as part of their renewals.  The bill would raise the age thresholds to 79 and 87 respectively.

The bill cites a study by the Secretary of State – which State Senator Ram Villivalam called for in 2022 – which found that seniors in Illinois are among the safest drivers.  It also showed that raising the age requirements as previously mentioned would reduce wait times at Secretary of State facilities.  Villivalam says these findings – along with similar regulations in other states – demonstrate the need for these changes in Illinois. 

The bill passed the Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday and heads to the Senate floor.  Details on the bill can be found at www.ilga.gov. 

It’s almost 4-H Fair season and though it’s not quite here, plenty of exciting workshops and events are taking place in the meantime. Christian County 4-H is hosting a French and sourdough bread making class, a showmanship skill workshop, and their 4-H Science Camp. Taylor Sinclair, 4-H Youth Program Development Coordinator, discusses a different kind of workshop. Pope highlights a “grab and go” art kit on May 19th, where participants will learn how to make a macrame key chain on their own time.

Sourdough starters can be difficult for first-timers. Sinclair, alongside Bear Creek Farm and Ranch, will teach how to start your sourdough and maintain it moving forward.

4-H Science Camp has been a success for many years and is back around this year on June 27th. Sinclair tells about the event and the hands-on projects taking place.

4-H Fairs keep Sinclair busy, but she still views it as her “favorite time of the year.”

Find out more by visiting www.extension.illinois.edu/cjmm. 

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

With summer around the corner, The Taylorville Public Library is preparing for its summer reading program.  Participants are able to win prizes for their reading efforts during the program.  The library is hoping to surpass last year’s total of 244 participants.  Erin Crommett – Program and Outreach Manager for the Taylorville Public Library – says the program welcomes people of all ages and will have fun events to keep people coming back. 

Crommett says the program is meant to bring people in the community together and attract those who otherwise would not be interested in reading.

On top of the summer program, the library has other regular events year-round.  Some events rotate in and out to make sure they have a variety of offerings. 

One of the special events coming up is for this month, which is Mental Health Awareness Month. 

More information on the Taylorville Public Library is available at www.taylorvillelibrary.org.

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club this week awarded 2 $1000 scholarships to 2 Taylorville High School seniors at the school’s recent Scholarship Night.

The pair were selected by a committee of Kiwanis members from several entries received.

Awarded $1000 Kiwanis scholarships were T-H-S seniors Alivia Kent and Sophie Robinson.   Kent was presented her scholarship by Kiwanis past president Chuck Martin.   Robinson was ill and unable to attend.

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 Chautauqua Auditorium in Forest Park in Shelbyville hosted Chet Kingery Memorial Bluegrass Festival this past Friday night and Saturday for the 2nd consecutive year.

A host of top bluegrass bands performed, hosted by the band Mackville.  Here’s a little of Mackville’s music that was heard this past weekend.

WMKR Genuine Country 94-point-3 broadcast live interviews with members of several different bands, from the event’s Green Room Saturday morning. 

Organizer Larry Schlabach (first from left) of the band Mackville said the effort to bring the bluegrass festival to Shelbyville began in 2022.

Ron Kingery, the son of the late Chet Kingery that the festival is held in honor of each year, told WMKR listeners it was a great way to remember his father each year.

Little Roy Lewis (left) and his cousin Lizzie Long (right), both from Lincolnton, Georgia, were among the headliners Saturday at the bluegrass festival.   Little Roy is a legend in bluegrass and gospel music.

The second year of the festival in Shelbyville this past weekend brought larger crowds than last year, along with great weather.

The festival's 2nd day goes from 11am Saturday thru 8:30pm with general admission to hear 5 great bluegrass bands just $25.

People First Bancshares Inc. recently held its annual meeting at Peoples Bank & Trust in Pana, Illinois, where the organization reviewed the past year’s performance and recognized changes in its leadership team.

The Board of Directors honored director emeritus Michael Trexler for his 31 years of service upon his retirement. The board also welcomed Robert Swartz, who joined the company's Board of Directors in the previous year. Additionally, the organization acknowledged the retirements of Sherri Hunter, Carol Schneider, and Sue Palliser for their contributions.

In 2024, the company reported substantial financial growth, including a $34 million increase in gross loan volume, bringing the total to $413 million. Deposit volume rose by $57 million to reach $480 million, and net income climbed by $770,370, totaling slightly more than $8.2 million.

A key factor in this growth was the merger with Arcola First Bank, which added three new branches in Arthur, Arcola, and Tuscola, as well as a new customer base. In line with its mission to support local communities, the company contributed more than $150,000 to community organizations and logged over 4,000 volunteer hours by employees and directors.

The merger also expanded the company’s workforce with 17 new employees from Arcola First Bank. Additionally, Peoples Bank & Trust recruited five bank officers from outside the organization and promoted 13 existing team members to new roles, continuing its focus on team and leadership development.
 

Children from across the area gathered on April 30 for a colorful evening of creativity at the Mini Masterpieces Workshop, hosted by Illinois 4-H. The event gave young participants the chance to paint, color, and craft their own original pieces of art in a fun and relaxed setting.

Laughter and bright colors filled the room as kids explored their artistic side, producing artwork they were proud to take home. The workshop emphasized the joy of self-expression and the value of creativity in child development.

The event was part of Illinois 4-H’s ongoing efforts to provide hands-on learning experiences that empower youth. Those interested in learning more about 4-H programs can contact Taylor Pope at the Christian County Extension Office by calling 217-287-7246 or emailing tpope4@illinois.edu.

Illinois 4-H, the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension, helps young people build leadership skills and prepare for future careers through hands-on learning in areas like STEM, civic engagement, and healthy living.

The University of Illinois Extension serves as the public outreach arm of the university, helping individuals and communities across the state make informed decisions through practical, research-based education.
 

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce remains committed to the businesses and members they serve. The GTCC has been working to revamp their website features, offer more tools and lines of communication with their members, and more. All this while still working to plan out their 40th Annual Chillifest, come this October. Krystal Baker, Board President of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, details the changes made to their website and the information available.

Members can now utilize their GTCC partnership in new and revamped ways. Baker shares about the upgrades made.

On top of being able to reach any other business, or member, with the GTCC online, their ‘business after hours’ are a great way to meet others monthly. 

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is always thinking Chillifest. This year marks the 40th Anniversary of Chillifest, a major milestone for the festival.

Baker says the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce ‘never stopped working,’ for the members they serve.

Find out more about the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce at www.taylorvillechamber.com. You can also visit them at their Facebook page.

Krystal Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Taylorville Junior High School has announced its April Staff Spotlight recipients, recognizing both a certified and non-certified staff member for their outstanding contributions to the school community.

The Red Apple Award for April has been awarded to Mrs. Melissa Febus, who teaches 6th grade English-Language Arts and also serves as the sponsor of the TJHS Drama Club. Her passion for education and the arts is on full display this week as her latest production, Snow White—Rebooted, is set to take the stage this Friday and Saturday, May 10, at the junior high. A longtime favorite book of hers is To Kill a Mockingbird, and she says some of her fondest memories come from directing school plays, especially those that included her own children. Febus says she enjoys teaching at TJHS because of the camaraderie among staff and the support of the local community.

The school also recognized Mrs. Kirsten Beaman, the TJHS School Resource Officer, as the Non-Certified Staff Member of the Month. Officer Beaman is praised for her daily efforts to ensure a safe and supportive environment for both students and staff. She plays an active role in student well-being and is known for delivering the “Too Good For Drugs” program to the 5th grade each year. Her favorite memories include helping students achieve academic success and witnessing their growth in effort and attitude.

TJHS officials thanked both staff members for their dedicated service to the school and the broader Taylorville community.
 

It was an emotional evening for long-time city employee Valerie Miles, who is retiring to spend more time with her family. Miles started with the city in 1996, where she worked as a police dispatcher before spending time at the airport, the water department, and eventually in the treasurer’s office. 

Miles says that going into the city treasurer position was extremely difficult but rewarding.  She credits her support system for setting her up for success. 

Miles also credits new Treasurer Crystal Nichols for her help and says the city is in good hands with her at the helm.

As far as moving forward, Miles says she will be spending time with family both here and in Florida. We here at Regional Radio News salute you, Valerie Miles, for your dedication and years of service!

A Mattoon man is dead and a Cowden resident is in custody following a shooting Wednesday night that is under investigation by multiple agencies.

According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and Cowden Police responded to a 911 call around 9:46 p.m. on May 7 reporting a disturbance in progress involving a firearm in Cowden. Upon arrival, officers discovered 54-year-old Chad Perry of Mattoon deceased at the scene.

Authorities say 56-year-old Trent Buchanan of Cowden was taken into custody and booked on charges of Involuntary Manslaughter. As of Thursday afternoon, no formal charges had been filed.

The investigation remains ongoing. The Shelby County Coroner transported Perry for an autopsy, and the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit, Shelby County Coroner, and the Shelby County State’s Attorney’s Office are assisting with the case.

Sheriff Brian McReynolds confirmed the incident in a press release issued Thursday afternoon.

An early morning fire caused significant damage to a home in Taylorville on Thursday. Around 2:30 a.m., the Taylorville Fire Department was dispatched to the 400 block of West 1st Street for a report of a garage on fire.

Upon arrival, crews found the garage fully engulfed, with flames spreading to the home and two vehicles in the driveway. Firefighters quickly knocked down much of the exterior fire before moving inside to battle the flames on the residence's second floor.

All residents, along with their two cats, were able to escape the home safely. Firefighters conducted extensive overhaul operations after extinguishing the fire.

Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including departments from Owaneco, Stonington, and Morrisonville, along with the Taylorville Police Department and Dunns Ambulance. The American Red Cross is now assisting the displaced residents.

Crews cleared the scene around 4:15 a.m. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Taylorville Fire Department personnel.
 

As of 2022, 1 out of 8 children in Christian County, is struggling with food insecurity. This number only gets worse when school is out of session. The Taylorville Food Pantry expects, and welcomes, the surge in numbers that comes around every Summer. Amy Hagen, Co-Coordinator of the Taylorville Food Pantry, is already working to prepare for the increase. Hagen says food insecurity is an issue year-round, that really ramps up when schools close.

The Taylorville Food Pantry needs support from the community to keep shelves stocked during the busy season. Hagen talks the “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive that's just around the corner.

Other opportunities to give include the Kiwanis Drive-Thru Donation Days.

Why are all these efforts so important? Hagen shares an alarming statistic concerning children in our community.

For those questioning if they are eligible for the Taylorville Food Pantry’s help, Hagen breaks down the numbers behind those that qualify.
 

Find out more about the Taylorville Food Pantry at www.taylorvillefoodpantry.com.

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

The Lincoln Prairie Trail will receive a boost thanks to donations from Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  The healthcare provider announced it has donated a bench, storage racks, and repair station to the Lincoln Prairie Trails Conservancy for use on the trail. 

The repair station has tools attached, including a tire pump and hooks.  It will sit on a concrete slab which is also part of the donation.  Jay Boulanger – community health consultant for TMH – says he hopes the new equipment will be helpful for those who use the trail.

The Lincoln Prairie Trail is a 14.6-mile asphalt trail which runs alonside Illinois Route 29 between Taylorville and Pana.  The Taylorville trailhead is at South Paw Paw Street, while the trailhead in Pana is at Magnolia Avenue. 

Christian County Emergency Management Agency involves more working pieces behind the scenes, than you might imagine. Joint efforts require all first responders to be on the same page in case of severe weather. The same could be said about your favorite event or festival too. Jeff Stoner, Director of the Christian County Emergency Management Agency, starts by detailing the amount of manpower required to prepare for inclement weather.

Stoner would like to correct some common misconceptions surrounding “tornado sirens.” 

Stoner gives some ways to keep yourself, or family safer, with real time weather alerts.

Summer is just about here and with that comes the many different community events. Stoner shares that event planning has to be thorough to ensure public safety.

Find out more about the Christian County Emergency Management Agency at www.christiancountyil.gov. You can also visit them at their Facebook page.

Jeff Stoner appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A bill in the Illinois General Assembly surrounding agriculture-based learning is a step closer to becoming law.  House Bill 2802 would allow participation in supervised career development experiences and other work-based learning activities to count towards school hours.  Schools would be required to amend their policies to reflect this allowance.

This bill, of which State Senator Doris Turner is a sponsor, is based on a similar 2023 law she also authored.  This bill was written in part to focus on hands-on agriculture-related learning experiences such as FFA and 4-H.  Turner says the measure would remove barriers these students may face when taking part in such activities which clash with the school day. 

The bill passed the State House with a unanimous vote.  It also passed the Senate Education Committee and now heads to the full Senate for further consideration. 

The Pana Police Department experienced an uptick in calls and some notable cases in these last few months, all while down an officer. March was a particularly busy month for the force, with April not far behind. Now with Summer nearly here, Pana Police Department Police Chief Daniel Bland, doesn’t see the warmer months slowing down either. Bland looks back on the previous months and the Department’s efforts.

Officers conducted compliance checks on local liquor and tobacco licensed stores and the results were not what they had hoped for. Bland states 8 total establishments failed the inspections.

Bland shares about two cases that stand out to him, since the beginning of March. 

The Pana Police Department is looking for a fun, yet safe summer, full of events. Bland gives some basic tips on general safety.

Find out more by visiting www.cityofpana.org. You can also visit them at their Facebook page.

Daniel Bland appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

Summer is around the corner and that means the Christian County YMCA will be busy with programming for kids of all ages.  Sporting events, camps, and lessons will be on offer to keep kids active and engaged throughout the season.  The Y is seeing healthy enrollment in their summer offerings, and the numbers continue to climb. 

First, though, the spring soccer season is wrapping up.  Saturday, May 10 is all-star weekend.  Bruce Blanshan – Executive Director of CCYMCA – says it will be a busy weekend with many teams playing at once. 

Summer camps will begin soon for kids aged five to twelve.  Blanshan says in addition to trips as far away as St. Louis, the Y is looking to put on engaging themes each week.

And to provide these camps and events, CCYMCA is looking to raise funds.  They will hold their annual golf outing early this summer to do just that.  It’s scheduled for Friday, June 13 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lakeshore Golf Course.  The cost to take part is $100 per player.

CCYMCA is also celebrating the success of their recent Healthy Kids Day event and Color Run.  It took place at the Christian County Fairgrounds, which as Blanshan says is perfect for the large crowd the event attracted. 

More information on the Christian County YMCA is available at www.ccymca.org.

Bruce Blanshan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

You can help children and youth in the Taylorville community that have food insecurity, by donating non-perishable food and monetary donations this summer at the Taylorville Kiwanis Club Drive-Thru Donation Days.  They’ll be held on selected Saturdays from 9 til noon at the Miller Media Group front parking lot, 918 East Park in Taylorville.

Kiwanis members will be on hand to collect your donations of non-perishable food or money, on these Saturday dates:   May 17 and 31, July 12 and 26; September 13 and 27.  

At the end of each Saturday’s effort, all food and money will be donated to the Taylorville Food Pantry to assist in their ongoing efforts to provide for children, youth, and families that have food insecurity.

This is the 6th consecutive year that the Taylorville Kiwanis Club are assisting the Taylorville Food Pantry to provide food for those in need.

The Taylorville Park Board met on Wednesday evening for a special meeting at Manners Park.  The hiring of an office administrator, along with issues surrounding employee health insurance, prompted the special meeting.

The board had been ready to finalize the hiring of Linda Moomey as an office administrator, with an anticipated start date of May 19.  Moomey had been set to leave a similar role at Bob Ridings Decatur.  The board understood that Moomey would work four days per week at the Taylorville Park District until her time at Bob Ridings officially ended, at which point she would move to a five-day work week.  

Newly-sworn in board member Sherri Craggs expressed concern about the hiring, saying that due to past lapses in record-keeping, it was unclear if the move was in the Park District's best financial interests. 

Marlane Miller and Sue Phillips spoke in favor of the hiring, saying Moomey has the experience the Park District needs for the situation they are in.

The board voted 5-1 to proceed with hiring Moomey.  Craggs was the only vote in opposition. 

The board then turned to the matter of health insurance plans for employees.  Documents obtained by Regional Radio News show the Park District went nearly $20,000 over budget on its share of health insurance expenses for its employees.  The Park District currently finances 80% of such plans.  Marlane Miller proposed that they instead provide $1,000 per month per employee for insurance.

The board voted unanimously to approve that plan. 

Tanya Reno provided an update on the Park District’s tennis court fund introduced at a previous meeting.  The fund now totals $12,390.  Anyone interested in donating can bring their donations to First National Bank of Pana on West Spresser Street, where the account is based. 

The next park board meeting is tentatively set for May 27.

Taylorville Christian Church and VisionWay School are partnering with ImpactLife to host a community blood drive on Friday, May 23. The event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Hub, located at 1124 N Webster Street in Taylorville.

ImpactLife, the regional provider of blood components for local hospitals, encourages eligible donors to schedule an appointment in advance. Those unable to attend the drive can still contribute by donating at the ImpactLife Donor Center in Springfield on Wabash Avenue and crediting the Taylorville drive on the sign-in sheet.

Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission), weigh more than 110 pounds, and present a photo ID. Individuals who last donated on or before March 28 are eligible to give again at this drive.

All successful donors will receive an e-gift card, the option to donate to a charity, or bonus points for the ImpactLife Rewards Store.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 61296, or call Steve Basham at (217) 824-6621.
 

Taylorville Memorial Hospital has recognized Camden Woodward as its Colleague of the Month for April.

Woodward, a nursing technician who joined the hospital staff in 2023, was praised for his exceptional patient care, positive attitude, and attention to detail. Colleagues say his comforting presence and pleasant demeanor make a strong impression on both patients and fellow staff members.

Woodward’s nominator says that Cam is focused, task oriented, and a good steward of his time following patient care protocols carefully along with being a model caregiver and colleague.

As Colleague of the Month, Woodward is being honored for exemplifying the hospital’s values and commitment to quality care in the community.
 

Pana Pride just closed out their ‘Pana Market’ event, with plans for another in November, and now have their sights set on a community-wide clean up day. Pana Pride and their volunteers will be available to help unload unwanted items and material, for their ‘Dumpster Day’ on May 31st. Pana Pride President Melissa Miller talks the cleanup day and benefit to the community.

Miller tells about the Pana Market that was held on Saturday, May 3rd. 20 to 25 vendors were on hand and a food truck was available for those that attended.

Pana Pride can always use more volunteers. Miller shares how to get involved in the organization.

Find out more about Pana Pride at www.cityofpana.org. 

Melissa Miller appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard reports from various committee chairs on current efforts benefiting children and youth, at their Tuesday meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Kiwanis Park Co-Chairs Larry Kemner and Duane Stock reported a new swing and climbing board have been installed.   They added the Taylorville Lake Department helped with brush clean-up at the Park, and 10 different groups have already signed up to use the Kiwanis Park Pavilion this year.  

That pavilion will be where the annual Taylorville Kiwanis Club Scholarship Picnic takes place Tuesday, May 27th at 6pm when the annual Kiwanis Scholarship winners will be announced and presented their cash award.

Key Club and Builders Club Student Leadership Chair Will Perkins is in the process of setting up delivering pizza to a Junior High Builder’s Club meeting before school ends this month.

Kiwanis Priority One Chair Bruce Blanshan was unable to attend, but submitted a written report that a Car Seat Safety Day is being planned in cooperation with the Taylorville Fire Department; and the annual Kiwanis Kids Days, the biggest fund-raiser of the year for the club, will be held at Harrison Corner along with other locations in the city, on September 19th and 20th.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Board again approved working with the Miller Media Group on Drive-Thru Donation Days in front of the radio station studios on select dates in May, July, and September.  The club will gather non-perishable food and monetary donations for the Taylorville Food Pantry.

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.

Peoples Bank & Trust has announced the addition of Alyssa Keller as Assistant Vice President of Consumer Banking at its Charleston branch.

In her new role, Keller will focus on delivering personalized banking services to consumer clients in the area. Originally from Villa Grove, she brings several years of banking experience to the position.

President and CEO of Peoples Bank & Trust, John Gardner, says that Alyssa will be a great addition to the Charleston banking team.  He believes she will be a tremendous asset to the bank and to the Charleston community. 

Keller, a graduate of Villa Grove High School, began her banking career at Busey Bank in Champaign. Most recently, she served as Branch Manager at Prairie State Bank & Trust in Savoy. She currently lives in Villa Grove with her husband, Zachary, and their two children, Charlotte and Levi.

Peoples Bank & Trust operates 13 locations across Central Illinois and is a full-service community bank offering financial services to consumers, small businesses, and farmers. The bank is owned by People First Bancshares, Inc., headquartered in Pana.
 

Taylorville City Council is expecting new and returning faces to the Board, starts to street improvement projects, and finalizing their Industrial Park purchase. Also in the works for the city is the restoration of the Lincoln Bike Trail from Taylorville to Owaneco. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry talks about the expectations for upcoming improvement projects. Barry asks for patience with the Taylorville Street Department as they conduct their work.

Now with the Lincoln Bike Trail Bridge work complete, the City and the State will hold events to celebrate its reopening.

Barry discusses the purchase of the Taylorville Industrial Park from the Taylorville Development Association. Barry believes this to be a good purchase for both sides.

The City Council experienced a slight shakeup following the most recent election. Barry shares the names of new members and what roles they hold.

Find out more on the City of Taylorville at www.taylorville.net. 

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

The Nokomis Farmer’s Market will set up at a new location this year.  The change comes under the new management of the Newkomis community organization.  The twice-weekly markets will take place at Fred B. Johnson Memorial Park in the downtown area.  They will happen every Wednesday and Saturday from May 14 to October 15.

Special events are planned for this year, as well.  June 7 is set to be the Breakfast with the Beer Bellies event on South Spruce Street.  There will also be live music at some Wednesday markets. Kerry Lee will perform at the first market on May 14, while the Trail Blazers will set up on July 2.  The Molly Seaton Band has five concerts planned, with the scheduled dates being June 4, July 9, August 13, September 3, and October 1. 

More information on the Nokomis Farmer’s Market can be found by contacting Newkomis at newkomisevents@gmail.com or visiting their Facebook page.

Over 65 Christian County C-E-O students, their parents, board members, stakeholders, and community leaders attended Monday night’s “End of Year” Dinner hosted by Taylorville resident Bill Kennedy at his Underground Car Museum.  

Host Kennedy told Regional Radio News about how he created this unique structure.

And Kennedy said the beams for the structure were stored for some 40 years.

Kennedy hopes by hosting Monday night’s dinner, he can encourage this year’s C-E-O class to achieve their goals in life.

Christian County C-E-O Board chair Adam Vocks told Regional Radio News he wanted the end of this 10th year for the local C-E-O program to be memorable.

Vocks said the local C-E-O program has showcased what they can achieve in their home county.

After dinner, 3 guest speakers shared their thoughts with the C-E-O students and other assembled.   

Long-time Taylorville High School F-F-A instructor Sue Schafer challenged the C-E-O students to continue living outside their comfort zone to achieve whatever they want.

Kennedy, who holds over 90 U-S patents in mining ventilation and industrial safety, echo’ed Schafer’s sentiments.

And, the head of the Midland Institute that oversees C-E-O programs across the country, told the group it was the late Craig Lindvahl, a Taylorville native, who founded this program teaching high school seniors entrepreneurial skills.

Hear the full addresses of Schafer, Kennedy, and Brooks below.

Sue Schafer's remarks:

Bill Kennedy's remarks:

Austin Brooks' remarks:

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening, swearing in new board members, recognizing years of service, and reviewed ordinance. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry, City Clerk Jolynne Richardson, City Treasurer Crystal Nichols, and Aldermen Larry Budd, Steven J Dennis, Doug Brown, and Steve Dorchinecz were sworn in.  Budd will be in Ward 1, Dennis for Ward II, Brown for Ward III, and Dorchinecz for Ward IV. 

Budd says he is happy to be back on the board and says that he's back for a couple of reasons, one of which was Small Town Taylorville.

New Alderman Steve Dennis says that he ran after he saw the ballot was blank. 

As far as the meeting went, the council approved appointment of superintendents, city attorney, city engineer, committee assignments, and commission and board appointments.  A motion to recommend to the city council to appoint Todd Altman to the Planning Commission was approved. A motion to recommend to the city council to approve an application for video gaming for Nesty's was also approved 5-3. Aldermen Chris Skultety, Kathy Driskell, and Steve Dorchinecz voted no. 

Motions concerning a handicap accessible port-a-potty and Pet Waste Station for the Bike Trail were tabled so the council could figure out who was paying and maintaining it. All other motions were approved. 

The next city council meeting is set for May 19th.  

Taylorville City Council is set to meet on Monday at 7 PM.  A motion to approve the abstract of votes from the April 1st election will be voted on with Mayor Bruce Barry, City Clerk Jolynee Richardson, City Treasurer Crystal Nichols, and Aldermen Larry Budd, Steven J. Dennis, Doug Brown, and Steve Dorchinecz getting sworn in. 

Randy Mitchelson, Jeremy Wilson, and the City Treasurer Valerie Miles, are receiving recognition for their dedication to the City. After appointments, committee assignments, and commission and board appointments, the council will discuss the following motions: Todd Altman Planning Commission, video gaming for Nesty’s, improvements for West Main Cross, and street and sidewalk repairs for Taylorville Food Center. The council will also discuss a port-a-potty and pet waste station for the bike trail on Paw Paw Street.

Under committee reports, the council will consider the Deputy Clerk Position, promote Casey Neal to Heavy Equipment Operator, direct the Mayor to hire a replacement firefighter, and approve Officer Ryan Tapp for the school for Cellebrite. 

The council will hear from the City Attorney and Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry along with the public. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the conclusion of the event. 

Wright’s Furniture has been a family owned and operated local business that has served its communities for 136 years and counting. It’s not often in their lengthy history that they offer a deal like the one they have currently. Wright’s Furniture is holding an ‘Outdoor Sale’ until May 10th where customers receive 15% off anything in-stock and 10% of all special orders. Sandy Carter, Sales Representative with Wright’s Furniture, discusses their current sale and the furniture available.

Carter details the end date and says in-stock goods are moving quickly.

It’s never been easier to shop online with Wright’s Furniture. Carter says you can “pre-shop” before stopping at a location to see if they have what you are looking for.

And if you can’t find it the first location you visit? One of their many stores is sure to have it. Carter tells what to expect from each location.

Learn more at www.wrightsfurniture.com.

Sandy Carter appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Several Central Illinois school districts will receive a boost to their library resources thanks to more than $17,000 in grant funding secured by State Senator Doris Turner. The funding is part of the Secretary of State’s School District Library Grant Program, which awarded over $1.3 million to 2,484 public school libraries across Illinois.

The grant program supports a wide range of library needs, including the purchase of books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology, and educational programs. The goal is to enhance student learning and encourage reading by ensuring school libraries are well-equipped with up-to-date resources.

In Senator Turner’s 48th District, five school districts received a combined total of $17,625. Ball-Chatham CUSD 5 was awarded $3,892, Decatur Public School District 61 received $6,048, Edinburg CUSD 4 was granted $850, Rochester CUSD 3A received $1,680, and Springfield Public School District 186 was awarded $5,155.

These annual grants aim to improve school library services for more than one million students statewide, spanning from kindergarten through 12th grade.
 

For one Taylorville Junior High School student, the Christian County C-E-O Trade Show is just a dream.  But, for 13-year-old Lia Johnson, it’s aspiring to be among the high school seniors who will introduce their business in a few years.

Johnson told Regional Radio News during this week’s Trade Show, that she’s been to just about every one of them.

She’s already thinking about what type of business she’ll open at the C-E-O Trade Show when she’s a senior.

And, we asked Johnson why a 13-year-old in Junior High should consider being in the Christian County C-E-O program once they’re a senior.

Find out more on the Christian County C-E-O program on-line at christiancountyceo.com.

After more than 30 years of service, Lieutenant Deputy Stefanie Ryan has retired from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, closing a distinguished career that began in 1994.

Ryan joined the department on November 15, 1994, as a Telecommunicator, where she played a key role in coordinating emergency response efforts. She was promoted to Correctional Officer in 1997 and became a sworn Deputy Sheriff two years later.

Over the years, Ryan took on several important roles within the department, including serving as a D.A.R.E. Officer, where she worked directly with local youth to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community. Her dedication and leadership eventually earned her the rank of Lieutenant.

Sheriff’s Office officials praised Ryan for her loyalty, integrity, and lasting impact on both the department and the people of Christian County.

Ryan officially retired on May 2, 2025.

Ryan resides in Christian County and plans to enjoy her retirement surrounded by friends and family.
 

Central A&M High School got a visit from a national public broadcaster on Wednesday to honor award winners in a national competition.  Representatives from C-SPAN and local telecommunication provider Sparklight visited the school in Moweaqua to celebrate the work of Brookelyn Jackson and Izzy Martin.  The two sophomores along with their teacher, Chad Carroll, were named honorable mentions in C-SPAN’s annual StudentCam competition.  Over 1,700 groups across the country made took part in this year’s edition. 

The competition sees groups of middle and high school students create videos addressing the theme, “Your Message to the President: What issue is most important to you or your community?”  Jackson and Martin’s video submission was titled “Inflation’s Effects on Agriculture.”

The pair were among 96 other groups to be named honorable mentions.  Each such group received a cash prize of $250.  The grand prize-winning students receive $5,000, with $750 going to the teacher or school overseeing the submission.  C-SPAN praised this year’s winners, saying their documentaries will raise the standard for future StudentCam participants.

Jackson and Martin’s video, along with the many others from this year, can be viewed at www.StudentCam.org. 

Teachers across Illinois may soon have easier access to mental health crisis resources, thanks to legislation spearheaded by State Senator Doris Turner.

House Bill 3000, which recently passed the Senate Education Committee with bipartisan support, would require school districts serving students in grades 6-12 to include contact information for key mental health helplines on all employee ID badges. The resources include the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), the Crisis Text Line, and the Safe2Help Illinois helpline.

The measure builds on a 2021 law that required schools to share suicide prevention resources in student planners and IDs. Turner’s bill expands that effort by ensuring that staff members also have immediate access to those contacts, both for themselves and for students in crisis.

“Illinois has worked to end the stigma surrounding mental health,” Turner added. “This is an important step to increase awareness about the resources we have available. Having this information on staff IDs makes it readily accessible in a time of crisis, for either the teacher or a student they’re assisting.”

The bill now advances to the full Senate for consideration.
 

The University of Illinois Extension is constantly offering fresh and unique workshops for area residents. By popular demand, the Christian County Extension Office will be hosting a ‘Sourdough Starter Made Simple’ course on May 15th from 6:30 to 8 p.m.. Even though the class has filled up, Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, says to get that name on the waiting list. Peterson provides details on the event and the sourdough starter you get to take home with you.

While sourdough bread is trending on social media, it’s the health benefits and simplicity that truly stand out. Peterson shares the benefits to making your own sourdough including its shelf stability.

Peterson is excited to host another workshop surrounding canning. As the summer months roll in, the extra produce from your garden could be better utilized. On June 17th at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Peterson will provide canning tips and tricks.

Like everything, science around proper canning practices has changed. Peterson highlights some of those practices and how to improve your own process.

Find out more about the University of Illinois Extension at www.extension.illinois.edu.

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

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring has joined a funding initiative to provide books to kids in Dieterich and Montrose.  Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a program which mails books to children as old as five.  Its goal is to foster skills and enjoyment in literacy in kids early in their lives.  The organization – which the country music star founded in 1995 – has distributed over 270 million books around the world. 

A committee looking to bring the Imagination Library to Dieterich and Montrose says it has raised around $1,800 of the $3,000 needed.  A large portion of the funding so far has come from Wright’s Furniture & Flooring.  The committee hopes to reach its goal by Independence Day.  Kelly Frohning, who is a member of the committee, says she is grateful for Wright’s Furniture & Flooring’s support of the initiative. 

Those interested in learning more or donating can call (217) 259-8410 or email effingham.imaginationlibrary@gmail.com.

Nine local youth got a firsthand look at the fascinating world of insect-eating plants during a hands-on workshop held Thursday, April 17. The “Exploring Carnivorous Plants” session introduced participants to the unusual adaptations of Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, and sundews.

Led by University of Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator Andrew Holsinger, the workshop allowed attendees to observe how these plants lure and digest their prey. In addition to learning about the science behind these unique species, participants also received practical tips on caring for Venus flytraps at home, including best practices for lighting, watering, and feeding.

To cap off the experience, each child took home their own live Venus flytrap, providing an opportunity to continue their learning beyond the classroom.

The event was part of Illinois 4-H, the flagship youth development program of the University of Illinois Extension. Through hands-on learning, 4-H aims to empower young people and prepare them for future careers in fields such as science, agriculture, and community leadership.

University of Illinois Extension serves all 102 Illinois counties, providing educational programs that support communities across the state. More information about upcoming programs can be found at extension.illinois.edu.
 

After nearly five decades of public service, Richland Township Supervisor John Beldon is preparing to step down from his post. Beldon has served as Supervisor in Shelby County for an impressive 47 years, a tenure marked by remarkable dedication—missing only two meetings during his entire time in office. Those absences were due to the birth of a child and a hospitalization.

On April 3rd, the Richland Township Board formally recognized Beldon's service during a special presentation attended by many members of his family. A commemorative plaque was presented to him, honoring his leadership, devotion, and long-standing commitment to the township.

Beldon’s final meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 1. He will be succeeded by Brian Rincker, who was elected to the position.

Regional Radio News salutes you, John Beldon, for your years of dedicated service to the Richland Township community.
 

The Illinois State Police held a press conference on Thursday afternoon to give the latest on the deadly crash in Chatham on Monday that killed four and injured several others. 44-year-old Marianne Akers of Chatham was uninjured and transported to an area hospital for evaluation and released.  The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly says that she has been cooperative with ISP.  

Kelly says all toxicology reports have reported negative for alcohol and drugs. 

The ISP Director says that they are working hard and in close contact with the victim’s families to be transparent and supportive of those involved. 

To hear the whole press conference including questions and answers, click here.

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight is in the middle of its 2025 season of honoring war veterans.  The initiative is meant to give local veterans of World War II and the Vietnam and Korean Wars the hero’s welcome they may not have received back then.

The experience itself is a day trip to Washington D.C. and to war memorials, veterans’ cemeteries, and museums.  Tim Sutton, a guardian with LLHF, says the value of this experience far exceeds the financial cost. 

The day’s first stops include the war memorials for the aforementioned wars.  As Sutton describes, seeing the designs, depictions, and stories brings about deep emotions from the veterans who attend. 

This year’s first flight took place on April 15.  Three others are scheduled for June 3, September 9, and October 21.  If you are interested in being part of the experience as either a veteran or a guardian, you can apply at www.LandOfLincolnHonorFlight.org.

LLHF also offers a “Flightless Honor Flight” program for those who cannot participate in an actual flight because of a physical condition.  

Another way to be involved without being part of the actual flight is to watch and applaud the veterans at Abraham Lincoln Capitol Airport in Springfield at either end of the trip.  This experience draws massive crowds of community members eager to honor those who served. 

More information on the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight can be found at www.LandOfLincolnHonorFlight.org.

Tim Sutton appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

As the school year comes to a close, so too does this year’s edition of the Christian County CEO program. With a record number of CEO students, this group was split into a morning and afternoon class session, and all of them are putting their hard work to the test at the Christian County CEO Trade Show. 26 students will be showcasing their personal businesses for the community to learn about. The Trade Show comes on the heels of a successful pickleball tournament and ‘Investor Breakfast’ the program hosted.

Nellea Polley, Laura Wayman, and Ben Wamsley, senior students in the Christian County CEO Program, first talk about the pickleball tournament at the Christian County YMCA.

Wamsley shares about the ‘Investor Breakfast’ and why its so important to the program to show thanks for the communities support.

The Christian County CEO Trade Show is where all their work comes together. Wamsley and Wayman discuss the efforts behind the event.

As for their own personal businesses? Wayman created ‘Farm Girl Flowers,’ Polley started ‘Refined Hat Company,’ and Wamsley honored his grandfather’s love of candy making, with ‘Forest Blues Candy.’

What has the experience meant to them? All three say they’ve changed for the better thanks to the CEO program.

Learn more about the Christian County CEO Program at www.christiancountyceo.com.

Ben Wamsley, Laura Wayman, and Nellea Polley appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.