The Illinois State Police recently wrapped up a ‘commercial vehicle enforcement campaign’ in Montgomery County, to help promote safety on local roadways. The detail was conducted from June 23rd to the 25th, at a fixed scale site located near Litchfield, and involved inspections, enforcement, and driver education.

Illinois State Police troopers carried out ‘North American Standard Inspections’ on commercial motor vehicles, checking for violations related to driver impairment, equipment issues, and overall safety compliance. ISP officials say the goal of the operation was to enforce regulations while also stressing the importance of responsible commercial vehicle driving.

Over the course of the three-day campaign, a total of 2,956 commercial vehicles were weighed and 184 were formally inspected. Officers identified 32 out-of-service violations, which required the vehicles or drivers to be removed until the issues were addressed. Additionally, 8 overweight violations and 93 other safety-related offenses were enforced.

The Illinois State Police continue to stress that ensuring the safety of commercial vehicles on Illinois roadways plays a crucial role in protecting all drivers. Learn more about the Illinois State Police by visiting www.isp.illinois.gov.
 

Lincoln Land Community College has released its Dual Credit President’s and Vice President’s Lists for the Spring 2025 semester. These students are being recognized for their outstanding academic achievement as high school students earning college credit. Dozens of students across central Illinois earned honors this Spring, representing a broad range of communities including: Taylorville, Litchfield, Nokomis, Morrisonville, Pana, Witt, and many others.

LLCC partners with high schools throughout the region through its ‘Dual Credit’ and ‘College Now’ programs. These courses allow students to earn both high school and college credit, through teachers at their home high school or from LLCC instructors, at one of the college’s four locations.

Students who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA earned President’s List honors and are marked with an asterisk (*). Those who earned a GPA between 3.5 and 3.99, received Vice President’s List distinction. The full list of students and their hometowns is available at www.llcc.edu. 

Summer is a busy time for farm bureaus across America, and the Shelby County Farm Bureau is no exception.  They have events all season long both for farmers and interested community members alike.  In addition, the Bureau is always looking for new members to join their ranks, and they look to make registering as seamless as possible. 

Most notably on their radar is the Shelby County Fair, which this year runs from July 20-24.  Bureau manager Kenzie Stewart says they will be running an ice cream trailer and giving out T-shirts to 4-H participants. 

The Bureau is also preparing for a golf outing.  It’s set for Saturday, July 12 at Eagle Creek Golf Course.  The event is their biggest fundraiser of the year. 

The Shelby County Farm Bureau recently completed its tractor drive, back on June 7.  Stewart calls the event a major success.

Member of the Farm Bureau gain access to unique benefits.  And as Stewart describes, it’s not necessary to be a farmer to join the organization. 

Applications are available at their offices at 1361 State Highway 128 in Shelbyville or online at www.myifb.org.  More information on the Shelby County Farm Bureau can be found at www.shelbycofb.com.

Kenzie Stewart appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

Lake Shelbyville is yet again a 4th of July holiday destination with fireworks, community events, and scenic views, for it’s residents or many visitors. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will launch the fireworks display on Thursday, July 4th at dusk from ‘Ramp Point’ in the Dam West Recreation Area.

Recommended viewing areas for the show include Dam West Recreation Area, Dam East Recreation Area, Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center, Dam West Overlook, and portions of the Dam Road. To ensure public safety, the Dam Road will close to traffic at 8 p.m. from the 9th Street intersection to Dam East. Limited parking is available, additional overflow and alternative parking can be found at the Spillway Recreation Area, Forest Park, and the Dam West High Water Boat Ramp. Visitors using the high-water ramp can access the General Dacey Trail and walk to Dam West.

The celebration of our independence goes past just fireworks. The Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce is organizing a two-day celebration over that weekend. On July 4th, expect a full day of activities including a parade, concessions, inflatables, and fireworks. Festivities continue on Friday, July 5th with a community picnic, featuring two food trucks and live music at the recreation areas.

The Corps reminds attendees that no personal fireworks are allowed on government property. Violations will potentially result in citations. For more event details, contact the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce at 217-774-2221. Additional information is also available through the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at 217-774-3951.
 

A new independent healthcare facility in Taylorville is looking to stand out in how they help their patients recover and stay healthy.  The place is called Anselm Integrative Wellness, and it’s located at 602 East Park Street.  Their treatment plans combine conventional medicine with nature-based approaches, making for more personalized care. 

Angela Anselm is the owner of Anselm Integrated Wellness.  Her daughter Ashley died of brain cancer a few years ago.  This experience, along with the care she sought for her daughter, are what inspired the new business.

Anselm does anticipate insurance being an obstacle for some people to receive this treatment from her practice.  That’s because such policies often do not cover this method of care.  She intends to handle all transactions with cash as a workaround. 

Patients who are considering taking up treatment at this location begin with an initial consultation.  It’s a long appointment as both provider and patient consider the many options available. 

Anselm enjoys teaching about health and well-being and believes she can use this to help people make informed decisions about their health.

More information on Anselm Integrative Wellness is on their Facebook page. 

Angela Anselm appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay.

There’s a leadership change at Springfield Plastics in Auburn, Illinois. The company has announced Jennifer Furkin as its new president, taking over for Steve Baker, who held the role for nearly 30 years.

Furkin has been with Springfield Plastics for 25 years, most recently serving as vice president. She says she’s honored to lead a company known for its focus on quality, service, and community.

The change comes as the tile drainage manufacturer experiences major growth, including a recent plant expansion in Auburn and the upcoming opening of a new yard in North Manchester, Indiana.

Springfield Plastics has served the Midwest since 1978, providing plastic drainage solutions for agriculture, residential, and commercial markets.

The Federal Communications Commission in Washington, DC, Friday afternoon approved the transfer of radio station licenses now held by the Miller Media Group.   This means the sale of the stations to Hart Media Group, LLC, of Rochester, can close.

Miller Media Group owner Randal J. Miller announced the pending sale of his stations in Taylorville and Clinton, on March First, then applied to the F-C-C for license transfer approval shortly thereafter.

Both entities expect to close on the sale in late July, with Hart taking possession on August First.

Included in the sale are Miller’s 6 Taylorville-based radio stations and their on-line daily newspaper taylorvilledailynews.com; and Miller’s 2 Clinton-based radio stations plus their on-line daily newspaper dewittdailynews.com.

The sale will culminate Miller’s 52 years in the radio business, 43 in ownership, almost 33 in Taylorville and almost 18 in Clinton.

Miller will stay on after the sale serving as a consultant to Hart for one year.

The Christian County Ag Fair late Friday released their official 2025 schedule for their 5-day event Tuesday, July 15 thru Saturday, July 19 at the Fairgrounds on Taylorville's south side.

You can access the full schedule by clicking HERE.

Be listening for over 9 hours of coverage by the Regional Radio stations during Fair Week, and watch for stories and judging results on taylorvilledailynews.com.

On Thursday, June 26th, 2025, around 9 a.m., Christian County 911 received word that a man was seen walking on top of a grain elevator near South Main and Beech Street in Kincaid.

Deputies from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office came to the scene and spoke to the man from the ground. He seemed upset and sporadic as officers tried to calm him down. When they could not make quality contact with the individual, they called for more help.

Midland Fire and EMS were then put on standby. The Taylorville Fire Department assisted by bringing their ladder truck to the scene. Christian County Mental Health Services and the Illinois State Police were also called in.

Despite emergency personnel efforts, the 35-year-old man decided to take his own life. He jumped from the top of the grain elevator and landed on a lower part of the bin itself. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office and the Christian County Coroner’s Office are still looking into the matter.

Lake Land College recently welcomed a group of students from Mattoon Middle School, for a one-day STEM camp. This event was aimed at sparking interest in science, technology, engineering and math. Organized by the college’s ‘TRIO Destination College’ program, the camp gave students a chance to explore the campus and take part in learning activities. 

One of the highlights of the camp was a scavenger hunt that took students across campus to places like the Financial Aid Office, Student Life, Counseling Services, the Broadcast Communication area, as well as an EMS ambulance simulator. As they went from stop to stop, students worked in pairs to solve clues and learn about different support services and academic programs.

The students also spent time in the Manufacturing Skill Lab, where they explored high-tech equipment used in fields like robotics, welding and electronics. The lab gave them a  look at how these tools are used in real-world jobs.

The day was set up to help students better understand the possibilities in STEM related careers, and how higher education can help them get there. This STEM camp is part of an effort by the ‘TRIO Destination College’ program to encourage students to set goals for higher education. The program works with junior high and high school students, aiding them towards high school graduation and potentially enrolling in college.
 

Taylorville Community Credit Union is currently collecting donations for its Annual Freedom Tree Food Drive, continuing a tradition that has helped support local families for more than a decade. Community members have until Friday, July 11th, to contribute items or monetary gifts at any of TCCU’s four locations in Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield and Pana.

The Freedom Tree initiative focuses on gathering boxed and canned food items, personal hygiene products, and financial donations, which will be donated to area food pantries. These pantries serve individuals and families facing food insecurity, a need that often increases during the summer months when children are out of school.

Each TCCU branch has a dedicated Freedom Tree display where nonperishable goods can be dropped off, while cash donations can be made at teller windows. The food drive is designed to make it easy for residents to get involved and make a difference in their communities.

TCCU views this annual effort as part of its larger mission to be a supportive and active presence in the communities it serves. Now in its 11th year, the Freedom Tree program has helped deliver thousands of pounds of food and thousands of dollars in financial aid to local pantries. Organizers emphasize the value of cash donations, which give food pantries the ability to buy supplies in bulk at lower costs from food banks, maximizing their overall impact.

More information about TCCU is available at www.tccu.org, or by visiting any of its branch locations.

The South Fork School District is staying busy over the summer.  Building renovations, security upgrades, and a new curriculum are on the agenda for administrators.  While they prepare for another academic year, the district expects to see an overall rise in student population after a recent slight decline. 

Contractors are at school buildings all across the district doing repairs with the schools otherwise largely empty.  Superintendent Chris Clark says roof repairs highlight the work being done.

The high school will soon feature a separate entrance for parents and other visitors.  It’s designed to keep students and staff safe. 

Like many other school districts, South Fork is making changes to its math curriculum.  Clark says data is what drives these changes and the way they are made. 

The school district reported a slight drop in enrollment in recent years.  However, administrators acknowledge that a rise in homeschooling has in part contributed to this.  They’ve also seen a slight increase in the kindergarten class size compared to recent years. 

Learn more about the South Fork School District by visiting www.southforkschools.com.

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

The Christian County Historical Society stays busy when the weather allows for it.  Despite the searing heat, they are in the midst of their summer concert series, with performances continuing over the next several weeks.  The organization is also celebrating the success of their Earth Day celebration in April.  These events and many others come thanks to the CCHS’s volunteers and members, and they are hoping to boost these numbers. 

The Taylorville Municipal Band completed its first performance of the summer there this week and has five more coming up.  Jodi Heberling, Co-President of the CCHS, says these shows encompass a variety of genres. 

The Historical Society held its Earth Day celebration last April.  They combined good weather and meaningful causes to produce high turnout. 

The organization is always looking for new volunteers and members.  As generations directly familiar with the county’s history move on, finding the next group of people to get involved has proved difficult. 

Donations go a long way as well.  Heberling says even items you might not think of donating can make a big difference. 

During the warm weather months, the Christian County Historical Society is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  More information is available at www.christiancountyhistorical.com and on their Facebook page.

Jodi Heberling appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville held a Retirement Reception Thursday for long-time Director and Student Success Advisor Dee Krueger whose last day is Monday, June 30th.

Krueger told Regional Radio News she’s ending her over 32 years in education, and student success has been her biggest accomplishment.

Krueger added COVID changed Lincoln Land’s student numbers for all campuses including Taylorville.

She’s been mentoring the new L-L-C-C Taylorville Director Elizabeth Fines Workman who’s been at the Taylorville campus for several years.

Workman told Regional Radio News she has some big shoes to fill.

Find out more on Lincoln Land Community College classes offered on their Taylorville campus by clicking HERE.

The City of Taylorville and the Taylorville Development Association have closed on the sale of the new Taylorville Industrial Park to the city.  The two sides finalized the deal earlier today at Advanced Title Company.  It marks a significant milestone in a years-long process.  The closing comes the same week as a donation from People’s Bank and Trust which helped facilitate the transaction.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry was present for the closing of the sale.  He says the move provides opportunities and incentives for businesses to grow, all for the benefit of the city and community. 

You can read our past coverage of the developments leading to the sale, including construction progress, lot sales, and the city council's vote to approve the purchase of the park.

Families and history enthusiasts are invited to step back in time and experience a unique celebration of Independence Day, the way it would have been celebrated in 1860. The event will take place on Saturday, June 28th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Homestead Prairie Farm, located at the Rock Springs Conservation Area. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to attend with no registration required.

During the event, visitors will have the chance to explore the historic Homestead Prairie Farm, which features a farmhouse restored to reflect life in the 1860s. Guides dressed in period clothing will be offering tours and sharing information into the daily life from that era. Attendees can also visit the heirloom garden, where gardening experts from the University of Illinois Extension will be available to answer questions and offer tips based on traditional practices.

Children will have the opportunity to try out toys and games that would have been popular at that time. These simple activities offer a fun way to connect with the past and discover how families entertained themselves long ago.

That evening, a live performance by the group ‘Wild Columbine’ will begin at 6:30 p.m. They’ll focus in on traditional folk music from the Seventeenth Century to the early Twentieth Century. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and enjoy it outdoors. Shaded picnic tables are available throughout the site, and there is plenty of space on the lawn for those who prefer to bring a blanket or lawn chairs.

This event will take place rain or shine. If the weather does not cooperate, live music for that night will be moved indoors to the auditorium at the Rock Springs Nature Center, ensuring that all planned activities can continue regardless of the forecast.

For more information, visit www.maconccd.org. 

Concerns over transparency in Illinois lawmaking have led to a new legal challenge from members of the State legislature. State Senator Steve McClure, along with several other Republican legislators from both the Illinois Senate and House, have filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County. They argue that lawmakers violated the Illinois Constitution during the passage of Senate Bill 328.

The lawsuit was filed on June 18th and focuses on the way the bill was passed in the final hours of the Spring legislative session. Beginning as one proposal, it was later stripped of its original language and completely rewritten into a new piece of legislation, just hours before it was voted on. The lawsuit argues that this kind of last-minute rewriting and rushed approval process bypasses the constitutional requirement that every bill be read three times in each legislative chamber.

The legislation in question would significantly alter the state’s judicial system. Opponents believe it opens the door for Illinois to become a destination for out-of-state legal filings with little merit, which they argue would create a host of new problems. Business groups from across the state have warned that the measure could discourage investment, cost jobs, and weaken the state’s economic competitiveness.

Those involved in the lawsuit say this is not just about one bill, but about the broader pattern of pushing legislation through without proper review, public input, or debate. They believe this approach to lawmaking lessens trust in government and results in policies that do more harm than good.

Senator McClure and others are urging Governor J.B. Pritzker to veto the bill. Illinois residents who are concerned about the legislation are being encouraged to get involved by signing a petition online, available at Senator McClure’s website at www.senatormcclure.com.

Central Cremation Center in Forsyth, Illinois, has grown and expanded greatly in it’s years of operation. The last 6 months have seen changes in additional staffing and services offered to the community. From pre-arrangements to pet cremation, Central Cremation Center has now benefited families in Illinois in up to 51 different counties. Brett Zerfowski, Public Relation and Pre-Arrangements Director with Central Cremation Center, discusses the whirlwind start to 2025.

Pre-arrangements for yourself, spouse, or any other loved one can eliminate a lot of the hassle following one’s death. Zerfowski breaks down pre-arrangements into two categories, healthy and sickly.

Zerfowski knows that those dealing with health problems or hospice, might not be able to make it to their office. That’s when Central Cremation Center will come to you, or your family, to square away your preferred arrangements.

Central Cremation Center has offered pet cremation for going on a year. Zerfowski talks the variety of animals that have already been cremated and how to prepare for your furry companions passing.

Find out more about Central Cremation Center and their wide range of services at www.centralcremationcenter.com.

Brett Zerfowski appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Boaters looking to launch a kayak or canoe into Lake Shelbyville will have a new point at which to do so.  It’s located at the Community Cove, which is more formally known as the Dam West High Water Boat Ramp.

Several donors helped fund the new kayak launch.  This includes a $42,000 grant from the Lumpkin Family Foundation.  A number of organizations helped support and construct the new setup.  They include the Friends of Lake Shelbyville, the Youth Ambassador Program of Lake Shelbyville, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  The latter organization has also partnered with the Urban Butterfly Initiative to begin restoring the land at the Community Cove for native wildlife and vegetation. 

More information on the projects is available by calling the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951.

The Social Security Administration has released the most popular names of 2024, changed login processes, and are making sure you understand your benefits while still working. As of June 7th 2025, if you created an account through the Social Security website on or before September of 2021, you likely need to maintain your account. For those looking to still work up to or through retirement age, you can absolutely do so but you need to know how this effects your benefits.

Jack Myers, Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration, talks first about changes coming with your online account. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to create an account with either ‘ID.me’ or ‘login.gov.’

Most are unsure of how working to or past retirement age works when drawing your Social Security benefits. Myers looks to clear this up and explains that if you are working but are yet to draw on your benefits, you have nothing to worry about.

Myers provides an example to help demonstrate how the potential limits are implemented.

The Social Security Administration sees a big bump in traffic to their website every time the previous year’s most popular names is released. This year is no different and Myers shares how in-depth these records really are.

Find out more about the Social Security Administration at www.ssa.gov.

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

The Christian County CEO program is reflecting on a successful year of nurturing the next generation of business leaders.  This year, a record 26 students took part, creating and running their own businesses and putting them on display at the CEO Trade Show.  Executives in the area did their part as well, serving as a guiding light for students as they took on this experience.

Neil Hohenstein is the program’s facilitator.  He says there is a lot for the program and students to be proud of with how the year went. 

A key component of organizing the program this year was the decision to split the group into two sections.  While this presented some logistical challenges, it ensured each student and their respective business got the attention they deserved. 

The CEO Trade Show took place on April 30.  Not only did the community get to see the businesses for themselves, but it gave the students the opportunity to practice the skills needed to find success as entrepreneurs.

Hohenstein says the feedback for the program and the students has been overwhelmingly positive.  He adds this is largely because of the soft skills the students develop in the process. 

More information is available at www.christiancountyceo.com.

Neil Hohenstein appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Three local students have been awarded the 2025 Bruce V. Penwell, Jr. Nursing Scholarship, helping them take the next step in their healthcare careers.

This year’s recipients are Isabelle Anderson, who will begin her nursing studies at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville; Marisa Daniels, a sophomore at Three Rivers College; and Leo Niemerg, a junior at Quincy University. All three are pursuing degrees in nursing.

The scholarship honors students from Effingham, Shelby, and Christian counties who are committed to the nursing profession and to serving their communities.

The fund was established in memory of Bruce V. Penwell, Jr., a Pana native and Beecher City High School graduate who maintained a lifelong passion for rural Illinois and its people.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages the scholarship and more than 250 other charitable funds benefiting communities across the region.

Three students from Shelby County have been awarded the George Wilson Bauer Scholarship for 2025, thanks to the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation.

This year’s recipients are Emma Banning, a graduate of Pana High School who plans to study nursing at Lake Land College; Emma Houska, a Shelbyville High School alum and current senior at Eastern Illinois University studying Communication Disorders and Sciences; and Jack McClain, a 2025 graduate of Shelbyville High School who will attend Taylor University to pursue a Physician Assistant degree.

The George Wilson Bauer Scholarship supports Shelby County students pursuing careers in medicine or nursing. A total of $2,850 in scholarships was awarded this year.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages more than 250 charitable funds to benefit communities throughout the region.

Kemmerer Village held a ribbon cutting at the First United Methodist Church on Monday afternoon for its brand new community child care center, which is opening in Assumption. Chelsea Wood, Executive Director of the Kemmerer Village foundation, says that this project has taken many years to put together and a lot of fundraising, but at the end of the day, it was all worth it. 

Executive Director of Kemmerer Village, Schales Nagle, says that it was a project of love, but a lot of people had to come together to make it happen.

Derek Page, with Assumption Community Pride, praised the center, saying that it will bring and keep people in Assumption. 

Find out more information on the daycare by clicking here

Recently, Illinois lawmakers passed their newest state budget but that didn’t come without concern for the taxpayers wallet. An estimated shortfall in the budget of $700 million to $1 billion dollars, has to be made up somehow. While Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has no control over the budget itself, he is determined to be part of the solution.

Frerichs explains that a large part of the work he does revolves around earning interest income. Government funds can be put to better use than sitting idly, gaining nearly 5% interest on bonds and other investments.

Last year, the total interest earned by the State Treasurer, surpassed the tax fund totals of cannabis sales, gaming revenue, and even the lottery.

Not all of Frerich’s investments come at the state level. County or town governments in Illinois can call upon the treasurer’s office to invest their dollars and increase their return.

Another key component to Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs job is returning unclaimed property. Frerichs is excited to share a story involving a ‘purple heart’ medal that has been returned to a veteran’s family.

Learn more about the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office at www.illinoistreasurer.gov.

Michael Frerichs appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.
 

Officials at Nokomis CUSD #22 are busy with summer work and preparing for another school year this fall.  A new principal is coming in, and other major changes in staffing are also on the way.  The district is investing in a program which will help that cause for years to come. 

Rachelle McDowell, the principal of the junior high school, is retiring after nine years in that role and many more in the district.  The previous assistant principal Lindsey DeFevers will take over the school’s top job.  Dr. Scott Doerr, district superintendent, says recruiting in-house for that role was a key objective. 

The summer is often a time when the curriculum can undergo changes.  However, Dr. Doerr is largely happy with it as is. 

Nokomis schools continue to make strides with the Education Pathways program.  It’s designed for students who are pursuing a career in teaching.  

For now, administrators at the district and schools are busy with their own summer tasks.  Leaders at each school are finalizing schedules, while the superintendent’s focus is more on paperwork. 

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. 

Peoples Bank & Trust is recognizing a familiar face in the Taylorville community for his years of volunteer service.

Dan McNeely has been named the bank’s Volunteer of the Quarter for his dedication to youth sports and community involvement. McNeely has spent two decades coaching football in Taylorville’s 5th through 12th grade programs. He’s also coached girls’ basketball at VisionWay Christian School and with the Taylorville Youth Sports 5th and 6th grade teams, and will return this fall to coach 6th grade girls basketball. His coaching resume also includes a stint with the high school baseball team from 2009 to 2012.

But McNeely’s work extends beyond the sidelines. He currently serves on both the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation Board and the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation Board. He also helped with the Quarterback Club’s turf project in 2018 and continues to support the Christian County YMCA and Taylorville Christian Church.

In recognition of his service, Peoples Bank has made a donation to the Taylorville Quarterback Club in Dan’s honor. His name will also be added to a plaque displayed inside the bank.

Peoples Bank & Trust is a locally owned community bank with 13 locations across Central Illinois, including here in Taylorville.

The Taylorville Municipal Band continues its 2025 season with it’s third concert on Wednesday, June 25 at 7:00 PM. This week’s performance will take place at the Christian County Historical Society and is free and open to the public to attend.

As part of this year’s theme, “Play the Music Forward,” the band is spotlighting former members and alumni from both the band, and Taylorville High School. These special guests will be featured throughout the season as performers, soloists, and conductors. Donations collected during the season go toward the ‘Play the Music Forward’ fund, which helps support music programs at Taylorville schools.

This week's concert welcomes several special guests, including author and educator Fred Durbin, a former band member, who will be performing in the trombone section. The concert also features several members of the Ninmer family. Ron Ninmer will be recognized as a featured composer. Jean Ninmer and Breanna Flanagan will join the clarinet section and will be highlighted as soloists. Kennedy Ninmer will also be featured as a soloist. Scott Ninmer will perform in the euphonium section and will contribute both as a soloist and composer. Mark Ninmer rounds out the family group as a percussionist and soloist.

The evening’s program includes a diverse selection of pieces such as ‘Pace Fanfare’ by Scott Ninmer, ‘Emperata Overture’ by Claude T. Smith, ‘For Good’ by Steven Schwartz and arranged by Scott Ninmer, ‘At a Dixieland Funeral’ by Jared Spears, and the classic ‘King Cotton March’ by John Philip Sousa. Other selections include ‘Allegra’ by Ron Ninmer, ‘The Tornado Drill March’ by Scott Ninmer, and more.

Learn more about the Taylorville Municipal Band and it’s performances by visiting them at their Facebook page.
 

Central A&M School District is putting their final touches on the recently completed school year before turning their attention to getting Fall semester ready. Summer months are a busy time for any school administrators as they put together new budgets, curriculum changes, grants, policy updates, and more. Sacha Young, Superintendent of Central A&M Schools, says the month of June is mainly used to close out the previous school year before preparing for another.

After balancing the budget, Young and others need to account for new hires and retirements. This year within the district, two long-time principals have left their post at both the High School and Gregory Intermediate. Young talks the new names and faces coming to the Moweaqua schools.

Young shares about the open positions still available within the Central A&M School District.

Curriculum changes are another responsibility that comes around most every year. Young goes in to detail on the process of determining if new curriculum is needed and how the schools pick a vendor to supply it.

Find out more about the Central A&M School District at www.camraiders.com.

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

A Shelbyville thrift store continues its mission of coming through for community members in need.  Silk Purse provides low-cost essential goods for the Family Life Center in town.  The location is celebrating two years of operation, but the organizations have served Central Illinois for over three decades. 

Dana Sawyer is the Manager of Silk Purse in Shelbyville.  She says the goods at Silk Purse and the services at the Family Life Center are meant to help families, especially those with young children. 

The organizations need volunteers and give plenty of incentives for those who want or need the hours.  In addition, their programs are designed to set people up for success.

Mary Hobis is the Executive Director of the Family Life Center.  Her journey to that role began as a volunteer at Silk Purse.  She has played a major role in making the organization what it is today. 

The Silk Purse Thrift Store is located as at the Johnstowne Mall in Shelbyville. More information is available at www.silkpursethriftstore.com and on their Facebook page.  The Family Life Center in Shelbyville is located at 225 East South 1st Street.  Information on them is available at www.familylifepcc.org and on their Facebook page. 

Mary Hobis and Dana Sawyer appeared as guests on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about school building additions and renovations from Taylorville School Superintendent Brandi Bruley at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Bruley outlined several upgrades of curricula this past year, on-going and planned building projects.

She talked about 3 building projects the School Board is focused on, using the county’s one-cent sales tax for school buildings to fund some 15-million dollars in bonds.  A new architect will be hired for these 3 projects.

Bruley shared which building projects are on the Taylorville School Board’s radar.

Bruley has been on the job as Taylorville School Superintendent just under a year.

Bruley was also inducted as the newest member of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club at the meeting.  She was inducted by Kiwanis president Bill Assalley (left) and Kiwanis membership chair Adam Jeffrey (right).

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. 

With extreme heat and rising humidity expected across the state, the Illinois Department of Transportation is warning drivers to watch out for pavement blowouts.

Pavement blowouts happen when long stretches of high temperatures cause roads to expand and buckle or crack, creating hazardous driving conditions. Humidity and rain can make the problem worse.

If you see a pavement issue while traveling, you’re encouraged to report it to IDOT by calling 800-452-4368, or by contacting local law enforcement through 911.

IDOT also reminds drivers to take precautions when traveling in the heat, especially to carry water. If your vehicle breaks down, dehydration can happen fast and pose a serious risk.

You can learn more about how pavement blowouts occur by watching an informational video on IDOT’s website.

The Taylorville Fire Department has announced the acquisition of seven new sets of turnout gear for its firefighters thanks to a grant awarded from the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal.  The turnout gear is critical for protecting its personnel while responding to emergencies.  

TFD received a $24,500 grant awarded through the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal’s Small Equipment Grant Program, and Taylorville was selected through a competitive statewide application process.  

Turnout gear is a frontline defense for firefighters during structural fires and other hazardous operations. The sets will replace aging and worn equipment helping the department maintain compliance with updated safety standards and industry practices. 

TFD says they are grateful to the IOSFM for recognizing their need and supporting efforts to keep members safe and prepared. 
 

People’s Bank and Trust Tuesday morning donated over 21-thousand dollars to the Taylorville Development Association, as part of finalizing the sale of the Taylorville Industrial Park to the City of Taylorville.

Senior Vice President and Senior Lending Officer for People’s Bank and Trust Jim Adcock, made the check presentation to T-D-A President Brent DeMichael.   Adcock told Regional Radio News the contribution will help facilitate the process of the sale.

DeMichael was very appreciative of P-B-T’s donation.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry was also present for the check presentation and told Regional Radio News the City’s goal is to facilitate economic development by purchasing the Industrial Park.

Closing on the purchase of the Taylorville Industrial Park by the City of Taylorville is set for this Thursday.

The American Red Cross is urging the public to take steps to stay safe from extreme heat.  The guidelines come amid such conditions across the country. 

The Red Cross gives three key tips for protection: Stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay connected.  They recommend drinking a cup of water every hour – even if you are not feeling dehydrated – and avoiding sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks.  People should spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned spaces, whether at home, a cooling center, or some other public place.  Finally, they suggest checking in on loved ones to see that they are well and safe. 

Athletes and those who work outdoors should take breaks in the shade as often as possible and drink a cup of water every 20 minutes.  Those with pets should ensure their pets have access to fresh water and shade.  As always, never leave a child or pet alone in a parked car. 

The Red Cross also urges the public to watch for signs of heat illness.  These illnesses can include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.  

Heavy sweating and muscle pain can be signs of heat cramps.  Those experiencing heat cramps should stop what they are doing, find a cool place to rest, and slowly drink water.  If symptoms persist for more than an hour, get medical help.

Heat exhaustion can be detected from heavy sweating, weakness, cool and clammy skin, dizziness, fainting, nausea, or vomiting.  Anyone with these symptoms should take the same actions as with heat cramps and should also loosen clothing and place a cool wet cloth on the body.  Seek medical help if symptoms include vomiting or do not improve.

Heat stroke can be deadly.  This arises in the form of the aforementioned symptoms in addition to rapid heartbeat and confusion.  If this happens, call 911, move to a cooler place, remove extra clothing, and cool down with a wet cloth or bath. 

The American Red Cross also recommends keeping a cooler filled with ice, food, water, and medicine so they do not spoil if a power-outage occurs.  The Red Cross has several apps which provide weather and safety information.  They are both available on the App Store and Google Play. 

Research conducted at the Dudley Smith Farm is just as much about shaping policy passed down by lawmakers as it is on benefiting our everyday farmers. This is true for a research project being done by Andrew Margenot, an assistant professor within the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois. 

Margenot is seeking to demonstrate the balance between row crops and their nitrogen balance. To put it more simply, Margenot says think of this balance as a bank account.

Nitrogen and it’s application on fields, has come under a microscope in recent years. Concerns arise from potential runoff and how much of that ends up in our water systems and more. Margenot says before new laws are imposed on farmers that could dramatically impact yield potential, there needs to be science behind it.

Margenot shares an example of the extremes that other nations have gone to solve the problem. He believes that through the work being done at the Dudley Smith Farm, researchers can provide the needed data to make better informed policies.

Find out more about the research projects shown and the Dudley Smith Farm, by visiting www.dsi.aces.illinois.edu.

Andrew Margenot appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our coverage from the Dudley Smith Farm Field Day.

The organizers of the annual Arthur fireworks show are putting the finishing touches on this year’s festivities.  This year’s show takes place on Saturday, June 28, and as with past years, it’s expected to attract visitors from all across the country. 

Larry Schlabach is part of the organizing team for the event.  He says part of what makes the show stand out from others are the fireballs shot into the sky, along with how they make that happen. 

Schlabach has in recent years refined the way he and others create and shoot the fireballs.  He says it makes the experience even more entertaining for visitors. 

Even with the uniquenesses of the Arthur fireworks, they still strive to honor veterans every year on the heels of Independence Day. 

Saturday festivities begin in the afternoon at two with the parade.  The action then moves to Jurgen’s Park.  Food, activities, and performances will keep people entertained until the fireworks begin at 8:30.

More information on the Arthur fireworks is available at their Facebook page. 

Larry Schlabach appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.

Image by Alexander Antropov from Pixabay

The Taylorville Park Board met on Monday evening to discuss business, pay bills, and hear from various committees at their monthly meeting for June at Manners Park. 

Sherri Craggs, who heads the pool committee, spoke regarding the Manners Park pool construction efforts.  The board is accepting bids again after the lone bid from last month was rejected.  Craggs says multiple bidders are expressing interest this time. 

The Park District had been considering buying property adjacent to the Don Bragg Sports Complex.  Craggs reports she was presented a price tag of $100,000 per acre and feels this is out of the Park District’s reach. 

Maintenance Superintendent Ben Dempsey gave an update on facilities.  He says there has been progress involving the flagpole at Jayne’s Park, the sign at the Don Bragg Complex, and lights at a baseball field. 

Recreational Director Jessica Franks spoke about the many events going on this summer and in the future.  In addition, she says planning for events in December has already begun. 

In new business, the board discussed the Park District’s contract with the Lakeshore Golf Course but did not take any action in that matter.  The board approved a motion to keep the employee incentive/overflow fund as is. 

The public portion of the meeting lasted 44 minutes.  The board went into a brief executive session thereafter. 

The next Park Board meeting is tentatively set for July 28. 

Two fallen Illinois State Troopers were honored Tuesday as their names were added to the Illinois State Police Memorial Park Wall in Springfield.

In separate ceremonies, family, friends, and fellow officers gathered to pay tribute to Trooper Corey Thompsen and Trooper Clay Carns, both of whom were killed in the line of duty in 2024.

Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said the names on the wall are more than just engraved letters — they represent lives dedicated to public service.

The memorial wall now bears 74 names, each a reminder of the risks troopers face every day. ISPHF Executive Director Jarod Ingebrigtsen called it “a way to honor those who served selflessly, and those who continue to carry on the values of Integrity, Service, and Pride.”

Trooper Corey Thompsen, 28, was killed on October 18 after completing a traffic safety detail in Champaign County. He was struck by a pickup truck while riding his department motorcycle. He served nearly five years with ISP and is survived by his wife Chelsea, his parents, and two brothers.

Trooper Clay Carns, 35, died on December 23 while removing debris from I-55 near Channahon. He was struck by a passing vehicle and later died at St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet. Carns had served 11 years with ISP and was assigned to Troop 3. He leaves behind his wife Meghan, two children, and a large extended family.

The ISP Memorial Park was dedicated in 2018 and stands as a solemn tribute to the ultimate sacrifice made by Illinois State Troopers.

The Taylorville Park Board of Trustees will hold their regular monthly meeting tonight, June 23, 2025, at 7 o'clock.  It will take place in the Manners Park Dining Hall. 

After the call to order, The board will move to approve the minutes from May’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.  They will also address an employee incentive/overflow fund. 

In old business, the board will hear updates on the pool and a lead site.  They will also hear about the Don Bragg sign and property adjacent to it.

As with other park board meetings, 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.

The Taylorville Fire Department spent a good portion of Saturday fighting a fire on the east side of town. The road was blocked off for several hours as the firefighters battled the fire and heat.  The fire occurred on East Franklin.  There were no injuries reported in the house, however, the fire department reported that one firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion but is recovering.  The Taylorville Fire Department also assisted in a structure fire Saturday morning in Stonington.

Over 30 people attended Friday’s quarterly luncheon sponsored by the Christian County Economic Development Corporation and hosted Friday by People’s Bank and Trust in Taylorville.

Guest speaker was Greg Heckel, Program Development Engineer for the Illinois Department of Transporation.  Heckel outlined the number of miles and bridges I-DOT is responsible for statewide, adding that in Christian County the agency is responsible for some 126 miles of state highways.

Heckel told the gathering that state highways in Taylorville and Pana are in poor shape.

Heckel then shared over half-dozen projects I-DOT is or will be doing between now and the end of next year in Christian County.   This year’s projects include completing the J-turn off U-S Highway 51 in Assumption and bridge replacement on Illinois 29 south of Millersville.

Next year’s I-DOT projects include the reconstruction of Illinois 29 thru Pana, with a price tag of eleven-point-4 million dollars; resurfacing of Illinois 29 thru Taylorville; resurfacing of Lincoln Trail near Taylorville; and work on the Mount Auburn Road.

A proposed project to widen Illinois 29 thru portions of Taylorville to create a left turn lane, has been deferred due to cost.

And, Heckel added extending U-S Highway 51 to 4 lanes from south of Assumption to Illinois Route 16 east of Pana, isn’t on the drawing board at the moment.

Heckel told the group I-DOT is always studying fatal crashes to determine how safety on those roads can be improved.

C-C-E-D-C president Adam Vocks told Regional Radio News he appreciated Heckel’s information on Christian County.

And, Executive Director Matt Hart was also pleased with Friday’s turnout.

Find out more on the Christian County Economic Development Corporation by clicking HERE.

The Moultrie-Sullivan Fair kicked off showings and project presentations on Friday, with festivities continuing into Saturday. Cows, goats, rabbits, and horses were all put on display, with plans for the ‘swine show’ to start things out tomorrow. The Moultrie-Sullivan Fair is celebrating their 77th year of providing family fun to surrounding areas with many more to come.

Nick Voegel, Board President for the Moultrie-Sullivan Fair, talks the history of the fairs start and the recent work done to update the fairgrounds.

Voegel goes on to share the schedule of events and attendees had for Friday and what to expect later this weekend.

Miah Voegel has been around the Moultrie-Sullivan Fair for at least the last six years. She goes on to tell of her uniquely named pigs she’ll be showing and about the many projects she undertook.

Learn more about the Moultrie-Sullivan Fair by visiting them at their Facebook page.

The Moultrie-Sullivan Fair started Thursday, June 19th and runs through Saturday, June 21st. WTIM, Your Information Station, and Cruisin’ 98.3 WSVZ broadcast live on Friday from the Moultrie-Sullivan Fair.

The National Weather Service has confirmed that at least 11 tornadoes touched down across portions of central Illinois during a severe weather outbreak on Wednesday, June 18. The storms swept through the region from late morning through the afternoon, causing damage to homes, trees, power lines, and farmland across several counties.

The strongest of the tornadoes was an EF-2 that touched down just east of the Jacksonville Airport in Morgan County around 12:07 p.m. Packing winds of up to 125 miles per hour, the twister stayed on the ground for nearly seven miles and 12 minutes, damaging homes, trees, and power poles along its path.

Morgan County was hit especially hard, seeing a total of four tornadoes throughout the day. An EF-1 tornado near Lynnville with 100 mph winds caused damage to power poles and tore roofing from a home. Another EF-1 tornado west of Jacksonville traveled more than three miles and damaged a power company outbuilding and sports complex. Later that night, just before midnight, an EF-0 tornado tracked over four miles east of Lynnville, damaging trees and a farm outbuilding before lifting on the outskirts of Jacksonville.

In Sangamon County, an EF-1 tornado touched down south of Pleasant Plains around 12:30 p.m. It carved a path more than seven miles long, snapping large trees, tossing grain bins, and peeling shingles off a home.

Menard County also saw an EF-1 tornado north of Tallula that destroyed multiple grain bins and caused tree and roof damage.

Other tornadoes were reported across Mason, De Witt, Tazewell, and McLean counties. These included several EF-0 and EF-U tornadoes — the latter being short-lived touchdowns confirmed by video but with no observable damage.

The National Weather Service classified most of the tornadoes as either EF-0 or EF-1, with wind speeds ranging from 75 to 110 mph. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported at this time.

Storm surveys and damage assessments are ongoing. Authorities continue to urge residents to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and to stay prepared as severe weather season continues.
 

WRAN groovy 97.3’s main transmitter returned to the air late Thursday night, following a lightning strike on May 16th during severe weather.

WRAN had been operating from a low power transmitter covering about half of its 40-mile radius, since that time.

The Miller Media Group thanks you for your patience while repairs were made.

This week is National Lightning Safety Week, and officials are reminding the public that while lightning can be fascinating to watch, it can also be deadly.

Each year in the United States, lightning strikes the ground approximately 25 million times—with nearly 800,000 of those flashes occurring in Illinois alone. Despite its beauty, lightning remains one of nature’s most underrated killers.

More than 1,000 people are struck by lightning annually in the U.S. While many survive, the injuries can be life-altering. When Lightning Safety Awareness Week began in 2001, the country averaged 55 lightning-related deaths per year. Thanks to growing public awareness and improved safety messaging, that average has now dropped to around 23 deaths per year.

The National Weather Service encourages people to “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors”—a simple reminder that the safest place during a thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle.

For more information and safety tips, visit the NWS Lightning Safety Awareness page.
 

Christian County held a commencement for its Treatment Court. The ceremony honored those who have gone through treatment for drugs and are on the right path to sobriety and moving forward.  The ceremony was an by Judge Brad Paisley and honored 5 graduates—Josh Bland, Skye Halleman, Keith Weller, Jeremey Reiss, and Byron Kay.  

Judge Paisley says that he has conducted over 20 ceremonies and that over 90 people have graduated. The judge says that the numbers don’t lie. The problem-solving court is working. 

Judge Paisley says that treatment can’t work until you take that hard first step.

Many of Judge Paisley’s team and Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp spoke at the event. If you are interested in contact Denise Evans at 217-777-0080 or 217-638-3247.  You can also contact Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler at 217-824-2211. Regional Radio News salutes the graduates and wishes them the best moving forward.

Many research projects and presentations were shown at the 2025 Dudley Smith Farm Field Day, one of which centered around “drainage water recycling.” Farmers know better than anyone that too much or too little water, is never a good thing. Caleb Bruhn, PhD Candidate of Biological and Agricultural Engineering with the University of Illinois, is looking into new water management practices. 

Bruhn explains his research project for tackling potential drought issues in late Summer.

Bruhn recommends farmers utilize a “pattern” tile drainage system to go along with his research’s findings.

For those with an already existing drainage system or water source on their farmland, a simple reservoir is likely all that is needed.

Bruhn goes on to share what benefits can come from using a form of drainage water recycling.

Learn more about the research projects and the Dudley Smith Farm by visiting www.dsi.aces.illinois.edu.

Caleb Bruhn appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our coverage from the Dudley Smith Farm Field Day.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is promoting new tools for its member businesses to manage their activities.  It’s also designed to help bring in new members who want to join.  The Chamber is also preparing for a slew of events, from community gatherings to professional development sessions for members and the public. 

April Wolfe, the GTCC’s Interim Operations Coordinator, has been overseeing the development of the new member tools.  They are based in an online portal which is accessible on the web and via a mobile app. 

The app is available on the App Store and Google Play and can be found by searching “Wild Apricot Member.”  

The GTCC has a busy start to the summer lined up.  Board President Krystal Baker says several community events are scheduled in the latter part of June. 

In mid-July, GTCC will host it’s next Business After Hours event.  These are opportunities for those involved with member businesses to network with each other.  They receive valuable insights from other executives, as was the case at this month’s event. 

Finally, the professional development seminars continue throughout the summer.  This year’s sessions are known as “Level Up Your Summer”

More information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and their events is available at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

Krystal Baker and April Wolfe appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Dudley Smith Farm Field Day proved important for local farmers, gaining valuable insight into new technologies and information to take back to the field. The University of Illinois Extension and the College of ACES continues to provide resources to improve sustainability and yields in Central Illinois. Giovanni Preza-Fontes, an assistant professor of Agronomy and Crop Sciences with the University of Illinois, starts by talking about his background.

Preza-Fontes focus for his research project is cover crop management and going beyond the traditional cereal rye that is commonly used.

Many different cover crops exist and Preza-Fontes is looking at preliminary data to conclude what is best for farmers locally.

What has the research found so far? Preza-Fontes says that cereal rye may still be the best option to minimize nitrogen losses.

Learn more about the research projects and the Dudley Smith Farm by visiting www.dsi.aces.illinois.edu.

Giovanni Preza-Fontes appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our coverage from the Dudley Smith Farm Field Day.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is expanding its efforts to enforce the law in the county’s small towns.  They are also working closely with other agencies in the state to protect communities regarding narcotics arrests and other major crimes.  With summer activities ramping up, officials want to educate the public on best practices to stay safe. 

Multiple towns in Christian County do not have their own police forces.  Despite having limited resources, Chief Deputy Jim Baker says they have memoranda of understanding with these areas to provide coverage.

CCSO also is training its staff to handle more significant incidents and collaborating with other agencies to secure more resources if needed. 

Summer is officially beginning and that means people will be headed to county fairs and other popular carnivals.  The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is promoting tips from the American Red Cross to keep people safe.  They suggest groups arrange a meeting place to reunite periodically and to remember what other members are wearing in case someone gets lost.

Independence Day is upon us, and this brings about safety advisories when it comes to fireworks and other dangerously hot items.  Chief Deputy Baker recommends having a fire extinguisher handy and being mindful where the fireworks are being lit. 

More information on the Christian County Sheriff’s Office is available at www.christiancountysheriff.com.

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

Lake Land College is helping students get ready for the upcoming school year with two Fast Track to Fall registration events this summer.

The events will act as one-stop shops where students can enroll, register for classes, and apply for scholarships—all with help from staff in Admissions, Counseling, and Financial Aid.

Associate Dean Pam Hartke says it’s a great opportunity for anyone planning to attend this fall to get everything squared away in one visit.

The first event takes place Tuesday, July 15 from 2 to 6 p.m. on Lake Land’s main campus in Mattoon. The second is set for Wednesday, August 6 at the new Effingham Technology Center, also from 2 to 6 p.m.

You can sign up for the Mattoon event here and the Effingham event here. For more information, contact Pam Hartke at 217-238-2705 or email phartke@lakelandcollege.edu.

A group of Republican lawmakers is suing to block a controversial bill they say could drastically impact Illinois’ legal and business climate. Senate Bill 328 would allow companies to be sued in Illinois—even if the case has no direct ties to the state—so long as it involves claims under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act.

The GOP suit, filed in Sangamon County, also challenges the way the bill was passed, targeting a common legislative tactic known as “gut-and-replace.” That method allows lawmakers to substitute major content into bills at the last minute, avoiding full constitutional readings.

Senate GOP Leader John Curran says the practice undermines transparency and contributes to Illinois’ poor reputation for business and ethics. The bill passed in the final hours of session on mostly party lines. Governor JB Pritzker has not yet signed it.

A second lawsuit over the same procedural issue has been filed by the Illinois Freedom Caucus, focusing on the state’s new budget. A hearing in that case is set for July 3.
 

Bob Ridings Pana is in the middle of its summer sales, and the dealership is doing what it can to get customers through the door.  They are leaning on what has made them successful for decades and even using a fun upcoming event to show off their inventory. 

Bryan Booth has been the general manager at Bob Ridings Pana for almost fifteen years.  He does his part to foster a welcoming car-buying experience for customers and believes that’s what has brought the business great success. 

The employee pricing sale you may have heard about is not exclusive to Bob Ridings.  It’s an effort by Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, whose vehicles Bob Ridings sells. 

In addition to sales, Booth says they also handle car service for all brands they sell, whether by appointment or simply walking in. 

On June 28, Bob Ridings Pana will be offering free food and snow cones at the dealership.  The event will help support the community and show the inventory to those who have not seen it up close. 

More information on Bob Ridings Pana is available at www.bobridings.com or by calling (217) 562-3986.

Bryan Booth appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

A Christian County man is facing serious charges after a months-long investigation by the Illinois State Police.

44-year-old William C. Wanless of Edinburg was arrested June 12th and is being held in the Christian County Jail. He faces two Class X felony counts and one Class 1 felony count of possessing child pornography with the intent to distribute.

State Police special agents with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began their investigation in March. During the investigation, digital evidence was uncovered linking Wanless to child sexual abuse material at his home.

Authorities from ISP, the Edinburg Police Department, and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office executed a search warrant last week and took Wanless into custody. Charges were filed by the Christian County State’s Attorney.

State Police encourage anyone with information about crimes against children to report it anonymously through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s cyber tip line at report.cybertip.org. Resources for keeping kids safe online and for survivors of abuse are available at onlinesafeonlinesmart.com and missingkids.org.
 

Drivers on a portion of Illinois Route 104 should prepare for delays this summer.  The Illinois Department of Transportation announced patch work has begun on four bridge decks on the road between Kincaid and the border to Sangamon County.  These bridges run over Lake Sangchris.

IDOT says the maintenance will create smoother surfaces and ensure the bridges will remain intact for many more years to come. The project is part of IDOT’s Rebuild Illinois initiative. 

The work will require lane closures, and flaggers will be on hand to guide traffic.  Drivers are advised to allow extra time if the work areas are part of their route and to consider detouring.  Those who do use the affected route should pay extra attention to signs, workers, and equipment. 

More construction details are available at www.GettingAroundIllinois.com and on X at @IDOTDistrict6. 

Students at Pana Junior High School are getting a unique opportunity to grow their mathematical and critical thinking skills and put them to use.  The school’s science department has a Lego robot program, where students create Lego robots to compete against each other in competitions.  The engaging nature of the work has drawn interest from many students, and they learn far more than just coding and engineering. 

Mark Schmitz, a seventh grade science teacher at PJHS, runs the program.  The school ran it previously, but Schmitz restarted it thanks in part to encouragement and guidance from administrators. 

The students quickly learn the heavy role math plays in their work, and other factors affect the calculations they make

Schmitz says Lego has done its part to make its robot kits as simple and intuitive as possible.  They create experiences which are fun and educational for kids of all ages. 

This is the first year of the program’s restart.  Schmitz hopes to incorporate it for all grade levels at the school so students can get more out of it. 

More information on Pana Schools is available at www.panaschools.com.

Mark Schmitz appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

The Christian County Board met on Tuesday evening. Michelle Brown was recognized.  Brown is retiring after 38 years of service to the county, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and the public defender’s office. Brown was recognized by both the county board and State’s Attorney John McWard.  McWard, who is usually never at a loss for words, struggled to put his feelings into words. 

Brown thanked everyone for their support over the years.

In other meeting news:
--Leslie DeVore was named to the Christian County Health Board on a 3 year term
--A new county board member for District 4, Marsha Miles, has been selected but they will be sworn in next month. 
--Bill Kennedy gave an update on the flooring for the courthouse and gave good news, informing the board that there are some sagging floors, but there is a plan in place to fix them and make them even stronger. 
--A County Cleanup Grant for Mt Auburn was approved.
--NFS fees were increased from $25-$30 for all county departments.
--An engineer salary has been agreed on at $174,000 for the need for the county. 
-- Mark Bauman, with Central Commodity FS got approval from the county to gain their support in a grant for the Harvel facility. 

--The board went into closed session to discuss future real estate purchase and planning.  

The next board meeting is Tuesday, July 15th, at 6 PM.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Recreation Director at the Taylorville Park District at their weekly meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Jessica Franks shared a full plate of activities happening at Manners Park this year, plus the status of the Park’s pool project.

On the pool, Franks stated bids received were over the 8-million dollar budget the District has established, so the project is being re-bid. 

Park District board member Sherri Craggs is the head of the board’s Pool Committee and will be leading the re-bidding project to then report to the full board.

Franks added last Friday’s Taylor Swift legacy concert drew over 600 people, with 2 more concerts set at the Manners Park Chautauqua Auditorium.  Movies will also be shown at the Park this summer, with both the concerts and movies free for families to enjoy.  A Car Cruise is also planned on the same nights as the concerts to attract even more people.

Last year’s “Christmas In the Park” lighted drive-thru displays were another success according to Franks.   At the request of many in the community, the Park Board is extending drive-thru nights for 2025 to go thru the Sunday after Christmas.

Kids’ day camp this week was again successful, and Franks added disc golf and the dog park at the Park have both been popular.    Franks is also helping to raise funds from the community, to build new tennis courts on Park property, to be used by the Taylorville High School Tennis teams and others.

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 Christian County Health Department says it has detected West Nile Virus in mosquitoes in Pana.  It’s the first such case in the county this year.  Environmental Health staff collected the sample on June 16.  The Illinois Department of Public Health says that no humans have tested positive so far in 2025. 

The Illinois Department of Public Health says most people with West Nile Virus experience nothing more than a fever and headache, and some will notice no symptoms at all.  In rare cases, though more frequently for elderly people, the virus can cause West Nile encephalitis.  This is a serious disease that affects the brain and can be deadly.  Symptoms of this disease include fever, headache, rashes, swollen nodes, conjunctivitis (eye irritation), disorientation, and muscle weakness. 

Dr. Chad Anderson, Public Health Administrator, urges people to use insect repellent and remove standing water areas to protect themselves from the virus.  Warm, humid conditions like what the area has seen lately are ripe for mosquitoes to emerge. 

CCHD says it will continue to monitor and test for West Nile Virus.  More information from the department is available at www.cchdil.org or by calling (217) 814-4113.  

A federal lawsuit was filed on Tuesday against multiple entities, following a sexual assault on a Taylorville Student in 2024. Ashley and Chadd Peden of Stonington have filed a federal lawsuit with Disparti Law Group against Taylorville School District and Durham School Services concerning a sexual assault that happened in January 2024. 

The case stems from the Peden’s then 10-year-old daughter, who was a victim of sexual assault by a 14-year-old both on the school bus and on her walk home. Cass Casper, attorney for Disparti Law Group, detailed the assaults that occurred and says that while this lawsuit may not make things right, policy needs to be changed. 

The lawsuit was filed after a Title 9 investigation that the district undertook.  Casper says the school district was more concerned with absolving themselves of responsibility than preventing future incidents from occurring or answering questions that the Peden’s had regarding the assault.

The family is urging anyone who has information or details about the incident to give Disparti Law Offices a call.

Next up for the federal lawsuit, the case will be set for a court hearing and processed through the district court.  Disparti Law Group and the Peden’s have filed four counts: Title IX, Deprivation of Substantive Due Process Right to Bodily Integrity (14th Amendment), Willful and Wanton Negligence, and Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress.

State Senator Steve McClure attended the press conference and spoke to the media as a concerned citizen.  Senator McClure says above all else, the Peden family has expressed their desire for statewide legislation and prevention. He has also noted that since this case has come forward, several similar cases have been filed across the state.

Regional Radio News has reached out to Durham’s School Services.  A representative from Durham’s says they are unable to comment on any active litigation.  Taylorville School District has yet to respond to our request for comment. 

To listen to the full press conference, see below.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Disparti Law Group at 312-506-5511. Regional Radio News interviewed Ashley Peden in August of 2024.  To read that story, click here. To read about Senator McClure’s proposed legislation, click here. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for all the latest developments in this breaking news story.

To view the lawsuit click here. 

Taylorville School District was hit with a federal lawsuit filing Tuesday morning, surrounding the supposed mishandling of a sexual abuse case on school grounds. Disparti Law Group, a firm based in Chicago, Illinois, has been tasked with handling the lawsuit.

Copies of the complaint against Taylorville CUSD #3 will be made available to media later today, and will be posted online for the public to view. Attorneys and family involved in this case, will be present to discuss the details of the filing.

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

The Christian County Board is set to meet this evening at 6 PM at the Christian County Courthouse to discuss business, review ordinances, and go over committee reports.  Under committee reports, Leslie DeVore will be potentially approved for the Christian County Health Board, and potentially, a District 4 County Board member will also be approved. 

Under highway, building, and grounds, Nextlink will be discussed, as will Delay Survey Maps, real estate purchase future planning, and a trespassing ordinance. Under executive, personnel, and liquor, the employee handbook update and the engineering technician position will be discussed. The County Engineer's salary and potential county engineer's salary will be reviewed and adjusted as needed, and a Comcast letter of Support for a BEAD Grant will be heard.

Under Audit, Finance, and Purchasing, claims and referrals from other committees will be approved. Under new business and other matters, the following motions will be discussed and potentially approved:  County Cleanup Grant for Mt Auburn, increasing the NSF Fee for all county Departments from $25-$30, County Engineer salary adjustments as mentioned earlier in this story, a memorandum of understanding Grant Sponsor for Central Commodity FS, support for Lincoln Land Community College, and real estate purchase future planning/purchases.

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

The Taylorville Police Department is highlighting its work with the town’s Safe Passage Program.  Nearing six years of operation, Safe Passage helps those with an addiction to drugs or alcohol find treatment as opposed to facing incarceration.  This comes as the department also continues to address the issue of mental health locally.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says Safe Passage continues to grow.  Meanwhile, the program and the Police Department are mourning the sudden loss of a Safe Passage driver.

Recovery programs take place at the First Presbyterian Church, but increased demand has led to the need for more space.

Mental health is a major factor as well when dealing with drug addiction.  When selecting treatment centers to use for the program, their ability to dual-diagnose can make the different in recovery efforts. 

Speaking of mental health, Chief Wheeler says these calls are on the rise again.  He calls for more resources and more treatment facilities for these instances. 

More information on the Taylorville Police Department is available at www.taylorville.net/police-dept and on their Facebook page.

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

Illinois’s $55.2 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026 will officially take effect.  That’s after Governor J.B. Pritzker signed it into law Monday morning.  The budget features significant investments in education and healthcare and comes with around $700 million in new taxes.

State lawmakers are now reacting to the signing, doing so in support or opposition largely along party lines.  State Senator Elgie Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), who serves as Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader, is praising the budget, saying it invests in the whole person and will help people and businesses prosper.

Likewise, State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) calls the signing “shameful” and criticizes the governor for – in her view – not following through on his word to balance increased spending with equal cuts.  Governor Pritzker remarked in his State of the State address in February that, if the General Assembly called for increased spending, he would ask where to make cuts.  Data from Illinois Policy show this budget is up over 40% from what Pritzker inherited when taking office. 

The budget – the full text of which can be found at budget.illinois.gov – passed out of the General Assembly two weeks ago. 

Taylorville Public Library is still welcoming community members to join their Summer reading program until June 26th, with a pool party and pizza to close things out. Anyone, at any age, is invited to join and see if you can come out of the competition as top reader. The Taylorville Public Library also has a Medicare workshop scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd, mixed in with their regular programming.

Erin Crommett, Programming and Outreach Manager with the Taylorville Public Library, talks prizes and the Summer Reading Program pool party, scheduled for June 28th.

Crommett shares some additional upcoming events that the library will be on hand for, including the Christian County Fair’s ‘Community Day.’

Crommett says local author and educator Fred Durbin, will host a creative writing class at the Taylorville Public Library, on June 26th.

For those interested in learning more about Medicare coverage and their options, the library has a workshop planned for next month.

Find out more about the Taylorville Public Library at www.taylorvillelibrary.org. You can also follow them on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

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

With summer courses in progress, Lincoln Land Community College is preparing for a fall semester of focused course options and new innovations.  LLCC continues to pitch their offerings to recent high school graduates as well as older adults looking to enter or even revisit higher education.  

Fall course registration is open until August 22.  Executive Director Dee Krueger says the fall catalog includes – along with the general education classes – a variety of healthcare-related courses. 

For anyone thinking about attending LLCC, the school makes the process simple.  Clear steps on the website and regular communication from advisors and program staff help prospective students get enrolled. 

Attending college can bring about logistical challenges for some students.  Krueger says the common ones at LLCC involve transportation and finding time to study. 

Possibly the biggest change this term at Lincoln Land regards Dee Krueger herself as she is retiring as Executive Director.  Through all the years, she has seen many students go through LLCC’s programs, graduate, and find success.

Krueger says she looks forward to finding other part-time work, reading, and watching movies on Netflix.

More information on Lincoln Land Community College is available at www.llcc.edu. 

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

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening with all aldermen present except for Alderman Chris Skultety.  The council honored Xanna Tomasello, who competed in an Iron Man competition in Texas, where she completed a swim, a bike ride, and a marathon. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry declared June 16th as Xanna Tomasello Day. 

The council voted 7-1, with Alderman Kathy Driskell voting no, on an extension to January of 2026 for the execution of the first amendment to the business district agreement between Taylorville and Heartland Development Partners and Cynthia Frisina.  Alderman Larry Budd says that the metal still needs to be paid for. 

A motion to approve and ratify the street sewer committee’s motion to have Benton and Associates apply for a 100% funded Illinois Department of Transportation Local Roads Grant Program was approved 7-0. A motion to authorize a pay request for Burdick Plumbing was approved 7-0. 
Under committee reports, motions to hire a replacement firefighter, advertise a labor/crossing guard position, and advertise for a full-time dispatcher position were approved. Motions for 2 cardiac monitors from Stryker and an upgrade for Cellebrite were approved.  A motion for a pay request from Plocher Construction for the water department on Well #2 and #3 was agreed on. 

A water fountain was approved for placement at Paw Paw Street. Potholing was approved for $5,000. Pay requests for work on the Lead and Copper Line Inventory and Water main Replacement on Springfield Road/Route 29 were all approved. A motion to approve the construction of an 86’6”x6” Boat dock at 59 Lake Vista Drive was also granted.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry announced his grand marshals for the 4th of July Parade: Bob and Helen Ridings.  

The meeting was adjourned at 7:22. The next city council meeting is set for July 7th. 

You've probably already heard about putting on sunscreen, wearing a hat, and standing in the shade when dealing with the sun, and for good reason. 5.4 million skin cancers are diagnosed every year, affecting more than 3 million people, some with more than one.

It is by far the most common type of cancer in the United States, and the American Cancer Society says this is probably due to better skin cancer detection, people getting more exposure to the sun, and living longer.  

Dr. Tim Smile, a radiation oncologist with OSF HealthCare says that there are many things you should do before heading outside, including picking the right sunscreen. 

Dr. Smile says that the vast majority of skin cancers are treated with topical treatments or minimally invasive surgeries.  

Dr. Smile says that one area that many people forget about when they put sunscreen on is their lips.

Dr.Smile encourages you to speak with your primary care provider and dermatologist once a year to keep things in check. 
 

Police say a 17 year old  teenage girl has been struck and killed by a train in Central Illinois—this time in Mattoon—marking yet another incident in just the past 30 days.  Six people so far have been involved in train/pedestrian hits. 

The incident took place on North 15 Street and Piatt Avenue in Mattoon. Ed Schniers, the Coles County Coroner, says the death has been ruled a suicide. 

With the rising number of train-related incidents, officials are urging the public to be more aware around railroad tracks. Illinois consistently ranks among the top states in the country for rail fatalities, and safety advocates say even one incident is too many.

In 2023, Illinois reported 102 train collisions, resulting in 18 fatalities and 22 injuries. Illinois ranked sixth in the United States for overall railroad incidents in 2023. 

Union Pacific and Operation Lifesaver stress the importance of staying alert, avoiding distractions like phones or headphones, and never trying to beat a train at a crossing. Trains can take over a mile to stop and may be quieter than people realize until it’s too late.

They also remind residents that walking on or along railroad tracks is considered trespassing and is both dangerous and illegal.

With summer approaching and more people out walking, safety experts are asking everyone to take train tracks seriously—and treat them like the high-speed danger zones they are.  For more information on train safety, visit https://oli.org/. 

Taylorville Community Credit Union has wrapped up its 11th annual "Stop. Shop. Vote!" scholarship program by awarding $1,000 scholarships to eight graduating seniors from area high schools.

Two students each from Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana high schools were selected. This year’s winners from Taylorville High School are Aulona Letniku and Lilly Winans. Letniku plans to study Biological Sciences at DePaul University in Chicago, while Winans will major in Agricultural Communications at the University of Illinois.

TCCU President Will Perkins said the credit union is proud to support students in their educational journeys and grateful for the community support. Thirty Taylorville businesses took part in the program, helping generate over 2,600 ballots and nearly 17,600 total votes.

Registration for next year’s scholarship program opens in August when school resumes. Students entering their senior year in the fall and planning to continue their education are encouraged to apply.

TCCU serves Christian, Shelby, and Montgomery Counties. For more information, visit TCCU.org or contact your local TCCU branch.

A local doctor has been named the 2025 Illinois State Medical Society Physician of the Year. Dr. Pavi Gill, a medical director of Springfield Clinic Taylorville, has been recognized for his outstanding clinical care, leadership, and mentorship. Dr. Gill says he doesn’t know how to express his gratitude. 

Dr. Gill says that a life changing moment is the reason he is a doctor today.

The 2025 Physician of the Year praised his patients, students, and colleagues for their support.

The ceremony was held earlier this year.  More information on Dr. Pavi Gill can be found at https://www.springfieldclinic.com/. 

Now with Summer vacation fully underway, the Shelbyville Public Library is looking to help keep the family busy with fun events. An exotic petting zoo is coming to town, bubble stations, and their weekly story time every Monday, makes learning feel fresh and unique for kids. And for the parents, a ‘true crime’ night and crochet club, highlight the many events planned. 

Monica Cameron, Director of the Shelbyville Public Library, dives in to what’s in store for area families. Cameron explains that due to their weekly story time’s popularity, the library now has multiple sessions to register for.

When it comes to special events, Cameron shares one their biggest of the year. On June 25th, Wild Times Exotics and their collection of animals, will visit Shelbyville Public Library.

Just a week prior on June 18th, the Library is bringing back bubble stations, after a great turnout previously. 

Events geared towards adults are often held on Thursdays. Cameron discusses what to expect from their ‘true crime’ night as well as their crochet club.

Find out more on the Shelbyville Public Library at www.shelbyvillelibrary.org.

Monica Cameron appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.

Some insurance plans may soon have to cover hippotherapy – a form of physical, occupational, and speech therapy involving the movement of horses while riding them.  This provision is part of Senate Bill 69, which awaits the signature of Governor J.B. Pritzker. 

Hippotherapy is used for conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, arthritis, head and spinal cord injuries, and behavioral and psychiatric disorders.  Typically, a licensed therapist and a professional horse handler work together with the patient during consultations.  Planning these visits entails determining the ideal exercises and horse breeds for the given patient. 

Marita Wassman is the founder of Ride On St. Louis, a nonprofit organization which provides equine services.  She says clients have seen benefits including improved health and physical capabilities, along with an increased sense of engagement.  In some cases, these outcomes can arrive far sooner than more traditional forms of therapy. 

Senate Bill 69 passed the Illinois Senate unanimously in April, followed by the House in late May. 

4-H and the University of Illinois Extension in Christian County, have their calendars set for the many different shows coming this Summer. Showings will officially begin in July, but the livestock, projects, and work already done, has been months in the making. 4-H Youth Development Educator Jessica Jaffry, knows this is an exciting time for fair goers and the children involved. Jaffry talks the lead up to fair season and the fun of getting everyone together for one cause.

Starting on Monday, July 14th, projects and animals will make their way to the Extension’s office. On Tuesday, animals will be weighed and confirmed for the livestock shows scheduled for Wednesday night.

On Thursday, July 17th, the Foundation will host their auction to wrap up the busy week.

The focus isn’t just on the fair however. On Thursday, June 26th, at the Carlinville Extension Office, educators will again host their “Food Challenge.” Jaffry details what to expect from this year’s version of the workshop.

The three hour event will end with a cooking challenge. Attendees will be given ingredients to work with and will then have to incorporate the chosen mystery item, to their prepared dish.

Find out more about Christian County 4-H by visiting www.extension.illinois.edu.

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

A sports card shop in Shelbyville is celebrating three years in operation.  The young entrepreneurs took an interest that started from a trip stop and grew in the right circumstances, and they built a successful small business.  Now the owners of Sayers Brothers Cards are finding new ways to keep hobbyists coming back and continue growing their space and offerings.

Aiden Sayers is one of the founders.  While he and Trey were on a trip to Nashville to see a Minor League Baseball game, they stopped at a Walmart and noticed some baseball card packs.  This led to stops at other trading card shops, opening the door to a new passion for them. 

After that, Aiden visited a store in Effingham called Baseball Card Connection.  That was the start of what transformed this new hobby into a new business. 

Sayers Brothers Cards opened up shortly after.  Even in just three years, it has greatly evolved. 

With their inventory, the owners organize their cards for sale using “player boxes” for certain popular players.  It helps customers find what they’re looking for based on interest and budget.  

Sayers Brothers Cards is located at 124 N. Morgan Street in Shelbyville.  More information on the business is on their Facebook page. 

Aiden Sayers appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.  Trey Sayers was unable to appear because of work commitments. 

The Stonington community and visitors from other nearby towns came together over the weekend at Ponting Field for the annual Stonington Summerfest carnival.  The three-day event drew enthusiastic crowds for carnival rides, vendors, parades, performances, contests, and a fireworks show to cap it off. 

This was the 40th edition of the Summerfest.  Few people know the annual tradition better than Tara Ramsey.  She was the first ever winner of the Little Miss Summerfest pageant.  She says some aspects of Summerfest have remained the same even forty years on.

For today’s youth in Stonington, the Summerfest is a significant part of their lives.  This is certainly true for Charlie White, who claims to have never missed a Summerfest.  She was named Little Miss Summerfest in 2019 and visits Ponting Field often, even outside of the annual carnival. 

The Stonington Fire Department plays a notable role at Summerfest.  As Stephanie Roghan describes, this includes the Sunday breakfast games for the kids on Saturday. 

More information on Stonington Summerfest is available on its Facebook page. 

WMKR Genuine Country 94.3 broadcast live from Stonington Summerfest on Saturday.

Lake Shelbyville is visited by nearly 3 million people on any given year, that number is likely grow now that the IHSA State Bass Fishing Tournament has found it’s new home. More than 60 teams made their way to the lake for the first time in 2025, and will continue to do so for years to come. Freddie Frye, Executive Director for the Shelby County Office of Tourism, shares the successful tournament despite some delays due to weather.

Tower Hill will play host to their Summer Solstice and Artisan Market on Saturday, June 14th. Frye states that proceeds raised will go towards supporting the park.

As we inch closer to the Fourth of July, several communities in Shelby County will be putting on their own firework shows. The City of Shelbyville expects to hold their show  the night of the 4th, with plans for events in the days before.

Find out more about Shelby County and their schedule of Summer events at www.lakeshelbyville.com. 

Freddie Frye appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.

Almost 50 people attended the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce held a Membership Appreciation Breakfast Friday morning at the Pillars Event Center.  

Following a catered breakfast, Chamber Operations Coordinator April Wolfe unveiled their newly designed web site, and also talked about their enhanced social media sites which have garnered over 5-thousand followers.

Wolfe highlighted many of the signature Chamber events taking place each year, including the popular Spring Swing and Chillifest, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary this year.

She then introduced several Chamber members who each gave remarks on how the Chamber has helped their business.

Several door prizes were also given away during the breakfast.

Wolfe spoke with Regional Radio News, saying the morning event was a great way to connect with Chamber members.

And, Wolfe says the Chamber is a long history in Taylorville.

See the newly designed Chamber web site by going to taylorvillechamber-dot-com.

The Taylorville Water Department has issued a boil order for residents in the 700 and 800 blocks of West Franklin Street due to ongoing water main repairs. The order went into effect on June 12 and will remain in place until water samples confirm that it is safe to drink.

According to Water Superintendent Marlin Brune, no restaurants are included in the affected area.

Residents in the impacted blocks are urged to bring water to a rolling boil for at least five minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. The boil order is a precaution to ensure public health and safety.

Officials will notify residents once the order has been lifted.

For more information, contact the Taylorville Water Department at 217-287-1441.

Gun rights advocates are once again asking the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn Illinois’ ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Capitol News Illinois is reporting attorneys for groups seeking to overturn the law filed briefs with the appellate court last week. They are asking the court to uphold the ruling of a district court judge in East St. Louis who said the state law violates the Second Amendment.

The briefs were filed just a few days after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear appeals involving similar laws in Maryland and Rhode Island. That means the bans in those states were allowed to stay in place.

The 7th Circuit has previously refused to issue injunctions to block enforcement of the law while the cases are working their way through the courts.

The University of Illinois Extension is looking to educate the public on how to take care of bees and other pollinators.  It comes ahead of National Pollinator Week, which runs from June 16-22.  The USDA says animals pollinate around 75% of flowering plants and 35% of food crops, underscoring the importance of following best practices. 

People in a variety of outdoor roles can play their part in protecting pollinators so they can help our ecosystems thrive.  The Extension recommends beekeepers communicate with nearby farmers and anyone else who sprays pesticides on plants to ensure they avoid doing so near apiaries.  Homeowners are urged to take up Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce the use of pesticides.  Gardeners are advised to apply pesticides in the early morning or late evening, as pollinators are less active at these times of the day. 

The Extension also reminds people that swarms of bees are usually harmless.  This is because they are focused more on finding a new home than on stinging.  There is no need to panic; simply keep a good distance from them and avoid using loud equipment near swarms. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension’s events surrounding National Pollinator Week can be found at www.extension.illinois.edu.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation has been busy expanding the enterprise zone but now focus on Taylorville’s Industrial Park. The City of Taylorville has approved the purchase of the Industrial Park from the Taylorville Development Association. This eventual change in ownership has the CCEDC, and prospective investors in Christian County, excited for what’s to come.

Matt Hart, Christian County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director, tells the history on how this purchase became possible. Hart believes this to be a great acquisition for all that are involved.

Hart explains that the process of purchasing land in the Industrial Park, will be made much simpler moving forward.

Midwest Meter is expanding their operations and building a brand-new warehouse. For Hart, it goes to show Christian County businesses have the right incentives to stay.

E.L. Pruitt Company has also made some big changes. Recently, they’ve moved to an existing space, to create a 50,000 square foot facility in Taylorville.

The Illinois Economic Development Association Conference was held this last week, and Hart says it was a great opportunity for him to learn alongside others.

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

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

If you’re looking for a fun activity this weekend, the Stonington Summerfest has you covered.  This year’s edition runs from June 13-15 at Ponting Field in Stonington.  The annual carnival is celebrating its 40th year by combining long-standing traditions with new offerings meant to appeal to people of all ages.  As Summerfest committee members Jodi Rusher and Megan Coffey describe, this is what makes the event special in the community. 

Friday’s offerings begin at 5 p.m. with the pulled pork dinner, pageants, and bingo.  Saturday is the first full day and begins with events such as the Color Run, parade, and car cruise. 

The rest of Saturday consists of more food and performances, including live music with a local connection. 

Sunday’s happenings begin even earlier than on Saturday.  Traditional events on this day include a wiffle ball tournament with an even greater meaning this year. 

There will also be a petting zoo set up on Sunday from 2-4 p.m.  The Summerfest wraps up that evening with the fireworks show. 

More information on Stonington Summerfest is available on its Facebook page. 

Jodi Rusher and Megan Coffey appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville community is teaming up with ImpactLife to host a local blood drive on Thursday, June 26th. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Christian County Extension Office Auditorium, located at 1120 North Webster Street.

ImpactLife, which supplies blood to area hospitals, encourages residents to donate. Anyone who gave blood before May 1 is eligible to donate again. Donors must be at least 17 years old—or 16 with parental permission—and weigh over 110 pounds. A photo ID is required.

If you can’t attend the drive, you can donate at the ImpactLife Springfield Donor Center; mention “Taylorville Community” at check-in.

Appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling 800-747-5401 or visiting bloodcenter.org and using sponsor code 60145.

All successful donors will receive an ImpactLife reward, including e-gift cards or bonus points for items like this month’s featured reward—a picnic blanket.
 

Sangamon County has officially opened its new regional morgue facility following a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house earlier today.

Located in the renovated Sangamon South building—formerly home to the State Journal-Register—the $6 million project brings all coroner operations under one roof, including autopsies, evidence processing, and administrative work.

Coroner Jim Allmon says the new space is a major upgrade from years of working in borrowed and scattered locations.

The facility includes a refrigerated unit that can hold up to 50 individuals and a freezer for 12 more, along with top-tier equipment and space for investigators, support staff, and forensic pathologists to work together more efficiently.

Forensic Pathologist Dr. Nate Patterson says the centralized setup will improve coordination and outcomes, not only for Sangamon County, but also for neighboring jurisdictions that rely on their services.

The County used federal American Rescue Plan funds to finance most of the project and saved taxpayers more than $2 million by renovating an existing building rather than constructing a new one.

Allmon also thanked Springfield Memorial and St. John’s hospitals for their longtime support, including donated equipment to help outfit the new space.

The facility includes a dedicated area for Saving Sight and Gift of Hope, enhancing support for families who choose organ and tissue donation.

The new morgue is now fully operational and ready to serve Sangamon County and the region.
 

The Christian County Health Department wants the community to have a safe Summer, whether it’s at home or at a local event. Inspectors are actively tracking pests like ticks and mosquitoes for the various diseases they may carry while managing temporary event permits for the many fairs and festivals. Additionally, the CCHD is working to organize their first-ever “Annual Health Fair.” 

Alexandra Evrley, Lead and Vector Inspector, and Joe Torres, Environmental Health Director with the Christian County Health Department, talk recent changes to water testing. Previously, the CCHD could accept samples from existing water supplies. Now with recent changes passed down from the IDPH, only new water sources will be tested.

Ticks and mosquitoes are on the CCHD’s radar every Summer and this year is no different. Evrley talks tick control and how samples are gathered weekly.

With all the fairs and festivals throughout the area, the Christian County Health Department would like to remind vendors about temporary event permits. These permits are valid at one location for up to two weeks, and you may only receive one temporary permit per month.

The CCHD is finalizing plans to host an “Annual Health Fair.” Scheduled for July 30th, community members can visit their location and learn more about the work they do.

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

Joe Torres and Alexandra Evrley appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

June is National Dairy Month and the St. Louis Dairy Council looks forward to this time of year to share the many benefits of dairy. It is recommended that the average adult consume three servings of dairy products daily. This could be a cup of milk or yogurt and a few slices of cheese, to meet these requirements. Monica Nyman, Senior Nutrition Educator and Registered Dietitian with the St. Louis Dairy Council, provides some background on how National Dairy Month came to be and their involvement in it.

Milk contains 13 essential nutrients, no matter the choice of milk or it’s pasteurization process. Nyman shares what those nutrients are and how they benefit your overall health.

“Conventional” milk is the most common form of milk consumed. These are broken into 4 categories: skim, 1%, 2%, and whole milk.

Other types include ultra-pasteurized and shelf stable milk. Nyman talks the difference between not only their shelf life but the process of pasteurization itself. 

Learn more about the St. Louis Dairy Council by visiting www.stldairycouncil.org.

Monica Nyman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Park District is ready to welcome the community to its many events planned for the summer.  From camps for kids to tribute band concerts, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.  The Park District has been busy with repairs and other elements of planning to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

This Friday is the first concert in their summer series.  It features the band Taylorville, which is a Taylor Swift tribute band.  Recreation Director Jessica Franks says with the expected crowd and weather, attendees should arrive early. 

The band will perform on a stage which the Park District bought instead of renting it each time.  Franks says this will save them money in the long run. 

A Taylor Swift look-a-like contest will take place for kids before the concert, with cash prizes on offer. 

The top three winners for each age group will win cast prizes of $100, $50, and $25 respectively.  Our own Leroy Kleimola is set to be the emcee for the contest!

The Park District’s summer camp for kids is underway.  Despite not having a pool available on their grounds, the camp organizers are finding other ways to keep the kids busy and entertained. 

Meanwhile, visitors will notice some improvements to Jayne’s Park, including repainting the concession stand and restrooms and adding a flagpole.  Volunteers from Taylorville Memorial Hospital helped in these efforts. 

More information on the Taylorville Park District is available at www.taylorvilleparkdistrict.com. 

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

Peoples Bank and Trust and 94.3 WMKR are proud to present the Pana High School for May 2025. Students of the Month for May are Carley Nicolaides, Madison Davis, Jaycie Funneman, and Issabelle Reed.  

L - R:  FRESHMAN CARLEY NICOLAIDES; SOPHOMORE MADISON DAVIS; JUNIOR JAYCIE FUNNEMAN; SENIOR ISSABELLE REED; PBT REPRESENTATIVE JENNIFER MATHIS

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is marking Juneteenth with a week of special events, highlighted by a rare public display of a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Lincoln himself.

The document, which declared freedom for millions of enslaved people in Confederate states, will be available for free viewing June 13 through 26 during weekday hours—and also during a special weekend showing on Saturday, June 14.

The museum will also host several events celebrating the holiday:

•    Dan Duster, great-grandson of civil rights pioneer Ida B. Wells, will speak on leadership and courage Tuesday, June 17 at 6:30 p.m.

•    “The Nature of Freedom,” a theater presentation featuring the words of historic Black leaders, will be performed at noon on June 12, 13, 18 and 19—and at 6:30 p.m. on the 19th.

•    The ALPLM will join Springfield’s Juneteenth Celebration at Comer Cox Park on Saturday the 14th, offering activities and giveaways for families.

•    And on June 19, the museum is offering free admission to all visitors.

Juneteenth, which began in Texas, commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people in Galveston were finally freed by federal troops—more than two years after Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

For full event details, visit PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov.
 

Pana Community Hospital Foundation is looking to giveaway prizes to their community before hosting their 32nd Annual PCH Foundation Golf Scramble. From now until the end of June, area residents can enter for their chance to win one of four prizes through the Foundation’s “Summer Raffle.” Tickets are $10 and are open to anyone for purchase. Melissa Rybolt, Executive Director of the Pana Community Hospital Foundation, details the raffle and how to get tickets.

As for the prizes, a 28 inch Blackstone griddle and Cardinals tickets, highlight the four potential winnings.

On August 29th, the Foundation will host their 32nd Annual Golf Scramble at a new venue. The Moweaqua Golf Course is an 18 hole course and meals will be provided for your team of four.

With the proceeds that are raised, Pana Community Hospital Foundation plans to put them towards the many renovations that are nearing completion.

Find out more on the Pana Community Hospital Foundation at www.panahospital.com.

Melissa Rybolt appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

A local education agency will soon be able to host programs and events in space owned by Lake Land College.  The college’s board of trustees approved an agreement to lease the first floor of its Kluthe Center to the Regional Office of Education (ROE) #3. 

The ROE serves schools and their students in Bond, Christian, Effingham, Fayette, and Montgomery counties.  The lease begins in August and runs through June of 2028.  Julie Wollerman, Regional Superintendent of Schools for the aforementioned counties, says the partnership provides a high-quality environment for learning and growth. 

Lake Land College previously held its technology classes in the Kluthe Center before moving to the building now known as the Effingham Technology Center.  Those classes will begin this fall. 

The Kitchell Park Popcorn Festival proved itself popular in it’s first year last Summer, and the Pana Parks Revitalization Committee has plans and changes for improvement in 2025. From pageants to parking, the PPRC is looking to make their 2nd Annual Popcorn Festival even better. Featured again this year will be a 5K, ‘Dog Show,’ volleyball tournament, and more, with additions like a 3 on 3 basketball tournament and paddleboat races.

Nicole Blodgett, President of the Pana Parks Revitalization Committee, first starts by talking how the festival got it’s start in 2024.

Blodgett highlights the many different activities and tournaments taking place. If golfing or running isn’t your thing, their pickleball, kickball, and corn-hole tournaments, might be more your speed.

Even after an ambitious first year of hosting the Kitchell Park Popcorn Festival, Blodgett shares about some of their newest events.

While the Popcorn Festival is one of their busiest times of the year, the Pana Parks Revitalization Committee has plenty of other projects to benefit the community.

Find out more about the Pana Parks Revitalization Community and their Kitchell Park Popcorn Festival by visiting www.panapopcornfestival.org. You can also visit them at their Facebook page.

Nicole Blodgett appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

A brand new event in Christian County looks to bring the community together through religion and song.  It’s called the Rhythm of Community Unity.  The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 14 from 4-8 p.m. at the Chautauqua building at Manners Park in Taylorville.  Church bands and individual singers will be on hand to perform, and the organizers hope to grow the event year over year.  Kimberly Brune is part of the organizing team and says this form of cooperation between local churches is part of what inspired the event. 

Brune hopes to attract greater interest from performers in future years.  She sees this year’s event as an opportunity to show them what they can be part of. 

As for the music at the show, it’s expected to be mostly contemporary Christian music, much like what’s heard on religious radio stations. 

Brune says she primarily looks forward to the positivity and togetherness at the show from the religious messaging in the music. 

The Rhythm of Community Unity is free and open to the public.  More information is available by calling (217) 824-8181 or (217) 825-8595.

Kimberly Brune appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning show.

The Taylorville CUSD #3 School Board of Education tackled two hearings before moving into the regular monthly meeting agenda. To start, the School Board presented their amended budget laying out their financial plan for the next year. Directly after, the Board reviewed the potential $15 million dollar general obligation alternate bonds, intended to improve school facilities. This item was tabled during the May meeting following concerns over the wording of how these bonds might be used by the district.

Since the last meeting, no changes were made to the budget and only the wording concerning future bond use was changed. The Board approved of the newest budget with a 7 – 0 vote.

Next, was a discussion concerning new alternate bonds. The Board heard from Kendall King, a CPA with King’s Financial in Monticello. King recommended that the Board utilize their services, to get the best possible interest rate on behalf of the district.

Taylorville School Board will move forward with the $15 million dollar general obligation alternate bonds and will consider the support of King’s Financial. No vote on their involvement was made. These bonds will have no additional impact on taxpayers, as funds are already gathered from a city-wide 1% sales tax.

The Board also voted to approve an insurance renewal with Dimond Brothers Insurance. Dan McNeeley, Executive Vice President of Sales, informed Board members that their coverage costs have remained nearly the same, without raising deductible amounts.

During public comment, Isabella Gideon, 2024 Miss Mt. Auburn, pleaded her case for additional community involvement in towns that have been added to the Taylorville School District.

The Taylorville CUSD #3 Board of Education meeting will be on July 8th, 2025.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the President and CEO of the Christian County Mental Health Association at their weekly meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Brent DeMichael came to the position in 2010 and leads the local mental health association effort that began in 1971.   The agency has changed the types of services it provided a few years ago due to changing state regulations.

Today, the association oversees 4 group homes as well as a plant that manufactures plywood reels.  The plant provides employment for over a hundred local residents that have developmental disabilities. 

DeMichael added the unique thing about the plant is that while they have regular customers from the eastern half of the United States for their reels, they have no written contacts with their customers.  He added that their reputation as a provider of quality products, and the mission behind the plant, is why many companies turn to them to buy.   He also said the plant manufactures and sells over a million plywood reels a year.

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

WTIM and People’s Bank and Trust in Taylorville have announced their students of the month for May. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes. Students of the Month for May are Arlinda Ademi, Maycee Crowe, Courtney Books, and Mya Clayton.

L - R:  PBT REPRESENTATIVE MASON CROWE; SENIOR ARLINDA ADEMI; JUNIOR MAYCEE CROWE; SOPHOMORE COURTNEY BOOKS; FRESHMAN MYA CLAYTON

More than two dozen local businesses were represented at last month’s Business After Hours event hosted by the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, continuing the organization’s tradition of supporting business growth through community engagement.

The event, held at The Pillars Event Center and co-hosted by Angelo’s Family of Businesses, provided a relaxed setting for members to network and explore potential partnerships. The Pillars offered a welcoming atmosphere, while guests sampled new menu items catered by Angelo’s Pizza of Taylorville.

Attendees were given a first look at Angelo’s expanded menu, reflecting the company’s ongoing focus on quality and culinary innovation.

In addition to food and conversation, the evening featured a “GIFTaway” drawing. Winners Teresa Paul, Linda Osborne, Bob Harlow, Joe Hauser, and Lori Simmons received Angelo’s gift cards and branded apparel.

Chamber officials emphasized the importance of the monthly Business After Hours events as a platform for connection and collaboration among local professionals.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce plans to continue offering these events to strengthen ties within the local business community. For more information about Chamber membership and upcoming events, visit www.taylorvillechamber.com or email chamber@taylorvillechamber.com.

Peoples Bank and Trust and WTIM Your Information Station have announced their junior high students of the month for May. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes. This month; Olivia Hardin, Levi Bangert, Grace Mizeur, and James Peabody were nominated.Congratulations to the Taylorville Junior High Students of the Month.

L - R:  PEOPLES BANK AND TRUST AND WTIM TAYLORVILLE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL MAY 2025 STUDENTS OF THE MONTH 5TH GRADE OLIVIA HARDIN; 6TH GRADE LEVI BANGERT; 7TH GRADE GRACE MIZEUR; 8TH GRADE JAMES PEABODY

The Montgomery County Fair is just about ready to open it’s gates once again for the 39th year in a row. Fair goers will still have all the events, vendors, and games, they have grown to love, with some new additions to lineup. Additionally, improvements to accessibility made around the fairgrounds, should make for an easier time for those with mobility issues. Marti Benning, Director for the Montgomery County Fair Board, talks some of those changes to expect this fair season.

Thanks to a recent grant, the Montgomery County Fairgrounds has made strides to make more buildings accessible. Benning says the projects have been slowed by recent weather but they look forward to seeing them finished.

Livestock showings remain a key feature of this years schedule. The Fair Board has moved certain showings to different days or times to increase participation.

Hailey Meyer, with the Montgomery County Fair, highlights the demo derby and the “power wheels” derby.

Find out more about the Montgomery County Fair by visiting their Facebook page.

Marti Benning, Hailey Meyer, and Kerrigan Meyer appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville Community Unit School District #3 Board of Education will hold a public hearing followed by its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, at the District Office Board Room. The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a Public Hearing on the Amended Budget, during which the board will present updates to the district’s current financial plan.

Immediately following, the board will conduct a Public Hearing on a Bond Resolution. During this session, the board will hear public comments and present its intent to issue up to $15 million in general obligation alternate bonds. The proposed bonds would be used to improve school sites and for the construction, renovation, and equipping of district buildings and facilities.

After the hearings, the board will stay put for their regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes time for public visitors, a recognition of thank-you notes from community members, and approval of minutes from recent meetings. The board will also review financial claims, the treasurer’s report, and updates to district personnel.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for updates following the conclusion of tonight’s event.

This week is National Pollinator Week, and the Master Gardeners at the University of Illinois Extension are taking action during this awareness campaign.  Their aim is to encourage gardeners to consider how to adjust their planting work to create a thriving ecosystem for pollinators.

One important component is having native plants in the garden.  Gwen Podeschi and Kathi Knope from the Extension say that well known plants such as cone flowers and black-eyed Susans are considered native. 

The Master Gardeners do their part to make getting these plants easy.  Together with the Illinois Native Plant Society, they hold an annual plant sale and also host gatherings and other events. 

Information on the Illinois Native Plant Society is available at www.illinoisplants.org. 

The Master Gardeners also appear sometimes at the Taylorville Farmer’s Market.  They are there to sell plants, provide advice, and even attract new members. 

As always, you can reach the Master Gardeners for gardening help and questions through their helpdesk by calling (217) 287-7246 or visiting their Taylorville office at 1120 North Webster Street.  More information on the Master Gardeners at the University of Illinois Extension is available at www.extension.illinois.edu/mg.

Gwen Podeschi and Kathi Knope appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

A free workshop aimed at helping rural communities and small businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence is coming to Christian County.  The event is taking place on July 8th, from 6 PM -7:30 PM and will be at LLCC at 800 South Spresser Street in Taylorville.  

The Christian County CEO program is hosting its Give Back event, titled “AI: Rural’s Unfair Advantage.” The session is open to the public and free to attend, with organizers encouraging RSVPs to amy.k.hagen@usbank.com.

The workshop will explore how artificial intelligence can help small businesses and nonprofits overcome challenges often faced in rural areas—like limited budgets and smaller workforces. Topics will include how AI can be used as a marketing assistant, data analyst, or even an operations helper, with no advanced tech skills required.

For those ready to take it a step further, the session will also highlight ways AI can automate routine tasks and increase efficiency.

The event will be led by Andrew Skattebo, a longtime technology trainer, consultant, and co-owner of BrickStreet Digital in Quincy. Skattebo has spent the last several years working directly with AI tools and training others across the Midwest. He also teaches workforce development at John Wood Community College.

Again, the event is free, but RSVPs are requested.  Find out more information here and at christiancountyceo.com
 

A small fire at the Litchfield McDonald’s early Monday morning was quickly contained, thanks to the fast response of local firefighters.

Just after 7:15 a.m., crews were called to the restaurant at 2 Ohren Lane after smoke was seen coming from an outlet. Firefighters found a small fire burning inside a wall and were able to expose the area and extinguish the flames using pressurized water extinguishers.

An investigation determined the fire was accidental, caused by a pressure washer that had been placed too close to the building. Heat from the washer’s exhaust entered a wall void and ignited nearby materials.

No injuries were reported, and the restaurant was able to reopen after passing safety inspections. Fire Chief Adam Pennock reminds businesses to keep heat-producing equipment at a safe distance from structures during maintenance or cleaning.

The annual Freedom Tree community food drive from Taylorville Community Credit Union kicks off Monday, June 9, and runs through Friday, July 11.

The drive supports local food pantries by collecting boxed and canned food items, personal hygiene products, and cash donations at all four TCCU locations—Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana.

TCCU President Will Perkins says the summer months bring added demand on food pantries, as children are out of school and don't have access to school meal programs. He adds that recent service cuts make this year's campaign especially important.

Over the years, the Freedom Tree has helped gather thousands of pounds of food and raised thousands of dollars, all of which go directly to local food pantries serving area residents in need.

Cash donations are especially useful, allowing pantries to buy food in bulk and stretch every dollar further. Donations can be made at any teller station inside TCCU branches.

Perkins encourages both credit union members and the general public to take part in helping their neighbors this summer.
 

As the cost of living continues to climb, a local broadband provider is stepping in to help make internet access more affordable.

Sparklight is now offering a new low-cost plan called Lift Internet in Taylorville and across most of its service area. The plan is designed for individuals and families who qualify through programs like Social Security, Medicaid, SNAP, and others — providing high-speed internet for just $29.95 a month.

The package includes a free modem, free standard installation, and doesn’t require a credit check.

Tony Mokry, Sparklight’s Senior Vice President of Residential Services, says the company believes reliable internet is a necessity and wants to remove the barriers that stand in the way.

The new offering comes as the federal Affordable Connectivity Program comes to an end — and aims to fill that gap, especially for households that rely on internet for work, school, and staying connected.

To check eligibility or learn more, visit sparklight.com/lift-internet.
 

Taylorville School District and their STEM courses continue to adapt, staying ahead of the changing workforce requirements. From coding to computer science classes, students are offered new and unique opportunities before deciding which focus is best for them. Suzanne Specha, Taylorville School District Tech Director, takes a moment to tell of what STEM in the classroom looks like for Taylorville High School students. Specha believes Taylorville is leading the way when compared to other area school districts.

Specha explains the curriculum and requirements behind these courses. Student safety is always a top priority and that also applies to their ‘digital’ safety.

Exposure to technology from a young age might be where Taylorville School District excels most. 

Even with the improvements made to the program, Specha still sees plenty of room to grow. Specha tells of the direction she would like to see STEM continue to take.

Find out more about the Taylorville School District at www.tcusd3.org.

Suzanne Specha appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our ‘Taylorville Good News’ segment.

State Representative Regan Deering is praising a new deal between Constellation Energy and Meta.  The deal is a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) which allows the social media company to buy clean energy attributes from the Clinton-based energy provider.  Deering says the deal ensures there will still be well-paid jobs in the area without a significant tax burden on area residents. 

Constellation and Meta say the agreement will preserve over a thousand local jobs, boost tax revenue by $13.5 million, and help the social media giant in its efforts to use renewable energy.  Constellation will be able to increase clean energy output in central and southern Illinois.  The contract also ensures the Clinton Clean Energy Center will no longer have to close, as was previously slated. 

More information on Constellation Energy is available at www.constellation.com.  More information on Representative Deering can be found at www.RepDeering.com. 

A bill aimed at helping small poultry farmers in Illinois is on its way to the governor’s desk.

The so-called "chicken bill" would raise the limit on how many birds farmers can process without state or federal inspections—from 5,000 to 7,500 per year. It also lets them sell poultry off the farm, including at farmers markets, roadside stands, and by delivery.

Supporters say it cuts red tape, boosts local agriculture, and helps meet demand for fresh, locally raised chicken.

The bill includes safety rules, like sealed packaging and required labeling, to address earlier concerns from public health groups.

If signed, lawmakers say the measure could help keep more small family farms running and give consumers better access to local meat. A bill aimed at helping small poultry farmers in Illinois is on its way to the governor’s desk.

The so-called "chicken bill" would raise the limit on how many birds farmers can process without state or federal inspections—from 5,000 to 7,500 per year. It also lets them sell poultry off the farm, including at farmers markets, roadside stands, and by delivery.

Supporters say it cuts red tape, boosts local agriculture, and helps meet demand for fresh, locally raised chicken.

The bill includes safety rules, like sealed packaging and required labeling, to address earlier concerns from public health groups.

If signed, lawmakers say the measure could help keep more small family farms running and give consumers better access to local meat.

Illinois lawmakers have decided to delay a ban on “swipe fees” for another year as bankers are locked in a court battle with the state over the ban. 

Lawmakers passed the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act last spring as part of the legislative package that enacted the state budget. It prohibits financial institutions from charging fees on the tax and tip portions of credit and debit card transactions. The rest of the transaction, including the price of goods or services, would still be subject to the fees.

The ban was supposed to take effect on July 1, but lawmakers voted with strong bipartisan majorities Sunday morning to pass House Bill 742 to push the ban back until July 2026.

Banking groups filed a lawsuit last August challenging the law on the grounds it superseded federal banking regulations. Bankers argued the law forces banks and credit card companies to implement costly new computer systems to differentiate between the transaction, tax and tip, and contended they can’t comply with the law by July 1.

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction in December preventing the law, once it takes effect, from applying to federally chartered banks while declining to extend the injunction to state banks and credit card companies. 

In February, the judge declined to extend the injunction to credit unions, though it was extended to out-of-state banks that operate in Illinois. The case has remained unresolved in the courts since then, leading lawmakers to push back the start of the ban. 

The measure pushing back the effective date still needs approval from Gov. JB Pritzker.

The ban was a request of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association as part of a deal during budget negotiations last spring. State lawmakers capped a monthly sales tax deduction claimed by retailers at $1,000 to generate $101 million to fill a budget hole. In exchange, lawmakers passed the ban on swipe fees.

IRMA said in a statement it was disappointed lawmakers have decided to delay the ban.
However, other business groups such as the Illinois Chamber of Commerce said lawmakers made the right decision and urged the legislature to fully repeal the law.

More exercise means more energy, which is extremely beneficial to patients during a cancer journey. While this seems straightforward, this isn’t a quantity vs. quality scenario. It’s a mix of both, personalized to everyone in different ways.

A late-phase trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine finds people who follow an exercise program after undergoing surgery and chemotherapy can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, a new cancer diagnosis or death by 28%. The findings were presented on June 1 at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), focusing on those who had Stage 3 or high-risk Stage 2 colon cancer.

Nathaniel Leman is an exercise physiologist with OSF HealthCare. He works alongside patients with cancer, mapping out plans to keep them exercising, despite a cancer diagnosis. During a cancer journey, exercise helps deliver medication through the body as it's intended, because a person's blood vessels are opening, allowing the drugs to get to the areas impacted by cancer better. 

Leman and his colleagues rely on recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) to put together plans for patients with cancer. That includes 150 minutes of moderate, cardiovascular or aerobic (using body’s main muscle groups in repeated motions) exercise per week. This can break down into 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week.

If 30 minutes at one time is too much for a person, feel free to break it down into two 15-minute exercise periods, sprinkled throughout your day. Even three 10-minute periods are beneficial. The main goal is to just get people to start moving.  If people want to achieve vigorous exercise, Lehman recommends 75 minutes a week because of the added pressure that's put on muscles and bones. 

If strength training is more your speed, Lehman recommends two to three days a week. This can include light squats, shoulder press, bicep curls, triceps extensions and rows as a few examples. Make sure to have a day of rest in between. Power lifting (power clean, heavy squats, deadlift) or exerting too much energy during a cancer journey is something to avoid, Lehman recommends. 

Marathons, triathlons, Iron Mans and Spartan races should be avoided as well. These extremely tough exercise events would cause too much stress on the bodies of patients with cancer.  Lehman says exercise is good at lowering the risk of cancer, but it doesn't outright prevent cancer. 

Lehman says there is a difference between an active lifestyle and exercising. A basic active lifestyle can include things like daily chores around the house, but he wants patients to take things a step further and add committed time to exercise specifically. However, if a person is working outside in the yard all day, that can be a great amount of physical activity which could supplement exercise on that specific day.

The European Society of Cardiology reports a sedentary lifestyle for two decades is linked to being two times at risk of premature death, compared to being physically active. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 8,000 steps a day and says that for every 1,000 added steps per day in people with a sedentary lifestyle, reduces the risk of heart disease and death by 15 percent.
 

Christian County Treasurer Betty Asmussen is reminding the public that property taxes are due soon. The due date for the first installment is July 3rd. Asmussen says that they were mailed out on May 21st. The second due date is September 3rd.  

For more information, visit https://www.christiancountyil.gov/treasurer/.
 

The summer means, among many things, that the kids are now home much of the day.  Keeping them occupied can be a challenge, but there are ways to incorporate fun activities that make use of skills learned in school, increase their personal development, and take advantage of what makes the season unique. 

Much of what kids do during the summer, like even reading a book, can be taken outside.  Valerie Belusko, Community and Economic Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, says being outside helps kids become accustomed to the experience. 

But what if the weather doesn’t allow for being outside?  Activities indoors allow for kids to put what they’ve learned in school to use, perhaps without knowing it. 

Play-time outdoors is good for kids not only to keep them physically active but also as part of personal development. 

Belusko also encourages parents to consider what they did as kids during the summer and to use it as inspiration for kids of today. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension is available at www.extension.illinois.edu or by calling (217) 532-3941.

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

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a busy summer.  They have events planned throughout the season – especially on weekends – to bring businesses and their owners together, educate community members, and help the local economy thrive.

Their summer offerings begin with the Professional Development Series.  The first seminar, scheduled for June 10, is called “Social Security Vitals.”  Krystal Baker, Board President of the GTCC, says the course helps people take full advantage of the public offering. 

A second course, called “Climate & Insurance,” is set for June 18. 

The GTCC is also preparing for a host of promotions and other events intended to boost traffic to member businesses.  Among them, Small Town Taylorville holds its weekend sales event June 6-7, while Sydney Lynn’s Little Book Shop is holding a book signing on June 27. 

The Chamber will be involved in the State of Illinois Career Fair on July 9 at the Taylorville VFW.  April Wolfe, Interim Operations Coordinator with the GTCC, says the career fair helps prospective employees navigate the unique processes involving public-sector work. 

Finally, the public has this year’s edition of Chillifest to look forward to.  The GTCC is seeking sponsors for the event, and there are several tiers available. 

More information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and their events is available at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

Krystal Baker and April Wolfe appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

In the wake of the deadly tornado that struck an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville back in December 2021, Illinois lawmakers are taking action to improve worker safety during severe weather.
The Illinois Senate has passed the Warehouse Tornado Preparedness Act, a measure sponsored by Senator Christopher Belt of Swansea. He says the law is designed to close serious gaps in emergency planning at large warehouse facilities.

Under the legislation, warehouse operators will have 120 days from the law’s effective date to submit tornado safety plans for each facility. Those plans must include evacuation routes, shelter locations, emergency supply inventories, and post-disaster procedures. Required supplies include food, water, first aid kits, and tools for communication.

The bill also requires new warehouses to meet stricter construction standards for tornado safety. Starting in 2027, building inspectors must hold special certifications from the International Code Council based on their area of inspection.

Senator Belt says the legislation is meant to honor the lives lost in the 2021 storm and prevent future tragedies.

House Bill 2987 now heads to the governor’s desk.
 

The Illinois State Police is now using a new state-of-the-art command vehicle as part of its law enforcement efforts.  The new vehicle is a 2025 Freightliner, and it replaces a vehicle used for 18 years.  

The Freightliner has high-definition cameras and monitors, more modern communication technology, real-time data access, and even slide outs to create a makeshift conference room.  The ISP will use this as a central hub for emergencies such as natural disasters, large-scale accidents, public events, and search-and-rescue operations.  They will also bring it out for display at community outreach events and safety demonstrations.  Brendan F. Kelly, ISP Director, says the vehicle will ensure the best technology available to them can be stationed where it’s needed most. 

The Office of Radiological Security under the U.S. Department of Energy provided the command vehicle. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is beginning to see its summer increase in visitors.  That’s because students who receive breakfast and lunch at school do not have it available to them with school now out.  The food pantry continues to have a need for volunteers, and they are using new equipment to provide a variety of offerings for those who rely on their services.  Pam Moses, co-director with the Taylorville Food Pantry, says they especially need volunteers who have pickup trucks.

The food pantry has added new large freezers to their facilities.  This allows them to offer even more, different foods to their visitors. 

For those who would prefer to help by making food donations, fruits and vegetables are among their biggest needs because they are the hardest foods to find at a low cost. 

Moses says that around 10% of their visitors each year are new families.  This is something that generates concern, as it signals that their financial situations have worsened such that the food pantry becomes necessary to them.  The service aims to make it as easy as possible for new visitors to get what they need. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is located at 1429 East Main Cross.  They are open Tuesdays from 8:30-10 a.m., Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m.  More information is available at www.taylorvillefoodpantry.com or by calling them at their new number, (217) 820-2651.

Pam Moses appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The American Red Cross is encouraging people to become trained to give CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) to save lives.  It comes during National CPR & AED Awareness Week, which runs from June 1-7. 

The American Red Cross notes that more than 350,000 people in the U.S. each year experience a cardiac arrest away from a hospital.  In around 90% of instances, the person dies.  The Red Cross says that if CPR is given immediately to someone in a cardiac arrest, it doubles their chances of survival.  Kellie O’Connell, CEO of the Illinois Red Cross, says their training gives people the skills and confidence to intervene when seconds count. 

In 2024, more than 4.5 million people took the Red Cross’s training courses on First Aid, CPR, and AED. 

Kemmerer Village – the Assumption-based children’s agency – is set to open its new child-care center on June 16.  It’s the exciting culmination of a long process full of financial and logistical challenges.  The new location will enhance Kemmerer Village’s work and their efforts to help youth in need in the area.  Executive Director Schäles Nagle says close collaboration with the town and community was key to making the child-care center a reality. 

The local need for child-care is high.  In hardly a better way to illustrate that need, Nagle says their child-care offerings in the new location are already fully booked.

Kemmerer Village is also preparing to be involved in this summer’s edition of Camp Carew, which is set of faith-based camping trips for kids.  The program has new leadership this year with a deep connection to the camp. 

The organization is also looking ahead to its September golf tournament.  Kemmerer Village uses the tournament as a way both to bring the community together while also spreading the word about their services. 

More information on Kemmerer Village is available at www.kemmerervillage.org and on their Facebook page.

Schäles Nagle appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

A stretch of Illinois Route 29 between Rochester and Taylorville is one step closer to being known as the “Congressman Rodney Davis Superhighway.”  The Illinois House of Representatives adopted a resolution Saturday morning designating that name.  State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville) sponsored the resolution.  It applies for the portion of the route between Cardinal Hill Road in Rochester and East 1600 North Road in Taylorville.

Rodney Davis graduated from Taylorville High School and served in the U.S. House from 2013 to 2023.

The expansion of Route 29 between Taylorville and Rochester took over 20 years of planning and construction.  According to Rosenthal, in December of 1992, Congressman Davis witnessed a crash that took the life of Melody Traughber, a 29-year-old woman from Taylorville.  In that incident, her car hit a slick spot and slid into oncoming traffic. 

The resolution now moves to the State Senate.

Pana Pride is highlighting their efforts to beautify the town they call home.  The organization is working with the town and residents to clean front yards, demolish buildings no longer fit for use, and collect old furniture.  Pana Pride is also preparing for a summer full of activities and looking for more people to get involved with their efforts. 

One way of improving the appearance of neighborhoods is through their annual “yard of the month” competition.  Pana Pride President Melissa Miller says the competition has run long enough to cover every part of the town.

There are a number of homes in Pana in need of demolition, and Pana Pride helps fund these efforts along with the town. 

Pana Pride is now looking ahead to their summer events.  Their festivities ahead of Independence Day highlight the upcoming plans. 

If you live in Pana and want to get involved with Pana Pride, the organization would love to have you on.  Meetings take place the second Thursday of every month.  Members can be involved in any of the various committees and make their voices heard. 

More information on Pana Pride can be found at www.cityofpana.org/pana-pride.

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

Taylorville Community Credit Union will have a new location within the next year.  The Taylorville Planning Commission and Taylorville City Council Monday night approved the credit union’s plans for a new building to be constructed at 820 North Webster where the former New North Lanes bowling alley was located.

C-E-O Will Perkins says the credit union has owned the lot for quite a while.

Perkins added the credit union was founded in 1956, with the present structure built in the 1960’s.

Perkins says he’s hoping the new building will be up in less than a year.

T-C-C-U also has locations in Pana, Hillsboro, and Litchfield.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard committee chairs give reports on current projects for children and youth, at their weekly meeting Tuesday at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

It was the club’s monthly business meeting where the club reviews activities focused on its core mission of investing locally into the next generation.

Among reports heard was one from Kiwanis Student Leadership chair Will Perkins, that both the high school Key Club and the junior high Builder’s Club, came off a successful school year with good membership.

Kiwanis Park committee co-chairs Larry Kemner and Duane Stock reported that they have the park in great shape to host families and events this summer.   The Kiwanis Club’s recent Scholarship Picnic was held there May 27th with nearly 30 Kiwanis members, spouses, scholarship winners and their parents in attendance.

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 National Weather Service in Lincoln will be performing a required, scheduled update to its Advanced Weather Information Processing System (AWIPS) from around 7 am on Tuesday, June 3rd, through the afternoon on Thursday, June 5th. NWS uses AWIPS to display and integrate weather and water information, and to send life-saving information, such as weather and water warnings, to the public.

Due to this upgrade, all NOAA Weather Radio stations operated by the Lincoln NWS office will be off the air during this period:

• Bloomington:  KZZ-65 (162.525 MHz, channel 6)
• Champaign:  WXJ-76 (162.550 MHz, channel 7)
• Galesburg:  KZZ-66 (162.400 MHz, channel 1)
• Jacksonville:  WXM-90 (162.525 MHz, channel 6)
• Newton:  KXI-48 (162.450 MHz, channel 3)
• Paris:  KXI-47 (162.525 MHz, channel 6)
• Peoria:  WXJ-71 (162.475 MHz, channel 4)
• Shelbyville:  KXI-46 (162.500 MHz, channel 5)
• Springfield:  WXJ-75 (162.400 MHz, channel 1)

In the event of severe weather, it will be important to have alternate ways to receive warning information. Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more information. 
 

The 2025 Taylorville Municipal Band concert season will be presented at the Christian County Historical Society in Taylorville.  The weekly concerts, under the direction of Mr. Chris Gunn, will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday evenings beginning on June 11th through July 30th.

The band is excited to announce the concerts this summer will feature Taylorville Municipal Band alumni soloists, directors, and families as special guests through out the season.   The Taylorville Municipal Band has a rich history of families with multiple generations of players.

In June of 2011, the Taylorville Municipal Band hosted a special alumni reunion concert fundraiser called “Play the Music Forward.”  Taylorville High School alumni band and choir members performed with the Municipal Band.  The purpose of that concert was to create a fund for extra purchases for the Music Departments of all ages in the Taylorville School District.  

Building on the success of that previous event, contributions to that fund will be collected at this summer’s Taylorville Municipal Band concerts.  There will also be souvenir merchandise available to purchase with all proceeds going to the Play the Music Forward fund of the Taylorville Public Schools.

Alumni Municipal Band members who would like to participate in the band at one of the concerts may contact Band Manager, Jan Phillips with your availability at 217 824-2967.  Out of town alumni might want to plan a visit to Taylorville this summer!    More information about the featured guests will be available soon.    
 

A longtime nurse at Taylorville Memorial Hospital is being recognized for going above and beyond in a moment of need.

Ann Levault, a registered nurse in the operating room, has been named the hospital’s Colleague of the Month for May. Levault stepped in to help during an unexpected birth in the Emergency Department, drawing on her previous experience in obstetrics.

A coworker who nominated her said Levault didn’t hesitate to offer her help, and her quick action helped ensure the patient had the best experience possible.

Levault has been with Taylorville Memorial Hospital since 2007.  We here at Regional Radio News salutes you Ann Levault!
 

Where you plant a tree is important, not just for how your yard looks, but also for functionality especially when it comes to underground lines. Ameren Illinois continues to be on the lookout for problem tree branches that may be too close to power lines that could cause issues if they fall.  Rick Johnson is the manager of Vegetation Management at Ameren Illinois and talks a little about the Ameren tree trimming cycle and how important it is. 

Johnson is in charge of nearly 32,000 miles of lines that they are responsible for with 8,000 miles of trees taken care of. If you are an owner and are concerned about trees being too close to the property call 1-800-755-5000.  

When planting trees, make sure you plant the right tree at the right place. 

Above all else, make sure you be safe around power lines and plan ahead when it comes to planting trees.

For more information, please click here. 

In the lead-up to Flag Day, HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital has teamed up with American Legion Post 81 and VFW Post 4829 in Taylorville to collect worn and faded American flags for proper retirement.

Now through Thursday, June 12, community members can drop off old flags at several locations on the hospital’s campus, including the main entrance, Rural Health Clinic, and outpatient therapy building.

The effort is part of an annual tradition to ensure American flags are disposed of respectfully. Once collected, the flags will be honored in a formal retirement ceremony conducted by the local veterans' organizations.

Lorrie Hayden, coordinator of mission integration at Good Shepherd, says the program fills a need in the community as many people know that flags need to be disposed of, but may not know how or where to do it at.

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

The Taylorville Park Board met on Monday evening for a special meeting at Manners Park.  The topic of hours and pay for two Park District employees is in part what prompted the special meeting.

The board needed to formally approve of the pay rates for newly-hired office administrator Linda Moomey and Recreation Director Jessica Franks.  Board member Marlane Miller laid out what their pay rates would be, based on annual salary and hours per week.

The board voted to approve these rates. 

Prior to that discussion, the board voted in favor of the new trustees being able to take an orientation “boot camp” as part of their introduction to the board.  The board also voted to approve a request by Walmart to hold a sale in the Chautauqua building on Saturday, June 21, to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. 

The board went into executive session after an open portion which lasted just short of nine minutes.  The next regular meeting is tentatively set for Monday, June 23.

The Christian County Fair is drawing ever closer to its start on July 15, and that means the excitement is building up.  Much of it is for the concert on July 18, which sees Clay Walker and Casey Donahew take to the stage.  With that said, plenty of other events will also be taking place.  Fair organizers hope they will appeal to visitors of all ages and all levels of interest in agriculture. 

Concert tickets are available on the fair’s website, www.christiancountyfair.com.  Angela Ohl-Marsters, Marketing and Promotions Director with the Christian County Fair, says the tickets are selling fast. 

Also coming to this year’s fair is a western-style show.  It involves modeling clothing and other goods from that part of the country. 

And that’s far from all when it comes to events.  There are competitions, performances, and exhibits all five nights of the fair. 

Agriculture-related programming is part of any county fair, but Ohl-Marsters says it’s especially important in farming-rich Christian County.

Angela Ohl-Marsters appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County YMCA is preparing to welcome people of all ages to their various summer offerings.  The pool, activity center, and other locations in the area are the place to be for camps, classes, tournaments, and other fun events.  With new renovations complete, the facilities are ready for action.

The biggest change surrounds the indoor pool.  It had been closed for some time to repair the concrete floor, where water had been leaking out.  Bruce Blanshan, Executive Director for the CC YMCA, is excited and relieved the pool will be open again. 

The activity center also has a new look with added features such as a scoreboard and school banners.  The upgrades happened thanks to a donation campaign, and the “Y” is recognizing those who contributed. 

Kids’ camps will be beginning soon.  Each week has its own theme, and activities include a wiffle ball tournament and a search for Bigfoot.

As for the adults, the YMCA is preparing for its annual golf outing.  Blanshan says that fundraiser plus their other similar efforts ensure their services are available for everyone. 

More information on the Christian County YMCA is available at www.ccymca.org or by calling (217) 287-7271.

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

The Taylorville Junior High and High School Track Teams that went to state were recognized, the city approved buying the Taylorville Industrial Park, and a low bid from Illinois Valley Paving for work at the Taylorville Food Center Street Improvement Project were all discussed at the Taylorville City Council meeting on Monday night. 

The TJHS & THS state players were recognized for all their accomplishments at the meeting with Lyla Repscher being recognized by Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry and the council for her record breaking accomplishments.

Taco Bell and TCCU were both approved for new buildings.  6010 North Webster for Taco Bell (same location) and 820 North Webster for TCCU.  Ordinances concerning the sale and purchase of Taylorville Industrial Park was approved.  Taylorville City Attorney Rocci Romano says that the city is at a slight risk if the EDA defaults on their loan. 

If there is a default, Romano says that there is a possibility that they could come after the city but would not say yes or no adding that the documents are a little unclear. The council voted on it with the motion passing 7-3 with Aldermen Megan Bryant, Kathy Driskell, and Steve Dorchinecz voting no on it.  

Other approved ordinances included amending the Taylorville City Code concerning surface water damage, the Loyal Order of the Moose, David Padget (123 E. Main Cross), JB Properties of Illinois (1141 E. 1500 North Road), Taylorville Music Lessons (311 S. Main Street, and $1,240,579.26 for Illinois Valley Paving concerning the Taylorville Food Center Street Improvement Project. 

Motions concerning a pet waste station at the bike trail on Paw Paw Street, and an accessible port-a-potty at the bike trail were also approved.  The council discussed and approved a motion to approve the donation of $5,000 to CCEDC.  The motion passed 5-4 with Aldermen Skultety, Bryant, Dorchinecz, and Driskell voting no, and the Mayor voting yes to break the tie. 

Taylorville Mayor Barry welcomes everyone to his 4th of July Parade and picnic, and thanked everyone for their support for the Taylorville/Pana bridge. 

The next city council meeting is set for June 16th.  

Taylorville City Council is set to meet this evening at 7 PM for their regular city council meeting.  The THS and TJHS Track Team State Qualifiers will be recognized.  The council will hear updates on the Taylorville Taco Bell and Taylorville Community Credit Union from the planning commission.  

Some other discussions will include ordinance updates on surface water drainage, the sale/purchase of Taylorville Industrial Park, working with the Taylorville Lodge #1516, and 123 E. Main Cross Street.  Other ordinances that will be looked at includes agreements between Taylorville and 1141 E. 1500 North Road, 311 S. Main Street, a low bid from Illinois Paving for the Taylorville Food Center Street Improvement Project, West Main Cross Street Project, and work to be done at the Lincoln Trial Conservancy Organization.  

Under committee reports, the council will look at approving the purchase of a mosquito sprayer and a trench box from Edinburg.  There will be city attorney updates and comments from Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for all the latest following the conclusion of this event.  
 

The Taylorville Park Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting tonight, June 2, 2025, at 6 p.m.  Like regular meetings, this one will take place in the Manners Park Dining Hall. 

After the call to order, the board will vote on a boot camp for new trustees.  There will also be a vote on an approval for sale involving Walmart and the Chautauqua building benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network.  There will then be a discussion on office hours and pay for district employees.  The board will then potentially go into executive session. 

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

Memorial Day 2025 may have come and gone, but the Social Security Administration continues to honor those who have served our country.  They do so not just through words of gratitude but also with federal benefits and increasing awareness of these offers.  Family members of fallen soldiers may be eligible for a variety of payments, and the agency looks to expedite these applications.  Jack Myers from the SSA says income taxes that go to Social Security are there for veterans and their families for whatever happens next.

You can learn more about these benefits at www.ssa.gov/survivors. 

In the event that a veteran survives but is wounded and cannot work, there are benefits for them, as well.  It’s called the Wounded Warrior initiative.  Eligibility for these payments is irrespective of that for benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs, but you may receive both if eligible.

The Social Security Administration is also shining a light on identity theft, as these incidents can be extremely consequential when Social Security numbers are involved.  Identity theft is when someone uses the personal information of someone else to impersonate or steal from them.  Careful tracking of your financial records and actions is a good way to spot this form of theft. 

If your identity is ever stolen, there are steps you can take to mitigate the damage and regain control.  They include filing reports with federal agencies, law enforcement, and credit card companies. 

More information on Social Security is available at www.ssa.gov.

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

Nicole Patrick, the Country Financial agent in Taylorville, has moved her office to familiar digs effective today.

She and her staff began doing business today at the office’s former location, 1305 West Spresser.  This is the same location that retired agent Doug McKinnie occupied for several decades.  The office moved from a location in the Marsango Plaza.

Her phone number remains the same, 287-twenty-three thirty-two.

Four people were killed early Sunday morning when a train struck a car at a rural railroad crossing in Shelby County.

According to the Illinois State Police, the crash happened just before 4:30 a.m. at the crossing near County Road 400 North and U.S. Route 45.

Despite the impact, the train did not derail. The roadway was closed for several hours as authorities investigated the scene. It reopened shortly after 9:30 a.m.

The Illinois State Police are continuing to investigate the crash. No additional details have been released at this time.
 

Illinois senators passed a 55-billion dollar state budget late Saturday night, less than two hours after state representatives sent it to them. 

Democrats say this is a tough budget year as lawmakers worry about federal funding. Capitol News Illinois tells us the spending plan for Fiscal Year 2026 increases funding for safety net hospitals and federally qualified clinics in anticipation of Medicaid cuts. 

The plan also creates a 100-million-dollar budget reserve that can be used by the governor for emergencies.

House lead budget negotiator Representative Robyn Gabel says this is a budget that is fiscally and socially responsible.

But Republican Senator Chapin Rose says it’s Illinois democrats who keep increasing the budget, not President Donald Trump.

While there are no new income or sales taxes, there are tax increases on cigarettes, vaping, and sports betting.

The budget now heads to the governor, who says he will sign it.