The Pana High School football team’s bus caught fire Thursday evening along Route 16.

According to school officials, all players, coaches, and the driver safely evacuated the bus, and no injuries were reported.

Firefighters and first responders quickly responded to the scene. The Witt Fire Department, EMS crews, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources law enforcement assisted in bringing the situation under control.

The cause of the fire has not been released.

Residents, researchers, and grant writers in Central Illinois now have free access to a powerful online tool that provides insight into local health trends.

Memorial Health has launched the Healthy Communities Institute Data Dashboard, available to the public in counties served by the health system, including Christian, Logan, Macon, Morgan, and Sangamon.

The dashboard features a wide range of information, including: Community health indicators, Demographic profiles, Health equity data, Hospitalization and emergency department statistics, Health disparities and outcomes.

It also includes a Promising Practices section, which highlights research-based strategies and scientific evidence gathered from local, state, and national organizations.

Memorial Health officials say the resource has already been put to use. The Community Health team used dashboard data to guide recent Community Health Needs Assessment Plans, and it played a role in a successful grant request for oncology rehabilitation funding at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital.

The database is available on the Memorial Health website at memorial.health/about-us/community-health/healthy-communities-data.

For additional help navigating the system, community members can contact Claire Peak, Community Health consultant at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, at 447-784-3212.

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser, the Springfield Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service announced on Thursday that Gabriel P. Calixto, wanted in connection with the 2023 murder of 24-year-old Emma Shafer, has been apprehended in Mexico.

On July 11, 2023, Springfield Police officers responded to a residence in the 1000 block of South 8th Street, where they discovered Ms. Shafer deceased. Calixto was indicted by a Sangamon County Grand Jury and is charged with three counts of First-Degree Murder and one count of Aggravated Domestic Battery.

The Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office, Springfield Police Department, and U.S. Marshals Service thank and acknowledge the U.S. Department of Justice Office of International Affairs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Southern Districts of Illinois for their assistance in this case.

The Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office will work with federal authorities to coordinate extradition proceedings. No additional information will be released at this time

Help is available this winter for families struggling to keep the heat and lights on. The CEFS Economic Opportunity Corporation says funds are now available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program — also known as LIHEAP. The program provides help with natural gas, propane, electric bills, and even furnace repairs for households with an inoperable heating system.

Applications open on October 1st, 2025 for priority groups. That includes older adults age 60 and up, individuals with a disability, families with young children under the age of five, and households that are either already disconnected, have a disconnect notice, or have less than a quarter tank of propane.

All other income-eligible households can begin applying starting November 1st, 2025.

Applications are taken on a first-come, first-served basis and will be accepted until August 15th, 2026, or until the funds run out. Those who receive a one-time benefit can also return later in the program year if they need additional help with reconnection assistance or furnace repairs.

Eligibility for the program has been expanded this year. To qualify, households must be at or below 60 percent of the state’s median income level. That means, for example, a one-person household can make up to about $3,332 in the last 30 days. A two-person household can make up to $4,357, a family of three up to $5,382, and a family of four up to $6,407. Larger households have higher limits.

For more details, including income limits for larger families, visit cefseoc.org or the state website at liheapillinois.com.

The Macon County Conservation District is now taking applications for this year’s upland game hunting season at Friends Creek Conservation Area. The one-day hunts are part of the Upland Game Management program, and hunters must submit their applications by October 1st, 2025, to be considered in their drawing.

Hunting will be held on specific dates throughout November and December. Those dates include November 1st, 2nd, 5th, 8th, 12th, 15th, 19th, 26th, and 29th, as well as December 3rd, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st, 24th, and 27th.

Applicants must mail a request to the Conservation District Office in Decatur. The request should include a self-addressed stamped envelope, the applicant’s name and phone number, a copy of a valid 2025 Illinois hunting license and habitat stamp, and three preferred dates ranked by choice. Hunters under 16 years of age must also provide a hunter safety certificate number.

A drawing will be held to assign available hunting dates, and those selected will be notified by mail. Each successful applicant will be assigned one hunting date and may bring up to three partners.

More details and instructions are available at www.maconccd.org or by contacting the Conservation District Office at 217-423-7708.

Two former Illinois politicians and Obama administration officials are launching an effort to reform how the state’s General Assembly districts are drawn.  Former Commerce Secretary Bill Daley and former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood are petitioning to add a state constitutional amendment proposal to the ballot.  The amendment would establish an independent commission dedicated to drawing legislative maps at the state level.  The pair say this measure would give voters a greater voice in elections and eliminate political motivations in map-drawing. 

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is also praising the move.  She says it’s an encouraging next step in election reform. 

Officials behind the proposal say the petition will require around 320,000 valid signatures.  The measure would appear on the November 2026 ballot if the petition is completed. 

State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur has introduced legislation that would change how tuition and financial aid benefits are handled for non-citizens in Illinois’ public colleges and universities.

House Bill 4097 aims to ensure that non-citizens do not receive tuition rates or financial aid benefits that are greater than those available to U.S. citizens. The measure is intended to prevent situations where out-of-state students from neighboring states pay higher costs than some non-citizens under current policy.

Supporters of the proposal argue that it is designed to restore fairness in higher education funding and to align state practices with federal law. Opponents of similar measures in the past have noted that they can impact access to higher education for immigrant and undocumented students.

The bill is currently filed in the Illinois House of Representatives. More information is available at ilga.gov.
 

Federal officials are pressing Illinois election authorities to hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration database.

The U.S. Department of Justice has given the State Board of Elections until Monday, September 1st, to comply.

Illinois previously provided a version of the voter list that includes names, addresses, voting history, and registration dates. But sensitive information such as birth dates, driver’s license numbers, and portions of Social Security numbers was redacted under state and federal privacy laws.

The Justice Department says it needs the full, unredacted database to review whether Illinois is complying with the National Voter Registration Act, which requires states to keep voter rolls accurate by removing registrations for people who have died, moved, or are otherwise ineligible.

Federal officials are also requesting data on voter removals since 2022 and a list of election officials responsible for maintaining the rolls. The state elections board maintains that releasing the additional personal information would violate both federal and Illinois privacy protections.

The Justice Department has not explained why it considers the unredacted data necessary for its review.
 

Hunters heading to Lake Shelbyville this fall will find the tree stand policy unchanged from last year. The policy allows one seasonal tree stand to remain up for the entire archery season, along with up to two “roving” stands that can stay in place for no more than 72 hours at a time.

Seasonal tree stands may be placed starting two weeks before archery season and must be removed within two weeks after it ends. This year’s archery season runs from October 1st through January 18th.

Permits for seasonal stands cost $30 and require a valid hunting license. They can be purchased weekdays at the Lake Shelbyville Project Office. Roving stand permits are free and available at several locations in Shelbyville and Sullivan, including Ace Hardware, Craig’s Sporting Goods, Chip’s Marine, and Sullivan 66.

For more details, hunters can contact the Environmental Stewardship Department at Lake Shelbyville.
 

State Senator Steve McClure stopped by the Farm Progress Show in Decatur on Wednesday to talk a little about agriculture and the steps they are taking in Springfield to help farmers.  One thing that Senator McClure says is a focus is regulations, the estate tax and farmers getting pulled over while transporting their crops. 

State Senator McClure says that it is important to keep up and work with the Director of Agriculture.

State Senator Steve McClure was a guest on the WTIM Morning Show from the Farm Progress Show in Decatur. 
 

Visitors to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum can now see nearly 500 new high-resolution images related to the 16th U.S. president.  They include the places he lived, the nation grieving his death, and his assassin.  It’s all part of the ALPLM’s “Picturing Lincoln” collection, which now is up to nearly 1,500 pictures.  

The additions to Picturing Lincoln are highlighted by illustrations about his death.  They include him ascending to heaven alongside figures like George Washington, his funeral, and his body being transported by train from Washington to Springfield.  Other works focus on his assassin, John Wilkes Booth.  They portray him escaping dangerous creatures and being haunted by the ghost of Lincoln. 

The Illinois State Library provided a $100,000 grant to help fund the collection.  Christina Shutt, executive director of the ALPLM, expresses her gratitude to all who helped create these images and says everyone should be able to witness Abraham Lincoln’s legacy. 

The images are available on the museum’s website, www.PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov/PicturingLincoln. 

Gas prices across the country are expected to drop significantly for Labor Day weekend compared to recent years.  Online gas price tracker GasBuddy projects prices to average $3.15 per gallon.  That’s down 14 cents from the same time last year.  This would be the lowest price since 2020, though the Covid-19 pandemic was in progress at that point and drastically reducing travel. 

Despite the annual drop, gas prices in around half of all U.S. states have risen in the last month.  Experts say this is because of outages at refineries.  However, they expect prices to fall again as September progresses when cheaper winter gas is brought in and travel dies down.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, expects the national average to drop below $3.00/g this fall.  He does warn of factors that could send prices on an upward trend again.  These potential causes include hurricanes, tariffs, and the Russia/Ukraine war. 

GasBuddy is the authoritative voice for gas prices and the only source for station-level data. GasBuddy's survey updates 288 times every day from the most diverse list of sources covering nearly 150,000 stations nationwide, the most comprehensive and up-to-date in the country. GasBuddy's averages, graphs, maps and historical pricing data covering the U.S. and Canada is available 24/7 at prices.GasBuddy.com.

Pana CUSD #8 is under new leadership heading into the new academic year following a Summer full of projects and upkeep. Jessica Miller, Superintendent of the Pana School District, steps into the role after having shadowed previous leadership just last year. Her career has taken her through Taylorville and Pana, as a grade school teacher and principal before moving back to Pana as their district administrator and interim superintendent. Miller looks to bring a renewed focus this school year on literacy, school culture, and financial responsibility.

Miller first talks her background in education. She worked while going back to school to become principal material, before making the leap to the superintendent side.

As for where her focus is turned to now, she looks to build on a positive school culture, bring transparency to district finances, and improve literacy at all grade levels.

Summer projects are visible across their schools and Miller shares what work was done on their facilities.

Fall athletics are just opening up across the state. Miller talks volleyball, football, cross country, and the marching band.

Find out more about Pana CUSD #8 at www.panaschools.com.

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

An employee at Taylorville Memorial Hospital is being recognized for her dedication and creativity on the culinary side of the provider’s operations.  Erica Mazzini, a food service associate, has been named Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s Colleague of the Month for July.

Mazzini was nominated for going above and beyond for patients and staff.  For Independence Day, she spearheaded an effort to serve red, white, and blue deviled eggs.  She also takes the time to ensure food is prepared safely.  Mazzini’s nominator praised the care she shows for patients, even as far as helping open tightly-sealed containers.  

Mazzini has been with Taylorville Memorial Hospital for ten years. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the CEO of Taylorville Memorial Hospital at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Kim Bourne has headed T-M-H since 2015, and grew up on a Centennial Farm near Pawnee.   She told Kiwanis members she’s been part of the Memorial Health System for some 36 years.

Bourne shared that Taylorville Memorial Hospital employs 310 people that earn 27-million dollars in salary and benefits, with many of their staff from Christian County.   She added 90-percent of the hospital’s care and revenue is from out patient care.  T-M-H’s Emergency Room has some 12-thousand visits a year.

Bourne told the Kiwanis Club T-M-H recently received a 4-STAR rating and is the only hospital within 100 miles of Springfield outside of St. Louis to receive that rating, and they’re also involved in the Taylorville community as a Bike Friendly Business and participating in the local school’s back-pack program.

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

Schools in Nokomis are going through many changes entering another school year.  They are welcoming many new faces when it comes to both staff and students.  In terms of students, leaders are touting higher enrollment, including multiple students from abroad.  Key foundational changes to the curriculum are taking effect this academic year, and completed renovations are expected to improve the experience for all involved. 

This year’s enrollment includes 35 new students, which for a school district like that of Nokomis is significant.  As superintendent Dr. Scott Doerr explains, there are also two foreign exchange students joining the school community. 

As for staff, there are eight new hires at the schools.  Dr. Doerr says the school district focuses on developing their teachers so they can grow in their roles, just as the students do.

Inside the classroom, the school district is implementing a new elementary science curriculum.  Apart from that, they are happy with recent academic outcomes.

A number of renovations took place over the summer, mostly at the high school.  Dr. Doerr says this is the culmination of an eight-year-long project.

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

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

The first positive test for West Nile Virus this year in Taylorville has been confirmed.

Mosquitoes collected on August 25th from the north side of town tested positive at the Christian County Health Department’s lab.

Health officials say they’ll continue monitoring mosquito populations throughout the season. Residents are encouraged to reduce breeding grounds by removing standing water from items like buckets, tires, birdbaths, and gutters.

For more information, you can contact the Christian County Health Department at 217-824-4113.

Celebrating 180 years of St. Mary Church, and 116 for St. Mary’s School, comes together this Fall when the St. Mary’s Fall Festival begins on September 12th, 2025. All proceeds are set to benefit the church and school to continue serving the community in a variety of ways. Friday sees the Tot Rod Pedal Pulls and Fish Fry. Saturday is loaded with food, wine and bourbon tastings, music, and more. Sunday closes a beautiful note with their alumni mass and current St. Mary’s students music program.

Eli Marley and Mary Del Valle with the St. Mary’s Fall Festival, start by sharing about the Friday schedule to begin the event.

Saturday holds the first ever “Hallelujah Hustle,” a new 5K and walk. The kids tent reopens, ‘Brushville’ takes to the stage and the movie night to keep children occupied.

Sunday closes with a fried chicken dinner, a cake walk, and the alumni recognition mass. Del Valle and Marley share how the children singing encapsulates the whole weekend.

Find out more about the St. Mary’s Fall Festival at their Facebook page.

Mary Del Valle and Eli Marley appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Pana is preparing for the annual Tri-County Fair and Labor Day Parade.  The fair runs from today (August 27) through Monday, September 1, with the parade happening Monday morning.  The size and scope of these events make them notable across the state, and local officials seek a local economic boost from attracting visitors.  It’s all set to take place in a downtown area which is the site of multiple improvement projects relating to buildings and roads. 

Kirby Casner is the Economic Development Director for the city of Pana.  She says the Tri-County Fair will have new races and other events this year.

At the tail end of the fair dates is the Labor Day Parade.  It’s said to be the largest such downstate parade.

Away from the festivities, Casner is keeping a close eye on construction projects in Pana.  One effort involves the former Bohannon’s building on South Locust Street, where contractors are looking to restore parts of the building while otherwise maintaining its historical feel. 

In addition, city leaders are celebrating the finish of newly paved roads leading up to Pana Community Hospital.  Casner says this will make the journey to the hospital – especially by ambulance – smoother in more ways than one. 

More information on Pana’s economic development work is on the city’s website, www.cityofpana.org. 

Kirby Casner appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

A new state law aims to clarify how local cemetery boards are appointed in Illinois.

Senate Bill 1241, introduced by State Senator Steve McClure of Springfield and carried in the House by State Representative Mike Coffey, changes the way township cemeteries are overseen.

Previously, cemetery boards could only be appointed if a township had a township collector. Since most townships in Illinois no longer use that position, the law created confusion. In those cases, the responsibility for appointments often defaulted to the county level, though many officials across the state were unaware of that requirement.

The new law now allows township supervisors to appoint cemetery boards in the absence of a township collector. Supporters say the change will ensure that local officials, rather than county leaders, have the authority to make those decisions. The goal is to keep oversight and management of cemeteries closer to the communities they serve.

The legislation was signed into law on August 1st.
 

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight continues its 2025 flying season with Mission #75 on September 9, 2025. Mission #75 will serve 95 Veterans including 7 Korean Era veterans 88 Vietnam era veterans from 65 Illinois home towns including Decatur, Effingham, Hillsboro, Jacksonville, Jerseyville, Litchfield, Mattoon, Mt Zion, Neoga, New Baden, Newton, Paris, Petersburg, Pontiac, Ramsey, Raymond, Shelbyville, Springfield,  Sullivan, and Taylorville plus Florence, AZ and Mercedes, TX . Our September 9th veterans represent all branches of the military.

These Veterans and their Guardians will report September 9, 2025 to the Abraham Lincoln Capitol Airport at 4:00 AM to travel to Washington DC on a chartered Sun Country 737 aircraft to visit the World War II, Korean and Vietnam War Memorials, as well as Arlington National Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Air & Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia, the US Marine Corps Memorial and the US Air Force Memorial.  This day of honor is provided at absolutely no cost to our veterans and is completely funded by donations from the general public. 

These 95 heroes return to the Springfield airport at 9:30 PM on Tuesday September 9th.  The general public, friends, family and LLHF alumni veterans are encouraged to pack the airport to welcome home these heroes. Greeters are encouraged to arrive early and show appreciation for and support of these veterans who sacrificed so much for our country.  Parking is free and volunteers will be in the parking area to assist guests to open spaces.  A shuttle bus is available to take guests directly to the airport terminal door. 

Any seriously impaired or terminally ill WWII, Korean era or Vietnam era veteran will be given flight priority. Veteran and Guardian Applications may be obtained at www.LandofLincolnHonorFlight.org by clicking on “Applications” tab.  LLHF also offers a “Flightless Honor Flight” program for those otherwise eligible veterans whose physical condition limits their ability to participate on an actual flight.

LLHF plans to offer one additional flight in 2025 on October 21st.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office has welcomed a new full-time patrol deputy.

Deputy Caleb Woods was officially hired in May and recently completed the 16-week Basic Law Enforcement Training at the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Academy. He graduated with Class RC25-26 earlier this month and is now entering the department’s Field Training Program, the final step before beginning independent patrol duties.

Woods comes from a family with a long history of service. His father, Scott Woods, served as a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office for 20 years, and his sister, Casey Woods, is now an Illinois State Trooper after working as a dispatcher with the department.

The Sheriff’s Office says it looks forward to Woods continuing that tradition of service as he begins his career.
 

The national tussle over congressional district maps continues.  The state legislature in Texas has passed a new map – which is expected to benefit Republicans – for next year’s midterm elections.  Meanwhile, efforts in California and New York are underway to boost Democrats’ House numbers in response.  The congressional districts in Illinois have also come under the spotlight, though they are not likely to change before the next census.  

Dr. Kent Redfield is a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois-Springfield.  He expects leaders in more states to join the effort to change their district maps to benefit their parties.

A non-partisan organization, Fair Maps Illinois, is pushing to introduce an amendment to the state constitution.  It would delegate congressional district boundary drawing to an independent commission appointed by the legislature.  This is one of the few ways in which the state constitution allows a citizen-led amendment initiative.

Away from maps, President Donald Trump has announced plans to deploy troops to a number of cities across the country.  Chicago is among those cities.  Trump’s effort is similar to what he has brought out in Washington, D.C., but Dr. Redfield and other experts say he does not have the same authority elsewhere.

The president has on multiple occasions across both terms considered invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807 to make this deployment.  This could lead to the federal courts having their say on whether he is allowed to invoke that law. 

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has claimed that President Trump’s potential deployment of troops to Chicago would be an abuse of power.

More information on UIS’s political science program is available at www.uis.edu/spia.

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

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office continues work on the jail while down deputies and filling open slots within the department. Jail renovations are making progress with several needed upgrades be completed soon. A new deputy has also joined the force as well, following in the footsteps of his father and sister. On top of all that, last month in July saw crime numbers and service calls drop, even with the many community events and fairs.

Jim Baker, Chief Deputy of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, talks last month and the reported numbers. Typically during Summer months however, call volume increases with more local activity and longer days.

Baker gives a brief update on the progress made at the Christian County Jail. He notes it’s been a busy process with the many contractors that are flooding the building.

Deputy Caleb Woods was hired in May and has recently completed necessary training. Woods’ father Scott and sister Casey have also been involved in the Christian County Sheriff’s Office over the years, leaving Caleb to continue that legacy.

Baker is turning to the community to find some additional patience when using local roadways as harvest season ramps up. He is also asking the community to be mindful of school reopening, as buses and children flood the streets during the week.

Find out more about the Christian County Sheriff’s Office by visiting them at their Facebook page. You can also download the CCSO IL App on your mobile device, for real time updates and information.

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

The Kincaid Labor Day Picnic returns this weekend to the village.  The Midland Area Community Club organizes the event, which runs from Friday to Sunday right before the holiday.  The group worked hard to bring the picnic back after a hiatus, and they now look to expand the event year after year.  As such, they are introducing new contests and getting other community groups involved in the celebration. 

Angie Alaria is the secretary for the Midland Area Community Club.  Her organization runs events for several other special occasions, as well. 

The Labor Day Picnic had been a Kincaid tradition before being discontinued.  Alaria’s organization was committed to bringing it back and needed the finances and logistics to do so. 

The picnic begins at 5 p.m. on Friday.  The popular fried fish and bagna are on the menu and are available right at the start.  As for Saturday, the activities for that day begin at noon and include some tournaments for a variety of fun games. 

The parade leads off Sunday.  It begins at 1 p.m., with the line-up happening at noon.  More tournaments and a tot rod pedal pull highlight the picnic’s final day. 

More information on the Kincaid Labor Day Picnic is on the Midland Area Community Club’s Facebook page.

Angie Alaria appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Park Board held its monthly meeting for August on Monday evening at Manners Park. 

Recreation Director Jessica Franks spoke on an invitation from the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce to host a Business After Hours event.  The Park District is a member of the Chamber. 

Board members agreed to aim for June of 2026, saying the summer weather would allow for the Chautauqua building at Manners Park to be used for the networking opportunity.  The board voted to approve the plan.

Franks also addressed the pending Jayne’s Park project.  She noted that attendees at last week’s public forum supported maintaining the current playground.  However, the structure is around 20 years old, and this could complicate receiving approval for the grant money which would fund the project. 

The board did not formally vote on next steps regarding the playground or the overall project. 

Sherri Craggs, who heads the pool committee, spoke regarding the Manners Park pool construction efforts.  She says the Park District is in talks with Burbach Aquatics – the vendor with whom they had previously contracted – on the original agreement, and the talks are expected to continue.

Because the situation with the Burbach contract is not yet finalized, the Park District has not decided on either of the new bidders: Capri Pools & Aquatics, and Landmark Aquatic. 

The next regular Park Board meeting is tentatively set for Monday, September 22.

Regional Radio News has learned that Los Chimis Mexican Bar & Grill in Rochester has closed its doors.  In a message from the Lopez family, it says "With our hearts full of gratitude, we inform you that we are closing our doors for good.  We are deeply thankful to each one of you for your support.  Thank you for everything you have given us.  Thank you." 

Regional Radio News reached out to owner Nestor Lopez but he was unavailable for comment.  

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office says a multi-agency search ended with the arrest of a wanted man Friday in Morrisonville.

Deputies were called in early that morning to help the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office after the suspect fled into Christian County. A coordinated search took place throughout the day in rural Morrisonville, with drones, a K-9 unit, and aerial support from Illinois State Police used to comb fields, wooded areas, and nearby homes.

Residents were advised to lock their homes, vehicles, and outbuildings during the search. Around 7:30 that evening, officers received credible information the man was inside the village. With help from Morrisonville Police, the suspect was located and taken into custody.

Authorities say the individual was wanted on several local charges in Montgomery County and also had multiple outstanding warrants.

The Sheriff’s Office thanked all agencies involved for their cooperation in bringing the 15-hour search to a safe conclusion.

Taylorville Community Credit Union has wrapped up its annual “Freedom Tree” food drive, once again helping restock the shelves of local food pantries.

This marks the 11th year for the effort, which saw community members and TCCU members donate hundreds of pounds of canned and boxed food items. In addition to the food, more than two thousand dollars in cash donations were collected.

Food pantries say those dollars go a long way. Because they can purchase items at a reduced cost from regional food banks, every dollar donated often translates into several pounds of food. In Taylorville alone, that means this year’s donations equal roughly four thousand pounds of food purchased for local families.

The timing of the drive is important. Food pantries often see higher demand during the summer months, when children are out of school and not receiving meals there. At the same time, donations are typically lower than they are around the holidays.

TCCU leaders say the growing community support makes a real difference for families in need. All donations from the Freedom Tree campaign stay local, directly benefitting food pantries and the residents they serve.

Taylorville Community Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that has served Christian, Shelby, and Montgomery Counties since 1956.
 

A boil order has been issued in Pana following a water main break. The order affects several streets, including North Hickory from East Washington to East Lake, East Washington from North Hickory to Lincoln, Lincoln from North Hickory to Garfield, and Springside Avenue from Lincoln to East Lake.

Residents in these areas are advised to boil their water before using it for drinking or cooking until further notice.

Lincoln Land Community College President Charlotte Warren has announced she will retire in June of 2026, after serving with the college for 20 years. She is the sixth president in the school’s history. Warren has been president of all LLCC operations since 2006.

Before coming to LLCC, Warren held leadership roles at colleges in Ohio and Georgia. She taught at both community colleges and universities, chaired a nursing department and also worked as a psychotherapist. She served in the Georgia National Guard and holds the title of retired Colonel and honorary Brigadier General.

During her time, the college built four new facilities and renovated nine others across its 15 county district. She helped bring in millions of dollars in gifts and grants, including an $18 million gift for the agriculture program. She also worked with Memorial Health to create a ‘Nursing Education Center’ and help address the nursing shortage. She also expanded transfer programs and added more options for students of all ages. She grew workforce training, health care education and other programs that help people learn new skills and advance in their careers. Warren also built strong community partnerships by working closely with businesses and local leaders.

Warren has served in leadership roles at the local, state and national levels. She is on the board of the American Association of Community Colleges and serves on boards in Springfield, including HSHS St. John’s Hospital and the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance. She has also led many civic groups in central Illinois.

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

Taylorville Community Credit Union has opened registration for its 12th annual Scholarship Program, giving high school seniors a chance to earn financial help for their education.

The program is open to seniors at Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana High Schools who plan to attend a trade school, community college, or four-year university after graduation in May of 2026. Registration is open now through Friday, October 10th.

Students who sign up will need to provide their name, a quality photo—such as a senior picture—and a completed parental permission form. Forms are available at all four TCCU branches, as well as online at TCCU.org.

Two students from each of the four schools will ultimately be awarded $1,000 scholarships. Winners are chosen through community voting, which takes place at participating local businesses. For every $10 spent at a participating retailer, customers can cast one vote for a student. Posters featuring the registered students will be displayed in those businesses beginning in mid-November, and voting continues through the end of February 2026.

The scholarships will be presented in the spring of 2026.

For more information about registration, or about Taylorville Community Credit Union, visit TCCU.org or stop by one of their locations in Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, or Pana.
 

A new law will make it easier for college students in Illinois to get reproductive health care. Starting in the 2025 to 2026 school year, all public colleges and universities must give students access to a health care provider who can prescribe birth control and medication for abortion. If a campus has its own pharmacy, that pharmacy must also fill those prescriptions if students ask. This means students will not have to look for outside providers unless they want to.

The law also says that school health websites must explain how students can get this type of care. This is meant to make the process clear and reduce confusion. Support from student groups helped move the measure forward. Lawmakers say this change is designed to meet students where they are and give them more control over their own health. Senator Villanueva believes this bill “will meet students where they are.”
 

The law was signed on Friday and is now in effect.
 

An event involving the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce – along with the latest on the Manners Park pool developments – will highlight the Taylorville Park Board of Trustees’ monthly meeting tonight.  As always, it will take place at 7 p.m. in the Manners Park Dining Hall. 

In new business, the board will discuss potential involvement in a Business After Hours event run by the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce.  Aaron Durham is expected to speak on the men’s softball program.  The board will then vote on the final plans for the Jayne’s Park project. 

In old business, the board will hear the latest on the Manners Park pool reconstruction efforts.  According to the Request For Proposals (RFP) the Park District recently submitted, they were due to have decided earlier this month on a vendor to proceed with.  The board will also discuss a letter involving outside auditing firm Sikich, along with a report from the EPA. 

As is customary, before new and old business, the board will hear the treasurer’s report.  After the business sections, the maintenance superintendent, recreation director, and office administrator will make their reports. 

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

The Cowden community came together over the weekend at the community park for another edition of Pioneer Days of Cowden.  The two-day festival consists of rides, food, vendors, pageants, music, rodeo shows, and a sense of community.  That last component is especially important in a location where occasions like this come few and far between. 

Sheila Cutler, Danny Jones, and Kimberly Baron are part of the organizing committee for Pioneer Days of Cowden.  They say the fact this event brings people in the town together is what makes it most special to them. 

The organizers are not the only ones feeling the sense of belonging.  Mike Wallace is a rodeo clown who performs at events across the country.  He is from Cowden and entertained the crowds at the rodeos at this year’s Pioneer Days of Cowden.  Wallace says he values the hometown support. 

More information on Pioneer Days of Cowden is available on their Facebook page. 

Cruisin’ 98.3 WSVZ broadcast live from Pioneer Days of Cowden on Saturday. 

Richland Community College is honoring the life of longtime Board of Trustees member Tom Ritter, who passed away August 20th.

Ritter, a lifelong resident of Blue Mound, joined the Richland board in 2013 and went on to play a key role in shaping the college’s work in education and economic development. In addition to his service at Richland, he held leadership roles with the Illinois and National Soybean Checkoff Boards, the Macon County Farm Bureau, the U.S. Grains Council, and the Macon County 4-H Foundation.

Beyond agriculture, Ritter co-owned Village Travel with his wife, Diana, while also managing his family farm. He was active on the Blue Mound and Meridian school boards and with several other community organizations.

Richland leaders say Ritter’s leadership, integrity, and dedication left a lasting mark on the college and the community he served. Ritter passed away this week from an incident involving a grain bin.
 

State Senator Doris Turner is calling on the U.S. Postmaster General to bring mail sorting operations back to Springfield.

Turner sent a letter this week after hearing continued concerns from Central Illinois residents about delays since mail processing was moved to St. Louis. She says the change has created serious problems, including late delivery of prescriptions, rent payments, paychecks, and bills.

Earlier this year, the Springfield Packaging and Distribution Center was converted into a Local Processing Center, shifting operations out of state. Turner says she is working with federal partners as the community pushes for the return of local mail sorting.

For more information on State Senator Doris Turner visit https://www.senatordoristurner.com/.  
 

The Christian County Sheriff's Office has reported that they have several deputies in the Morrisonville area of 389 N 300 E Road, attempting to locate a wanted male on foot.  Residents are strongly advised to secure vehicles, outbuildings, and residences.  If you see the male matching this description call 217-824-4961.

Memorial Health has announced a new addition to its Human Resources Division. Bret Mahoney has joined the system as director of Talent Management, effective August 18th.

Mahoney brings more than 14 years of experience in talent management. He most recently served as executive director of training and organizational design at Loma Linda University Health in California. At Memorial, he’ll focus on developing leaders and supporting internal career growth.

Mahoney holds a Ph.D. in leadership from the University of the Cumberlands, a master’s degree in leadership from Gonzaga University, and a bachelor’s degree in history from Southern Adventist University.

He says he’s excited to get to know both Memorial Health and central Illinois, adding that the organization has built a strong reputation for quality care and talented staff. Memorial’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Elisabeth Klar, says Mahoney’s leadership and collaborative style will be a tremendous asset moving forward.
 

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring is celebrating both tradition and growth with the return of Devin Wright to the family business. Devin is the son of company president John Wright and becomes the third member of the fifth generation to officially join the team, working alongside his sister Taylor and cousin Alex.

Devin’s return marks another step in the company’s long history in Dieterich. He previously spent nearly a decade in flooring merchandising and manufacturing, gaining experience with vendors, supply chains, and product development. That work included partnering with Wright’s Furniture, keeping him closely connected to the family business even while working elsewhere.

Now back full-time, Devin brings valuable knowledge that will support Wright’s Flooring division and the company’s overall operations.

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring is a fifth-generation family-owned business celebrating its 136th year. With locations in Dieterich, Robinson, and Taylorville, the company offers furniture, flooring, interior design services, and window treatments through its Wright at Home store in Effingham.
 

Anyone looking to expose their preschool-aged children to nature will have several fun organized opportunities to do so.  The Macon County Conservation Project has announced several fall events for parents and their kids at the Rock Springs Nature Center.  The events last one hour and include crafts, activities, songs, stories, and, of course, time outdoors. 

The weekday events are called “mini camps.”  They run from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and cost $8 per child.  Each topic has two sessions to better accommodate guests’ schedules.  The schedule is as follows:

• Tuesday, September 2 and Thursday, September 4: Wooly Worms
• Tuesday, September 16 and Thursday, September 18: Bushy Squirrels
• Tuesday, October 7 and Thursday, October 9: Ruby Red Ladybugs
• Tuesday, October 21 and Thursday, October 23: Fuzzy Bats
• Tuesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 6: Colorful Leaves
• Tuesday, November 18 and Thursday, November 20: Funky Turkeys

There are also events on the weekends.  These run from 2-3 p.m. one Sunday each month and cost $2 per child.  These excursions include: Marching Ants, Fall Colors, and Silly Spiders. 

More information and registration are available at www.MaconCCD.org. 

As reported on Wednesday evening, the Christian County Health Board permanently revoked the food permit for Whit's End in Taylorville. Regional Radio News received information from the health department highlighting the multiple issues and chances that were given for the restaurant to fix many of the issues that were present multiple times.

Both sides were given 15 minutes to plead their case: The Christian County Health Department and Whit's End. Alexandra Evrley, Lead and Vector Inspector for the CCHD, discussed some of the reasons the administrative hearing was taking place, including repeated violations of the same issues.

Regional Radio News worked on the timeline of events and found multiple repeat violations that had not been corrected despite numerous opportunities to do so. 

Charles Bone, supervisor with Whit's End, gave his rebuttal and stressed that there would be a zero tolerance policy for mistakes moving forward. 

Bone says that they have new management, but the Health Board questioned him on previous violations. 

The board went into executive session to talk about the violations and to decide what they wanted to do moving forward. 

After deliberation, the board unanimously voted to revoke the license for Whit's End. 

Again, Regional Radio News talked to the owners of Whit's End following the revocation of the permit, but they declined to give a statement. 

Timeframe (Multiple violations found.  This list is not exclusive. Only violations listed are REPEAT violations):

June 10th, 2024: Health Inspection multiple finds of repeat violations including improper date marking, floors and ceilings in need of repair, mops in mop bucket, kitchen tiles. 

October 30th, 2024: Health Inspection repeat violations food observed open and exposed in freezer, ice machine soiled on inside, fan in kitchen heavily soiled with dust, de markings not observed, mop not stored properly, floors damaged, grease trap heavily soiled in grease,  and Administrative Hearing scheduled at future date with fee.  

November 19th, 2024: Health Department gets a call.  Buffet cold upset stomach. 

November 22nd, 2024: Administrative Hearing 6 violations.  Actions taken to fix. 

December 11th, 2024: Failed Health Inspection repeat violations, food observed uncovered, food containers heavily soiled, back door large gap, rodent droppings and spider webs, cake display broken, ice machine cracks, residential stove observed, heavy grease build up on sides of fryer, flooring damaged, administrative hearing scheduled 

February 7th, 2025: Failed Health Inspection repeat violations, food held past discard date, back door with large gap, serving utensils fully submerged in hot holding food container, 

January 7th, 2025: Administrative hearing.  10 violations discussed.  Actions taken to fix.  

March 4th, 2025: Administrative Hearing  7 different violations discussed, actions taken to fix. 

May 29th, 2025: Health Department gets a call that the establishment is dirty, caller says they had diarrhea.

May 30th, 2025: Failed Health Inspection repeat violations.  Missing thermometers, Over 16 different violations noted. 

August 13th, 2025: Failed Health Inspection repeat violations include priority violation observed, no “Employee must wash hands sign”, lids, microwave and pizza prep stations heavily soiled, red sanitizer bucket contained soap water, rodent droppings, roach feces, and dead pests observed, food storage containers large cracks and broken, refuse in dry storage and cardboard used as a surface material in waitstation, flooring cracked and unsealed, drinks observed in food service area.  17 different violations noted. 

August 21st, 2025: Administrative Hearing, food permit revoked. 

To see the most recent health inspection click here. 

Mt. Auburn and surrounding communities, will again have a piece of history in their backyards, as the 138th Annual Mt. Auburn Farmers Picnic picks up on Thursday, August 21st. The picnic boats three days full of events, vendors, pageants, parades, and more. Homecooked meals are just one highlight of the gathering with a ham and bean supper on Thursday and the ‘Fireman’s Fish Dinner,’ happening Friday. Saturday sees breakfast served and a pork chop supper as the picnic winds down. The Mt. Auburn Farmers Picnic is home to one of the only “soap box derbies” in the area with other new offerings coming about at this year’s event.

Shamron Kratchum and Dixie Vincent, Committee Members for the Mt. Auburn Farmers Picnic, talk the lengthy history behind the picnic. Vincent has been associated with the picnic since she was a child, she has now seen nearly 90 years of the event.

Thursday holds the ham and bean dinner, a pie eating contest, and several pageants to crown new royalty. 

Friday will have a car show with the 40 MPH Club, the start of the carnival, and the Fireman’s Fish Fry in store.

A busy schedule of events brings in the weekend on Saturday. Things get started with a breakfast being served and the parade opening up at 10 a.m..

Saturday is not done there as the soap box derby, karaoke, ‘bags,’ volleyball, and pickleball tournaments kick off. A free petting zoo is back again this year before the chili cookoff, porkchop dinner, and beer tent close things out.

Find out more about the Mt. Auburn Farmers Picnic by visiting www.mtauburnfarmerspicnic.com.

Dixie Vincent and Shamron Kratchum appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

Authorities in Macon County say a Blue Mound man has died after becoming trapped in a grain bin Wednesday afternoon.

The Sheriff’s Office says crews were called out around 4 o’clock to assist Blue Mound Fire and Rescue on a report of a man stuck inside the bin. Deputies provided traffic control and support while firefighters tried to reach him.

The situation later turned into a recovery mission. Crews used special equipment to cut into the grain bin and eventually found the man, identified as 73-year-old Thomas Ritter of Blue Mound.

The Blue Mound Fire Department thanked South Macon Fire Dept, South Wheatland Fire Dept, Stonington Fire Protection District, Taylorville Fire Dept, Macon County TRT, and to Abbott for being on standby.

The Macon County Coroner’s Office confirmed Ritter's death Thursday morning.

Central A&M School District opened their doors to students for the 2025-26 academic year following “Back to School” night and their teacher luncheon. The District is still working towards completing projects and adding a “student mentorship” program. The new year sees plenty of new faces join their staff including four paraprofessionals, ten teachers, and two custodians. Central A&M High School and Gregory Intermediate also saw two principals hired before the Summer ended. Now the attention turns to a great school year start after their first full day on Wednesday, August 20th.

Sacha Young, Superintendent of the Central A&M School District, begins with the new crop of staff that have been brought in during the break. Young is excited to see “new opportunities” come from those just starting with the District.

Student mentorship is another item on the list that Young is striving to implement. Community members would have the opportunity to mentor a Central A&M student, providing them with a quality relationship, helping them learn and grow outside the classroom.

Central A&M High School falls within Richland Community College’s district, now the High School has worked to offer students resources available through the Heartland Tech Academy. Young says 8 students are currently enrolled in the program, exposing them to career paths after they graduate.

Sports sponsorships are also making there way to the Central A&M Schools. Young says any local business interested in supporting their athletics can do so again, with an added perk: advertising.

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.

The nationwide redistricting battle is heating up as majority-party lawmakers in several states look to pass new congressional district maps ahead of next year’s midterms.  Illinois is one of those states, where Democrats control all but three of the state’s U.S. House seats.  This came about in the same election where their party’s presidential candidate Kamala Harris won Illinois, but with only 54% of the vote.  Speaking of Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker has been involved in the absence of Texas Democrats from its state legislature ahead of a vote on what they consider to be gerrymandered maps.  These elected officials have since returned to the Lone Star State.

Efforts in these states to pass new maps are drawing sharp criticism from officials whose parties stand to detriment from changes to the maps.  Among them is Illinois State Senator Steve McClure.  He calls out Governor Pritzker for backtracking on a promise from his first campaign to veto gerrymandered maps and push for an independent redistricting commission. 

Senator McClure also accuses the governor of breaking constitutional precedent in signing two separate maps already this decade after a delay in census reporting in 2020.  

Aside from redistricting, Governor Pritzker has signed two of Senator McClure’s bills into law.  One of them reduces the frequency at which permanently disabled drivers must prove their disability at the Secretary of State’s office.  A constituent of his with Multiple Sclerosis came to him with the proposal.

The Senator also helped craft a resolution last year which is coming back to light now.  That’s because it was meant to honor Jim Lovell, who commanded the Apollo 8 and Apollo 13 missions.  The former astronaut moved to Lake Forest after his missions.  He died on August 7.
 

More information on Senator Steve McClure is available at www.senatormcclure.com.

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

The Christian County Health Board announced the complete revocation of Witt’s End in Taylorville. The Health Department announced the unanimous decision at a meeting on Wednesday evening. The revocation comes after multiple failed inspections and hearings. Both the health department and Witt’s End gave statements.  

The Christian County Health Department's Alexandra Evrley pointed out multiple failed issues and multiple failed inspections during their time to talk, including dead pests, various issues with food code violations, an under-temperature buffet, issues with a door that wasn’t sealed, allowing pests inside, among several other issues. Witt’s End: Charles Bone announced during his rebuttal that plans are moving forward with new management to make the necessary changes, saying that he understood the severity of the situation.  He outlined several of the changes that he wanted to make moving forward. 

After the executive session, it was announced that Witt’s End would have its license revoked.

Regional Radio News talked to the owners after the meeting but they did not have a statement.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for a complete and total write-up on the meeting, including audio and pictures, on Thursday. 

The Pana Tri-County Fair has a rich history behind it, as it now enters into the 76th year of it’s existence. Starting Wednesday, August 27th, and running through Monday, September 1st, the Fair has the typical fan favorites and even a new addition to the lineup. This year at the Pana Fairgrounds, professional wrestling will make it’s debut after community members helped decide what new event should make it’s way to town. Beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 28th, wrestlers will take the stage before the title match between “Hornswoggle” and “Microman.” Other special events are sprinkled into the 6 days, with the largest downstate Labor Day parade helping close things out.

Becky Michael, Secretary for the Pana Tri-County Fair, talks the newest event coming to Pana. Michael says this was something the community had called for and the Board is looking to deliver.

Michael continues with the schedule of events as they get their start on Wednesday and Thursday.

Friday is when the holiday weekend just gets going and Michael tells what it has in store for attendees.

Saturday sees more showings and events that are sure to pack the grandstand.

Sunday and Monday bring an end to the Pana Tri-County Fair with the Labor Day parade, UTV racing, and more.

Find out more about the Pana Tri-County Fair by visiting them at their Facebook page. Additional information can also be found at www.panatricountyfair.com.

Becky Michael appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

The Taylorville Park District is hoping to move forward with their plans to improve Jayne’s Park.  If and when this happens, it will be with enthusiasm from local community members.  They had the chance to learn more about the plans and provide feedback at a public forum on Monday night.  The proposed changes include expanding and refurbishing the tennis courts area and modifying the playground space to improve safety and accessibility. 

Recreation Director Jessica Franks has taken the lead in these efforts.  She says the proposal for the tennis area has generated much of the excitement, in part because it’s expected to be compatible also for pickleball. 

The Park District will apply for a state grant which would finance the Jayne’s Park project.  Franks says the Park District will not require other sources to fund their efforts, but that’s assuming they even receive the grant money. 

Regional Radio News previously reported on the Jayne’s Park project proposal and the grant application in a regular Park Board meeting on July 28 and a special meeting on July 15.

The Christian County Board met on Tuesday evening in the Christian County Courthouse, while they wait for new flooring to get done. The biggest item of the night was the county approving the purchase of dog kennels for Christian County Animal Control from the capital expense fund.

Chairman Bryan Sharp says that the kennels were necessary as the old ones were falling apart. Some other important events at the meeting included State Representative Brad Halbrook, who spoke to the board about some of the projects that he is working on.  

Matt Hart, with the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, gave an update where he informed the board that unemployment is down in the county to 3.6%—down from 4.6%. Hart says that sometimes they have to balance the fine line between making sure that there are employees for new businesses, but obviously, you want to keep unemployment numbers down.  

Hart says that the CCEDC saved businesses nearly $370,000 in 2024. A well ordinance was voted on and approved. A residency waiver for the Christian County Health Department concerning the emergency response coordinator was approved.  The next County Board meeting is set for Tuesday, September 16th. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from 2 of the leaders at University of Illinois Christian County’s Taylorville office, at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Sara Marten, County Director; and Cassie O’Donnell, Marketing and Communications Program Coordinator, spoke to Kiwanis members about what they called “the best kept secret” in the area.

Marten shared that County Extension Offices were established by the University of Illinois over one hundred years ago, and with re-organization over 10 years ago, staff serves Christian and several other counties.  She added their office focuses on 4 program areas:   4-H and youth development for ages 5 to 18; horticulture and agriculture; nutrition and wellness; and community and economic development.

Marten told the group Christian County 4-H numbers are steady.

O’Donnell told the Kiwanis Club this year for the first time, U of I Extension is offering hybrid master gardener training, and added the local Extension Office is hosting what they’re calling a “Taste of Extension” open to the public from 4:30 til 7pm on October 24th.  

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.

Agriculture education teachers in Illinois will now be compensated for the extra hours they put in outside the classroom.

Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1605 into law on Friday. The measure, sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield, requires school districts to pay agriculture teachers their full hourly rate if they work 400 or more extra hours beyond their regular teaching schedule.

Turner says the law recognizes the time teachers spend helping students learn about agriculture outside of class. Leaders in ag education say the change will support teachers and help prepare the next generation of agricultural workers.

The law takes effect immediately.
 

Angelo’s Restaurant Group is showing its support for the Christian County YMCA and its mission to serve families and strengthen the community.

In July, Angelo’s hosted a “Dine to Donate” day, where a portion of sales was donated to the YMCA’s Capital Campaign. The effort is part of the organization’s push to fund facility improvements and expand programs.

In addition, Angelo’s Express has pledged $5,000 over the next five years to the campaign. The restaurant group says the donation reflects its long-standing commitment to giving back to organizations that make a difference in the lives of local families.

“We’re more than just a place to eat — we’re a community partner,” the group shared, adding they are proud to stand alongside the YMCA in promoting youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

The Christian County board is set to meet on Tuesday at 6:00 PM. At the meeting will be public comments, Trustee Steve Seiler will be appointed to the Owaneco Fire Protection district, Matt Hart will have a CCEDC update, and State Representative Brad Halbrook will have an update. 

Under committee reports the board will hear on Swift Current Energy, record storage needs, and a delay survey maps purchase.  The board will review the States Attorney carpet installation quotes, and discuss courthouse and building updates. Under new business the board will discuss a residency waiver, a resolution for county engineer salary budget discussions, and any other issues that may come before the board.

A Christian County resident has been inducted into the 4-H Hall of Fame. Nicole Bailey was inducted into the 4-H Hall of Fame during the Illinois State Fair on August 10. Bailey spent nine years co-leading and leading the Tri-County Kids Club, inspired by her children’s passion for the program. She worked to create an environment where members could grow, learn, and develop a love for 4-H.

Bailey says she got involved to make sure her kids had a positive and meaningful experience, and she’s proud to have supported them every step of the way. The University of Illinois Extension says volunteers like Bailey make it possible for 4-H to continue offering opportunities for young people in the community.

For more information on joining 4-H in Christian County, contact the Extension Office at 217-287-7246.
 

Lincoln Land Community College is known for college degrees and certificates, but the college provides numerous community resources to go with their curriculum. Coming to Taylorville’s campus this year is the school’s “Essential Workplace Skills” series, a multi-week set of sessions, starting on August 28th. With a focus on professional development and soft skills to better improve your ability at work, attendees of all ages and stages in their careers will benefit from the range of material.

Diana Heeb Bivona, Director of Continuing Education and Business Solutions at Lincoln Land Community College, shares about how many opportunities there are to develop professionally.

Heeb Bivona talks about the Spring listening session and what residents, local leaders, and businesses are asking for here locally. She says these are important to gauge what courses the community truly needs.

As for the Essential Workplace Skills series, Heeb Bivona details how the workshop will be administered.

The series will be broken down in to six different three-hour classes, Heeb Bivona tells of the expected classes to take place.

And if you can’t make it to the sessions, or maybe want all of your employees to receive this information, LLCC-Taylorville will come to your business instead.

To receive 50% off any of workshops or series offered by Lincoln Land Community College, use code: UPSKILL, when registering. Visit www.llcc.edu/ews., for more.

Diana Heeb Bivona appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The new school year also means the return of school-related protocols for the Taylorville Police Department.  They are working to ensure safe environments in local schools, whether through traffic enforcement, active shooter response training, and being a valuable resource for students.  All of this comes amid data moving in the right direction with regards to crime incidents and drug addiction recovery. 

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says school resource officers assist with patrolling traffic at the start and end of school days.  He urges drivers to slow down in school zones and not to pass school buses which have stopped to let passengers on or off. 

Research published in the journal JAMA Surgery in 2023 shows gun deaths are more likely in small towns than in large cities.  With those findings, Chief Wheeler is taking steps to educate and prepare community members and first responders for incidents like these. 

Over the summer, the Police Department partnered with Kroger to provide school supplies for students in need.  There are still some supplies available for anyone who needs them. 

Outside of school, the department’s data shows that criminal incidents dropped in July.  This includes service calls and thefts.  Chief Wheeler also says their efforts to help community members recover from drug addiction are working. 

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

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

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening to discuss business, review ordinances, and go over new business. Resolutions that were approved include an ordinance authorizing the sale of personal property owned by the city of Taylorville and a resolution authorizing a resolution revising spending limit policy. Also approved Monday night was a special events permit for Kiwanis Kids day on September 19th and September 20th, the 2025 homecoming parade on Wednesday, October 8th, and a special events permit for the 2026 graduation parade on Friday, May 15th.

Under committee reports, a motion was approved to purchase and install new video Comm systems at the fire department, and it was announced that Jeff Stoner be recommended for a promotion to captain within the fire department. Fire Chief Matt Adermann praised Stoner for his dedication and hard work to the Taylorville Fire Department.

Several motions concerning work to be done were approved, including work on well three and concrete repairs at the Tastee Treet. A deer duck drawing was approved for September 9th, existing hunting ground leases were approved for renewal at the same rate, and the construction phase for the rehabilitate runway 9-27 project were all approved. 

The city also heard from Taylorville mayor Bruce Barry, approved bills, and there were no public comments. The meeting took about 15 minutes. The next City Council meeting is set for September 7th, 2025.

The Christian County Fair Board has announced dates and times when ticket sales will be offered for this Saturday’s Combine Demo Derby.

Fair officials tell Regional Radio News that ticket sales will take place at the fair office this Friday from 9 til 3, and Saturday—the day of the event—from 10am to 2pm.

Tickets will then be offered from 2pm to 6pm in the ticket booth under the Fair Grandstand.

Get more information on this Saturday’s Christian County Fair Board Combine Demo Derby on their Facebook page.

At the Illinois State Fair, 400 individuals from 72 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony attended by Illinois lawmakers. The ceremony highlighted the role of immigration in shaping the country’s identity and reinforced the importance of supporting immigrant communities, especially in difficult times.

U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, along with Representative Nikki Budzinski, were present to mark the occasion. Each acknowledged the significance of the moment, recognizing the dedication and effort it takes to become a citizen. They emphasized the ongoing contributions immigrants make to communities, the economy, and the democratic process.

The Taylorville City Council is set to meet on Monday, August 18th. The council will review the authorization of personal property concerning several motor vehicles, a resolution revising spending limit policy, and a motion to recommend to the city council to approve a special events permit for Kiwanis Kids Day on 9/19 and 9/20.  Other motions include special events permits for the 2025 Homecoming Parade on Wednesday, October 8th, and the 2026 Graduation Parade on Friday, May 15th, 2026. 

Under committee reports, the council will look to approve the purchase and installation of a new video-com system at the Fire Department. As far as the fire department goes, there is a motion to promote Jeff Stoner to Captain. There is a motion in the agenda for pay requests for work on Well 3 and concrete repairs at the Tastee Treet. 

Under lake/airport, the council will look at approving Deer/Duck Drawing, existing hunting ground lease renewals, and the construction phase service agreement for the rehabilitate runway. As always, there will be city attorney and mayor updates and public comments.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the conclusion of the event. 

Pioneer Days of Cowden is scheduled for August 22nd and 23rd, and looks to provide the carnival atmosphere not had anywhere else in Shelby County. Staples of the event like their rodeo and loads of live music are back again this year, but added to the lineup is a “hypnosis show” that Saturday. Each day will also see the carnival at just $25 per child, guaranteeing up to five hours of fun for the price.

Kimberly Baron, a volunteer event coordinator for the Pioneer Days of Cowden, talks finding the right vendor to bring a carnival to Shelby County. She explains where the entertainment comes from and why it was so important to the Pioneer Days to have a carnival in the first place.

Friday night begins with a flag raising to initiate the start of the event. Baron also shares about the many vendors that will be on hand that weekend.

Pageants will be held again this time around but with a twist, Baron believes it’s not conducted like your typical pageant, making the experience better as a spectator.

Baron then goes in to detail on some of the Saturday festivities. She discusses the parade and the “hypnosis show,” where audience members will have a chance to be hypnotized on stage.

Find out more about the Pioneer Days of Cowden by visiting their Facebook page.

Kimberly Baron appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.
 

For those with a disability looking for support towards leading an independent life, SAIL is there to help.  The organization’s name stands for Soyland Access to Independent Living, and they serve Macon, Moultrie, Shelby, Coles, Clark, and Cumberland counties.  Their goal is to help those with disabilities participate in society and daily routines to the fullest extent possible.  They also look to educate the community on how best to serve and interact with those who have disabilities. 

Betty Watkins is the Rural Outreach Coordinator with SAIL.  She says a big part of her organization’s work is advocacy.  In most cases, this means helping clients work with public agencies to ensure they get what they need.

Assistants at SAIL also work with clients on skill development.  This is often necessary for people coming out of nursing homes, as they must now provide more for themselves.

As for how someone can being receiving assistance from SAIL, a variety of parties can make a referral.  After that, SAIL gets in contact with them for more information about the prospective client. 

The end goal, from SAIL’s perspective, is for people with disabilities to be treated like anyone else.  As such, they also host courses for the general public to learn how to do their part.

SAIL’s Shelby County Outreach Office is located at 1604 W. Main Street, Suite 100 in Shelbyville.  More information on SAIL – as well as their other office locations – is available at www.decatursail.com.

Betty Watkins appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club and the Taylorville Fire Department co-sponsored a Car Seat Safety Day at the Taylorville Fire House on Saturday.

Parents who brought their vehicles with car seats were pleased to have their child’s seat inspected, installed and adjusted.  

All Taylorville Firefighters are certified to install and and inspect each child safety seat. 

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.

After what felt like a long year of building, the new Starbucks has opened in Taylorville off Route 29.  As of November 2022, the company had 35,711 stores in 80 countries, with 15,873 of which were located in the United States. The coffee place saw its first customer this morning as Taylorville resident Kaci Devore went through the drive-thru.  Her order was a venti hot white chocolate mocha with one pump of raspberry.  The first customer inside this morning was Lettie Thompson, a 6-year-old, who is reportedly a big Starbucks lover and wanted badly to be the very first customer, especially since it's her birthday.  Happy Birthday Lettie! This is the second Starbucks to open in Taylorville, with the other location inside Kroger at 201 E. Bidwell. 

Top Photo courtesy: Kaci Devore

Photo Courtesy: Julia Ostermeier

The Christian County Fairgrounds will again host the “Meet the Machines” event this year, it’s slated for August 23rd, 2025. With the help of West Sand and Trucking as the event organizer, the Fairgrounds will be covered in massive machines of all kinds from racecars to cranes and everything in between. A new twist is coming to the family favorite this time around. At 5 p.m. that evening, a “Combine Demo Derby” with 14 total combines will run the gauntlet to see who can come out on top.

Brent West, Owner of West Sand and Trucking, talks first about the history behind the unique occasion. West has helped hold Meet the Machines since it’s beginning and talks his “ultimate goal” for the large showing.

While the event is completely free, donations are being requested this year. West is hoping to fill the trailer of course but knows this might take time to do.

“Skid steer soccer” is also new this year and West explains it’s exactly what it sounds like. Meet the Machines will then close out with the destruction of a combine to round out the first half of the day.

The Combine Demo Derby will start at 5 p.m. with 14 combines, tickets are available for the grandstand event. Prices start at $20 for reserve seating and $10 for a place in the grandstand.

Meet The Machines will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., a power wheels derby will take over at 4 p.m. before the combine demo derby at 5 p.m. All events are scheduled for August 23rd, 2025.

Brent West appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.
 

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation is pointing to local employment numbers to drive businesses to the area.  The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows unemployment in Christian County is at 3.6%.  That’s down by nearly 1% from that point last year and the same amount lower than Illinois as a whole.  These numbers affect – and in turn are affected by – local economic growth. 

Matt Hart, Executive Director of the CCEDC, has a keen eye on these numbers.  He says comparing the county’s numbers to those of other states speaks to the value of living and doing business here.

As for other businesses potentially opening in Christian County, Hart says they look closely at the unemployment rate and its trends before deciding if they will move or expand. 

As such, Sloan Implement likely would have been among those paying attention to employment numbers.  They recently opened a new location in Edinburg, a move which has helped widen their reach for customers. 

As for the roads to get to these businesses, construction projects are well underway.  They are mostly taking place along Illinois Route 29 between Taylorville and Pana. 

More information on the CCEDC is available at www.christiancountyedc.com. 

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

Lincoln Land Community College – Taylorville has just days before class opens again for the Fall, but the Summer has been one of change for administration. New to the role of ‘Director’ is Elizabeth Fines-Workman, but that’s nearly the only thing new to her. Fines-Workman has been a lifelong Taylorville resident and an instructor for the college for over eight years. Now in her newest position, she looks to bring a renewed focus on community involvement and improving on curriculum and course offerings. 

Fines-Workman shares about herself first. From working at the Manners Park Pool, her college years, to then moving back for her public speaking gig at LLCC-Taylorville. 

The title of ‘Director’ would be daunting for others but Fines-Workman talks what led to her making this big change.

Priorities for this upcoming school year include additional community involvement and remaining committed to current and future students. Fines-Workman touches on some of those plans.

Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville continues to add new courses and this year is no different. Fines-Workman goes through the long list of classes of all types.

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

Elizabeth Fines-Workman appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The 40th annual Chillifest is a month-and-a-half away, and the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce continues its buildup to the famed festival.  They are promoting special merchandise for this year’s event, along with the many ways people can get involved.  The Chamber’s calendar is also loaded with other community events meant for both members and the general public. 

Board President Krystal Baker is spearheading the logistics for Chillifest.  She says the GTCC’s online shop is where the event’s merchandise lives. 

The Business After Hours events continue, as well.  The Christian County CEO program is leading the next one in a month’s time. 

The GTCC is looking at a busy fall full of member celebrations.  They involve discounted goods and services as well as fundraising opportunities, all covering a wide range of interests. 

In addition, the Chamber now has two new members.  They are Whitlow Sewer and Septic Services and the Hart Media Group, the latter of which is the parent company of this station. 

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

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

The Windsor Harvest Picnic is back up and running again this weekend for the 128th Annual, starting this Thursday, August 14th through Saturday, August 16th. Thursday got it’s start with a pulled pork and italian beef dinner, with an ice cream social to cure that sweet tooth. Pageants and live music round out the evening before getting in to Friday’s Fish Dinner and special auction. The ‘Kentucky Headhunters,’ a country music group with several hits, closes out a fun filled Friday.

Saturday events begin when the Windsor FFA serves up breakfast. Following that is the ‘Harvest Run,’ pedal tractor pull, parade, porkchop dinner, and the weekend’s raffle drawing. Inflatables provided by 25/8 Extreme will run each night of the Windsor Harvest Picnic.

Carson Cole, Volunteer for the Windsor Picnic gives the plans for Friday and Saturday at Windsor Park.

Stacey Cole with the Windsor Picnic shared that for him it’s all about seeing friends, family, and new faces enjoy their community together. He’s also behind some of the many delicious meals served each and every night of the Windsor Harvest Picnic.

Find out more about the Windsor Harvest Picnic by visiting them at their Facebook page. Cruisin’ 98.3 WSVZ broadcast live from the opening night of the 128th Annual Windsor Picnic on Thursday night.

Lake Land College is getting ready to kick off the new school year with Welcome Week, a series of events aimed at helping new and returning students settle in and start strong.

The activities begin ahead of the first day of classes, with events scheduled August 20th through the 22nd, and again on August 25th and 26th. Held inside the Luther Student Center, Welcome Week will include campus tours, resource stations, information sessions, photobooths, planner decorating, and more.

Students will also have a chance to explore the college’s brand-new Student Success Center during an open house in Webb Hall on August 25th and 26th. To make the transition easier, staff will be available as greeters on the first two days of class, August 25th and 26th, at both the Mattoon campus and the Effingham Technology Center, helping students find their way around.

Then on August 27th, Student Life will host a special Welcome Day event in the Field House with free lunch, games, and giveaways. A second Welcome Day celebration will be held exclusively for Effingham students on August 28th.  Find out more information by visiting their website at www.llcc.edu

The Christian County Health Department and Taylorville Fire Department are teaming up to offer free CPR training.

The class will be held Wednesday, September 3rd, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Taylorville Fire Department.
Space is limited, and you’ll need to register by calling 217-824-2295.

Public Health Administrator Dr. Chad Anderson says knowing CPR can save lives at home, at work, and in the community — and encourages residents to sign up early.

Again, that’s free CPR training, Wednesday, September 3rd, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Taylorville Fire Department. Call 217-824-2295 to register.

The Illinois State Police say new legislation will strengthen the state’s ability to combat human trafficking and support survivors.

Governor JB Pritzker has signed the Illinois Statewide Trauma-Informed Response to Human Trafficking Act. It creates a coordinated, multi-agency approach, standardizing training, screening, and victim services across law enforcement, state agencies, and advocacy groups.

The law also boosts penalties for child labor trafficking, removes the statute of limitations for civil suits by survivors, and expands training for those who may encounter trafficking victims, from case workers to inspectors.

In Illinois last year, more than 200 possible cases of child trafficking were reported to DCFS, but officials say many cases still go unreported. If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
 

The Christian County Health Department has suspended the food permit license of Whit’s End in Taylorville, pending a hearing with the Board of Health on August 20th.

Both the Health Department and Whit’s End will each have 15 minutes to present their case, then the Board of Health will decide whether to revoke or re-instate their license.

The restaurant is closed because of the suspension, pending the outcome of the August 20th hearing.

Find the latest results of the Health Department inspection by clicking HERE. 

The Taylorville School Board of Education met on Tuesday evening for their regular monthly meeting before kicking off the new academic year. The Board approved the consent agenda after learning that 52% of the tax revenue gained through the one cent sales tax had been paid out, totaling 9.2 million dollars. Following that was new business, which was highlighted by a presentation of the Fiscal Year 26’ budget by Superintendent Brandi Bruley.

Bruley explained to those in attendance that there is an expected shortfall in this year’s budget. This is mainly caused by a large reduction in federal funding, some of which will not be received at all. So how does a brand new building addition and moving forward with future add-ons make sense? What about the newly approved bond resolutions of 15 million dollars? As Bruley explains, the revenue generated by the one cent sales tax can be used for only one purpose: capital projects.

As the number of student class sizes continues to dwindle, Taylorville School District will have to take a look at budget cuts of their own. Bruley knows these will be tough, but necessary decisions to make.

Even with the budget not where it needs to be, Taylorville School District has to keep up with required purchases and necessities. Bruley shares the top priorities of the budget as she sees them.

Where the budget is at this moment, will likely be the same for their pending deadline of September 30th. The budget was only heard by the Board at the August meeting and will receive a vote at their next monthly meeting. And while it is only the “Education Fund” that is out of balance, a solution isn’t nearly as simple as some might think.

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

The next Taylorville School Board of Education meeting will be September 9th, 2025.

The Taylorville community will have the opportunity to weigh in on proposed changes to Jayne’s Park.  Park District administrators will present their plans and how a new grant will help finance them.  This presentation will happen at a public forum, scheduled for this coming Monday (August 18) at 6 p.m. at the Manners Park dining hall.  As presented at July’s Park Board meeting, the ideas are expected to include new recreational spaces and improvements to accessibility and safety.  The public will be able to provide feedback and suggestions surrounding the plans and costs.  It all comes as summer events wind down and fun fall activities will soon take effect.

This forum is required by statute because of the project’s use of grant money.  Recreation Director Jessica Franks has taken the lead in these efforts.  She says spaces for several different sports and other recreational games are part of the blueprint as of now. 

In previous years, the Park District has been required to match any public grant money they apply for.  However, they are now on a list of “distressed” districts as specified by the state.  Districts may be added to the list for economic reasons – such as having a sufficient percentage of residents below the poverty line – or physical ones – such as a recent natural disaster destroying property.  Because of this qualification, the Taylorville Park District is now not required to match the grant.

As for ongoing events, the summer concert series has come to a close.  Despite that, other regular gatherings and activities are still going on.  They include the senior lunch, which happens the second Thursday of every month at noon. 

The Park District will soon turn its attention to fall events.  They include the Falling Leaf Festival, which is entering just its second annual edition. 

In July, the Park Board approved moving Small Town Taylorville’s car cruises to Manners Park.  Franks says car shows at the park have historically drawn large crowds and that this move will help avoid interfering with construction on the Taylorville square. 

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

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club and the Taylorville Fire Department are co-sponsoring a Car Seat Safety Day at the Taylorville Fire House this Saturday.

Hours are from 8 to 11am.   The Taylorville Fire Department will provide a full inspection the installation of your child’s safety seat and or install your child’s safety seat.  

This will be a drive-thru event, so please drive through the fire department to have your child’s seat inspected.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club and Taylorville Fire Department have co-sponsored this event for many years. 

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.

Several members of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club recently manned gates at the recent Illinois State Fair, as another part of their fund-raising for local Kiwanis children and youth programs in the community.   

Kiwanis president Bill and Carolyn Assalley, Chuck and Mary Jo Martin, Eric Kahle, Cathy Coker, Griffin Smock, Tim Sutton, and Adam Jeffrey manned various ticket gates during the Fair’s eleven-day run.

The American Business Club of Springfield, another non-profit organization, recruits volunteers from their club and other non-profit clubs in the area.   Other clubs that provide help, get a monetary donation from the American Business Club for their efforts.   

That donation given to the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, will help fund continuing programs for local children and youth including Coats for Kids; Kiwanis Park; YMCA and high school scholarships; investing in the county’s C-E-O program, and many others.

Kiwanis member Blain Cornwell again organized the local Kiwanis members to help man the gates this 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.

Kiwanis member Adam Jeffrey mans one of the gates at the Illinois State Fair.

Kiwanis members Mary Jo Martin (left) and Griffin Smock (right) man a ticket booth at the Illinois State Fair. 

Kiwanis members helped some of the Illinois State Fair gates recently as a fund raiser.   Left front is Chuck Martin, left rear Tim Sutton, on the right are Kiwanis president Bill Assalley and his wife Carolyn. 

Pana Elementary School is set for the start of another academic year after just getting settled in to their new building. Now administration is looking at how to better utilize their space and possibly bringing about more collaboration between the district’s three schools. This week, teachers and staff will resume operations for their first official day of the school year, on Tuesday, August 13th. That evening will also see students of all grade levels flood the hallways for their “Meet the Teacher” night.

Adam Metzger, Principal of Pana Elementary School, shares about his staff’s first day back and what that will look like. 

Once teachers and staff wrap up beginning of the year duties, they’ll get to see their newest batch of students and families. “Meet the Teacher” night will be held on Tuesday, August 13th from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m..

Metzger discusses arrival and dismissal at Pana Elementary School this year. Now that end of day school pickup has been optimized, Metzger says an additional 15 minutes of instruction time daily, will be the biggest benefit to the changes that were made.

Additionally, Metzger tells that Pana Elementary School is once again fully staffed at the start of school. He talks some other improvements being made under his lead including “consistent expectations.”

Find out more about Pana Elementary School at www.panaschools.com.

Adam Metzger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.

People in five Central Illinois counties seeking home health or hospice care have an award-winning option available to them.  Quad County Home Health & Hospice has won awards in multiple recent years for their work and patients’ satisfaction.  Pana Community Hospital owns and operates the service, which serves Christian, Shelby, Montgomery, Fayette, and Macoupin Counties.  They aim to provide high-quality care for patients recovering from injuries and illnesses in addition to those seeking comfort near the end of life.

Morgan Wilbur is a Registered Nurse at Quad County.  She says receiving top marks from patients as opposed to simply an awards committee speaks to the significance of their honors.

Quad County staff work to make sure each patient gets the care they need.  Often, these decisions are made pre-referral.

For home health services, the care team works towards accomplishing a set of goals related to what the patient needs.  Several parties take part in determining what those goals are.

As for the hospice side, Quad County works with the patient to provide the care they need.  In addition, their work extends to supporting loved ones, including well after the patient dies. 

More information on Quad County Home Health and Hospice is available at www.panahospital.com. 

Morgan Wilbur appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

Pizza Man of Pana owner Mike Foster, also a board member of the Christian County C-E-O program, hosted about 50 people Monday night for the annual Orientation Meeting.   The C-E-O, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program is for county high school seniors teaching them business and networking skills.

Foster told Regional Radio News after the meeting that he shared with the gathering about failures and successes.

He told the C-E-O meeting his personal story and also shared it with Regional Radio News.

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

A Shelbyville High School teacher is behind bars, accused of violently attacking a woman — and court records show this may not have been the first time.

Police say 41-year-old Ryan Brown was arrested on August 4th after a domestic incident where the victim reported being strangled and having her leg broken. Brown is facing three charges: aggravated domestic battery, unlawful restraint, and interfering with the reporting of domestic violence.

During a hearing last week, prosecutors asked the court to keep Brown in jail until trial. Court records show the judge agreed, finding there was clear and convincing evidence Brown committed a detainable offense and poses a “real and present” threat to the victim.

Those records also reveal Brown made admissions that match the victim’s account of the incident — and that he previously admitted to choking her until she lost consciousness, as well as breaking her leg in another incident. The judge ruled there were no conditions that could reduce the threat to the victim’s safety.

Brown is scheduled to return to court on August 25th. Regional Radio News reached out to Shelbyville School District but they were unavailable for comment.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Program Director at the Christian County YMCA, at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Tanner Jones shared with Kiwanis members that numbers for many of the Y’s programs have increased in the past 12 months, due to the recent capital campaign enabling the Y to remodel and refurbish much of the facility.

56 children participated in this summer’s Day Camp, while spring soccer saw 215 kids enroll.  Fall soccer already has 90 children registered, and the recent Back to School Fair co-sponsored with Taylorville Memorial Hospital enabled nearly 200 children to receive back packs and other services on-site.  

Jones added that Teen Center and Grade School Parties at the Christian County YMCA will be ramping up this fall, with the new gym helping program numbers.  Jones reminded Kiwanis members that the pool at the Y will be closed for repairs August 24 to September 7th.

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.

It’s no secret that power bills have been on the rise this summer. There are several theories that are making the rounds about why that is the case.  Ameren’s Tucker Kennedy, Director of Public Relations, spoke about some of those myths and what the real reason is. Kennedy says that energy can be a complex topic. 

While it seems that the logical answer is to supply more power, Kennedy says it’s not that easy. 

As far as relief in sight? Kennedy says It’s on the horizon. One thing that experts are looking at is the power problems that happened in 2022. 

Ameren doesn’t generate power, and the electric supply is out of its control. Kennedy says he does feel a responsibility to be an advocate for customers.  He is urging customers to reach out to policymakers to dive into more renewable energy markets. 

Kennedy says that Ameren is consistently trying to overcome the ever-changing markets and strategies in order to help customers with their bills.  Ameren says they are working on ways to help and have resources available.

For more information, visit www.AmerenIllinois.com/PathToSavings. 

Illinois has enacted Alicia’s Law, dedicating permanent funding and resources to investigate internet crimes against children. Named after Alicia Kozakiewicz, the first widely reported internet-related child abduction victim, the law ensures ongoing support for the Illinois State Police’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit.

The measure makes Illinois the 13th state to permanently fund this type of investigative work. The ICAC unit has seen a significant increase in cases, from 68 new cases in 2018 to 145 so far this year, with 46 arrests made to date.

Alicia’s Law also reinforces collaboration between state and local agencies to address online threats to children. The Illinois State Police have launched a podcast narrated by Bill Kurtis, highlighting the unit’s work and efforts to keep children safe online.

Anyone with information about potential internet-based threats to children is urged to contact local law enforcement, call 1-800-THE-LOST, or reach out to the Illinois Attorney General’s ICAC Task Force.
 

With school about to start across Illinois, the State Police are reminding drivers to slow down and watch out for children. In school zones, the speed limit is 20 miles per hour from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on school days when kids are present, and fines are higher for using a phone behind the wheel in those zones.

Troopers say most school bus injuries happen outside the bus, in what’s called the danger zone, when drivers fail to stop for flashing red lights and the extended stop arm. On two-lane roads, drivers in both directions must stop for a bus with its signals activated. On multi-lane roads, only traffic going the same way as the bus must stop.

The penalty for illegally passing a stopped school bus is steep with a mandatory $300 fine and a three-month license suspension for first-time offenders. Police also encourage parents to remind kids to use sidewalks, crosswalks, and to never walk between parked cars. For more information, visit the Illinois State Police website.
 

The Taylorville School Board of Education will meet this evening, August 12th, at 6:00 p.m. for their regular monthly meeting at the District Office, located at 1100 North Sportsman Drive in Taylorville.

Prior to the meeting, a public hearing will be held at 5:45 p.m. regarding the district’s ‘E-Learning Plan’ for the upcoming three school years. The hearing will give the public an opportunity to provide feedback before the board considers the plan for approval. Other items on the agenda include the renewal of the district's health care plan, consideration of a Driver’s Education vehicle purchase, and approval of the annual contract with CTI. The board will also consider the list of district evaluators and vote on the second reading and adoption of Press Policy Update 119.

Under new business, the board will hear IASB Talking Points from Ann Chandler and receive an update from Lori Wemple on the NPT program. Carla Mickey will also provide a report from the recent Press Policy Committee meeting. The board is expected to set the date for a public hearing on the FY26 budget, with the tentative budget set for presentation during the meeting. Kendall King, CPA, will deliver a financial presentation, followed by board action on a resolution of intent to issue $3.5 million in Working Cash Fund Bonds to support the district’s financial stability.

The meeting will conclude with the Superintendent’s Report. As always stay tuned to Regional Radio News for coverage and updates following tonight's meeting.

The Master Gardeners at the University of Illinois Extension are looking to invest in their own work.  Their primary focus is in bringing in more Master Gardeners and training them to best serve other gardeners.  The Extension is also hosting a conference to bring these gardening enthusiasts together and exchange new ideas. 

Gwen Podeschi and Linda Smith are among the Extension’s Master Gardeners.  Their group provides more than just gardening advice.  They can also shoot photos of flowers, sell plants to raise money, and plenty more. 

They are hosting training sessions, both in person and online, to bring on more people to their ranks

The Extension is also hosting their annual Master Gardeners Conference.  It’s scheduled for September 4 and 5 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield.  The conference is open to the public.

When it comes to gardening tips, some plants have reached their peak at this point in the season.  If that’s the case for you, it may be time to “deadhead” them.

More information on the University of Illinois Extension and the conference is at extension.illinois.edu.

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

The 16 Christian County C-E-O students of the Class of 2026, along with their parents and C-E-O board members, attended Monday night’s orientation meeting at Pizza Man in Pana.

Pizza Man owner and C-E-O board member Mike Foster hosted the event, where the students and parents were given an overview of what the C-E-O, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program, will be like starting this Thursday and running from 7:30 til 9 daily during the school year.

The program meets at their classroom on the 2nd floor of U-S Bank in Taylorville, as well as several other business locations thru-out Christian County, and teaches students entrepreneurial and networking skills.

Board president Mary DelValle told Regional Radio News she shared some of her goals for this year’s class Monday night.

Facilitator Neil Hohenstein, now in his 5th year of leading the program, told Regional Radio News the eleventh year of C-E-O in Christian County is exciting.

Hohenstein also told the CEO students Monday night that, for the first time, Lincoln Land Community College will offer dual credits for participating in Christian County C-E-O.

See this year’s students and find out more on the Christian County C-E-O program on line at christiancountyceo-dot-com.

Fire crews in Assumption were called to a house fire just after 10 o’clock Friday night. When firefighters arrived, they found heavy smoke and one room fully engulfed in flames. Crews quickly went inside and were able to put the fire out within minutes.

The Moweaqua Fire Department and Echo Response provided mutual aid, along with assistance from Christian County 911, the Sheriff’s Office, and the State Fire Marshal. Officials credited Joe and Jody Mink for quickly calling 911, which helped speed up the response. No word yet on the cause of the fire.

The 2025 Illinois State Fair officially underway following a ribbon cutting on Thursday. Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza took part in the celebration, marking the beginning of eleven days filled with entertainment, food, and activities for visitors from across the state. The fairgrounds was then filled with the sounds, sights, and smells that have made the event a summer tradition for generations of Illinois families.

The Illinois State Fair is known for offering something for everyone, from classic fair food and carnival rides to unique attractions and live performances. This year’s lineup includes major concerts, agricultural displays, and a variety of shows designed to appeal to all ages. Visitors can expect to see the Butter Cow, a long-standing favorite that draws thousands each year, as well as nationally recognized music acts and high-energy performances in multiple venues throughout the fairgrounds. Food vendors will be serving well-loved treats such as corn dogs and lemon shake-ups, while the midway offers rides for both thrill seekers and younger guests.

Fair organizers and state officials have worked to keep the event accessible and affordable for families. Each day features free entertainment scattered throughout the fairgrounds, along with livestock shows, parades, and daily promotions that give visitors more ways to enjoy the fair without overspending. Many of the attractions are included in the cost of admission, allowing families to make the most of their visit without additional charges.

The Comptroller’s office is also using the fair as an opportunity to connect with the public. Mendoza’s tent will be open every day, welcoming fairgoers with free water, games, and informational materials about the office. Visitors can stop by to relax in the shade, take part in activities, or simply learn more about state programs and services. On Tuesday, August 12th, the tent will host a special dog adoption event in partnership with WILD Canine Rescue in Springfield. The adoption event will run from late morning to early afternoon and will feature dogs in need of permanent homes.

Learn more about the Illinois State Fair at www.statefair.illinois.gov.

A piece of Taylorville’s medical history is now on display in the lobby of Taylorville Memorial Hospital. The contents of a 1950s time capsule, discovered earlier this year, are available for public viewing throughout August.

The capsule was found during routine maintenance when employee Andy Mateer uncovered a hidden compartment behind the cornerstone of the former St. Vincent Memorial Hospital. After careful removal, the capsule revealed a variety of items from the era, including hospital photographs from 1940 and 1953, autographs from Sisters and staff, Catholic publications, coins from the early 1950s, and memorabilia from the hospital’s groundbreaking ceremony.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital President and CEO Kim Bourne says the display honors the legacy of the Sisters and the hospital’s rich history. That commitment to preserving the past is also seen in the restoration of original stained glass windows and the continued presence of a statue of Christ donated in the 1950s.

St. Vincent Hospital, founded in 1906 by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, became the foundation for what is now Taylorville Memorial. Most of the 1953 hospital building was torn down during a major renovation in 2020 and 2021.

This year also marks TMH’s 30th anniversary of affiliation with Memorial Health.

Again, the time capsule display is open to the public now through the end of August inside the hospital’s main entrance.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has nearly completed a six-year project to preserve 271 charters from the Grand Army of the Republic, a Civil War veterans organization founded in Decatur and Springfield in 1866. The group provided fellowship, political strength, and assistance to former soldiers, eventually growing to nearly 400,000 members nationwide. It used its influence to secure pensions, establish veterans homes, and promote Memorial Day following our nation’s greatest conflict.

Each new Grand Army of the Republic post in Illinois received a charter listing its name, number, location, founding date, and members. Many featured military artwork, foil seals, and signatures from the Illinois commander. Over time, as posts closed, the charters were folded for storage at state headquarters. By 2019, many were so brittle they could not be opened without damage.

Library conservators used humidification to relax the paper, then reattached loose fragments with reversible methods. The work preserved charters from across the state, including 23 from Cook County, 11 from Fulton, 10 from Vermilion, 9 from McLean, 8 from Sangamon, and 7 from Macoupin. The collection also includes documents from 11 posts of African American veterans and 48 integrated posts.

The charters will soon be available for research at the library, with plans to digitize them for wider access. They are expected to shed light on Civil War history, local communities, and individual soldiers’ lives, including those whose stories have been lost over time.

The Illinois State Historical Library acquired the collection in 1976 from the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Association of Cook County. It became part of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum when it opened in 2004, and the preservation effort began back in 2019. The project ensures these documents, and the stories they hold, will be available for generations to come, honoring the service and legacy of Illinois veterans.

The Shelbyville Community School District is ready for another school year to begin.  The first day for students is this Thursday, August 14.  School community members can expect several aesthetic changes and new academic opportunities.  All of this has left administrators excited for the start of the new academic year. 

Families likely have already seen changes in the form of a new online registration system.  Superintendent Shane Schuricht says this has made the process much easier for everyone involved. 

Schuricht and other district leaders are also touting the results of a recent annual state-level survey of their teachers.  The survey shows overall high levels of job satisfaction. 

Kyle Ladd is the principal at Shelbyville High School.  That’s where several projects have taken place over the summer with the front area and gymnasium. 

The Illinois State Board of Education has recognized Shelbyville schools as being among the best academically in the state.  Ladd attributes this to the schools’ efforts to prepare students for what’s next. 

More information on the Shelbyville Community School District is available at www.shelbyville.k12.il.us. 

Shane Schuricht and Kyle Ladd appeared as guests on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

Eight school districts across Central Illinois are set to receive more than $3 million in evidence-based funding, in addition to the base funding already provided by the state. The announcement comes from State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield.

Turner says the additional money will help ensure schools in Central Illinois get their fair share of state funding and have more resources to offer students a high-quality education.

The funding comes from the 2017 evidence-based funding formula supported by Illinois Senate Democrats. The law reformed how the state allocates money to K-12 schools by considering each district’s specific needs — including enrollment, poverty levels, and the number of students requiring special education or English language services.

Among the districts receiving additional funding: Edinburg School District 4 will receive just under $4,000, Rochester School District 3A is set to receive over $126,000, and South Fork School District 14 will receive more than $32,000.

The Fiscal Year 2026 state budget includes a $300 million increase in funding through the evidence-based model to support student success across Illinois. More information on funding distributions can be found on the Illinois State Board of Education’s website.
 

Following another strong month in fund balances, Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza is ordering the pre-payment of state pension payments in August.   Total payments in August will be $1.336 billion to the five retirement systems which include $428 million in pre-payments, or nearly 50% more than the usual amount.   This comes after the Comptroller’s Office pre-paid 100% more in pre-payments in July.   

These early payments allow the state’s five pension systems to keep more money in their investment portfolios and earn more in returns. Last month’s prepayment is estimated to produce an extra $20 million for retiree pension funds, and this month’s 50% pre-payment is expected to generate another $5 million.    

Comptroller Mendoza first began using this cash management tool in July 2024, under new rules she sought to better manage state finances.  She says that this boosts investment opportunities for the state’s retirement systems and gives her office flexibility to address other state bills that need to be paid.  

For more information, visit https://illinoiscomptroller.gov/.  

Taylorville Community Credit Union held a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, August 7th.  The new building will go on Webster Street and the hope is that the building will take about 9 months to build, weather permitting.  President & CEO Will Perkins says that this is an exciting time for the Credit Union who just needs a bigger space to do operations. 

Perkins says they have had tremendous feedback on the new facility and updates will be released as they become available.  For more information on TCCU visit www.tccu.org. 
 

The Morrisonville Picnic opens tonight at 5 p.m. for the 97th time in the events history. This year, the Morrisonville Picnic will run until Saturday, August 9th, with their signature Frog Jump on Friday night. Thursday’s schedule of events is highlighted by the opening ceremony and pagaents, washer tournament, and more. The beer tent and bingo will run every night of the picnic. Friday sees a pickleball tournament, antique tractor show, and their Frog Jump. Saturday rounds out with a bags tournament and car show.

Jessica Armentrout and Samantha Dunkirk, Morrisonville Community Club members, discuss some history behind the event and how their organization works to put it together.

Armentrout gives a run down of events that are starting up this evening.

Jumping frogs is known as a highlight of the Morrisonville picnic and people from across state lines come to jump their own frogs. Friday holds the unique sport and more for a loaded Friday slate.

Saturday sees the picnic come to a close with live entertainment, a parade, and more.

Learn more about the Morrisonville Picnic & Homecoming at their Facebook page.

Jessica Armentrout and Samantha Dunkirk both appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

If you’ve noticed a spike in recent energy bills, you are not alone.  Ameren customers have reported increases of up to 50% in their bills, while the increase for those on ComEd’s grid is around 10%.  These changes have heavily impacted those on tight budgets and have left them and other customers looking for ways to conserve energy to reduce expenses. 

But why has this happened?  What can customers do to handle the shift?  And what’s next?  Valerie Belusko, Community and Economic Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, has the answers.  She says the current phase in an ongoing transition of energy supply is temporarily hampering providers’ ability to supply energy. 

In addition to the decrease in supply, there is an increase in demand.  Many people tend to believe that increase is due to the heat.  However, there is another more novel cause: AI.

From the new to the old, another major cause involves appliances.  Newer models are made to be more energy-efficient, but not everyone has switched over.

Ameren expects their customers’ bills to return to normal in the fall.  Until then, Belusko advises people to be cognizant of how much they use various appliances and to come up with other ways to make meals and do other chores. 

Belusko also recommends that anyone who is concerned about being able to afford energy payments should talk to their provider before bills come in, instead of after they’ve fallen behind. 

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 new principal at North Elementary School in Taylorville is officially now on the job.  Ben Cunningham has taken over the role this summer.  His background in education work has taken him through Greenville and Hillsboro.  He speaks highly of the atmosphere at North and hopes to boost it even further when the doors open for the new school year. 

Across Greenville and Hillsboro, Cunningham has taught a variety of grade levels and subjects.  He says he has been eager to try new experiences. 

From there, Cunningham decided to make the jump to the role of principal.  As with before, he said he was ready for a new challenge. 

Cunningham has had the summer to prepare.  He calls it a “learning experience” and has focused on understanding the school’s current situation in order to best guide it forward. 

The school district is working from a new curriculum this year.  The incoming principal hopes this will lead to positive change in academic outcomes. 

More information on Taylorville North Elementary School is available at north.tcusd3.org.

Ben Cunningham appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our monthly Taylorville Schools Good News Segment.

Loving Arms Pregnancy Center is celebrating 26 years of helping parents in our community, through curriculum, baby-care items, and nurturing relationships. Loving Arms has two locations, both in Taylorville and Pana, and their services are completely free. Programs offered cover a broad range from ‘intervention,’ as in pregnancy tests and resource assistance, to ‘recovery’ classes for instances stemming from the loss of an infant. Loving Arms Pregnancy Center is open to parents in all stages of life as well, from your first pregnancy or child to more “experienced” parents.

Cathy Coker, Executive Director of Loving Arms Pregnancy Center, discusses what LAPC is and what they are able to offer.

Amanda Polley is the Client Services Director for Loving Arms Pregnancy Center. Her role within the organization is to be with clients from their intake appointment until their exit from the program. Polley shares the details on her day-to-day work.

Curriculum is a major part of your journey through Loving Arms Pregnancy Center. Polley gives just some of the classes that make up their extensive catalog of classes.

Completion of their many courses provides in-house credits coined “mommy and daddy dollars.” Polley says these dollars are then used at their baby boutique to acquire essential baby-care items at no cost to the parent.

For more about Loving Arms Pregnancy Center, visit www.lovingarmsillinois.com. You can also call them at 217-824-7200.

Cathy Coker and Amanda Polley appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.

Following National Dairy and Ice Cream Month, the St. Louis Dairy Council has turned their focus to living with lactose intolerance. Recognition and awareness surrounding lactose intolerance continues to grow but some information remains relatively unknown. But how can we still get the essential nutrients that are found in most dairy products? Monica Nyman, Nutrition Educator with the St. Louis Dairy Council, explains first what exactly lactose intolerance is. 

Nyman says that lactose intolerance are often confused with having a milk allergy. She goes on to explain the difference between an intolerance and a true allergy.

As for products that can still be enjoyed with lactose intolerance; milk, yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and more, are still on the table. Nyman shares the difference in lactose amounts in some of these foods.

Additionally, over-the-counter medicine does exist. These lactase amylase pills provide your body with the necessary amounts needed for digestion.

Nyman goes on to say it can be extremely difficult to replace your recommended dairy servings elsewhere. She shares what your body needs daily to function at it’s best.

Find out more about the St. Louis Dairy Council at www.stldairycouncil.org.

Monica Nyman appeared as guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Foot traffic at the Taylorville Food Pantry remains steady heading into August.  Kids are headed back to school and will regain a source for some meals.  However, the need for families to buy school supplies may counteract that change.  As such, staff at the food pantry are turning to community for help, both in the form of donations and time. 

Tyler Frump has been a volunteer at the Taylorville Food Pantry for ten years.  She says there are openings for a variety of roles which accommodate many preferences and needs for a work environment. 

Many families who rely on the food pantry for their meals are also short on access to transportation.  This need provides yet another way for people to lend their time and resources. 

The food pantry is also always taking food donations.  Right now, produce is what’s most in demand. 

Having volunteered there for ten years, Frump has seen the place evolve and expand its offerings.  One such change involves meat, which patrons now have more options for thanks in part to their facilities. 

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.

Tyler Frump appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

A sitting appellate court judge has announced her intention to remain on the bench. Justice Amy Sholar says she’s officially running to continue serving on the Illinois Fifth District Appellate Court.

Sholar, who was appointed to the position by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2024, says her goal is to bring fairness and experience to the role. She previously served as a Circuit Judge in Madison County, where she was named Chief of the Family Law Division and served on the Illinois Judicial Inquiry Board.

Sholar is running for the seat left vacant by the late Justice Thomas Welch, the longest-serving appellate justice in Illinois history. The seat is currently being filled on an interim basis by retired Madison County Judge James Hackett.

Sholar, who has more than 20 years of legal experience, says appellate court decisions impact all Illinois residents, from property disputes to criminal cases, and it’s important to have someone experienced in that role. Before her time on the bench, Sholar ran her own law firm, served as a planning coordinator in Alton, and began her legal career as an intern with the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office.

She lives in Madison County with her husband and is a mother and grandmother. The Fifth District Appellate Court covers 48 counties across Central and Southern Illinois.
 

Starting Thursday, August 7th, access to the Taylorville Food Center will change due to construction. South Madison Street from Market to Franklin will be closed, along with Market Street from Shumway to South Madison and South Simpson from Market to Franklin.

All traffic must now enter and exit through the two south driveways on West Franklin Street. That means the only way in or out of the Food Center will be by approaching West Franklin from Shumway Street. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and use caution in the area.

As part of a regional push to support mental health, Memorial Health is teaming up with public libraries in Taylorville, Springfield, Lincoln, Jacksonville, and Decatur to offer free family mental health kits.

The kits are designed for children ages 3 and up and include books about emotions, breathing and grounding technique worksheets, coloring pages, and local mental health resources. Families can check them out for two weeks — no library card required.

Jay Boulanger, a community health consultant with Memorial Health, says the goal is to spark conversation and connection among families while giving kids tools to better understand and manage their emotions.

The kits are part of a larger community health effort, after mental health was identified as a top priority in all five counties served by Memorial Health.

Kits are available now at the Taylorville Public Library at 121 West Vine Street. For more information, contact Jay Boulanger at 217-707-5258.
 

Hospital Sisters Health System, better known as HSHS, is launching a new online tool to connect patients and residents with community support services.

It's called HSHS Community Connect, and it offers a searchable database of free or reduced-cost resources like food pantries, housing assistance, medical care, baby items, transportation, and more. The goal is to help address the social factors that impact health, like homelessness, food insecurity, and financial hardship.

Kim Luz-Mobley, the System Executive Director of Community Health, says the tool is part of HSHS’s ongoing mission to improve community wellness, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

The launch follows a 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment, which identified key challenges in the communities HSHS serves across Illinois and Wisconsin. The online database is available now at hshs.org/connect or through the MyHSHS portal. For more information, visit hshs.org.
 

The Pana Pride organization continues its work on beautifying the town, and they are looking to get everyone involved.  This includes the organization itself, municipal leaders, and local residents.  They have multiple events and initiatives to look forward to, and the goal is not just to rectify problems in the area but also to bring about a positive aesthetic image of Pana. 

Pana Pride’s “Yard of the Month” competition is still circulating through the town.  Melissa Miller, the organization’s president, says judges evaluated homes on Holly, Progress, and 7th Streets in July.  For this month, judges will cross town over to Grant and Sherman Streets.

Pana Pride is also still working on its part in demolishing old unused buildings.  Because of unexpected higher costs, they are raising funds for their work via a raffle, and tickets are still on sale.

People can also take part in the community clean-up days.  They are expected to take place in late October, but concrete dates are yet to be finalized. 

It’s still a long way out, but Pana Pride is beginning to plan for putting up holiday lights.  Not only will they light up the park, but people can also buy lights and displays online through their special offer. 

The holiday lights can be ordered at www.christmasdonebright.com.  More information on Pana Pride is available at their Facebook page. 

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club raised $1550 for its local projects for children and youth, during the annual WRAN 97.3 Kiwanis Radiothon heard on the station Tuesday.

Kiwanis members Sheryl Van Dyke and Trisha Phillips co-chaired the Radiothon effort, selling some $3100 in local sponsorships to local businesses.   WRAN and its new owner, Hart Media Group, then gave half the total sold, which was $1550, back to the Club.   

Kiwanis members volunteered to be guest announcers thru-out the 7-hour live broadcast, reading sponsor commercials.  Kiwanis member Randy Miller hosted the day-long event.  

Kiwanis president Bill Assalley was presented the check by Hart Media Group president Matt Hart on-the-air.

The cooperative effort with the local Media Group over the past 25 years have earned the local Kiwanis Club nearly $30,000.

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard reports from Kiwanis Committee Chairs on efforts to provide projects for local children and youth, at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Grants Committee chair Randy Miller reported the Grant application for other local non-profits that have similar priorities for children and youth to apply to the Kiwanis Club for funding, is now posted on the Taylorville Kiwanis Club Facebook page.   Applications are being accepted until September 15th, with final committee recommendations going to the full Kiwanis board at their October board meeting.

Kiwanis Park co-chairs Duane Stock and Larry Kemner reported the park is in good shape, with the pavilion booked thru September.   Bookings are handled thru the Taylorville City Clerk’s office.

Future Kiwanis program speakers include representatives from the Christian County YMCA, University of Illinois Extension, and Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

Priority One chair Bruce Blanshan reported the Kiwanis will co-sponsor a Car Seat Safety Day at the Taylorville Fire Department August 16th from 8 to 11am.   Blanshan also announced the annual Kiwanis Kids Days collecting donations from the public at the Harrison corner which is Webster and West Main Cross, are September 19th and 20th. 

Blanshan on behalf of the Kiwanis Club is also collecting hand sanitizers and paper goods from local medical providers, to give to the Taylorville School District, to be used by teachers in their classrooms.  

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.

This Fall, Lincoln Land Community College in Taylorville is bringing back its ‘Essential Workplace Skills’ training series. The program is open to anyone looking to strengthen their professional skills, whether you're seeking a new job, already employed, or just want to improve the way you work with others. The series includes six different workshops, each focused on different key soft skills that can bring real change within the workplace. These are short, three-hour sessions that happen in the morning from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Room 1126.

The first session, ‘Communicating Effectively,’ is on August 14th. This class helps participants improve the way they speak and listen at work. It covers how to manage conflict, understand different communication styles, and connect with people across generations and cultures. Next is ‘Practicing Professionalism at Work’ on August 28th. This session highlights the importance of workplace behavior. Participants will learn how to better handle feedback and support a positive team culture.

On September 11th, the topic will be ‘Navigating Challenges and Stressors.’ This workshop teaches how to manage stress, build healthy habits, and respond calmly in difficult situations. ‘Thinking Critically at Work’ is the scheduled for September 25th. Attendees will practice problem solving, decision making, and clear communication using facts and logic. The fifth session is on October 9th and focuses on ‘Understanding Customer Service Essentials.’ It covers how to communicate well, build trust, and handle service problems in a more professional way.

The final workshop, ‘Building Stronger Teams Through Inclusive Practices,’ will be held on October 23rd. Participants will explore how to work better in diverse teams, understand different perspectives, and reduce bias in the workplace.

To register or learn more, visit Lincoln Land Community College at www.llcc.edu/ews. Businesses can also bring a trainer directly to their workplace for customized sessions. More information is available at www.llcc.edu/business-solutions or by calling 217-786-4959.

State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur announced an important moment in her time at the Capitol, as the Governor has officially signed her first piece of legislation into law. The bill, known as Senate Bill 1288, is aimed at improving safety for people with celiac disease when they dine out. After guiding the measure through the legislative process, Deering expressed gratitude for the support it received and emphasized the importance of everyday protections that can make a big difference in people’s lives. 

The new law updates the ‘Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act,’ by requiring food handler licensees to complete training focused on celiac disease and the proper handling of gluten-free foods. The training will cover key topics including the symptoms and nature of the disease, the importance of keeping gluten-free foods uncontaminated, proper cleaning methods, and how to clearly label and identify gluten-free products.

Deering said this kind of legislation is exactly why she wanted to serve in Springfield, to help pass meaningful laws that may not make headlines but have real impact. Senate Bill 1288 was first introduced by Senator Sally Turner and initially passed with unanimous support in both chambers of the General Assembly. It now stands as the first bill backed by Representative Deering to be signed into law, marking a significant early achievement in her legislative work.

To learn more about the bill, visit www.ilga.gov. For additional questions or to contact Representative Deering’s office, call 217-876-1968 or visit www.repdeering.com.

Officials in Taylorville are preparing for a number of projects in the near and more distant future.  From renovating the town square to completing the road work around the Taylorville Food Center, planners and construction workers will be busy.  City leadership is touting the long-term investment in these efforts towards the local economy and also the draw to Taylorville for visitors and even potentially future residents. 

Mayor Bruce Barry has his eyes on all of this, especially the work on the Taylorville square.  He expects the work will make this part of the city more attractive.

Construction around the Taylorville Food Center is in progress right now.  Mayor Barry acknowledges it has caused frustration with some locals.  However, he stresses they are working towards reopening the streets as soon as possible. 

There are other construction projects happening in the fall, as well.  They include work on West Main Street along with roads near the hospitals.  

Mayor Barry had the opportunity to visit the new spaces at Taylorville High School.  He is happy with the work there but says they must follow through with next steps. 

Find out more about the City of Taylorville by visiting www.taylorville.net.

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

Memorial Health has announced that Dr. Ted Clark will become the organization’s new Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer, as of Monday, August 4th, 2025. This appointment serves as an important step for Memorial Health, as they continue to strengthen their leadership team and bolster patient care across Central Illinois. In his newest role, Dr. Clark will guide key areas of the health system, including Memorial Medical Group, Memorial Behavioral Health, the ‘Quality and Safety’ teams, and Home Health Services.

Dr. Clark is already a familiar leader within the organization. He has served as Chief Medical Officer at Decatur Memorial Hospital since 2020. Prior to that, he led the Hospital’s Emergency Department from 2017 to 2020. It hasn’t always been a role in leadership for him however, he had worked previously as an Emergency Medicine Physician since 2009. Dr. Clark earned his medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and also holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Southern Illinois University. In addition to his medical training, he earned his Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Duke University, further expanding his knowledge in health care systems and forms of leadership.

As he takes on his new position, Dr. Clark will help shape the direction of clinical services at Memorial Health, supporting both staff and patients through a focus on safety, access, and positive outcomes. Under his leadership, the focus will be on helping the health system continue to grow and adapt to the changing needs of the communities they serve.

Find out more about Memorial Health by visiting them at ‘memorial.health.’

The Christian County YMCA has a lot to look forward to, and so do its many members and program participants.  The fall soccer program is due to begin shortly, and their fundraising efforts continue as well.  In the meantime, they are coming off a successful Back-To-School Health And Resource Fair.  The Y presents all of this as a testament to their mission of serving all in the community. 

Registration for the soccer program is open until August 20.  Sessions will take place on Taylorville High School’s football/soccer field.  Bruce Blanshan, Executive Director of the CCYMCA, says THS’s soccer coaches and even some players will be helping out. 

The CCYMCA will begin its 40th annual sustaining drive.  It’s designed to help provide financial aid to those who require it to take part in programs. 

The sustaining drive follows the Capital Campaign Fundraiser which the Christian County YMCA is finishing up.  Blanshan says it played out just as he hoped.

More recently, the CCYMCA and Taylorville Memorial Hospital teamed up to hold the Back-To-School Health And Resource Fair.  Blanshan credits the many organizers and businesses involved in putting together this impactful initiative.

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

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

Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening to review ordinance, discuss business, and look at committee reports.  A 5 year veteran of Law enforcement, Mike Lavin was given the oath of office to join the Taylorville Police Department.  Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler says he’s thrilled to have Lavin on board. 

National Night Out is Tuesday evening from 5-8. Ordinances that were approved include authorizing the execution of the first amendment to the business district agreement between Taylorville and David Padget at 123 East Main Cross, Dustin Clark 100-102 South Main Street, and a motion approving stop signs and slow children at play at Eastwood Drive and Pine Tree Drive and Bristle Drive (8-1, Alderman Megan Bryant, no). A motion to approve the special events permit and liquor license permit for the Fox Radio Bike Night Giveaway at Landmark of Taylorville on October 2nd was also approved. 

Under committee reports, the council approved repairs of the Spillway Transfer Pump.  A motion for repairs at the Tastee Treat site was tabled to figure out how much will be paid. Three motions concerning work done at the Taylorville Food Center were approved.  A heavy discussion took place concerning the demolition of structures that are dilapidated and who was responsible for costs. Alderman Kathy Driskell pointed to some city code that is already in place.

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry says that since 2017, over 60 dilapidated properties have been taken down, and if the city is serious about cleaning things up, then they need to work together to make that happen. Two of the three motions concerning demolition failed, and the third wasn’t even brought up to the full board. A motion concerning a bid on equipment was approved 8-0. 

Several motions concerning various pay requests were all approved.  And a motion for Superintendent Mann concerning spending MFT funds was also discussed for amounts over $2,000.  Alderman Driskell questioned which meetings need to be put in the newspaper for public viewing. The City Attorney said he would send over a list. Mayor Barry says things are going good with construction projects.

The next city council meeting is set for August 18th. 
 

The Illinois State Police are investigating a series of dangerous incidents along Interstate 57 in Effingham and Shelby counties, where objects have been thrown from overpasses onto passing vehicles.

According to State Police, multiple drivers have reported damage to their vehicles over the past week. The incidents are being classified as cases of vehicular endangerment, a Class 2 felony in Illinois.

Authorities say the acts pose a serious threat to public safety and are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward. The targeted area is along I-57 between Effingham and Sigel, specifically near mileposts 165 to 170, and most of the reports have come in during the nighttime hours.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Illinois State Police at (217) 342-7871. The investigation remains active.
 

Taylorville City Council is set to meet Monday evening at 7.  Mike Lavin will receive the oath of office for the Taylorville Police Department.  The council will also potentially approve several agreements concerning the Business District Agreement, specifically 123 East Main Cross Street and 100-102 North Main Street. The council will approve an ordinance for stop signs and slow children at play at Eastwood and Pine Tree Drive and Pine Tree Drive and Bristle Drive.  The council will potentially approve a special events permit and liquor license permit for the Fox Radio Bike Night Giveaway at Landmark of Taylorville on October 2nd. 

There are several motions under Committee reports including repair of the Spillway Transfer Pump, work at Tastee Treet, the Taylorville Food Center project budget, Illinois Valley Paving work on Franklin Street for sidwalks and curbs, demolition of 1133 East Elm Street, 902 East Thompson Street, and 809 East Lewis Street.  Route 104 Sidewalk Project,  Safe Routes to School, bids for track loader, and dump truck, and parts and labor for repairs on a 2017 Tandem will also be discussed Monday evening.

The council will hear from the City Attorney, Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry and any members of the public who wish to speak.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for more following the conclusion of the event.

As students prepare to head back to school, Taylorville High School is making sure those that plan to drive themselves to school, know how to collect their parking tags. Changes in dates have been made with Seniors getting first priority on Tuesday, August 5th, Juniors on Wednesday, August 6th, and Sophomores getting their pick on Friday, August 8th. No parking tags will be distributed this Thursday as they conduct their ‘Freshman Orientation Tornado Drill.’ 

For students that are not able to make their designated day to sign for a parking spot, a friend or family member can acquire one for them. That person will still need to provide a completed parking registration form, license plate number, and proof of insurance. Another requirement calls for all unpaid balances to be taken care of prior to arriving to your specific time.

Find out more information on Taylorville CUSD #3 by visiting them at www.tcusd3.org. Additional information is also available by visiting them at their Facebook page.

Flipping the calendar to August is a typical sign that the new school year is around the corner.  Kids who are enjoying the summer may not be in a hurry to return to school routines.  However, doing so is important to ensure a happy and successful experience in school.  These routines involve many components, and it’s important to consider each one so that days run smoothly once the academic year begins. 

Ed Lacheta is the Clinical Director of Shelby County Community Services’ mental health division.  He provides nine tips for families to follow to best prepare kids for the first bell.  One tip is simply to re-establish daily routines and to begin the transition well before the first day.  He adds that kids appreciate routines more than they may admit. 

Lacheta’s second tip is to ensure a healthy breakfast is part of the morning routine.  This can be easily missed with the rush to head out. 

With many devices and other happenings at home, it’s critical that kids have a distraction-free space to do their homework.  Families may consider preparing that area ahead of the first day.

Lacheta also urges families to make time as a family.  One easy way is to eat dinner together at the table with no electronics, including the television.  As part of family time, he also recommends creating a space for kids to share what happened throughout the day that made them happy, sad, or nervous. 

As for the other five tips, they are as follows: 

• Buy school supplies early to avoid the rush right before the school year begins. 
• Ensure kids’ physicals are completed well in advance.
• Establish communication early with teachers, and maintain this throughout the school year. 
• Ensure kids have a healthy lunch with them at school.
• Plan outfits the night before the next school day.

More information on Shelby County Community Services is on their Facebook page. 

Ed Lacheta appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 
 

Lake Shelbyville is a popular tourist attraction for those in Central Illinois and many come from all over to enjoy it’s fishing, boating, camping, and more. Keeping the large lake busy with activities and events is important to visitors and the town of Shelbyville itself. This Saturday, August 2nd, Lake Shelbyville will again have the ‘Tom Short 5k and Fun Run,’ with plans for the ‘Dirtwork Mountain Bike Fest’ from September 19th through the 21st. 

Ashley Florey with the US Army Corps of Engineers, talks first about the Tom Short 5K and ‘Fun Run’ happening this weekend. Florey expects the event to draw large crowds as it has done many years in the past.

September will bring mountain bike enthusiasts together for the Dirtwork Mountain Bike Fest. Florey gives a look at how the weekend should play out.

Florey details the current lake level and its’ input and output that are being monitored.

These numbers are important for numerous reasons. One of those is boater or water sports safety along the Kaskaskia River. Another involves those that live along the river especially downstream, making control of the dam top priority.

Find out more about Lake Shelbyville at www.lakeshelbyville.com. Learn about the US Army Corps of Engineers by visiting them at their Facebook page.

Ashley Florey appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show.

This Summer for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is about improving transparency and bringing on additional benefits for new and existing members. The GTCC website also has two new features including the ‘Taylorville Chamber Online Shop’ and their ‘Member Education Library.’ A great way of keeping track of various community events is through their ‘Community Events Calendar,’ for all things Taylorville.

April Wolfe, Interim Operations Coordinator, spoke on the exciting new adds to the website as they continue to improve it.

The month of July was a busy one for the Chamber and their many members. Wolfe highlights some of the anniversary celebrations and ribbon cuttings that took place and some that are coming up.

Business After Hours provide a great way to connect with other members and to learn more about the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce itself. Wolfe talks the event held on July 23rd at the Christian County YMCA and invites members to join them for their August 6th after hours, to be held at Lincoln Land Community College – Taylorville.

Registration is now open for Chillifest, whether its for the ‘Chilli Pepper Pagaents,’ or to be one of the cooks. Wolfe also discusses where to locate the Community Events Calendar to keep up to date.

Find out more about the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce by visiting them at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

April Wolfe appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show for our bi-weekly ‘Chamber Chat.’

The South Fork Music and Mud Festival is underway, and the South Fork Dirt Riders are ready to hit the track.  The festival – which began yesterday and runs through Sunday – attracts visitors from across the country for the riding and also several other fun events.  The tradition has lasted for a quarter-century and has undergone many changes since its first edition. 

Shelby Vickery and Brett Moody are with the South Fork Dirt Riders.  They say their parents and grandparents began the festival, and responsibilities have since been passed down. 

The festival kicked off yesterday, but the main events begin today.  They include the truck tug and bounty hole, along with plenty of live music.

Vickery and Moody are both proud to be behind the effort and enjoy how it brings dirt racing enthusiasts together. 

The track is located off Illinois Route 104 just east of Jeisyville.  More information is available at www.southforkdirtriders.net.

Shelby Vickery and Brett Moody appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 
 

It’s official:  The Hart Media Group took ownership of the Miller Media Group platforms just after midnight this morning.

Company principals Matt Hart and Randal J. Miller closed on the sale of the Taylorville and Clinton properties yesterday.

Hart has asked Miller to stay on for a year as a consultant, working specifically in advertising sales.

Miller owned the Taylorville properties almost 33 years, and 18 in Clinton.   It ends his 43 years in station ownership, and 52 in the radio business.

Closing took place at Advanced Title Group in Taylorville.  Several entities assisted in the closing.   From the left:  Beth Brotherton, Attorney for Miller; Miller Media Group Secretary-Treasurer Cathy Miller; Randy Miller; Matt Hart; Joanie Jones with Advanced Title Group; Jeff Robinson, Owner, Advanced Title Group.