Springfield Plastics continued to show commitment to cancer care in Central Illinois with more than $150,000 in donations to two local treatment centers through its 2025 ‘Drain for the Cure’ fundraiser. The contributions were presented to Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU School of Medicine and HSHS St. John’s Cancer Center. Company leaders say the annual effort reflects both community support and personal connections to the cause.

The largest portion of the donation, totaling $143,550.31, was given to Simmons Cancer Institute, with an additional $8,250 donated to HSHS St. John’s Cancer Center. Funds raised through Drain for the Cure support cancer research and care programs that directly benefit individuals and families across our region. Springfield Plastics President Jennifer Furkin notes that the fundraiser is made possible through the generosity of employees, customers, vendors, business partners, and friends of the mission. Since launching Drain for the Cure in 2014, Springfield Plastics has raised more than $1.2 million for cancer-related causes.

Leaders at Simmons Cancer Institute shared about the impact of Springfield Plastics’ long standing support, noting that the funding has helped advance research efforts for patients throughout central and southern Illinois. The continued partnership has played a role in strengthening both clinical and laboratory work at the institute. HSHS St. John’s Cancer Center also benefits from the annual donations, which help support a wide range of services including: medical oncology, infusion therapy, radiation oncology, and research collaboration. 

Springfield Plastics, headquartered in Auburn with additional locations in Iowa and Indiana, has manufactured plastic pipe solutions since 1978. The company remains active in community-focused initiatives while serving agricultural, residential, commercial, and highway markets throughout the Midwest.

Learn more about the ‘Drain for the Cure’ fundraiser by visiting www.sppipe.com.

As people across Central Illinois ring in the New Year, law enforcement is urging drivers to make safety a top priority, especially when it comes to impaired driving.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, alcohol and drug impairment remain a leading cause of serious and fatal crashes during the New Year’s holiday. Officers say many of those crashes are entirely preventable.

State and local police will be out in force through New Year’s Day, conducting stepped-up patrols and sobriety checkpoints aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road.

Authorities are reminding partygoers to plan ahead before celebrating. That means designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service, or arranging a safe ride home. Police say even a short drive after drinking can have deadly consequences.

Drivers are also encouraged to watch for others who may be impaired and to call 911 if they see a vehicle being driven dangerously.

In addition to drunk driving concerns, officers are urging everyone to slow down, buckle up, and stay alert, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is low and roads may be slick.

Law enforcement says the goal this New Year’s isn’t to issue tickets, but to make sure everyone gets home safely.
 

A new form of financial scams has made its way to Christian County and has already cost victims thousands of dollars.  It involves the use of “Bitcoin kiosks” stationed in locations like supermarkets and gas station mini-marts.  Law enforcement agencies in the county have helped recover some money for victims, but they hope to educate community members to avoid further incidents. 

Taylorville Police Sergeant Wes Withrow has been involved in investigating these cases and similar ones.  He says scammers use these money transfers to steal the funds.

Withrow describes one case of someone falling for the Bitcoin kiosk scam.  Hackers uncovered just enough of the individual’s financial information to gain some credibility and took advantage of their bank’s computer system being down. 

A new law in Illinois, enacted in August, limits transactions into these kiosks to $2,500 at a time.  However, a customer could then visit a different kiosk and deposit up to $2,500 there, as well.  Aware of the law, the scammer instructed the victim to visit several different kiosks within Christian County. 

The receipts from these kiosks mention another change to Illinois law in August.  Scam victims can contact police and the kiosk operators to report the case and potentially be reimbursed.

Sgt. Withrow encourages community members to voice their concerns regarding these kiosks and scams to local officials to help ensure these incidents are not repeated.

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

Sergeant Wes Withrow appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Memorial Health is putting temporary visitor restrictions in place at its hospitals as respiratory illnesses continue to rise across Illinois.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is recommending the limits due to increased cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV statewide. The restrictions apply to inpatient units at all five Memorial Health hospitals, including facilities in Decatur, Springfield, Taylorville, Jacksonville, and Lincoln.

Hospital visits will be limited to two visitors per patient at one time. Visitors must be at least 18 years old and show no signs of illness. Masks are encouraged, but not required, and disposable masks will be available at hospital entrances.

The restrictions do not apply to outpatient services such as urgent care, primary care, lab work, or imaging appointments.

Health officials continue to encourage people to wash their hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, stay up to date on vaccinations, and consider wearing a mask around others to help prevent the spread of illness.

More information on respiratory illness trends and prevention is available through the Illinois Department of Public Health.
 

Families with young children are being encouraged to apply for the C.E.F.S. Head Start 0–5 Program, which is now taking enrollment applications.

The federally funded program provides early childhood education and support services for pregnant women and children from birth through age five, including children with significant or multiple special needs.

Early Head Start serves children ages zero to three and pregnant women through a home-based program with weekly visits. Head Start is available for children ages three to five through a center-based program that includes nutritious meals and snacks.

Locally, the program is offered at two locations. The Taylorville site is located at 1104 West Spresser Street, while the Pana location is at 721 East Washington Street.

Parents interested in enrolling can call 217-994-4753 or email jeannie dot williams at cefseoc dot org. Additional information is available by calling the C.E.F.S. Head Start program or online through C.E.F.S.
 

Illinois State Police are investigating a crash that killed one person on Tuesday Morning.  Illinois State Police were called out to IL32 in Stewardson just after 6 AM.  The crash involved a semitruck and a passenger vehicle.  The driver of the passenger vehicle was reported to be dead at the scene of the crash.  

According to ISP, IL32 was closed for an extended period of time for an investigation and follow-up reports. The roadway is now reopened. No other information is available on the crash.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio for more details as they become available. 

Taylorville firefighters were called to a structure fire at the Taylorville McDonalds in the 400 block of West Spresser Street just before 4:30 Monday afternoon.

Crews arrived to find smoke inside the building and coming from a rooftop unit. Maintenance workers were able to put out the rooftop fire before firefighters arrived, but crews then discovered additional fire inside the ductwork.

Firefighters extinguished the remaining flames and conducted extensive overhaul to remove smoldering materials from the building.

No injuries were reported. The fire is believed to be accidental, and crews were on the scene for about an hour and a half. The restaurant was closed Monday night and into Tuesday, but officials are hoping to open as soon as possible. 

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday left in place a lower court ruling blocking President Donald Trump from deploying National Guard troops to Chicago for immigration enforcement efforts. The 6–3 decision keeps federalized troops out of Illinois, while the underlying legal challenge continues. In its unsigned opinion, the court found that the Trump administration failed to show legal authority to use the military for domestic law enforcement in Illinois at this stage of the case. The ruling echoes earlier decisions from lower courts that political opposition and protest activity do not meet the constitutional standard of a ‘rebellion.’

The case stems from the administration’s Chicago-focused immigration operation known as “Operation Midway Blitz,” launched in September. The operation led to an increased federal enforcement presence in Chicago and surrounding suburbs, triggering protests near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement processing facility in Broadview. 

In early October, Trump ordered the federalization of 300 Illinois National Guard members over objections from Governor JB Pritzker and also deployed 200 Texas National Guard troops to the Chicago area. A federal district judge quickly issued a temporary restraining order after Guard members were active at the Broadview facility for just one day. That ruling was later upheld by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, which found no credible evidence of rebellion or insurrection in Illinois. The Supreme Court’s decision now keeps that block in place as the lawsuit proceeds.

While Texas National Guard members and federal Border Patrol agents left the Chicago area in mid-November, the Illinois National Guard remains under federal authority, though officials say the troops have only conducted training exercises. During the enforcement campaign, more than 3,000 arrests were made nationwide of individuals without legal authorization to be in the United States. The court’s decision represents a major setback for the Trump administration and a victory for Illinois leaders challenging the use of federal troops.

Emergency crews are on the scene of a reported fire at the McDonald’s restaurant in Taylorville.

Smoke and flames were visible at the building, prompting an evacuation. Authorities say all occupants were able to get out safely, and no injuries have been reported at this time.

Firefighters are working to control the situation, and the cause of the fire has not yet been released. We’re waiting for more information from officials as the investigation continues.

It is believed that the fire started in the kitchen but we are awaiting confirmation on those details. We’ll pass along updates as soon as they become available.

Pics: Courtesy of Mckenzie Sneed

picture courtesy: Teresa Nelson

A powerful line of storms moved through central and southern Illinois Sunday afternoon and evening, producing multiple tornadoes, widespread wind damage, and gusts topping 50 miles per hour.

The National Weather Service received several tornado reports between about 2 and 3:30 Sunday afternoon, including near Blue Mound, Elwin, Long Creek, and multiple locations around Mount Zion, where more than one tornado report was logged within minutes of each other.

In addition to the tornadoes, thunderstorm wind damage was reported across a wide area, including Decatur, Mount Zion, La Place, Arthur, Owaneco, Golden Gate, Albion, and Mount Vernon, with reports of downed trees and structural damage.

Outside of thunderstorms, strong gradient winds were also an issue, with measured gusts of 55 miles per hour at Capital Airport in Springfield, 54 miles per hour near Decatur Airport, and gusts near or above 50 miles per hour reported in Jacksonville and parts of Missouri.

The National Weather Service is continuing to review damage reports to determine tornado strength and track information. Residents are encouraged to remain weather-aware and to report storm damage to local officials.
 

Fire officials say the 2025 effort helped provide Christmas gifts to 201 local children, thanks to the generosity of the Taylorville community. Fire Chief Matt Adermann credits Assistant Fire Chief Cody Rogers and Captain Nick Zepin for organizing and running the program, along with firefighters who volunteered their time during the busy holiday season.

The Angel Tree program has deep roots in Taylorville. It was started back in 1990 by retired Captain Chris Smith, who saw an opportunity to expand on the department’s existing Christmas for Kids efforts. Thirty-five years later, that vision continues to make a difference for families in need.

Fire officials say the program would not be possible without community support and donations, and they thank everyone who helped make the holidays brighter for local kids.

The Taylorville Fire Department is wishing everyone a joyful — and safe — remainder of the holiday season.

The Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce and Shelby County Economic Development Corporation are joining forces come 2026.  The two organizations are awaiting legal approval before the merger takes effect.  Both groups’ administrators hope the move will strengthen commercial opportunity, success, and collaboration throughout the county. 

The move comes as Brenda Elder, SCEDC’s Executive Director, is set to leave her position.  She says while the Chamber has historically focused on the city, the merger will help broaden its geographical reach. 

Elder adds that working with groups and event organizers in smaller communities can greatly impact these areas for the better.

The Shelby County Economic Development Corporation has been helping in efforts to expand child-care in the county.  With their help and two local consortia, a new child-care center will be on the way in the coming months. 

As Elder prepares to leave her role, she reflects positively on the communities she’s served and what they and their businesses and organizations have been able to provide for each other and residents. 

More information on the Greater Shelbyville Chamber Of Commerce is at www.shelbyvillechamber.com. 

Brenda Elder appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

Late 2024 into early 2025 turned out to be a tough respiratory illness season across the country — and doctors say it was one many had been warning about for years. Dr. Brian Curtis is Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for OSF Medical Group. He says RSV, influenza and COVID-19 were all circulating heavily in communities at the same time.

That combination put major strain on clinics, emergency rooms and hospitals, as large numbers of people got sick all at once. Dr. Curtis says when patient volume spikes like that, it can impact how quickly people are seen for other medical concerns. The season itself followed a more traditional pattern. Flu activity picked up in the fall, peaked in January and February, while RSV surged later in the winter, with COVID lingering throughout.

Dr. Curtis says having all three viruses circulating together made it especially challenging. Looking ahead to the upcoming respiratory season, there are still plenty of unknowns. He says how the season shapes up will depend on several factors, including how effective the flu vaccine is, and how many people actually get vaccinated.

Doctors recommend getting a flu shot by the end of October.  Another key factor is RSV vaccination for high-risk groups. There are two one-time RSV options, one for adults and another for infants. The adult RSV vaccine is recommended for people 65 and older, adults 50 and up with serious health conditions, and pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks who will deliver during RSV season.

For infants, there’s an injection called Beyfortus, a monoclonal antibody given to babies under eight months entering their first RSV season. In some cases, high-risk children may be eligible for a second season, but parents are encouraged to talk with their health care provider. Doctors are also paying close attention to how people behave when they’re sick.

Dr. Curtis says simple steps such as washing your hands, staying home when sick, and covering your cough can still make a big difference. He adds last season saw more people returning to work while sick, allowing viruses to spread faster. There are also lingering myths about flu shots. He says it’s never too late to get vaccinated and getting the flu shot early does not mean it wears off before the season ends.For most people, mild respiratory symptoms can be treated at home.

Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Motrin are often enough, and medical care isn’t necessary for mild cases. But doctors say you should seek care if symptoms become severe: including trouble breathing, high fever that won’t come down, inability to keep fluids down, confusion, or illness lasting more than a week without improvement. Finally, Dr. Curtis says the best defense against respiratory illness starts with overall health.

That includes exercising, getting enough sleep, eating well, and limiting alcohol, all steps that help keep your immune system strong heading into respiratory season. For more information, contact your primary physician. 

Radar indicated a possible tornado near Edinburg on Sunday afternoon around 2:50.  The warning is in effect until 3:15, as a severe line of storms went through. Weather officials are urging people to stay safe and take coverage if you are in that area especially in the northwest section of Christian County.  

Strong winds and possible hail are all possible along with pop up isolated tornadoes.  

Bill Harmon of Morrisonville, professor of agronomy at Lincoln Land Community College, recently received the Bill Johnson Excellence in Education Award at the Illinois Leadership Council for Agricultural Education (ILCAE) ceremony in Atlanta, Illinois.

This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy and commitment to advancing agricultural education across the state.

“Bill Harmon’s dedication to agricultural education has transformed opportunities for our students and strengthened the program’s impact across the region,” said Brent Todd, dean, natural and agricultural sciences at LLCC. “His leadership and vision exemplify the very best of our college’s mission to prepare future leaders in agriculture.”

Harmon has taught agriculture at LLCC since 1997. LLCC Agriculture prepares students for careers in agriculture and/or university transfer through degrees and certificates in agriculture, agribusiness, precision agronomy/custom application, and horticulture and cultivation. More information is available at www.llcc.edu/agriculture.

Christian County is updating its All Hazards Mitigation Plan, a document designed to reduce damage from severe weather events like tornadoes, snow and ice storms, and strong thunderstorms. The update will be funded through a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Christian County Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Stoner says the plan outlines both natural and man-made hazards that have impacted the county and identifies projects that can help protect residents, property, and critical infrastructure. Stoner adds that keeping the plan up to date also allows the county and participating communities to remain eligible for federal mitigation funding.

The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, January 13th at 2 p.m. The meeting will take place at the Taylorville Fire Station Training Room at 202 North Main Street and is open to the public.

The committee includes representatives from county and municipal governments, schools, fire protection districts, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. Additional meetings will be held throughout the next year to gather input and discuss information used to update the plan.

Stoner notes this mitigation plan differs from the county’s emergency response plan, as it focuses on preventing or reducing damage before disasters happen.

Schools in Pana are working towards improving a variety of components of their operations.  Literacy has been a key focus this year, with administrators taking a close look at the curriculum and instruction methods.  They have also been visiting classrooms to witness lessons and hands-on activities, both literacy-related and otherwise.  

Superintendent Jessica Miller has taken the lead in looking for ways to improve literacy outcomes within the school district.  She and other administrators have spent the first semester evaluating where they are at now before deciding how to proceed. 

As part of her efforts, Miller has been visiting classrooms to see for herself how classes are going.  She consults students directly to discover what they are taking in. 

Students will return from their winter break on Tuesday, January 6.  The previous day will serve as a professional development day.  The days are planned based on the needs which faculty and staff communicate. 

Outside the classroom but within the buildings, Pana schools honored Anita Buoy, who retired after 37 years as a cook.  This ceremony took place as part of holiday events at the school and shortly after her last shift. 

More information on Pana CUSD #8 is available at www.panaschools.com.

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

A copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln is now on display at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum as part of a special exhibit, giving the public a rare chance to see the historic document on its anniversary, Jan. 1.

Lincoln’s proclamation ordered an end to slavery in Southern states that took up arms against the United States during the Civil War, which included more than three-fourths of the nation’s enslaved African Americans. U.S. soldiers carried palm-sized copies of the Emancipation Proclamation on their march across the South to help spread the word of freedom.

The ALPLM copy of the proclamation is being displayed as part of the exhibit “Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation.” This special exhibit explores Lincoln’s impact on the nation and on individuals by spotlighting rare artifacts and documents in the presidential library’s collection, from the desk where he wrote his First Inaugural Address to Mary Lincoln’s wedding skirt to a poster recruiting Black men to serve in the Army after emancipation.

The exhibit runs through April 26. The Emancipation Proclamation will be included through Feb. 3, when it will be replaced by the only photo of Lincoln lying in state after his assassination.
History fans can vote on where the Emancipation Proclamation ranks among America’s most important document, thanks to an initiative by the National Archives Foundation and More Perfect, in partnership with presidential libraries like the ALPLM. For America’s 250th birthday, the organizations have identified 100 highly significant original records from the National Archives’ holdings that that have shaped the nation’s history. The list features several Lincoln-related documents, including another that can be found at the ALPLM – the 13th Amendment.

Typically, the ALPLM displays the proclamation during a brief window around Juneteenth, the holiday celebrating the end of slavery in America. But a new display case using cutting-edge technology now allows the ALPLM to display rare documents much longer while still minimizing the amount of harmful light they receive.

The ALPLM’s copy of the proclamation is one of about two dozen remaining. It is signed by both Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward. These copies were made and then signed by Lincoln so they could be sold to raise money for the care of sick and wounded soldiers.

The presidential library and museum offers an online tool letting people around the world explore the Emancipation Proclamation, its meaning and its impact on history. Just click on key words in the document and up pop boxes full of helpful information. The site includes educational resources for teachers and parents, a photo gallery and links to other sources of information about the address.

The site www.PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov/EmancipationProclamation.

For more information, visit www.PresidentLincoln.illinois.gov. You can follow the ALPLM on Facebook, X/Twitter and Instagram.

Two community blood drives are coming up next week in Christian County, giving residents multiple opportunities to help support local hospitals.

The Taylorville Police Department will host a community blood drive on Friday, January 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The drive will take place on the ImpactLife Donor Bus parked at 108 West Vine Street in Taylorville. Appointments are requested and can be made by contacting the Taylorville Police Department or through ImpactLife’s website.

Meanwhile, a second blood drive will be held in Pana on Wednesday, January 7, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Pana First United Methodist Church, located at 619 Kitchell Street. The drive is sponsored by Pana Health and Rehab and will take place in the church’s Fellowship Hall.

Both drives are being conducted by ImpactLife, the nonprofit organization that supplies blood products to more than 100 hospitals across Illinois and neighboring states. Donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental permission, weigh more than 110 pounds, and present a valid photo ID.

Blood donation typically takes less than an hour, and successful donors will receive a choice of ImpactLife donor rewards. More information or appointment scheduling is available at bloodcenter dot org or by calling 800-747-5401.
 

State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur is pushing back against recent claims from Governor J.B. Pritzker’s office, saying state leaders are ignoring the financial strain facing Illinois families.

Deering released a statement criticizing what she called a “self-congratulatory” list of accomplishments from the Governor’s Office, arguing that rising costs and taxes are making Illinois increasingly unaffordable.

Deering says Illinois homeowners continue to face the highest property taxes in the nation, while families are also dealing with higher grocery, utility, and everyday living costs. She adds that Illinois carries the highest combined state and local tax burden in the country, taking a larger share of household income than any other state.

The Decatur Republican also pointed to unemployment concerns, saying Black unemployment in Illinois remains among the highest nationwide, calling it a failure of state policy.

Deering argues that residents are leaving Illinois not because of weather, but because of affordability issues, and criticized the governor for prioritizing what she described as Chicago-focused spending over local needs like public safety, lower energy costs, and property tax relief.

In her statement, Deering said families are less concerned with national political ambitions and more focused on whether they can afford to remain in Illinois.

The Governor’s Office has not yet responded directly to Deering’s remarks.
 

A copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln is now on display at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum as part of a special exhibit, giving the public a rare chance to see the historic document on its anniversary, Jan. 1.

Lincoln’s proclamation ordered an end to slavery in Southern states that took up arms against the United States during the Civil War, which included more than three-fourths of the nation’s enslaved African Americans. U.S. soldiers carried palm-sized copies of the Emancipation Proclamation on their march across the South to help spread the word of freedom.

The ALPLM copy of the proclamation is being displayed as part of the exhibit “Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation.” This special exhibit explores Lincoln’s impact on the nation and on individuals by spotlighting rare artifacts and documents in the presidential library’s collection, from the desk where he wrote his First Inaugural Address to Mary Lincoln’s wedding skirt to a poster recruiting Black men to serve in the Army after emancipation.

The exhibit runs through April 26. The Emancipation Proclamation will be included through Feb. 3, when it will be replaced by the only photo of Lincoln lying in state after his assassination.
History fans can vote on where the Emancipation Proclamation ranks among America’s most important document, thanks to an initiative by the National Archives Foundation and More Perfect, in partnership with presidential libraries like the ALPLM. For America’s 250th birthday, the organizations have identified 100 highly significant original records from the National Archives’ holdings that that have shaped the nation’s history. The list features several Lincoln-related documents, including another that can be found at the ALPLM – the 13th Amendment.

Typically, the ALPLM displays the proclamation during a brief window around Juneteenth, the holiday celebrating the end of slavery in America. But a new display case using cutting-edge technology now allows the ALPLM to display rare documents much longer while still minimizing the amount of harmful light they receive.

The ALPLM’s copy of the proclamation is one of about two dozen remaining. Both Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward signed it. These copies were made and then signed by Lincoln so they could be sold to raise money for the care of sick and wounded soldiers.

The presidential library and museum offers an online tool letting people around the world explore the Emancipation Proclamation, its meaning and its impact on history. Just click on key words in the document and up pop boxes full of helpful information. The site includes educational resources for teachers and parents, a photo gallery and links to other sources of information about the address. The site www.PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov/EmancipationProclamation.

For more information, visit www.PresidentLincoln.illinois.gov. You can follow the ALPLM on Facebook, X/Twitter and Instagram.

Home fires spike during the holiday season, and cooking accidents remain one of the leading causes. The American Red Cross is urging families to take extra precautions in the kitchen as more meals are prepared during the holidays.

The Red Cross says unattended cooking, grease buildup, and loose clothing can all quickly turn into dangerous situations. Staying in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food is critical, and officials recommend turning off the stove if you need to step away — even briefly.

Jeannie Gardner, Regional Disaster Officer for the Illinois Red Cross, says the risk is real. She notes that one in five people the Red Cross helps after a home fire receive assistance during the holiday months alone. Gardner adds that fires can spread rapidly, leaving as little as two minutes to escape.

Safety tips include keeping flammable items away from the stove, using timers to remember appliances are on, and keeping children and pets at least three feet from cooking areas. The Red Cross also encourages families to regularly clean cooking surfaces to prevent grease buildup and to always double-check the kitchen before leaving home or going to bed.

More cooking safety tips and information on creating a home fire escape plan are available at redcross.org/fire.

According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Illinois dropped nearly 12 cents in the past week, now averaging $2.89 per gallon. That’s about 35 cents cheaper than a month ago and 34 cents lower than this time last year.

GasBuddy reports prices around the state ranged widely, with the cheapest station coming in at $2.29 per gallon, while the most expensive topped out at $4.29.

Nationally, the average price of gasoline also declined, falling nearly six cents in the past week to $2.79 per gallon. Diesel prices dipped as well, with the national average now just under $3.58 per gallon.

Locally, prices are also trending down, with gas averaging $2.85 in Peoria, $2.73 in Champaign, and about $2.71 in the St. Louis area.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, says this marks the fourth straight week of falling gas prices nationwide, with increased oil production and strong refinery output keeping prices under pressure. He adds drivers could be seeing some of the lowest seasonal gas prices in the last five years.

GasBuddy tracks fuel prices at more than 150,000 stations nationwide.
 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from Taylorville’s mayor at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Bruce Barry is in his 3rd 4-year term as mayor of the Christian County seat.   He began his remarks to the Kiwanis Club by telling them that for the coming year, the City’s focus will be on what Barry calls:

Mayor Barry also told Kiwanis members that Lake Taylorville will see projects there, as well as the start of design work on the downtown improvement project which is being funded with a 3-million dollar state grant obtained thru Deputy Governor Andy Manar.  

Barry added with the purchase by the City of the Taylorville Industrial Park, he’s working with the Christian County Economic Development Corporation to attract buyers for several lots with an announcement expected next spring.

And, the Taylorville mayor told Kiwanians the city’s financial house is in order thanks to the establishment of the Business Development District.  That district increased city revenue some 10-point-5 million dollars for local projects.   Plus, a total of 4-point-2 million dollars in new revenue has come from gaming. 

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 many state and federal elections coming up in Illinois place the drawing of congressional districts for both levels front and center again.  While other states have made headlines in 2025 for potential redistricting ahead of the midterms, Illinois’s current maps have also been the subject of discussion.  The shapes of certain districts have led some experts to consider the state’s districts for the U.S. House to be gerrymandered.  The difference in House representation compared to statewide election results in 2024 have further amplified these claims. 

Dr. Kent Redfield is a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois-Springfield.  Regarding the U.S. House, he highlights the 13th and 15th congressional districts’ shapes and their political representation.  The 15th district encompasses Christian County, among many others, while the 13th cuts through several counties bordering Christian County.

The maps used for the General Assembly at the state level are also drawing attention.  This includes the 48th Senate district – which covers parts of Sangamon, Christian, and Macon Counties – and the districts surrounding the 48th.

Dr. Redfield says gerrymandering at any level is linked to lower turnout in elections along with more “extreme” candidates on either side of the aisle being elected. 

As for the individual voter in a “gerrymandered” district, Dr. Redfield says they may feel less connected to the legislator representing them. 

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. 

As homes are decorated and temperatures drop, the American Red Cross is reminding families that holiday decorations, candles, and heating equipment can increase the risk of home fires.

December is the peak month for candle fires in the U.S., averaging about 20 home fires a day, while heating equipment remains one of the leading causes of fire-related deaths. The Red Cross recommends keeping anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters and never leaving them unattended.

Candles should be placed out of reach of children and pets and never left burning when no one is in the room. Space heaters should be used only on hard, nonflammable surfaces and turned off before leaving the room or going to sleep.

Officials also stress the importance of working smoke alarms. Smoke detectors should be installed near kitchens, on every level of the home, and near sleeping areas. Alarms should be tested monthly, with batteries replaced at least once a year.

In the past week alone, American Red Cross volunteers responded to eight home fires across central and southern Illinois, assisting 17 people with emergency supplies and support services.

More holiday fire safety tips, along with a free emergency preparedness app, are available at redcross.org/fire.
 

Christian County Animal Control has seen consistent rates of their animals being adopted.  With that, they still have plenty in their shelter for those interested in adopting one.  They look to lead potential pet parents through an easy process and encourage community members – whether interested in adopting or not – to assist their cause in protecting the animals they work with. 

The cost to adopt a dog is $125, with cats costing just $40.  Dwanna Kelmel and Sam Abbott say there are extra steps to ensure the right pet ends up in the right home. 

The Animal Control agency always accepts volunteers to help with tasks such as cleaning and walking dogs.  They also accept donations and have a variety of needs. 

Agency staff brought in a number of changes in the last year.  They primarily include new kennels for the dogs and cats. 

Working in animal control comes with unpredictable circumstances, which is something that Abbott and Kelmel both enjoy. 

More information on Christian County Animal Control is on their Facebook page. 

Sam Abbott and Dwanna Kelmel appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The WSVZ and Family Drug-Shelbyville Students of the Month for December were presented with their awards recently. Pictured from left to right are: Debra Jones, Freshman; Jacob Griffith, Sophomore; Caroline Daniel, Junior; and Tessa Bowers, Senior. 

(Far Left): Debra Jones- Freshman; Jacob Griffith-Sophomore; (middle) Caroline Daniel- Junior: (right) Tessa Bowers-Senior; (Far Right) Trinity, CPhT of Family Drug. 

WTIM and People’s Bank and Trust in Taylorville have announced their students of the month for December. The program recognizes one outstanding student from each of the four classes. Students of the Month for December are: Josie Dees, Thea Suslee, Kellen Augustine, and Ethan Smith. 

L -R:  FRESHMAN JOSIE DEES; SOPHOMORE THEA SUSLEE; JUNIOR(NOT PICTURED) KELLEN AUGUSTINE; SENIOR ETHAN SMITH

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

The Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR and People’s Bank and Trust students of the month are Freshman Milo Martell, Sophomore Mackenzie Banning, Junior Brenna Blackwell, and Senior Kennedy Bowker.  Congratulations!

L - R:  FRESHMAN MILO MARTELL, SOPHOMORE MACKENZIE BANNING; JUNIOR BRENNA BLACKWELL; SENIOR KENNEDY BOWKER; PBT REPRESENTATIVE  JENNIFER MATHIS

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

Students of the month are as follows: 5th Grade, Nora Beshiroski; 6th Grade, Nora Beshiroski; 7th Grade, Shane Ross; 7th Grade, Isla Wareham; 8th Grade, Lauren Hartwig. Congratulations!!!

L - R:  PBT REPRESENTATIVE JEFF GRIMMETT; 5TH GRADE NORA BESHIROSKI; 6TH GRADE SHANE ROSS; 7TH GRADE ISLA WAREHAM; 8TH GRADE LAUREN HARTWIG; PBT REPRESENTATIVE SOPHIE ROBINSON

Federal authorities are cracking down on child sex predators nationwide. The Department of Justice says Operation Relentless Justice led to the rescue of more than 205 children and the arrests of over 290 offenders. The two-week operation involved all 56 FBI field offices, the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices across the country.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi said, “We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice.” FBI Director Kash Patel added that no predator targeting children will be allowed to go free, and federal, state, and local partners will continue working together to keep communities safe.

In Illinois, FBI Springfield made multiple arrests in the Central and Southern Districts, including a Jacksonville man charged with trafficking and possessing child pornography. Other arrests across the country involved an airman, a police officer, and individuals targeting minors online, including cases of sextortion and child sex trafficking.

These results follow similar operations earlier this year, including Operation Restore Justice and Operation Enduring Justice, which together rescued hundreds of children and arrested hundreds more.

The DOJ reminds the public to report suspected child exploitation to the FBI tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.
 

Illinois will soon have a new state symbol. Starting January 1st, the soybean will officially be recognized as the state bean, following the passage of a new law sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield.

Turner says state symbols are meant to reflect what makes Illinois unique, and she believes the soybean plays a major role in the state’s identity, supporting farmers, fueling the economy, and contributing to the food supply.

Illinois leads the nation in soybean production. According to the Illinois Soybean Association, the state averaged 64 bushels per acre in 2021, producing more than 672 million bushels. Illinois-grown soybeans are exported to more than 80 countries and are used in a wide range of products, including food and biodiesel.

Turner says the designation is a way to recognize the hard work of soybean farmers and the impact they have on the state. House Bill 4439 takes effect January 1st.
 

The Christian County Board got together on Tuesday evening for their monthly board meeting and the last one of 2025. The board recognized a long-term retiring board member, gave a scholarship, and reviewed new and old business.  The council recognized Christian County Fair Queen Lydia Repscher with a scholarship.  Board Chair Bryan Sharp announced the scholarship. 

The 9-1-1 board announced Alex Stringer to the board after a vacancy due to illness. That motion passed. An approval went through for the road use agreement for the Taylorville Lumb Solar Farm. There are still several things that will need to get done before this full project can go through.  
County Treasurer Betty Asmussen spoke to the board concerning Animal Control and what money is coming in and where it’s coming from. She says she has gotten a lot of questions with respect to the revenue from Fur Love and where those donations are going too. 

Asmussen says as of today, any purchases made from Fur Love are not going to the Animal Control donation fund. 

Bryan Sharp announced that long-time board member Tim Carlson is announcing his retirement from the board.  Sharp praised his service over the last 3 decades.

A small reception was held for Tim after the meeting.  Tim thanked everyone for the support over the years and says he's looking forward to a little relaxing.  He says he will miss adjourning meetings though. The next county board meeting is set for January 20th. 

Small businesses new and old in Shelbyville are seeing heavy traffic in the holiday shopping season.  This includes one business new to the brick-and-mortar experience: Soulfulchicdesigns.  The store previously operated only via online platforms but now has a location on East Main Street.  They offer vintage and antique products as well as arts and crafts, and the owners’ own works are prominently featured. 

Alannah Williams is the owner of Soulfulchicdesigns.  She says her devotion to faith is part of what inspired the name. 

Alannah and her husband Ross both have their own art featured inside the store, which previously was a bank.

The two live closer to Decatur, but a relative introduced them to Shelbyville.  The small-town feel is part of why they chose to set up there.

More information on Soulfulchicdesigns is available on their Facebook page. 

Alannah and Ross Williams appeared as guests on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

Small businesses in downtown Shelbyville are taking full advantage of the holiday season and the interest in shoppers to do business locally.  This includes the Wood Shop, a home décor store on East Main Street.  The store relocated there last year and is using the many other businesses in its new vicinity to its advantage.  Collaboration with the other shops has been key to expanding its reach and helping the overall business community in downtown Shelbyville grow. 

Regina Hilbert is the owner of the Wood Shop.  Despite the name, she says the store also offers florals, ceramics, and more.

Having now operated out of the East Main Street location for a year, Hilbert now has more access to the owners of the other small businesses on the street.  She says it has been valuable to connect with other entrepreneurs working towards similar goals. 

Hilbert says a number of her items serve as good holiday presents, especially for anyone doing last-minute shopping. 

With many of the items in the store coming from other small businesses, shoppers are able to support multiple businesses in one transaction. 

More information on the Wood Shop is available on their Facebook page.

Regina Hilbert appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

The Christian County Fair Board has been honored with the 2025 Community Partner Award by University of Illinois Extension in Christian County. The award recognizes the Fair Board’s long-standing partnership with Christian County 4-H and its continued support of youth programming at the fairgrounds. Over the years, the board has provided facilities, resources, and flexibility to help ensure successful 4-H shows and events during the county fair.

Taylor Sinclair, 4-H youth development program coordinator, says the Fair Board consistently goes above and beyond to support 4-H activities, maintaining accessible, well-kept grounds and working closely with organizers to meet scheduling and space needs.

University of Illinois Extension serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties presented the award to 2025 Miss Christian County, Lydia Repscher on behalf of the Fair Board. Extension County Director Sara Marten says strong community partnerships are essential to Extension’s mission and impact across the region.

The Community Partner Award is sponsored by the Extension Council, a volunteer board that recognizes one outstanding community partner each year across the four-county area for their support of Extension programs.

Illinois Extension serves as the public outreach arm of the University of Illinois, connecting research-based information with communities to help families, businesses, and local leaders make informed decisions and adapt to change.
 

It’s a simple message many people have heard before, “Smell Gas, Leave Fast.” But safety officials say those four words can make a life-saving difference, especially during the heating season. If you smell natural gas, often described as a rotten egg odor, that’s your warning sign. Other signs of a possible gas leak can include hissing sounds, bubbling water, blowing dirt, or dead vegetation.

If you suspect a leak, leave the area immediately. Take everyone with you, including pets. Don’t flip light switches, don’t use electronics, and don’t open windows or doors. Once you’re safely away, call Ameren Illinois at 800-755-5000 or dial 911. Ameren says emergency responses are handled at no cost to customers.

Ameren Illinois Public Awareness Supervisor Jake Dukett says the message is simple for a reason.

“Smell Gas, Leave Fast, it’s for our customers’ safety, and it’s our priority,” Dukett said.

Officials say knowing what to do helps people act quickly, reduces emergency response time, and improves safety for the entire community.

Ameren Illinois provides electric service to more than 1.2 million customers and natural gas service to over 800-thousand customers across central and southern Illinois.
 

Two Decatur men are facing multiple felony charges following a human trafficking investigation led by the Illinois State Police. The Illinois State Police Trafficking Enforcement Group announced the arrests of 36-year-old Bryan Slater and 31-year-old Jacob Miller, both of Decatur. The men are charged with several offenses, including aggravated involuntary servitude, trafficking for labor, and promoting prostitution.

The investigation began on October 23rd, when the Coles County Sheriff’s Department responded to a reported theft. During that investigation, deputies identified a woman who may have been a victim of human trafficking and involuntary servitude.

At the request of the sheriff’s department, state police investigators contacted the woman and learned she had allegedly been abused, sexually assaulted, and forced into prostitution by the two men.

Arrest warrants were issued on November 5th. Jacob Miller was taken into custody on December 2nd by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Apprehension Task Force in Sangamon County. Bryan Slater was arrested by the same task force on December 17th, also in Sangamon County.

The investigation remains ongoing.

A new year means new laws take effect, and a number of changes in Illinois pertain to law enforcement.  Gun access, background checks, and more are the subject of several signed pieces of legislation soon to be enforced.  Major events in Illinois and across the country which have generated headlines have spurred the creation of these new laws. 

Arguably the most notable law is one which came following the killing of Sonya Massey and the subsequent conviction of the involved Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy.  Starting in 2026, law enforcement agencies will have greater requirements for the background checks they carry out for incoming officers.  Chief Deputy Jim Baker of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office says information on candidates’ law enforcement records is now also required. 

Another widely followed new law is the Safe Gun Storage Act.  It states that gun owners must securely store firearms if a minor or at-risk person could otherwise access it. 

One other incoming statute also relates to firearms.  It states that, in certain cases, individuals who do not have a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and are initially charged with a low-level weapons-related crime can apply for said card and see the charges dropped.

Relating to individuals going missing, one new law expands the circumstances in which law enforcement agencies must accept missing person reports.

Driver’s licenses are the subject of another change to state law.  The newest legislation increases the age threshold for required in-person renewal from 75-79 and allows immediate family members to intervene in certain circumstances.

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 the latest news and information.

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

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and its members are busy with many holiday-related events.  While those of the Chamber itself are meant to feed off and spread joy, one of its members is focusing on providing emotional comfort to those who need it.  It’s part of a “Blue Christmas” service happening at Taylorville Christian Church on Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Hope House of Central Illinois, a Chamber member, is orchestrating the event.  The organization is focused on supporting parents who have lost a child.  Co-founder and board member Monica Wamsley says the evening is meant for anyone for whom this is not – as the popular song describes – the most wonderful time of the year. 

Wamsley adds that this time of year can be especially difficult for parents grieving the loss of a child, even well beyond when the loss happens. 

As for the Chamber’s happenings, they have been heavily involved in the Christmas In The Park events organized by the Taylorville Park District.  Staff members have volunteered time at multiple events.

The Chamber has three new members.  They include Carmean Electrical Service Inc., the Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois, and Burton’s Tap.

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

Krystal Baker and Monica Wamsley appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

As cold and snowy weather hits the area each year, questions are often raised about whether or not school will be held and how the decision is made.  What factors do school district administrators consider?  Adding to the complexity of the matter is the novel concept of “eLearning” days, where instruction is delivered in a virtual format.  This saves school districts from having to extend the school year, but coordinating this system can be a challenge. 

Central A&M schools superintendent Sacha Young has her ways of making these determinations.  She says road conditions are a major factor, and she gauges this by attempting to drive the roads.

For those who walk to school, the temperature becomes even more relevant.  The limited bus access in the Central A&M school district means many students must walk. 

Young notes that extremely cold temperatures can also prevent school buses parked outside from starting.  The district’s buses, however, are typically parked in garages.

If an eLearning day is called, middle and high school students will typically use their school-provided Chromebooks.  Elementary school students are provided with packets for the current content and may also be sent home with electronics ahead of likely eLearning days. 

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.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed many of the key bills sent to him during the fall veto session into law.  Some such bills elicited heavy criticism from Republicans, including those related to transit and assisted suicide.  Whether the governor would sign the bills was unclear amid some of the same concerns, but they are now set to take effect.

One bill signed into law would increase funding for the Chicago Transit Authority.  State Senator Steve McClure, a Republican from Springfield, opposed it due to recent scrutiny of the CTA, along with the increase in tolls and other taxes. 

Another part of the tax increase involves purchases of gasoline.  Senator McClure calls this a “double tax.”

Governor Pritzker also signed into a law the End-Of-Life Options Act.  It would allow eligible patients with a diagnosis of six months or less to live to be prescribed lethal medication to take at home.  The bill faced opposition for a number of reasons, including specific logistics associated with having certain deadly health conditions. 

Outside of Springfield, Senator McClure was present in the courtroom for hearings on an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR.  Two NASCAR teams – including 23XI, which basketball legend Michael Jordan partially owns – sued the competition.  They alleged NASCAR’s new charter agreement – which teams had to sign on short notice to be eligible to compete – was unfairly monopolistic.  The parties eventually reached a settlement, ending the legal proceedings.  The senator says the jury selection process was difficult to complete due to the high profile of Michael Jordan and therefore also the lawsuit. 

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

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

Six members of the community went through drug treatment court, and a commencement ceremony was held at Davis Community Christian Church on Wednesday afternoon, recognising not only what the six have been through but what their future holds. Ronee Antonio, Michael Kline, Destiny Rickman, Jerry Riggs, Jeremy Stark, and Samantha Tarrant all went through the ceremony. Judge Brad Paisley praised the community involvement, saying that these programs don’t work without the support from the community itself. 

Many members of the drug treatment program spoke encouraging these individuals who have been through so much.  Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says that the best is yet to come. 

One of the individuals, Jerry Riggs, spoke saying that whatever it takes he was gonna get it done. 

All the graduates, gave roses to loved ones and received certificates from the arresting officers. We here at Regional Radio News salute and are very proud of all of the graduates and wish you the best moving forward. A reception followed the commencement ceremony.

Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.8% increase in benefits entering 2026.  In terms of dollar amounts, it’s expected to produce an average increase of $56 per person per month.  These changes are based on the federally determined “cost-of-living adjustment” (COLA), and what the changes mean for each individual depends on their previous earnings and many other factors. 

Jack Myers is a Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration.  He says beneficiaries will see the changes before the end of this year.

The exact amount of the increase depends on previous payments, which in turn are affected by historical earnings.

As for how the federal government determines the cost-of-living adjustment, it is a measure of inflation.  Numbers from the current year are compared with those from the previous year. 

When it comes to how the benefits are earned, the Social Security Administration uses a system of “credits,” based on the money a person makes each year. 

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

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

Several members of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club volunteered to take donations for the Taylorville Park District Tuesday night, as part of Manners Park’s annual “Christmas in the Park” light displays.

Volunteering from 5pm to 7:30pm were Kiwanis members Chuck Martin, Sheryl Van Dyke, Blain Cornwell, and Dennis Barnard (not pictured).

Second shift Kiwanis volunteers from 7:30pm to 10pm were Bill Assalley, Will Perkins, and Randy Miller.

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.   

Taylorville police are investigating a weekend stabbing incident.

Police say officers were called to a residence Sunday in reference to a reported stabbing. When officers arrived, they quickly identified the suspect, who was taken into custody by Platoon A. The victim was transported to a trauma center for medical treatment.

Jacob W. Gray of Taylorville has been arrested and charged with Home Invasion and Aggravated Domestic Battery.

Police thanked Platoon A for their response, along with State’s Attorney John McWard and the State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance with the charging process.

Authorities say Gray later appeared for a detention hearing under the Safety Act, where a judge ordered him held in custody after determining he posed a threat to public safety.

A local State representative is raising concerns after Governor J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 2111 into law, legislation that moves state funding to support Chicago’s mass transit system. Representative Reagan Deering says the measure places an unfair tax burden on downstate residents while addressing what she views as long-standing financial mismanagement in the Chicago area, let alone by the Chicago Transit Authority.

According to Deering, the bill moves far beyond addressing an initial budget shortfall and instead commits billions of dollars in new funding over the next several years. She says the approach taken by lawmakers will result in higher costs for Illinois families, including increases in taxes and tolls, while redirecting money away from communities outside the Chicago region.

The new law diverts approximately $1 billion from the state’s road fund, followed by an estimated $473 million each year from funds traditionally used for downstate roads and bridge projects. In addition to the fund transfers, the legislation includes toll increases of roughly 60 percent for passenger vehicles and 30 percent for commercial vehicles, along with reallocations tied to the state’s motor fuel tax.

Deering believes that these funding shifts could have long-term consequences for infrastructure projects in downstate Illinois. She noted that many residents in her district and surrounding areas rarely, if ever, use Chicago’s mass transit system, yet will now contribute financially through higher transportation costs and reduced investment in local road maintenance. She also warned that pulling money from the road fund could delay or cancel planned construction and repair projects across rural and central Illinois, placing additional strain on already aging infrastructure. 

Residents with questions or concerns about the legislation are encouraged to contact Representative Deering’s office at 217-876-1968 for additional information.

Several members of Lake Land College’s student-run newspaper, The Navigator News, are being recognized after earning multiple awards at the 2024–2025 Illinois Community College Journalism Awards. The annual competition highlights outstanding reporting and overall publication excellence from community colleges across the state.

Two students received first-place honors for Best News Story, showcasing the strength of the newsroom’s reporting this past year. Aisha Salami, originally from Nigeria, and Mark Naroze of Charleston both earned top recognition for their coverage, with Naroze also finishing second in the Reporter of the Year category. Salami added another award to her list with a third-place finish for Best Page Design, for both editorial and visual storytelling skills.

Charleston student Darrius Frazier stood out with multiple awards during the ceremony, earning first place for Best News Column and a third-place finish for Best Sports Column. Noella Kasera, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, received second-place recognition for Best Staff Editorial, while Cecil Howell of Mattoon earned honorable mention for Editorial Writer of the Year. The awards reflected a broad range of strengths across the newsroom, from opinion writing to in-depth reporting.

Recognition extended beyond student writers as well. Lake Land College staff member Kim Hunter, Director of Student Success, earned second place for Best Feature Photo for her contributions to the publication. As a team, The Navigator News also received honorable mention for the Mike Foster General Excellence Award, which recognizes overall quality across print, digital, and social media platforms.

The recognition highlights the hands-on learning experience students gain through the publication, where they develop skills in reporting, editing, layout, photography, and digital publishing while covering campus and community news.

More information about The Navigator News, including current stories and student work, is available online at www.thenavigatornews.com.

Sacred Heart School in Pana is in the Christmas spirit in both a secular and religious sense.  Daily religious services carry out all of the advent-related customs, and students are encouraged to incorporate the Christmas spirit in their everyday lives during and beyond the season.  Faculty and staff look to strike the right balance between the fun aspects of Christmas and the deeper meaning behind the holiday. 

Grace Holthaus is an administrative intern at Sacred Heart School.  She says faith-related lessons are taught in the classroom throughout the day.

Holthaus adds that the school uses holiday-themed activities to advance its goal of building a sense of community inside and outside of the building’s walls.

Sacred Heart School’s Christmas traditions over the years have led to many memories for those who have witnessed many of them.  Principal Deb Zueck – who has been at the school for over two decades – recalls one such story of one of the school’s customs and how a young student took action. 

Holthaus and Zueck were not the only ones to speak.  They invited ten students to speak on their favorite parts of Christmas.  Three kindergartners and two first-graders shared their Christmas wishes.  They include health, happiness, and toys. 

Five second-graders took part to share their thoughts on the holiday, as well.  They spoke about decorating the Christmas tree and living the holiday’s values. 

Sacred Heart School is located at 3 East Fourth Street in Pana.  More information is available at www.shspana.com.

Grace Holthaus, Deb Zueck, and ten students appeared as guests on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

Mistletoe Madness is coming to Taylorville.  The Christian County CEO Students will be hosting a bingo night this Saturday, December 20th at the Taylorville Moose. This event will feature six games, prizes, raffles, food, and much more. Angelina Ippelito, Katelyn Foster, Ellee Mateer and Autumn Hobbs stopped by the studios to talk a little about the upcoming night. 

The girls say that these events are important because of the skills that the students learn to become better entrepreneurs. 

The gift baskets come from those within the community and some are from the students themselves. 

Find out more information on Mistletoe Madness by visiting the Christian County CEO Facebook page. 

Bob Ridings in Pana is in the midst of their winter “super sale.”  They have been looking to clear out their inventory and have been successful in doing so, with heavy competition for the more attractive deals.  The dealership looks to make the customer experience as seamless as possible with indoor car setups and transferring vehicles to the other Bob Ridings locations in central Illinois. 

General Manager Bryan Booth is overseeing the super sale.  He says it’s one of the biggest sales his dealership puts on every year. 

Customers who are interested in viewing cars in the inventory can do so online at www.bobridingspana.com.  You can also visit in person and even arrange to have a car moved to an indoor bay to view it in person without having to deal with the winter weather. 

Booth says some of their special offers have resulted in quick sales.  He adds there have been instances of customers reaching out about certain deals a few days after they are first advertised, by which point the vehicle has already been sold. 

Separate from selling cars, Bob Ridings in Pana is also offering free winter inspections of cars.  The car does not have to have been bought from them to be inspected. 

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

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

A Macon County Sheriff’s deputy is on paid administrative leave following a DUI arrest stemming from a pursuit early Monday morning near Forsyth.

According to the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy observed a vehicle speeding northbound on U.S. Route 51 around 2 a.m. Due to snow- and ice-covered roads, the deputy did not immediately pursue but followed at a safe distance.

The vehicle was later found stuck in the median and fled again, traveling southbound before sliding back into the median. The driver ultimately sped away, and deputies chose not to pursue at high speeds because of road conditions.

Other deputies later located the vehicle stuck in a ditch on Washington Street Road, about a half-mile west of Route 51. The driver was taken into custody for speeding and fleeing or attempting to elude police, and was also held on suspicion of driving under the influence.

The driver was identified as 31-year-old Andrew Ziegler of Maroa, a Macon County Sheriff’s deputy. Illinois State Police handled the DUI investigation and charged Ziegler with driving under the influence. He was cited and released pending a court date.

Ziegler has been placed on paid administrative leave while an internal investigation is conducted. He has been employed with the Macon County Sheriff’s Office since April of last year.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from Taylorville’s police chief at their Tuesday noon meeting at the Moose Lodge.

Dwayne Wheeler has been the chief of police in Taylorville nearly 8 years, and in his Kiwanis remarks he focused on 2 areas:  The SAFE-T act passed by Illinois legislators the last few years, and the lessening amount of crime and drugs in Taylorville.

Wheeler told Kiwanis members that the SAFE-T act continues to pose major hurdles for law enforcement statewide, with those who Wheeler says commit crimes basically getting off without being charged or jailed.   

Despite that, he says he continues to support his officers and staff to keep crime down in the city.

Wheeler added that the crime rate in Taylorville is down some 58% over the past year, with drug arrests down significantly the last 6 months.   He attributed that to his continuing focus on arresting drug dealers selling illegal substances, as well as his department’s “Safe Passage” program which helps addicts to kick the habit.

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.

As colder weather settles in, the American Red Cross is reminding families to take extra precautions when heating their homes. The Red Cross says heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires in the U.S. Kellie O’Connell, CEO of the Illinois Red Cross, says many of those fires are preventable.

She encourages families to keep at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, test smoke alarms monthly, and practice a home fire escape plan that gets everyone out in under two minutes.

The Red Cross responds to more than 60-thousand disasters each year, with home fires making up the majority. Those responses jump by about 30 percent during the colder months. According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Safety tips include never leaving space heaters unattended, plugging them directly into wall outlets, not extension cords, and keeping them off rugs, carpets, and away from curtains or bedding.

The Red Cross also warns against using ovens or stovetops to heat your home and reminds homeowners to have furnaces, chimneys, and fireplaces inspected annually. Fireplace fires should never be left unattended, and embers should be fully extinguished before leaving home or going to bed. Locally, Red Cross volunteers responded to 11 home fires in the past week across Central Illinois, assisting 11 people with immediate needs such as food, clothing, and emotional support.

If you or someone you know needs help after a home fire, you can contact the American Red Cross at 800-RED-CROSS. More safety tips and fire escape plans are available at redcross-dot-org-slash-fire.

In response to the murder of Sonya Massey, a new state law aimed at strengthening police hiring standards will take effect January first. State Senator Doris Turner of Springfield says the legislation was inspired by the impact Massey’s death had on the community and her commitment to seek accountability.

The new law requires law enforcement agencies across Illinois to conduct more comprehensive background and employment reviews of prospective officers before making a hiring decision. The goal is to ensure candidates are fit for duty before joining a department.

The legislation also expands the use of sheriff’s merit boards and merit commissions in counties with populations of 75-thousand or more. Those boards are designed to add oversight and help maintain professionalism and integrity in the hiring of sheriff’s deputies and other personnel.

Turner says the law is intended to help rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Senate Bill 1953 officially takes effect January first.

According to Gasoline experts, drivers across Illinois are seeing some relief at the pump. Average gas prices in the state have dropped just over two cents per gallon in the past week, now sitting at about three dollars and one cent, according to GasBuddy. That’s nearly 22 cents cheaper than a month ago and about 18 cents lower than this time last year.

GasBuddy’s survey of more than 4-thousand Illinois stations shows prices ranging widely across the state, from a low of two-dollars-fifteen a gallon to a high of four-dollars-seventy-nine. Nationally, gas prices also continue to fall. The U.S. average dropped four-and-a-half cents in the past week to about two-dollars-eighty-five a gallon. Diesel prices nationwide are also down, now averaging about three-dollars-sixty-two per gallon.

GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan says the national average is at its lowest point since March of 2021, just ahead of the Christmas travel season. He adds the decline is being driven by refineries boosting production and lower crude oil prices, with the downward trend expected to continue into the end of next year.

Looking around the region, prices are averaging two-ninety-three in Peoria, two-seventy in St. Louis, and two-eighty-three in Champaign — all down from last week. GasBuddy says motorists nationwide are saving hundreds of millions of dollars each week compared to this time last year.
 

Lincoln Land Community College’s Taylorville campus is hoping to expand its outreach to the community.  They are looking to create greater connections with local businesses – especially those in blue-collar trades – and students.  On top of the planned visits with eighth-grade students, administrators will also speak to younger students to introduce them to potential career opportunities.

Elizabeth Fines-Workman is the director of LLCC’s Taylorville campus.  She says these interactions with representatives from local businesses often take place at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours events. 

Albeit primarily at its main campus in Springfield, Lincoln Land Community College has programs in a number of trades.  Fines-Workman says the outreach expansion will encompass these industries, as well. 

In February, the Taylorville campus will welcome fourth-grade students on a field trip.  There, students will be able to learn about career paths, the college experience, and more.

In addition, Fines-Workman is preparing to have a “free little library” installed at the campus.  It’s a small, windowed box where people can take and leave books to enjoy. 

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

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

State Representative Regan Deering is speaking out after Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill legalizing physician-assisted suicide in Illinois

The new law, Senate Bill 1950, will allow doctors to prescribe self-administered medication to terminally ill patients who have been given six months or less to live. The measure takes effect in September of 2026.

Republican State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur says she’s “extremely disappointed” in the governor’s decision, calling the law a compromise of what she describes as the sanctity of life. Deering also raised concerns about safety, arguing that once the medication leaves a pharmacy, there’s no way to know who might access it, especially amid what she calls an ongoing mental health crisis.

She also worries about potential coercion involving elderly, disabled, or chronically ill patients, saying the safeguards in the law “don’t go far enough” to protect vulnerable populations.

Deering says Illinois should instead expand hospice care, palliative care, mental health services, and support for caregivers, rather than legalize physician-assisted suicide.

Again, the new law is set to take effect in September of 2026.
 

University of Illinois Extension staff from across the state recently gathered in Urbana to strengthen collaboration and celebrate outstanding work in local communities. The Extension Annual Conference was held November 19th and 20th, bringing together staff to share ideas, learn from one another, and turn university research into real-world solutions for Illinois communities.

As part of the conference, Extension honored employees for their individual and team contributions through its annual Extension Excellence Awards. Among this year’s recipients were two staff members from the Christian County Extension Office.

Jenny Foster received the Individual Extension Excellence Award for field-based community outreach. Foster was recognized for expanding partnerships in Christian County and reaching hundreds of youth and adults through nutrition education programs as part of SNAP-Ed.

Cassie O’Connell was honored with the Individual Extension Excellence Award for field-based Extension coordinator. Since joining Extension in 2018, O’Connell has helped grow the unit’s online presence, launched a monthly community newsletter, and increased participation in Extension programs across the four-county area.

The conference also highlighted major milestones, including the 50th anniversary of the Master Gardener program, and looked ahead to the future with the construction of the Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center.

Extension leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the university and local communities. They say Extension’s mission remains focused on providing trusted, research-based information to people in all 102 Illinois counties.

The Taylorville Public Library has a busy slate of events as part of the holiday season.  The regular programs will continue to operate alongside unique holiday-themed events.  They are designed with the entire community in mind, and many of them are free and do not require advance registration.  Library administrators are also thinking about next year and hoping to incorporate visitor feedback in the plans. 

Erin Crommett is the Program and Outreach Manager at the Taylorville Public Library.  She says the preschool story time and art therapy lessons are among the regular happenings still in progress.

The library will also host two craft days.  They are scheduled for December 22 and 23, each from 3-5 p.m.

The library will remain open through the schools’ December break; however, it will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.  They will run some drop-in events during that time period when they are open.

As for 2026, library staff are already planning programs.  Book clubs, game nights, and plenty more are on the docket. 

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

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

The Christian County Board is set to meet for their last meeting of 2026 this evening at 6 PM.  The meeting will cover public comments, committee reports, appointments, and other such matters that are important to the county.  There will be a Christian County Fair Queen Scholarship Presentation, a look at appointments, and a reading of communications.  There will also be committee reports.  

Under those reports, the board will look at and discuss the approval of a road use agreement for the Taylorville-Lumb Solar Farm, an EMA Update, a Kennel Fee Agreement discussion, an agreement with Kane County and Juvenile Detention, Farmers Market Fees, and Veterans Assistance Commission . There will also be a discussion concerning the Courthouse Clock Tower.  Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for all the latest on the Christian County Board meeting following the conclusion of the event. 

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening for their regular city council meeting and the last one of 2025. Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry praised and recognized the 8th-grade girls' basketball team for their recent success.  Led by Coach Doug Bowsher, the Tornadoes have been extremely successful and this year has been no exception.

Mike Powell, Assistant Director for the Illinois FOP Labor Council,  spoke to the board about a memorandum of understanding that would essentially update a contract in the middle of a contract concerning how seniority implemented for the sergeant position.

Aldermen Megan Bryant pointed out that this is something that should be discussed during negotiations not during the middle of the contract. After a vote, the motion failed 1-6 with Jim Olive the lone Yay vote.

Several ordinances were voted on and approved, including an agreement with the BDD and the City of Taylorville and Chris Dreas at 111 W. Poplar Street, David Brummer at 141 E Main Cross, and Jeffrey Scattergood at 1503 W Spresser Street. A motion concerning the approval of the annual tax levy for the fiscal year for the city of Taylorville was approved. 

A motion concerning improvements on West Main Cross Street was approved, along with a motion concerning motor fuel tax funds for the 2026 General Maintenance Costs.  Work on the Taylorville Food Center Project costs was tabled due to several revisions. 

Several other motions were also approved including IDOT Local Roads Construction Services for Benton Engineering on W. Main Cross, motor fuel tax use for the West Main Cross Construction costs, the use of non-home-rule line item for infrastructure repairs on the S. Main Project, signing a MFT Maintenance Engineering Agreeement, a bid on trash removal within all the city departments, a variance for the Vandeveer minor Subdivision, accepting the quote for the water supply testing program, and several low bids for materials and chemicals. 

During city attorney updates, there was a discussion concerning the residency of various department heads and who needed to live within city limits and who had waivers.  Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry wished everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. 

Ward 2 Alderman Chris Skultety announced that this meeting would be his last as he was resigning his position after nearly 6 ½ years on the council. 

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for January 5, 2026. 
 

After a complete teardown and rebuild, Taco Bell in Taylorville held a grand opening and ribbon-cutting with the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce late last week to celebrate the new opening. Stacy Barlow, Area Coach, says that the remodel took place because more room was needed in the back. 

Barlow says that opening day was very overwhelming with just under 1000 people coming through. 

Many new items are coming back, including a mini taco salad and a new type of churro. The Taylorville Taco Bell has won various awards for its food service throughout the years.  Taylorville’s Taco Bell is owned by John Moroney, and it’s run by General Manager Scott Wingo.  

Two Lake Land College nursing instructors are being recognized at the state level for their innovation and dedication to nursing education.

Lara Lash of Mason and Bethany Workman of Dieterich have been awarded the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s Nurse Educator Fellowship, a competitive honor given to outstanding nursing instructors across Illinois.

Lash received the fellowship for the Fall 2025 semester for her work introducing obstetric, or OB, escape room simulations for associate degree nursing students. The hands-on activities challenge students to complete complex nursing tasks, apply classroom concepts, and think critically in a fast-paced, real-world setting—while still learning in a safe and controlled environment.

Workman received the fellowship for the Spring 2026 semester for developing a comprehensive student success program aimed at supporting rural and first-generation nursing students. The program focuses on improving retention, confidence, and academic performance through mentorship, peer support, and success workshops—addressing challenges such as limited access to resources across Lake Land’s large service district.

Cassie Porter, Lake Land’s Director of Nursing Programs, says the recognition is well deserved.

“Lara and Bethany serve our students with excellence every day, and it’s an honor to see them recognized for their passion and innovation,” Porter said.

The IBHE Nurse Educator Fellowship program is designed to retain highly qualified nursing faculty across the state. This year, the program awarded 800-thousand dollars in fellowship funding to support professional development for nursing instructors throughout Illinois.

More information on nursing programs at Lake Land College is available on the college’s website.

Main Street Elementary School in Shelbyville is aiming to invest in the overall health and well-being of their students and broader school community.  The school’s “wellness team” is a group of teachers passionate about the topic.  They are coordinating activities and other initiatives focused on personal health.  Their work also looks to benefit other local organizations which they see as creating a positive impact on the community. 

Ryan Scott is the principal at Main Street Elementary.  He says the wellness team is one of several alliances among faculty and staff at the school. 

Some projects the wellness team has worked on so far this year include educating kids on the importance of drinking plenty of water, and raising money for non-profit organizations. 

Separate from the wellness team, the school is bringing out the holiday spirit for the kids.  On the last day before winter break, faculty and staff will provide students the Polar Express experience with a variety of activities much like what is seen in the film. 

Scott says these plans came about as a way of acknowledging the work and progress students have made throughout the year so far with respect to academics and behavior. 

More information on Main Street Elementary School and Shelbyville CUSD #4 is available at www.shelbyville.k12.il.us. 

Ryan Scott appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

Taylorville City Council members will have a full agenda when they meet Monday night at 7 at City Hall. Council members are expected to vote on a series of ordinances, resolutions, and spending items, including approval of the city’s annual tax levy for the upcoming fiscal year.

Several infrastructure-related items are also on the agenda, with the council considering the use of Motor Fuel Tax funds for street improvements and maintenance. That includes a proposed 150-thousand-dollar improvement project on West Main Cross Street, along with engineering agreements and maintenance cost estimates for 2026. The council is also set to consider final payment for the Taylorville Food Center project, totaling just over 128-thousand dollars, pending required documentation and approval from the project engineer.

Other items include amendments to business district agreements for multiple properties within the city, authorization to bid out trash removal services across city departments, and a variance request for the Vandeveer Minor Subdivision. Water and environmental matters are also up for approval, including acceptance of a water supply testing program through the Illinois EPA for 2026, along with awarding annual chemical supply bids for the city’s water system.

In addition, the council will consider ratifying nearly 485-thousand dollars in bills, hear updates from the city attorney and mayor, and recognize the 8th Grade Girls Basketball Team during the meeting. The meeting will conclude with public comment, giving residents the opportunity to address the council on city-related matters. The Taylorville City Council meeting begins at 7 p.m. Monday night.

The Shelbyville Public Library is set to receive a major financial boost.  The Carnegie Corporation of New York – of which the library is a member – is donating $10,000 to the library.  The gift comes in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.  Administrators hope to use it for aesthetic improvements on top of their more recent such projects. 

Monica Cameron is the director of the Shelbyville Public Library.  She learned of the award by email and initially thought it was a scam. 

Only some of the libraries originally under the Carnegie Corporation are still open.  As Shelbyville’s is one of them, Cameron credits the city for their support of the library’s work for the community.

With potential renovations pending, the library has a full slate of programming with the local schools’ winter break coming up.  They include the continuation of their series of biweekly crochet programs.  The next such event is this Tuesday from 5:30-7 p.m.

One even during the winter break is designed to get kids out of the house.  A class on making snowball slime is set for Monday, December 29 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. 

More information on the Shelbyville Public Library is available at www.shelbyvillelibrary.org.

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

The Lake Land College Broadcasting Club has wrapped up its 19th annual campus-wide food drive, collecting nearly twelve hundred food items to support the Laker Food Pantry.

Throughout the month of November, the club accepted non-perishable food donations, including canned goods, pasta, spices, and other staple items. Donation boxes were placed around campus, making it easy for students, staff, and community members to contribute. By the end of the drive, a total of 1,179 food items had been collected.

Greg Powers, Lake Land’s Speech Communication and Broadcasting instructor and Director of Broadcast Operations, says the response was once again overwhelming.

“Our students put a lot of effort into planning this project every year, and it’s always great to see that effort met with such generosity from our community,” Powers said.

All of the donations were delivered to Lake Land’s on-campus Laker Food Pantry, located in the Luther Student Center. The pantry is open year-round and provides free food to students through pickup or delivery, helping address food insecurity—especially during the holiday season.

This year’s food drive also coincided with the Illinois Community College Board’s statewide “Feed the Need” campaign. The initiative encourages all 48 Illinois community colleges to collect food donations during November to support local food banks. In its first year, the campaign brought in more than 91-thousand food items across the state.

The Laker Food Pantry accepts food and financial donations year-round. Food can be dropped off at the Student Wellness Center, while monetary donations can be made through the Lake Land College Foundation.

For more information, you can contact the Lake Land College Radio Broadcasting Department.

Downtown Nokomis felt like the center for Christmas cheer on Friday night as Snowkomis 2025 got it’s start for the weekend. Festivities, vendors, and kids activities lined Route 16 and brought the community together to celebrate the holiday season in the company of others. Snowkomis continues now into Saturday with a full schedule of events to go along with. From a free mobile ice skating rink, snow pit, and hay rides, to many different crafts and games, the whole family will find hours of fun in the beautiful downtown area. 

Helping to organize this yearly tradition is the organization ‘Newkomis.’ The group was formed just over a year ago and brought several community organizations all together to create a bigger impact. Trever Loafman, a member of ‘Newkomis,’ talks the busy weekend and just some of what comes with it.

Tom Spears and his wife Lola are proud life-long residents of Nokomis; the two were honored as this year’s Snowkomis ‘Friday Night Lighted’ parade. Both were certainly surprised by the recognition but Spears notes it takes a whole community to come together to make Snowkomis successful.

Nokomis mayor Dylan Goldsmith shares how much impact Snowkomis has for his city and it’s residents. Goldsmith marvels at the effort, dedication, and care had for his community.

Find out more about ‘Snowkomis’ by visiting ‘Newkomis’ at their Facebook page.

Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR broadcast live on Friday night from Snowkomis, thanks in part to the space lended by 16th and State Mercantile in Nokomis.

The Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has a new Executive Director.

The DACVB Executive Board has announced that Tonya Culp will step into the role. Culp has lived in Decatur nearly her entire life and brings strong ties to the community. She and her husband, Ed, have a large family — five sons, three daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren.

Culp has spent the past four years with the Convention and Visitors Bureau, serving as an integral part of the team. Board members say she’s developed a strong understanding of tourism in both Illinois and the Decatur area, and they’re excited to see where she leads the organization next.

The board also extended its thanks to outgoing Executive Director Teri Hammel, who is retiring. Hammel has been a key figure in Macon County tourism for many years, guiding the organization through major changes in the industry. The board wished her well as she begins her next chapter.

The DACVB Executive Board is led by President Phil Romano, Vice President Dave Wendt, Treasurer Jerry Dawson, and Secretary Jerry Johnson.
 

Lake Land College has received nearly nineteen thousand dollars in grant funding to support its nursing program.

The Illinois Board of Higher Education awarded the school a $18,903 Nursing School Grant, and the college plans to put the money to work next year.

A portion of the funding will go toward new hands-on training equipment — items like infusion pumps, mannequins, and injection arms — all designed to give nursing students more realistic, career-ready experience in the classroom.

The grant will also help strengthen transfer pathways with Eastern Illinois University and SIU Edwardsville, making it easier for Lake Land nursing students to move on and complete their bachelor’s degrees.

Director of Nursing Programs Cassie Porter says the new equipment will better reflect the diverse patient populations students will see in the field, and the expanded transfer support offers both financial benefits for students and helps meet growing healthcare workforce needs.

The IBHE’s Nursing School Grant Program aims to boost the number of registered nurses in Illinois by supporting faculty, facilities, clinical sites, and instructional materials at participating schools.
For more information about nursing programs at Lake Land College, visit LakeLandCollege.edu.

Eastern Illinois University has long been known for its focus on service, leadership, and the kind of personal mentorship that helps students grow with confidence. That mission is now expanding through the University’s ‘Peace Corps Prep Program,’ a two-year pathway that helps students build the skills and understanding needed for meaningful global service. The initiative is led by Dr. Robert “Tanner” Bivens, who joined EIU in 2024, and has been working to connect students with opportunities that stretch beyond the classroom.

The program is built around four major components recognized by the national Peace Corps: sector-specific skills, foreign language development, intercultural learning, and professional readiness. Students complete targeted coursework, hands-on volunteer service, and ongoing mentorship that aligns with their area of interest. Four students: Yarianis Vargas, Alex Konopka, Nicolette Reed, and Brianne O’Toole, are already working through the curriculum and say the experience is helping them picture how their future careers might shape up.

Much of the momentum behind the program comes from Bivens’ desire to make global-service pathways feel accessible. He often shares that, as a student himself, he once felt unsure about how to step toward opportunities like the Peace Corps. That feeling shaped his commitment to developing a program that gives students a clear route, plenty of encouragement, and practical preparation. Since taking on leadership of the initiative, he has overseen its redevelopment, helped secure institutional approval, and organized early events such as networking sessions with returned Peace Corps Volunteers and service-learning workshops. The program officially opened to student applications in Fall 2025.

Students who enroll complete at least 50 hours of volunteer community service tied to their chosen sector, following national guidelines. EIU’s new program mirrors that mission by helping students gain the confidence and global awareness needed to take on such roles.

Visit www.eiu.edu for more information.

Wright’s Furniture & Flooring is celebrating a notable accolade in the first ever “Generational Legacy Award” from the Midwest Furniture Club.  The networking group of furniture store owners and executives honored Wright’s for the work of its five generations of family ownership. The company – in its 136 years of existence – has locations in Taylorville, Dieterich, Effingham, and Robinson. 

Alex Wright, Vice President of Wright’s Furniture & Flooring, spoke on the award.  He says local family-owned stores like his exist throughout the country, which speaks to the special nature of receiving this recognition.

With the business having four locations throughout central Illinois, he regularly visits each one to remain well connected to the staff. 

More information on the Midwest Furniture Club is available at www.midwestfurnitureclub.com.

Separate from the award, Wright’s Furniture & Flooring has launched a new fundraiser this year called “Trees For A Cause.”  A friend of Alex Wright’s in Canada provided the inspiration for this initiative. 

Wright’s has also recently begun to carry their own name-brand mattresses, which they market under the name “Wright Sleep.”

More information on Wright’s Furniture & Flooring is available at www.wrightsfurniture.com. 

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

State Senator Steve McClure of Springfield has been recognized by Americans for Prosperity–Illinois as a “Prairie State Policy Champion.” The conservative grassroots organization says the award highlights lawmakers who work to limit government overreach, reduce taxes, and support family choice in education, including homeschooling.

McClure said he’s honored by the recognition, adding that since taking office, he’s focused on lowering the state’s tax burden and getting government spending under control.

AFP-Illinois State Director Jason Heffley praised McClure as a “principled leader,” saying the senator has consistently prioritized fiscal responsibility and supported legislation backed by the organization.
McClure received the award at his office inside the Illinois Capitol complex.

The FBI and the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office are offering a combined reward of up to $35,000 for information in a triple-homicide that left a 9-year-old boy dead.

Deputies were called to a home on Hoover Street on October 9th, where investigators found three people shot to death. One of the victims was 9-year-old Cash Russell. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate, with assistance from the FBI’s Springfield Field Office.

To generate new leads, the FBI is offering a $25,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in Cash’s death. CrimeStoppers of Sangamon and Menard Counties is adding up to $10,000 more for information that leads to an arrest.

Cash’s mother, Dorothy Jackson, is pleading for the community’s help. She described Cash as a “sweet, gentle, and loving child” who loved singing, soccer, and the color green. She says Cash and his twin brother were inseparable, and that the family is begging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward.

Sheriff Paula Crouch says investigators are working tirelessly, but help from the public is critical. FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson calls the case “a senseless act of violence” and says substantial federal resources are being committed.

No further details are being released at this time.

Anyone with information can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips to CrimeStoppers can be made anonymously at 217-788-8427, cashfortips.us, or through the P3 app. Officials say anyone with information should report it to both agencies to be eligible for both rewards.

A new year may be approaching, but that is not the case for the 4-H year.  The University of Illinois Extension has a number of 4-H events on both sides of the calendar change.  As always, some events are exclusive to 4-H members, while others welcome all in the community.  The forthcoming calendar items feature classes on making decorative home items, important life skills, and more. 

4-H Cook and Connect is the name of the next such activity.  Taylor Sinclair, 4-H Youth Program Development Coordinator with the Extension, says it features kits which registered participants can take home.

Participants can retrieve these kits at their local extension office this coming Tuesday through the following Friday.

After that is a 4-H Pie Workshop.  It’s scheduled for January 13 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Christian County Extension office.  The event is for youth aged 8-18, and 4-H membership is not required to participate. 

Next up is a members-only event: the 4-H Showbook Cover Design Contest.  Submissions will be accepted until February 6. 

The Extension hopes the next event on the calendar will educate attendees on how to better manage and improve their finances.  Making Your Money Work will happen on February 16 from 1:30-3pm.  It’s open to those aged 12-18, whether they are 4-H members or not. 

Finally, the 4-H Winter Photo Contest will accept submissions until February 20.  This opportunity is open only to 4-H members. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension, along with these events and many others, is available at extension.illinois.edu.

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

Specialized Hearing Solutions is once again giving back to the community with its 4th annual Gift of Hearing program — and this year, the effort is expanding.

Owner Krystal Baker announced that, for the first time, two individuals will receive a life-changing gift: a full set of premium ReSound prescription hearing aids, along with complete hearing care. One male recipient and one female recipient will be selected.

Baker says the program has become one of her favorite holiday traditions, and she hopes more people will learn about the opportunity.

“This is life-changing for some people, and I would love to find a way for more people to be aware that I put this on every year. And this year, I’m helping two people instead of just one,” Baker said.

Nominations are open now through December 31st, and Baker encourages residents to nominate someone who puts others first, has delayed care due to financial challenges, is experiencing a difficult season, or simply deserves a special moment of joy.

Recipients will be announced in January 2026. You can submit a nomination or learn more online at SpecializedHearingSolutions.com.

The Christian County Health Department is looking to strengthen the way it addresses mental health in the county.  As part of that effort, they will soon present a new feature on their website.  It’s called Credible Mind, and the tool allows visitors to answer questions to screen for potential mental health-related challenges.  This is just one change coming to the Health Department in 2026.

Peyton Langen, the Mental Health Case Manager at the Christian County Health Department, played a notable role in securing this resource.  She says the department can then provide or recommend additional support if necessary.

Dr. Chad Anderson, the Public Health Administrator at the Christian County Health Department, says these assessments can help the user learn more about themselves and their behaviors. 

Langen says the convenience of the new tool will serve users well, as they may not want to start the conversation of mental health challenges directly with another person. 

Away from Credible Mind, The Christian County Health Department is looking to offer more services beyond their daytime hours, as it often overlaps with work schedules.  As such, they will soon offer 24/7 access outside their building to items like vitamins and at-home test kits.  They will be stored in a box akin to a vending machine, one which can handle most types of weather. 

More information on the Christian County Health Department is available at www.cchdil.org. 

Dr. Chad Anderson and Peyton Langen appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Park District’s Christmas In The Park series of events is in progress.  Events like the Jingle Bell Walk and Roll, along with the bake-off, have taken place, while others are still around the corner.  Many local businesses and other organizations have contributed their time and resources to ensure the various activities run smoothly and are enjoyable for participants. 

The next events on the schedule include the Kids Are Kids Dance and Breakfast With The Grinch.  Recreation Director Jessica Franks says registration for the breakfast is full, but there may still be room for interested attendees if anyone who has registered does not show up. 

Crafts With Claus is scheduled for Sunday.  Franks expects a wider variety of crafts to be available for attendees than in years past. 

Monday and Tuesday are the days for the Taylorville Music Lessons recital and Magic Night, respectively. 

The Taylorville Park District brought a float to the city’s Christmas parade on Saturday.  They were voted as one of the top floats at the parade.

More information on the Taylorville Park District is available at www.taylorvilleparkdistrict.com.  You can also reach them by calling (217) 824-3110.

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

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club was entertained by the annual appearance of the Taylorville High School Madrigal Singers at its weekly Tuesday meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

17 members of the T-H-S Madrigal Singers led by instructor Jacob Schumacher, sang a host of memorable Christmas carols and songs.

With a large attendance by both Kiwanis members and guests this is the first year for Schumacher to direct the Madrigal singers. Among the guests were representatives from the Decatur Early Bird Kiwanis Club.

This year the Madrigal singers will perform December 12th beginning at 7:00pm and again on December 13th at 6:00pm in the T-H-S Cafeteria.   General admission tickets are still available on line at tcusd3music.booktix.com         

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.

New renovations at Pana Community Hospital are expected to, in part, enhance the patient experience in their Bridge To Home Swing Bed Program.  The program is meant to help patients transition from inpatient care to returning home by helping them readjust to home life and the tasks that come with it.  There a host of situations in which someone may be referred to the Swing Bed Program, and each member of the patient’s care team plays an important role in the process.

Fundraising efforts by the Pana Community Hospital Foundation played a substantial role in financing the renovations to the space.  Mamie Campbell, the Swing Bed coordinator, says a number of appliances and other features found in most homes were added as part of the renovations. 

Campbell says the Swing Bed Program is good for patients who no longer require the full care of a traditional inpatient setting but also do not feel ready to return home and to independence. 

Pana Community Hospital offers its own transportation to take patients from their original inpatient location to the Swing Bed space. 

The Swing Bed Program can only accommodate a small number of patients at a time.  However, Campbell says this improves the experience by ensuring the staff can work closely with each of them. 

More information on Pana Community Hospital is available at www.panahospital.com.

Mamie Campbell appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show. 

Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s ‘Jingle Bell 4K and Little Elf’s Dash’ has a new date after weather washed out the original November 30th plans. The holiday-themed run will instead take place on Sunday, December 14th, giving families and runners a second chance to enjoy the seasonal tradition. The event will run from 8 to 10 a.m. on the TMH campus, with registration opening at 8 a.m., the 4K starting at 9 a.m., and the Little Elf’s Dash following at 9:30.

Hospital officials say the new date is shaping up to offer the same cheerful atmosphere people look forward to each year. Holiday music will greet participants as they arrive, and a coffee and hot chocolate bar will be set up for anyone looking to warm up before or after the race. Santa will also make an appearance for photos. Awards will be handed out to the top male and female runners in each age division, beginning with 14 and under and continuing through a 60 and up category.

The 4K is $25 for those who register ahead of time and $30 on the morning of the event, while the Little Elf’s Dash remains free for all ages. Proceeds will support the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s scholarship fund, which helps local students pursuing careers in healthcare. The staging area will be at the Plant Operations building on the northeast side of the TMH campus, accessible from Pawnee Street. Parking will also be available in the adjacent lot on Pawnee Street.

Pana Elementary School is now winter- and holiday-themed on the inside.  Several events and initiatives are going on to get the school community in the holiday spirit, and the activities incorporate learning and fun for the students.  The school is also focusing on mentorship programs, where older students create meaningful and academically enriching relationships with younger ones. 

Angela Matthews is the assistant principal at Pana Elementary School.  She says the many hallway decorations combine holiday themes with key academic concepts. 

The school has several holiday events coming up featuring sweet treats, music, and games. 

Outside of the holidays, Pana Elementary School began a cross-grade literacy partnership this year where older students mentor younger ones in literacy-related activities.  Matthews says she and other faculty members enjoy watching students they taught become a “teacher” to younger students.

The school is also placing an increased focus on STEM, giving students unique hands-on learning opportunities.  Matthews speaks positively on the learning outcomes students have achieved, including from those who struggle in other subjects. 

More information on Pana Elementary School can be found on www.panaschools.com.

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

The Taylorville School Board of Education sat down Tuesday night for their regular monthly meeting of December, with a public hearing held prior to the main agenda for the evening. The Board opened the floor to discussion surrounding their 2025 tax levy and it’s adoption; however, no public comments were made. The public hearing would last only two minutes. As required by the state of Illinois, Superintendent Brandi Bruley gave those in attendance the District’s beginning fund balance.

Board members later voted to approve the tax levy as it was presented in November, with a 7 – 0 vote. The next step in the process is sending their proposal to the County Clerk’s office for further approval.

Two presentations dominated the remaining time had for the December meeting. First, the Taylorville FFA chapter, led by instructor Sue Schafer, presented their start for the year to the Board. Schafer highlighted the immense success already had by her group and talked what’s to come in the next year.

Graham and Hyde provided the second presentation, starting with work planned for North Elementary. This project, valued at roughly $550,000, will add classrooms while blending them with the existing space. The project will be out to bid in January and submitted proposals should be ready for discussion by the February 2026 meeting.

The presentation continued with “health life-safety projects” and the necessary reports that go with them, expected for both Memorial School and Taylorville High School. While the High School is expected to only have a few minor issues and needed fixes, the same cannot be said for Memorial School. As it was described, Memorial has enough major issues that would potentially call for the need to build an entirely new building. These are only reports and are yet to be done, and as such, no action has been taken as of this time.

As for the much awaited ‘Performing Arts Center’ at Taylorville High School, a preliminary plan was shared with the Board. The facility is looking to have 350 seats, an orchestra pit, and a 40 foot stage. All of this and more is to be housed in a nearly 13,000 square foot building. Again, this new addition is in the preliminary phase and further discussion is still required. The estimated price for a Performing Arts Center of this size came in just shy of $10,000,000.

Other items on the agenda included: approval of an application to ISBE for a matching grant with funds to be used at the Taylorville High School football field, a joint agreement between the district and the NPT Special Education Cooperative, and approval of their Annual Statement of Affairs.

The Board would go into executive session for an extended period before quickly closing out the meeting.

The next Taylorville School Board of Education meeting will be on January 13th, 2026.

While the gardening may be on hold, the Master Gardeners at the University of Illinois Extension want to help you with Christmas tree maintenance.  From picking the right tree to taking care of it to the disposal after the holiday, there is a lot to keep in mind.  There’s also the matter of gift ideas to consider for those who are keen gardeners themselves.  

While keeping a Christmas tree hydrated is important, doing so can be a challenge.  However, Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi says special watering funnels exist for Christmas trees.

Before that, though, comes the task of picking a tree.  Podeschi and fellow Master Gardener Sandi Klein say different styles require different kinds of maintenance before setting them up. 

When it comes to gift ideas for gardeners, simple gardening tools can serve as stocking stuffers.  For recipients in central Illinois, there’s even a way to gift them the first step in becoming a Master Gardener.

Though the start of the next gardening season may still be months away, the Master Gardeners suggest thinking now about plans for it.  This includes crop rotation and how to handle dry conditions like what took place earlier this year. 

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

Sandi Klein and Gwen Podeschi appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Taylorville Memorial Hospital President and CEO Kim Bourne is preparing to step down after a decade in the role. Bourne, a Christian County native who’s led the hospital since 2015, has announced she’ll retire on January 9th.

Bourne says her decision comes after careful thought about the next chapter in her life.

During her time at the helm, Bourne oversaw major growth at TMH, including construction of the hospital’s new, modern facility that opened in 2021. Under her leadership, TMH earned multiple state and national honors for patient care—among them, four-star quality ratings from both the National Rural Ratings System and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Her career with Memorial Health began back in 1989 at Springfield Memorial Hospital, where she worked in food and nutrition, patient transport and patient safety before becoming CEO in Taylorville. She also received the system’s prestigious Woody Hester Legacy of Leadership Award in 2011.

Bourne, a registered dietitian, holds degrees from Western Illinois University and Eastern Illinois University. She also serves on the board of the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network.  She says things have changed a lot over the last 40 years. 

She says she is excited for the culture that is being built at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. As for what comes next, Bourne says she’s looking forward to the future. She also shared her gratitude for the people she’s worked with throughout her career.

Memorial Health’s Dolan Dalpoas praised Bourne’s impact, calling her a “visionary, inspiring leader” who kept TMH grounded in its mission to serve Christian County.

Bourne says she’s confident the hospital is strong and in good hands moving forward.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is becoming more widely used than in years past for those undergoing menopause and other body-related transitions.  An analysis by Precedent Research shows the HRT market is expected to grow by nearly 70% over the coming nine years.  The rise in use is attributed to an increased understanding of bodily functions, the treatment itself, and how it has evolved. 

One major change over the years has been the introduction of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).  Kate Cervi, a nurse practitioner at Springfield Clinic Taylorville, says BHRT is designed with hormones similar to those of the human body.

Brenda Hemann is another nurse practitioner at Springfield Clinic Taylorville.  She says BHRT and even simply HRT are meant to counter the many signs of hormonal imbalance that can happen during menopause and other health-related events. 

Bioidentical HRT is believed to be generally more effective than the traditional, synthetic HRT, but there are risks in certain situations. 

Like most prescription drugs and other treatments, there are risks with any form of HRT.  However, they are typically based on individual health factors.

More information on Springfield Clinic is available at www.springfieldclinic.com.

Kate Cervi and Brenda Hemann appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville School Board of Education will meet Tuesday evening with a public hearing on the District’s proposed 2025 tax levy. This hearing gives residents one more chance to look over the numbers and ask questions before the levy goes to a final vote later this month. The hearing begins at 5:45 p.m.. Copies of the levy and certificate will be available during the hearing, and the district expects to finalize and file the levy with the County Clerk by the state’s late-December deadline.

The regular board meeting will start immediately afterward or at 6 p.m., picking up with visitor comments, a moment of silence for longtime educator and coach Don Williams, and routine consent items. From there, the board will move into presentations from two groups. The FFA program is scheduled to share updates on recent student involvement and upcoming projects, and Graham and Hyde will brief the board on district facilities work, including progress on plans connected to the upcoming renovation cycle. Both presentations are expected to help set the stage for several decisions that will follow in the new business portion of the meeting.

Much of the night’s attention will center on new business that includes reviewing the NPT Special Education Cooperative, and voting on the joint agreement that allows the district to continue its partnership with them. Members will also take up the Annual ‘Statement of Affairs,’ consider the North Renovation Plan, and confirm the district’s beginning fund balance requirement along with disclosure of cash reserves ahead of the upcoming levy adoption. A vote on the 2025 tax levy is also on the agenda, marking the final step following the earlier hearing.

Rounding out new business is a first reading of PRESS Update 120 and a proposed grant application to the Illinois State Board of Education for a school maintenance project. The request would support new key fob access systems and updated lighting for the Taylorville High School football field.

The meeting is expected to conclude with an executive session to handle personnel matters. Regional Radio News will have updates following tonight’s meeting.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is bringing back its Frosty Footsteps challenge in January.  The initiative is designed to inspire community members to engage in physical activity.  TMH uses prizes and a new app to enhance the experience for participants and allow them to connect with and encourage each other.  Not only does the Frosty Footsteps challenge create friendly competition, but it’s intended to improve local health outcomes. 

The challenge runs from January 1-31.  Jay Boulanger, Community Health Coordinator at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, expects participation to be similar to past years.

Starting this year, participants will log their mileage using the Pacer app.  The app allows members to interact with each other as they accumulate miles. 

There are prizes on offer, as well.  Anyone who walks at least 100 miles as part of the program wins a free T-shirt. 

The Frosty Footsteps challenge was inspired in part by TMH’s findings in their most recent Community Health Needs Assessment.  They complete this assessment every three years. 

More information on Taylorville Memorial Hospital is available at memorial.health/tmh.

Jay Boulanger appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Shelby Electric Cooperative is alerting members to a planned power outage scheduled for Tuesday morning.

The cooperative says crews will take a line section out of the Taylorville Substation beginning at 8 a.m. on December 9. The outage is expected to last about four hours and will affect 61 members, from line locations T0030-10 through T0064C-02.

JF Electric contracting crews will be on site replacing several utility poles. Shelby Electric says doing the work all at once will help avoid multiple smaller outages that would have been required later.

Members impacted should have already received SmartHub alerts and automated calls on Friday.

For more information, members can contact Shelby Electric at 217-774-3986.

Anyone looking for fun events in Shelbyville in 2026 can mark their calendars for several already.  These happenings look to take advantage of holidays, warmer weather in the summer, and the goal of supporting local businesses.  The Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce is behind these efforts and is looking to implement new member incentives in the coming year to attract more membership and involvement.

The newly announced events for 2026 begin on Valentine’s Day.  Katalyn Dragovan is the director of the Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce, says it’s a way to enjoy the night out with a loved one while exploring member businesses. 

The Chamber looks to tie in even more businesses to its next event: the Retail Trail in April.

The attention then turns to Main Street all summer long for the Makers and Growers Market and the Main Street Mingle.  Dragovan says the Chamber is expanding the range of dates for these markets. 

The Chamber of Commerce is looking ahead also in terms of how they open up participation of businesses.  Many events will soon be restricted to only members.

More information on the Greater Shelbyville Chamber Of Commerce is at www.shelbyvillechamber.com. 

Katalyn Dragovan appeared as a guest on the WTIM Shelbyville Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is now past a high-demand November.  It’s normally their busiest month of the year, but this occasion was anything but ordinary.  The federal government shutdown lingered into November, and so too did the lack of funding from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for millions of recipients.  Staff at the pantry are now looking ahead to the December holidays and in search of donations and volunteers to help feed the community.

Amy Hagen is a co-coordinator at the Taylorville Food Pantry.  She says the heavy November turnout they prepared for was almost exactly what they received.

Pam Moses, another co-coordinator, says even with the holidays, December is a quieter month.  Still, there is demand for ham and other meats for dinners. 

The food pantry is always in search of volunteers.  Anyone with a truck is especially encouraged to help, as they can transport large volumes of food. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is taking part in the Food Rescue program, where they accept excess food items from stores, restaurants, and other businesses.  This helps keep the pantry’s shelves stocked and reduces food waste. 

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 (217) 820-2651.

Amy Hagen and Pam Moses appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

A Taylorville Memorial Hospital leader has been recognized among the top young healthcare professionals in the state.

Stephen Salisbury, pharmacy manager at TMH, has been named one of the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network’s “4 Under 40” leaders for 2025. The award honors four emerging hospital leaders each year whose work is helping transform patient care across their organizations.

TMH President and CEO Kim Bourne says Salisbury’s leadership has strengthened not only the hospital’s pharmacy department, but the entire organization, adding that he is “incredibly deserving” of the recognition.

Salisbury joined TMH in 2017. Since then, he has overseen projects aimed at improving patient safety and care quality, and he has worked closely with teams throughout the hospital and the Memorial Health system.

Outside the hospital, Salisbury is deeply involved in the Taylorville community, serving on the boards of the Tornado Wrestling Foundation and Christian County PeeWee Basketball. He also coaches youth baseball, basketball and football, and has led sports skills camps at the Christian County YMCA.

Salisbury says he’s honored to receive the award and credits his colleagues for making the work meaningful and enjoyable.

Shelbyville and surrounding communities are alight with holiday events throughout December.  From walks through farms to visits from Santa, there is something for everyone.  The Shelbyville Office of Tourism does its part to promote the various happenings for the benefit of organizers and attendees alike. 

Freddie Fry is the executive director of the Shelbyville Office of Tourism.  She says this week is full of activities, including movies at the Roxy Theater and the Festival of Lights.

If you are hosting an event in or around Shelbyville, the Office of Tourism wants to know.  The events are then listed online and on flyers across the city. 

Area churches are also welcome to submit event schedules.  Around Christmas, the office typically does not list them otherwise due to the sheer amount of activity. 

More information on the Shelbyville Office of Tourism is available at www.shelbyvilleillinois.net. 

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

Taylorville Community Credit Union has officially opened voting for its 12th annual “Stop. Shop. Vote!” program. The contest will award eight graduating seniors, two each from Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield, and Pana high schools, with $1,000 scholarships this spring to help with trade school, community college, or university expenses.

Shoppers can cast votes now through February 28th, 2026. For every 10 dollars spent at participating local businesses, customers earn one vote to support the registered senior of their choice.

TCCU President Will Perkins says the program continues to be a win-win for students and the local economy. Not only do seniors get a chance at extra financial support for their education, but the program also drives customers into locally owned businesses and keeps sales tax revenue in the community.

This year’s lineup of participating Taylorville businesses includes several returning favorites, along with two newcomers: Legendary Small Town Trading Co. and Taylorville Home Source.

All participating businesses will have posters, ballots, and ballot boxes available, and an independent agency will handle the vote counting. Winners will be announced in the spring.

For more information about TCCU or membership eligibility in Christian, Shelby, or Montgomery counties, visit TCCU.org.
 

The Taylorville Memorial Foundation is putting new lifesaving technology into the hands of local first responders, thanks to a donation from the Butterfield family.

The longtime foundation donors recently shifted funds originally designated for agronomy scholarships to purchase two LUCAS Chest Compression Systems—one for the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Emergency Department and one for the Taylorville Fire Department.

Foundation director Katie Williams says the Butterfield family wanted to make sure their gift was meeting the community’s most immediate needs. She says when applications for the John H. Butterfield Agriscience and Nutrition Scholarship dropped off, Ann Butterfield Kramer asked how the money could better serve the community, and was thrilled to support equipment that honors her father’s legacy.

The LUCAS device provides consistent, automated chest compressions and can continue CPR during transport, reducing fatigue for first responders and improving safety by allowing crews to stay seated and belted.

TMH Chief Nursing Officer Eli Heicher says the technology helps the emergency department treat patients quickly and effectively by delivering high-quality compressions without the risk of human error.

For more information about supporting the Taylorville Memorial Foundation, visit Memorial Health online.
 

In a strategic move to bolster grid resilience and reduce storm-related outages, Ameren Illinois and Ameren Missouri are installing composite utility poles manufactured by Trident Industries at their Granite City facility. These fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) poles, branded as TridentStrong™, are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions while offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional wooden poles.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over aging infrastructure and the increasing frequency of severe weather events. Unlike conventional wood poles, Trident’s composite poles are designed to bend without breaking, significantly reducing the risk of cascading failures during storms.

"By installing these stronger composite poles at key locations, Ameren is able to enhance reliability for our customers, especially when severe weather strikes," said Ben Lynch, director of distribution operating for Ameren Missouri. "This strategic approach helps minimize disruptions by limiting the scale of damage and making restoration much quicker.”

Ameren strategically installs composite poles every fifth pole, alternating with four wood poles, to storm-harden its power lines. Their multi-layer construction provides superior strength and flexibility, making them ideal for high-risk areas across Ameren’s service territory. Ameren has set more than 7,000 composite poles across its service territory.

“Ameren’s adoption of TridentStrong poles reflects a forward-thinking approach to grid modernization,” said Riley Adams, senior manager of electric programs for Ameren Illinois. “These poles are not only more durable but also easier to install and maintain, thanks to factory pre-drilled holes and internal ground wires that deter copper theft and simplify setup.”

The Granite City facility plays a pivotal role in this transformation. With manufacturing capabilities tailored to meet utility demands, Trident Industries ensures rapid deployment of poles in various profiles and diameters.

This partnership also aligns with broader industry trends. Creative Composites Group, which acquired Trident Industries in 2024, has been expanding its footprint to support utilities nationwide in their grid-hardening efforts.

As Ameren continues to invest in infrastructure upgrades, the use of composite poles marks a significant step toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future for communities across Illinois and Missouri.

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

Students of the month are as follows: 5th Grade Meacham Wyzard, 6th Grade Dilynne Declerck, 7th Grade Linus Melton, 8th Grade Carl Holloway. Congratuliations!!!

5TH GRADE MEACHAM WYZARD; 6TH GRADE DILYNNE DECLERCK; 7TH GRADE LINUS MELTON; 8TH GRADE CARL HOLLOWAY

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is encouraging the community to start the new year on the right foot with its “Frosty Footsteps” walking challenge. The free, month-long event runs January 1st through the 31st.

Participants can walk indoors at the Christian County YMCA, which will open its track to non-members at no cost throughout January, or head outside whenever weather allows. Walkers will log their miles through the free Pacer app by scanning a QR code and tracking steps on their phone or smartwatch.

Anyone who reaches 100 miles during the month will earn a special “Frosty Footsteps” T-shirt. One past participant, Aspen Evrley of Taylorville, logged more than 400 miles during a similar challenge in May and says the program keeps people motivated and brings the community together.

Nearly 200 people, from high school students to seniors, took part in two TMH walking challenges last year. The hospital began hosting the events after identifying heart disease and stroke as priority health needs in its 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.

You can register online through the Pacer app. For more information, contact Jay Boulanger at 217-707-5258.
 

Hospital Sisters Health System says new artificial intelligence tools are helping doctors catch lung cancer earlier, sometimes before patients even know anything is wrong.

HSHS is using technology from Eon Health, an AI platform that scans radiologists’ notes and flags anything unusual that wasn’t the original reason for the scan. Those “incidental findings” are helping doctors diagnose lung cancer at much earlier stages.

Early detection is critical. The American Cancer Society says lung cancer has a five-year survival rate of just 27 percent. But when it’s caught early, that number jumps to 67 percent.

Branden Richardson, HSHS System Director of Radiology, says the technology is making a real difference. He says patients are being diagnosed earlier and faster, and that combining HSHS’ care with the AI platform is “a game-changer.”

Since HSHS began using the system in March of 2022, about one in every thousand patients with incidental findings has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Officials say they’ve seen it work at both large hospitals and smaller rural facilities.

At HSHS St. John’s in Springfield, a scan originally ordered to look for blood clots uncovered lung nodules that later tested positive for cancer. At St. Elizabeth’s in O’Fallon, AI flagged two nodules that were also confirmed to be cancerous after follow-up tests, and at HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital in Shelbyville, the system caught an eight-millimeter nodule during treatment for a fall, a nodule that later proved to be cancer.

HSHS says early detection can mean more effective and less invasive treatment options for patients. Anyone concerned about their risk is encouraged to talk with their primary care provider about lung cancer screening. After receiving a referral, appointments can be made at HSHS locations by calling 217-757-6565.

More information is available at HSHS.org.

A new antique store has opened in Taylorville off the Taylorville square and the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce welcomed them earlier this week.  C&G Through the Years opened at 108 E. Market Street and held their ribbon cutting late Tuesday evening. Toby Huntington spoke a little about the store saying that her son, Chris Grinkey has always collected antiques, and decided one day to open a store. 

Huntington says they have a lot of different things inside the store including some products from the 1800s.

Find out more about deals and sales on their Facebook Page “C&G Through the Years.”  They are open Thursday through Saturday 10-6 PM and on Sunday from 10-3 PM. 

This time of year is rife with gift shopping and charitable giving, both major breeding grounds for cybersecurity threats.  From phishing to “vishing” and social engineering, scammers are looking for ways to access online accounts, credit card numbers, and other personal and sensitive information.  Experts urge people to be aware of these threats and know how to keep their information – and ultimately money – away from bad actors. 

Phishing is the umbrella term for many types of scams.  Valerie Belusko, Community and Economic Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, says Phishing is when scammers reach out appearing to be or represent a known entity or some credible organization.

Cybersecurity experts and business email systems often urge users not to click on links from unverified senders.  This is because doing so may trigger scripts that infect systems with malware. 

One subset of phishing is called “vishing” and takes place during phone calls.  In this instance, scammers use a variety of tricks to compel the potential victim to say something that then leads to theft. 

Another form of scamming – “social engineering” – centers around pure interpersonal communication.  This is when a bad actor looks to take advantage of someone else’s good nature to gain information and access needed to commit theft. 

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

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

Schools in Taylorville are using a new curriculum for reading and phonics with lower grade levels.  The goal is to improve literacy outcomes, which have been worse than school district officials would like to see.  The curriculum combines in-class activities and frequent assessments with technological integration, and faculty and staff members are calling for parents to do their part to continue the learning at home. 

Cara Thomas is an instructional coach for Taylorville CUSD #3 and played a major role in developing the new curriculum.  She says it aims to keep all teachers and classrooms on the same pace in its implementation. 

In the time the curriculum has been in place, teachers and administrators are seeing notable progress in learning.  They use pre- and post-tests to measure outcomes in students.

Dawn Reiser is the school district’s technology integrationist for kindergarten through fourth grade.  She says the district is using robotics and other hands-on tools as part of the classroom experience with the new curriculum.

The use of technology goes well beyond the English language arts courses.  Tammy Reindl, the technology integrationist for grades five through twelve, says classes at those levels are using robotics even more routinely.

More information on Taylorville CUSD #3 is available at tcusd3.org.

Tammy Reindl, Dawn Reiser, and Cara Thomas appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our monthly Taylorville Schools Good News Segment. 

The Social Security Administration is touting a refurbished website.  Visitors to www.ssa.gov will see the site’s various features in different positions from before.  Officials say the changes place the features most important to beneficiaries front and center.  This allows them to access their accounts and other needed information more easily. 

Jack Myers from the SSA speaks on the website.  He adds that the website puts links and other resources for accessing assistance in more conspicuous locations than before. 

Americans celebrated Veterans Day last month.  Myers reminds veterans to consider benefits provided both by Social Security and the Department of Veterans Affairs, as enrollment for each agency is handled separately. 

Myers also reminds those who undergo name changes in circumstances such as marriage to update that information with the SSA.  The process for doing so varies based on a number of factors, but the website can guide visitors to next steps.

Open enrollment for Medicare runs through this Sunday.  Eligible patients under Medicare should make any desired changes to their plan before then in order to be under their new plan at the start of 2026. 

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

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

Kemmerer Village – the Presbyterian child-care agency in Assumption – is calling for community support in its latest fundraising campaign.  They are hoping to raise $250,000 in the coming years, and contributors wanting to maximize their impact have a great opportunity to do so.  That’s because a separate donor will double-match all donations through this Sunday.  The location is also preparing for Christmas, as they hope to make the holiday magical for children in their care who remain on the campus. 

Schäles Nagle is the executive director at Kemmerer Village.  She says the fundraising campaign is geared towards revitalizing their summer camp, Camp Carew.

While most kids who live on campus return to their families for Christmas, some do not.  For those who stay on campus, Kemmerer Village aims to make Christmas as enjoyable as possible for them with food, presents, and more. 

In some cases, a child may remain on campus while their family visits.  The family can stay at a cottage on campus, which allows them to connect with the child if suitable. 

As another component of Kemmerer Village’s Christmas happenings, they hold an annual Christmas Extravaganza.  It’s part of how the organization supplies and provides gifts for foster children it works with. 

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

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

A structure fire Tuesday afternoon caused significant damage to a home on North Webster Street in Taylorville. Taylorville firefighters were called to 1347 North Webster just after 4:30 p.m. Crews arrived to find the front porch of a one-story home fully engulfed, with flames spreading into the main level.

Firefighters quickly deployed two attack lines and made what officials described as a rapid, aggressive knockdown, stopping the fire from reaching the attic and preventing further damage. The home was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported.

The Taylorville Fire Department thanked Owaneco and Stonington fire crews, along with Taylorville Police, for providing mutual aid on scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The holiday lights in Kitchell Park are now on for visitors to see!  The many volunteers who helped with the setup did so ahead of the heavy snow over the weekend.  Crews helped clear the way before the lights came on for the first time this season.  The tour has new features this season, including first-time displays and lights synchronized to music.  The lights are set to be up through the rest of the month. 

Melissa Miller is the president of Pana Pride, which organizes the lights tour.  She says the setup process took up much of November. 

There are over 175 displays this year.  They include a light show, where the lights move and flash to the rhythm of music visitors can listen to from their cars. 

Anyone who is still interested in getting involved can volunteer in the donation booths.  They have plenty of openings in a variety of slots. 

Separate from the holiday lights, Pana Pride recently held its first mother-son dance.  The event was meant to compliment the long-standing father-daughter dance.  Miller says the mother-son dance was a success, and they plan to do it again in a year’s time. 

More information on Pana Pride is available at www.panapride.org. 

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

A U.S. Senate Candidate is rolling out a new economic proposal to help small businesses get established during their most challenging early years. His plan introduces a “Five-Year Federal Tax Holiday” for new small businesses. Casey Chlebek, a Republican vying for a Senate seat, says the idea is meant to give entrepreneurs room to grow while encouraging investment in Illinois communities struggling to maintain local businesses. The proposal comes as many towns continue working to rebuild commercial activity after years of closures and population shifts during the COVID pandemic.

Under the plan, qualifying new businesses earning under five million dollars annually would pay no federal income tax during their first five taxable years. The tax-free period would automatically extend to seven years for businesses opened in high-poverty ZIP codes, rural distressed counties, ‘Opportunity Zones,’ and other areas that have seen long-term economic challenges. His campaign argues that giving owners this breathing room could draw new activity to main streets that have thinned out since 2020.

Chlebek points to the loss of more than 60,000 small businesses in Illinois in recent years as evidence that early-stage costs have become overwhelming. As he travels the state, he says he continues to hear from people who want to open a business but feel discouraged by federal requirements and upfront financial pressure. He believes that eliminating early federal taxes would make it easier for residents to invest directly in their communities.

The proposal also includes a few added features meant to simplify the process for new owners. It calls for a one-page annual federal filing for qualifying businesses and includes a reinvestment credit for owners who put their early profits back into hiring or expansion. Chlebek is encouraging counties to participate voluntarily by offering matching incentives if they streamline permitting.

Learn more by visiting www.caseyforsenate.com.

A new collegiate, wood-bat baseball club is coming to Decatur next Summer but they need the help of residents in their newfound home. As the team begins preparations for next season, one key piece to their identity is missing: a name. Now the community is being called to play a role in the shaping of Decatur’s newest franchise. Fans can visit the team’s website to submit their ideas, and the club hopes the final choice will reflect the history and hometown pride had for Decatur.

Alongside the naming effort, the club is opening season-ticket sales for the 2026 inaugural season. Supporters who want to be part of the team’s first year can already reserve their seats, giving early backers a chance to enjoy those same seats, in future seasons. Team representatives say the early ticket launch is designed to build momentum and give residents a sense of ownership as the franchise takes shape.

The organization is also planning a winter event before the first pitch is thrown. A ‘Hot Stove Social’ is set for Thursday, February 5th, 2026, and will feature longtime Chicago Cubs broadcaster Pat Hughes as the evening’s special guest. The Decatur Baseball Club will announce the venue closer to the date, but tickets are already available through the team website, giving fans an early opportunity to be part of the celebration.

More details on the naming campaign, season tickets, and the ‘Hot Stove Social’ can be found at www.decaturbaseball.com.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital has named physical therapist assistant Angie Hill as its Colleague of the Month for November.

Hill is praised by both patients and coworkers for her passion, knowledge, and the quality of care she provides. Hospital leadership says she’s known for communicating clearly across departments and for preparing patients well for their next step, whether they’re heading home or moving to another care facility.

One nominator said Hill “exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding team member,” adding that her dedication and expertise make her an invaluable resource within the hospital.

Hill has been with Taylorville Memorial Hospital since 2023.
 

Taylorville officials are looking ahead to what they expect will be a busy 2026.  Construction in and around the square, along with Industrial Park development, will be front of mind for them.  They are also reflecting on the past year, which has also seen many projects as well as the seeds being planted for the future.  As for more immediate plans, the city is preparing to host the annual Christmas parade, with plenty to offer to attendees. 

Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry spoke on the year ahead.  He says grant money will help finance much of what is to come.

As for 2025, Mayor Barry praises the city’s various departments for functioning smoothly throughout the year.

The Christmas parade is set for this Saturday evening.  Dr. Rick Del Valle, a physician with HSHS Medical Group who is set to retire this month, will serve as the grand marshal. 

More information on the City of Taylorville is available at www.taylorville.net.

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

The Christian County Genealogy Society wants to help you find information and artifacts on ancestors in the area.  Their various programs and initiatives help them reach the community and create and discover new connections.  With the 250th anniversary of the United States’s independence approaching, they are starting a project to honor Illinois-based veterans.

Vauna Crowder is the Vice President of the Christian County Genealogy Society.  She says Christian County has a stronger historical connection to military service than some may realize. 

The CCGS is putting new technology to use that digitizes records from years of local newspapers.  This allows people to search information more easily than from scanning through long stretches of microfilm.

This all comes after the Society’s regular programming, including Family Research Day.  They rely heavily on donations from the public to finance their operations. 

More information on the Christian County Genealogical Society is available at www.christiancountyilgenealogicalsociety.org. 

Vauna Crowder appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County YMCA is in winter mode, focusing their events on the pool area and basketball court.  The youth basketball program is halfway over, and the program has helped young players begin to develop their skills in the sport.  The Y is also looking to maximize its use of the pool area for special program.  One upcoming event provides a way for kids to stay active, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy the new space. 

Mike Eisenbarth is a director of facilities and programming at the Christian County YMCA.  He says the youth basketball program is for kids in first through fourth grade and focuses on the fundamentals.

The Y will host a basketball tournament for fourth graders.  Dates and times are yet to be decided.

As for the pool, the YMCA is preparing for the Reindeer River Run, which again is scheduled for December 21 from noon to 3 p.m.  Santa Claus will be there, albeit in a more summer-appropriate outfit. 

Eisenbarth praises the new pool space and the contractors who helped work on it.  He views it as an investment in their efforts to put on fun events for the community.

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

Mike Eisenbarth appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville City Council met on Monday evening briefly to discuss business, review ordinance, and go over committee reports. All aldermen were present except for Larry Budd and Megan Bryant. Several motions were tabled including motions concerning the business district agreement between Taylorville and 111 W Poplar Street, 141 E Main Cross Street, and 1503 W Spresser Street. The council approved an ordinance authorizing the annual tax abatement. Six motions concerning motor fuel tax funds and how they are spent, was also tabled as per recommendation from the City Attorney, Rocci Romano. 

The city needs a little more time to figure out the best way to move forward approving these funds and where they are going. 

A motion to authorize and allocate the use of non-home-rule for concrete repair on the South Main Project including statutory bidding process failed to pass as it needed six members to vote yes and the motion failed with a 5-1 vote. 

A motion concerning updating the city code to extend non-bargaining residency to a 10 mile radius passed, however Mayor Bruce Barry spoke out urging city employees especially management to be local. 

Another motion concerning the final payment for the Taylorville Food Center Project was also tabled as the documents needed some improvements. The city continues work on the annual audit and Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry  recognized the anniversary of the 2018 Taylorville tornado gave his updates. 

The next city council meeting is set for December 15th. 
 

The Taylorville City Council meets Monday night, and several major spending items and policy changes are on the agenda.

A large portion of the meeting will focus on infrastructure, including more than a million dollars in Motor Fuel Tax allocations tied to the West Main Cross Street project. The council will consider a $509,000 engineering agreement with Benton Engineering, along with additional MFT funds for construction and for the city’s 2026 general maintenance work. Another proposal would allocate $150,000 in non–home-rule funds for concrete repairs along South Main.

Council members will also vote on updates to three separate business district agreements involving properties on West Poplar, East Main Cross, and West Spresser. The annual tax abatement ordinance is also up for approval.

In other business, the Ordinance Committee is recommending a change to the employee residency rules, expanding the allowable distance for non-bargaining employees to a 10-mile radius. The Finance Committee is asking the council to approve the final payment of roughly $129,000 for the Taylorville Food Center project.

The council will also review the treasurer’s report and nearly one million dollars in monthly bills.

Monday night’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Taylorville Municipal Building.

The Christian County Historical Society is celebrating the replacement of the former courthouse’s roof.  The organization hosted a ribbon-cutting to mark the occasion and recognize the work and generosity of Effingham-based Whitney Roofing, which completed the project for free.  CCHS is also promoting their upcoming ham-and-bean drive-thru event, which they hope will help bring in funds.  This comes in place of the Historical Society’s annual Christmas dinner – scheduled for December 5 and 6 – which has been canceled.

The ham-and-bean event is scheduled for Sunday, January 4 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or until the food runs out.  Jodi Heberling, co-president of the Christian County Historical Society, says this event returns after a brief hiatus. 

Regarding the former courthouse’s roof, the replacement project took just two days to complete.  The previous roof had only been on for nine years, but the contractors this time around say their product will be more durable.

This all comes after CCHS’s Persimmon Party at the start of November.  Heberling was pleased with the turnout, including some attendees traveling from a long way out. 

Find out more about the CCHS at www.christiancountyhistorical.com.  More information is also available at their Facebook page.

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

Hillsboro Police say two men are in custody after an attempted ATM burglary Wednesday night. Authorities say the department received an ATM alarm around 7:30 p.m. at Carlinville National Bank on South Main Street. When officers arrived, everything appeared normal. But bank security later discovered the machine had been opened and tampered with.

Bank staff reviewed security images and provided photos of a suspect vehicle. Hillsboro Police entered the description into a nearby license plate reader system, which captured a plate that did not match the vehicle and was believed to be stolen.

The information was shared with surrounding agencies, and a Litchfield Police officer later spotted a matching vehicle at the Mr. Fuel truck stop on Corvette Drive. With help from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, officers arrested one suspect at the scene. A second suspect ran from the area, jumped a fence near RP Lumber, and was eventually found hiding in a warehouse.

Police arrested 24-year-old Erik Frank Cordero Gomez and 33-year-old Jose Salas-Lozada. Both were booked into the Montgomery County Jail on charges of attempted burglary and possession of burglary tools. Gomez also faces a resisting arrest charge. Police say Salas-Lozada was wanted on a federal warrant for aggravated battery to a federal officer.

Both men are believed to be from Venezuela and are in the country without documentation. Hillsboro Police say the investigation is ongoing with help from multiple local, state, and federal agencies.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital is celebrating a positive evaluation from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).  They received a four-star rating out of five stars in the assessment, which is based on several overall components such as patient experience, effectiveness in care, and eventual health outcomes.  Few providers in the area have received this level of distinction or better, a circumstance which has seen some patients travel long distances to TMH for care.  Administrators are happy with the result but see room for improvement, as well. 

Kim Bourne is the President and CEO of Taylorville Memorial Hospital.  She says CMS uses a complex formula to evaluate providers on dozens of factors.

Each area of evaluation receives its own rating from one star to five.  TMH especially takes pride in its five-star rating for cleanliness, something few providers in the state have achieved.

Bourne adds that the high rating on cleanliness is relevant not just for the experience of patients and visitors but also for keeping them and others healthy. 

Administrators and staff at the hospital are looking to earn a five-star rating in a future evaluation, however tall the order is. 

More information on Taylorville Memorial Hospital is available at memorial.health/tmh.

Kim Bourne appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County Board hammered out their budget last week and for the first time in a while, the board Chairman says he’s impressed with how smooth the procedure went. Bryan Sharp, Board Chairman for Christian County, says that he can’t praise his department heads enough for their hard work this year on the budget. 

One big area that Sharp wanted to see better numbers was from the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, which has one of the biggest parts of the county budget.  Sharp said that he wanted departments to be honest about their needs, and not say higher numbers so they could “negotiate.”

The board met last week for their monthly meeting. Bryan Sharp also says while there is some work to be done, he’s very happy to be back in their normal area in the courthouse.  The board had to conduct their meetings on the third floor in the actual court room due to a remodel being conducted.