About 40 people attended a Business After Hours at Hart Media Group’s Radio Station in Taylorville on Thursday evening, hosted by the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and Hart Media Group.  The Hart Media Group had prizes and giveaways, including St. Louis Cardinals Tickets, tickets for Zac Brown Band, and a Digital Sales Package.  

Chamber guests had the chance to be on the radio, create a promo, and even request songs.  Station Owner Matt Hart and Executive Vice President Bobbie Dean gave station tours showing the various studios and gave a behind-the-scenes look at how “radio works,” allowing people to see many of the day-to-day happenings at the radio station.  There was also food and refreshments served. 

As always, stay tuned to taylorvilledailynews.com for all the latest up-to-date news and information.  

Local students from the area were nominated at the 2026 Student Art Show at Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC), now on display through May 7. Among those local award recipients were students from Taylorville, Springfield, Rochester, Raymond, and Chatham.

The art will be viewable from 8 AM to 5 PM in the Trutter Museum/James S. Murray Gallery, located on the upper floor of Menard Hall at the Springfield campus, found at 5250 Shepherd Road.

During the reception, games from the game systems and design classes were available for play. Films and animations from the film and special effects class were displayed on a monitor outside the gallery. Inside the gallery, website design from the responsive web design class was displayed.

The art faculty added two extra awards, the Tessellations and Bespoke awards, for this year’s awards ceremony to spotlight unique student work. Award winners were announced at the opening reception on Thursday, April 23. 

The artists and their award-winning art pieces are as follows:

Drawing: Jaxey Lindholm of Taylorville for “Self-Portrait”

Photography: Ashlyn Millburg of Raymond for “Tunnel Vision”

Digital Illustration: Lydia Strawn of Rochester for “I’m Working on Myself”

Best in Show: DeAndre Cameron of Springfield for “Gardens”

Painting: Maggie Suarez of Springfield for “Functional Frieze”

3-D Design: Abby Oller of Springfield for “Lady Liberty”

Art History Award: Ali Higginson of Springfield

Other awarded students included Em Calcara from Athens for graphic design, Marshall Victor of Pleasant Plains for film and animation, Apollo Johnson of Chatham for UI and UX, and Ethan Chon from Chatham for game design.

As for the two new awards, the Tessellations Award went to Hannah Scherf of Springfield for the “highest density in decisions” in creating a self-portrait by collaging tiny pieces of magazine for “Eyes Full of Stars.”

The Bespoke Award was given to Hailey Higgins of Chatham for an “incredibly meticulous body of work” in placing mosaic stones over a 3D form to create her art piece called “My Body.”

Emily Webber of Auburn was honored with the Alexis Wernsing Pinnacle Award. The winner is chosen by the LLCC art faculty and goes to the student who best embodies Wernsing’s qualities of striving for the best in all academic endeavors.

More information on LLCC can be found at www.llcc.edu.

Memorial Health and Visit Springfield have announced the continuation of their partnership with the Memorial Health Golf Championship.

Visit Springfield will allocate free access to visitors for all four rounds of this year's Korn Ferry Tour competition.

The tournament is set to open up on Thursday, June 25th, and run up to the 28th. The tournament will be hosted at the Panther Creek Country Club.

Kate Peters, the Executive Director at Memorial Health, said that she is excited to welcome fans back for another week of golf. Peters also mentioned that at this year's event, fans will now see new on-course viewing areas as well as an enhanced focus on family-friendly activities. The event will also remain free and accessible to all who wish to attend.

Scott Dahl, the Director of the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, said that they will continue their commitment to bring more visitors to Springfield, and that this partnership, between Memorial Health and Visit Springfield, is a reflection of that commitment.

To attend the tournament, go online to memorialhealthchampionship.com to register for your free tickets.

Upgraded tickets to the J&J Gaming VIP Lounge, with premium views of both the 9th and 18th greens, as well as all-inclusive food and beverages, can also be purchased.

The Country Financial Volunteer Program still has openings as well. Those who volunteer can take advantage of an array of benefits, including meals while working the event, tournament-branded apparel, and the opportunity to play the host course after the tournament. 

For information on volunteering and how to sign up, CLICK HERE

For further information or questions, call the tournament office at (217) 670-2910 or go online to memorialhealthchampionship.com

The Macon County Conservation District is hosting a free, hands-on workday to remove invasive bush honeysuckle on Saturday, May 2nd, from 9 AM to noon at the Griswold Conservation Area in Blue Mound.

Officials say bush honeysuckle spreads rapidly and crowds out native plants, blocks sunlight, and slows forest regeneration.

The plants have shallow root systems and can increase soil erosion in highly impacted areas.

The bright red berries that grow on bush honeysuckle provide low-nutrient food for Illinois’ native birds.

Opposite of what the native birds need, the bush honeysuckle berries are high in carbohydrates and low in the necessary fat content that the native high-energy berry plants contain. Those nutrients are needed for the birds to migrate when the time comes.

By removing this highly invasive plant, volunteers help to restore healthier habitats and support local biodiversity. 

Participants will work alongside the District’s natural resources team. Gloves and tools will be provided, and volunteers must be 16 or older.

To sign up, contact Mitch Lovgren by email at MLovgren@MaconCCD.org or call or text
217-519-9926.

A Pana motel is working to increase its offerings of unique hospitality experiences for its visitors.  Lake Lawn Inn on U.S. Route 51 offers specially themed suites among the spaces guests can stay in, and more suites with new themes are on the way.

Jared Cox is in his third year of owning the motel, a complex which previously served as apartment living.  He says the space for some of the units allowed for the themed conversions.

The hotel has space- and pirate ship-themed suites on the way.  Construction on these suites fell behind but they are expected to be completed in the coming week.

Cox bought the motel in part to provide something memorable for kids, which is something he felt the area lacked before then. 

More information on Lake Lawn Inn is available at www.lakelawninn.com.

Jared Cox appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

When seniors at South Fork High School assemble for graduation on Friday, May 22, four of them will address their peers from the podium.  Angelina Ippolito and Bella Sapetti earned the title of valedictorians, with Autumn Hobbs and Alyvia Mulvaney being named salutatorians.  The four received their honors based primarily on their academic performances.

For the valedictorians, their academic work has extended beyond the classroom, as they have taken dual-credit courses at Lincoln Land Community College.

The salutatorians say that strong organizational and time-management skills helped them achieve success and, along with it, their role at the ceremony. 

Both Ippolito and Sapetti had busy schedules with sports and other extracurricular and are looking to pursue careers in physical therapy and elementary education, respectively. 

Hobbs plans to study graphic design, while Mulvaney also has her sights set on elementary education. 

The graduating class consists of around 30 students, and the honorees view the graduation ceremony as a mini-class reunion before they go their separate ways. 

More information on South Fork School District 14 is available at www.southforkschools.com.

Autumn Hobbs, Angelina Ippolito, Alyvia Mulvaney, and Bella Sapetti appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

One community member is already a winner from the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce’s Dine, Drink, and Discover Taylorville & Beyond contest.  The promotion itself continues through the rest of this month, but as a surprise, the Chamber awarded a prize to Anita Brown for being the first person to submit a completed passport.  The “passport” is a brochure which select member businesses stamp for customers who present them while patronizing their businesses during March and April.  GTCC Ambassador Julie Mayer says there are still other prizes available for those who submit a completed passport before the end of the month.

Separate from the passport promotion, the Taylorville Moose Lodge has joined the Chamber as its newest member. 

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

Julie Mayer appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Those who have recently lost a family member may be eligible for survivor benefits from Social Security.  There are a number of criteria – mainly based on age, disability status, and relation with the deceased individual – which determine eligibility.  Generally, though, the deceased person must have worked and paid enough in Social Security taxes for benefits to be distributed.  The Social Security Administration’s Public Affairs Specialist Jack Myers says the agency’s website, www.ssa.gov, also lays out this information with respect to relatives who are still around. 

Myers adds that the would-be beneficiary’s income must be under a specific threshold – which currently is $24,480 per year – to receive the full benefits under this system. 

The children of a parent who has died can receive survivor benefits until they reach the age cap, which in most cases is 18 years. 

The one other scenario for receiving monthly benefits in this form involves parents dependent on a child of theirs for support.  If a child who provided at least a half of the parents’ support were to die, the parents may be eligible for survivor benefits.

There is also a one-time lump sum death payment of $255 available.  This is generally only available to the surviving spouse. 

As for how to apply for these benefits, the process for the monthly payments must generally be completed at a Social Security field office and cannot be done online.  The lump sum payment application, however, is available at www.ssa.gov/apply. 

More information on the Social Security Administration and these benefits is available at www.ssa.gov.

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

Two arrests were made recently in Springfield following an investigation into possible child endangerment. Springfield Police conducted a welfare check on April 15 after an anonymous caller reported unsafe conditions at a home on Catalina Lane.

The caller, who had dropped off a child earlier that day, reported observing trash throughout the house, a strong odor, little food, and said the child claimed she hadn’t eaten for two days.

Officers were dispatched around 8:39 pm and initially got no response. A naked toddler, who looked to be about 2 years old, appeared in a front window alone. A 12-year-old boy later answered the back door, telling officers he was home alone caring for his siblings, ages 2, 4, and 7, while their parents had been gone for over an hour.

The children were alone from shortly after 8 pm until after 9 pm, when the parents returned after being contacted by the 12-year-old boy. 

Authorities determined the home was unsafe and posed a serious risk to the children.

The parents, 35-year-old Kwain Karrick and 32-year-old Hollie Bracco, were both arrested on charges of child abandonment and endangering the life or health of a child.

Karrick and Bracco initially refused entry to the responding officers due to five reportedly aggressive dogs, but did allow officers inside after securing them.

Once inside, police found severe unsanitary conditions: large amounts of trash, food waste, insects, overwhelming odor, and feces on floors and surfaces. The kitchen had non-functioning appliances and bugs; the bedrooms had soiled beds. The bathroom was also reported to be unusable.

Every room reportedly contained piles of trash with no clean sleeping areas, and there was insufficient food or space for food preparation.

Authorities determined the home was unsafe and posed a serious risk to the children, which led to Karrick and Bracco’s arrest.

Details regarding court appearances have not been released.

Below is a picture of Kwain Karrick (Left) and Hollie Bracco (Right), courtesy of the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office

Organizers of the 2026 Assumption Fest have announced RD and Jill Waddington as this year’s Grand Marshals. The longtime Assumption residents will be honored during the festival, set for May 21st through the 23rd.

The Waddingtons have been married for 43 years and have deep roots in the community. They raised three children, Gabrielle, Riley, and Reece, and also honor the memory of their triplet daughters, Katie, Kamie, and Kirby. Today, they enjoy spending time with their four grandchildren.

For more than four decades, RD and Jill have farmed together, raising hogs and building a life centered on hard work and dedication. RD has also spent years serving the community, including time on the Assumption Fire and Ambulance board, church leadership roles, and more than 30 years on the Rural Township Board. He also coached youth sports while his children were growing up.

Jill has been equally active in community service. She’s been involved in the Assumption Woman’s Club, helped beautify Railroad Park, and served on founding boards for local programs including a preschool and the Raiders Snack Pack initiative for Central A&M students. She’s also supported numerous school and community events over the years.

Jill also played a key role in local emergency services, helping establish the Assumption Ambulance Service in 1982. She served as an EMT for 40 years, including 11 years as chief.

In addition, she has owned and operated The Needle’s Eye, a silk screening and embroidery business, for more than 40 years, supporting local schools, teams, and businesses. Festival organizers say the Waddingtons exemplify the spirit of Assumption through their lifelong commitment to service, family, and community.

Kiwanis members made welcome Matt Hauser at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Hauser is Principal and Administrator at Faith Bible Christian Academy in Rosamond.  FBCA, as it is more commonly referred to, is the only Kindergarten through 12th grade Christian School in Christian County.  Currently, over 100 students are enrolled at the school representing 20 different communities in Central Illinois.

The students, teachers and parents associated with FBCA promote and model a life of following Christ.  Hauser stated that “When Faith is a part of your life, you have better life outcomes”.  The mission of FBCA is to provide a comprehensive education that equips students to discover truth through the lens of Scripture, develop their potential for further educational pursuits, and conform to the image of Christ. 

FBCA provides a strong academic curriculum with small class size, focus on college preparation and dual credit courses.

You can find out more about Faith Bible Christian Academy by visiting their web page at https://www.fbcafalcons.org/ .

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 or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.com

Local eateries refresh food safety knowledge at The Christian County Health Department’s (CCHD) 4th annual Food Safety Workshop yesterday. During this workshop, owners and upper-level staff of various local restaurants and establishments that handle food met at the University of Illinois Extension office in Taylorville to learn about different types of emergencies, foodborne illness, and safety procedures.

Director of Environmental Health, Joe Torres, spoke to Hart Media Group at the workshop and said that a big factor in putting these workshops together is that the overwhelming list of rules and regulations that CCHD uses to assess establishments may not be fully known by local restaurant owners. Additionally, some restaurant owners may not be fully aware of certain illnesses or what to do in the event of an emergency.

One of the biggest lessons was on what the CCHD calls the “Big Six.” The Big Six is made up of the six foodborne illnesses that restaurants typically see. The illnesses that make up the Big Six are Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), nontyphoidal Salmonella, Salmonella Typhi, Shigella, Hepatitis A, and Norovirus.

Also discussed was what to do in the event of an emergency. It was, of course, recommended to always keep an emergency policies and procedures manual for such situations. Having this prepares your business to handle situations with on-duty staff in the event that you, as the manager or owner, are absent.

The types of emergencies a restaurant or food service establishment could potentially encounter include boil orders, floods, medical emergencies, power outages, and fires.

Some emergencies may cause you to fully close until further notice or require you to limit your operations. Examples of limited operations would be an emergency menu with recipes that don’t require the use of water while under an active boil order. Or, there could be a plumbing leak that floods a portion of the kitchen or freezer, causing you to close until the area is dried and completely cleaned.

Christian County Health Administrator Dr. Chad Anderson said how important it is to keep food safety knowledge up to date and that the CCHD will always be dedicated and committed to assisting our local restaurants grow and maintain knowledge. Dr. Anderson also said that the CCHD will forever be committed to being an educational resource.

For more information on the CCHD, go online to www.cchdil.org
.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is ready to welcome the community to its annual Pancake and Sausage Breakfast.  It’s set for this Saturday, April 25 from 6:30-11 a.m. at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  Proceeds are to benefit the Kiwanis Club’s many efforts to serve youth in the community.

Will Perkins chairs the Taylorville Kiwanis Club’s fundraising committee as well as the committee which plans this annual event.  He says it’s one of the largest fundraisers his organization holds. 

Tickets cost $9 and can be bought at the event or in advance at several locations in Taylorville or from Kiwanis members.

The money the Kiwanis Club brings in through this event goes towards scholarships, the Kiwanis Park near the Taylorville Lake, and the Key Club and Builders Club at Taylorville schools. 

Perkins also works with the Key Club at the high school and the Builders Club at the junior high school.  Members of the Key Club will also be volunteering at the breakfast on Saturday.  Perkins views the clubs as youth equivalents of the Kiwanis Club.

More information on the Taylorville Kiwanis Club is available on their Facebook page.

Will Perkins appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Taylorville Community Credit Union has announced the winners of its 12th annual “Stop. SHOP. VOTE!” scholarship program, awarding $1,000 each to eight graduating seniors from four area high schools.

Two students from Pana High School, Gracelynn Elliott and Kaylee Kuhn, were among this year’s recipients. Elliott plans to study criminology and criminal justice at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, while Kuhn will begin at Lake Land College before transferring to Eastern Illinois University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education. 

TCCU President Will Perkins said the credit union is proud to support local students as they continue their education. He also thanked community members and local businesses for their participation in the program, which invites residents to “stop, shop and vote” for student candidates.

In Pana alone, 21 businesses took part in the initiative, generating nearly 7,000 votes. The program is designed not only to provide scholarships but also to encourage residents to support local businesses.

Registration for next year’s scholarship program will open in August and run through Oct. 9. Eligible high school seniors planning to continue their education can register through TCCU.

Founded in 1956, Taylorville Community Credit Union serves residents in Christian, Shelby and Montgomery counties and operates as a not-for-profit financial cooperative.

Pictured below are the two Pana High School students who were awarded the TTCU “Stop. SHOP. VOTE!” scholarship:

Gracelynn Elliott(LEFT) and TCCU Pana Branch Manager, Al Stupek (Right)

Mike Cothern, TCCU Pana loan officer (Left) and Kaylee Kuhnand (Right)

For more information on Taylorville community Credit Union, Visit them online at www.ttcu.org

The Illinois State Police is continuing efforts to combat vehicle theft, hijacking, and related violent crime through a state-funded grant program.

The initiative is supported by funding from the Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention and Insurance Verification Council, which awarded ISP $10 million in its first fiscal year. Additional funding included $677,000 in June 2024 and $637,500 in July 2025.

According to ISP, enforcement missions conducted from January through March 2026 led to the recovery of 316 stolen or hijacked vehicles. Troopers made 32 arrests related to stolen vehicles and two arrests tied to hijackings. Authorities also reported seizing 10 firearms connected to those cases.

During that same time period, ISP carried out 39 targeted missions focused on vehicle theft and related crimes. K-9 units were deployed 22 times, while air operations assisted in 39 missions. The agency also reported 918 forensic laboratory assignments tied to stolen or hijacked vehicles.
State police also highlighted several recent incidents connected to these efforts. On January 29, troopers located a stolen vehicle along Interstate 64 near East St. Louis. The driver was taken into custody after parking in a nearby lot, and a firearm was recovered.

On February 17, ISP officers located a stolen vehicle on Chicago’s south side. Two individuals were taken into custody after attempting to flee the scene.

In another case on March 7, troopers responded to a crash involving a stolen vehicle on Interstate 94 near 47th Street in Chicago. Three individuals fled the vehicle but were later apprehended. A firearm was also recovered in that incident.

Illinois State Police say enforcement efforts will continue as part of ongoing strategies to address vehicle theft and related crimes across the state.

State Senator Doris Turner is advancing a pair of measures aimed at improving safety and accessibility for Illinois residents, with both proposals recently passing the Illinois Senate with bipartisan support.

One of the measures focuses on protecting students with disabilities who rely on service animals in school settings. Turner’s proposal, Senate Bill 2761, would require additional training for teachers, administrators, and school personnel on how to properly handle and support service animals. The training would be added to existing requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Turner says the goal is to ensure students who depend on service animals are treated with respect and understanding in the classroom.

The legislation was prompted by a reported incident involving a Rochester High School student who uses a medical alert dog to manage Type 1 diabetes. The student told school officials she experienced harassment from classmates, including inappropriate behavior toward the dog. Turner says the situation highlighted the need for clearer guidance and education in schools.
The bill now moves to the Illinois House for further consideration.

In a separate effort, Turner is also working to improve public access to medication recall information. Her second proposal, Senate Bill 3223, would require pharmacies across Illinois to post a visible sign near counters and drive-up windows with a QR code. The code would link patients to recall information available through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

Turner says the measure is designed to give patients quicker, more direct access to important safety information about their medications without placing additional burdens on pharmacists.

That measure has also passed the Senate and now heads to the House.

The FBI Springfield Field Office is inviting high school students to take part in a unique behind-the-scenes learning experience this summer. The agency is now accepting applications for its 2026 Teen Academy, a one-day program scheduled for Friday, August 7th.

Officials say the program is designed to give students a hands-on look at federal law enforcement, including sessions focused on leadership, forensic science, fitness, and community safety. Participants will hear directly from FBI special agents, intelligence analysts, and professional staff about how the Bureau operates and the mission-driven values behind its work.

The program will also address serious issues facing young people today, including violence prevention, sextortion, and hoax threats, aimed at helping students better protect themselves in both digital and real-world environments. FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley says the program is open to students interested in leadership and service, not just those considering a law enforcement career.

He adds the goal is to help students build confidence, awareness, and leadership skills they can use in their own communities. The Teen Academy is open to students who will be juniors or seniors during the 2026–2027 school year. Selection is competitive and based on a review of grades, community involvement, and an essay. Officials say no single factor automatically disqualifies an applicant.

Students 16 and older will need to provide a Social Security number for a background check and present a REAL ID-compliant photo ID to participate. The application deadline is Saturday, May 30th, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Applications and instructions are available through the FBI Springfield Field Office website, or by contacting Springfield-Outreach at fbi.gov.

Taylorville High School’s music program is celebrating another big win at the state level.

The Concert Band and Jazz Band both earned top honors Friday at the IHSA State Organizational Contest, held at Williamsville High School. School officials say both groups received three Division One ratings, giving each ensemble an overall First Division rating; the highest possible score in the competition.

Out of 22 competing bands, the Taylorville High School Concert Band also earned the “Best of Day” award for the second consecutive year. That recognition highlights the group as the top overall performance among all participating schools.

Leaders say the achievement reflects months of preparation, discipline, and musical excellence from students, along with guidance from band director Mr. Cliff Jourdan. The school district and Hart Media Group congratulates all students involved on what it calls a remarkable accomplishment.

With construction in full swing across the state of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Police (ISP), Illinois Tollway, industry partners, labor groups, local agencies, and frontline construction workers teamed up yesterday to start National Work Zone Awareness Week. The group came together to remind the public that safe actions save lives.

According to Gia Biagi, Illinois Transportation Secretary, IDOT is doing everything it can to fix and modernize roads and bridges, and offered a simple reminder to stay alert in work zones. Biagi also reminded the public to slow down and give road crews plenty of room to do their jobs.

To call attention to the heightened risks in work zones, JB Pritzker proclaimed that April 20 through April 24 will be official Work Zone Safety Week in Illinois. This year’s theme for National Work Zone Awareness Week is “Safe actions save lives.”

Multiple individuals gave speeches at the event, including 9-year-old Harper Stork, who says her dad spends a lot of time working in construction zones. Stork also explained the importance of safety in work zones.

Paula Crouch, Sangamon County Sheriff, also spoke and said it is always important to slow down, pay attention, put away your cell phone, and avoid all distractions. Sheriff Crouch added that drivers owe it to construction workers to keep them safe, considering the hard work they put in to maintain our roads.

Another speaker at the event was Josh Adcock, an ISP captain, who spoke about the importance of watching for workers in work zones. Adcock said law enforcement has handled 640 crashes in work zones throughout the state, many of which involved personal injuries.

Biagi also gave a 5-minute speech at yesterday’s meeting that can be heard below.

You can view the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Work Zone Data Exchange by visiting https://www.transportation.gov

To watch or listen to press conferences held by the state, visit gov.illinois.gov/newsroom

The Christian County Board met on Tuesday evening at 6 PM for about an hour to discuss new business, committee reports, and hear from the public in their April meeting. In public comments, Brent Frump spoke on data centers and concerns that he had over them coming to Christian County and to areas near his farm. Multiple appointees were selected for the board of trustees including John O’ Brien (TVL), Pat Grant, Joe Dorr, Mat Mizeur (Owaneco), and Roger Clymer (Nokomis).  

A black diamond special use permit extension request was granted. Board Chair Bryan Sharp says that the concessions that have been made have protected the county up to this point due to rules made by the state. 

The motion passed with members Clint Epley, Clint Gabriel, and Dave Pucetti voting no. A motion for servicing and custodial agreement between Christian County, Advanced Title and the Christian County Farm Bureau was approved and passed. A safety grant was passed.  Sharp explained that the grant is money back for upgrades on things that normally wouldn’t be money spent.

A joint resolution with the city of Taylorville was passed. A motion concerning a request to sell asphalt was approved. A supervisor of assessment stipend was approved $3500 annually. More work at the jail is being approved including tuck pointing and replacement/repair of the shower floors. 

Community clean up grants were approved for Taylorville, Pana, Edinburg, Owaneco, and Mt. Auburn. A U of I Extension Annual Agreement was approved.  The next County Board meeting is set for Tuesday, May 19th at 6 PM.  

Taking care of ourselves has always been an area that we have always strived to improve on, whether that’s physical, mental, or spiritual.  One area that often get’s neglected is through your relationship.  The Taylorville Christian Church will be holding a couples conference on April 25th from 8:30 to 3 PM in order to talk about things that may not be an area of your life that gets talked about a whole lot in your life—your relationship with your significant other. Neil Ferris with Taylorville Christian Church says that this conference is for everyone whether you have been with your partner for 6 weeks or 60 years. 

Al and Lisa Robertson from the TV show Duck Dynasty will be the guest speakers.  Ferris says they have quite the story to tell. 

There are still plenty of spaces available, but registration closes on Wednesday 4/22.  Ferris talks a bit about the schedule and says that there will be Chic-Fil-A for lunch. 

Childcare will not be provided. You can register at tayl.info/couples.  Find out more information on the conference by visiting the Taylorville Christian Churches Website and Facebook page. Neil Ferris appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.   
 

Lincoln Land Community College is looking to attract high school students to trade-related professions for which the school has programs.  They are doing so in part through a summer camp called “Build & Wire,” set to take place on their campus.  It’s scheduled for June 1-18, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

High school juniors and seniors are eligible for the program.  Elizabeth Fines-Workman, LLCC’s Taylorville campus director, says the program will feature many projects encompassing a variety of trades.

Fines-Workman says the program will give students a head start in trade fields and help them decide what trade they want to pursue further. 

In recent happenings, local fourth-graders completed their visits to the Lincoln Land Community College campus.  As planned, they got an up-close look at several of the college’s programs.

The college’s commencement is set for May 15 at the Springfield campus for all students, including those studying at other LLCC campuses.  Fines-Workman says commencements were meaningful to her as a student, and her first such ceremony in her current role will be no different. 

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 Brad Halbrook of Shelbyville questioned administrators from the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion during an April 15th Appropriations-General Services Committee hearing, raising concerns about the agency’s mission and spending.

Halbrook pointed to the commission’s stated goal of expanding access to state contracts for minority-owned, women-owned, and disabled-owned businesses, as well as promoting equity and inclusion within state government workforce practices.

The Republican lawmaker also cited the commission’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget request of about 5.6 million dollars, while questioning what he described as a decline in participating businesses, from roughly 5,400 to about 2,782.

Halbrook criticized the effectiveness of the program during the hearing, saying the commission has not produced positive results and arguing that taxpayer dollars are being spent inefficiently. He also referenced what he said was approximately 28 million dollars in spending over the past five years, not including commissioner salaries.

Halbrook told the committee, “Since the inception of this commission, results have deteriorated dramatically,” and said the agency was requesting additional funding despite what he described as poor outcomes.

He added that, in his view, the commission is not meeting its stated goals and is instead making the situation worse.

The Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion was created to oversee equity initiatives in state contracting and hiring practices. More information is available through the state’s official website.

State Representative Regan Deering is hosting a free shred event and diaper drive in Decatur later this month.

The event, held in partnership with the Macon County Farm Bureau, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28th, from 10 am to noon.

It will take place in the Farm Bureau parking lot at 1150 West Pershing Road in Decatur, with vehicles entering from Pershing and following a drive-through route around the lot.

Residents of the 88th District are encouraged to bring confidential documents for secure shredding. There is a limit of five boxes per vehicle, and only paper materials will be accepted.

In addition, attendees are invited to donate diapers and wipes, which will go to local pregnancy resource centers. Donations are appreciated but not required to take part in the shred service.

The event will run until noon or until the shredding truck reaches capacity, whichever comes first.

Brochures on state and local government programs will also be available.

For more information, you can contact Representative Deering’s office at 217-876-1968 or visit RepDeering.com.

The Christian County Board will meet Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m., with a full agenda covering appointments, infrastructure projects, tax-related discussion, and several policy and funding decisions.

Among the items on the agenda are multiple fire district board appointments, including trustees for Taylorville, Owaneco, and Nokomis fire protection districts.

The board will also hear a presentation on real estate taxes from county officials Jodie Badman, Betty Asmussen, and Chad Coady.

In new business, supervisors will consider a resolution supporting state legislation that would ban the use of eminent domain for carbon dioxide pipeline projects.

Several committee reports are also scheduled, including Highway, Building and Grounds, Zoning, and Environmental matters. Those discussions include a special use permit extension request, a safety grant, a possible agreement on asphalt equipment, and updates on jail and courthouse maintenance projects such as tuckpointing and shower floor repairs.

The Executive and Personnel Committee will take up items including an updated EMA report, courthouse security system proposals, and agreements for juvenile detention services with neighboring counties.

The Audit, Finance and Purchasing Committee is also expected to review April claims, remaining jail renovation funds, and several policy and facility-related referrals.

Other agenda items include community clean-up grant recommendations for several area communities, agreements with the University of Illinois Extension, and multiple compensation ordinances for county officials, including the assessor, treasurer, county clerk, and supervisor of assessments.

The meeting wraps up with per diem reports and adjournment, with the next board meeting scheduled for May 19th at 6:00 p.m.

Lake Land College recently held its annual Business and Computer Contest, welcoming students from 17 local high schools to demonstrate their software skills.

The participating schools included Shelbyville, Effingham, and Stewardson-Strasburg.

During the event, students competed in a series of contests covering accounting, computer concepts, general business, and current events.

Additional contests highlighted students’ proficiency in Microsoft Office, testing their skills in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

First-place winners in each contest received a three-credit-hour tuition waiver to Lake Land College.

In the Accounting contest, Tyler Vonderheide from Stewardson-Strasburg High School placed second.

In the General Business and Current Events contest, Effingham students Derek Doedtman and Max Flack earned second and third place, respectively. Andrew Petzing from Stewardson-Strasburg placed fifth.

In the Excel contest, Aiden Handy from Shelbyville placed third, Landon Beck from Effingham placed fourth, and Melanie Probst from Stewardson-Strasburg placed fifth.

The PowerPoint competition included a fourth-place finish by Brooke Schumacher from Stewardson-Strasburg High School.

In Microsoft Word, Caleb Holmes from Effingham High School earned second place, while Colin Wells from Shelbyville High School placed fourth.

Regarding the event, Marcy Satterwhite, Business Instructor and Coordinator of Graphic Design Programs, said, “This event is always a special opportunity to welcome students to campus and celebrate their unique talents. It’s also a great chance for students to experience the programs and resources we offer at Lake Land as they begin to plan for their futures.”

To learn more about Lake Land College Business and Technology programs, contact the department at 217-234-5348.

Students of Monticello High School, which placed first in the team competition at the annual Lake Land College Business and Computer Contest.

From left to right: Dacey Kooi, Thea Key, Steven Bluhm, Lane Alexander, Jacob Robinson and Jack Krumtinger.

Also, pictured below are the students who finished first place in their respective categories during the annual Lake Land College Business and Computer Contest. 

From left to right: Grant Davis, Centralia High School; Carter Lorence, Centralia High School; Kristen Piper, Flora High School; Hayden Young, Flora High School; Payton Scroggins, Flora High School; and Jack Krumtinger, Monticello High School.

Dates are now set for the summer farmer’s markets in Assumption and Moweaqua. They are scheduled for June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25, September 12 and 26, and October 10 and 24, each from 9-11 a.m.  Each month’s first farmer’s market day will take place in Assumption, with the latter one headed to Moweaqua.  This is the second year with this system of alternation between the two towns.  Assumption Community Pride, which organizes the farmer’s markets, hopes for an even greater turnout this year than last year.  They are also holding a fundraiser on Friday for the farmer’s market efforts.

Derek Page is the president of Assumption Community Pride.  He says live music and a taco truck will be present at every farmer’s market.

Assumption Community Pride is holding a quarter auction to raise money for both the farmer’s market and scholarships for local high school students.  It will take place this Friday at 6 p.m. at the 1905 Brewing Company.

Away from the farmer’s market, two new businesses have opened in Assumption.  One of them is J&R Diesel, a truck repair shop.

The other new business is J&J Diner, which has previously operated as a food truck.  In fact, for that reason combined with the lengthy remodel of their new space, they are still using the food truck to prepare food while serving customers in the main dining space.

In another local development, Page reports there has been a sale on the first of 16 lots in the Baxmeyer Subdivision.  He hopes it can lead to more action in that area. 

More information on Assumption Community Pride is available at their Facebook page.

Derek Page appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Taylorville City Council met last night to discuss the approval of several new ordinances. 

The motions that were considered and approved were as follows:

Joint Resolution with Christian County for the Paper Mill Branch infrastructure project.

Motion to approve the memorandum of understanding between the city of Taylorville and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3349 regarding vacation policies.

Motion to approve memorandum of understanding between the City of Taylorville and AFSCME Council 31 & AFSCME Local 3349 regarding Regular Work Schedule, PTO, and Holiday Pay for Dispatchers.

Motion to direct the City Attorney to prepare the appropriate ordinance and related documents to authorize the City to obtain a not-to-exceed $750,000 5-year term loan and a not-to-exceed $850,000 5-year term loan from the First National Bank of Pana to purchase vehicles for the Street Department and the Fire Department.

Motion to Approve the Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement with the City of Charleston.

Motion to approve the Business Development District No. 1 Redevelopment Agreement for the property located at 113 W. Poplar Street in the amount of $569.17

Motion to direct the City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance with Fees included, as well as adopt the MFPA855 Codes.

Motion to accept the quote from Brotcke Well and Pump for well pump treatment and repair at a cost not to exceed $130,000.00, and to waive all statutory bidding requirements, subject to compliance with the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act.

All of the ordinances and discussion in tonight's council meeting were approved, aside from a motion to utilize Solar on Earth to complete the application for the Illinois Shines Program.

This motion never received a second, causing it to be wiped off the table and disregarded.

When the chance came, Aden Marucco, a Transparency Advocate and a member of the public, spoke out, asking for clarity on budget spending and the allocation of taxpayer dollars regarding the 2024-2025 City of Taylorville Audits, stating material deficiencies and weaknesses within internal controls, accountability of pooled funds, and grant administration.

If you would like to hear the meeting in full, press play on the audio file below.

The Village of Stonington is currently under an active boil order. The boil order affects only 204 West Second Street and 401, 403, 405, 406, and 408 West First Street.

Residents in the listed area are told, for safety purposes, to boil any water that they intend to use for cooking, cleaning, bathing, or drinking until further notice.

The Christian County Health Department and the Village of Stonington will announce when the boil order has been lifted upon a successful lab test showing that the water is safe again.

For questions, details, or to check the status of the order, call Jake Heberling at 214-325-3621

The City of Pana has announced two upcoming committee meetings to be held at Pana City Hall.
According to City Clerk Kim Toberman, the Safety Committee, chaired by Chairperson Cohan, will meet on Monday, April 20th at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The agenda includes discussion on potential traffic restrictions along Locust Street during upcoming construction, along with any other matters properly presented.

The Economic Development & TIF Committee, chaired by Chairperson Suter, is scheduled to meet the following day, Tuesday, April 21st at 5:00 p.m., also in the Council Chambers at City Hall. That meeting will include a review of a redevelopment agreement with Pathfinder Disc Golf, along with any other business that may come before the committee.

Both meetings are open to the public.

The Taylorville City Council is set to meet Monday, April 20th at 7 p.m. with a wide-ranging agenda covering infrastructure, city operations, and upcoming community events.

Among the key items, council members will consider a joint resolution with Christian County related to the Paper Mill Branch infrastructure project.

The council will also review two memorandums of understanding with AFSCME. One addresses updates to vacation policy, while the other focuses on work schedules, paid time off, and holiday pay for dispatchers.

City leaders may also take steps toward financing new equipment, with a proposal to authorize up to $1.6 million in loans through First National Bank of Pana. The funding would be used to purchase vehicles for both the street and fire departments.

Several special event permits are scheduled for consideration. These include a Fur Love event downtown, a date change request for a Red Bland Youth event, and multiple requests connected to the Black Horse Veterans Pow Wow, including an event at Lake Taylorville Marina and a fundraising chicken dinner.

Committee reports will also be presented. Items include a proposed $130,000 well pump repair, installation of a carport at Lake Taylorville campground 57, and approval to seek bids for new city software.

Additionally, the council will consider participating in the Illinois Shines solar program and is expected to vote on payment of more than $426,000 in bills.

Public comment will be allowed during the meeting, with speakers limited to three minutes.

The meeting will take place at Taylorville City Hall.

Lake Land College is launching a new Competency-Based Education (CBE) format beginning in Fall 2026, aimed at three manufacturing-focused programs designed to better align with workforce demand.

The new CBE model will be used in the Automation Specialist I and II certificate programs, as well as the Applied Engineering Technology degree program. Instead of following a traditional semester schedule, students will progress by demonstrating mastery of skills, allowing them to move through coursework at their own pace.

That means students who already have experience in the field could move more quickly through material, while those needing additional support will be able to spend more time on specific concepts without the pressure of falling behind.

“The idea behind CBE is that learning can’t always be measured by hours spent in a classroom,” said Electronics Engineering Technology Instructor and Program Coordinator Michael Beavers. “The best indicator is when a student can take the skills we’re teaching and apply them in real, hands-on exercises.”

The program will also include online learning modules combined with hands-on instruction in Lake Land’s FlexTech lab, which is staffed by faculty three days a week for 12 hours per day. Students will be able to schedule lab time based on their availability.

College officials say the program was developed with support from the Illinois Manufacturing Workforce Ecosystem and the National Science Foundation, and has already gone through a testing phase since 2023. It has also received approval from the Higher Learning Commission.

Lake Land College officials say enrollment is now open for Fall 2026.

State Rep. Brad Halbrook from Shelbyville is raising concerns about what he calls unnecessary state spending, urging lawmakers to reconsider funding for the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion.

Halbrook said that the stated goal was to expand opportunities for diverse populations. The 7 commissioners are earning almost $12,000 a month, which is three times the median income of most Illinois families.

Halbrook also stated that we need to go back to the way things were being handled before and that this commission is a $6 million embarrassment to the great state of Illinois, and a blatant abuse of taxpayer dollars.

Earlier this week, Halbrook had the opportunity to question the commission directly during a meeting of the Illinois House Appropriations – General Services Committee, where the commission presented its budget request for the upcoming fiscal year. The hearing allowed lawmakers to review the agency’s performance and spending priorities as part of the state’s broader budget process.

Following that meeting, Halbrook reiterated his stance, calling on the General Assembly to eliminate the commission. He argued that repealing the agency would be a more responsible use of state resources.

The Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion was established to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in state government, including expanding opportunities for minority-owned businesses. However, Halbrook contends the commission is not achieving its intended goals and should no longer receive funding.

The proposal is likely to spark debate among lawmakers as budget negotiations continue, with supporters of the commission expected to defend its mission and impact.

Get your local news, sports, and weather online at taylorvilledailynews.com, or by tuning into 96.1 WTIM, Your Only Local News Radio!

The Taylorville Police Department is warning residents about a recent ransom scam that uses spoofed phone numbers and could involve emerging artificial intelligence technology.

Police say they received a report in which scammers posed as kidnappers, calling a victim’s child and demanding money in exchange for a parent’s safety. Investigators say the caller ID appeared to show a familiar number, a tactic known as “spoofing,” which disguises the true origin of the call.

During the call, the victim reportedly heard someone crying in the background and believed it to be a family member. Authorities say the goal of these scams is to create panic and pressure victims into sending money quickly without verifying the situation.

Police are reminding residents to hang up immediately if they receive a suspicious call and try to contact the loved one directly or reach out to other family members to confirm their safety. They also advise never sending money through cryptocurrency, wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps, as those payments are often impossible to recover.

Officials recommend asking specific personal questions if you stay on the line, especially details that could not be found on social media, and to avoid sharing any personal information that could help scammers make their story more convincing.

Even if no money is lost, residents are encouraged to report scam calls to local law enforcement so agencies can track trends and warn others.

Police also caution that scammers may begin using artificial intelligence to mimic voices using short audio clips gathered from social media or other sources.

The Taylorville Police Department says officers are available around the clock to help verify suspicious calls and urges residents to stay calm, take time to confirm information, and protect themselves from fraud.

Students of the Lake Land College Honors, alongside members of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honors Society, were given recognition for their outstanding academic achievements at the annual Lake Land College Honors Banquet.

Jay Bliler of Taylorville, and Sarah Housh from Charleston were also recognized during the event as nominees for the Honors Student of the Year Award at the event as well.

During the event, Grayson Thomas from Paris was named Honors Student of the Year in recognition of his exceptional work in the Lake Land College Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program.

Other students honored at the event included student officers from the PTK Honors Society.  The student officers were honored for their service throughout the year. Among those honored were PTK Honors Society President Sarah Houshfrom Charleston, Vice President Kyra Hazelton from Effingham, Treasurer Morgan Livngston from Charleston, and Secretary Eric Stanley also from Charleston.

The following students were recognized for achieving Associate and Full-Level Honors: 

Full Level Honors went to Jay Bliler of Taylorville, Connor Garofano and Kailyn Tracy of Mattoon, Kyra Hazelton of Effingham, Sara Housh and Morgan Livingston from Charleston, and Grayson Thomas from Paris.

Associates Level Honors went to Naomi Comer of Casey and Jasmine Gast of Charleston.

All of the Lake Land College PTK students graduating this year were also recognized and received a special graduation stole during the event.

At right, Vice President for Student Services Heather Nohren presents the 2026 Lake Land College Honors Student of the Year Award to Grayson Thomas of Paris, during the annual Lake Land College Honors Banquet.

Pictured front row (left to right) are the 2026 Lake Land College Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) graduates: Jay Bliler, Taylorville; Sarah Housh, Charleston; Jasmine Gast, Charleston; Jade Garza, Humboldt; Kyra Hazelton, Effingham; Ellie Macklin, Mason; and Naomi Comer, Casey.

The 2026 Lake Land College Distinguished Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Officers are pictured from left to right: Eric Stanley, Charleston; Morgan Livingston, Charleston; Sarah Housh, Charleston; and Kyra Hazelton, Effingham.

For more information on the Lake Land College go online to https://www.lakelandcollege.edu/ 

Illinois’ community colleges are doing far more than educating students. They are also powering the state’s economy in a big way.

According to a new report from the Illinois Community College Board, community colleges across Illinois generated an impressive $27.2 billion in total economic impact during the 2023–24 fiscal year. This supports more than 324,000 jobs statewide. The findings also highlight that these institutions are essential engines of growth, opportunity and workforce development.

The study, titled The Economic Value of the Community Colleges of Illinois, shows that the biggest impact comes from graduates themselves. The study proved that former students contribute an estimated $25 billion in added income to the state’s economy. This demonstrates how education continues to pay dividends long after students leave the classroom.

According to Josh Bullock, President of Lake Land College, “This study validates the work that community colleges do every day to create opportunity throughout our regions.” Bullock also said that they are committed to delivering value through partnerships that meet local business needs as well as programs that fit the lives of their students.

Across Illinois, community colleges contribute in multiple ways. Those ways vary from campus operations and construction projects to student spending in local communities.

The most lasting impact is preparing graduates for in-demand careers that strengthen industries and local economies.

More details on Lakeland College can be found at https://www.lakelandcollege.edu/

Community members in Taylorville looking to lend a hand to home maintenance projects will have an opportunity to do so on Saturday, June 13.  That’s because the organization Missions for Taylorville is holding its next “workday.”  It’s a day when the group organizes efforts for volunteers to visit homes in need of maintenance to complete needed work.

Ed Legg is the director of Missions for Taylorville.  He says volunteers can sign up anytime before the event.  They are asked, however, to complete an application which explains their skills and capabilities in home maintenance. 

In most cases, the workday takes up the entire day.  Missions for Taylorville arranges logistics and other needs for the volunteer workers in advance so the workday itself progresses smoothly. 

With the workday set for June 13, homeowners interested in having maintenance on their homes must apply by May 22.  This allows time for Missions for Taylorville to assess the projects. 

Missions for Taylorville is entirely volunteer-run and always accepts monetary donations.

More information – along with volunteer and homeowner applications – from Missions for Taylorville is available at www.missionsfortaylorville.org and on their Facebook page.

Ed Legg appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

Testing is an important part of every spring and for Pana superintendent Jessica Miller, a chance to see how her students have improved from when school started in the fall to this spring. She says that every level is different and she looks for different things at the high school level than she does at the elementary levels from her students.

Another area that Pana School District has found success lately has been through STEM and that is Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.  Pana was representing at the Rochester STEM Fair. 

While STEM plays a big part in school and education, school wouldn’t be school without literacy, and Miller says she’s always trying to figure out ways to improve literacy efforts at Pana School District. 

Miller says she is proud of the effort that her staff puts on behind the scenes and calls it a “Well oiled machine.”

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

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

The public access routes to Ken Kenney’s located at Lake Shelbyville are set to see some changes.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is updating the public access to this location, commonly labeled as Site #46 on the USACE hunting and fishing maps.

The roadway that the public has been using as of late as a route to access the area is privately owned, and is not a designated public access route, according to the USACE.

This location, previously identified in USACE publications as a hunter and fisherman parking area, has been officially updated to clarify that the roadway is private property and that it is not open for public access.

USACE has since worked with private landowners in that region to secure a formal access easement for agency operational purposes. This easement is limited to use only by the USACE, and does not allocate for general public access.

To ensure clarity and respect private property rights, USACE has set plans to install signage in the coming days, as well as provide an update to official maps and publications reflecting this alteration.
Visitors to Lake Shelbyville are encouraged to utilize designated public access areas for recreational activities.

USACE says they are forever committed to maintaining strong partnerships with local landowners while continuing to provide safe and accessible recreation opportunities.

For additional information, contact the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951.

The Lincoln Land Honor Flight is set to take off on May 5th. The flight is set to depart from the Springfield Abraham Lincoln Capitol Airport (SPI), serving 95 veterans. The conflicts the veterans have been involved in include 5 veterans from the Korean War, alongside 90 veterans from the Vietnam War era.

The upcoming Honor Flight, titled Mission #77, will include 54 Illinois hometown veterans from 54 different Illinois towns.

These veterans and the guardians assigned to them are scheduled to report to the SPI Airport on May 5th at 4:00 AM, to prepare for a journey to Washington aboard a Sun Country Airlines Boeing.

During the trip, Veterans will visit multiple historical landmarks and monuments. Monuments that are a big feature of the trip include the WWII and Vietnam memorials, along with Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknowns, and the Lincoln Memorial. Veterans are also set to visit the National Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia. Other sites set to be seen are the US Marine Corps. Memorial and the US Air Force Memorial.

The cost to take this honor flight is absolutely nothing, as the entirety of the journey will be funded by generous donations from the general public.

The 95 participating heroes will return to Springfield International Airport at 9:30 pm on Tuesday, May 5th.

Friends of the participating veterans, family, and the Lincoln Land Honor Flight  (LLHF) veterans are encouraged to pack the airport to welcome home these heroes.

For many of the heroes attending this year's honor flight, this is the first time that they will experience a real and heartfelt welcome home.

Greeters are urged to arrive early so that they have enough time to show appreciation for these specific veterans for their services and sacrifices to our country.

Any veteran who has served at any point up to May 7, 1975, is eligible to qualify for the LLHF.

Parking will be free, and volunteers will be present in the parking lot to assist attendees with finding parking spaces. There will also be a shuttle bus provided to take guests directly to the airport terminal door.

The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, receiving no government funding, that strictly relies on donations to make sure these flights can be set into action.

For more details on the Lincoln Land Honor Flight, go to www.landoflincolnhonorflight.org/

The Illinois State Police held its first-ever Telecommunicators Graduation and Promotion Ceremony, swearing in 30 new telecommunicators and recognizing nine others for recent promotions.

Officials say telecommunicators play a critical role as the first point of contact during emergencies, providing a calm voice for callers in distress. ISP leadership noted the agency’s commitment to extensive training across all positions to ensure high-quality service for residents across Illinois, while also welcoming the newest telecommunicators and recognizing excellence within the department.

The ISP’s communication centers serve all 102 counties in Illinois and handle an average of 650,000 calls each year. Telecommunicators act as the first link in emergency response, connecting those in need with first responders heading to the scene. The agency currently employs 117 telecommunicators statewide.

The 30 graduates completed an intensive training program between November 2025 and February 2026. The program, conducted at six ISP communication centers, includes six to twelve months of classroom instruction along with hands-on, scenario-based training.

In addition to the graduates, nine telecommunicators were recognized for promotions to leadership roles, including Lead Workers, Supervisors, and Regional Managers.

ISP officials say the ceremony will now be held annually to recognize new telecommunicators and honor those advancing within the agency.
 

Community members will have the opportunity to learn more about the Lincoln Prairie Trail and how to support its upkeep.  It’s part of Celebrate Trails Day, an annual initiative by the national organization Rails to Trails Conservancy.  The day of action is set for Saturday, April 25.  Members of the Lincoln Prairie Trails Conservancy will be on hand at the Olde Towne Pub in Owaneco – which is just off the trail – from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that day.

Diana Vocks is a member of the Lincoln Prairie Trails Conservancy’s board.  She says there will be snacks, safety items for sale, and informational pamphlets. 

In addition to informing visitors about the trail, Vocks says the goal of that day is to encourage people to take advantage of the trail and other nature spots in the area.

Steve Dennis, chair of the Lincoln Prairie Trails Conservancy’s board, says the group’s mission is to repair, maintain, enhance, and promote the Lincoln Prairie Trail.  He adds that they are working on a project just off the trail at the Taylorville Lake entrance to restore some trees. 

The Conservancy is also working on new educational materials regarding the trees and other plants along the trail.  Visitors will be able to access this information digitally while on the trail.

These developments come a year after a project to replace the bridge over the South Fork Sangamon River.  Dennis says the work has paid off in attracting people to make use of the trail.

More information on the Lincoln Prairie Trails Conservancy is available at www.lincolnprairietrailsconservancy.com and on their Facebook page.

Steve Dennis and Diana Vocks appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Students from the Taylorville High School TommyTV and journalism programs are heading to state after strong performances at the IHSA Section 2 competition.

Several students earned top finishes across multiple categories to qualify for the state contest. In TV News, the team of Olivia Garren, Ty Winans, and Ella Hohenstein placed third to advance. In Radio News, senior Owen Busboom took second place, while junior Marlee Craggs finished third in copywriting.

Additional qualifiers include sophomore Jolee Johnson, who placed third in advertisement, and freshman Kailey Sampson, who earned a second-place finish in headline writing.
In Newspaper Design, junior Abigail Blount placed fifth.

The qualifying students will compete at the state competition on April 24th at Heartland Community College.

Leave it to beaver! Jack Flash Gas Station in Pana was visited early this morning by a beaver with an apparent need to go to the bathroom. 

Dylan Clark, from Hart Media Group, spoke with Marley, the Stores Assistant Manager, later in the morning to get more details.

According to Marley, the Stores Assistant Manager, a customer actually held the door open and allowed the beaver to walk right in. The free-roaming beaver b-lined it to the bathroom, and then was calmly and safely assisted back to the exit.

The beaver, forgetting how to get back out of the bathroom, was gifted a friendly walk to the door and a kind wish for a great day and safe travels!

As for the beaver, it's on to the next stop on his destination with high hopes of finding another gas station with staff that is just as friendly for his next restroom break.

Shout out to the beaver for enjoying the open world, and to his recognition of the proper bathroom to use.

No customers or staff were harmed by this situation. Pana Police Department confirms, no beavers were harmed in the duration of this morning’s festivities.

Tax day this year falls on April 15th and for Illinois families, it is another reminder of where they currently stand with tax related finances. While working families are tightening their belts and trying to make ends meet, Republicans say that Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and House Democrats are piling on more tax hikes this legislative session.

As Governor Pritzker looks for ways to pay for a budget that spends $1 billion more than last year, House Democrats have filed a number of new taxes on families and businesses.
Those new tax bills include House Bill 4459 which covers campfire tax, House Bill 5112 covering bag tax, House Bill 4414 which covers ammo tax, House Bill 2996 outlining cell tower tax, and finally House Bill 4894 covering Digital Advertisement Tax.

These new taxes are being stacked on top of the tax burden that some Illinois families and businesses already face.

Statistics show that Illinois homeowners pay the highest property taxes in the country, and Wallet Hub states that Illinois has the highest overall tax rates in the nation.

Since taking office, Governor Pritzker has enacted 49 tax and fee hikes. Last year alone, Governor Pritzker signed a budget with $700 million in new taxes.

Illinois House Republicans held a Tax Day press conference at Capitol on Wednesday morning. During this Conference, Representative Tom Weber of Lake Villa, said that Illinoisans are suffering under ever increasing costs to live in Illinois.

Meanwhile, Representative Steve Reick of Woodstock, said that the issue Illinoisans have is not one of revenue. Instead, its an issue with priorities and spending. 

The final representative to speak was Representative Joe Sosnowski of Rockford. Sosnowski said that the governor is not winning any awards for running a good economy or a good state.

For more information regarding the new taxes, on the office of Governor Pritzker, and other legislative matters you can go online to ilga.gov.
 

Kiwanis members made welcome Lindsey Eyre at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge. Eyre is a Youth Resource Advocate with the Illinois Coalition for Community Services.

ICCS works to bring positive change to youth, families and communities providing encouragement and opportunities for growth.  Eyre informed the Kiwanis members that ICCS is committed to assisting communities with improved job options and reduced truancy and violence among youth.

The focus of ICCS is to help youth and young adults ages 11 – 24 lead more productive lives.  ICCS offers Community Youth Services to address some of the common challenges that affect youth.

Several youth based concerns are monitored by ICCS including youth unemployment rates, youth poverty and adolescent drug abuse.  In Taylorville the ICCS has partnered with the Christian County Health Department and the Christian County YMCA in an effort to reach those in need of assistance.

For more information regarding the Illinois Coalition for Community Services you can visit their web page at www.iccscares.org 

As a reminder the Taylorville Kiwanis Club will be hosting its annual “All you can eat” Pancake and Sausage breakfast fundraiser Saturday April 25th.  Serving will begin at 6:30am and continue until 11:00am at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  All proceeds are utilized to serve local youth activities. 

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 or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.

Shelbyville Recently announced the WSVZ and Family Drug Student of the Month for April.

The students of the month are Freshman, Case Darnell, Sophomore, Hayden Mudgette, Junior, Avindeya Beck, and Senior, Elizabeth Kirkbride.

Pictured below are the recipients of this recognition along side of Trinity, the CPhtT of Familiy Drug (Left to Right)

Case Darnell (Far left), Hayden Mudgette (Left), Avindeya Beck (Middle), Elizabeth Kirkbride (Right), and Trinity, CPhtT of Family Drug (Far Right)

The Ramsey Community Unit School District #204 Board of Education will meet Thursday night for its regular monthly board meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in the high school library.

Among the items on the agenda are approval of the March 19th meeting minutes, monthly financial reports, bills and payroll, and the possible destruction of closed session audio recordings older than 18 months.

Superintendent and building principals will also deliver reports, including updates on graduation, promotion, and baccalaureate plans, as well as a proposed amendment to the 2025-2026 budget.

New business items include consideration of a treasury bond for the period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028, along with updated district policies on acceptable use for staff and students and a new artificial intelligence policy for the 2026-2027 school year.

Board members will also consider entering closed session to discuss personnel matters, including employment, compensation, performance, discipline, or dismissal of specific employees.

The meeting is open to the public.

The Taylorville School Board met last night for their monthly meeting to discuss various topics. During this meeting, Dr. Ronald Mizer was awarded the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) Award. Other items up for discussion included talking points from the Illinos Association of School Boards, Presented by Board President, Ann Chandler, an NPT Update Presented by Board Member, Lori Wemple, as well as consideration and discussion regarding the approval of dismissing Taylorville High School’s Boys Basketball Coach, Ryan Brown.

The IASB recognized Dr. Mizer for his outstanding performance and dedication as a member of the Taylorville School Board. The IASB offers a number of awards and programs to recognize the dedicated work of school board members that strive for excellence in local school board governance.

The School Board also considered the approval of the Taylorville High School and junior high school student handbook and discipline updates, consideration and approval of breakfast and lunch fees, as well as the at-will employee salaries for the 2027 fiscal year. 

The board unanimously reached approval across all considerations aside from the discussion regarding Coach Ryan Brown. At which the board came to a 3-3 vote, with board member, Tonya Bowsher choosing to abstain. This resulted in the motion reaching failed status, allowing Coach Brown to remain employed with the Taylorville High School.

For more details on Coach Browns discussion, CLICK HERE.

The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12th. 

The Cowden-Herrick CUSD #3A Board of Education will meet on Thursday, April 16th, for its regular board meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in the Cowden Board Room.

Items on the consent agenda include approval of minutes from the previous meeting, current bills, the treasurer’s report, and approval of IHSA and IESA membership for the 2026-2027 school year.

Under new business, board members will consider purchasing shot clocks for the high school gym and review a resolution related to an installment purchase agreement for $415,700 in Taxable General Obligation Debt Certificates, Series 2026A. The board will also review a tentative amended budget for public review.

Superintendent Seth Schuler will also present a report during the meeting.
Following a closed session to discuss personnel matters, the board is expected to take action on staffing items, including hiring a junior high science teacher pending requirements, approving principals’ contracts, hiring summer custodial help, and accepting staff and coaching resignations.

The meeting is open to the public.

The Taylorville Finance committee and ordinance committee is set to meet on Wednesday evening at 6 PM at the Municipal building to discuss the following subject matters to either approve, deny, reject, review, table, or amend including but not limited to: Dimond Bros Insurance, Solar on Earth, Small Town Taylorville, the Purchase of BS&A Software FY26-27 Budget), Finance Options for street vehicles and fire equipment, the treasurers report, and any other matters which may properly come before the committee.

The ordinance committee will meet following the finance committee meeting.  Some of the topics at the ordinance committee to be discussed include: a BDD Application Review, Amend Golf Cart Ordinance, A Battery Energy storage System-Fire, an HBO update, and any other matters that get properly brought before the committee.

Both committees will also hear from any public comments.  These meetings are completely open and the public are encouraged to attend and participate. 

The Taylorville School Board Held their monthly meeting last night and discussed a consideration to terminate Taylorville High School’s Boys Basketball Coach, Ryan Brown. 

The results of Coach Brown being terminated reached a NO vote from the board. However the entire board didn’t agree with letting Coach Brown stay employed. Board Member, Tonya Bowsher, chose to abstain, while the rest of the board showed a 3 – 3 vote, meaning that considering one member also abstained, not enough people voted yes or no This caused the motion to fail to carry. Based on that result, Coach Brown gets to keep his position at Taylorville High School and will continue coaching boys basketball there.

The community showed strong support in keeping Coach Brown, but there were also a few members who were against Brown keeping his position.

Chuck Martin, 1976 THS graduate and former Taylorville athlete was in attendance. Martin spoke highly of Browns coaching career and stated that Brown was “born to coach”.

John Williams, one of the community members who filed a formal complaint, was also in attendance. Williams states that a friend of his, who is a father of a current THS player, told Williams that his son came home one day and had made a statement about Coach Brown. According to Williams, this statement he heard from his friend, stopped him “dead in his tracks”. After strong consideration, and meeting with other families in the community to discuss if something should be done. After that conversation with other families, Williams chose to make a formal complaint to the school board. 

Taylorville Mayor, Bruce Barry, was also at last nights school board meeting and gave a positive speech in support of Coach Brown. Barry spoke highly about Coach Brown both as a person and as a coach.

Zach Woodall, 2021 Graduate and former player for the Taylorville Tornadoes, says his brother wants to quit basketball, despite how passionate about the sport he is, due to alleged ridicule and negative talk from Coach Brown.

Also present was Coach Brown himself, who also had a chance to speak to the community and the board about this situation. In Coach Brown’s statement he said that he has always had an open door policy, and that he wasn’t even aware of some of the issues that have arose until this meeting was called. Brown promises that if there is ever a problem that he is aware of he will fix it.
    
 

Coach Brown is set to remain as the Taylorville High School Boys Basketball Coach.

The Christian County Multi-Jurisdictional All Hazards Mitigation Planning Committee met today at 2 pm at the Taylorville Fire Department. 33 various officials from townships in Christian County appeared today to render new mitigation project plans to be added to Christian County’s request for state funding.

The Illinois Emergency Management Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is responsible for reviewing and granting funds based on requests sent in for each county in the state of Illinois. The varying counties mention projects that they have completed, projects that are currently ongoing, as well as projects that have not yet been started. That information will assist the IEMA-OHS in determining what types of grants to issue and to which counties.

Committee Organizer, Andrea Campbell, mentioned that in order to be approved for IEMA-OHS grants, the projects that each jurisdiction is requesting funding for must be hazard and emergency mitigation-related. Also, according to Campbell, the proposed projects must be only for the requesting jurisdiction.

The list of mitigation projects could potentially include installation of power generators to provide uninterrupted power to critical systems, or landscape barriers like living snow fences to keep emergency routes to critical facilities, such as schools or hospitals, safe and open.

The next Mitigation Meeting will review topics from today’s meeting. Also in the upcoming meeting, officials from Christian County towns, villages, or cities will hand in their lists of projects.

Stay tuned to taylorvilledailynews.com to find additional information following the next mitigation meeting.
 

As planting season begins across Illinois, farmers are heading to both the fields and the roadways. Safety experts state that, out of all other times of the year, now is the best time to really be staying alert both on the farm and on the road.

According to Country Financial, collisions involving farm equipment are the most common insurance claims among its farm clients during the spring planting months. In the previous year, from March through June, Country Financial received more than 180 collision claims. These included claims for accidents involving farm equipment with vehicles on public roads, as well as incidents where equipment collided with buildings or other machinery on the farms themselves.

Zack Hinthorn, an underwriter of agribusiness at Country Financial, points out that the planting window is short. Considering that a farm vehicle like a tractor or combine is crucial to the operation of the farm, farmers can’t afford setbacks caused by accidents involving their farm vehicles. So, as a resolution to potential setbacks, it is recommended that you take time to properly prepare before the rush, to help keep operations running smoothly.

To reduce risk during this busy season while driving or operating farm equipment, Hinthorn recommends that you practice increased visibility on the road with flashing lights, clean reflective tape, and clearly visible “Slow Moving Vehicle” emblems on your equipment.

It is also critical that you utilize proper signaling while entering or driving farming vehicles on main streets. This is critical as it can be hard for other drivers to anticipate the next move a farm vehicle will make.

Other recommendations from Hinthorn for farm equipment operators include always staying alert when driving, routine equipment inspection and maintenance to avoid any potential breakdowns, safe practices when handling chemicals, keeping up to date on insurance, and preventing theft by securing your equipment. Most importantly, always remember to prioritize your health.

Farm and agriculture safety tips for handling chemicals, machinery, utility vehicles, equipment, and more can be found at www.saif.com or www.cultivatesafety.org

The University of Illinois Extension’s Master Gardeners are bringing back many of their offerings and services with the weather presenting more like summer.  They will have their bright orange tent at select farmer’s markets in Taylorville.  They are also bringing back the helpdesk and are shedding light on a plant photography course.

Their presence at farmer’s markets begins with appearances on May 9 and 23.  Master Gardeners Gwen Podeschi and Sandi Klein say while plants will not be on sale at the farmer’s market, they will have a host of gardening resources available. 

Starting in May, the helpdesk will be available to answer gardening questions Thursday mornings.  Community members can call or visit the Extension office at 1120 North Webster Street to get help.

The Extension will be hosting a course on plant photography.  It’s set for Thursday, June 18 from 6-8 p.m. at 2152 Illinois Route 16 in Pana. 

More information on these events and the University of Illinois Extension more broadly is available at extension.illinois.edu.

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

Community members throughout central Illinois will be able to take part in a walking challenge in May, sponsored by Memorial Health.  The Mindful Miles Walking Challenge runs the entire month of May and functions similarly to past walking challenges the healthcare provider has organized.  This edition has different branding from previous years and is expanded to include all local chapters.

As the name suggests, the Mindful Miles Walking Challenge is focused not just on physical health but also on mental health.  Memorial Health’s Community Health Consultant Jay Boulanger says the initiative is designed to address multiple health needs identified by the communities they serve.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital will host a kick-off event for the challenge.  It’s set for Thursday, April 30 – which is the day before the challenge officially begins – from 5-7 p.m. at the hospital’s parking lot. 

As with Memorial Health’s previous walking challenges, participants will log their distances using the free Pacer app.  Those who walk 50 miles or more inside the month of May win a free T-shirt. 

More information on the Mindful Miles Walking Challenge – including details specific to your location – is available here.

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

The Taylorville School Board is scheduled to meet this evening at 6:00 p.m.  After approval of the minutes, claims, and the treasurer’s report, the board will be presented with presentations by administrators on student handbooks, consideration of overnight trips, and personnel, followed by a discussion of new business.

Under new business, the board will hear from School Board President, Ann Chandler, who will talk about IASB Talking Points, and receive a NPT Update from Lori Wemple. The board will also partake in the consideration of the Illinois State Board of Education’s (ISBE) annual consolidated district plan.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests will also be addressed, along with plans to discuss the goals for Superintendent Brandi Bruley for the 2026-2027 school year. 

Other topics up for discussion involve the first reading of the Press Policy, consideration and approval of Taylorville High and Junior High School student handbook and discipline code updates, and the hiring, appointing, disciplining, compensating, performing, or dismissing specific employees and individuals independently contracting in a park, recreational, or educational setting.

For the last stretch of tonight’s Board Meeting, the board will hear from the Superintendent for her monthly update.

Head online to taylorvilledailynews.com for more information following the conclusion of the event.

Anyone looking for new plants for the upcoming season will have the opportunity to buy some at the University of Illinois Extension’s Master Gardeners’ annual plant sale.  It’s scheduled for Saturday, May 2 starting at 9 a.m. at the Extension’s Christian County office.  Master Gardeners Gwen Podeschi and Sandi Klein say perennials make up most of the plants on offer.

The Master Gardeners dig out plants of their own and from other sources to sell.  They also accept donations from those who would like to contribute. 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the plants on sale or anything else related to gardening at the event. 

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

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

Ace Hardware in Shelbyville will see a whole new look soon, as the company has entered the very beginning stages of a renovation and relocation project, set to be finished by the end of this year. Store leadership expects to be up and running as a normal Ace Hardware location by that time as well.

Kelly Mars, Shelbyville Ace Hardware Manager, says that the construction crew has begun to get the ground leveled out to begin digging to lay plumbing. Once the plumbing and any underground work are complete, they will begin the concreting stage.

Mars also mentioned that the new location will be closer to Walmart, across from the Tractor Supply store up the road from Walmart, and that the project’s completion is expected to be done by the end of this year, with the store to open as soon as the project is completed.

Learn more about Ace Hardware in Shelbyville online by visiting www.acehardware.com.

You can also visit the store's current location at 2114 W Main St, Suite D, Shelbyville, IL 62565 

The first quarter of 2026 is showing a continued drop in crime in Taylorville.  That’s according to data from the city’s police department.  The trend comes amid an increase in traffic enforcement along with new certifications and qualifications which department members have achieved.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler watches the data closely.  He credits citizen feedback along with the work of his team for the reduction in crime. 

In terms of the connection the department has with community members, Chief Wheeler points to community policing and outreach efforts to connect with those they serve.

Chief Wheeler adds that social media has been an effective tool for helping fight crime, through the ability of community members to communicate directly with the department that way.

Officers have increased their level of traffic enforcement following calls to do so from community members in a recent survey the Taylorville Police Department commissioned. 

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

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

The City of Taylorville announced that it will hold its annual lottery for lake lots, campgrounds, and boat docks on Friday, April 17, at 5:00 pm. at the lake shop. Taylorville residents will receive priority in the drawing, with out-of-town applicants to be considered afterward.

Rentals available this year include lake lots, campgrounds, and a limited number of boat docks. Lake lots are priced at $650 with an additional $300 security deposit. Campground spaces cost $1,000, also requiring a $300 security deposit, while boat docks are available for $250.

All fees must be paid on the day of the drawing. The city accepts cash, check, or money order, as well as debit and credit card payments. There will be a 2.3% processing fee applied to card transactions.

To participate in the lottery, applicants are required to present a valid photo ID. City officials also emphasized that individuals without proper identification will not be permitted to sign up.

Current leaseholders who are selected for a new lot or campground must complete and sign relinquishment paperwork on the day of the drawing before entering into a new lease agreement.

A list of available properties reported by The City of Taylorville is as follows:

• Lake Lots With Power are 135, 148, 162, 203, 212, 231, 243, 341, 376, and 410.

• Lake Lots Without Power include 132 and 155.

• Campgrounds available as of now are 11, 15, 26, 33, 34, 50, and 86.

• Currently, the only available boat dock is 19.

City officials are encouraging interested participants to prepare in advance and ensure all required documentation and payment methods are ready.

For additional information, residents can contact the City Clerk’s Office at 217-824-2101.
 

Some residents in the Village of Stonington are being advised to boil their water following a boil order issued by the village’s public water supply.

The order affects several addresses, including 304 North Elm, 202 and 204 East Fourth Street, as well as 301, 309, and 401 North State Street.

Officials say all water used for drinking or cooking should be boiled for at least 15 minutes before use.

The boil order will remain in effect until laboratory testing confirms the water is safe. Once testing is complete, the village will issue a notice when the order has been lifted.

For more information, residents can contact Stonington Village Hall.

The Taylorville Police Department is recognizing several officers for recent training and professional development achievements.

Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler announced that Sergeant Christian Nelson has graduated from the Police Staff and Command School at Northwestern University. The program focuses on leadership, management, and organizational skills for law enforcement supervisors.

In addition, Sergeant Chase Dickey, Detective Todd, and Officer Niles have completed training through the Illinois Tactical Officers Association, earning certification as Tactical Patrol Officers.

Wheeler praised the department’s officers for their commitment to professional growth and emphasized the importance of training and mentorship in maintaining public safety. He also thanked the Taylorville mayor and city council for their continued support in providing opportunities for advanced training.

This week marks Dispatch Appreciation Week, a time to recognize the men and women who serve as the first, first responders behind the scenes—our 9-1-1 telecommunicators.

In Christian County, dispatchers play a critical role in public safety every single day, answering emergency calls, coordinating police, fire, and EMS response, and providing calm instructions to callers in high-stress situations.

The dispatch center serves as the communication hub for emergency services across the county, handling everything from medical emergencies and accidents to severe weather incidents and public safety calls.

Officials say dispatchers are often the first voice people hear in an emergency, and their ability to stay calm, gather information quickly, and send help without delay can make a life-saving difference.
While officers, firefighters, and EMS crews are seen responding in the field, dispatchers are working simultaneously behind the scenes—tracking units, relaying information, and ensuring responders have what they need before arriving on scene.

Dispatch Appreciation Week is recognized nationwide as a way to highlight the dedication, training, and composure required to serve in emergency communications.

In Christian County, officials are encouraging residents to take a moment this week to thank their 9-1-1 dispatchers for their service, professionalism, and commitment to keeping the community safe around the clock.

The Pana Police Department is warning residents about a string of attempted vehicle burglaries reported today.

According to a social media post from the department, the incidents have so far been limited to the east side of Pana and involve suspects attempting to enter unlocked vehicles. At this time, no thefts have been reported.

Police are asking residents to review any home security footage for suspicious or illegal activity and submit relevant videos directly through the department’s Facebook Messenger. Officials are also urging the public not to post videos publicly and to use discretion when sharing footage.

Authorities remind residents to lock their vehicles and secure their property as a precaution. If you see anything, please report it to your local police department. 

The Decatur Comic Con 3 is set to take over the Decatur Civic Center this weekend, April 11th and 12th, bringing a full slate of pop culture, creativity, and community engagement to the area.
Organizers with Midwest Toy & Comic Fest say the event is designed to bring people together in a positive and productive way, encouraging creativity while building meaningful connections. Through partnerships with local groups and a focus on giving back, the event aims to support and strengthen the surrounding community.

Now in its third year, Decatur Comic Con continues to grow, with this year’s event featuring a lineup of well-known guests from across the pop culture world. Attendees will have the chance to meet Sergeant Slaughter, The Godfather, Selwyn Ward, Tracy Lynn Cruz, Patricia Patts, Paul E. Niemeyer, and Isaak Wells.

In addition to celebrity appearances, the event will feature more than 100 vendors, panel discussions, a costume contest, and participation from local organizations, offering an interactive experience for all ages.

Show hours run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, with admission set at 10 dollars per person. Sunday will serve as Family Day, with free admission for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult.

Organizers say the event is open to collectors, comic fans, and anyone looking for a fun and engaging weekend celebrating fandom, creativity, and community spirit.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office, along side of the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office, hosted an important training this week to strengthen the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICACTF).

This training, conducted by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office’s Investigation Division, was focused on Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC). The training also came with support from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

14 participants from multiple agencies attended the training, including the Sheriff’s Offices from Christian County, Montgomery County, and Shelby County. Also in attendance were the Morrisonville Police Department, and the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office.

The training was aimed at providing law enforcement officers with valuable knowledge on preserving and collecting digital evidence. It also gave knowledge on securing internet-related search warrants, conducting effective interviews, and accessing support resources available from the Attorney General’s Office.

The christian county Sheriffs Office says they are grateful for the opportunity to host this important training as they continue working to protect the children of Christian and surrounding counties.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office will also be sending deputies to more advanced training in the coming months.

If you or someone you know needs to report child abuse, use the CyberTipline at www.childhelphotline.org or call 1-800-422-4453.

You may also contact the Christian County Sheriff’s Office at 217-777-4961 or submit a tip through the Christian County Sheriff IL mobile app, available in your device’s app store.

The Hart Media Group is hosting the next Business After Hours event organized by the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, and both entities are busy preparing the experience.  It’s scheduled for Thursday, April 23 from 4:30-6:30pm.  Representatives of Chamber member businesses along with businesspeople within Christian County are welcome to attend.  GTCC Ambassador Julie Mayer says the plans will relate to the Hart Media Group’s slogan, “Connecting People.”

The Chamber will also highlight its newest member: Y-Zoe’s.  They are a bar with dartboards and pool and shuffleboard tables.

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

Julie Mayer appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

50-year-old Brian M. Grove, of Taylorville, was charged with  2 counts of possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. Grove was arrested at his Taylorville residence yesterday, and after a court hearing, the judge ruled to continue to detain Grove without bail.

Grove’s case was heard today just before 11 am at the Christian County Courthouse. Grove appeared in court while in custody, accompanied by Public Defender Tiffany Senger, to be formally advised of the charges filed against him.

During the hearing, the court informed Grove that if convicted on both counts, any sentences imposed would be required to run consecutively, meaning one sentence would begin only after the other is completed. This was just to ensure that Grove was aware of how his sentencing would work, despite no convictions yet. 

Grove was also advised in court today that the state had filed for a petition to detain, which is a formal request by the prosecution to keep a defendant in custody before trial. Which was granted by the court.  Upon the agreement of both the defense and the prosecution, the court proceeded to hold a preliminary hearing and a detention hearing today as well.

During the preliminary hearing, the court called Illinois State Police’s Zone 4 Major Crimes Agent, Lucas Baugher, who was a major part of the investigative team. Baugher appeared through the courtroom’s Zoom call, was sworn in, and provided his testimony.

During Baugher’s testimony, he was asked several questions by the court to find sufficient evidence that Grove committed the offenses. The court did, in fact, find probable cause to keep Grove under lock and key for now. Upon waiving a formal arraignment hearing, Grove entered a plea of not guilty, and requested a trial by jury. The jury trial was approved. 

Regarding pretrial detention, Christian County’s State’s Attorney, John McWard, and Grove’s Public Defender, Tiffany Senger, exchanged arguments that were considered by the court and a pretrial investigation report was conducted.

The judge presiding over the courtroom today found that the state met its burden of proof by clear and convincing evidence, establishing that Grove committed an offense eligible for detention. Grove will remain detained until his hearing with counsel, scheduled for April 17th, at 10 am, where further decisions and considerations will be made.

The reason the judge chose to hold the counsel trial next week is that they reportedly need to keep an eye on Grove’s medical conditions. During Senger's defense, she mentioned that Grove reportedly suffers from stage 5 poly-cystic kidney disease, requiring 4-5 dialysis treatments on a weekly basis. Other reported conditions include tinnitus, memory loss, sleep apnea, coronary artery disease, a pacemaker, and hearing aids. Grove was also a former member of the U.S. Military, of which the VA has deemed 100 percent disabled.
 

The court further went on to determine that Grove poses a danger to minors and the community due to the possession and distribution of child pornography. The judge also concluded that no set of conditions, such as supervision or restrictions, would safely and sufficiently reduce that risk.

For representation at the upcoming court hearing, Grove chose to be appointed a public defender. Public Defender Senger was then formally appointed to represent him.

For more info on the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation, go to isp.illinois.gov/CriminalInvestigations.

Details of the council hearing will be shared after the hearing's completion at taylorvilledailynews.com.

A number of member businesses of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce will be involved in a women’s fashion show in Taylorville this weekend.  The organization Women Inspiring Success & Empowerment (WISE) – Central IL is orchestrating their 6th Annual Spring Fashion Show.  It will take place at the First United Methodist Church on Saturday; doors open at 3:30 p.m., with the event beginning an hour later.  

Tyler Frump and Kayla MaGraw are the president and vice president, respectively, of WISE.  They say there are plenty of ways to support the show’s cause.

Outside of the fashion show, the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is also working with state agencies and organizations connected to them to promote state job openings.  GTCC Ambassador Julie Mayer says the Chamber co-hosted a hiring event and will also help put on the annual job fair in July. 

More information on WISE and the Spring Fashion Show is available on the organization’s Facebook page.  More information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is available at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

Tyler Frump, Kayla MaGraw, and Julie Mayer appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

A Taylorville man has been arrested on child sexual abuse materials charges following an investigation by the Illinois State Police.

Authorities say 50-year-old Brian M. Grove was taken into custody Thursday after agents with the State Police Division of Criminal Investigation and the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office executed a search warrant at his residence.

According to investigators, the case began March 23rd when agents learned an individual was allegedly possessing and distributing child sexual abuse materials. Officials say digital evidence was later obtained through the Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, indicating Grove both possessed and disseminated the material from his home in Christian County.

Grove was formally identified as a suspect on April 2nd, and arrested April 9th.

He is now charged with dissemination of child pornography, a Class X felony, and possession of child pornography, a Class 1 felony. Grove is currently being held at the Christian County Jail pending a detention hearing.

The Illinois State Police also remind the public that suspected crimes involving children can be reported anonymously through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s CyberTipline.

According to our investigation, Grove's Wife is a Taylorville Police Officer and is a School Resource Officer at the Junior High.  He is a former Capitol police officer through the Secretary of State.   He spent 16 years in law enforcement.  According to Christian County State's Attorney John McWard, Grove's wife is not of any interest at this time.  All Taylorville school students are safe.  No information has linked her to any involvement at this time. 

Lincoln Land Community College is inviting families to celebrate science at its upcoming Spring into Science event. The free, family-friendly event will take place Friday, May 1st from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the second floor of Sangamon Hall at the LLCC Springfield campus. Organizers say the event is open to children of all ages when accompanied by a parent or guardian, with check-in set for A. Lincoln Commons.

Spring into Science is designed as a spring-themed version of the college’s popular Haunted Lab event, offering hands-on activities, interactive demonstrations and engaging learning experiences focused on the science behind the natural world. Families will be able to explore stations centered on flowers and plants, including flower dissections, and will have the opportunity to plant a flower to take home.

Students will also learn about bird banding during a special demonstration, while marine biology activities will feature a touch tank and a saltwater scavenger hunt. Additional activities will include chemistry demonstrations and other interactive science experiences tied to spring and scientific discovery. Weather permitting, attendees can also take part in a prairie walk to learn more about native Illinois ecosystems and seasonal changes.

The event is sponsored by the college’s Natural and Agricultural Sciences Department, along with the Chemistry and Biology Clubs.
 

Taylorville Memorial Hospital (TMH) has designated its March Colleague of the Month. The recipient of this accolade is Occupational Therapist, Sharmila Gopalakrishnan.

As a member of the rehabilitation therapy team, Gopalakrishnan received recognition for her dedication, clinical creativity and commitment to patients and colleagues. She has come in on days off and stayed after hours on multiple occasions to ensure quality of care. 

Her nominator stated they’ve noticed that Gopalakrishnan never hesitates to do what is right for her patients, even if it means adjusting her schedule, taking on extra responsibilities or tasks, and advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations.

Gopalakrishnan has been working for Memorial Health since 2017. Her award of Colleague of the Month will celebrate her abilities to exemplify excellence in her role, and to embody Memorial Health’s mission, vision, and values.

For more information on Memorial Health go online to memorial.health.

The Illinois News Broadcasters Association (INBA) is honoring two Eastern Illinois University (EIU) broadcasting students that have been selected to receive INBA Foundation Scholarships.

This years scholarship winners are Olivia Bennet, from Charleston, who is  a junior at EIU, and Andrew Spaid, from Lake of the Hills, a senior at EIU set to graduate this spring.

The winners will be honored on April 18th at the INBA’s Best of Broadcast Awards event, set to take place in Champaign. The two winners were hand selected by a panel of INBA members who evaluated around 20 scholarships. 

Bennet is majoring in broadcast journalism. She has worked previously for WOIO-TV in Cleveland. Bennet also was formerly a producer, anchor and investigative reporter for TruBlu Crime Streaming. She was a managing editor, anchor and reporter for WEIU-TV News Watch as well.

With this year’s award, Bennet is now a three-time INBA scholarship winner. Olivia will be taking home the INBA Fred “Fritz” Sorenson Scholarship. Sorenson was a longtime reporter and anchor for WKRS radio in Waukegan and WCIA-TV in Champaign.

Spaid is going for a dgree in TV and Video Production. Spaid has worked as a sports and news anchor, producer, and sports director for WEIU-TV. Spaid also was an on-air DJ for Hit Mix 88.9 WEIU. In addition to that experience, Spaid is currently a host and producer of the Anytime Sports Podcast, has work experience on the live sports production crew for ESPN+ and was a freelance camera operator for WQAD-TV.

Spaid is the winner of the INBA Don Brown Scholarship. Don Brown is the namesake for the INBA’s first-ever scholarship, given in 1963. Brown was instrumental in forming the INBA in 1955, with his experience from when he worked at radio stations in Iowa. Brown also taught at the University of Iowa, University of Illinois, and Arizona State University. 

In addition to the awards, the winners are also set to receive an all expenses paid trip to the Best of Broadcast Awards.

For more Details on the INBA and its scholarships visit https://www.inba.net/

The Christian County Health Department is promoting multiple support groups for community members.  One is focused on teen mental health, while the other is for those who are, or were recently, pregnant.  These support groups are meant to connect attendees to valuable resources as well as to each other.

The teen mental health group meets Tuesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the Health Department’s offices at 730 North Pawnee Street.  Mental Health Case Manager Peyton Langen is helping run these groups.  She hopes this group and its activities will help continue to challenge stigmas surrounding mental health. 

In her two years so far at the Christian County Health Department, Langen says she has seen a greater willingness in the community to talk about mental health.

The pregnancy/postpartum support group will hold its first meeting on Thursday, April 30 from 6-7 p.m., also at the Health Department’s offices.  It will then become a recurring event, taking place the final Thursday of each month.

Those interested in attending either event can contact the Christian County Health Department by calling (217) 824-4113.

Outside of these sessions, the Health Department reminds community members who intend to serve food at outdoor events that they must apply for and be granted a temporary food permit.  Joe Torres, Director of Environmental Health, adds that the food must be prepared either on site or at an establishment previously approved to prepare and serve food. 

Torres also reminds local food establishments of the Health Department’s food workshops designed to help said locations comply with food safety standards.  Two three-hour sessions will be offered on Wednesday, April 22: one at 9 a.m. and another at 1 p.m.  They will take place at the University of Illinois Extension offices.  Attendees must register by April 17.

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

Peyton Langen and Joe Torres appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Kiwanis members made welcome representatives from Taylorville’s Tommy T.V. at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Tommy T.V. Co-Producer Molly Smith along with Head of Committee Kavya Patel gave a presentation focused on the upcoming Annual Tommy Awards.  This will be the fifth year that the awards are being presented.

The Tommy Awards is a student-led and community centered awards show.  The program is designed to honor outstanding students, staff and members of the community.  The goal is to recognize people who make a meaningful impact on Taylorville.

With a working budget of $38,000 the Tommy Awards presents a professional appearance as recognition is given to those who have made outstanding contributions to the community.  The evening includes a catered dinner followed by a great program.  This year’s Tommy Awards will take place May 9th in the Taylorville High School Gymnasium.  Tickets for the event can be purchased at www.tommyawards.tv .  For more information visit TommyTv on Facebook of email tommyawards@tcusd3.org .

Kiwanis members were also updated on activities related to the Taylorville Kiwanis Club. Kiwanis Park at Lake Taylorville held a cleanup day and will soon be updated to include a “Corn Hole” area of play. 

As a reminder the Taylorville Kiwanis Club will be hosting its annual “All you can eat” Pancake and Sausage breakfast fundraiser Saturday April 25th.  Serving will begin at 6:30am and continue until 11:00am at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  All proceeds are utilized to serve local youth activities. 

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 or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.com

FFA and 4-H chapters from across Illinois are gathering today at the Christian County Fairgrounds for a livestock judging competition.

The event gives student members the opportunity to evaluate livestock and demonstrate their knowledge in an agricultural setting. Participants are divided into teams and tasked with placing four animals in each class for final judging.

There are two divisions in the competition. In the reasons division, teams of five students rotate through six classes, evaluating animals and providing justification for their rankings.

A no-reasons division is also being held, allowing each chapter to bring up to ten students who can be split into multiple teams to compete.

More information about the event, and the Lincoln Land Community College agriculture program, can be found online at LLCC.edu.

The Illinois High School Association is announcing a new partnership with Credit Union 1, naming the financial institution an official partner of IHSA championship events across the state.

The partnership is designed to support student-athletes and member schools, while also enhancing the experience at state final events.

IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson says Credit Union 1’s commitment to education and community involvement makes them a natural fit for the organization.

Credit Union 1 President and CEO Todd Gunderson says the partnership will help student-athletes build a strong financial foundation early, with access to financial wellness tools and resources for both students and their families.

As part of the agreement, Credit Union 1 will be featured across IHSA championship events and digital platforms, with opportunities to connect directly with fans and athletes.

The IHSA oversees state championship competition for more than 800 high schools and serves hundreds of thousands of student-athletes across Illinois each year.

Illinois State Police have arrested a Girard man following a child exploitation investigation.

Forty-eight-year-old James Barnard is facing multiple Class X felony charges, including possession and dissemination of child sexual abuse materials involving a child under the age of 13.

According to investigators, the case began after a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Illinois State Police, working alongside the Macoupin County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, identified Barnard as a suspect.

Authorities executed a search warrant April 1st at a home in the 200 block of North Harrison Street in Girard, where Barnard was taken into custody.

Charges were formally filed the following day by the Macoupin County State’s Attorney’s Office. Barnard is currently being held in the Macoupin County Jail.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Illinois State Police remind the public that suspected child exploitation can be reported anonymously through the CyberTipline at CyberTipline dot org.

With warmer days ahead, Pana Pride is ramping up this year’s efforts to beautify the city.  It begins with Dumpster Days in June, when residents will be able to deposit large waste into publicly located dumpsters.  Pana Pride will also begin awarding honors for yard and business of the month, with incentives on hand for winners of both.

Melissa Miller is the president of Pana Pride.  She says this year’s Dumpster Days event is set for June 6.

Miller says the Dumpster Days play a major role in improving the aesthetics of yards and homes.

The yard and business of the month awards will begin in May and run through October.  A yard sign and gift cards are among the prizes for winners. 

Pana Pride will soon begin planting flowers at a number of spots around town, including in pots at street corners.  They are looking for volunteers to help with this endeavor. 

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

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

Save a life by donating blood at one of two upcoming community wide blood drives. Non-profit community organization, known as ImpactLife, along with the Taylorville Public Library and Taylorville High School are helping put this community blood drive event together.

The Taylorville Community Blood Drive, sponsored by the Taylorville Public Library, is set for Thursday, April 23rd at the Christian County Extension Office Auditorium located at 1120 N Webster Street in Taylorville. To donate at this event, contact ImpactLife Springfield at 1-800-747-5401 or simply visit www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60145. Appointments are requested. This drive will open at 11AM and donations will run up to 6PM. 

To donate blood on Friday, April 24th at the Taylorville High School Community Blood Drive, first contact Max Wilson at 217-824-2268 or go to www.bloodcenter.org and use code 60084. Once you have registered and scheduled an appointment to donate, head to the Taylorville High School West Gym located at 815 Springfield Road in Taylorville, at 8:30 AM. The THS Community Blood Drive will be ending at 2:45PM.

You can also schedule appointments for either drive through ImpactLife by calling 1-800-747-5401.

For more information on ImpactLife go to https://www.bloodcenter.org/

Info on the Taylorville High School can be found at https://ths.tcusd3.org/

Details on the Taylorville Public Library can be found at https://www.taylorvillelibrary.org/

Memorial Health is hosting kickoff parties that are set to take place April 30th. The kickoff parties are meant to celebrate Memorial Health’s upcoming May walking challenge.

Taylorville, Decatur, Springfield, Jacksonville, and Lincoln will see these events ahead of the free Memorial Health Mindful Miles Walking Challenge that is set to take place during the full month of May.

Participants can sign up for the free walking challenge using the Pacer app on their phone. Each Memorial Health hospital is a hub for the walking challenges with individual kickoff parties, and participants who walk 50 or more miles during May will receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt.

Listed below are locations and times of the upcoming kickoff parties:

Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s Kickoff Party for Mindful Miles Walking Challenge:
5 to 7 p.m. April 30 in the TMH Parking Lot. Participants can sign up for the challenge, ask questions, pick up free giveaways and more. Participants who walk 50 miles or more receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt. Register for the challenge: https://www.mypacer.com/organizations/MHWalks/invite. Contact Jay Boulanger at 217-707-5258 for more information. 

Decatur Memorial Hospital’s Kickoff Party for Mindful Miles Walking Challenge:
5 to 7 p.m. DMH Walking Trail. Participants can sign up for the challenge, ask questions, pick up free giveaways and more. Participants who walk 50 miles or more receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt. Contact Sonja Chargois at 447-876-2117 for more information. Register for the challenge: https://www.mypacer.com/organizations/MHWalks/invite.

 Springfield Memorial Hospital’s Kickoff Party for Mindful Miles Walking Challenge:
4 to 6 p.m. April 30 at the Edgar J. Curtis Memorial Learning Center, 228 W. Miller St. Participants can sign up for the challenge, ask questions, pick up free giveaways and more. Participants who walk 50 miles or more receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt. Register for the challenge: https://www.mypacer.com/organizations/MHWalks/invite. Contact Galia Cossyleon at 217-588-7611.
 
Jacksonville Memorial Hospital’s Kickoff Party for Mindful Miles Walking Challenge:
4 to 6 p.m. JMH Main Entrance. Participants can sign up for the challenge, ask questions, pick up free giveaways and more. Participants who walk 50 miles or more receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt. Contact Claire Peak at 447-784-3212 for more information. Register for the challenge: https://www.mypacer.com/organizations/MHWalks/invite.
 
Lincoln Memorial Hospital’s Kickoff Party for Mindful Miles Walking Challenge:
5 to 7 p.m. LMH Wellness Trail. Participants can sign up for the challenge, ask questions, pick up free giveaways and more. Participants who walk 50 miles or more receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt. Register for the challenge: https://www.mypacer.com/organizations/MHWalks/invite. Contact Molly McCain at 217-605-5014 for more information.
 
Details on Taylorville Memorial Health can be found at https://memorial.health/taylorville-memorial-hospital/overview/

A Christian County student was recently honored by the Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture with academic scholarship support for the 2026-2027 academic year. Scholarships were awarded at the 2026 Scholarship and Awards Banquet, hosted by Ferguson College on March, 26th.

The Christian County Student to receive the 2026-2027 Joseph Fleming Memorial Continuing Scholarship is Animal Science Major, Tessa Saxe, from Morrisonville.

The scholarships are part of the more than $1.8 million that students receive from Ferguson College and its academic departments. Students from all areas of study are considered for college scholarships, which can be combined with departmental and university awards as well.

The Associate Dean of Academic Programs, Cynda Clary, says that their students continuously showcase academic and professional success throughout their endeavors at Ferguson College, and that these scholarships, which are made possible due to the generosity of both alumni and friends, are a testament to the success of their students, and that they are honored to recognize them.

For more information on Oklahoma State University and its offered scholarships visit https://accessibility.okstate.edu/scholarships

Severe weather causing damage, tornadoes, and heavy clean up efforts have already impacted Christian County this severe weather season. Some of the damages included damage to trees, commercial properties, and residential properties due to high wind speeds and large hail. Some towns within Christian County along with other portions of Central Illinois have even seen EF-0 and EF-1 tornadoes.

The frequency of these weather events and damages caused by the severe storms that blew through Christian County will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the Christian County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee.

The committee will also discuss other disasters as well such as man made hazards that may effect the county. The discussion is set to be held at the upcoming committee meeting.

The meeting of the Christian County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee will be located at the Taylorville Fire Station Training Room at 202 N. Main Street in Taylorville on Tuesday, April 14th at 2PM.

This Committee, comprised of county, township, municipal, school district, and emergency services
representatives, technical partners and stakeholders, will continue to meet over the next several months to update the Christian County All Hazards Mitigation Plan.

The meetings are open to the public and the committee does openly accept the public’s input.

Director of the Christian County Emergency Management Agency, Jeff Stoner, says that the committee’s goal at this meeting is to identify how often severe weather events occur within the county, and what kinds of damages these severe weather events have created.

Stoner also says that, based on that information, the committee can compile lists of activities and projects to reduce damages caused by severe weather. Stoner also states that this effort is solely focused on natural hazards, such as severe storms that bring high wind speeds and large hail, snow and ice storms, floods, drought, extreme cold, and excessive heat.

The current participants to take part from Christian County are Assumption, Edinburg, Harvel, Morrisonville, Owaneco, Palmer, Pana, Stonington, Taylorville, and Tovey, as well as Johnson Township, Locust Township, May Township, Prairieton Township, Pana Community Hospital, Springfield Clinic, Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Morrisonville CUSD #1, Taylorville CUSD #3, Morrisonville-Palmer Fire Protection District (FPD), Mt. Auburn FPD, Owaneco FPD, and Taylorville FPD.

Those interested in this effort, or those in attendance can provide input at these Planning Committee
meetings or submit their comments and questions to their municipal or county representatives.

For further details, contact the Christian County Emergency Management Agency at 217-820-0912

Jurisdictions that not yet participated in a committee meeting are encouraged to attend.

Stay up to date at taylorvilledailynews.com or stay tuned to WTIM, Your Only Local News Radio.

The Christian County YMCA is entering high gear in their fundraising efforts.  It begins on Monday, April 13 when the annual sustaining drive gets underway.  They are also promoting their summer golf outing, set for Friday, June 12 at the Lakeshore Golf Course in Taylorville.  This comes as sports and recreation programs are also starting up with warmer weather more consistently present.

Executive Director Bruce Blanshan has his eyes on these plans.  He says the sustaining drive – known as the “Strong Kids Sustaining Drive” – benefits the Y’s scholarship program, which helps make its services available to those in financial hardship.

Blanshan even sees scholarship programs like this as a part of the reason for the YMCA chapter’s record membership numbers. 

The Y is also preparing for the golf outing in June.  The fundraising drive as part of this event is aptly named “Chip in for Kids.”

As for current programs, the spring soccer program has begun practice sessions.  The first matches are set for Saturday, April 18.

More information on the Christian County YMCA, as well as registration for any of the aforementioned programs, is available at www.ccymca.org.

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

The Taylorville City Council met this evening for their first monthly April meeting to discuss various topics including hearing on committee reports and reviewing old and new business. Items in the discussion included a motion to amend the approved bills from the original march 16, 2026 city council meeting, as well as a joint resolution motioned to be made with Christian County for the Paper Mill Branch Infrastructure Project. Other topics in the meeting included the recognition of the Girls Wrestling Club State Qualifier’s, as well as updates from both the Mayor and the City Attorney.

The first thing to be discussed was the recognition of the Girls Wrestling Club State Qualifiers.

Taylorville Mayor, Bruce Barry, honored the wrestlers and presented them with a plaque to show their achievements, as well as dedicating today as a holiday in their honor.

The next item on the agenda to be discussed was the motion to amend the approved bills from the March 16th Taylorville City Council meeting. According to Mayor Barry, the amount to be approved after the amendment is $524,657.66 which now includes the amount of $179,654.46 in bank drafts which were not included in the originally approved total. The motion to amend was approved 8-0.

There was also a motion made by Alderman Jim Olive to recommend to the City Council to direct the city clerk to prepare a joint resolution with Christian County for the Paper Mill Branch Infrastructure Project. The motion was voted to go through a joint resolution before getting any further votes. This topic did cause for some clarifying discussion among council members concerning the budget amount.

The last topics to be discussed were the City Attorney and Mayor Updates.

In the City Attorney update, renewable energy, additions to power bills, and galaxy trucking logistics new developments were discussed.

In the Mayor Update, Mayor Barry gave gratitude to the Cleeton family for their donation to save the Taylorville 4th of July fireworks show. Mayor Barry also mentioned the construction on West Main Cross, as well as the safe sidewalks to school project.

All other motions in tonight’s meeting were approved. 

Always keep up to date with further Taylorville City Council meetings at taylorvilledailynews.com.

Loving Arms Pregnancy Center with locations in Taylorville and Pana wants residents in Christian County to know that there is a place that people can go where free and confidential services are provided including pregnancy tests, consultations, options, referrals, free ultrasounds, mentoring for dads, healthy choices, programs for teens, and and support for those who have experienced a infant loss, or abortion. 

Loving Arms Director Cathy Coker was joined by Client Services Director Amanda Polley and Director of Prevention and Outreach Heather Voelz.  Coker says as the need grows the need for more hands grows.  There are several openings that are needed including the need for a janitor but there are several other positions that are needed to be filled.

Amanda Polley says that as a Client Services Director advocates are needed.  Advocates are the supporters and listeners walking along clients with no judgement but compassion and care. 

Director of Prevention and Outreach Heather Voelz says that  prevention can go a long way towards equipping students to make healthy decisions emotionally, physically, and relationally. 

There are two paid PRN positions open.  These are sexual risk avoidance educator positions open.

Coker says if you are feeling moved and called to serve, reach out at lovingarmsillinois.com or 217-824-7200. 

Loving Arms is always looking for baby wipes, diapers, Gentlease formula with the purple lid. Cathy Coker, Amanda Polley, and Heather Voelz appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County Coroners Office has reported on a death that recently occurred outside of Stonington.

This morning, at approximately 8:55 AM, Christian County Coroner, Austin Peters, confirmed the death of 40-year old Shannon Reckers.

According to reports, Reckers was found deceased at her personal residence in rural Stonington.

This is still an ongoing investigation being conducted by The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 4, Christian County Sheriff's Office, and the Christian County Coroner's Office.

Hart Media Group posted on this story Friday morning of last week. To read the originally posted story CLICK HERE.

No further information is available at this time.

For updates as this investigation continues, stay tuned to taylorvilledailynews.com or WTIM, Your Only Local News Radio.

Lake Land College is asking for input from community members and prospective students as it works to improve class scheduling options.

Residents in the college’s district are invited to complete a brief online survey to share preferred class times and formats. School officials say the feedback will help expand course offerings, including online, in-person, evening and weekend classes, making it easier for students to balance education with work and family responsibilities.

The survey will remain open through June 30. Participants will be entered into a drawing for a 50-dollar gift voucher to the Laker Nest Bookstore. The effort is part of the college’s “Education that Fits Your Life” initiative, which aims to better align academic programs with students’ individual needs.  For more information, those interested can contact Lake Land College’s Director of Strategic Initiatives.

The Taylorville Food Pantry is always working to help keep its shelves stocked, and one of its programs is celebrating a historic milestone.  Pam Moses, Co-director of the Taylorville Food Pantry says that the food rescue program has went over 1 million pounds. The rescue program which saves food that grocery stores can’t use, has been a tremendous asset for the Taylorville Food Pantry. 

There are between 375 and 525 homes in any given month that need help at the Taylorville Food Pantry every month, and the food rescue program rescues food from going to the local landfill but it goes so much further. 

The needs stay consistent and one area where the food pantry always needs help is with fruits and vegetables, so Moses says if you have an extra item from your garden, maybe consider dropping it off to the Food Pantry.

Moses says that there is usually someone there most days for drop-offs. 

For more information on the Taylorville Food Pantry, visit www.taylorvillefoodpantry.com. 
Pam Moses appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville City Council is set to meet on Monday evening at 7 PM to review ordinance, hear from the public and discuss committee points at the first regular city council meeting of April. The City Council will also recognize the Girls Wrestling Club State Qualifiers. Motions to acquire landscaping equipment and other resources for the city as well as bids for concrete, gutter, sidewalk, and fuel costs are set to be discussed also.

Under ordinance, the council will meet to discuss and potentially approve amending various sections of the city code, such as, adding certain outdoor billboards or signs on private property for special use in an I-1 and I-2 zoning district near the Taylorville Commercial and Industrial park.

City Council will also be potentially approving and authorizing the execution of a business development district 1 redevelopment agreement by and between the City of Taylorville, B & A Properties, LLC, Stephen B. Craggs, and Sheryl Anderson.

There will be the potential of the approval and authorization of an annexation agreement, annexing certain territory to the City of Taylorville.

A motion to amend the bill amounts approved in the March 16th, 2026 meeting, considering the corrected amount to be approved is now $524,657.66 will also be made. The amendment comes into play due to an amount of $179,654.46 in bank drafts not being listed on the originally approved total.

Under committee reports, the council will look to approve a motion to recommend that the City Council donate $1,000 a year to the Christian County Crime Stoppers. A motion to recommend the City Council to direct the City Clerk to prepare a joint resolution with Christian County for the paper mill branch infrastructure project is in the agenda.

There also will be a motion to recommend to the City Council to approve the purchase of a 2023 Ford F-750 Bucket Truck along with 2 single axle trucks, a pickup truck and bobcat to be financed through the bank offering the lowest interest rate, in an amount not to exceed $750,000, and to waive all statutory bidding requirements.

There will be a motion to recommend that City Council approve certain bids for concrete, sidewalks, guttering, curbs, and fuel.

The council will hear from the city attorney, Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry, the City Treasurer, and any potential comments from the public. Stay tuned following the conclusion of the meeting for all the latest. 

State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur has advanced legislation aimed at increasing transparency in child abuse and neglect investigations conducted by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The measure, House Bill 4242, passed unanimously out of the Adoption and Child Welfare Committee and now awaits further consideration by the General Assembly.

If approved, the bill would require DCFS to provide written notification to individuals identified as alleged perpetrators in an investigation. The notice would include details such as the specific allegation and finding, how long the finding will remain on record, and information about the process for requesting an administrative appeal.

It would also outline deadlines for filing an appeal and explain how to obtain a copy of the investigative file, regardless of whether an appeal is pursued.

Deering says the goal of the legislation is to provide clearer information to those involved in investigations and improve understanding of the process.

The bill now moves forward for additional legislative action.
 

State Senator Doris Turner is backing a measure aimed at supporting small businesses by setting aside reinvestment funds for capital expenses such as building improvements, equipment and technology.

Turner says small businesses play a key role in local communities by strengthening economies and providing services, and that giving business owners the right tools can help them grow and succeed.

Under Senate Bill 3614, the proposal would create a Small Business Asset Purchase Account, allowing business owners to deposit reinvestment funds. The measure would provide a 50% income tax deduction in the year funds are contributed and another 50% deduction when the funds are withdrawn.

The legislation is designed to give small-business owners more flexibility to reinvest earnings when needed, rather than being limited by the tax calendar, while also helping reduce financing costs.
Senate Bill 3614 was heard Thursday in the Senate Revenue Committee.

Feedback is being requested from community members and prospective students to help Lake Land College design class schedules. Residents of the Lake Land College district are being welcomed by the school to complete a three minute survey to share the most optimal class times and schedule formats for students.

The online survey can be found HERE

By filling out the survey, the college will be able to look into offering more class choices, including online classes, in person classes, and even evening and weekend courses. The extra options are meant to help students better balance school with their jobs, family and personal lives.

The survey is set to run from now until June 30. An added perk, all who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift voucher to the college’s Laker Nest Bookstore.

The class scheduling survey is one of many parts of Lake Land’s new strategic initiative, Education that Fits Your Life. Under this initiative, the College is working to revamp education around the unique needs of students, ensuring everyone has the chance to chase and achieve their academic goals.
 
For questions about the Lake Land College class scheduling survey, contact Director of Strategic Initiatives Jay Hopper at 217-234-5449 or send an email to shopper@lakelandcollege.edu.

People's Bank & Trust is recognizing several employees and board members for milestone years of service.

Leading the list is Michael Beyers, who is being honored for 30 years of service on the People's Bank & Trust and People First Bancshares Board of Directors. Beyers, a Pana native, currently serves as Chairman of the Loan Committee and is also involved in local business and community activities.

Also recognized are board member Josh Shallenberger, marking five years of service, and Taylorville teller Sholeen Anthony, who is also celebrating five years with the bank.

In addition, four employees are marking their first year with the organization. Kayla Sain serves as a Consumer Banking Officer in Altamont and brings nearly two decades of banking experience.

Matthew Harris, a Vice President specializing in government-guaranteed credit, works with business banking teams on USDA and Small Business Administration loan programs.

The bank is also recognizing Juliana Liffick, a teller and customer service representative in Charleston, and Amy Markstahler, a part-time teller in Tuscola, both of whom are noted for their commitment to customer service.

Officials say the milestones highlight the experience and dedication of employees across the organization as the bank continues serving communities throughout central Illinois.

People's Bank & Trust operates 13 locations across the region and provides financial services to consumers, businesses and agricultural customers.

To see the full press release click here. 

State leaders in Springfield are pitching a new plan aimed at boosting downtown development.
State Senator Doris Turner joined State Representative Mike Coffey, Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher, and Springfield County Board Chair Andy Van Meter Tuesday to unveil the proposal.

The plan centers around creating a new governing body to help fund major projects, including a new hotel and an expansion of the Bank of Springfield Center.

Turner says the effort brings multiple levels of government together with a shared goal.

The proposal — Senate Bill 34-99 — would create the Capital Area Tourism Authority. The group would have the power to support economic development projects focused on tourism and business growth in Springfield and Sangamon County.

Supporters say one key priority is expanding the convention center and adding more hotel space nearby.

Coffey says that’s critical if Springfield wants to compete for larger events saying that Springfield needs more hotel rooms and a larger more modern venue.  

Under the plan, a five-member board would oversee the new authority, with appointments coming from county and city leaders, as well as the local expo authority.

Mayor Buscher says the project could bring more visitors and more spending to the downtown area. She says that a connected headquarters and expanded BOS Center will attract more visitors, but will also keep people in Springfield longer. 

Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter says the proposal builds on recent investments already underway near the convention center. Van Meter says with all the work done near the BOS Center,  supports a more resilient regional economy and creates benefits that extend to communities across the entire county.

The bill is scheduled to be heard in the Senate Revenue Committee on Thursday.

Taylorville Alderwoman, Amy Hagen, says she has been hard at work attempting to get funds to guarantee Taylorville a 4th of July fireworks show this year. Donations have been coming in bit by bit.

One donation in particular, may have brought the city even closer to keeping the Taylorville Fireworks from needing to be missed for 2026, but also is meant to be a means of inspiration for the community to continue to pitch in. A Christian County based sanitation company, known as Cleeton, are the generous donors of a healthy amount towards the budget. 

Hagen states that the original price proposal for the fireworks show totaled to $23,000 dollars. Hagen also states that even though they haven’t made it yet, Hagen appreciates the Cleeton Family for stepping up and being a huge part of the momentum towards completing the funding.

Despite that gift bringing the city closer to the budget goal for the Taylorville fireworks show, Hagen still politely asks community members to continue to give as they have been, and also shares ways they can donate. Donations can be gifted online, or in person. Hagen also elaborates on what they are asking per person for donations.

Hagen gives thanks to the Taylorville Optimists Club for their involvement in our fireworks show.

Hagen also explains that the budget for each year when it comes to fireworks is never the same number twice, and that the budget has to be built back up from zero at the beginning of each new year.

Hagen made a statement to the community members, with words on behalf of Cleeton Sanitation Services as well as a reminder that anyone can donate. For the City Of Taylorville, anything given for the fireworks is highly appreciated and every donation helps, big or small.

Always stay up to date on local weather, news, and sports by going online to taylorvilledailynews.com or tuning in to WTIM, Your Only Local News Radio.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital will host a flag-raising ceremony on Tuesday, April 7. This ceremony is meant to be a call to attention on the importance of organ and tissue donation. The event will be held at 12PM at the flagpole located near the hospital’s main entrance.

Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, which serves Illinois and northwest Indiana, states that nearly 5,000 Illinoisans are currently waiting for an organ transplant. 

Eli Heicher, chief nursing officer at TMH. said, since April is Donate Life Month, the hospital hold’s the flag-raising ceremony annually, to honor organ and tissue donors for giving the gift of life to others.

Officials from Memorial Health, Saving Sight, and Gift of Hope will be at the ceremony to give remarks during the flag raising. The public is welcome to attend this event as well. For those who would like to register as a new donor, there will be staff members in the hospital lobby to help you do so.

Similar ceremonies are planned at the other four Memorial Health hospitals in central Illinois in the upcoming weeks.

For further information go online to memorial.health or call your local Memorial Health Hospital branch

Cole Paulek of Stonington has been named a recipient of the 2026 Tom Tracy Memorial Farm Credit Illinois Family Scholarship.

Paulek will receive 3-thousand dollars to help cover college expenses. He plans to study animal science at Kansas State University. A graduate of Taylorville High School, Paulek was selected based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, career goals, and financial need.

The scholarship is awarded to children and grandchildren of Farm Credit Illinois employees and is administered by the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois. Paulek is the son of Craig and Katie Paulek. His mother works as a member service specialist with Farm Credit Illinois in Taylorville.

Paulek was selected along with 11 other recipients. The scholarship honors the legacy of former Farm Credit Illinois President and CEO Tom Tracy, who helped establish the program to support students pursuing higher education.

A weekend chock full of fun and kid friendly activities is set to take place this Saturday as multiple locations throughout Central Illinois are hosting their annual Easter Egg Hunt events. Some events will contain prizes, raffle drawings, rides, and even food.

Please note that this list is not exclusive, and it is always recommended that you check for updates regarding weather cancellations, or schedule changes before heading off to your Egg Hunt.    

The following information includes the times, dates, and locations for the upcoming Easter events in our coverage area.

Christian County:

Palmer Square Park Council 2026 Easter Egg Hunt
Scheduled for Saturday, April 4th, 2026 from 10am until 12pm at Palmer Square Park in Palmer. Participation is free.

Taylorville Park District Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 11 am in Manners Park, located in Taylorville.
Bring your own basket. Participation in this event is free.

Montgomery County:

Montgomery County Sheriff’s 11th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Montgomery County Fairgrounds located at 645 Infirmary Road. The event is by registration only.  Registration will be at 10:30 AM and the Egg Hunt starts promptly at 11:00 AM. There will be age-specific areas for children between the ages of 0 and 3, 4 and 7, as well as 8 through 11. The hunt is set to include 3,000 eggs and a golden egg prize. Please be sure to bring your own basket, as one will not be available to provide for you.

Moultrie County:

Heritage Woods of Sullivan Annual Easter Eggstravaganza
Scheduled for Saturday, April 4th, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, registration will not be necessary. The event will take place at Heritage Woods of Sullivan, located at 20 Courtyard Boulevard. This free and family-friendly event features an egg hunt, pony rides, train rides, and even a bike raffle.

Shelby County:

Shelbyville Manor & Hawthorne Inn Easter Egg Hunt
Scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and registration is not required. The event will take place at Shelbyville Manor, located at 1111 W N 12th St.

Effingham County:

Easter Eggstravaganza at Thelma Keller Convention Center:
Scheduled to take place Saturday, April 4, 2026 starting at 8:30am at the Thelma Keller Convention Center, located at 1202 N. Keller Drive in Effingham.

Villas of Holly Brook Annual Easter Egg Hunt:
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Villas of Holly Brook, located at 904 West Evergreen Ave in Effingham.

The countdown is on inside the final month before Taylorville High School’s prom.  It’s scheduled for Saturday, May 2 from 7-10 p.m. at the Dolph Stanley Gymnasium.  In addition, the general public will be welcomed to take in the coronation of prom king and queen during the event.

The theme this year is “Aloha After Dark.”  THS prom committee members Sawyer Dempsey and Hope Kietzman, along with committee advisor Cheryl Potter, say the committee voted on the theme after receiving a host of ideas.

The coronation will take place at 8 p.m., and the general public is invited to attend that portion of the prom night. 

For the student committee members, there is a significant time commitment as part of the endeavor.  Much of it is backlogged for the day prior to the prom, when they decorate the gym. 

Both Dempsey and Kietzman say they enjoy being on the prom committee for doing something for their peers and for taking in the final product of their work. 

Tickets will be on sale the week before the prom and are available for juniors and seniors along with their guests.  More information on Taylorville High School is available at ths.tcusd3.org.

Sawyer Dempsey, Hope Kietzman, and Cheryl Potter appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show as part of our monthly Taylorville Schools Good News Segment.

Rochester Police Department says no credible threat was found following a bomb threat at Rochester High School Thursday morning.

Police say officers were called to the school around 11:30 a.m. after staff reported the threat. Officers, along with deputies from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, responded immediately, while school officials evacuated students and staff.

The Illinois Secretary of State Bomb Squad, including K-9 units, conducted a search of the building and surrounding grounds. Authorities say that search determined there is no credible threat at this time.

The incident remains under investigation with assistance from the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Hart Media Group has received reports that Rochester High School has been evacuated due to a threat called into the school. 

Hart Media Group tried reaching out to Rochester Police who would not confirm that anything was going on at the High School, but alerts were sent out from the school district saying that the high school and junior high have been evacuated to the football field while the elementary school and intermediate buildings were on soft lockdown.  

Stay tuned to Hart Media Group for more on this as we receive information. 

Students had an opportunity to explore really cool future career paths at the very first Laker Day, hosted by Lake Land College at the Effingham Technology Center last Friday. The event was tailored to give local high school students a chance to explore career pathways and discover local academic resources.

Attendance at this event showed a turnout of 236 high schoolers. The students in attendance were representing Altamont, Beecher City, Dieterich and Effingham high schools.

Throughout the duration of Laker Day, the students met with Lake Land faculty, met opportunities to ask questions, and enjoyed interactive demonstrations.

The interactive demonstrations included virtual reality games and nursing patient simulators among other activities that gave students a chance to learn about careers in healthcare, transportation, early childhood education, medical coding, apprenticeship and much more.

 
Students also got the chance to explore the Effingham Technology Center, Lake Land’s newest state-of-the-art facility, and discover wrap-around academic support services available in the building.

Another thing that the visiting high schoolers got to take home, was the newly gained knowledge of how valuable it is to have resources such as financial aid and TRIO to help reduce barriers to education and make their goals attainable.
 
To learn more about the Lake Land College Effingham Technology Center, CLICK HERE

High-Speed internet provider, Sparklight, has begun accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund. Nonprofit organizations within Sparklight’s service area, which includes 24 states, are invited to apply for funding throughout the entire month of April.

Anually, Sparklight awards a total of $250,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations that work to strengthen the communities they serve. The fundings directive is to support three key areas where the need is not only significant, but also has a lasting impact on the community.

Those three areas include education and digital literacy, hunger relief and food insecurity, and community development.

Sparklight CEO  Jim Holanda gies praise and appreciation to the local nonprofits by saying that local nonprofits are the backbone of strong communities by meetng pressing needs, creating meaningful opportunities and making a lasting difference everyday. Holanda also mentioned that through the Charitable Giving Fund, Sparklight is proud to support the work of local nonprofits, and proud to help extend their impact

Since the fund began in 2020, Sparklight has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to over 275 nonprofits. The grants assisted initiatives in digital literacy, hunger relief, child and senior advocacy, housing, and broader community programs.

More details on the Charitable Giving Fund, as well as the grant application can be found online at www.sparklight.com/charitablegiving.

To learn about Sparklight internet and mobile services, go online to www.sparklight.com/internet.
 

The winners have been chosen for the 2026 FFA Week Food Drive Contest.
During FFA Week, which ran from February 21st through the 28th. During FFA Week, Springfield Plastics invited FFA Chapters throughout Illinois to take place in a food drive contest.

Springfield Plastics announced the winner to be the New Berlin High School FFA Chapter in this years contest.

The company’s President, Jennifer Furkin, congratulated the New Berlin FFA Chapter for the collection of 1,455 pounds of food for the 2026 FFA Week Food Drive Contest. Making them this years official winner of the food drive contest.

Furkin also stated, that as a company, they are honored to partner with FFA chapters in this wonderful opportunity to give back.  Furkin also said that the FFA chapters will donate all of the collected food to local food pantries.

The other FFA Chapters that were a part of this years contest included Edinburg
High School, Morrisonville High School, and Northwestern High School. Each of the schools that entered the contest received a $250 prize for participating in the food drive contest.

Contest Winners, New Berlin HS FFA:

Edinburg HS FFA:

Morrisonville HS FFA:

Northwestern HS FFA:

The four FFA chapters collectively gathered 3,323 pounds of food in total, which is 368 pounds higher than the amount from 2025.

More information on Springfield Plastics Incorporated, visit the company’s website at www.spipipe.com.

Veterans will hopefully see a lower price when registering a vehicle soon. The hopes arise after State Representative Mike Coffey’s House Bill 4232 passed the house recently, with heavy bipartisan support, and is now set to move to the next step in becoming law.

Accoring to Coffey, House Bill 4232 provides meaningful financial relief to Illinois veterans by lowering the cost of vehicle registration fees, allowing Illinois Veterans to keep more of their money in their pockets.

Should House Bill 4232 pass the senate and become law, the vehicle registration fee for veterans will be reduced to $100, provided the vehicle owner has a valid driver's license with a veteran designation, Coffey explained.

Coffey also states he’s looking forward to his bill being called for a vote on the House floor so it can move to the Senate before being signed into law.

Coffey noted as well that he wants to get this across the lines fast so he can reward our veterans, and that it is well worth the cost.

To read the full context of House Bill 4232, CLICK HERE

Gas prices in Illinois are still rising, but this time only slightly compared to the previous week’s spike.  A new survey from GasBuddy finds the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Illinois is $4.19. That’s up 2.5 cents per gallon from last week.  It’s still more than a dollar higher than a month ago and 75 cents higher than this time last year.

Prices across the state still vary heavily.  The lowest reported amount was $3.34 per gallon, with the highest at $5.49.

Nationally, prices have climbed at 10% the rate of GasBuddy’s previous report.  At an average of $3.95 per gallon, that’s up nearly a dollar compared to a month ago.

In and around Illinois, Peoria prices remain at just over $4.02 per gallon, while Champaign’s average dropped 3.5 cents to $3.95.  In St. Louis, the average price remains at $3.78.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at Gasbuddy, says as long as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict in Iran persist, prices will likely continue to rise.  He adds that further prices increases, especially with respect to diesel, could quicken inflation.

GasBuddy is a fuel savings platform providing real-time pricing data for more than 150,000 stations across North America. Learn more at www.gasbuddy.com.

A motor vehicle incident caused a short backup of traffic in both directions along Park Street and Taylorville.

The incident happened between 4:00 and 4:30 PM on April 1st in front of Casey’s Gas Station located At 902 East Park Street. Multiple Taylorville Police Officers, the Taylorville Fire Department, as well as Dunn’s Ambulance responded to the scene. 

One unidentified occupant of the two vehicles involved was transported away from the scene via Dunn’s Ambulance Service. The other vehicle was no longer on scene when emergency services arrived.

The traffic build up was quickly controlled as officers and fire personnel stepped in to assist with traffic control while the remaining emergency service workers cleaned up the scene.

The scene was cleaned and cleared with normal traffic resuming at 4:45 PM.

Travelers currently driving on Park street should expect the traffic to be the usual level for a Wednesday evening as of now.

Changes, changes and more changes were noted and explained to
Kiwanis members at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge as
representatives from the local Breeze Courier presented what’s and why’s of recent
changes to the local newspaper.

Breeze Courier General Manager Kim Paisley along with Editor Rachel LeBeane
informed the Kiwanis members that many changes have taken place with the publication.
Most notable is the transition from a daily printed to an on-line publication.

With escalating costs in paper and ink it was decided to move to a less costly presentation of
the news. The same information is presented in the on-line publication and is updated
daily. The paper is still printed one day each week and is available by subscription with
the printed edition available for purchase on Wednesday at the Breeze Courier office and
other locations throughout their service area.

The Breeze, as it is commonly known, began publication 132 years ago. Started by the
Cooper family, it remained a family owned business until it was sold in 2021 to Better
Newpapers. After a short run with the new owner the publication again transferred
ownership to its current owner the Paxton Media Group based out of Paducah, Kentucky.

The move to the Paxton Group brought many new ideas. At that time the offices were
located to 400 West Market Street in Taylorville.

With the move to an “on-line” publication the paper boasts a following of 15,000
Facebook followers, 1.9 million Facebook interactions along with 80,000 views per
month on their website www.breezecourier.com . Currently the publication employs 4 full
time employees.

As a reminder the Taylorville Kiwanis Club will be hosting its annual “All you can eat”
Pancake and Sausage breakfast fundraiser Saturday April 25 th . Serving will begin at
6:30am and continue until 11:00am at the Taylorville Moose Lodge. All proceeds are
utilized to serve local youth activities.

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 or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.com

Today is Illinois Trooper Day. In honor of Illinois Trooper Day, the Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Tollway, and the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation have announced that every ISP Officer killed in the line of duty will soon be honored for their sacrifice that they’ve made for the people of Illinois. This honor will be given in the form of a memorial sign along Illinois roadways.
 
Governor JB Pritzker says that the lives and legacies of our fallen state police officers deserve to be honored for generations to come. Gov. Pritzker also stated that the state will ensure that no sacrifice goes unrecognized. Gov. Pritzker mentioned as well that our state police officers put their safety on the line to protect the people of Illinois. According to Gov. Pritzker, that bravery and commitment will soon be memorialized along the roadside across the state.
 
Trooper Albert J. Hasson was the first ISP Trooper killed in the line of duty. Hasson’s death came after being struck by a vehicle while on patrol on old Route 66, just north of Chenoa, in 1924. Since the agency began providing services on? April 1, 1922, a total of 73 ISP Officers have died in the line of duty.
 
 ISP Director, Brendan F. Kelly, commented that while the State has installed signs along Illinois highways in dedication of fallen state police officers over the years, there were not signs for every fallen state police officer, and to honor them, the state plans on changing that.
 
Drivers on Illinois state highways and main roads can expect that over the next several months,the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Tollway will erect uniform signs for all of Illinois’ fallen state police officers. Unlike the current signs, which vary in design, the new signs will be standardized for a uniform look that shows respect for the officer’s themselves, as well as their family’s sacrifice.

Illinois Tollway Director, Cassaundra Rouse, says that the Illinois Tollway relies on the ISP to protect and assist ?the drivers and workers on their system. Rouse also said that they are proud to participate in this initiative to ensure the sacrifices made by these fallen troopers are properly honored.

In 2011, the General Assembly began passing resolutions designating stretches of various highways in honor of ISP officers killed in the line of duty.

It is believed the first ISP memorial sign was installed on State Highway 13 in honor of Trooper Lory Price, who was murdered with his wife, by the notorious Charlie Birger Gang in 1927. ?

Federated Bank’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Kathleen Perkinson is retiring.  The Illinois-based bank announced the retirement on Tuesday.  Perkinson served in the role for seven years, during which the bank underwent significant growth through changes and acquisitions.  While in the position, she worked to support the bank’s customers while pursuing long-term success and strength for them and the bank.

Perkinson had previously served on the Iroquois County Board.  She also took on leadership roles in private business and real estate operations in Texas and California. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and pursued further education at Harvard University.

Federated Bank thanked Perkinson for her service to the company and wished her well in retirement.

More information is available at www.federatedbank.com.

Bob Ridings Pana is looking towards warmer temperatures ahead in their latest set of offerings for their many vehicles in stock.  They are also promoting hybrid models amid the recent steep rise in gas prices.  The aim of the family of dealerships is to stand out as a locally oriented car-buying option among the many others available.

Bryan Booth says the Jeep Wrangler is a popular selection as the weather warms up due to its convertible design.  As such, the Wrangler is front and center in the dealership’s latest offers.

Booth describes the markdowns as an exceptional deal and also a reflection of the dealerships’ commitment to reach as many customers as possible in their sales.

Bob Ridings is part of a nationwide network of dealerships which allows them to transfer vehicles in and out.  This ensures customers can access the desired vehicle at their hometown dealership.

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. 

Money can always bring out lengthy discussions and when it comes to taxpayer money, that will always warrant conversations about whether it’s too much or too little.  Hart Media Group sat down with Bryan Sharp to discuss the most recent salary updates for the County Board to find out why those payments were what they were, what got changed, and what lies in store for Christian County in 2026 and beyond.  

At the most recent  board meeting, the county agreed that they would give an annual sum to the county board members of $3600.  This is a change from what used to be.  Sharp says that there was a rate of $100, with $25 per meeting, and mileage payment. With the change going forward this simplifies it so that there is just a flat rate total that gets rid of the pays per meeting and mileage payments and just allows for a total payment. 

While that number may seem high, Sharp says that number compared to other counties is quite low. The United Counties Council of Illinois which keeps track of salary numbers in the area, compares Christian County other counties and finds the numbers lower than they should be. Sharp says it’s hard to compare because Christian County has so many unique situations. 

The County Board Chairman salary is $20,000 and that is raised to $24,000. Sharp was not included in that conversation, and he says that the work that is involved in being a chairman is a lot more than most people realize. 

In other departments; The County Clerk, Treasurer, and Supervisor of Assessments saw increases from their current 78,000 and will see an increase of 2.5% to $86,100 and $88,252.50 and $90,458.81, and $92,720.28. 

These new salaries will go into effect after the November election after the new members are sworn in.  One of the big reasons why these changes were put into place is the board needs to make sure they are in a good place moving forward with how the economy is sitting and with the way Illinois is moving forward with setting their own rules on salaries.  

Sharp says that as far as this year goes, things are going well for the county right now.  He believes though that there are a lot of serious issues that the county could potentially face this year including data centers, rising costs, and regulatory mandates. 

The next county board meeting is set for April 21st, 2026. 

Students from across the region put their welding skills to the test at a first-of-its-kind competition hosted by Lake Land College. The school’s Laker Connect Dual Credit program welcomed 55 high school students for its inaugural High School Welding Competition.

Top honors among seniors went to Brayden Nickle of South Vermillion High School. He earned a 500-dollar tuition waiver to Lake Land College, along with professional welding equipment donated by industry partners.

Other top senior finishers included Colten Cottrell of South Vermillion in second place, and Evan Lay of Sullivan High School in third. In the junior division, Landen Miller of Mattoon High School took first place. Jase Martin of South Vermillion finished second, and Michael Althoff of Teutopolis High School placed third.

Event organizers say the competition gave students a chance to showcase their skills while connecting with industry professionals. Director of Dual Credit Tessa Wiles says the college was excited by the level of participation and hopes to grow the event in the future.

More than a dozen area high schools took part in the competition, with support from several industry partners who helped judge the event and provide prizes. For more information on the dual credit program, visit the Lake Land College website.

Emergency services across Illinois are getting a major technology upgrade.

The Illinois State Police announced all 169 of the state’s 9-1-1 call centers have now transitioned to what’s known as Next Generation 9-1-1. The new system replaces older, voice-based technology with a more modern, internet-based network designed to improve reliability and response times.

State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly says the move brings Illinois emergency communications into the 21st century. The transition began back in 2022, with the first system going live in Grundy County, and wrapped up earlier this month with the final upgrade completed in the Chicago suburb of Northbrook. Officials say the biggest improvement is how calls are routed. Instead of relying on cell tower locations, calls can now be directed based on a caller’s exact location — reducing the need for transfers and saving valuable time during emergencies.

The system also adds built-in backups. If a 9-1-1 center goes down due to severe weather or other issues, calls can automatically be rerouted to other centers across the state. Statewide 9-1-1 Administrator Alicia Atkinson says the upgrade is a major milestone, but work will continue to expand capabilities.

Those future improvements could include expanded Text-to-9-1-1 services and even the ability to share photos and video with emergency responders. Officials say the new system will make emergency services more efficient and more accessible for people across Illinois.

Repairs to schools in Nokomis are well underway after the severe weather on March 15, which included a tornado touching down in town.  The damage was primarily limited to the gym roofs at the junior/senior high school and led to only one day of the school being closed.  The school district is looking to secure plans for longer-term fixes as they also approach the final phase of the preexisting renovation plans originally conceived nearly a decade ago.

Superintendent Dr. Scott Doerr has been overseeing these plans.  He says school has been in session in person since the one-day closure, with steps taken to mitigate the effects of the damage. 

He adds that because of the damage mitigation, the gyms themselves are safe to use.

Dr. Doerr says initial full repair estimates bring the expected cost of this effort to around $1.3 million.

The school district is insured through Prairie State Insurance, which is expected to assist significantly with defraying the costs of repairs.

On top of that, construction will take place over the summer for the final part of a years-long renovation plan.  Science classrooms and the gyms are the focus of work at the junior/senior high school.

The elementary school is also set to see major work throughout the building to modernize it. 

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

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