The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has provided the latest water level update from Lake Shelbyville.

The lake level is currently at 609.74 feet National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD). NGVD is the baseline water level used to determine flooding. At this time, the NGVD is approximately 10.04 feet above the summer pool level. The current discharge rate is listed at 730 cubic feet per second. Officials say the rising pool has impacted some areas around the lake, but plenty of locations remain open for public use.

Several fishing access points, beaches, and trails are closed, including the Dam West Handicapped Fishing Access. Some of the beaches and trails that remain closed include Coal Creek Beach, Wilborn Creek Beach, and the Chief Illini Trail. Some secondary boat ramps and shoreline areas have also been impacted.

Open areas include several fishing access points, boat ramps, beaches, and trails, giving visitors options to continue enjoying the lake. Officials are reminding visitors that conditions may continue to change with additional rainfall in the forecast. Those using the lake are encouraged to use caution, avoid closed areas, and watch for floating debris on the water.

See the picture below for a full list of closures and for what is still open at the lake.

Get all your local news, weather, sports, and more at taylorvilledailynews.com.

Lake Taylorville’s beach is temporarily closed, and swimming in the lake in general is currently restricted due to a bacteriological sample showing an elevated amount of E. Coli present in the lake water.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the lake was closed around 8:45 AM on June 23rd. Deep-water samples had a bacterial count of 387.3 cfu per 100ml of water, while shallow-water samples showed a bacterial count of 365.4 cfu per 100ml. According to the IDPH, elevated bacteria levels in waterways are not unusual after heavy rains.

The IDPH says the beach must show E. coli levels that test below the allowable limit twice on the same day for the beach to reopen for swimming. The IDPH also states that, to be deemed safe to swim in and to reopen the beach, the E. coli level must be at or below 235 cfu per 100 mL in both the shallow and deep water tests.

Keep following along with taylorvilledailynews.com to find out when the lake reopens for swimming.

For information on area lake closures, CLICK HERE to be directed to the IDPH Beach Guard website.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is joining communities across the country in celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a day-long block party and free museum admission on Friday, July 4, in Springfield.

The celebration begins at 9 a.m. with free admission to the museum, giving visitors access to its exhibits and attractions, including the new special exhibition, “The Second American Revolution.” The exhibit explores how the Civil War and Reconstruction reshaped the nation and features historic artifacts, including the pen Abraham Lincoln used to sign the Emancipation Proclamation and a copy of the 13th Amendment signed by Lincoln and congressional allies who helped abolish slavery.

The outdoor festivities start at 3 p.m. in Union Square Park, directly across from the museum at 212 North Sixth Street. Families are invited to take part in a Kids and Pets Parade at 3:30 p.m., with decorated wagons, strollers, children, and pets encouraged to join the fun.

Additional activities will run from 3 to 7 p.m., including bubble and foam experiences from Foam and Flight, while food trucks offer drinks and classic American favorites throughout the afternoon.
Free live music begins at 4:15 p.m. with a performance by the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band, an authentic recreation of a Civil War-era military band complete with period uniforms and instruments.

The evening’s featured performance starts at 6 p.m. when Chicago’s acclaimed 3rd Coast Brass takes the stage. The symphonic brass ensemble is known for combining traditional brass music with contemporary programming and features some of the region’s top musicians.

Organizers say the event is Springfield’s contribution to “America’s Ultimate Block Party,” a nationwide effort tied to the America 250 commemoration marking the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The festivities are expected to conclude in time for attendees to enjoy local Independence Day fireworks celebrations.

Eastern Illinois University (EIU) is highlighting the impact of its Educational Leadership programs, recognizing both a successful graduate and the next generation of educators preparing to lead schools across the state and beyond.

Dr. Kenneth Spells, superintendent of Hoke County Schools in North Carolina, says Eastern Illinois University played an important role in preparing him for a career focused on serving students, families, and communities. Spells, who is a recipient of EIU’s Distinguished Educator Award, was recently featured by the National Publication District Administration for his leadership approach and commitment to student success.

Spells earned both his master’s degree and specialist degree from EIU before beginning a career that has included leadership positions in Illinois and across the country. In a recent interview, Spells explained that his leadership philosophy centers around putting students first while building strong relationships within the communities his schools serve.

He emphasized the importance of listening to families, working with community members, and making sure every employee, from teachers to transportation and support staff, feels valued as part of the educational mission. University officials say Spells’ recognition reflects the ongoing mission of Eastern Illinois University’s Educational Leadership programs: preparing educators who become leaders and make a lasting impact in their schools and communities.

That same mission continues with current EIU students. This year, dozens of students were recognized through departmental awards and scholarships honoring academic achievement, professional dedication, and a commitment to serving Illinois schools.

Educational Leadership students recognized include recipients from communities across the state, including Charleston, Danville, Decatur, Mahomet, Monticello, Paris, Salem, Urbana, Villa Grove, and many others. Among those recognized were students receiving the Errett and Mazie Warner Presidential Award, the John and Joyce Dively Educational Leadership Scholarship, the Denver Foltz Educational Leadership Scholarship, the Harry J. Merigis Memorial Education Fund, the Hans C. Olsen Scholarship, and the Rohn Family Scholarship in Educational Administration.

University officials say the achievements of leaders like Dr. Spells, along with the accomplishments of today’s students, demonstrate Eastern Illinois University’s continued role in preparing the future leaders of education.

For more information on Eastern Illinois University, go online to www.eiu.edu.

Pana First Methodist Church will host a community blood drive with ImpactLife on Wednesday, July 8th, at 619 Kitchell Street in Pana. The blood drive will take place in the churches Fellowship Hall.

Blood drive donations will be open from 1 PM to 6 PM. To make a donation, ImpactLife requests that you call the Springfield Office at (800) 747-5401 or by going online to www.bloodcenter.org and using code 60036 to find the blood drive and properly register your appointment.

Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are requested be made in advance to save time and to ensure the best outcome. To donate, you must be 17 years of age or older to donate alone, or no younger than 16 with a parental permission form. The permission forms can be found online at www.bloodcenter.org. The donor must also way 110 pounds or more with a valid photo ID.

Donors, who last gave blood on or before 5/13/26, are eligible to partake in this drive, and successful donors will receive a donor reward of their choice. ImpactLife reminds that blood donation is a safe, and simple procedure that should only take around 45 minutes to complete.

ImpactLife can be contacted via telephone by dialing (800) 747-5401 or online at www.bloodcenter.org.

Kaufman Realty & Auctions is ramping up its set of buildings and valuable items to bid on.  The agency, based on the southwest corner of the Taylorville square, has a number of new items up for auction.  They include vintage signs, firearms, and commercial and rental properties.  The more immediate auctions close on Monday, leaving little time remaining to bid.

Matt Corso, a realtor and auctioneer at Kaufman, says the Nokomis-based warehouse and store was once a repair shop for different kinds of household items. 

That location has a number of items inside which are being auctioned as well.  The items’ auctions end this Monday.

Next to the warehouse is a home that is also being auctioned. 

The auctions can be found here.

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

Memorial Health is launching a new fundraising campaign aimed at expanding access to healthcare across central Illinois. The health system has announced a $300,000 fundraising effort to establish Mobile Memorial, a mobile health program that will bring preventive and essential healthcare Services directly to neighborhoods and rural communities throughout the region.

The initiative was unveiled ahead of the Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS, which runs June 25th through the 28th at Panther Creek Country Club in Springfield.

Memorial Health President and CEO Mandy Eaton says improving health outcomes requires reaching people where they live, work and learn, rather than waiting until they need emergency care. The organization says the mobile unit will provide preventive screenings, vaccinations, health education, referrals and other services for individuals who may face barriers to accessing healthcare.

According to Memorial Health leaders, funds raised through the championship and donor contributions will be used to equip the mobile health van and support its operation throughout central Illinois.

Senior Vice President and Chief Community Impact and Philanthropy Officer Dolan Dalpoas says significant differences in life expectancy exist across the region, and the goal of Mobile Memorial is to reduce healthcare access barriers by bringing services directly to underserved communities.

Vice President of Community Impact and Integration Valeria Cueto says the mobile program will help identify health concerns earlier, improve outcomes and expand access to care closer to home.
The Memorial Health Championship is part of the Korn Ferry Tour, which serves as a pathway for professional golfers seeking to earn PGA Tour status. While proceeds from previous championships have benefited Memorial Health's five hospital foundations, this marks the first time funds have been designated for a single large-scale initiative.

Memorial Health officials say donor support has been strong so far and that additional information about the Mobile Memorial program will be available throughout the tournament weekend. Individuals and businesses contributing to the campaign will receive tickets to the Champions Club tent during the event. More information is available at memorial.health.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation has announced the recipients of the 2026 Hazel York Scholarship. A total of $4,500 in scholarships was awarded to Shelby County graduates pursuing careers in healthcare.

Among the recipients is Claire Holland, a 2026 graduate of Stewardson-Strasburg High School. Holland plans to study physical therapy at Maryville University. Also receiving a scholarship is Ella Gilbert, a 2022 graduate of Windsor High School. Gilbert is pursuing a degree in speech therapy at Eastern Illinois University.

The Hazel York Scholarship supports current and former Shelby County high school students who are studying medicine, nursing, or related healthcare fields. The scholarship is funded through an endowment established to help future healthcare professionals achieve their educational goals.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages more than 200 charitable funds that provide long-term support for communities throughout southeastern Illinois.

The Christian County Historical Society’s events calendar is filling up for both the summer and the fall.  More performances in the summer concert series are still to come, including the 250th Independence Day celebration this coming Wednesday.  The Historical Society is also promoting its annual Persimmon Party and Tidings of Comfort and Joy events in November and December, respectively.

The Independence Day celebration will begin at 5 p.m., earlier than its usual time.  Co-President Jodi Heberling says dinner will be available for purchase to support the Historical Society’s work.

The Persimmon Party is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, and Tidings of Comfort and Joy will happen December 11-12.  Heberling hopes these events will generate not only strong attendance but also interest in touring the grounds during these times. 

Aside from events, the Christian County Historical Society has added three new members to its board.  They are expected to provide new perspectives and ideas for the Historical Society. 

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

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

Legislation aimed at helping rural ambulance services stay staffed and respond more quickly to emergencies is headed to Governor J.B. Pritzker's desk.

The measure, sponsored by State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer of Murrayville and State Senator Steve McClure of Springfield, would give rural ambulance providers more flexibility in meeting state staffing requirements.

Davidsmeyer says staffing shortages in rural communities can lead to longer wait times for patients experiencing medical emergencies. He says the legislation will allow qualifying ambulance services to use part-time employees to help keep more ambulances in service and improve response times.
McClure says ambulances provide a critical link between patients and medical care, regardless of where they live. He says the bill updates staffing standards to help ensure rural ambulance crews can remain available and continue saving lives.

Under current law, minimum staffing requirements can be difficult for rural ambulance services to meet. House Bill 5446 would allow qualifying rural providers additional staffing flexibility with the goal of reducing response times and getting patients to hospitals faster.

The legislation passed both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly unanimously and now awaits the governor's signature.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation continues to be involved in deliberations regarding the proposed data center in the county.  Eagle Rock Partners would be the developer of this campus, which it is calling Meridian Technology Park.  The data center would be located near Clarksdale, which is between Taylorville and Palmer.  No proposal has been formally sent to the Christian County Board yet.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation’s Executive Director Matt Hart has overseen the organization’s involvement in the proceedings.  He says Eagle Rock chose the proposed location in part due to the electrical capabilities already in place. 

In a question-and-answer session earlier this month, Eagle Rock’s founding partner Ken Loeber stated the project would produce around 1,000 construction jobs and 500 ongoing jobs once it is operational.  Hart says the need to maintain both property and technology will ensure there is consistent demand for jobs. 

Hart adds that he has looked into other data centers in Illinois and even visited one in DeKalb.  Others are located in Chicago, Hoffman Estates, and Elk Grove Village.

The proposal must pass votes from both the Christian County Zoning Board and the main board before it can be implemented. 

More information on Meridian Technology Park is available at www.meridiantechnologypark.com.  Information on Eagle Rock Partners is available at www.eaglerockrepartners.com.  The Christian County Economic Development Corporation can be found online at www.christiancountyedc.com.

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

A confirmed EF-0 tornado touched down in Shelby County on Sunday, June 21st.

According to Shelby County Emergency Management, the county received four tornado warnings from the National Weather Service in Lincoln that afternoon due to concerns about rotation seen on radar, along with reports from local weather spotters.

A National Weather Service survey team later confirmed an EF-0 tornado had moved through Prairie Township near 100 North between 2400 East and 2700 East roads. Shelby County Emergency Management responded to the affected area and spoke with one landowner. Officials reported non-structural damage to a farm building, a small farm shed that was toppled, and minor roof damage to a residence.

No other significant damage was reported or observed at this time. Shelby County Emergency Management thanks the National Weather Service in Lincoln for their efforts in helping keep communities safe and prepared during severe weather events.

Officials also thanked local news agencies for their reporting on the storm, saying their live coverage from the area helped prepare and reassure residents throughout the county. A special thank you was also given to first responders who helped dispatch weather spotters, especially members of the Stewardson Fire and Ambulance District, who were among the first to report the tornado. Officials said the work of weather spotters can be dangerous, and their communication is critical in helping provide advanced warnings.

Shelby County Emergency Management Director Scott McKee said the coordination between weather officials, first responders, and the community played an important role during the severe weather event.

Keep following along with taylorvilledailynews.com for all of your local news, weather, and more.

Due to forecasted rain on Friday, June 26th, the Hart Media Group Summer Scramble Golf Outing has been postponed until August 14th. 

The updated event will have different start times. The original shotgun start/tee off time of 12:00 PM has been pushed back to 10 AM on 08/14. Groovy 97.3 WRAN morning show host, Dylan Clark, will go live at the event starting at approximately 9 AM. Lunch is still set to be served and provided by the Lakeshore Golf Course. 

If you're already registered, you're all set! Your registration will automatically carry over to the new date. Thank you for supporting local news, local sports, and local communities. We can't wait to spend the day with you on August 14th!

Registration remains open. Register online by clicking HERE.

Follow along with taylorvilledailynews.com for any additional updates.

The Social Security Administration reminds disability benefits recipients to properly report their income to the agency if they work while enrolled.  This ensures they receive what they are eligible for and follow the relevant guidelines to prove continued eligibility.  The two main benefit programs, Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), each have different reporting requirements.

Jack Myers, a public affairs specialist with the SSA, says the SSDI offering is available to adults below the full retirement age who have worked and paid into Social Security. 

As for SSI, it is a need-based program meant for those of retirement age or who are disabled. 

Beneficiaries through either program who start a new job must inform the Social Security Administration and provide the employer’s Employer Identification Number.  This can be completed over the phone by calling the main number, (800) 772-1213, or the Springfield office, which can be reached at (877) 279-9504.

For SSI beneficiaries, there are two other ways to report wages outside of business hours: the SSA Mobile Wage Reporting App, or the automated phone line at (866) 772-0953.

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. 

Elizabeth Fines-Workman is approaching one year in charge of Lincoln Land Community College’s Taylorville campus.  In that time, the campus has welcomed in area youth for tours and hosted camps and professional development seminars.  In addition, the facility continues to be the regular site for a selection of courses, including some for high school students in the College Now program.  Fines-Workman says she hopes to see enrollment among traditional students grow in the coming years. 

One of the accomplishments of which she has been most proud is hosting tours for fourth- and eighth-grade students.  She says it’s a way to give back to the community.

Fines-Workman has also looked to increase the campus’s outreach to the community and schools.  She hopes to continue this and also feature other local businesses. 

Fines-Workman shares what inspired her to pursue and take on the role as campus director: Her late grandmother went back to school at the age of 58 to pursue a teaching certificate.  

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. 

Illinois residents seeking reproductive health care will soon have additional protections for their private medical information.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation backed by State Senator Celina Villanueva aimed at safeguarding reproductive health records, including abortion-related medical information, from unauthorized access and out-of-state entities.

The measure, known as the Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act, requires health information exchanges to limit access to abortion-related records, prevent most sharing of that data across state lines, and separate abortion information from other portions of a patient's medical record.
Villanueva says the law is designed to protect patient privacy following the 2022 overturning of Roe versus Wade.

The law also allows patients to seek civil action if their privacy rights are violated and gives individuals the option to authorize sharing their reproductive health information with specific providers outside Illinois.

House Bill 5295 takes effect July 1st, 2027.

A unique Independence Day celebration is coming up at Rock Springs Conservation Area in Decatur. This event will give visitors the chance to experience the Fourth of July the way it may have been celebrated more than 160 years ago.

The Homestead Prairie Farm will host the Independence Day 1860 celebration on Saturday, June 27th, from 6 to 8 PM. This free, all-ages event is open to the public and does not require registration. Visitors can step back in time and explore the historic Homestead Prairie Farm, which features an 1860s-era farmhouse that has been converted into a museum. Tours will be led by costumed interpreters, offering a look into what life was like during that time period.

Guests can also visit the heirloom garden, where Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension will be available to answer gardening questions and share their knowledge. The event will also feature activities for all ages, including the opportunity to try out children’s toys and games from the 1800s, giving visitors a chance to experience some of the simple entertainment enjoyed by families generations ago.

At 6:30 PM, the Rock Springs Dulcimer Club will provide live musical entertainment. Organizers say visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the evening outdoors. Shaded tables and benches will be available, and guests can also bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets to relax under the trees.

The event will continue rain or shine. If weather conditions become an issue, the concert will move indoors to the auditorium at the Rock Springs Nature Center, while other activities will continue as planned.

For more information and full event details, visit MaconCCD.org.

The Christian County Health Department (CCHD) shares a reminder about the safe disposal of used needles and other sharps. The health department says used needles, syringes, and other sharp medical items should never be placed in household trash or recycling bins, as improper disposal can create serious safety risks for sanitation workers, pets, and others in the community.

The CCHD is providing residents with a safe, free, and convenient option to properly dispose of sharps. A designated drop box is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing residents to safely dispose of items including needles, syringes, lancets, and auto-injectors, such as EpiPens.

Residents are reminded that sharps should always be placed inside a puncture-resistant container before disposal, such as an approved sharps container. For those who do not have a sharps container, the health department says residents can stop by their office to pick one up. If a container is needed outside of regular office hours, the health department’s harm reduction vending machine also has them available around the clock.

For more information, head online to www.cchdil.org.

The Taylorville Police Department is recognizing one of its own for his service during a historic national celebration in Washington, D.C.

Lieutenant Michael (Ben) Toberman has been deployed to represent the Taylorville Police Department during the Freedom 250 celebrations in the nation’s capital, where he joined law enforcement officers from across the country in helping provide security for the event. Today, Lieutenant Toberman was officially deputized alongside officers from numerous agencies nationwide, including several departments from Illinois.

His role is part of a coordinated effort to ensure the safety and success of the Freedom 250 festivities, which commemorate the nation's history and heritage. Department officials expressed their sincere gratitude for Lieutenant Toberman's dedication and willingness to serve wherever he is needed. The Taylorville Police Department noted that this assignment requires significant personal sacrifice, as he is spending valuable time away from his family and community while carrying out his duties.

Lieutenant Toberman's wife, Katie, shared her pride in his service and commitment. She also provided photos from the special occasion, highlighting both the honor and responsibility that come with representing his department on a national stage. The Taylorville Police Department also acknowledged the important role that families play in supporting law enforcement officers, thanking them for their strength and encouragement during assignments such as this.

In addition, the department extended its appreciation to the men and women of the United States military, recognizing their continued service and commitment to protecting the freedoms celebrated by communities across the nation. The department says it is proud of Lieutenant Toberman's professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service.

For more information go to taylorville.net/police-dept.

The Davis Memorial Christian Church in Taylorville hosted the Christian County Treatment Court Commencement ceremony on Wednesday, June 24th, recognizing four individuals who completed the program.

Family members, friends, and fellow treatment court graduates gathered to celebrate Shad Richards, Aubrey Smith, Joseph Auman, and Dylan Weber as they marked the completion of their treatment court journey. During opening remarks, Judge Brad Paisley praised the graduates, highlighting their accomplishments throughout the program. 

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp shared his own story of sobriety, telling the graduates this would likely be his final commencement ceremony as sheriff before his retirement in December, but said he would continue attending in the future on his own time.

The graduates showed appreciation for the help the community has provided along there route to sobriety.

A video presentation followed, showing the graduates’ journey from their arrests to where they are today, including photos with family, friends, and moments throughout their treatment court experience.

Each graduate then received a commencement certificate. Joseph Auman received his certificate from Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler, Shad Richards received his certificate from Christian County Sheriff Sergeant Robert Goebel, Aubrey Smith received hers from Taylorville Police Officer Rachel Priddy, and Dylan Weber received his certificate from Sheriff Kettlekamp on behalf of Pana Police Officer Adam Ladage, who was unable to attend.

Pictured below are the graduating members of treatment court and some of the treatment court team.

Joseph Auman receiving his Commencement Certificate from arresting officer Taylorville Police Chief Dwayne Wheeler.

Shad Richards receiving his Commencement Certificate from arresting officer Christian County Sheriff Sergeant Robert Goebel.

Aubrey Smith receiving his Commencement Certificate from arresting officer Taylorville Police Department Officer Rachel Priddy.

Dylan Weber receiving his Commencement Certificate from Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp in place of arresting Pana Police Officer Adam Ladage.

Treatment Court Graduates Shad Richards, Aubrey Smith, Joseph Auman, and Dylan Weber stand with the treatment court team members who made their recovery possible.

Get your latest local news, weather, sports, and more online at taylorvilledailynews.com.

The Christian County CEO program is getting ready for another academic year of teaching students about running businesses.  The class is set for this year; 16 students from schools across the county will take part.  There will be some changes, including the way AI is integrated into the course.  Neil Hohenstein, the program’s facilitator, says students and their families will attend an orientation on August 10.

While some students may think of their individual business idea before the first class, there is time during the early part of the year to brainstorm.

Hohenstein attended a retreat for local program facilitators earlier this summer.  He says participants discussed how artificial intelligence can be used for the benefit of students while maintaining engagement and learning. 

At a previous retreat, attendees previewed a documentary the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship created called 1 to 100.  It’s about two CEO programs in Alabama in which students are each given a dollar and are challenged to turn it into $100 through entrepreneurship endeavors. 

Hohenstein reminds business owners within Christian County they can be involved as guest speakers, tour hosts, mentors, or investors.  Those interested in doing so can contact him at nhohenstein@tcusd3.org.  More information on the Christian County CEO program is available at www.christiancountyceo.com.

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

Illinois drivers are seeing some relief at the pump as gasoline prices continue to decline.

According to GasBuddy's latest survey of more than 4,300 stations across the state, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Illinois has fallen 17.6 cents over the past week to $4.13 per gallon. That's nearly 83 cents lower than a month ago, but still 72 cents higher than this time last year.
The national average price for gasoline also dropped, falling 14.1 cents during the past week to $3.85 per gallon. Diesel prices saw even larger declines, with the national average dropping 19.2 cents to $4.99 per gallon.

Among neighboring markets, Champaign posted the largest weekly decline, down 21.5 cents to $4.02 per gallon. Prices in the St. Louis area fell 16.5 cents to $3.81 per gallon, while Peoria dropped 13.5 cents to $4.24 per gallon. In Taylorville, gas is $4.29 per gallon.

GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan says gasoline and diesel prices declined in nearly every state during the past week. However, he cautions that uncertainty in the Middle East, including concerns involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, could put upward pressure on oil prices if tensions escalate.

The cheapest gas reported in Illinois Sunday was $3.35 per gallon, while the highest price was $5.99, a spread of $2.64 per gallon across the state.

Taylorville Kiwanis members welcomed Amanda Moloney at their Tuesday luncheon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

Moloney is the Taylorville Junior High School Band and Choir Director and has recently accepted the position of director of the Taylorville Municipal Band.  Moloney has been with Taylorville Junior High for two years and currently has over 100 students involved in band. Moloney comes to the community with a bachelor’s degree in Music from Millikin University and a master's degree in music from the University of Illinois.  

The Taylorville Municipal Band, founded in 1929, has members ranging in age from 14 to 86.  Moloney stated that the Municipal Band will perform on Wednesday evenings during the summer at the Christian County Historical Society, with concerts starting at 7:00 PM.

The municipal band will also be performing along with the Taylorville Community Choir at Lake Taylorville on July 4th  as part of the historic 250th celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization focused on supporting youth and the local community.  Weekly meetings are held on 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.

Pictured below is Amanda Moloney, T.J.H.S. Band and Choir Director, and Taylorville Municipal Band Director.

More tornado activity has been confirmed from the storms that pushed through the area on Sunday, June 21st. 

The National Weather Service says a low-pressure system brought unseasonably strong wind shear across portions of central and southeast Illinois, creating conditions favorable for severe weather.

Numerous severe thunderstorms developed south of Interstate 72, producing multiple tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and flooding in some areas. According to the National Weather Service, a total of 13 confirmed tornado touchdowns were reported by the end of the night.

The towns that saw damage were among the same counties that dealt with severe weather and tornadoes just a week before on Wednesday, June 17th. Stewardson and Bradbury saw an EF-0. Louisville, Neoga, North and South Annapolis, Birds, and Hadley all saw EF-1 tornadoes. Tower Hill, Edinburg and South Pekin Saw EF-U tornadoes.

According to the NWS, A tornado gets the rating of EF-U when the National Weather Service can confirm that a tornado occurred, but there was not enough reliable damage information to assign a wind speed rating. This usually happens when the tornado stayed over open fields, damage was limited or scattered, there were no structures or objects damaged that can be used as indicators, or when the survey team cannot confidently determine the level of damage.

Radar estimates indicate some locations received as much as five inches of rain, leading to localized flooding concerns. Several tornadoes were photographed across areas south of I-72.

The National Weather Service office in Lincoln is continuing to survey the damage and determine the strength and paths of the tornadoes reported.

For more details visit www.weather.gov. Get all your local news, weather, sports and more at taylorvilledailynews.com.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation has announced the recipient of the 2026 George Wilson Bauer Scholarship.

Kara Endsley has been awarded a three-thousand-dollar scholarship to continue her education at Eastern Illinois University. Endsley is pursuing a degree focused on agriculture and rural mental health.

In a statement, Endsley said that while her career path may not be traditional within agriculture, she hopes to make a meaningful impact by supporting mental health through art therapy in rural communities. She says her goal is to help farmers feel seen, supported, and valued.

The George Wilson Bauer Scholarship is available to Shelby County high school seniors and graduates pursuing studies in medicine, nursing, or related healthcare fields. The award is funded through a scholarship endowment established to support local students.

The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages more than 200 charitable funds that benefit communities throughout southeastern Illinois.