This afternoon, the Illinois Supreme Court will have a new leader. Justice Lloyd Karmeier will be sworn in later today after he was unanimously chosen for the post by his peers. He now will oversee more than 900 judges in Illinois. Karmeier was unanimously chosen by his peers. He is replacing Justice Rita Garman, who is finishing a three-year term as chief justice. Karmeier is a native of Nashville, in the Southern Illinois County of Washington.

The Christian County C-E-O, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program, will host an event called “C-E-O After Hours” on Wednesday, November 9^th from 6 to 7 in the evening at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

The event is for the public to learn more about the highly-successful Christian County C-E-O, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program.

The networking event will bring together CEO students, alumni, investors, contributors and friends of CEO. C-E-O board members and officials will be present to visit with community members, about this program which teaches selected Christian County high school seniors entrepreneurial skills.

Appetizers and refreshments will be served, and door prizes will be awarded as well. There is no charge for attending this first-ever “CEO After Hours”.

The Christian County C-E-O program is in its 2^nd year of helping local high school seniors create their own entrepreneurial opportunities.

The Taylorville Park District held their monthly meeting last week at the Administration building at Manners Park. One of the issues that was discussed was brought up by Secretary Mary Ann Becker, who had attended a conference for various park districts to discuss different issues the park districts faced. One issue was an Illinois law regarding bathroom accommodations for people who identify as transgender. The Park District must accommodate those people by law. Becker brought up how the pool facilities at Manners Park were rather out of date, and said how at the conference, she was given an example of what the park district could do to follow the law.

Becker said how the best bet that the Park District could have is to put in a non denomination, single stall bathroom at the pool.

One issue with this however would be the cost. Becker said how this was brought up at the conference, and the Park Board made suggestions as to how they could put in a single stall restroom at the pool.

The Stonington branch of Illini Bank has been purchased by the First National Bank in Nokomis. Ed Heck, President and CEO of First National Bank in Nokomis said that purchasing the Stonington branch of Illini Bank just made sense.

Customers who were previously banking at Illini Bank in Stonington don’t need to worry about any changes to their accounts. Heck said that when the sale was made, all accounts rolled over with the same terms and conditions.

First National Bank in Nokomis also has expansion plans for the newly purchased location in Stonington. Heck said how they plan to bring on more staff and a full time loan officer to the bank.

CNB Bank and Trust is once again holding their annual food drive to help benefit area food banks. Shelly Singleton with CNB Bank and Trust said CNB Bank and Trust tries to help the local food banks replenish their supplies for the holidays.

Employees at all 13 CNB Bank and Trust Locations will be accepting food and cash donations that will go to local food banks. Singleton said how sometimes cash donations are actually preferred because it will allow the food banks to replenish the specific things they need.

Singleton said one item that people may not think to donate is canned good with pop top lids. These can be good donations because sometimes the families that get the donated food may not have a can opener.

Donations will be accepted until November 17^th, and a list of suggested items can be found on CNB Bank and Trust’s website.

Political races are heating up and both candidates and voters are ready for election day, to cast their ballot and find out who will be representing both locally and nationally. Jo Beth Weber is running for Appellate Court Judge and runs on her campaign of “Experience, Impartiality, Integrity, and Hard-Work.” Weber said her main philosophy is to serve the people, and she has seen that philosophy truly help the people in the 12 counties she serves, as a circuit court judge.

Judge Weber said the reason she is running for the Appellate Court position because she is unbiased, and completely unpolitical when it comes to the court, and that's the way the judicial system should be.

Judge Weber appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Applications are being taken for the 2017 LEAD Program, or Leadership Excellence Achieved by Design, held through the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Taylorville Chamber, is as excited, this year, as she's ever been, with a lot of opportunities to help better both the city of Taylorville and 15 to 20 people wanting to be a bigger part of the city. Hornubuckle gave an overview of the program and what potential participants should expect when signing up.

Hornbuckle gave a tease of what people should expect with the first week, and what it could bring to those in the program.

Hornbuckle said the test is important because it's better to know and focus on improving your strengths rather than trying to improve your weaknesses, which won't make as big of a difference.

Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County LEAD program is accepting applications for their 2017 year. The LEADership program helps it’s participants expand their leadership skills and network with other residence in their local area. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce shared some of the details of the program.

Hornbuckle said sometimes the schedule for LEAD can be tough, but usually by the first week the participants are hooked. She said what the members of the program will be doing in their first week.

Hornbuckle explained what that quiz will do, and how the LEAD program helps it’s participants use the quiz to focus on their strengths.

The class size is limited to 20 participants, and is open to anyone interested in the future of Christian County. Tuition for the program is $199, and includes orientation, a day trip to Springfield, class materials and supplies, refreshments, and speakers. You can apply for the LEAD program by contacting the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, or the University of Illinois Extension in Christian County.

The following police departments have reported the designated trick or treating times for their communities.

Taylorville: Sunday and Monday 6-9pm

Kincaid: Sunday Monday 6-9pm

Pana: Sunday and Monday 5-8pm

Shelbyville: Monday 6-8pm with Downtown Candy Run taking place Oct. 28th starting at 6pm.

Registration is now open for all new and current students wishing to enroll in the Spring 2017 semester at Lincoln Land Community College. New students should contact the Admission and Registration office on the Springfield campus to begin the enrollment, or they can contact the LLCC campuses in Jacksonville, Beardstown, Taylorville, or Litchfield.

Current students may register online via WebAdvisor, and students who have attended LLCC previously, but have not enrolled for one or more semesters may register online via WebAdvisor, in person, or by phone.

Spring classes begin on January 7^th, and all students may plan their spring 2017 schedule by searching for available classes online. More information about registering for classes is available by calling the LLCC-Springfield office, or any LLCC location, as well as online at LLCC.edu.

The Illinois State Police want everyone to have fun this Halloween weekend but they also need people to obey the law and be safe. That starts with keeping the costume to a minimum when behind the wheel according to ISP Master Sergeant Matt Boerwinkle.

Gasoline prices don’t seem to be much of a topic in this year’s election.

We have seen periodic volatility in oil, and gasoline prices, since the early 1970’s. For the past decade or so, we have seen gas prices occasionally peak above four dollars a gallon. Remember the 2008 election, and all the chants of ‘Drill, Baby, Drill’, a call to increase production and drive down oil prices?

Well, since 2008 we have done exactly that. New extraction technology has made the U.S. virtually self-sufficient in energy production. Harry Cooney, energy expert with GrowMark says that has brought us back down to todays two dollar a gallon gas.



Cooney says this doesn’t mean we won’t see some volatility, but OPEC no longer drives the price of oil in the U.S.

So, should farmers looking to book their spring diesel supplies jump on current low prices? Cooney says maybe not, prices could go even lower by the end of the year.

The Cubs even up the World Series at a game each after a 5-1 victory in Cleveland on Wednesday night. The story of the playoffs has quickly become Kyle Schwarber. The Cubs second year man had last played on April 5th had two runs batted in last night and hit a double in game one. Maddon says that in all his years he’s never seen anything like it. 



The Cubs and Indians are off today and both reset and will be ready for game 3 on Friday. It’s the first World Series game at Wrigley Field since 1945.

2016 has been a warm year, according to State Climatologist Jim Angel, and October may be the warmest month of all, compared to historic averages



This trend toward warmer weather is not new. Angel says the trend over the years has been toward warmer weather, especially in the fall, winter and spring. Summer high temperatures have actually declined slightly as summer lows at night have risen. That trend is likely due to higher humidity, says Angel.



The long term trend toward warmer, wetter weather may be due to global warming, ot maybe a long term climate trend that could reverse in the future. But the fact is that 2016 may the new ‘normal’, for now.

The voluntary Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy is helping farmers keep expensive nutrients, especially nitrogen, on the field where it can be used by the crop. But another huge benefit is keeping nitrogen out of our waterways. Jean Payne is president of the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Assoc.



And if farmers do not limit nitrogen runoff, we may be facing mandatory rules on application in the future. Payne says we will never limit all nitrogen loss, we just need to get it down to tolerable levels.



The best way to limit nitrogen loss is making sure you wait until the soil temperatures are low enough, and likely to stay low enough, using a nitrogen inhibitor like N-Serve and following best management practices for applicant method and rates.

The new Decatur Memorial Hospital facility in Shelbyville is set to open it’s doors on October 31^st. Tim Stone, Decatur Memorial Hospital and CEO said the new facility will bring Shelby County more access to healthcare.

Stone went on to say that the new DMH Shelbyville Medical Center is a collaboration between many different organizations all aiming to improve healthcare in Shelby County.

The new facility will include several physicians and specialists. Stone highlighted some of the physicians who will be practicing at the new facility.

The facility will also offer x-rays, CT scans, 4D Ultrasound, mammography, and Tomosynthesis abilities, as well as several other services. You can find the new facility at 415 North Cedar Street in Shelbyville.  

The friends family of Bill Meyer Jr., long time lawyer, Taylorville Alderman and city attorney is preparing for a memorial service to honor Bill’s memory. Long time law partner of Meyer’s Dan Austin, shared some of the different ways that Meyer was involved in the community.

Austin said Meyer was like a father figure to him, and that he learned nearly everything he knows about law from Meyer.

A memorial service and mass for Meyer will be held on Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville, with a celebration of life immediately following the mass at Angelos Pizza in Taylorville until 5pm. All friends and former colleagues are invited to both celebrations.

Two Taylorville residents have been taken into custody after an investigation conducted by the Central Illinois Enforcement Group into the distribution of crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as ICE. 25 year old Kevin M. Purcell and 19 year old Destiny E. Doud were arrested and transported to the Christian County Correctional Center, where they were both booked on charges of methamphetamine trafficking. The charge is a class X felony, which carries a minimum sentence of 12 years in the Department of Corrections. Purcell was also charged with possession of a stolen firearm.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office, Taylorville Police Department, and Christian County State’s Attorney Mike Havera all assisted with the investigation. The Central Illinois Enforcement Group is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force which has served the District 9 Area since 1986.

Out of respect for the family and friends attending Jessica Tyson Ragan’s funeral this Friday, the Halloween Costume Party at Los Rancheros with music by Sam and Trene is rescheduled to Saturday, October 29^th. All of Sam and Trene’s tips will be donated to a benefit fund for Nestor and Jessica.

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Taylorville.

Over the past week, person or persons unknown have attempted to make entry into the storage lockers located behind 1610 West Spresser Street and the lockers at Braircliff Road and Spresser Street, both located in Taylorville.  Multiple locks were cut during each incident.   It is unknown how many lockers had been entered and whether any items were taken.  The total amount of damage is unknown at this time.

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

A representative from the C-E-F-S Head Start program, was the guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis club Tuesday at the T-M-H auditorium.
Nicole Gardewine from the Effingham office, spoke about the C-E-F-S Head Start program which serves 7 counties including Christian County, making sure the neediest of the needy get pre-school education, 2 meals a day, bus transportation, and even hearing, vision, and dental services. 

Gardewine added her program also provides services for infants up to 3 years old, as well as pregnant women.
Head Start also provides parents family support and mental health services.
Gardewine explained there are some 68 children age 3 to 5 years old, that are part of the Taylorville Head Start program located on West Spresser Street. 
She said that while the Federal Government provides 80-percent of the funding for their programs, C-E-F-S has to raise the other 20-percent which amounts to nearly one-million dollars.  As they end their fiscal year, they're still about 200-thousand dollars short.  Gardewine added the Federal Government has granted them a waiver so they could operate without the full 20-percent match the last few years, but she said she doesn't know if they'll do that for the upcoming Fiscal Year starting November First.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of 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 Memorial Hospital auditorium.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

The 2016 Christian County TRIAD Senior Police Academy is getting ready to wrap up another successful year of the program. Brian Hile with the Taylorville Police Department said he’s always sad to see the Academy come to a close.

The Academy will be having their graduation luncheon on Friday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Hile shared some of the activities the program has planned for the luncheon.

Reflecting on the year, Hile said there was one event the program did this fall that surprised him with how well it was received.

Hile also shared that the program is already working on the various events for next years Senior Police Academy, saying a trip to Locked and Loaded in Pana is currently in the works.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBC) has announced two of its incumbent directors have been declared directors-elect to serve as member directors for additional four-year terms beginning in January, and ending in December of 2020.

James T. Ashworth of CNB Bank & Trust in Carlinville, has served on the FHLBC board since elected by membership in 2012. Michelle L. Gross of the State Bank of Bement was initially appointed to the board earlier in 2016 to complete the unexpired term of a resigning director. Both directors were unopposed in the recent election process.

Ashworth currently serves as chairman of FHLBC’s Affordable Housing Committee, and as vice-chairman of its Human Resources and Compensation Committee. Gross serves on FHLBC’s Operations and Technology Committee and its Risk Management Committee.

The Taylorville Park Board is in the process of getting all of the details for Christmas in the Park sorted out. Park District Recreation Director Bailey Hancock went into detail about the various items for the event that she’s been working on at Monday Nights Taylorville Park Board Meeting.

Hancock also informed the board about a new addition to Christmas in the Park.

Work on the Park Board’s float for the Christmas parade is also underway. Hancock said the Park Board is aiming for first place with their float this year.

Another issue the Taylorville Park Board sorted out at Monday Night’s Meeting was regarding the air conditioner replacements for buildings at Lakeshore Golf Course. The Board had received an updated bid for the work they had questions about, due to being unsure if the quote previously given to them included prevailing wage. The board learned the updated quote they had received for the work did include prevailing wage, and that inclusion didn’t increase the quote by much.

The Board voted unanimously to accept the bid for the air conditioning replacements to be done at Lakeshore Golf Course.

A man from Normal, Illinois is facing reckless homicide charges after a two vehicle accident on Friday that resulted in the death of 25 year old Jessica N. Tyson of Taylorville and her unborn child. The State has filed several counts against Lance T. Pitsch, for driving while under the influence of alcohol, as well as reckless homicide charges. Probable cause was found over weekend with bond set at $500,000. Pitsch stated while appearing in the Christian County Court on Monday morning, that he will not be able to post bail, but would like to hire his own attorney. The court granted him time to seek counsel in his case, and set the matter for further pretrial on October 31st.

Halloween is only a week away and while the holiday is all about getting sweets and having fun, it's very important to stay safe during this time too. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp said it's important for families walking and for drivers to be aware because during the holiday, there is a lot of foot traffic. He said it's also important to make sure costumes are safe for kids while they're walking around and they have parental supervision if they're under twelve.

Kettlekamp also mentioned the nationwide clown epidemic, and he is expecting a lot of clowns to be out and about this year. He wanted to make clear that because people have a fear of clowns, people can't just attack them. They have to truly feel threatened they are in danger before they are allowed to protect themselves. In all other cases call the Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Kettlekamp appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Elections for Taylorville officials will take place in April and nominee names are coming in. Mayor Greg Brotherton has confirmed he won't run for mayor again, and there will be five Alderman positions available, as well as City Clerk and City Treasurer. Mayor Brotherton said now with about seven names in the running for Mayor of Taylorville, he isn't worried as much about the quality of mayor, but he is still concerned because he doesn't know what the candidates represent.

Brotherton said he thinks Taylorville needs to have growth or the town could die off within this century.

Brotherton said to have growth in Taylorville it'll involve spending money and bringing new buildings, such as an industrial park, to the city.

Mayor Brotherton appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County Farmers Supply Company and the Christian County Farm Bureau have partnered up to demonstrate and investigate 4R nutrient stewardship practices. Mark Bauman, General Manager of the Christian County FS said what the 4R field demonstration program is designed to do.

The 4R approach involves using the right amount of product in the right place, at the right time. Bauman explained some of the benefits of the 4R approach, and explained how the trial program is intending to demonstrate these benefits.

The trials will also monitor nitrogen utilization by the crop, as well as nitrogen movement in the soil.

A Taylorville FFA member has won a national award for his work in turf grass management. Travis Winans owns and operates his own lawn care operation, which led to him being recognized nationally by FFA. Winans spoke with DeLoss Jahnke of the RFD Radio Network, and said he really enjoys the work he does.

Winans, now a college student, mentioned how he has an understanding customer base who is willing to work around his busy schedule.

To maintain his increased business, Winans has developed skills in marketing and advertising, maintaining equipment, and business management.

The Illinois School Funding Reform Commission tasked with making recommendations to the General Assembly by February 1^st of 2017 on how to better fund Illinois schools has been making progress. State Representative Avery Bourne who sits on the Commission said the Commission has been focusing on why Illinois is so dependent on property taxes to fund the school system.

The Bipartisan Commission has been able to find areas of agreement with several areas of the school funding issue. Bourne said one of those areas of agreement is the idea that each school district cannot be funded with the exact same formula.

Bourne said she’s optimistic the state legislation will be able to adopt a better school funding formula in time for the next state budget, and that this is one area where many lawmakers agree that the students, teachers, and administrators in the state deserve better.

The Christian County Farm Bureau will be hosting Illinois House Representative Sonya Harper of Chicago as a part of the Adopt a Legislator program. Melissa McMillan with the Christian County Farm Bureau said the program is intended to give urban legislators a better idea of the importance of the Ag industry in the state.

McMillan gave a preview of the agenda for Representative Harper’s day with the Farm Bureau.

The day will wrap up with a tour of Big M Farms, a family farm that opened in 1985, and grows many fruits and vegetables.

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation held its annual meeting on Friday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium, to review ongoing economic development efforts in the county.

The board reviewed specific projects being worked on by executive director Mary Renner in their board meeting.  Renner told Regional Radio News after the meeting, that zoning for the new Taylorville Industrial Park was recently changed, and that the local match towards applying for federal funds to build infrastructure are almost complete.

Renner told how the local economic development corporation raised the match monies.

Renner also said that the proposed Cobblestone Hotel project is progressing.

Renner also indicated she's working with a local industry that may be expanding in the near future, but could not say which one it is.  Renner added that's the frustration she sometimes has, because while she's working on many different projects to keep and attract jobs to Christian County, the information is confidential until it happens which takes years.

Renner added that a possible wind generation project for Christian County is in the works.
 

The Christian County Economic Development Corporation held its annual meeting on Friday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium, to review ongoing economic development efforts in the county.

The board reviewed specific projects being worked on by executive director Mary Renner in their board meeting, then following lunch the board and invited guests heard a report from facilitator Dick Adams on the ongoing Christian County C-E-O, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” program, which has 8 Christian County high school seniors enrolled.

Guest speaker for the event was Billy Williams, president of Computer Techniques, Incorporated, who talked about the challenges his company had in installing a fiber optic network in Taylorville to deliver the Internet as well as cable TV and phone service.

Williams told the group that he and co-owner Adam Vocks, created the idea of a fiber optic network for Taylorville about 5 years ago.  They sold their wireless internet network to give them about a million dollars toward the 4-million dollar cost of the project.  Williams said after being turned down by multiple banks, they decided to just start burying cable and hoped that their take rate would be high enough to show a bank the project was viable.

Williams said that they basically took each chunk of borrowed money to build other sections of town, until they proved that their venture was worth the risk to a bank.

Williams told the group that most of Taylorville is now built, with some 190 customers now pre-signed up in the Bertinetti and Lake Shore areas for their fiber optic internet service.

Williams' company added a gigabit internet service earlier this year, and the take rate for new customers has been over 80-percent, the highest in the United States.

Williams added their future plans are to expand their fiber optic network into more communities.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans late Saturday morning released the name of the Taylorville woman who died in a crash Friday afternoon on Illinois Route 48 just south of East 600 North Road.

Winans tells Regional Radio News that 25-year-old Jessica N Tyson Ragan of Taylorville and her unborn child were pronounced dead at Taylorville Memorial Hospital's emergency room at 4:04 Friday afternoon.

Winans adds that autopsies are being held this weekend in Bloomington.  The Illinois State Police and Christian County Coroner Office are handling the investigation. 

According to the preliminary traffic crash investigation, Illinois State Police District 9 troopers report that evidence at the scene indicated that a Dodge vehicle was traveling northbound on Illinois Route 48 before turning into the southbound lanes, and striking a Honda.

State Police add that Ragan, who was a passenger in the Honda, was transported to Taylorville Memorial Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The driver of the Honda, a 28 year old male of Taylorville was also transported to a local hospital for injuries. The driver of the Dodge, a 27 year old male of Normal was airlifted to a local hospital for injuries. Charges are pending the investigation.
 

Recently Shelby and Christian County have joined forces to create one emergency management agency. Since then, developments have been made and a few board meetings have been held. Jared Rowcliffe, head of the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency said they hope to have everything up and running before the deadline of July First, that way the system can be tested beforehand.

Rowcliffe said as head of the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency, he has to be ready for this year's accreditation cycle to prove the county is prepared and ready to respond for anything.

Rowcliffe appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios. 

Shelby County is excited for the start of their CEO or Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities Program to help kids learn how to, not only, start their own business, but become more professional, learn how to act more professional, how to network and much more. Denise Bence Superintendent of Shelbyville Schools, said she wished when she was in school she could have had this opportunity because it provides so many benefits to the students, and gives them something the normal public school system can't. 

Bence added, through the program, the students also get to meet local businesses and business owners in the community to learn every aspect of business and also gain a mentor along the way.

Bence said an application process is pivotal because it shows if the student has a true interest in business and if that student will take the program seriously. Anna Kiley, Director of Economic Development for Shelby County said while the application process is important, GPA isn't as important.

Bence and Kiley appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios. 

Fall is already a month in, and that means cold weather, and possibly snow, and winter is approaching fast. That has the Shelby County Sheriff's Office ready to make sure people will take the proper precautions so there will be as few car accidents as possible throughout the cold months. Shelby County Sheriff Don Koonce said people need to make sure to check their tire pressure, oil levels, wiper blades, and much more to be prepared for the weather.

Sheriff Koonce said it's important to get these things done before winter because if people procrastinate, and spin out on a county road when the snow hits, it can be difficult for a patrol car to get to the accident to help those in need.

Sheriff Koonce appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios.

The WMKR and Peoples Bank and Trust Pana October students of the month are Senior Dylan Moon, Junior Teagan Strom, Sophomore Emma Dilley, Freshman Jaclyn Reed. Joanie Jones and Sarah VanHuss from Peoples Bank and Trust Pana were on hand to present the students with their awards.

The WTIM and Peoples Bank and Trust October students of the month are Senior Jason Sherbert, Junior Alex Everly, Sophomore Shelby Paul and far right Freshman Jett Vickery. Judy Prasun from Peoples Bank and Trust in Taylorville was on hand to present the students with their awards.

A number of people think it’s a relaxing way to spend an hour or so but the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation wants to make sure it’s also legal. If you get a massage in the state the individual giving it is supposed to be a licensed therapist. It ensures proper training and a fingerprint background check. The effort says Terry Horstman with IDPFR is to cut down on possible criminal activity. 



Newly issued licenses now contain a QR code so you can check the legitimacy of the license with your smart phone.

A bipartisan effort is underway to keep top officials in state government from politicking for a candidate. A pair of Senators, Democrat Andy Manar and Republican Sam McCann want to reign in the ways agency directors can campaign for political candidates. Manar calls it an ethics loophole.



McCann says the new law would allow for the individual to support a candidate with money or other support but they could not appear in paid advertising. 

The Illinois Chamber of Commerce presented Illinois House Representative Avery Bourne (R-Raymond) with their Champion of Free Enterprise award. Todd Maisch, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce explained what the award is all about.

Maisch said Bourne’s voting record on legislation that would create jobs in Illinois lead to her winning the award.

Maisch pointed out that Representative Bourne had a 100% voting record on behalf of legislation that would benefit job creators in the state of Illinois, which is what led the chamber to recognize her as their Outstanding Freshman Lawmaker, as well as awarding her the Champion of Free Enterprise Award.

Early voting is on pace to set a record in Christian County, according to County Clerk Laurie Mense.

Mense says early voting and voter registration are both taking place at her office.

Mense says over 850 ballots have already been cast.

Mense adds new voter registration is up.

She expects 2016 early voting to be up 25 percent over the 2012 presidential election.

The Christian County Clerk's Office will continue to be open for early voting as well as registration, thru November 7th.

For more information go to christiancountyil.com/clerk.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is continuing their busy October with one major event still planned for this week. Tomorrow, the Christian County Economic Development Corporation is holding their annual meeting to discuss all the new things going on in the county. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Taylorville Chamber said for people to attend, they would need to RSVP. She said now, it's a little too late for that, but if someone is still interested, to notify the chamber and they'll see what they can do.

Hornbuckle also mentioned the chamber is taking applications for LEAD, a 12 week program beginning in January.

Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Christian County 4-H is at the point where their year is coming to a close and a new one is getting ready to begin. Alicia Gullidge, 4-H Youth and Development Coordinator at the University of Illinois Extension said their year will close out with achievement night, Friday, October 28th. She said achievement night is where kids will be able to earn awards for their record books, rather than how or what they did at the fair.

Gullidge said, at achievement night, Brian and Michelle Myers of Edinburgh will be  locally recognized for being inducted into the 4-H Hall of Fame.

Gullidge also said now is the time to start enrolling in 4-H for this upcoming year. She said while anyone can register at any time, now is when the majority of it happens, that way kids can start working on their projects early. Gullidge said, this year, enrollment will be all online.

Gullidge appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs recently suspended $30 dollars from Wells Fargo in investments. The treasurer's office used to use Wells Fargo for investment and banking needs for the state of Illinois, but were recently been caught in unethical and illegal company wide actions. Frerich's said the company admitted it created 2 million unauthorized bank accounts and seized more than 400 vehicles without a court order.

Treasurer Frerichs said the state will watch Wells Fargo closely and if they think the banking giant truly fixed it's issues, Illinois may bank with them again.

Frerichs appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The WSVZ and Family Drug Shelbyville Students of the Month for October are left to right, Freshman Carson Beyers, Sophomore Elizabeth Bowyer, Junior Chloe Spain, Senior Maggy Yockey, and Pharmacist Jamie Jefson of Family Drug, Shelbyville.

SHSH St. Johns Hospital in Springfield is participating in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by providing pink blankets for October babies. All babies born in October are receiving pink blankets as a way to help increase awareness of the disease. More than 9,000 women in Illinois are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

St. Johns Hospital also encourages women to take proper precautions to prevent breast cancer, and catch it early. Mammograms are recommended biennially after the age of 50. Doctors use a mammogram to look for the early stages of breast cancer, and regular mammograms can help find breast cancer early.

You can also lower your risk of breast cancer by keeping a healthy weight, exercising regularly, getting a full nights rest, and limiting your alcohol consumption. Sharing your family history with your doctor also helps with early detection. St. Johns Hospital urges those at risk of breast cancer to talk with their doctor about breast health, and breast cancer screenings.

The Illinois State Coliseum on the State Fairgrounds has been closed after engineers inspected the building and found structural deficiencies. The Coliseum was set to hold a horse show this weekend. The Illinois Department of Agriculture says for safety reasons they have decided to close the building until repairs can be made. The IDOA says that they are waiting on final engineering reports to determine the extent of the damage and how long the building will be closed. Republican State Rep. Tim Butler, whose district includes the fairgrounds says a long await fair foundation will help improve structures on the grounds but more money is needed.

The Coliseum was built in 1901 and was last refurbished in 1958.

Congressman Darren LaHood of Peoria stopped by our studios this week where the IFB Board of Directors awarded LaHood the ‘Friend of Agriculture’ award.



LaHood, son of longtime congressman and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, was elected last year in a special election. 

LaHood said one big accomplishment in his first year in Congress was passage of the WRDA bill. 



LaHood hopes to see a vote on the Trans Pacific Partnership after the election, but admits it is a tough sell with the current political climate. 

Even though Donald Trump says the election is rigged against him a supporter and a person running in the election disagrees. During a debate at the State Journal Register in Springfield both candidates in the 18th Congressional District say they have faith in the electoral process. Republican Darin LaHood says the US has an election system that is the envy of the world.



Democrat Junius Rodriguez says there has always been a peaceful transfer of power and expects that to be the case this year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV7g7I2BQVY

Questions were asked at Tuesday nights Christian County Board meeting about why the county was paying multiple people for several audits for the county, as well as the implementation of office bookkeeping methods for the County Clerk’s office. County Board member Aaron Allen said he was tired of paying multiple accountants.

Board member Jack Pierce agreed with Allen, saying how although the county did need to pay the accounting firms, they needed to take a look at ways to potentially streamline operations to keep issues like this from happening in the future.

The motion to pay the accounting firms ultimately carried with no clear solution to the problem brought up by board members Aaron Allen and Jack Pierce.

The Christian County Emergency Management Agency is teaming up with the Christian County Health Department as well as several local fire departments for several Drive Thru Flu Clinics, as well as several Emergency Preparedness Exercises. Christian County Emergency Manager Mike Crews said the Emergency Preparedness Exercises serve to help the county practice water distribution techniques.

Crews said that the Christian County Emergency Management Agency has been practicing the water and food distribution techniques for several years now, and have all but perfected the method.

The exercises will be taking place along side the Drive Thru Flu Shot Clinics on Tuesday, October 25^th at the Pana Fire Department, as well as on Wednesday, October 26^th at the Taylorville Fire Department.

As winter approaches, so does cold weather and higher use of gas. This makes Ameren Illinois want to make sure people are as safe as possible while their customers are using more gas throughout these months. Gina Meehan-Taylor, Public Awareness Supervisor, with Ameren said the gas they supply gives off an odor and if anyone smells anything, they should leave the house and call Ameren immediately.

Meehan-Taylor said when people smell a gas leak, don't open windows, because it could be more dangerous, it's more important to call no matter what day or time it is.

That number to call is 800-755-5000, and for more information go to ameren.com.

Meehan-Taylor appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Gateway Foundation is an industry leader and the largest provider of substance abuse treatment in Illinois. The Springfield branch of Gateway is one of nine branches and has an outreach program to get the word out, of all the help they can provide in the area. Gennie McCormack, Clinician and Admissions Coordinator at Gateway said when helping a client, it can be easy to try to use the same techniques with every person, but because every situation is different, treatment has to be different too.

One thing McCormack said Gateway prides itself on is what it does to help the patient's families, as well as keep them in the loop and help them help their loved one.

McCormack appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Illinois State Police are urging motorists and farmers using the roadways to cooperate with each other during the harvest season. As farmers move equipment from field to field, they will be utilizing the roadways, and traveling at much slower speeds than the rest of the motoring public.

Drivers should be aware of farm vehicles, and be prepared to slow down when encountering them. The ISP has provided several safety tips for motorists to ensure a safe harvest season on the roads. These include only passing when you know it’s legal and safe to do so, slowing down when approaching a farm vehicle, and maintaining a safe following distance.

Farmers who are using the roadways should pull over when safe to do so if traffic starts to back up behind them to allow motorists to pass, avoid moving equipment at dawn or dusk when visibility is limited. Farm equipment that moves at speeds of 25 miles per hour or less is also required to have a bright orange triangle slow moving vehicle emblem mounted to the rear of their vehicle.

The Illinois State Police say that by following safe driving practices, we can insure a safe harvest season on the roadways.

Every candidate says they want to cut red tape to make government work better. If anyone can do it remains to be seen, but Governor Bruce Rauner formed a new group to take yet another look at the how to streamline state agencies and government regulations. 



The group, Illinois Competitiveness Council, has a mission and that’s to see cut at least $250 million in license fee costs over the next 10 years. 

Prison guards held a public demonstration outside of Logan Correctional Facility hoping to spur on more changes to support employee safety. The group talked about how female inmates have violently assaulted each other or guards. 

Sergeant Ashley Schafer says the Rauner Administration has made it worse with new rules on how mentally ill inmates are moved around the prison.



The union for prison guards says on average there are 24 assaults a month on employees at Logan. The Department of Corrections says through a spokeswoman that "Claims that staff assaults aren't taken seriously are baseless.”

The Christian County Board met in regular session on Tuesday night at the Christian County Courthouse. The major topic of discussion for the night was regarding the updated figures for the FY16 budget. The board heard from board member Fred Curtin how the county is currently doing much better financially than was originally projected.

Board member Chad Michael explained in more detail what the county board does with the budget, and why that leads to projected deficits in the yearly budget.

The county board is hopeful a 2016 budget ending in the black is possible, however the board will have to wait and see what happens with state reimbursements that the county is owed.

Another issue discussed at Tuesdays Christian County Board meeting was a problem property at Timber Lakes. State’s Attorney Michael Havera told the board the property is causing pollution in the lake.

Havera explained that the county had a couple of options to deal with the issue, but is electing to pursue a route that would allow the county to correct the issue completely.

There was some discussion as to whether the county or health department will pay for the repairs to the property if the injunction is granted. It was explained to the board that the health department simply doesn’t have the funds for the repair, and that it is possible that the board could be reimbursed by the state for the work.

The Christian County Health Department will be teaming with several local fire departments to provide residence in Pana and Taylorville with a Drive Thru Flu Shot Clinic, while at the same time practicing emergency preparedness exercises. The clinics will allow residents to get their annual flu shot while staying in their car. The service will cost $25, and most forms of insurance are being accepted.

On Tuesday, October 25^th, the Health Department will team with the Pana Fire Department to provide the service at the Pana Fire Departmen from 9 until 3. The Drive Thru Flu Clinic for Taylorville will be the following day at the same time at the Taylorville Fire Department.

At both locations, Emergency Management Coordinator Mike Crews along with both Fire Departments will be exercising Christian County’s Food and Water Distribution plan, that will help practice for if water and meals need to be distributed to the public in an emergency.

If you have any questions about the exercise, or would like to provide any feedback, please call the Christian County Health Department.

Los Rancheros Mexican Restaurant in Taylorville will be holding their first ever Halloween costume party on October 28^th from 6 until 9 pm. Nester Lopez with Los Rancheros said that the restaurant will be giving away prizes for the best costumes as well as having drink specials that night.

Los Rancheros will also have live music at the restaurant, and invites anyone to come out and enjoy the fun on October 28^th.

With only 21 days left before election day, politicians are excited to express their campaign and what they're looking forward to try to do in office. Congressman Rodney Davis has been showing he doesn't have to try too hard to explain what he will do because since he's been in office, he's shown that he can get things done. One of the things Davis said he's most proud of is reforming the No Child Left Behind Program.

Davis said, he and the federal government has done all they can do with the reform, it's now up to the state to finish it. He said, one thing he loves about this law is it showed all political parties could get together and make positive changes to benefit younger generations.

Congressman Davis appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Pana Community Hospital wants to make sure local kids and their parents make the next generation healthier through good heath habits. Every year, PCH holds a Children's Health and Safety Fair to make sure this can be done locally. Melissa Rybolt, Marketing Coordinator from Pana Community Hospital said the fair is not only informative for kids, teens, and parents, but it also has a lot of games for kids to play to help them learn while they play.

Rybolt said the fair will also have a Comedy Magic show for everyone to enjoy at 10:00 that morning.

The Children's Health and Safety Fair will go from 9 to noon this upcoming Saturday at Pana High School and is free for all to attend.

Rybolt appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Central Illinois Food Bank 18th annual Harvest Ball is on the way, and they are ready to celebrate. Krista Lisser said the Harvest Ball is the food bank's biggest and only fundraiser of the year. She said when the event began the food bank raised about $17,000 dollars, last year it almost raised $100,000, and she hopes they can break the 6 figure mark for the first time this year.

She said this year's Harvest Ball will be different from years past and will have many things such as food carts, entertainment and a food mobile demonstration.

Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased at their website centralil.org or call Heather Ostwick at 522-4022.

Lisser appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Roby.

At round 10:30 am on Wednesday October 12, 2016, an unknown subject used a hammer and kicked in the back door of a residence in Roby.  While inside, the unknown subject took a 9mm handgun, 22 pocket watches, and 12 fake Rolex watches.  The total value of the items taken is estimated at over $10,000.  The total dollar amount of damage done is unknown at this time.

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

The Taylorville City Council have approved the mayor’s recommendation to appoint Brian Hile as Chief of Police for the city of Taylorville. Hile said that he had spoken with several of the aldermen before the meeting so they could better judge whether or not they felt he was a good fit. Hile said many of those conversations revolved around things the Taylorville Police Department can continue to do and improve in the future.

Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton shared why he recommended Hile for the position.

The Council also voted on a trio of motions on Monday night regarding several properties around the city. The properties are all heavily damaged, and a cause of blight for Taylorville. Mayor Brotherton said the ordinances are part of a movement from the city council to get problem properties torn down.

Mayor Brotherton explained that the ordinances will mean that the city will reimburse the property owners the initial costs of tearing the properties down.

After approving the payment of bills, Monday nights meeting of the Taylorville City Council adjourned at 7:48 pm.

Shelbyville Scarecrow Daze took place last weekend in downtown Shelbyville. The event was a huge success, with a large turnout. Vonda McConnell with the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce spoke with Regional Radio News and said perfect weather helped make the event a success.

Shelbyville was also hosting their annual Balloonfest. McConnell said with all of the events going on in Shelbyville, you couldn’t pick a better weekend to visit Shelbyville.

The Taylorville School Board heard about repairs that are needed at the Taylorville High School West Gym at last weeks meeting of the Taylorville School Board. School Board Member Seth McMillan shared how the issues with the gym were discovered, and what the issue is.

McMillan said the issues with the gym were unexpected, and how hopefully no additional problems with the gym are discovered once the repairs are being made.

Taylorville Superintendent Dr. Greg Fuerstenau assured the school board that the gym is safe to use however, and said how design flaws with the building when it was built lead to the issue.

Dr. Fuerstenau shared how some issues with the windows in the gym will also need to be addressed once the repairs to the gym are made.

A local Morrisonville couple are being recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with the Ben Franklin Award. Bill and Dorothy Bullard will receive the award for their work with the cooperative observers program. Billy Ousley with NOAA said how people win the award.

Bill and Dorthy Bullard and their family have provided the National Weather Service Lincoln Office with weather data for over 20,000 days during their time with the program. Ousley explained in more detail what members of the cooperative observers program do.

The award will be the most recent of several that the Bullard’s have won over the years for their work with the cooperative observers program. Ms. Bullard had previously received the Thomas Jefferson Award, which is the highest and most prestigious award given to Cooperative Weather Observers.

Thanks to a very observant citizen and a quick call to the Sheriff, 14 year old Tera Evanchak was found at approximately 6pm on Friday evening. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp said Tera was dirty and dehydrated, but was otherwise okay.

A neighbor observed Tera running to and from a garage that she was hiding in, and made a quick call to Sheriff Kettelkamp, which lead to officers finding her. Sheriff Kettelkamp said how this is a good example of citizens helping officers with a case to make sure that there is a good outcome.

The garage that Tera was found in is about three blocks from her residence in Langleyville. From evidence found inside the garage, it appears that she had been staying there since her disappearance on Sunday evening.

With elections less than a month away State Representative Avery Bourne is confident in her campaign to take on her opponent Mike Mathis. Last week she and Mathis were in a debate in Springfield where she left feeling positive and ready to take on the next challenge. Bourne said, she has had a lot of criticism from Mathis about her ability to generate ideas, but she's noticed a trend in what happens after she endorses a bill to get things changed.

Bourne said the hour long debate can be found on YouTube for those interested in watching.

Bourne has also been pushing for change to help people regain faith in Illinois government. She knows people are frustrated and she would be too, and she said for there to be a good change in Illinois government, new rules need to be put in order.

Borune said term limits will be a major factor in making change in Illinois. Representative Bourne appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

When people think of homelessness, most envision the interior of major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Pastor Bill Kerns, and Sargent Alan Mills want to shift that way of thinking, where people will take local homelessness more seriously. Mills said the average rural town's population is 10-15% homeless, and that includes the city of Taylorville where the issue is fairly hidden.

Kerns said he and Mills know it will take some time but, they are in the planning stages of trying to have more options for homeless people in the area.

For more information, call the Taylorville Police Department at 824-2211 or call Pastor Kerns at 824-8181. Kerns and Mills appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Remodeling continues just inside the entrance to the Taylorville Kroger, preparing for the new Starbucks that will be located inside the store.  The new Starbucks will be located in an area where the produce department was located; it's been re-located adjacent to the Starbucks space.

Kroger announced several months ago that a Starbucks would be located inside its Taylorville store.

On Saturday, October 15 at 6:17 P.M., 911 received a call that a vehicle had struck a tree near 778 North 1250 East Rd. The witness stated the vehicle was traveling North on County 1 when it left the roadway, drove through the ditch, striking a barb wire fence and then struck a tree. The driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle, and was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital E.R. where he was pronounced dead at 7:17 P.M.

Christian County Coroner Amy Calvert Winans identified the male driver as 18 year old, Artimus Kendrick Hutson of Pana. Preliminary results indicate that he died as a result of blunt force trauma due to injuries sustained in the crash. Toxicology results are pending.

The Christian County Sheriff Office and Christian County Coroner's office are handling the investigation. Agencies assisting at the scene included the Owaneco Fire Department, Taylorville Fire Department, Sutton Ambulance, Dunn's Ambulance, and Taylorville Police Department.

Thanks to a very observant citizen and a quick call to the Sheriff, 14 year old, Tera Evanchak was found at approximately 6P.M. Friday evening. Tera was observed coming from a house and going into a garage. 

Tera was found by Sheriff Deputies hiding in the corner of the garage. 

The garage is about three blocks from Tera's residence in Langleyville.  From evidence found inside the garage, it appears that she had been staying in the garage since her disappearance on Sunday evening.

Illinois State Police District 09 Commander, Scott Compton, announced Friday activity and enforcement figures for the month of September. Troopers in District 09, which includes 7 Counties, answered 310 calls for service and initiated 1730 incidents in the field during the month.

In addition, enforcement figures totaled 909 citations and 675 written warnings, including 483 speeding citations, 20 DUIs, 98 seatbelt citations, 12 child restraint citations, 205 written warnings for speeding, and 28 criminal arrests. Troopers also assisted 283 motorists, conducted 323 Motor Carrier Inspections, and investigated 95 traffic crashes. There were 2 fatal traffic crashes resulting in 2 fatalities investigated by District 09 during September.

During the month, 645 citations were issued for “Fatal Four” violations. These violations are most associated with fatal traffic crashes and include Speeding, DUI, Failure to Wear a Seatbelt, and Distracted Driving.

Governor Bruce Rauner has given millions to the Republican Party since being elected. But he doesn’t feel as though he has much to do with content of direct mail pieces that go to voters in districts. The Republican Party sent out a downstate mailer that linked a Democrat House candidate to a convicted sex offender. 



The mailer connects Mike Mathis and a former State Rep. Keith Farnham, an Elgin Democrat who is serving an eight year prison term for distributing child pornography. Mathis was the Chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party, Farnham a Democratic lawmaker at the same time. Rauner says it’s important to spend money on political races and he doesn’t have a say on what happens with it..

Now even state candidates need to chime in on Presidential politics. Republican nominee for President - Donald Trump now presents a question that every Republican candidate for office needs to address. Incumbent Republican State Rep. (95th) Avery Bourne says that she has a clear choice when it comes to casting a ballot on November 8th. 

Over the past year or so, the Cuban market has started to open for U.S. travel and limited trade. The Midwest Truckers Assoc. recently conducted an infrastructure tour of the Island. Don Shaefer, the group’s executive V.P., says the Cuban road system is frozen in time.



Cuba has very good education and medical systems, given their financial limitations, but infrastructure and agriculture have a long way to go if Cuba hopes to grow the economy. They have almost no pesticides, fertilizer or mechanization in agriculture.



Shaefer says the Cuban economy needs capital to improve it’s infrastructure and food production systems, and the Cuban government will have to allow a lot more free market incentives if the nation hopes to move into the 21st century.

U.S. Senator Richard Durbin visited with a group of farmers near Gibson City in Central Illinois. The Springfield Democrat rode along with Colfax farmer Gerald (GARE-old) Thompson while he was harvesting soybeans;



Durbin heard farmers talk about how they use crops improved through the use of biotechnology, why they favor the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, and what might be needed to protect food security in the next federal farm bill.

No team since the Red Sox a decade ago has more expectations heaped upon them then the Cubs do when it comes to the postseason and winning a title. Fans know that, media covers it and the players and coaches know it too. But for Cubs Manager Joe Maddon that’s not a negative.



The Cubs begin the NLCS on Saturday at home.

Lake Shelbyville is getting ready for some events that are quickly approaching. Both events are for people with mobility disabilities, and will help them experience things, they may not have been able to take part in otherwise. The first event is a General Dacey Trail Hayride on October 20th. Ashley Florey, with the Army Corps of Engineers said, there are some times already filled, but there is plenty still available.

In November, Lake Shelbyville is holding their big event, for the 26th straight year, where they give people with mobile disabilities the chance to hunt deer.

To make a reservation or for more information, call the offices at Lake Shelbyville at 217-774-3951. Florey appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios. 

Shelby Memorial Hospital is holding a Fall Prevention and Total Joint Health Seminar October 27th at the Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center. Tonya Bowery, Manager of SMH's Rehabilitation Services Department, said the key speaker for the seminar will be an orthopedic surgeon from Mount Zion. Bowery said, while he is the key speaker there will be many others including herself to talk about all of the programs the hospital has in the rehabilitation department.

Bowery said the seminar will cover things such as surgical options, what to expect after surgery and much more.

Bowery appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios. 

Quad County's Hospice Volunteer Program is growing, and it's because it's easy to sign up and become a part of it. Rachel Springate, who leads the program said it takes a phone call, some short easy training, a few other quick things, and the volunteers are good to go. Springate said when she sends her volunteers out, she gives them a piece of advice. To keep the visit brief

Springate said Quad County has a veteran volunteer program where they have veterans visit patients who are also veterans to help them both feel more comfortable and let them re-live the past.

Springate said Quad County will be flexible with scheduling, but still expects volunteers to come in at least once a week. To volunteer or find more information about all of Quad County's volunteer programs, call their office at 217-562-6380. Springate appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show live from our Shelbyville Studios.

It was a day of learning how to create compelling content, then monetize that content, when the 8 Christian County C-E-O, or "Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities" students, visited the Miller Media Group offices on Thursday.

Led by C-E-O facilitator Dick Adams, the 8 met in the M-M-G conference room and learned about creating content, then monetizing that content, from M-M-G president Randal J. Miller.  Miller took them thru the process of how to program a radio station, then how the audience that's attracted to that particular station's format, is monetized thru offering local businesses the opportunity of reaching those thousands of listeners thru effective radio advertising.

Thursday morning's "Radio 101" was part of an extensive tour schedule that the 8 C-E-O students have experienced already since the start of this year's class in late August.  The C-E-O calendar runs concurrently with the school calendar, culminating with a trade show in May.

For more information on the Christian County C-E-O program, go to christiancountyC-E-O-dot-com.

Anglers in Illinois can warm up over the next few days before the official start of trout season. Until October 15th anyone fishing can catch and release trout and starting Saturday they can keep what they catch. If you want to go fly fishing for trout you will need a valid fishing license and trout stamp says Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Tim Schweizer.



IDNR has stocked more than 80,000 trout in state waterways to prepare for the fishing season.

Weather in Illinois has been warmer and dryer than normal this fall and that looks to continue. State Climatologist Jim Angel says that looking forward the state in general will be holding on to early fall temperatures. 

The Illinois football team rolled up a 125 yards in penalties last week against Purdue. It might have been the difference in a game that was decided by 3 points. Head Coach Lovie Smith says that the team needs to be better disciplined, but he bristled at the question that he’s been too lax with the team and hasn’t been tough enough on them.



Illinois is preparing now for trip to New Jersey to play Rutgers.

The city of Pana has received a grant from the state to go towards repairs to the trestle bridge on the bike path between Pana and Taylorville. Pana needs to come up with some local funds to help supplement the grant. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton said how Taylorville has agreed to split the costs with Pana for the repairs.

Mayor Brotherton explained exactly what the grant will allow the cities of Pana and Taylorville to do.

Mayor Brotherton said although there are several pressing matters that Taylorville is working on, the repairs to the bike trail will help the city become more attractive to potential residence and businesses.

There currently isn’t a timetable for when the repairs will be made to the bike trail trestle bridge, but Mayor Brotherton is hopeful the work will be done by summer.

The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce they have gained two new members. World Finance and Apex Physical Therapy have joined the chamber in hopes of connecting more with the community, and they're looking forward to the benefits the chamber will give them. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Taylorville Chamber said not only are the businesses excited to be a part of the chamber, but the chamber is happy to have them aboard.

Hornbuckle also said she is looking forward to the annual meeting of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation Annual Meeting, coming in the next two weeks, as they will have local entrepreneur, Billy Williams, speaking.

To attend the CCEDC's annual meeting make sure to RSVP by calling Mary Renner or the Taylorville Chamber. Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Farmers are working hard harvesting their crops in the area, and it's the same at Dudley Smith Farm as harvest season is coming to a close. Gary Letterly, Energy and Environmental Stewardship Educator at the University of Illinois Extension said farmers at Dudley Smith may be wrapping up their harvest but there will be a lot happening during the late fall and winter months. Letterly said Dudley-Smith Farm will soon have field tiles installed that will allow further research for the university.

Letterly also mentioned that Dudley Smith Farm looks to add bio-reactors to the farm to convert nitrates to nitrogen.

Letterly appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Presidential Election has most of the country on edge, especially with the extra news coming out about Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's email scandal, and news of Donald Trump having a history of sexual assault. Most of the tense feelings towards the election came just before and during the last debate on October 9th. Amber Lusvarde, Political Science Professor at Millikin University, said she felt uneasy during the last debate, and because of the issues surrounding it, the candidates haven't been able to get to the real issues of the country.

Lusvarde said because many Republican leaders have stopped supporting Trump, he said the shackles will come off in the third debate, which it more compelling for her to watch and see what will happen.

The final presidential debate will take place Wednesday October, 19th in Las Vegas. Lusvarde appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a burglary suspect who broke into a residence in the village of Roby in the Northwest corner of Christian County on Wednesday morning. Christian Count Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp said that his office believes that the suspect is from either northern Christian County, or the Springfield area.

The suspect was caught on video committing the crime. Kettelkamp said that although the suspect’s face was covered in the video, citizens can get a good look at the build of the suspect.

Anybody with any information is asked to call the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, or Christian County Crimestoppers.

Governor Bruce Rauner always goes out of his way not to say the name of the Republican Presidential nomomiee Donald Trump. And he has stood by his decision to not endorse a candidate in the race for President. Rauner says that Trump’s recently reveled hot mic comments were appalling.

The Cubs win a thriller last night to advance to their second consecutive National League Championship Series. Tuesday night the team scores 4 runs in the top of the ninth to come back and beat the Giants 6 to 5. Cubs Manager Joe Maddon says the comeback wasn’t complicated.



The Cubs now wait to see who they will play in the NLCS, it will be either Washington or the LA Dodgers. No matter who they play the series opens on Saturday.

It's getting harder to do a political story without involving the name Donald Trump. While Republicans in Congress continue to abandon support for Trump's candidacy for President, Peoria Republican Darin LaHood is standing by him. His opponent, Democrat Junius Rodriguez is hoping to use that as political ammo to gain ground in the race. Rodriguez labeled LaHood the last guardian of the political gutter during a Peoria news conference. LaHood condemned remarks found in an eleven-year-old tape of Trump but continues to express support for his candidacy. 

The school year is in full swing, and things have been running smoothly, but that doesn't mean the Taylorville School Board isn't always looking for something new to improve. To help with improvements, the school needs funding from the state, and while the stopgap budget helped, it isn't permanent. Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Superintendent of Taylorville Schools, understand this, but he hopes the next permanent budget that's made will provide the same benefits the stopgap budget has given.

Fuerstenau said if the state goes back to the old way, there could be a loss of funding, so he hopes the new scenario is the way the state goes.

Fuerstenau also mentioned that Taylorville High School will have improvements made on the gym, but not any that will be too extreme. These improvements will be more structurally based.

Feurstenau appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Lincoln College hired its 22nd President last year hoping he would come in and do a lot to improve the school. Dr. David Gerlach did just that, as he added four new Baccalaureate Degrees, raised enrollment, and gained money for renovations. Gerlach said he was hired specifically do these things, and, so far, they have been very successful in doing so.

Gerlach said, as successful as his first year was as president, it was just the tip of the iceberg, as he has many more plans coming for this school year, and years to come.

To sign up for a tour call the Lincoln College administration office or visit their website at lincolncollege.edu, or call them at 800-569-0556. Gerlach appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

The Taylorville School Board voted on Tuesday night to reinstate the girls’ soccer program. Jim Andruch with the Taylorville Athletic Committee explained how the program was never formally canceled. Just shut down due to a previous lack of participation.

The vote to reinstate the program passed unanimously, with the result pleasing many Taylorville students in attendance who were interested in reinstating the program. After the vote, Board President Stephen Milling gave the girls several words of encouragement.

The girls soccer program at Taylorville High School will resume activity for the 2017-2018 school year.

The Christian-Shelby County Joint Emergency Telephone Systems Board held their monthly meeting on Monday at the Pana Police Department. Mickie Ehrhardt, Christian County 9-1-1 Administrator said the meeting allowed the board to get an update on the progress towards the consolidated Christian and Shelby County 9-1-1 board.

One question that had come up at the Christian County Board when board members were being discussed for the joint board, was whether or not former Taylorville Police Chief Dave Herpstreith could continue to serve on the consolidated board. Ehrhardt said that Officer Herpstreith will remain on the consolidated 9-1-1 board.

There have been a change of plans for tomorrow’s Christian County TRIAD Senior Police Academy schedule. Originally, the Academy was going to hear from F.B.I. attorney Greg King. Brian Hile with the TRIAD program explained that a scheduling conflict lead to them having to cancel the presentation.

The Senior Police Academy will however, still see a presentation tomorrow.

The presentation will also feature a demonstration on how the damage assessment team utilizes a drone for damage assessment.

For more information on the Christian County TRIAD, contact Brian Hile with the Taylorville Police Department, or the Christian County Senior Center.

The Miller Media Group Radio Stations in Taylorville has launched its own television channel, WTIMTV, for live and archived video streaming of major events thru-out the WTIM listening area.

The 4 recent Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest pageants, are now archived and are available for viewing simply by clicking the "WTIMTV" icon at taylorvilledailynews.com.

Other live and archived video streamed events, will be announced on NEWSTALK WTIM as well as the 5 other Miller Media Group Radio Stations the operate from the company's Park Street studios.

The Taylorville School Board met in their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday Night at the Taylorville School District Administration Building. The school board was presented with the FY16 School District Audit. Adam Mathias, CPA from Lively, Mathias & Hooper & Noblet presented the school board with the audit. One of the items that was presented in the audit was a new disclosure of Taylorville’s share of the unfunded liability for the teacher retirement system. The item disclosed how the state hasn’t funded the teacher retirement system for Taylorville Schools to the tune of nearly 57 million dollars. Taylorville Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau informed the board how the state may also be looking to offload that funding responsibility to the local school systems.

Wrapping up the audit presentation, Mathias stated that although Taylorville is operating under a deficit this year, the district has been doing a good job overall of maintaining it’s cash reserves. Dr. Fuerstenau stressed the importance of maintaining those reserves to the local citizens in attendance.

Although the Taylorville School District has managed to maintain and grow it’s cash reserves in recent years, the situation is still bleak. Taylorville Schools have cut just about everything they can to save so the district doesn’t run out of money.

Although borrowing is an option if the funds do run dry, Dr. Fuerstenau explained the consequences of doing so. Ultimately, with state education funding in the shape it’s in, Dr. Fuerstenau says the Taylorville School District will need more local revenue to operate effectively.

After hearing the Building Committee and Superintendent Reports, the Taylorville School Board meeting adjourned at 8:14 pm.

For weeks there has been an uncertain outcome around the fate of same day voter registration in Illinois. The matter isn’t settled but Attorney General Lisa Madigan says that the issue won’t be back in court until after Election Day so voters will be able to sign up on November 8th and vote.



On Election Day you will want to make sure you’re headed to the right spot, in some places you will have to register and vote at specific place, in others you can sign up at your polling place. 

The Pana Community Hospital Foundation is continuing their efforts to raise $200,000 to help offset the cost of the new 3D Mammography machine at Pana Community Hospital. The Foundation held their Bowl for Cancer event on October 1^st to help with those efforts. Kim Rogers with the Pana Community Hospital Foundation said the event was a huge success.

Rogers said the overall fundraising efforts are going well. She hopes that by the end of the month, the Foundation will have met or exceeded their $200,000 fundraising goal.

If you’d like to purchase a ticket for the quilt raffle, they can be bought at the Foundation office. Donations are also being accepted online at give.panahospital.com.

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime between Sunday, September 18, 2016 and Tuesday, September 20, 2016, person or persons unknown made entry into a garage located at 1009 West Main Cross Street.  While inside, the unknown subject or subjects took several items including: 3 paintball guns, 3 paintball masks, 2 bags, and other paintball items.  There did not appear to be any damage done to the garage to make entry.  A vehicle also was entered during the incident.  The total dollar amount of items taken is unknown at this time.

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp is asking the public for assisting in locating 14 year old Tera Elizabeth Evanchak who ran away from her parents home on Sunday Oct. 9^th at approximately 4:30 P.M. Tera was last seen by her parents at their residence on South Parker St. in Langleyville. Tera is approximately 5’2” tall, weighing 108 pounds, she was wearing a pink softball jersey with the number 24 on the back written in white letters. Tera was wearing purple leggies and no shoes. Tera has brown curly hair. Tera is believed to be in the Langleville or Taylorville area. Anyone with information as to the location of Tera please call the Christian County Sheriff’s Office at 824-4961 or call Christian County Crime Stoppers, at 824-9100.

The chief executive officer of Taylorville Memorial Hospital, Kim Bourne, was the guest speaker at the weekly meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis club Tuesday at the T-M-H auditorium.
Bourne outlined the status of health care in the United States, and where it could be going.  She said the health care industry has been tasked with taking care of people's health, while at the same time spending less money and helping people to be healthier.  She added the Affordable Care Act enrollment is now less than 50-percent nationally and imploding, with several major insurers pulling out of state exchanges in Illinois and thru-out the country.

Bourne added that Blue Cross Blue Shield's Illinois exchange insurance premium for next year, will be up some 75-percent, and she said the country is on a path toward a single payer system with the government in control.
Bourne said that on the local level, Taylorville Memorial Hospital is owed over a million dollars from the state, in past due bills the state hasn't paid, and that T-M-H has provided some 5-point-2 million dollars in charity health care over the past year.
Despite these numbers, Bourne said that T-M-H is in healthy financial shape.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of 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 Memorial Hospital auditorium.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital and the TMH Foundation have a program called the CUPS fund, they hope people will take advantage of, especially in the month of October. CUPS helps people in need get free mammograms to make sure they are able to take the precautions they feel they need to to be aware of their own body. Raedena Ryan, Executive Director of the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation explained the history of the CUPS program.

Ryan said because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there are some things going on in the community that's helping raise funds for the hospital.

More information can be found by calling 217-824-1600 or at taylorvillememorial.org. Ryan appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Halloween is coming up fast and the Taylorville Police Department wants to make sure people take precautions and to be as safe as possible. Sargent Alan Mills of the Taylorville PD said Halloween is a time for fun, but it never hurts to make sure it's safe fun. Mills said he wasn't too worried about candy issues, but when it comes to pranking, people should expect it and be aware.

One other thing Mills wanted to mention was the clown epidemic, and he wants people to take the matter seriously. He expects there to be more clowns out this year, and that's not an issue, the issue is what people do while wearing the costume.

For more information call the Taylorville Police Department at 824-2211. Sargent Mills appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Christian County CEO, or “Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities” Board of Directors recently appointed two new board members. 

Mary DelValle and Lacy Glenn were appointed to the board after two original members have decided to step aside. 

Mary Renner will remain on the board as an Ex-officio and Dr. Gregg Furestensau will be focusing on the the Capitol Area Vocational Center board of directors. 

Mary DelValle is excited about the program and anxious to learn more.  Lacy Glenn, Taylorville High School counselor, was formally a part of the Montgomery County CEO Board of Directors and will now change her focus to Christian County and future CEO students from Taylorville High School.

Sunday night's debate came too late for Donald Trump to maintain the support of Congressman Rodney Davis. Davis announced he was no longer backing Trump after the release of a 2005 tape where Trump made comments about women he has referred to since as locker room talk. Davis says as the father of a teenage girl and teen twin boys, he didn't turn to political consultants or party leaders.

Davis says the lack of support for Trump doesn't mean he's passive about the fate of Trump's opponent.

House Speaker Paul Ryan has shifted his focus from supporting Trump's run for President to helping Republicans win Congressional races. 

In a Presidential race where some say they don't have a good choice, add Springfield Catholic Diocese Bishop Thomas John Paprocki to the list. While Bishop Paprocki wasn't telling Catholics not to vote for Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton, he says after examination of their conscience, they may not be able to pull the lever for either. Bishop Paprocki's column was written before a 2005 tape of Trump's comments about women was released.

Reenactors are keeping it in the family this weekend at Springfield's historic Oak Ridge Cemetery. The revived Sangamon County Historical Society Cemetery Walk is set for Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Mary Alice Davis with the society says participants will follow in the footsteps of their ancestors.

The walk is approximately 1.5 miles. The event is free to the public. 

The latest numbers from Moodys on the state's pension shortfall shows that the pension systems for public workers are underfunded by $1.2 trillion. Moody's believes the gap will expand in coming years, as the funds' annual investment returns are running well below expectations.

The University of Illinois lost a tight football game on Saturday to Purdue 34-31. It was one of the games on the schedule that looked winnable for the U of I but Lovie Smith says a long list, 125 yards in fact, of penalties hurt the orange and blue. 



The 1-4 Illini head to New Jersey to play 2-4 Rutgers on Saturday. Rutgers lost 78-0 last week against Michigan.

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a burglary that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime between Sunday, September 18, 2016 and Tuesday, September 20, 2016, person or persons unknown made entry into a garage located at 1009 West Main Cross Street. While inside, the unknown subject or subjects took several items including: 3 paintball guns, 3 paintball masks, 2 bags, and other paintball items. There did not appear to be any damage done to the garage to make entry. A vehicle also was entered during the incident. The total dollar amount of items taken is unknown at this time.

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons. Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name. Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week.

You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip. As always, you will remain anonymous.

The Pana Community Hospital Foundation is nearly at their goal of $200,000 to help offset the costs of a new 3D mammography machine at Pana Community Hospital. The Foundation has held a series of fundraising events to help with the effort, with the next one taking place Tuesday evening as Volly for the Cure takes place at Pana High School. Kim Rogers with the Pana Community Hospital Foundation said the girls vollyball team makes a big effort to help the hospital.

The teams make several extra efforts as well to help raise funds for fighting breast cancer.

If you’d like to donate, donations are being taken online at give.panahospital.com.

Winter is on it’s way, and that often means more wear and tear on your vehicle. These repairs can be costly, especially for seniors. The Shelby County TRIAD is doing what they can to help, by offering seniors a free car inspection on October 12^th. Just drop by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and enter the alley from Main Street to have your vehicle inspected to make sure it’s ready for the winter season. Coffee and donuts will be served to participants, and the inspection is completely free. The program will be happening from 9 until 2, and offers seniors a chance to make sure that winter won’t leave their vehicle stranded.

Oak Wilt is becoming a serious issue for oak trees in the midwest. Oak Wilt is one of the worst diseases a tree can get because once it starts to show symptoms, the tree is as good as gone. Guy Sternberg, certified arborist and former president of the International Oak Society is coming to Taylorville to present a program to inform the community on what oak wilt is, how to recognize it, and how to prevent it.

Sternberg said, one way to make sure oak wilt can be prevented is to cut back on pruning, or trimming, trees in the spring and summer months, where it's spread the most.

Sternberg will be at the Christian County U of I Extension Office on October 18th at 6:30 to answer any questions and give needed information on killing oak wilt. Sternberg appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

As October continues and the cold temperatures near, many people wonder what they can add to their lawns and gardens. Gwen Podeschi, Master Gardener from the University of Illinois Extension, said people can still plant shrubs and trees, but now is the time to start cleaning up. She said, that gardeners don't have to clean up everything, because some things can be used for pollination, as well as food and shelter for some animals during the cold months.

While many people have their own gardens to clean up, others participate in community gardening, which are also clearing out for winter. Geri Nieman, also a Master Gardner at the Extension, said now community gardens are planting cover crops to help with the gardens for next year.

Community Gardens will begin opening back up in late March of next year.

The Gardening Help Desk is now closed for the year but calls with questions are still encouraged. Call the extension at 827-7246 for more information. Nieman and Podeschi appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held their monthly business meeting to hear progress on ongoing projects for children and youth, at their weekly luncheon on Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.

Kiwanis committee chairs reported on the many activities the club is involved in.  Treasurer Dan Sneed reported that September's Peanut Days fund raiser netted the club some 33-hundred dollars, which is up from last year.  Sneed thanked the community for their generosity.  14 Taylorville High School Kiwanis Key Club members, also helped the local club in the fund raising weekend.

Kiwanis board member Dick Wamsley, who is also Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor for District 30, pointed out that the Taylorville Kiwanis Club invested over 14-thousand dollars in children and youth projects in the Taylorville community, this past Kiwanis year that ended September 30th.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of 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 Memorial Hospital auditorium.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com. 

The state’s recent attempts at a public private partnership to help attract businesses is called Intersect Illinois. The new group is expected to partner with the state’s Department of Economic Opportunity to expand and attract new businesses to the state. 

The CEO is Jim Schultz and he recently joined the Governor on Facebook Live. Schultz says that he see’s Intersect Illinois as the go to place to help businesses expand and thrive.



Intersect Illinois will be financed with private funds and donations.

J.B.Penn has spent his career shaping U.S. agricultural policy. Starting on President Carter’s Council of Economic Affairs, he stayed on to run USDA’s Economic Research Bureau under the Reagan Administration, then entered the private sector with Informa Economics, retuning to USDA as Undersecretary during the George W Bush administration. For the past decade, Penn has been the chief economist for Deere and Company.

Deere exports agricultural, construction and forestry equipment to 130 countries around the world, so they are very concerned about international trade.

Penn points out that modern agriculture, and agribusiness, depends on trade for its viability.



Penn credits international trade agreements for opening markets to U.S. business and agriculture and says the Trans Pacific Partnership will add to the prosperity that exports bring to the ag sector.

While past agreements, like NAFTA have been good, Penn says the TPP is much better as it will not only boost exports, but protect American business and labor from unfair economic and labor practices.
Trade agreements, including the TPP, have been blamed for job losses during the current presidential campaign. Penn says this accusation doesn’t hold water as trade agreements have created far more jobs than they have cost. As far as ‘tearing up all those agreements’, as we have heard during the election campaign, Penn says that would be economic suicide for the nation, and Ag in particular.



JBPenn, chief economist at Deere and Co. 

The Illinois State Police are currently investigating a bank robbery that occurred at the Midland States Bank in Farina, Illinois, earlier this morning.

At approximately 9:34 a.m. on October 7, 2016, a white male suspect wearing a plaid shirt, red plaid jacket, blue jeans, and a green baseball cap entered the Midland States Bank, displayed a weapon, and demanded money. After receiving an undetermined amount of money he exited the bank and was last seen on foot heading north on Walnut Street. The suspect is described as having long black hair, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, and is estimated to weigh 200 pounds.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact ISP Zone 7 Investigations at (217)342-7853.

Congressman Rodney Davis is a believer in mass transit and he put his money and his posterior where his mouth is, taking a seat in buses across the 13th Congressional District this week. Davis says mass transit is an underrated resource in area much smaller than the nation's largest cities like Chicago.

Davis acknowledges some Republican colleagues may have a different view of things...
 

He is a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Davis and his colleagues recently crafted a five-year surface transportation bill. The bill included provisions pushed by Davis to provide greater local control over federal transportation dollars awarded to states and an increase in state transit dollars.

The Christian County Health Department recently celebrated their 50^th anniversary. The CCHD celebrated the event with an open house for the community as well as a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the Health Department joining the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce. Nancy Martin, Administrator at the Christian County Health Department said the event was a great success.

The Health Department wanted to help inform the public during the open house of all the things they do for the county.

Martin wanted to make sure to thank all of the community partners who helped make the event a success, and they appreciate the community’s support.

Balloonfest is kicking off this weekend and there is a lot planned with it. Freddie Fry, Director of the Shelby County Office of Tourism said she hopes there will be a lot of people attending this year, since the county wasn't able to have it last year. One of the events Fry said she looks forward to most is the Balloon Glow, Saturday Evening.

Fry explained the history of Balloonfest and how it came to be such a staple in the yearly Shelbyville calendar.

More information and a full schedule of events can be found at lakeshelbyville.com or on their Facebook page at Lake Shelbyville. Fry appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Scarecrow Daze is taking place this weekend, and this one is a special celebration as they celebrate their 20th anniversary. Vonda McConnell from the Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce said this event was brought to light twenty years ago when Jay and Barb Allred got together and realized Shelbyville didn't have a major celebration during the fall months. The Allreds will be the grand marshals of the parade this year since the festival has been a success for twenty straight years.

McConnell said, this year, they are having their first Scarecrow Daze Pageant, and they have near 35 participants in their various categories.

A full list of events can be found at lakeshelbyville.com and for more information contact McConnel at 774-2221. McConnell appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

The Shelbyville Chautauqua Preservation Committee is holding their second annual Dacey Hollow Haunted Trail later this month to celebrate Halloween. This year they have four nights planned where on Friday the 21st and 28th they are holding a family friendly trail for the younger kids.  Brenda Elder from the Chautauqua Preservation Committee said these days of the trail will have local businesses and organizations giving out candy along the trail, and will be much less scary.

Elder said, on the other hand, on Saturday the 22nd and 29th, Dacey Trail will be much scarier for those who want to experience a mile of fright.

Elder said for those who go on Saturday, not to dress up, and no one attending or volunteering will be allowed wear any type of clown costume. Elder appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Chinese investment in a central Illinois town is paying off with more jobs at a glass factory. Fuyao Glass cut the ribbon on $200 million in improvements to the former PPG Glass plant in Decatur. The Fuyao workforce is growing from 50 jobs to 300. Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolf says that this makes it clear downstate Illinois can be a center of global manufacturing.

President of the Decatur and Macon County Economic Development Corporation Ryan McCrady says that the arrival of a foreign business in central Illinois showcases the global nature of trade.

The plant manufacturers glass for the automobile industry. The Macon County plant can produce enough glass for about 4 million cars a year.

We are in the early stages of fall but it was hard to tell at times last month. State Climatologist Jim Angel says that we saw one of the warmer September’s ever. Across much of Illinois it was 90 degrees on the first day of fall. Angel says we lived through the 6th warmest fall but didn’t get close to the all time record. 



Our monthly average temp was about 71 degrees. Angel says it looks good that we could have above normal temps for the rest of the year. 

The highest profile alleged victim of sex abuse at the hands of former US House Speaker Dennis Hastert delivers powerful testimony before state lawmakers. An emotional Scott Cross, the brother of former House Minority Leader Tom Cross, spoke in favor of ending the statute of limitations for child sex abuse cases.

While Cross says Hastert's punishment is underwhelming to him, he's still happy with recent developments.

Hastert was sentenced in April to 15 months in prison for violating banking laws.

It was another Facebook Live event for the Governor. Bruce Rauner was joined by Jim Schultz the head of the state’s new public private business support group Intersect Illinois. Rauner focused on creating jobs and retaining business to build the state’s economy. 

Rauner didn’t read any questions that would be deemed tough as his staff selected the ones that he would answer. Rauner says that Intersect Illinois is being funded by private donations.



Intersect Illinois currently has 7 employees, with a hope to have 25 people working by next year to bring business to Illinois and assist one’s that are already here.

Lincoln Land Community College’s Surgical Technology Program has received the annual merit award. Janice Lovekamp, Program Director of the Surgical Technology Program at LLCC said 100% of the students in the program passed their certification exams this past semester.

Lovekamp explained what students learn while taking the Surgical Technology Program at Linclon Land.

Lovekamp said the program tries to stress the importance of the material the students learn, and gave some information on how students can get involved in the program.

LLCC also offers a transition program for individuals already certified as surgical technologists who would like to earn an associate in applied science degree in the subject.

National 4-H week is taking place this week, and this is 4-H's main time for recruiting new members. Peggy Hampton, 4-H Youth Development Educator at the University of Illinois Extension said where local 4-H has been growing hasn't necessarily been in the traditional 4-H clubs, but more in their special interest clubs.

Hampton said 4-H helps kids in many ways to further them in their interests and careers, but also helps them personally by bringing them things such as leadership skills. She said one program that helps 4-H'ers improve in leadership is “Teens as Teachers.”

More information can be found at the extension website at web.extension.illinois.edu/cjmm or by calling the extension office at 217-827-7246. Hampton appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Now that Chillifest has come to a close, the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has other things to focus on for the rest of the year. Patty Hornbuckle, CEO of the Taylorville Chamber said in the next two weeks there are a lot of events for the public to take a look at, where the first includes a seminar called “How to Start a Business in Illinois.”

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The Seminar will take place in the Chamber board room, Tuesday October 18th from 2:00-4:00

The day after, Express Personnel is having a job fair for anyone who is interested in working for them and becoming a contract employee.

The Job fair will be in the chamber board room on October 19th from 10:00-3:00.

For more information on these events and more, contact the Taylorville Chamber at 217-824-4919 or visiting their office on the second floor of US Bank on the south side of the Taylorville Square. Hornbuckle appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

On November 5th, the Christian County Historical Society is holding their annual Persimmon Party. Rachel Ward, Coordinating Director of the historical society said this is the only festival she knows of that celebrates this fruit, and they celebrate it because of the many persimmon trees surrounding their buildings. Ward said, this year, they will have their inaugural Little Miss Persimmon Contest kick off the party.

Ward said the Persimmon Party will have a lot of attractions including tours, live music, baked goods, and even a pie eating contest.

The Christian County Historical Society Persimmon Party is set for November 5th from 10:00 to 3:00. Ward appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Dr. David Gill’s 2016 Independent Congressional Campaign has come to a close. The Gill Campaign announced on Thursday morning that Dr. David Gill was suspending his campaign in light of Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy denying Gill’s application to vacate a stay order granted by a three judge panel in the Court of Appeals in Chicago.

Dr. Gill had challenged a the constitutionality of the Illinois signature requirement for independent candidates, after collecting nearly 11-thousand signatures. Dr. Gill said he plans to continue the lawsuit filed regarding the signature requirement.

Dr. Gill mentioned that his campaign received a very favorable response throughout the district, and he may try to build upon that in 2018. However, if he runs again, unless his lawsuit succeeds, he may not run as an Independent.

Charges were dismissed in the case of a woman that was accused of abusing an elderly woman on Tuesday. Officer Robert Goebel with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office testified that he was sent on a welfare check to a particular residence to check on Marsha Carol. Goebel said he tried making contact with someone in the house, and the defendant in the case, Jill A. Durbin responded roughly a half hour later.

Goebel said how he was allowed inside where he witnessed awful living conditions. He stated that Carol told him that Durbin had abused her in several ways including being shocked with a cattle prod, and pouring water on her head, and said how Carol was in overall bad condition.

Judge Brad Paisley ruled that there isn’t probable cause to move forward with the case due to Durbin not fitting the definition of being a caregiver, nor there being any evidence presented as to when Carol’s injuries occured. Judge Paisley also said there wasn’t any evidence presented that stated that the victim was over 60 years old, and ordered Durbin to be released.

Paisley did mention however, that the state could re-file charges, and mentioned how they simply didn’t have everything they needed at this point. The State is gathering evidence, and could still present that evidence infront of a grand jury.

Taylorville Memorial Hospital has teamed with the SIU School of Medicine to offer Telehealth Services in Taylorville. Kim Bourne, CEO of Taylorville Memorial Hospital said the Telehealth visits can help patients at TMH access specialists at the SIU School of Medicine more easily.

Bourne said how the technology can help both the doctor and patient be more informed to what’s going on.

With the telehealth system, patients don’t need to travel or take extra time off of work to visit specialists, who typically aren’t in a small community like Taylorville.

There has been a string of reports of clown sightings around the country, and now it seems that clowns have appeared in Christian County as well. Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettlekamp said that several police departments in the area have received calls about clowns.

Kettlekamp said the clowns are no laughing matter. He stressed that these clowns can get arrested if caught.

Disorderly conduct isn’t the only charge a clown prankster might face. If caught, they could face trespassing charges as well.

Kettlekamp wanted to remind potential clown pranksters that they could potentially get seriously injured from someone who they’re trying to scare as well as facing charges, and he didn’t want to see anybody get hurt over a prank.

A search was underway Tuesday night for a missing person in Taylorville. Taylorville Fire Chief Mike Crews explained what happened.

A list of various departments and search and rescue teams were called in to assist with the search. Crews said how at one time over 100 responders were involved, and how the search did result in a good outcome.

Danny Russell, production director and on-air personality at the Miller Media Group radio stations in Taylorville, was named by fellow staff members this week, as the "Employee of the Quarter" for the 3rd Quarter.

Russell has been with the stations since February of 2011.  Russell hosts the Morning Show on WMKR Genuine Country 94.3, as well as the "Brown Bag Rewind" during the noon hour on WRAN groovy 97.3. 

Russell also handles all the production duties for the 6 stations, making sure advertisers' commercials get on-the-air.

Russell was given 100-dollars by general manager Kami Payne, and is in an employee drawing for a trip to Florida.

The second day of the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Bags Tournament on Sunday, was a sanctioned tournament thru the Capital City Cornhole Association.

Winners in Sunday's tournament included:

1st A division - Matt Milner & Jeremy Wheeler, who won $350
2nd A division - Herman Collier & Jared Naber, who won $190
3rd A division - Don Jones & Tristan (last name unknown), who won $100

1st B division - Dean Clark & Aaron (last name unknown), who won $80
2nd B division - Andy Buker & Betty (last name unknown), who won 2 capital city cornhole T-shirts

The tournament culminated 2 days of bags tournaments at the 31st annual Chillifest.

CAPTION TO PIX:  1st A division - Matt Milner & Jeremy Wheeler, who won $350

CAPTION TO PIX:  2nd A division - Herman Collier & Jared Naber, who won $190

CAPTION TO PIX:  3rd A division - Don Jones & Tristan (last name unknown), who won $100

CAPTION TO PIX:  1st place B Division - Dean Clark & Aaron (last name unknown), who won $80

CAPTION TO PIX:  2nd B division - Andy Buker & Betty (last name unknown), who won 2 capital city cornhole T-shirts

Taylorville High School has signed on a few new teachers and staff members this year to fill vacant spaces left after the end of school last year. These include two science teachers and a new guidance counselor. Paul Held, Athletic Director and Dean of Students at THS said these new additions have been great and he looks forward to what they'll bring to the students and the school.

Held mentioned the addition of new Vice Principal Eric Bruder who joined the administrative team this year. Held said that one of the things he likes about Bruder is that he stays engaged interacts with the students every day and throughout the day.

Held appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Local McDonald's in Taylorville, Shelbyville, Pana, and Vandalia have recently undergone changes to expand their All Day Breakfast menu. Brad Davis co-owner of the local McDonald's said his restaurants now have almost every breakfast menu item people could want, and this was made possible with equipment upgrades.

Davis said, on the way, in the next few months McDonald's will have another new menu item called the Mega Mac, for those who don't get filled up from their Big Mac, and also a Mac Jr, for those who want less.

McDonald's held a contest recently through NEWSTALK WTIM where one lucky winner would receive free breakfast for a year. Davis picked the winner live and congratulated Violet Borgic for participating and winning. Davis appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Raffle winners were drawn at the end of the 31st annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on Sunday.

Sharon Kramer won the gun raffle, with the prize being a 500-dollar gift certificate to Collections of Professions in Taylorville.

Bridget Crawford won a TV from Aaron's Sales, Greg Hornbuckle won a full body massage from Mathes Massage, Jenny Moats won a 250-dollar gift certificate from Jensen Home Furnishings, Molly Alaria won a 50-dollar gift card from Dear Yesteryear, and Eden with no last name provided, won 6 football tickets to an Eastern Illinois University football game from the Miller Media Group Radio Stations.

Jacob Linder win a new patient exam and x-rays from Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry, Betty Sutton won 2 rounds of golf at Oak Terrace, and 10-dollar gift certificates good at the Taylorville Taco Bell, were won by Bob Dunn, Bridget Crawford, Barry Kent, Katlyn Eversole, and Tom Watson.

Joe Kent won an iPad Mini-2 from Christian County Treasurer Betty Asmussen, Laurie Henry won a family membership from the Christian County Y-M-C-A, and Linda  Curtin won a 25-dollar gift card to the Samurai Sushi and Steakhouse.

All winners can claim their prizes at the Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building on the south side of the Taylorville, during weekday business hours.

The boil order for that had been in effect for the City of Nokomis has been lifted. Regional Radio News learned that a water main break had been the cause of the water shutoff and subsequent boil order that went into effect. Nokomis residents no longer have to boil their water before consumption.

This month’s NEWSTALK WTIM Central Illinois Smiles Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” honoree is Dwane Wheeler, Chief of the Kincaid Police Department.

Wheeler has been an instrumental part of the restoration efforts following the flooding in December of 2015. Working to guide volunteers, directing donation efforts, collecting supplies and rebuilding homes, all while continuing to protect and serve the community, Chief Wheeler has been a blessing to the Village and all its residents. Thank you, from the citizens of Kincaid!

To nominate someone for the NEWSTALK WTIM Central Illinois Family Dentistry “Big Smile for the Community” award, send your nomination to bigsmile@randyradio.com

This week Crimestoppers is seeking information in regards to a criminal damage that occurred in Taylorville.

Sometime during the overnight hours between Wednesday, September 28, 2016 and Thursday, September 29, 2016, person or persons unknown made entry onto the roof of Angelo’s Pizza, located at 404 West Spresser Street.  While there, the unknown subject or subjects damaged several shingles and attempted to damage the air conditioning units.  The total dollar amount of damage is unknown at this time.  

Please contact Crimestoppers if you have any information on this crime or any other crimes or wanted persons.  Crimestoppers will pay cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and you do not have to give your name.  Crimestoppers will pay double the normal reward for information that leads to an arrest for the crime of the week. 

You can contact Crimestoppers at 824-9100, at our website Christiancountycrimestoppers.org, or by texting CRIMES (274632) and then your tip.  As always, you will remain anonymous.  

The 20^th annual Scarecrow Daze in Shelbyville is coming up this weekend. Vonda McConnell with the Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce said you can find most of the festivities for Scarecrow Daze in downtown Shelbyville, and gave some history on the event.

McConnell highlighted some of the other events that will be taking place at Scarecrow Daze.

Scarecrow Daze will also feature several other events such as free hayrides and a Pokemon Go hunt. The full calendar of events for Scarecrow Daze can be viewed by clicking on the Scarecrow Daze icon on TaylorvilleDailyNews.com.

Before the stopgap budget was passed, the Christian County Senior Citizen's Center thought they were going to have to make cutbacks on their transportation, which would then make cutbacks on lunches. Recently they have learned because of the stopgap budget, the center will be able to provide full rides from now until the end of the year. Gerry Mahr Director of the Senior Center said the center is now able to provide rides 5 days a week and that helps a lot since many of the people who go can't drive.

Judy Gates, Director of the Nutrition Program, joined in with Mahr, saying if one of them gets part of their funds cut, at the start of next year the other is also likely to experience cuts.

Mahr and Gates appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show.

Congressman Rodney Davis has been working hard in Washington DC, and late last week the House passed HR 5303 or the Water Resources Development Act. Congressman Davis said this bill will help out farmers and others who work in agriculture substantially by giving them a chance to get their products out in the global market through the waterways.

Congressman Davis has a provision in the bill where he wants there to be a study of removing the Army Corps of Engineers from managing the Inland Waterway Trust Fund. He said it would be beneficial because the corps was put in place there 20 years ago and it has done next to nothing to upgrade things.

Congressman Davis appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Teens using drugs and alcohol in the community is at a high level, as is the amount of adult smokers, alcoholics, and drug abusers. Dennis Metzker, Board Member for the Christian County Prevention Coalition, said a major part of the reason kids will use and abuse, is because of parental behavior. Metzker said parents shouldn't try to be their kid's friend, but be their parent and show with negative action, there will be consequences.

Metzker mentioned one way that parents can make sure their kids aren't using and abusing drugs and alcohol is to make sure they know who their friend's are, and try to be friends, or at least get to know their friend's parents.

For more information contact Metzker at 217-254-5027, or Google the Christian County Prevention Coalition. Metzker appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

With the upcoming election season means several members of the community will be seeking public office. This often means posting and displaying campaign signs. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton pointed out during Monday Nights Taylorville City Council Meeting that there are several areas where the signs cannot be placed.

If you have a sign in your yard however, you can leave it there year-round.

Places where campaign signs cannot legally be placed include telephone or other utility poles. City, state, or railroad owned property, or placed on another person’s property without the owners permission.

Winners were announced in the annual Kiddie Tractor Pull Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest. 

The event is sponsored by Larry's Service Center, with owner Larry Barry again organizing the event and being emcee.

Winners included:

3-4 Years Old
1. Maybel Repscher
2. Ella Marie Ralph
3. Tyler Crowell

5-6 Years Old
1. Brody McDowell
2. Maleah Repscher
3. Griffin Gregory

7-8 Years Old
1. Isaac Repscher
2. Lance Davis
3. Zeth Price

9-10 Years Old
1. Kason Long
2. Rhyker Wicks
3. Zander Frye

The event was held as part of the Chillifest Kidzone on the southwest corner of the Taylorville square.
 

The Taylorville City Council met in regular session at the Taylorville Municipal Building on Monday Night. The meeting started off with the council honoring the accomplishments of Dave Ryan, a local Taylorville Citizen who just recently became golf’s US Senior Amateur Champion. Mayor Brotherton gave a proclamation on the matter and spoke a few words before honoring Ryan with a plaque from the city for Outstanding Achievement. Ryan spoke a few words to the council and others in attendance.

In more serious matters, the City Council once again took a look at the issue of the mayor’s salary. There was an ordinance to establish the salary of the position of Mayor of Taylorville at 58-thousand dollars. Alderman Shawn Burtle, who had previously opposed the ordinance in the past, once again stated that he didn’t like the proposed ordinance, because he felt that the amount was too high. He said he thought that the Mayor’s pay should be based on performance.

Alderman Bruce Jones addressed Alderman Burtle’s suggestion, saying that although he didn’t necessarily disagree with Alderman Burtle’s idea, there are challenges to doing it that way.

There was also much discussion as to whether or not the office of Mayor was a full time position or not, and if the council could in fact raise the salary on a yearly basis based on performance. Ultimately the motion to establish the mayor’s salary at 58-thousand dollars a year was passed 5-3.

After approving the payment of bills, Monday Night’s Taylorville City Council Meeting adjourned at approximately 8 pm.

A medical marijuana dispensary is highlighting the impacts they have seen and been told about by clients who are now using their product to manage pain. HCI Alternatives is placing billboards around the state to share the story of a number of clients who stopped using prescribed opiates after finding medical marijuana. HCI CEO Chris Stone says personal stories are the basis of all the billboards. 


 

Stone says Jeff Crow is a veteran who was taking prescription opiates to manage pain. 

A 2014 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that states with medical marijuana laws had a 25 percent reduction in fatal opioid overdoses.

The Illinois state treasurer announces the state will suspend billions of dollars of investment activity with Wells Fargo. Illinois Treasurer State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced the one year suspension after recent headline making developments.

Frerichs says some of the Wells Fargo customers hurt the worst, are military personnel.

Frerichs also ordered an audit to determine if Wells Fargo violated Illinois' unclaimed property laws.

At the first of the month families who have young children and need help heating their homes this winter can start asking for help with the bills. Illinois’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP is now open and accepting applications.Gail Hedges says the program generally results in the state paying the utility directly. And as the program opens she urges people to sign up quickly.



You can visit Liheap Illinois.com for more info or contact a local social service agency and they will generally be able to provide you the information.

Former Taylorville Alderman Ray Koonce has officially announced he will be running for Mayor of Taylorville for the election being held in April. Koonce said he originally wasn’t planning on running, however there seemed to be a desire from the community for him to run.

Koonce said he wants to bring people in the community together to help solve the various issues Taylorville faces.

Koonce expressed he wants to be a leader, not a politician.

Koonce served as a city Alderman for four years in Ward I, and urged anybody to contact him should they have any questions or concerns about the city they wished to express.

Any hunter will be able to tell you that October First was opening day for archery deer hunting. Joe Cochran, Conservation Officer with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources said hunters will need to once again get their tags for the upcoming seasons, and gave several suggestions on where to get them.

Cochran said during bow season, hunters don’t have to wear the typical blaze orange you see. They do however have to abide by other rules.

If you plan on doing shotgun hunting during shotgun season, you will however have to wear orange. Archery season also overlaps shotgun season, and Cochran said archers will also have to put on orange at that time.

Cochran also said hunters can archery deer hunt during the firearm hunting seasons, but will need a valid firearm deer permit to do that should they wish to hunt on private land. That statue does not apply however if you’re hunting on public land.

The Route 29 project between Taylorville and Springfield continues to progress. Mike Bell with the Route 29 project committee gave an update to the work being done on the highway.

Bell said the project is still aiming for a mid-October open date for the highway, and also gave an update on the progress of the new Ayerco station being constructed along Route 29 in Edinburg, saying how the contractor was pleased with the interactions they’ve had with the Village of Edinburg.

Bell stressed that the orange barrels on the highway were there for the worker’s safety, so they can safely work on the shoulders of the northbound lanes of Route 29.

The High School Football Season is past its halfway point and Taylorville High School has only lost one game on the season. Jake Linder, Play by Play commentator for Miller Media Group and the Taylorville Tornadoes has high expectations for the team where he hopes they peak toward the end of the regular season and beginning of the post season to contend for a state championship.

Linder said he's most impressed with the Tornadoes ability to adapt to situations and roll with the punches. He was shown first hand how the team was able to do it after their first and second string quarterback went down with an injury and are now using the team's defensive leader as their leader on offense.

The Taylorville Tornadoes take on the Charleston High School Trojans at home this Friday night with Linder on the call, with Michael Pickett alongside with color. Linder appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Families who eat together have more positives than families who eat separately. Joyce Fikri Nutrition Educator from the St. Louis Dairy Council said when families eat home cooked meals they're better off nutritionally because they have better variety, and family meals offer more fruits and veggies than fast food will. Fikri said, there are other benefits besides being healthy for families eating at home together including saving money, and children having less behavioral problems

Fikri said families should plan to eat together at least three to five times a week, and the more often it can be done, the better. While it may be difficult for some families to make this happen, Fikri said ways to make it happen, are through simple recipes or cooking twice the amount.

Another tip Fikri gave was if a family was in a rush, a precooked rotisserie chicken or frozen pizza from the grocery store, is never bad to have. More information can be found at stldairycouncil.org. Fikri appeared on the NEWSTALK WTIM Morning Show. 

Winners were announced Sunday in the 2nd day of chilli judging at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on the Taylorville square.

Both days of chilli competition were sanctioned by the International Chilli Society.  Sunday's competition was the Central States Regional.  Tom Calvert again chaired the competition.

In the red chilli judging, 3rd place winner was Jim Weller of Rockton, who won 100-dollars and a certificate.  2Nd place winner was Jim Deere of Pana, who won 200-dollars and a certificate.  First place winner was Linda Carroll-Greene of Taylorville, who won 750-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

In chilli verde judging Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chillifest, 3rd place winner was Diane Lentz of Nicholasville, Kentucky, who won 25-dollars and a certificate.  Second place winner was Jill Goldberg of Madison, Wisconsin, who won 50-dollars and a certificate.  First place winner was Scott Barrett of Willow Springs, Illinois, who won 200-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

In salsa competition Sunday, 3rd place winner was Tom Hoover of Columbus, Ohio, who won a certificate.  Second place winner was Robin Seuferer of Lucas, Iowa, who won 25-dollars and a certificate, and first place winner was Maureen Barrett of Willow Springs, Illinois, who won 100-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

Bob Dunn of Taylorville was the People's Choice Award winner Sunday in all 3 judging categories:  Salsa, Verde, and Red Chilli, and will have his Chillifest entry fee paid in 2017.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Sunday's People's Choice Award winner in all 3 judging categories—salsa, verde, and red chilli—was Bob Dunn of Taylorville.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Chilli Cookoff Competition Chair; 2016 Miss Chilli Pepper Faith Maxwell; Dunn; and Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  2016 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Nikyla Lawrence, 2016 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent and 2016 Little Mister Chilli Pepper Grayson Zueck.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Salsa competition winners were announced in the 2nd day of judging at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Chilli Cookoff Competition Chair; 2016 Miss Chilli Pepper Faith Maxwell; second place winner Robin Seuferer of Lucas, Iowa; first place winner Maureen Barrett of Willow Springs, Illinois; and Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle. 
Front row, from the left:  2016 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Nikyla Lawrence, 2016 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent and 2016 Little Mister Chilli Pepper Grayson Zueck.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Chilli verde judging winners were announced Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Chilli Cookoff Competition Chair;  3rd place winner Diane Lentz of Nicholasville, Kentucky,; 2016 Miss Chilli Pepper Faith Maxwell; second place winner Jill Goldberg of Madison, Wisconsin;  first place winner Scott Barrett of Willow Springs, Illinois; and Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  2016 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Nikyla Lawrence, 2016 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent and 2016 Little Mister Chilli Pepper Grayson Zueck.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Red chilli judging winners were announced Sunday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Chilli Cookoff Competition Chair; 2016 Miss Chilli Pepper Faith Maxwell; 2Nd place winner Jim Deere of Pana; first place winner Linda Carroll-Greene of Taylorville; and Greater Taylorville Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  2016 Little Miss Chilli Pepper Nikyla Lawrence, 2016 Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent and 2016 Little Mister Chilli Pepper Grayson Zueck.

Winners of the “Little Chilli Bean” cutest baby contest, were announced Sunday at the 31st annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

The contest was a People's Choice competition, with people voting at one dollar per ticket.

First place winner, winning a 100-dollar Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce gift certificate, was Charlie Mae Dyer, the 2-year-old child of Chuck and Angela Dyer of Taylorville.  Second place winner, winning a 75-dollar Greater Taylorville Chamber gift certificate, was one-year-old Elliott Gilpin, the child of Megan Smith of Taylorville.  Third place winner was one-month-old Charlotte Jackson, the child of Ashley Stillwell and Blake Jackson of Owaneco, who won a 50-dollar Chamber gift certificate.

CAPTION TO PIX:  Winners were announced Sunday in the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest “Little Chilli Bean” contest.  Back row, from the left:  Patty Hornbuckle, Chamber CEO; first place winner Charlie Mae Dyer, the 2-year-old child of Chuck and Angela Dyer of Taylorville; Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Faith Maxwell; third place winner one-month-old Charlotte Jackson, the child of Ashley Stillwell and Blake Jackson of Owaneco; and “Little Chilli Bean” chairperson Jane Hunsche.  Front row, from the left:  Junior Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Alivia Kent; and Little Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Nikyla Lawrence.

The International Chilli Society Chillinois Central States Regional Cookoff Winners were announced after day-long judging Saturday at the 31st Annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest.

In the People's Choice Awards, voted on by event attendees, the salsa winner was Robin Seuferer from Iowa, the verde winner was Bob Dunn from Taylorville, and Dunn also won the red chilli award.  Each received a medallion and will have their Chillifest entry fee paid for their division in 2018.

In I-C-S salsa judging Saturday, 3rd place went to Julie Netzer of Indiana, who won a certificate.  2Nd place winner was Robin Seuferer from Iowa, who won 25-dollars and a trophy.  First place winner was Mike Goodman from Wisconsin, who won 100-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

In I-C-S chilli verde judging Saturday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, 3rd place winner was Robin Sueferer who won 25-dollars and a plaque.  2Nd place winner was Helen Lewis from Springfield, Illinois, who won 50-dollars and a medallion.  First place winner was Tom Hoover from Columbus, Ohio, who won 200-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

And, in I-C-S red chilli judging on Saturday in Taylorville, 5th place honorable mention went to Doug Hoy of Stonington, and 4th place honorable mention went to Linda Green of Taylorville.  3Rd place winner was Bob Dunn of Taylorville, who won 100-dollars and a plaque.  2Nd place winner was Tom Hoover of Columbus, Ohio, who won 200-dollars and a medallion.  First place winner was Robin Sueferer who won 750-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.

Tom Calvert of Taylorville chaired the competition.

CAPTION TO PIX:    In the People's Choice Awards at Saturday's Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest, attendees selected the winners.  Back row from the left:  Tom Calvert, Cookoff Competition Chairman; salsa winner Robin Seuferer from Iowa, the verde winner Bob Dunn from Taylorville, and Dunn also won the red chilli award.  Also shown is Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Faith Maxwell, and Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent. 

CAPTION TO PIX:  In I-C-S salsa judging Saturday, back row from the left: Tom Calvert, Cookoff Competition Chairman;  3rd place winner Julie Netzer of Indiana, who won a certificate;  2Nd place winner Robin Seuferer from Iowa, who won 25-dollars and a trophy; and first place winner Mike Goodman from Wisconsin, who won 100-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.  Also shown is Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Faith Maxwell, and Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent. 

CAPTION TO PIX:  Winners were announced in I-C-S chilli verde judging Saturday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Cookoff Competition Chairman; 3rd place winner Robin Sueferer who won 25-dollars and a plaque;  2Nd place winner Helen Lewis from Springfield, Illinois, who won 50-dollars and a medallion; first place winner Tom Hoover from Columbus, Ohio, who won 200-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017. Also shown is Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Faith Maxwell, and Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent. 

CAPTION TO PIX:   Winners were announced on Saturday in I-C-S red chilli judging in Taylorville.  Back row, from the left:  Tom Calvert, Cookoff Competition Chairman;  3Rd place winner Bob Dunn of Taylorville, who won 100-dollars and a plaque; 2Nd place winner Tom Hoover of Columbus, Ohio, who won 200-dollars and a medallion; and first place winner Robin Sueferer who won 750-dollars, a trophy, and will compete in the I-C-S World Championship in 2017.  Also shown is Chamber CEO Patty Hornbuckle.  Front row, from the left:  Miss Chilli Pepper 2016 Faith Maxwell, and Junior Miss Chilli Pepper Alivia Kent. 

Some 53 contestants participated in the 31st Annual Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest pageants on the event's south stage on Saturday morning.

There were 7 Little Mister, 18 Little Miss, 15 Junior Miss and 13 Miss Chilli Pepper contestants.  The 53 that competed were a record number for Chillifest.

In the Little Mister Chilli Pepper pageant, 2nd runner up was Kaydon Jenkins, the 6-year-old son of Jessica Durbin and Brad Jenkins of Taylorville.   First runner-up was Maverik Courtaway, the 5-year-old son of Eric and Shanda Courtaway of Taylorville.  And, the winner of the Little Mister Chilli Pepper contest was Grayson Zueck, the 5-year-old son of Jenna Zueck of Taylorville.

In the Little Miss Chilli Pepper pageant Saturday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, 2nd runner-up was 4-year-old Kenlee Durbin, the daughter of Billy and Kimberly Durbin of Taylorville.  First runner-up was Kate Shivers, the 3-year-old daughter of Sarah Shivers of Taylorville.  And, the winner of the Little Miss Chilli Pepper contest was 3-year-old Nikyla Lawrence, the daughter of Crimson Brown and Joseph Lawrence of Taylorville.

In the Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest, 2nd runner-up was Hayleigh Manual, the eleven-year-old daughter of Kirby and Vanessa Manuel of Pana.  First runner-up was Lilyan Harden, the 9-year-old daughter of Dani and Todd Harden of Owaneco.  And, the winner of the title of Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest was Alivia Kent, the 9-year-old daughter of Barry and Amy Kent of Taylorville.   Alivia also won the “Miss Congeniality” award in the Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest.

And, in the first-ever Miss Chilli Pepper contest, 2nd runner-up was Jessica Vacker, the 17-year-old daughter of Heather and Jacob Jones of Kincaid.  First runner-up was Madison Wiseman, the 17-year-old daughter of Erin Emmett of Mount Auburn.  Winner of the Miss Chilli Pepper competition was Faith Maxwell, the 14-year-old daughter of Robin Maxwell of Taylorville.  Brooke Burke, the 18-year-old daughter of Mandy and Traviss Burke of Taylorville, was named “Miss Congeniality” in the Miss Chilli Pepper competition.

Caption to pix:  In the Little Mister Chilli Pepper pageant, 2nd runner up was Kaydon Jenkins (right), the 6-year-old son of Jessica Durbin and Brad Jenkins of Taylorville.   First runner-up was Maverik Courtaway (left), the 5-year-old son of Eric and Shanda Courtaway of Taylorville.  And, the winner of the Little Mister Chilli Pepper contest was Grayson Zueck (center), the 5-year-old son of Jenna Zueck of Taylorville.

Caption to pix:  In the Little Miss Chilli Pepper pageant Saturday at the Greater Taylorville Chamber Chillifest, 2nd runner-up was 4-year-old Kenlee Durbin (left), the daughter of Billy and Kimberly Durbin of Taylorville.  First runner-up was Kate Shivers (right), the 3-year-old daughter of Sarah Shivers of Taylorville.  And, the winner of the Little Miss Chilli Pepper contest was 3-year-old Nikyla Lawrence (center), the daughter of Crimson Brown and Joseph Lawrence of Taylorville.

Caption to pix:  In the Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest, 2nd runner-up was Hayleigh Manual (right), the eleven-year-old daughter of Kirby and Vanessa Manuel of Pana.  First runner-up was Lilyan Harden (left), the 9-year-old daughter of Dani and Todd Harden of Owaneco.  And, the winner of the title of Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest was Alivia Kent (center), the 9-year-old daughter of Barry and Amy Kent of Taylorville.   Alivia also won the “Miss Congeniality” award in the Junior Miss Chilli Pepper contest.

Caption to pix #:  In the first-ever Miss Chilli Pepper contest, 2nd runner-up was Jessica Vacker (4th from left), the 17-year-old daughter of Heather and Jacob Jones of Kincaid.  First runner-up was Madison Wiseman (2nd from left), the 17-year-old daughter of Erin Emmett of Mount Auburn.  Winner of the Miss Chilli Pepper competition was Faith Maxwell (third from left), the 14-year-old daughter of Robin Maxwell of Taylorville.  Brooke Burke (first from left), the 18-year-old daughter of Mandy and Traviss Burke of Taylorville, was named “Miss Congeniality” in the Miss Chilli Pepper competition.

All photos provided to Chillifest by Fun Foto.