Tenaska Takes Big Step Towards Bringing Clean Coal to Central Illinois
3/28/2009
On Friday, another major stride was made in bringing clean coal technology to central Illinois. Tenaska announced that it has retained the construction firm Kiewit Energy Co., and the engineering firm Burns & McDonnell to conduct a Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) study for the Taylorville Energy Center. The two companies will also conduct a facility cost report. Once completed, the two studies will be submitted to the Illinois Commerce Commission and the Illinois General Assembly. Essentially the completion and approval of the facility cost report are the final obstacles in the way of commencing construction on the Taylorville Energy Center. Before the weekend, Regional Radio reporter Steve Butera interviewed Tenaska Vice President Bart Ford. Highlights of the interview, and more details on this story, can be heard on Regional Radio on Monday. In the interview, Ford said Kiewit and Burns & McDonnell have already begun the FEED study, and they estimate that the study will take roughly 10 months to complete.
Frat House Ablaze in Champaign
3/28/2009
(Champaign, IL) -- When one fraternity at the University of Illinois gets back from spring break, they won't be returning home. Champaign firefighters say a blaze at the Delta Tau Delta fraternity has left the home unlivable. Investigators say someone left a shoplite on, and placed on the floor of the attic. The heat from the bulb sparked a fire the tore through the attic. No one was hurt in the fire, but the house is looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. Fraternity officials say they will work on finding temporary housing for the brothers while workers fix the frat house.
'Brandon Read' Legislation Passes
3/28/2009
State Representative Bob Flider (D-Mount Zion) on Tuesday passed legislation out of the House that increases the penalty for selling or giving a firearm to a convicted felon and institutes a new law that makes the use of a stolen firearm in the commission of crime a felony. Flider explains what the legislation means for someone who sells a gun that is used in the commission of a crime.
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Currently under Illinois state law, if a person sells or gives a firearm to a convicted felon, it is a Class 4 felony. Flider’s legislation would increase the penalty to a Class 3 felony. Additionally, this legislation makes using a stolen firearm in the commission of a crime a Class 2 felony. It also stipulates that anyone convicted of this new offense would be required to serve the sentence back-to-back with the sentence for the primary offense in which the stolen firearm gun was used.
This legislation was proposed by the family of 18 year-old Decatur resident Brandon Read who died in April 2007 as the innocent victim of a drive-by shooting. The individual responsible used a stolen handgun in his slaying.
Flider’s bill was approved by an overwhelming majority in the House by a vote of 113-1. The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
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Currently under Illinois state law, if a person sells or gives a firearm to a convicted felon, it is a Class 4 felony. Flider’s legislation would increase the penalty to a Class 3 felony. Additionally, this legislation makes using a stolen firearm in the commission of a crime a Class 2 felony. It also stipulates that anyone convicted of this new offense would be required to serve the sentence back-to-back with the sentence for the primary offense in which the stolen firearm gun was used.
This legislation was proposed by the family of 18 year-old Decatur resident Brandon Read who died in April 2007 as the innocent victim of a drive-by shooting. The individual responsible used a stolen handgun in his slaying.
Flider’s bill was approved by an overwhelming majority in the House by a vote of 113-1. The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
Stephens Says IDHR Will Close Facility in Vandalia
3/28/2009
According to 102nd district state representative Ron Stephens, the Illinois department of human services is saying it will close their facility in Vandalia, that provides public aid assistance to the people of Fayette County. Stephens said the department is looking to close offices that they say aren’t serving enough people in an economical manner.
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Stephens said if your driving from Herrick to Centralia, you’re going to be driving a lot farther then 30 miles. He said the state should be making it easier for these people to reach out for a hand, especially in these tough economic times. He added that what the Department and Governor Pat Quinn are doing now is unconscionable- you cant close these offices, especially the one in Vandalia, because people are going to be going without services.
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Stephens said if your driving from Herrick to Centralia, you’re going to be driving a lot farther then 30 miles. He said the state should be making it easier for these people to reach out for a hand, especially in these tough economic times. He added that what the Department and Governor Pat Quinn are doing now is unconscionable- you cant close these offices, especially the one in Vandalia, because people are going to be going without services.
Legislation Helps IDOT Trim Highway Maintenance Costs
3/28/2009
The Illinois house has passed legislation to help the state department of transportation keep highway maintenance costs down.
IDOT has already reduced the number of times crews mow along the highway, and have burned other areas to lower upkeep expenses. But representative Mike Bost of Carbondale has another option, letting farmers harvest hay on some roadways.
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Farmers would have to apply for a permit, indicating which section of highway they would harvest. The bill now goes to the senate.
IDOT has already reduced the number of times crews mow along the highway, and have burned other areas to lower upkeep expenses. But representative Mike Bost of Carbondale has another option, letting farmers harvest hay on some roadways.
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Farmers would have to apply for a permit, indicating which section of highway they would harvest. The bill now goes to the senate.
PCH Foundation Reaches Fundraising Goal; Still Hoping For More
3/27/2009
In just over nine since breaking ground on a new rehab-wellness center to be built on the campus on Pana Community Hospital, the Hospital Foundation has reached their goal of raising half a million dollars to go toward building the state of the art facility. PCH Marketing Coordinator Melissa Rybolt says people at the hospital are thrilled with the generosity that people in the Pana community showed during the fund-raising drive, as well as their interest in promoting health and wellness in Central Illinois.
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Rybolt says that even though the hospital has hit their goal, donations are still being accepted until the completion 2.2 million dollar project is complete.
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Rybolt says she expects the hospital will be completed and open for use sometime in 2009.
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The Rehab/Wellness Center will provide services for both sick and healthy residents of the Pana area.
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Rybolt says that even though the hospital has hit their goal, donations are still being accepted until the completion 2.2 million dollar project is complete.
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Rybolt says she expects the hospital will be completed and open for use sometime in 2009.
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The Rehab/Wellness Center will provide services for both sick and healthy residents of the Pana area.
Rep. Eddy Leading Charge On School Funding Bill
3/27/2009
State Representative Roger Eddy, who represents most of Shelby County, has passed legislation out of the Illinois House of Representatives that will help ease the burden of local school district waiting on delayed payments from the state. As Dean Abbott reports, Eddy hopes the bill will provide other options to help struggling school districts stay afloat while waiting on state money.
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Taylorville Resident Doing Her Part During 'Earth Hour'
3/27/2009
People across the country and right here in Taylorville will participate in ‘Earth Hour’ Saturday, as a means of supporting a proactive effort to counteract what some have come to believe is global warming. During that hour, families and businesses will simultaneously shut off their lights and other non-essential electricity. Taylorville resident Amanda Mansfield along with her family and several neighbors on South Washington Street will participate in Earth Hour. Mansfield says she learned about the initiative on the internet, and thought it was a great way to raise awareness to encourage climate change.
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Earth Hour is set to take place from 8:30 until 9:30 Saturday night. People wishing to participate can register at Earth Hour U-S dot org.
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Earth Hour is set to take place from 8:30 until 9:30 Saturday night. People wishing to participate can register at Earth Hour U-S dot org.
LLCC Board Of Trustee Candidates Participate In Forum Thursday Night
3/26/2009
Last night at the Lincoln Land Community College’s satellite site in Taylorville hosted the Lincoln Land Community College’s SubDistrict 4 Candidate Forum. This event was an opportunity for the two candidates to share a little about themselves and to offer reasons as to why they would be the greater candidate to benefit the school.
The two candidates in the running are Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville, and Taylorville City Mayor Frank Mathon. At the beginning of the debate-like forum, both candidates gave a brief background of who they were, and what importance education served in their lives.
Wayne Rosenthal opening speech featured him talking about college and how it can help people reach their potential in life.
Both candidates often agreed on several of the topics brought up in the forum. The candidates fielded questions from Lincoln Land Community College Board of Trustee Members, as well as members of the community in attendance.
The two candidates in the running are Wayne Rosenthal of Morrisonville, and Taylorville City Mayor Frank Mathon. At the beginning of the debate-like forum, both candidates gave a brief background of who they were, and what importance education served in their lives.
Wayne Rosenthal opening speech featured him talking about college and how it can help people reach their potential in life.
Both candidates often agreed on several of the topics brought up in the forum. The candidates fielded questions from Lincoln Land Community College Board of Trustee Members, as well as members of the community in attendance.
Three Hospitalized In Montgomery County Crash
3/26/2009
(Montgomery County) State Police have released information on a weekend accident in Montgomery County that sent three people to the hospital with serious injuries. State Police say 68 Victorino Cervantes was driving a van north of Intersate 55 Sunday afternoon when he rear ended another car while trying to pass it, causing the van to hit a ditch and flip over. Cervantes and two passengers were thrown from the vehicle. Cervantes was airlifted to St. John's Hospital in Springfield. Two passengers in the vehicle, Esther Cervantes and Christine Delgado were also injured. Esther Cervantes was taken to St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield and Christine Delgado was airlifted to St. John's. None of the occupants of the other vehicle were injured in the crash. The northbound lane of I-55 was closed for three hours after the crash while the scene was cleared. No citations have been issued yet, but ISP says charges are pending following the drivers release from the hospital.
THS To Premiere "Joseph" Tonight
3/26/2009
(Taylorville) The 2009 Taylorville High School Spring Musical productin of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is set to kick off the first of four shows Thursday evening in THS’ East Gym. Co-Director Keith Chase says this production is probably not like any ‘Joseph’ you’ve seen before.
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Chase says students have been preparing for the spring musical sinc just after the start of the new semester.
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Thursday and Friday night’s performances kick off at 7:30, with two shows scheduled Saturday, at 2pm and 7:30. Tickets are available at the door and are $5 for adults and $3 for students.
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Chase says students have been preparing for the spring musical sinc just after the start of the new semester.
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Thursday and Friday night’s performances kick off at 7:30, with two shows scheduled Saturday, at 2pm and 7:30. Tickets are available at the door and are $5 for adults and $3 for students.
City Leaders Leary Of State Intersection Solution
3/26/2009
(Taylorville) State Officials believe they’ve come up a permanent solution to reduce the number of crashes at a busy intersection in Taylorville, but City Leaders aren’t so sure it will work. Driving by the Intersection of Route 29 and Cheney Street in Taylorville, you may have noticed two sets of traffic lights above you. The set suspended from wires in the intersection are temporary and will be removed soon, making way for the new set that have been mounted to horizontal poles hanging over the intersection. The new traffic light system was installed after a slew of accidents at the intersection in recent years, some damaging the former traffic lights mounted on a concrete island in the intersection. While in city limits, that particular intersection is maintained by the Illinois Department of Transportation, who engineered the new traffic light system. Taylorville Mayor Frank Mathon says that while he believes the new system is an improvement, safety concerns still loom because of the concrete island that remains in the intersection, which can be difficult to see at night.
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IDOT officials say they hope the new lights will be fully operational by next week. Egizi Electric in Springfield was contracted to install the lights, with the bill to be footed by the state. No word on the total cost of the project.
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IDOT officials say they hope the new lights will be fully operational by next week. Egizi Electric in Springfield was contracted to install the lights, with the bill to be footed by the state. No word on the total cost of the project.
Senate Committee Examining Budget Deficit Options
3/26/2009
A special Senate committee set up to look at the state’s budget woes has finished its work and expects to issue a report soon.
The group has been hearing from those who need more money…including social service agencies and schools…and those with ideas for generating new revenue. That includes the governor’s plan to raise the Illinois income tax. Some say such a tax hike will only hurt families, while others, like Senator Iris Martinez of Chicago, say they don’t have much choice.
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The report will not offer specific recommendations for remedying the state’s fiscal crisis, but will discuss in generalities the need to find more revenue, and that cuts alone will not significantly reduce the budget deficit.
The group has been hearing from those who need more money…including social service agencies and schools…and those with ideas for generating new revenue. That includes the governor’s plan to raise the Illinois income tax. Some say such a tax hike will only hurt families, while others, like Senator Iris Martinez of Chicago, say they don’t have much choice.
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The report will not offer specific recommendations for remedying the state’s fiscal crisis, but will discuss in generalities the need to find more revenue, and that cuts alone will not significantly reduce the budget deficit.
CCEDC Looking To Remedy Industrial Park Problems
3/26/2009
(Christian County) Following last week’s Christian County Economic Development Corporation Executive Committee Meeting, where a potential snag in the development of the recently purchased Industrial park was revealed, CCEDC Executive Director Mary Renner briefed the entire board on the nature of the problems. Renner told the group during their meeting Tuesday, that the Taylorville Sanitary district has identified damage to underground sewer and sanitary lines, and will not issue permits to build on the land until repairs are made. Renner told the board the CCEDC will send a letter to the sanitary district asking them to expedite the process of identifying any problems, in the interest of allowing them to begin developing the 84 acre plot of land as soon as possible.
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On a brighter note, Renner indicated to the group that other projects including the Taylorville Mining Company, two wind farm projects and the Coal Gasification plant the Taylorville Energy Center are all procceeeding.
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On a brighter note, Renner indicated to the group that other projects including the Taylorville Mining Company, two wind farm projects and the Coal Gasification plant the Taylorville Energy Center are all procceeeding.
CCEDC Looking To Remedy Industrial Park Problems
3/26/2009
(Christian County) Following last week’s Christian County Economic Development Corporation Executive Committee Meeting, where a potential snag in the development of the recently purchased Industrial park was revealed, CCEDC Executive Director Mary Renner briefed the entire board on the nature of the problems. Renner told the group during their meeting Tuesday, that the Taylorville Sanitary district has identified damage to underground sewer and sanitary lines, and will not issue permits to build on the land until repairs are made. Renner told the board the CCEDC will send a letter to the sanitary district asking them to expedite the process of identifying any problems, in the interest of allowing them to begin developing the 84 acre plot of land as soon as possible.
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On a brighter note, Renner indicated to the group that other projects including the Taylorville Mining Company, two wind farm projects and the Coal Gasification plant the Taylorville Energy Center are all procceeeding.
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On a brighter note, Renner indicated to the group that other projects including the Taylorville Mining Company, two wind farm projects and the Coal Gasification plant the Taylorville Energy Center are all procceeeding.
Lincoln Land Community College Hold's Board Of Trustee's Monthly Meeting In Taylorville
3/25/2009
In an exciting, and extremely rare event, Lincoln Land Community College held their monthly board of trustee’s meeting last night (Wednesday) at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium. After a week off from school for Spring Break, the board had several items on their agenda.
Dr. Charlotte Warren, as well as other members, discussed a multitude of items at last night’s meeting. Among the items was an update on the construction progress of the Work Force Career Building. Dr. Warren explains that there are still some kinks that are being worked at as far as budgets and space availability in the building process.
The meeting saw its fair share of local ‘celebrities’ in attendance. Taylorville superintendent Dr. Greg Feurstenau, Chamber of Commerce CEO Fred Ronnow, Christian County YMCA CEO BJ Wilkin, as well as Taylorville city Mayor Frank Mathon were all in attendance at the reception prior to the meeting.
Dr. Charlotte Warren, as well as other members, discussed a multitude of items at last night’s meeting. Among the items was an update on the construction progress of the Work Force Career Building. Dr. Warren explains that there are still some kinks that are being worked at as far as budgets and space availability in the building process.
The meeting saw its fair share of local ‘celebrities’ in attendance. Taylorville superintendent Dr. Greg Feurstenau, Chamber of Commerce CEO Fred Ronnow, Christian County YMCA CEO BJ Wilkin, as well as Taylorville city Mayor Frank Mathon were all in attendance at the reception prior to the meeting.
Pana Weight Loss Participants Shed More Than 3K Lbs.
3/25/2009
(Pana) The numbers are in following a ten week weight loss competition put on by Pana Community Hospital. More than 350 participants lost more than 3,000 pounds. PCH Marketing Coordinator Missy Rybolt said she is thrilled that more than three quarters of the people that signed up in January, came back for the ‘weigh out’ in Pana over the weekend.
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Other than the obvious health benefits that participating in the weight loss competition, the hospital also handed out awards for individuals and teams that yielded particularly good results during the competition.
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Aside from pounds lost,Rybolt says participants reported other health benefits after completing the competition.
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Rybolt says an ongoing support system has been set up through the hospital to help participants keep the pounds they lost off. In the wake of the success of the inaugural contest, hospital officials say they hope to make the weight loss competition an annual event.
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Other than the obvious health benefits that participating in the weight loss competition, the hospital also handed out awards for individuals and teams that yielded particularly good results during the competition.
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Aside from pounds lost,Rybolt says participants reported other health benefits after completing the competition.
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Rybolt says an ongoing support system has been set up through the hospital to help participants keep the pounds they lost off. In the wake of the success of the inaugural contest, hospital officials say they hope to make the weight loss competition an annual event.
Mechatronics Open-House Displays Fruits Of New Program
3/25/2009
Lake Land College and International Paper teamed up to provide two local high schools with an innovative program this academic semester. Seven students from Pana High School and seven students from Shelbyville high school are currently taking part in the first ever ‘mechatronics’ class. The 18 week class, which trains students in mechanical, electronic, and computer engineering, is taught by Steve Bonser of Pana High School and Greg Reynolds of Shelbyville High School. The program consists of a two-hour class every morning at the Jefferson Technical Center in Tower Hill. The Mechatronics class held an open house last night at the Jefferson Center to showcase a portion of what they’ve learned throughout this semester. Co-instructor Greg Reynolds says the program provides a hands-on learning experience for students interested in engineering.
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In the mechatronics class students from opposite schools are paired up. As a result, Reynolds points out that students have the opportunity to develop interpersonal skills throughout the program.
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For students, the class is also a potential doorway to the next level; Reynolds says students who complete the course will receive preferential hiring at International Paper.
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A bundle of individuals involved in the program were present for last night’s open house, including both school instructors and principals, as well as International Paper employees, and LakeLand College President Scott Linsink. The Mechatronics program concludes with five classes that are held at International Paper, in which students will shadow professionals and view the actual machines they’ve trained on. Reynolds says the first year program has been a complete success for all parties involved, and he expects it to grow significantly next year.
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In the mechatronics class students from opposite schools are paired up. As a result, Reynolds points out that students have the opportunity to develop interpersonal skills throughout the program.
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For students, the class is also a potential doorway to the next level; Reynolds says students who complete the course will receive preferential hiring at International Paper.
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A bundle of individuals involved in the program were present for last night’s open house, including both school instructors and principals, as well as International Paper employees, and LakeLand College President Scott Linsink. The Mechatronics program concludes with five classes that are held at International Paper, in which students will shadow professionals and view the actual machines they’ve trained on. Reynolds says the first year program has been a complete success for all parties involved, and he expects it to grow significantly next year.
Illinois Unemployment On The Rise; Leaders Look To Remedy
3/25/2009
A day after the latest unemployment numbers show even more people in Illinois are out of work, Governor Pat Quinn will sit down with business leaders to talk about keeping jobs in the state. House Republican Leader Tom Cross says the Governor can start by eliminating his tax increase proposals.
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Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno says Illinois’ latest unemployment numbers, showing an 8.6 % jobless rate, show the dangers of raising taxes and driving out jobs.
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February's jobless report says the state lost another 37-thousand jobs last month. Governor Quinn says he wants to hear ideas from business leaders. Quinn made his tax hike pitch in his budget address last week.
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Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno says Illinois’ latest unemployment numbers, showing an 8.6 % jobless rate, show the dangers of raising taxes and driving out jobs.
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February's jobless report says the state lost another 37-thousand jobs last month. Governor Quinn says he wants to hear ideas from business leaders. Quinn made his tax hike pitch in his budget address last week.
Illinois TB Cases Down; Still A Concern
3/25/2009
The number of cases of Tuberculosis in Illinois hit an all time low last year.
State Public Health Spokesperson Kelly Jakubek says there were 469 cases of TB in Illinois last year. But still, Illinois ranks sixth for the highest number of cases in the nation. She says while TB is curable, the treatment take commitment.
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Sixty percent of those with TB last year in Illinois were born in foreign countries like Mexico, India, and the Philippines, where the disease is more common.
State Public Health Spokesperson Kelly Jakubek says there were 469 cases of TB in Illinois last year. But still, Illinois ranks sixth for the highest number of cases in the nation. She says while TB is curable, the treatment take commitment.
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Sixty percent of those with TB last year in Illinois were born in foreign countries like Mexico, India, and the Philippines, where the disease is more common.
Area Med Students Fingers Crossed On Match Day
3/25/2009
Senior medical students graduating from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine have again matched with competitive residency training programs this year.
SIU seniors received the results from the National Resident Matching Program last Thursday and learned where they will be doing their residency training following medical school. Associate Dean of Student Affairs at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield Dr. Erik Constance, says 64 SIU medical students were matched with residency programs in Illinois, the Midwest and around the country. Constance explains the match program.
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Forty-five percent of this SIU graduating class of medical students will enter primary care residencies. Primary care specialties include family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Constance explains where the students will do their residencies.
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Dr. Constance says Match Day is the culmination of medical school. Students will begin their residency training in July after their graduation in May.
SIU seniors received the results from the National Resident Matching Program last Thursday and learned where they will be doing their residency training following medical school. Associate Dean of Student Affairs at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield Dr. Erik Constance, says 64 SIU medical students were matched with residency programs in Illinois, the Midwest and around the country. Constance explains the match program.
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Forty-five percent of this SIU graduating class of medical students will enter primary care residencies. Primary care specialties include family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Constance explains where the students will do their residencies.
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Dr. Constance says Match Day is the culmination of medical school. Students will begin their residency training in July after their graduation in May.
Rockies Expess Updates CCEDC On Pipeline Progress
3/24/2009
(Taylorville) The Christian County Economic Development Corporation heard an update on the progress of the Rockies Express East Pipeline and its economic impact on the area during their meeting (Tuesday afternoon.) The more than 16 hundred mile, 6 billion dollar pipeline will transport natural gas from the Rocky Mountains to Ohio, Originally slated for construction completion locally by the start of this year, spokesperson Allan Fore told the group they now hope to have gas flowing from the Rocky Mountains to Illinois by mid April.
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Fore explained to the group the presence of Rockies Express in Central Illinois has resulted in about 1,000 construction jobs for the area.
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Aside from putting paychecks in people’s pockets, Fore also spoke of the residual effects on the economy the construction of the pipeline has created.
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Once construction is complete, the Blue Mound Gas Compressor Facility of the pipeline near Mount Auburn is expected to create about 10 permanent ‘good paying’ jobs for the area.
Park District; Main Street Appear Ready To Team Up
3/24/2009
Two local organizations have all but officially joined forces. At last night’s monthly Taylorville Park District Board Meeting, the board approved a motion to join the Taylorville Main Street Organization. Main Street Director Michelle Merker made a guest appearance to express Main Street’s desire for a partnership. Merker says the Park Board and Main Street can benefit each other by working together.
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The board agreed that paying the membership fee to join Main Street would be money well spent. Park Board Director Marlane Miller says Merker and Main Street have aspirations of planning musical entertainment programs to be held in conjunction with the park.
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The Park District will become one of approximately 100 active members of the Taylorville Main Street Organization.
The teaming up of Main Street and the Park Board was just the tip of the iceberg at last night’s board meeting, which lasted over two hours. The board discussed a bevy of issues, ranging from barbecue sauce to wood chips. The board heard from David Impastato of DMI Enterprises, the company that manages Lakeshore Golf Course. Impastato said this month was the busiest March the golf course has had in years, doing more business last weekend then they did all of last March. In other business, after lengthy discussion, the board approved the purchase of ‘rubber mulch woodchips’ for Manner’s Park playground; the purchase will not exceed $12,371. The board also discussed pool maintenance and road repairs.
If you’re wondering about the barbecue sauce; Gary Norville of Midwest Meats sampled some of his best barbecue to the board, in an effort to reach an agreement with the board to sell Midwest products at district venues. Board members appeared to be impressed with the taste, and told Norville they will contact him when they have reached a decision about whether or not they will do business with Midwest Meats.
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The board agreed that paying the membership fee to join Main Street would be money well spent. Park Board Director Marlane Miller says Merker and Main Street have aspirations of planning musical entertainment programs to be held in conjunction with the park.
Click here for audio
The Park District will become one of approximately 100 active members of the Taylorville Main Street Organization.
The teaming up of Main Street and the Park Board was just the tip of the iceberg at last night’s board meeting, which lasted over two hours. The board discussed a bevy of issues, ranging from barbecue sauce to wood chips. The board heard from David Impastato of DMI Enterprises, the company that manages Lakeshore Golf Course. Impastato said this month was the busiest March the golf course has had in years, doing more business last weekend then they did all of last March. In other business, after lengthy discussion, the board approved the purchase of ‘rubber mulch woodchips’ for Manner’s Park playground; the purchase will not exceed $12,371. The board also discussed pool maintenance and road repairs.
If you’re wondering about the barbecue sauce; Gary Norville of Midwest Meats sampled some of his best barbecue to the board, in an effort to reach an agreement with the board to sell Midwest products at district venues. Board members appeared to be impressed with the taste, and told Norville they will contact him when they have reached a decision about whether or not they will do business with Midwest Meats.
Lawmakers Look To Increase Food Safety In Schools
3/24/2009
For more and more kids a peanut butter sandwich is not just lunch, it's a serious threat. Now lawmakers in Springfield say they want to make sure schools across the state know how to handle food safety situations and take care of those kids. Republican State Representative Patti Bellock has shepherded a food allergy action plan though the Illinois House.
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Democratic Senator Susan Garrett says the state is pushing for a food allergy action plan because serious food allegories are becoming a problem in schools across the state.
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In their efforts, Garrett and Bellock are working with the State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health. They hope to have a final plan ready for school districts by the start of the next academic year in August.
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Democratic Senator Susan Garrett says the state is pushing for a food allergy action plan because serious food allegories are becoming a problem in schools across the state.
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In their efforts, Garrett and Bellock are working with the State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health. They hope to have a final plan ready for school districts by the start of the next academic year in August.
IDFPR Looks To Let Air Out Of Balloon Payments
3/24/2009
New rules taking effect next month, including the banning of ‘balloon payments’, aim to protect consumers who take out auto title loans.
Many working families have turned to these types of loans, as it gets harder to secure more traditional lending. But Brent Adams, Chief of Staff at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation says they can start of cycle of debt that people can’t get out of.
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Starting April 1st, title loans can only be refinanced when the principal has been reduced by at least 20 percent.
Many working families have turned to these types of loans, as it gets harder to secure more traditional lending. But Brent Adams, Chief of Staff at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation says they can start of cycle of debt that people can’t get out of.
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Starting April 1st, title loans can only be refinanced when the principal has been reduced by at least 20 percent.
Gettysburg Reading Falls Short Of Record; Still Successful
3/24/2009
Despite falling short of a world record, Lincoln bicentennial planners are calling February’s live reading of the Gettysburg Address a success.
The idea was to break the world record of more than 223 thousand people participating in a simultaneous reading. Illinois Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission spokesperson Dave Blanchette says they didn’t hit that goal, but that the event generated a lot of publicity and was exciting for students.
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The commission only received verification from about 39 thousand people. Still, Blanchette says the reading of the Gettysburg Address was a great history lesson for adults and the many school children that participated.
The idea was to break the world record of more than 223 thousand people participating in a simultaneous reading. Illinois Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission spokesperson Dave Blanchette says they didn’t hit that goal, but that the event generated a lot of publicity and was exciting for students.
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The commission only received verification from about 39 thousand people. Still, Blanchette says the reading of the Gettysburg Address was a great history lesson for adults and the many school children that participated.
Prep Work A Plenty For Antsy Gardeners
3/24/2009
With Spring having finally sprung, at least meteorologically speaking, many folks are sure to soon break out the spades and gloves head for their gardens. While it will still be a while before we’ll see flowers popping out of the ground, U of I Christian County Master Gardener Deb Lahey explains now is a good time to pluck dandelions, trim ornamental grasses and prepare their soil
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As far as composting goes, Lahey explains the multitude of benefits it has on gardening soil.
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Lahey says a good rule of thumb for knowing when the soil is warm enough to plant flowers and trees, look for those types of plants available for sale at local retailers. Lahey says there are a few things that can be planted while the soil is still cold.
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For more gardening tips, check out the ‘Master Gardeners’ link on the U of I Christian County Website.
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As far as composting goes, Lahey explains the multitude of benefits it has on gardening soil.
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Lahey says a good rule of thumb for knowing when the soil is warm enough to plant flowers and trees, look for those types of plants available for sale at local retailers. Lahey says there are a few things that can be planted while the soil is still cold.
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For more gardening tips, check out the ‘Master Gardeners’ link on the U of I Christian County Website.
City, County Cops Busy With Wrecks Over Weekend
3/23/2009
Both Taylorville Police and Christian County Sheriff’s Deputies had their hands full this weekend, responded to several traffic accidents that landed multiple people in the Hospital. The most serious involved 23 year old Stephanie Hite of Pawnee, who Taylorville Police say suffered serious injuries after rear ending a car while driving west on Springfield road near Cheney Street in Taylorville Saturday. Hite was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment of her injuries. The driver of the other vehicle was not hurt.
Two other accidents resulting in injuries include a single vehicle crash on County Highway ‘1’ Saturday. Sheriff’s Deputies say 53 year old Kathy E. Bauer of Ramsey was plugging in her cell phone when her vehicle left the roadway as she headed north. Bauer then over corrected, flipping the vehicle causing it to skid before coming to rest on it’s wheels. Bauer was taken to TMH for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. There were no passengers in the vehicle.
Another one car accident on County Highway ‘1’ caused minor injuries to 21 year old Stacy L. Plopper of Taylorville, who Sheriff’s Deputies say lost control of her vehicle and struck an embankment. Plopper reportedly refused treatment at the scene for her injuries. There were no passengers in the vehicle.
City and County cops responded to several other crashes over the weekend, most minor and not resulting in any injuries.
Two other accidents resulting in injuries include a single vehicle crash on County Highway ‘1’ Saturday. Sheriff’s Deputies say 53 year old Kathy E. Bauer of Ramsey was plugging in her cell phone when her vehicle left the roadway as she headed north. Bauer then over corrected, flipping the vehicle causing it to skid before coming to rest on it’s wheels. Bauer was taken to TMH for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. There were no passengers in the vehicle.
Another one car accident on County Highway ‘1’ caused minor injuries to 21 year old Stacy L. Plopper of Taylorville, who Sheriff’s Deputies say lost control of her vehicle and struck an embankment. Plopper reportedly refused treatment at the scene for her injuries. There were no passengers in the vehicle.
City and County cops responded to several other crashes over the weekend, most minor and not resulting in any injuries.
Five Arrested In Cemetary Meth Bust
3/23/2009
(Rosamond) Five area residents are facing Meth Manufacturing charges are facing charges after a bust in Rosamond Grove Cemetery Friday afternoon. Christian County Sheriff Bob Kinderman says the department received information about the theft of ahnhydrous ammonia, a meth making material, from the fertilizer plant in Millersville. Responding deputies discovered a suspicious vehicle in the cemetery, containing five people authorities believe were involved in the manufacturing of methamphetamine. Kinderman says the suspected attempted to flea the area on foot but were caught and arrested a short time later.
Those facing Charges include 38 year old Michelle R. Dunmeyer of Tower Hill and 34 year old Jimmy D. Abberley; 41 year olds William H. Baker and Bobbie J. Abberley; and 26 year old Rodney L. Green, all of Pana.
The case is under investigation by the Christian County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois State Police Meth Response Team. All individuals arrested are presumed innocent.
Those facing Charges include 38 year old Michelle R. Dunmeyer of Tower Hill and 34 year old Jimmy D. Abberley; 41 year olds William H. Baker and Bobbie J. Abberley; and 26 year old Rodney L. Green, all of Pana.
The case is under investigation by the Christian County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois State Police Meth Response Team. All individuals arrested are presumed innocent.
Guests Abound On Ag. Day Broadcasts
3/23/2009
For the 12th year in a row, the Miller Media groups family of Radio stations celebrated National agriculture day with a series of special live broadcasts. The day started with a broadcast on 98.3 WRAN from the Farm House Family Restaurant in Shelbyville, featuring the RFD Radio Network’s Trisha Braid Terry. Among her guests during the broadcast was Lincoln Water Prarie Cooperative board Secretary Jim Miller, who talked about a new water tower that will be installed in conjunction with phase three LWPC’s pipeline project that will provide potable water to parts of Christian, Shelby and Montgomery County. Miller says he believes that most rural areas will soon come to rely on water towers rather than well water.
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Following the morning broadcast, Trish and Co. took the show on the road to Taylorville, where she broadcast on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM from the Farm Credit Services Office in Taylorville. Farm Credit Services crop insurance specialist Mike Franzen talked with Trish during the broadcast about changes in this years federal crop insurance program.
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According to the website Agday.org, National Agriculture Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless other across America join together to recognize the contributions of agriculture.
Click here for audio
Following the morning broadcast, Trish and Co. took the show on the road to Taylorville, where she broadcast on Newstalk 97.3 WTIM from the Farm Credit Services Office in Taylorville. Farm Credit Services crop insurance specialist Mike Franzen talked with Trish during the broadcast about changes in this years federal crop insurance program.
Click here for audio
According to the website Agday.org, National Agriculture Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless other across America join together to recognize the contributions of agriculture.
Taylorville Residents Ventures To United Nations For Pro-Life Cause
3/23/2009
Taylorville resident Kim Blakely recently returned from a trip to the United Nations in New York, where she along with a group of women from across the globe participated in a workshop preaching a pro-life message. Blakely describes some of the pro-life related issues that she and the group addressed during the trip.
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Blakely says one thing she and the group look to do is educate women from impoverished nations on issues that some in the developed world take for granted.
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Blakely describes one exercise she preformed during a workshop involving wrapping layers of SuranWrap around a person to signify the layers of pain associated with an abortions
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Locally, Blakely urges anyone struggling with an unplanned pregnancy and considering the option of abortion to take advantage of the services provided by Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center in Taylorville. Loving Arms is Located at 1011 N. Webster St. in Taylorville.
Click here for audio
Blakely says one thing she and the group look to do is educate women from impoverished nations on issues that some in the developed world take for granted.
Click here for audio
Blakely describes one exercise she preformed during a workshop involving wrapping layers of SuranWrap around a person to signify the layers of pain associated with an abortions
Click here for audio
Locally, Blakely urges anyone struggling with an unplanned pregnancy and considering the option of abortion to take advantage of the services provided by Loving Arms Crisis Pregnancy Center in Taylorville. Loving Arms is Located at 1011 N. Webster St. in Taylorville.
France Looking For Transparency In Third Treasurer Term
3/23/2009
(Taylorville) Wrapping up our series examining the upcoming Taylorville City elections following the Meet the Candidate Forum held earlier this month at the Taylorville Junior High School, today’s focus in on the unopposed race for City Treasurer. After the election, Terri France will begin her third term in the office. She was first elected in April of 2001 and re-elected in 2005. France is a Certified Illinois Municipal Treasurer, as well as a member of the Illinois Municipal Treasurer's Association, serving on the Certification Committee, which continually reviews all standards and accomplishments of IMTA members. She attends all City Council meeting, and Finance and Water Committee meeting. During the forum, France said her top priority was to create transparency in government between both the other city officials and residents of Taylorville.
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Current Ward three Alderman Ernie Dorcinecz is also running unopposed for his seat on the Council, however he did not attend the candidate forum.
Voters will head to the polls to choose their city officials April 7th.
Click here for audio
Current Ward three Alderman Ernie Dorcinecz is also running unopposed for his seat on the Council, however he did not attend the candidate forum.
Voters will head to the polls to choose their city officials April 7th.
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