90,000 Smoke Alarms Recalled
7/11/2009
The Illinois state fire marshal’s office is warning families about a recall on some smoke alarms.
Fire Marshal Spokesperson Januari Smith says the consumer product safety commission is recalling more than 90 thousand kidde model PI 2000 dual sensor smoke alarms.
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These particular alarms were sold across the country between august 2008 and may 2009. You can get a replacement by visiting the website kidde.com
Fire Marshal Spokesperson Januari Smith says the consumer product safety commission is recalling more than 90 thousand kidde model PI 2000 dual sensor smoke alarms.
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These particular alarms were sold across the country between august 2008 and may 2009. You can get a replacement by visiting the website kidde.com
New Law Helps Residents Pay Utilities
7/11/2009
Governor Pat Quinn signed a law Friday that will help seniors citizens and low income residents pay their utility bills.
The new law requires utility companies to work with the poor and the elderly in creating affordable, monthly payment plans.
Quinn says it can also help families wanting to make their homes more energy efficient, but are finding it too expensive.
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The law also makes some ethics reforms to the Illinois Commerce Commission, which regulates utilities.
The new law requires utility companies to work with the poor and the elderly in creating affordable, monthly payment plans.
Quinn says it can also help families wanting to make their homes more energy efficient, but are finding it too expensive.
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The law also makes some ethics reforms to the Illinois Commerce Commission, which regulates utilities.
Flider Excited About Utility Reforms
7/11/2009
Governor Quinn signed legislation Friday sponsored by State Rep. Bob Flider (D-Mt. Zion), which would place significant reforms on the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and Illinois’ utility companies, as well as provide cost saving electric efficiency standards , and other assistance for low-income consumers, was signed into law.
Flider says Friday was a good day for consumers in the state of Illinois.
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Senate Bill 1918 is an omnibus utility bill that makes several substantive consumer oriented reforms to the utility industry and ICC. The measure closes the revolving door between the ICC and utility industries by prohibiting any former ICC member from working for a utility or regulated entity for two years after serving on the ICC.
In addition, the bill implements a Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), which requires utility companies to offer a plan for low-income utility consumers to pay no more than 6% of their income with the remaining amount being paid through Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds.
Flider says Friday was a good day for consumers in the state of Illinois.
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Senate Bill 1918 is an omnibus utility bill that makes several substantive consumer oriented reforms to the utility industry and ICC. The measure closes the revolving door between the ICC and utility industries by prohibiting any former ICC member from working for a utility or regulated entity for two years after serving on the ICC.
In addition, the bill implements a Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), which requires utility companies to offer a plan for low-income utility consumers to pay no more than 6% of their income with the remaining amount being paid through Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds.
Department of Public Health Says Swine Flu Could Heat Up This Fall
7/11/2009
While the number of new cases of the H1N1 flu in Illinois is slowing, state officials urge families not to get complacent about the virus.
The State Department of Public Health says there have been more than 32-hundred cases of the swine flu in Illinois so far, including 14 deaths. But experts warn those numbers could climb in the fall, when the regular flu season begins. Governor Pat Quinn says Illinois will be ready, regardless of what’s going on with the state budget.
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Families can help protect themselves from the H1N1 virus by washing hands frequently, and staying home if you are sick.
The State Department of Public Health says there have been more than 32-hundred cases of the swine flu in Illinois so far, including 14 deaths. But experts warn those numbers could climb in the fall, when the regular flu season begins. Governor Pat Quinn says Illinois will be ready, regardless of what’s going on with the state budget.
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Families can help protect themselves from the H1N1 virus by washing hands frequently, and staying home if you are sick.
Burris Will Not Seek New Term
7/10/2009
The man appointed to replace President Obama in the U.S. Senate will not seek a new term. Senator Roland Burris announced he isn't interested in seeking election next year. Burris says campaign finances played a part in his decision and that he had a choice between raising funds and "raising issues" for his state.
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Burris was named to Obama's Senate seat in December by former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Blagojevich is currently under investigation on federal corruption charges regarding the president's former Senate seat.
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Burris was named to Obama's Senate seat in December by former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich. Blagojevich is currently under investigation on federal corruption charges regarding the president's former Senate seat.
Missing Boater Found
7/10/2009
The body of the missing boater on Sangchris Lake has been found. 61-year-old Kenneth R. Tuck, of the Springfield Area was found shortly before 8 AM this morning. Tuck’s body was found on the west arm of the lake, which became closed off to all boaters yesterday once he went missing. The west end of the lake is now re-open (as of noon). An autopsy is scheduled for later today. Regional radio will continue to investigate this story.
Another Pipeline Coming To Central Illinois
7/10/2009
Just as the construction of large-scale pipeline is wrapping up in Central Illinois, another one is already in the works. The Illinois Commerce commission this week approved Calgary-based Enbridge Inc.’s application for the pipeline expected to run from through Christian County from the company’s Livingston County based terminal south to a pipeline hub near Patoka in Marion County. The ‘Southern Access Extension Project’ is a proposed 170-mile pipeline that will shuttle petroleum from Canada to various refineries. Enbridge Spokesperson Joe Martucci explains the specs of the project.
According to Enbrige’s Website, the project is to begin construction in 2010 and be online by 2011. However Martucci says the company is still in negotiations with landowners to acquire land for the project, and can’t say for sure when construction will get started.
Martucci estimates the total cost of the pipeline to be between 300 and 400 million dollars. He adds if the project comes to fruition, it could potentially mean hundreds of jobs for the area.
The pipeline would run through parts of Livingston, McLean, DeWitt, Macon, Shelby, Christian, Fayette and Marion counties. Late Last Month, Rockies Express put it’s 1600 mile natural gas pipeline on-line, which also runs through Christian County and includes a compressor station in Blue Mound.
According to Enbrige’s Website, the project is to begin construction in 2010 and be online by 2011. However Martucci says the company is still in negotiations with landowners to acquire land for the project, and can’t say for sure when construction will get started.
Martucci estimates the total cost of the pipeline to be between 300 and 400 million dollars. He adds if the project comes to fruition, it could potentially mean hundreds of jobs for the area.
The pipeline would run through parts of Livingston, McLean, DeWitt, Macon, Shelby, Christian, Fayette and Marion counties. Late Last Month, Rockies Express put it’s 1600 mile natural gas pipeline on-line, which also runs through Christian County and includes a compressor station in Blue Mound.
Taylorville Correction Center Workers Fear Job Cuts
7/10/2009
Taylorville Correctional Center Prison Workers have survived the first round of layoffs, but there’s no word yet on whether they will be included in the second. Governor Pat Quinn released a plan this week to lay off more than a thousand prison workers in two separate installments, in an attempt to slash about 125 million dollars in state expenses. The first phase will mean walking papers for over 500 employees at prisons in Decatur, Lincoln, Logan, Vandalia, East Moline and Vienna. In addition, some non-violent criminals will be released before their sentences are up. AFSCME Council 31 Spokesperson Anders Lyndall, the union which represents all of Illinois’ prison employees, says this will compromise the safety of the remaining guards and inmates.
Lyndall says the layoff system will work on a seniority basis, with the longest tenured employees given an opportunity to claim vacancies at other prisons throughout the state.
Lyndall encourages people opposed to the cuts to urge legislators to override the governor’s veto of the budget, which contains money to operate the prisons.
The first layoffs are expected to take effect September 30th.
Lyndall says the layoff system will work on a seniority basis, with the longest tenured employees given an opportunity to claim vacancies at other prisons throughout the state.
Lyndall encourages people opposed to the cuts to urge legislators to override the governor’s veto of the budget, which contains money to operate the prisons.
The first layoffs are expected to take effect September 30th.
Route 29 Expansion Looking More Realistic
7/10/2009
Governor Pat Quinn has indicated that he will sign the 29 billion dollar capital construction bill, which includes funding for the completion of the widening of Route 29 from two lanes to four. Quinn is expected to sign the bill into law Monday, despite previous threats that he would not sign a capital bill before a state budget was in place. Route 29 coalition Vice President Mike Bell says the will mean big things for Edinburg, both in terms of safety and economy.
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Bell says he expects the process of acquiring land to begin soon, with construction to follow shortly thereafter
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The bills that will be signed are: HB255 (funding), HB312 (projects), HB2400 (bonding), and HB2424 (budget implementation). After being passed by the legislature in May, the bills were placed on hold until they were sent to Quinn's desk on June 30.
The signing has been tentatively set for Monday, July 13th at 12:00 noon at John Marshall High School, located at 3250 W. Adams in Chicago.
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Bell says he expects the process of acquiring land to begin soon, with construction to follow shortly thereafter
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The bills that will be signed are: HB255 (funding), HB312 (projects), HB2400 (bonding), and HB2424 (budget implementation). After being passed by the legislature in May, the bills were placed on hold until they were sent to Quinn's desk on June 30.
The signing has been tentatively set for Monday, July 13th at 12:00 noon at John Marshall High School, located at 3250 W. Adams in Chicago.
Rescue Teams Combing Lake For Missing Boater
7/09/2009
(Sangchris Lake) Local rescue personnel are looking for a 62 year old Springfield man who went missing yesterday afternoon while boating on the west arm of Sangchris Lake. Illinois Conservation Police say the unidentified man was by himself on a small-motorized fishing boat, although it is unclear what he was doing at the time of the accident. Fishermen on the lake alerted authorities yesterday evening that his empty boat was spotted circling on the lake. The boat was later recovered on a bank of the west arm of the lake. Crews searched until about 11 o’clock last night, before resuming the search early this morning. Illinois Conservation Police Sargeant Tim Sickmeyer says the operation is now considered a ‘recovery’ mission, as the boater is presumed dead.
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The west arm of the lake is currently closed to boaters, as rescue personnel are using Sonor equipment in attempts to locate the man. Sickmeyer says he hopes the search will be concluded shortly, but says it could take up to several days.
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The Midland Fire Protection District and Rescue Team is in charge of the search. In addition to the Illinois Conservation Police, the Christian County Sheriff’s Department, Taylorville Fire Protection District, Pawnee Fire Protection District and Sangamon County Rescue team are also assisting.
Cooler Weather Aides Crop Progress
7/09/2009
Temperatures across the state were six degrees below normal last week, breaking the heat wave from the week before. As USDA Chief State Crop Statistician Brad Schwab tells us in this week’s crop report, the cool temperatures combined with scattered precipitation have allowed corn and bean to make huge strides after a late start.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune In to Regional Radio newscasts for crop reports from the Illinois Field Office through harvest in early November.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune In to Regional Radio newscasts for crop reports from the Illinois Field Office through harvest in early November.
SIU Medical Feature: Eye Opening Information On Cataracts
7/09/2009
More than 20 million Americans older than 40 years have a cataract in at least one eye and that number is expected in increase by 2020. Wearing sunglasses, especially early in life, may help reduce the risk of cataracts says Dr. Michelle Miner, assistant professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, who explains the condition.
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Dr. Miner says the ultraviolet light from the sun’s rays causes damage to the eye. It has a cumulative effect over a lifetime and can cause cataracts to develop and impair vision. She says children’s eyes are especially vulnerable to the sun’s damage during the middle of the day.
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Dr. Miner recommends that everyone, even infants, wear sunglasses when they are outside in sunlight to protect from developing cataracts. She says the larger lenses which cover the whole eye are best. Anyone who is experiencing impaired vision should check with their primary care physician, an ophthalmologist or an optometrist.
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Dr. Miner says the ultraviolet light from the sun’s rays causes damage to the eye. It has a cumulative effect over a lifetime and can cause cataracts to develop and impair vision. She says children’s eyes are especially vulnerable to the sun’s damage during the middle of the day.
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Dr. Miner recommends that everyone, even infants, wear sunglasses when they are outside in sunlight to protect from developing cataracts. She says the larger lenses which cover the whole eye are best. Anyone who is experiencing impaired vision should check with their primary care physician, an ophthalmologist or an optometrist.
Dept. Of Aging Raising 'Elder Abuse' Awareness
7/09/2009
Illinois families are being urged to help “Break the Silence” and fight back against elder abuse.
Abuse of the elderly can by physical, emotional, and even financial says State Department on Aging Spokesperson Kimberly Parker. She lists some things to watch out for:
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Victims and family members can get help in suspected abuse cases by calling the 24 hour elder abuse hotline at 866-800-1409. Last year, there were more than 11 thousand reports of elder abuse in Illinois.
Abuse of the elderly can by physical, emotional, and even financial says State Department on Aging Spokesperson Kimberly Parker. She lists some things to watch out for:
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Victims and family members can get help in suspected abuse cases by calling the 24 hour elder abuse hotline at 866-800-1409. Last year, there were more than 11 thousand reports of elder abuse in Illinois.
Cuts May Set Inmates Free; Force Prison Layoffs
7/09/2009
Suggested budget cuts to the Illinois Department of Corrections could mean some inmates will be released early.
Governor Pat Quinn has recommended to legislators that 125 million dollars be cut from corrections. That means possible early release of some low level offenders and layoffs at state prisons.
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Last month, a group appointed by the governor to find ways to streamline state government suggested releasing elderly and non-violent offenders as a way to reduce prison overcrowding.
Governor Pat Quinn has recommended to legislators that 125 million dollars be cut from corrections. That means possible early release of some low level offenders and layoffs at state prisons.
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Last month, a group appointed by the governor to find ways to streamline state government suggested releasing elderly and non-violent offenders as a way to reduce prison overcrowding.
Last Chance To Get Discounted 'Mega-Pass'
7/09/2009
Fairgoers wanting to experience the excitement of unlimited rides on the Carnival Midway and Adventure Village attractions can purchase a Mega Pass for $50 if they act quickly. The final day the pass will be sold for $50 is Saturday, July 11. After that, the price will increase to $60.
To purchase a pass, fairgoers should stop by the Emmerson Building, which is located on Main Street north of Ethnic Village. The Emmerson Building is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It also will be open Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for last-minute sales. Fair Spokesperson Kristi Jones explains what’s covered under the mega pass.
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For more information, call (217) 782-0775. The Illinois State Fair will be held Aug. 14-23.
To purchase a pass, fairgoers should stop by the Emmerson Building, which is located on Main Street north of Ethnic Village. The Emmerson Building is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It also will be open Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for last-minute sales. Fair Spokesperson Kristi Jones explains what’s covered under the mega pass.
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For more information, call (217) 782-0775. The Illinois State Fair will be held Aug. 14-23.
Weekend Accident Sends Seven To Hospital
7/08/2009
(Christian County) Seven people were hospitalized after a three car crash in Christian County Sunday afternoon. According to the Christian County Sheriff's Department, 81 year old James Rice of Girard was turning left onton Township Road 1000 of of County Road 1 when his car was struck head on by a car driven by 54 year old Claude Freisland of Taylorville, who was headed north on County Road 1. After the initial impact, a third car, driven by 67 Robert Bell of Taylorville was struck, while he was stopped at the intersection. Rice and Friesland were both thrown from their vehicles and taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Four passengers in Freislands car were taken to St. John's Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries. The passengers include 88 year old Marjorie King of Girard, 46 year old Rhonda Friesland of Ramsey, 19 year old Anderson Friesland of Ramsey, 8 year old Blake Friesland of Ramsey, and 13 year old Devin Friesland of Ramsey. Another passenger, 12 year old Shelby Friesland of Ramsey was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. The driver of the third vehicle, Bell was not injured. Rice was given a citation for failure to yield at an intersection, and is scheduled to appear in court next month.
Pavlicek ; Stadge Capture County Pageant Crowns
7/08/2009
Amanda Pavlicek is your 2009 Miss Christian County. The 19 year old from Pana took home the crown during last night’s 2009 Miss Christian County Pageant at the Christian County Fair. Pavlicek says she was shocked when her number was called.
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Pavlicek says she used to do pageants when she was younger, but decided to call it quits around 2002. Now she’s back, and she says the biggest challenge Tuesday night was delivering her speech.
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As for the little miss Christian County Pageant (which lead festivities off at 6 pm), 5-year-old MaKenna Stadge of Taylorville was victorious. MaKenna’s mother, Crystal Durbin, says doing the pageant was her daughter’s idea.
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Jerry Hicks, Deanna Demuzio, and Steve Dodd were the judges for both pageants. David Blanchette emceed the event. The pageant, which concluded shortly after 10 pm, was shortened due to threatening weather.
Results for Miss Christian County 2009
4th runner up: 18 year old Torie Maxwell of Taylorville
3rd runner up: 18 year old Dani Sheley of Taylorville
2nd runner up: 19 year old Cristyn Vandenbergh of Pana
1st runner up: 19 year old Alicia Schneider of Morrisonville
Miss Congeniality award: 17 year old Ashley Althoff of Taylorville
RESULTS FOR LITTLE MISS CHRISTIAN COUNTY 2009
2nd runner up: 6 year old Layne Lebshier of Mechanicsburg
1st runner up: 6 year old Anah Heimsness of Taylorville
Miss Congeniality award: 6 year old Gracie Lederbrand of Taylorville
Veteran Farm Broadcaster Braid-Terry Joins Corn Board
7/08/2009
A familiar name and voice will soon give up her seat behind the microphone for a position with a group responsible for maximizing the cash flow into Illinois farmer’s pockets. Tricia Braid Terry, radio personality on RFD Radio and formerly of WMBD/WIRL Radio in Peoria, will join the Illinois Corn Growers Association and Illinois Corn Marketing Board as Director of Communications on July 20th. Braid Terry will now be responsible for the communications, marketing, and PR plans of both corn associations which have become increasingly important as corn and corn-based ethanol continue to be attacked in mainstream media. Braid Terry will act as ICGA and ICMB’s spokesperson, managing issues and evaluating programming for its effectiveness. Braid Terry says she has long held the ICMB in high regard, and is excited for the opportunity to join their team.
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The transition will be bittersweet for Braid Terry however, as she explains she is sad to leave behind her radio audience with whom she has cultivated a connection over the past decade.
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In her new position, Braid Terry says she hopes to help bridge the information gap between consumers and farmers.
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Braid-Terry is a graduate of University High School in Normal. She earned a BS in International Agricultural Economics from the University of Wyoming. She resides in Funks Grove on her family’s farm with her husband, Russ, and sons, Duncan and Ian.
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The transition will be bittersweet for Braid Terry however, as she explains she is sad to leave behind her radio audience with whom she has cultivated a connection over the past decade.
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In her new position, Braid Terry says she hopes to help bridge the information gap between consumers and farmers.
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Braid-Terry is a graduate of University High School in Normal. She earned a BS in International Agricultural Economics from the University of Wyoming. She resides in Funks Grove on her family’s farm with her husband, Russ, and sons, Duncan and Ian.
Mitchell Blasts Quinn's "Lack Of Priorities"
7/08/2009
A local lawmaker is criticizing Governor Pat Quinn ad the General Assembly for having a "lack of priorities" when dealing with the state's ongoing budget crisis.
Forsyth State Representative, Bill Mitchell, spent Monday touring senior centers across his 87th District discussing the effect the state's budget problems will have on seniors in Illinois. During one of his stops, Mitchell told a crowd of around 25 local residents that state government's priorities are "out of whack." He says a prime example is a proposed 50-percent cut to the state's Circuit Breaker programs, while over 500-million dollars is being spent on healthcare for illegal immigrants.
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Rep. Mitchell feels the state's budget problems are the result of years of financial mismanagement. He says Illinois has had a spending problem for far too long, and now the results of that are going to drastically impact worthwhile programs throughout the state.
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Legislative leaders have set July 14th to recall rank and file lawmakers back to the Capitol for continuing budget negotiations. Rep. Mitchell feels a special session should be called sooner rather than later, but believes Governor Quinn is using the off time to try to garner support for his fifty percent income tax hike.
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Rep. Mitchell feels any budget approved should establish clear spending priorities. He also plans to continue to push for reforms to make government more efficient and improve the state's business climate.
Forsyth State Representative, Bill Mitchell, spent Monday touring senior centers across his 87th District discussing the effect the state's budget problems will have on seniors in Illinois. During one of his stops, Mitchell told a crowd of around 25 local residents that state government's priorities are "out of whack." He says a prime example is a proposed 50-percent cut to the state's Circuit Breaker programs, while over 500-million dollars is being spent on healthcare for illegal immigrants.
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Rep. Mitchell feels the state's budget problems are the result of years of financial mismanagement. He says Illinois has had a spending problem for far too long, and now the results of that are going to drastically impact worthwhile programs throughout the state.
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Legislative leaders have set July 14th to recall rank and file lawmakers back to the Capitol for continuing budget negotiations. Rep. Mitchell feels a special session should be called sooner rather than later, but believes Governor Quinn is using the off time to try to garner support for his fifty percent income tax hike.
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Rep. Mitchell feels any budget approved should establish clear spending priorities. He also plans to continue to push for reforms to make government more efficient and improve the state's business climate.
Quinn Proposes $1B in Budget Cuts
7/08/2009
Governor Pat Quinn is vetoing another large portion of the budget lawmakers sent him, and is proposing one billion dollars in cuts.
Governor Quinn says the budget the legislature approved is so out of whack, they need to start from scratch. Heeding calls from lawmakers to make cuts to state government, Quinn is making several suggestions, including laying off about 26-hundred state employees. He’s also hoping to work with employee unions to set aside scheduled pay raises for now.
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Cuts are also being proposed to several grant programs, and some contractual services. The house and senate are due back at the capitol next week to discuss the budget.
Governor Quinn says the budget the legislature approved is so out of whack, they need to start from scratch. Heeding calls from lawmakers to make cuts to state government, Quinn is making several suggestions, including laying off about 26-hundred state employees. He’s also hoping to work with employee unions to set aside scheduled pay raises for now.
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Cuts are also being proposed to several grant programs, and some contractual services. The house and senate are due back at the capitol next week to discuss the budget.
Three Fires Suspected Arson; Fourth Not
7/08/2009
Local and State Fire Officials believe they are dealing with an arsonist, after three structure fires broke out in Kincaid within the past week. The first was believed to have been set in the one hundred block of Elm Street early Thursday Morning; the second at a shed in the 400 block of Hickory Saturday morning; and the most recent just a half hour later at a burnt out house in the 300 block of Walnut Street. Midland Fire Protection District Assistant Fire Chief Guy Choate says anyone with information is encouraged to alert authorities.
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Another fire that broke out around 5 o’clock Monday evening in Bulpitt is not believed to be arson. There was no one home at the time of the fire, but a family pet did perish in the blaze.
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Choate couldn’t say for sure if the three suspected cases of arson are believed to have been set by the say person, but would not rule it out. The Walnut street house was gutted in a blaze last November, in a blaze also believed to be arson. The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall continues to investigate.
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Another fire that broke out around 5 o’clock Monday evening in Bulpitt is not believed to be arson. There was no one home at the time of the fire, but a family pet did perish in the blaze.
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Choate couldn’t say for sure if the three suspected cases of arson are believed to have been set by the say person, but would not rule it out. The Walnut street house was gutted in a blaze last November, in a blaze also believed to be arson. The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshall continues to investigate.
Taylorville Kiwanis Hold Business Meeting
7/08/2009
(Taylorville)—The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held its monthly business meeting at its weekly luncheon today (Tuesday) at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium.
Committee chairs gave reports on various activities the club is involved in.
Among highlights of reports given included a report from Kiwanis Park chair Jerry Woodard that the new rest rooms at the park are nearing completion. He’s hopeful they’ll be open soon and a dedication will then be scheduled. Woodard added that thanks to the labor donated by Kiwanis members and others in the community, as well as donations of material by local businesses, the project will come in under budget.
Priority One chairperson Kristine Lecocq reported that the club will be purchasing and giving away car seats at an upcoming car seat safety day at Bob Ridings Ford in Taylorville. She added that the club also donated teddy bears for use by child patients at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, and others were donated to the Taylorville Police and Fire Departments to be given to children in the community.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Committee chairs gave reports on various activities the club is involved in.
Among highlights of reports given included a report from Kiwanis Park chair Jerry Woodard that the new rest rooms at the park are nearing completion. He’s hopeful they’ll be open soon and a dedication will then be scheduled. Woodard added that thanks to the labor donated by Kiwanis members and others in the community, as well as donations of material by local businesses, the project will come in under budget.
Priority One chairperson Kristine Lecocq reported that the club will be purchasing and giving away car seats at an upcoming car seat safety day at Bob Ridings Ford in Taylorville. She added that the club also donated teddy bears for use by child patients at Taylorville Memorial Hospital, and others were donated to the Taylorville Police and Fire Departments to be given to children in the community.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
86th Annual Christian County Fair Underway
7/07/2009
With the ribbon cutting this morning, the 86th annual Christian County fair is officially underway. The annual summertime staple will feature six days of fair food, carnival rides, livestock contests, horse shows, pageants and plenty of other activities. Fair Board president Curt Micenheimer and other local dignitaries were on hand at the fairgrounds this morning to kick off the fair. Micenheimer says that after nearly a year of planning, it’s exciting to finally be time to put the board’s work on display.
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\Tune in to Newstalk 97.3 WTIM’s coverage of the fair all week during the noon hour and again during the afternoon and evening hours. Also, be sure to check the special Christian County fair page on Taylorvilledailynews.com as your one stop resource for all things Christian County fair.
Council Approves Budget; Names Department Heads
7/07/2009
Thirty Million, Two Hundred Forty Thousand, Nine Hundred Seventy Five dollars-
That’s budget approved by the Taylorville City Council during their meeting last night. The budget, which is retroactive to May first, is about five million dollars more than the last fiscal years. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says he is pleased with the budget, which in his opinion contains very little fat.
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Also during last nights meeting, the council approved the temporary hiring of Dick Wiseman and Alan Jackson as acting superintendents of the Street & Sewer and Lake Departments respectively. Both positions had been vacant since Rocky Moore’s retirement in April. Moore oversaw both departments as the “Public Work’s Superintendent,” as position create last year by former Mayor Frank Mathon. Brotherton says overseeing both departments is too much for one person to handle.
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Both Wiseman and Jackson will serve as acting superintendents for 90 days, at which time the positions will be evaluated.
In other businesses, the City Council approved a sewer extension on the Wal-Mart Property, with Wal-Mart to foot about 68 percent of the bill. Also, Myrna Hauser was appointed and Sworn in as a member of Taylorville’s Library Board, to replace Kathy Coady, who recently resigned.
That’s budget approved by the Taylorville City Council during their meeting last night. The budget, which is retroactive to May first, is about five million dollars more than the last fiscal years. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says he is pleased with the budget, which in his opinion contains very little fat.
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Also during last nights meeting, the council approved the temporary hiring of Dick Wiseman and Alan Jackson as acting superintendents of the Street & Sewer and Lake Departments respectively. Both positions had been vacant since Rocky Moore’s retirement in April. Moore oversaw both departments as the “Public Work’s Superintendent,” as position create last year by former Mayor Frank Mathon. Brotherton says overseeing both departments is too much for one person to handle.
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Both Wiseman and Jackson will serve as acting superintendents for 90 days, at which time the positions will be evaluated.
In other businesses, the City Council approved a sewer extension on the Wal-Mart Property, with Wal-Mart to foot about 68 percent of the bill. Also, Myrna Hauser was appointed and Sworn in as a member of Taylorville’s Library Board, to replace Kathy Coady, who recently resigned.
Finley: Tenaska; Other Projects Could Ease Tax Burden
7/07/2009
As the FEED study continues on the proposed Taylorville Energy Center, Christian County Supervisor of Assessments Ron Finley is urging area residents to urge area legislators and congressmen to help jump start the process. Finley says the creation of the coal gasification plant could increase property assessment values in the County, which could drive down property taxes as the burden would be shared with the 2 billion dollar plus plant. Finley says the best thing you can do is call or write your representative, requesting their support of the project.
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In addition to the Taylorville Energy Center, other projects including two wind farms that could be on the way to Christian County could help increase the tax base, lightening the load for property owners.
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The Tenaska Feed study is expected to be finished early next year, at which time the Illinois legislature will decide whether to give it the go-ahead.
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In addition to the Taylorville Energy Center, other projects including two wind farms that could be on the way to Christian County could help increase the tax base, lightening the load for property owners.
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The Tenaska Feed study is expected to be finished early next year, at which time the Illinois legislature will decide whether to give it the go-ahead.
4-Her's Shine At Christian County Fair
7/07/2009
As the Christian County fair gets underway today, area 4-H members will display the projects they’ve been working on for most of the year. U of I Christian County Natural Resources Educator Gary Letterly has seen the projects, and he’s impressed.
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On top of showcasing the talents of 4-H, Letterly says the Christian County fair also gives people the opportunity to see what agriculture is all about.
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There are various livestock shows taking place throughout the fair. If you’re thinking about participating, Letterly says you better bring your ‘A’ game.
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Regional radio is covering the Christian county fair extensively, with live newscasts everyday at 12 pm in the expo building, and live broadcasts throughout the afternoon and evening hours. The fair kicks off today at 8:00 am with a Future Farmers of America show, and concludes at 6 pm with the Little Miss and Miss Christian County pageants.
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On top of showcasing the talents of 4-H, Letterly says the Christian County fair also gives people the opportunity to see what agriculture is all about.
Click here for audio
There are various livestock shows taking place throughout the fair. If you’re thinking about participating, Letterly says you better bring your ‘A’ game.
Click here for audio
Regional radio is covering the Christian county fair extensively, with live newscasts everyday at 12 pm in the expo building, and live broadcasts throughout the afternoon and evening hours. The fair kicks off today at 8:00 am with a Future Farmers of America show, and concludes at 6 pm with the Little Miss and Miss Christian County pageants.
State Budget Cuts On The Way; Tax Increase Still In Play
7/07/2009
Governor Pat Quinn plans to announce one billion dollars in state cuts Tuesday.
Governor Quinn is trying appease lawmakers calling for a more streamlined government, with several budget cuts, and some layoffs.
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Quinn says these cuts won’t eliminate the need for an income tax increase. He says more revenue is needed to help fund important state programs and services.
Governor Quinn is trying appease lawmakers calling for a more streamlined government, with several budget cuts, and some layoffs.
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Quinn says these cuts won’t eliminate the need for an income tax increase. He says more revenue is needed to help fund important state programs and services.
Cooling Assistance Available Through State Program
7/07/2009
As temperatures continue to rise across the state, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced yesterday (Monday) that individuals can begin applying for summer energy assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Illinois DCEO Spokesperson Marcelyn Love explains that the purpose of the program is to help low income households afford the cost of cooling their homes.
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Last year 55,000 individuals received summer cooling assistance. Love expects just as many people to take advantage of the program this year.
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On top of helping people economically, Love says the LIHEAP program has another purpose; to keep people safe in dangerously hot temperatures.
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For additional information about the LIHEAP summer cooling program, visit the website LIHEAPillinois.com.
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Last year 55,000 individuals received summer cooling assistance. Love expects just as many people to take advantage of the program this year.
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On top of helping people economically, Love says the LIHEAP program has another purpose; to keep people safe in dangerously hot temperatures.
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For additional information about the LIHEAP summer cooling program, visit the website LIHEAPillinois.com.
Fairgrounds Accident Sends Carnival Worker To Hospital
7/06/2009
(Taylorville) A carnival worker is hospitalized after his left arm was crushed during the assembly of a Ferris wheel at the Christian County Fairgrounds. Officials from American Banner Amusement, the company in charge of the carnival portion of the fair says the victim, 41 year old Mark Packingham of Springfield was erecting the ride when an apparent cable malfunction caused part of the “circle structure” to collapse on his arm. Packingham was not trapped by the structure, and was rushed by ambulance to Memorial Medical Center. Marine Illinois based “American Banner Amusement,” has contracted with the fair for the past four years, and has been in business for about 60 years. Owner Jeff Sparks he’s never seen an accident of this kind before.
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Packingham had been employed by American Banner Amusement for about 2 years. Sparks says construction of the carnival will continue as normal and the fair is expected to proceed as scheduled.
Senior Citizen Facing Drunk Driving Charges After Crashing Into House
7/06/2009
(Kincaid) A 74 year old Woman is facing DUI charges after crashing into a modular home in Kincaid early Saturday Morning. According to the Christian County Sheriff's Department, Brenda Emmerson was headed east on Garden Street in Kincaid when she ran off the road, hit a tree and them slammed into the home. There was no one in the house at the time of the crash, and there's word on the extent of damage caused to the home. There were no injuries in the accident, but Emmerson and a passenger were thrown from the car. Emmerson was arrested and released on a three thousand dollar bond, and is due in court August fourth. Conflicting Reports from the Sheriff's Department list addresses for Emmerson in both Taylorville and Kincaid.
Showering Man Chases Palmer Burglars
7/06/2009
(Palmer) Christian County Sheriff's Deputies are investigating a burglary that netted more than 500 dollars worth of merchandise. Reports indicate that someone broke into a home at 807 Boyde in Palmer around 3:30 Thursday afternoon. Resident Dustin Johnson told Deputies he heard someone in the house while he was in the shower, and came out to see what he described as white male around 30 years old run out of the house and get into a maroon Buick and drive away. Items reported missing include a digital camera valued at 400 dollars as well as a ring and watch valued at 150 dollars.
Route 29 Expansion Could Jumpstart Local Economy
7/06/2009
The possible expansion of route 29 from 2 to 4 lanes would have a major impact economically on the city of Taylorville. The ‘shovel ready’ expansion project is part of the proposed 29 billion dollar statewide capital construction program. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the expansion of route 29 would open the door for several businesses to come to town.
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Other construction projects in Taylorville are close to breaking ground, including a Wal-Mart sewer extension. Brotherton says the extension could bring a new restaurant to the area.
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The city is also in line for a grant that would allow the installment of storm water piping, running from Elm Street towards Panther Creek. According to Brotherton, the project may get underway this fall.
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Other construction projects in Taylorville are close to breaking ground, including a Wal-Mart sewer extension. Brotherton says the extension could bring a new restaurant to the area.
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The city is also in line for a grant that would allow the installment of storm water piping, running from Elm Street towards Panther Creek. According to Brotherton, the project may get underway this fall.
Rep. Flider Honored By IAFPD
7/06/2009
State Rep. Bob Flider (D-Mt. Zion) was honored with a Legislator of the Year award at the Fire Service Luncheon in Peoria on Saturday, June 27 by the Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts (IAFPD). Flider says it was a tremendous honor to receive the award.
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The Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts represents over 600 fire districts throughout the State of Illinois. In acknowledgement of the Legislator of the Year award, the IAFPD will be purchasing a brick with Representative Flider’s name for placement next year at the Firefighter Memorial at the Illinois State Capitol.
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The Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts represents over 600 fire districts throughout the State of Illinois. In acknowledgement of the Legislator of the Year award, the IAFPD will be purchasing a brick with Representative Flider’s name for placement next year at the Firefighter Memorial at the Illinois State Capitol.
Touted Motivational Speaker To Offer Workshop During Chamber Week
7/06/2009
The Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has inked a high profile speaker for Illinois Chamber Week on September 14th. Fred Ronnow says Jim Feldman of Chicago will grace central Illinois with his presence.
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Feldman is a business owner and entrepreneur; Incentive Magazine named him one of the top 100 motivators of the past century. Ronnow says the planning of the ‘Feldman program’ is still in the works. The program will likely feature lunch, as well as an opportunity for attendees to converse with Feldman one-on-one.
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In other news the Chamber recently welcomed in SJ Grant and Associates as its newest member. Ronnow says SJ Grant and Associates could bring the Dale Carnegie program to Taylorville.
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To find out more about Jim Feldman, visit the website shifthappens.com. For more chamber information contact their office at 824-4919.
The Chamber recently tallied up their June numbers, and they read as follows: 229 phone calls (the most this year), and 35 people came through the front door.
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Feldman is a business owner and entrepreneur; Incentive Magazine named him one of the top 100 motivators of the past century. Ronnow says the planning of the ‘Feldman program’ is still in the works. The program will likely feature lunch, as well as an opportunity for attendees to converse with Feldman one-on-one.
Click here for audio
In other news the Chamber recently welcomed in SJ Grant and Associates as its newest member. Ronnow says SJ Grant and Associates could bring the Dale Carnegie program to Taylorville.
Click here for audio
To find out more about Jim Feldman, visit the website shifthappens.com. For more chamber information contact their office at 824-4919.
The Chamber recently tallied up their June numbers, and they read as follows: 229 phone calls (the most this year), and 35 people came through the front door.
Landmark Officials Pleased With Food Drive Results
7/06/2009
A local food drive, ‘Goodwrench for Goodwill’, recently wrapped up at Landmark Chevrolet Buick Cadillac in Taylorville. Landmark General Manager Joe Antal says ‘Goodwrench for Goodwill’ accomplished its mission.
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Landmark gave away free hats and free oil changes to encourage people to donate. Also on weekends throughout the campaign, Antal fired up the grille, and served his special Pepsi-marinated hot dogs.
Landmark is located at 1531 W. Springfield Road in Taylorville.
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Landmark gave away free hats and free oil changes to encourage people to donate. Also on weekends throughout the campaign, Antal fired up the grille, and served his special Pepsi-marinated hot dogs.
Landmark is located at 1531 W. Springfield Road in Taylorville.
Fourth On the Fifth: Rain Pushes Local Celebrations Back
7/06/2009
Like many other communities, Shelbyville was forced to push their 4th of July celebration to Sunday due to the weather. During Shelbyville’s 4th of July day-long celebration at Forest Park, regional radio caught up with Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce President Tad Mayhall. Mayhall said everything planned for Saturday was squeezed in with ease on Sunday.
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Shelbyville’s 4th of July celebration began shortly after 11:30 am on Sunday, and concluded with fireworks at dusk.
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Shelbyville’s 4th of July celebration began shortly after 11:30 am on Sunday, and concluded with fireworks at dusk.
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