Homecoming For Illinois Guardsmen
7/25/2009
(Springfield, IL) -- It's going to be a a bitter-sweet homecoming for hundreds of Illinois National Guardsmen next week. Commanders in Springfield say 300 troops who've been in Afghanistan for more than a year will come home to celebrations in Elgin, West Frankfort, Salem, Kewanee, and Pontiac. The soldiers all served as part of Task Force Bayonet which is just part of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Afghanistan. Close to three-thousand Illinois soldiers have made-up the 33rd IBCT, which is the largest deployment of Illinois troops since World War Two. Three soldiers from the units due to return next week died while on in the combat zone. Sergeant Christopher Abeyta of Midlothian; Spcialst. Robert Weinger of Round Lake Beach; and Specialist Norman Cain the III of Mount Morris were all killed in action March 15th in Afghanistan when a roadside bomb tore through their vehicle.
Source: Dan Hynes To Run For Governor
7/25/2009
(Chicago) The first big name challenger to Governor Pat Quinn has apparently made up his mind. The "Chicago Tribune" is quoting unnamed sources who say Comptroller Dan Hynes will run for Governor next year. Hynes has been angling for a new place in Illinois government, so the announcement is not much of a surprise. Hynes has yet to officially jump into the race against incumbent Pat Quinn. The Tribune's sources don't know when that will be. Hynes is ready for the race. Recent campaign finance reports show he has three-point-five-million dollars in his campaign war chest, he raised 900-thousand of that in just the first six months of this year. Governor Quinn raised 860-thousand dollars in the same period, but only has 700-thousand in his campaign account. Hynes, a Democrat, has become a vocal critic of the last two Governors. He says both have side-stepped Illinois’ growing fiscal crisis. Governor Quinn also has yet to officially declare his bid for re-election, but has made no secret his plans to run next year. Hynes and Quinn would square off in a February primary, the winner would face the leader from a crowded GOP field in November.
Swine Flu Up To 3400
7/25/2009
(Springfield) The number of cases of the h1n1 flu virus in Illinois has climbed to over 34-hundred.
Of those cases, 17 people have died so far. State Public Health spokesperson Melaney Arnold says most of deaths were people living in the northeastern part of the state. She says a vaccine for the swine flu is in the works.
Arnold reminds the best way to protect yourself from the h1n1 flu is to frequently wash your hands, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and stay home if you are sick.
Of those cases, 17 people have died so far. State Public Health spokesperson Melaney Arnold says most of deaths were people living in the northeastern part of the state. She says a vaccine for the swine flu is in the works.
Arnold reminds the best way to protect yourself from the h1n1 flu is to frequently wash your hands, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and stay home if you are sick.
Quinn Signs 'Environmentally Friendly' Bills
7/25/2009
(Springfield) Governor Pat Quinn signed several bills Friday in hopes of making Illinois a more environmentally friendly state.
One of the measures the governor signed into law requires any new state facilities or rehab project to include green building practices.
Another new law requires state agencies and colleges and universities to use only green cleaning products. The governor also signed a measure so community colleges will better prepare and help sustain green collar jobs in Illinois.
One of the measures the governor signed into law requires any new state facilities or rehab project to include green building practices.
Another new law requires state agencies and colleges and universities to use only green cleaning products. The governor also signed a measure so community colleges will better prepare and help sustain green collar jobs in Illinois.
State Officials Working To Re-Open Eagle Creek
7/24/2009
(Findlay) State officials will begin entertaining offers from parties interested in taking over the recently shut down Eagle Creek Resort and Golf Course in Findlay, in hopes of getting it back up and running shortly. 101st District State Rep. Bob Flider and 51st District Senator Kyle McCarter spearheaded a meeting (Friday) with local officials and representatives from the state’s Department of Natural Resources to discuss the status of the Shelby County Tourist Destination. The DNR has submitted a request for proposal, in hopes of attracted a prospective manager to reopen the resort and golf course, which was court ordered closed earlier this month amidst mold problems and a pending foreclosure. Senator McCarter said he believes the resort can once again reopen, but says it is important that the opportunity is given to a qualified investor.
The closing earlier this month took about 50 jobs with it, and forced brides to others to reschedule booked events. McCarter says if run properly, the resort and golf course could prove an economic pillar for the area.
While the golf course and resort are closed, the Eagle Creek State park remains open. The land is currently leased by the state from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and is currently under the control on the DNR.
Pictured: Bottom: Sen. Kyle McCarter addresses reporters as Rep. Bob Flider looks on following a meeting with local officials regarding the status of Eagle Creek Friday.
Top: The Eagle Creek Resort and Golf Course has been closed since a court order forced the doors shut in Mid-July.
Rollover Crash Injures Two
7/24/2009
(Christian County) Two people were hospitalized after a one vehicle rollover in Christian County Wednesday morning. According to Illinois State Police, 19 year old Eric T. Bird of Tower Hill was header north on Route 51 near County Road 1000 North when his truck left the roadway, striking a draining culvert flipping the vehicle. Both Bird and a passenger, 19 year old Steven M. Bird of Tower Hill were taken to Pana Community Hospital, and Eric Bird was later airlifted to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield. Injuries to both were considered non- life threatening. No word on whether any citations were issued in the crash.
Pana Pharmacies Preparing For Walgreens Merger
7/24/2009
Two pharmacies with over 120 years of service to the Pana community are closing down in less than three weeks.
On August 7th, Endris Pharmacy and Metzger Drug Store will close their doors and make way for the new Walgreens facility, which opens up in Pana the very next day on August 8th. Although the household names will disappear, the same hometown service will not. The two pharmacies recently announced they are merging with Walgreens, and all customer prescriptions will carry over. Metzger Drug Owner John Metzger says the transition should be a smooth one for customers.
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Metzger says he’s been juggling with the idea of closing for over 18 months. He says it took a lot of soul searching to finally reach a decision.
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The State of Illinois is behind in paying Metzger their bills. As a result, Metzger says merging with Walgreens will ease financial concerns. Metzger thinks the move will also enhance customer service.
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According to reports, Endris Pharmacy owner Harold Endris will take on a part-time role at the new Walgreens. On the other hand, Metzger will become the pharmacy manager. According to Metzger, many longtime employees from both Metzger Drug and Endris Pharmacy will also make the transition to the new facility. Metzger says when customers call or fax the existing Endris and Metzger numbers, their calls will roll over to Walgreens.
On August 7th, Endris Pharmacy and Metzger Drug Store will close their doors and make way for the new Walgreens facility, which opens up in Pana the very next day on August 8th. Although the household names will disappear, the same hometown service will not. The two pharmacies recently announced they are merging with Walgreens, and all customer prescriptions will carry over. Metzger Drug Owner John Metzger says the transition should be a smooth one for customers.
Click here for audio
Metzger says he’s been juggling with the idea of closing for over 18 months. He says it took a lot of soul searching to finally reach a decision.
Click here for audio
The State of Illinois is behind in paying Metzger their bills. As a result, Metzger says merging with Walgreens will ease financial concerns. Metzger thinks the move will also enhance customer service.
Click here for audio
According to reports, Endris Pharmacy owner Harold Endris will take on a part-time role at the new Walgreens. On the other hand, Metzger will become the pharmacy manager. According to Metzger, many longtime employees from both Metzger Drug and Endris Pharmacy will also make the transition to the new facility. Metzger says when customers call or fax the existing Endris and Metzger numbers, their calls will roll over to Walgreens.
Budget Cuts Still In Limbo
7/24/2009
The ax has yet to fall on the one billion dollars in budget cuts that Governor Pat Quinn has promised. The Governor says he doesn't know when or where, instead Quinn says he wants to protect "core functions."
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Quinn is sticking with his claim that only an income tax increase will solve the budge crisis. The Governor has promised thousands of layoffs and other "economies" as part of the new spending plan. But he still hasn't provided lawmakers, or targeted workers, with any specifics.
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Quinn is sticking with his claim that only an income tax increase will solve the budge crisis. The Governor has promised thousands of layoffs and other "economies" as part of the new spending plan. But he still hasn't provided lawmakers, or targeted workers, with any specifics.
SIU Medical Feature: Men At Risk For Heart Disease; Cancer
7/24/2009
Men are at risk for premature death at younger ages compared to women. That’s because men have earlier and more severe coronary artery disease and they have some different types of cancers, says Dr. Don Scott, associate professor of family and community medicine at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield. He says some of these diseases could be prevented or managed if men didn’t put off seeing a doctor.
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Scott says men can do several things to take good care of themselves. He says they should know their readings for blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. He advises men to stop smoking, get adequate exercise and manage their weight. He suggests that men learn their Body Mass Index or BMI reading because as the BMI goes up, so does the risk for health problems. He explains how to determine individual BMI readings.
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Dr. Scott stresses the importance of men seeing their primary care physician for regular check ups and screenings to manage any risk factors they may have.
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Scott says men can do several things to take good care of themselves. He says they should know their readings for blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. He advises men to stop smoking, get adequate exercise and manage their weight. He suggests that men learn their Body Mass Index or BMI reading because as the BMI goes up, so does the risk for health problems. He explains how to determine individual BMI readings.
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Dr. Scott stresses the importance of men seeing their primary care physician for regular check ups and screenings to manage any risk factors they may have.
Quinn Pleads For 'Hero Miles' For Deployed Soldiers
7/24/2009
Governor Pat Quinn is urging Illinoisans to donate to the operation hero miles program.
You can donate unused frequent flyer miles to the program which helps reunite wounded soldiers with their families by providing free airline tickets says Governor Quinn.
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Corporal Chad Watson says operation hero miles helped make it possible for his father to visit him in Bethesda Naval Hospital after he lost his leg in an explosion in Iraq.
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You can support operation hero miles by donating a portion of your unused frequent flier miles from several airlines including American, United and Northwest. Visit fisher house dot org for more information.
You can donate unused frequent flyer miles to the program which helps reunite wounded soldiers with their families by providing free airline tickets says Governor Quinn.
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Corporal Chad Watson says operation hero miles helped make it possible for his father to visit him in Bethesda Naval Hospital after he lost his leg in an explosion in Iraq.
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You can support operation hero miles by donating a portion of your unused frequent flier miles from several airlines including American, United and Northwest. Visit fisher house dot org for more information.
Seat Belt Usage On the Rise In Illinois
7/24/2009
Seat belt usage has hit an all time high in Illinois.
The percentage of drivers who regularly fasten their safety belt has risen from about 76 percent in 2003, to nearly 92 percent now. Traffic safety director Mike stout says they continue to strive towards a perfect record.
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Stout says with more people buckling up, less people are dying on Illinois roads. Traffic fatalities for the first six months of this year have dropped by about 10 percent from 2008 levels.
The percentage of drivers who regularly fasten their safety belt has risen from about 76 percent in 2003, to nearly 92 percent now. Traffic safety director Mike stout says they continue to strive towards a perfect record.
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Stout says with more people buckling up, less people are dying on Illinois roads. Traffic fatalities for the first six months of this year have dropped by about 10 percent from 2008 levels.
Bertinetti Annexation Numbers Show Tax; Revenue Increases
7/23/2009
(Taylorville) Taylorville City Officials estimate the annexation of the properties around the North and South sides of Lake Bertinetti would create an added revenue source of nearly 270 thousand dollars annually for the city of Taylorville. Just released numbers compiled by the city treasurer project the annexation would mean an extra 101 thousand dollars in income, motor fuel and state taxes, bump real estate taxes by about 188 thousand, utility taxes by another 34 thousand and the telecom tax about 6 thousand. The city would lose about 62 thousand dollars in water revenues, because Bertinetti customers are charged an out of town rate. All told, the annexation would mean an extra 458 dollar a year in taxes for Bertinetti homeowners, and an extra 395 for residents over 65 years old. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says there are still several other factors he wants to consider, before the council would take a vote on the annexation.
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About two- dozen Bertinetti citizens showed up to this week’s city council meeting, hoping to learn more about the city’s plans to annex. They were turned away however when city officials instructed them that no definitive action would be taken on the annexation during the meeting. The council rather only okayed a motion to begin the 'exploration' of the annexation, which includes crunching numbers and identifying possible snags. Brotherton says some residents have approached him expressing concerns over the annexation, to which he has told the city is taking a ‘wait- and – see’ approach.
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Brotherton says he expects the council will consider the motion during next month’s finance committee meeting, set for August 20th.
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In total, Brotherton says the annexation would affect 259 households on the north and south sides of Lake Berinetti.
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About two- dozen Bertinetti citizens showed up to this week’s city council meeting, hoping to learn more about the city’s plans to annex. They were turned away however when city officials instructed them that no definitive action would be taken on the annexation during the meeting. The council rather only okayed a motion to begin the 'exploration' of the annexation, which includes crunching numbers and identifying possible snags. Brotherton says some residents have approached him expressing concerns over the annexation, to which he has told the city is taking a ‘wait- and – see’ approach.
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Brotherton says he expects the council will consider the motion during next month’s finance committee meeting, set for August 20th.
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In total, Brotherton says the annexation would affect 259 households on the north and south sides of Lake Berinetti.
Taylorville Kiwanis Club Continues Improvements at Kiwanis Park on Lake Taylorville
7/23/2009
Taylorville Kiwanis Club members Larry Kemner and Dean Ray installed new benches at Kiwanis Park the week of July 20, for park users and fishermen to enjoy!
Tradewinds To Add Second Tower For Pana Wind Study
7/23/2009
(Pana) It was a year ago this month that Regional Radio first told you about the ‘Rolling Farms Wind Project,’ a half billion-dollar wind farm that could be headed for Southeastern Christian County. In that time, the Kansas based power company ‘TradeWinds Energy’ has conducted a meteorological study in place just north of Pana, that is helping them to gather information to analyze the area’s wind resources on the potential project. With the study thus far producing favorable results, Project Development Manager Duane Enger explains that TradeWinds is now in the midst of installing a second meteorological tower to further gather data.
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Along with the meteorological study, Tradewinds is also conducting negotiations with area landowners that would allow them use the parts of their property to construct turbines. Enger says that the company currently has enough land secured to build the wind farm.
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The 150-megawatt renewable power plant would span about 15 thousand acres just north of Pana. Enger says that the wind farm could potentially power up to 40 thousand homes.
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The Tradewinds project is expected to create up to 150 jobs during constructions, as well as about a dozen permanent jobs in the area. That, coupled with the prospect of the 1 point three million dollars that the wind farm would generate in annual tax revenues for Christian County, could mean a big economic boost for the area if the project goes through.
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Along with the meteorological study, Tradewinds is also conducting negotiations with area landowners that would allow them use the parts of their property to construct turbines. Enger says that the company currently has enough land secured to build the wind farm.
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The 150-megawatt renewable power plant would span about 15 thousand acres just north of Pana. Enger says that the wind farm could potentially power up to 40 thousand homes.
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The Tradewinds project is expected to create up to 150 jobs during constructions, as well as about a dozen permanent jobs in the area. That, coupled with the prospect of the 1 point three million dollars that the wind farm would generate in annual tax revenues for Christian County, could mean a big economic boost for the area if the project goes through.
Rolling Meadows Senior Living Now Open
7/23/2009
A new option is available for local seniors looking for a living arrangement that would allow them to maintain their independence, while still having the option of taking advantage of social and personal services. This month, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois’ Rolling Meadows Senior Living facility officially opened its facility located at 1125 East 1500 North Roads in Taylorville to residents. Chris Lemar of LSSI explains the facility is available to folks 62 years of age and older that meet certain income requirements.
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Lemar says the facility offers plenty of amenities and services as well as a social setting for residents.
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For more information on the newly opened Rolling Meadows Senior Living center, call 287-2450.
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Lemar says the facility offers plenty of amenities and services as well as a social setting for residents.
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For more information on the newly opened Rolling Meadows Senior Living center, call 287-2450.
Crop Report: Cool Temps Stifle Crop Progress
7/23/2009
Temperatures across the state averaged 7 ½ degrees below normal last week, and raining fell a clip at about a quarter of an inch above the mean. As USDA Chief Crop Statistician Brad Schwab shows us in this week’s crop report, the cool summer has resulted in fewer growing degree days than normal, stifling crop progress after an already late planting season.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune in for weekly crop reports during Regional Radio Newcast as well as on Taylorvilledailynews.com through harvest in November.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune in for weekly crop reports during Regional Radio Newcast as well as on Taylorvilledailynews.com through harvest in November.
IHDA Looking To Help First Time Homebuyers
7/23/2009
The Illinois housing development authority is expanding one of its programs to make it even easier for people to buy their first home.
First time homebuyers can already take advantage of the home start program…which provides low interest 30 year loans, but authority executive director Deshana Forney says they found buyers also need help with their down payment. So now families can get an advance loan on their eight thousand dollar federal first time homebuyer credit. Deshana Forney says this combination makes it great time to pursue home ownership.
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Advance loans of up to six thousand dollars are available. Buyers can repay the loan once they get their tax credit next year. If they don’t, it will be converted to a 10 year loan. Visit ihda.org for more information.
First time homebuyers can already take advantage of the home start program…which provides low interest 30 year loans, but authority executive director Deshana Forney says they found buyers also need help with their down payment. So now families can get an advance loan on their eight thousand dollar federal first time homebuyer credit. Deshana Forney says this combination makes it great time to pursue home ownership.
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Advance loans of up to six thousand dollars are available. Buyers can repay the loan once they get their tax credit next year. If they don’t, it will be converted to a 10 year loan. Visit ihda.org for more information.
ISBE Pares Budget By 180M
7/23/2009
The Illinois State Board of Education is being forced to trim its budget in light of the reduced spending plan recently passed by lawmakers.
The budget adopted by the board is 7.2 billion dollars, down about 180 million from last year. Board spokesperson Mary Fergus says the situation could be even worse next year if a new revenue source isn’t found. That’s because this budget partially relies on federal stimulus money.
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The smaller budget for this year means some programs will be reduced or cut altogether, including agricultural, bilingual, and early education, as well as teacher mentoring programs.
The budget adopted by the board is 7.2 billion dollars, down about 180 million from last year. Board spokesperson Mary Fergus says the situation could be even worse next year if a new revenue source isn’t found. That’s because this budget partially relies on federal stimulus money.
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The smaller budget for this year means some programs will be reduced or cut altogether, including agricultural, bilingual, and early education, as well as teacher mentoring programs.
Floor Plans Unveiled For Lincoln Land Campus Renovations
7/22/2009
The public got their first look Wednesday evening at the multi-campus renovations scheduled to take place at Lincoln Land Community College’s main campus in Springfield, as well as the Eastern Region Education Center in Taylorville. Prior to the LLCC board of trustees meeting in Springfield, John Shafer of John Shafer & Associates, the architectural firm that designed the new EREC, showed off floor plans of the new seven classrooms, 12 thousand plus square foot, $2.9 million dollar facility, that will replace the modular classrooms, currently constructed on the South Spresser Campus.
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EREC President Jim Brubaker says he was impressed by the presentation from Shafer, and feels the new facility will help attract more students to pursue higher education in Taylorville, as well as give the campus a sense of identity.
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Construction on the new EREC campus is expected to begin in October, with construction scheduled to be completed prior to the Fall 2011 semester.
During the presentation, plans were also unveiled on the 4.5 million dollar connecting link between Sangamon and Menard halls on the main campus, as well as the 26 million dollar Workforce Career center to be built on the southwest side of the main campus
County Board 'Gets In-Get Out' During Monthly Meeting
7/22/2009
(Christian County) “This has to be some kind of record,” Christian County Board Chairman John Curtin said just before he dropped the gavel to adjourn last night’s 15 minute monthly board meeting. The board breezed through a light agenda, featuring a report from the Audit/Finance/Purchasing Committee, the only committee meeting held since the last board meeting. The board adopted a prevailing wage ordinance, to allow laborers, mechanics and other workers to earn the level of pay outlined by the Illinois Department of Labor, for performing ‘public works’ tasks contracted by the county. The board also approved the appointment of the Financial Assistance review committee, to consider applicants for loans made available through the Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity’s revolving loan program. Committee Member’s include Chairman Curtin, Christian County State’s Attorney Tom Finks, Christian County Economic Development Coordinator Mary Renner, Jim Adcock of People’s Bank and Jim Hahn of Palmer Bank.
City Green Lights Palmer Bank Site Plan
7/22/2009
A Taylorville Bank looking to relocate to accommodate its growing customer base has cleared another huge hurdle in its quest to begin construction. On the recommendation of Taylorville’s Plan Commission, the city council approved site plans for the relocation of the Palmer Bank Taylorville’s branch. Palmer, currently located at 620 North Webster, would look to put its new facility in the southeast corner of the Jensen Furniture Store parking lot. Palmer Bank President Jim Hahn says with the city’s approval, the bank can now begin to seek bids in hopes of starting construction soon.
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Although the move just down the street may not sound like much of a relocation, Hahn says a new, larger facility will make it much easier for customers to do business at Palmer.
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Palmer Bank has been in Taylorville since the early ‘90’s and is preparing to celebrate it’s 100 year anniversary as an institution in 2012. Hahn says he attributes to the Palmer’s success to what he calls ‘tried and true’ methods of banking
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With construction slated to begin this fall, Hahn says bank officials hope to be open for business in the new facility come next March or April.
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Although the move just down the street may not sound like much of a relocation, Hahn says a new, larger facility will make it much easier for customers to do business at Palmer.
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Palmer Bank has been in Taylorville since the early ‘90’s and is preparing to celebrate it’s 100 year anniversary as an institution in 2012. Hahn says he attributes to the Palmer’s success to what he calls ‘tried and true’ methods of banking
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With construction slated to begin this fall, Hahn says bank officials hope to be open for business in the new facility come next March or April.
City Looks To Form 'Census Awareness' Committee
7/22/2009
As the close of the first decade of the 21st century approaches, Taylorville City Officials are looking to form a committee to help ensure the census bureau receives a successful and accurate census count for Taylorville as part of the upcoming 2010 census. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the city is looking to form an 8-10 person committee to help raise awareness that Census inquiries will circulate soon.
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Brotherton explains that returning the highest and most accurate census count will help increase revenues for the city.
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Anyone interested in serving on the census committee is encourage to Contact Mayor Brotherton at City Hall or call his office at 287-7946.
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Brotherton explains that returning the highest and most accurate census count will help increase revenues for the city.
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Anyone interested in serving on the census committee is encourage to Contact Mayor Brotherton at City Hall or call his office at 287-7946.
Curvey Shares German Excursion With Kiwanis
7/22/2009
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard about a visit to Germany by one of its own members, Bernie Curvey, at today’s (Tuesday’s) weekly meeting at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital Auditorium.
Curvey told the club that he and his wife Jane traveled thru several
German cities in their trip last month, including Amsterdam, Cologne, Frankfort, Bamberg, Nermberg, Lenz, and finally Vienna.
Curvey said Germany’s towns are gorgeous, and the country is neat and orderly. He added that most of towns away from the large cities, are sparsely populated, and that the architecture of German churches is varied and beautiful.
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It was also announced at today’s (Tuesday’s) Taylorville Kiwanis Club meeting, that the new restrooms at Kiwanis Park, are nearing completion, with a dedication of the facility set for August 11th.
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.
Curvey told the club that he and his wife Jane traveled thru several
German cities in their trip last month, including Amsterdam, Cologne, Frankfort, Bamberg, Nermberg, Lenz, and finally Vienna.
Curvey said Germany’s towns are gorgeous, and the country is neat and orderly. He added that most of towns away from the large cities, are sparsely populated, and that the architecture of German churches is varied and beautiful.
Click here for audio
It was also announced at today’s (Tuesday’s) Taylorville Kiwanis Club meeting, that the new restrooms at Kiwanis Park, are nearing completion, with a dedication of the facility set for August 11th.
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.
Blood Center To Hold Drive In Pana Thursday
7/22/2009
Pana area residents will have to opportunity to give blood (Thursday) during the Central Illinois Community Blood Center’s latest stop in the Rose City. The drive will be held Thursday at the First United Methodist Church on Kitchell Street from 1 until 7 o’clock.
Pana Community Hospital Marketing Coordinator Melissa Rybolt explains the summer is a crucial time for blood need in the area.
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Again the drive runs from 1 until 7 o’clock Thursday at First United Methodist Church in Pana.
Pana Community Hospital Marketing Coordinator Melissa Rybolt explains the summer is a crucial time for blood need in the area.
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Again the drive runs from 1 until 7 o’clock Thursday at First United Methodist Church in Pana.
City To Mull Over Bertinetti Annexation
7/21/2009
A crowd of people showed up to the Taylorville City Council’s meeting last night expecting answers, but got none. Roughly two- dozen citizens were on hand, looking to learn more of the city’s inquiry into annexing the north and south sides of Lake Bertinetti. Early on in the meeting, Mayor Greg Brotherton informed the group that there would be no definitive action regarding the annexation taken during the meeting, and he referred them to sit in on the next Finance Committee meeting, set for August 20th. Meanwhile, the Council did approve a motion to proceed with the ‘exploration’ of the annexation. The city is now green-lighted to ‘crunch numbers’ in an attempt to determine if extra tax revenues brought in by annexing the lake folks into the city, would exceed the loss of the double water rates currently charged to them as out of town water users. The motion’s passage did require a tweak in semantics, as Finance Committee Chair John Lawrence amended his motion originally worded as “Motion to proceed with the annexation of the North and South Sides of the Lake Bertinetti Addition,” to include the word ‘exploring’ to clear up confusion. Brotherton says it’s important for people to understand the annexation is far from a done deal.
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Alderman were presented with preliminary figures as to how the annexation would affect city revenues, but those were not made public at the request of Alderman Ernie Dorchinecz, who pleaded for alderman to have an opportunity to look them over first.
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Alderman were presented with preliminary figures as to how the annexation would affect city revenues, but those were not made public at the request of Alderman Ernie Dorchinecz, who pleaded for alderman to have an opportunity to look them over first.
CCMHA Ponders Cuts As State Budget Comes Into Focus
7/21/2009
(Taylorville) A light State Budget may force one area social service provider to reduce services, cut staff, and trim salaries. Officials from the Christian County Mental Health Association say they were initially told nearly 600 thousand dollars of their 4 million dollar state backing would be cut as Illinois endures fiscal crisis. CCMHA Director Ralph Antle says it’s not clear what if any funds will be restored, now that the Legislature and Governor have come to terms on a budget. In the mean time, he says furlough days are already taking effect, and layoffs and salary trimmings are expected to take effect next month.
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Also, Antle says he expects reduction in services to take place, especially in the outpatient services sector.
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If the pending cuts are forced to take effect, Antle says it could create a boondoggle for those in need of mental health services in the county.
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According to the CCMHA website, the group services 150 clients in day programs, provide over 400 people clinical serives each month and employee about 150 full and part-time staff/employees. Our total budget is about $8,000,000, with manufacturing sales totalling approximately $4,200,000.
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Also, Antle says he expects reduction in services to take place, especially in the outpatient services sector.
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If the pending cuts are forced to take effect, Antle says it could create a boondoggle for those in need of mental health services in the county.
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According to the CCMHA website, the group services 150 clients in day programs, provide over 400 people clinical serives each month and employee about 150 full and part-time staff/employees. Our total budget is about $8,000,000, with manufacturing sales totalling approximately $4,200,000.
Lake Land College To Benefit From Capital Bill
7/21/2009
As local residents relish at the prospect of the completion of the widening of Route 29 in the wake of the Governor’s signing of the first state capital construction plan in more than a decade, other local institutions stand to benefit as well. Among them, Lake Land College in Mattoon, which is expected to receive an estimated 2.3 million dollars for a Student Services Building addition. Lake Land President Scott Lensink says the funding is a long time coming.
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In addition to improvements on the main campus, capital funding is also included for the expansion of the automotive technology program at the Forsythe Center in Marshall, as well funding for the Rural Development Technology Center in Effingham. Lensink says no capital money was approved for any upgrades at Lake Land’s Pana campus, but says a 6 thousand foot expansion made possible through the help of the Pana school district will allow students to take advantage of a new nursing program in Pana this fall.
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Lensink says the capital improvements will allow the school’s facility to catch up with it’s growing enrollment. It’s not clear yet exactly when the funding will be released by the state, and when construction on the upgrades can begin.
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From a budget standpoint, Lensink said the exact total of how much the College will receive from the State is unclear. A budget based on 2009 funding will be presented to the Board in August, with action requested at the September Board meeting.
Click here for audio
In addition to improvements on the main campus, capital funding is also included for the expansion of the automotive technology program at the Forsythe Center in Marshall, as well funding for the Rural Development Technology Center in Effingham. Lensink says no capital money was approved for any upgrades at Lake Land’s Pana campus, but says a 6 thousand foot expansion made possible through the help of the Pana school district will allow students to take advantage of a new nursing program in Pana this fall.
Click here for audio
Lensink says the capital improvements will allow the school’s facility to catch up with it’s growing enrollment. It’s not clear yet exactly when the funding will be released by the state, and when construction on the upgrades can begin.
Click here for audio
From a budget standpoint, Lensink said the exact total of how much the College will receive from the State is unclear. A budget based on 2009 funding will be presented to the Board in August, with action requested at the September Board meeting.
Land of Lincoln Plays Host To Farm Congress In Return To States
7/21/2009
All eyes are on Central Illinois as the International Farm Management Agency’s International Farm Congress is being held in the United States for only the second time in the event’s three decade plus history. Farmers and business people from upwards of 25 countries around the world will converge this week on the campus of Illinois State University in Bloomington-Normal. The theme of this year’s Congress is Food Fiber and Energy for the Future. IFMA Spokesperson Joe Genzel explains the meeting is all about allowing ag- industry professionals to an opportunity to exchange ideas.
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Presentations and demonstrations are planned throughout the week in Bloomington-Normal, but Genzel says several trips to nearby places of interest are also on the itinerary during the semi-annual brainstorm.
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No advance registration is required to attend the day-long lineup of events Wednesday and Friday at the Bone Student Center on ISU’s campus. Cost to attend Wednesday’s session is $75 and Friday’s is $100. The 2011 IFMA Congress will be held in New Zealand and 2013’s will be held in Poland.
Click here for audio
Presentations and demonstrations are planned throughout the week in Bloomington-Normal, but Genzel says several trips to nearby places of interest are also on the itinerary during the semi-annual brainstorm.
Click here for audio
No advance registration is required to attend the day-long lineup of events Wednesday and Friday at the Bone Student Center on ISU’s campus. Cost to attend Wednesday’s session is $75 and Friday’s is $100. The 2011 IFMA Congress will be held in New Zealand and 2013’s will be held in Poland.
Planning Ahead: Window Closing To Enroll Newborns In College Illinois
7/21/2009
Just a few weeks are left for families to enroll their newborns in the college Illinois program.
College Illinois lets parents start paying for future tuition expenses, at today’s prices. State student assistance commission spokesperson Paul Palian says this can save thousands of dollars.
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Regular enrollment in college Illinois is closed, but if your child is 12 months or younger, you can sign up at current prices until august first. Visit the website, collegeIllinois.com for more information.
College Illinois lets parents start paying for future tuition expenses, at today’s prices. State student assistance commission spokesperson Paul Palian says this can save thousands of dollars.
Click here for audio
Regular enrollment in college Illinois is closed, but if your child is 12 months or younger, you can sign up at current prices until august first. Visit the website, collegeIllinois.com for more information.
County Welcomes New Deputy
7/20/2009
The Christian County Sheriff's Department welcomed its newest deputy, Gary Rexroad Jr. to the force this month. Rexroad, 28, year old Taylorville native attended Taylorville High School and LincolnLand Community College. Prior to joining the Sheriff's Department, Rexroad worked as a car mechanic.
Pictured: L-R, Christian County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Dave Mahan, Deputy Gary Rexroad Jr. and Sheriff Bob Kinderman
Summer Nearing End; New School Year Approaching
7/20/2009
The 2009-2010 Taylorville school year is just over a month away. The first day of classes are scheduled for August 25th. Employees of the district are busy working to make sure things go smoothly on day one. This summer was especially busy for the maintenance staff. Following the closing of Mt. Auburn and West Elementary schools at the end of last academic year, maintenance crews had their hands full. Overall, Taylorville schools Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau seems pleased with their efforts.
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Fuerstenau says the biggest challenges of getting ready for a new school year include maintenance, transportation, and finances.
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Other then the elementary school redistricting, Fuerstenau says there are no major changes for the upcoming school year.
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Again, the first day of school is scheduled for August 25th, just one month from this coming Saturday (July 25th). On August 10th the Taylorville School Board will have their final monthly meeting before the school year kicks off.
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Fuerstenau says the biggest challenges of getting ready for a new school year include maintenance, transportation, and finances.
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Other then the elementary school redistricting, Fuerstenau says there are no major changes for the upcoming school year.
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Again, the first day of school is scheduled for August 25th, just one month from this coming Saturday (July 25th). On August 10th the Taylorville School Board will have their final monthly meeting before the school year kicks off.
Blood Collected To Stay Local
7/20/2009
If you gave blood during last week’s Central Illinois Community Blood Center blood drive at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital, your platelets probably won’t travel too far. Jessica Becker, of the CICBC says all the blood collected Wednesday and Thursday at TMH will stay in central Illinois.
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On top of saving lives, last week’s blood drive brought people from all over the community together. Becker says those involved in the drive (donors, staff, and volunteers) usually share a memorable bonding experience.
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If you missed the blood drive last week, and have a burning desire to donate, Becker says the CICBC donor room in Springfield leaves its doors open for donations 6 days a week.
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The next Taylorville blood drive is scheduled to take place in October.
Click here for audio
On top of saving lives, last week’s blood drive brought people from all over the community together. Becker says those involved in the drive (donors, staff, and volunteers) usually share a memorable bonding experience.
Click here for audio
If you missed the blood drive last week, and have a burning desire to donate, Becker says the CICBC donor room in Springfield leaves its doors open for donations 6 days a week.
Click here for audio
The next Taylorville blood drive is scheduled to take place in October.
Celebrity Cooks To Help 'Save Our Chautauqua'
7/20/2009
The Shelbyville ‘Save Our Chautauqua Building’ campaign has a flock of late summer fundraisers coming up, including a pancake breakfast on Saturday July 25th from 7am to 2 pm. Steve Hamilton (AKA Chris Cakes), who has appeared numerous times on the Food Network, will be on hand to flip flapjacks. On top of a celebrity appearance and breakfast, Mary Ellen Boley, of the Shelbyville 'Save Our Chautauqua' Committee, says the day will feature plenty of family-oriented activities.
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The Chautauqua building, located in Forest Park in Shelbyville, is one of the most endangered historical buildings in Illinois. Boley explains that the purpose of the ‘Save Our Chautauqua’ campaign is to renovate the crumbling structure.
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The campaign began last fall. Boley says she isn’t sure how much money has been raised since then, but the overall goal is to muster up 400,000 dollars.
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After the pancake breakfast, the next Chautauqua fundraiser is slated to take place August 1st at the Westville winery. There is also a concert at the Chautauqua building, tentatively scheduled for the end of August.
Click here for audio
The Chautauqua building, located in Forest Park in Shelbyville, is one of the most endangered historical buildings in Illinois. Boley explains that the purpose of the ‘Save Our Chautauqua’ campaign is to renovate the crumbling structure.
Click here for audio
The campaign began last fall. Boley says she isn’t sure how much money has been raised since then, but the overall goal is to muster up 400,000 dollars.
Click here for audio
After the pancake breakfast, the next Chautauqua fundraiser is slated to take place August 1st at the Westville winery. There is also a concert at the Chautauqua building, tentatively scheduled for the end of August.
Flider Has Eventful Friday
7/19/2009
On Friday State Representative Bob Flider released a statement regarding the budget passed in Springfield last week. Flider says he is ready to work with local community service providers to help restore funds that were cut by the state’s agencies.
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Friday was a busy day for Flider, as he gathered local officials at his office, to discuss the economic impact of the Decatur Correctional Center. The facility is one of the possible targets by the Quinn Administration for layoffs. Flider says Friday’s meeting was about being proactive
Click here for audio
For more information, contact Flider’s office in Decatur at (217) 428-2708, and in Springfield call (217) 782-8398
Click here for audio
Friday was a busy day for Flider, as he gathered local officials at his office, to discuss the economic impact of the Decatur Correctional Center. The facility is one of the possible targets by the Quinn Administration for layoffs. Flider says Friday’s meeting was about being proactive
Click here for audio
For more information, contact Flider’s office in Decatur at (217) 428-2708, and in Springfield call (217) 782-8398
Locals Gather For 1st Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest
7/19/2009
(Taylorville) Olivio's Chicago Dogs, etc. hosted a hot dog eating contest Saturday afternoon, outside their restaurant in Taylorville. Six participants from across the regional radio listening area competed for glutton glory. Contestants had to worry about digesting a lot more then just a hot dog; owner Ken Olivio explains.
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The contest kicked off shortly after 4:30 pm. In the end, Chicago-area native Steve Butera was victorious, as he downed 12 hot dogs. Butera was awarded 100 dollars cash and a trophy for winning the first annual Olivio's hot dog eating contest.
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