(Springfield, IL) -- The crowds at the Illinois State Fair aren't as voluminous as in years past, and officials are laying the blame on the weather. State Fair manager Amy Bliefnick says it rained or threatened rain five of the fair's ten days. Severe storms blew through the fairgrounds Wednesday. Bliefnick says the weather has cut attendance about 15-percent from last year. The fair started off with a big weekend of crowds last week, but tapered-off as the bad weather moved in. Blienick also says this year's earlier school year kept some kids and their families from the fairgrounds. But she hopes to pickup a lot of people over the weekend with a pair of big name concerts. Bliefnick adds they won't have a final crowd count until after the fair wrap up Sunday.

(Springfield, IL) -- The new leader of the state’s Republican Party says he’s ready to take on the Democrats. Pat Brady slid in the slot after Andy McKenna abruptly announced he was stepping down on Thursday. Brady says bringing public opinion into the mix is one way to separate themselves from the other guys. Pat Brady is an attorney and Republican National Committeeman.

State officials are urging schools in Illinois to prepare for further outbreaks of the H1N1 flu virus.

State schools superintendent Christopher Koch says a jump in cases is possible as the regular flu season begins in Illinois. He says they have recommended schools make plans for this.

Cases of the swine flu are expected to climb as we enter the regular flu season, so state public health director Doctor Damon Arnold says students and staff need to be reminded to frequently wash their hands, and to not expose others.

Schools are asked to make other plans such as where to keep kids that have flu like symptoms until they can be picked up, and to increase cleaning of areas that are often touched. Arnold says local health departments will work closely with schools to monitor outbreaks, and help decide if school closure is necessary.

Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation Friday creating a 211 hotline for people to find information about vital social services.

Quinn says a 211 hotline would provide information on everything from homeless shelters, to community programs, to information on where to get help after a disaster.
It’s anticipated the 211 hotline will be active across the state by early next year. A few areas have already been testing such a system.

The Christian County Grand Jury convened on August 20th, returning 12 indictments:

The three suspects charged in connection with the murder of Steven Brummett, a cab driver from Springfield, leads the list. Donnella Hamilton and Brandon Allsup were indicted on three counts of first-degree murder each for allegedly shooting Brummett with a Semi Automatic 9MM handgun on July 25th. They face between 20 and 60 years in prison, with the possibility of a natural life sentence. Ashley Davis was indicted on a single count of concealment of homicide. Davis allegedly aided and assisted Allsup and Hamilton in hiding Brummett’s body.

Other indictments:

- Justin Price for possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, and underage consumption of alcohol, stemming from an incident that occurred on August 7th at North School in Taylorville. Price allegedly had over 10 grams of cannabis on hand.

- Stacey Durbin and Jared Durbin were both indicted on one count of disorderly conduct, stemming from an incident that occured on June 21st in Taylorville. The two allegedly reported a home invasion and aggravated battery to a Taylorville police officer, Michael Toberman. According to the indictment, there was no reasonable ground for believing either offense occurred.

- David Sims was indicted on one count of forgery from an incident in Taylorville on July 14th. Sims allegedly made a 100 dollar check out to himself in the fictitious name of Michelle Brookes at Palmer Bank

- Jason Tackett was indicted on one count of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. Tackett, a convicted felon, allegedly possessed two large kitchen knives.

- Christopher Little was indicted on three counts of theft stemming from an incident that occurred in March. Little allegedly stole a Bosch Miter Saw, a 42-inch flat screen television, two fishing poles, and three hummingbird Depth Finders from a Taylorville resident.

- Lee Bush was indicted on two counts for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

- Kevin Hughes Sr. was indicted on one count for criminal damage to a property, and two counts for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. On July 27th Hughes Sr. allegedly busted the front windshield of a yellow mustang in Taylorville. Hughes also was in possession of a loaded rifle.

- Aaron Wemple was indicted on one count for threatening a public official. On August 5th Wemple allegedly threatened to take the life of Deputy Thomas Perry.

Family and Friends of the man murdered in Christian County last month, spoke out after the three people accused in the killing plead not guilty in court today. Springfield Residents Brandon Allsup, Donella Hamilton and Ashley Davis all plead not guilty to charges alleging their involvement in the Shooting Death of 41-year-old Springfield Cab Driver Steven L. Brummett.

Steven Brummett’s cousin Scott Brummett, and close family friend Robin Eddington sat emotionally in Court (Friday Morning) as Allsup and Hamilton plead not guilty to first Degree Murder Charges, and Davis to concealment of a homicide charges. Eddington and Scott Brummett shared their reaction to coming face to face with the people accused of killing Steven Brummett for the first time.

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If convicted, Allsup and Hamilton face 20- 60 years in prison, and Davis between two and five years. Eddington says she believes the state should pursue full justice for all three, and rejects the idea of a plea deal for any of the accused.

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Christian County Circuit Judge Ron Spears indicated in court that the state may seek life terms or even the death penalty for Allsup and Hamilton, based on special circumstances in the case. State’s Attorney Tom Finks has given no indication that he is considering offering a plea or lesser charges to any of the accused. A grand jury in Christian County returned indictments against all three this week. Pre-Trial dates for all three accused are set for October 13th at 11am in Christian County Court. Bond has been set for all three, all of whom remain in custody.

A 76 year old Taylorville Man was hospitalized after a one car crash in Taylorville Thursday afternoon. According to reports, Patrick J. Prince was exiting Oak Hill Cemetery short before 2 o'clock when witnesses told police he lost control of his vehicle and hit several headstones. The report indicate it is believed Prince may have suffered a siezure. He was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment. There were no passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident.

The three people charged in Connection with Killing a Springfield Cab Driver during a robbery in Kincaid last month, are due back in Christian County Court (Friday Morning). Springfield residents Brandon Allsup, Donella Hamilton and Ashley Davis are all scheduled to appear at preliminary hearing (Friday Morning) at 10:30. Allsup and Hamilton are charged with first-degree murder, and are represented by Public Defender Mike Havera and conflict public defender Amanda Ade-Harlow respectively. Davis is charged with concealing a homide, and is represented by conflict public defender Tom Doyle. The charges allege Allsup shot Brummett, a cab driver in the back of the head during an attempted robbery on July 25th. Hamilton also faces murder charges based on what prosecuters call ‘the accountability theory.’ The each face 20 to 60 years in prison if convicted, although prosecutors say they may seek life sentences or the death penalty. Davis faces one to three years in the clink if convicted for helping to cover up the crime. Bond has been set for all three, who remain in custody.

On the heals of a record breaking fundraising campaign in 2008, The United Way of Christian County Board of Directors has announced who they will tap to lead the upcoming 2009 campaign, which they hope will be even more successful. UWCC Executive Director Joanie Byers explains that the four Co-Chairs, Jeff and John Robinson, Bill Bullard and Carol Schram will each cover a designated section of Christian County.

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The 2008 campaign blew away its highest goal ever of 125 thousand. Byers explains that even in a tough economy, the board has decided to up the goal even higher this time around.

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The 2009 United Way of Christian County Fundraising Drive will get started with a kickoff dinner at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital on September 17th. For more information, call the United Way at 824-8404.

Christian County Board Chairman John Curtin recently attended a county official’s conference, which explained the legalizing of video poker machines across the state. During this week’s County Board Meeting, Curtin told the board he learned the basis of the new law is to create revenue for the state and municipalities. Curtin explains how the revenues of the new gaming law break down.

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Curtin says counties around the state have been receiving pressure fro DuPage County in northern Illinois, as well as some municipalities as close as Rochester to vote to ban video poker locally. Curtin told the board that the particular areas that banned video poker, did not have any businesses that qualified to have them in the first place.

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Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton has indicated that he would be against banning video poker from establishments within the city.

If you’ve ever wondered how much a farmer is profiting from the lunch that you just ate, the Taylorville Square is where you’ll want to be Saturday August 29th. The Christian County Farmer’s Bureau is hosting the first ever ‘Farmer’s Share Luncheon’ during the weekly Farmer’s Market on the Square that day, to help put into perspective just how much farmers take home from the food they sell. Pork Chop or Cheeseburger lunches will be available for just .25 cents during the event, representing the average amount a farmer earns in profit per dollar of crops sold. Farm Bureau Director Eric Johnson explains the event is an effort to promote locally grown foods.

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Johnson says the event is also meant to show that farmers are not to blame for the recent increases in food prices, something he feels the national media has led consumers to believe.

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As of Thursday, about 40 of the allotted 400 tickets allotted for the event remain for the ‘Farmer’s Share Luncheon.” Johnson says they can be picked up at the Farm Bureau office located on West Market Street in Taylorville.

The worst storm of the summer to hit Central Illinois so far caused widespread damage across much of the area Wednesday. While areas in Sangamon County including Williamsville and Loami took the brunt of the system’s force, Regional Radio’s Steve Butera explains Christian County did not make it out completely unscathed.

CLICK HERE FOR A SPECIAL REPORT ON THE CLEANUP EFFORTS FOLLOWING WEDNESDAY'S DESTRUCTIVE STORM

James Kearney did tell Regional Radio that his garage and truck are insured. Ameren encourages area residents to check out IllinoisOutage.com for tips on how to prepare for severe weather events that may occur in the future.

Pictured: A tree uprooted during Wednesday’s Storm went down on the garage of James Kearney’s home at 912 E. Market Street in Taylorville.

(Christian County) What originally looked like a nearly 200 thousand dollar cut it state funds and grants to the Christian County Health Department, now appears will only result in the loss of about 30 thousand for the agency during their upcoming fiscal year. County Health Director Gerry Grigsby told members of the Christian County Board the cuts would have meant at least a 50 percent reduction funding for services and salaries, but now says much of the funding has been recovered.

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Grigsby says that for now, it does not appear that any Healthy Department jobs will be laid off due to the reduction in funding.

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Early this summer Regional Radio news reported that Christian County Mental Health was also affected by cuts from the state. They indicated they would be forced to cut services and institute furloughs for employees as well as make possible layoffs.

Parks, Schools and other public areas in Central Illinois may soon have garbage cans that automatically compact trash, without the benefit of even an electric plug. Waste Management Disposal Service, which has a facility just outside of Taylorville on Route 104, unveiled a new Solar Powered Trash Compactor at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield this week. Carl Niemann of Waste Management explains how the bins can reduce collection costs and help preserve the environment.

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Nieman says the new solar trash bins haven’t made their way to Taylorville just yet, but he says they would be perfect for high traffic areas of the city that tend to accumulate a lot of trash in bins.

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And although the price tag of the new solar bins may seem high at first, Nieman says they should essentially pay for themselves in a short amount of time.

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The Illinois State Fair, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency teamed with Waste Management to co-sponsor an exhibit at the fair to educate the public about the benefits of recycling.

A warmer than average week last week was a welcome sign for farmers struggling with slow crop development amidst this unseasonably cool summer. As USDA Chief Crop Statistician Brad Schwab tells us in this week’s crop report, some of the state’s corn crop is finally moving into the ‘dent’ stage, but is still well behind average for this time of year.

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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune in for weekly crop reports during Regional Radio Newscasts and on Taylorvilledailynews.com through the harvest in early November.

Republican State Senator Dan Rutherford, who is making a bid to replace Alexi Giannoulias as the next Illinois State Treasurer, was in Christian County (Wednesday.) During his stop, Regional Radio Spoke with Rutherford who says his main platform for his upcoming campaign centers on the creation of jobs in Illinois. Rutherford says the recently passed 31 billion dollar State Capital Spending Plan was a good start, although he says he doesn’t completely agree with how the plan is being funded.

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Rutherford currently represents the Pontiac Area in Central Illinois. This is Rutherford’s second run at a State-wide office, he fell to incumbent Jesse White during a 2006 run for Secretary of State. Giannoulias will leave the office after one term, as he is making a bid for the U.S. Senate.

Severe weather pounded Central Illinois at mid-afternoon this (Wednesday) afternoon, leaving damage and flooding in its wake.

An area from Taylorville to Decatur received between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain in an hour, according to radar estimates from the National Weather Service, along with gusty winds.

Those winds downed numerous trees and power lines in the Regional Radio listening area, causing numerous power outages, particularly in Sangamon, Macon, and Christian Counties. Ameren had several thousand customers out of power late Wednesday afternoon as a result of the severe weather.

Tornado sirens blasted in Springfield and Taylorville at the height of the storm, when as many as 6 weather warnings were in effect in the Regional Radio listening area.

While downed tree limbs and minor flooding were experienced in the Christian County area, the Loami and Williamsville areas of Sangamon County lost as many as 25 homes in each town. The Casey's convenience store and Christian Church, both in Williamsville, reportedly suffered heavy damage.

3 injuries from the storm were reported in the Williamsville area.

Severe weather is possible thru Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather information.

More construction at the Christian County Courthouse appears to be on the way. Rainwater is seeping into the clock tower, which is forcing the county to dig deep into its pockets for a much needed tuckpointing project. The county will begin advertising for bids for the project. Christian County board chairman John Curtin told the board during their monthly meeting Tuesday evening, that tuckpointing of the clock tower will end up being a major project.

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Curtin also told the board that he’s applying for a grant of up to 80,000 dollars to help pay for the project.

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In other business:

*Curtin also announced that he attended a county official’s conference that explained the legalizing of video poker games in Illinois. Curtin reported that the basis of video poker in Illinois is to create revenue for the state with the following breakdown: business owner- 35%, owner of machines- 35%, the State- 25% (to fund the capital bill), and the local government with jurisdiction only getting 5%.

*Curtin reported that Christian County Health Department Director Gerry Grigsby told the executive/personnel/liquor committee that there is a possibility of up to seven state health grants, totaling over 190,000 dollars, not being reinstated. That funding covers services, supplies and 50-100% of various salaries. Grigsby says this news has made preparing the budget ‘more then just difficult’.

*Highway Chairman Tim Butcher announced that the annual jail inspection was received from the Illinois Department of Corrections. The inspection noted several improvements.

*The board approved a resolution to make the week of August 31st ‘Workforce Development Week’, where the county will recognize the importance of the Illinois workforce system.

The Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield was the epicenter (Tuesday) of a daylong celebration honoring with many consider the backbone industry of Illinois. During ‘Ag-Day’ at the State Fair (Tuesday), Grand champion junior livestock including the barrow, steer, wether, poultry trio and rabbit trio are auctioned at the Governor's Sale of Champions, and the best of Illinois processed foods are auctioned at the Commodity Auction. Also, livestock shows, harness racing and other concerts are featured as well. Miller Media Group President Randal J. Miller hosted a live broadcast from Ag Day across the entire Hometown Illinois Radio Network. Among his guests was Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who talked about the scholarships ‘Excellence in Agriculture’ Scholarships he awarded to 10 outstanding high school seniors during the ag day breakfast he hosted.

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State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnik also joined Miller during the broadcast, highlighting the remaining attractions during the state fair, which runs through Sunday.

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Farm Credit Services of Illinois Marketing Director Mike Loyd talked about his company’s involvement with the Illinois State Fair over the years.

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Also during Ag-Day, Governor Quinn Signed Legislation to help increase the demand for Illinois Grown Food by creating a council to help build active local makets to Illinois Food.

                           Governor Pat Quinn signed legislation Tuesday to help increase the demand for locally grown food in Illinois.
It’s estimated that 96 percent of the fruits, vegetables, and meats that Illinoisans eat are produced in other states. Quinn wants to change that, so that Illinoisans are consuming more home grown products.

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The bill he signed sets goals for state agencies to buy 20 percent of their food from local sources b501y the year 2020. Schools would be expected to buy 10 percent of their food locally by then as well. The new law also creates a task force to look into how to better expand local farmers markets.

Secretary of State Jesse White is unveiling a new database to help make sure your loved ones are quickly notified if you are involved in a traffic accident.
The emergency contact database lets you list up to two friends or family members and their phone numbers and addresses. Secretary of State spokesperson Henry Haupt says police will use that information if you are injured in a crash and are unable to communicate. You do have to sign up for the service.

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Illinois is only the third state in the nation to set up such a database. You can sign up on the Internet at cyberdriveillinois.com.

The 2009 Shelby County Relay for Life, to raise money for cancer research, wrapped up in Forest Park (Shelbyville) Sunday August 9th, and according to early reports, it was a success. Shelby County Relay Chairwoman Chris Bogart says the county surpassed their fundraising goal by over 17,000 dollars.

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Bogart describes a new feature in this year’s relay that went a long way towards meeting that fundraising goal.
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Bogart says a wrap up meeting and dinner took place Tuesday evening for all those involved in this year’s Relay for Life. She adds that planning for next year’s Relay won’t begin until November.

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Bogart says anyone interested in being a part of next year’s Shelby County Relay for Life can give her a call at 774-4283.

Authorities say two fires that broke out in Bulpitt over the weekend were most likely acts of arson. According to a report from the Christian County Sheriff's Department, Midland Fire Protection District Firefighters battled a blaze at 104 Main Street Saturday around 5 o'clock. Minutes later, they received a call about a Second Fire at 101 Parker Street, a half block away for the Main Street Fire. Midland Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Guy Choat says firefighters were on their way back from provided mutual aid for a fire in Pawnee when they happened by the first burning building.

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Investigators determined that fires had been set in multiple area's of both houses, neither of which are occupied. A neighbor on the scene told investigators that he had seen three teenage males in the area around midnight the night before. In addition to Midland Firefighters and the Christian County Sheriff's Department, The Illinois State Fire Marshall has been called in to investigate.

A 4 wheeler, three boat motors and various other tools were the fruits of an Assumption Shed Burglary that happened sometime between July 11^th and August 11^th. The property owner filed a report last Monday indicating that someone cut the padlock off of his shed located at 2079 East 1350 North Roads. The total value of the items stolen is estimated at more than 5 thousand dollars. There are currently no suspects in the case.

A Stonington Man was hospitalized after a one-vehicle rollover accident in Christian County last Thursday. A report issued by the Christian County Sheriff’s Department (Tuesday) indicates 18 year old Lucas J. Allen was headed south on county highway 7 just south of township road 1450 North was he apparently lost control in the loose rock on the roadway. Allen told police his vehicle fishtailed and ran off the the overturning in a ditch and coming to rest on its wheels in a corn field on the east side of the roadway. Allen was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital for treatment. There were no passengers in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

In hopes of bolstering the bottom line for the city of Taylorville, city officials have spearheaded a movement to create a ‘complete-count’ committee as the upcoming 2010 census count approaches. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton recruited community leaders to help get the word out about the census, so the city returns the highest and most accurate count possible to the census bureau. Brotherton says the higher the count, the more state and federal money will be allotted to the community.

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Brotherton says he feels each member of the complete-count committee will contribute to the effort of raising census in a unique way.

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The city of Taylorville and Christian County officials are in the midst a dispute over the annexation of the Taylorville Correctional Center into the City of Taylorville, which would allow the roughly 1 thousand inmates to be counted as city residents. Brotherton says that would mean a per capita tax increase of more than 100 thousand dollars for the city, but feels it is unlikely the annexation would be completed before the census.

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The census forms will begin circulating next March, with ‘Census Day’ set for April 1st.

Aldermen unanimously approved a motion to purchase a new entrance sign for Lake Taylorville, during Monday night’s Taylorville city council meeting. The council approved a quote of just over 1200 dollars from Lilly Signs. Chairman of the Lake/Airport Committee Martin Vota says Hotel/Motel Tax Money will help cover the costs.

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Before the motion carried, Alderman Bruce Jones told the council that the entryway to the city is also “vastly in need of signs”. Jones said he would like to have the street and sewer committee place a priority on purchasing a city entrance sign with the hotel/motel tax money. Vota says Jones wanted to confirm that the council is taking steps towards making the entrance to the city more acceptable.

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The Lake Taylorville entrance sign will be located between the Bike Trail and Route 29. No word yet on when it will be erected.

In other business:

*Mayor Greg Brotherton echoed Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Fred Ronnow’s desire for more community involvement at Taylorville Hometown Pride Day (at the state fair). Brotherton said “I was disappointed with the hometown tent…they missed out on a good opportunity…there were several empty tables…(I’m) hoping next year we can get that thing fired up and get more participation out there”.

*Brotherton officially scheduled a special city council meeting to address the Bertinetti Lake annexation. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday August 25th at 7 pm. In anticipation of a large turnout, the meeting will be held in the Taylorville High School cafeteria.

*Street and Sewer Committee Chairman Earl Walters announced that four bids were turned in for the 2009 street Overlay Program. The council accepted the low bid of roughly 90,000 dollars from Dunn Company (in Decatur). Walters says the bid is 11 to 12,000 dollars lower then what they originally estimated.

As the 2009-2010 school year gets set to kick off, nutritionists are reminding parents to make sure their children are eating right. Nutrition educator with the St. Louis District Dairy Council, Joyce Fickri has advice for how to get the most bang for your buck when filling up your pantries.

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Fickri also adds that snacking is an integral part of every child’s diet.

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For more nutritional information visit the website STLdairycouncil.org

The master gardeners newsletter could be coming soon to a mailbox near you. U of I Christian County Extension Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi explains how you can get on the mailing list.

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Podeschi says the newsletter will have many features, including photos, a calendar of events, and the latest in gardening news.

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Podeschi says she plans on writing for the newsletter.

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For more information on the master gardeners program, and the newsletter, contact the extension office at 287-7246

Governor Pat Quinn signed new laws Monday to make state government more accessible and open to the public.
The first law should make it easier for people to get their freedom of information act requests filled says attorney general Lisa Madigan who helped draft the reform measure.

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The other laws utilize the web to provide more information about state government, including who is on various Illinois boards and commissions, and where state money is being spent.

The Wal-Mart Store on Springfield Road has re-opened. The store was forced to close around 10:30 (Monday) morning when a contractor cut a primary cable while working on a sewer line.

The Wal-Mart Store on Springfield Road in Taylorville is closed temporarily due to a power outage, caused by a cut power line. Officials with Shelby Electric Cooperative, which serves the store, says a contractor cut a primary cable while working on a sewer line. The store had to close around 10:30 (Monday) morning, and employees have been are currently on the parking lot turning customers away. Store managers refused to talk with Regional Radio, but employees on the lot say they were told the store should re-open within 6 hours.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office and the Taylorville Police Department are currently conducting investigations into reports of criminal damages to mailboxes, township road markers and telephone pods.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance from the public and asking anyone with any information regarding these incidents to contact the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, the Taylorville Police Department or Crimestoppers.

Damage was reported on the Cherokee Street extension into the Timberlake Estates area, Wantlant Drive to the Nokomis Blacktop, west on Township Road 100 North, continuing to 1000 North Road to Route 48. Damage was reported in the McDonald’s Elevator area, the Scraperford area, onto Township Road 1025 East and into the West side of the City of Taylorville.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office has had approximately 50 cases of damage and the Taylorville Police Department had approximately 30 cases of similar damage.

A Stonington Man was hospitalized with serious injuries after a crash in Christian County Friday night. Reports from the Christian County Sheriff's Department indicate 49 year old Gregory D. Smith was headed west on township road 2000 North when he pulled into the intersection and was struck by a car driven by 51 year old Daniel E. Callen of Stonington. Callans vehicle rolled over twice and landed on its wheels. Callen was not injured, but Smith was taken by Ambulance to Taylorville Memorial Hospital. There were no passengers in either vehicle. Smith was ticketed by police for failing to yield at an intersection.

Lincoln Land Community College representatives were in Springfield Saturday for Hometown Pride Day at the State Fair. (LLCC) Eastern Region Education Center Executive Director Jim Brubaker spoke to Miller Media Group President Randy Miller about the addition of a new classroom building to Lincoln Land’s Taylorville campus. Brubaker says he expects initial construction on the project to begin in October.

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Brubaker reiterates that the new addition is designed to increase enrollment, and enhance the students’ overall educational experience.

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Brubaker also told Miller that the new facility will include a biological science classroom.

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The new Taylorville classroom building is a 2.9 million dollar, 12,400 square foot project. The building will replace temporary classrooms currently in use, and will include instructional space for nursing, criminal justice, teacher education, and business programs. The new building is expected to be up and running in time for the 2011 fall semester.

Eight Different businesses and organizations represented the city of Taylorville for Hometown Pride Day, at the state fair in Springfield Saturday afternoon. Next year, that number will likely increase. During live coverage of the event on Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR, Chamber President and CEO Fred Ronnow announced his intentions of making next year’s Taylorville Hometown Pride Day bigger and better.

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Ronnow appeared to be disappointed with the amount of community involvement at this year’s Hometown Pride Day. He hopes there will be more activity from the community next year.

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Ronnow says events like Hometown Pride Day have an impact on the city that can’t be measured.

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Hometown Pride Day ran from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday. The Illinois State Fair wraps up next Sunday, August 23rd.

The Taylorville Fire Department welcomed its newest firefighter to the force (Friday.) Twenty Four year old Kyle Romadka of Rochester was hired on to serve, after spending three years serving the Rochester Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT. Romadka says he is a second generation Fireman.

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Romadka says the testing and hiring process was long and strenuous, but says it was worth it and is looking forward to serving the community.

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Romadka says he plans to live in Rochester for now, and has a five year old daughter named Jayme.

The first ever Farmer’s Share Luncheon is set to take place Saturday August 29th at the Taylorville Farmer’s Market on the courthouse lawn. Fewer than 200 tickets, at 25 cents a ‘pop’, still remain for the inaugural event. U of I Christian County Extension Ag Literacy Coordinator Ann Lupton, explains that the price of the ticket reflects the farmers’ share of a meal.

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Tickets must be purchased through the Christian County Farm Bureau at 400 West Market in Taylorville (only a total 400 are being sold). The luncheon is scheduled to take place from 11 am to 1 pm.

The state of Illinois still owes the Taylorville school district over 394,000 dollars from the 2009 fiscal year. The bulk of that payment was for transportation. On top of that, as a result of the recent state budget cuts, the district is losing nearly 234,000 dollars in state funding. Taylorville schools superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau had to spar with these shortcomings when crafting the tentative budget for the 2010 fiscal year.

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Despite the hiccups in state funding, Fuerstenau says the district’s financial situation has improved since he became superintendent three years ago. He projects that at the end of next year the district will be in the black.

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When putting together this year’s budget, Fuerstenau says he didn’t anticipate receiving the 394,000 dollars owed by the state.

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The Taylorville school board is expected to approve the budget at their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday September 14th.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As Codee Schlipf’s Crossbred barrow took first place at the 2009 Illinois State Fair Junior Barrow Show, the entire swine barn erupted in cheers.
Codee is the 13-year-old daughter of Ryan and Sherri Schlipf of El Paso, Ill. She loves playing sports, specifically volleyball, softball and basketball, and hunting is one of her favorite activities. Codee will attend El Paso-Gridley Jr. High School this fall. She not only is great in the show ring, but also is extremely generous as she plans to split her winnings with her family.

Taking second to Codee as the Reserve Grand Champion Barrow was a Crossbred shown by Caleb Schroeder of Milford, Ill. He is the 19-year-old son of Stan and Chris Schroeder and is going to Parkland Community College for their diesel mechanics program. Showing since the age of eight, he has had plenty of experience in the swine barn. He loves to hunt deer with his bow and was very involved in FFA, football and Student Council in high school.

“It’s a crazy feeling,” Caleb said. His brother, Justin, helped him get started, and it has been a family and friend project since then.
Though all 2009 breed grand champions were bred in the Land of Lincoln, crossbreds are exempt from receiving that honor. Bryce Walters’ Yorkshire barrow was chosen as the Land of Lincoln Grand Champion. He is the 15-year-old son of Randy and Jan Walters of Tampico, Ill. in Bureau County.

Tyler Loeschen’s Yorkshire barrow took Reserve honors in the Land of Lincoln contest. Tyler is the 18-year-old son of Gary and Diana Loeschen of Kempton, Ill. in Kankakee County.


Upcoming Events for Sunday, Aug. 16

Veterans and their families are admitted to the grounds for free.

Grandstand: Josh Turner, Jamey Johnson, & Chuck Wicks (8 p.m.)
Fairgoers who enjoy country music will be excited to see the lineup for Sunday evenings Grandstand. With numerous Country Billboard hits, Josh Turner, Jamey Johnson, and Chuck Wicks are sure to treat Illinois State fairgoers to a night of country, rock, and a little bluegrass music.

Campus Town/Hometown: Midwest Technical Institute (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
The Illinois State Fair salutes the importance of higher education and hometown pride with the combination of two venues that showcase a different school or local community every day. Stop by and see what some of Illinois’ finest colleges and universities have in academics, athletics, alumni relations, clubs and activities. Also, make sure to stop by and learn about the different Illinois communities that will be showcased.

Conservation World: Chainsaw Artists (10 a.m. – 7 p.m.) and Kids Fishing Clinics (10:30-11:30 am, Noon-1 pm, 1:30-2:30 pm, 1:30-2:30 pm, 4:30-5:30 pm)
Chainsaw carvers will turn 6-foot-plus logs into a wide variety of detailed figures such as woodland animals, bears and eagles. They will complete several carvings each day. Also within Conservation World is the Kids Fishing Clinics that provides an education and on-site activities involving fishing. Fishing is a pastime enjoyed by millions of people every year. Fishing Clinics are designed to give kids an opportunity to try something they might not have ever tried before. They are also a great way to educate kids from a young age on how to tie a rig, bait a hook, cast a line, look after the environment, and become a responsible angler.

High Dive: The All-American “High Dive Show” (2:00, 3:30, 6:00, 8:00 pm)
Located at Central Avenue, The All American High Dive Team is a classic performance that has been featured all over the world. The show features all the standards that you have come to know and love. The fire dive, 80 foot high dive, clown diving and the world famous man out of the audience comedy act. In addition, the set and team is decorated so as to follow a patriotic theme. An all American show with all American goods.

Lincoln Stage: Hog Calling Contest (3:30 – 4: 00 p.m.) and Husband Calling Contest (4– 4:30 pm)

In what has become a State Fair tradition, the hog calling contest is sure to be an experience that Illinois State fairgoers won’t want to miss. Three judges: Agriculture Director Tom Jennings, State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick, and a local celebrity, make the decision on who has the most effective hog call. Props or even skits are encouraged.

Following the hog calling contest is the husband calling contest. This event is similar in nature to the hog calling contest, but this time it will be the wives who try and get their husbands to hear their call. Creativity is encouraged and participation by the husbands is optional.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Seats were almost impossible to find in the Junior Livestock Show Ring as the drive for Junior Grand Champion Steer took place Saturday afternoon. The judge rather quickly picked his favorite, a Crossbred steer shown by Addie Girard.

Addie, the 18-year-old daughter of Jim and Jan Girard, is from Pontiac, Ill. in Livingston County. She has shown her cattle since the age of eight and has one more year left in the junior division. Her grandfather watched excitedly as pictures were taken, remarking how proud of her he was. Addie was involved in FFA and sports at Pontiac High School, and she will attend Joliet Junior College in the fall to become a veterinarian technician.

At the beginning of the summer, Girard’s steer was no less than wild, dragging her on several occasions and refusing to be shown. The fact her Crossbred was able to show at the State Fair was an accomplishment in itself, making the win even sweeter for Addie. She plans to use the money raised in the Governor’s Sale of Champions to go towards a college fund.

Kevin Carey’s Crossbred steer took Reserve honors for the 2009 Illinois State Fair. Kevin is the 18-year-old son of Tim and Belinda Carey of rural Kinsman, Ill. At Seneca High School, he served as both a section and chapter FFA officer, was Class President for four years and was very involved in theatre productions and musicals. He will be a freshman at Illinois Wesleyan University in the fall, studying political science.

“I’m exhausted, but this is extraordinarily wonderful. I couldn’t have placed second to a better person,” Kevin said. His steer, Sparky, was named the Grand Champion Steer at the 2008 Illinois State Fair. He has been showing since he was ten and spent every day over the summer with his cattle.
“They become your best friends,” he said.

The Land of Lincoln Grand Champion steer was a Hereford shown by 12-year-old Bradi Branyan of Assumption, Ill. in Shelby County. Taking Reserve Land of Lincoln honors was 19-year-old Emily Butcher’s Angus steer. Emily is from Blue Mound, Ill. in Sangamon County.

SPRINGFIELD– Enrollment Services and the Bookstore at Lincoln Land Community College’s main campus are open extended hours for fall registration and book buying.

Registration, Admissions, Placement Testing, Advising and Counseling and Financial Aid offices are now open Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to noon. These hours are in effect through Aug. 28.

The LLCC Bookstore is open Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to noon through Aug. 22. The following week, Aug. 24-29, the Bookstore will be open Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – noon. Online orders are accepted 24 hours a day at http://bookstore.llcc.edu/ with orders processed Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Fall classes begin Aug. 22.

Governor Pat Quinn says he will meet with AFSCME officials Monday to discuss furlough days for state employees.

Many state workers have already been told they will have to take 12 furlough days, which means a day without pay, over the next year. So far, that only applies to non-union employees, but the governor is hoping AFSCME will agree to the idea as well.

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Those taking furlough days can spread them out so the cut in pay doesn’t hit them so hard. They can even take them in half-day increments.