Bertinetti Anti-Annexation Group Takes Legislative Avenue; Teams Up With Bill Mitchell
10/10/2009
(Bertinetti Lake) As the city of Taylorville continues to ponder whether or not to annex Bertinetti Lake, the Bertinetti Anti-Annexation Group has the new found backing of an area legislator. The group has called upon 87th District State Representative Bill Mitchell to draft legislation that would prevent the city of Taylorville, and any other city in the state, from annexing a property unless certain city services are provided. The group’s leader Ed Salisbury introduced Mitchell to an overwhelming crowd of Bertinetti residents Saturday morning, inside a packed residential garage on Brantley Court (Bertinetti Lake). For nearly an hour and a half, the enthusiastic crowd expressed their concerns and frustrations to Mitchell, as well as brainstormed ideas for what the legislation should include. Mitchell says the current state law on annexations is inadequate, and after numerous telephone conversations with Salisbury and other Bertinetti residents, he decided to team up with the group in an effort to get the law changed.
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Many residents in attendance told Mitchell that the city of Taylorville has no intentions of providing the subdivision with sewer services, and other basic residential services anytime soon. Others also expressed distress about the city being unable to provide adequate fire protection. Now that the group is pursuing legislative avenues, some residents are worried that the city will become motivated to speed up the annexation process. After hearing the concerns of the Bertinetti crowd, Mitchell says he walked away from the meeting Saturday morning with a solid understanding of what his proposed legislation needs to look like.
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Mitchell told the crowd that the proposed legislation should be in writing by next weekend. Ed Salisbury has discussed the Bertinetti situation with a number of other area legislators. Salisbury says those legislators are astonished when he tells them the city of Taylorville would annex without guaranteeing basic residential services.
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Salisbury says other legislators have expressed a desire to get on board with the efforts of Mitchell and the Bertinetti Anti-Annexation Group. Although Mitchell plans to have the legislation in writing by next week, it will have to go through a lengthy process that could prevent it from becoming law until next spring at the earliest.
The Taylorville city council has a committee of the whole meeting scheduled for Tuesday at 6 pm in the council chambers to discuss the possible annexation. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton has stated that meeting will not be open for public input.
PICTURED ABOVE (IN ORDER): BERTINETTI CROWD, REPRESENTATIVE BILL MITCHELL, GROUP LEADER ED SALISBURY
Flider Holds Utility Advisory Committee Meeting
10/10/2009
State Representative Bob Flider (D-Mt. Zion) called on his Utility Advisory Committee as well as all area residents at his Utility Advisory Committee meeting Wednesday to get involved by passing petitions and submitting testimony to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to fight the latest request by Ameren for a rate increase.
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Flider has been a strong advocate for utility reform in an effort to reduce utility rates. He has been passing petitions since June against the latest request for a rate increase. He also sponsored legislation that created the Illinois Power Authority, changing the way utility companies buy and sell power, which resulted this year in an 8% reduction in wholesale electric rates for Ameren customers in Central Illinois. Additionally, at Flider’s request, the ICC has agreed to hold a hearing for Decatur residents at the Decatur Public Library, 130 N. Franklin St in Decatur on November 2nd at 6:00 p.m. to allow them to express their concerns with another utility rate increase.
For more information on Flider’s Utility Advisory Committee, to get involved and pass petitions, or aboutthe ICC hearing in Decatur, please contact Rep. Flider’s constituent services office at (217) 428-2708.
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Flider has been a strong advocate for utility reform in an effort to reduce utility rates. He has been passing petitions since June against the latest request for a rate increase. He also sponsored legislation that created the Illinois Power Authority, changing the way utility companies buy and sell power, which resulted this year in an 8% reduction in wholesale electric rates for Ameren customers in Central Illinois. Additionally, at Flider’s request, the ICC has agreed to hold a hearing for Decatur residents at the Decatur Public Library, 130 N. Franklin St in Decatur on November 2nd at 6:00 p.m. to allow them to express their concerns with another utility rate increase.
For more information on Flider’s Utility Advisory Committee, to get involved and pass petitions, or aboutthe ICC hearing in Decatur, please contact Rep. Flider’s constituent services office at (217) 428-2708.
Despite Cool and Wet Summer, Illinois Remains Rich With Pumpkins
10/10/2009
Illinois is a leader when it comes to pumpkins, and an expert at the University of Illinois says this year’s crop is looking pretty good.
The cool, wet summer has hit east coast pumpkin crops hard, but that’s not the case here says U of I plant pathologist Mohammad Babadoost. He says Illinois remains a leader in producing both processing and Halloween pumpkins for the 2009 season, although farmers are running a bit late in getting them out of the fields.
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That’s a record number of processing pumpkins produced and a record number of acres devoted to pumpkin growing in Illinois. Babadoost says the shortage of canned pumpkin on store shelves should be over soon, as this year’s crop is processed and sent out.
The cool, wet summer has hit east coast pumpkin crops hard, but that’s not the case here says U of I plant pathologist Mohammad Babadoost. He says Illinois remains a leader in producing both processing and Halloween pumpkins for the 2009 season, although farmers are running a bit late in getting them out of the fields.
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That’s a record number of processing pumpkins produced and a record number of acres devoted to pumpkin growing in Illinois. Babadoost says the shortage of canned pumpkin on store shelves should be over soon, as this year’s crop is processed and sent out.
Fall Trout Fishing Season Set To Kick Off
10/10/2009
Fall trout fishing season begins next weekend in Illinois.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says the fall trout season begins Saturday, October 17th, at 37 ponds and lakes throughout the state. IDNR fisheries chief Steve Pallo says it’s a very popular pastime.
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Pallo says fishing sites have been stocked with more than 70 thousand trout. For more information, visit the website: ifishillinois.org.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says the fall trout season begins Saturday, October 17th, at 37 ponds and lakes throughout the state. IDNR fisheries chief Steve Pallo says it’s a very popular pastime.
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Pallo says fishing sites have been stocked with more than 70 thousand trout. For more information, visit the website: ifishillinois.org.
Health Department Finalizing Flu-Shot Plans
10/09/2009
The Christian County Health Department is still finalizing plans to order their first shipment of H1N1 vaccinations. While shipments of the vaccine have arrived to some parts of the state already, County Health Director Gerry Grigsby says they likely won’t be available in Christian County for another week or two. Currently, only the nasal spray form of the vaccine is available, with the injection to be made available next week. Grigsby says she expects the Health Department to receive shipments of both.
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When the flu shots do arrive, the Center for Disease Control mandates they be made available to ‘at-risk’ citizens, before the general public can get vaccinated.
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For more information on the availability of the h1n1 vaccine in Christian County, call the health department at 824-4113.
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When the flu shots do arrive, the Center for Disease Control mandates they be made available to ‘at-risk’ citizens, before the general public can get vaccinated.
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For more information on the availability of the h1n1 vaccine in Christian County, call the health department at 824-4113.
Ameren Extends Non-Profit Rate Relief Program
10/09/2009
The Ameren Illinois Utilities announced they are extending the application deadline for an electric rate relief program that provides assistance of up to $5,000 to individual non-profit and other qualified organizations that have experienced financial hardships due to the higher cost of electricity. Assistance is available to small independently owned and operated businesses that have 50 or fewer employees and have their principal office in Illinois.Ameren Spokesperson Leigh Morris explains applications to the Non-Residential Hardship Fund, which is being administered by the Energy Assistance Foundation, must be submitted no later than Oct. 16.
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Applications may be completed online by visiting the Ameren Web site www.ameren.com and selecting “IL Rate Relief Programs, ” or at the web site ActOnEnergy.com.
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Again AmerenCILCO and AmerenCIPS customers can call – 1-866-629-2318 and AmerenIP customers can call – 1-800-287-8349. Funding for the Non-Residential Hardship Fund was established as part of the comprehensive legislative rate relief settlement.
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Applications may be completed online by visiting the Ameren Web site www.ameren.com and selecting “IL Rate Relief Programs, ” or at the web site ActOnEnergy.com.
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Again AmerenCILCO and AmerenCIPS customers can call – 1-866-629-2318 and AmerenIP customers can call – 1-800-287-8349. Funding for the Non-Residential Hardship Fund was established as part of the comprehensive legislative rate relief settlement.
Letterly: Farmers Look To Make Up For Lost Harvest Time
10/09/2009
Central Illinois Farmers continue to fall further behind their harvest schedules, as another round of heavy rains drenched much of the Regional Radio listening area Thursday. After this spring’s historically late planting season followed by a cooler than normal summer, corn and beans were already struggling to reach maturity. U of I Extension Christian County Natural Resources Educator Gary Letterly says harvest is underway in some parts of the county, but he expects farmers to continue struggling with weather issues into the weekend.
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Letterly says its possible for harvest to begin in earnest for area farmers by the end of next week, and feels that a lot a ground can be made up in a short amount of time, provided mother nature cooperates.
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As of the end of last week, 5 percent of Illinois corn fields were reported harvested- while only 6 percent of Illinois soybeans were reported harvest, both well behind the state’s five year averages for this time of year.
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Letterly says its possible for harvest to begin in earnest for area farmers by the end of next week, and feels that a lot a ground can be made up in a short amount of time, provided mother nature cooperates.
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As of the end of last week, 5 percent of Illinois corn fields were reported harvested- while only 6 percent of Illinois soybeans were reported harvest, both well behind the state’s five year averages for this time of year.
Fives Oaks Landfill Celebrates Energy Awareness Month
10/09/2009
Waste Management’s Five Oaks Disposal Facility is celebrating Energy Awareness Month and the clean renewable power it generates for the Christian County community.
Five Oaks helps to power the community by generating 3.2 megawatts of electricity from decomposing wastes. Waste Management’s landfill-gas-to-energy facilities collect methane and use it to fuel engines that generate electricity for the community. Waste Management Environmental Engineer Dan Erni (Ernie) say the facility processes up to 1,200 cubic feet per minute of landfill gas and provides the electrical energy consumed by approximately 2,500 homes. It’s the energy equivalent of more than 12,700 tons of coal a year.
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Erni says Five Oaks also uses its landfill gas-to-energy facility to heat water, which is conveyed to the adjacent Buckley Growers Illinois greenhouse. The heated water helps Buckley maintain its greenhouse environment for growing flowers and to reduce their energy costs.
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The 213-acre Five Oaks disposal facility, 890 E 1500 North Road, Taylorville, opened in 1978 and has been operated by Waste Management since 1992. The Company has 11 landfill-gas-to-energy facilities in Illinois.
Five Oaks helps to power the community by generating 3.2 megawatts of electricity from decomposing wastes. Waste Management’s landfill-gas-to-energy facilities collect methane and use it to fuel engines that generate electricity for the community. Waste Management Environmental Engineer Dan Erni (Ernie) say the facility processes up to 1,200 cubic feet per minute of landfill gas and provides the electrical energy consumed by approximately 2,500 homes. It’s the energy equivalent of more than 12,700 tons of coal a year.
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Erni says Five Oaks also uses its landfill gas-to-energy facility to heat water, which is conveyed to the adjacent Buckley Growers Illinois greenhouse. The heated water helps Buckley maintain its greenhouse environment for growing flowers and to reduce their energy costs.
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The 213-acre Five Oaks disposal facility, 890 E 1500 North Road, Taylorville, opened in 1978 and has been operated by Waste Management since 1992. The Company has 11 landfill-gas-to-energy facilities in Illinois.
Nursing Home Task Force To Evaluate Mentally Ill Patients
10/09/2009
Governor Pat Quinn’s nursing home task force held its first meeting this week, in hopes of making nursing homes in Illinois safer for their residents.
Not only do nursing homes house the elderly, but also some mentally ill patients. The Chicago Tribune recently reported that Illinois has highest number of mentally ill adults under the age of 65 living in nursing homes in the country. The paper found many of them have a criminal history, and are a danger to other residents. The task force is looking into what can be done about that says the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Jerry Stermer.
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The group is discussing other places for the mentally ill to live, more thorough background checks for those with a criminal record, and staffing needs. They will meet again later this month.
Not only do nursing homes house the elderly, but also some mentally ill patients. The Chicago Tribune recently reported that Illinois has highest number of mentally ill adults under the age of 65 living in nursing homes in the country. The paper found many of them have a criminal history, and are a danger to other residents. The task force is looking into what can be done about that says the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Jerry Stermer.
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The group is discussing other places for the mentally ill to live, more thorough background checks for those with a criminal record, and staffing needs. They will meet again later this month.
South Fork Classes Canceled after H1N1 Confirmation
10/08/2009
Students in the South Fork School District were ordered to stay home from school today, after the Christian County Health Department confirmed that a student had contracted the H-1-N-1 virus. South Fork School’s superintendent Bob Pritchett says the administration made the decision to close the High School, Jr. High and elementary school based on the information received from the Health Department Wednesday, along with a nearly 25% student absentee rate Wednesday. School will be closed Friday as well for a Teachers In-Service day, and Monday for the Columbus Day holiday. Pritchett says he hopes to re-open for classes Tuesday. High School Volleyball and Jr. High Basketball games for tonight have been canceled as well. As of now, tomorrow night High School Football game will proceed as scheduled. The South Fork School district includes Kincaid, Tovey, Bulpitt and Jeiseyville.
Demuzio, Shimkus Applaud City Water Upgrades
10/08/2009
State and Federal lawmakers are applauding Taylorville City Leaders for their efforts in securing federal stimulus funds to pay for part of a 4.8 million dollar water tower project. Forty Ninth District State Senator Deanna Demuzio was on hand for the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new water tower earlier this week, and said the 1.5 million gallon water storage tank to be constructed just north of Taylorville High School, along with new water transmission mains will provide growth opportunities for the city.
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Appearing at the groundbreaking on behalf of nineteenth district Illinois Congressman John Shimkus, Rodney Davis praised the state of Illinois for finding a way to cut through some red tap to allow Taylorville to take advantage of a no interest loan through the State’s Environmental Protection Agency, which includes 25% principle forgiveness.
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The water transmission mains are expected to be completed by May of 2010, with the Water tank’s completion to follow in October of next year.
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Appearing at the groundbreaking on behalf of nineteenth district Illinois Congressman John Shimkus, Rodney Davis praised the state of Illinois for finding a way to cut through some red tap to allow Taylorville to take advantage of a no interest loan through the State’s Environmental Protection Agency, which includes 25% principle forgiveness.
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The water transmission mains are expected to be completed by May of 2010, with the Water tank’s completion to follow in October of next year.
Mayor: Bertinetti Attorney Rates Are Reasonable
10/08/2009
Following the backlash from some members of the community against the Taylorville city council’s decision to hire a consultant to assist in the possible annexation of Bertinetti subdivision homes in the city, Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton is asking residents to keep things in perspective. The city retained the services of Chicago attorney Stewart Diamond of the law firm ‘Ancel, Glink’ to work out potential kinks in the plan and protect the city in the event of a lawsuit from citizens against the annexation at the rate of 250 dollars per hour. Brotherton says that may sound high, but compared to other attorney’s, he says it’s actually a reasonable rate.
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For now, Diamond will serve as a ‘consultant’ on the annexation issue, but should the need arise could provide legal counsel to the city. Brotherton says city attorney David Fines couldn’t represent the city on that particular issue in court, since it could create a conflict of interest among his Bertinetti Clients.
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A public meeting on the issue is scheduled for next Tuesday at 6pm in the City Council Chambers. Diamond is expected to be in attendance for that meeting.
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For now, Diamond will serve as a ‘consultant’ on the annexation issue, but should the need arise could provide legal counsel to the city. Brotherton says city attorney David Fines couldn’t represent the city on that particular issue in court, since it could create a conflict of interest among his Bertinetti Clients.
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A public meeting on the issue is scheduled for next Tuesday at 6pm in the City Council Chambers. Diamond is expected to be in attendance for that meeting.
Senior Center To Hold 'Community Appreciation Lunch'
10/08/2009
The Senior Citizens of Christian County Senior Centers will celebrate the folks they have been working with for more than 30 years with a ‘Community Appreciation Lunch’ Friday from 11:30 until 1 at the Senior Center at 701 West Adams in Taylorville. The Free lunch is open to everyone in the community, and will feature hamburgers and hot dogs with all the fixings. Senior Center Executive Director John Heldman says this is a good opportunity to thank the people that have supported them over the years.
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Heldman says the generosity of businesses and people in the community has allowed the Senior Center to flourish over the past three decades.
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Again the Senior Citizens of Christian County Community Appreciation Lunch is scheduled for Friday from 11:30 until 1pm at the Senior Center in Taylorville, and folks wishing to attend are asked to call ahead at 824-4263. There will be no Golden Circle Nutrition Lunch Program meal served at the Senior Center that day, but home deliveries will be made as scheduled.
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Heldman says the generosity of businesses and people in the community has allowed the Senior Center to flourish over the past three decades.
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Again the Senior Citizens of Christian County Community Appreciation Lunch is scheduled for Friday from 11:30 until 1pm at the Senior Center in Taylorville, and folks wishing to attend are asked to call ahead at 824-4263. There will be no Golden Circle Nutrition Lunch Program meal served at the Senior Center that day, but home deliveries will be made as scheduled.
State To Deny Hunting Permits To Deadbeat Parents
10/08/2009
For the third year in a row, the state is going after outdoors enthusiasts who haven’t kept up with their child support payments.
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services spokesperson Annie Thompson says they are able to cross check the names of those applying for a hunting and fishing license, with a list of deadbeat parents. Those identified risk not getting that license.
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Thompson reminds the state offers free help to parents who aren’t getting the court ordered child support they are owed. For more information, visit the website, i l child support dot com.
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services spokesperson Annie Thompson says they are able to cross check the names of those applying for a hunting and fishing license, with a list of deadbeat parents. Those identified risk not getting that license.
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Thompson reminds the state offers free help to parents who aren’t getting the court ordered child support they are owed. For more information, visit the website, i l child support dot com.
Crop Report: Cool, Wet Conditions Delay Harvest
10/08/2009
Temperatures averaging seven degrees below normal last week, combined with damp conditions were an unwelcome sign for Illinois farmers, as they did little to advance crop maturity, keeping most harvest equipment parked for the duration. As USDA Chief State Crop Statistician Brad Schwab tells us in this week’s crop report, nearly half of the state’s corn crop is mature, but that trails the recent historical average for this time of year by a wide margin.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune in for weekly crop reports during Regional Radio Newscasts and on Taylorville daily news dot com through the end of Harvest.
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Brad Schwab Reporting. Tune in for weekly crop reports during Regional Radio Newscasts and on Taylorville daily news dot com through the end of Harvest.
McCarter Announces Bid To Retain State Senate Seat
10/07/2009
He will technically be the incumbent when his name appears on the ballot next year, but 51st District State Senator Kyle McCarter has announced the kickoff of his first ever campaign to serve in the Statehouse. The Lebanon Republican was appointed to the Senate in February, after health reasons forced longtime 51st District seat holder Frank Watson to retire. McCarter launched the bid to retain his seat during stops in Decatur, Vandalia, Greenville and Highland this week, but says he feels his campaign started the day he assumed his current position.
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Among the top priorities for McCarter is helping to turn around the state’s struggling economy, he says the only way to achieve that is through job creation.
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McCarter is currently the only candidate so far to announce intentions to run for the 51st District Senate Seat. The district encompasses all or part of nine counties: Bond, Clinton, Effingham, Fayette, Macon, Madison, Moultrie, Shelby and St. Clair.
Chillifest Committee Holds Final Meeting
10/07/2009
The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest Committee held its final meeting before its event on the square October 17th and 18th, at the Chamber board room Monday afternoon. Sub committee chairs gave their final report before the event, telling Chamber officials that the event is ready to go.
It was announced that the Christian County YMCA would be holding a 3-on-3 basketball tournament sponsored by KMRM Insurance, on Saturday, October 17th, at the Chillifest. Entry details and forms can be obtained at the Christian County YMCA office. Gus Macker rules will apply.
The Chillifest Beautiful Baby Contest is full, but entries are still needed for the pony tail contest. There's no entry fee, and entry forms are available at the Chamber office or on the Chillifest web site, chillifest (with 2-L's)-dot-info.
Chillifest co-chair Kevin Flynn told Regional Radio News that it's the subcommittee chairs and volunteers, that make the event so successful.
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Again, complete details on the event, including the schedule for the 2 days, is available on-line at chillifest (with 2-L's)-dot-info.
Regional Radio will provide complete coverage of the event both days on all 3 stations, plus there'll be complete coverage on taylorvilledailynews.com.
It was announced that the Christian County YMCA would be holding a 3-on-3 basketball tournament sponsored by KMRM Insurance, on Saturday, October 17th, at the Chillifest. Entry details and forms can be obtained at the Christian County YMCA office. Gus Macker rules will apply.
The Chillifest Beautiful Baby Contest is full, but entries are still needed for the pony tail contest. There's no entry fee, and entry forms are available at the Chamber office or on the Chillifest web site, chillifest (with 2-L's)-dot-info.
Chillifest co-chair Kevin Flynn told Regional Radio News that it's the subcommittee chairs and volunteers, that make the event so successful.
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Again, complete details on the event, including the schedule for the 2 days, is available on-line at chillifest (with 2-L's)-dot-info.
Regional Radio will provide complete coverage of the event both days on all 3 stations, plus there'll be complete coverage on taylorvilledailynews.com.
Fayette Co. State's Attorney Friedel Enters Judge Race
10/07/2009
Fayette County State's Attorney Steve Friedel recently announced that he's running to fill John Coady's vacancy as judge for the fourth judicial district. Friedel is the 1st third-term States Attorney Fayette County's had in nearly fifty years. The self-proclaimed life long democrat says he has more experience then his opponents, Taylorville attorney Michelle Coady and Christian County States Attorney Tom Finks.
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Friedel says he specializes in juvenile law.
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Friedel believes drug problems, specifically with methamphetamine, are the biggest issue facing the district right now. Friedel says he's seen first hand what drugs can do to people and their families.
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Prior to taking over as the States Attorney in Fayette County, Friedel was an assistant States Attorney in Shelby County for four years. The 4th judicial district includes Christian, Montgomery, Effingham, Shelby, Fayette, Clay, Clinton and Marion counties.
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Friedel says he specializes in juvenile law.
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Friedel believes drug problems, specifically with methamphetamine, are the biggest issue facing the district right now. Friedel says he's seen first hand what drugs can do to people and their families.
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Prior to taking over as the States Attorney in Fayette County, Friedel was an assistant States Attorney in Shelby County for four years. The 4th judicial district includes Christian, Montgomery, Effingham, Shelby, Fayette, Clay, Clinton and Marion counties.
Council On Board With Jackson; Wiseman
10/07/2009
The Taylorville city council approved Mayor Greg Brotherton's recommendation to permanently hire Dick Wiseman as the Street and Sewer Superintendent, and Alan Jackson as the Lake Superintendent. The two were sworn in during the city council meeting Monday night. Before unanimously voting to retain Jackson and Wiseman, aldermen offered up praise for their work over the past ninety days as temporary superintendents. Alderman Bruce Jones told the council that Jackson and Wiseman have done a great job since taking over for the recently retired public works superintendent Rocky Moore.
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Lake/Airport Committee Chairman Martin Vota was 100% on board with hiring Jackson.
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Street/Sewer Committee Chairman Earl Walters told the council that the committee is making positive strides under the expertise of Wiseman.
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Under the Frank Mathon administration, the two jobs were combined for the first time ever to form the position of a public works superintendent. Following the retirement of Public Works Superintendent Rocky Moore earlier this year, Mayor Brotherton decided to split the position back into two. Jackson and Wiseman have been at the helm ever since.
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Lake/Airport Committee Chairman Martin Vota was 100% on board with hiring Jackson.
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Street/Sewer Committee Chairman Earl Walters told the council that the committee is making positive strides under the expertise of Wiseman.
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Under the Frank Mathon administration, the two jobs were combined for the first time ever to form the position of a public works superintendent. Following the retirement of Public Works Superintendent Rocky Moore earlier this year, Mayor Brotherton decided to split the position back into two. Jackson and Wiseman have been at the helm ever since.
Kiwanis Holds Business Meeting; Inducts New Member
10/07/2009
-The Taylorville Kiwanis Club held its monthly business meeting, and inducted a new member, at their weekly meeting today (Tuesday) at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Various committee chairs reported on what they're doing for the local Kiwanis Club to benefit children and youth in the Taylorville community.
Treasurer Dan Sneed reported that last weekend's annual Peanut Days fund-raiser on the streets of Taylorville, netted the club some 43-hundred dollars to go toward local projects for local children.
Sneed added that all told, in the local Kiwanis year that ended September 30th, the local club put just over 33-thousand dollars back into local projects for children and youth, including Kiwanis Park, Coats for Kids, high school scholarships, and the YMCA.
Kiwanis Park chairman Jerry Woodard commended the club for its efforts to complete the new restrooms at the park. The building cost some 23-thousand dollars to build, plus had a lot of donated materials and labor. Joe Twambley, the manager of the Taylorville Wal-Mart Super Center, and Kevin Flynn of Pepsi, were present at today's (Tuesday's) meeting and were honored for their contributions to helping raise funds for the new Kiwanis Park restrooms.
Rick Mazzotti of Taylorville, was also inducted as the newest member of the club, during today's (Tuesday's) meeting.
2 other guests attended today's (Tuesday's) Taylorville Kiwanis Club meeting.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization 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.
Hynes: State's Bills Piling Up
10/07/2009
Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes says the state's fiscal picture is pretty grim right now.
According to Hynes, revenue is down, and the bills are piling up. He says the nearly three billion dollar backlog of unpaid bills in his office is affecting people throughout Illinois.
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Hynes says many vendors who are getting paid have to wait a record 61 business days for the money. To address the growing problem, he says more budget cuts are necessary, and a new revenue source must be identified.
According to Hynes, revenue is down, and the bills are piling up. He says the nearly three billion dollar backlog of unpaid bills in his office is affecting people throughout Illinois.
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Hynes says many vendors who are getting paid have to wait a record 61 business days for the money. To address the growing problem, he says more budget cuts are necessary, and a new revenue source must be identified.
Most 09' New Car Purchases Qualify For Tax Breaks
10/07/2009
In addition to the well publicized first time homebuyer tax credit, anyone who bought a new car this year, is also eligible for a tax credit. Laurie Henry of H & R Block in Taylorville explains that even those who took advantage of the Cash For Clunkers program can cash in on the tax break.
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Henry explains the rebate will not require a special tax form, and any 'cash for clunker' rebate money is taxable to the dealer, not the buyer.
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This wraps up our series with Laurie Henry examining changes in this year's tax code. All three parts of the series can be found on Taylorville Daily News dot com.
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Henry explains the rebate will not require a special tax form, and any 'cash for clunker' rebate money is taxable to the dealer, not the buyer.
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This wraps up our series with Laurie Henry examining changes in this year's tax code. All three parts of the series can be found on Taylorville Daily News dot com.
Firefighters Douse Lakeside Blaze
10/06/2009
A fire broke out on Lake Taylorville late Sunday evening. Taylorville fire fighters arrived at lake lot 237 just past Gilpins Road around 10:45 pm, to find a camper fully engulfed in flames. Just over an hour later the fire was extinguished, and the scene was cleared. No injuries were reported.
Woman Hospitalized In Taylorville Crash
10/06/2009
A 62 year old Taylorville woman was hospitalized after a crash in Taylorville Sunday evening. According to the Taylorville Police Department, Joeann A Washburn was headed north on Shumway when she told police she hit a parked car while moving over to avoid another vehicle coming from the south. Washburn recieved treatment at Taylorville Memorial Hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
City To Bring In Bertinetti Consultant; Retains Temporary Supers
10/06/2009
Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the Bertinetti Annexation is an issue that could tear the city apart, which is why city officials are deciding to bring in an outside party to consult them on the matter. After a lengthy back and forth discussion during their monthly meeting (Monday night), the city council unanimously agreed to retain the legal services of Stewart H. Diamond for consulting purposes on the controversial issue. Diamond is a member of the Chicago-based law firm Ancel, Glink. Concerns over travel fees sparked an extensive debate, as aldermen argued whether or not Diamond’s rate of 250 dollars per hour was too expensive. Brotherton told the council that they could find cheaper consultants if they wanted to, but that Diamond is the most qualified man for the job.
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Diamond has been with Ancel, Glink and its predecessor law firms since 1967. Alderman Earl Walters gave Diamond a ringing endorsement, and told the council that the Ancel, Glink law firm ‘wrote the book on annexations’.
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The council hopes to have Diamond in attendance for an open session meeting that’s scheduled for next Tuesday (October 13th). Brotherton announced that the meeting would not be open for public input.
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Brotherton says all informational documents surrounding the possible annexation will be mailed out to Diamond for his analysis today (Tuesday). The open meeting will take place next Tuesday at 6 pm in the council chambers.
In other business the council approved the Mayor’s recommendations to permanently hire Dick Wiseman as the Street and Sewer Superintendent, and Alan Jackson as the Lake Superintendent. Wiseman and Jackson were previously serving as temporary superintendents during the past ninety days. The two received praise from Alderman Shawn Burtle, Martin Vota, Bruce Jones, and others for their work over the past three months. After a unanimous vote, Wiseman and Jackson were sworn in to their positions, with their family on hand. The two will receive a salary of just over 52,000 dollars.
Pictured: City Clerk Pam Peabody swears in City Street and Sewer Department Superintendent to his permanent position.
Shelbyville High Takes Crown At 'Eco-Meet' Competition
10/06/2009
Lake Shelbyville hosted the 33rd Annual Eco-Meet Competition at Camp Camfield environmental study area last Friday. The Eco-Meet is an environmental competition for students that are in junior high and high school. As Lake Shelbyville Park Ranger Pam Doty explains, each team consisted of four students, and overall a total of 124 students from twenty-one schools competed. Doty says Shelbyville High School took home first place in the varsity division.
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Doty says the competition touches on environmental issues and safety awareness.
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Doty says those who took part in the competition had the opportunity to interact with Lake Land college students and park rangers.
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Lake Shelbyville Operations Manager Ricky Raymond and St. Louis District’s Lieutenant Colonel Bayham presented the top three teams in each division with plaques. The event was coordinated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Doty says the competition touches on environmental issues and safety awareness.
Click here for audio
Doty says those who took part in the competition had the opportunity to interact with Lake Land college students and park rangers.
Click here for audio
Lake Shelbyville Operations Manager Ricky Raymond and St. Louis District’s Lieutenant Colonel Bayham presented the top three teams in each division with plaques. The event was coordinated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
License Renewal Fee Hike To Take Effect Next Week
10/06/2009
It’s soon going to cost more to renew your driver’s license in Illinois.
A number of fees were raised to help pay for the capital construction plan approved by lawmakers and the governor earlier this year. Secretary of State spokesperson Henry Haupt says that includes the charge for renewing your driver’s license.
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That’s the first increase in the renewal fee since 1983. Since the 11th is a Sunday, and Monday is a state holiday, the hike will actually go into effect on October 13th. The vehicle registration fee in Illinois will rise from 79 dollars to 99 starting in January, also to help fund the capital plan.
A number of fees were raised to help pay for the capital construction plan approved by lawmakers and the governor earlier this year. Secretary of State spokesperson Henry Haupt says that includes the charge for renewing your driver’s license.
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That’s the first increase in the renewal fee since 1983. Since the 11th is a Sunday, and Monday is a state holiday, the hike will actually go into effect on October 13th. The vehicle registration fee in Illinois will rise from 79 dollars to 99 starting in January, also to help fund the capital plan.
Local Events Planned During National 4-H Week
10/06/2009
Sunday marked the beginning of national 4-H week, as NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon raced around Kansas Speedway with the infamous 4-H clover logo embedded on his car. The Christian County 4-H club has a full slate of activities planned in the coming days. First up on the agenda is a 4-H federation dinner on Wednesday. Heberling says during the dinner, the federation will finalize plans for an upcoming trip to Minooka, in which 4-H members will attend a Civil War re-enactment.
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Thursday is national science experiment day. 4-H members will conduct a bio fuel blast experiment. Heberling says the experiment will bring 4-H’ers from all over the country together.
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Heberling says the special week culminates with 4-H Achievement Night on Saturday.
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For more information about 4-H activities throughout the county this week, call the Christian County Extension office at 287-7246.
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Thursday is national science experiment day. 4-H members will conduct a bio fuel blast experiment. Heberling says the experiment will bring 4-H’ers from all over the country together.
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Heberling says the special week culminates with 4-H Achievement Night on Saturday.
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For more information about 4-H activities throughout the county this week, call the Christian County Extension office at 287-7246.
Green Upgrades Could Mean Tax Rebates
10/06/2009
If buying a new home is not in the cards for you this year, and you’re disappointed about not qualifying for the first time homebuyer’s tax credit, there is still a way you can save on your tax bill, without having to call a moving van. Current homeowners can qualify for tax credits by making their homes more energy efficient by upgrading insulation, doors and windows and other energy saving materials. Laurie Henry of H&R Block in Taylorville says this could save you 30 percent of the cost of your improvements, up to 15 hundred dollars.
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Additionally, Henry says there is no cap on the amount of tax credit you can earn by upgrading with geo-thermal, solar, or wind powered energy systems.
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A list of qualifying energy saving upgrades is available at the website, energystar.gov. This is the second installment in a series examining tax code changes for 2009. Tune in for more tips during Regional Radio Newscasts and on taylorvilledailynews.com throughout this week.
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Additionally, Henry says there is no cap on the amount of tax credit you can earn by upgrading with geo-thermal, solar, or wind powered energy systems.
Click here for audio
A list of qualifying energy saving upgrades is available at the website, energystar.gov. This is the second installment in a series examining tax code changes for 2009. Tune in for more tips during Regional Radio Newscasts and on taylorvilledailynews.com throughout this week.
Boil Order Notice
10/05/2009
As of 5:35 pm Monday, Kincaid, Bullpit, and Jeiseyville are under a boil order until further notice.
Dual Groundbreakings Set Table For City Sewer; Water Upgrades
10/05/2009
Two ceremonial groundbreakings got infrastructure upgrade projects underway in Taylorville Monday. City Officials and residents first gathered this morning at the corner of Powers and Adams Street, as they kicked off the storm and sewer water separation project, that aims to alleviate standing water problems that have hampered the area of the city for decades. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton says the project, which is slated to cost about a half million dollars, will be funded by increased tax dollars garnered by the sales tax referendum passed earlier this year.
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A short time later (Monday Morning) city officials welcomed representatives from Benton and Associates engineering firm, as well as elected officials serving the area at the state level, as they turned dirt for the first time on the new 1.5 million gallon water tower to be constructed just north of Taylorville High School. Brotherton says the city was a benefactor of stimulus funds to help fund the 4.8 million dollar project, with the rest coming from State Environment Protection Agency low interest loans.
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Brotherton says he isn’t sure of the time table for the completion of the Powers Street, storm and sewer separation project, while the new water tank is expected to be completed by October of next year.
'First Time' Tax Credit Confusing For Some
10/05/2009
The calendar may only say October, but many area residents are already looking forward to, or least thinking about, tax season. There have been several changes to this year’s tax laws says Laurie Henry of H & R Block in Taylorville. None bigger, and perhaps none more confusing than the first time homebuyers tax credit.
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Henry says homeowners can either file for their tax credit when they buy the home, or wait until filing your regular tax return next year.
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This is the first of a three part series with Laurie Henry, focusing on various aspects of 2009 tax law changes. They will air during Regional Radio newscasts and appear on Taylorville Daily News dot com.
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Henry says homeowners can either file for their tax credit when they buy the home, or wait until filing your regular tax return next year.
Click here for audio
This is the first of a three part series with Laurie Henry, focusing on various aspects of 2009 tax law changes. They will air during Regional Radio newscasts and appear on Taylorville Daily News dot com.
Brotherton Hopes To Ease 'NIMBY' Water Plant Concerns
10/05/2009
Just over a week ago, the city of Taylorville purchased 24 acres of the foreclosed Lincoln Trail Golf Course, which conveniently sits across from the city water plant. Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton recently toured the water facility on Lincoln Trail road, and determined that it was in need of an expansion or relocation. Given the situation of the current plant and the location of the foreclosed property, Brotherton says the purchase was a ‘no brainer’.
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Residents in the vicinity of Lincoln Trail have expressed concern over having a plant in their backyards. Brotherton says if the city decides to build on the property, they’ll do it the right way.
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As Brotherton alluded to, an unnamed party has apparently purchased the rest of the foreclosed golf course. Brotherton says he’d be in favor of opening up a hotel on the property.
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The city purchased the land for 240,000 dollars, or 10,000 dollars per acre. Brotherton calls the purchase an ‘incredible buy’. The city now awaits cost and design studies. City officials estimate that possible construction would not begin until 2020 at the earliest.
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Residents in the vicinity of Lincoln Trail have expressed concern over having a plant in their backyards. Brotherton says if the city decides to build on the property, they’ll do it the right way.
Click here for audio
As Brotherton alluded to, an unnamed party has apparently purchased the rest of the foreclosed golf course. Brotherton says he’d be in favor of opening up a hotel on the property.
Click here for audio
The city purchased the land for 240,000 dollars, or 10,000 dollars per acre. Brotherton calls the purchase an ‘incredible buy’. The city now awaits cost and design studies. City officials estimate that possible construction would not begin until 2020 at the earliest.
Flider To Hold Anti Rate Increase Meeting
10/05/2009
State Rep. Bob Flider (D-Mt. Zion) will be hosting a meeting of his Utility Advisory Committee, to address Ameren’s latest rate increase request. The meeting will take place this Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at the Decatur Public Library located at 130 N. Franklin Street. Flider says the meeting will contribute to the fight against Ameren’s latest proposal.
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Flider was a sponsor of legislation two years ago that created the Illinois Power Authority, changing the way utility companies buy and sell power, which resulted this year in an 8% reduction in wholesale electric rates for Ameren customers in Central Illinois. Flider is also currently passing petitions that oppose Ameren’s latest request for a rate increase.
For more information on Flider’s Utility Advisory Committee, or on any of Flider's events, please contact his office at (217) 428-2708.
Click here for audio
Flider was a sponsor of legislation two years ago that created the Illinois Power Authority, changing the way utility companies buy and sell power, which resulted this year in an 8% reduction in wholesale electric rates for Ameren customers in Central Illinois. Flider is also currently passing petitions that oppose Ameren’s latest request for a rate increase.
For more information on Flider’s Utility Advisory Committee, or on any of Flider's events, please contact his office at (217) 428-2708.
Smoke Detectors Top Of Mind During Fire Safety Week
10/05/2009
Today kicks off this year’s Fire Prevention Week, which pairs the The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) with local fire departments and other safety advocates nationwide are urging people to Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.
Fire departments responded to an estimated 1.5 million fires in 2008. These fires resulted in 3,320 civilian fire fatalities, 16,705 civilian fire injuries and an estimated $15.5 billion in direct property loss.
Taylorville Fire Protection District Fire Prevention Officer Captain Bob Dunn explains one of the most effective way to prevent home fires is to make sure working smoke detectors are installed properly on each floor of the home.
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This year’s campaign, Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned focuses on ways to prevent fires, and the deaths, injuries, and property loss they cause.
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Eighty-four percent of all fire deaths were caused by home fires. By providing valuable information on fire and burn prevention and safety tips, the campaign aims to help the public keep their homes and the people who live there safe from fire and burns.
Fire departments responded to an estimated 1.5 million fires in 2008. These fires resulted in 3,320 civilian fire fatalities, 16,705 civilian fire injuries and an estimated $15.5 billion in direct property loss.
Taylorville Fire Protection District Fire Prevention Officer Captain Bob Dunn explains one of the most effective way to prevent home fires is to make sure working smoke detectors are installed properly on each floor of the home.
Click here for audio
This year’s campaign, Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned focuses on ways to prevent fires, and the deaths, injuries, and property loss they cause.
Click here for audio
Eighty-four percent of all fire deaths were caused by home fires. By providing valuable information on fire and burn prevention and safety tips, the campaign aims to help the public keep their homes and the people who live there safe from fire and burns.
SUIE Trades Specialist To Hold Taylorville Seminar
10/05/2009
International Trades Specialist Silvia Torres, from the University of Southern Illinois in Edwardsville will be in Taylorville this month to lead an international trades seminar. Torres returns to Taylorville after holding a seminar in May, which was so popular that the Taylorville Chamber of Commerce decided to bring it back. Chamber President/CEO Fred Ronnow says the seminar draws interest from people all over the state.
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Ronnow says we’re in an international era, which is what makes this seminar so relevant.
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The seminar is scheduled for Wednesday October 14th. For more information contact the chamber at 824-4919.
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Ronnow says we’re in an international era, which is what makes this seminar so relevant.
Click here for audio
The seminar is scheduled for Wednesday October 14th. For more information contact the chamber at 824-4919.
Mitchell Backs Rosenthal in House Bid
10/05/2009
Christian County native Wayne Rosenthal is hoping to replace Betsy Hannig as the 98th district state representative. The Republican made his candidacy official last week with a series of campaign kickoff stops in Taylorville, Hillsboro, and Carlinville. During his stop in Taylorville, Rosenthal received a ringing endorsement from 87th district state representative Bill Mitchell.
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During his endorsement, Mitchell described Rosenthal as a ‘down to earth guy’ who will stick up for his area.
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The current 98th district seat is held by Democrat Betsy Hannig, who was appointed by her husband, Gary Hannig, when he left to oversee the Illinois Department of Transportation. Betsy Hannig has yet to announce whether or not she’ll seek a second term.
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During his endorsement, Mitchell described Rosenthal as a ‘down to earth guy’ who will stick up for his area.
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The current 98th district seat is held by Democrat Betsy Hannig, who was appointed by her husband, Gary Hannig, when he left to oversee the Illinois Department of Transportation. Betsy Hannig has yet to announce whether or not she’ll seek a second term.
Deadline Approaching for Little Miss/Mister Chillifest Entries
10/04/2009
(Taylorville) The entry deadline for the “Little Miss” and “Little Mister” contests taking place on Saturday, October 17th, during the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest on the Taylorville square, is Monday, October 5th.
Little Miss and Mister contestants must be 4 years of age by October 17th, but no older than 6 years of age as of October 17th.
A registration fee of 10-dollars is due upon registration, and must also include a picture of the participant.
Contestants must reside in Christian County to participate.
The registration form and related information is available at the Chillifest web site, chillifest (with 2-L’s) dot-info, or by stopping at the Taylorville Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building on the south side of the square.
The registration form, fee and photo, must be submitted to the Chamber office no later than 4pm on Monday, October 5th.
Little Miss and Mister contestants must be 4 years of age by October 17th, but no older than 6 years of age as of October 17th.
A registration fee of 10-dollars is due upon registration, and must also include a picture of the participant.
Contestants must reside in Christian County to participate.
The registration form and related information is available at the Chillifest web site, chillifest (with 2-L’s) dot-info, or by stopping at the Taylorville Chamber office on the 2nd floor of the U-S Bank building on the south side of the square.
The registration form, fee and photo, must be submitted to the Chamber office no later than 4pm on Monday, October 5th.
Public to Discuss Ameren's Rate Increase Request
10/04/2009
At the request of representative Bob Flider, The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) will hold a public rate hearing in Decatur regarding Ameren’s latest request for a utility rate increase. The hearing is scheduled for November 2nd from 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm at the Madden Auditorium of the Decatur Public Library located at 130 N. Franklin St in Decatur. In June, Ameren filed a $226 million gas and electric rate increase request for its Illinois utility customers. To showcase his opposition, Flider is currently passing petitions opposing the latest request.
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For more information about this issue or on any of Rep. Flider’s legislation, or if you would like to help pass petitions on this issue, please contact his office at (217) 428- 2708.
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For more information about this issue or on any of Rep. Flider’s legislation, or if you would like to help pass petitions on this issue, please contact his office at (217) 428- 2708.
School Beating Death Has State Leaders Concerned
10/04/2009
The beating death of a Chicago teen has top officials in Illinois, and across the country, very concerned.
16 year old honors student Derrion Albert got caught up in a street fight after school last week, and was brutally beaten and killed. The fight was caught on video, and shows the horror of the senseless violence striking school children. Governor Pat Quinn was asked by reporters earlier this week what the solution is.
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President Obama is reportedly sending the US attorney general and education secretary to Chicago next week to discuss the situation.
16 year old honors student Derrion Albert got caught up in a street fight after school last week, and was brutally beaten and killed. The fight was caught on video, and shows the horror of the senseless violence striking school children. Governor Pat Quinn was asked by reporters earlier this week what the solution is.
Click here for audio
President Obama is reportedly sending the US attorney general and education secretary to Chicago next week to discuss the situation.
IDNR Says Look Out For Carbon Monoxide
10/04/2009
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is warning outdoor enthusiasts about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
As the weather turns cooler, many use portable heaters in their campers, tree stands, and on their boats. DNR spokesperson Stacey Solano says if heaters, or generators are used with little ventilation, carbon monoxide can build up without you even knowing it.
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Solano says accidents often occur when people use spare parts that aren’t made to be used with heating equipment.
As the weather turns cooler, many use portable heaters in their campers, tree stands, and on their boats. DNR spokesperson Stacey Solano says if heaters, or generators are used with little ventilation, carbon monoxide can build up without you even knowing it.
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Solano says accidents often occur when people use spare parts that aren’t made to be used with heating equipment.
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