Officials Still Urging People To Get H1N1 Vaccination
12/26/2009
Although cases of the H1N1 flu seem to be on the decline, state public health officials says it’s still very important to be vaccinated against the virus.
Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Damon Arnold says the vaccine is now available to everyone, at local public health departments and at many pharmacies. He says there should be enough for everyone who wants the shot, and that it’s important to be immunized should there be a resurgence of cases again.
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So far in Illinois this year, more than 2500 people have been hospitalized with the H1N1 virus, and 78 have died.
Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Damon Arnold says the vaccine is now available to everyone, at local public health departments and at many pharmacies. He says there should be enough for everyone who wants the shot, and that it’s important to be immunized should there be a resurgence of cases again.
Click here for audio
So far in Illinois this year, more than 2500 people have been hospitalized with the H1N1 virus, and 78 have died.
Operation Save 100 Marches On Through The Week
12/26/2009
The state’s Operation Save 100 effort will continue through the end of the year.
The idea is to have at least 100 less fatalities on Illinois roads this year compared to 2008. If the goal is hit, 2009 will post the lowest number of highway deaths since 1921. State department of transportation spokesperson Paris Ervin says police have been beefing up patrols and staging roadside safety checks.
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Statistics show nearly seven out of 10 fatalities that occur between midnight and three am involve a drunk driver.
The idea is to have at least 100 less fatalities on Illinois roads this year compared to 2008. If the goal is hit, 2009 will post the lowest number of highway deaths since 1921. State department of transportation spokesperson Paris Ervin says police have been beefing up patrols and staging roadside safety checks.
Click here for audio
Statistics show nearly seven out of 10 fatalities that occur between midnight and three am involve a drunk driver.
ISAC Communication Director Says College 529 Plan Is A Great Christmas Gift That Keeps On Giving
12/25/2009
Recently on Regional Radio's "Inside Central Illinois" Director of
Communications for the Illinois Student Assistance Commission Paul
Palian spoke about the ongoing success of the "College 529!" plan and
what it can do for your kids as you think ahead to their future. Palian
says in addition to the "College 529!" plan, the state's Monetary Award
Program, otherwise known as MAP awards, there are ways to plan ahead for
sending your child to a university.
Click here for audio
Earlier this year, there was concern that there wouldn't be enough funds
for the second semester for college students to take advantage of the
MAP awards, and Palian says that the program is a vital necessity for
most students attending college, and that people don't understand the
true importance until the possibility of it not being there arises.
Click here for audio
Palian also recommends taking advantage of some other programs the state
offers, such as the Bright Start program, and that the earlier you
start, the better off you will be in the future.
Click here for audio
For more information regarding the "College 529!" plan, visit the
website www.529prepaidtuition.org.
Communications for the Illinois Student Assistance Commission Paul
Palian spoke about the ongoing success of the "College 529!" plan and
what it can do for your kids as you think ahead to their future. Palian
says in addition to the "College 529!" plan, the state's Monetary Award
Program, otherwise known as MAP awards, there are ways to plan ahead for
sending your child to a university.
Click here for audio
Earlier this year, there was concern that there wouldn't be enough funds
for the second semester for college students to take advantage of the
MAP awards, and Palian says that the program is a vital necessity for
most students attending college, and that people don't understand the
true importance until the possibility of it not being there arises.
Click here for audio
Palian also recommends taking advantage of some other programs the state
offers, such as the Bright Start program, and that the earlier you
start, the better off you will be in the future.
Click here for audio
For more information regarding the "College 529!" plan, visit the
website www.529prepaidtuition.org.
United Way of Christian County Prepares For 2010
12/25/2009
The United Way of Christian County recently completed its "Live United
2009" campaign, and although the New Year is approaching, the United Way
is already beginning to prepare for the 2010 fundraising year.
UWCC Executive Director Joanie Beyers says that people can expect
another stellar golf outing in June, although no tentative date has been
set, as well as the biggest fundraiser, the fall fundraiser which will
happen beginning in September.
Click here for audio
Beyers says that although golf may get competitive amongst your peers,
the important thing to remember is to have fun, and think about the 22
agencies the funds support in Christian County.
Click here for audio
The United Way of Christian County will be celebrating their hardwork in
February with their annual banquet.
2009" campaign, and although the New Year is approaching, the United Way
is already beginning to prepare for the 2010 fundraising year.
UWCC Executive Director Joanie Beyers says that people can expect
another stellar golf outing in June, although no tentative date has been
set, as well as the biggest fundraiser, the fall fundraiser which will
happen beginning in September.
Click here for audio
Beyers says that although golf may get competitive amongst your peers,
the important thing to remember is to have fun, and think about the 22
agencies the funds support in Christian County.
Click here for audio
The United Way of Christian County will be celebrating their hardwork in
February with their annual banquet.
U of I Extension To Offer Digital Camera Computer Software Course
12/25/2009
County Extension Director for the University of Illinois Extension of
Christian County, Linda Smith, recently spoke on Regional Radio's
"Inside Central Illinois" about the upcoming camera software class being
held by the County Extension.
Smith explains that Gary Letterly will be teaching people the basics of
using digital camera computer software.
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Smith adds that knowing the camera software is a valuable skill to learn
due to all the new technology.
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Smith says that Gary is able to work with a multitude of camera software.
Click here for audio
For more information on the digital camera computer software class,
contact the University of Illinois Extension Office at 217 - 287 - 7246.
Christian County, Linda Smith, recently spoke on Regional Radio's
"Inside Central Illinois" about the upcoming camera software class being
held by the County Extension.
Smith explains that Gary Letterly will be teaching people the basics of
using digital camera computer software.
Click here for audio
Smith adds that knowing the camera software is a valuable skill to learn
due to all the new technology.
Click here for audio
Smith says that Gary is able to work with a multitude of camera software.
Click here for audio
For more information on the digital camera computer software class,
contact the University of Illinois Extension Office at 217 - 287 - 7246.
Master Gardners Offer Advice For Recycling Christmas Tree
12/25/2009
With the Christmas season over, many people in Christian County will
have the burden of removing that pesky Christmas tree from the
household. University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Gwen
Podeschi says that whenever cleaning up the needles that have fallen off
your tree, to use a whisk broom and dust pan to prevent damage to your
vacuum cleaner.
Click here for audio
Podeschi adds that a great way to recycle your tree is to trim it down
and use the leftovers as mulch for the upcoming growing season.
have the burden of removing that pesky Christmas tree from the
household. University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Gwen
Podeschi says that whenever cleaning up the needles that have fallen off
your tree, to use a whisk broom and dust pan to prevent damage to your
vacuum cleaner.
Click here for audio
Podeschi adds that a great way to recycle your tree is to trim it down
and use the leftovers as mulch for the upcoming growing season.
UWCC Prepares For 2010 Allocation Hearings
12/24/2009
After a successful “Live United 2009” fundraising campaign, the United Way of Christian County is able to relax a little before starting fundraiser planning in 2010. United Way of Christian County Executive Director Joanie Beyers says that first things first, allocation hearings for the 2010 fundraising year will get underway in early spring.
Beyers says that the hearings will be held for next year’s funding, prior to next year’s campaigning.
Click here for audio
Beyers says that its exciting to reach the 2009 goal, and that its thrilling to know the money will help agencies in Christian County.
Click here for audio
In recognition of the 2009’s successful campaign year, and hard work from its volunteers, the United Way of Christian County will have their annual banquet sometime in February.
Beyers says that the hearings will be held for next year’s funding, prior to next year’s campaigning.
Click here for audio
Beyers says that its exciting to reach the 2009 goal, and that its thrilling to know the money will help agencies in Christian County.
Click here for audio
In recognition of the 2009’s successful campaign year, and hard work from its volunteers, the United Way of Christian County will have their annual banquet sometime in February.
Kiwanis Junior Builders Donate To Shadow Home
12/24/2009
The students and staff at Taylorville Junior High School donated to an angel tree that was used to support the Shadow Home for Homeless Women and Children in Taylorville. A large number of common household items were collected and donated to the organization to help make the lives of the residents of the shadow home more comfortable.
It is insufficient to just say “thank you” to all who donated, as these donations will be used to help make the lives of others just a little more comfortable.
Pictured is the Taylorville Junior High Kiwanis Builders Club along with the donations collected for the Shadow Home. Builder Club members set up an Angel Tree where members of the club, students and facility could bring in items that were listed on the ornaments on the tree.
It is insufficient to just say “thank you” to all who donated, as these donations will be used to help make the lives of others just a little more comfortable.
Pictured is the Taylorville Junior High Kiwanis Builders Club along with the donations collected for the Shadow Home. Builder Club members set up an Angel Tree where members of the club, students and facility could bring in items that were listed on the ornaments on the tree.
Congress Extends Unemployment Insurance
12/24/2009
Congress passed and the President signed into law a two-month extension of unemployment insurance benefits. Without the extension, up to 10,000 Illinois workers each week would have exhausted their unemployment benefits starting January 2, 2010, the Illinois Department of Employment Security said today. The action delays the beginning of program exhaustions until the end of February.
Illinois workers on the verge of exhausting benefits need not contact IDES offices to apply for this extension. Eligibility automatically will be determined. Should there be a question about eligibility, the IDES will contact those claimants directly.
Unemployment insurance is a federal/state program. Each state creates laws to administer the program at its discretion within specific federal parameters. Since 2008, Congress, with the leadership of Presidents Bush and Obama, temporarily authorized additional unemployment assistance to support the unemployed as well as the communities in which they reside. Without this latest extension, the additional benefits would have begun to sunset at the end of December 2009.
Contributions by Illinois businesses are set by state law and fund the first 26 weeks of unemployment insurance. Illinois also has leveraged more than $1.8 billion in federal funds to pay benefits past the initial 26 weeks.
Unemployment insurance was never intended to replace an individual’s income. It always was intended to provide financial assistance to an individual, and as a result, businesses that the individual patronizes, during challenging economic conditions. Benefit amounts are set by state law. The average weekly Illinois benefit payment is about $315. The maximum weekly amount is $534.
The seasonally adjusted national unemployment rate for November is 10 percent. The same November rate for Illinois is 10.9 percent. Unemployment rates have not been at these levels since 1983. The unemployment rate is not the same measurement as those collecting unemployment benefits. The unemployment rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment, regardless if they are eligible for unemployment insurance. Workers collecting unemployment benefits are counted separately. Therefore, a person who exhausts unemployment insurance benefits or is ineligible for unemployment insurance would still be reflected in the unemployment rate if they are seeking employment.
Illinois workers on the verge of exhausting benefits need not contact IDES offices to apply for this extension. Eligibility automatically will be determined. Should there be a question about eligibility, the IDES will contact those claimants directly.
Unemployment insurance is a federal/state program. Each state creates laws to administer the program at its discretion within specific federal parameters. Since 2008, Congress, with the leadership of Presidents Bush and Obama, temporarily authorized additional unemployment assistance to support the unemployed as well as the communities in which they reside. Without this latest extension, the additional benefits would have begun to sunset at the end of December 2009.
Contributions by Illinois businesses are set by state law and fund the first 26 weeks of unemployment insurance. Illinois also has leveraged more than $1.8 billion in federal funds to pay benefits past the initial 26 weeks.
Unemployment insurance was never intended to replace an individual’s income. It always was intended to provide financial assistance to an individual, and as a result, businesses that the individual patronizes, during challenging economic conditions. Benefit amounts are set by state law. The average weekly Illinois benefit payment is about $315. The maximum weekly amount is $534.
The seasonally adjusted national unemployment rate for November is 10 percent. The same November rate for Illinois is 10.9 percent. Unemployment rates have not been at these levels since 1983. The unemployment rate is not the same measurement as those collecting unemployment benefits. The unemployment rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment, regardless if they are eligible for unemployment insurance. Workers collecting unemployment benefits are counted separately. Therefore, a person who exhausts unemployment insurance benefits or is ineligible for unemployment insurance would still be reflected in the unemployment rate if they are seeking employment.
Taylorville Kiwanis Club Holds Christmas Program
12/23/2009
Click here for audio
Reverend Dick Wamsley jump-started the Taylorville Kiwanis Club annual Christmas program with a variety of classic Christmas carols during its weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Committee chair Reverend Dick Wamsley, presented the program on “Christmas and Who It’s About.” Wamsley talked about Christmas traditions, and showed clips of Christmas movies that brought back memories that Kiwanis members have of the holiday season.
Wamsley explains that his favorite Christmas movie as a child was “A Christmas Carol.”
Click here for audio
The club will not have a meeting on Tuesday, December 29th, so that Kiwanis members and their families can enjoy the holiday season together. The next meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, will be Tuesday, January 5th.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Reverend Dick Wamsley jump-started the Taylorville Kiwanis Club annual Christmas program with a variety of classic Christmas carols during its weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Committee chair Reverend Dick Wamsley, presented the program on “Christmas and Who It’s About.” Wamsley talked about Christmas traditions, and showed clips of Christmas movies that brought back memories that Kiwanis members have of the holiday season.
Wamsley explains that his favorite Christmas movie as a child was “A Christmas Carol.”
Click here for audio
The club will not have a meeting on Tuesday, December 29th, so that Kiwanis members and their families can enjoy the holiday season together. The next meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, will be Tuesday, January 5th.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
U of I Extension Master Gardeners Offer Ways To Keep Holiday Plants Healthy
12/23/2009
Recently on Regional Radio’s “Inside Central Illinois” Master Gardener Gwen Podeschi for the University of Illinois Extension of Christian County discussed ways to help make your home more festive with tradition holiday household plants.
Podeschi explains that when it comes to keeping your Christmas tree looking its Christmas best, that lots of water is the key. Podeschi also points out that minimizing the amount of light that the tree receives is key.
Click here for audio
Podeschi adds that another holiday favorite, poinsettias; require lots of attention as well to keep their holiday freshness. She says that poinsettias are especially temperature sensitive, and that you should keep them as warm as possible this winter season.
Click here for audio
For those of you looking for a last minute gift for the gardener or horticulturalist in your household, Podeschi offers some great suggestions to put beneath the tree on Christmas Day.
Click here for audio
For more helpful tips from the Master Gardeners call the University of Illinois Extension Office of Christian County at 217 – 827 – 7246.
Podeschi explains that when it comes to keeping your Christmas tree looking its Christmas best, that lots of water is the key. Podeschi also points out that minimizing the amount of light that the tree receives is key.
Click here for audio
Podeschi adds that another holiday favorite, poinsettias; require lots of attention as well to keep their holiday freshness. She says that poinsettias are especially temperature sensitive, and that you should keep them as warm as possible this winter season.
Click here for audio
For those of you looking for a last minute gift for the gardener or horticulturalist in your household, Podeschi offers some great suggestions to put beneath the tree on Christmas Day.
Click here for audio
For more helpful tips from the Master Gardeners call the University of Illinois Extension Office of Christian County at 217 – 827 – 7246.
City To Abate The Levy Of Real Estate Tax
12/23/2009
Monday night’s city council was a busy way to end the calendar year, but it was business as usual. An ordinance abating the tax for 2009 to pay for the principal and interest on the three General Obligation Bonds of the property tax levy. City Treasurer Terri France says that the three bonds are alternate revenue sources, and each year, the city is required to abate the levy of real estate tax.
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According to France, $25-million dollars will go to the water and sewer department projects, with that amount being the legal spending limit.
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According to France, $25-million dollars will go to the water and sewer department projects, with that amount being the legal spending limit.
CCEMA Unveils New Website
12/23/2009
The Christian County Emergency Management Agency is unveiling its new agency website. The web address is http://cc-ema.com.
Contained within the website is useful disaster preparedness information regarding severe weather preparedness, disaster sheltering, warming and cooling centers and educational opportunities provided by the CCEMA. Tornado and winter storm preparedness handbooks are also available for download.
Christian County Emergency Manager Mike Crews says that website is to offer tips for storm and weather preparedness.
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Crews reminds everyone that preparedness begins at home.
Click here for audio
For the helpful handbooks or more information, visit the CCEMA’s website at
http://cc-ema.com.
Contained within the website is useful disaster preparedness information regarding severe weather preparedness, disaster sheltering, warming and cooling centers and educational opportunities provided by the CCEMA. Tornado and winter storm preparedness handbooks are also available for download.
Christian County Emergency Manager Mike Crews says that website is to offer tips for storm and weather preparedness.
Click here for audio
Crews reminds everyone that preparedness begins at home.
Click here for audio
For the helpful handbooks or more information, visit the CCEMA’s website at
http://cc-ema.com.
Taylorville Kiwanis Club Holds Christmas Program
12/22/2009
Click here for audio
Reverend Dick Wamsley jump-started the Taylorville Kiwanis Club annual Christmas program, during its weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Committee chair Reverend Dick Wamsley, presented the program on “Christmas and Who It’s About.” Wamsley talked about Christmas traditions, and showed clips of Christmas movies that brought back memories that Kiwanis members have of the holiday season.
Wamsley explains that his favorite Christmas movie as a child was “A Christmas Carol.”
Click here for audio
The club will not have a meeting on Tuesday, December 29th, so that Kiwanis members and their families can enjoy the holiday season together. The next meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, will be Tuesday, January 5th.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Reverend Dick Wamsley jump-started the Taylorville Kiwanis Club annual Christmas program, during its weekly luncheon Tuesday at the Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
Kiwanis Spiritual Aims Committee chair Reverend Dick Wamsley, presented the program on “Christmas and Who It’s About.” Wamsley talked about Christmas traditions, and showed clips of Christmas movies that brought back memories that Kiwanis members have of the holiday season.
Wamsley explains that his favorite Christmas movie as a child was “A Christmas Carol.”
Click here for audio
The club will not have a meeting on Tuesday, December 29th, so that Kiwanis members and their families can enjoy the holiday season together. The next meeting of the Taylorville Kiwanis Club, will be Tuesday, January 5th.
The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at Taylorville Memorial Hospital auditorium.
U of I Extension Hosting "Cooking 101" Culinary Courses
12/22/2009
County Extension Director of the University of Illinois Extension of Christian County Linda Smith recently spoke on Regional Radio’s “Inside Central Illinois” bout the “Cooking 101” program for 4H youth that will be taking place beginning in January. The program’s mission is to help teach kids the basics of around-the-house-culinary skills.
Smith says that that if the series for kids go well, the Extension Office will likely introduce a series of culinary courses for adults as well.
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Smith adds that the Extension Office has a brand new Nutrition and Wellness Educator taking over for Jananne Finck who recently retired.
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Smith explains that she hopes people attend this event due to the success of the recent “Build Your Own Cookbook” event hosted by the Extension Office.
Click here for audio
For more information regarding the “Cooking 101” course, contact the University of Illinois Extension Office of Christian County on by calling 217 – 287 – 7246.
Smith says that that if the series for kids go well, the Extension Office will likely introduce a series of culinary courses for adults as well.
Click here for audio
Smith adds that the Extension Office has a brand new Nutrition and Wellness Educator taking over for Jananne Finck who recently retired.
Click here for audio
Smith explains that she hopes people attend this event due to the success of the recent “Build Your Own Cookbook” event hosted by the Extension Office.
Click here for audio
For more information regarding the “Cooking 101” course, contact the University of Illinois Extension Office of Christian County on by calling 217 – 287 – 7246.
Christian County Agencies To Receive Federal Funds
12/22/2009
Illinois Congressman John Shimkus is pleased to announce that local projects have received federal funding in an appropriations bill that passed the house on Thursday. The Senate will vote on the bill this weekend, and President Obama has indicated he will sign it into law.
Among the agencies and organizations that will receive funding in the Regional Radio listening area is the Findlay Police Department, who will receive $10,000 to be used for equipment, Lincoln Land Community College, who will receive $350,000 for the pre-apprenticeship program, and the Christian County Sheriff’s office, who will receive $250,000 for interoperable communications upgrades.
Christian County Sheriff Bob Kinderman says that the funds will not only help the sheriff’s office, but it will be used to help surrounding agencies to upgrade their existing communications by the year 2013, as made mandatory by the FCC.
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Kinderman adds that this all started with help from Congressman Shimkus’ Project Director Rodney Davis.
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The most crucial part of the funding for the sheriff’s office, and for the rest of the police agencies in Christian County, is that a large portion of the federal funds will be used to purchase equipment for the agencies to use narrowband channels to communicate.
Using narrowband channels will ensure that agencies take advantage of more efficient technology, and by reducing channel width, will allow additional channels to exist within the same spectrum space.
Among the agencies and organizations that will receive funding in the Regional Radio listening area is the Findlay Police Department, who will receive $10,000 to be used for equipment, Lincoln Land Community College, who will receive $350,000 for the pre-apprenticeship program, and the Christian County Sheriff’s office, who will receive $250,000 for interoperable communications upgrades.
Christian County Sheriff Bob Kinderman says that the funds will not only help the sheriff’s office, but it will be used to help surrounding agencies to upgrade their existing communications by the year 2013, as made mandatory by the FCC.
Click here for audio
Kinderman adds that this all started with help from Congressman Shimkus’ Project Director Rodney Davis.
Click here for audio
The most crucial part of the funding for the sheriff’s office, and for the rest of the police agencies in Christian County, is that a large portion of the federal funds will be used to purchase equipment for the agencies to use narrowband channels to communicate.
Using narrowband channels will ensure that agencies take advantage of more efficient technology, and by reducing channel width, will allow additional channels to exist within the same spectrum space.
Palmer Bank Donates Land To City Of Taylorville
12/22/2009
Monday night’s Taylorville City Council meeting was the last of the year for the council, and although it went quickly, it was full of agendas. President of Palmer Bank Jim Hahn was in attendance, and he graciously donated a large portion of Palmer Bank property to the city of Taylorville to be used in assistance with the construction of Taylorville Memorial Hospital.
Hahn says the property donated will be the Wilson Street addition, and its to be used for access to the main entrance of the hospital.
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Hahn adds that its an honor for him to donate the property on the behalf of Palmer Bank.
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In other city council business, several citizens of Taylorville were recommended and voted to the Tree Board. Among those making up the board is Adam Johnson, Gerri Niemann, Sandra Sample, and Merle Micenheimer. Micenheimer previously served on the Tree Board.
Hahn says the property donated will be the Wilson Street addition, and its to be used for access to the main entrance of the hospital.
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Hahn adds that its an honor for him to donate the property on the behalf of Palmer Bank.
Click here for audio
In other city council business, several citizens of Taylorville were recommended and voted to the Tree Board. Among those making up the board is Adam Johnson, Gerri Niemann, Sandra Sample, and Merle Micenheimer. Micenheimer previously served on the Tree Board.
State's Deficit Causing Problems For Illinois Schools
12/22/2009
The need for hundreds of thousands of dollars in state aid has a dozen central Illinois schools now working together.
According to www.IllinoisStateHouseNews.com, the schools in the Heart of Illinois Conference, covering districts from north of Champaign to just east of Peoria, have prepared their own “budget philosophy statement” that they want Illinois lawmakers to adopt.
Gary Tipsord from LeRoy says it’s about fairness and honesty.
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Deer Creek-Mackinaw school chief Steve Yarnell says each school in the conference is in the same dire situation, and cannot wait much longer.
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Many Illinois schools are also waiting for money from Springfield. The state is dealing with a 13-billion dollar budget deficit. Governor Pat Quinn says he hopes to find a budget solution sometime next spring.
According to www.IllinoisStateHouseNews.com, the schools in the Heart of Illinois Conference, covering districts from north of Champaign to just east of Peoria, have prepared their own “budget philosophy statement” that they want Illinois lawmakers to adopt.
Gary Tipsord from LeRoy says it’s about fairness and honesty.
Click here for audio
Deer Creek-Mackinaw school chief Steve Yarnell says each school in the conference is in the same dire situation, and cannot wait much longer.
Click here for audio
Many Illinois schools are also waiting for money from Springfield. The state is dealing with a 13-billion dollar budget deficit. Governor Pat Quinn says he hopes to find a budget solution sometime next spring.
'Live United' Surpasses Goal By 10,000 Dollars
12/21/2009
The United Way of Christian County’s 2009 Live United Fundraising Campaign wrapped up back in November with everyone wondering whether or not this year’s lofty goal would be reached. After a month of number crunching, the results are finally in. Christian County United Way Executive Director Joanie Byers announced last week that ‘Live United 2009’ surpassed its goal by over 10,000 dollars.
Click here for audio
The 8-week fall campaign is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Christian County United Way. All funds raised go towards supporting 22 local agencies that serve the County. Beyers says a big thank you is owed to all campaign volunteers and donors.
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The 139,000 dollars raised from the campaign will now be distributed to those 22 agencies. Beyers says money allocation hearings were held before the campaign kicked off.
Click here for audio
The United Way of Christian County will honor all those involved with this year’s campaign during its annual banquet in February. No exact date for the banquet has been set yet.
Click here for audio
The 8-week fall campaign is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Christian County United Way. All funds raised go towards supporting 22 local agencies that serve the County. Beyers says a big thank you is owed to all campaign volunteers and donors.
Click here for audio
The 139,000 dollars raised from the campaign will now be distributed to those 22 agencies. Beyers says money allocation hearings were held before the campaign kicked off.
Click here for audio
The United Way of Christian County will honor all those involved with this year’s campaign during its annual banquet in February. No exact date for the banquet has been set yet.
Local Superintendent Happy With 1st Semester
12/21/2009
(Taylorville) High schools across the regional radio listening area will wrap up their first semester on Tuesday, before going on hiatus for the holidays. Despite statewide funding problems looming large for many districts, Taylorville Schools Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau is still looking at the glass as half full. Fuerstenau is proud of what his district accomplished during the first semester.
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In the athletic realm, two of Taylorville High School’s biggest programs went through personnel transitions this semester. Jeb Odam completed his first season as the football team’s head coach, finishing with a 4-5 record, and Jay Novar is currently in the midst of his first season as the boys basketball coach. Fuerstenau is pleased with the status of the two programs.
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The Taylorville School District will be on holiday break from December 23rd through January 3rd.
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In the athletic realm, two of Taylorville High School’s biggest programs went through personnel transitions this semester. Jeb Odam completed his first season as the football team’s head coach, finishing with a 4-5 record, and Jay Novar is currently in the midst of his first season as the boys basketball coach. Fuerstenau is pleased with the status of the two programs.
Click here for audio
The Taylorville School District will be on holiday break from December 23rd through January 3rd.
LEADership Academy Ready For Incoming Class
12/21/2009
The Christian County LEADership Academy is gearing up for its incoming class of freshman. The University of Illinois Extension Christian County bills the three-month networking program as an opportunity to become better informed about the issues impacting the county, the community, and the world. The first day of class is on January 12th. U of I Extension Christian County Program Director Linda Smith says people can still register for the program.
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Smith says the academy is designed to take one’s leadership skills to the next level. She adds that the program yields lifelong friendships.
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Smith says the program covers a wide array of topics, from economic development to agriculture.
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The list of LEADership graduates includes Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton, Taylorville Alderman Martin Vota, Taylorville Schools Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Taylorville Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Fred Ronnow, and Miller Media Group President Randal J. Miller.
Tuition is 199 dollars per person. For more information contact the extension at 217-287-7246.
Click here for audio
Smith says the academy is designed to take one’s leadership skills to the next level. She adds that the program yields lifelong friendships.
Click here for audio
Smith says the program covers a wide array of topics, from economic development to agriculture.
Click here for audio
The list of LEADership graduates includes Taylorville Mayor Greg Brotherton, Taylorville Alderman Martin Vota, Taylorville Schools Superintendent Dr. Gregg Fuerstenau, Taylorville Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Fred Ronnow, and Miller Media Group President Randal J. Miller.
Tuition is 199 dollars per person. For more information contact the extension at 217-287-7246.
PCH Getting Ready For 2nd Annual Weight Loss Competition
12/21/2009
(Pana) Although an exact start date hasn’t been established yet, officials with the Pana Community Hospital have confirmed that the 2nd annual Weight Loss Competition will take place next month. The inaugural competition took the community by storm last year, with over 460 participants. Rehab/Wellness Coordinator Nancy Alexander says the format of the competition will remain mostly the same, however this time around participants will have the option of joining the Rehab and Wellness Center.
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The 2.2 million dollar Rehab/Wellness Center is scheduled to open its doors sometime next month (January).
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The 2.2 million dollar Rehab/Wellness Center is scheduled to open its doors sometime next month (January).
Pieces of Ethics Reform In Question
12/21/2009
A judge in Springfield is being asked to hold back a piece of Illinois’ ethics reform.
According to IllinoisStatehouseNews.com, the lobbyist group Illinois Society of Association Executives filed a lawsuit on Thursday to stop the state from enforcing lobbying reforms included in a new ethics law.
The Society’s Pamela Tolson says the law is too broad, too costly, and lumps all lobbyists together as bad guys or special interests.
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Tolson is also very upset about a new 1-thousand dollar fee for lobbyists and non-profit organizations. State Representative Elaine Nekritz says she under stands that.
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Nekritz says lawmakers wrote the bigger reform law, in part, as a response to the way some lobbyists acted under the Blagojevich administration.
According to IllinoisStatehouseNews.com, the lobbyist group Illinois Society of Association Executives filed a lawsuit on Thursday to stop the state from enforcing lobbying reforms included in a new ethics law.
The Society’s Pamela Tolson says the law is too broad, too costly, and lumps all lobbyists together as bad guys or special interests.
Click here for audio
Tolson is also very upset about a new 1-thousand dollar fee for lobbyists and non-profit organizations. State Representative Elaine Nekritz says she under stands that.
Click here for audio
Nekritz says lawmakers wrote the bigger reform law, in part, as a response to the way some lobbyists acted under the Blagojevich administration.
Muzzleloader Deer Numbers Are Up
12/20/2009
There was a slight increase in the number of deer harvested this year during the muzzleloader only hunting season.
Hunters took nearly 47-hundred deer last weekend. That’s about 400 more than last year. The most deer were harvested in Pike, Fulton, Hancock and Jefferson counties. State Department of Natural Resources Spokesperson Stacey Solano says there are still more chances left for deer hunters in Illinois.
Click here for audio
Not all counties are open for the remaining firearm seasons. For more details about when and where you can hunt, visit IDNR’s website.
Hunters took nearly 47-hundred deer last weekend. That’s about 400 more than last year. The most deer were harvested in Pike, Fulton, Hancock and Jefferson counties. State Department of Natural Resources Spokesperson Stacey Solano says there are still more chances left for deer hunters in Illinois.
Click here for audio
Not all counties are open for the remaining firearm seasons. For more details about when and where you can hunt, visit IDNR’s website.
Illinois Gets Bonus From The Feds For Young Healthcare
12/20/2009
The state is getting a bonus from the federal government for its efforts to get more children health insurance coverage.
US Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says Illinois, and eight other states showed “courage and innovation” in enrolling more kids in state and federally funded health care programs.
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To get the bonus, states had to make it easier for families to enroll, and then actually get them to sign up.
US Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says Illinois, and eight other states showed “courage and innovation” in enrolling more kids in state and federally funded health care programs.
Click here for audio
To get the bonus, states had to make it easier for families to enroll, and then actually get them to sign up.
Climatologist Says White Christmas Is Rare Occurence
12/20/2009
Statistically speaking, the chances for a white Christmas in Illinois are relatively low.
State Climatologist Jim Angel says if you look at the numbers over the past decade, it’s not too likely you’ll see a nice blanket of snow covering the ground Christmas morning.
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Angel says the odds have decreased over time, as winters become generally milder. The most snow on the ground on Christmas Day in Illinois was reported in 1951 in suburban aurora, where 31 inches piled up after 12 days of nearly non-stop snowfall.
State Climatologist Jim Angel says if you look at the numbers over the past decade, it’s not too likely you’ll see a nice blanket of snow covering the ground Christmas morning.
Click here for audio
Angel says the odds have decreased over time, as winters become generally milder. The most snow on the ground on Christmas Day in Illinois was reported in 1951 in suburban aurora, where 31 inches piled up after 12 days of nearly non-stop snowfall.
West Gym Sports New Upgrades
12/20/2009
(Taylorville) Upgrades to West Gymnasium at Taylorville High School were showcased Thursday night during the girls basketball games vs. Jacksonville High School. On display was a brand-new score table. Athletic Director Paul Held says the new table features ad panels, which will open up a source of revenue for years to come.
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Held explains that the upgrades were made possible through the Kim Althoff Foundation.
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Forty brand new padded chairs for the players were also in use for the first time Thursday night.
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Held explains that the upgrades were made possible through the Kim Althoff Foundation.
Click here for audio
Forty brand new padded chairs for the players were also in use for the first time Thursday night.
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