The Taylorville Park Board is set to meet this evening for its regular monthly meeting at 7 pm and will cover various items. The board’s discussions will begin at 7 PM following a finance committee meeting that begins at 6:30.

Tonight’s meeting will include tennis court updates provided by Coach Robert Brown, a bond update provided by John Falduto, updates on the north pond at Manner’s Park, as well as discussions on a new baseball diamond site and the dining hall.

The meeting will also include the usual reports from the maintenance superintendent, recreation director, and the office administrator.

After the reports from board officials have concluded, the meeting will move on to the committee report portion of tonight’s agenda. This is where they will discuss approval for the payment of bills and open up the meeting for public comment.

Keep your eyes on taylorvilledailynews.com for more detailed information after tonight’s meeting.

Due to the large amount of attendees, The Christian County Board has rescheduled their regular meeting to this evening at 6 PM to discuss old business, committee reports, and new business at the Pillars Event Center for their monthly meeting.  Under the agenda, Jake Janssen for HopeTrust will speak, Ted Chapman will give an update on a 9-11 remembrance. There will also be a section for public comments, and an auditors report. 

Under highway, building, and grounds the board will discuss a notice of CTI cable service discontinuance, a vacant lot discussion, 2026 Chillifest, and updates from the court/jailhouse. Under executive, personnel, and liquor the board will discuss GFI Digital, the VFW, receive an EMA update, discuss the purchase of a portable solar power generation system, and the purchase of two cooling fans. 

The board will also review a letter of support for Sangamon County Energy Transition Grant. 

Under new business, the board will discuss 2026 MFT bids, county, and township, along with tradition energy release of Utility Historical Information, a GFI Network Assessment, Zoning Regulations and Procedures. 

The Pillars Event Center is located at 303 East Market Street in Taylorville.

Keep an eye on taylorvilledailynews.com for more details after the meeting has concluded.

Summer evenings in Central Illinois are about to sound a little sweeter as the 9th annual Rock Springs Summer Concert Series returns with free live music, family-friendly entertainment, and a lineup filled with folk, Americana, bluegrass, and more.

Sponsored by Stifel Investment Services, the Rock Springs Summer Concert Series begins May 31st and continues every other Sunday throughout the summer from 7 to 8 PM at Rock Springs Conservation Area in Decatur, Illinois. Organizers say the event is designed to give families and music lovers a relaxing way to spend a summer evening outdoors.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets, and to settle in on the lawn near the pavilions for the hour-long performances, which begin each night at 7 PM.

This year’s series opens with Dusty James and Abalone Pearl, a St. Louis-based folk duo known for its use of a variety of instruments and energetic performances. On June 14th, returning favorite Tim Crosby takes the stage once again, bringing his blend of Americana and roots music back to Rock Springs after appearing in last year’s series.

The music continues on June 28th with WisenHeart, a mother-daughter Americana duo making their first appearance at the event.

The second half of the summer introduces even more new performers. Broken Brogue, a four-piece Celtic folk band, will fill the air with traditional Irish and Scottish sounds on July 12th. Then on July 26th, Back Porch Trio will perform a wide range of easy-listening music spanning several genres.

Closing out the series on August 9th will be Harlem Hayfield, a group known for their unique style described by listeners as “rustbelt soul.”

Snacks will be available for purchase during each concert, and organizers say that if rain moves into the area, performances will simply move indoors to the Rock Springs Nature Center.

Further detailed information can be found at MaconCCD.org.

State Representative Regan Deering is advancing legislation aimed at improving transparency from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) during child abuse and neglect investigations.

House Bill 4242 (HB4242) has now passed both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly. The measure would require DCFS to provide written notification to an alleged perpetrator in an investigation, regardless of whether that person requests an administrative appeal.

Under the legislation, the written notice must include several key details. Those include a statement of the allegation and indicated finding, how long the finding will remain in the state’s central register, and information explaining the right to request an administrative appeal.

The bill also requires DCFS to explain the time frame for filing an appeal, how to begin that process, and how individuals can request a copy of the investigative file, even if they choose not to appeal the finding.

Representative Deering says the legislation was introduced to help families better understand the investigation process during what can often be a stressful and confusing time, and that it is important for DCFS to provide clarity and support to families while ensuring that state agencies continue following clear and workable policies that are written into law.

Representative Deering also thanked lawmakers in both chambers for supporting the measure, saying the legislation helps uphold integrity in state government while supporting the agency responsible for handling child abuse and neglect investigations.

House Bill 4242 now waits for approval from Governor JB Pritzker before becoming law.

The bill’s deciding vote, allowing it to be carried to the next step in the legislative process, was cast by State Senator Darby Hills of Barrington Hills. Residents who would like to track the bill’s progress can visit the Illinois General Assembly website at www.ilga.gov.

For more information, contact Representative Deering’s office at 217-876-1968 or visit repdeering.com.

Christian County Health Officials have offered rsources on the health risks of kratom. Kratom isa controversial herbal substance sold in gas stations and smoke shops. This substance is facing growing scrutiny across Illinois and the country.

Kratom comes from a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and contains compounds that can act as stimulants in small doses, but produce opioid-like effects in larger amounts. Some people use it for pain relief, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal symptoms, but health officials warn it can also lead to dependence, addiction, and serious side effects.

The FDA has not approved kratom for medical use, and public health agencies have raised concerns about contaminated products and the rise of highly concentrated extracts known as 7-OH, which experts say act more like powerful opioids. Poison control calls connected to kratom have increased significantly over the past decade.

In Illinois, kratom remains legal for adults statewide, but a growing number of cities and counties have enacted local bans or restrictions, including Edwardsville, Murphysboro, Pekin, and Orland Park.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in Springfield are debating several bills that range from a complete statewide ban to stricter regulations. Those regulations would include higher age limits, product testing requirements, and warning labels.

The debate over kratom continues as officials weigh consumer access against growing public health and safety concerns.

More information about kratom can be found on the National Institute For Drug Abuse (NIDA) website at nida.nih.gov, under the research topics tab, select “kratom”.

People’s Bank and Trust (PBT) and WMKR announce the Pana High School Students of the Month for the month of May.

Pictured below from left to right are the winners of Student of the Month.

Far Left: Freshman Aubrey Stroh, Left: Sophomore Oliveah Foster, Middle: Junior Haven Blodgett, Right: Senior OzzMarie Dilley, Far Right: PBT Representative Sadie Waddington.
 

Ameren Illinois line-workers from across the state are heading to one of the biggest competitions in the utility industry. Several local workers are among those representing Illinois on the international stage this fall.

Following a recent qualifying competition in Decatur, five journeyman teams and four apprentice line-workers earned spots in the 2026 International Lineman’s Rodeo, set to be in Kansas from October 14th to 17th. The annual event brings together top line-workers from around the world to compete in challenges that test the same skills they use every day, including safety procedures, teamwork, speed, and technical precision.

The International Lineman’s Rodeo is considered the premier event in the trade, often compared to a world championship for utility crews. Competitors face a variety of demanding events, from pole climbing and equipment repair to rescue simulations and obstacle courses designed to mirror real-life situations in the field.

One of the more unique challenges was highlighted during the Decatur qualifier. Apprentice line-worker Jake Bavetta from the Springfield Operating Center competed in a pole-climbing event while carrying a raw egg. Contestants climb to the top of the pole with the egg in a basket, place it in their mouth at the top, and then carefully climb back down without breaking it. The challenge tests balance, smooth movement, and climbing control, with broken eggs resulting in major point deductions.

Ameren officials say the competition not only celebrates excellence in the trade but also reinforces the importance of safety and preparation for the workers responsible for keeping the lights on during storms and emergencies.

The Illinois qualifiers will now spend the coming months preparing for the international competition in Kansas this October, where they’ll compete against some of the best line-workers from across the United States and around the world.

For more information on the 2026 Lineman’s Rodeo, go online to www.linemansrodeokc.com.

At a recent capitol news conference, House Assistant Republican Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer and House Republican Conference Chair Jeff Keicher outlined the Illinois House Republicans' budget priorities. The spring legislative session has a current deadline of May 31st.

Davidsmeyer, who also co-chairs the bipartisan Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA), pointed out the fiscal pressures facing the state and the negative impact of Illinois’ economy lagging behind our neighboring states. Likewise, the explosion in state spending under Gov. Pritzker has intensified the fiscal pressures on the state. 

Instead of the prospect of more tax and fee increases, Keicher said that Illinoisans are taxed out and fed up, and that the state needs to focus on fiscal reform and cutting wasteful spending with a responsible budget.

The House will be back in session later this week. To keep an eye on what goes on with new and ongoing legislation, issues, and other topics related to the Illinois General Assembly, visit www.ilga.gov.

State Senator Doris Turner is once again encouraging children across the 48th District to stay active readers during summer break through her annual Summer Book Club program.

Turner says the goal is to help students continue learning even after the school year ends. She says reading during the summer months helps keep young minds engaged while also expanding knowledge and imagination.

The program is open to children living throughout the district. To participate, students are asked to read eight books of their choice over the summer. After finishing the books, students can record the titles on an official Summer Book Club form and submit it to one of Senator Turner’s offices in Springfield, Decatur, or at the State Capitol.

Parents and guardians can complete the form online or request a paper copy by contacting Senator Turner’s office at 217-782-0228. To complete the form online, CLICK HERE.

Children who complete the program by the August 14th deadline will receive a special certificate from Senator Turner, along with a gift card as a reward for their accomplishment.

Turner says programs like this are important because they make reading fun while also encouraging students to continue building strong learning habits outside the classroom.

For families looking for a simple way to keep children reading and learning this summer, Senator Turner’s Summer Book Club offers both encouragement and a fun incentive to turn pages during the break.

For more updates from Senator Doris Turner, visit her official website at www.senatordoristurner.com.

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many families across Central Illinois are preparing to fire up the grill and gather with loved ones. But while the holiday is known for cookouts and backyard celebrations, safety experts are reminding everyone to take a few precautions before lighting the charcoal or propane.

The National Fire Protection Association says Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest grilling weekends of the year. Officials say grills should always be used outdoors and kept at least 10 feet away from homes, garages, decks, or anything that could catch fire. Grilling inside a garage or enclosed area can quickly become dangerous because of carbon monoxide buildup and fire risk.

Before starting the grill, it’s also important to check propane tanks and hoses for leaks or damage. If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off immediately and move away from the area until it is safe.

Safety experts also recommend never leaving a hot grill unattended, especially when children or pets are nearby. A “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the grill can help prevent burns and accidents.

Food safety is another important reminder this holiday weekend. Raw meats should be kept refrigerated until they’re ready to cook, and different utensils should be used for raw and cooked foods to avoid contamination. Hamburgers, chicken, and other meats should always be cooked to proper temperatures before serving.

And while Memorial Day gatherings are meant to be fun, authorities say alcohol and grilling should never mix when someone is actively cooking. Staying alert around open flames can prevent serious injuries.

Happy Memorial Day! Please grill responsibly and safely!

For more details on grilling safety and any other fire or electrical hazard safety tips, visit www.nfpa.org

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a voluntary recall involving a popular crouton product sold at Kroger stores nationwide.

Sugar Foods LLC is recalling certain lots of Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons in five-ounce pouches because of the potential for Salmonella contamination linked to a milk powder ingredient used in the seasoning blend.

The recalled product carries the UPC code 01110813534. Consumers are being urged to check packages they may have at home and avoid eating the product if it matches the recalled lot information.

According to the company, the issue stems from milk powder supplied by California Dairies Incorporated. That ingredient was later used by seasoning manufacturer Solina USA, which produces the seasoning blend Sugar Foods applies to the croutons.

Officials say the seasoning batches themselves tested negative for Salmonella before being used in production. However, the recall is being issued out of an abundance of caution following a supplier-initiated recall by California Dairies over concerns that the milk powder could potentially be contaminated.

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious illness, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. In more severe cases, the infection can spread into the bloodstream and lead to serious complications including arterial infections, heart inflammation, or arthritis.

Health officials say healthy individuals typically recover without treatment, but anyone experiencing severe symptoms after consuming the product should contact a healthcare provider immediately.

At this time, no illnesses connected to the recalled croutons have been reported.

Consumers who purchased the affected product are encouraged to either throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and says additional information will be provided if necessary.

For more details about food related and other recalls go online to fda.gov and click “Recalls”.

This summer, food and history will come together once again in Springfield as Lincoln Land Community College Community Education partners with the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau for the return of the popular “History Cooks” series.

The free program will feature cooking and baking demonstrations inspired by famous dishes found along the historic Route 66 corridor. Organizers say the series is designed to celebrate both regional food traditions and the rich history connected to America’s Mother Road.

The demonstrations will take place every Friday at noon beginning June 5th at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield. Guests attending the programs will not only get to watch local chefs prepare classic dishes, but they’ll also receive a sample tasting and a souvenir recipe card to take home and recreate the recipes themselves.

The summer lineup kicks off June 5th with Chef Kim Carter demonstrating how to make the classic Chicago Italian Beef sandwich. On June 12th, Chef Ty Bergman will prepare one of central Illinois’ signature dishes, the Springfield Horseshoe.

June 19th will feature Springfield Chili with Chef David Radwine, while June 26th brings a taste of St. Louis with a Spumoni Shake and Toasted Ravioli demonstration led by Sheridan Lane, director of LLCC’s culinary program and operations.

The Route 66 culinary journey continues into July with St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake on July 3rd from Chef Stephanie Warren. On July 10th, Chef Lakesha Jackson will prepare Southern Fried Catfish inspired by Lebanon, Missouri.

Texas-style brisket takes center stage on July 17th with Chef Howard Seidel showcasing flavors from Shamrock, Texas. Then on July 24th, Chef Channing Fullaway will demonstrate Chicken Fried Steak inspired by Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The final two programs highlight Southwestern and West Coast flavors. On July 31st, Chef Kevin Sullivan will prepare Blue Corn Enchiladas inspired by Santa Fe, New Mexico. The series wraps up on August 7th with Chef Jamie Williams presenting a Pot Roast Skillet dish inspired by Needles, California.

Officials say the History Cooks series has become a popular summer tradition, offering attendees the chance to experience regional cuisine while learning more about the culture and communities connected to Route 66.

All events are free and open to the public. Organizers encourage guests to arrive early, as seating and samples may be limited.

For more information, visit llcc.edu. Details on the Lincoln Home National Historic Site can be found online at www.nps.gov or www.visitspringfielddillinois.com.

Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with a proposal aimed at making artificial intelligence more transparent in customer service interactions. The legislation is designed to make sure consumers know exactly who, or what, they are communicating with.

State Senator Rachel Ventura announced Thursday that a measure requiring companies to tell consumers when they are speaking with an AI chatbot instead of a real person has passed the Illinois Senate. Ventura said that many companies these days rely on automated systems to answer questions and resolve issues, however, the automated system cant always give the needed answers.

Under Senate Bill 317 (SB317), companies using artificial intelligence chat systems would be required to provide a clear notice at the beginning of the conversation informing consumers they are communicating with an automated system and not a human representative.

Ventura said the legislation comes as more businesses turn to artificial intelligence to handle customer service requests. While AI systems can often answer simple questions, Ventura also said many consumers become frustrated when trying to solve more complicated issues like billing disputes, canceled services, or account problems.

The bill would also give consumers legal protections if businesses fail to provide the required disclosure. Under the proposal, someone who suffers damages because they were not informed they were speaking with AI could pursue legal action under Illinois’ Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act.

Senate Bill 317 is part of a larger package of artificial intelligence-related legislation currently being considered by Illinois lawmakers. After passing the Senate Thursday, the measure now moves to the Illinois House for further consideration.

For information on this bill and all other bills and proposals, head online to www.ilga.gov.

Lincoln Land Community College is inviting prospective students to explore new opportunities during its upcoming Campus Visit Day that will be held on Tuesday, June 16th. The free event will take place from 5 to 7:30 PM at the Lincoln Land Community College Springfield campus located on Shepherd Road.

College officials say the event is designed for anyone thinking about starting college for the first time, returning to school after time away, learning a skilled trade, or building new career skills. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about degree programs, workforce training options and student support services available through the college.

LLCC President Charlotte Warren says Campus Visit Day gives students a chance to see what’s possible at LLCC and learn about affordable pathways toward transfer degrees, workforce careers and personal growth opportunities.

During the event, guests can customize their experience by choosing from several breakout sessions and campus tours. Topics during the breakout sessions will include choosing a major or career path, understanding how to pay for college and making the transition into college life easier and less stressful.

Campus tours will highlight several areas of study and training across the college. Attendees can explore the Workforce Careers Center, health profession programs, transfer program facilities and the Kreher Agriculture Center. Faculty and staff members will also be available throughout the evening to answer questions about academic programs, admissions, student services and financial aid opportunities.

Prospective students attending the event will also have the chance to begin the admissions process on-site and receive guidance about applying for financial assistance. Refreshments also will be provided during the evening.

Registration is encouraged, although walk-ins will still be welcome the day of the event. More details and online registration can be found at www.llcc.edu/visit-llcc.

Taylorville Community Credit Union has wrapped up its 12th annual “Stop. SHOP. VOTE!” scholarship program, awarding eight graduating seniors with one-thousand-dollar scholarships to help continue their education after high school.

Two of those winners were selected from Taylorville High School. This year’s recipients are Brody Garrett and Ella Hohenstein.

Garrett plans to attend the Missouri University of Science and Technology, (Missouri S&T), where he will study chemical engineering. Hohenstein will attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and major in agricultural communications.

According to Taylorville Community Credit Union President Will Perkins, the credit union is proud to continue supporting local students as they take the next step in their education and future careers. Perkins also thanked the many local businesses and community members who participated in this year’s program.

The scholarship contest once again encouraged residents to stop, shop and vote at participating local businesses throughout Taylorville. This year, 30 businesses took part in the campaign, generating more than four-thousand ballots and over 18-thousand total votes.

Participating businesses included local favorites such as Amenities on Main, Angelo’s, Florinda’s Pizza, Nesty’s Burger Joint, Southern Belle Florist, Taylorville Home Source, Wright Furniture, Zone Nutrition and many others across the community.

The annual program not only rewards graduating seniors, but also helps promote and support local businesses throughout the year.

Taylorville Community Credit Union says registration for next year’s 2026 through 2027 scholarship program will begin in August after students return to school. Registration will remain open through October 9th.

Students who will be seniors during the upcoming school year and plan to continue their education are encouraged to sign up through TCCU by submitting their name, photo and a signed parental permission form. Student photos will once again appear on promotional posters displayed throughout the community during the voting campaign.

Pictured below are Ella Hohenstein (TOP) and Brody Garret (BOTTOM) with their scholarship checks.

For more information on TCCU, visit www.tccu.org.

Illinois students with disabilities could soon receive more support when planning for life after high school, thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Doris Turner.

Senator Turner says students and families need better access to information about employment programs and career resources available after graduation. To meet the students and families request, Senator Turner helped guide House Bill 4581 (HB4581) through the Illinois Senate.

HB4581 focuses on the federally funded Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) program. The program helps people who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), better understand how employment could affect their benefits and what work opportunities may be available to them.

Under the proposal, Illinois school districts would be required to provide informational materials about the WIPA program during important transition planning meetings for students with disabilities. That would include the student’s first transition planning meeting, as well as during the student’s final year of high school.

Senator Turner says the goal is to ensure students and parents are aware of available resources before graduation, not after.

HB4581 passed the Illinois Senate on Thursday and now moves forward to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk for final approval.

For more information on HB4581, as well as any and all other IL House Bills, visit www.ilga.gov.

Amid a slowdown in new membership at the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, they are still focused on collaborating with current members in a number of ways.  They have worked to promote scholarships to Taylorville High School students as well as job opportunities with current member businesses.

For businesses considering joining the Chamber, Board President Krystal Baker says there are many ways the GTCC promotes both itself and member businesses. 

The latest member updates primarily revolve around youth.  They include scholarships for graduating students and youth programs at the YMCA. 

The Chamber is working to help member businesses hire new staff.  They organized a hiring event for Kemmerer Village on May 14 and are promoting openings at other businesses, as well. 

Baker also reminds the community about its Spring Swing Golf Outing.  The event is scheduled for Friday, June 5 at Lake Shore Golf Course in Taylorville. 

More information on the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce is available at www.taylorvillechamber.com.

Krystal Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

Community members in Pana had the opportunity to learn more about People Bank and Trust’s new ATM Plus feature, available at select branches.  Demonstrations took place during the bank’s customer appreciation event, held at their drive-up branch in Pana.  The event was also meant for People’s Bank and Trust to show its appreciation to its many consumer and business customers and the wider community.  Visitors could enjoy free food from multiple local food trucks.

Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Ashley Basso says the new technology allows bankers to speak with human tellers via video camera to complete transactions.

Basso says demonstrations will continue in the coming weeks as well, albeit without the food trucks.

More information on People’s Bank and Trust is available at www.bankpbt.com.

Genuine Country 94.3 WMKR broadcast live from People’s Bank and Trust’s customer appreciation event in Pana on Thursday.

Leaders at Central A&M schools are looking to address mental health issues in students through a book study.  The study focuses on the role technology may have in students’ increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other outcomes.  As part of this effort, administrators and faculty from this school district and others will collaborate to determine how best to address this issue.  The study itself will run through the fall, with results published shortly thereafter.

Superintendent Sacha Young is part of the book study.  She says it focuses on findings published in the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. 

The book study team will use the results from the book and their discussions to potentially refine how technology is integrated into everyday learning. 

Away from the book study, the school district celebrated the completion of another school year with its annual end-of-year breakfast.  Among other tributes, the district honored several faculty members who have reached notable milestones. 

Find out more about the Central A&M School District at www.camraiders.com.

Sacha Young appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is  once again warning residents about a phone scam making rounds in the area. The sheriff’s office says several citizens have reported receiving calls from a man claiming to be a deputy with the sheriff’s office.

Officials say the caller may attempt to gather personal information from residents and are reminding the public not to share any sensitive details over the phone. The sheriff’s office also emphasized that deputies and sheriff’s office staff will not call individuals to notify them about arrest warrants.

Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and help spread the word to family members and neighbors, especially older adults who are often targeted by scams like these.

Remember! If something about a phone call ever feels off or doesn’t seem right, your gut is likely telling you that you should avoid interacting with that caller.

It is safe practice to NEVER share personal information unless you know without a fraction of a doubt in your mind that the caller is legitimate, and the reason for the call makes sense. 

Anyone who receives a suspicious call and wants to verify whether it is legitimate is encouraged to contact the Christian County Sheriff’s Office directly at 217-824-4961 before providing any information.

Residents in the Taylorville community came together Wednesday morning to surprise longtime crossing guard Warren Propst on the final day of the school year for the Taylorville Community Unit School District #3.

The surprise event was organized by Rachel Elam, who said the idea came after building a friendship with Propst following an interview for the newspaper. Elam said she began thinking about how often Propst brightens people’s mornings with his signs and positive attitude and wanted to find a way for the community to give back to him.

Elam said the response from the community exceeded expectations, with drivers honking, waving and even one supporter driving by with an airhorn during the celebration. She described the event as “so much fun” and said people really embraced the opportunity to show appreciation for Propst.

Elam also thanked all those who stopped to support the surprise, saying it was refreshing to see so many people excited to give back to someone who spreads kindness every day. She added that Propst has helped cheer people up on difficult mornings and said it was rewarding to see the smile on his face as he realized how much the community appreciates him.

Legislators in Springfield are racing against the clock to pass a “megaprojects” bill that would pave the way for a new stadium for the Chicago Bears in Arlington Heights.  House Bill 910 passed the House but awaits a Senate vote, and lawmakers face the deadline of May 31, when the legislative session ends.  The potential extra property tax burden, the Bears’ own wishes, and a competing effort in Indiana are among the factors affecting the process.

Negotiators from all relevant parties are currently working on potential amendments to the bill.  If it is amended and passes the Senate, the House would have to vote on the updated version.  State Senator Steve McClure says he opposes the current version of the bill, saying taxpayers should not carry the predominant load. 

With the financial particulars still to be resolved, Senator McClure believes the Bears will not choose to relocate to Indiana due to the differences in the properties and their surroundings. 

Separate from the Bears, McClure also spoke on Senate Bill 939, which he spearheaded.  It mandates an expulsion of at least one year for a student who commits a sexual assault towards another student at school.  The bill passed the Senate but awaits a House vote. 

On a lighter note, Senator McClure took part in the General Assembly’s annual softball game between the House and the Senate.  His team snapped a long losing streak thanks in part to his work at the plate. 

More information on Senator Steve McClure is available at www.senatormcclure.com.

Senator Steve McClure appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show. 

In coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement, the FBI Springfield Field Office announced the results of Operation Viper, a high-intensity initiative aimed at apprehending fugitives.

The operation rendered a five-day surge resulting in the arrest of 29 individuals, the recovery of 7 illegally possessed firearms, and the seizure of over $8,264 in narcotics-related currency.

The focus of Operation Viper was on locating and apprehending violent offenders with active warrants. This coordinated strike spanned the eastern side of Central Illinois and zoned in on the “high-impact” fugitives in that region.

The primary objective was the removal of those who are ramping up violent crime rates. Notable results of this operation include not only the 29 arrests, but also the seizure of 4195.4 grams of marijuana, 781.1 grams of unidentified pills, 50 grams of cocaine, and 234.2 grams of methamphetamine. The operation also seized 5 illegally possessed handguns and 2 assault rifles.

According to Ryan Presley, the lead special agent at the FBI's Springfield Field Office, the success of Operation Viper highlights the seamless integration of federal, state, and local law enforcement. Additionally, according to Presley, no single agency can combat violent crime alone; however, by pooling various resources and assets, immediate threats to the public can be effectively eliminated.

Decatur Chief of Police Brad Allen said that he is proud of the work that their officers and partnering agencies did to take 29 separate offenders off the streets and into custody, while also removing large quantities of narcotics and weapons from the hands of dangerous criminals.

Operation Viper was led by the FBI Springfield Field Office with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, the Decatur Police Department, and Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.

The United States Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force with divisions in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The central district of Illinois has task force locations in Springfield, Peoria, and Urbana.

For more details on the United States Marshals Service, visit www.usmarshals.gov

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club met Tuesday evening for its weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge, and recognition was given to the winners of the two Kiwanis 2026 scholarship recipients.

Scholarship Committee Chairman Chuck Martin stated that 14 scholarship applications were received for consideration. Brody Garrett and Owen Mateer were selected after a review of all applications. Garrett and Mateer were each presented a check for $1,000 from the Taylorville Kiwanis Club.

Garrett informed the Kiwanis members that he plans to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering. Mateer stated that he plans to pursue a career in Physical Therapy, specializing in Athletics. Both recipients thanked the Kiwanis membership for the scholarship.

During the meeting, Chuck Martin presented trivia questions related to coal mining history. Several questions were presented, with prizes presented to those who participated.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. Weekly meetings are held on Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.

For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com or email the club at TaylorvilleKiwanis@gmail.com

Shelby Electric Cooperative has scheduled a planned power outage for Thursday, May 21st. This planned outage will affect a portion of the Taylorville area. 

The outage is set to begin at 8 AM and is expected to last approximately three hours. According to officials, the planned interruption will impact 58 members served by the Taylorville substation.

The planned outage is necessary to allow crews to safely complete line cut-over work and restore portions of the electrical system to their normal feed configuration. Utility officials say the work is part of ongoing efforts to improve system reliability and safely maintain infrastructure in the area.

Members affected by the outage should have already received notifications through SmartHub alerts and email messages. Residents in the affected areas are being encouraged to prepare ahead of time by charging phones and electronic devices before the outage begins.

Shelby Electric also urges residents to make any necessary arrangements for medical equipment or other electrical needs during the outage.

Officials also remind residents that while crews work to restore service as quickly and safely as possible, the estimated outage time could change depending on conditions in the field. Drivers are also encouraged to use caution around utility crews and work vehicles in their area.

For more details or questions regarding the planned outage, or for information on the affected areas, contact the utility office at 217-774-3986.