A local school district is reporting that its budget is looking as healthy as ever. 

Mary Vogt, Superintendent of Bement Schools explains their school district has come a long way regarding their budget. They are projected to finish the year with $200,000 more than what they're starting with. 

Vogt credits former superintendent, Dr. Greenwood, for setting up the district to be successful after she left. The budget was looking bleak at that time, but since then it has grown substantially. 

In a small community like Bement, it can take a lot to keep a school district afloat. Vogt notes one of the more recent challenges is developing a 5 year plan. 

Vogt explains the large majority of their budget comes from local property taxes. They also receive a small amount from the 1% sales tax and CCPRT. If you'd like more information on Bement Schools, visit bement.k12.il.us

The Clinton FFA Chapter beat the rest of the national competition, taking 1st in livestock judging.

Rebecca Howell, Secretary of the Clinton FFA Booster explains their team was in the top 5 in the state last year and won it all in Massachusetts.

Howell notes the FFA members had to go through multiple levels of competition before they could compete at the national level. Not only did they have to show the animals, but they had to give a presentation about their livestock as well. 

If you are interested in showing livestock, all you have to do is express interest to your FFA chapter. Howell notes the FFA has a lot of resources to teach members about livestock showing. 

Howell implores students to get involved with FFA, and notes you can get involved with the booster as an adult. If you'd like to sign up you can find their Facebook page. 

Warmer air is on the way in central Illinois.

After a damp and cool weekend, temperatures should gradually warm up this week as we usher in October. Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates the remnants of Hurricane Helene will move out and warm and dry air will move back in.

According to Shimon, October is trending dry overall - a welcome outlook for producers hoping to make some headway in the fields this fall. There is a wet signal later in October. 

Temperatures through October gradually drop and by the end of the month are about 15 degrees cooler on average.

Stay with us later this week as Shimon breaks down how September finished out for temperatures and moisture. 

Social Security seeks to help teachers engage students and educate them about Social Security.

Jack Myers at Social Security indicates if you are a teacher and you are considering adding Social Security to your lesson plans, check out our Online Educator Toolkit at its website.

Among the reasons for teaching kids about Social Security is the fact is one of the most successful anti-poverty programs in the history of our country. Myers indicates for 89 years our benefits have provided financial security to countless families and today, more than 71 million Americans receive about $1.5 trillion in benefits during the year. 

The toolkit includes two lesson plans with objectives, infographics, and handouts for each lesson plan, links to Social Security web pages, talking points, quiz questions, and answers.  

Social Security is an important public program that touches the lives of nearly every American. 

Congress recently passed legislation crafted by an Illinois Congressman last year.

The Bridge for Workers Act gives states greater flexibility to administer existing unemployment benefits.

Republican Congressman Darin LaHood says...

According to LaHood, the U.S. has around 1.2 million unfilled jobs for every unemployed worker.

Congressman LaHood teamed up with Indiana Democrat Jackie Walorski on the legislation.

The fall agritourism season ramping up. And there are attractions all across the state says Raghela Scavuzzo—Associate Director of Food Systems Development for Illinois Farm Bureau.

Again the website is specialtygrowers.org/shoplocal.

All in all, it was a pretty average year for the Clinton Apple n' Pork Festival.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers estimates over 85,000 attended the annual Festival on the grounds of the CH Moore Homestead on Clinton's north side. He indicates the Sunday crowd was solid. 

DeWitt County Museum Director Joey Long called it a very enjoyable weekend and the ideal fall weather played into how pleasant of a weekend it was.

According to Long, the Homestead tours during the festival continue to prove to be very fruitful. She still notices younger and younger people interested in the CH Moore Mansion.

Chief Lowers says the festival running smoothly year after year with little to no issues is a product of the hard work of many people who have come before him.

By 3 pm Sunday, the Homestead's ham n' bean tent was being broken down as they had sold out. Several of the Homestead barns selling apple-themed products were also sold out around or shortly after 3 pm. 

Keep it to Regional Radio in the days ahead as we hear from many of the non-profits that participated in this year's Apple n' Pork Festival in Clinton. 

The Apple n' Pork Festival was the beneficiary of a huge break when Hurricane Helene lost steam and stayed farther east than anticipated on Saturday.

That allowed for a good crowd on Saturday of the Apple n' Pork Festival. Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers estimates the day one crowd to be just over 50,000.

The Apple n' Pork Festival continues Sunday. Hear live coverage on WHOW and online at dewittdailynews.com from 11 am to 2 pm. 

The Weldon Springs Park Foundation is inviting the community out for a 'Fall Community Day' on Saturday, Oct. 5 featuring activities for all ages, live music, and an exhibition of our local non-profit organizations.

The free day of family fun begins at 11 a.m. and continues until 4 p.m. on the green space near the concession area. Fourteen local groups will have information at booths located on the parking lot. Visitors are encouraged to visit each organization to learn about their programs and services.

Horseshoes, musical chairs, volleyball, and three-legged races are just a few of the games that will be played on the green space. Volleyball enthusiasts can play a game in the green space or at the Chautauqua pavilion area where s’mores will be available.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and take a photo by the lake at the area set up for fall photos. A scavenger hunt will lead visitors to the delicious free s’mores. Come out and enjoy the fall beauty and fun of Weldon Springs State Park and see what our local non-profits have to offer.

The Decatur Area Ukelele Group and local musician Doug Williams will perform during afternoon sessions.

The Weldon Springs Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports the park, including programs at the Union Schoolhouse and the Texas Township Nature Center.   

The majority of rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Helene should come Friday and then stay west of the area for this weekend's Apple n' Pork Festival.

That's according to Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln who indicates this Friday rain should move out later tonight (Friday) and create off-and-on rain with more off than on this weekend.

Shimon indicates the remainder of Friday is going to be very windy.

Anticipate very cloudy skies for the entirety of the weekend. Shimon indicates that is going to make things a bit cool, especially with that wind out of the north.

Shimon indicates on the other side of this weekend's wet and cool forecast is a nice forecast that is going to warm back up as we usher in October. We'll have more on that next week on Regional Radio. 

The Warner Hospital in Clinton is reminding those coming to Clinton this weekend - if you need medical care, they have a renovated emergency room more ready than ever to serve you. 

Paul Skowron, CEO of Warner Hospital and Health Services adds the 11th annual Swifty Swine 5k kicks the day off Saturday at Weldon Springs State Park. He says the path will include a variety of terrains, but they do have a backup plan if the weather doesn't hold up. 

Skowron says they're more prepared than ever for this year's Apple N' Pork festival because of the newly renovated emergency room. The waiting room is double the size, and they still have no or low waiting times. 

He notes even ambulance services are noticing the improvements to the ER, which means they will begin to bring more patients to the Warner Hospital rather than taking a longer trip to another ER.

Make sure to register for the Swiftie Swine 5k on their Facebook page or at warnerhospital.org

It's hard to feed the 80,000+ people who come to Clinton for the Apple N' Pork festival. 

Joey Long, Director of the DeWitt County Museum and C.H. Moore Homestead explains they invited community groups into the festival to fix that problem. It also allows the opportunity for those non-profits to make some money for their projects and programs. 

Long loves the unification this event brings to the community. This year's festival will host the largest flea market in Apple N' Pork history. 

The Homestead will be open during the festival, which means you can go in for a tour. They will be offered both days from 11 AM to 3 PM, and there is a small admission fee. 

First National Bank is partnering with a local school to promote financial literacy. 

Chris Shaffer with the Clinton Community Education Foundation explains the In-School Bank Program, which is intended to teach students about money in an enriching and interesting way. 

Students can sign up to participate in this program any time throughout the year, with a parent's permission. Josh Shofner with First National Bank says the biggest benefits are building saving habits and other life skills. 

Shaffer says she's seen these young students' skills improve in real time, as they learn things like writing the date and counting money. She says it does a great job of keeping the kids engaged. 

Shofner notes they deposit the kids' money at the bank, and they work with CCEF to keep track of who has what. He says it's cool to see these kids grow their interest in financial literacy. 

If you'd like more information on First National Bank you can visit firstnbtc.com. 

It's budget time for many schools across central Illinois. 

Dr. Hillary Stanifer, Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools explains they've been working with a finance coach. She says it's nice to have another set of eyes and ears on the budget. 

Dr. Stanifer notes that the money they receive is not a lump sum they can use for everything, but rather it goes into 9 groups, each group having money allocated for specific things. 

Overall, Dr. Stanifer says the budget is looking good after adding some new personnel. Although not everyone may like the wind farms, they do provide funding to Blue Ridge Schools. This is new money for their budget. 

Dr. Stanifer says they are almost in the black as far as their budget, and they are hopeful for next year's budget. Get more information on Blue Ridge Schools at blueridge18.org.

Everyone needs a hand sometimes, and a local non-profit has a program to make that happen. 

Dea Welch with Community Action explains the Hand Up project is a program to help individuals get to where they want to be. They do this through meeting with people to figure out what barriers they are facing to become the best version of themself. 

Welch says it all starts with a conversation. They aim to find what someone's goals are, and then create a plan to make that happen. This could be people searching for jobs or someone looking to become more financially stable. 

She notes many people come to them when they can't find a job that fits them financially, in experience, or with their schedule. They have also noticed housing insecurity among many members of the community. 

All you have to do to be a part of this program is call Community Action or reach them online, and set up a meeting. There is a component of income eligibility, so you will have to provide the household income for the previous 30 days.

Community Action works with other companies and groups to support people in their program. Welch notes the Salvation Army and local churches lend a lot of help to people in the Hand Up program. If this program could be helpful for you visit capcil.info or call 217-935-0039.

The fed lowered interest rates last week. What's the long-range impact on commodity markets?

Joe Camp is with Commstock Investments.

An update on the Illinois Ag Leadership Foundation Class of 2025. David Kubik from the Illinois Soybean Association is participating in the program.

Those interested in the participating in the Class of 2025, can learn more at agleadership.org. The program started in the 1980's.

Looking for chilly fall temperatures. You may have to wait says State Climatologist Trent Ford.

Wet conditions will impact central and southern Illinois late in the week due to tropical moisture from Helene.

As the growing season winds down, gardeners look forward to the next year. 

Terri Miller-Casey, Director of the University of Illinois Extension for Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties explains they have a program at the Illinois State Fair Grounds to show off their garlic display. 

Garlic is a great way to use your garden to the very end of the season, once again that program is on September 28th from 10 AM to 11 AM. Casey notes the Gardening In The Air program as well, which takes place on October 19th. This one will be virtual from 9 AM to 12:30 PM. 

Miller says they always try to have variety in their programs, which leads to interesting topics like history and photography. You can sign up for both of these programs for free at extension.illinois.edu/lms

A central Illinois lawmaker invites young anglers to Weldon Springs this weekend for a youth fishing derby.

State Senator Sally Turner is hosting a free fishing derby for kids of all ages on Saturday at Weldon Springs State Park. She is partnering with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to help lead this event. 

No registration is required and again it is a free fish derby on Saturday from 10 am to noon. If you do not have your own fishing equipment, it will be provided for you. Get more information by contacting Sen. Turner's office at 217-651-8291. 

Organizers have announced this year's entertainment lineup at the Apple n' Pork Festival this weekend in Clinton.

Museum Director Joey Long says the Festival's program is always very complimentary to the relaxed atmosphere of the event. The Clinton High School band always opens the Festival with the National Anthem on Saturday morning.

Regular attendees to the Apple n' Pork Festival have undoubtedly taken notice of Mr. Lincoln roaming the Homestead grounds throughout the weekend. Long says he is a terrific representation of Mr. Lincoln and his ties to DeWitt County.

The Apple n' Pork Festival comes up this weekend in Clinton from 9 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday - rain or shine. 

Find the Apple n' Pork icon at dewittdailynews.com for more information about this year's event. You can also check out the Apple n' Pork Facebook page. 

Breakfast is the theme this week for the U of I Extension. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator for the U of I Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties says breakfast is the most important meal of the day. This week they are informing listeners about how to make quick, nutritious breakfasts.

According to Mellendorf, you should focus on protein and fiber in your breakfasts. Having a couple of eggs and a fruit rather than a pastry can be the difference between feeling full in the morning and not. 

Mellendorf notes having a healthy breakfast is especially important for students. Research shows a healthy breakfast can help improve test scores, grades, and overall mood. 

Mellendorf explains meal prep can be a useful tool for people who do not have the time to cook in the morning. You can freeze things like breakfast sandwiches or make overnight oats to have ready. Get more information at extension.illinois.edu/dmp

After renovations to the Wilky Complex, the Monticello Schools budget is trending down slightly. 

Adam Clapp, Superintendent of Monticello Schools says the Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax, or CPPRT is down 33% since last year, which affects their budget.

CPPRT funds go up and down each year with the state economy which can be hard on schools. Clapp notes it can be hard to plan for its ebbs and flows.

Clapp explains they don't take on projects they can't afford to complete. When they have an expensive project they always stay aware of incoming revenue and how to use it. 

If you'd like more information on the budget or Monticello Schools, visit www.sages.us

As the harvest takes a pause with the rain in central Illinois this week, producers may be doing more evaluations of those projected cash rents for this year.

Doug Gucker is a small farms educator at the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties and indicates farmland values are projected to be down this year.

Gucker reminds professionally managed farms are typically the highest paid in an area. He notes that it is typically acreage that produces a 220-bushel corn crop per year.

While producers are slammed with fieldwork this time of the year, Gucker indicates it is during the fall harvest when a lot of leases are negotiated and renegotiated. He adds landowners are likely not surprised by this news. 

Gucker reminds many cash rents are moving to a variable for flexible cash rents. He notes this is benefitting both the farmer and the landowner.

You can find more content from Gucker on all things small farms and agronomy by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 

The City of Clinton could be looking at some serious changes to its plans for a new City Hall.

Taylor Baxter told Regional Radio the City recently got back its estimates for a new City Hall that would house the Fire Department and the Police Department. The bids were much higher than what the City had budgeted for the project.

Learning costs are high for an extensive project is not uncommon. Schools around the area have found this to be the case for additions and new construction and Baxter is looking to the Town of Normal for a recent project they took on that had a similar timeline.

Now the City Council has some serious questions to answer - do they scrap the project idea altogether and wait for a better time to build when costs come down. Baxter indicates that is unlikely but they will have to discuss what is next.

The City is able to hold meetings in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall again as the elevator has been fixed enough it is safe to operate. Baxter adds there's more work going on with the elevator now. 

With tens of thousands of people coming to Clinton for the annual Apple n' Pork Festival, local authorities have their annual reminders for Clinton's biggest weekend.

Chief Ben Lowers says with so many people coming into the community for that day, patience for those coming and going, but also residents, is appreciated.

While one would think that many people coming to town would create lots of headaches for local authorities, Chief Lowers says it has almost become routine in getting prepared for the big weekend.

The Chief reminds dogs are prohibited on the Homestead grounds for the festival. While your day may be friendly, he feels it is an unnecessary risk for other attendees.

Chief Lowers reminds the square will be closed off on Friday and Saturday during the day. He reminds there will also be some side street closures and reminds golf carts are not allowed on Center Street except for emergency services use only. 

For more information on all things Apple n' Pork Festival, find the Festival's Facebook page or visit the Apple n' Pork Festival icon at dewittdailynews.com. 

Soybean harvest underway in parts of Illinois. Larry Hummel farms in Lee County near Dixon in northern Illinois. He says there's been some disease and weed pressure late in the growing season.

He expects corn yields to be strong in his part of the state.

Designed to restore respect to game officials, the Illinois High School Association inked a contract extension with Officially Human.

The I-H-S-A first launched the partnership in the 2023 school year, which provides Public Service Announcements, and a Human Elevate Respect Course for all I-H-S-A coaches.

Additionally, schools can use a media kit to help curb poor sportsmanship towards game officials.

Craig Anderson, Executive Director says....

A survey, conducted by the I-H-S-A in 2023 showed 62% of all game officials say sportsmanship of fans is the greatest challenge of the job.

Last year, the I-H-S-A licensed over 11-thousands individuals.

More Farm Bill attention from Illinois Farm Bureau. Director of National Legislation Ryan Whitehouse was in Washington last week. Among his meetings—Illinois Congressman Mike Bost, a member of the House Ag Committee.

Illinois has four other members on the House Ag Committee—Nikki Budzinski, Jonathan Jackson, Mary Miller and Eric Sorensen.

It was warm and dry week in Illinois last week with below average rainfall and above average temperatures. 

State crop statistician Mark Schluessner indicates 6.2 days were suitable for field work and soil conditions were 44% adequate. 

72% of corn crops were reported mature and 14% of corn crops were harvested.  77% of soybean acres were reported to be dropping leaves and 15% were harvested. 

Wheat planting is 6% finished and the third cutting of alf alfa hay is 96% finished. Pasture conditions were reported as only 24% good to excellent. 

A local extension office is hosting an online series for seniors.

Terri Miller-Casey, Director of the U of I Extension for Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties explains the Lessons For Living Series is for seniors looking to make the best of their golden years. 

This is just the first part of the series, in the next session, they will cover eye health. After that, the Extension will be hosting a session for Estate Planning. These will complete the senior-focused series. 

Casey explains this program is not something people would typically expect from the U of I Extension, but they have an assortment of programs that don't have to do with agriculture at all. The Extension finds joy in serving the community in ways that don't just have to do with farming. 

The first session of this series is this Thursday, September 26th from 10 AM to 11 AM. You can register and attend online for free at extension.illinois.edu/lms

A rural Macon County school leader is reacting to the recent threats made to several schools throughout Macon County.

Warrensburg-Latham Schools Superintendent Cheryl Warner indicates her school was among a handful mentioned in some online threats. While there was never a threat to the school district, she indicates they have to take any threats made as legitimate.

Warner and her staff are very proactive when it comes to preparation for any events that could happen and impact her students and families. She explains each new threat creates an opportunity for learning and review. 

According to Warner, the ability to be able to train fellow teachers and school district staff is an opportunity they feel is very valuable. She points out a core belief of hers is if you want to learn something is to learn to teach it. 

A growing and maybe even more alarming trend impacting schools in America today is Artificial Intelligence or AI. Warner explains while it hasn't happened to them yet, they have a crisis tip line that is triggered by AI from time to time.

Warner encourages parents to speak with their kids about the impacts these threats can have on their personal lives. She indicates the young people who made the threats a few weeks ago in Macon County were swiftly apprehended and will likely be facing serious consequences for those decisions.

She also notes that threats like these have far-reaching community impacts like increased police presence at schools and also parents making decisions about what to do for their kids in the days that follow those threats. She adds it is not just the school day that is impacted - although the impact on the school day can be significant. 

The annual Apple n' Pork Festival is upon us. 

Joey Long is the Director of the DeWitt County Museum and CH Moore Homestead. She reminds the Apple n' Pork Festival is a modest yet fun festival that celebrates tradition.

The Apple n' Pork Festival started as a modest fundraiser 56 years ago for the CH Moore mansion. Long explains they would host a fundraiser and fix a room. That eventually restored the old home and now it has become a fundraiser for the upkeep of the house.

The Festival is this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29 from 9 am to 5 pm. Find the Apple n' Pork Festival Facebook page for more information.

Keep it to Regional Radio throughout the week for further information on the annual Apple n' Pork Festival and all the happenings in Clinton this week. 

Ag educators are often tasked with making engaging and informative programs for students. 
 

Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator for the U of I Extension in Dewitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains his job is to work with students and teachers in the classroom to teach about 4-H. One of his current programs centers around nutrition and wellness. 

One of the major draws of 4-H and ag education is the wide variety of topics they can cover. Craft has created a program revolving around drones and their uses in agriculture. 

While physical wellness is an important part of education for young people, emotional wellness is something Craft tries to teach because more and more students are struggling with their mental health. He does this by inviting them to a program to play tabletop games. 

Craft says his goal is always to have fun so the kids don't realize they're learning these important skills. He continues to develop programs to bring into schools. If you are interested in having these programs in your classroom, you can reach him at hcraft@illinois.edu or go to extension.illinois.edu/dmp

Social Security strives to explain your benefits using easy-to-understand, plain language

The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to communicate information clearly in a way the public can understand. Jack Myers with Social Security explains this can be challenging when talking about complicated programs like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare. He points out they have an online glossary of terms and acronyms that will help you understand the meaning.  

PIA- or Primary Insurance Amount - is when Social Security calculates your benefit amount, they use your earnings record to compute a PIA.  Myers notes if they are talking about retirement, the PIA is the amount you will get at your full retirement age, or FRA. If you take benefits earlier, the PIA will be reduced and you will receive a percentage of it. 

The Full Retirement Age is when you can receive 100% of your benefit amount (and work without earnings limits while receiving Social Security benefits. It varies based on DOB. Myers says those dates are 1960 and later is age 67.

Other terms you may encounter with Social Security includes COLA, or Cost of Living Adjustment. 

Credits - As you work and pay Social Security taxes on your earnings, you earn credits, previously called "quarters of coverage". You can earn up to 4 credits per year. In 2024 you earn 1 credit, up to 4 maximum, for each $1730 in gross wages or net earnings in self-employment.  Most people need 40 credits to qualify for retirement benefits. Though fewer credits are required for survivor or disability benefits if a young worker dies or becomes disabled. 

Earnings Record-This is the history of the amount of money you earned each year during your working lifetime.  A minimum of 10 years of earnings will be required to get you to the 40 credits you need in order to qualify for retirement benefits.  However, when Social Security calculates your benefit amount, they will use your 35 best years, adjusted for inflation up until age 60, in the calculation.  It is important to review your earnings record regularly for accuracy.

And finally FICA, or Federal Insurance Contributions Act. 

Large animal vets remain in demand around Illinois and throughout the country. The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine is hosting an open house next month says third-year vet student Justin Huff.

The Open House is Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership promoting a new online resource.

Helen VanBeck is Midwest Program Manager for American Farmland Trust.

Again, the Find Tool can be found at ilsustainableag.org/findtool.

As harvest rolls along in some parts of the state, a reminder to monitor temperature and heat of that combine, especially this week with the above normal temps in play says Zach Hinthorn with Country Financial.

Your combine should also always carry a fire extinguisher.

IDNR celebrating the 75th anniversary of Ferne Clyffe State Park this weekend. A perfect place for nature lovers, rock climbers, hikers, campers, and anglers. The site attracts more than 325,000 people a year says parks superintendent Jay Massey.

A public celebration set for Saturday. The park is on Illinois 37 about a mile south of Goreville and 12 miles south of Marion.

Almost a year ago, representatives from AltonWorks proposed the creation of what they are calling the Great Rivers National Park. 

Their goal is to transform Alton and many of the surrounding areas along the Mississippi River into a "national treasure and family-friendly outdoor recreation destination." But not everyone is on-board with the concept. One of those is the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners, which passed a resolution this week in opposition to the plan. Another is the City of Grafton, which sits in neighboring Jersey County. Grafton Mayor Mike Morrow spoke on the proposal at this week's City Council meeting.

Morrow says this proposal does not include any private property, but rather several parcels of federally-owned land that are not connected. He goes on to say bringing any such plan to fruition would likely be measured in decades, not years.

Illinois' senior senator wants the federal government to create regulations and oversight for artificial intelligence.

While companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft continue to pour billions into A-I, Democrat Dick Durbin wants lawmakers to step in. This month, Durbin joined other U.S. Senators in a bid to call on the Department of Justice to investigate Generative A-I Products for potential antitrust violations. Sen. Durbin, the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee spoke with W-J-B-C radio in Bloomington.

According to Durbin, the future of A-I could be beneficial for finding cures for diseases such as cancer. However, the growth at a lightning pace has the Senior Democrat worried.

The DeWitt County Board at its monthly meeting Thursday night debated pay for non-union employees.

Melonie Tilley chairs the County's finance committee and explained to the board the proposal is a one-year scale which hasn't been done before as they try to mirror what the unions do.

Pat Ryan did not like the idea of a pay scale because it is not a merit-based proposal. Kristina Deerwester agreed with Ryan that the pay scale did not consider an individual's abilities or knowledge. Tilley felt it was a recognition of someone's time in a department - something the County had not recognized before with a non-union employee.

State's Attorney Dan Markwell and Administrator DeeDee Rentmeister point out the wage scale would keep employees jumping from one department to another because one may pay more than where they are currently.

Joe Witte viewed the wage scale as not allowing the market to dictate pay and be competitive. Rentmeister noted that the new pay scale would give high marks for an employee's years of service in a department.

Elected officials like County Clerk Kari Harris argued against the pay scale. She feels someone who doesn't know anything about her office is dictating how she is supposed to pay her employees. 

Witte reiterated his desire for the County to be flexible in its pay and allow the Department's to be able to adjust to get and keep employees.

Deerwester expressed concern about losing county employees to other opportunities that pay better. Harris anticipates losing employees because the private sector continues to increase its wages.

If the proposal was going to move forward, time was of the essence and Board Chair Dan Matthews was concerned because the proposal came forward without any numbers of what it would cost the County. With the budget process nearly wrapped up, he felt it was too late to make long-term decisions. 

The County Board approved a one-year increase for the County department's salaries Thursday. 

One of the products of the evolution of Clinton's Apple n' Pork Festival is the expansion the festival has taken across the community.

While the heart of the Festival is on the CH Moore Homestead grounds, the festival has grown to extend up Center Street and onto the Clinton Square. When Clinton Junior High School was torn down and green space was created across from the Warner Library, that created more opportunities for involvement.

That's Executive Director Bobbi Perryman who notes the library closes down during the Festival but they promote their program and encourage those from out of town to visit the library in their hometown. 

If you can't make it out to the Apple n' Pork Festival to learn more about the Warner Library, you can visit vwarner.org or find the Library on your favorite social media sites including Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and many more. 

A local school is putting the finishing touches on its new and improved sports complex.

Adam Clapp, Superintendent of Monticello Schools, explains that the new restrooms are just about finished, and next, they will finish up the new weight room. He says they are slightly behind schedule, but it should be ready by mid-October. 

A new parking lot was put in next to the football field at Monticello High School and Clapp says he didn't expect just how much of an improvement it would be. 

Clapp notes they are scheduled to complete the project on October 16th, and as soon as it's ready they will begin using the facilities for fitness classes and sports programs. The improvements will include new bathrooms, a new concessions stand, and a weight room.  

As this project comes to a close, Clapp notes they will begin work on the inside of the school building. That will include restrooms and possible additions as the enrollment increases. 

If you'd like more information about everything going on at Monticello Schools, visit www.sages.us 

Earlier this week on Regional Radio, you heard about 4 of the 8 dynamics of a domestic abuser. 

Andrea Kocher, Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions, explains the four dynamics that were not covered previously are, minimizing and blaming, using children against the victim, economic abuse, and male privilege. According to Kocher, minimizing is convincing a victim that the abuse is not real or doesn't matter. 

Using children as pawns is a heartbreaking reality, and Kocher says many times the children don't even know that it's happening. This comes in the form of hanging the well being of the child over the abuse victims head, and making it seem like they will be worse off if the victim leaves the abuser. 

Economic abuse is the limiting of access to funds or otherwise using financials to control someone. Kocher explains it doesn't always have to do with the amount of money, but rather the access.

The final dynamic is using male privilege. While this may be becoming less common as gender roles become less important to society, Kocher states there are still men who think being male means they have to control the relationship and be in charge. 

If you need more information on any of these dynamics, or other resources offered by Willow Tree Missions, visit willowtreemissions.org 

If you are planning to be on or around Clinton Lake this Saturday, a big event on the park grounds will impact access for a few hours.

Darren Moser is the YMCA Board President and indicates they have coordinated with the Department of Natural Resources to close down parts of Clinton Lake and other points in the park for the athletes participating in this weekend's NCAA-sanctioned triathlon to compete on the set trail.

Moser outlines the course the athletes will take...

Moser around 75 athletes registered to compete, there is the possibility more teams show up on Saturday before registration closes.

There's plenty of great food to look forward to at The Apple N' Pork Festival, and this year, a fan favorite is returning.

Josh Thielen, American Legion Department Adjutant, says the Legion will be bringing back its beloved pork wings for this year's festival. 

Thielen explains that a portion of the money raised at Apple N' Pork goes towards maintaining the building, and the rest goes towards a cash award for a graduating senior. He notes that it's not a scholarship, so students planning to enter the military or workforce are also eligible for it. 

The Legions booth will be in the same spot this year, just to the right of where you get off the tram. Thielen says they look forward to serving the community and they are grateful to the Homestead for having them. 

Blue Ridge Schools' incoming Superintendent is excited to take over at his home district. 

Dr. Hillary Stanifer, Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools, says current Snyder Elementary School Principal Ryan Peyton who will be taking on the role of Superintendent next year. 

Being from the school district presents a unique opportunity for Peyton. He says the relationships he's cultivated in the community over time help his ability to provide high-quality instruction to the students of Blue Ridge.

Peyton gives kudos to Dr. Stanifer as someone who supported him in the transition from principal to superintendent. He says it's important when someone sees potential in you, to believe them and put yourself out there. 

Peyton explains one of his major values is relationships whether that's with family, friends, staff, or students. Integrity is something he strongly believes in. 

If you'd like more information on Ryan Peyton or Blue Ridge Schools, you can visit blueridge18.org. 

The traditional fall months may end up not feeling all that much like fall.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln tells us October is trending warmer than normal. The month traditionally starts with high temperatures averaging 74 degrees and finishes averaging around 59 degrees.

September is the meteorological start to fall and it has been ushered in with a mix of warm days and more moderate weather days.

This week we're seeing quite the swings in temperatures with lows in the 50s and 60s this week and temperatures in the upper 80s. Shimon explains that is because dry air heats up and cools down quickly. 

The Clinton Board of Education approved its fiscal year 2025 budget Tuesday night.

Wednesday morning on the WHOW Morning Show following up on the Tuesday meeting, Superintendent Drew Goebel stressed to Regional Radio the way school budgeting works. 

According to Goebel, the tax dollars the school gets have to be budgeted by percentages into funds that can only be used for certain purposes. He stresses once dollars go into those funds, they cannot be moved around for other uses.

Goebel explains each fund within the school budget has a set rate that is taken from the overall tax rate each year and those rates cannot be adjusted without community approval through a referendum.

The education fund - which is where teacher salaries and benefits come from and is the largest fund of the budget - annually comes in under budget. Goebel points out they pull from what is essentially a savings account each year to fill that void.

The district levies bonds every three to four years to replenish its savings account and then will use those funds to replenish the education to supplement the annual deficit. Goebel explains this practice dates back almost 20 years in the district.

Audits for the district year after year show the district is in a very good fiscal position.

The district has come under fire this summer on social media for turfing the football field with some questioning if the district should be directing those dollars to better uses. Goebel feels the district has done a good job addressing areas of need not only around the campus and its facilities but also in the classroom. 

The Clinton City Council took up some local tax issues on Tuesday night.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, City Administrator Taylor Baxter told Regional Radio the Council approved keeping the grocery tax in place. The State of Illinois will stop collecting the tax and is leaving it up to local governments to stay in place.

Additionally Tuesday night, the Council acted on a State of Illinois option to increase the Home Rule sales tax rate from a half-percent to one percent.

The home rule sales tax dollars will help with the upcoming projects the City has planned including a new water tower and a new city hall building.

Baxter gave an update on those projects as well. We'll have more on those next week on Regional Radio. 

The Apple N' Pork Festival is coming up quickly, and a DeWitt County non-profit is getting ready. 

Stephanie Coonce, Executive Director of Encore Developmental, explains she's had a lot of help getting ready for this year's festival. They have been clearing out grocery stores of lemons and sugar for lemon shake-ups and sweet tea.

Apple N' Pork is an important fundraiser for Encore, Coonce states the last two years have brought in around $10,000 for the service. Last week on Regional Radio, you heard about the expensive process Encore is going through to be fire compliant, and these funds will go towards that project. 

Clients and staff help make and serve the lemon shake-ups at the Festival. It's an exciting time for clients to make a difference in the community and raise funds for Encore. 

Coonce says their 20,000-square-foot warehouse thrift store is always open for business and she encourages you to come buy for great deals that support Encore's mission.

Learn more about encore at encoreservices.org. 

The City of Lincoln and Lincoln Police Department are partnering together to enhance video security in the downtown area.

Police Chief Joe Meister explains they have mostly installed cameras in the downtown area and they have already shown to be beneficial.

According to Chief Meister, the additional security in downtown Lincoln will be implemented in phases. He explains they will expand west in the next phase.

The Police Department is having to pay for these cameras out of its budget because there are no grants available. He notes though, they have some incredible features.

Chief Meister indicates they will also be able to assist other departments in investigating if they have any suspects coming through the downtown area of Lincoln. 

Thursday is Teach Ag Day across the country. Megan Coy is the District 4 Program Advisor for Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education.

The elite conference is at Heartland Community College in Normal.

Large animal vets remain in demand around Illinois and throughout the country. The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine hosting an open house next month says third-year vet student Justin Huff from the Mount Vernon area.

The open house is Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Illinois Congressman Eric Sorensen teaming up with Republican lawmakers to introduce legislation aimed at stopping the flow of fentanyl into the country. He says in 2022, over 32 hundred Illinoisans overdosed on the drug.

The two organizations represent more than three hundred 70-thousand police members.

If you are about to qualify for Medicare coverage, a local insurance agent is hosting a program next week for you to get more information.

Jay Peterson owns Peterson Insurance in Clinton and indicates they will be hosting an informational program at 10 am and 5 pm next Tuesday at Monicals in Clinton for older adults to learn about Medicare.

Peterson recently started getting information about Medicare because he is approaching that age and explains it can be confusing with all the information you may begin to receive. He hopes the program gives individuals a good idea of what they are getting into.

There will be a program that will then be followed by a question-and-answer segment next week. Peterson asks anyone interested in attending to RSVP to Peterson Insurance. You can contact them at 217-935-6605.

Those two programs are again on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 10 am and 5 pm at Monicals in Clinton. 

Over 70 female athletes will be in Clinton on Saturday for an NCAA-sanctioned triathlon hosted by the Clinton YMCA.

Y Board President Darren Moser explains the event is a pivot of something they wanted to try last summer. It is in line with a long-running effort to host a triathlon in the community.

Schools from South Dakota to Pennsylvania will be attending.

Moser believes this event will be something special for DeWitt County because there is nothing like it in central Illinois. He says the Y does this because it is in line with the mission of the organization.

If you are planning to be at Clinton Lake and some of the surrounding areas this weekend, the Y is coordinating with authorities at the Lake to make sure there is no interference with the race and some of those efforts may impact you. We'll have more on that later this week on Regional Radio. 

October is almost here, and things are getting spooky in central Illinois.
 

Janice Peterson, Executive Director of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce explains they're feeling excited for the new aspects of the haunted house, which opens on October 4th. This year will feature enhanced concessions and an online ticketing system. 

Peterson says they've partnered with Haunt Pay, one of the biggest haunted house payment sites, to simplify the online ticketing process. Purchasers will receive a QR code in their email, that will be scanned at the door.

There is still a little work to be done at the haunted house before opening day. Peterson notes they have a couple of rooms that need work, as well as putting the finishing touches on the lighting and sounds. Although volunteers are no longer required to construct the house, they are needed for the operations of the house and the concession stand. 

Another attraction at this year's haunted house is the revamped escape room. It will have a whole new theme put on by Lynn Long. Tickets for the escape room will also be available on the new online ticketing system. 

The haunted house is the chamber's biggest fundraiser of the year, and purchasing tickets is a great way of supporting Clinton's local businesses. If you're interested in volunteering or purchasing tickets, visit clintonhauntedhouse.com

A local mental health professional is exploring how people in other parts of the world relax as compared to Americans.

When it comes to finding ways to unwind, Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, indicates Americans probably do not relax the way they should.

According to Kirkman, many American workers hit the mid-day lull where they are tired between 1 pm and 2 pm. He believes there are parts of the world that have found a good balance for wellness in its workforce.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Kirkman told Regional Radio that one of the best things you can do is get plenty of sleep and get some exercise.

If you are struggling, Kirkman encourages a call to the Piatt County Mental Health Center at 217-762-5371 or visit piattmhc.org. 

It was a warm week in Illinois with some moisture in southern Illinois, otherwise it was dry as we hear in this weekly crop report. 

State crop statistician Mark Schluessner indicates southern Illinois received some much-needed rain from the remnants of Hurricane Francine. Otherwise, it was a warm, dry week in the rest of the state.

Schluessner points out seven percent of corn is harvested while soybean six percent of soybeans have been harvested.

Anticipate central Illinois farmers hitting the fields hard starting next week. 

Plenty of momentum heading toward next month's National FFA Convention. The organization surpassed the 1-million student membership threshold this year. Alumni membership has also been strong with over 760,000 members and 2,033 Alumni chapters nationwide says the FFA's Kristy Meyer.

The 97th National FFA Convention is Oct. 23-26 in Indy.

The Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council announcing $4 million for research funding projects in 2025.

N-REC's Julie Hewitt says the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council was created by state statute and is funded by a 75-cent per ton assessment on bulk fertilizer sold in Illinois.

The county fair season wrapped up this past Sunday in Illinois with the Gallatin County Fair and Okawville Fair and Wheat Festival. It was another strong year across the state. Blakelynn Swanson won the Miss Ogle County Fair Queen title last month. She's also a livestock exhibitor and says it's important to promote the county fair scene.

The 2024 Illinois County Fair Season kicked off on May 26 with the Martinsville Ag Fair.

Although all domestic abuse situations look different, many abusers showcase the same behaviors.

Andrea Kocher, Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions, explains the 8 behaviors are a web, not a circle because they can all happen simultaneously. 

Kocher says behaviors that present themselves early are coercion and threats. This is essentially threatening to hurt themself or another person if they don't get what they want. Some abusers may even threaten pets.

Intimidation is also a common behavior in domestic abuse situations. According to Kocher, a lot of time people don't realize it's happening to them. 

Isolation is a behavior that can start small but become a huge problem. Kocher explains it manifests at first as discouraging socialization or jealousy. 

These are just four of the eight dynamics laid out by Andrea Kocher, and later in the week, we will hear more about the remaining four on Regional Radio. Find more information on what Kocher's services can do for you at willowtreemissions.org 

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is on the lookout for cases of EHD.

DNR Conservation Police Officer Trent Reeves says the state biologist has put out notice there are areas of the state that could start to see this disease impact the deer population.

According to Officer Reeves, the deer will run a high fever and foam from the mouth. In its search for water, the deer will overheat and die which is why they are often found dead near water.

If you encounter a dead deer you suspect has died from EHD, Officer Reeves encourages a call to DNR so a biologist can run tests. 

The State of Illinois had a major battle with EHD about ten years ago that greatly impacted the deer population in the State. Officer Reeves says since then, any EHD impacts have been localized but still very dangerous to deer. 

A dry stretch in Illinois has conditions extremely volatile.

Over the weekend, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio the dry weather is creating prime conditions for field fires as the harvest gets going. Unfortunately, the short-term outlooks are not offering much in the way of getting some moisture into the area.

Shimon reminds we are in hurricane season. So a tropical storm coming through the Gulf of Mexico could produce some much-needed precipitation in Illinois.

It has become dangerously dry in Illinois. Shimon says we're way below average for rainfall to start September.

The air will warm up this week and September is expected to be above-normal for temperatures. We'll have more with Shimon this week on Regional Radio. 

Pawpaws will be the theme of a program coming up this week at the Allerton Library in Monticello.

Doug Gucker at the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt  Counties will lead the Tuesday program on this unique fruit that has had a lot of staying power on Mother Earth.

Gucker will also have samples of pawpaw. He indicates pawpaw is a great option because pests tend to avoid it - as do most animals.

Gucker calls it a low-maintenance plant and is a small tree that is easy to maintain and drought-resistant. 

The program is on Tuesday from 2 pm to 3 pm at the Allerton Library in Monticello. It is a free program. 

Elder abuse is the intentional mistreatment or harming of an adult over age 60 and it takes many forms - including physical, emotional, and sexual harm, neglect, and financial exploitation.

Jack Myers with Social Security explains it is estimated that 10% of older adults experience some form of abuse each year. Unfortunately, that number is likely higher because elder abuse often goes unreported. Abusers are often someone the older person knows and trusts.

You can help make a difference by checking in with older loved ones and looking for the signs above or for physical signs of abuse such as bruises, burns, or unexplained injuries. Signs of financial exploitation include unpaid rent, sudden changes to a will, unusual changes in money management habits, unexplained financial transactions, or allowing someone new to access bank accounts.

Because the abusers are often someone the older person knows and trusts, it is important to watch for unusual changes in behavior around family members, staff at inpatient facilities, hired or volunteer caregivers, or people in positions of trust like doctors or financial advisors. 

If you suspect that someone is a victim of elder abuse, you can report it to Illinois Adult Protective Services at 1-866-800-1409. They can also assist with reports of abuse against people with disabilities who are between the ages of 18-59.  

A downstate lawmaker launched a survey aimed at identifying the scope of crop damage caused by wildlife. It's an issue that's drawing attention from farmers around the state says State Senator Neil Anderson.

You can access the survey at senatorneilanderson.com.

All eyes may be on the campaign trail, but members of Congress only have a handful of days to avoid a partial government shutdown.

In a little over two weeks, the United States will go into a partial shutdown, meaning federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration agents will be working without pay. Illinois Congressman Eric Sorensen.

Congress must pass a new bill to avoid a government shutdown by October 1.

A Miller Media Group sportscaster is in the running for a statewide award.

Seth Laurence, Program Director for Miller Media Group radio stations WHOW and WEZC in Clinton, is among 3 finalists in the Illinois Broadcasters Association “Silver Dome Awards” competition for small market radio best sportscaster in Illinois.  Laurence provides listeners on WHOW a daily sports report twice each weekday morning in the WHOW Morning Show, plus a shorter version on sister station WEZC.

Winners of all the I-B-A’s “Silver Dome Awards” will be announced at a banquet in Normal on October 8th.

Mt Pulaski lucked out with great weather during the Mt Pulaski Fall Festival.

This year's festival was circus-themed, with attractions like a dunk tank, the soap box derby, and the parade. Kelly Alesworth explains she's in charge of organizing the parade and the theme for this year. 

There's still time to make it out to the fall festival to see the Gamma Phi Circus, a circus comprised of students from Illinois State University. That event begins at 5 pm. Thank you to our Title Sponsor for the broadcast, Rise Broadband, rise above the rest with fast fiber internet. 

Time to get your applications in for the latest DCDC grant cycle.

Curt Homann, Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council explains the deadline for applications is September 30th. He says they will have at least $14,000 to give out to DeWitt County businesses.

If you are looking to apply for the grant, you can visit dcdc-illinois.net or you can find them on Facebook.  

It is dry - in fact dangerously dry.

That is the message from Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln who indicates the remnants of Hurricane Francine are unlikely to impact us and any moisture we get this weekend will be very short-lived and likely unimpactful.

Shimon indicates with how dry it has been for about three weeks and how dry it is going to stay, a field fire isn't out of the question as the harvest begins in Illinois.

Shimon indicates burn bans are already in place in some places in southern Illinois and would not be surprised if those expand as more and more areas realize how dry it is. He also implores farmers to be careful in the fields. 

A couple of years ago, Clinton Junior High School went to a no cell phone policy in its classrooms.

This year, Clinton High School is trying out a similar policy. Principal Jerry Wayne indicates high school students are not allowed to have cell phones out during class time. Whether they're in a pocket or a cubbie, they are put up during instructional time.

According to Wayne, the goal is for students to be engaged and focused on what is going on in the classroom and not have the distraction of the cell phone. While some students haven't been thrilled about the new policy, he appreciates them following the new rules. 

For Wayne, they are starting to see this policy be the routine for students and looks forward to having better instruction this school year. 

The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois happy with enrollment figures in the new school year.

German (air-mahn) Bollero is the Dean at the College of Aces.

Illinois Farm Families looking at reach and metrics. Gracie Pierson is the Consumer Engagement Manager for the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Illinois Farm Families is a collaboration between the Illinois Farm Bureau, IL Corn, Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Beef Association, and Midwest Dairy.

While parts of Illinois are expected to get some rain at some point this weekend, a local University of Illinois Extension educator is promoting harvest safety in these dry conditions.

Doug Gucker is a small farms educator at the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties and is encouraging farmers already in the fields to be mindful of the dry conditions that have developed in the last few weeks.

The best practice for farmers in the fields is to get those combines cleaned off after a day in the field. He says it is worth the time at the end of the day.

Extension.illinois.edu/dmp has more tips and information from Gucker on a variety of topics. 

A local non-profit is working towards compliance with the fire code.

Executive Director of Encore Developmental Services, Stephanie Coonce explains they are now collecting bids. They've received approval from their architect, so the next step is finding a contractor to build the firewalls.

When hearing the term firewall, many may think of the digital security system. In this instance, Coonce describes a physical wall to help prevent the spread of a fire for up to two hours in the building. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Coonce told Regional Radio that part of the reason this is an expensive project is the size it needs to be to fit their thirty-foot ceilings. Another cost is the fire exits and signs that must comply with the fire code. These will be finished in stages, but Coonce is looking for an estimation of all the necessary projects.

Coonce says they have already put in work to comply with the fire code like removing extension cords, taking down problematic exit lights, and getting an alarm system.

The project has taken 2 years so far, and Coonce estimates $100,000 has been poured in so far and $65,000 of it was just for the alarm system. They have been fundraising at events like Apple N Pork to afford the expensive project, and she hopes that these expenses will not be too difficult to overcome for Encore. She asks for help from the community to make this happen. 

If you'd like to donate to Encore, you can visit encoreservices.org/get-involved/donate.

Agriculture Education is an important subject for students, especially in central Illinois.

Henry Craft 4-H Youth Development Educator with the U of I Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties explains he works in the classroom with teachers and students. 

Craft says part of his job is going into the classroom and exposing kids to 4-H, and expanding on the notions the students may or may not already have about it. 

Craft describes getting his programs into schools as an adventure. Many of the programs are made for specific interests, which can be a challenge. He says he reaches out to principals, teachers, and admins to make that connection. 

If you'd like to get Henry into your classroom, you can email him at hcraft@illinois.edu

Portions of Illinois should receive a good soaking later this week. The southern half of the state is likely to see remnants from Tropical Storm Francine beginning late Thursday morning says Freese-Notis Weather Meteorologist Paul Otto.

Temps will also warm up Thursday throughout the state, with most areas approaching 90.

Illinois State University set another record - this time with the largest incoming class in the University's history.

This year's incoming class marks a nearly three percent increase over the previous academic year. Here's Jeff Mavros (MAV-rose), Director of Admissions and Recruitment of Marketing.

The University's population includes over 19 thousand undergraduates and nearly 25 hundred graduate students.

Total enrollment on the campus is over 21-thousand students.

A new middle school ag program with the new school year. And a new teacher—Zoey Dye at Hinckley-Big Rock.

Dye was a member of the Monticello FFA.

When the county fair is located right next to the big high school football game. 

Quite the scene last Friday night in Calhoun County says head football coach Aaron Elmore—a tractor-pull and midway served as the backdrop while Calhoun High School played Camp Point Central.

Calhoun won the game, and their kids and families headed over to the fair.

What's the talk at the local county fair? Mark Tuttle, an Illinois Farm Bureau District 1 Director was at the Sandwich Fair in DeKalb County last week and spoke with RFD Radio.

Tuttle has been farming since 1977, and he says 2024 may be his best crop ever.

Domestic abuse can come in many forms, it doesn't always have to be physical. 

Andrea Kocher, Director of Services with Willow Tree Mission explains many people believe if their situation doesn't involve physical violence, then it's not valid. 

According to Kocher, abusers are often looking for control in the relationship. This can be because of many reasons, but most abusers often display the same behaviors. 

Kocher notes all of the eight behaviors that victims of domestic abuse often face from their abusers. Although they may not be in a specific order or present themselves in the same way, these are the most common behaviors. 

Next week, Kocher will dive further into those eight behaviors. For now, you can find more information on their website at willowtreemissions.org or on their Facebook page. 

It's back-to-school time in Illinois.

With students in full swing, some of those high schoolers are getting their driver's licenses for the first time and a local law enforcement agency generally takes notice of the excited first-time, independent drivers.

Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister says they deal with traffic complaints around the time school gets out in the community.

Unrelated but still on the radar of law enforcement right now in Lincoln is property crimes. Chief Meister explains they are seeing a lot of crimes at businesses. He notes they get both forced entry and crimes of opportunity.

Chief Meister gives props to his detectives who he says have extensive experience in law enforcement and doing detective work. He credits them for helping curb the drug problems in the community.

Chief Meister recently told Regional Radio about a new downtown security initiative they are undertaking as well as a new program to register home security cameras to aid in criminal investigations. We'll hear more from the Chief on those initiatives in the weeks ahead on Regional Radio. 

Homecoming is an exciting time for high schoolers, with dances and big football games, there's plenty to look forward to. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Clinton High School Principal Jerry Wayne explains that Homecoming is here a little early this year, due to scheduling challenges with other games, and the Apple N Pork Festival. 

Principal Wayne notes some of the themes for Spirit Week, a fun-filled week for staff and students to dress up and show school spirit. He says even the community is getting into the themes this week. 

Wayne notes the Powder Puff football game will take place indoors this year. That's a change that was made in the past due to inclement weather, but they have decided to keep it that way because it went so well previously.  

The Homecoming Parade is the centerpiece of this celebration. Principal Wayne says it takes a lot of work to make happen, but it's worth it to watch the whole community come together. 

The Maroons take on Tremont at home this Friday to cap the week, and that game will begin at 7 PM. Tune in here to the big 1520 AM/92.3 FM/ and 106.5 FM, or on any of our digital platforms to catch the action. 

There's a change for the fall 2024 bow hunting season in parts of central Illinois. 

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Trent Reeves indicates DNR officers are getting ready for the upcoming hunting season after a busy boating season.

Population control drives the number of permits given each season but Officer Reeves explains there's also a new policy for this year's harvest around the number of does allowed to be taken during bow hunting.

It's not too late to do a once-over of those tree stands and other hunting equipment. Officer Reeves implores hunters to give those stands a good inspection as that is one of the top calls they receive.

Get more information at dnr.illinois.gov. 

Many may struggle to find work, or hire employees, but a federal government service is here to help.

Larry Peterson, Employment Specialist for Workforce Investment Solutions, explains that they bridge the gap between employers and prospective employees at no charge to either party and use tax dollars to fight unemployment in Macon and DeWitt Counties. 

Peterson says they do this by being involved with the community agencies and educational institutions in the two counties. While they do not perform the training themselves, they will fund the training no matter what that may look like. 

Peterson offers some advice for current job seekers, and that is to use this free service to its fullest extent. He also notes a couple of events coming up, one this Wednesday the 11th, and the other on the 18th of this month. 

Peterson reminds you that when job seeking, you should always use all the resources available to you. 217-875-8751 is the number to call for more information on Workforce Investment Solutions, or you can visit their website at worknetdecatur.org.  

Yogurt is a great source of nutrition, but it doesn't always have to go with berries and granola.

Monica Nyman, with the St Louis District Dairy Council, told regional radio there are many uses for yogurt in your day-to-day recipes. She says it compliments all kinds of other foods.

Yogurt also makes a great substitute in any recipe that calls for sour cream. According to Nyman, it can even go on things like baked potatoes and tacos.

Nyman says even she has trouble telling the difference between sour cream and Greek yogurt sometimes. If prepared correctly it has the same consistency and flavor. 

Visit stldairycouncil.org for more information and recipes like a pizza dough that involves yogurt. You can also find them on social media @stldairycouncil.

Enel has admitted to multiple curtailing violations since their last meeting with the DeWitt County Board.

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee meeting, the committee discussed following up on these violations with fines. Member Buck Carter says they need to come up with a process as soon as possible. 

There was some dispute over the violations among the committee. One violation was clear-cut due to the circumstances, and two were a little muddier due to unclear language in the ordinance. Member Joe Witte describes the phrase "reasonable time" as part of the problem. 

Member Megan Myers was frustrated by the fact that Enel entered the agreement knowing they would be unable to comply with the curtailing ordinance, and voiced that they needed to issue the fines. 

It was agreed upon that fines need to be administered to Enel, but Zoning Manager Dee Dee Rentmeister was not confident in whether it was 1 violation or 3. This led the board to decide action would be taken at next month's meeting, to direct her officially, and decide what a reasonable time to curtail is. 

The board also discussed an upcoming solar farm project, and stated that Cummings had been contacted to be the engineering firm, but they would look into other companies as a back up, like Stanley, a company out of Iowa building a solar farm in Douglas County. Find more information at dewittcountyil.gov

The Scovill Zoo brought an alligator in, to promote a fundraising for the zoo.

Pugsly the Alligator is an animal ambassador at the Scovill Zoo who teaches about the Endangered Species Act. Heather Purdeu, Executive Director, and Ken Frye explain just what makes alligators so interesting. 

Perdeu says the zoo has been fundraising for a new exhibit for the gators. Alligators are always growing, and the ones at the zoo have gotten too big for their current enclosure. They hope to have an indoor area for them. 

The Zoorific fundraising event is also coming up, Perdeu explains that this will also aid in the new gator exhibit. One family is even matching up to $250,000. 

Zoorific is an annual fundraiser for the zoo, and this year it will be on September 21st. Tickets are $100, and they include dinner, cocktails, and animal experiences. If you would like to participate, you can call the Decatur Park District or the zoo directly.

Visit decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo for more information on the Zoorific fundraiser and new alligator exhibit.  

Another school year means Illinois Ag in the Classroom is off and running. A new tool this year......Awesome Agriculture at agintheclassroom.org.

Kevin Daugherty is now in his 24th year as education director for Illinois Ag in the Classroom.

For those looking to save a buck at the pump, a leading expert on gas prices says winter prices could be cheaper than the fall.

Winter gasoline blends are typically cheaper due to higher Reid (REED) vapor pressure. That higher pressure allows gasoline to ignite easily to start in cold cars. Patrick DeHaan is a petroleum analysis expert at GasBuddy.

However, DeHaan predicts diesel prices to remain elevated due to the fall harvest.

The Warner Library is trying to increase sign-ups for library cards.

Mel Snow, Youth Services Manager for the Warner Library told Regional Radio that September is Library Card Sign Up Month. She says on the children's side, the theme is Transformers. All month, if your child signs up they can pick a prize from the treasure chest, and adults can choose from a number of prizes as well. 

Library cards are a cheap tool that gives access to so much at the library, and now you are able to have your card on your phone. The Share Mobile Library App allows you to put the card on your phone so you never have to have it physically on you. 

Snow says it's important for kids to have library cards separate from their parents, because it lets the library know how many kids and adults they have coming in for grants and reporting. She also mentions that they don't want kids to be unable to check out books, if their parents have overdue books. 

If you'd like to know more about the Vespasian Warner Public Library, you can go online and visit vwarner.org or visit them on Facebook.

A local school is focusing on more than just the curriculum this year. 

Jim Peck, Principal of Clinton Junior High School, says they have taking a full-district approach to the social, emotional, and learning aspects of being a student. 

Peck says something they value is building communities. Every month will have a different theme, and in August students spent 20 minutes in their SEL groups once a week to work on building their SEL community. 

This is a campaign to prepare students better for life in social situations, in and outside of school, rather than just memorizing information for a test. Peck notes they emphasize the relationship between students, teachers, and families. 

Peck mentions that this was created specifically by Clinton, for Clinton, therefore it's catered directly to the needs of the students. If you'd like to find out more about SEL and Clinton Junior High School, visit cusd15.org

It was a busy summer on Clinton Lake and Lake Deactur for central Illinois DNR authorities.

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Trent Reeves indicates the summer on Clinton Lake always seems to be ushered in by the Memorial Day holiday but Lake Decatur's return of the boat races kicked the boating season into high gear.

According to Officer Reeves, almost every instance of burglary to motor vehicle at Clinton Lake has been a window smashed. He says they continue the investigations but encourage anyone visiting the lake to put valuables out of site.

Officer Reeves says with the fall season rolling in, DNR now turns its attention to the hunting seasons ahead. We'll have more on that with Officer Reeves in the days ahead on Regional Radio. 

There is a new trend in the scammer world - hybrid "long-cons".

Scammers are using fake Amazon or PayPal or other tech support e-mails and text messages to get your attention. Jack Myers with Social Security explains if you connect with somebody to resolve this fake problem, the scammer may then state that while searching your computer to fix the alleged problem, they found other problems, mainly with your SSN. 

A recent news article shared the story of a woman in Ohio who liquidated over $500,000 in retirement savings to buy gold and turned it over to scammers who showed up at her house after a several month version of this long con involving scammers impersonating SSA and other federal government agents. The victim said she spoke with the scammer nearly every day during the scam and was very confident in him. Myers stresses Social Security will not meet up with you to receive payments.

According to Myers, scams often target the elderly population because of the money they are perceived to have in retirement savings and other places.

To learn more about protecting yourself and reporting Social Security related scams visit www.ssa.gov/scam. You can also report the scam to oig.ssa.gov and notify the law enforcement team of the Office of Inspector General. 

Vitamins are an important part of a teenager's diet, due to how much they are growing at this stage in life, but many miss out on vital food groups. 

Monica Nyman with the St. Louis District Dairy Council told Regional Radio about Yogurt. Students often miss out on vital nutrients for their growth, partly due to their own choices of what to eat, but often by what parents have in the house as well. Yogurt is an excellent choice to provide those nutrients to your students. 

Yogurt is also fermented, meaning it has healthy bacteria in it that will aid in digestion. Poor digestion can be caused by the unhealthy foods that teens often choose to eat. 

Nyman encourages people to try different kinds and brands of yogurt because they can all be different. There is also a difference between regular and Greek yogurt and says to look at the live and active strains of bacteria on the label. 

Some parents may be drawn to yogurt with candy in it, to get their kids to eat it, but Nyman recommends avoiding those, because of the high amounts of sugar. 

If you'd like more information on the St. Louis District Dairy Council, and the benefits of yogurt, visit stldairycouncil.org.

A Presidential Debate is just a day away.

Vice President Kamala Harris hasn't debated former President Donald Trump yet. US Senator Dick Durbin isn't worried about her performance.

He says serving with her on the Senate Judiciary Committee showed how tough she will be on the debate stage.

The debate is scheduled for Tuesday from Philadelphia.

Memorial Stadium was sold out on the campus of the University of Illinois on Saturday and the Illini football team delivered its biggest home win in years.

They beat 19th ranked Kansas 23-19 and Head Coach Brett Bielema says the fans made Memorial Stadium special.

Illinois hadn't sold out the stadium since 2016. They are now 2-0 and will host Central Michigan on Saturday.

The Clinton Chamber of Commerce hosting an Open House to showcase their new partnership.

Janice Peterson, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, explains the partnership with The DeWitt County Development Council, and Workforce Investment Solutions. It will serve the community by making connections between employers and prospective employees. 

Workforce is a company that works with employers, and matches them up with candidates, and they will train those candidates. Peterson encourages employers who are struggling to find quality employees, to reach out. 

The open house is from 1-3 pm on Tuesday, September 11th, at the Clintonia Eagle Theater. You can find out more about the Chamber of Commerce at clintonilchamber.com.

The DeWitt County Friendship Center is expanding its parking lot.

It was a few short years ago DeWitt County's central gathering place for seniors had a brand new paved parking lot installed. On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Executive Director Paula Jiles told Regional Radio they are expecting the log to be expanded by 15 to 17 parking spaces.

Because the opportunity for the expanded parking happened so quickly, Jiles says some fundraisers they have coming up in the next few months will help replenish the funds they are using. 

Get more information about all things DeWitt County Friendship Center by finding them on Facebook or calling 217-935-9411. 

Having a stadium named after you is quite the honor, and a local school has done just that for two former coaches.

Cerro Gordo Schools Superintendent Dr. Emily Weidner, explains that at their fall scrimmage this year, they renamed the football field to Workman-Henricks Field in order to honor two former coaches. 

They were chose for this honor because of their dedication to the school, the athletics program, and most of all the students for over 20 years. 

A local school district is participating in partnerships, to make their system better.

Superintendent of Cerro Gordo Schools, Dr. Emily Weidner says she is very excited about opportunities brought on by Kirby Medical Center like the Bronco's Work Out Program, A 7th-grade program on how to make nutritious meals and snacks, and the Adopt-A-Medic program.

Dr. Weidner also notes the Richland Transfer Academy, a partnership with Richland Community College that allows high school students to earn college credits early. She mentions that this has been going on for a few years and is among the number of partnerships they have with local colleges.

Dr. Weidner explains that to forge these partnerships, they look to the needs of their students, and it can take time for them to become fully fledged out. She says one of the challenges of being a small district is providing these opportunities to their students.  

Cerro Gordo Schools even offer financial assistance for some programs, and 100 dollar reimbursement if students get an A or B in their Richland Transfer Academy classes. You can find out more about these partnerships at cgbroncos.org or find them on Facebook.
 

As the weather cools off, The Scovill Zoo prepares for the end of the season. 

Heather Perdeu, Executive Director of the Scovill Zoo in Decatur, explains that the last day of their season is Columbus day which is Monday, October 14th.

Until then, there are plenty of events coming up for zoogoers of all ages. Perdeu notes September is a busy month. September 8th is Grandparents Day and The Zoorific Fundraiser, which we will hear more about next week on Regional Radio, is also this month. 

Boo at The Zoo is Scovill Zoo's Halloween Celebration which features candy, treat stations, and lots of decorations. Tickets will be on sale at the end of this month. Perdeu mentions something they learned during COVID was doing tickets in the form of reservations is a big help to keep the line down. 

Boo at The Zoo takes place every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from October 17th through October 30th. There are also sensory-friendly hours for anyone who prefers that. 

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The best place to find more on this schedule of fun fall events is at decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo/

Last month on Regional Radio, we brought you the story of a DeWitt County economic development group diving into the world of data mining to better market the county.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council Curt Homann told Regional Radio as they start to see what kind of data they can get, they are envisioning how that can help DeWitt County.

According to Homann, if the DCDC is going to market DeWitt County, they want to do so effectively and the data collection they are doing is going to allow them to be effective in that effort.

While there is a collection of data that is free, Homann points out getting more specific data is going to allow them to present better data in its pursuit of recruiting new businesses to DeWitt County.

For DCDC, they are looking to market community assets and calls it "how they should and why they should".

Homann reminds while the data mining process is pretty scary overall, it is not an individual's data they have access to. 

Congress returns to session next Monday. But the August recess served as a great time to get those members down on the farm says IFB Director of National Legislation Ryan Whitehouse.

Before moving to the national legislation position, Whitehouse served on the local government side for IFB.

Compiling the results from the trapping surveys this summer, what is State Ag Pest Survey Coordinator Kelly Estes seeing with preliminary data?

You can follow Estes on X. Her handle @ILPestSurvey.

If you are having trouble making ends meet and you are an Ameren customer, you may be in luck as far as help with your power bill. 

The Warm Neighbors, Cool Friends program can help out with energy costs. The programs are designed to help low-to-moderate-income customers, in particular those that may make too much money for LIHEAP. Susan Sams is the Executive Director of the Warm Neighbors, Cool Friends program. She says a new aspect to the recent need is connected to alternate energy suppliers. They often charge rates higher than Ameren Illinois. She says you can find out who yours is on Page 3 of your paper bill.

For more information call 1-800-755-5000 or go to ameren.com and click on the "Energy Assistance" area.

A non-profit veterans support group has a campaign to inspire people to change lives. 

Josh Thielen, Department Adjutant of the American Legion explains the 'Be The One' Campaign exists to push people to make a difference in other's lives, in big or small ways. He says some of the ways to do this are asking, listening, and reaching out. 

If someone you are close to seems like there's something wrong, there probably is. According to Thielen, the legion has worked with Colombia University on a 90-minute training on just how to help someone in a bad situation. 

Thielen mentions that although it's hard to help everyone, it's their mission to help as many people as possible because you never know when someone could be considering suicide or facing the effects of depression. 

This is a campaign that the American Legion has been pushing the last few years, but especially last year. The former National Commander, Dan Seehafer, was a big part of this campaign, and his successor Jim LaCoursiere has desires to keep it going. 

Thielen notes that coming home from deployment can be very hard for veterans because they become used to the very structured schedule of the military. This is the reason mental health support is so crucial for them. You can find more information on these resources for yourself or a loved one at legion.org/betheone

The leaves on trees haven't changed colors yet but a Decatur non-profit is already thinking about theholidays. 

In November, the Decatur Area Arts Council's Anne Lloyd Gallery transforms into a Holiday Gift Shop. Executive Director Jerry Johnson says it's a great way for artists to get their name out there and make some money off their artwork. 

The Arts Council is inviting local artists to apply and Johnson explains the application process is quick and easy. You can apply online, the board reviews it, and then you bring your art in and they take care of the rest.

The best place to get more information and apply is decaturarts.org or visit their Facebook page. 

At last month's DeWitt County Board meeting, Chair Dan Matthews encouraged the Board to consider how to use the funds from the sale of the Clinton Lake Marina.

Matthews offered some ideas for how the funds could be used.

State's Attorney Dan Markwell told Matthews and the Board they needed to decide how to budget for the dollars. He says the Board has a couple of options on how to budget those dollars.

While Matthews did not have anything specific in mind, Board member Joe Witte suggested putting that money aside for a couple of years to make sure everything at the Marina remains on the up and up.

Matthews told Regional Radio there are a lot of directions the County could direct those dollars to re-invest in its communities.

The Board did not take a vote on any specific uses for the funds last month. 

A new group to help those who struggle with food addiction is meeting in DeWitt County.

Overeaters Anonymous is a group aimed at helping those who have issues with food consumption. The group is led by Robert Garcia who admits this is something personal for him but he also aims to help others through his struggle.

If you enjoy food but are not sure it is an addiction or maybe you suspect food addiction is something you battle but are not sure, Garcia explains there are several things to look out for in your eating habits.

Garcia says those with food addiction often deal with obesity and physical health challenges. Those can lead to psychological and emotional health issues.

Overeaters Anonymous meets on Sunday afternoons at Anytime Fitness in Clinton.

clintonoa.org has more information on Overeaters Anonymous in Clinton. Garcia hopes if you are battling food addiction, you'll take a leap of faith and put yourself out there to receive help and support from others in a similar circumstance. 

Teenagers are not always the healthiest consumers of food and a local nutrition educator is hoping parents will help their teens eat right.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Monica Nyman at the St. Louis District Dairy Council told Regional Radio she knows first-hand that teens are not always into eating right. However, it is imperative for their growth and development.

Nyman encourages making breakfast easy and portable. If you can provide a couple of easy options for kids to eat in the car, that sometimes is plenty to get their days started.

Yogurt is an excellent source of complete protein, which provides all nine essential amino acids that support healthy growth. Nyman explains research indicates yogurt eaters have a higher intake of key nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and fiber, compared to those who do not eat yogurt. 

Yogurt is very versatile and Greek yogurt can be a great option for so many alternatives to foods that may not offer the same health benefits. We'll hear more from Nyman on that next week on Regional Radio. 

Thanks to record rainfall this spring, pumpkin producers in the pumpkin capital of the world could have a record crop.

In Morton, producers are harvesting pumpkins for a Libby processing plant. However, for small farmers in Morton like John Ackerman, his yields so far are reaching record numbers.

At Ackerman farms, John grows up to 160 different varieties of pumpkins.

He has previously been a supplier for Libby's, which makes canned pumpkins for pumpkin pies.

Breaking your own soybean yield record. That's the story for Georgia farmer Alex Harrell, using Pioneer Z series.

Harrell spoke with RFD Radio at last week's Farm Progress Show.

We spoke with Harrell at last week's Farm Progress Show.

A local nonprofit has a free place to get groceries. 

Cody Monkman, Network Director, and Mandi Ries, Director of Communications from the Neighborhood Care Center told Regional Radio the Neighborhood Market is a warehouse grocery store with no fee for any of the products. 

Monkman says there are many places the products come from, such as the Midwest Food Bank, Illinois Eats, and local donations. 

He mentions they stewarded over a million dollars in products last year for the Clinton and Mclean County locations. 

Mandi Ries says there are several opportunities for anyone interested in volunteering for the Neighborhood Care Center like doing inventory for either of the centers. 

You can find more information about volunteering opportunities and all things Neighborhood Care Center at neighborhoodcarecenter.net or on their Facebook page.

The new 4-H year is here, and registration is already open

4-H Coordinator in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, Kendra Wallace, says there is a 20 fee for the whole year of 4-H. You choose one primary club, then you can join as many secondary clubs as you want. 

Wallace says one of the biggest benefits for kids in 4-H is the confidence they are able to gain. Their ambition never ceases to amaze her when the pursue lofty projects like a braille chess board.

Wallace also mentions that they are trying to improve their communication with members and families. 

Get more information on the new 4-H year at their website, extension.illinois.edu/dmp 

As the calendar turns to September, a taste of fall will be arriving later this week for much of Illinois. But before that crisp air is ushered in, there will be a few more warm days says DTN ag meteorologist John Baranick.

Meteorological fall arrived on Sept. 1.

Farmers around Illinois getting set for harvest, but also have their eyes on diesel prices.

Typically, gas prices decline in the fall, but Patrick DeHaan at GasBuddy says diesel prices could climb for those working the fields.

Farmers may have noticed a recent uptick in the price at the pump.

DeHaan says that was due to a power outage at an Exxon Mobile refinery in the Chicagoland area.

The COVID-19 vaccine is now recommended for everybody 6 months and older as a one-time, once-a-year vaccine, according to a doctor with OSF HealthCare. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration just approved an updated COVID-19 vaccine that is expected to be available at pharmacies around the country in the coming weeks.

The vaccine doesn't protect you from getting COVID, it tries to decrease the severity of how sick you would get, according to Dr. Doug Kasper, an infectious disease specialist with OSF HealthCare. He says the federal government will make the home COVID test free again this year.

There's no issue with timing on getting the COVID and influenza vaccines at the same time, but the RSV vaccine is recommended to be given separate. For all vaccine questions, Dr. Kasper recommends speaking with your primary care team to go over options.

The Clinton City Council made quick work of a light agenda Tuesday night.

With Mayor Pro Tem Tom Edmunds absent, Commissioner John Wise facilitated the Tuesday business. The first item of business was Commissioner Ken Buchanan providing an update on the progress of the downtown sidewalk work and the Park Lane West subdivision.

Commissioner Wise indicates as the work at the water plant continues, there could be the opportunity for them to provide tours of the facility to inform the public of what goes on there.

The Council Tuesday night also approved the playground equipment at Kiwanis Park. To take advantage of a grant opportunity, the Council needed to take immediate action.

The Council Tuesday night:

>>Approved exemptions for vendors for this month's Apple n' Pork Festival

>>Approved two service agreements for Liberty Lane with Cummins Engineering for just over $12,600 and just short of $15,000

Another digital service is available at the Warner Library in Clinton.

The library has a small handful of digital offerings now, but Executive Director Bobbi Perryman says this new service will consolidate all of them into one, easy-to-find location.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Perryman told Regional Radio this new service will have a lot of features for their patrons. It goes live on Wed. Sept. 11. 

Patrons can find a link to the service at the Library's website, vwarner.org. From there, it is like the other services, you enter your library card number and your PIN. Perryman says the nice thing about this service is you don't need to link your other accounts to it, it does that automatically.

Perryman encourages patrons to visit vwarner.org next Wednesday and look for the Aspen link on the website. She says for now, the service does not have an app but they are working towards that. 

She also encourages patience as the new service gets up and going as all the features may not be available right away but they will start to put more things online as they can. 

It was a warm, wet week in Illinois as harvest is underway in some parts of the state as we hear in this weekly crop report.

State Crop Statistician Mark Schluessner says 28 percent of the corn crop is mature and harvest has begun in some parts of Illinois.

It was a warm, wet week in Illinois. Schluessner indicates  topsoil moisture is rated at 67 percent adequate - a little wetter than the previous week

Soybeans are ahead of pace and harvest of soybeans has also been reported in parts of Illinois.

As the harvest begins, Schluessner implores to be on the lookout for large implements on Illinois roads. 

Pasture conditions were rated in 52 percent good to excellent condition. 

The third cutting of alfalfa hay is 84 percent complete - just ahead of average. 

The DeWitt County Board last month took up the issue of improving the fencing at the DeWitt County Animal Control facility.

The animal control facility fence currently was not installed properly to contain some of the animals according to Terry Ferguson, land use committee chair, and Megan Myers. 

According to Kristina Deerwester, the animal shelter has seen several holes dug and filled, including enough space for other dogs to get into the runs of another animal. Board members contend though, this is an issue that hadn't been brought up in other committee meetings.

For Myers, this is something that should have been done correctly the first time, and seven years later, it is time to do it right. 

Board members contend the cost, just over $11,000, is too expensive, and with only one bidder on the project, this should be something looked at further.

The Board approved the fence quote with Bloomington Fence for a cost just short of $12,000 on a 10-2 vote. 

Last week on Regional Radio, we brought you the story of the latest data from the Illinois Youth Survey data that was taken by Illinois teens this past spring.

Tony Kirkman is the Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center and breaks down the data specific to Piatt County and DeWitt County youth - in addition to the data from the statewide collection. While not surprised, he says vaping continues to be an issue teens battle.

A concerning trend for Kirkman is the growing trend of teens who report parents are providing alcohol or marijuana to their teens. He says parents are providing their kids with poison.

Kirkman says this is problematic because a teen's brain is not fully developed and these substances have a direct impact on the development of the brain. 

For Kirkman, he was impressed that substance use is down among youth. He notes youth seriously considering suicide is also down however, while the sharp, acute mental health disturbances are going down, the long-term depression and anxiety are going up. 

The Illinois Fertilizer Chemical Association utilizing the Farm Progress Show site in Decatur this week says IFCA's KJ Johnson. It's a 4R Field Day on Thursday.

More info at ifca.com.

Steady Ground: Illinois Farm Real Estate Values Show Continued Strength in 2024....that's the latest piece for Illinois Farm Business Farm Management's Brad Zwilling on the farmdoc daily website.

You can find the piece at farmdocdaily.illinois.edu.

On Election Day in November, statewide office holders won't be on the ballot.

Voters will make decisions for Congressional candidates, state reps and senators and local office holders. It will be two more years until Governor JB Pritzker can run again. The two term gov hasn't said anything publicly about running or not – but US Senator Tammy Duckworth says she wants him back for a third term.

The last Illinois Governor to serve three terms or more was Republican Jim Thompson.

U.S. Department of Agriculture State Director Pam Monetti announced four Illinois businesses receiving over $1.5 million in clean energy system investments to increase the availability of domestic biofuels. The funding is through the HBIIP (H-BIP) program

Among the recipients, Lucky's Energy Service received a $299,000 investment to install a 12,600-gallon biodiesel storage tank and loading equipment at one location in Hampshire. This project anticipates increasing the amount of biodiesel sold by 1.2 million gallons per year.

The University of Illinois Extension promotes cover crops for your backyard garden.

Horticulture Educator Ken Johnson says online resources available at extension.illinois.edu.

A local school district has remodeled its website and created an app. 

Superintendent Mary Vogt (Voh-t) says their new website ties in directly to the app. The app gives access to all the information you need from the school, and even be notified. The new URL for the website is bement.k12.il.us, Vogt points out that although the URL may be long, it would have cost a few hundred dollars a month more. 

Vogt explains Bement Schools have been without technical support for quite some time. They had an inter-governmental agreement with Monticello, and were using their tech support team. Now, they use the same platform as Monticello schools, but under their own contract. 

Some of the main benefits of this app are being immediately notified by live feed items like schedule changes, cancellations, or other kinds of important news. Unfortunately, you will not be able to pay things like lunch bills on it. 

Both the app and site are now live. If you'd like more info about Bement Schools, visit the new website at bement.k12.il.us 

Parents with kids in the Clinton School system will hear a lot about Social and Emotional Learning this year.

At last month's Clinton Board of Education meeting, Curriculum Director Kara Jensen explained to the Board what that would look like and how the district had prepared its staff for those lessons.

According to Jensen, the K-8 school buildings have their own Social and Emotional Learning teams. She explains they are focused on data and in particular, the data that came from a district survey about climate and culture in the district.

There are three goals for this year's Social and Emotional Learning for the school year. 

Jensen told the Board of Education, the model Clinton Schools is using in its S-E-L approach is being noticed by other schools and they have had several inquiries about how they are approaching the Statewide mandate of having an S-E-L plan. 

If you've driven in the downtown Clinton area in recent weeks, you've probably noticed some of the sidewalks are getting torn up and replaced.

That's been a plan in place says City Administrator Taylor Baxter. He notes this is going well and will be a welcome improvement once it is done.

Additionally, a lot of cement is being laid in the new Park Lane West subdivision. According to Baxter, Somerset Lane is now extended.

Baxter reminds the Park Lane West subdivision will be different types of housing units in the area of Clinton Elementary School behind Baum Chevrolet Buick.

The Clinton City Council will meet again on Tuesday night at 7 pm.