No 10 (From Feb 2024)

>>HS BBBall: Clinton High School Trio Feat A Rarity

It's a rare accomplishment for a trio of Clinton High School senior boys basketball players.

Having a player that scored 1,000 career points is a celebrated accomplishment for even an individual in a given basketball season, but it is a first for Clinton High School basketball coach Vic Binkley. 

Mason Walker, Dawson Graves, and Brooks Cluver became 1,000-point scorers. Cluver credits the chemistry the trio shares and says it has meant a lot to share it with two friends he's grown up with. 

Walker has the catalyst for Clinton's offense and says being able to share the accomplishment with life-long friends has made it that much more enjoyable.

Graves says scoring 1,000 points wasn't something he had on his radar when he started playing basketball and points out he didn't even know he had reached that plateau until well after the fact. He adds he couldn't have done it without his teammates. 

Cluver and Walker say they looked up to the Clinton High School teams with Austin Baker and Austin Rauch when they were growing up and wanted to be like them.

Having three 1,000-point scorers is a first for Clinton's Hall of Fame basketball coach.

Coach Binkley says not only are the trio very hard workers, unselfish basketball players, and good teammates, but they are good young men as well.

o 9 (From April 2024)

>>RR Donnelly to Close in Clinton

Multiple sources are reporting that RR Donnelly in Clinton is closing its doors in Clinton. June 1 the long-time employer of hundreds of Clinton employees will close its doors. 

The company began its operations in Clinton in the mid-1950s and has been a major employer in DeWitt County ever since. 

According to its website, its Clinton location is a direct marketing facility that primarily produces acquisition and fundraising mailpieces for nonprofit organizations. This 225,000-square-foot facility specializes in traditional envelope packages with in-line finishing for letter mail, automated flats, super-component mail, and specialty mailers.

Clinton is a full-service web printer for variably inkjet-imaged components. High-end color products are developed using the plant's best-in-class equipment and design capabilities for diverse formats.

No 8 (From December 2024)

>>Clinton City Administrator Announces Resignation

Clinton City Administrator Taylor Baxter has submitted his resignation from the City of Clinton but will be staying in DeWitt County.

Baxter has submitted his letter of resignation to the Clinton City Council and the Council will formally accept his resignation at its meeting Tuesday night.

In his resignation letter, Baxter thanked the Council for taking a chance on him and hopes he is leaving the City in a better place than he found it. 

He feels he helped the City accomplish a lot and has best wishes for its future.

Baxter is leaving the City Administrator's role to become the City Manager in Farmer City. 

Dec 31 update: Baxter takes over that post this week. 

No 7 (From February 2024)

>>Clinton Police, First Responders to Provide Police Escort for Local 'Make A Wish' Child

A Clinton child who is headed to see the ocean is getting a police escort on his way out of town.

The child is part of the 'Make A Wish' Foundation and wants to be a police officer when he grows up. Chief Ben Lowers says it would be an honor to enhance the 'wish' of this young person in our community.

Chief Lowers has rallied the Sheriff's Department and the Fire Department to participate. 

No. 6

>>Over 80,000 Attended Apple n' Pork Festival (From Sept. 2024)

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.

A DeWitt County leader is making the jump from one side of the county to the other.

Former Clinton City Administrator Taylor Baxter takes over as the City Manager for the City of Farmer City this week. He is forever grateful for the opportunity provided to him by the City of Clinton.

As Baxter departs, several projects and goals are left unfinished. Baxter indicates the Council has sought to bring back the summer concerts that had become a huge hit pre-COVID and it appears there is a dedication to having those return.

Another project still ongoing is the Park Lane West subdivision development. Baxter indicates there's a lot of interest in the development in that part of the community and believes it will be a very good thing for Clinton.

Baxter feels in his first time as an administrator, he learned a lot. He appreciates the experiences he's had in Clinton and the opportunity to learn a lot of lessons in this community. 

Historical images often degrade over time while on display and in the last few months, the DeWitt County Museum has taken advantage of an opportunity to preserve those moments in time. 

Joey Long, Executive Director of the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum explains their project, 'Picture Perfect' sought to preserve historical photographs from their collection it is just about wrapped up. 

This photo replication will allow the museum to keep displaying the history of DeWitt County while preserving the originals for generations to come. 

Long says they've had a great response from the community, noting her gratitude towards all the sponsors who have helped keep history alive in Clinton and DeWitt County.

The effort began this fall and Long hopes to see those finished copies on display at the Museum very soon. 

Get more information on the CH Moore Homestead at chmoorehomestead.org and be sure to follow them on Facebook. 

You've talked and Social Security has listened.

Social Security listened to feedback concerning public preferences to do business online. Some have expressed interest in being able to submit forms, evidence, and other information electronically. Jack Myers indicates they heard about the desire to sign documents electronically before submitting them.

Myers stresses this option allows Social Security employees to request and customers to electronically submit 50 forms and nearly 80 types of evidence electronically. It eliminates the need to mail, fax, or deliver information to a local Social Security office. 

For more information look for the Upload Documents section of the Social Security FAQ page at www.ssa.gov/faq. 

Miller Media Group radio station WEZC “Your EASY Choice!” 95.9 FM in Clinton, will air the 27th annual Budweiser New Year’s Party live from 9pm New Year’s Eve, until 1:00am New Year’s Day.

Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller will emcee the show, which will feature request and dedications of easy and top 40 hits from the 60’s thru the 80’s.  The show will also feature listener contests and give-aways.

The show will also feature messages asking listeners to celebrate the New Year with friends, and take precautions to keep yourself and others safe. The show again this year is sponsored by Skeff Distributing, the Central Illinois Budweiser distributor.

Miller began doing a New Year’s Show on his stations since the late 1980’s. 

The phone number to call in requests or to participate in contests during the show will be toll-free 1-866-500-9726.

Miller Media Group radio station WEZC “Your EASY Choice!” 95.9 FM in Clinton, will again broadcast the 27th annual Budweiser New Year’s Party, from 9pm New Year’s Eve, until 1:00am New Year’s Day.

Miller Media Group president Randal J. Miller will emcee the show, which will feature request and dedications of easy and top 40 hits from the 60’s thru the 80’s.  The show will also feature listener contests and give-aways.

The show will also feature messages asking listeners to celebrate the New Year with friends, and take precautions to keep yourself and others safe. The show again this year is sponsored by Skeff Distributing, the Central Illinois Budweiser distributor.

Miller began doing a New Year’s Show on his stations since the late 1980’s.  

The phone number to call in requests or to participate in contests during the show will be toll-free 1-866-500-9726.

Local authorities are promoting safety as the New Year's holiday is upon us. 

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers reminds the City of Clinton does not enforce the overnight parking ban on the square for the New Year's holidays. He encourages everyone to not drink and drive.

Chief Lowers reminds that New Year's Eve is one of the deadliest holidays of the year and encourages everyone to make good choices wherever your celebrations may take you. 

As we get set to usher in the new year next week, the weekend leading up to all the celebrations is looking soggy.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio it will be mild but rain should start moving in late Saturday.

Shimon indicates it won't be bitter cold to usher in the new year but it will be getting colder after a nice mild stretch to wrap up the calendar year 2024.

Outlooks aren't showing intense cold coming into the picture likely at all in January although Shimon believes we could start to see some of that cold air in February.

We'll have more with Shimon next week on Regional Radio. 

A national veterans support group is continuing a historical partnership at the local level.

Josh Thielen, Department Adjutant for the American Legion in Clinton explains the partnership at the national level with the Boy Scouts of America dates all the way back to 1920.

Aside from all the volunteerism the two groups share, the Legion even offers their post as a meeting place for the local Boy Scouts troop. 

Community involvement is a value held by both the legion and the scouts, and Thielen says they help the scouts facilitate their ideas in order to benefit their communities. 

Visit the American Legion in Clinton at 219 N Elizabeth St, or give them a call at 217-935-5183 for more information. Also follow them on Facebook. 

The City of Lincoln is in a waiting pattern in hopes efforts to keep open a major employer in the community will stay.

State Sen. Sally Turner says the public participation process has played itself out as local residents wait to hear if the Logan Correction Center will close to be relocated or renovated and remain open. Now the State is paying for an assessment to be done on the facility. 

For the Lincoln Republican, this has the feel like the Department of Corrections knows what they want to do but hope the decision will be made for them.

Sen. Turner continues to encourage the workers at Logan Correction Center and those in the community to remain in touch with lawmakers across the state to express how much the facility means to those employed there and to the community. 

A federal appeals court reinstated enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act, requiring businesses, including many farms to disclose their beneficial ownership information to the U.S. Treasury by next month says Raelynn Parmely, Economic and Policy Analyst for Illinois Farm Bureau.

More information at the website fincen.gov.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture continues to honor centennial, bicentennial, and sesquicentennial farms. It's through the Illinois Heritage Farm Programs says IDOA's Rachel Hettrick.

More information at agr.illinois.gov. Under the Assistance tab, click on Illinois Heritage Farm Programs.

Farmdoc daily continues to be a great resource. A broad spectrum of information is shared, and a different article is posted each business day says Illinois Farm Business Farm Management's Brad Zwilling—a contributor to the site.

The website is farmdocdaily.illinois.edu.

Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford has started compiling 2024 weather data.

And Illinois is on pace to break the statewide record for the number of tornadoes in a given year. The previous record was set in 2006. Currently, there have been 140 tornadoes in Illinois in 2024.

The high school basketball season is here, and that means big holiday tournaments.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Monticello Schools Superintendent Adam Clapp told Regional Radio they welcome 16 teams to their facilities for 32 games of high school basketball action. 

The annual Holiday Hoopla Tournament is a fundraiser for the Monticello Athletic Boosters. Clapp says the biggest donation is the time people volunteer to make this tournament happen. 

Monticello Athletic Booster is an essential part to the function of the sports programs. Clapp explains from buying warm up sweats to supporting the press box, the booster is always there

Keep it tuned to WHOW and WEZC in the coming days for broadcasts of Clinton and Monticello Basketball from the annual Holiday Hoopla Tournament. 

The DeWitt County Board has established an ad hoc committee to evaluate compliance and technology.

Newly minted DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte indicates the committee will run through 2025 but can be extended if they need more time but its goal will be to evaluate the County's ordinances and technology.

The ad hoc committee comes in response to the County disbanding the Marina Committee because the County sold the Clinton Lake Marina earlier this year. Witte explains they won't make this committee permanent to just have another committee to replace the Marina Committee.

Witte ran his first meeting as the Chair of the DeWitt County Board last week. We'll have more from him on last week's meeting in the weeks ahead on Regional Radio. 

For most of the year, the City of Clinton has been working towards updating its website and that update is finally complete and the new look is live.

City Administrator for the City of Clinton, Taylor Baxter indicates it went live early last week and is going to provide a much smoother and streamlined experience for users.

For users that have visited the Clinton Schools website, it is going to have a similar look. Baxter explains it is indeed the same company that developed the school's web page and he indicates the district provided a great reference for that company.

Baxter recognizes not everything you find on the website will be completely accurate. He encourages if you encounter an issue with anything to reach out to City Hall and they will make the correction as soon as possible. 

There's a local school district making improvements to their facilities shortly.

Adam Ibbotson, Superintendent of Maroa-Forsyth School explains they're already planning for this summer and next school year. 

Being prepared is always an important step when taking on big projects like this says Ibbotson. He emphasizes preventing problems rather than dealing with them after they happen.

Ibbotson recently applied for and was awarded a grant for maintenance on all three of the district's buildings. They will focus some of that money on the concessions stand at the football field. 

The district will also hope to make upgrades to the press box in the future. Get more information on Maroa-Forsyth Schools at mfschools.net

It's no secret that the short winter days can have an effect on your mood, so a local mental health group has some tips to help out. 

Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center explains although Seasonal Affective Disorder is not considered a mental health disorder officially, it is recognized by health professionals.

Another potential cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder is the lack of exercise and activity. Kirkman says getting out and going to the gym can help curve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

If you find yourself in need of mental health services this winter, find more information at piattmhc.org

For many Americans, especially young people, public speaking is their biggest fear. 

Henry Craft, 4H Youth Development Educator for the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that they are working with youth to build their public speaking skills.

Public Speaking Pathways' next meeting is in March, but Craft states that they will host some workshops prior to the competition to help students prepare. 

The topic and format of the speeches students give are very flexible. Craft mentions that all types and subjects are presented. 

To get registered for Public Speaking Pathways, visit the extension's website at extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 

A Clinton museum has wrapped up their holiday-themed tours for the season.

Joey Long, Executive Director of the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum is looking forward to reviewing the guest register to see how many people made it out for this year's Candlelight Tours. 

Many out-of-staters who come to the Candlelight Tours are visiting with local families, which shows how important of a tradition these tours are to the community.

Long gives kudos to all the community members who participated in decorating the house, noting the hard work they put in to make these special tours happen. 

Keep it to Regional Radio in the coming days to learn more about historical efforts from the DeWitt County Museum. Find more information at chmoorehomestead.org

Money from USDA Rural Development is helping with a grocery store effort in Carlinville. $390,000 in Rural Energy for America Program or REAP funding is being extended for the project says USDA Rural Development State Director Pam Monetti.

Information on USDA Rural Development programs is available at rd.usda.gov/il.

Winter meeting season will be jam-packed in the New Year. The Grain and Feed Association Annual Convention and Trade Show is Feb. 16-18 at Crowne Plaza in Springfield says GFAI's Jeff Adkisson.

This marks the 132nd year of the GFAI annual convention.

While some areas of Illinois did not get the greatest hunting weather, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced deer taken during this year's firearm hunt were up. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, DNR Conservation Police Capt. John Williamson told Regional Radio around 6,000 more deer were harvested this year compared to last year.

From a game warden standpoint, Capt. Williamson says it was overall a quiet year for his staff from a response standpoint although there were a few things they dealt with at points this fall.

Tree stand safety has been a high priority for DNR officials in the last few years. Capt. Williamson indicates they didn't have any issues with tree stands in central Illinois.

Capt. Williamson is retiring at the end of the year. 

As we get set to celebrate Christmas this week, the Clinton Chamber of Commerce is celebrating a successful and busy Christmas season for them.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Chamber Executive Director Janice Peterson told Regional Radio the Chamber's annual Christmas parade was a success with so many floats getting into the theme of 'A Cinematic Christmas'.

Scott Baum was this year's Parade Grand Marshal. Peterson indicates last year's Grand Marshal, Marian Brisard nominated him. Baum's dedication to Clinton was a no-brainer to have him represent the Parade as Grand Marshal.

The Chamber of Commerce added a new Santa's Village building this year and while it wasn't the completed product they hoped for, they received a lot of positive comments about it.

Peterson also applauds the Festival of Trees committee for the great display again this year. She feels their efforts add to the beauty of the season in downtown Clinton. 

A TIF fund that encompasses Clinton Schools is to thank for an announced upgrade of outdoor sports facilities at Clinton High School. 

Last week, the district announced it would be installing turf on the entirety of the varsity baseball and softball diamonds. Clinton City Administrator Taylor Baxter explains the TIF district for that part of the community encompasses Clinton Schools and some of the funds out of that TIF district are being redirected to the school district through an intergovernmental agreement.

Clinton Schools Superintendent Drew Goebel is very excited about this opportunity and notes it was very much something that came out of nowhere for them. The district is amid a multi-phase facilities improvement plan focused on the football facility. 

Clinton Schools Athletic Director Matt Koeppel is very excited about this opportunity and believes it is another example of Clinton putting itself on the map for top-notch facilities in the area.

According to Goebel, part of the agreement for this project is that the City of Clinton and the youth baseball league will have access to these facilities during the summer. Goebel indicates the School district is happy to be a team player in this effort.

For many years, Clinton spring sports have battled rain outs which limits its ability to play games even on days when the weather is suitable for outdoor activities. Keoppel believes it will almost entirely eliminate those circumstances.

According to Goebel, this will be another two-phased project because, after the baseball and softball seasons this coming summer, the second phase will turf just the infields of the JV baseball and softball fields.

Goebel stresses this will be 100 percent funded by the TIF funds that come from the City of Clinton. 

Baxter, Goebel, and Koeppel all look forward to the impact this will have on the City of Clinton and Clinton schools. 

A local nonprofit is looking to expand a program connecting seniors and young people in DeWitt County. 

Alisha Mitchell with Community Action explains they are looking for more site locations for its Foster Grandparents Program - particularly in DeWitt County.

Mitchell notes the program can be very flexible depending on the needs of the site location, as long as volunteers are able to meet the minimum 15 hours per week.

The program's growth depends heavily on the community's participation. Mitchell says while she is onboarding with a few site locations in DeWitt, she's always looking for more. 

If you're interested in volunteering or becoming a site location for the Foster Grandparents Program, visit capcil.info or call Community Action at 217-732-2159.

Growth continues with Middle School FFA programs. But there's room for more says John Edgar, assistant executive director of the Illinois FFA Center.

In total, there are now 42,815 FFA members in Illinois.

How did the mild and dry fall impact fall fertilizer application? KJ Johnson is with the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association.

The IFCA Convention is held on January 21-23 in Peoria. More info at ifca.com.

Social Security offers short informational audio clips for the public on a variety of topics. 

Jack Myers at Social Security indicates a recent episode of SSA Talks covers the subject of "Benefits for Children". If you have or know a child who has experienced the death of a parent or who has a significant disability and whose family has low income Social Security or SSI benefits could make a tremendous difference in their life. 

Myers equates Social Security payroll taxes to life insurance because as you work and pay into our system, you are paying for the benefits your minor or disabled adult children could receive if you die. However, he notes you don't have to die for your children to be eligible for benefits on your record.  

If you have or know a child who has experienced the death of a parent or who has a significant disability and whose family has low income, listen to this episode of SSA Talks and contact us to see if they may be eligible. Visit www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 for more information. 

There is always the potential for severe weather conditions in the winter, especially in central Illinois, and now there's a new and improved way to stay informed about warnings. 

Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service explains that they've revamped their website to make it easier for people to know when severe weather is possible and how to prepare for it. 

Shimon indicates that this website revamping came from the need to provide the public with a more dynamic way to access the most up-to-date weather safety information.

Visit the National Weather Service's new safety website at weather.gov/safety. 

Earlier this week on Regional Radio, listeners heard about the Foster Grandparents Program from Community Action, and their goal for growth in 2025.

Alisha Mitchell with Community Action explains a big part of how they want to grow the Foster Grandparents Program is through word of mouth testimonials from people who have already been a part of it.

In 2025, Mitchell will look to grow the program and make it well-known in the communities she serves.

If you're interested in becoming a part of the Foster Grandparents Program, visit capcil.info or reach out to Community Action at 217-732-2159.

Clinton Schools and the City of Clinton are partnering together to upgrade more of the sports facilities at Clinton High School.

This week, the Clinton City Council and Clinton Schools Board of Education voted to approve TIF dollars through the City of Clinton to go back to the school district. City Administrator Taylor Baxter told Regional Radio the City Council approved the agreement Tuesday night.

Superintendent of Clinton Schools, Drew Goebel indicates the district is going to do a two-phased set of turfing projects starting with turfing the varsity baseball and softball fields at the high school. 

The second phase of the project will be to turf just the infields of the JV softball and baseball diamonds on the campus as well.

We'll have more on this development next week on Regional Radio. 

Looking for locally sourced food for that Christmas feast or New Year's Party? Illinois Farm Bureau Associate Director of Food Systems Development Raghela Scavuzzo says you can visit specailtygrowers.org/shoplocal.

Again, the website is specialtygrowers.org/shoplocal.

Waiting for the season's first major snowfall event. It may not be until right around the New Year says DTN ag meteorologist John Baranick.

Baranick says temperatures will be too warm to support any type of snow over Christmas, but there may be some rain.

WHOW’s 106-point-5 FM signal in Bloomington was off the air from 10:30am yesterday until about 6 o’clock last night.

After a day of troubleshooting, crews with Ameren found a faulty meter on the building the WHOW transmitting equipment is located in.  

They replaced the non-working meter and WHOW resumed broadcasting in McLean County at 106-point-5 FM last night.

WHOW thanks you for your understanding from this unplanned outage.

A group of business students in central Illinois are ready for its class business event this weekend. 

Sangamon Valley CEO students have been working this first semester on a calss business which will be hosting their 'Grinch Chase 5K'. CFO of the business Russ Brown says the event is Saturday at Allerton Park in Monticello. 

The class business is an integral part of the CEO program because it teaches students how to work together in a professional setting. Gabby Block points out it is important because it paves the way to creating their own businesses which happens in the second semester of the class. 

The event will feature fun aspects like a kid's race, as well as a Grinch who will give everyone a 5-minute head start, and try to beat them to the finish. 

Registrations will be accepting the morning of the race as well.

Find more information about the race and the program at sangamonvalleyceo.com. You can also follow the Sangamon Valley CEO program on Facebook and Instagram. 

A Bloomington Area Zoo is adding a new endangered animal to the park this winter. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Jay Pratte, Executive Director of the Miller Park Zoo, told Regional Radio that they are getting their hands on a female red wolf as part of their efforts to preserve the species. 

When a reproductive pair is unsuccessful, Pratte states that they test both animals to ensure that they are in good health and able to reproduce. 

Introducing a new animal is not as simple as just putting it in the enclosure. Pratte notes it can be a long process of quarantining, observation, and exams. 

Pratte hopes they will be introducing the two wolves this week. He reminds this pairing is an effort to repopulate the extremely endangered species. Get more information on the Miller Park Zoo at mpzs.org.

Earlier this month, families with kids in Clinton Schools received information from the district regarding plans for e-learning this winter.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton Schools Superintendent Drew Goebel told Regional Radio e-learning is a secondary option as the district prefers an in-person learning option first.

According to Goebel, if there are several snow days in a given school year, it can be challenging to utilize e-learning days and not call a snow day because they try not to run the school calendar into June to make up for those days off.

Some districts are coming up on having to review waivers for their e-learning plans. Goebel does not anticipate the e-learning option going away any time soon. 

When a loved one is lost during the holiday season, it can be hard to celebrate without them. 

Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center explains the holidays can be very difficult when grieving a loved one, but a good way to keep spirits up is to start new traditions. 

Kirkman uses waves as an analogy for grief to describe how hard those emotions can be to deal with, no matter how often or far between they hit. He urges people to harness the thoughts of their loved ones to remember the good times during this time of cheer. 

If you're struggling with loss this holiday season, it can be helpful to reach out to close friends or family to remember all the good times and memories you shared. Find more on the resources offered by the Piatt County Mental Health Center at piattmhc.org 

The Illinois Farm Bureau Actively Engaged Student of the Month for December is Ella Anderson, a senior from Annawan High School in Henry County. She spoke with RFD Radio about the many activities she's is involved in, including FFA, 4H, IHSA, and school clubs.

FFA advisors, 4-H leaders, coaches, and school club or organization sponsors can nominate a student at farmweeknow.com/activelyengaged.

Teachers and school staff are in short supply these days and it is spilling into those short-term staffers that fill in during the school year.

Substitute teachers are being sought just as much as full-time teachers. Dr. Lisa Taylor is the Superintendent of Heyworth Schools and feels they have done as much as they can to appeal to substitutes. 

According to Dr. Taylor, becoming a certified substitute teacher in Illinois is cumbersome and complicated. She feels that is what is keeping people from becoming substitutes.

Another challenge in the substitute shortage is when teachers are retiring, they are not returning to the classroom as quickly or as much as they used to. She understands the reasoning for a lot of retired educators not coming back to the classroom upon retirement.

Heyworth Schools has gotten creative in recruiting substitute teachers. Dr. Taylor has found appealing to qualified community members who have time to help has been effective.

Another drawback for some potential individuals who would perhaps be interested in being a substitute is the stigma that today's youth are not well-behaved. Dr. Taylor believes Heyworth schools have well-behaved, excellent kids in their halls.

Dr. Taylor directs anyone interested in being a substitute teacher in Heyworth to visit husd4.org. She feels they go to a lot of lengths to introduce potential individuals interested in being a sub to how it works. 

Whether you have been on the road much or not, scammers are finding a new way to try and get into your pockets. Fake road toll collection texts, which have been on the rise this year. In this con, scammers impersonate a state road tollway collection service and text you saying you owe a road toll fee and provide a link to click to make your payment.

If you receive at text, Better Business Bureau Investigator says you should not click the link.

If you have doubts, O'Brien says you can verify your outstanding toll balance with the legitimate agency. Instead of clicking on the link in the text message, go to your web browser, find the toll service's actual website, and log in to your account to verify if you have any outstanding toll payments. Another way to verify this is by calling the toll service's customer service line.

The Decatur Area Arts Council has announced Jami Fawley as its new Executive Director, effective January 1, 2025. A Decatur native, Fawley returns to DAAC following her role as Director of Education and Outreach at the Children’s Museum of Illinois.

Fawley succeeds Jerry Johnson, who retires after a distinguished tenure leading the organization. Her journey with DAAC began in 2014 as an instructor, and she later served as the Anne Lloyd Gallery Coordinator starting in 2019.

Fawley expressed gratitude for the strong foundation established by Johnson and his predecessors and looks forward to building on their legacy. 

An accomplished visual artist and active community member, Fawley is deeply involved in Decatur’s arts and civic organizations. She serves on the boards of Barn Colony Artists and Gallery 510 and is a committee member for Farm to Fund, a farm-to-table fundraiser supporting the Northeast Community Fund.

The Decatur Area Arts Council expressed enthusiasm for Fawley’s leadership and her vision for enriching the local arts community. 

For more information about the Decatur Area Arts Council and its programs, visit www.decaturarts.org.

There has not been a new farm bill in Congress since 2018, and it looks like this year that trend will continue. 

Reagan Tibbs, commercial ag educator for the University of Illinois Extension for Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, explains that one of his recent blog posts focused on the need for a new farm bill. 

The farm bill may be a confusing topic to some, and Tibbs states this is because it covers agricultural policies and nutritional programs like SNAP. 

Reference prices have been a big topic of discussion for the Farm Bill, as Tibbs learned while he was at the Greater Peoria Farm Show earlier this month. He notes that Congress and the Senate disagree on the amount it should be increased by. 

Get more information on the farm bill from Henry Tibbs' blog. Find "Farm Focus" at  extension.illinois.edu/blogs/farm-focus.

A downstate doctor promoting the Rural Illinois Medical Student Assistance Program or RIMSAP. Dr. Nicole Kennedy practices family medicine for Deaconess IL Clinic in Marion.

Kennedy was staffing the RIMSAP booth at this month's Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

Illinois Farm Bureau teaming up with a Bloomington-Normal brewery to launch a beer. It's called Roots Lager and it's brewed at DESTIHL says IFB President Brian Duncan.

Matthew Potts is the founder and CEO of DESTIHL. The locally sourced grain for Roots Lager comes from his parent's Williamsfield area farm in Knox County.

A new Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leader Committee Chair has been seated. Stephen Riskedal is from LaSalle County.

The Young Leaders Conference is Feb. 7-8 in East Peoria.

Someone tough to buy for on the Christmas gift exchange? U of I Extension Horticulture Educator Nancy Krieth has compiled a gardening wish list.

Kreith promotes a quarterly Gardeners Corner newsletter with gardening experts from around the state.

The state ag pest survey coordinator continues to monitor for the spotted lanternfly. The invasive species was first reported in Illinois in 2023 in Cook County.
 

Kelly Estes says to report spotted lanternfly in Illinois you can email lanternfly@illinois.edu.

A local non-profit is trying to bridge the gap between seniors and young students in the community.

Alisha Mitchell with Community Action explains the Foster Grandparents Program gives seniors a purpose and a reason to get out of the house while providing mentorship and guidance to students. 

Mitchell says if you love children and want to make an impact on young lives in your community, this program is for you. There are, however, a few requirements you must meet. 

This program is built around benefitting both the child and the grandparent. Mitchell notes socialization and relationship building are a big part of what they do, aside from the mileage reimbursement and the stipend. 

If you are interested in the Foster Grandparents Program or know someone who may be, visit capcil.info for more information. 

Last month, Piatt County voters approved a tax to establish a 708 Mental Health Board. 

Just a month later, that Board and its mission are starting to take shape. On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center told Regional Radio the funds will be used to grow mental health services in Piatt County. 

Getting the levy passed is just the beginning of the process. Kirkman explains first a 708 mental health board must be appointed and have quarterly meetings scheduled. 

While he won't officially be on the board, Kirkman hopes to be involved because the Mental Health Center is currently the only provider of developmental services, substance use treatment, and mental health treatment. 

According to Kirkman, local service providers will be required to apply for funds received from the levy and could see the money as soon as August of next year. 

The Board anticipates receiving funds starting in August of next year. Kirkman indicates the passage of the tax is a huge boost to the future outlook of the Mental Health Center. 

After a brief period of being fully staffed last year, the Clinton Police Department is once again in the hiring phase.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates the Department in the spring and through part of the summer was fully staffed but again is currently accepting applicants through the National Testing Network.

According to Chief Lowers, not only has the application process to become a police officer become much easier, but it has become much more streamlined where an applicant can apply to two or three departments online.

Small police departments struggle to retain staff because young officers begin out of the academy in those departments and then move up to higher-paying jobs in bigger departments. Chief Lowers believes for veteran officers, there are a lot of appeals to come to a small community like Clinton.

Chief Lowers encourages learning more about the application process by finding the Clinton Police Department on Facebook. 

Macon County CASA has announced a milestone in its mission to advocate for children in foster care, expanding its services into Christian and Moultrie counties and rebranding as Heartland CASA.

This expansion marks a new chapter for the organization, which has been dedicated to giving a voice to children navigating the foster care system. With its new name, Heartland CASA reflects its broadened reach and renewed commitment to supporting children and families across the Heartland region.

Blaine Smith, Executive Director of Heartland CASA, says by expanding its services into Christian and Moultrie counties, the agency is embracing the opportunity to bring advocacy to even more children and families.

She adds Heartland CASA’s growth is a testament to the ongoing support of volunteers, donors, and the community. The organization looks to build on this foundation by building new partnerships and engaging with local communities in its expanded service area.

The name change to Heartland CASA the group’s core values of compassion, resilience, and unity, signaling its commitment to being a consistent source of advocacy and hope throughout the region.

For more information about Heartland CASA, its services, or ways to get involved, contact the organization at 217-428-8424.

This Winter, we will be faced with a La Nina weather pattern, leaving high chances of winter storms in the new year. 

Adam Ibbotson, Superintendent of Maroa-Forsyth Schools explains with the possibility of snow events beginning the second semester, they will utilize an E-Learning platform if they're unable to get students to school safely. 

As much as students may miss snow days, Ibbotson says e-learning is a great way to keep students on track and finish the school year on time. 

As a first-year superintendent, Ibbotson says he will collaborate with other local superintendents as well as road commissioners to decide when to use E-learning versus being in person. 

Get more information on Maroa-Forsyth at mfschools.net and keep up with their Facebook for all potential cancellation notices. 

Many young people struggle to make nutritious meals when cooking for themselves.

Henry Craft, 4H Youth Development Educator for the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties explains he's enjoyed writing a curriculum that teaches students experiential knowledge.

Craft says he's been working with a homeschool group to teach these skills to community students. His favorite part is exposing kids to new foods.

This group has an open door policy, and Craft notes this is a new standard for them but it's allowed them to host over 30 students in this program. 

If you're interested in being a part of the homeschool cooking program, email Henry Craft at hcraft@illinois.edu or visit their website at go.illinois.edu/dmp 

The YMCA's annual Survivor program is a staple for its membership and this year they are adding a new element to the annual competition.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Y Executive Director Rennie Cluver told Regional Radio they are adding a component of having a workout partner that you try to reach your weekly goals.

Cluver hopes couples and friends will take this opportunity to better themselves and create healthy lifestyles they can carry beyond the 12-week competition.

If you struggle to find a routine, Cluver encourages finding little adjustments to create habits that will get you to the gym or just moving more. 

Survivor begins in the first part of January. Cluver indicates registration is going on now. Learn more by visiting clintoncommymca.org or stopping in at 417 South Alexander Street in Clinton.

An ongoing issue suddenly became an emergency earlier this fall for a McLean County school district - now they are scrambling to decide how to move forward.

Heyworth Schools track has seen an ongoing issue in one area where it has on-again, off-again unstable but this fall, it came to a head when it became permanently unstable. Superintendent Dr. Lisa Taylor indicates the plan is to resurface the track completely.

Dr. Taylor indicates the Board of Education approved up to $3 million in bonds but they plan to tap into reserves and use 'Health/Life Safety' funds as well to fund the resurfacing.

The district has applied for a grant to help fund the project. Dr. Taylor explains they will have to tap into several resources to get this unexpected expense paid for.

A benefit for the district is they know far enough in advance, they can find ways to still have a track season. Dr. Taylor indicates they are partnering with neighboring districts to find a way to have a full schedule.

Dr. Taylor calls it a frustrating process but compliments the understanding of the Heyworth community.

With a La Nina winter likely this year, anticipate a wet start to the new year.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates a La Nina winter brings wet conditions with swings of typical wintry weather throughout. He adds some bitterly cold days are also more than likely despite equal chances for above or below-normal temperatures. 

According to Shimon, a La Nina weather pattern will bring swings in temperatures and more active weather patterns.

While La Nina weather patterns tend to come on three-year cycles, Shimon indicates this will be the fourth La Nina winter we expect in the last five winter seasons. 

Social Security recently announced its annual cost of living adjustment, or COLA, for 2025 and also recently announced there will be some other adjustments coming to various programs as well.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates the maximum amount of earnings taxable by Social Security will increase from $168,600 in 2024 to $176,100 in 2025.

According to Myers, the amount of income required to earn one "credit" will increase from $1,730 to $1,810 in 2025. This is gross wages or net earnings from self-employment and requires 40 credits for retirement benefit eligibility with the ability earn up to 4 credits per year.

Earnings limits for those Social Security benefits that are not based on disability includes the under full retirement age in all of 2025 limit will increase from $22,320 to $23,400. Myers details more on that change.

Additionally, SSI Federal payment maximum amount is increasing from $943 per month to $967 per month - a 2.5% increase. And the maximum Social Security benefit for a worker retiring at full retirement age is increasing from $3,822 to $4,018 per month.

Get more at ssa.gov. 

Victims of domestic violence need your support through donations to a Clinton non-profit.

Ashlynn Burrus with Dove in DeWitt County explains you can support domestic violence victims by donating things like canned goods and hygiene products to their food pantry. 

You can bring donations straight to the Dove office located at 803 W. Leander Street in Clinton. Get more information at doveinc.org

A Sherriff's Department vehicle suffered an engine failure, but Sherriff Walker has a solution. 

At Thursday night's DeWitt County Public Safety Committee Meeting, Sherriff Walker let the committee know one of their trucks had an engine go bad on them over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Sherriff Walker explains that it will come from the leftover funds from the financial year 24 budget because it would take up a significant portion of his maintenance budget if it came from financial year 25. 

The sheriff's department is proceeding with the purchase of the new engine, which will increase the vehicle's life span and save them money in the long run. 

This year, A Clinton Non-Profit hosted a mentorship program for seniors 55 and up to mentor students in the area.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday Alisha Mitchell, Program Director for Community Action told Regional Radio the Foster Grandparents program is a great way to give local seniors purpose by providing mentorship to young people. She says 2024 was a great year for the program.

Mitchell says she is looking forward to the potential growth they hope to experience in 2025. 

If you are interested in the Foster Grandparents Program, get more information at capcil.info or call community action at 217-732-2159.

Victims of domestic violence need your support through donations to a Clinton non-profit.

Ashlynn Burrus with Dove in DeWitt County explains you can support domestic violence victims by donating things like canned goods and hygiene products to their food pantry. 

You can bring donations straight to the Dove office located at 803 W. Leander Street in Clinton. Get more information at doveinc.org

This year, A Clinton Non-Profit hosted a mentorship program for seniors 55 and up to mentor students in the area.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday Alisha Mitchell, Program Director for Community Action told Regional Radio the Foster Grandparents program is a great way to give local seniors purpose by providing mentorship to young people. She says 2024 was a great year for the program.

Mitchell says she is looking forward to the potential growth they hope to experience in 2025. 

If you are interested in the Foster Grandparents Program, get more information at capcil.info or call community action at 217-732-2159.

In October, DeWitt County Animal Control Administrator Tony Harris announced he will be stepping down from his position and the DeWitt County Board's Public Safety Committee took a step forward in naming his replacement. 

At Thursday night's DeWitt County Public Safety Committee Meeting, the committee interviewed Harris' top pick to take over his position, Grace Moore. 

In the interview, Moore highlighted her experience in management as well as her willingness to make the tough decisions that come with the position. 

Committee Members Buck Carter, John Werts, and Tom Farris all felt the interview went well, and that Moore would be a good fit. The Committee decided to officially recommend her to the County Board for the Animal Control Administrator position. 

The meeting also included Sherriff Mike Walker detailing an engine failure in one of the department's trucks, which ultimately will be replaced to keep them from needing to purchase a new vehicle. 

Despite being slow to develop, a La Nina winter is still expected.

The National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center gives it a nearly 60 percent chance of being a La Nina winter. Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates they watch the Equatorial Pacific temperatures when tracking a La Nina weather pattern.

Shimon anticipates the change over to La Nina happening very soon. He predicts some periods of frigid air coming to central Illinois and a strong winter storm or two. 

With another La Nina winter here, this will mark the fourth time in the last five winters we've had a La Nina winter in Illinois. 

The La Nina winter weather pattern gives us an above-normal precipitation weather outlook for the traditional winter months. 

We'll have more on that next week on Regional Radio. 

The state FFA officer team nearing the midway point of their term. Sydney Stiers serves as State FFA Reporter.

Stiers is from the Williamsfield FFA Chapter. The 2025 Illinois FFA Convention is in June in Springfield.

A farm bill extension remains on the table in Washington, and an Illinois Congressman wants lawmakers to approve it.

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen, who serves on the House Ag Committee, says the farm bill provides much-needed relief.

An extension of the farm bill expired in September of 2024.

Former President Donald Trump signed the previous farm bill into law in 2018.

There are healthy and unhealthy ways to respond to big emotions like anger, anxiety, fear, and sadness. 

OSF psychotherapist Rachel Brown says it's OK to feel these emotions, but you should know how to react to them. When you're angry, for example, swinging your fists at others is obviously a bad idea, so accountability is one topic that she addresses. Brown also preaches techniques to ground yourself like deep breathing, taking time out from stressful situations, meditation, journaling and practicing mindfulness.

For adults, Brown often uses dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She says it's a type of therapy where the person learns skills to use in the outside world.

As the IHSA continues to evaluate the public/private issue for high school football, what about 1-through-32 seeding for the 1a-through-6a playoffs or even a different seeding process? Here's IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson.

7a and 8a are currently seeded 1-through-32 for the high school football playoffs.

Getting students interested in agriculture at a young age is the best way to ensure the industry's future.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Dr. Michael Tresnak, Superintendent of DeLand-Weldon Schools, told Regional Radio that with the return of the ag program this year they are renovating their high school's ag space as part of other building improvements. 

The ag program at DeLand-Weldon is still in its early stages. Dr. Tresnak says he has goals like installing a greenhouse to expand the learning opportunities for students in agriculture. 

Dr. Tresnak notes high school is no longer just about preparing kids for college because many students elect to take non-traditional routes after graduation. 

DeLand-Weldon Schools are in the middle of strategic planning, which in part will include the future of the ag program. Follow along with the updates at dwschools.org

If you or someone you know is in the midst of a domestic violence relationship, a domestic violence advocate is encouraging you to have a safety plan this holiday season.

Andrea Kocher is the Director of Services for Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County and indicates the cycle of abuse can accelerate during the holidays for several reasons. She says it is never too late to have a safety plan in place for when times get out of control.

Kocher notes it can be difficult for victims of domestic violence to find services at various points during the holidays because agencies like Willow Tree do close down.

The cycle of abuse often accelerates this time of the year because of financial stress but Kocher indicates a lot of other factors are often at play as well.

She also reminds kids pick up on things happening around them and while adults think they may be shielding their kids from what is happening, it is likely they already know.

Get more information about all things Willow Tree Missions by visiting willowtreemissions.org or find them on Facebook. 

The Lincoln City Council has been hearing more and more recently from its community members about public safety concerns.

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch indicates crime is spiking in the community and it is becoming a big concern for its residents.

Mayor Welch says the hands of most of the judicial system and law enforcement are tied because of the Safe-T legislation that went into law last year.

Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister has worked on the data of crime this year versus when the Safe-T laws were not in place and the Mayor hopes to be able to share that information with lawmakers in Illinois on the impacts the new laws are having on communities like Lincoln. 

Stargazers are in for a treat this weekend as the Geminid Meteor Shower, considered the strongest meteor shower of the year, will light up the night sky on Saturday, December 13 and the Macon County Conservation District is inviting the public to experience the spectacle at Friends Creek Conservation Area from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The Geminid meteors, known for their brightness and colorful streaks, originate near the constellation Gemini. If weather conditions cooperate, attendees can expect a stunning show of celestial fireworks.

Visitors can warm up with hot chocolate and toast marshmallows for s’mores at the event. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly and bring a lawn chair or blanket, as there is no seating available in the viewing area.

The event is open to all ages for a fee of $3 per person. Pre-registration is required and must be completed online by noon on December 12 at MaconCountyConservation.org.

Friends Creek Conservation Area is located at 13734 Friends Creek Park Rd. in Argenta, just 11 miles northeast of Decatur via Route 48. Ample parking will be available on-site.

Illinois continues to monitor for the spotted lanternfly. An update from State Ag Pest Survey Coordinator Kelly Estes.

Sightings can be reported at lanternfly@illinois.edu.

Weather all the way to Christmas is going to be a rollercoaster ride.

That's according to Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln who indicates the weather patterns will fluctuate, setting up the likelihood we will not be experiencing a white Christmas.

Shimon indicates not having a white Christmas the last few years has been attributed to low temperatures not getting very cold which is not giving the ground time to freeze and create conditions cold enough for snow. 

A portion of the building that houses 'The Depot' in Kenney has collapsed.

Kenney Fire Chief John Wrage tells Regional Radio they were called out to the location around 5:30 am on Tuesday where they discovered a portion of the building that houses 'The Depot' had collapsed.

According to Chief Wrage, that is not a city street that runs adjacent to the building so the State of Illinois had to be notified of the situation.

Chief Wrage indicates until they get the building inspected, the sidewalk around the area will remain closed. There is no danger to residents. 

He thanks all those that assisted at the scene including the Sheriff's Department and DeWitt County CENCOM. 

Female students at Clinton Junior High School this week are learning self-awareness.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers told Regional Radio the junior high girls are learning self-awareness with school resource officer Cody Mair.

Chief Lowers reminds this was a program started several years ago by the now-retired school resource officer Mike Bennet and Officer Mair is continuing the tradition of teaching young girls in the schools a valuable lesson.

While Clinton is a very safe community for young girls to grow up in, Chief Lowers says life will take young people all over the place and those places may not be the safest. In the event they need these skills, he hopes they'll be glad they learned them.

Chief Lowers continues to endorse the program and hopes to see it carry on for many years to come in Clinton. 

A local extension office is bringing a new event to central Illinois.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday Reagan Tibbs, commercial ag educator for the University of Illinois Extension for Logan, Menard, and Sangamon counties told Regional Radio, that registration for the agronomy summit coming January 21st is now open. 

Tibbs hopes people come away from this summit with information from experts in the agriculture field. He wants to give attendees the resources to have successful operations. 

This event has been in the works for over 6 months, and Tibbs is grateful to Lincoln Land Community College for making it possible by providing the venue. 

Registration for the event can be done at go.illinois.edu/AGSSpringfield.

A local school district is levying the community, but that doesn't necessarily mean taxes are increasing, and the superintendent is here to clarify the process. 

Mary Vogt, Superintendent of Bement Schools, explains that a levy is a request from taxpayers for funds; however, they do not always receive the amount they request. 

The amount the district requests through the levy is based on the estimated assessed valuation or EAV. Vogt says it's a long process at the county level to get the levy through. 

Vogt mentions that they don't receive the funds until taxes are paid, and the funds are dispersed by the governing body. Get more information on Bement Schools at bement.k12.il.us 

A local arts group is asking the community to support their programming through donations this holiday season.

Jerry Johnson, Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council explains the holidays are the biggest fundraising season of the year for the group because they don't receive any tax funding. 

The DAAC has a goal of reaching $80,000 before the end of the year. Johnson notes that is not an unreasonable goal compared to past years of fundraising. 

Johnson mentions the funds raised go towards building maintenance as well as the community events and art fairs they put on. They also provide arts grants to other non-profits.

To donate to the Decatur Area Arts Council at decaturarts.org and don't forget to visit the Holiday Gift Shoppe at the Anne Lloyd Gallery before it closes for the season. 

The National Weather Service in Lincoln issued a special weather statement Tuesday night about the potential of snow over the Regional Radio listening area today.

The Weather Service says scattered snow showers are expected to develop during the day Wednesday, with a 40 to 60 percent chance of snow at any given
location. Some of these will contain visibility down to a half a
mile, and accompanied by wind gusts of 30 to 35 mph.  That combination will produce localized hazardous travel. 

According to the Weather Service, a quick inch of accumulation is possible
with the heavier snow showers Wednesday. The worst conditions are expected from around midday into mid afternoon, though the snow threat will end
from west to east as the afternoon progresses. 

Temperatures will be falling through the 20s in the afternoon, so any snow that melts on roads will freeze and cause areas of slick travel for the afternoon commute.  Motorists should be prepared for a possibly challenging commute home Wednesday afternoon.   Stay tuned to Regional Radio for the latest weather information, and don’t forget road conditions are available anytime by clicking the “Road Conditions” icon at dewittdailynews.com.

Tis' the season for holiday shopping, but the Better Business Bureau has a warning before finding the next holiday gift.

For the B-B-B, this time of the year is perfect for schemes trying to swipe cash or steal personal information.

Don O'Brien is a scam investigator with the B-B-B.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, most online holiday scams target individuals aged 18 to 39.

Last year, the F-T-C reported scams accounted for $73 million for goods that never arrived.

For those who believe they fell victim to a scam, visit B-B-B dot-org.

Nashville recording audience Drew Baldridge returned to his home state of Illinois over the weekend to perform in front of a farming audience. He took to the stage Saturday night at the Palmer House in Chicago at the Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting.

Baldridge is from Patoka in Marion County.
 

The state's ag pest survey coordinator continues to compile data from the 2024 growing season. Kelly Estes discusses some of the preliminary findings.

You can follow Estes on X at ILPestSurvey

The ag industry continues to follow the tariff issue as the Trump administration sets to take office next month. Mary Kay Thatcher handles Federal Government Relations for Syngenta.

Thatcher spoke at this month's IL Corn annual meeting.

Local county farm bureau programs being celebrated across the state. Cook County has an effort called Future Forward, which aims to get younger people involved in leadership positions says Cook County Farm Bureau President Janet McCabe and Vice President Gerry Kopping.

The Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting wraps up today in Chicago.

A local library is welcoming in the winter season with a full slate of holiday events.

Mel Snow, Youth Services Manager at the Warner Library in Clinton, explains that this month, they will have events for all ages, like the 12 Days of Crafts. 

Each year, the 12 Days of crafts event has a different theme. Snow notes they do this to try and keep things fresh for the community. 

The Library also participates in holiday events throughout the community. Executive Director Bobbi Perryman explains that they helped decorate the CH Moore Homestead and a tree on Clinton Square. 

Learn more about the Warner Library's schedule of holiday events at vwarner.org and be sure to follow them on Facebook. 

It's no secret that students in 4-H have a lot of work to do during the year such as projects and community service work, and a local extension office recognizes their student's commitment. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday Henry Craft, 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties told Regional Radio they hosted their Achievement Night in early November. 

4H-ers apply for these awards starting in August. Craft notes there are awards at the county and state levels. 

Craft mentions that for some students, the awards are a big motivator for the work they do throughout the year, but many others just enjoy the impact of serving their community. 

Get more information on 4-H in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties at go.illinois.edu/dmp.

Finding a new part-time zoning administrator has been the topic of discussion for the DeWitt County Land Use Committee as of late.

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee meeting, the board interviewed Liz Weikle, and gave her a chance to convince them why she would be a good fit for the zoning administrator position. 

The committee seems unsatisfied with other applicants and candidates they have interviewed, while the current zoning admin Dee Dee Rentmeister feels Weikle would do well with her previous experience in zoning. 

Ultimately, the committee decided to make a motion to recommend Weikle to the County Board for the position. Committee Chair Buck Carter made the motion officially.  

If Weikle is to accept the position, she will start sometime in January of 2025.

Illinois Farm Bureau delegates finished their deliberations of policy resolutions early Monday evening.

President Brian Duncan was asked about the outcome of 2 votes which were both defeated.   One pertained how the office of the vice-president was treated.  The resolution was brought forth by the I-F-B Board to comply with federal law.

The other resolution brought to the I-F-B delegate body was one changing the terms of president and vice-president to one year instead of 2.

Earlier in the day, an effort to remove Duncan as president failed a vote to be put on the meeting agenda.  That movement has come from 2 decisions.   One of those was the decision by I-F-B affiliate Country Financial to not require Farm Bureau membership to buy non-farm insurance as of January First.   The other was the decision by the American Farm Bureau Federation last month, to boot I-F-B from its organization as a result of the Country Financial move.   That last issue to be heard by a McLean County Court December 18th.   A-F-B-F has told I-F-B December 20th is the date it’s no longer a member of the national Farm Bureau organization.

A local schools is finding new ways to battle chronic absenteeism, by giving students extra opportunities to have fun. 

Jim Peck, Principal of Clinton Junior High explains they offer grade level outings as an intentional way to build relationships with students and let kids be kids. 

Clinton Schools host an annual fundraiser, but Peck says they had some extra funds because they weren't being used during the pandemic. Now they are using them to make up for lost time. 

Peck feels it's important to foster good relationships between students and staff, and that this is a great way to let kids get away from the stresses of school. Get more information on Clinton Junior High School at cusd15.org. 

More than 72.5 million Americans will see a 2.5% increase in their Social Security benefits and SSI payments in 2025.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates that will include nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries and nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients.

The increases will be effective with payments that will be received in January.  Myers explains December 31st for SSI since January 1st is a holiday, so that will adjus the first payments for this increase.

Since 1975, the Social Security COLA has been automatically tied to inflation. According to Myers, the 2.5% COLA was computed using three factors.

When the Social Security COLA is announced, people often wonder about the Medicare Part B premium since it is deducted from the Social Security payment. Myers points out Medicare announced the standard Part B premium will be $185.00 in 2024 - up from 174.70 in 2024.

Myers stresses there is no need to call to check on this increase. Social Security will be mailing COLA notices throughout December, but the notice became available within your mySocialSecurity message center starting in late November.
    
To learn more about the 2025 COLA, visit www.ssa.gov/cola.

Last week on Regional Radio, listeners heard how individuals dealing with domestic violence may often experience an accelerated cycle of abuse during the holidays.

Andrea Kocher at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County says financial stress is the most common catalyst for an abuser to accelerate the cycle of abuse in a relationship. However, there are several other things this time of the year that can lead to an abuser's behavior escalating.

With added time indoors, Kocher indicates it gives abusers more time to wield their power over their victims. On top of that, kids are also home much more during the holidays with schools on break.

Everyone feels the pressure to create a magical and perfect Christmas for the kids in a home and Kocher notes that pressure also includes an abuser who may not be able to make that happen for his family.

Victims are often ashamed of the abuse they endure and do not share it with anyone however, the pressure of the holidays can sometimes allow some of the things they face to come out in conversation.

Kocher has a lot more on this topic and we'll hear more from her later this week on Regional Radio.

To learn more about Willow Tree Missions, its services, and hotline information, visit willowtreemissions.org or find them on Facebook. 

Each holiday season, a local arts group transforms their space into a holiday gift shoppe.

Jerry Johnson, Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council explains the Holiday Gift Shoppe gives local artists an opportunity to sell their work during the holiday season. 

The DAAC is open to all types of artists and works for the gift shop. Johnson says there are not many applications they have to turn away. 

Visit the Holiday Gift Shop in the Anne Lloyd Gallery located at 125 N Water St in Decatur. Find more information at decaturarts.org

A local business leader is revamping its website.

Curt Homann, Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council explains their website has never been updated since it was created. 

Homann states they are doing this in an attempt to increase the marketability of the county. They plan to highlight the programs and services they offer, and some of the success stories. 

Visit the DeWitt County Development Council's website at dcdc-illinois.net

Since COVID, the issue of chronic absenteeism has been top of mind for school administrators across the country. However, one local school district is heading in the right direction.

The superintendent of Monticello Schools, Adam Clapp, states that based on this year's report card data, they managed to lower the rate of chronic absenteeism by a few points compared to last year. 

Although missing a day here and there can seem small at the time, Clapp explains nothing can replace in-person learning and it can be hard for your student to catch up. Find more information on Monticello Schools at sages.us

As we enter the thick of the holiday season, for many, the vibes of merry and bright aren't always felt. 

Andrea Kocher is the Director of Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County and stresses that domestic violence does not know economic status nor education status - noting it is the everyday person that is impacted by domestic abuse. 

According to Kocher, the cycle of abuse tends to move quicker this time of the year. While encounters with law enforcement increase this time of the year, Willow Tree's calls for help do not.

A lot of people feel the pressure of the holidays and that can lead to increases in stress. For domestic violence victims and their abusers, the causes of that stress have a wide range of triggers but the most common is the financial stress of the holiday season.

Several other factors lead to stress during the holidays and create volatile situations for victims. 

Next week on Regional Radio, Kocher will highlight some of those things for us but will also provide encouragement and advice for both victims and friends and family of victims and how to support them. 

In the meantime, learn about all things Willow Tree Missions, including services and emergency information, by visiting willowtreemissions.org or find them on Facebook. 

As communities across the district become more and more diverse, a local junior high is trying to lend a hand to non-native English speakers. 

Jim Peck, Principal of Clinton Junior High explains they will be hosting an event to give resources to parents and students who learned English as a second language. 

This event was created in response to the increased number of families who may not speak English primarily moving into the community. Peck says this is trying to meet a need that previously was not being met. 

Peck mentions the use of AI as a resource when teaching ESL students. The district continues to look for ways to have educational equity for all students no matter the barriers. 

ESL will take place on December 12th from 5:30 to 7:30 at Clinton Junior High School. Get more information at cusd15.org

As the semester gets closer and closer to wrapping up, a local school district shares how they faired on school report card data.

Mary Vogt, Superintendent of Bement Schools explains all 3 of the districts buildings received commendable designations. 

Like many other schools, chronic absenteeism is an issue for Bement Schools, however this year they decreased their rate by 4%. Vogt feels the district is headed in the right direction. 

In a small school district such as Bement, it only takes a few outlier students to cause a statistic to jump up, but Vogt notes the same is true for a statistic to drop down. 

Vogt states improvement begins at the elementary level. Whether it's parents or students, she feels the importance of coming to school and staying in school needs to be communicated. 

Find more information on all things Bement schools by visiting bement.k12.il.us

From sub zero wind chills early Thursday morning to 50's by the weekend for most of Illinois. Andy Ervin is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities.

Temps could reach near 60 in southern Illinois on Monday.

A local library is reaching out to the community on how to reorganize their adult fiction section. 

Bobbi Perryman, Executive Director of the Vespasian Warner Library explains they have been toying with the idea of changing their adult fiction section from being organized by author, to being organized by genre. 

The library has done some informal polling on this idea through Facebook, however, they do have a survey available now on their website that Perryman asks people to fill out. 

Libraries often work together and borrow ideas from each other. Perryman mentions they took a field trip to the Mahomet Public Library to see how the genre organization system works for them. 

A project like this would be a huge undertaking for the library and would require many staff members and volunteers to tackle. 

Fill out the survey and give the library your thoughts at vwarner.org and find them on Facebook to keep up with all the winter events coming up. We'll have more on those events next week on Regional Radio. 

Plenty attention regarding tariffs as the Trump administration is set to take office next month. How are commodity markets reacting? Here's Commstock Investments Joe Camp.

Trump takes office Jan. 20.

Scams are evolving....mainly because of technology. Ameren Illinois has some reminders says the utility's public information officer Brian Bretsch.

Again, that number 800-755-5000.

An Illinois farmer has been appointed to the U.S. EPA's Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Advisory Committee. Megan Dwyer already serves as I-L Corn's Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship.

Dwyer farms in Henry County with her husband.

A piece of holiday history has been restored by a local museum. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday Candace Summers, Senior Director of Education at the McLean County History Museum told Regional Radio they received a 14ft Santa Claus from a former Bloomington department store. 

Summers notes although a simple Christmas decoration may not stick out to the average passerby, she often hears about the importance of these Santas in the community's memories of Christmas past. 

Although the museum had a great turnout for the unveiling of one of the restored Santas, they are still looking for donations to improve and restore the second one. Summers says their goal is $100,000.

Keep it to Regional Radio next week for more on the holiday events from the McLean County History Museum, and find more info at mchistory.org

A beloved holiday event is returning at a local zoo. 

Jay Pratte, Executive Director of the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, says it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the zoo as it prepares for its annual Wild Lights celebration. 

All of the zoo's buildings will be open, and Pratte states all of the animals that are "cold-tolerant" will be on display for zoogoers to enjoy. Best of all, the zoo goes all out with decorations and will offer hot chocolate. 

Tickets for the event will be $10 for non-members and $5 for members ahead of time or at the door. Visit Wild Lights from 5 PM to 8 PM on December 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th. Get more info at mpzs.org

It's easy to lose sight of getting all your daily nutrients during the holiday season, but a local nutrition educator has tips to change that. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator for the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties explains it's fine to enjoy the holiday treats, as long as it's in moderation. 

There are ways to alter recipes to make them healthier than they typically would be. Mellendorf says reducing added sugar by even just a quarter is a great place to start. 

Sodium and saturated fats are also things you should look to reduce this holiday season. Mellendorf mentions there are plenty of options and tips for substitution on their website. 

Find more information on substitutions and other ways to make your recipes healthier this holiday season at extension.illinois.edu/dmp

Each year, a local care center raises funds for its non-profit through its quarterly newsletter. 

Mandi Ries from the Neighborhood Care Center explains their purpose comes from relationships, and they measure their success through stories of people they've supported. 

For this final newsletter of the year, the center selects stories of people in its care system who embody its mission. Ries says this year, one of the stories is of a long-time member named Dave who struggled with addiction. 

The quarterly newsletters can be found on the Neighborhood Care Center's website, but this one is also distributed by mail to reach as many community members as possible. Ries says they mailed over 600 newsletters this time around. 

Cody Monkman notes all of the money they receive from the newsletter is put back into the program, whether it's seasonal projects like Thanksgiving baskets, or simply expanding the ministry they offer. 

Help the Neighborhood Care Center reach its goal of raising $30,000 by donating on their website at neigborhoodcarecenter.net and keep up with the group on their Facebook page.

IDOT ready for the winter driving season. They're responsible for keeping over 45,000 lane miles clear.

IDOT's Paul Wappel says bookmark the website gettingaroundillinois.com.

Ag groups continue to push for a permanent Farm Bill, including the Illinois Corn Growers Association, where Chris Gould is a board member. He elaborates on the crop insurance topic.

Gould farms in Kane County.

The holiday season is here, and a local arts non-profit is ushering it in.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Jerry Johnson, Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council, told Regional Radio that tonight is the Downtown Decatur Christmas Walk. He explained that all the local businesses and restaurants will be celebrating. 

Christmas Card Lane has been up for the last two weeks and will continue through the end of the year. There's still plenty of time to go online and vote for your favorite. 

Johnson notes they've received 500 votes in the last two weeks for the community's favorite card. They hope to get between 900 to 1000 votes. 

You can find more information about the DAAC's activities by visiting decaturarts.org or following them on their social media platforms. 

Clinton's neighbor to the west is considering offering a service similar to what is offered now.

During October and November, leaf cleanup becomes almost an all-hands-on-deck effort in Clinton as the public works department picks up leaves residents push to the curbs. Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch says leaf cleanup in his community looks a little different right now.

According to the Mayor, they have explored offering a similar service to that of Clinton where they'd have multiple leaf vac trucks make their way around the community to pick up leaves.

For the community, the cost of the leaf vacs is one of the big sticking points because they are not cheap machines says Mayor Welch.

Mayor Welch believes the City of Lincoln has the manpower to make an effort like that work in his community.

It's been all hands on deck leading up to this week getting ready for Christmas in Lincoln. The Mayor says the Lincoln Public Works staff always has something they are focused on. 

The new year will be here before you know it, and a local development council is hoping businesses will make sure they're ready.

Kurt Homann, Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council told Regional Radio the new year is a perfect time to do short and long-term planning to ensure success in your personal life or business. 

Homman notes you can't reach a goal if you don't create one. He advises starting with brainstorming where you want to be in the short and long term, the key is being intentional in your process. 

The Development Council encourages business owners to reach out if they are in need of assistance when planning for their future. Homann mentions sometimes getting another set of eyes on your plan can be a big help.

Reach out to the DeWitt County Development Council at 217-935-5271 or visit their website at dcdc-illinois.net

Moving the home bleachers and a new press box are the next items up on an outdoor facilities improvement plan for Clinton Schools.

Superintendent Drew Goebel indicates last month, the Board of Education approved the second phase of the football and track facility updates that will flip the home bleachers to the west side of the field and build a new press box.

According to Goebel, the small storage building under the current home bleachers will also come down and a new storage space will be built in that general area.

The district installed a new artificial turf on the football field and a new track this past summer. 

Seeking some advice before selecting that Christmas tree?

Ken Johnson is a horticulture educator for the University of Illinois Extension.

The winter meeting season set to heat up. The Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council Investment Insights Conference is Feb. 13 at the iHotel in Champaign says N-REC's Julie Hewitt.

More info at illinoisnrec.org.

Last month just before Thanksgiving, a Clinton grocery store announced its partnership with DoorDash.

Dave Jackson owns the Clinton Save A Lot and says he wanted to wait until the bugs of the service were worked out and says grocery delivery is now available for Save A Lot.

For Jackson, this option should serve the community's homebound populations and hopefully, those that prefer the pickup grocery options offered out of town.

DoorDash has a mobile app where you can find Save A Lot to shop from. Jackson has been pleased with the partnership so far. 

November was a warm and wet month.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio the month was about five degrees above normal and was very wet. Wet enough it eased growing drought conditions across the region.

November was also a very cloudy month. Shimon indicates just seven days in November qualified as 'mostly sunny'.

Central Illinois has seen its share of severe weather in November but according to Shimon, the severe weather was quiet this year.

Shimon notes November hit a record-high on November 18 and then a record-low on November 19. 

Joe Witte is the new DeWitt County Board Chair and Chris Hammer and Robb Walters were sworn onto the board Monday in a special meeting to re-organize.

Witte takes the place of Dan Matthews who resigned from the board at the end of his term. Terry Ferguson was named the Board Vice Chair. No other nominations for either position were presented and both were approved unanimously. Witte appreciates the support of his 11 fellow board members.

For Witte, economic development will be something he looks to make a priority as the Board Chair. He explains a good chunk of money went to economic development from the sale of the Clinton Lake Marina and he wants to see to it those funds get put to good use.

Coming up, the County anticipates several retirements as well as some other vacancies they will have to fill. Witte believes those will be some key roles they need to find good replacements for.

Witte has also set his committee assignments already. Terry Ferguson will chair the property committee, land use will continue to be led by Buck Carter, public safety will be chaired by Megan Myers once again, while Jamie Prestergaard will continue to chair the road and bridge committee and all the committee chairs will be a part of the finance committee, led by Melonie Tilley. 

Last month, former Chairman Matthews mentioned a committee for a compliance and IT Board. Because it is not in the County's ordinances yet, Witte did not make any announcements regarding it but suggested later this month, they could have a board formed for it. 

Witte leads his first County Board meeting on Thursday, Dec. 19. 

Enel North America, owner of the Alta Farms wind farm in DeWitt County, has committed over $100,000 in local voluntary financial support to local community programs in 2024. 

Recipients include the local emergency management agency, area fire departments, STEM education programs and other valuable local initiatives.

In DeWitt County, the company identified the following emergency response partners for planned support this year including $10,000 to the DeWitt County Emergency Management Agency to support the purchase of gear and equipment to aid emergency response efforts, $2,200 to the DeWitt County Emergency Management Agency to provide catered meals to 170-plus participants of a simulated emergency training exercise, $10,000 to the Waynesville Fire Department to support emergency response efforts, and $10,000 to the Kenney Fire Department to support gear and equipment purchases.

Additionally, Enel has also provided or planned support for the following educational, agricultural, and community well-being programs this year including $15,000 to The Vault technology space as part of a multi-year commitment to support the Envision U Summer Career Camps, offering teens an introduction to career paths in a variety of STEM fields, as well as for the purchase of drones and other technology, $10,000 in scholarships for students coming from schools in the Alta Farms footprint pursuing STEM and renewable energy education, $5,000 to Clinton Community Unified School District 15 for STEM program support, $15,000 to KidWind, a STEM program that empowers students to design and test their own model wind turbines, supporting program materials and events for local educators, $15,000 to Central Illinois Farm FED Coop to support fresh food markets for schools in DeWitt County through the “Illinois Farm to School” program, $5,000 to Central Illinois CEO, supporting entrepreneurship education for Clinton students, $10,000 to the Sand County Foundation Land Ethic Mentorship program to support farmers in central Illinois with mentorship in sustainable agriculture practices, and $2000 to Neighborhood Care Center to support food security throughout DeWitt County. 

Enel North America, one of the largest renewable energy operators in the US and Canada, allocates funds every year to support the long-term sustainability of the communities around its wind, solar and battery storage plants. 

Alta Farms began operations in 2022 as the company’s third wind farm in central Illinois.

Clinton City Administrator Taylor Baxter has submitted his resignation from the City of Clinton but will be staying in DeWitt County.

Baxter has submitted his letter of resignation to the Clinton City Council and the Council will formally accept his resignation at its meeting Tuesday night.

In his resignation letter, Baxter thanked the Council for taking a chance on him and hopes he is leaving the City in a better place than he found it. 

He feels he helped the City accomplish a lot and has best wishes for its future.

Baxter is leaving the City Administrator's role for the City Manager position in Farmer City. 

The DeWitt County Board will reshuffle tonight and swear in two new board members.

Outgoing DeWitt County Board Chair Dan Matthews indicates the Board has wrapped up the budget process and approved it. Now it is on to bringing on those new board members and establishing the leadership.

Matthews is the Clinton Board of Education president and works with incoming Board member Chris Hammer. Robb Walters will be sworn in tonight as well.

Matthews helped lead the County through the sale of the Clinton Lake Marina. He has said he will remain on the Board of Education despite stepping away from the County Board. 

A local veterans group is doing everything it can to combat the homeless veterans epidemic.

Josh Thielen, Department Adjutant for the American Legion explains as the winter months approach and temperatures drop, it's important for members of the community to do everything they can to lend a hand to the homeless. 

Often, veterans come home from the military and have nowhere to go. Thielen states what life will be like at home doesn't always cross the mind of a veteran before they're already back. 

Thielen notes multiple free and confidential resources like the Homeless Veterans Hotline. He says most of these situations are temporary.

Learn more about all the resources the Legion offers for veterans by calling the office at (217) 935-5183 or visiting them at 219 N Elizabeth St in Clinton. 

Schools across the state are receiving their grades from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Adam Clapp, Superintendent of Monticello Schools, explains they've always scored high during this time of year and that trend continued this year. 

Like many schools, Clapp says that since the pandemic Monticello has struggled to get students to come to school - whether those absences are excused or unexcused.

Monticello administration and staff will get together after receiving this data to figure out how to continue to grow. Clapp notes he never wants to become complacent. 

According to Clapp, the report card system the Illinois State Board of Education uses is very complicated and takes a lot of factors into play when giving designations to schools. 

Keep it to Regional Radio in the coming days for more on chronic absenteeism in Monticello Schools. 

Are you looking for children's book recommendations involving agriculture for a Christmas stocking stuffer? Illinois Ag in the Classroom's Kevin Daughterty has all kinds of recommendations.

Visit agintheclassroom.org under Teacher Resources click on Book Recommendations.

There may be a legislative fix for a deer nuisance issue impacting crops in Illinois. The item could get attention during the lame duck session in Springfield early next year says Illinois Farm Bureau Director State Legislation Chris Davis.

The lame duck session is planned for Jan. 2-8.

The Illinois Corn Growers Association hears from Illinois Manufacturing Association President and CEO Mark Denzler.

The Illinois Corn annual meeting was last week in Bloomington.