Community Action provides developmental care for young children. 

Krissy Conklen with Community Action explains that many people think the Head Start Program is a daycare; however, that is not the case. While there are some similarities, she says the biggest difference is the curriculum and schedule. 

Because of the program's affiliation with Community Action, Conklen states that Head Start also supports the families of the children they care for. This could be things from seeking financial stability to fighting addiction. 

Before sending your kids to Head Start, you must qualify for the program. Conklen indicates that the main focus of Head Start and Community Action is to support low-income families. 

Conklen says that children in the Head Start Program do not just learn about the academics that will prepare them for school, but also the social and emotional learning aspects. 

If you're interested in early childhood education for your child or any of the other programs offered by Community Action, visit capcil.info. 
 

As we embark on the second biggest holiday of the summer, the Fourth of July, local law enforcement is encouraging residents to be respectful of the people around them.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers admits that with the upcoming three-day weekend for the Fourth of July, the fun will be in abundance, and he is encouraging being mindful of the people around you.

With the summer in full swing, Chief Lowers reminds us to continue to be vigilant in locking vehicle doors, garage doors, and home doors. He says while the issues of burglary seem to be down, the risk is always there.

With the holiday falling on a Friday, authorities anticipate pyrotechnics to be going off regularly throughout the weekend. They are encouraging the safe use of those and will use enforcement when necessary. We'll have more on that later this week on Regional Radio. 
 

Last week, the Clinton Board of Education approved the promotion of Karrah Jensen from Curriculum Coordinator to Assistant Superintendent.

Jensen told Regional Radio her new job title will allow her to do more within the district.

Superintendent Drew Goebel credits Jensen for complimenting the things he does well and believes she has been a great value added to the district from a curriculum standpoint.

Jensen credits the good things going on in the district from a curriculum and achievement standpoint to the educators, and she is thankful for the positive relationships in the buildings.

Jensen points out that even this summer, teachers are going the extra mile for professional development and other initiatives to improve the learning environment for the next school year. She looks forward to many more positive things to come in the years ahead. 

Prairie Flats solar farm has submitted its application to DeWitt County and is ready to begin the process of seeking approval for a special use permit.

At the June DeWitt County Board meeting, Elizabeth Weikle, County Zoning Administrator, told the Board they have 60 days upon receipt of the SUP fee to conduct the hearings for the application.

Board Chair Joe Witte indicates the full board will hear the testimony from the developer and the public during this process, eliminating the need to send it to the Regional Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

State's Attorney Dan Markwell will serve as the mediator of the hearing.

Prairie Flats and their representation have limited availability in the 60-day window to have the hearings. Weikle (pictured left) indicates it was tough to settle on a date, but Witte says there are exemptions to make sure the hearings are able to be completed outside the 60-day window.

Markwell offered his recommendation on how to conduct the hearing, given this will be the first time the full board hears the presentation and testimony rather than the process of the application going through the ZBA and RPC.

The Board set Aug. 12 as the first night of the hearings. Weikle anticipates multiple applications coming very soon to the County for more solar development.

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, and as we've heard the last several days on Regional Radio, a mental health advocate is encouraging men struggling to have the courage to open up and be vulnerable.

Tony Kirkman is the Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center and says the spouses of men struggling often see and understand the challenges they are facing.

According to Kirkman, it can be as simple as speaking truth, love, and grace into the men in your life.

There are many stigmas men face about being tough and showing emotion, which can be detrimental to their ability to address mental health wellness. Kirkman says it is not a weakness to step up and admit you need support. 

Visit piattmhc.org or find the Piatt County Mental Health Center on Facebook for more information. 

Earlier this week on Regional Radio, we highlighted the task force that has been formed in Lincoln in an effort to develop the former Lincoln Developmental Center property.

State Senator Sally Turner says the most recent budget designated funds for the development of neglected State property. She is excited to see what the task force - led by Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch - comes up with.

While the dollars have been allocated on paper, the Lincoln Republican will be keeping a close eye on making sure the money gets to the City of Lincoln for whatever they decide to do with that property.

A portion of the LDC property has been repurposed for the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice.

June is Men's Mental Health Month and a statewide effort is underway to bring awareness to the mental health challenges of those in agriculture. 

Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center explains the Illinois Farm Bureau is taking steps to promote stress management and lower the suicide rates of people in the ag field. 

The lack of control over variables that greatly affect farming has put agriculture among the industries with the highest suicide rates. It's also common for farmers to feel as if they cannot discuss their struggles with anyone, due to possible personal or business-related repercussions. 

According to 2021 data from the CDC, 47.9 males in agriculture per 100,000 commit suicide compared to the average of 32 per 100,000. Learn more about the mental health services offered by the Piatt County Mental Health Center by visiting piattmhc.org. 

The Federal Communications Commission in Washington, DC, Friday afternoon approved the transfer of radio station licenses now held by the Miller Media Group.   This means the sale of the stations to Hart Media Group, LLC, of Rochester, can close.

Miller Media Group owner Randal J. Miller announced the pending sale of his stations in Taylorville and Clinton, on March First, then applied to the F-C-C for license transfer approval shortly thereafter.

Both entities expect to close on the sale in late July, with Hart taking possession on August First.

Included in the sale are Miller’s 6 Taylorville-based radio stations and their on-line daily newspaper taylorvilledailynews.com; and Miller’s 2 Clinton-based radio stations plus their on-line daily newspaper dewittdailynews.com.

The sale will culminate Miller’s 52 years in the radio business, 43 in ownership, almost 33 in Taylorville and almost 18 in Clinton.

Miller will stay on after the sale serving as a consultant to Hart for one year.

A local lawmaker is celebrating a piece of energy legislation that did not make it through the legislature this spring.

State Representative Dr. Bill Hauter (how-tur) indicates the energy omnibus bill was a proposed piece of legislation that would have had devastating impacts for families in Illinois.

According to the Morton Republican, the business community stepped up and spoke out against this legislation.

While not to the level of the homeschooling legislation proposed, Dr. Hauter says there was great pushback against this legislation. He also points out the homeschool legislation did not make it through the legislature either. 

A public transportation service recently announced that it will begin giving rides in DeWitt County. 

Tim Gadbury with Piattran explains that service in DeWitt County begins on Tuesday, July 1st. He says the two buses that will be running in the County will be providing transportation for Encore, a Clinton non-profit, early in the morning before they begin giving public rides. 

Gadbury notes that in the beginning, the process will be trial and error. While they will only be running two buses in the county for now, if there is enough demand, he says they have the capacity to begin running more buses. 

To learn more about Piattran and their DeWitt County ride schedule, visit piattran.org/dewittcounty. 

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, and a local mental health professional has some key things for men to do to have a healthy mindset.

Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, says there are three things that men can do that he believes would make a monumental difference for men.

Kirkman believes living authentically is the most difficult of the three. He encourages men to give themselves grace and realize the past is why they are where they are.

While you might think it isn't for you, Kirkman believes anyone can benefit from therapy, and if your first or second tries at therapy don't work, he encourages staying with it until you find a counselor you click with.

Next week, we'll wrap up Men's Mental Health Awareness Month with Kirkman, who will highlight how spouses can support the men in their lives who may be struggling. 

Visit piattmhc.org for more information on the Piatt County Mental Health Center

Last week on Regional Radio, listeners heard about the ways that a domestic abuser can use technology against their victim.

Andrea Kocher, Director of Services for Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County explains that when technology is used as a weapon towards a victim of domestic violence, it's often to remind them that the abuser is always watching and always has control, even when they are not in the same place. 

Safety planning is one of the most important aspects to getting out of a DV relationship, because the end of the situation can often be the most dangerous for a victim. Kocher says that part of that planning is to make sure any contact with a support organization or those who are trying to help the victim is not tracked.

In a world of digital connection and tracking, it can be hard for a victim to reach out to a support group without alerting their abuser. Luckily, Kocher notes that there are ways to get in contact with Willow Tree Missions without being noticed. 

As technology changes and develops, so do the methods in which an abuser can use it against their victim. If you or a loved one is in need of the services offered by Willow Tree Missions, visit willowtreemissions.org.

A local nonprofit is promoting healthy eating for seniors. 

Shelly Tolly with OSF HealthCare Peace Meal reminds listeners that Peace Meal is a service for seniors that will deliver nutritious and premade meals right to their home. The organization serves over 1,700 meals a day to elderly folks in seven counties. They also have a restaurant program in Farmer City that allows seniors to eat out at an extremely discounted price. 

The Home Delivery Program is for people who have health or mobility issues that limit their ability to get out of the house. Tolly notes that the resident is assigned a driver who will always be the one to deliver their meals, to provide consistency. 

Another goal of Peace Meal is to encourage independence in seniors. Tolly explains that isolation can be detrimental to a person's health, so they are trying to give seniors a reason to get out of the house and socialize. Even just the interactions with the home delivery drivers can make a big difference. 

Many communities in central Illinois are referred to as "food deserts" meaning they have limited access to affordable and nutritious foods. Peace Meal is taking steps to bring food to these communities by opening up new sites. 

If you or someone close to you would like to receive a meal or learn more about the program, call 309-665-5900. 

If you drive by Warner Hospital, you will notice the completion of the much-anticipated west side entrance. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, CEO Paul Skowron told Regional Radio the entrance is completed and awaits approval from the Illinois Department of Public Health to get its stamp of approval before it will be operational.

Skowron reminds the west side entrance will give access to the specialty clinic. The benefit of this new entrance will be eliminating the touring of the hospital facility for patients seeing its specialists.

The new parking lot on the west side is in use - currently by specialty providers. Skowron adds the signage on the west will indicate to patients where to go.

The to upgrade the west side entrance was $650,000. Skowron hopes to have the IDPH inspection completed in the next week, if not, in two. 

Last week at the DeWitt County Board's June meeting, representatives from Enel Green Energy presented to the County Board. 

It was a little less than a year ago that Enel representatives committed to better communication with the County Board and returned at the request of the Board last week. Board Chair Joe Witte says there were three topics they wanted to hear from them on.

The curtailment of the towers during severe weather events has been an ongoing talking point for the County's Land Use Committee as well as on social media. Witte indicates Enel is curtailing the towers when they receive notice of a warning from the National Weather Service, although Witte expressed frustration with the promise of that process being automated when it is - in fact - not. 

Witte says the County's ordinances are not strong enough to force a change on the matter and so they will have to continue to be at the mercy of the human element involved in that process.

While the State of Illinois has come over the top on some regulation of wind energy development, Witte notes some of these things the County was able to correct recently in its ordinance review.

Despite frustration over the situation, Witte understands that a lot of things in the past are not a reflection of the current folks operating the Alta Farms II wind farm.

After this heat wave moves off, more moderate temperatures should usher in July.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates the short-term outlooks show cooler air from the north descending on the Midwest.

Temperatures from start to finish in July do not change much. Shimon calls it the peak heat month.

The heat advisory in place this week is expected to expire this evening at 7 pm. 

Summer in central Illinois means two things: heat and fair season. 

Terri Miller-Casey is the Director of the University of Illinois Extension serving Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, and on the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, she told Regional Radio that the Sangamon County 4-H Show is this weekend. 

Not only are students learning skills that help them execute their project throughout the year, but Miller-Casey states that the judging process teaches them how to talk to adults and receive constructive criticism. 

Miller-Casey indicates that the 4-H Show will be busy this year due to the number of students they have. Since the pandemic, she says the numbers have really bounced back. 

Visit the Sangamon County 4-H Show this Saturday at the fairgrounds, located at 318 W Birch St in New Berlin. Learn more about 4-H in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties by visiting extension.illinois.edu/lms. 
 

A Lincoln Police Officer was recently recognized at the Illinois DARE Conference in Peoria. 

Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister explains that last week, his four DARE officers attended the Illinois D.A.R.E. conference in which Officer Christy Fruge (FRUH-JAY) was named the Illinois D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year.

Being recognized for the D.A.R.E. program in Lincoln is a great honor. Chief Meister couldn't be more proud of his officers, and mentions that much of the work they do goes unnoticed. 

The Lincoln Police Department was also recently awarded a grant through the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Chief Meister says the grant was for about $152,000 ,which will allow the department to give bonuses to officers to help with officer retention. 

The D.A.R.E. Program encourages students at a young age to steer clear from drugs and alcohol, as well as teaches healthy mental wellness practices. 

The former Lincoln Development Center property in Lincoln has long been an eye, but that could soon be changing. 

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch explains the new State budget set aside $500 million for five sites throughout the state to be prepared for economic development and the LDC building is one of those five sites. 

The City has put together a task force, who will survey the property and have conversations with the community, to determine what that land could be used for. Mayor Welch says this is a great opportunity to move Lincoln forward. 

Mayor Welch indicates the City would like to demolish all the buildings currently on the LDC property, rather than refurbish them. The next steps involve working with the Governor's Office and Central Management Services.

The task force has already met a few times, and according to Mayor Welch, they will meet again soon with more information and data on what the property could be used for. He would like to have an answer in the next two to three months. 

A portion of the property was developed for the Department of Juvenile Justice. The remainder of the property is still being neglected. 

The Clinton Board of Education has promoted its curriculum coordinator to assistant superintendent.

The promotion of Karrah Jensen was approved at the Tuesday night Clinton Board of Education June meeting. Superintendent Drew Goebel says the district is fortunate to have Jensen - whom he praises for many positive things in the district.

The Board of Education approved the renewal of the District's commercial insurance. Goebel explains they made a change in part of the district's insurance in the last couple of years and have been pleased with the coverage they get.

The Board of Education approved changes to the student handbook. Goebel explains they follow the Illinois Principals Association's recommendations, plus some policies specific to Clinton Schools.

The Board of Education heard from members of the Clinton FFA chapter Tuesday night, who recapped another successful year for the chapter. 

The camping season at Clinton Lake and Weldon Springs State Park is off to a smooth start.

That's according to Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman, who indicates both campgrounds have seen minimal issues so far this summer.

Fishing at Clinton Lake and Weldon Springs has been really busy. Officer Workman says it seems to be good fishing at both locations so far this summer.

At Weldon Springs, Officer Workman is encouraging motorists to slow down. He has noticed a lot of speeding vehicles at the park. That can be problematic given the number of people who walk the main road around the lake. 
 

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month.

Tony Kirkman is the Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center and on the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday told Regional Radio there are many stigmas men face about being tough and showing emotion, which can be detrimental to their ability to address mental health wellness.

For everyone, anxiety and depression are common issues facing people right now, but more specifically, to men, Kirkman notices men not being able to emotionally articulate the things going on.

Living an authentic, collaborative, and expressive lifestyle would make a world of difference in men's mental health. Kirkman admits that it sounds easier said than done.

In the days ahead, as we wrap up Men's Mental Health Month, we'll have more with Kirkman on living an authentic, collaborative, and expressive life. He will also break down the work being done by the Illinois Farm Bureau for farmer mental wellness, as well as how spouses can support their husbands who are struggling. 

Severe weather tore through central Illinois last Wednesday and rural DeWitt County is reporting damage from a tornado that touched down. 

DeWitt County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Will Paveleck told Regional Radio that while things were quiet in most of the county, an EF1 tornado touched down just west of Farmer City with 100 mph winds. The event did damage to buildings in the area; however, no injuries were reported. 

When severe weather comes to DeWitt County, EMA will go out following the storm to survey any damage that may have been caused. Paveleck notes damage to houses is a big part of what they are looking for, to make sure that no one is being displaced from their homes due to the weather. 

Last year, Illinois faced a record number of tornadoes. Paveleck indicates that the June 18 storm system brought 14 tornadoes to the state, and he feels that this is going to become a common theme. 

DeWitt County EMA works closely with the National Weather Service in Lincoln to survey damage and the path of severe weather.

Local 4-Hers have been putting in the work all year, in preparation for the fair. 

Kendra Wallace, 4-H Coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that the DeWitt County 4-H fair kicks off with the Horse Show on July 5th, and ends on July 13th with the Awards Program. 

Ag Olympics has become the must-attend kickoff event for the fair. Wallace indicates members of the Farm Bureau's Young Leader Program organized that event. 

Wallace calls the Horse Show is quite the event. 4-Hers will participate in events like flags and barrels, as well as general riding. She notes that the superintendents and volunteers put a lot of work into the Horse Show. 

The DeWitt County 4-H Show has much more to offer than just the Horse Show, and we'll have more on that with Wallace next week on Regional Radio. 

Tune into WHOW on Saturday, July 5th from 10 AM to 11 AM to hear live updates from the show.

Attention continues to focus on the U.S. Senate with the budget reconciliation process or the "One Big Beautiful Bill". Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan along with IFB District 1 Director Mark Tuttle and IFB Young Leader Chair Stephen Riskedal get an audience earlier this month with Illinois Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth. Here’s Illinois Farm Bureau Director of National Legislation Ryan Whitehouse.

Senate Republicans are hoping to pass the bill by July 4. If the Senate passes the bill, it will return to the House for a vote.

Nutrient stewardship field days continue throughout Illinois this summer with county farm bureaus playing a key role says Illinois Farm Bureau Environmental Program Manager Bena Pegg.

IFB created a nutrient stewardship grant program in 2015. For a list of projects, visit ilfb.org/fielddays.

Being a school district's superintendent is not an easy job, but the community you serve can make it all worth it. 

Mary Vogt, Superintendent of Bement Schools, explains that having a good relationship with the school board has been important to her since she began her role. She notes that no matter the quality of the work being done, a large turnover on a school board could jeopardize a superintendent's job security. 

Vogt indicates that when you have a good relationship with your school board, it can prevent hostility when faced with disagreements. She notes that at the end of the day, they are all still friends and neighbors. 

Vogt feels that the district is very diverse, with students who have a long family history in the community and others who are new to the area. No matter where the student comes from, the district does everything it can to support the student and their family. 

Vogt strives to have an open line of communication with the school board to promote togetherness and make Bement Schools a better district. 
 

The National Weather Service in Lincoln is providing residents in central Illinois with a comprehensive list of places to beat the heat this week.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio they have a list up at weather.gov/lincoln of local places you can cool off during this brutal stretch of heat.

A heat advisory remains in effect for the listening area until 7 pm on Thursday evening.

The first substantial heat wave of the summer is going to stick around longer than originally predicted.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio this week's heat is expected to hang around with some mid-week pop-up rain storm threats.

The hottest day of the week will be Monday. According to Shimon, overnight lows are not going to cool down significantly to provide much in the way of relief.

Shimon reminds, with heat like this settling in, it will take our bodies a few days to get all the way acclimated. He encourages keeping hydrated and finding shade when possible.

The National Weather Service's heat advisory was extended to Thursday over the weekend. As Shimon points out, drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

A historical exhibit over a year in the making will soon be completed and on display for the public. 

Joey Long, Director of the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum explains the Picture Perfect Project is an initiative to take historical photos, make them larger, and print them onto material that can better withstand the lighting and moisture that can degrade pictures over time. 

Long was thrilled with the number of people who came forward to sponsor the photo restoration. She notes they have too many to fit on their gallery wall, so in the month of July, the museum will display the photos all throughout the mansion. 

Since many of the pictures are one of a kind, the museum had to be selective in deciding who they would trust to recreate and reprint them. Long indicates they worked with Mark Woods of Woods Studio. 

Long is grateful to all the people who made this project possible, and notes that all their and her hard work has finally paid off. Visit the museum during the month of July to see the newly restored photos, and learn more by visiting chmoorehomestead.org.

This spring, the City of Lincoln moved to keep the Hotel Motel Tax, which will help fund their new tourism initiative, separate from the Logan County Tourism Bureau. 

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch explains part of its tourism plan was hiring a Tourism Director. Scott McCoy, former Mayor of Pontiac, has stepped into the role and is known for his impact on Route 66 tourism in Pontiac, as well as his role in the Giant's Museum in Atlanta, IL. 

Officially, McCoy is a consultant to the city. While they currently have a year-to-year contract with him, Mayor Welch hopes to have a long relationship with him as they try to bring more tourism to Lincoln. 

Tourism has always been a big part of Lincoln's income as a community; however, the Mayor says some citizens might be skeptical of the direction they are going. He reminds that they are making this move with the best intentions and the goal of putting Lincoln back on the map. 

The Mayor indicates with the separation of Lincoln Tourism from the Logan County Tourism Bureau, the relationship between the two entities was rocky to start. He notes that while this decision does take dollars away from the Logan County Tourism Bureau, it was not the reason for the layoffs that happened around that time. 

The 100-year anniversary of Route 66 will be taking place next year, and Mayor Welch says the milestone was a driving factor in the decision to take over tourism. 

Route 66 was built in 1926 and is an integral part of tourism in many communities from Los Angeles to Chicago. The City of Lincoln is pushing to make that a focus of its tourism in the future.

Receiving benefits from Social Security while continuing to work after retirement has many layers.

Last week on Regional Radio, we heard about earnings limits pertaining to annual limits. Jack Myers with Social Security says when it comes to monthly earnings limits, there is a special rule that applies in the first year of retirement.

According to Myers, in order for Social Security to apply this exclusion, your earnings must be below the monthly limit each month you want a benefit.  In 2025, that monthly limit is $1,950 if you are under full retirement age the whole calendar year.

When you collect benefits before full retirement age, your benefits are permanently reduced based on the number of months you are shy of full retirement age. Myers adds when you reach full retirement age, Social Security automatically looks back at your record to determine if it held or asked you to pay back any of those monthly payments due to excess earnings.  

For more information on these rules, visit www.ssa.gov and look for the publication called “How Work Affects Your Benefits”. 

If you want to learn about the rules for working while disabled, look for our publication called “Working While Disabled: How We Can Help.”

Another good year for ag education in Illinois. Jennifer Waters is the coordinator for Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education.

Of the 10 new ag programs being added next school year, seven are at the middle school level.

Thinking about local foods, farmers markets, and u-pick locations this summer across Illinois?

Raghela Scavuzzo serves as Associate Director of Food Systems Development for Illinois Farm Bureau.

The first extended heat wave of the summer is upon us and local authorities are urging caution.

A heat advisory is in effect until Tuesday evening. Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers says those young and old should use caution whether inside or out over the next several days.

Chief Lowers encourages knowing the warning signs of heat exhaustion and stresses taking frequent breaks from outdoor work, especially outdoor activity in the sun.

During this heat that may feel oppressive at times, the Chief reminds it will be even worse for those animals. He encourages having cold water available for them and for them to have access to shade.

The Chief is also encouraging being a good neighbor and check on those older neighbors or those with mobility limitations. He says you don't have to be outside to get overheated and dehydrated. 

Domestic violence can often go unseen, but a local support network is bringing awareness to their services. 

Silvia Comfort with DOVE Ince explains that their DV support program is busy, but DeWitt County DOVE Coordinator Ashylnn Burrus does everything she can to support victims from going to court to providing counseling. 

DOVE also has a food pantry that is open to anyone, not just victims of domestic violence. Learn more about all the resources provided by DOVE Inc by visiting doveinc.org or give the DeWitt County office a call at (217) 935-6619.

Recently, a local city took its tourism efforts into its own hands. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch told Regional Radio that the city has hired a new Tourism Director. Scott McCoy has taken on the role, and the Mayor says he is very energetic. 

McCoy was previously the Mayor of Pontiac, another community that resides along Route 66, and was also involved in the Giants Museum in Atlanta, IL. 

The city took on its tourism this spring. We'll have more with the Mayor on their new Tourism Director and the direction Lincoln tourism is headed next week on Regional Radio. 

In September 2021, Social Security required all new mySocialSecurity accounts to be established using either Login.gov or ID.me from www.ssa.gov. 

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates that beginning last year, Social Security started prompting users who had the old usernames and passwords to transition their accounts to Login.gov or ID.me. In order to align with federal authentication standards, they are now requiring that transition before you can access your account. 

The best way to tell if you need to do something is to take note of your mySocialSecurity credentials. If you show an e-mail address as your “username,” you should be good. Or if you show a word or combo of characters other than an email address, you need to complete the transition to maintain access.
 

The Clinton Chamber of Commerce hosts one of the longest-running outings in Clinton Country Club history. 

Janice Peterson, Executive Director of the Chamber, explains that the annual golf outing is a big fundraiser for the organization. Each team donates $500, which goes towards promoting local businesses and hosting events for the community. 

Peterson is grateful to the Clinton Country Club and their staff for all the work that goes into the golf outing. She notes that they help with much of the organizing process. 

With the golf outing wrapped up, the Chamber is now looking ahead to October and the annual Haunted House. Learn more about all the events hosted by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce by visiting clintonilchamber.com. 
 

It's been nearly a year since Clinton's strategic has been in place, but very little of it has been acted on. 

Mayor Helen Michelassi hopes to change that and begins this month. The Mayor is going to begin meeting with the stakeholders of the plan to make sure what is in it still makes sense for the City.

As the process plays out, the Mayor says it is important to communicate with the City Council and the community about where they are and how it is going.

Marketing Clinton to the area and beyond is of particular interest to Mayor Michelassi. She believes there are some great attractions to bring people to Clinton and DeWitt County and wants to showcase those.

According to Mayor Michelassi, to keep the process from getting bogged down, accountability is going to be the key.

Technology can be a tool that's used for good, but it can also be used as a weapon. 

We are more connected through technology than ever before, and while convenient, there are many ways that a domestic abuser can use technology to control their victim. Andrea Kocher, Director of Services with Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County explains almost every piece of technology has tracking capabilities, a camera on it, or is connected to an app on our phones. 

A major component of domestic abuse is an abuser having power and control over a victim. Technology can be used to make a victim fear that their abuser is always watching them, even when they are apart. 

Safety planning is an important part of getting out of a DV relationship, and Kocher indicates that the same is true when you are being tracked. It's important not to alert an abuser that you are taking steps to end the tracking, or else the situation could become dangerous. 

We'll have more with Kocher on technology's effects on domestic violence next week on Regional Radio. In the meantime, find out more about all the services offered by Willow Tree Missions by visiting willowtreemissions.org.

Residents in central Illinois know a dangerous corridor in Logan County has taken the lives of several motorists over the years, and a local lawmaker is calling on the Illinois Department of Transportation and the State Police to look into this. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, State Rep. Sally Turner told Regional Radio she has noticed Route 121 between Mt. Pulaski and Lincoln has seen its share of serious vehicle accidents, some fatal, and she wants something done about it.

The Lincoln Republican says the area between Lincoln and Mt. Pulaski is particularly treacherous. She says the terrain is not great for passing, and many motorists get in a hurry in that area.

Route 121 connects Lincoln and Decatur, and Sen. Turner says that between the traffic heading to those two communities, plus the agricultural use it gets, it is a very busy road and is encouraging motorists to slow down and be patient. 
 

Starting Tuesday, July 1, there will be a new public transportation system in DeWitt County.

Tim Gadbury, Director of Piatt County Public Transportation, or Piattran, says they've operated in Piatt County for over 40 years, meeting the transportation needs of the community.

Starting Tuesday, July 1, Piattran will become the public transportation service offered in DeWitt County. Gadbury explains that you can contact them on the phone to make those appointments. He notes they are also partnering with Encore to provide morning and evening transportation for those individuals.

The opportunity for Piattran to expand to DeWitt County was a no-brainer, and Gadbury points out they recently acquired additional vehicles for their fleet, making the transition to DeWitt County that much easier.

For more information on the services and fares of Piattran, visit Piattran.org, find them on Facebook or call 217-762-7821. 

Nearly a year after Enel Green Energy committed to better communication and a better relationship with DeWitt County, representatives for the Alta Farms II wind farm returned to the County Board to address recent issues and provide updates regarding ongoing compliance.

The DeWitt County Board met Wednesday night, as Thursday is the Juneteenth holiday, and heard from Matthew Seville from Enel, who addressed issues of curtailment. He provided the County Board with written records of all their notifications from the National Weather Service in Lincoln and their subsequent responses.

Seville was queried about why records of the curtailment details were not sent upon request after Enel obliged an earlier request from the County Board, and why curtailment was not happening. Seville explained that curtailment is not instantaneous.

According to Seville, Enel has had to clarify with the National Weather Service that they need to be notified of any warning in DeWitt County, even if the warning is not in the impacted area of the wind farm footprint.

The lighting system was addressed, and Seville reports Enel is making progress in getting that system up and operational. He explains that each tower requires troubleshooting, and they are in the process of getting each tower ready to go live. He hopes that by the end of the summer, it will be completely operational.

The County Board is anticipating a solar application by the end of the week and is making preparations for the public hearings for that project.

Board Chair Joe Witte will join the WHOW Morning Show on Friday at 9 am to talk further about the meeting. Keep it to Regional Radio for more coverage from Wednesday's meeting. 

A central Illinois school district is facing a federal lawsuit alleging a 10 year old special needs child was raped multiple times by a 14 year old student on a school bus. 

Taylorville Schools and Durham Bus Services face a lawsuit claiming the student was cornered and sexually assaulted in January of 2024. Ashley and Chadd Peden of Stonington filed a federal lawsuit with Disparti Law Group from Chicago against Taylorville School District and Durham School Services. Cass Casper, attorney for Disparti Law Group, detailed the assaults that occurred and said that while this lawsuit may not make things right, policy needs to be changed. 

The lawsuit was filed after a Title 9 investigation that the district undertook.  Casper accuses the school district of being more concerned with absolving themselves of responsibility than preventing future incidents from occurring or answering questions that the Pedens had regarding the assault.

The family is urging anyone who has information or details about the incident to give Disparti Law Offices a call.

Next up for the federal lawsuit, the case will be set for a court hearing and processed through the district court.  Disparti Law Group and the Pedens have filed four counts: Title IX, Deprivation of Substantive Due Process Right to Bodily Integrity (14th Amendment), Willful and Wanton Negligence, and Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress.

Regional Radio News has reached out to Durham’s School Services.  A representative from Durham’s says they are unable to comment on any active litigation. Taylorville School District has yet to respond to the request for comment. 
 

The City of Clinton has informed DeWitt County it will not annex property on the City's south side for solar development.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton Mayor Helen Michelassi told Regional Radio at Tuesday night's Clinton City Council meeting, the Council unanimously passed a letter to the County indicating they will not be annexing property for the development of the ReWild solar farm.

For Mayor Michelassi, the City will not annex property because the vision is to use the property for development.

Mayor Michelassi indicates the City's goal is to be mindful of residents in the areas where development is being sought.

A local mental health professional is celebrating recent data on national drug overdoses. 

Tony Kirkman, Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, recently took a trip to Nashville to attend the Prescription and Illicit Drug Summit. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the total number of drug overdoses in the United States is down overall. 

Kirkman also notes that cannabis has been considered a gateway drug since the 70s; however, some experts say that's no longer the case. He indicates trauma is often the source of an individual getting into hard drugs, and that is what needs to be focused on. 

These statistics were very encouraging to Kirkman. He says in central Illinois, you can often feel like the work you're doing is only a drop in the bucket, but this makes all of it worth it. 

As Kirkman often reminds, recovery is possible for anyone. If you or a loved one could benefit from the services offered by the Piatt County Mental Health Center, learn more by visiting piattmhc.org.

The Illinois Fire Service Institute is hosting a grain bin rescue operations course for rural fire departments later this summer.

The 40-hour program will detail grain storage facility types, their construction, and operating features.

The 40-hour course will be offered July 18-20 and July 25-27 at the Virden Fire Department. More info at fsi.illinois.edu. There is no cost for Illinois departments.

The first-ever Illinois FFA Sentinel is also the first-ever major state officer from the Annawan FFA Chapter in Henry County. Paige Sierens has advice for FFA'ers considering a state office run.

Sierens had been serving as Section 3 president.

The City of Clinton completed their strategic plan last year, and now they are working towards executing it. 

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers explains that he is no stranger to strategic planning, and no matter the impact, he feels it's always good to plan for an organization or government's future. 

While the Chief notes that the Police Department's goals are not earth-shattering, he indicates that one of their goals is to improve their facilities. While at one point the city was looking into building a new city hall and public safety facility, he states that they have had to pivot. 

The Chief says that internally, the police department would like to provide specialized training for officers and supervisors. He mentions that each of his officers has their own interests within the field, so he would like to dial in on those interests to better equip the whole team. 

Chief Lowers also believes that improving officer morale should always be a goal of any police department. He points out that this includes taking care of the officers' families. 

The City of Clinton and the Clinton Police Department are committed to making Clinton a welcoming and safe place to live. 

The heat of the summer appears to have set in this week and there's more to come as the summer rolls along.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates the July outlooks keep the above normal temperatures and another month of above normal precipitation.

According to Shimon, looking through the remainder of the summer, things will dry out in August and September.

Shimon also indicates, the soil moisture at the four and eight-inch levels appears in good condition thanks to rains from earlier this month, but deeper than that, he is concerned, and a dry outlook for the dog days of summer is not great.

Weather.gov/lincoln has the latest in weather forecasts and severe weather information. 

The prime of the fresh produce season is upon us as we look to elevate our meals with those summer classics. 

Caitlin Mellendorf is a Nutrition Educator at the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties. She explains the summer produce season will gradually get more robust, but for now, strawberries and asparagus are the hot items you'll find in season.

According to Mellendorf, those cold-weather crops are starting to come into season. Radishes, lettuces, and many more are prime this time of the year. Cabbage and broccoli are going to be at their freshest right now. 

We're just now starting to get into the time of the year where tomatoes and peppers may start popping up at farmers markets or grocery stores. Mellendorf encourages taking advantage of those locally grown foods at your local grocery store. 

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has signed the fiscal year 26 budget into law and a central Illinois lawmaker is ripping Illinois Democrats' spending plans.

State Rep. Bill Hauter says many things in this year's spending plan are hard to justify. He points out taxes in Illinois are going up by about $1 billion.

According to Dr. Hauter, there is a quarter of a billion dollars for Illinois Democrats' home districts to do what they want with it.

Several tax increase proposals did not gain traction after voters heard about them. Dr. Hauter points out the big one was the $1.50 delivery tax.

For the Morton Republican, the taxes are stretched across numerous places and, in many cases, won't be obviously noticed by the average consumer.

Dr. Hauter recently discussed several pieces of legislation from the latest legislative session in Springfield. We'll hear more from him again coming up on Regional Radio. 

Even though deer nuisance legislation won approval in Springfield last month, farmers continue to deal with the issue, including Doug Uphoff in Shelby County.

A key provision of the new deer nuisance legislation requires the IDNR to update its Deer Removal Permit procedures. The legislation awaits the governor's signature.

Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leader District Discussion Meets are taking place throughout the state this summer.

Illinois Farm Bureau Young Leader Program Coordinator Perry Harlow says details on the district discussion meets, including locations and dates, are available at ilfb.org. Under the "Get Involved" tab, click on "Young Leaders".

A Piatt County school district is seeing improvement in student vaping issues after a couple of measures they say are working well.

Adam Clapp is the Superintendent of Monticello Schools and indicates they have used a couple of initiatives to help reduce the number of occurrences of students vaping on school property. He says the measures are working.

This past school year was the first year of vape sensors in all the school's bathrooms, and Clapp says that roughly $7,000 investment proved to be a great one.

Monticello isn't the first district in central Illinois to turn to this technology. Clapp notes they visited Sullivan High School, which has it in place. It is his hope it leads students to better decision making.

The topic of vapes comes on the heels of a renewed partnership with the Piatt County Mental Health Center that was approved this spring for Monticello Schools. The Mental Health Center says vaping continues to be a top issue facing teens when it comes to substance use. 

Memorial Day weekend was a little earlier on the calendar than normal, and some less-than-ideal weather created a slower-than-usual holiday weekend on Clinton Lake.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman told Regional Radio the weather for Saturday of Memorial Day weekend was excellent, and the Lake saw a good crowd that day, but overall, he felt traffic was down.

With the West Side boat access closed, boat trailer parking has come at a premium so far this summer and Officer Workman is encouraging non-boat vehicles to park in an overflow lot or approved areas and walk to their destination on the lake.

According to Officer Workman, an issue he has taken notice of so far this summer is boaters not with the proper signage for having something they are pulling behind their watercraft. He encourages making sure you comply to signal to other boaters to keep their distance.

Officer Workman has also encountered a couple of circumstances of boaters' registrations were outdated. He is cutting most boaters a break, given they have three-year renewal cycles, and it can easily be lost track of when that renewal time comes. 

Trimming down government spending has been the focus of the Trump administration in Washington, and the latest budget proposal could impact Illinois seniors and programs they rely on.

Shelly Tolly with OSF Peace Meal indicates the Older Americans Act faces significant cuts from the Trump administration.

Specifically, the cuts would reduce or eliminate programs altogether. According to Tolly, programs that deliver meals to seniors' homes or programs that provide congregate meal locations in various communities would go away.

Some programs that are lesser known but have a great impact include legal aid services and others for seniors in care facilities.

Tolly is encouraging older adults, young people that have older family members that may be impacted by these cuts, and those that simply care about older adults to contact the Illinois Congressional delegation.

To do that you can contact Sen. Tammy Duckworth's office at 202-224-2854, Sen. Dick Durbin's officate at 202-224-2152, or the Capital Switchboard at 202-224-3121. 

For more information from Peace Meal, you can contact their office at 309-665-5900. 

As we get to the final couple of weeks of June, expect the traditional summer heat to arrive.

It starts mid-week this week says Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln. He says it may be the first shock to the system with how hot it could get. 

Moving past this week, Shimon says the heat is expected to stick around with outlooks calling for above normal temperatures and even above normal precipitation.

We're just a few days away from the summer solstice but Shimon indicates because of the curvature of the Earth, we will actually see the latest sunset of the year in a few weeks still.

We'll have more with Shimon later this week on the outlooks for the remainder of the summer and some drought conditions that could be setting up. 

Many may wonder if they can still work and receive Social Security retirement benefits.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates the short answer is - yes. but there may be limits depending on your age that are not disability based.  

If you are younger than full retirement age for the entire calendar year, you can earn up to $23,400 in 2025. Myers notes if you earn more than $23,400 the penalty will be $1 of Social Security for every $2 by which you exceed the limit. Additionally, if you tell us you will earn more up front, they will withhold enough full monthly payments to cover your anticipated overage.

If you reach full retirement age in 2025, you can earn up to $62,160 between January and the month you attain full retirement age, or if you exceed the $62,160 prior to full retirement age, the penalty would be $1 for $3. Myers points out once you reach the month you attain FRA, there is no limit.  You can earn as much as you want and still receive benefits. 

There's much more to consider on this topic as well like a monthly earnings limit and post-retirement income increasing monthly benefits. 

We'll have more on that next week with Myers. In the meantime, for more information on these rules, visit www.ssa.gov and look for the publication called “How Work Affects Your Benefits”.

If you want to learn about the rules for working while disabled, look for the publication called “Working While Disabled: How We Can Help”. 

We’ve told you before that scammers like to use current events as part of their pitch to lure in new victims. 

Now, some are capitalizing on all of the attention tariffs are getting in the national news. It has been especially effective in online ordering. The scammer will take your order and then, as Better Business Bureau Investigator Don O’Brien says, that order won’t come.

He says you need to do your homework when placing an online order. Only shop with websites you trust. If you have found this website through a search engine, look past the sponsored ads, and Check all reviews, not just the ones in the ad’s comments section.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has a new hire overseeing county fairs. IDOA Deputy Director Kristi Jones says it’s a familiar name in the Illinois ag industry.

Halpin formerly served as the Illinois Farm Service Agency Director.

With more than a half an inch of rain reported in Cerro Gordo, the Piatt County Fair has canceled both the Illinois Tractor Pulls Association-sanctioned tractor pulls, as well as the antique tractor pulls. 

Storms covered central Illinois last night, causing muddy conditions at the fairgrounds that were deemed unsafe for the competitions. 

The ITPA tractor pulls were scheduled to begin this evening (Saturday) at 6:30 PM, and the antique tractor pulls were slated for Sunday morning at 11:00 AM.

Get more information by finding the Piatt County Fair on Facebook. 

Each year, a local village transforms its public baseball fields into a hub for family fun. 

Mayor of Forsyth Jim Peck explains that the Forsyth Festival is intended to be a family event, meaning there are tons of inflatables, games, and even a rock climbing wall for the kids. 

Village Administrator Jill Applebee indicates that the parade will take place on Saturday at 10 AM. The route features a sensory-friendly section, where floats will turn down their music and sirens to accommodate anyone who may have sensory issues. 

To keep up with the rest of the schedule for the Forsyth Festival, check out the village website at forsyth-il.gov. 

Farmer City will be a busy place this summer.  

Taylor Baxter, City of Farmer City City Manager, explains at the first June City Council meeting, the council went over appropriations, which is a State-required estimate of how much money a city would spend if they were to go over budget, while the city budget estimates how much they want to spend in general. 

Baxter notes the wastewater treatment plant in Farmer City will be getting a facelift this summer. Donohue Engineering recommended a five-year facility plan to improve the aging infrastructure.  

Baxter began his role as the City Manager in Farmer City in January of 2025 after leaving the same position in Clinton.

The annual quilt show at the DeWitt County Museum and CH Moore Homestead is now on display for the month of June. 

Joey Long, Executive Director of the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum, explains that the June Quilt Show is an opportunity for community members to see quilts the museum gathers and borrows to put on display. 

Through the first two weeks of the month, Long indicates they've had a great turnout of folks from near and far coming by to see the quilts. 

Visit the CH Moore Homestead located at 219 E Woodlawn Street in Clinton during the month of June to see all the quilts that have been put on display. Learn more at chmoorehomestead.org and follow them on Facebook. 

The Piatt County fair began on Thursday night with an evening of karaoke at the beer barn and non-livestock fair judging. 

On the Noon Farm Show Friday, Piatt County Fair Board President Don Ritchie told Regional Radio from the fairgrounds in Cerro Gordo that they began the fair with karaoke while welcoming livestock showers, but there's a full slate of family-friendly activities all weekend long. 

The Piatt County Fair has many free events to make the event as welcoming as possible. The fair began on Thursday evening and will end this Sunday afternoon. Find out more about the schedule by finding Piatt County Fair on Facebook.
 

The DeWitt County 4-H Show is right around the corner, and fair officials are making the final preparations for the July shows. 

Kendra Wallace, 4-H Coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension, explains that they are always in need of 4-H Show judges, especially in the visual arts. Wallace encourages anyone interested to reach out to any of their three county extension offices to get more information. 

Wallace reminds that the show takes place from July 5th, starting with the Horse Show, and going to July 13th. 

Learn more about the DeWitt, Macon, Piatt 4H Show by visiting extension.illinois.edu. 

The City of Clinton is preparing for its annual audit.

At the June 3 Clinton City Council meeting, Commissioner of Finance Tom Edmonds indicated the audit should get underway later this month. The City is also preparing for a considerable investment in updated municipal software that will offer a number of improved features.

The Clinton City Council will convene again on Tuesday. 
 

Father's Day is this Sunday and the Scovill Zoo is offering dads and families a weekend-long deal to celebrate. 

Heather Perdeu with the Scovill Zoo in Decatur explains all weekend they will offer $3 admission for anyone coming into the zoo. 

Learn more about their calendar of events for the summer by visiting decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo or find them on Facebook. 

The City of Clinton has had an over-decade-long agreement with DeWitt County to utilize the county's emergency management services. 

DeWitt County EMA Coordinator Will Paveleck will attend next week's Clinton City Council meeting to discuss the agreement. The agreement was discussed at Thursday's DeWitt County public safety committee meeting. 

The agreement gives the City of Clinton access to the DeWitt County EMA's services. Paveleck indicates these include things like disaster planning for scenarios like severe weather or natural disasters. 

This agreement requires the City of Clinton to pay $15,000 in quarterly increments to the County. Paveleck points out there has been no increase in the amount in roughly the last 10 years; however, that money goes to the County directly, not the EMA budget. 

Clinton's visitors and residents are running out of time to see a temporary exhibit at the DeWitt County Museum.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Director of the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum, Joey Long told Regional Radio the 'Historic Houses of DeWitt County' exhibit will be going away to make room for a new exhibit. 

Long notes the exhibit doesn't just highlight the architecture and construction of the houses, but also their stories. 

The exhibit will be closing this Sunday, so Long encourages anyone interested to come see her at the museum this weekend.

The Historic Houses of DeWitt County exhibit opened up in the spring of 2023, and stuck around at the museum for over a year longer than intended due to its big reception. It will be replaced by the much-anticipated 'Picture Perfect' exhibit starting in July.

The State FFA Convention wrapped up Thursday in Springfield, and a DeLand-Weldon student was named to the State officer team.

Kaydence Wooton has seen a couple of her classmates from her time in the Blue Ridge chapter stand out at the State level of FFA and felt inspired to be like them. 

Wooton says she and incoming State FFA President Natalie Pratt from Amboy are very close and share a similar vision for the year ahead for the State FFA Officer team.

According to Wooton, she did not have a direct connection to agriculture, but as she has gotten more involved in FFA and learned about agriculture, she has developed a passion for it.

Wooton helped lead the DeLand-Weldon FFA Chapter in its first year this past year after spending three years at the Blue Ridge program in the district's co-op. 

The State FFA Convention was in Springfield at the Bank of Springfield Center this week. 
 

The heat of the summer has arrived this week.

On the WHOW Morning Show on Thursday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio the May-like temperatures of the first few weeks of June are going to quickly become a thing of the past as the summer heat sets in.

As heat builds to the west, the mild air remained over the Midwest, but Shimon reminds that is quickly going to change, and next week will be very warm.

High temperatures will primarily be in the 80s over the next week, but could climb to near 90 degrees at times. An unsettled pattern develops, with daily shower and storm chances beginning Thursday evening and continuing into next week. #ILwx pic.twitter.com/fEoEJi9FgY

— NWS Lincoln IL (@NWSLincolnIL) June 11, 2025

According to Shimon, a very slow-moving system is going to create possibilities for rain most of the day Friday, and then some pop-up rains on Saturday.

Stay with us in the days ahead, we'll have more from Shimon on the rest of June and some drought concerns that could build up this summer.

The saga between DeWitt County and Enel Green Energy has been a long one with ups and downs - mostly downs from the perspective of DeWitt County Board members and residents. 

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, Zoning Administrator Liz Weikle received operational reports from Enel, which are supposed to detail any curtailment violations they committed over a certain period. While residents have been noticing and posting videos of curtailment violations, Enel claims to have none. 

Committee Chair Buck Carter requested that Weikle acquire more detailed operational reports for specific days correlating with the alleged curtailment violations. 

While some committee members would like to judge compliance of each specific alleged violation, Board Chair Joe Witte suggested against doing that at the request of State's Attorney Dan Markwell. He said not only would this be a lengthy process, but it is the responsibility of the Zoning Administrator and the State's Attorney to take action on these possible violations, not the Land Use Committee. 

Local Enel Representative Matthew Seville will be attending this month's County Board Meeting to address these alleged violations.

The busy summer travel season has kicked into high gear and Clinton residents are being reminded of the vacation watch program offered through the Clinton Police Department.

On the WHOW Morning Show on Wednesday, Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers told Regional Radio the vacation watch program through the Clinton Police Department is a great way to make sure your home remains secure while you're away.

According to Chief Lowers, if you're not going to utilize the vacation watch program, there are many things you can do to make sure your home stays secure while you're away. He says it starts with not advertising your absence on social media.

Residents interested in the vacation watch program will be asked the obvious questions like their address, the dates of their absence, but then the Chief says they will want to know who has access to the home and what vehicle they drive.

The Chief encourages neighbors to look after each other throughout the summer, and if you are on good terms with those who live around you, it is always a good practice to ask them to keep watch of your home while you're away.

A big part of the Illinois FFA Convention each year is the honorary state FFA degree recipients. More from RFD Radio's Jim Taylor in Springfield.

The State FFA Convention wraps up today. 

Illinois Farm Bureau continues to support nutrient stewardship grants to local county farm bureaus. A number of field days are planned throughout the state this summer, says IFB's Bena Pegg.

The grant program was created in 2015. More info at ilfb.org/fielddays.

June is National Dairy Month, and during this month, the St. Louis District Dairy Council is celebrating the fact that more and more dairy is being consumed.

Monica Nyman with the St. Louis District Dairy Council points to literature out of Dairy Herd Management, which cites Circana and notes sales of dairy milk increased in 2024.

Nyman believes the increase in dairy sales is an indication that consumers are looking for more nutrient-rich foods, and dairy is certainly that.

Some people cannot handle dairy in their diets, or just don't like the taste or texture of milk. For those individuals, Nyman has a few alternatives.

Coffee drinkers can incorporate dairy through a variety of methods. Nyman even offers some alternative ways to prepare your coffee.

The St. Louis District Dairy Council has many great resources and information at its website, stldairycouncil.org, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 
 

Friday morning, the Clinton YMCA's annual golf outing will tee off, and it will be the return to its annual fundraising cycle that the community had become accustomed to for many years.

The YMCA hosts its 'Strong Kids' campaign, which raises money for the YMCA. According to Rennie Cluver, Executive Director of the Clinton Y, the annual golf outing is always a very popular event for both members and community supporters of the Y.

According to Cluver, the golf outing was always the kick-off to the annual 'Strong Kids' fundraising campaign. Like many traditions, COVID altered it; however, they are returning to the former timeline.

The 'Strong Kids' campaign helps the Y support families in need who take advantage of its programs. Cluver explains they put nearly $115,000 annually into the community through scholarships; however, 'Strong Kids' annually raises around $100,000.

The Y golf outing is this Friday at the Clinton Country Club. To participate in the 'Strong Kids' campaign, visit clintoncommymca.org. You can also contact the Y at 217-935-8307 or stop in at 417 South Alexander Street in Clinton.

Also, keep up with the latest in YMCA activities and news by following them on Facebook. 

Illinois FFA delegates approved adding a sixth state officer position during the first day of the state convention. More from RFD Radio’s Jim Taylor in Springfield.

National FFA President Thaddeus Bergschneider is back home in Illinois this week, attending the State FFA Convention. More from Taylor in Springfield.

The State FFA Convention takes place at the Bank of Springfield Center. It wraps up on Thursday. 

The final Illinois Farm Bureau Actively Engaged Student of the Month for the 2024/25 academic year is Fisher High School graduate Caleb Zwilling—an FFA’er, 4-H'er, three sport athlete, and NHS and student council member. He also serves on the Fisher Fair Jr. Fair Board.

The Illinois Farm Bureau Actively Engaged Student of the Month returns in September for the 2025/26 academic year. More info at farmweeknow.com/activelyengaged.

Warmer temperatures mean an increase in scammers taking advantage of high-demand tickets for popular shows and festivals during the summer months.

According to the Better Business Bureau, fraudsters often create fake social media profiles or advertisements appearing to resell the tickets. However, those tickets are often nonexistent or counterfeited. Don O'Brien with the B-B-B says...

According to the Federal Trade Commission, nearly one in three people who reported fraud said they lost money.

Of those who reported scams, Americans lost nearly $2 billion in social media scams, with over $2 million alone going towards ticket scams.

Earlier this month, The Vault in Clinton announced a leadership restructuring.

According to Tammy Wilson, the current Executive Director, she will be stepping away from the role, and Wendy DeMent will be taking over.

DeMent has been involved with The Vault from the start and has gradually gotten more and more involved.

For DeMent, she looks forward to continuing the partnerships in the community The Vault has built up and continuing the positive work with the community's youth.

The Vault will transition to its new leadership team on Aug. 1. For now, The Vault is beginning its summer career camp season and will soon be getting ready for the new school year in August. 
 

Nearly five years removed from the first reactions to COVID, school leaders in central Illinois say they are still dealing with the consequences of some of the decisions from that time. 

In the summers that followed the pandemic, schools introduced options for kids to recover academically. Superintendent of Bement Schools, Mary Vogt, explains rather than offering traditional summer school as the district did before she became superintendent, they offer a program called APEX Learning - an asynchronous online class that students can use to catch up before graduation. 

Vogt feels the advantage of this program is that it allows the school to save resources. The curricula are constructed to be completed individually, meaning students to not have to be in the classroom to acquire the credits. The Guidance Department keeps track of the students' progress and keeps them on course, rather than being an in-person instructor. 

The learning issues that come with being a student during the pandemic are becoming less and less. Vogt indicates as time goes on, more and more students re-enter in-person schooling at a younger age, making it less of a problem. 

Vogt credits her teachers for having done a great job supporting students academically. The district has specific staff dedicated to supporting students who are struggling, while challenging students who are further along. 

Vogt praises the staff in Bement Schools for working hard to make sure that no child is left behind or struggling.

HIGH HONOR ROLL

SENIORS

BARRINGER, JOHN A.

BEEBE, ADYSON V.

BROWN, AVARIE M.

BUZAY - ZAPATA, VALENTINA M.

CAHILL, LYDIA G.

DAM, AIDEN S.

DUKE, GRACE R.

FILKIN, REGAN K.

GOEBEL, KATE E.

HELFAND, ALANIA G.

HEMPHILL, AMERIE T.

HERNANDEZ, LUZ I.

HOLLAND, SOPHIA M.

LEONARD, MADDISON L.

MORRISON, BRIELLE A.

NICHOLLS, CADEN J.

ROBERTS, ADAM D.

STEWARD, ELLA A.

VELEZ-NOBLE, ALEXIS E.

WEST, MCKINLEY G.

JUNIORS

ALEJANDRO, MARLY

ANDERSON, CARLY

ATTEN, EMILY C.

BAKER, ELAYNA W.

BAZER, EMILIE E.

BRINKOETTER, SIENNA H.

COLE, MADISON M.

COSTELLO, MASON R.

DEMPSEY, CLARA J.

FENTRESS, RILEY M.

GOERGEN, SLOANE M.

GRAVES, KEATON R.

HART, EMMA T.

HAYNES, ALIVIYAH M.

HILTON, ARIANNA N.

KEAGLE, NATALIE S.

KORITZ, ABEL J.

MANNING, JACKSON J.

MESSENGER, SARAH E.

MILLS, LEAH E.

MINER, NOAH S.

MORGAN, MCKEGAN E.

MOSER, ABIGAIL D.

NEWBERG, LOGAN J.

NOTARO, REED C.

PARSON, JESSIKA-LEE I.

POTTS, ZACKARY T.

RAUCH, AIDEN J.

REXSHELL, OWEN P.

RHOADES, BAILEY R.

RHODES, NOLAN E.

SCHICK, MABREY A.

SMITH, AVERY L.

THOMPSON, ANELISE I.

TIMMONS, WYATT J.

TURNEY, JARRETT W.

VISINIA, LEILANI L.

WEBB, SOPHIE L.

WILLIAMSON, SAVANNA P.

WRIGHT, DYLLON R.

SOPHOMORES

APPLE, LOLA C.

BOSTIC, CARTER J.

BOSTIC, COLLIN I.

COSTA, CHRISTIAN A.

COTHERN, CARTER W.

DOUGLAS, AIDEN M.

DOUGLAS, GRADY M.

DROKE, JUSTIN O.

JRFATHEREE, AVERIE R.

GOEBEL, BENJAMIN D.

HARDWICK, KEARINGTON L.

HARWEGER, CURTIS A.

HEINLEN, JACOB F.

HILL, ELLA A.

HOLLAND, ALEXANDER M.

HOLLAND, AUDREY L.

HUMBLE, HADLEY R.

IRVIN, BRAYDEN R.

LICHTENWALTER, LUCAS D.

LORD, JOIELLE P.

MORGE, PATRICK E.

NICHOLS, ALAINA M.

NICHOLS, COOPER D.

OLICHWIER, GRETCHEN D.

RAMIREZ, ISRAEL

REED, OLIVER M.

SCHICK, PAISLEY A.

TOOHILL, AUDREY L.

WADDELL, MADISON F.

WHEELER, MICAH A.

WHITEHOUSE, KAYLN M.

FRESHMEN

BAXTER, SAMUEL E.

BECK, BRODY E.

BELL, JAEDEN K.

BLACK, JACEY L.

BLESS, KARLIE J.

BOSTIC, CAYDEN N.

BRUNING, KOLTON M.

CASAREZ, ADRIANNA E.

COLLINS, SPENCER A.

CUNNINGHAM, KATHRINE M.

DALTON, BRAYDEN M.

FERGUSON, SHAWN M.

GOAR, OZLYN

GOFF, SOPHIA A.

GROVES, ADELAIDE N.

HARRELL, JACOB B.

HAYNES, GAVYN L.

HOFFMAN, JENNAVIEVE K.

HOOD, AVA L.

HOWELL, PRESTON R.

KORITZ, KACY L.

KRIT, PHELIX H.

MAJOR, RACHEL I.

MERRIMAN, ALEXIS R.

MILLS, PEYTON R.

PETERSON, AUBREY A.

PETERSON, SOPHIA R.

ROBERTS, AUBREY N.

SUMNER, BROCKTON W.

THRASHER, SOPHIE A.

TULL, NATHAN R.

TURNEY, WYATT C.

WEBB, OLIVIA

WILSON, CLINT T.

A HONOR ROLL

SENIORS

ANDERSON, TAYLOR

BALES, TYLER J.

BALL, JAMES L.

JRBELL, DALTON K.

CICENAS, ALEXANDER E.

CONSTANCE, WYATT G.

EARLE, CARLEY

ETTIEN, BRODIE L.

HARRIS, KADEN M.

HENDRIX, LILLIANNE D.

HITCHINGS, ASHER S.

HUMES, ARIANA J.

JAMESON, COLIN D.

KREOGER, ALEXANDER

LEIMBACH, EMELIA L.

MARTIN, MARGARET J.

MCCUE, BRANNON J.

MONKMAN, IAN G.

RETZER, MARK E.

RODRIGUEZ, AUDREY M.

WALKER, COLTON J.

WEST, TEEGAN A.

WILLIS, WYATT G.

JUNIORS

ADAMS, LINCOLN J.

ALEXANDER, JACKSON F.

ATCHISON, NATALIE D.

CLARK, SANDRA

DANIELS, PARKER D.

FATH, JAYLENE S.

GOAR, OLIVER L.

HOWELL, EMMA G.

JOHNSON, GAVIN P.

KOYAK, MADDISON J.

KOYAK, MILEY J.

LARSON, BRADEN E.

LYONS, REESE E.

MENDOZA, MIGUELANGEL

ORTIZ, RIHANNA

PINE, RYAN W.

SMOCK, JONATHAN M.

STAMP, RUSSELL U.

TOHILL, DIXIE R.

VAN ZEE, ABBY J.

VARBLE, SAMUEL A.

WHITLOCK, JAKOBE M.

WILSON, BROCK J.

WOODS, MARK T.

WOODS, TRISTAN M.

SOPHOMORES

ADVINCULA, FRANCIS DAVE H.

AYERS, ETHAN W.

BENSON, JOURNEE L.

BRAGG, DELAINI J.

CARTER, BRILEY R.

CHRISPEN, SHAWN M.

DEVALLE, HOLLAND

DILLON, CARSON D.

FINCH, KOLTEN H.

GUNDY, BRIANNA M.

HEWERDINE, JACOB T.

JONES, NICODEMUS D.

MCKINSEY, PAYTON A.

MILLER, LAYNE D.

NAXI, DIANA M.

OBRIEN, ALEXANDRIA H.

PERHAY, ISABELLA J.

POWERS, COURTNEY D.

PROTHERO, SAWYER D.

REDDINGTON, CADENCE B.

RYAN-HAWKINS, OLIVIA M.

SANDERS, JADYN D.

SMITH, JAYSEN M.

STANEK, MASON A.

SUMMERS, ADDISON G.

TRIMBLE, SETH R.

UTTERBACK, GRIFFIN R.

VELEZ-NOBLE, JOZLIN E.

WATERS, HUDSON D.

WHITELEY, HAYLEY M.

FRESHMEN

BARTON, MYA S.

BRENNAN, MALEAH R.

BROWN, CHELSEA R.

CARTER, DOMINIK A.

CARVER, HUNTER S.

COMSTOCK, AIDEN W.

FISHER, LUCY L.

FLETCHER, COOPER W.

FORD, KENZY R.

GOLDMAN, KASEN D.

HERRMANN, NOLA M.

KEELIN, RILEY C.

MOORE, CHELSEA L.

SUTTON, KOLE A.

TOOL, EMMA M.

WHEELER, SAVANNAH G.

B HONOR ROLL

SENIORS

ADAMS, RILEY B.

AKEMAN, JADON I.

ANAYA, NOEL B.

ARMSTRONG, NATHANIEL J.

BLACKLIDGE, MYRANDA F.

BOYSEN, NOAH X.

BROWN, ANDREW J.

DARINGER, JACEY

FLORES, SHIRLEY

HALE, MELISSA R.

KRIT, KENEDY R.

MADSON, AMELIA D.

MALONE, MICHAEL L.

MOORE, ALEXANDER J.

RILEY, ADRIEN M.

RODRIGUEZ, ADRIAN

ROE, JADELYNN J.

SCHACKMANN, WYATT A.

THRASHER, TALAN S.

TROYER, MATTHEW G.

VELEZ-NOBLE, SHAYLYNN E.

WEBB, JACK D.

WESTBROOKS, ANTHONY A.

WOOD, ALEXANDER S.

JUNIORS

BASS, JOSHUA K.

BOW, ALEXIS C.

BROWN, PAISLEA M.

BURRIS, NOAH J.

CLUVER, LILAH G.

CURTIS, PRESTON M.

DAUGHTREY, KEAGAN A.

GENTRY, JOHN R.

GUERRERO, EILEEN

GUNDY, BLAKE M.

HARRIETT, TRINITY J.

NAPE, JOSHUA

REYNOLDS, JAXON L.

WRAGE, HALLE E.

SOPHOMORES

ANGEL, VAN A.

BAKER, LUCAS A.

BLAKELY, JOSIE A.

BURTON, WYATT C.

CARTER, ETHAN W.

CORNWELL, MITCHELL D.

DEERWESTER, LILA L.

GODBEY, HAILEY L.

HARNEY, LIAM C.

KAUFMAN, ROWEN J.

KLEIN, GAVIN J.

MALONE, LILLIANA R.

MCGLASSON, WYATT A.

MITCHELL, CYNTHIA L.

PARRISH, KATE A.

PARRISH, KHLOE E.

POOLE, AARON W.

RETZER, SEAMUS P.

SICKLES, SIERRA N.

SIMMONS, JAYDON M.

TAYLO, MADDOX R.

TAYLOR, DYLAN I.

WHITE, BRIGGS M.

WHITESIDE, TANNER R.

WINEBRINNER, ISAAC M.

WOOLDRIDGE, SAMUEL G.

FRESHMEN

ADAIR, MAKAYLA A.

BLAKELY, JACE R.

BRUCKER, ELIJAH D.

FITCH, MARSHAWN

HAMMER, SCARLET J.

HAWKINS, ADDISON

HEWERDINE, LUCAS J.

HITCHINGS, BRENNA M.

ISAAC, TINLEY J.

LAMAR, LUCAS I.

LICHTENWALTER, ELIJAH J.

LYNCH, KAHLAN J.

MITCHELL, PAUL D. III

NEGRETE, ENRIQUE L.

OCHELTREE, DYLAN J.

REYNEN, AMY L.

RICH, LANE M.

RILEY, ELIANA R.

SARINANA, SARINA D.

SERRANO HEREDIA, DELMI L.

SPRAGUE, CALEB W.

STAUFFER, BRADY K.

SUTTON, EMILY R.

TERRY, DAVID M.

TRESNAK, PRESTON M.

TROYER, EMILY C.

TUCKER, ALEX L.

VILLANUEVA, BELLA V.

WALKLING, ANDIE J.

WERKMAN, HARPER L.

Many DeWitt County residents have noticed curtailment violations in wind farms owned by Enel Clean Energy. 

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, Zoning Administrator Elizabeth Weikle informed the board that the local representative from Enel, Matthew Seville, plans to attend next week's full board meeting, and asked what they would like to hear about. 

DeWitt County residents and board members have noticed videos of curtailment violations popping up on social media; however, in the operations reports Weikle received from Enel, they claimed to have no violations. The Committee plans to ask Seville about these violations at the board meeting. 

Weikle noted in her Zoning Report that she is currently working with four different solar operations that will be ready to make their applications to the county soon. One of which is Prairie Flats, a 900+ acre solar project with battery storage that is very close to completing the process. 

Early in the meeting, Weikle noted battery storage ordinances have been going through the Zoning Board of Appeals and have been tabled. This is due to the meeting taking place before the end of the state legislative session, and came at the recommendation of Full Board Chair Joe Witte.

The committee also made a motion to include Chastain Engineering in the approved firms for wind and solar applications that come into DeWitt County. This would pair them with Cummins Engineering to effectively share the load of work that comes into the area. 

As the Illinois FFA Convention begins today in Springfield, FFA delegates will consider adding a new state officer position. More from RFD Radio Network’s Jim Taylor.

The outgoing Illinois FFA President is reflecting on his year in office as his term nears an end. 

The Illinois FFA Convention takes place at the Bank of Springfield Center and wraps up on Thursday.

The Schuyler County Farm Bureau in western Illinois helped bring attention to the deer nuisance issue. It led to legislation being approved that updated the deer removal permit process. Schuyler County Farm Bureau President Chris Vogler organized a meeting last August—attended by farmers, IDNR, and state lawmakers—in response to crop damage.

The deer nuisance legislation awaits the Governor’s signature.

A scholarship in the name of the late John Warner has been established, and its first recipient is a recent graduate of Clinton High School.

Maureen Collins-Kolb with the Warner-Kolb Foundation tells Regional Radio they are seeking to honor the memory of John Warner through two new scholarships and a partnership with the Clinton Community Education Foundation, or CCEF.

One of Warner's final big projects before his passing was the aviation exhibit at the CH Moore Homestead in the summer of 2023. Collins-Kolb says his love of aviation will be the basis for a second scholarship in his name.

For now, the scholarship recipient for the $25,000 a year scholarship will be one student every four years. According to Collins-Kolb, there will be some criteria for the recipients to keep the scholarship.

Collins-Kolb indicates the Warner family was very close with her husband's family. That is why they set up the Warner-Kolb Foundation and this scholarship in John's name.

The mission of The Warner & Kolb Family Foundation is to foster the education and opportunity that enable individuals and communities to make lasting, positive contributions to the people and world around them.

Many visitors to Weldon Springs in the summer months regularly make it a point to visit the schoolhouse and nature center.

The schoolhouse and nature center are open, and on the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Patti Kinder, Conservation Education Representative, told Regional Radio they have had a busy start to the season.

The one-room schoolhouse is always a learning experience for young kids. Kinder explains many kids find it hard to believe kids of different grade levels would share the same classroom.

One of the unique aspects of the schoolhouse and nature center at Weldon Springs is that it is almost exclusively hands-on. Kinder points out they have several animals for students to touch and hold.

The season of activities is underway for Weldon Springs. Kinder is beginning a walking group at the park, and the first is this coming Thursday. Anyone interested in a light walk can meet at the schoolhouse at 10 am.

It will be a busy weekend at Weldon Springs. We'll have more on the activities for Father's Day Weekend and Flag Day at Weldon Springs later this week on Regional Radio.

For more information on all things Weldon Springs, you can find the Weldon Springs State Park Foundation on Facebook or visit their new website, wsfil.org. 

A University of Illinois small farms educator is researching the recent resurgence of dust storms in central Illinois and perhaps the role agriculture can play in mitigating the frequency.

Reagan Tibbs is a Small Farms Educator at the University of Illinois Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, and indicates the dust storm in the spring of 2023 that occurred south of Springfield, which claimed the lives of multiple motorists on Interstate 55, first brought this issue front and center.

Tibbs' initial publication on the topic drew the interest of the National Weather Service in Lincoln. One point of emphasis for him is the issue is not going to be resolved with one solution.

A piece of legislation from the 60s allowing for the removal of tree lines on agricultural land removed a lot of windbreaks and Tibbs speculates that over time, the removal of those tree lines to maximize production has made an impact.

In partnering with the National Weather Service, Tibbs explains they are putting an emphasis on the lingo of the ag community so when they issue notices or advisories, they can effectively direct producers on how to use caution.

Tibbs' findings haven't led him to the conclusion that ag practices are creating the conditions to deteriorate soil conditions to create these dust storms however, he believes there are things producers can do to help make things better.

While producers are not intentionally out trying to stir up dust, in fact, often, field work is not going on when these dust storms pop up, but he believes there are things producers can do that can help keep those things from happening. 

You can find Tibbs' blog at extension.illinois.edu/lms.

June is Dairy Month, and a dairy non-profit has established the theme 'Pour on the Perfect'. 

Monica Nyman with the St. Louis District Dairy Council is highlighting all the varieties of dairy in the dairy case at your local grocery store. It starts with knowing the difference between all the traditional gallons of milk in the grocery store.

Ultrapasturized milk is heated to a higher temperature for a shorter time, allowing the milk to have a longer shelf life. According to Nyman, ultra-pasteurized milk can have a shelf life of up to two months. 

Shelf-stable milk is an option for those who may not have the refrigerator space and comes in a lot of various sizes.

Nyman notes milk sales have increased in recent in the last year. We'll have more with her on June Dairy Month on Regional Radio. 

Last month, Social Security released the national and state-specific baby name data for 2024.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates they get asked often why they keep track of this data, and the answer is quite simple - it is because they have the information.

You can see the top 10 boys and girls names of 2024 for the U.S. Myers indicates you can also see state-specific lists to see how Illinois or any other state differs from the national naming trends. Additionally, if you want to check the historical popularity of a specific name, you can do that too.

Liam and Olivia remain the top baby names from 2024, with a similar variety of the same name for the girls rounding out the top ten baby names.

Check the full lists at www.socialsecurity.gov/babynames.

Legislation impacting pesticide applicators is winning approval during the spring legislative session in Springfield. The measure was a priority for the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, says IFCA’s KJ Johnson.

The legislation awaits the Governor’s signature.

Community Care Systems is an organization built to support the elderly.

Rebecca Wheat with Community Care Systems told Regional Radio from the Warner Hospital Health Fair that their goal is to support anyone in the community who qualifies for their programming, which can include financial assistance. 

Wheat highlights their new location in the Flower Corner Building on Route 54 in Clinton.

If you or a loved one could benefit from Community Care System's services, learn more by visiting ccsiccu.com or find them on Facebook.

While the Warner Library is known for its great children's programming, it also offers programs for adults. 

Adult Program Director Emily Dunham says that June is an especially fun-filled month for adult programming. She highlights the Summer Rhythm Series, a four-week dance class through John Young Dance Studio. 

Dunham encourages people to use the library as a welcoming social space for the community. Learn more about all the programming offered by the Warner Library by visiting vwarner.org or finding the library on Facebook.

Over the last week, Clinton residents reacted to the announcement of an increase in water and sewer rates.

At Tuesday night's Clinton City Council meeting, Commissioner of Public Property John Wise told the Council that those rate increases are mandatory and in line with inflation.

According to Wise, Clinton water and sewer rates remain about in the middle of rates in central Illinois. He indicates that the cost of materials has significantly jumped recently, and they need to adjust accordingly.

Wise noted that Clinton residents likely noticed the hydrant flushing that took place this last week as well.

Avian Influenza has been a big problem for farms, zoos, and wild bird populations around the country, and now it's having an effect on 4H. 

Kendra Wallace, 4H Youth Development Educator for the University of Illinois Extension for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that with the rise in bird flu numbers, the Illinois Department of Agriculture is keeping a close eye before allowing a poultry show. She hopes to have good news next Wednesday. 

Keep it tuned to Regional Radio as the Illinois Department of Agriculture makes its decision on allowing live poultry shows. The DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt General Show takes place from July 5th to July 13th. Get more information at extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 
 

The Scovill Zoo annually participates in a nationwide effort to raise funds for the preservation of a critically endangered species worldwide.  

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Heather Perdeu with the Scovill Zoo told Regional Radio this Saturday, its zookeepers are hosting the annual ‘Bowling For Rhinos' at the Spare Lanes Bowling Alley in Decatur. 

Perdeu indicates they partner with a worldwide agency that contributes to a bigger coalition to preserve the habitats and population of endangered rhinos. 

Join the zookeepers of the Scovill Zoo at the Spare Lanes Bowling Alley located at 2870 N Jasper St in Decatur. Admission is $25, and the event takes place from 7 to 11 PM. Get more information by finding the Scovill Zoo on Facebook.

A DeWitt County official is reacting to this week's announcement between Constellation and Meta.

DeWitt County Sheriff Mike Walker says the agreement to keep the power plant in operation for another 20 years is great, not just because of the jobs it creates for the area, but it keeps a great community partner around for a long time.

The Sheriff is hopeful the revenue generated by the likely increased EAV will allow his department to increase its wages and better retain staff.

According to Sheriff Walker, because the Sheriff's office is one of the first lines of response to an emergency, the power plant has supported them in various ways in the many years of being in the community.

This summer also happens to be an every-other-year drill for the power plant that involves multiple agencies surrounding the plant. We'll have more on that with the Sheriff soon on Regional Radio. 
 

The summer reading kickoff event recently hosted by the Warner Library was just the beginning of a season of programming to keep kids busy and learning.  

Mel Snow, Youth Program Director at the library, indicates that they have plenty of programming targeted at very young children, including Toddler Time, which is resuming after a hiatus in May. 

Snow notes that the library staff want people to feel welcome in their facilities. They try to encourage the space to allow socializing and building community. Adult Program Director Emily Dunham adds that it's also a great place to allow children to build social skills. 

The library is passionate about giving students hands-on learning experiences, and Snow points to her new youth art series. Kids will learn how to paint in the styles of famous artists throughout history. 

Snow explains that they will also have programming for teens this summer, like the Colorful Square Walking tour around the Clinton Square, which ends at Sweet Mae's for some free ice cream or snow cones. 

The Library has tons of events for kids and adults this summer, and you can find out more about the calendar by visiting vwarner.org or following the library on Facebook. 
 

Several high-profile actors are filming a movie in central Illinois this week. 

Shelley Crawford-Stock from the Monticello Chamber of Commerce tells Regional Radio the former Hardee's in Monticello is the site for the shoot.

According to Crawford-Stock, the Monticello Chamber of Commerce is part of a cooperative that seeks to attract executives in the film industry to utilize locations in central Illinois for its sets, and Monticello was exactly what they were looking for.

The movie, called Chili Finger, will feature A-List celebrities like John Goodman, Bryan Cranston, and Judy Greer. 

The story follows a mother whose children have moved on, and she discovers a human finger in her bowl of chili. When she tries to blackmail the owner for money, the situation gets out of control. 

Rotary Park's pickleball courts have become a hot spot in Clinton thanks to the resurgence of pickleball.

Any given evening when the weather is nice, players will congregate for games, and the court will be getting some maintenance soon, says Tony Harris, Administrator for the City of Clinton.

Last month, the City also approved the purchase of updated Christmas decorations for the downtown area.

Also in May, more lots purchased at the Park Lane West subdivision development were approved.

Harris also indicates the City Council approved the purchase of fireworks for the Fourth of July weekend fireworks display that was recently taken over by the City.
 

The Farmer City grocery coop took a major step forward in May when it began offering online sales.

Curt Homann is the Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council and notes it is a big step for the coop that began its journey to bring a grocery option to the DeWitt County community.

According to Farmer City City Manager Taylor Baxter, the grocery coop addresses a huge need in the community, and its recent acquisition of a grant through the DCDC will allow the online grocery option to be more streamlined.

Homann points to the grocery coop as one of the examples of an economic development idea that takes a couple of years to get off the ground.

The signs of a community that is thriving are having a healthcare facility, a police force, and a grocery store. Baxter notes it is the grocery store that is the missing piece in Farmer City.

If you're interested in the fresh meat and produce that is being provided on a weekly basis in Farmer City, Homann encourages finding the group on Facebook and reaching out to them directly there.

Several ag items got attention during the recently completed spring session of the Illinois General Assembly. Illinois Farm Bureau Director of State Legislation Chris Davis with a rundown.

The spring session wrapped up prior to midnight last Saturday.

As a brief warmup and midweek rains pass through Illinois, more moderate temperatures are expected coming up.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates there were some initial severe weather concerns with some of these rains but as we finish out the week, temperatures are going to be very seasonable.

Shimon notes that the June outlook shows an above normal trend for temperatures and an equal chance of above or below normal precipitation.

According to Shimon, the average temperature increase in June is a mix of the days getting warmer, but the nights not getting as cool. Weather officials are watching the expected heat out West that could impact the Midwest.

While not completely out of the woods for severe weather, Shimon notesthat  severe weather tends to be more hit and miss in Illinois in June.

The tropical storm season begins in June. There have already been some tropical storms starting to form this month. 
 

Farming can be a tough industry to get into if you don't already have the land, but there's a new program from the University of Illinois Extension that can help. 

Reagan Tibbs, Commercial Ag Educator for the Extension servicing Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, explains that the Farm Family Business Program is intended to give new and young farmers tips to get their foot into the agriculture industry. Registration closes on Friday, June 6th, just before the program begins on the 10th. 

Anyone can register and take part in the Farm Family Business Program, even if you do not reside within Logan, Menard, or Sangamon Counties. Tibbs notes that you also do not have to register for all three of the sessions offered. 

Tibbs has collaborated with speakers who will be coming to the sessions to build the curriculum from the ground up for the new program. He is trying to tailor the program to the real needs that he has heard from local producers. 

If you are a new producer looking to get into agriculture, or you're taking over the family farm, register for the Farm Family Business Program by June 6th at extension.illinois.edu/lms. 

Over 1,100 jobs are off the chopping block after Meta, the parent company of Facebook, inked an agreement with a Central Illinois power station.

Beginning in 2027, Meta plans to purchase approximately 1.1 gigawatts of energy from Constellation's Clinton Clean Energy Center.

The deal also increases the nuclear power facility's capacity by 30 megawatts while contributing over $13 million annually in tax revenue.

Illinois Manufacturers Association President and CEO Mark Denzler says the plan ensures the plant's operation until 2047.

In a press release, Constellation Energy stated that the company plans to seek a new permit from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to construct an SMR at the Clinton site.

As part of the deal, the partnership includes a $1 million charitable investment over five years to benefit the city of Clinton.
 

A growing favorite for a Normal entity is this weekend. 

Jay Pratte, Executive Director of the Miller Park Zoo, says 'Brews at the Zoo' is this Saturday and is one of its three major fundraisers. 

The entire zoo is open during the event, giving guests and vendors plenty of room to spread out and explore all the facilities have to offer. Pratte highlights some of the new attractions, like the four new alpacas, which visitors will be able to see. 

While Brews at the Zoo does not typically feature fundraising efforts like a silent auction, Pratte mentions that vendors may be hosting raffles or other contests, which you will only be able to find out about if you attend the event. 

While the number of tickets being sold has increased this year from 750 to 1,000, Pratte encourages people interested to get their tickets before they sell out. Find more information and get your tickets at mpzs.org. 

The McLean County Museum of History is giving community members an opportunity to learn about local history over lunch. 

Candace Summers, Director of Education for the Museum, explains that on June 5th, State Farm Archivist Buck Farley will be joining them to teach about the history of the major company that was founded in Bloomington in 1922. 

While some may think that the history of an insurance company may not be interesting, Summers shares that attendees will get to hear about the growth of the company and even some fun stories about how roller-skates are related to State Farm. 

State Farm has become a nationally recognized and utilized insurance company, but Summers explains that they had their headquarters just down the street from the museum until the 1970s. She is excited for people to have the opportunity to learn about the rich history and connection between State Farm and the City of Bloomington. 

Summers invites the community to bring a packed lunch to the free event on June 5th at 12:10 PM. Learn more about the event by visiting mchistory.org/events or finding their Facebook page. 
 

What was once a plan to breathe new life into and reduce traffic on 5th Street in Lincoln has become a smaller-scale maintenance project. 

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch indicates that all of the city's paperwork is completed, and they were waiting on agreements with the Union Pacific Railroad Company. Well, now that the agreement has been completed, things can keep moving forward. 

5th Street in Lincoln has been in disrepair for some time. Mayor Welch explains that while the original plan was to make the road wider, the costs became too expensive. Now the plan is to resurface the road and address drainage issues. 

The City of Lincoln Began working on the 5th Street Project in late 2024, and although they have faced delays, they have an estimated completion date of August. 
 

Farmer City has been working to make the community safer by building a new sidewalk.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, City of Farmer City City Manager Taylor Baxter told Regional Radio that Farmer City received an Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grant, or ITEP, for over $488,000 to put a new sidewalk on the south side of town. 

Now the city is moving on to the next steps and working with engineers to get the sidewalk plans approved. Baxter notes that it feels great to have some good news about the project. 

The sidewalk will cover a half-mile stretch along Route 54 on the south side of town, where pedestrians and bike riders are common. 
 

For some kids, summer time can be a challenge to find nutritional meals as being in school often provided that stability for families.

Caitlin Mellendorf is a Nutrition Educator with the University of Illinois Extension indicates many communities will provide healthy meals to students through the summer.

For families with young people who are going to be staying home alone this summer, Mellendorf encourages making sure there's plenty of healthy food around the house for them to eat.

Additionally, Mellendorf encourages having things those kids are going to be able to access easily and make sure they know how to navigate food preparation, including using those kitchen appliances safely.

Later this week, we'll hear more from Mellendorf on preparing kids home for the summer with good food preparation habits. 

Illinois Farm Bureau backed deer nuisance legislation, winning approval in the Illinois General Assembly this spring.

Pending the governor’s signature, the legislation will take effect Jan. 1.

Illinois remains an important part of round barn history. And an author is documenting that history. John Hanou (han-now) is called the round barn expert.

Hanou is a native of Indiana.

Health officials continue to highlight stroke awareness. An important acronym to remember-----BE-FAST!

Leslie Ingold is the regional stroke navigator for OSF Healthcare.

Door-to-door salespeople are regularly seen in neighborhoods around the country. In recent years some local municipalities have begun requiring such salespeople to register with their city clerk’s office, but there are still the rogue ones that just show up. The Better Business Bureau has some advice to deal with either type.

How can you know if a salesperson is from a real company? Check identification, check the company’s BBB Business Profile, and ask about licensing. BBB investigator Don O’Brien says if you make a purchase and then have second thoughts, there is a method of recourse.

To avoid being pressured into a sale, O’Brien reminds it’s ok to say no. Door-to-door marketing scripts are designed to keep potential customers engaged in a conversation as long as possible, but a legitimate salesperson will understand if you politely and firmly tell them you’re not interested. You don’t owe anyone your contact information or a purchase.

Since the pandemic, many non-profits have struggled to regain volunteers. 

Silvia Comfort with DOVE in DeWitt County says the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, or RSVP, once connected local organizations with the volunteers that they need. She is trying to rebuild it to the great service it used to be before 2020. 

Comfort explains that volunteers can express what organizations or missions they are passionate about, so they can be connected with a non-profit that they are excited to work with. 

DOVE Inc continues to look for more non-profits who are in need of volunteers, as well as more volunteers to send to those non-profits. If you're interested in getting involved in the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, reach out to the DeWitt County office at 217-428-6616 or visit doveinc.org. 
 

Roughly $10,000 will be distributed among three local businesses.

On the WHOW Morning Show on Monday, DeWitt County Development Council Executive Director Curt Homann announced Gilmore's Treats on the Clinton Square, Crossfit Influence in Wapella, and the Farmer City Grocery Co-op received funding in this latest cycle.

According to Homann, the three winners for this grant cycle were very impressive and had very good visions for where they wanted to take their business. While he hopes some who applied but did not receive funding return to apply in the fall, he stresses they are looking for solid investments.

Homann reminds the $10,000 in this grant cycle and the others come from investments of local government and the DCDC general budget. He is excited to have Farmer City back as an investor in the DCDC.

The latest round of grant funding had ten businesses apply. Homann says the choices can be tough sometimes, but it can also be a good opportunity to provide feedback to a business for the next round of grant funding.

Homann encourages DeWitt County small businesses to keep a watch the DCDC Facebook page for information about future grant cycles. He hopes to have another in the fall.

You can also visit dcdc-illinois.net for more information. 

May was another one to remember to start 2025 from a weather perspective.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln remembers there were numerous severe weather days, including a wild day on May 16 with severe storms, blowing dust, and extreme winds.

According to Shimon, rainfall varied across the State in May. Even locally, rainfall totals were very hit and miss.

While varying precipitation totals highlight the month, overall, precipitation is below normal. Shimon adds May turned out to be cooler than normal despite early outlooks predicting a warmup at the end of the month.

The first full week of June begins with a bit of a warmup, then some threats of severe weather will usher in a cool down. We'll have more with Shimon this week on the June outlook and the summer outlook as well.

Last November, the citizens of Piatt County voted in favor of a tax referendum that would provide funding to the 708 Mental Health Board. 

Now, they are ready to begin accepting applications in anticipation of distributing those dollars to local organizations. Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center explains with the newfound funding for the mental health board, non-profits can now apply for funding for FY26. 

While the board may move to electronic applications in the future, Kirkman indicates that this time around, you must fill out a paper application to receive funding. That being said, he calls the process very simple. 

The Piatt County 708 Board is committed to being good stewards of the dollars that have been given to them by the tax payers. To learn more about the application process, visit piattmhc.org.

As students across the area transition ot summer break, the University of Illinois is promoting a robust offering of fun activities this summer for kids. 

Terri Miller Casey, Director of the University of Illinois Extension for Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties explains that this summer, they will have five different summer programs, aimed at different ages, for students to participate in. 

The first program will be the Nature's Explorers program on June 4th. Miller-Casey says that this program, intended for ages 8-18, will give students the opportunity to discover the great outdoors. 

On June 11th, kids can participate in the Exploring Science on Wheels program. Miller-Casey believes this one will be interesting because students will get to meet and learn from real science experts. 

For the younger 4-Hers, Cloverbud Camp is for kids from five to seven years old. There will be two sessions of this program, the first on June 24th and the second on July 8th. Miller-Casey notes this event lets Cloverbuds come to the Logan County Extension Office and just have fun. 

Flight Camp is for students from 8 to 18 years old on July 1st. Miller-Casey explains they will dive into the science of flying with everything from birds to helicopters. 

Animals and Vet science are a very common interest among young people, and Miller-Casey explains that on July 21st, they will have the Animal Science and Veterinary Exploration program. 

From July 22nd to July 24th, the extension will be hosting Teen Influencer Boot Camp, which is an opportunity for teens to use their interest in social media to spread positivity. 

Summer programs have limited spots, so Miller-Casey encourages getting your students signed up as soon as possible. Do so and learn more about the programs by visiting extension.illinois.edu/lms