Earlier this month, we celebrated Veterans Day, honoring all of those who have fought for our Country. 

Jack Myers with Social Security reminds of the Wounded Warrior Initiative. He says Social Security can expedite disability decision when an application is made by a veteran. 

You can visit ssa.gov to learn more about how SSA supports veterans. 

As we enter the season of giving, a local nutrition educator has ways we can provide nutritious foods to those in need. 

Caitlin Mellendorf with the University of Illinois Extension says if you are feeling generous this year and would like to donate to a food pantry, make sure they are items that are shelf-stable. It also helps to donate items that pair well together, like peanut butter and jelly. 

She hopes we all remember to help those less fortunate this holiday season. Learn more about the offerings from the Extension by visiting extension.illinois.edu/dmp. 

Scientists have long wondered if we are alone in the universe, and the Warner Library is diving into that question. 

Coming up on December 6th at 11 AM, the library will host John Burroughs, who will dive into the details surrounding his experience with aliens during his time in the military. 

That's Emily Dunham, adult program coordinator for the Warner Library. She notes the idea for this program came in passing with a local business owner who regularly connects with Burroughs. 

Those interested in learning more about Burroughs and his experiences with the extraterrestrial should visit vwarner.org to RSVP for the event and to find articles on the Bloomington resident. 

The event is 18+ and requires registration.

The first major winter storm of the year could be coming this weekend, and local law enforcement officials are warning drivers of the potential risks. 

DeWitt County Sheriff Mike Walker indicates that, between the deer rut season, incoming weather, and Thanksgiving travel, drivers may experience what he calls "The Perfect Storm" of poor driving conditions. He is imploring drivers to recall the winter driving habits of last year before panicking on snowy roads. 

When it comes to bad weather, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister says to plan for the worst and hope for the best. He says that brick roads, which are common in Lincoln, and newly paved roads can be especially slick this time of year. He notes that empty parking lots are a great place for young drivers to practice in winter conditions. 

Monticello Police Chief Rob Bross says if the temperature is in the 30s, then you need to be careful of black ice, especially on bridges. He falls back on everyday driving tips like wearing a seatbelt and staying off your phone to stay safe. 

As we enter the season of celebration, always plan to have a sober driver when consuming alcohol or other substances. As always, law enforcement is asking drivers to slow down and be alert. 

The Festival of Trees will kick off its third season this weekend on the downtown Clinton Square.

Organizers Nate Ennis and Melissa Morris say the goal is not to make money on the event, it is to bring entertainment and the holiday spirit to the people and families of Clinton. He does encourage businesses located on the Square to keep their doors open. 

Morris and Ennis organized a meeting in October of 2023 with the dream of this festival taking place. After a lot of hard work, they brought the idea to life in just one month and hosted their first tree-lighting ceremony. 

The second year of the festival proved to be much easier with more time to prepare and more volunteers. Ennis gives credit to his counterpart for rounding up groups in the community and driving interest in the event. He notes that she has planned even more for this year. 

The Festival of Trees will host its Tree Lighting Ceremony this Saturday, November 29th, in the Clinton Square at 5:30 PM. Entertainment will begin at 4:30. Learn more by finding the Clinton Festival of Trees on Facebook. 

Open enrollment for Medicare Part B is in its final leg, and Social Security is sending out some annual reminders.

Jack Myers with Social Security reminds that the open enrollment period is an annual opportunity for those enrolled in Medicare to reevaluate their plans and runs through Friday, Dec. 5, because Dec. 7 is a Sunday.

Medicare beneficiaries can compare their options for health and prescription drug coverage. Myers reminds that this includes Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap plans, and Medicare Prescription Drug plans.

The open enrollment period ends on Friday, December 5, because December 7 - the traditional cutoff date - is a Sunday. 

The busy holiday shopping season is upon starting tomorrow morning - for some it may even be tonight - and local authorities are reminding of the things to do to stay safe during the hustle and bustle.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers admits that with the advancements made in online shopping and the holiday deals that are sometimes online exclusives, the days of the packed shopping centers have faded in recent years, but he still encourages getting out and supporting those local businesses.

If you are headed out to that local shopping outlet for that purchase that the online shopping cannot fulfill, Chief Lowers encourages using caution, knowing where you parked, and making haste to your vehicle upon exiting that store or shopping center.

Especially if you're headed to larger shopping centers, shop in pairs and conceal those purchases when they end up inside the vehicle.

As for online shopping, Chief Lowers indicates there can be a lot of pitfalls for shoppers looking for that great deal on an item, and also for those individuals who become susceptible to fraud and other forms of online theft.

Other things to consider from Chief Lowers include keeping a record of what you've purchased and making sure those match your banking records.

The Chief encourages residents to come out of the Clinton Christmas parade next month as well. 

Fans of the DeWitt County Museum and CH Moore Homestead always look forward to the holiday season. 

Executive Director of the museum, Joey Long, explains that the day after Thanksgiving is often a very busy day for them as local families bring their relatives to the fan-favorite holiday and historical attraction. She says there are two events going on that day for people to enjoy, starting with Santa Night from 5 to 7 PM.

Santa Claus will be down in the Carriage Barn, greeting guests while Board Members serve hot chocolate. As always, there is a photo opportunity with Santa. 

After you visit with Santa in the Carriage Barn, you can go back to the mansion's front door and go on a Candlelight Tour. Long says they will run every Friday evening from November 28th to December 19th. 

Experience the Christmas magic taking place at the DeWitt County Museum on November 28th, starting at 5 PM in the Carriage Barn. Learn more by visiting chmoorehomestead.org or by finding them on Facebook. 

According to the CDC, roughly 11 percent of Americans live with diabetes. 

Monica Nyman is a Senior Nutrition Educator and Registered Dietitian with the St. Louis District Dairy Council, and she explains that November is National Diabetes Month. They are taking this month to dive into how your dietary choices can affect your diabetes or prevent it. 

When it comes to dairy options, Nyman says things like milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and cheese are all great sources of protein that can be paired with fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables or whole grains. 

Nyman indicates that most Americans do not consume enough calcium or vitamin D daily. Milk and other dairy products are great sources of these nutrients. She refers to a study from the USDA linking yogurt to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Regular screenings, a healthy diet, and communication with your healthcare provider are all great ways to prevent or manage diabetes. Learn more about National Diabetes Month at STLdairycouncil.org. You can follow the St. Louis District Dairy Council on Facebook and Instagram as well. 

Late last month, the annual school report card data was released for Clinton Schools, and the district recognizes that improvement is going to be necessary after less-than-ideal scores.

Schools Superintendent Drew Goebel indicates Lincoln and Douglass Elementary Schools are facing improvements after test scores were not in the commendable range of the report card. A rating of 'exemplary' is the highest a district can achieve at a building, and then followed by 'commendable'. The two buildings were below that 'commendable' rating.

According to Assistant Superintendent Karrah Jensen, as soon as the data came out, communication and planning began on how they were going to improve the results at Lincoln and Douglass Schools. 

Many districts are struggling with chronic absenteeism, and Jensen hopes to message to parents the importance of students' attendance in schools and feels that students being in class more will help improve test scores. However, that won't be the only thing they focus on.

Goebel commends his staff in the buildings and believes in the teachers of the district to improve students' test scores. 
 

The National Weather Service in Lincoln is watching a storm system developing out west that could impact travel this holiday weekend.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln earlier this week told the Hart Media Group, it was difficult to predict what exactly was coming our way because the models were showing different outcomes.

We're getting closer to knowing more about this storm as the system makes landfall. Shimon anticipates either snow or rain to impact central Illinois, and a lot of wind to come with it.

November was below average for precipitation again. Shimon indicates if it is rain that is to come with this system, parts of east-central Illinois could really use it. We'll have more with Shimon on the drought conditions next week. 
 

The Thanksgiving holiday weekend can quickly go south if proper food safety guidelines are not followed both in the preparation process and the storage process.

Caitlin Mellendorf is a Nutrition Educator with the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, and indicates it starts with making sure that turkey is cooked to the USDA recommended temperatures - and to make sure that happens, have those food thermometers ready.

A practice that many may still use but is now considered unsafe is thawing meat at room temperature. Mellendorf explains this has been a practice not recommended for some time now simply because bacteria in the meat can still thrive when thawed at that room temperature pace. It is recommended to let your meat thaw in the refrigerator.

When that Thanksgiving dinner has been successfully and safely served, Mellendorf says you do not want the food sitting out more than two hours before you get it into the refrigerator to chill. Additionally, those Thanksgiving leftovers are going to be good for roughly four days in the refrigerator.

You can visit extension.illinois.edu/turkey for more helpful food preparation tips. Additionally, the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline is available to answer food safety questions via phone at 1-888-mphotline or e-mail mphotline@usda.gov. 
 

A lot of hard work has gone into bringing industry into Clinton and DeWitt County, which will strengthen the economy. 

Clinton City Administrator Tony Harris explains that the partnership with Curt Homann and the DeWitt County Development Council has been instrumental in driving economic development. It has taken a lot of teamwork to bring manufacturers like Kwik Wall and Myers Industry to the area, and he hopes that makes more businesses want to move to the area

Not only is big business coming to Clinton, but so are small businesses. Harris indicates a sequel location to an old fan-favorite restaurant in Clinton is in the works. 

According to Harris, the City is encountering a challenge in space to develop. This is why the City is exploring expanding its limits, which is easier said than done. 

The City is also looking into creating more Tax Increment Financing, or TIF, districts, which would spur more economic development. Harris points out that this is something that is in the works.

Harris believes the City is moving in a good direction and is excited to continue working with the DCDC and DeWitt County to improve economic development. 

If you're headed over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house, a local law enforcement official is preaching patience and safety.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers is emphasizing making sure someone knows when you've left and when you plan to arrive. While technology helps in this effort, there are still areas where that signal is not as strong.

The Chief is imploring patient driving, especially if you're headed to heavily populated areas like Chicago, St. Louis, or Indianapolis. He hopes everyone arrives at their destinations safely.

Chief Lowers reminds we remain in the heart of the deer rut, and so deer are very active right now. It almost does not matter where you're traveling, rurally, in town, or on the highways, be mindful of those moving deer - especially near heavily wooded areas.

We'll have more with Chief Lowers on Thanksgiving Day to promote safe shopping during the Black Friday shopping frenzy, as well as the holiday shopping season. 

A cool stretch is on the way for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

Some cold mornings are forecasted this week, while high temperatures will gradually drop throughout the week. That's the message from Ed Shimon to the Hart Media Group Monday on the WHOW Morning Show.

The fog that has impacted the listening area for the last few mornings should move off. Shimon reminds it is not uncommon for fog to impact central Illinois in the fall.

The National Weather Service is tracking a storm that is developing but has not reached land yet, which should impact the area on Sunday of this weekend. We'll have more with Shimon on that storm later this week on Regional Radio.

Families will gather from near and far this week to celebrate Thanksgiving, and local authorities are promoting safety as you make your way across town, across the area, or across the country.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers says an annual concern for law enforcement is the day before Thanksgiving, known as 'Blackout Wednesday', when many young adults and friends gather at their local establishments for celebrations that can sometimes lead to the overconsumption of alcohol.

For students returning from school, particularly the larger, metro areas, Chief Lowers is promoting patience, particularly if you're returning home the Tuesday or Wednesday before the holiday.

Chief Lowers has more thoughts on Thanksgiving travel safety, as well as Black Friday shopping, and much more. We'll hear more from the Chief this week here at the Hart Media Group. 

Illinois Lawmakers have taken a step towards making mental health support more accessible. 

Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, explains that HB 1085, also known as the Mental Health Parity Law, was brought to them by Rep. Lindsey LaPointe of the 19th district. He says this bill will adjust mental health service rates to be more in line with other health care costs when it comes to insurance. 

This bill will also aid in accessibility to mental health professionals. Kirkman says people who are in the process of becoming licensed may now practice under the supervision of a licensed professional. He points out other changes, like 60-minute therapy being covered.

While this idea benefits people who are in the mental health industry and those who utilize its services, Kirkman admits there are two sides to every coin. He understands the concerns over potential insurance rate increases in the wake of the bill being passed. 

Kirkman says this bill is a big step forward in mental health advocacy, but has mixed feelings on the bill as a whole. He says it will make it much harder to find a provider for patients who are on Medicaid or do not have health insurance at all. 

Kirkman reminds that the Piatt County Mental Health Center is a community mental health center, and they do not discriminate against patients based on their ability to pay. Learn more at piattmhc.org. 
 

Social Security recently launched a redesigned homepage at ssa.gov.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates the new page provides a more user-friendly experience and encourages you to sign up for your personal mySocialSecurity account to handle your business from anywhere on any device.

New features include legal status changes, personal information changes, and enhanced access to third-party service providers. Myers also points out the new "at a glance" section for life events presents key information up front with options to access more detail as needed. 

Check out the new Social Security homepage at ssa.gov. 
 

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and a local nutrition expert is sharing the diabetes-friendly recipe of the month. 

Monica Nyman, Senior Nutrition Educator and Registered Dietitian with the St. Louis District Dairy Council, explains that their recipe of the month is Triple Protein Pancakes. She says they picked this recipe due to the beneficial effects of fiber and protein for someone who lives with diabetes.

You can find that recipe, and all of the dietary resources offered by the St. Louis District Dairy Council by visiting their website at stldairycouncil.org. 

Christmas lights are going up in downtowns across the country as we usher in the holiday season. 

On the WHOW Morning Show, Friday, Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch told the Hart Media Group that they will be sharing Season's Greetings when this year's Christmas Parade takes place on Thursday, December 4th at 6:30 PM. He notes this year it will be run by the City. 

Mayor Welch indicates there are already over 40 entries in this year's parade. He adds that Tourism Director Scott McCoy 3D-printed awards for the best floats. 

There's still time to sign up for the parade. You can do so and learn more by visiting lincolniltoursim.com. Again, the Parade takes place on December 4th at 6:30 PM, starting in Downtown Lincoln.

A local non-profit has a program to help people afford their energy bills, but only until appointments are filled and funds run out. 

Breann Titus with Community Action indicates that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, was opened for applications on November 1. She urges anyone who needs help to make their phone appointment as soon as possible, as spots are running out very quickly. 

Titus adds that LIHEAP has had a noticeable increase in interest. She believes this to be due to ever-increasing utility rates. 

If you are interested in receiving assistance through LIHEAP, visit capcil.info. Learn more about Community Action by finding their Facebook page. 

Next Friday is the DeWitt County Museum's annual holiday event that ushers in the Christmas season at the CH Moore Homestead.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, DeWitt County Museum Director Joey Long told the Hart Media Group, tickets for horse-drawn carriage rides for Friday, Dec. 5, and Friday, Dec. 12 are going fast, with only a few left.

Long reminds of their annual Christmas event on November 28. We'll have more on that event next week at the Hart Media Group. In the meantime, learn more by finding the DeWitt County Museum on Facebook or visiting chmoorehomestead.org.

Earlier this year, State of Illinois Department of Transportation funds intended for DeWitt County were frozen because of backed-up paperwork. 

Thursday night at the DeWitt County Board meeting, the Board was pressed for answers from concerned DeWitt County township highway officials, and Highway Engineer Mark Mathon offered an update on some of the things they were queried about.
Mark Cyrulik is unhappy that the County budget allocates $3 million to the highway budget, while small townships that are barely hanging on financially and struggling to pay their bills could have used that money.

Kim Gaffe is demanding answers from the County Board so this does not happen again. She feels better communication could have prevented some of the things the County's township highway departments ran into.

To the point of the County motor fuel tax balance, Mathon indicates that a sharing of that money across agencies is not permitted. So while $3-million is in that fund, it cannot be shared with other highway departments.

Mathon reminds the State of Illinois has released the motor fuel tax dollars to the County that were frozen about a year ago. Additionally, the Washington Street Bridge, which has been out of commission for a couple of years, is in the process of getting approval.

Also at the Thursday night meeting:

>>Tom Ferris was sworn onto the County Board to fulfill the unfinished term left when Kristina Deerwester resigned from the Board. 

>>The Board approved the contract with the County Highway Department union contract.

>>The Board approved the non-union hourly wage schedule for FY26.

The Terror on Washington Street has once again closed its doors for the season. 

Clinton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Janice Petersen explains that they had a slower start to the season, but it ramped up as it went on and led to a total number of roughly 3,000 guests over the five weekends. She adds that they could have used more volunteers. 

The Chamber utilized an online-ticketing system for the second year in a row, and Petersen says it helps them keep the lines down and get people into the Haunted House faster. She notes that there are still some kinks to work out in the system. 

As the Haunted House grows and they learn more about how to keep things flowing, Petersen hopes more people will come. She understands that this is a year-round venture, but says the work is worth it. 

Petersen encourages groups interested in volunteering to reach out to the Chamber Office at 217-935-3364. Learn more at clintonilchamber.com or find their Facebook page. 

The financial pressures of the holiday season can take a toll on your budget, but a local financial advisor has ways to keep things under control. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Bank indicates that she has been hearing more often from families who can't afford their Thanksgiving meal. She says luckily, those Thanksgiving food prices are on the decline this year, as long as you're looking in the right places. 

Miller believes strongly in the practice of budgeting. She says if you don't make a plan, you are planning to fail. She also recommends making a list of all the foods you will need for the meal, so you don't lose track of who is bringing what. 

When doing your holiday shopping, make sure to always be wary of online retail scams and prices that seem too good to be true. Always get a receipt and ensure you have a way to contact the retailer should you need to make a return.  

More construction is planned for Clinton, this time in the downtown area, after an announcement by Heartland Bank of a new facility behind its current downtown location.

In a letter to customers this week, the Bank announced it would be building a new location behind the bank on the square, likely in the current parking lot and drive-thru. 

Additionally, the Bloomington-based institution announced it will be closing the long-time Kirby Foods location effective February 20, 2026.

Heartland Bank is planning for its new location to be ready in 2026. 

After last winter's lack of traditional wintry weather, that could be a different story this winter.

That's according to Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln, who indicates outlooks are suggesting, in addition to a La Nina winter, more traditional wintry weather.

With how dry central Illinois has been the last several months, Shimon indicates most of the area is in significant drought.

According to Shimon, it is going to take a pretty wet winter to dig out of this drought we're in. He reminds that just because a certain amount of snow falls, it doesn't mean that is how much moisture is going into the ground.

Get weather updates and the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service at weather.gov. 

Tuesday night, the Clinton Board of Education approved a plan for district administration to move forward with a restructuring of Lincoln and Douglas Elementary Schools.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton Schools Superintendent Drew Goebel told the Hart Media Group that, administration at the two buildings, in conjunction with district administration, has been exploring the possibility of moving specific grade levels to each building.

The Board of Education voted Tuesday night, 4-2, to move forward with the plans. While this has been a contentious topic among district staff, Goebel stands behind it because it is in the best interest of the students of the district.

Moving forward, Goebel indicates there is still work to be done, including how the layout of each building would work.

According to Goebel, this plan would eventually allow the district to expand its preschool program both for enrollment and also offer a full-day preschool program.

Goebel stresses, the expansion of the preschool program would not happen for a couple of years while the staff and administration get settled in the new layout. 

HIGH HONOR ROLL
SENIORS
ADAMS, LINCOLN JOSEPH
ATKINS, KARINA ELIZABETH
ATTEN, EMILY CATHERINE
BAKER, ELAYNA WHITNEY
BRINKOETTER, SIENNA HOPE
BROWN, PAISLEA MARIE
CLARK, SANDRA
CLUVER, LILAH GRACE
COSTELLO, MASON REED
FATH, JAYLENE SUNDAE
FENTRESS, RILEY MARIE
GOERGEN, SLOANE MARIE
GRAVES, KEATON RAY
HARVEY, SHANE PATRICK
HUNTER, SKYLEA LYNN
KORITZ, ABEL JEFFREY
MANNING, JACKSON JONES
MESSENGER, SARAH ELISE
MILLS, LEAH ELEACE
MORGAN, MCKEGAN ELIZABETH
MOSER, ABIGAIL DARLENE
NEWBERG, LOGAN JACOB
REXSHELL, OWEN PAUL
POTTS, ZACKARY TROY
ROE, JADELYNN JOY
SCHICK, MABREY ANN
SMITH, AVERY LYNN
SMOCK, JONATHAN MICHAEL
TURNEY, JARRETT WILLIAM
VARBLE, SAMUEL ALBERT
VISINIA, LEILANI LYNN
WHITLOCK, JAKOBE MAXWELL
WRAGE, HALLE EMERSON

JUNIORS
BENSON, JOURNEE LEEANN RENEE
BOSTIC, CARTER JAMISON
COTHERN, CARTER WESLEY
DILLON, CARSON DAVID
DROKE, JUSTIN OTHER
FATHEREE, AVERIE RENEE
FINCH, KOLTEN HENRY
GOEBEL, BENJAMIN DREW
HARDWICK, KEARINGTON LEE
HILL, ELLA ANN
HOLLAND, ALEXANDER MICHAEL
HOLLAND, AUDREY LOU
HUMBLE, HADLEY RENEE
IRVIN, BRAYDEN ROBERT
LORD, JOIELLE PARI
MALONE, LILLIANA ROSE
MCGLASSON, WYATT AMES
MILLER, LAYNE DOUGLAS
NICHOLS, COOPER DOUGLAS
OLICHWIER, GRETCHEN DANIELLE
RAMIREZ, ISRAEL
RAMIREZ, KAILEE
REED, OLIVER MARTIN
REYNEN, MARK TODD
SCHICK, PAISLEY ADAIR
SENTERS, RYLIE LYNN
STANEK, MASON ALAN
TAYLOR, DYLAN ISAIAH
TOOHILL, AUDREY LYNN
WADDELL, MADISON FAITH
WILHAM, HALEY MARIE

SOPHOMORES
BAXTER, SAMUEL ETHAN
BECK, BRODY EUGENE
BLACK, JACEY LEE
BLESS, KARLIE JULIA
BOSTIC, CAYDEN NEIL
CARTER, DOMINIK ALIN SCOTT
COLLINS, SPENCER ALAN
CUNNINGHAM, KATHRINE MAY
FLETCHER, COOPER WAYNE
GOAR, OZLYN
GOFF, SOPHIA AILEEN
GROVES, ADELAIDE NOEL
HARRELL, JACOB BRUCE
HAYNES, GAVYN LENNEX LEE
HERRMANN, NOLA MAOXIN
HOFFMAN, JENNAVIEVE KAYLEE
HOOD, AVA LYNN
HOWELL, PRESTON RAY
KORITZ, KACY LAINE
MAJOR, RACHEL ISABEL
MERRIMAN, ALEXIS RYLEE
MILLS, PEYTON RYLEE
PETERSON, AUBREY ANN
PETERSON, SOPHIA ROSE
PRUDEN, CHLOE SAVANNAH
ROBERTS, AUBREY NOELLE
TULL, NATHAN RANDALL
TURNEY, WYATT CHARLES
WEBB, OLIVIA
WHEELER, SAVANNAH GRACE

FRESHMEN
ANAYA, MATEO PEDRO
BROWN, EMMETT JOSHUA
COTHERN, AVA KRISTINE
COTHERN, NOAH DOUGLAS
DELMONICO, EVA LENA
DEMPSEY, DELANEY KRISTIAN
FOSTER, BRYSON JAMAL
HAMMER, STELLA RAE
HAMMER, TYLER CHRISTOPHER
HARNEY, CHEVELLE LILY
HOOKER, LIAM JOSEPH
HOSKINS, KAIDEN MICHAEL
KUNTZ, CARSON RUSSELL
LESTER, KARSON LEE
MASSEY, COOPER STEPHEN
MOODY, MCCOY DALLAS
MORGAN, KAIDYN JOHN
MORRIS, KENLEY MAE
NEWBERG, EVAN JAMES
REYNOLDS, XANDER MARTIN
SCHMID, RAYLAN ALAN
SICKLES, KINZEY DEE
SUMNER, LILIAN SAMANTHA
TANNER, COLTYN DARREL LEE
WALKER, LOGAN ADAM
WRAGE, MAESIE OLIVIA
 

A HONOR ROLL
SENIORS
ALEJANDRO, MARLY
BAZER, EMILIE ELAINE
BOW, ALEXIS CHRISTINA
COLE, MADISON MARIE RYAN
DANIELS, PARKER DAVID
DEMPSEY, CLARA JAY
HART, EMMA TAYLOR
HAYNES, ALIVIYAH MADILYNN DAWN
HILTON, ARIANNA NICOLE
JOHNSON, GAVIN PHEONIX
KEAGLE, NATALIE SUEANN
KOYAK, MADDISON JANE
KOYAK, MILEY JEAN
LYONS, REESE ELIZABETH
NAPE, JOSHUA
NOTARO, REED CHRISTOPHER
ORTIZ, RIHANNA
PEEK, MACKENZIE LYNN
PINE, RYAN WILLIAM
RHOADES, BAILEY RENEE
RHODES, NOLAN EDWARD
SCOTT, PHOENIX JOSEPH
THOMPSON, ANELISE ISABELLA
VAN ZEE, ABBY JANSSEN
WILLIAMSON, SAVANNA PINKY
WILSON, BROCK JOSEPH
WOODS, MARK THOMAS
WOODS, TRISTAN MICHAEL

JUNIORS
APPLE, LOLA CINDY
AYERS, ETHAN WAYNE
BAKER, LUCAS ALLEN
BLAKELY, JOSIE ARYN
BOSTIC, COLLIN ISAIAH
COSTA, CHRISTIAN ALEXANDER
DEVALLE, HOLLAND
DOUGLAS, AIDEN MARK
DOUGLAS, ASHTON MICHEAL
DOUGLAS, GRADY MICHAEL
HARWEGER, CURTIS ALLAN
HEINLEN, JACOB FREDERICK
HEWERDINE, JACOB TROY
JONES, NICODEMUS DEWAYNE
KLEIN, GAVIN JAMES
MCGHEE, KAMERON NICHOLAS
MORGE, PATRICK EUGENE
NICHOLS, ALAINA MARIE
OBRIEN, ALEXANDRIA HALEY
PARRISH, KATE ANN GRACE
PEAVLER, BRODY DAVID
PERHAY, ISABELLA JOY
PROTHERO, SAWYER DAVID
REDDINGTON, CADENCE BROOKE
RETZER, SEAMUS PADRAIC PEARSE
RYAN-HAWKINS, OLIVIA MARIE
SICKLES, SIERRA NICHOLE
SIMMONS, JAYDON MICHEAL
UTTERBACK, GRIFFIN RYAN
VELEZ-NOBLE, JOZLIN ERICA TAYLOR
WATERS, HUDSON DAVID
WHEELER, MICAH ANDREW
WHITE, BRIGGS MICHAEL
WHITEHOUSE, KAYLN MAE
WHITESIDE, TANNER RAE

SOPHOMORES
ADAIR, MAKAYLA ANN
BARTON, MYA SORICE
BLAKELY, JACE RAY
BROWN, CHELSEA RENEE
BRUNING, KOLTON MATTHEW
CASAREZ, ADRIANNA EVA NOELLE
DALTON, BRAYDEN MICHAEL
FERGUSON, SHAWN MICHAEL
FISHER, LUCY LYNN
GOLDMAN, KASEN DON
HITCHINGS, BRENNA MARIE
KEELIN, RILEY CONNIE
KRIT, PHELIX HELENA
LAMAR, LUCAS IRVIN
LESTER, JAXXON RAYDAIN
LYNCH, KAHLAN JULIET
OCHELTREE, DYLAN JAMES
RIVERA, LORENZO I
SUMNER, BROCKTON WESLEY
SUTTON, EMILY ROWAN
SUTTON, KOLE ALEX
THRASHER, SOPHIE ANN
TOOL, EMMA MARIE

FRESHMEN
AHLERS, BRYLAN LEE
AKEMAN, IVY RAYNE
ALLEN, KIAH MARIE
BASS, CAMPBELL RAE
BOYER, CAIDYN RYAN
BOYSEN, NOEL HARPER
BREWER, LANEY CHRISTINE
CALLAHAN, BRYNLEE LORRAINE
COOPER, JAXON M
COOPER, WRIGLEY JEAN
EARL, CAMERON GRACE
GATES, FAITH MADISON
GILMORE, WYATT ADAM
HUFFMAN, TALON JAMES
JAMESON, DYLAN MICHAEL
JOHNSTON, PEYTON NICOLE
KILLIAN, HANNAH MARIE
KLEIN, GRACE KATHERINE
KUK, ADRIANNA RENE
LAWRENCE, LOLA LORRAINE
MCKINZEY, JOANNA LYN
MINER, JOANNA ELIZABETH
NAPE, LUIS JOSE
NOVAK, MADELINE QUINN
OAKLEY, AUBREY JEANNETTE
POLEN, AIDEN CALEB-JAMES
REDDINGTON, ADDISON GRACE
RODRIGUEZ, AVA
SHARP, VIOLET TIFFANY
SHEURMAN, DUKE RYAN
STEPHENSON, MYLEE JO
SWINDA, RORY HAYDEN
THAYER, KHLOEY AMEREE
THOMAS, JAELYNN RENAE
WHITLOCK, KRAETYN RHYNE
WILSON, LIAM ALLEN
YOUNGBERG, JACKSON THOMAS
ZARECKI, COLTON JAMES

B HONOR ROLL
SENIORS
ALEXANDER, JACKSON FELIX
ANDERSON, CARLY
ATCHISON, NATALIE DIANE
BASS, JOSHUA KENNETH
BRENNAN, MYLAH MICHELLE
CURTIS, PRESTON MICHAEL
FENTRESS, COLE CHRISTOPHER
GENTRY, GRAYSON KELRICH
GOAR, OLIVER LEE SPENCER
GUERRERO, EILEEN
HAND-SPELLMAN, EMALEIGH ELIZABETH
HARRIETT, TRINITY JADE
HOWELL, EMMA GRACE
HUFFMAN, GRACEY JEWEL
MENDOZA, MIGUELANGEL
MINER, NOAH SAMUEL
NECESSARY, ADDELYN JORDAN
PARKER, BRAYDEN KELLY
RAUCH, AIDEN JOSEPH
REYNOLDS, JAXON LEE
ROBERTS, DANNY
SCOTT, MYHANNA MONIQUE
SMITH, ANTHONY JAMES
STAMP, RUSSELL UHLER
STURGEON, CALEB JORDAN
TAYLOR, KIMBERLY ANNE
TAYLOR, SABLE
TIMMONS, WYATT JOSEPH
WRIGHT, DYLLON ROBERT

JUNIORS
BRAGG, DELAINI JAYNE
BRASSFIELD, JACOB LAYNE
BURTON, WYATT CHARLES
CARTER, BRILEY RIDGE
CARTER, ETHAN WILLIAM HUNTER
CHRISPEN, SHAWN MICHAEL
COLON, BERLYZ LALO
CORNWELL, MITCHELL DEAN
DEERWESTER, LILA LYNN
DYER, LILLIE ROSE
GODBEY, HAILEY L
GUNDY, BRIANNA MICHELLE
HERNANDEZ MENDOZA, AFRIKA KAMILAH
JONES, CAITLYNN RENEE
JONES, DESTANEY LYNN MARIE
LICHTENWALTER, LUCAS DAWSON
LOVELL, CHLOIE ISABELLA
LOVELL, LOGAN EUGENE
MCKINSEY, PAYTON ALICIA
MOORE, CAMRON MICHAEL
NAXI, DIANA MICHELLE
PARRISH, KHLOE EMMALYNNE
POOLE, AARON WILLIAM
ROE OCHELTREE, VIOLET AKASHA
SHANHOLTZ, MORGAN LYNN
SMITH, JAYSEN MICHAEL
SUMMERS, ADDISON GRACE
TRIMBLE, SETH RYLAN
WHITELEY, HAYLEY MARIE
WINEBRINNER, ISAAC MICHAEL
WOOLDRIDGE, SAMUEL GENE

SOPHOMORES
BELL, JAEDEN KARTER
BRENNAN, MALEAH ROSE
BRUCKER, ELIJAH DAVID
CARVER, HUNTER SCOTT
FITCH, MARSHAWN
FORD, KENZY RENEE
HAWKINS, ADDISON
HEWERDINE, LUCAS JOHN
INMAN, WESLEY SCOTT
ISAAC, TINLEY JILL
MCCLELLAN, MICAH DEVON, JR
MITCHELL, PAUL DAVIS, III
RICH, LANE MICHAEL
RILEY, ELIANA R
SARINANA, SARINA DELILAH
SERRANO HEREDIA, DELMI LETICIA
SPRAGUE, CALEB WILSON
STAUFFER, BRADY KARRSON
TANNER, CASH XANDER WYATT
TRESNAK, PRESTON MICHAEL
TUCKER, ALEX LEE MARTIN
WALKLING, ANDIE JO
WILSON, CLINT THOMAS

FRESHMEN
ADAMS, HARPER
BLACKLIDGE, JOSHUA ROBERT
BRIDGE, CAMDEN LEWIS
BRUDER, MATTHEW MARK DAVID
BURTON, MARYANN PEARL
CORNWELL, GRAYSON DEAN
CURLESS, ADDISON NICOLE
CYRULIK, AVA LOWRY
DELBY, MAYA LIZBETH
FULK, KYLEE ADDYSON MARIE
GOEBEL, LUKAS JOHN
HARDWICK, BROCK LOUIS
HAYNES, MADYSON NICOLE
JILES, FAITH MARIE
KLEIN, LOGAN MATTHEW
LEEHY, HUNTER
LINSON, SKYLAR JEAN
LINSON, SOPHIE ANNE
MILLER, BRYCE WESTIN
MUNOZ, ALEXIS MARIAH
NEWBERRY, DAYNE SAWYER
NORTH, SAVANNAH MARIE
OSBORNE, AALIYAH NICOLE
REID, TINLEY CLAIRE
RIDER, MARCUS WAYNE
RODENHOFER, TY STERLING
SANDERS, LILY VIRGINIA
SHEPHERD, ALAINA MARIE
STITH, GABRIEL STONE
SUGG, NATALIE GRACE
SUTTON, EVAN
SWANSTROM, SKYLIN RENEE
SWEENEY, CLOEY JOANN
THOMAS, COLE
 

School report card data is out, and a Macon County school leader is reacting to his district's numbers.

Maroa-Forsyth School superintendent Adam Ibbotson points to graduation rates and proficiency rates for ELA, which led to the high school being in the exemplary category for a fourth straight year.

Building principals presented the data to the Board of Education last week. Ibbotson notes that the exemplary status is the top 10 percent of schools' report card scores.

While many area schools - and schools across the State - struggle with attendance issues, Maroa-Forsyth has not as much as others. Ibbotson believes they do a good job of giving students a reason to come to school.

Maroa-Forsyth has its report data posted to its district website, mfschools.net.

The City of Clinton is looking to beef up security at Kiwanis Park, and on Tuesday night at the Clinton City Council meeting, it heard a presentation on those cameras.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton City Administrator Tony Harris told the Hart Media Group, not only would they purchase cameras for Kiwanis Park security, but they would partner with the Clinton Police Department for surveillance cameras in the City.

Harris calls security at Kiwanis Park his number one priority, but feels it works out well to work with the Police Department to purchase cameras for their needs.

According to Harris, the cameras that would be installed at the park would be able to recognize a person at the park after hours and send an alert to law enforcement. He feels this would cut down on some of the issues at that park over the years.

The cameras would be roughly $3,000. Harris points out that the cameras for Kiwanis Park are budgeted and could get installed upon purchase approval. The Police Department's cameras would not be installed as quickly; however, there is an agreement in place to purchase those. 

As the annual season of giving approaches, area non-profits are putting out the call for donors to keep them in mind. 

Breann Titus with Community Action understands donating may be difficult in these tough financial times; however, every little bit helps. She asks community members to donate, and knows the money is being stewarded well. 

Even though the recent government shutdown wasn’t Titus’ first, that doesn't mean it wasn't stressful. Even through the longest shutdown in the history of the country, 43 days, Community Action still focused on serving the community. 

While Community Action was able to continue many of the services and programs, Titus indicates they were concerned about what they would do when the fiscal year ended. Luckily, the shutdown ended first, and so they did not have to worry about it, which she is very thankful for. 

If funds were to run out, Titus indicates they would turn to private donations, which fill in the cracks where other funding sources do not. 

Community Actions depends on the Federal Government for about 75% of its funding, meaning when those dollars stop coming in, it can make a big impact. 

Donate and learn more about Community Action by finding capcil.info. 

Nearly a million dollars is coming the way of a trio of DeWitt County non-profits after a Tuesday morning announcement by the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation in Decatur. 

The Clinton YMCA is receiving $500,000 and hosted an announcement in its community room on Tuesday morning.

Encore Development Services will receive $200,000 - an organization in great need as they seek to meet nearly a million State requirements to update its facilities.

The Neighborhood Care Center will receive $100,000. Executive Director Cody Monkman told those gathered the funds will help further its mission of multiplying its limited budget to be a place for those in need in DeWitt County and now McLean County, to find help.

The contributions came from an anonymous donor, and the three entities were unaware of the funds coming their way before the Tuesday announcement.

Temperatures are dropping, and most animals have been moved indoors, meaning the Scovill Zoo season has wrapped up for the year. 

Heather Perdeu, Director of the Scovill Zoo in Decatur, explains that the most exciting part of this year was opening the new mountain lion exhibit, which was a must-see for visitors throughout the year. She notes that they hosted roughly 97,000 guests over the season. 

Not only is the new mountain lion exhibit and its inhabitants a beautiful sight to see, but Perdeu indicates that the cats' stories and past before arriving in Decatur help them teach guests about the exotic animal trade. 

The Zoo does host scheduled indoor programming for young kids throughout the winter. Learn more about the Scovill Zoo in Decatur by finding their Facebook page or by going to decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo. 
 

School report card data is out, and local school leaders are sifting through all the information, finding what they did well and what they need to improve on.

Monticello Schools Superintendent Adam Clapp is pleased with how the district did this year, including the high school achieving exemplary status by the State Board of Education.

According to Clapp, a curriculum deep dive has paid dividends in recent years. He explains implementation of focused prep has paid off a few of its grade levels.

A continued issue facing schools is chronic absenteeism, and Clapp points out Monticello is no different. While their percentage of what is considered chronically absent is lower than the State average, they recognize it needs to be addressed.

Clapp reminds, the school report card is only a snapshot in time and often does not reflect the actual growth and learning taking place.

The Monticello Board of Education meets on Wednesday evening, when they will hear more about the report card from its building principals. Clapp was overall pleased with the test scores and the report card, in general.

It is one of the most anticipated weekends for outdoorsmen in Illinois.

This weekend, the firearm deer season opens, and on the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Department of Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman told the Hart Media Group that tree stand safety and property permissions are the two biggest things when it comes to this time of the year.

Tree stand safety is always paramount for game wardens, and Officer Workman is encouraging hunters, if they have not already, to get out and get those stands and the adjacent straps checked and make sure they are secure.

According to Workman, an annual confirmation that an individual still owns property you've hunted on in the past is always a good practice. He points hunters and outdoorsmen to the 'Hunt Illinois' website for all the State's regulations and site-specific regulations.

That website again is huntillinois.org. The firearm deer season opens this Friday in Illinois. 
 

A DeWitt County non-profit is taking sign-ups now for a holiday program aimed at providing a quality Christmas to those less fortunate. 

Shawn Horve with Toys for Tots explains they are accepting applications for this year's program. The only requirement is you must reside in DeWitt County to register and prove you have children in your home. 

Last year, the organization provided toys for over 250 children within DeWitt County. 

Horve adds they can always use more volunteers. He feels it is very rewarding to know that you are helping local kids in your community, and it's also a great way to complete any required volunteer hours you or your student may have. 

Learn more about and register DeWitt County Toys for Tots by visiting toyrsfortots.org. You can also find their page on Facebook.

If you're a group or business in the area looking to participate in the Clinton Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade next month, entries are due this week.

Clinton Chamber Executive Director Janice Petersen indicates those entry forms for the December 6 Christmas parade are available at the Chamber website and should be submitted no later than the close of business on Wednesday.

According to Petersen, entries for this year are looking very good so far, and she is excited because both the Clinton High School band and the Clinton Junior High band have committed to being in the parade this year.

Following the parade, Santa's House will open for the season on the stage of the square. Petersen reminds Santa visits each Saturday in December.

To enter for this year's Christmas parade, visit clintonilchamber.com or find them on Facebook.

The Chamber Christmas parade is again, Saturday, December 6 at 2 pm. Parade begins at Nixon Manor Housing and travels down East Main Street, around Mr. Lincoln’s Square, and ends at the intersection of East Adams and South Center Streets.

It could be a soggy Thanksgiving holiday.

That's according to Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told the Hart Media Group the outlooks are showing a strong signal for above normal temperatures and a likelihood of above normal precipitation.

While some parts of central Illinois saw some accumulating snow last weekend, Shimon indicates not to rule out more snow the last weekend of November. He indicates Illinois can average an inch of snow in November.

Shimon indicates we really need the moisture that is projected for the end of the month. The drought monitor is getting pretty serious for some parts of central and east-central Illinois.

We'll have more with Shimon at the Hart Media Group later this week on the winter outlooks and what kind of wet finish to November and how much moisture during the winter we might need to snap out of this drought in Illinois.

In advance of policy debate at the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, a listening session set for county farm bureau delegates says IFB’s Allie Speer.

The IFB Annual Meeting is Dec. 6-9 at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago

A utility assistance program wants to help low-income Illinoisans pay for their utility bills.

Established in 1982, Warm Neighbors Cool Friends works with energy leaders like Ameren Illinois to provide energy bill assistance and energy efficiency solutions to income-qualified residents. Susan Sams is the Executive Director of the non-profit based in Decatur.

According to Sams, the assistance program is designed as a one-time payment to help with accounts of less than $1,500. Over the years, warm neighbors and cool friends have assisted over one 1-hundred thousand households.

For more information, visit warm neighbors cool friends dot-org.

An incident at the Clinton Power Station on Friday afternoon resulted in a fatality. 

29-year-old Samuel Ward was electrocuted while performing planned work on an electrical transformer at about 2 PM. 

Ward was pronounced dead on the scene. The DeWitt County Coroner's Office is investigating the incident.

Per the Coroner, Ward was a resident of Decatur, Illinois. 

The leaves are finally falling in Clinton and the Public Works Department's leaf vacs will be hitting the streets in full force soon.

At the Nov. 4 Clinton City Council meeting, Commissioner Kenny Buchanan informed the community this coming week will be the final week for leaf pick and anticipate those leaf vacs to start rolling out soon.

The City Council convenes again on Tuesday, Nov. 18. 

Fiscal responsibility is a useful skill for kids to have as they grow up. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Bank explains that she recently paid a visit to Lincoln and Douglas schools to teach kids a financial lesson that all of us could use a reminder of: needs vs. wants. She notes that they also talked about the difference between goods and services. 

Miller states that all of the illustrations are entered into a contest, where 12 lucky students can have their drawings published in the Bank's yearly calendar. 

Keep it to the Hart Media Group in the days ahead as Miller dives deeper into the ways that she and the DeWitt Savings Bank are teaching good financial habits to children in the community. 
 

Monday is the deadline for nominations for the Grand Marshal of this year's Clinton Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Clinton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Janice Petersen told the Hart Media Group nominations for the Grand Marshal are due Monday at noon, when the Chamber Board meets.

The Christmas parade is Saturday, Dec. 6. Entries for this year's parade are still being accepted. Visit clintonilchamber.com to find the entry form and the nomination form for the parade grand marshal.
 

Animal Control and intergovernmental agreements, or IGAs, have been the topic of discussion for the DeWitt County Public Safety Committee in recent months. 

At Thursday night's meeting, the Committee continued discussion over the Animal Control budget and how revenue can be increased. Animal Control Administrator Grace Moore was asked by Chair Megan Myers to determine what percentage of the animals that they take in were from Clinton. She stated that it's roughly 70%. 

John Werts brought up the topic of surrender fees, which were not increased when the Committee performed the Animal Control Cost Study recently. One concern is if fees are increased, people will stop surrendering animals and rather just release them into the wild. 

Werts reiterated that Animal Control is a governmental service, and is not designed to be a "money-maker" for the County. That does not, however, mean that they have an unlimited budget. He says that things need to be kept under control. 

While Animal Control does operate at a loss for the County, the Committee commended Moore for a job well done when it comes to following up on fines and fees, and creating a significant increase in revenue for the department. 

The Committee decided that they would revisit the cost study once again, to make sure they are taking advantage of all the opportunities they can to recoup Animal Control expenses. 
 

Thanksgiving is going to be as affordable as it has been in many years.

That's the message from Clinton Save A Lot owner Dave Jackson, who indicates after inflation as out of control as he's seen in his 40-plus years in the grocery business, prices have stabilized, and he is predicting a very affordable Thanksgiving basket.

According to Jackson, inflation was out of control for the last four to five years, and things have finally stabilized. He calls Thanksgiving food prices as low as they've been in many years.

Save A Lot has seen staples like milk and eggs return to normal level, and Jackson touts his low prices compared to most grocery stores in the area. 

A DeWitt County non-profit is calling on the community to help support its efforts to provide those less fortunate in our community with a quality Christmas.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Shawn Horve with DeWitt County Toys for Tots told the Hart Media Group Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm at Tractor Supply in Clinton, you can drop off toys in a friendly competition among DeWitt County first responders.

According to Horve, older kids - ages 10-and-up - tend to be more difficult to buy for, and he is hoping the community will focus its giving on those older youth.

Horve is focused on keeping as much of his shopping local. He has drop-offs set up at several locations around Clinton.

Find the DeWitt County Toys for Tots on Facebook or visit Toysfortots.org and find the DeWitt County tab under 'Request a Toy'. 

We'll have more with Horve next week on getting signed up for this year's program at the Hart Media Group. 
 

The Clinton Fire Department responded to an early morning fire on Thursday.

Around 7 am, crews were called to the 1600 block of East Washington Street, where, upon arrival, first responders found a one-story home with heavy fire in the attic. Firefighters were able to swiftly knock down the flames and created holes in the roof for ventilation to suppress the rest of the smoke and hot spots. 

Crews from Clinton, Kenney, Maroa, and Wapella Fire Departments were on scene. 

As of the time of this story, Clinton Fire officials were still on scene investigating with the State Fire Marshal's Office. 

No injuries were reported, and no one was in the home at the time of the incident. Two cats were rescued from the home. 

Staffing issues are a problem being faced by small businesses and non-profits all around the Country. 

Stephanie Coonce, Executive Director of Encore Developmental Services, says that they are hiring for a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional. She says that with the organization's limited budget, sometimes they have to get creative with what they can do to attract applicants. 

Coonce indicates that they are lucky to experience limited turnover when it comes to their staff. They have 19 total employees, around a third of which are in full-time positions. 

Competitive wages are a big factor when it comes to hiring. Coonce says that they offer competitive wages and good benefits. She also points out that they do not provide 24-hour care to any of their clients. 

If you're interested in getting involved with Encore Developmental Services or learning more about the organization, find them on Facebook or visit encoreservices.org. 

You can also visit the thrift store located at 10840 IL Route 10 in
Clinton. 
 

A recent holiday tradition on Clinton Square is right around the corner in Clinton. 

Organizer of the Festival of Trees, Nate Ennis, told the Hart Media Group on the WHOW  Morning Show the Tree Lighting ceremony is the big kickoff to the holiday season in Clinton and takes place on Saturday, November 29th. 

Ennis and fellow organizer Melissa Morris are very grateful for all the support that they have gotten since the creation of the event. He notes that they have only a handful of trees still available and those can begin to be set up on Friday, Nov. 21.

Those interested in signing up should use the Festival of Trees Facebook page to find the entry form. Ennis adds that there are some rules - like the requirement of LED string lights. 

Learn more about the Festival of Trees holiday celebration in Clinton by finding them on Facebook.
 

State of Illinois Legislators have been busy during the fall veto session, making changes to renewable energy statutes that will affect local counties.

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee meeting, Committee Chair Buck Carter brought up the topic of HB 4116, an omnibus energy bill also known as the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act covering wind, solar, and battery storage. He feels that the State cleared some things up about the distance regulations when it comes to sites within a mile and a half of an incorporated area. 

Zoning Administrator Elizabeth Weikle pointed out that the County's current application fees will be changing. Not only will the way that fees are measured change from acreage to megawatts, but there is now a fee cap of $5,000 per megawatt with a total limit of $125,000. 

While the omnibus bill has passed the Senate and the House, it is still awaiting the Governor's signature. Weikle states that once that happens, they will have a 120-day window to get into compliance with the State statute. Board Chair Joe Witte said the Zoning Board of Appeals should hold off on any battery storage decisions until Pritzker signs the bill. 

The Committee also discussed at the brief meeting Weikle's ability to assess the quality of electrical work while she is inspecting residential solar arrays, an inspection that does not require a certified electrician. 

They ultimately decided that inspecting electrical work is not within the responsibilities of the Zoning Administrator, and that she is only to look at the zoning and permitting qualifications of the site. 
 

This week is winter weather preparedness week, and the National Weather Service is making sure as the winter season looms, we're ready for everything.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln says they are hitting social media hard this week for this campaign to raise awareness about being ready when those winter storms inevitably arrive.

Particularly when traveling, Shimon has a rundown of things to keep at the ready in your vehicle throughout the winter.

Among other winter weather preparedness tips, use space heaters cautiously - keep them 3 feet from flammable materials, plug directly into the wall - and never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. Go slowly when shoveling snow to prevent heart attacks or injury. Finally, ensure working CO and smoke detectors. Never run gasoline-powered devices, like generators, indoors or near windows.

Visit weather.gov/Lincoln for more information. 
 

The central Illinois chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters is rebuilding its program under new leadership. 

Heather Peavler, Program Manager for the Central Illinois Chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, explains that they are a one-to-one program that provides mentorship to youth and helps them reach their potential. She says one of their more popular programs in the Clinton area pairs up high-schoolers with elementary students. 

Peavler indicates that they are always looking for more people to be involved with the program, whether you are a student or would like to be a mentor. While most kids in BBBS are signed up by a parent reaching out directly, they also see students who are referred by their school. 

Volunteers who are interested must go through an intake process, orientation, and background check. Peavler states that while there are many steps to the process, it is to ensure that the applicant is a good fit and is safe to work with children. 

You can learn more about and get involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program in central Illinois by visiting their website at bbbscil.org. 
 

The City of Monticello has taken a step towards making its community safer.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Piatt County Mental Health Center Director Tony Kirkman told the Hart Media Group that the City of Monticello passed an ordinance that bans an unregulated synthetic substance called 7-OH Kratom, often packaged as an energy booster. He adds that it is often sold in gas stations, which makes it very convenient to find. 

Kirkman indicates that the substance shares shocking similarities to opioids not only in its intoxicating effects but also in its withdrawal symptoms. He says it is enough of a problem that it prompted him to bring it to City and County officials. 

The existence of 7-OH Kratom was brought to Kirkman's attention very recently, and since then, he has been watching it pop up throughout Piatt County. He and local medical professionals have been noticing the substance more as they intake patients. 

Last month, Monticello officially approved the banning of 7-OH Kratom, as well as other substances like Delta 8 and Delta 10 derivatives of THC. Kirkman notes that he is not against recreational use of legal substances, but rather it is the distribution of substances that are unregulated. 

Kirkman feels that this is a smart move by the City of Monticello. While he is aware that some believe in the holistic benefits of natural Kratom, he says that what they are targeting is a public health concern. 

Kirkman reiterates that they are not setting a precedent with this ordinance in Monticello, but they are getting ahead of the curve. Learn more about the Piatt County Mental Health Center at piattmhc.org. 
 

Each year, police officers from around the Country travel to Lincoln to participate in DARE training. 

Officer Christy Fruge of the Lincoln Police Department is the DARE Coordinator for the Department, and is very passionate about the success of the program in her community and in the State. She says that their yearly trainings happen in February, and they have hosted officers from every corner of the country, and even as far as Alaska.

Officer Fruge won the Illinois DARE Officer of the Year Award last year. Chief Joe Meister commends her for her commitment to the program and her focus on reaching the youth of the community. 

Keep it to the Hart Media Group in the days ahead as we hear more from Officer Fruge and the Lincoln Police Department on the DARE program. 
 

Between late days at work, the kids' sports schedules, and holiday travel, it's easy to fall on convenient and unhealthy meals for dinner. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator for the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that life can be hectic, and it is ok to have food that is convenient. She notes that there are different levels, from buying precut vegetables to whole take-n-bake meals. 

Mellendorf points out that if you are going to utilize convenience foods in your diet, it is important to target items that still have nutritional value. For example, she recommends finding low-sodium versions of your favorites. 

Learn more about using convenience foods in your diet by visiting go.illinois.edu/food.
 

It may be frigid to start the week, but a significant warm-up is coming by the weekend.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told Regional Radio that a cold dome has set up over the Midwest, but it is going to be pushed off thanks to some building heat to the west.

While fall is known for its windy days, Shimon indicates there haven't been too many of those. He notes we could start to see more as the cooler air from the north begins to settle in for the season.

In the short term, after the cold of early this week moves off, things look very comfortable, but Shimon notes we could head into Thanksgiving cold and wet. Later this week, The Hart Media Group will have more on what is ahead for the rest of the month.
 

This winter, when your high school basketball team has a game and you want to find highlights, think ILSportsWire.

Matt Hart is the owner of the Hart Media Group - owner off WHOW/WEZC/dewittdailynews.com - says the tag line of the company is 'Connecting People' and ILSportsWire is the newest way they are doing that.

According to Jack Hart, Founder of ILSportsWire, they are getting young people in communities like Clinton, Monticello, Taylorville, and Central A&M connected with a video camera to catch the highlights of games.

The 'IL' in ILSportsWire actually stands for 'It's Local'. Hart indicates that it is the focus of everything they do.

ILSportsWire.com has all the links to the social media platforms, but you can also search ILSportsWire on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 
 

The Farmer City grocery coop is making steady progress in establishing itself in the community, and last week, the Farmer City Council took a step forward in helping with that effort.

City Administrator Taylor Baxter told the Hart Media Group that the City has entered into a redevelopment agreement with the Coop for $100,000 in reimbursable expenses in the business district and TIF district.

The grocery coop had begun doing an online offering of various foods in a basket at a flat rate. Baxter indicates that it is still how they are operating as they work towards a brick-and-mortar location on the Farmer City square.

According to Baxter, the City's support is a big step forward for the coop's establishment because it will likely bring other players forward to support them, among those is the DeWitt County Board.

Baxter indicates TIF districts are a very important piece for communities like Farmer City, and they help in the development of its downtown areas. 
 

Scams have been a growing concern for law enforcement, especially as scammers utilize the development of technology.  

Monticello Police Chief Rob Bross indicates that it's roughly every three years that he notices a spike in unemployment scams, particularly with people involved in a school district or the State University System. 

The Chief notes that scammers often use VPNs and other forms of online protection to greatly decrease the possibility of being tracked. It is this reason that proves why prevention is so important when it comes to scams. 

Scammers most often target the elderly. Chief Bross indicates that they will often impersonate a person's grandchild or family member and request that money be sent to them for a fake emergency. 

Phishing scams through text are another common way for scammers to try and take advantage of you. Chief Bross says that in recent memory, they have come through posing as the Illinois Tollway Authority, saying you have unpaid tolls. 

The Chief adds that AI is a growing concern for law enforcement, as scammers develop ways to convince victims to trust them to get their money or personal information.  

As the zoo season comes to a close, one zoo director is already looking ahead to volunteerism for next year.

On the WHOW  Morning Show, Friday, Heather Perdeu, Executive Director of the Scovill Zoo in Decatur told the Hart Media Group they heavily rely on adult volunteers throughout the year to run things from programming to the carousel and train. She notes that volunteer classes start in February to prepare for an April opening. 

Learn more about all things Scovill Zoo by visiting their website at decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo or by finding them on Facebook. 

If you follow WHOW or WEZC on social media, you likely have seen the ILSportsWire clips pop up after high school football and volleyball games this fall.

Hart Media Group owner Matt Hart calls ILSportsWire a new platform within his media company, which covers local news and agriculture. He calls it a new way of fulfilling the group's mission of "connecting people".

Jack Hart, Founder of ILSportsWire, says the reception to the coverage of communities like Clinton, Monticello, Taylorville, and Central A&M has been outstanding.

Follow ILSportsWire on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Be sure to catch highlights of his weekend's high school playoff action starting Saturday evening and Sunday.

You might think the 'IL' would signify Illinois, but Hart says, they actually founded 'IL' as 'it's local'. 

Check out the full interview here: 

Superintendents around the State of Illinois were recently informed that cuts to funding for things like transportation and special education are coming. 

Heyworth Schools Superintendent Dr. Lisa Taylor explains that mandated categoricals were already underfunded, and that the recent announcement of further cuts to that funding only adds to the financial struggle districts are feeling with already increasing costs. 

Dr. Taylor states that they, like many districts, have had to transfer money from their working cash fund to make up for the cuts. She adds that they may have to eliminate some busing routes, even though they already tax levy the most they can for transportation. 

The Superintendent shares frustration over the growing number of requirements coming from Springfield, while funding for those requirements is still nowhere to be seen. 

Cuts to mandated categoricals will not just affect transportation. Dr. Taylor indicates that food services will also be taking a hit. She adds that this category already runs at a deficit, and if they lose even more funding, they will have to make up for it through the education fund. 

A little over 20% of Heyworth students receive free lunches. Dr. Taylor feels that she is lucky to be a part of a giving community that is participating in the ongoing battle against food insecurity; however, they cannot be expected to fund that entirely. 

Keep it to the Hart Media Group in the weeks ahead as we hear from more area superintendents and get their reactions to funding cuts to mandated categoricals from the State of Illinois. 

Learn more about Heyworth Schools by visiting husd4.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

Financial struggles can often stop someone from pursuing further education or certifications that can help them in their career. 

Silas Tockey with Community Action indicates that through the Hand-Up Project, a program geared towards helping people reach their goals and overcome obstacles, people can get scholarships to further their education, whether it is at a four-year university or a trades program.

Tockey says there is no way to apply for the scholarship online because Community Action needs to get information from you regarding income eligibility. He adds that the amount you get is dependent on your situation. 

Scholarships are not the only way that the Hand Up project is helping people. Tockey mentions that many of the people he sees are dealing with housing insecurity or financial issues. 

You can get in touch with Community Action by calling their Lincoln office at 217-732-2159. Learn more about other programs like LIHEAP and Head Start by visiting capcil.info.
 

Farmer City's planned Washington Street renovation is continuing to move forward, with dirt likely to be moved starting early next year. 

Taylor Baxter, City Administrator of Farmer City that just this week, they found asphalt in one of the sewer pipes in the street during an inspection.

Baxter reminds us, this project is going to be rather extensive, spanning water, sewer, and resurfacing.

Additionally, this will be a City-funded project as there will be no outside funding. Bxter says this will be the big project for the City for next year. 

Work should begin in the spring, and it could span a lot of the summer construction season next year. 
 

A local school district has seen a growing issue with food insecurity among its students, but thanks to a $45,000 grant from ADM Cares, they are working to change that. 

Cheryl Warner, Superintendent of Warrensburg-Latham Schools, indicates her two major obstacles are a decreasing amount of grant funding and food insecurity in students. She says that almost half of the students in her district qualify for the free and reduced lunch program.

Warner says if a student is hungry or doesn't feel safe in their environment, then their mind is not focused on learning. She is hopeful the grant will help relieve the stressors that create major learning obstacles for her students. 

Distressed or struggling students can also be difficult for staff. Warner explains educators are already forced to stretch out their budget to make ends meet in their classroom, and some even pay for supplies out of their own pockets. She does not want teachers to be forced to address issues of food insecurity over educating the children. 

School Board President Tory Williams was very involved in securing the grant for the district through her professional position with ADM. 

Learn more about Warrensburg-Latham Schools by visiting wl.k12.il.us or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

The gardening season is coming to a close, but there are ways for you to enjoy your harvest all winter long. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator with the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that our typical food preservation methods of canning, freezing, drying, and fermenting are all great ways to save your fresh-grown produce throughout the winter, and lower your food waste. 

Mellendorf notes that you can have your pressure canner tested at the extension office for free. Doing this will ensure that the food you are canning will be preserved safely and correctly. 

Learn more about preserving your fall foods, as well as recipes you can make with vegetables that are coming into season, at go.illinois.edu/food. 
 

May of 2027 is the deadline for Encore Developmental Services to have its warehouse renovated and up to code for the State Fire Marshal's Office.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Executive Director of Encore in DeWitt County, Stephanie Coonce, told the Hart Media Group, they've been given the spring of '27 to get the warehouse up to code.

Coonce reminds, it was about three years ago, a State Fire Marshal's inspection brought forth several violations of health and safety, particularly in the warehouse, and the agency has been scrambling since to bring the facility up to code.

According to Coonce, Encore has begun its latest phase of renovations in the warehouse, with a whole new project now needed that is going to double the projected cost.

Coonce is closely watching the situation in Washington, DC, because nearly 80 percent of their revenue is federally funded with a State of Illinois match through Medicaid. 

Learn about all things Encore Developmental Services by following them on Facebook. 
 

The Clinton City Council Tuesday night received an update on the planning for next July's America 250th celebration in Clinton.

Kenny Atchison and Jessica Ahlands, in separate updates, noted the committee continues to move forward with plans for the celebration on the Fourth of July. Atchison has been exploring a time capsule for the celebration.

Ahland is spearheading the Downtown Merchants Association, which has formed, and they are working on some activities on the square as well. Bobby Kreitler is calling on service organizations to reach out to be a part of the 250th celebration.

Additionally, Police Chief Ben Lowers recognized one of his officers for their life-saving alertness of a DeWitt County Corrections officer from a drug-induced incident in October.

You can check out the Chief's presentation in its entirety today at dewittdailynews.com, the dewittdailynews.com Facebook page, and the WHOW Instagram and YouTube channels. 

Commissioner Kenny Buchanan also noted the final brush pickup of the year is this month, and with more and more leaves starting to fall from community trees, the leaf vacs will be out in full force very soon. He reminded not to combine leaves and brush in the same piles and to keep leaves off City streets. 
 

A central Illinois mental health agency is working with area school leaders to help address the growing epidemic of depression and anxiety in youth.

Tony Kirkman, the Piatt County Mental Health Center Executive Director, told the Hart Media Group that he is working with some school leaders to read the book 'The Anxious Generation' and help them address this growing crisis.

According to Kirkman, the book highlights a young person's battle in the digital world, and he believes part of the reason for taking this on is to be prepared for the coming mental health assessments that are going to be required by schools in the next few years.

Kirkman believes there are practical takeaways from the book for educators to consider. Most revolve around allowing young people to tap into their creativity.

Kirkman also indicates that what will be interesting to watch in the months ahead will be the results of the next Illinois Youth Survey, which will be administered in the spring. 
 

With a new leader locally, a national mentoring program is being rebuilt in central Illinois. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Saramanda Hall has been involved with the organization for over a decade and was recently promoted to CEO for the central Illinois chapter. Like many nonprofits, they are trying to recover from a dip in their numbers since the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

The program is in need of both kids and mentors. Hall would like to have more opportunities and events for the pairs to work on together, like a community garden. This way, students are not only receiving support through the mentorship, but they are also gaining tangible skills. 

Hall points out the organization needs to increase the public's awareness of just how beneficial it can be for a young person. Heather Peavler feels kids could always use more people in their corner. 

Hall adds they are currently in search of more volunteers, and you can learn more about getting involved by visiting their website at bbbscil.org, or you can call the office at 217-428-4240. 

SNAP benefits that many rely on in Clinton were not renewed as the Federal Government shutdown lingers on.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Emily Dunham with the Warner Library in Clinton told the Hart Media Group, they are partnering with the Neighborhood Care Center to help raise money to get some of those individuals the help they need.

According to Dunham, starting tomorrow, patrons can bring non-perishable contributions to the library that will be taken to the Neighborhood Care Center for distribution. She also notes, they are accepting food donations for animals.

The Library also reminds they have had personal care kits available for those who might need them, and those are free of charge, available at the Library. The collections for the Neighborhood Care Center will be going on all month long, and even longer if the response is good. 

Learn more by finding the Warner Library on Facebook and Instagram, or visit warner.org.
 

A local law enforcement official is saying that car accidents are on the rise, especially ones that are avoidable. 

Sargent Stew Williams with the Piatt County Sheriff's Office explains that distracted or inattentive driving is a big problem, especially in rural areas where drivers are traveling at high speeds, and there are no traffic lights. 

Sgt. Williams says that education and awareness are the strategies that the Sheriff's office focuses on when it comes to unsafe driving and stopping avoidable accidents. He notes that they are not trying to generate revenue through speeding tickets, contrary to popular belief. 

While the harvest season may be winding down, Sgt. Williams reminds that there are still large implements on the road this time of year. He adds that winter weather and ice are also right around the corner. 

Sgt. Williams urges drivers to stay off their phones while behind the wheel and to always remain alert to their surroundings while on the road. 
 

A freshman central Illinois lawmaker is reacting to her first time through the veto process in Springfield.

Last week, lawmakers were at the Capitol until the early hours Friday morning, and on the WHOW Morning Show Monday, State Representative Reagan Deering told the Hart Media Group she felt helpless at times during the process.

Funding Chicago's mass transit system and ways to do that have been on the table in Springfield for some time, but Rep. Deering indicates the legislature is taking motor fuel tax dollars from downstate and shifting those to Chicago to fund CTA. 

According to the Mt. Zion Republican, there was also an omnibus energy package that was passed during the veto session, which Deering does not agree with Illinois Democrats' promotion of saving residents money on their monthly energy bills.

Lawmakers are out of session until the first of next year, when Governor JB Pritzker will present his annual State of the State address and annual budget address.
 

The State provides funding to Schools each year that goes towards specific categories like transportation and special ed, but those funds are getting cut this year. 

Clinton Schools Superintendent Drew Goebel explains that he and other superintendents have been informed that the State will not be funding 100% of those categoricals, although funding is not being cut entirely. He says this is a very big deal; however, it should not make a big impact on his district. 

Goebel indicates that taxpayers should not be worried about the school increasing their taxes. He points out that the County's wind turbines provide additional revenue to the district. 

Goebel reminds that this will not affect their budget this year, but they will see the lack of funds next year. Learn more about Clinton schools at cusd15.org. 
 

While it isn't going to be the driest on record, October finished very dry.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates October was a very dry month.

October was not the driest on record; however, it was trending to be a top-10 warmest month. Shimon indicates the last few days of October were below normal for temperatures, so that may have impacted the final numbers. 

Most of October was rather pleasant thanks to plenty of sunshine throughout the month. Shimon indicates that over half the month saw conditions favorable to partly sunny or mostly sunny.

As we get into November, we'll have more with Shimon later this week on the traditional winter months outlook. Visit weather.gov/Lincoln for more information on weather data and forecasts. 
 

One of Clinton's local non-profits is committed to supporting low-income people and families, without giving them handouts. 

Silas Tockey with Community Action explains that this is where the Hand Up Project comes in. Anyone who chooses to participate in this program is paired up with a coach, who helps them identify barriers in their life and helps them figure out how to get around them or work through them. The purpose of the Hand Up Project is to help people reach their goals. 

Once you have completed the intake process, Tockey indicates that there is some coursework to be completed. He notes that it is not for a grade, but rather it encourages you to do some self-reflection. 

The start is often the hardest part of any journey to reach your goals. Tockey mentions that the success of a person in this program is completely dependent on their buy-in and willingness to put the work in, especially outside of their meetings with Community Action.

These are all ways that Community Action is giving people a hand up, rather than a hand out. Keep it to the Hart Media Group in the days ahead to hear more from Tockey on those efforts.

To learn more about the Hand Up Project and all the programs offered by Community Action, visit capcil.info.
 

An agricultural event hosted by the University of Illinois Extension is returning this Winter all across the State. 

Reagan Tibbs, Commercial Ag Educator with the Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, indicates that the Agronomy Summit will be their big event of the season. He notes the goal is to connect local producers with industry experts. 

The Springfield Agronomy Summit will be on February 17th at the Sangamon County Extension Office. While they don't have a set date for registration, Tibbs says it should be coming up in the next month or so. 

Keep up with all the latest from the Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties by visiting extension.illinois.edu/lms. 

A local museum is creating a way to bring its history to the community, off its premises.

Joey Long, Director of the DeWitt County Museum, explains that the CH Moore Homestead and the process of turning it into a museum have a very interesting story. This inspired her to create a banner that tells the story of how the museum came to be. 

Long's favorite part of this new display is that it is portable, allowing them to take this story wherever they'd like to. 

Learn more about the CH Moore Homestead and DeWitt County Museum by visiting chmoorehomestead.org or by finding them on Facebook.