The McGraw family  always had great hearts and now they’re taking on a heart related fight and it’s personal.  They are working to get more AED’s, the user friendly automatic external defibrilators that can save a life, much like the nation saw with the revival of Demar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills.  He received the initial CPR but out of the view of the cameras then got the life saving jolts from an AED on site.   The McGraws  have partnered with Prairie Heart Institute and the Prairie Heart Foundation to begin the Community AED Program in memory of Rick McGraw.  For more information about the program or to apply, visit https://www.prairieheart.org/giving/aed-program/ or contact Brandy Grove, manager of philanthropy for Prairie Heart Foundation, at 217-814-5177 or Brandy.Grove@hshs.org. 

A Litchfield resident is being treated for second degree burns and soot on their face after a Thursday afternoon house fire. The Litchfield Fire Department was called to the scene in the 400 block of North Madison just after 4:45 pm. The lone occupant was able to escape with the burns suffered. The first arriving firefighters reported a 2-story house with smoke showing and requested additional resources. The victim refused transport and traveled by personal vehicle to the hospital. Fire attack crews swarmed to the point of origin, the kitchen. They were able to extinguish the fire and isolate it to the kitchen. No additional flames or victims were found and mutual aid requests were cancelled, although Hillsboro Ambulance still came to the scene to cover Litchfield with the fire dept continued its work. The kitchen was overhauled to ensure the fire was out.The origin and cause of the fire was investigated and was determined to be an unattended grease fire on the stove. 

The Litchfield Fire Department would like to remind you that grease fires are dangerous because the fuel source is a liquid that can easily splash and spread to cabinets or other flammable areas of the kitchen. Nearly 10% of residential cooking fires spread beyond the cooking vessel and can cause significant damage and injuries. Leaving the stove unattended while cooking is a leading cause of home cooking fires. Grease fires happen when oil, grease, or fat on a stovetop, oven, or deep- fat fryer gets hot enough to ignite. These fires burn very hot and can spread if not handled properly. 

The instructions for how to put out a grease fire must be followed in this exact order: 

1. Turn off the stove. 

2. Cover the pot, pan, or fryer with a lid. 

3. Douse the fire with baking soda, salt, or a fire extinguisher—never water. 

This morning, HSHS successfully restored functionality to the EPIC platform, our electronic health records platform, which includes MyChart applications. We will provide any other updates as they become available.

We will respond to patient messages as quickly as possible, and we encourage patients to reach out to their health care provider’s office to speak with a member of their health care team, should they require urgent assistance.

We remain focused on restoring the rest of our systems in a methodical manner, which will take time to complete. We appreciate your continued patience and look forward to continuing to care for our valued patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I now schedule appointments through MyChart?

Yes, patients are now able to schedule appointments.

Q. I submitted a message through MyChart. When will I receive a response?

We appreciate your patience as we work to respond to your messages as quickly as possible, while giving the personal attention each of our patients deserves. Should you require urgent assistance, please telephone your provider’s office to speak with a member of your health care team.

A positive moment took a negative turn Wednesday at Hillsboro High School. Feedback on the HHS intercom or paging system caused a misunderstanding with significant consequences. Someone was sharing a message of student academic success but because of the feedback, some in the school thought the presence of an active shooter was announced. Police swarmed to the scene but there was never a threat. Hillsboro School District officials are apologizing for the disturbance and upset this incident has caused. Superintendent David Powell says such malfunctions have been rare with the current system, but its days are numbered as a new system will be installed with the new Main Building.  

Patient Services Update

As we continue to work diligently to address the recent cybersecurity incident, Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) remains focused on providing safe care for our patients.

As of September 4, 2023, access to patient services includes the following:

• Hospitals and emergency departments remain open and are receiving and treating patients
• Patients can schedule elective and non-elective procedures
• Nearly all our hospital and clinic phone lines are back in service
• Patient billing services are currently suspended

Phone System Availability

HSHS is pleased to report that all phone systems in our Illinois and Wisconsin hospitals and clinics are now available. Please note that callers may continue to experience some delays or connectivity issues this week.

Illinois

HSHS St. John’s Hospital, Springfield ?217-544-6464
HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon 618-234-2120
HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Decatur? 217-464-2966
HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, Highland ?618-651-2600
HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, Breese 618-526-4511
HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, Effingham? 217-342-2121
HSHS St. Francis Hospital, Litchfield? 217-324-2191
HSHS Holy Family, Greenville? 618-664-1230
HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital, Shelbyville 217-774-3961

Wisconsin

HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, Green Bay 920-433-0111
HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center, Green Bay 920-498-4200
HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital, Sheboygan 920-459-8300
HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital, Oconto Falls 920-846-3444
HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital, Eau Claire 715-717-4121
HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital, Chippewa Falls 715-723-1811

Prevea Health

920-496-4700

Restoration Progress

HSHS leaders, clinicians and colleagues continue to work around the clock to restore the clinical, administrative and communications systems that were impacted by the recent cybersecurity incident.

We are prioritizing patient safety as we establish a process for restoration. With the support of third-party experts, we are bringing our systems back online as quickly and as safely as possible. A health system of our size operates hundreds of system applications across thousands of servers, and as such, our restoration and investigative work will take some time to complete. That is why we are approaching the process with such clarity of purpose: patient safety must come first.

In the meantime, we continue to use alternative processes for our colleagues to aid them in providing safe care to our patients.

We appreciate your continued patience. We will continue to provide updates as we are able. Our goal is to help patients and communities manage their health during our system restoration process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Are your hospitals open? Are you continuing to see patients?

Yes. Please know most HSHS hospital and clinic locations remain open, and we continue to safely care for all patients.

Q. When will all systems be restored?

We are working diligently to bring all of our systems back online as quickly and as safely as possible, and we are prioritizing patient safety as we establish a process for restoration. We are making steady progress in our restoration process.

While we undergo this restoration process, please know that we have implemented alternative processes to ensure that we can continue receiving and treating patients. We will continue to provide updates on the restoration process, as appropriate.

Q. Is my information compromised?

The investigative process into the scope of the incident is ongoing and will take time to complete. If we determine any patients’ sensitive, personal information is involved, we will notify them in accordance with applicable law.

Q. Will I be charged a penalty for late payments on my bills?

HSHS does not charge late payment fees.

Q. I received a suspicious communication that appears to be a fraudulent bill. What should I do?

At this time, HSHS is not collecting payments from any patients for outstanding bills. We will notify you when billing processes are back up and running. That being said, we are aware of certain HSHS partners in Wisconsin and Illinois that are sending out bills to patients. You should review all bills carefully to ensure they are for services that were rendered. Should you have any questions, please reach out to your provider.

Additionally, we have received some reports that people are receiving emails, texts and phone calls claiming to be HSHS representatives seeking payment for services. Should you receive such a message that looks suspicious, please do not respond. We ask that you save them so that we can track and investigate the source. Please forward the information to questions@hshs.org.

Q. How do I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment, please contact your provider or refer to the hospital contact information and reach out to the HSHS hospital where you receive care.

Q. My appointment was canceled. When will I hear from someone to reschedule?

We apologize for the inconvenience. We will be contacting patients to reschedule as soon as we can and as our systems become available.

Q. Can I get my prescription from your pharmacies?

Our inpatient pharmacy is successfully operating in downtime as we continue to care for our hospital inpatients.

Currently, our outpatient HSHS St. John’s Community Pharmacy is unable to access or fill digital prescription orders. Please contact your provider to supply an alternative pharmacy with your prescription.

Additionally, some of our hospitals are providing patients with written prescriptions to take to the pharmacy of their choice.

If you have questions regarding your prescription, please contact your provider.

Q. How/when will I get my test/lab results?

Once MyChart is available, patients will be able to access their results.

Q. I don’t recall when or where my appointment is – how do I figure that out?

Once MyChart is available, patients will be able to access their future appointments. In the meantime, patients whose appointments are with a provider in the next week can call the practice to verify their appointment date/time.

Q. I need to get ahold of my home health or hospice nurse – how do I do that?

Your nurses will call the night before or the morning of to schedule your visit time. Clinicians use your home calendars to let you know what days your visits are scheduled. If you need to get a hold of your home health or hospice nurse, you may call 1-800-551-6566. This number is available 24/7.

Additional Information

Please visit our website for updates:

https://www.hshsupdates.org

Governor JB Pritzker joined local and state leaders today to announce the grand opening of the South Central Illinois (SCI) Training & Innovation Center - bolstered by $8.6 million in grant funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The regional training center will provide career and technical training for school districts in Montgomery and Macoupin counties. 

Former State Senator Andy Manar, now a Deputy Governor, saluted Governor Pritzker for improving school funding and making SCI a possibility.  Litchfield Mayor Steve Dougherty called today's event a great example of the regional thinking in Litchfield and elsehwere. 

"It's an exciting time for jobs and economic growth across Downstate Illinois and for the first time, students here in South-Central Illinois will have access to 21st century career paths that can begin upon high school graduation," said Governor JB Pritzker. "These are the types of strategic investments that build our workers' skills to take the jobs available right now in high growth industries of the future. And most importantly, this puts Illinois at the forefront of economic progress in the nation." 

Be prepared for some issues if you have to make a scheduled or unscheduled visit to HSHS Hospitals like St. Francis in Litchfield, Holy Family in Greenville, St. Joseph's in Highland, St. Joseph's in Breese and St. John's in Springfield as well as any other HSHS Hospital.  They are experiencing technical difficulties and have released a statement.

HSHS is experiencing a systemwide outage of clinical and administrative applications. Providers in our hospitals and clinics are following our normal downtime procedures so we can continue to care for our patients, which is our top priority. 

We also are experiencing outages to phones and the internet. We are working diligently to restore services and to establish alternative communications mechanisms. 

We will provide updates as we learn more. 

Extreme heat continues to impact the region.  Taylor Springs will be opening a cooling center. Contact Harry Jackson (217-313-6187) or Kane Harrell (217-556-6073) for additional details

The Hillsboro Police and Fire Board is establishing a 2 year hiring list for full time and part-time police officer for the Hillsboro Police Department with an immediate open position. Applicants must be 21 years of age at the time of hire. Applicants who have a minimum of 35 hours of college credit hours or previous military or law enforcement experience will be given preference. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and be open to a background investigation. Applicants who are already certified as a full/part time police officer will be given preference during the hiring process. The applicant must be able to pass a physical exam, written exam, and oral interview stage. Those who wish to apply may obtain an application from Hillsboro City Hall or online at hillsboroillinois.net. Applications and/or Resumes must be turned in by 4pm on Friday, August 25 th , 2023 to Hillsboro City Hall or to the Hillsboro Police Department. Any questions regarding the opening please contact Chief Randy Leetham at 217-532- 6120 or by email leetham@hillsboropd.net. 

Wage Range: $23.25/hr. once off probation to $23.50/hr depending on experienced service. Hillsboro Police Department does offer a lateral transfer incentive. 

Benefits: Great health insurance for employee + family, retirement, vacation time, sick time, other benefit time. 

2023.7.21 - IDPH Announces $10 Million Program to Provide Air Purifiers to Improve Air Quality in Day Care Centers (illinois.gov)

IDPH Announces $10 Million Program to Provide Air Purifiers to Improve Air Quality in Day Care Centers

School Facilities with Clean Air Record Fewer Sick Students and Improved Academic Performance 

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the state is offering more than 20,000 HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) purifiers at no cost to Day Care Centers in Illinois to help reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. To receive air purifiers, plus a three-year supply of filters, Day Care providers must fill out an online request form by July 31. The federally funded offer is open to all licensed Illinois Day Care providers outside Chicago.

“The health and well-being of our youngest children is a key priority for my administration,” Governor Pritzker said.  “By providing resources to maintain good air quality in our Day Care Centers, we can keep kids and staff healthy, prevent absences and also improve children’s ability to learn and gain essential skills.”

IDPH is coordinating the $10 million investment with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), which licenses Day Care Centers in Illinois. SHIELD Illinois, the non-profit University of Illinois program established in 2020 as a response to the pandemic, is assisting IDPH by managing customer service and delivery of the units. The effort is the third phase  of a previously announced IDPH program to provide HEPA air purifiers to K-12 schools throughout Illinois and to Head Start Programs in Illinois.  It is funded through the CDC’s Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity for Prevention and Control (ELC) Reopening Schools program.

In May, the CDC released new guidelines for indoor ventilation that set a specific target for the first time. The new guidelines call for at least five air changes per hour, meaning the equivalent of all the air in a room is replaced five or more times within an hour.

“I have devoted much of my career to protecting and promoting the health of children,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra, a pediatrician.  “The last few years have highlighted the importance of good ventilation in preventing the indoor transmission of viruses and keeping children and adults safe from respiratory illnesses.  These HEPA air purifiers are an important investment in our children’s present and future.  I am very excited that IDPH is partnering with the Department of Children and Family Services to provide tools to keep very young kids served by our Day Care Centers healthy to develop, learn, and grow.”

“As we have seen particularly in the last few years, air quality is critically important to health. The more our young leaners are in school surrounded by peers and engaging with each other, the better it is for them on so many levels including socially, mentally and of course educationally,” said Illinois DCFS Director Marc D. Smith.  “We are grateful that this program eases what could be an additional financial burden for our day cares while providing health benefits to our children and staff.”

IDPH is launching an enrollment process that allows Day Care Centers to submit orders for portable HEPA air purifiers. Grantees will generally be eligible for one small unit for each classroom, with a limited number of larger units available for sites that serve large numbers of students.

Studies show that cleaner air can reduce absentee rates, and improve students’ abilities to think, learn, read and solve math problems.

Last year IDPH issued ventilation guidance to educate the community on the impact of ventilation systems and to provide information about low cost and DIY interventions for ventilation upgrades.

A 28-year-old Nokomis man is dead after leaving a moving vehicle Saturday morning on Route 16 between Irving and Hillsboro. The victim is identified as Shane Horve. Illinois State Police and the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office are investigating the incident near Grand Point Lane, northeast of Hillsboro. An autopsy was expected today (Monday).  The Witt Fire Department, Hillsboro Police Department, and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.  

LAKE 

- Illinois residents can dispose of unwanted agrichemicals for free this year through the Illinois Department of Agriculture's (IDOA) agricultural pesticide "Clean Sweep" program. IDOA will host ten sites in central and southwestern Illinois.  "Clean Sweep" collections have been scheduled for Montgomery, Macoupin, Bond, Clinton, Fayette, Jersey, , Madison, Marion, Monroe, and St. Clair counties. The collection, which rotates among Illinois counties is open to farmers, retired farmers, nursery owners, private pesticide applicators, structural pest control applicators and landowners who inherited unwanted agricultural pesticides with their property. Participants must register the products they plan to dispose of by July 28. Registration is required to give the waste disposal contractor time to prepare for the different kinds of materials that will need to be handled. Forms can be obtained either by calling the Illinois Department of Agriculture's Pesticide Hotline at 1-800-641-3934, on the IDOA website or by visiting one of the sponsors listed.  

Completed forms should be mailed or faxed to the Illinois Department of Agriculture at Clean Sweep Program, Illinois Department of Agriculture, State Fairgrounds, P.O. Box 19281, Springfield, IL, 62794-9281. The fax number is (217) 524-4882. Participants will be sent a reservation card indicating the date, time and location of their collection.  You can visit the Montgomery County Farm Bureau and SWCD in Hillsboro, the Macoupin County Farm Bureau and SWCD in Carlinville, Bond County SWCD and Farm Bureau  in Greenville, the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service in Vandalia, the Madison County Farm Bureau and SWCD in Edwardsville, the Jersey County SWCD in Jerseyville and the Clinton County Farm Bureau and SWCD in Breese. 

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation is accepting applications for the position of Executive Director. This is a fully remote, part-time position with a salary range of $30,000 - $35,000. Applicants must reside in Montgomery County, IL. 

The MCEDC Executive Director will be responsible for the following duties/operations: 

1. Work with the Executive Committee and other staff to manage operations. 

2. Cultivate relationships with all MCEDC members and elected and agency officials at the 

local, state, and national level. 

3. Develop and implement a business retention and expansion (BRE) program to further 

the mission of the MCEDC. 

4. Assist the MCEDC Chairman in preparing for MCEDC Board Meetings and possess a 

working knowledge of the corporate operation and budget. 

5. Communicate regularly with all MCEDC members via quarterly email newsletters, 

monthly articles in The Journal News, and regularly scheduled interviews with WSMI 

Radio. 

6. Perform frequent and timely updates to the MCEDC Website and Facebook page. 

7. Communicate with members to help promote their fairs, festivals, and special events. 

8. Promote tourism in the County by publishing updated activities and events to the 

website, Facebook page, and newsletter 

9. Serve as an advocate for local businesses. Keep a current listing of Montgomery County 

businesses on the MCEDC website. 

10. Grant Writing 

11. Other duties and special projects as assigned by the MCEDC Board of Directors. 

Interested parties should email a cover letter, resume, and references by July 26th to: 

mcedctreasurer@gmail.com 

The City of Hillsboro, in partnership with the Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation  District, has scheduled an informational meeting and tour regarding issues facing Lake Glenn Shoals and  Old Hillsboro Lake. The event will take place on Tuesdsay  (August 1 st). Participants will learn about the  siltation and erosion that is affecting the lake, how the water treatment plant is dealing with increased sediment in the lake, view a field that is using sustainable growing practices, tour a portion of Glenn Shoals Lake and be treated to a catered lunch. The day will start at 10:30 am at the Hillsboro Water Treatment Facility located at 118 Smith Rd in Hillsboro. Participants will meet at the Facility, tour the operation and hear about how the City is working to ensure water quality for our area. Lunch will be provided at the Fireman’s Clubhouse where an American Farmland Trust Representative will give a short presentation. After lunch, the group will view a local field where practices are being used that mitigates soil erosion and then all attendees will proceed to the North Marina at Lake Glenn Shoals for a boat tour. This meeting is to inform farmers, land owners, and local residents of the issues facing Lake Glenn Shoals and our drinking water supply. We will discuss ways that we can work together as a community  to mitigate soil erosion, siltation, and runoff that is damaging our Lake. If you would like to participate, please RSVP by Friday, July 28, 2023 to MCSWCD at 217-532-3361 ext 3. 

An incident related to a vehcile at an unknown location has triggered a power outage for hundreds late tonight around Hillsboro.  Ameren expects power to be restored around 12:30am. 

1050 customers are without power in areas to the north of Lake Glenn Shoals.  Another 325 customers are without power in the area northeast of Butler.  Nearly 1500 customers are without power in the Morrisonville/Harvel area.  

The City of Litchfield is preparing for a growing heat wave.  The City is teaming up with local partners to open a cooling center at the Beacon Church at 622 North Franklin.

Water: Your everyday energy drink

Benefits of staying well-hydrated

LITCHFIELD— Water does your body good. In fact, it is the best choice for your body.

As we head into the middle of summer, HSHS St. Francis Hospital wants to remind everyone of the importance of staying well-hydrated.

Jennifer Becker, MS, RD, LDN, clinical dietitian at HSHS St. Francis Hospital, said, “Water is a necessary component of human life. It helps your body function properly, contributes to your overall health and well-being, and can make a real difference in your life if you drink enough each day.”

Benefits of drinking water

About 60% of the body is made up of water. It regulates body temperature, lubricates and cushions joints and protects organs. Cells need water to transport nutrients. Wastes and toxins are flushed out through sweat, urine and bowel movements—all of which require water.

Drinking enough water can also affect mental health. Being well-hydrated provides what a person needs to stay alert, focused and productive throughout their day. All of this is why it's so important to replace the fluids lost during activities.

Are you dehydrated?

Dehydration occurs when a person loses more fluids than they take in. Be sure to increase your fluid intake in hot weather, when you increase your physical activity and when you are sick (especially with vomiting, diarrhea or fever). Additionally, drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks can also cause you to lose water.

Some common signs of dehydration include:

• Extreme thirst.
• Dry or sticky mouth.
• Less sweat than usual.
• Dark-colored urine or no urine at all.
• Dry skin.
• Digestive problems.
• Headaches or dizziness.

The good news is that symptoms often go away when you rehydrate.

Choose water

Many people reach for beverage options like sports drinks to hydrate during or after high-intensity exercise or activities with their added carbohydrates, minerals and electrolytes. Other popular drinks are regular soda, fruit drinks and energy drinks. However, these also contain sugar, calories or caffeine.

Sugary drinks are the leading source of added sugars in the American diet. People who often drink sugary drinks are more likely to face health problems, such as weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cavities, and gout, a type of arthritis.

Becker shared, “Reading the nutrition labels on the drinks you put in your shopping cart can be surprising when you discover how many added sugars are in some of them. Water is the healthiest alternative, as it contains no calories and is 100% natural.”

For example, a 12-ounce regular soda has more than 10 teaspoons of added sugar, adding up to 150 calories. Consuming two sodas a day adds up to 2,100 calories in a week.

Becker recommends the following simple steps to increase your water intake without the added sugar:

• Carry a refillable water bottle with you. Set reminders on your phone if you need a nudge to drink throughout the day.
• Choose water when eating out. It saves both money and calories.
• Drink a glass of water before you consume your meal. Besides helping with hydration, it will help you feel fuller so you will eat less.
• Mix up your water options. Try adding fruit slices, like pineapple, watermelon or lemon, or vegetables and herbs, like cucumber or mint. Make flavored ice cubes with 100% fruit juice, unsweetened tea or chopped fruit. Choose seltzer or sparkling water over juices and sugary beverages.
• Don’t forget fluids are in many foods too. Eating water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as melons and tomatoes, can help you stay hydrated.

Water is often overlooked as a key element to overall health. Just taking a few simple steps can help you stay hydrated and healthy. If you suspect significant dehydration, seek medical attention immediately. HSHS St. Francis Hospital’s emergency department, 1215 Franciscan Drive in Litchfield, is well-prepared to deliver high-quality emergency medical care 24/7.

 The Illinois Supreme Court announced its opinion in the Rowe v. Raoul (SAFE-T Act) case Tuesday morning.  The Illinois Supreme Court ruled in a 5-2 vote that the pretrial fairness portion of the SAFE-T Act is constitutional. That means cash bail can now be abolished in Illinois.

Montgomery County Sheriff Rick Robbins, an outspoken opponent of the legislation, offered his response.  "SAD.  Not what Montgomery County deserves!  Kudos to our area's Justice Overstreet for dissenting."

Governor JB Pritzker weighed in.   “We can now move forward with historic reform to ensure pre-trial detainment is determined by the danger an individual poses to the community instead of by their ability to pay their way out of jail,” 

State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) released the below statement following the Illinois Supreme Court’s ruling on the SAFE-T Act. 

“If there were any questions before, it is abundantly clear now to all Illinoisans how political our state’s highest court has become. This ruling was not about what is actually in our constitution, and it is not about what is best for the average Illinoisan. It is about politicians sitting on the bench and voting to support the extreme and dangerous agenda of this Governor and his legislative allies.  

“It is unhealthy to our society for the judicial branch of government to become as politicized as it has become. The politics that has infected our highest court will now tie the hands of local judges and law enforcement who work hard every day to keep Illinoisans safe. This is dangerous to the brave men and women who serve in law enforcement, it is devastating to communities across our great state, and it is frightening to the families who just want safe neighborhoods. All of this simply because a few of our top elected officials kowtow to activists and are completely disconnected from the realities their constituents face every day.” 

Local State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), a former Sangamon County prosecutor, offered a statement.   “It’s disappointing that the Supreme Court overruled our state’s constitution and the will of the people of Illinois by upholding the SAFE-T Act. This ruling is just one more blow to the credibility of the Illinois Supreme Court, particularly after two of the justices accepted a million dollars from the main proponent of the Act—Governor JB Pritzker. This is yet another victory for the people who choose to commit crimes in our state. Where are the victories for the victims?” 

A 34-year-old Carlinville woman who threw a toddler against a wall, didn’t get immediate medical attention for him and drove for three hours running errands before finally stopping in Litchfield where she  finally tried to get help too late, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. Ashley Bottoms received the sentence in the death of her stepson, 3-year-old Hunter Drew. She threw Hunter against a wall to break up a fight at her residence. The impact caused a brain bleed, leading to Hunter’s death. , Bottoms pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter of a family member at an April hearing. Macoupin County Judge Joshua Meyer handed down the sentence Monday morning

Sangamon County is hosting a public hearing this evening on the Navigator Greenway CO2 proposal. While this meeting is hosted by Sangamon County where residents, farmer and non farmer alike have been more vocal up there, Montgomery County residents and officials will be among those in the crowd at the Bank of Springfield Center, the former Prairie Capital Convention Center, in Downtown Springfield. The event is set for 5pm this evening. It will be an opportunity to discuss the pros and cons of the pipeline project. The Montgomery County Farm Bureau is urging members to attend.  

Breaking. The suspect in a Carlinville murder is in custody. Prosecutors charged Shawn Evans, 36, with first-degree murder. A judge set his bond at $2 million in the Wednesday shooting death of Dana Morgan Jr.  Evans was taken into custody around 3:30 Thursday afternoon. 

Around 2 am a Greyhound bus traveling west on I-70 struck 3 commercial motor vehicles parked on the exit ramp to Silver Lake rest area, Highland, IL. 3 fatalities confirmed and multiple others taken to a hospital with serious injuries. Traffic down to one lane I-70 near exit.

Recent storms hit hard... not just on property but the pocketbook.  In a time of rising grocery costs, sending food to the dumpster because of spoilage was hard on the heart for many impacted by power outages, including Litchfield and Pana, where they encountered a multi-day outage.   Ameren is sharing information on how people can submit a claim for storm damage and loss.    To submit a claim for actual damages, including food spoilage, due to a power interruption, outage, surge, or other fluctuation, you can complete a Claim Form and mail the Claim Form and supporting documentation to: 

Brentwood Services Administrators, Inc. 

PO Box 4605 Chesterfield, MO 63006-4605 

After receiving a claim, Ameren Illinois officials will determine whether the claim is the product of a qualifying interruption, outage, surge, or other fluctuation.  The Illinois Commerce Commission will review requests rejected by Ameren.  Typically, claims are resolved within 90 days.   

Anyone with questions about the Ameren Illinois’ claim process can call Ameren at 1 (800) 755-5000. If you have questions about your particular claim, you can call the Ameren Illinois claims administrator, Brentwood Services Administrators, Inc., at 1 (800) 781-2075. 

A former Litchfield Mayor and longtime educator has passed away.   John Dunkirk Jr, who served one term from 2001-2005, opted to not seek re-election after steering the city through the post 9/11 years.  He is remembered as an outstanding teacher and coach.  

Before the election, the push from some residents for legalized golf cart use on Litchfield streets gained zero traction from the city council.  Now with new faces on the council, there’s a new development.   While golf carts and other so called off highway vehicles like UTV’s  aren’t getting the go ahead, the council took a big step toward putting the issue before voters.  In a 4-3 vote, the council adopted Alderman Josh Hughes resolution to table the issue of golf carts until it could be put before voters next spring for an advisory, non binding referendum.  Voting in favor of the move were Hughes, Ray Kellenberger, Kassidy Payne and Jake Fleming.   Dwayne Gerl, Sara Zoomwalt and Marilyn Sisson voted against.   During an extended conversation about the legalities the city would deal with  if it agreed to let golf carts on city streets and potential liability, a number of facts came out, including word some higher end carts and vehicles that are more road ready can be licensed through the state, shifting the liability from Litchfield to Springfield.