The Warner Hospital and Health Services fiscal year 2027 budget was recently approved by the Clinton City Council, which is set to take effect on May 1st.

On the WHOW Morning Show, CEO Paul Skowron told the Hart Media Group that while the hospital is facing new legislative pressures and rising insurance expenses, the final budget maintains a positive bottom line.

The focus in the new fiscal year shifts back to facility efficiency and safety. Key projects include the replacement of nearly 50-year-old windows, as well as HVAC and air conditioning upgrades in patient rooms and stairways. Skowron points out that visitors will also notice ongoing renovations in the main entrance designed to improve wheelchair accessibility.

Skowron notes that with 95% of the hospital's business now occurring on an outpatient basis, the new budget year prioritizes the efficiency of services like infusion therapy, 3D mammography, and imaging.

The City of Clinton approved the hospital's latest budget during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, April 21st.
 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 3,200 lives were lost in 2024 due to distracted driving. 

On the WHOW Morning Show on Tuesday, Monticello Police Chief Rob Bross told the Hart Media Group that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. While it may seem like just a quick text or a glance away from the road, it could be the cause of a very avoidable accident. 

While avoiding driving distracted is important year-round, the Chief notes that with the weather warming up, there is a sharp increase in bicyclists, dog walkers, kids, and other pedestrians that you could not see while looking at your phone.

Chief Bross emphasized that distracted driving is unacceptable when children and their parents are out walking to school. The importance is only increased by the fact that kids often are not thinking about the dangers of crossing the road in an inappropriate place or without looking both ways. 

Distracted driving awareness doesn't stop after April, as Monticello and many central Illinois communities begin to kick off the season of outdoor activities. 
 

Monday's severe weather has brought with it a slight cool-down in central Illinois. 

Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service in Lincoln explains that we should see some rain in the late hours of Tuesday night, however from there things should become a little more peaceful. We will also see slightly lower temperatures than we have in recent weeks. 

Shimon explains that the drop in temperatures compared to April is due to a shift in air pressure. Monday's low-pressure storm system has cleared the way for cool air from Canada to be pushed down to the Midwest. 

The on-and-off rain of the last month prompted Shimon to put out a call to join the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow network, or CoCoRaHS. This entails using a rain gauge to provide daily updates of the total rainfall at your home. 

We'll have more with Shimon in the days ahead on the May outlooks for central Illinois, and the latest drought conditions, or lack thereof. Learn more at weather.gov/Lincoln or find the National Weather Service on Facebook and X. 
 

Severe weather tore through central Illinois yesterday, causing damage to a local school district. 

DeLand-Weldon Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Tresnak explains that Monday's storm system tore the roof off of part of the elementary school, leaving behind shattered skylights and multiple classrooms that suffered significant water damage. School was canceled for today, and the district will be utilizing e-learning on Wednesday as well. 

Dr. Tresnak says they were lucky the storm came at night, and they did not have children in the building during the event. He adds that the district is prepared for situations like this due to the efficient alert system of the National Weather Service and the basement that can be utilized as shelter. 

The district's goal is to be back to normalcy as quickly as possible. Dr. Tresnak is grateful to the first responders, staff, and community members who have come to help in droves as they recover from the emergency. 

Dr. Tresnak feels for all the families and residents who also suffered damage to their properties during the storm. Keep up with the latest updates from DeLand-Weldon Schools by visiting dwschools.org or by finding the district on Facebook. 
 

A spike in teen depression and anxiety in recent years has some central Illinois school leaders rethinking the prominent presence of technology in classrooms.

According to Bement Schools Superintendent Mary Vogt, there is a distinct breakdown in how technology is defined and monitored within her district.

The challenge for school administration often lies in where these issues originate. When conflicts arise via social media or student devices, Vogt explains, it is rarely a problem confined to school hours or the school building.

To combat the misuse of technology, Bement Schools is focusing on teaching students how to use digital resources as an educational tool, such as for research and keyboarding skills, rather than for entertainment. Vogt points out that this requires a concerted partnership between parents and the school to ensure students are focused on assignments during the day.

Several local districts are using the case provided in the book 'The Anxious Generation' by Jonathan Haidt as a guide in understanding the increase in anxiety and depression among teens and pre-teens.

A Clinton man appeared in court on Monday to face multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, in connection with the death of his wife.

Nicholas L. Smith, 35, was formally arraigned Monday afternoon following his arrest over the weekend in connection with the death of 34-year-old Cassandra M. Smith. 

Nicholas Smith is currently being held in the custody of the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office.

Represented by the public defender, Tim Holl, Nicholas Smith waived his right to a preliminary hearing, and a discovery order was entered by the court.

Smith faces a total of eight counts, including three counts of First-Degree Murder with intent to kill/injure, two counts of First-Degree Murder with strong probability of kill/injure, one count of Concealment of a Homicidal Death - a Class 3 felony, one count of Obstruction of Justice/Destruction of Evidence - a Class 4 felony, and one count of Obstructing a Peace Officer - a Class A misdemeanor.

The court entered a detention order without objection.

Friday evening, the Clinton Police Department began an investigation to a Clinton address to conduct a welfare check of Cassandra N. Smith. Following an initial investigation, authorities issued a missing-and-endangered person alert for Smith.

On Saturday morning, the Clinton Police Department requested assistance from the Illinois State Police (ISP) Zone 5 Investigations. Over the course of the day, authorities executed search warrants on multiple properties and vehicles associated with the case.

At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Saturday, law enforcement located a vehicle of interest near Sunrise Court in Clinton. The execution of a search warrant at that location led to the discovery of Cassandra Smith’s body.

Nicholas Smith was taken into custody shortly thereafter.

Preliminary postmortem findings indicate that Cassandra Smith died of multiple blunt injuries. Authorities stated that additional charges are anticipated as the investigation continues.

A status hearing has been set for June 1 at 11:00 A.M., with a jury trial set for August 10 at 9:00 A.M.

The threat of severe weather is returning to DeWitt County today. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service in Lincoln told the Hart Media Group that severe weather was present this morning in DeWitt County, but outlooks have shifted to a less severe outlook for Monday evening. 

Wind shear is what makes this particular system dangerous. While there is the possibility of tornadoes, Shimon notes that wind does not need to be circling for it to be damaging. 

Shimon reminds to have your severe weather safety kit packed full of water, snacks, flashlights, weather radios, and other essential tools. Keep it to WHOW to hear all the latest severe weather updates. 

Get local forecasts, weather updates, and more at weather.gov/Lincoln or by finding the National Weather Service on Facebook and X. 
 

A 34-year-old Clinton woman has been found dead following an extensive law enforcement search, and her husband is now in custody facing charges related to the incident.

Friday evening, the Clinton Police Department began an investigation to a Clinton address to conduct a welfare check of Cassandra N. Smith. Following an initial investigation, authorities issued a missing-and-endangered person alert for Smith.

On Saturday morning, the Clinton Police Department requested assistance from the Illinois State Police (ISP) Zone 5 Investigations. Over the course of the day, authorities executed search warrants on multiple properties and vehicles associated with the case.

At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Saturday, law enforcement located a vehicle of interest near Sunrise Court in Clinton. The execution of a search warrant at that location led to the discovery of Cassandra Smith’s body.

Her husband, 35-year-old Nicholas L. Smith of Clinton, was taken into custody shortly thereafter. He is currently being held in the DeWitt County Jail on charges of obstructing justice, resisting a peace officer, and concealment of a death.

Preliminary postmortem findings indicate that Cassandra Smith died of multiple blunt injuries. Authorities stated that additional charges are anticipated as the investigation continues.

The Clinton Police Department was assisted in the case by the Illinois State Police Zone 5 Investigations, Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services, the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office, the DeWitt County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the DeWitt County Coroner. While local police continue to assist with the investigation, the Illinois State Police have assumed the lead role in the matter.

In a statement following the discovery, Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers emphasized the gravity of the situation and the importance of domestic violence awareness.

“We are grateful for the support of our law enforcement partners and remain committed to pursuing justice in this matter,” Chief Lowers said. “This tragic loss of life is a stark reminder that domestic violence is not a private matter; it is a serious and urgent public safety issue. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out. Help is available.”

The investigation remains active. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Future inquiries regarding the case should be directed to the Illinois State Police.

The ongoing pursuit of locations for new City Hall, police, and fire buildings is getting closer to a resolution.

That's according to City Administrator Tony Harris and Mayor Helen Michelassi. Harris says the city is in the early stages, but they have made significant progress in identifying suitable land.

Harris and the Mayor have evaluated multiple potential locations, but some were deemed financially unfeasible as the project scope became clearer.

While the city continues these evaluations, officials are exploring options that prioritize structural longevity and efficient land use. According to Harris, the objective is to avoid leaving any acquired property unoccupied, with a strong preference for repurposing existing structures rather than demolition.

It was nearly two years ago that this was made a priority by then City Administrator Taylor Baxter, a priority also a part of the City's updated strategic plan. 
 

Twice a year, the Friends of the Warner Library help clean the shelves out to make room for new books, all while raising money for the Library. 

Ron Sprague with the Friends explains that the bi-annual book sale is returning this Friday and Saturday. It's a great opportunity to fill out your classroom or at-home library with books at a discounted price. 

While the Friends are very grateful and welcoming of community donations of books, Adult Program Coordinator at the Library, Emily Dunham, says they will clear off the shelves of books that are no longer popular or are ready to be moved out of the rotation, and sell them at the book sale. 

The funds from the book sale are gathered by the Friends, and Sprague emphasizes that what the money is used on is entirely up to the Library staff and leadership. Dunham says that much of it goes towards the Summer Reading Program

If you're interested in donating books for this weekend's book sale, you can drop them off at the Warner Library located at 310 N Quincy Street in Clinton. Learn more about the book sale by visiting vwarner.org or by finding the Friends on Facebook. 
 

Electronics, power tools, and high-value personal items are often the first targets for theft - but for victims, the hope of recovery often hinges on one crucial step taken before the crime occurs. 

A local law enforcement official is offering insight into the reality of property theft and how the system works to help residents get their belongings back. According to Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister, there is a distinct breakdown in where stolen items are typically found.

The challenge for law enforcement often lies in the lack of documentation. When items like expensive tools or electronics are stolen, proving ownership becomes difficult without specific identifiers. Chief Meister emphasizes that the single biggest mistake victims make is failing to keep a record of their items' serial numbers.

To combat this issue, the City of Lincoln implemented a program that gives law enforcement the ability to track and recover property more efficiently. This regional database allows police to search pawn shop inventories by make, model, and serial number across neighboring communities, which has proven vital in recovering tools that might have been pawned far from where they were originally taken.

If you find yourself the victim of a theft, having detailed information ready for the police report is essential. The Chief points out that pawn shops are required by law to collect photo identification from anyone who pawns an item.

Chief Meister is encouraging residents to lock car doors, garage doors, and house doors to decrease the likelihood of falling victim to a property crime, particularly as we embark on the season when authorities see an increase in those occurrences. 
 

The 4-H year consists of months of work that culminate in showing during the summer fair season. 

Terri Casey, University of Illinois Extension Director in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, explains that registration for this year's fair opens on May 1st and closes on June 1st. 

Students must be registered by June 1st if they want to show this summer. Learn more about 4-H in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties at extension.illinois.edu/lms. 
 

A Clinton non-profit is bringing back one of its biggest and most popular fundraisers. 

Chris Shaffer, Secretary of the Clinton Community Education Foundation, explains that with the help of the Clinton Eagles, who will be hosting, they will be bringing back their Derby Day Fundraiser on May 2nd, starting at 3 PM. 

Most of the funds raised go towards classroom grants, which help teachers in the Clinton School District enhance the educational experience for their students in one way or another. 

Join the CCEF at the Clinton Eagle, located at 220 N Center Street, for the Derby Day Fundraiser on May 2nd. Learn more by visiting ccef15.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

Data centers are the latest hot topic in controversial developments for rural Illinois communities, and Thursday night, the DeWitt County Board was prepped for a pivotal decision that could come next month on the future of such development in DeWitt County.

The DeWitt County Board discussed the potential for a new data center ordinance following an inquiry from a developer. While the board confirmed in a previous month’s meeting that no such regulation is currently in place, Board Chair Joe Witte pointed out that they need to actively explore the path forward.

They are looking at how other counties have navigated these ordinances, specifically looking for best practices. The process of drafting such regulations requires a cautious approach to ensure the county is fully prepared.

Witte emphasized the need for specialized legal expertise to assist in this process, noting that if the County does not act proactively, individual developers could drive the process independently.

Technical considerations are also at the forefront of the debate, particularly regarding cooling systems. Tim  Earle, who is employed by Constellation Energy, explains that closed-loop cooling systems carry higher upfront costs, but they offer significantly greater water efficiency compared to alternative designs, which is a major environmental and infrastructure consideration for the county.

Beyond local planning, State-level legislation is also impacting the conversation. Board member Tom Ferris points out Senate Bill 4004, which proposes a prohibition on data center operations over the Mahomet Aquifer.

A central concern for members remains the long-term impact on the county's identity. Pat Ryan noted the current comprehensive plan heavily promotes the area’s rural character, and questions whether data center development on ag land aligns with that vision.

While no formal action was taken during Thursday's meeting, the Board plans to revisit the potential for a motion regarding a text amendment process at next month’s meeting.
 

The City of Clinton is looking ahead to a new fiscal year, with city leaders officially passing the FY26 budget, including several community-focused initiatives and investments.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, City Administrator Tony Harris told the Hart Media Group the budget ensures essential services are covered and the approved budget has specific line items for the "Block by Block" program, as well as the popular "Concerts on the Square" series.

While the plans for City-sponsored concerts this summer are not high-profile up and coming artists, the goal is to return to those kinds of acts in the years ahead, reviving the once very popular summer concert series to its former glory. Harris notes booking talent of this caliber requires long-term planning.

In addition to entertainment, the city is in the early stages of evaluating a new project that has been a common request from local residents: a community dog park. Harris and Mayor Helen Michelassi confirmed that discussions are currently underway regarding a potential location and the necessary safety requirements.

The City is launching a new property cleanup initiative -'Block by Block'. Mayor Michelassi is calling for volunteers to support residents who may need assistance with yard maintenance, such as trimming bushes or removing debris.

Mayor Michelassi emphasizes that this program relies heavily on community volunteers and will allow the city to assist residents in beautifying their properties.

The City approved the latest fiscal year budget at the Tuesday night Clinton City Council meeting.

The Clinton Tree Commission is hosting its annual Arbor Day celebration this Saturday. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, Edith Brady-Lunny with the Clinton Tree Commission told the Hart Media Group that the annual Arbor Day celebration is on Saturday at the Carol McFeeters Arboretum. 

The Clinton Tree Commission, over the years, has created five arboretum spaces throughout the community's east side. Brady-Lunny says planting a tree and dedicating it is an annual Arbor Day tradition. 

John Baker explains that they host a poster contest for the fifth graders of the Clinton school district as well. The top three winners' posters will be on display at the Arbor Day festivities, and they hope to recognize them on Saturday as well.

Weather permitting, the ceremony will be in the 1100 block of East Main Street on Saturday at 10:00 AM. The reception will follow immediately after in the Revere Room at the Warner Library. 
 

Spring cleaning in your home is something that comes to mind this time of year, but a local extension director is encouraging people to do the same with their health. 

Terri Casey with the University of Illinois Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties explains that Wednesday, April 29th, will be the kickoff session in a series titled "Taking Charge of Your Health." This program is aimed at inspiring people to begin or get back into habits for healthy living. 

While for most webinars, Casey says it is easy to come and go to sessions as you please, she notes that this one is a little different. They are recommending attending each session in the 6-week course because of the in-depth and whole-body theme of the series.  

The sessions will be led by experts from the University of Illinois Extension network, who will utilize scientific research-based studies. If you are unable to make one of the sessions, Miller still recommends signing up to receive all the resources that go with it. 

To learn more and register for the Taking Charge of Your Health series, visit extension.illinois.edu/lms.
 

A Piatt County Hospital wants patients to stay well at the same place they go for healthcare, and vice versa. 

Kirby Medical Center Chief Compliance Officer Andrew Buffenbarger explains that over the last 10 years, the organization has been focused on providing resources related to community wellness. From the on-site cross-fit gym to their aquatics program, they are committed to having a variety of ways that community members can stay well. 

While getting out and practicing strong wellness behaviors is great, Buffenbarger believes that educating people on how to do the exercises on their own and why they do them is equally important. They are also providing education to Piatt County students in the classroom. 

Buffenbarger states that these programs were started in 2016; they really grabbed hold of the community in 2023, forcing the medical center to expand those offerings. Since then, he says they have continued to grow and become more popular. 

If you're interested in learning more about the health and wellness offerings of Kirby Medical Center, visit kirbyhealth.org or find them on Facebook. 
 

The Clinton America 250 Committee has been working hard to assemble a weekend full of family-friendly events for the 4th of July. 

Kenny Atchison says they have been trying to find attractions and entertainment that will impress any and all age groups. From face painters to sword swallowers, to 5k races, there will be no shortage of things to do on the Clinton Square for America's 250th birthday. 

Bobbi Perryman notes that the goal for the Committee is to make everything free to the public, as the Fourth of July, especially this year, is a day you should not have to miss out on because it is unaffordable. 

The event is set to take place on the Clinton Square. Perryman states that with all that is being planned, the event will likely spill over into the surrounding downtown area. 

The America 250 Celebration in Clinton is slated for July 3rd through 5th. Learn more by finding the Clinton Celebrates America 250 Facebook page.
 

A new initiative in Lincoln is changing how the local police department approaches community crises. 

Known as the BRIDGE program, this effort aims to shift the focus from traditional enforcement to resource connection for individuals struggling with addiction, homelessness, and mental health challenges. Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister explains the fundamental concept of the program.

Chief Meister notes that since the program launched on February 24, it has seen significant activity, including more than 30 referrals and success stories regarding treatment, shelter, and even employment for those previously struggling on the streets.

According to Chief Meister, once a referral is made, a deflection specialist conducts a thorough needs assessment to determine the appropriate course of action, whether that involves inpatient treatment, outpatient services, or housing resources.

The non-punitive approach is designed to resolve underlying issues that lead to police calls, rather than simply addressing the symptoms through arrest. Additionally, the program relies on a streamlined referral system that connects individuals in need with specialized support rather than defaulting to police action alone.
 

The University of Illinois Extension is helping people plan for the future of their business or operation. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Extension Director in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, Terri Casey, told the Hart Media Group that on May 5th, they will be hosting the next installment in the free webinar series all about succession planning. This session will cover how a community can support the continuation of a business. 

A session in this series was hosted this morning, covering the opportunities that Co-ops can offer when it comes to succession planning. This can be a good option when finding it hard to locate a buyer with the capital necessary. 

If you missed that session, Casey indicates that they are archived on the Extension website. She adds that if you are unable to make future webinars that you are interested in, you should still register to be sent all of the helpful materials to be accessed later. 

Learn more and register for the free sessions of the Succession Planning Webinar Series and more at extension.illinois.edu/lms. 
 

The springtime is very busy for the Clinton Community Education Foundation, as they fundraise to support all the ways they help the Clinton School District.

CCEF Secretary Chris Shaffer explains that through things like their teacher grants program, scholarships for high school graduates, and reimbursement of dual credit courses, they supported the district with over $60,000 in the last year alone. 

Shaffer says a good year for the CCEF provides over $100,000 to the district. Much of that is raised through some of the upcoming fundraisers like Derby Day and CCEF Trivia Night, both hosted at the Clinton Eagle in the coming months. 

Fundraisers are not the non-profit's only source of funds. Shaffer gives credit to the forethought of previous CCEF boards to create invested endowments that supplement the organization's income. 

We'll have more from Shaffer in the days ahead on the upcoming Derby Day and Trivia Night fundraisers. In the meantime, learn more about the Clinton Community Education Foundation at ccef15.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

A local school board is on the verge of approving funding for an ongoing elementary facilities project.

Mt. Pulaski Schools Superintendent Jason Spang explains that the school board recently heard presentations from bidders regarding the renovations of the district's elementary school. He says they decided to go with Core Construction for the project, which they have utilized for previous work. 

The project will feature the addition of new classrooms and a new gym. Spang believes that there will not be much opposition due to the responsible fiscal approach they are taking. 

The construction of a new data center is on the horizon in Logan County, although nothing has been set in stone. Spang states that whether they reap the financial benefits from that project or not, this is a project they feel the district can handle. 

From breaking ground to completion, Spang expects this project to take around 15 months. He notes that there should be very little displacement of students during the school year. 

This project is among several renovations the district has been making, from athletic facilities to educational ones. Keep up with all the latest of Mt. Pulaski Schools by visiting mtpulaski.k12.il.us or by finding the district on Facebook.
 

The DeWitt County Animal Control has been caring for a few livestock animals recently, sparking discussions on the care of animals in need versus what County statutes allow. 

At Last Week's DeWitt County Public Safety Committee meeting, John Werts asked Animal Control Administrator Grace Moore about some chickens, ducks, and other livestock that they have been caring for recently, adding that caring for livestock is strictly prohibited in County ordinances. 

When it came to the horses being fed, Moore says they had the Illinois Department of Agriculture Involved. She notes that horses are protected under the Human Care for Animals Act. Committee Chair Megan Myers brought up that it can be difficult to turn away animals that are in need, no matter the species. 

Full Board Chair Joe Witte told the Hart Media Group that the ordinance regarding scenarios can be somewhat unclear; however, he affirms that the facilities are simply not suitable for handling chickens and other livestock.  

Witte adds that Animal Control has the authority to turn away animals. While he understands that many may have differing opinions on the matter, serving livestock could be a very slippery slope that the County is not equipped for. 

Much of the livestock in question is no longer, or will no longer be, in the care of the County. 
 

One of the hardest kinds of items to dispose of in day-to-day life is also becoming more common. 

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch explains that if you are a Logan County resident and have broken or obsolete technology piling up at home, this week is your opportunity to drop them off for free at the Lincoln Municipal Services Building. 

There are a few regulations that must be followed, such as maximums on certain large items like televisions. The Mayor adds that the event is exclusive to Logan County residents, and they will turn people away who do not respect that.

Visit lincolnil.gov or find the City on Facebook for more on Electronic Recycling in Lincoln.