DeWitt County, among other counties in central Illinois, was recently alerted to a backlog of missed updates to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte explains that he received a letter from the EPA stating that they had missed required updates since 2006 to a multi-county plan regarding solid waste management.

Now the County must pursue an engineering firm that could help them develop an update to the solid waste management plan to avoid fines from the EPA. Witte says if doing so would be cost-prohibitive, they could apply for an extension.

DeWitt County was not the only county in the area to receive this notice from the EPA.
 

A staple of the downtown Clinton business district is celebrating a milestone next week.

Peterson Insurance on the west side of Clinton Square is celebrating 60 years in business in the community. Owner Jay Peterson indicates the agency was started by his father and has acquired insurance offices across central Illinois.

The Peterson Insurance Agency is inviting the community out for its open house on Tuesday, August 4, from 10 am at its office on Main Street.
 

The rising popularity of electric and gas-powered bicycles across Lincoln is bringing increased scrutiny from local law enforcement as officers address traffic complaints and navigate new state regulations.

Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister explains his department regularly receives complaints regarding e-bikes and gas-assisted bicycles, particularly concerning operators cutting through parking lots, disregarding traffic signals, and riding on high-speed roadways like Woodlawn Road and Keokuk Street.

Chief Meister notes that while e-bikes historically required no licensing, newly enacted Illinois legislation is introducing stricter standards. Certain higher-speed or higher-wattage models now require a valid driver's license, with additional registration and insurance requirements set to roll out in future phases.

Regardless of vehicle classification or power source, the Chief emphasizes all riders are legally bound by standard rules of the road—including stopping at stop signs and wearing required eye protection on motorized or gas-powered cycles.

In response to nighttime activity, the Lincoln Police Department is actively stepping up night-shift enforcement. Chief Meister points out that city ordinance allows officers to impound bicycles for up to 30 days for equipment violations—such as riding without proper lighting—a tool being used to deter criminal activity and keep the community safe.

For more information on local traffic ordinances or bicycle safety guidelines, residents can contact the Lincoln Police Department.
 

The summer heat creates the perfect conditions for enjoying a frozen treat. 

As we get set to turn the page to August, Monica Nyman with the St. Louis District Dairy Council reminds that July is National Ice Cream Month. She says July has had this designation for over 40 years, and was created by President Ronald Reagan. 

While Nyman emphasizes that ice cream is a sugary dessert, and the serving size is only around a half cup, she says that it does have some calcium and protein because it is a dairy product. 

Nyman indicates that there is a type of ice cream for everyone, from pints to novelties, sugar-free, or frozen yogurt. Outside of the grocery store, there are even more options like gelato or frozen custard. 

We'll have more next week with Nyman on how you can make your ice cream and milkshakes healthier from the Hart Media Group. In the meantime, learn more by visiting stldairycouncil.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

As we roll into August, central Illinois crops could use one last rain event to carry them to the finish.

That's according to Reagen Tibbs, Commercial Ag Educator at the University of Illinois Extension in Logan, Menard and Sangamon Counties, who told the Hart Media Group on the WHOW Morning Show Thursday that things are starting to get a bit dry, although drought concerns seem to be isolated.

With the hot and humid conditions of July, Tibbs indicates there is starting to be some disease pressure showing up. 

According to Tibbs, producers are in a wait-and-see cycle as they look to the war in Iran and other macroeconomic factors as the growing season rolls on. He indicates commodity prices have been a rollercoaster this summer.

Tibbs is releasing a new blog post in the midst of the busy summer fair season in the next few days. Follow his writings at extension.illinois.ed/lms for more from him and other experts at the Extension. 
 

The McLean County Fair is celebrating a big milestone at the current fairgrounds on the west side of Bloomington. 

McLean County Farm Bureau Manager Anna Ziegler told the Hart Media Group from the Fairgrounds that, to celebrate 30 years of hosting the fair at their current location,  the Farm Bureau is investing $1 million over 3-years into repairs and improvements. 

Ziegler credits the Fair Board's careful stewardship of their funds, which allowed them to pursue the endeavor. She says they are looking for public input on what improvements the grounds could use. 

Ziegler says today at the fair is Pack the Bus day. If you bring along a donation of school supplies, you will get a discount on your admission. 

Once you've paid admission, Ziegler says there is plenty of free fun, including the Food & Farm fun zone, a kids' game show, and a butterfly exhibit. The main events for the weekend feature fair classics like live music and tractor pulls.

Find more information on the calendar of events and all ticket prices by visiting mcleancountyfair.org. 
 

The extreme heat and lack of rain of the last few weeks could be relieved as more seasonable temperatures and chances of precipitation return to the forecast.

Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service in Lincoln explains that daytime highs will hover around the mid 80s the rest of this week, with overnight lows around 60 degrees. 

Friday's rain chances are appearing to be widespread. Shimon says the rain should be steady, which could help alleviate the chances of reaching flash drought conditions in the area. 

After the forecasted storms of Monday missed us to the East, Shimon says Friday's rain likely won't be enough to pull us all the way out of any drought conditions. 

Get the latest severe weather updates, forecasts, and weather news by visiting weather.gov/Lincoln or by finding their Facebook page. 
 

Last week, area law enforcement agencies participated in Illinois Speed Awareness Day, bringing awareness to anti-speeding efforts and the dangers of speeding. 

Monticello Police Chief Rob Bross told the Hart Media Group that the purpose of Speed Awareness Day is not just to give police an opportunity to write tickets. It is to let drivers know that speeding and reckless driving can kill. 

Chief Bross often sees drivers coming into the community too quickly off of rural highways, especially after the speed limit on Bridge Street was lowered. He adds that speeding is even more of a problem in the community when school is in session, and students and their parents are walking to and from the buildings. 

A woman was recently struck by a car while utilizing a pedestrian crosswalk in Monticello. She survived; however, Chief Bross says it is avoidable accidents like this that happen all too often, and emphasizes that pedestrians always have the right of way. 

Alongside controlling your speed, Chief Bross urges drivers to remain alert while behind the wheel and to always wear a seatbelt. 
 

The DeWitt County IT & Compliance Ad Hoc Committee was formed around a 18 months ago, extended this past year, and it looks like it could even become permanent in the near future. 

DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte reminds that the Committee's purpose is to look internally at County ordinances to make sure they are in compliance with their own rules, as well as strengthen cybersecurity and general IT processes in the County. This included the hiring of Ethan Aughenbaugh as the County's IT Technician. 

Witte says early on this year, the Committee was focused on the Compliance side of their responsibilities, and now they are shifting their focus more towards IT. With the Committee's future set to be voted on in November, he says they are thinking about making it permanent. 

Witte says that while there will be further discussion on the future of the Committee, he has gotten great feedback from County employees, specifically regarding Aughenbaugh and his efforts. 

The DeWitt County IT & Compliance Committee is chaired by Pat Ryan and will have its next meeting on Thursday, August 13th at 4 PM. 
 

As the summer produce season starts to yield that much-anticipated summer produce, local experts are weighing in on making it last.

Caitlin Mellendorf is a nutrition educator at the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon and Piatt Counties. She says extending the shelf life of fresh produce begins at the market by selecting firm, blemish-free items before employing specific temperature management practices at home.

According to Mellendorf, common summer crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and sweet corn thrive best under distinct conditions, emphasizing that sweet corn should be consumed quickly before its natural sugars convert into starch.

To maintain peak freshness for produce stored in the refrigerator or on the counter, Mellendorf advises limiting three main environmental factors: exposure to excess air, direct heat, and fluctuating household temperatures.

For home cooks looking beyond fresh storage, Mellendorf highlights several alternative preservation methods—such as freezing, dehydrating, and fermenting—and reminds home canners that local Extension offices offer free pressure canner gauge testing.

Mellendorf stresses that following up-to-date, scientifically tested recipes is essential for food safety, noting that low-acid foods like green beans and sweet corn strictly require pressure canning rather than traditional water bath methods.

For tested preservation recipes, canning safety guidelines, or to find a local Extension expert on canning and food preservation, visit extension.illinois.edu.
 

The Piatt County Sheriff's Office is celebrating receiving a grant that will improve and even expand its communication.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Piatt County Sheriff Mark Vogelzang told the Hart Media Group that, thanks to a grant, they were able to purchase a year's subscription to a program called 'Tango Tango'.

The Piatt County Sheriff's Office was connected to the Heart of Illinois Prairie Community Foundation, and the Department's request for the $3000 subscription was approved.

According to Sheriff Vogelzang, the beauty of this program is that while it is internet-based, there is very little lag time in hearing the communication. Additionally, during a critical incident, they can grant access to any agency that would be involved in the response.

Sheriff Vogelzang reminds that the Department took on a major overhaul of its communication equipment that was finished last year, as Piatt County's emergency responses had battled issues in parts of the County over the years. 
 

At last week's City Council meeting, Clinton City Administrator Tony Harris announced the Residential Exterior Improvement Program. 

Harris told the Hart Media Group that the City has budgeted $50,000, enough for 10 grants. The grants will cover 75% of the cost up to $5,000 for landscaping, siding, window repairs, and other similar projects. 

Currently, this program is only for homes in TIF district IV, also known as the downtown district. Harris says this is only a pilot program for now, and they hope to expand it with the upcoming TIF district V. 

The City plans to use what they learn from this upcoming year of the program to develop it further in the future, including how much is budgeted for it. Harris emphasizes that the funds do not come from the City's general fund, but rather from the TIF program. 

Harris notes that while this program could pair well with the Block-by-Block program, its small service area at the moment limits how the two can work together, as Block-by-Block can service the entire City. He adds that with the Residential Exterior Improvement Program, the homeowners will be expected to hire the contractors. 

Economic development is a major driver of the beautification efforts in Clinton. Harris feels that it's about making a good first impression on visitors, potential residents, and potential manufacturers looking to come to the area. 

Harris strongly encourages those with questions to reach out to him or other relevant city officials. He adds that social media can often be a source of misinformation. 
 

Families in Blue Ridge Schools are going to be pleased to hear the Clinton YMCA is bringing its successful after-school program to the district for select dates this upcoming school year.

On the WHOW Morning Show Monday, Clinton YMCA Executive Director Rennie Cluver told the Hart Media Group they are going to offer Y-Zone in Blue Ridge Schools during a limited number of 1 pm early dismissal days during the upcoming school year.

For Cluver and the Y, the offering in Farmer City will look very similar to the programs in place in Clinton and Monticello. He hopes to find out if the demand in Farmer City will be significant enough to offer it full time in the years ahead.

According to Cluver, the Farmer City opportunity started with a phone call from Superintendent Ryan Peyton, who expressed interest in the Y offering something for the community's families during 1 pm dismissals.

Registration for the 2025-26 school year Y-Zone programs in Clinton, Monticello, and now Blue Ridge is open. Visit clintoncommymca.org for more information or find the Y on Facebook. 

An intense heat wave will overtake the Midwest today, but it will be short-lived.

That's according to Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln, who on the WHOW Morning Show told the Hart Media Group a cold front will roll through this afternoon, and that should move the heat out of the area.

A storm path that was projected to run through parts of central Illinois Monday afternoon has now shifted east. Regardless, Shimon indicates things will become more seasonable the remainder of the week.

Temperatures will drop into the 80s the remainder of the week as we close out July. Shimon indicates Friday is our next best chance to see some precipitation in Illinois. 

As we get set to wrap up July, a flash drought is starting to emerge in the area. We'll have more on that with Shimon in the days ahead at the Hart Media Group.

Earlier this month, the Clinton Board of Education approved the hiring of Chuck Nagel, a former educator in the district, to be the interim superintendent.

As Nagel takes over the reins of the district, some major transitions are underway, including but not limited to finding a new administrative team at the high school and two elementary school buildings being restructured this summer. Nagel admits there's a lot of information to be gathered as the new school year approaches in a few weeks.

The Board of Education will be seeking a new Board member after last week's announcement of the resignation of John Heinlen. Nagel indicates there are many challenges they are planning to face head-on.

Among the challenges facing the district are poor test scores. For Nagel, whether they can improve those scores in a year or not, it will require a team effort to improve them. 

Nagel calls Clinton 'home' and is looking forward to getting reacquainted with it again.

Nagel comes to Clinton after the Board of Education and previous superintendent Drew Goebel agreed to part ways. Nagel was an educator and coach in the district for nearly 15 years before moving on to administrative positions in the Peoria area. 
 

Whether you are the student or the parent, paying off loans for tuition can be a very tall mountain to climb. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Bank urges parents and students to do the research and come up with a plan on what kind of loans they qualify for, and which ones are smart to take out. 

As always, Miller says having a plan is the first step. In this case, she emphasizes that the plan should be for the student's entire college career to avoid having to stop going for financial reasons. 

The Trump Administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill" has changed the way that federal student loan payments are made. Miller notes that those who have automatic payments on get a 1% lower interest rate, which can make a big impact. 

At the end of the day, Miller says paying off your loans as fast as possible is the best option to avoid paying more over time due to interest rates. She compares student loans to handcuffs for young people entering the world. 

Miller notes that there are even some online university options that allow unlimited courses for a certain period for a fee, allowing you to graduate faster for cheaper. 
 

Many individuals seeking information from Social Security can likely save themselves time driving to an office or waiting on hold on the phone by visiting the Social Security website.

The most-asked questions are featured at the top and include topics such as how to get help from Social Security, Yearly cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), or what to do if you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from SSA. Jack Myers with Social Security indicates other common things people need are information for scheduling, rescheduling, or canceling an appointment and working while receiving Social Security retirement benefits. 

Additionally, Myers says you can also browse by topic. Topics like disability, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), retirement, and Medicare are also available online.

You can also have these things sent to you via e-mail. Look for “Order” and then e-mail when you get to the publications page.  Be sure to list the publication number and title along with the quantity you want and your mailing address in the e-mail. 
 

The University Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties is hosting an opportunity for students and their furry friends to show off their skills. 

Extension Director Terri Casey explains that this Sunday at Kinner's on 97 in Pleasant Plains, the Logan, Menard, Sangamon Dog Show will take place from 10 AM to noon. 

Miller adds that this is another example of the wide variety of projects and interest areas offered by the Extension. Learn more by going to extension.illinois.edu/lms or by finding them on Facebook. 

The Clinton Board of Education last week approved a familiar face for its interim superintendent role.

Chuck Nagel returns to Clinton. The longtime educator and coach is beloved in Clinton and will lead the district as it seeks a permanent leader. In the meantime, Nagel says it is good to be back in Clinton, calling it 'home'.

After his time in Clinton, Nagel moved on to leadership positions in the Peoria area, and since his retirement, he worked for the company selling turf for several central Illinois districts' sports facilities as well as local government boards.

The need for an interim superintendent in Clinton comes after the Board of Education and previous superintendent Drew Goebel agreed to part ways.

Nagel comes to Clinton at a time of great transition. The district will need to fill a vacancy on the School Board; they will be hiring a principal and assistant principal at the high school, as well as a negotiation year for the union.

We'll have more from Nagel next week at the Hart Media Group on these challenges facing Clinton schools.

The City of Clinton has two more entries to its Summer Concert Series tonight and next week. 

Tony Harris, Clinton City Administrator, says that tonight at 7 PM on the Mr. Lincoln Stage, the community can hear the Rolling Stones Tribute band, The Voodoo Exiles. He reminds that the Square will be closed to motorized traffic during the event. 

At Tuesday's City Council Meeting, Harris highlighted next week's concert, which will be Boogie Republic also at 7 PM on the Square. 

Keep up with the latest updates and events from the City of Clinton by finding them on Facebook. 
 

DeWitt County has been discussing whether or not to take ownership of emergency sirens that are set to be decommissioned by Constellation Clean Energy. 

At Thursday night's DeWitt County Board Meeting, Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Will Paveleck provided the board with additional information and updated numbers regarding the 40 sirens that are available to be taken over. 

The board voted no to taking over the 40 sirens in 2022; however, after discussions with State's Attorney Dan Markwell, Paveleck believes a change in language would allow the board to take over fewer of them. He feels that around 10 sirens for areas with bad cell service in the County would be appropriate. 

The board has time to come to a decision, as the sirens are not set to be decommissioned until the end of 2027 or the beginning of 2028. This is due to delays in plan approvals in the State and Federal emergency management agencies. 

Paveleck reminds that the primary source of alert for nuclear emergencies at the power plant will be through a system called IPAWS. Constellation pays for the backup service, which is called Everbridge, and both of these methods notify you through your phone. 

Board Chair Joe Witte thanked Paveleck for the update, and noted that there will be further discussions on the topic in future Public Safety Committee meetings.
 

A staple of the Clinton business community is celebrating a special milestone this year.

On the WHOW Morning Show, Jay Peterson, owner of the Peterson Insurance agency in Clinton, says his father started the business 60 years ago on South Center Street before moving to their current location on Main Street.

According to Peterson, to meet the demand of a lot of companies they contract with, expansion started to become a necessity for them to continue to be viable as an independent agency.

The Peterson Insurance Agency is celebrating its 60th anniversary with an open house on Tuesday, August 4, from 10 am to 3 pm at its office on Main Street, on Clinton Square.

We'll hear more from Peterson leading up to the open house in the weeks ahead at the Hart Media Group. 
 

The Clinton CUSD #15 is seeking candidates for a Board of Education appointment to fill a vacancy created by the July 30th, 2026, resignation of John Heinlen. 

Board President Pro-Tempore Tammie Ennis expresses gratitude on behalf of the Board for Heinlen's dedication to the community and thanks him for his years of service to the students, staff, and residents as a member of the Clinton CUSD #15 Board of Education. 

This appointment will be until the 2027 election. The Board has 60 days to fill the Board vacancy. 

At a minimum, applicants for the School Board position must be a United States citizen, at least 18 years of age, and a resident of Illinois and the district for at least one year immediately preceding the appointment.

Applicants must also not have been convicted of a sexual crime against children, not hold an incompatible public office, not have a prohibited interest in any contract with the district, and not hold certain types of prohibited State or federal employment. 

Qualified candidates may email a resume to Tennis@cusd15.org or drop it off at the District Office located at 1210 State Route 54 West, Clinton, IL 61727. All materials should be placed in a sealed envelope, attention: School Board. 

A resume and letter of interest must be turned in by 4 PM on August 14th, 2026.

We'll have more from the Hart Media Group in the days ahead from the District and Interim Superintendent Chuck Nagel during this season of transition.
 

Listeners tuning in to WHOW 1520 AM may notice a weaker signal or static today as technical crews work to resolve an unexpected issue at the transmitter site.

The WHOW-AM transmitter is currently operating at reduced power due to a technical issue, which is temporarily limiting the station's normal broadcast reach across central Illinois. Station management and staff is working to diagnose and fix the problem as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, listeners experiencing issues on 1520 AM can continue to hear full, uninterrupted coverage by tuning in to 92.3 FM in DeWitt County or 106.5 FM in Bloomington/Normal. Full broadcasts are also streaming live at dewittdailynews.com and on the WHOW mobile app.

Further updates will be provided as soon as the transmitter is restored to full power.
 

The search for a new City Hall, Police Station, and Fire Station in Clinton has been a slow one. 

After the City missed the end-of-June deadline set by Mayor Helen Michelassi to name locations for all three facilities, City Administrator Tony Harris told the Hart Media Group on the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday that they continue to be in the early stages of finding property. 

Harris emphasizes that despite online speculation, the City has not made any decisions on a location, nor are they withholding information from the public. He notes that at times conversations with landowners must be kept private in the interest of the owner. 

The City is taking its time with this progress to ensure the longevity of the buildings. Harris reminds that being centralized while also spacious is crucial for the Police and Fire stations. He adds that the Council is committed to doing all three buildings, although it may not be all at once. 

We'll have more with Harris in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group on upcoming concerts on the Clinton Square, as well as more details on the recently announced Residential Exterior Improvement Program.
 

One of the most important traditions in fairs across the country is taking place tonight in Farmer City. 

Shaila Clifton, Queen Pageant Director for the Farmer City Fair, indicates that tonight the most participants they've had in years will compete in three different classes in the Fair Queen Pageant.

Earlier today, participants went through an interview process. Clifton says this can be daunting for the girls, but it is largely questions about themselves and an opportunity to brag about yourself to the judges. 

The responsibilities of the fair queen are not over after she wins; in fact, they are just getting started as the winners travel around the fair throughout the weekend and participate in events. 

To learn more about all the happenings of the fair this weekend in Farmer City, visit farmercityfair.com or find the Farmer City & DeWitt County Fair on Facebook. 
 

New state legislation in Springfield is aiming to make crisis support more accessible across Illinois by requiring public institutions to prominently display information for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Senate Bill 2771—known as Tammurra's Act—which amends state law to ensure 988 contact info is posted in high-traffic public locations. Tony Kirkman, Executive Director of the Piatt County Mental Health Center, explains county shelters, public libraries, schools, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities are now required to display easily viewable materials detailing the 24/7 crisis service.

Kirkman emphasizes increasing the visibility of the 988 Lifeline in community spaces helps break down barriers for individuals experiencing severe depression or despair, ensuring they know trained professionals are always available to help.

For rural communities in Piatt and DeWitt counties, Kirkman notes that 24/7 phone, text, and telehealth options are vital tools for overcoming common local barriers to care, such as limited transportation or conflicting work hours.

For more information on local mental health resources and support services, contact the Piatt County Mental Health Center or dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
 

On top of the recent launch of the Block-by-Block program in Clinton, the City is offering another way to aid in keeping your property beautiful. 

At the Tuesday Night Clinton City Council Meeting, City Administrator Tony Harris shared a project called the TIF District IV Residential Exterior Improvement Program. This will provide one-time grants to residential property owners within the downtown TIF district, and Harris believes it is just the start, as they hope to implement this program with the upcoming TIF District V. 

Harris feels that this program goes hand in hand with the Block-by-Block program that has recently been rolled out in Clinton. Some items that would be eligible for reimbursement include things like siding and window repairs, landscaping, or driveway repairs. 

The City currently has around $50,000 budgeted for the program, which Harris expects will cover a grant for 10 different homes. He noted that reimbursement covers 75% of approved costs up to $5,000. 

Also at the meeting, Mayor Helen Michelassi highlighted that a handful of people have stepped up to replace the seat of the late Tom Edmunds on the City Council. Anyone still interested in that must reach out to City Clerk Kamren Wilford by the end of the day today. 

For those who would like to take advantage of the Exterior Improvement Plan, Harris urges you to read the application form carefully and adhere to each of the specific requirements of the program. He adds that City staff is available to answer questions at 217-935-9438.
 

Heartland Bank has announced that ground will be broken on its new full-service branch facility behind the current Clinton Square location on August 21st, 2026, with expectations of the branch opening in the summer of 2027. 

To safely accommodate construction, the existing drive-up lanes will permanently close on August 21, 2026, and will be demolished. The branch lobby will remain open and will not be impacted during construction. 

During construction, customers may continue to use the ATM and night deposit at this location, as well as digital banking options such as online and mobile banking.

For Safe Deposit Box customers: the new branch will include safe deposit box services. Closer to opening, current safe deposit box holders will be contacted separately by phone, and a Heartland Bank team member will provide details regarding safe deposit box options, timing, and next steps.  

Leadership says the new branch will provide a more modern, efficient, and comfortable banking experience, including drive-up services. They express their gratitude for the patience and understanding of the community during the construction process, and they look forward to welcoming the community to the completed branch. 
 

The University of Illinois Extension is constantly hosting a variety of webinars to provide up-to-date information to local people who need it. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Terri Casey, Director of the University of Illinois Extension in Logan, Menard, and Sangamon Counties, told the Hart Media Group that they will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday from noon to 1 PM all about GLP-1s like Ozempic and their side effects. 

Lawn care is top of mind for homeowners this time of year, and the Extension is providing an opportunity to hear from experts on making your lawn beautiful and keeping it that way without the hassle. This webinar takes place on July 28th from 1:30 to 2:30 PM. 

Miller indicates that those with an interest in local ecosystems should take note of the Grass Identification Webinar Series. These sessions are from 1 to 3 PM and take place on July 28th, 29th, and 30th, and will cover the native grasses that can be found in local biomes. 

Miller recommends registering for any of their webinars that you're interested in, even if you can't attend, so you can still be sent the useful resources that go with it. Learn more by visiting extension.illinois.edu/lms.
 

The DeWitt County Museum has been hosting America 250 events all year long, and they are looking back at a busy June as they turn the page to the rest of the year. 

Joey Long, Executive Director of the CH Moore Homestead, says that while they are hosting at least one America 250-related event each month, during June they hosted three big ones. The first of which was a book signing by author Maureen Holtz for her book "Images of America: DeWitt County."

A highlight for many museumgoers each year is the month-long Quilt Show. Long indicates that they put an America 250 spin on the event and saw fantastic participation and quality of quilts. 

Central Illinoisans love to show off their classic cars, and Long says that was especially true at the Museum Car Show last month. 

There's more America 250 fun to be had this year at the Homestead. Keep it to the Hart Media Group as we approach August to hear more about what's going on, or visit chmoorehomestead.org and their Facebook page. 
 

A local financial advisor is urging students to start saving for college as early as possible. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Banks says saving for college starts too late all too often, which can force students to put themselves into years of debt. She adds that good communication with your child on tuition expectations is important. 

Pursuing scholarships and financial aid is a crucial step in the college search. Miller encourages parents to be realistic with their students and say no if they want to make a decision that could be fiscally irresponsible. 

Going into careers that are in demand can help ensure competitive wages as well as job security. Miller notes that this could mean pursuing a certification or apprenticeship over a college degree. 

Miller says there are ways to go to college without going into debt, but we'll have more with her in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group on strategies to use if you do take out student loans. 
 

Last week, the Clinton School Board announced the Hiring of Chuck Nagel as the interim Superintendent. 

Board Member Chris Hammer told the Hart Media Group that now that an interim has been hired, they are beginning the search for a permanent Superintendent to fill the role. He says the board is not limiting itself to searching internally or externally exclusively. 

Nagel and the future superintendent will be coming into the district during a season of transition. From new elementary administrators and the elementary restructuring to upcoming contract negotiations, the district is in need of a strong leader. 

The 2026-27 School year will be the last for retiring high school principal Jerry Wayne and assistant principal Bob Svencner, and Hammer indicates that they plan to take a similar approach for that hunt. 

Nagel has years of teaching and administrative experience, including in the Clinton School District. 

Keep up with all the latest from Clinton Schools by finding them on Facebook or by visiting cusd15.org. 
 

E-bikes are surging in popularity on the streets of communities across the country as a way for legal transportation for those who are identification-challenged or for those who are seeking a cheaper source of transportation.  

But as e-bikes gain more popularity across the country, the attention to the rules of the road is causing a disturbance on busy community roads. Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers explains that while e-bikes do not require a driver's license, operators are legally obligated to obey the flow of traffic, ride on the far right side of the roadway, and use proper hand signals.

Chief Lowers points out his department has received a steady stream of complaints regarding e-bikes weaving through intersections and darting through parking lots. In response, they will be ramping up traffic enforcement around e-bikes to prevent a serious accident from occurring.

The Chief reminds the public that e-bikes are prohibited from being ridden on city sidewalks due to the danger they pose to pedestrians. He urges both youth and adult riders to practice defensive driving habits.

Because e-bikes operate virtually silently compared to motorcycles, Chief Lowers stresses that riders must remain highly visible and cautious, as larger vehicles are often not conditioned to spot them at intersections.

Several law enforcement officials in central Illinois have talked recently with the Hart Media Group about this growing trend in their communities and how they are addressing it.
 

After a wet start to July and then a massive heatwave, things might moderate going forward.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service indicates the precipitation outlook is not showing any above-normal chances for rainfall for the rest of the month.

Daylight begins to slightly diminish later in July, while average temperatures remain pretty steady throughout the month.

Getting past August, Shimon says there is not much indicating we could be headed for a flash drought as the harvest season soon approaches. Additionally, the temperature signal for August through October is showing below normal - a rarity.

Visit weather.gov/Lincoln for the latest in forecasts, weather data, and outlooks. 
 

Losing a parent is one of the most difficult experiences a child can face.

Along with the emotional challenges, families often must navigate new financial realities. Jack Myers with Social Security says that what you may not realize is that Social Security can help support children through monthly survivor benefits.

If a parent worked and paid into Social Security, their surviving children should be eligible for monthly survivor benefits. In order to qualify, the surviving child must be unmarried and under the age of 18; unmarried and under the age of 19 but still a full-time high school student; or unmarried and disabled before age 22.  

To learn more about these benefits, visit www.ssa.gov/survivor or go to the publications section and look for 'Benefits for Children'.  
 

The CH Moore Homestead is inviting the community out to have as much ice cream as they care to enjoy. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, CH Moore Homestead Executive Director Joey Long told the Hart Media Group that this Sunday from 2 to 5 PM, they will be hosting the "Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social," which will feature live music from the duo Peaches & Bacon, horse-drawn carriage rides, and of course, free ice cream. 

If rain does not permit gathering on the front lawn of the Homestead, the event will be moved to the carriage barn. Learn more about the event at chmoorehomestead.org or by finding them on Facebook.

More housing is needed for DeWitt County communities to ensure they have the living space to bring in new residents and growth. 

Executive Director of the DeWitt County Development Council, Curt Homann, told the Hart Media Group that more rental units as well as single-family homes are coming to communities like Clinton and Farmer City. 

Homann attributes the national need for more housing to the ever-increasing costs of construction and other expenditures that come with being a homeowner. 

Housing development has been a long-standing discussion at the city and county levels of local government in the area. 
 

After the departure of Drew Goebel as Superintendent of the Clinton School District, the School Board has announced his temporary replacement. 

Board Member Chris Hammer told the Hart Media Group that many community members may remember Chuck Nagel as a teacher or coach, and now he is stepping into the role of Clinton Schools' Interim Superintendent. 

Hammer says the Board did their due diligence when it came to the hunt for an interim; however, it was Nagel's experience and glowing reviews from others that set him apart. 

Nagel joins the district in a very busy state as new administrators take the helm through the elementary restructuring. 

We'll have more next week with Hammer from the Hart Media Group on how Nagel will lead the district through these projects, and how they will take up the search for a permanent superintendent. 
 

DeWitt County has long been discussing the agreements made with municipalities for animal control services, and how they could better assist with that department's budget. 

At Thursday night's DeWitt County Public Safety Committee meeting, Chair Megan Myers had the goal of brainstorming how they can create a pay scale for municipalities that incorporates the number of calls that come up in that area and the services that the municipality desires. 

Robb Walters brought up the idea of charging municipalities at the end of each year based on the activity in that area. Sheriff Mike Walker noted that it would be a similar system to how they do things. 

County Administrator Dee Dee Rentmeister brought up that the County is technically only on the hook for calls that are in unincorporated land, and that Animal Control is currently providing more services than required to municipalities. 

With the City of Clinton taking up around 50% of the animal control calls in the County, the Committee plans to start by finding out how much is budgeted by the City for the service from its taxpayers. They hope to get a baseline of what the total cost is and what all of the needs are. 

John Werts emphasized that he feels residents without pets should not be subsidizing animal control services for those who own pets and do so irresponsibly. He noted it's an unfair cost to the large senior population, many of whom are on a fixed income.
 

Electric bicycles are bringing a new convenience to some central Illinoisans, but local law enforcement is raising concerns over how they are being operated on public roadways.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates low-speed e-bikes have transformed from the homemade motored bikes of a decade ago into a massive, highly commercialized trend that has quickly become a top source of public feedback.

Chief Lowers outlined the three distinct legal classifications of e-bikes under Illinois law, noting that while standard models cap motorized assistance between 20 and 28 miles per hour, none of them require a valid driver's license.

Because e-bikes are legally exempted from standard motor vehicle registration, they have surged in popularity among minors and individuals without standard driving privileges. However, Chief Lowers stresses that the primary hazard stems from operators who lack basic training on standard rules of the road.

Next week at the Hart Media Group, Chief Lowers will outline several more concerns around public safety and e-bikes, as well as note the enforcement efforts of his officers to help keep those who use these modes of transportation safe. 
 

The concept of credit scores can be a very confusing one, but it is very important to have and understand. 

Connie Miller with the DeWitt Savings Bank explains that your credit score is crucial for making large purchases like a home, apartment, or car, or for securing loans. She says the best way to increase that number is to simply pay your bills on time. 

Another big portion of your credit score has to do with available balance. Miller recommends only spending up to 30% of your total credit limit to ensure your credit score doesn't decrease. 

Credit history is also important, which is why it can be a good idea to get a credit card early in life, as long as you can be trusted with it. A long credit history provides a record of your on-time payments and good habits for lenders. 

Credit scores will come into play for college students and possibly their parents who are looking to take out student loans for the upcoming school year. We'll have more with Miller on that in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group. 
 

A local non-profit is making an impact on social isolation in seniors by creating fellowship opportunities for them to have alongside a healthy meal.

Shelly Tolley with OSF Peace Meal explains that their restaurant program consists of a specialized menu with affordable prices for seniors who are 60 and up at local establishments. 

Locally, tickets can be purchased in Clinton or Farmer City; however, Tolly announces that there is now a new location in Heyworth. Soon, they will be rolling out a keycard program and getting rid of the paper tickets. 

Monthly, each senior can purchase a booklet of 5 tickets for $20. They are limiting the number of tickets that can be purchased at a time to ensure they are not bought in bulk by a single person or group of a few people. 

To learn more about the Restaurant program or the home-delivered meals offered by OSF Peace Meal, visit OSFhealthcare.org.
 

A central Illinois nutrition educator is offering some tips and knowledge about a sweeping domestic outbreak of a diarrhea-causing parasite - Cyclospora - in fresh produce.

On the WHOW Morning Show, Caitlin Mellendorf, a University of Illinois Extension Nutrition Educator in DeWitt, Macon and Piatt Counties, told the Hart Media Group the ongoing Cyclospora outbreak has been heavily concentrated in Michigan and other northeastern states, and Illinois has seen a very low number of reported cases so far.

Mellendorf explains foodborne outbreaks are generally triggered when at least two connected cases are linked back to a shared food source. While a definitive company or product source has not yet been named nationally, fresh produce—such as pre-washed, bagged lettuce—is often a common culprit for carrying the parasite.

To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, Mellendorf recommends opting for whole heads of lettuce instead of bagged salad mixes, discarding the outer layers of leaves, and thoroughly washing produce under clean, running water.

Unlike bacterial infections, parasitic illnesses like cyclosporiasis actively target the gut and cause severe, watery, and sometimes explosive diarrhea that can last for weeks if untreated. Mellendorf strongly advises anyone experiencing repeated gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical care immediately to avoid extreme dehydration.

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by a microscopic, single-cell parasite. It is a distinctly seasonal pathogen. In the United States, case counts predictably surge during the warm spring and summer months, with "Cyclospora season" officially tracking from May through August.

As high heat indices grip central Illinois, weather officials are warning residents not to wait for formal advisories before taking precautions against dangerous heat-related illnesses.

Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service in Lincoln explains that while specific heat index thresholds trigger advisories and warnings, multiple consecutive days of elevated heat create a cumulative toll on the body that can lead to severe heat exhaustion.

Shimon emphasized that waiting to feel thirsty is often a sign that dehydration has already set in. He urges everyone to stay ahead of the heat by continuously drinking water, taking frequent breaks in air conditioning, and recognizing the critical warning signs—such as an end to sweating—before heat exhaustion escalates to a life-threatening heat stroke.

For the latest weather alerts, hourly forecasts, and heat safety resources, visit weather.gov/Lincoln.
 

Two hotel studies were recently performed in DeWitt County to see if two of its communities could be a fit for new development. 

DeWitt County Development Council Executive Director Curt Homann told the Hart Media Group that a need for additional hotels was seen largely because of the new manufacturers in Clinton. He says initial feedback for the ongoing hotel studies is positive. 

Homann explains that manufacturers that are moving to Clinton alerted him to the need, especially as they bring in visitors who are forced to find lodging in nearby Bloomington or Decatur. This takes money out of the local economy. In Farmer City, it is the proximity to I-74 that makes it desirable for hotel investors. 

Homann notes that if it were not for the potential investors he has already been in contact with, they would be further along in the process; however, he wants those interested parties to help make decisions on where their money will go. 

New hotels would bring temporary construction jobs, as well as permanent hospitality jobs, to the communities. It would also bring tax revenue into the County.

When the study is complete, Homann expects a 150- to 200-page result that will provide further details on the number of rooms, specific locations, and which reputable hotel chains could thrive in the area. 
 

Earlier this month, months of hard work paid off for a group of Clinton volunteers who worked tirelessly to put on a three-day Fourth of July celebration to celebrate 250 years of the United States.

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Bobbi Perryman and Kenny Atchison told the Hart Media Group that it was great to see the community come out and support their months of hard work for the three-day celebration.

Thanks to the success of the 250th celebration and the volunteerism and community pride shown by all the volunteers, the committee is going to continue on, and Perryman indicates they are going to be known as 'Clinton Spark'.

According to Atchison and Perryman, the committee is looking for volunteers for its next venture - likely a celebration of Halloween in October.

Clinton Spark is taking a break from planning for July but will resume in August. Perryman points anyone interested in volunteering to the Clinton Celebrates America 250th Facebook page. She notes they are working to get Facebook to change its name to match its rebrand. 
 

Baum Chevrolet Buick in Clinton has announced the beneficiary for the 2026 annual “Scott’s Charity Car Show,” scheduled for Sept. 27 in Clinton. 

The DeWitt County 4-H Fair Association will be the non-profit that Baum and his team raise money for this September during the Apple n' Pork Festival weekend.

The 4-H Fair Association is currently raising money for an 80’ x 160’ awning to cover the fairgrounds’ existing horseback riding arena. The covered area will house poultry and rabbit projects during the fair, allowing those exhibitors to showcase their animals for the duration of the fair. It will also serve as a covered riding space during horse shows. 

Located at the 4-H Fairgrounds located on Business 51 in Clinton, the grounds host the annual DeWitt, Macon & Piatt County 4-H Fair, as well as a variety of open and youth livestock and horse shows.  

The arena covering project has been a goal of the fair board since the early 2000s. The project is 
special to the Baum family, as Stephen Baum was involved in maintaining the grounds and was 
volunteering in the arena to be covered when he passed away suddenly in April 2003.  

The fair board members are working to raise the last $80,000 of the $200,000 project, with plans for the structure to be completed this fall.  

Organizers expect another strong turnout for the car show, which brought out more than 250 vehicles during last year’s show. 

The show will be held on the dealership grounds, located at 810 W. Van Buren, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and an opening ceremony will be held at 12 noon. Awards will be presented at 2:30 p.m. There are car and truck classes, street rod, Jeep, Corvette, and miscellaneous classes.  

Registration for the event is $15 per vehicle, and there is no admission fee for spectators. Food will be available on the dealership grounds. A free shuttle to the DeWitt County C.H. Moore Museum’s Apple and Pork Festival and festival-related activities is also provided. 

In addition to the show, fundraising activities include a raffle for a 1959 Metropolitan restored as a Chicago taxi and a meat/freezer bundle. Tickets are $10 for 1 or $100 for 11 and can be purchased in advance at Baum Chevrolet Buick and Baum Chrysler Jeep in Clinton and Baum Motor Company in Farmer City. 
 

The DeWitt County Museum Association is inviting the public to its “old-fashioned ice cream social,” which will take place the afternoon of Sunday, July 19th, from 2-5 pm at the C.H. Moore Homestead & DeWitt County Museum, located at 219 E. Woodlawn in Clinton. This is a free event, courtesy of the DeWitt County Museum Association and the generosity of America 250 at the Homestead: Celebrating 250 Years of American History sponsors.

The community is cordially invited to join them for all the free ice cream and baked goods they care to eat, as well as ice-cold lemonade and tea, musical entertainment by renowned old-time fiddle and banjo duo "Peaches & Bacon," and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Free parking will be available in the lot directly across from the museum, the corner of Monroe and Woodlawn Streets, the corner of Woodlawn and Center Streets, and the grassy field just north of the museum's red covered bridge.

Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets if preferred. The museum will also provide bench seating.

For safety and sanitary reasons, no pets will be allowed on the museum grounds during the event.

The gathering will take place on the museum's shaded front lawn. This is a rain-or-shine event that will be moved to the museum’s carriage barn in the case of rain.

For more information about this or any of the museum’s other America 250 at the Homestead events, call 217-935-6066, visit chmoorehomestead.org, or find us on Facebook at C.H. Moore Homestead & DeWitt County Museum. America 250 at the Homestead events will be taking place each month throughout the year.
 

The dog days of summer are officially upon us as we battle more heat in central Illinois this week.

On the WHOW Morning Show on Monday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates highs will persist around 90 degrees with overnight lows not cooling down very much.

With the summer growing season in full effect, the humidity is spiked thanks to the corn fields. Shimon says a dome of heat is setting up over the Midwest for the next few weeks, with minimal chances of rain until the weekend.

Later this week, we could see some heat advisories being issued by the Weather Service. We'll have more on the various advisories and what they mean for the public later this week on Regional Radio.

The Clinton Board of Education has parted ways with Superintendent Drew Goebel. 

At a special meeting Monday morning, the Board approved a separation agreement with Goebel, who will be placed on administrative leave for the remainder of the 2026-27 school year.

In a statement to the public Monday, the Board indicated Goebel will remain on administrative leave for the remainder of the current school year, which began on July 1 - noting both parties decided it was in the best interest to pursue different paths forward. 

Goebel joined Clinton Schools in 2011 as the Assistant Principal of Clinton Junior High School and was on staff for 15 years in the capacity of Principal of Clinton Junior High School, CFO, and finally as Superintendent. 

No indication was made as to who would lead the district going forward. 

Goebel declined to comment to the Hart Media Group.

The Hart Media Group also reached out to representatives of the Board of Education for further comment but did not hear back at the time of this story.

ILSportsWire, a branch of the Hart Media Group, saw tremendous growth and this fall, more growth is expected.

Matt Hart, owner of the Hart Media Group, indicates there was huge demand for the product they started putting out during the high school football season last fall, and since then, ILSportsWire has only grown.

A video of a Monticello girl's basketball game from February has gone viral. Hart (right) indicates while that is great, it's the ability to bring the action to people wherever they are that has made their platform so valuable.

Looking ahead to the fall, ILSportsWire is expanding from five high schools to ten high schools they will follow. Hart says no matter where they go, there is incredible popularity for what they're doing.

Follow ILSportsWire on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok and visit ilsportswire.com.

Navigating coparenting after leaving an abusive relationship presents unique challenges, and a central Illinois advocate says there is a lot to navigate for the victims of those relationships.  

Andrea Kocher, Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County, explains while joint coparenting is a healthy goal in standard breakups, applying that same expectation to domestic violence survivors often exposes them to continued abuse.

According to Kocher (right), Illinois law takes domestic violence in the presence of children very seriously, recognizing that kids absorb the hostility even if parents try to hide it.

Because domestic abuse centers on power and control, former partners frequently use ongoing communication regarding children as a way to maintain that control long after the relationship has ended.

To safeguard survivors and children, Willow Tree Missions helps families establish detailed safety plans, including using specialized court-monitored communication apps to keep interactions strictly focused on the children.

In addition to digital tools, Kocher emphasizes the importance of structuring safe transfer protocols—ranging from public meetups to law enforcement-chaperoned drop-offs—to limit direct contact between parties.

For more information on safety planning or support services in Piatt County, visit willowtreemissions.org.

Social Security number and card-related issues are the most common reason people visit Social Security offices, and depending on what you need to do - and in some cases, where - you may be able to complete your transaction online, or you may need to visit an office.  

Jack Myers with Social Security is reminding, if you need to visit an office, it is likely because Social Security needs to see documents. If that is the case, you need to know that they cannot accept photocopies of documents needed for Social Security card-related business.  

If you must visit an office, it is recommended that you make an appointment. Myers explains you can find out on the Social Security number and card page www.ssa.gov/number-card. Once there, the website will ask you a few questions to determine what you are trying to accomplish.

According to Myers, if you just need a replacement card for yourself, you are age 18 or older and don’t need to change any info, they can typically process those requests online without a visit to an office as long as you have a State ID or driver's license.

If you’ve gotten married and chose to change your name, you must update your name on your Social Security card. Myers adds in some states - not IL - Social Security can verify the proof of marriage electronically and process the application to do so online. 

Once again, that website is www.ssa.gov/number-card.

We're less than two months out from the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa and the demo plots are rounding into shape, says the show’s Matt Jungmann.

If you’re planning a trip to Boone Sept. 1-3, Jungmann advises downloading the Farm Progress Show app for your mobile device.

An Illinois Congressman continues to support year-round E15.

Eric Sorensen serves on the House Agriculture Committee and represents the 17th Congressional District

According to Sorensen, the policy change would increase corn demand by 2 billion bushels.

Ground has been broken in Decatur on land for a new place for seniors to socialize and recreate. 

Ken Frye with the Decatur Park District indicates that plans for a new senior center feature things from pickleball to game tables to workout equipment. He says the huge facility will be the perfect place for seniors to socialize and stay active.

Frye says construction recently began on the project, with hopes of its completion by the summer of 2027. He hopes that the effort will help seniors stay in their homes by keeping them active.

Learn more about the Decatur Park District by going to dectur-parks.org or by finding them on Facebook.

Vouchers for the annual city-wide clean-up in Clinton are now available.

City Administrator Tony Harris indicates those can be picked up at City Hall and are good until September.

According to Harris, this is something the City offers in partnership with the landfill to help in the effort to keep the City cleaned up.

Harris reminds you can get those vouchers at City Hall, and those can be used between the end of July and the middle of September. 

While just July, a Clinton non-profit is already thinking about the fall.

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, Clinton Chamber Executive Director, Janice Petersen told the Hart Media Group preparations are already underway for the annual haunted house season, and they need volunteers.

Petersen feels fortunate to have a really good core of volunteers who are always stepping up to help at the house. She is hopeful they could find around 10 to 15 more volunteers to be a part of their efforts.

Contact the Chamber at 217-93-3364 for more information on volunteering at the haunted house. 

Petersen also indicates they are recruiting for the upcoming haunted house season, noting they will be open every Friday and Saturday in October, including Halloween. 

It’s not too late to get in on the fun of the summer reading club at the Warner Library in Clinton. 

Mel Snow, Youth Program Coordinator at the Library, explains that over the next few weeks, they will continue to host weekly events like garden club on Thursdays, and the new Movie "Nights" for kids on Tuesday mornings.

When it comes to programming for teens, Snow says they host a Dungeons & Dragons event on Saturdays, and a crime club is another group for teens. 

Snow reminds of recurring children's programs like Barbie Club and Lego Club, all of which are also giving out prize tickets for attendance. All of these events lead up to the Summer Reading Celebration on August 1st. 

There's still time to sign up for the Summer Reading Club. Learn more by visiting vwarner.org or by finding the Warner Library's Facebook page.

Research farms continue to play an important role for the Southern Illinois University College of Agricultural, Life and Physical Sciences. There’s one in Carbondale and another in Belleville, says Amir Sadeghpour (sod-i-pour), SIU professor of soil fertility.

The Carbondale location is hosting a Nutrient Research Field Day on July 14.

There is an Illinois Manufacturing Hall of Fame and among the 2026 inductees under the “products category” is NERDS Gummy Clusters says Mark Denzler with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.

Other products winning induction into the Illinois Manufacturing Hall of Fame this year—Eli’s Cheesecake, White House China produced by Pickard China in Antioch since 1893, and Spray Paint, which was patented by Edward Seymour of Sycamore in 1949.

The Illinois Ag Leadership Foundation continues to make an impact. Among the 2027 fellows is Eric Mueller with Nutrien Ag Solutions.

Mueller is from Libertyville in Lake County. The Illinois Ag Leadership Foundation was founded in the 1980's.

The Better Business Bureau is highlighting the importance of families and caregivers watching out for scams impacting those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the BBB, most scams involve complex mental tasks that often target the most vulnerable, like those living with Alzheimer's. Don O'Brien, a scam investigator, has this message for those families and caregivers.

O’Brien says one of the best ways to avoid scams: if something feels off, tell someone you trust.

The Hart Media Group has been in central Illinois for nearly a year, and as the first anniversary approaches, ownership is excited about what is still to come.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, owner Matt Hart reiterated his commitment to connecting people and providing those avenues of dewittdailynews.com, WHOW/WEZC, and the adjacent social media platforms, totally free of charge now and into the future.

One of the most noticeable improvements in Hart Media Group's content has been the addition of video clips of the WHOW Morning Show, interviews, local government meetings, and general happenings in the community. 

Hart on Thursday offered a bit of a tease for what could be next for his company. Starting with the website, a refresh is coming soon with a mobile-friendly option. Additionally, he looks forward to continuing to be the driver of local content in DeWitt County.

We'll have more with Hart next week on expansion for ILSportsWire this fall and what other things he has planned as his company continues to grow. 

A group of Clinton residents spent the last six months planning for a community-wide Fourth of July celebration, and this weekend, it was received extremely well by attendees. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Clinton City Administrator Tony Harris applauded the tireless efforts of the many who stepped up to make the event a success.

At the Tuesday night Clinton City Council meeting, Commissioner John Wise gave a shoutout to the volunteers and the efforts they made to make the event a success. He indicates there were some things out of the control of the committee like pop up weather and other factors.

Mayor Helen Michalassi also chimed in, noting the community collaboration it took to make the event happen, from the volunteers to City workers and police all working together. She was very pleased with how the event went.

Harris told the Hart Media Group, the downtown area should continue to be a hub of activity the remainder of the summer as they continue to work on scheduling bands to perform on the Mr Lincoln Square stage. He says as those get scheduled, they will post to the City's Facebook page. 

A central Illinois law enforcement agency says it is seeing an increase in calls for service with an alarming trend among those calls.

Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister says it is not unusual for calls for service to increase in the summer months, but one trend he's noticing is an increase in domestic violence.

According to Chief Meister, the City of Lincoln had a fatal DUI car accident during the Memorial Day weekend. Chief Meister says, unfortunately, with the spike in calls for service, they just are not able to do traffic enforcement as much as they would like.

When it comes to domestic violence, Chief Meister says there are often many complicating factors for the victims, but Lincoln and Logan County have really beefed up the resources for those individuals, especially during times of need.

The Chief indicates his department was able to do some targeted enforcement in a few target areas of the community earlier this spring, but since that time, they've been inundated with calls for service this summer. 
 

Over the Fourth of July weekend, the City of Clinton lost a great individual who cared deeply about the community.

Tom Edmunds passed away on July 3 at the age of 74. At the Tuesday night Clinton City Council meeting, Commissioners shared their memories of Edmunds, who served several terms on the Clinton City Council, including two stints as Mayor. Commissioner John Wise says there may not have been a person in the community who knew more about Clinton than Edmunds.

Commissioner Kenney Buchanan recalled Edmunds' many roles in his time working for the City of Clinton and then working together on the Council.

Commissioner Dan Ballenger kept his comments brief - noting Edmunds' heart for Clinton.

Services for Edmunds will be at 11 AM, Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, L, with Pastor Darrell Howard officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Clinton, IL. Visitation will be 9 – 11 AM, Friday, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the Organ Fund at Clinton Presbyterian Church or the Clinton Rotary Club.

Visit dewittdailynews.com for the full obituary. 
 

When Halley Roberson takes the reins as the City Manager for the City of Farmer City on Aug. 1, she will be starting when a lot is happening in the community.

On the WHOW Morning Show with outgoing City Manager Taylor Baxter, Roberson told the Hart Media Group there is a lot to market for their small community in DeWitt County.

According to Roberson, one major benefit that folks might eventually find in Farmer City is that they source their own electricity for its residents. With AI and data centers becoming big business, she feels the reliability of their town's electricity is going to appeal to a lot of people.

Additionally, Roberson feels Farmer City offers a very unique educational experience for families, being that it is a smaller school where students can try an assortment of things during their academic careers.

Roberson calls being rural a true community experience. She feels it is what makes rural living unique to the experience in a bigger, metropolitan area.

The start of the summer always draws a lot of attention to summer reading, and it seems that the momentum hasn't stopped. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Tuesday, Mel Snow, Youth Program Coordinator with the Warner Library, told the Hart Media Group that participation in the Summer Reading Club has been great so far. She reminds that you can still sign up until the program's conclusion event on August 1st. 

The theme for this year's Summer Reading Club is "Plant a Seed, Read." There are three different reading levels you can sign up for, making this program accessible to anyone in the community, from early readers to advanced. 

If you're trying for the best odds of winning a grand prize, Snow indicates that the library is offering extra reading club tickets for attending events. She says this has helped boost the popularity of their programs this summer. 

Snow states that any kind of reading can go towards your reading log; it's all about avoiding the summer slide and staying sharp as the school year approaches. If you have been tracking your reading but have yet to sign up, she notes that you can put that on your reading log as well. 

There are still more Summer Reading Club events to participate in through the coming weeks, and we'll have more on that with Snow in the days ahead from the Hart Media Group. 

Learn more about the Summer Reading Club and the Warner Library by visiting vwarner.org or by finding them on Facebook. 
 

Head Start in DeWitt County is looking for vital staff for its program. 

Krissy Conklen with Community Action's Head Start program explains that in DeWitt County, they are looking for a new Family Educator who will help prepare families at home to get their students ready for the school setting. This puts a focus on the PAT, or Parents As Teachers, curriculum.

In Lincoln, Conlken states that they are looking for candidates with at least a bachelor's degree in early childhood education to be Head Start Teachers. This is a year-round in-classroom role. 

Head Start is looking to fill a long-standing management vacancy related to mental health and disability challenges. This person would help develop standards that address the ever-evolving social and emotional needs of students. 

Conklen reminds us that now is the time to register your students for Head Start. Do so and find more information about hiring at capcil.info or by finding Community Action on Facebook. 
 

The DeWitt County Fair Board has made numerous improvements to the DeWitt County 4-H Fairgrounds in recent years and is planning for another improvement this fall.

During the Hart Media Group's 4-H horse show coverage as part of its annual fair tour, DeWitt County 4-H Fair Board President Dan Enos indicated fundraising efforts are ongoing to construct a simple covering this fall.

The Fair Board needs about $200,000 for the covering. Enos indicates they have made good progress toward that goal but are not quite there. If they do not reach it, they will still move forward with the project and take out loans to get them the rest of the way.

Enos says the 4-H fairgrounds host several horse shows throughout the summer, so this would allow them to continue those events, rain or shine. This year's 4-H horse show was impacted by rain moving through. 

To contribute to the effort, Enos encourages contacting any 4-H Fair Board member you know or the DeWitt County Farm Bureau for more information. 
 

After a very hot Fourth of July holiday weekend, outlooks are showing a more seasonal stretch of weather.

Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln indicates that while the intense heat waves of late June have broken, the official July outlook shows equal chances of above- or below-normal temperatures and precipitation across most of Illinois and the Great Lakes region.

According to Shimon, the recent rainfall has successfully replenished local soil profiles, effectively eliminating short-term drought concerns for the immediate future.

We'll have more with Shimon on what was a very wet and stormy June later this week on Regional Radio. 
 

The McLean County Museum of History is almost set to unveil a new temporary exhibit about the local history of baseball and softball. 

Candace Summers, Senior Director of Education at the Museum, explains that "More Than a Game: A Community History of Baseball and Softball" will be the latest rotating exhibit on display when it opens on July 18th. She says it was no trouble to find relevant history right in McLean County and its communities. 

Summers says they have many interesting artifacts that were passed down through generations and then donated by community members to preserve not only the piece but the memory of the family. 

Guest Curator Bill Kemp and his expertise were essential to the research that went into the exhibit. Summers says they were able to build off his knowledge of the Three-Eye League that existed across Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana, which was active from 1901 to 1961. 

As the grand opening of this exhibit on July 18th grows closer, we'll hear from Summers on the event and activities that will be hosted in honor of the display. In the meantime, learn more at mchistory.org.
 

Elder Abuse Awareness Day was June 15, and Social Security is imploring families and communities to step up and help protect this vulnerable population from a quiet form of abuse - scams.

Jack Myers with Social Security indicates elder abuse can take many forms: physical harm, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or scams. Abuse can happen to anyone; signs may be obvious or hard to spot.

Scammers often impersonate government employees to target seniors. Myers indicates common scam tactics include calls, texts, emails, or messages claiming issues with Social Security numbers or benefits. Scams create fear and urgency, pressuring individuals to share personal information or send money.

According to Myers, Social Security is partnering with other federal agencies on the new national “Never Ever” campaign to raise awareness about government imposter scams. Key reminders include never ever will a government employee say: “Your money isn’t safe. Move it to protect it.” Never ever will a government employee threaten to suspend benefits if you don’t pay immediately. Never ever will a government employee demand payment via apps, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or gift cards.

Myers has more information about elder abuse and scams, and we'll have more on that with him next week from the Hart Media Group.

To protect yourself from Social Security-related scams, get up-to-date scam information and reporting guidance at www.ssa.gov/scams. You can also visit www.eldercare.acl.gov/home to connect older adults and caregivers with local resources.
 

The McLean County Museum of History has teamed up with the McLean County Arts Center to put together an America 250-themed community art collection. 

Candace Summers with the Museum indicates that the collection is called "A More Perfect Union" and holds pieces that were created to represent core ideals and pillars of American society and culture. She hopes this work challenges those who view it to think critically about our nation and the way those ideals are lived out. 

The collection will remain up through the end of the summer. You can see it at the McLean County Arts Center, located at 601 N East Street in Bloomington. Learn more about the McLean County Museum of History at mchistory.org or by finding them on Facebook.

A local extension office is inviting students and their grandmas to make memories in the kitchen, while also learning the rules of the kitchen. 

Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition Educator with the University of Illinois Extension in DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties, explains that on July 16th at the DeWitt County Extension Office in Clinton, grandmas and their grandkids can learn basic cooking skills and build relationships. The event will be at the Maroa Library the following day. 

Mellendorf points listeners to extension.illinois.edu for all of the Extension resources. Find a more specific calendar of events for DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt Counties at go.illinois.edu/dmp. 

A DeWitt County non-profit is providing fans to low-income seniors during this brutally hot stretch of summer.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, DeWitt County Friendship Center Executive Director Paula Jiles told the Hart Media Group that the fan drive aims to provide seniors who meet certain income guidelines with a box fan. 

Seniors can qualify for a box fan on an every-other-year basis. Visit the Friendship Center, 410 East Main Street, for more information and to apply. 

The DeWitt County Board is shifting its focus toward long-term planning as it prepares to tackle the upcoming fiscal year's budget.

On the WHOW Morning Show, DeWitt County Board Chair Joe Witte told the Hart Media Group that July kicks off the initial stages of the county's budget planning process. He noted that the board is committed to maintaining fiscal responsibility by avoiding the creation of new positions the county cannot afford to fund.

Property maintenance also topped the agenda during its recent June committee meetings. Witte highlights several ongoing regular maintenance items that have already gained approval, with more scheduled.

The board has also advanced a timeline for seeking bids on facility improvements, specifically targeting the county's air conditioning systems and other properties. Witte says the anticipated rollout is for evaluating and awarding those upcoming maintenance contracts.

Turning to public safety, the Board continues to work through intergovernmental agreements, with the County actively looking to expand its animal control service partnerships beyond Clinton and Farmer City to any interested municipalities.

Witte reminds the recent tax bills that were issued do not represent new taxes. Instead, the bills now feature a detailed breakout of the County's retirement fund portions, including Social Security and IMRF allocations, to provide greater transparency to the public.

The Board will meet on July 23 this month. 
 

The Clinton America 250th Committee is gearing up for a big weekend of free fun for all and is making the public aware of street closures and parking opportunities for the three days of festivities.

Bobbi Perryman with the Committee reminds the square will be blocked off for the entirety of the weekend, beginning Friday morning until Sunday night.

Perryman adds that for those planning to drive to the square, there will be plenty of parking available and reminds that there are lots reserved for handicap accessibility and private lots to avoid.

Rain is in the forecast for parts of the three-day weekend. Perryman says if they are forced to vacate the Square because of it, they will take what they can to Clinton Junior High School.

For more information on all this weekend's festivities, find the Clinton America 250th Committee on Facebook. 
 

This Fourth of July holiday weekend is sure to present local authorities with numerous challenges.

From the long, three-day weekend for the Fourth this year to the 250th celebrations going on across the area, people will be looking to have a good time throughout the weekend. On the WHOW Morning Show, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister told the Hart Media Group that virtually all consumer fireworks that "go bang" are illegal under both State law and City ordinances.

Chief Meister notes that beyond the legal penalties, the improper handling and disposal of fireworks keep local fire departments very busy.

For those celebrating, the Chief is imploring the public to practice basic safety, keep a water source nearby, and simply be neighborly by talking to one another to resolve noise complaints before calling the police.

The Lincoln Police Department will also have an increased presence on the roads this weekend. Chief Meister is reminding drivers that extra traffic enforcement will be out actively looking for impaired drivers to keep holiday travelers safe.

Chief Meister reminds us that fireworks in Lincoln will be on Friday night, originating at the Park District. There is also a parade scheduled in downtown Lincoln for the morning of the Fourth of July. 
 

Chances of rain will unfortunately hover over central and northern Illinois this weekend as communities across the area look for good weather for Fourth of July plans.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Ed Shimon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln told the Hart Media Group that rain will definitely be in the upper Midwest, bringing chances of rain to central Illinois Friday through Sunday.

The oppressive heat of the last few days will stick around for another couple of days, with high humidity and very warm temperatures.

Shimon is reminding the public that this prolonged heat takes a cumulative toll on your body, so he is imploring everyone to keep drinking plenty of water. Heat exhaustion will become more common in the next few days. 

June was cool but very wet, and July is looking to potentially turn out the same way. We'll have more with Shimon next week on Regional Radio on the June recap and the July outlook. 

For the latest in weather forecasts, visit weather.gov/Lincoln. 
 

The Clinton America 250th Committee has been hard at work planning for a packed Fourth of July celebration, and that weekend is officially upon us.

On the WHOW Morning Show on Wednesday, Bobbi Perryman with the Committee told the Hart Media Group they have a busy schedule from Friday through Sunday of activities. Things get going on Friday with a chainsaw carver doing a unique carving that will be auctioned off at the conclusion of the weekend, and then a Clinton trivia contest.

Then Saturday is the big day for the Committee. It all starts with a 5K in the morning, the Fourth of July parade at 10 am, and then competitions, children's activities, and music throughout a jam-packed day.

While Sunday winds down the festivities, Perryman indicates there's still plenty scheduled for Sunday, and of course, the fireworks display to be set off at dusk on Sunday evening.

Perryman indicates they are planning for the activities that they can accommodate to be moved to Clinton Junior High School in the event of rain. 

There will also be street closures for the weekend for the celebration on the Clinton Square. We'll have more on this tomorrow at the Hart Media Group. You can learn more about the Fourth of July celebration in Clinton by finding the Clinton America 250th Committee on Facebook.

The McLean County Museum of History is offering opportunities to learn about local history outside of the walls of the Old Court House. 

Senior Director of Education Candace Summers told the Hart Media Group that there are several more walking and bus tours available for this summer. The first is the "Looking for Lincoln" downtown Bloomington walking tour on July 16th. 

On August 1st, visitors can travel to the Illinois State University quad to learn about the institution's history. Summers will also be leading an architecture tour through downtown Bloomington on August 20th, diving into the history of the buildings and their builders. 

Those who prefer riding over walking should take note of the museum's bus trips, like "Get Your Farm Kicks on Rt. 66." She says this tour will not only hit on ag, but will put a focus on the Rt. 66 Centennial as well. 

We'll have more with Summers this weekend from the Hart Media Group on an America 250-themed art piece. In the meantime, learn more about all of these events at mchistory.org/events or by finding the museum on Facebook.