Breeze-Courier

01/24/2025

Maggie Vocks Peoples Bank ‘Volunteer of Quarter’

TAYLORVILLE — Maggie Vocks, Taylorville, along with her daughter, Luna, accepts the Peoples Bank and Trust “Volunteer of the Quarter” from Jeff Grimmett, Peoples Bank AVP Consumer Banking representative.

Submitted Photo

See the full story online: https://www.breezecourier.com/2025/01/24/maggie-vocks-peo…nteer-of-quarter/

01/24/2025

TMH donates warming kits

TAYLORVILLE — The Taylorville Fire Department recently received warming kits from Memorial Health. Each kit contained a blanket, socks, hand warmers, water, gloves, small first aid kit, beanie cap, hand sanitizer and chapstick. The kits were provided for individuals who take advantage of the warming center at the Fire Department. Pictured from left are Jay Boulanger from Memorial Health and Fire Chief Matthew Adermann.

Submitted photo

01/24/2025

Alma Mae Murphy

Alma Mae Murphy celebrated her fourth birthday on Monday, January 20, 2025.

She is the daughter of Frederick “Rick” and Ashley Murphy of Blue Mound. Her grandparents are Dean and Lauralee Pelichoff of Taylorville, Debby Murphy of Petersburg, Ill., and The late Robert “Larry” Murphy, Jr of Springfield.

Alma’s great-grandparents are Eileen Janssen of Buckley, Ill., The late Arno Janssen, Dwain Gehle, Bill Luttrell, also of Buckley, The late Ervin and Alice Pelichoff of St. Joseph, Ill., The late Robert “Bob” and June Murphy of Springfield, and the late Frederick and Dorthy Wiesenmeyer of Springfield.

She has one brother, Arno, who is six. Alma celebrated with a mermaid themed party with friends & family. She also celebrated with her Pre-K Class and daycare friends.

Arno Frederick Murphy

Arno Frederick Murphy celebrated his sixth birthday on December 12, 2024.

He is the son of Frederick “Rick” and Ashley Murphy, of Blue Mound, Illinois. His grandparents are Dean and Lauralee Pelichoff of Taylorville, Debby Murphy of Petersburg, Ill., and The late Robert “Larry” Murphy, Jr of Springfield. Arno’s great-grandparents are Eileen Janssen of Buckley, Ill., The late Arno Janssen, Dwain Gehle, Bill Luttrell, also of Buckley, The late Ervin and Alice Pelichoff of St. Joseph, Ill., The late Robert “Bob” and June Murphy of Springfield, and the late Frederick and Dorthy Wiesenmeyer of Springfield.

He has one sister, Alma Mae, who is four. Arno celebrated with a Lego themed party with friends and family. He also took treats to his kindergarten class and celebrated with his hockey team.

01/24/2025

Make plans to attend the Taylorville Public Schools Foundation (TPSF) fundraising event, "Abracadabra" on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at The Pillars Event Center, featuring magician & comedian Josh Wiedner.

Social hour begins at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by check to TPSF at the District Office or by credit card payment at tcusd3.org/page/tpsf.

01/24/2025

State Farm Ribbon Cutting

TAYLORVILLE—Staff from State Farm was joined by the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce, CTI, and Spurling Title for their ribbon cutting ceremony on Wed., Jan. 22, morning. Connor Metcalfe, owner, said he’s excited to have the store open. “I’m just feeling blessed, that’s for sure,” Metcalfe said.

From left to right, front row: Spurling Title employee and board member for the Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Trisha Phillips, executive director at The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Linda Allen, Bill Metcalfe, Owner Connor Metcalfe, Steel Metcalfe, Kassidy Metcalfe, Karlee Bruenger, Mike Mann with the City of Taylorville and the Chamber of Commerce, and Andrew Lahey.

From left to right back row: State Farm staff members Isaiah Tyson, Brady Schroeder, Collin Sparks, and Sara Freithe.

Elizabeth Wood/Breeze-Courier photo

01/23/2025

Bruce V. Penwell, Jr. Nursing Scholarship is open to Effingham, Christian and Shelby County students

EFFINGHAM — Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation is now accepting applications for the Bruce V. Penwell, Jr. Nursing Scholarship. The scholarship application is available online at https://southeasternillinois.org/students and the deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Mar. 18, 2025.

To apply, visit southeasternillinois.org/students to begin the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation Common Scholarship Application. For more information, contact Kristen Bertrand, Program Officer, at 217.342.5413 or [email protected].

See the full story online: https://www.breezecourier.com/2025/01/23/penwell-jr-nursi…arship-available/

Scholarships through the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation are gifts that don't need to be repaid.

01/23/2025

John H. Abshire
January 24, 1962 — December 26, 2024

John H. Abshire, 62 of Taylorville, passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024, in Managua, Nicaragua.

He was born on January 24, 1962, in Taylorville, the son of Herman D. and Cordelia R. (Rodgers) Abshire. He married Beth Woods on February 14, 2007, in Morrisonville.

John was a talented finish carpenter and worked in the construction industry for many years. He enjoyed tinkering and could fix about anything. He enjoyed riding his Harley, playing pool and darts, and loved watching movies. He loved to spend time outside mowing his yard, cooking on the grill, and entertaining family and friends with elaborate firework shows. John will be remembered for his outgoing personality; he never met a stranger.

He is survived by his wife: Beth Abshire of Taylorville; children: R. J. Halbert (Haili Killen) of Little Elm, Texas, Holly Woods (Zac Wise) of Taylorville, and Amber Woods (Nathan Ryan) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Logan Halbert, Leyton Halbert, and Clover Ryan; siblings: Jerry Abshire (Sylvia), David Abshire (Sandra), Brian K. Abshire (Carolyn), Chris Abshire, and Dee Ann Hayes; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister: Lisa Fowler.

John will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at McClure Funeral Home with Jennifer Stillwell officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until noon at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place in the Morrisonville Cemetery.

Friends and family are encouraged to wear Green Bay Packers attire to the services. Following the graveside, a luncheon will be held at the Moose Lodge in Taylorville.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

01/23/2025

Stonington Library receives $500 grant

STONINGTON — The Stonington Township Library has been awarded a generous $500 grant from Grain Belt Express, a division of Invenergy, a leading company in renewable energy solutions including solar and wind power. This funding will be allocated to enhancing the library's ability to produce high-quality newsletters, flyers, and promotional materials, further enriching its community outreach and engagement efforts.

Pictured in the photo: James Gilreath, Community Engagement Consultant, Invenergy and Lisa Grover, Library Director, Stonington Township Library.

Submitted photo

01/23/2025

County Board hears from FOP Union; Approves ZBA appointments
Lucas Domonousky, Breeze-Courier Writer

TAYLORVILLE — The Christian County Board held their first meeting of 2025 on Tuesday, Jan. 21. Taking place at the Courthouse building in Taylorville, the core of the meeting trekked up to Courtroom A on the third floor for initial hearing and then back down to the County Board room on the second floor for the remainder. One member was absent for the meeting, Vicki McMahon.

See the full story online: https://www.breezecourier.com/2025/01/23/county-board-app…ard-appointments/

01/23/2025

Legendary Small Town Trading Co. is celebrating their 1st Anniversary Saturday, Feb. 8th!!!

Join in the celebration with a special all day menu including cafe specials for $3.65, Tasting Room specials $1.00 off all cocktails, wine & spirits and live music performed by Sam Lacy from 7-10 p.m.

They are proud to have served over 18,000 happy customers this past year, have more than 4,000 Legendary loyalty customers, hosted over 80 unforgettable tasting events, music nights and private parties...in addition to supporting 12 local charities and provided free space for local community clubs & organizations!

Legendary Small Town Trading Co.is located at 123 S. Main St. on the historic square in Taylorville, IL.

Be sure to "Like" them on Facebook and visit their website for details of upcoming events at www.legendarysmalltowntradingco.net

🎉🎉 It’s almost our first birthday!! 🎉🎉🎁

Come celebrate with us on Saturday, February 8th all day as we mark 365 legendary days!🎈🎈🎉

We want to thank the community, our amazing team, and our wonderful customers for an absolutely legendary year!! It’s been exciting to bring this beautiful building on the Taylorville square back to life and open Legendary Small Town Trading Co.!! We love serving you, hosting events, celebrations, milestones and connecting people together. Thank you for all your support and encouragement throughout our first year!

To show our appreciation, we have a day and evening full of customer appreciation specials, music and fun created just for you on Saturday, February 8th - Including a special cafe menu priced at only $3.65 celebrating our first 365 days - and fantastic Tasting Room specials 🍷🥃🍸🥂🎉

We hope you join us on February 8th! We THANK YOU for an incredible first year!!! 🎉🎉 Illinois Times Only In Illinois Central IL Live Music & Events

01/23/2025

TFD members presented awards

TAYLORVILLE — Four members of the Taylorville Fire Department were presented awards at the Tuesday night City Council meeting for the rescue of two children who were trapped in a well on November 16, 2024. Assistant Chief Cody Rogers was given the Medal of Honor Citation for his exceptional bravery, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty, demonstrated under adverse conditions and with the potential for extreme personal risk. Firefighters Kobe Wheaton, Andrew Watson and Lucas Smalley were given the Unit Citation for their exceptional actions during a confined space rescue, for their quick response and being instrumental in the successful and safe rescue of two children. Fire Chief Matthew Adermann said “I am extremely proud of these members and what they accomplished that day. From the time of the call to the time all individuals were rescued was less than nine minutes.” Pictured from left are Assistant Chief Cody Rogers, Fire Fighters Kobe Wheaton, Andrew Watson and Lucas Smalley.

Submitted Photo

01/22/2025

St. John’s Breadline Souper Bowl Spring 2025 Fundraiser Feb. 7

SPRINGFIELD – The Souper Bowl soup fundraiser benefitting Catholic Charities St. John’s Breadline will be serving up fresh soups to go. These made- from-scratch soups will be available on Friday, February 7 at the Catholic Pastoral Center circle driveway, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., or until sold out.

The soup options include; chicken noodle soup, taco soup, and chili. The suggested donation is $10 for 32 oz. of soup. All proceeds will benefit the St. John’s Breadline.

See the full story in this week's paper or online: https://www.breezecourier.com/2025/01/21/st-johns-breadli…fundraiser-feb-7/

01/22/2025

Stonington Snow Queen Pageant Jan. 25

STONINGTON — The 2nd Annual Snow Queen Pageant will be held in Stonington at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025.

“Every year we select a few groups to help with funds and donations. Last year, we were able to give money and food to the Taylorville Food Pantry,” said Jessica Fox, Snow Queen Director. “This year, we be accepting donations of items and money to help the Shadow House in Taylorville, Dove in Decatur and Sojourn in Springfield - all domestic abuse shelters for women and children. As one might imagine it take a lot of money and help to run these places. They all need volunteers and items to help their clients living at those facilities.”
Some of the items requested are blankets, pillows, sheets (must all be new and in twin size); baby items and children’s items such as diapers, wipes, lotions, formula, toys, clothes etc.

See the full story in this week's paper or online: https://www.breezecourier.com/2025/01/21/stonington-snow-…n-pageant-jan-25/

Pictured is the 2024 Snow Queen Pageant court. (submitted photo)

01/22/2025

Taylorville Community Credit Union (TCCU) is once again sponsoring their Annual Scholarship Program now through Feb. 28, 2025. YOU can help determine the winners of eight $1,000 scholarships.

For every $10 you spend at these local businesses, you can cast one vote for your preferred registered student.

Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to students at each Taylorville, Hillsboro, Litchfield and Pana High Schools. Winners to be announced in May, 2025.

It's a great way to help out the students and SHOP LOCAL. (Click on picture to get the list of Taylorville Merchants.)

01/22/2025

Looking to buy some real estate, farmland or commercial property? Check out Aumann Auction; your local trusted partner.

Visit their website at aumannauctions.com or their page for upcoming sales or call 217-563-2523.

01/22/2025

Michael Higgason
July 20, 1979 — January 20, 2025

Michael Higgason, 45, of Taylorville, IL, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Taylorville Memorial Hospital.

He was born on July 20, 1979, in Taylorville, IL, the son of Terry Higgason and Constance Higgason.

Michael was well loved and had many friends. He always wanted to be sure everything was taken care of from the house to his animals. He cherished his dogs, Maggie, Balbo, and Sadie.

Surviving are his father: Terry Higgason of Taylorville, IL; brother: Jesse Higgason of Springfield, IL; grandmother: Beulah Durbin of Stonington, IL; aunts and uncles: Chris Durbin of Morrisonville, IL; Tim Durbin of Stonington, IL; Sandy Rhodeman of Taylorville, IL; Patty Gresta of Rochester, IL; Barb Courier of Springfield, IL; Marilyn Meikle of Florida; and his niece: Vanessa Higgason of Springfield, IL.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Wayne Durbin, grandparents, Frank and Madeline Higgason, and two uncles, Wayne Durbin Jr., and Joey Durbin.

Per his family’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Interment will be held at a later date.

Memorials in his honor may be given to the Epilepsy Foundation.

Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign their online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com.

01/22/2025

John Michael Deck
March 13, 1954 — January 21, 2025

Mr. John Michael Deck, 70, of Pana, IL, formerly of Langleyville and Crossville, TN, passed from this life at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at home in Pana.

He was born in Taylorville, IL on March 13, 1954, the son of Burton “Buck” and Rita “Marie” (Durbin) Deck of Crossville, TN. John married Bonita Huston in Kincaid on July 13, 1987, and she preceded him in death February 21, 2024.

Mr. Deck, previously of Crossville, TN, and Langleyville, IL, had worked for Kennedy Metals and Crossville Ceramics as a mechanic and maintenance worker. He built several houses with his family in both Illinois and Tennessee. He was a fighter until the very end, surviving Polio as a child, experimental surgery to correct fused leg bones, survived lung and brain cancer, had a fall that broke his back, nearly died from anaphylactic shock, and had a near death fall at home which put him in a wheelchair. He would never give up.

John enjoyed visiting with friends and family, loved telling stories and joking around. In his younger years he enjoyed canoeing, camping, front porch sitting, computer gaming, shooting pool and sipping on a PBR.

Surviving are his sister Rita Schmidt of Arkansas, brother Robert “Bobby” Deck of Crossville, TN his three children: Brandy (husband Brian) Goatley and Jeremy Deck all of Pana, IL, Mandy (husband John) Sexson of Bulpitt, IL, seven grandchildren: Tyler Halleman, Skye Halleman, Adrian Tollett, Brandon Griffiths, Brianna Griffiths, Emma Deck and Lyric Deck, four great-grandchildren: Rayne, Addilyn, Isaiah, and Isabela, several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Mr. Deck was preceded in death by his parents, wife Bonita (Huston) Deck in 2024, and his brothers James and Kenneth Deck.

Visitation for Mr. John Michael Deck will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Masterson Funeral Home in Kincaid.

Celebrating his life will continue following his visitation at Burton’s Tap in Langleyville – 110 W. Taylorville Rd – Taylorville. Burial will be at a later date in Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions are suggested to his family or the American Cancer Society. Memorial’s offerings along with cards of condolences for those not able to attend John’s visitation may be mailed to his daughter, Mrs. Mandy Sexson, P.O Box 492 – Kincaid, IL 62540

01/22/2025

General Dacey Trail 15th Annual Candle Walk

SHELBYVILLE—On Saturday, Jan. 18, two trails on the General Dacey Trail were lit up with over 400 luminaries.

Throughout the candle walk, laughter echoed across the trails while another group applauded and cheered as a couple got engaged.

Organizers Bob Niestradt and Jerry Yockey were at the event, greeting participants and helping guide them to the refreshments and different parts of the General Dacey Trail. Niestradt said an estimated 300 participants came in the first half hour of the candle walk, with more groups coming and going through the night.