By Ben Cox
Jacksonville Hobby Lobby location aims for late December opening
The Jacksonville Journal-Courier reports that Hobby Lobby officials announced on November 4 that the Jacksonville Hobby Lobby location in the former Shopko building on West Morton Avenue is working toward a “soft launch” December 26, with “a December 29 new store opening.”
The 1964 West Morton Avenue location will be store number 1030. The national retailer of arts and crafts materials, fabric and home-decor items signed a 10-year renewable lease with Marx Commercial Properties and Development Company of Quincy, who owns the space.
Hobby Lobby will be located in the eastern third of the old Shopko building, with the former tenant having shuttered in June 2019. There remains approximately 35,000 square feet that is unoccupied in the building, with the hopes that one or two other stores will fill the remaining space.
LLCC-Jacksonville offering CNA to Clinical Medical Assistant Bridge program
Beginning in January 2026, Lincoln Land Community College in Jacksonville will offer the CNA to CMA Bridge program, designed to help certified nurse assistants (CNAs) advance in their careers and become certified medical assistants (CMAs).
Classes will be held from January 26 through April 13 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at LLCC-Jacksonville, 32 North Central Park Plaza.
The program features comprehensive classroom instruction covering medical terminology, law and ethics, infection control, safety, phlebotomy, laboratory testing and more. In addition, students will complete a 60-hour clinical externship at one of LLCC’s partner health care facilities, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting.
Externship options include April 20-May 8 or May 11-29, with typical hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. “We’re excited to offer the CNA to CMA Bridge program here at LLCC-Jacksonville,” said Keri Mason, director, LLCC-Jacksonville.
“This course was designed to support CNAs who are ready to advance in their careers while balancing work, family or other responsibilities. The program’s structure will help students gain valuable skills and hands-on experience without putting their lives on hold. We’re proud to help our students grow into vital roles in our local medical community.”
After successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the National Healthcareer Association. Attend a 30-minute information session on Nov. 19 to learn more about the bridge program. Sessions will be held at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. To register or for more information visit www.llcc.edu/cna-to-cma. Registration for spring 2026 classes is now open. To get started, contact Kaytlyn Crain at Kaytlyn.Crain@llcc.edu or 217-786-4514.
Scott County Commissioners plan truth in taxation hearing for November 24
The Scott County Commissioners have announced a truth in taxation public hearing for November 24 at 3 p.m. at the Scott County Courthouse in Winchester.
Any person wishing to appear and provide testimony at the hearing should call commissioner chairman Robert Schafer at 217-742-3368.
The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 (payable in 2025) were $1,583,700. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 (payable in 2026) is $1,627,605, representing a 2.8% increase.
Illinois’ Truth in Taxation law requires a taxing district to publish a notice if the proposed aggregate tax levy is more than 5% greater than the previous year’s tax extension. These hearings are required to be open to the public and the corporate authority must explain the reason for the raising of the tax levy and its intended purposes with that revenue. The hearing should not correspond with the authority’s proposed budget hearings.
During the hearing, residents can submit or offer testimony either for or against the raising of the levy. The authority may place reasonable limits on the time for that testimony to be given. After the hearing, the authority must file a certificate of compliance with the county clerk’s office allowing for the increase.
Franklin’s Bergschneider honored, along with state ag director, at National FFA Convention
Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) Director Jerry Costello II was selected to receive the Honorary American FFA Degree, an award given to those who advance agricultural education and FFA through outstanding personal commitment. Costello received the accolade at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 31.
“Jerry Costello has an amazing gift—he doesn’t know a stranger. Whether it’s an FFA member or student meeting him for the first time, or a long-time partner in agriculture, he has a way of making every person feel seen, valued, and connected,” said Mindy Bunselmeyer, Illinois FFA Center Executive Director.
“His unwavering support of Illinois agricultural education and FFA goes far beyond policy or programs—it’s personal. He shows up, listens, and genuinely invests in us. Illinois FFA, our leaders, and our members are stronger because of his belief in them, and we are thrilled to celebrate his Honorary American FFA Degree.”
He was presented with a plaque and medal, and his name will be permanently recorded among the organization’s most distinguished members. During the same convention, Director Costello presented Thaddeus Bergschneider, the 2024-2025 National FFA President, with a proclamation from Governor JB Pritzker recognizing his year of service.
“It’s an incredible honor to receive the Honorary American FFA Degree and deeply meaningful because my grandfather served as an ag teacher and FFA advisor,” said Costello. “I am also proud to witness Thaddeus wrap up his term as National FFA President. He has successfully represented Illinois and the entire FFA community, and his journey is just beginning. I have no doubt he’ll continue to make an impact in Illinois agriculture.”
Bergschneider is a native of Franklin and is an undergraduate student in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He served as the 2023-2024 Illinois FFA State President before being elected to the national post. He is the first Illinois student to lead the national organization in three decades.
Local emergency management group to meet for final time in 2025
The Jacksonville/Morgan County Emergency Management Agency has announced their final planning committee meeting for 2025. The committee will discuss and update the natural hazards mitigation plans for both Morgan and Scott counties.
Local officials, emergency services and community partners are working together to update the plans for a more comprehensive and better response to natural disasters that occur in the area.
The plans will compile a list of projects and activities that can be done to prevent or mitigate possible damages from natural disasters. Members of the public are invited to attend and provide input.
Among those scheduled to take part are representatives of Morgan and Scott counties, Alsey, Chapin, Franklin, Glasgow, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, Manchester, Meredosia, Meredosia-Bluffs Rescue, Murrayville, Murrayville Fire Protection District, Murrayville-Woodson EAS, North Scott Fire Protection District, Pike-Scott Farm Bureau, South Jacksonville, Waverly Fire Protection District, West Central Joint ETSB, Winchester, Winchester schools, Winchester Volunteer Fire Department, Woodson and Woodson Fire Protection District.
The group last met at the end of September, with the goal to have plans completed by next year. For more information, contact Morgan Emergency Management Coordinator Phil McCarty at 217-479-4616 or email esda@jacksonvilleil.com.
Hy-Vee hosts Veterans Day breakfast
Hy-Vee showed its appreciation to the nation’s veterans and active-duty military members with its annual Veterans Day breakfast on November 11.
A tradition since 1999, the buffet-style breakfast was offered free of charge to all veterans and active-duty military members at all Hy-Vee stores. Veterans and active-duty military members also received 15% off grocery purchases made that day, when they shopped at Hy-Vee, Fast and Fresh and Dollar Fresh Market locations.
In addition to hosting the Veterans Day breakfast, monuments and memorials were on display at select Hy-Vee stores. Every year, stores in the region showcase local groups and activities to honor veterans.
This includes “Thank A Veteran” cards created by members of the Hy-Vee Kids Club, as well as the chance to write letters to veterans who will be participating in a future Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.
Birth to Five Illinois launches statewide Family Leadership Council
Since the official launch of Birth to Five Illinois in February 2022, dedicated parents and caregivers in all 39 Illinois Regions have been sharing their stories and providing valuable feedback on local Early Childhood Education and Care programs as members of the Birth to Five Illinois Family Councils and Action Councils.
The new Birth to Five Illinois Statewide Family Leadership Council is composed of Family Council alumni who have served for three years in their respective Regions.
In this role, past Birth to Five Illinois Family Council members will continue to offer their perspectives as direct users of Illinois’ Early Childhood services and help Birth to Five Illinois improve its family and community engagement efforts across the State.
The Council had its first meeting in September and will convene every other month. Members can serve for one year and are paid a stipend for their time and expertise. They will be offered opportunities to participate in other state-level activities, which may include providing feedback on public-facing communication materials, co-leading parent discussion groups, or joining interviews with press.
Additionally, based on their experience as parents/caregivers and their time on the Regional Birth to Five Illinois Councils, this inaugural statewide group decided that finding ways to make families more aware of the available Early Childhood Education and Care resources, supports, and programs is the greatest need and thus their chosen priority for the year.
Birth to Five Illinois is proud to introduce the fiscal year 2026 members, representing 28 of Illinois’ 39 Regions. The members from this area include Region 40: Kelly Ballard of Roodhouse for Greene County and Region 51: LeAnn Bell of Springfield for Sangamon County.
Learn more at: birthtofiveil.com/advisory.
Crime of the Week: Waverly burglary
Crime Stoppers of Morgan, Scott and Cass counties are asking for the public’s assistance to aid the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and Waverly Police in their recent investigation of a burglary.
Sometime between 7:30 a.m. on November 3 and 7:30 p.m. on November 4, unknown individuals made entry into a home in the 500 block of South Prospect in Waverly and removed several items, including an undetermined amount of cash.
The Sheriff’s Office and Waverly Police ask that if anyone has information concerning this incident, submit a tip online by visiting the Morgan, Scott, Cass Crime Stoppers Facebook Page. Click on the ‘Contact Us’ at the top of the page.
You may also leave an online tip at their website morganscottcrimestoppers.com.
Remember, Crime Stoppers wants your information, not your name. If your anonymous tip leads to an arrest or recovery of stolen property, you may be eligible for a cash reward.
Lincoln Land Community College hosts FAFSA completion events
Lincoln Land Community College in Jacksonville will host five Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion events to assist students and parents filling out the FAFSA.
All events will take place at LLCC-Jacksonville, 32 North Central Park Plaza in Jacksonville. LLCC financial aid professionals will provide personalized help for students and parents during these open-house-style events.
These events are free and registration is not required, but families may make a 30-minute appointment at a time most convenient to them at llcc.edu/jacksonville. Events will take place from 2 to 5:30 p.m. on the following dates, unless otherwise noted.
• Wednesday, November 19
• Wednesday, January 28, 2026 – Includes a community scholarship tabling event from 4:30-5:30 p.m.
•Wednesday, March 4, 2026
• Wednesday, April 29, 2026
LLCC Financial Aid on the main campus, 5250 Shepherd Road, Springfield, will offer drop-in or appointment FAFSA assistance Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call or text 217-786-2237, or email Financial.Aid@llcc.edu.
Midwest Youth Services hosts walk to commemorate Youth HOPE Month
Members of the public are invited to help light up the night Star Wars style for Youth HOPE Month with Midwest Youth Services. Grab a free green light saber and hot chocolate beneath the Big Eli Ferris Wheel in Community Park on Thursday, November 20 from 5:30-7 p.m.
Participants are invited to wear green (Jedi robes, rebel gear, or imperial chic all welcome), and walk (or run!) alongside others who believe every young person deserves HOPE!
Come as your favorite hero, villain, or droid. Don’t be afraid to channel your inner Jedi! The force of community awaits. Let’s light the night together — one step, one story, one spark of HOPE at a time. HOPE stands for Homelessness, Outreach, Prevention and Education.
You can RSVP to the event by searching for the event’s title in Facebook events. For more information, contact Audra Pilarte at 217-245-6000 or email Apilarte@mys-kids.org.
Jacksonville woman sentenced to prison for February retail theft
A Jacksonville woman will be spending time in prison for a retail theft at a local store back in February. Samantha K. Milburn, 29, of the 100 block of Meadow Ridge Lane, pleaded guilty to a single count of Class 4 felony retail theft of displayed merchandise on November 4 before Circuit Judge Christopher Reif.
Milburn was arrested on the afternoon of February 27 at Wal-Mart in the 1900 block of West Morton Avenue by Jacksonville police officers. A caller reported to police that a female shoplifter had left the store with an undetermined amount of merchandise. Officers were able to locate the woman, later identified as Milburn, in the store’s parking lot in a white SUV.
Milburn was also charged with criminal trespass to land after having previously been issued a letter of no trespass to the business. Per the accepted plea in court on November 4, Milburn was sentenced to 2 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections, 6 months of mandatory supervised release and ordered to pay a $500 county fine. Milburn was given credit for 4 days served in the Morgan County Jail.
Virginia man arrested while on conditional discharge from animal cruelty conviction
The Virginia Police Department arrested a Virginia man on multiple charges on the evening of November 6. Enrique Rangel, 27, of Virginia, was taken to the Schuyler County Jail on citations of burglary and criminal damage to property.
Rangel is currently on pretrial release for a criminal trespass to a residence arrest on May 25. Rangel was currently serving conditional discharge after probation was revoked in a previous animal torture conviction from 2023.
As of press time, Rangel remained held at the Schuyler County Jail awaiting a pretrial detention hearing.
Springfield man sentenced in two-year-old theft case in Morgan County
A Springfield man will spend the next two years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for a two-year-old theft case.
Luke T. Robinson, 62, of Springfield, pleaded guilty to a single county of Class 4 felony theft under $300 on November 4 before Circuit Judge Christopher Reif.
Robinson was arrested for the charge on November 24, 2023. The case went through extensive delays after Robinson failed to appear at scheduled court hearings at least twice and also vacated the appointment of a public defender for a private attorney in the case.
Judge Reif accepted the plea and sentence for 1 year in the Illinois Department of Corrections, 6 months of mandatory supervised release and ordered to pay a $500 county fine. Robinson was given credit for 2 days served in the Morgan County Jail.
California man arrested in 2024 drug bust receives probation
A Madera, California man, arrested in August 2024, in a large drug bust on Interstate 72 in Morgan County, has received probation time.
In Morgan County Circuit Court on November 5, Devan J. Teran, 22, pleaded guilty to Class 1 felony possession of cannabis less than 5,000 grams.
Teran was arrested along with Jose M. Meza, 21, of Fresno, California, on August 28, 2024 by the Illinois State Police near the Ashland/Alexander exit on Interstate 72 in Morgan County.
Both men were charged with methamphetamine trafficking, methamphetamine delivery over 900 grams, possession of methamphetamine over 900 grams, cannabis trafficking less than 5,000 grams and manufacture and/or delivery of cannabis under 5,000 grams. All are Class X felonies, the most severe felonies in the State of Illinois.
Per the negotiated and accepted plea agreement, Teran was sentenced to 4 years of probation, fined $2,500 plus court costs and ordered to complete 100 hours of community service.
Teran was also ordered to remain in full-time employment during the course of his probation. Teran was given credit for 3 days served in the Morgan County Jail. Meza will return to Morgan County Circuit Court on November 18 for a pretrial setting before Circuit Judge Christopher Reif.
