Two-term Litchfield Mayor Dorothy Mansholt, the first woman elected to the post has passed away.   She won a six-way race in 1989 to claim the gavel.  She had to win over an all male city council to leave her mark and what a mark she left.  .Among the accomplishments during her eight year run in the 90s was the opening of  the Lincoln Land Community College satellite facility and creation of the Shoal Creek Nature Preserve.

We're not sure what "Mother Nature" has against baseball but once again, she has rained on the parade of Montgomery County baseball teams and with overnight rains turning the Hillsboro Sports Complex into a sponge.   

A central figure in making Litchfield a better place to live has passed away.   77-year-old County Board member Bill Bergen passed away Friday and he wore many hats after making Litchfield his new home after serving with the Navy in Vietnam.  He served as a Litchfield firefighter and EMT for 30 years and was Fire Chief for nearly all of the 1990s in a 15 year run that ended with his retirement in 2006.  He was an Arson Investigator for Litchfield and Montgomery County and served as a Montgomery County deputy coroner.He also  served on the Litchfield Park District Board for 16 years, including time as President.  When you look at the success of the Litchfield girls soccer program, Bergen was a central figure.  He served as head coach for 16 years.  He also coached youth soccer and softball.  He served on the board for the Litchfield Youth Soccer Association for over 25 years. He was also a central figure at  Zion Lutheran Church in Litchfield, where he served as an Elder,and coached Zion girls basketball. Our condolences are going out to his wife of 47 years Joyce and his daughters Susan and Stacy.   

Help us celebrate 100 years of Illinois FFA! 

We’re highlighting 100 Faces of FFA — former members whose experiences shaped their lives, careers, and communities. 

We need your help to tell these stories! Please provide as much information as possible so we can showcase their journey, achievements, and impact. 

Who can nominate? Agriculture Teachers/FFA Advisors, members, and alumni of FFA — anyone who knows someone whose FFA experience made a difference. 

How to participate: Nominate someone you admire or nominate yourself! Every story counts, and your submission could inspire the next generation of FFA leaders. 

Let’s come together to honor the people who have made Illinois FFA what it is today!.   Here's the link to find out more.   https://docs.google.com/document/d/15ZXPYvuYWt3LM3uWued1LFcIyuh-LEYO1irY4YC0v8g/edit?usp=sharing to see the Questions on the form to prepare yourself to nominate them.  

And if there are others, like your father, mother, uncle, aunt, friend, neighbor or your FFA advisor or anyone you can think of, please don't hesitate to nominate them as well.  We want hundreds of faces, and we are hoping to get all generations.   

 

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Brett Phillip Kunkel.   Brett Kunkel unexpectedly passed away, late in the day, on March 29, 2026. At the time of his death Brett resided in Sorento, IL, and was the age of 69. He was born on April 19, 1956, in  St. Louis, MO. Brett dedicated his life to his family, service, friendship and leaves behind a legacy of courage, hard work, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.  

Brett was a lifelong firefighter who answered the call to serve in 1970 with bravery and selflessness. He began this role as a junior firefighter. He officially joined as a volunteer fire fighter in 1974 and became the Chief of the Sorento Fire Department in 1980. Brett P. worked diligently to create a district as well as annexation of Panama, Donnellson, and later Walshville 

to create the existing Shoal Creek Fire Protection District. Over the years Brett took the opportunity to complete many training programs across the country which included some college. For many years, he stood on the front lines protecting others, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow firefighters and all who knew him. In 1989 Brett had become an area representative for the IAFPD, and by the time of his death Brett had earned a position as President of the Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts. His commitment to helping others defined his life and reflected the strength of his character.  

In addition to his service as a firefighter, Brett was a retired coal miner. He was employed at Monterey Coal #1 in Carlinville, IL in 1977 and ended his career there after 30 years in 2007. 

He spent years working tirelessly underground, demonstrating a work ethic that was second to none. Brett’s career also included becoming a member of the fire brigade for the mine. Through long days and difficult conditions, he provided for his family with pride and determination.  

When he wasn’t at the firehouse, Brett enjoyed Nascar and could be found cheering on Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals or listening to his beloved nephew's band. He also  enjoyed adding to his coin collection with his brother Blair, you would often find them together. 

Brett typically ended his day at a local establishment enjoying a cold drink with “the guys.” His laughter, quick wit, and generous heart made him the kind of friend everyone wanted in their corner. Brett P. Kunkel was elected Mayor of Sorento where he served several years.  

Above all, Brett was a devoted family man. He was a loving and proud father of Aimee (Thomas) Baker, Jaimee (Jared) Joiner, Brittnee Kunkel, and Emilee Kunkel. He was a cherished grandfather to Mason (Claire) Schweppe, Kylee (Drew) Carroll, Thomas (Neveah) Baker, Carter Chapman, Lilee Joiner, Natalee Baker, Jackson Joiner, Emree Joiner, Carson Wolff, Miles Baker, Jace and Everlee Joiner. He was also a great grandfather to Mylee and Wade Schweppe. He was dedicated to attending their many school and athletic activities. He had a strong devotion to his parents, siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins. His greatest happiness came from the time he spent with his loved ones—sharing stories, laughter, and 

creating memories that will live on forever. He was known for his kindness, quiet strength, and willingness to always lend a helping hand. Brett will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of service, resilience, and love will continue to inspire those whose 

lives he touched.  

Brett P. Kunkel is survived by his children, grandchildren, brothers Blair (Debbie) Kunkel, Brian Kunkel, Bart (Pam) Kunkel, many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Roberta Kunkel, sister Beverly Kates, and brother Berry Kunkel. 

Memorials: The family asks that memorials be given, in Brett's memory, to the Shoal Creek Volunteers, in lieu of plants, flowers and other gifts. Memorials may be given at the visitation and funeral or mailed to the Shoal Creek Volunteers, PO Box 36, Sorento, IL 62086.  Visitation: 4pm-8pm., Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Sorento Fire Hall, 101 N. main St., Sorento, IL  Funeral: 11am., Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Fire Hall, with Chaplain Dick Joyce officiating. Burial: Sunnyside Cemetery, following the funeral A private luncheon will follow the burial. 

At a later date, a fundraising Fish Fry will be held to celebrate Brett's life and service to his community. All community, friends, and family are invited to attend, with proceeds going towards the Sorento Fire Hall 911 memorial fund, which was a passion project of Brett’s. 

The family has entrusted Assalley Funeral Home in Greenville with the arrangements. 

 

Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has received questions regarding the activation of outdoor warning sirens during the severe weather event on Sunday, March 15, 2026, which ultimately produced 5 EF-1 tornadoes impacting portions of Nokomis, Witt, Irving, and other areas of Montgomery County, Illinois.

At no time during the event was Montgomery County under a Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). Additionally, there were no confirmed real-time reports of a tornado, funnel cloud, or rotational activity, nor were there verified reports of hail reaching two inches in diameter or wind speeds exceeding 75 miles per hour. Under current county protocol, any of these conditions would have resulted in the activation of outdoor warning sirens.

Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert individuals who are outdoors of imminent severe weather threats, typically when a Tornado Warning is issued or when credible, confirmed reports of dangerous conditions are received. Based on the information available at the time—including radar data, trained weather spotter input, and observed conditions—criteria for siren activation were not met.

Following the storm, damage assessments, storm path analysis, and a more detailed review of radar data conducted by the National Weather Service determined that an EF-1 tornado had occurred. The NWS is continuing to evaluate this event to better understand why the tornado was not identified through radar or other indicators in real time.

Montgomery County EMA understands the concern this situation has raised among residents in Nokomis, Witt, Irving, and surrounding communities. We remain committed to working closely with the National Weather Service and our local partners to ensure the most accurate and timely warning information possible.

Residents are reminded to utilize multiple methods for receiving weather alerts, including, mobile alerting systems, and trusted media sources, as outdoor warning sirens are only one part of a comprehensive warning system.

For additional information, please contact Montgomery County EMA at the number or email listed above.

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Montgomery County, IL — Dan Hough, Director of the Montgomery County EMA, announced Wednesday that preliminary findings from the National Weather Service indicate that a total of 5 EF1 tornadoes passed through several areas of Montgomery County on the evening of Sunday,
March 15. In response, communities hardest hit by the storms have coordinated a joint cleanup effort to assist residents with debris removal with the help of the Montgomery County EMA.
On Tuesday, March 24, mutual aid resources from the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN) will be deployed to assist with debris removal operations in the communities of Nokomis, Witt, Irving and Coalton.Please use caution when hiring contractors to do work if you need assistance please reach out to your local Village/City Hall.   
Residents are encouraged to move recent storm damaged vegetative debris to the boulevards to facilitate collection. Crews will not enter private property; all debris must be placed in the boulevard, which is publicly owned property. Only recent storm damaged vegetative debris will be collected. Construction and demolition debris, including materials from damaged buildings, as well as appliances, tires, and other
non-vegetative items, will not be accepted. Daily cleanup operations will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m on Tuesday –Thursday.
Residents are asked to follow these guidelines to ensure an efficient and safe cleanup process for all affected communities. Please contact your local Village/City Hall to add your name to the list for pick-up.

The Litchfield Chamber of Commerce is preparing to honor a number of residents and businesses.  Winners include Educator of the Year Trish Fenton, Citizen of the Year Candi Mazza, who has helped struggling students and families in the Litchfield School district,  Business of the Year Rise and Grind Coffee Co., Rising Star Diamond’s Bistro and Gaming and Special Recognition Brittany Ronco, who has been a key player for together lithfield can. The ceremony will start with doors opening and cocktails at 5 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. The awards ceremony presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by dessert and a social hour at 7:30 p.m.Prices are set at $40 per person, or $300 for a table of eight. Those interested can reserve a ticket by calling 217-556-7729. Reservations must be made today,  Wednesday, March 18. 

Witt Mayor Tim Taylor says cleanup efforts continue after Sunday's storm damage and it's official.  You can call much of that storm damage, tornado damage.  Taylor says the National Weather Service informed him that the EF-1 tornado that later hit Nokomis, struck in Witt first with the town suffering considerable damage in its Southwest corner, including at the Witt Lions Club.  

Macoupin County already knew there would be a new sheriff in town, but now they know who that sheriff will be.   Lt Ryan Dixon won a decisive victory over Deputy Chief Quinn Rieher.  

 

In the 15th congressional district race, incumbent Mary Miller easily defeated two Republican challengers.  Meanwhile, in the four way battle of Madison County based Democrats looking to face in November, Edwardsville's Jennifer Todd defeated Paul Davis by nearly 10% of the vote. 

 

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski released the following statement after being declared the winner in the Democratic Primary for Illinois' 13th Congressional District. Budzinski has represented the district since January 2023.

"Over the past three years, I’ve been focused on delivering for the people of Central and Southern Illinois. I’ve secured millions in investments for our communities while fighting back against Donald Trump’s attacks on our healthcare, our freedoms, and our democratic norms.

"This victory is a strong signal that what we’re doing is resonating with voters who are ready for Democrats to take back the majority in the House of Representatives.

 

"I will always keep IL-13 voters at the center of everything I do here in Washington and I look forward to continuing to deliver meaningful change for our communities."

 

In Montgomery Co, there were no initiatives or referendums, so  let’s take a look at look at votes in state races.   There was 20% turnout.   

County voters narrowly picked Lt Governor Julianna Stratton over Congressman Raja Krish-nuh-MUR-thee in the Democratic race for US Senate.  .  Don Tracy, the former Republican Party Chairman, scored a solid victory in the Republican race to succeed Senator Dick Durbin.   Darren Bailey easily won the Republican primary for Governor.   Dems went against the grain, with Holly Kim being the top votegetter in the race for Comptroller.  Turnout reached 20%.  

 

In Christian County,  voter turnout was a mere 5.8%!  

In the Republican race for Sheriff , Jim Baker defeated Phil Deal by a 2-1 margin.  

 

With a lack of competitive races locally, Bond County only saw a voter turnout of 6.5 percent. 

A tough evening for Montgomery County when it comes to the impact of storms that rolled through yesterday.  The biggest impact was found in Nokomis where all schools are closed today.  District officials are dealing with significant roof damage at Nokomis High School.  Nokomis Supt Scott Doer (do-urr) shared an update with us... 

“We have been assessing the damage.  At this point, the north side of the new gym roof is gone, which caused other damage to areas of the NHS roof.  We are currently in the process of mitigating the situation, cleaning debris, and prepping the roof in case other storms come to the area soon.  "I want to thank the Nokomis Fire Department for their hard work, as well as other first responders who came to check on any and all damage to the building.  At this point, all Nokomis Schools will be closed on Monday so we can further assess damage, get more cleaning crews here, and contractors for estimates on any repairs."    

 

 In Witt, Mayor Tim Taylor reports Roofs,siding and a lot of trees were uprooted.  There was one machine shed on the ground and a number of car ports suffered heavy damage.   The town’s beloved Lions Club Building also suffered damage to its roof and AC units.  County Clerk and recorder Sandy Leitheiser announced the Witt polling place  will move from the Lions Club Building to the Witt Fire Dept.   

There were several other reports in the Nokomis, Witt, Coffeen and Raymond Areas of power lines that had been taken down by the high winds and falling branches. Damage assessment efforts are continuing. Residents are reminded to notify your power provider if you have lost power due to the electrical service being pulled from your home. You should also notify and electrical Contractor and your home insurance as Ameren will not replace the meter base and conduit to your home.  Any other power lines that are down should be reported to your power company. Only contact Montgomery County 9-1-1 if you see the downed line is sparking or causing a fire. 

Montgomery County Clerk/Recorder Sandy Leitheiser informs all
voters residing in Witt Township that due to building damage as a
result of Sunday night’s storms, the Polling Place for this Tuesday’s
General Primary Election will be changed from the Witt Lions Building
located at 503 W Broadway St in Witt and will instead be held at the
newly remodeled Witt Fire Department located at 226 Hirst St in Witt.
Those needing direction should look for an outdoor Polling Place sign
in front of the Fire Department building or contact the County Clerk’s
Office by phone at 217-532-9530 or via email at
countyclerk@montgomerycountyil.gov.

Breaking.  A devastating fire has heavily damaged the vacant Litchfield Bowling Alley.  The fire broke out shortly after  2pm today (Sunday 3/15).  Mutual aid swarmed in from Mt Olive, Shoal Creek, Gillespie and Raymond-Harvel.  Route 16 should be open again between Litchfield and Hillsboro.  There are no ?reports of injuries. 

- Macoupin State's Attorney Jordan Garrison announced today that Marc A. Wash (5/27/1978) of Durant, MS, plead guilty to possessing more than 5500 grams (12.125 pounds) of cocaine in Macoupin County. The Honorable Joshua A. Meyer accepted the guilty plea and set the matter for sentencing hearing on July 2, 2026. The sentencing range for the charge Wash plead guilty to is 8-40 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.  

On June 11, 2021, Trooper Keith Hauter conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was speeding. The vehicle also had a broken tail light and smelled of cannabis. Wash was determined to be driving the vehicle with a suspended license and a tow inventory was conducted. During the inventory, Tpr. Hauter found an hidden compartment in the back of the vehicle which contained the cocaine. Judge Meyer set the bond at $500,000 which Wash posted 10 days later. He has been on pretrial release since posting bond.  

“Drug addiction is a misery that is enabled by people who bring these awful substances into our communities.” Garrison said. "Ongoing efforts to stop the flow of drugs into our county is the only way to get ahead of this scourge. I thank the Illinois State Police, specifically Keith Hauter and the South Central Illinois Drug Task Force for their exemplary work in securing the guilty plea."  

The Sangamon County Coroner, Jim Allmon, can confirm the death of two individuals involved in a motor vehicle collision on Interstate 55 early this (Monday 3/9)  morning. The incident occurred in the southbound lane near the Chatham / East Lake Drive exit. A 42-year-old female resident of Wentzville, Missouri, and a 51-year-old female resident of Girard, Illinois, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Autopsies are scheduled to take place today. The identities of the victims are being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The deaths remain under investigation by the Sangamon County Coroner and the Illinois State Police.  The identities of the victims have not been released.

GILLESPIE,IL – A milestone in American road history is coming to Gillespie as the town marks Route 66’s 100th anniversary with a Roaring ’20s–themed night of food, music, and dancing. The 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer & Dance, organized by Grow Gillespie, invites residents and highway enthusiasts to gather for an evening that nods to the era when diners, roadhouses, and neon signs defined America’s Main Street. 

The event will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Gillespie Civic Center located at 115 North Macoupin Street, Gillespie with doors opening at 5:00 PM and the event starting at 5:30 PM. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Roaring ’20s attire to match the spirit of the night. 

The family-friendly evening features a two-part live music lineup. Hank Greenwalt will play from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM followed by the Glendale Riders from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The event promises a lively soundtrack for dining and dancing, with a distinct mid-century vibe that honors Route 66’s heyday. 

Advance tickets are required and cost $40 per person or $75 for a couple. Tickets include a catered dinner, beer, and live music. Tickets can be purchased online (https://www.growgillespie.org/event-details/100th-anniversary-route-66-chicken-beer-dance) or by contacting Grow Gillespie event leaders Jody Carpani at 217-710-1109, Shannon Sarti at 

217-556-4152, or emailing gillespieholidaysparkle@gmail.com.

Sponsorships, which include complimentary event tickets, are also available by contacting Grow Gillespie. The night blends nostalgia with contemporary community spirit. Guests will enjoy a chicken dinner, beer, a dedicated dance floor, and live performances that span the evening. The Roaring ’20s theme invites festive costumes and costumes-friendly photography, making it a memorable weekend activity for friends and families, Route 66 fans, and history buffs alike. Proceeds and participation benefit Gillespie Holiday Sparkle 

Macoupin County State's Attorney Jordan J. Garrison announced today that Patrick D. Greer (9/7/1985) of Mt. Olive was sentenced to thirteen years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for methamphetamine delivery, and burglary. Greer had been held in the Macoupin County Jail since February of 2025 when he was initially charged with the burglary offense.  

On March 14, 2024, Greer was driving on Route 66 in Mt. Olive when he was observed driving while not wearing a seat belt. Sgt. Roger Diveley from the Macoupin County Sheriff's Office was called in for a assistance and his K9 partner Mac indicated on the vehicle. A search found approximately 30 grams of methamphetamine, 4 grams of cocaine and 11 grams of fentanyl. The investigation was passed onto Insp. Matt Marburger of the Macoupin County Sheriff's Department who was able to determine Greer had brought the drugs into Macoupin County to deliver them.  

In an unrelated matter, Det. Lt. Ryan Dixon investigated a burglary that occurred at Hickory Grove Farms in Macoupin County. Surveillance video identified Greer as one of the suspects. During the investigation Lt. Dixon and Insp. Marburger were able to obtain consent to search Greer's vehicle where they located the stolen property.  

"Dedicated law enforcement officers were able to work methodically to take another career criminal off the streets," Garrison said. "Those who seek to sell drugs and profit on the addiction of others can expect to see the same fate. I would like to thank the Macoupin County Sheriff's Office and the South Central Illinois Drug Task Force for their work in this matter, particularly Detective Lt. Ryan Dixon, Sgt. Matt Marburger, Sgt. Roger Diveley, and Deputy Jake Zimmer for their stellar work in this matter."  

The Montgomery County Circuit Clerk’s office is in the process of updating our Jury Server and Software.
If you are trying to call, text or log in to the web portal and respond to a postcard you received and are told your
information is invalid, please try again in 5-7 days. I apologize for the inconvenience. It could possible take 1 to
2 weeks to complete the process. You may also call the office at 217-532-9540, to request a printed form be
mailed to you. This is the best time for us to update due to trial schedules. Again my apologies.
I thank you for your patience and I thank Curtis Watkins, Montgomery County IT department head and his
team.

Public Works advised that water will be shut off to Hurricane Dr, Prairie Trail, Gordon Circle, Timberlake Circle, and Quarry Trail for water main repair around 9am today (Wed Feb 11).