Local News

Wasp Imported To Help Fight Emerald Ash Borer

Experts have decided to battle the invasive emerald ash borer with a natural predator.

About 1,000 wasps were released into a Lake County forest preserve on Thursday in another effort to stop or slow the spread of the beetle, which is native to Asia.

The imported wasps, which are less than half a centimeter long, are native to China and feast on ash borer larva.

John Lelito, who heads the Michigan lab that raises the wasps, says two species of wasps that attack the beetle are being deployed in Lake County.

The wasps were released in Cook County forest preserves in 2009, where officials say they have had limited success in controlling the beetle.

The larvae of the metallic-green beetle feed on the inner bark of ash trees, killing them.

Two Accused of Fraud in Grain Elevator Opertations

Federal prosecutors have announced the indictment of a central Illinois farmer and the manager of grain elevator for allegedly participating in a $14 million fraud scheme.

Roberts Printz of Fairbury and Lincoln resident Timothy Boerma are accused of mail and wire fraud, with Printz also charged with bank fraud and money laundering in connection with operations at the former Towanda Grain Co.

Towanda Grain was closed by the state in May 2010 for alleged financial discrepancies. Boerma was manager at the time.

According to the indictment, Printz and Boerma worked together to defraud Towanda Grain Co., Printz's creditors and others.

Printz's attorney, Joel Brown of Peoria, refused to comment on the indictment. Boerma's attorney, public defender Rob Alvarado, could not be reached for comment.

Local Lawmaker Sees ROE Issue As Urgent For Fall Veto Session

The upcoming Fall Veto session will bring some major issues to the forefront.

Governor Pat Quinn's recent veto of the Regional Office of Education funding is one of the critical items on the agenda for the session. State Representative Chapin Rose says while there needs to be a limit in the bureaucracy in education, ROEs provide much of the necessary training and certifications vital to school operatoins.

[audio:veto1.mp3]A Word From Rep. Rose[/audio]

Rose says he's more than willing to help consolidate certain positions of jobs, but he says Quinn needs an actual plan he can work with in place. The current situation has had negative drawbacks for those who work in the ROE, especially the superintendents who have had to go without pay for the last few months.

[audio:veto2.mp3]A Word From Rep. Rose[/audio]

According to Rose, there should hae been more investigation into other areas before Governor Quinn took funding comepletely from the ROE. He argues the Governor should look into the state Board of Education, which according to Rose, seems to be less effective than the local ROEs.

[audio:veto3.mp3]A Word From Rep. Rose[/audio]

This ROE funding along with several other topics will be discussed at the end of the month leading into November. Rose is confident funding can get restored to them and also the school's transportation funds as well.

Homecoming Week in Monticello

This week was Homecoming week around Monticello.

The benchmark of Homecoming in Monticello is their 12 noon parade around the downtown area. Superintendent of Monticello Schools Dr. Vic Zimmerman feels the parade in Monticello is one of the best in the area. He points out one unique part of the parade, is past graduating classes each have a spot in the parade.

[audio:monticellohomecoming1.mp3]A Word From Dr. Zimmerman[/audio]

Dr. Zimmerman explains the parade is a community wide event, and encompasses a lot of the town. He explains the goal is to get as much community support and involvement as possible.

[audio:monticellohomecoming2.mp3]A Word From Dr. Zimmerman[/audio]

Of course no Homecoming week would be complete without the students of the district having fun through the week, and Monticello schools are no exception. Dr. Zimmerman explains the students put together a week full different themes, gearing up for the parade and football game today.

[audio:monticellohomecoming3.mp3]A Word From Dr. Zimmerman[/audio]

The Sages are hosting the Sullivan Redskins. You can hear their game on 95.9 FM WEZC and on dewittdailynews.com.

DJWH Considering Bringing On Ambulance Service

The Dr. John Warner Hospital is seeking to turn over it's ambulance services.

The Dr. John Warner Hospital is considered a critical access hospital. CEO of the DJWH Earl Sheehy explains the hospital operates the ambulances on behalf of the city. He says nearly every time they take the ambulance out for a call, the city-owned hospital is losing money.

[audio:djwhambulanceservice1.mp3]A Word From Sheehy[/audio]

Sheehy explains for Medicare to reimburse the hospital, there cannot be another ambulance service within 35 miles. Sheehy says, not matter how they try to draw the map, it simply does not work. So the hospital is now seeking another ambulance service to come in so the hospital is not the provider of the service.

There are no shortage of options for the hospital to have run the ambulance services. Sheehy explains there are several area ambulance services that could be potential providers, however, he says right now the goal is to just stir up interest from those potential providers.

[audio:djwhambulanceservice2.mp3]A Word From Sheehy[/audio]

The DJWH has yet to receive a formal proposal from anyone. Sheehy stresses the things are still a work in progress for the hospital, but they do have some preliminary interest.

[audio:djwhambulanceservice3.mp3]A Word From Sheehy[/audio]

Sheehy explains the hospital will probably not house the ambulance service in their garage, because he says again, it costs the hospital money to have them there. The hospital is considering the ambulance service as a cost cutting measure to save them some money.

Cards Prepare For Phils

>>Cardinals Prepare For NLDS Game One

(Philadelphia, PA)  --  Fresh off a dramatic finish to the National League Wild Card, the Cardinals now get set to face the Phillies in Game One of the NLDS tomorrow at Citizens Bank Park.  St. Louis completed an improbable run to the postseason, winning 16 of its final 21 games to finish a game ahead of the Braves.  Kyle Lohse opposes Roy Halladay in tomorrow's Game One.

MLB AL Division Series
------
  5:07 p.m. - Tampa Bay Rays at Texas Rangers
                    (Game One of best-of-five ALDS)

  8:37 p.m. - Detroit Tigers at New York Yankees
                    (Game One of best-of-five ALDS)

Football, NASCAR Notes

>>Bears Clash With Carolina

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Bears will host the Panthers at Soldier Field on Sunday.  Chicago dropped to 1-and-2 on the season with a 27-17 home loss to the rival Packers last week.  Carolina collected its first win by beating the Jaguars last week.  The Bears have won three of the five all-time meetings between the teams.

>>Rams Host Redskins

(St. Louis, MO)  --  The Rams will once again try for their first victory of the season when they host the 2-and-1 Washington Redskins Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome.  St. Louis is coming off a 37-7 beatdown at the hands of the Ravens last weekend to fall to 0-and-3.  This is the Rams' third home game in four weeks to start the year.  The Rams play four of their next five games on the road.

>>Illini Host Northwestern

(Undated)  --  An old in-state rivalry in college football action is on tap tomorrow.  In-state rivals will collide when 22nd-ranked Illinois hosts Northwestern at 11:00 a.m. The undefeated Illini are coming off a closer-than expected victory against Central Michigan last Saturday. They have played their first 5 games at home this year, and the 5-game homestand wraps up this weekend.

>>Chase Shifts To Dover

(Dover, DE)  --  The Chase for the Sprint Cup championship shifts to Dover for the AAA 400 on Sunday.  Tony Stewart is on fire right now.  After a winless 26-race regular season, Stewart has won the first two playoff races.  Stewart began the Chase in the ninth seed, but after back-to-back wins, he has propelled to the lead, holding a seven-point advantage over Kevin Harvick.

High School Football Week 6 Preview

High School football Week 6 is here...

The Clinton Maroons are on the road this week as they head to Shelbyville. The Maroons coming off a 48-20 loss at home vs. Monticello last Friday. The Maroons forced a couple of early turnovers but could not capitalize, as the Sages pulled away in the 2nd half. The Maroons come into tonight's game at 1-4, Shelbyville is at a mark of 2-3, under first year head coach Stan Wienke. 

The Sages host their Homecoming game tonight against Sullivan. The Sages started slow last week against Clinton after a couple early turnovers, but found their stride late in the first half and pulled away in the 2nd half to a 48-20 win. The Sages enter play tonight at 3-2, 2 victories away from playoff considerations, as Sullivan comes in at 1-4.

Other games around the area...

Okaw Valley (Black)
Decatur St. Teresa at Tolono Unity

Okaw Valley (Blue)
Argenta-Oreana at Maroa-Forsyth
Meridian at Warrensburg-Latham
Tuscola at Central A & M

Little Okaw Valley
Arcola at Villa Grove
East Central at Arthur-Lovington
Martinsville vs. South Piatt
Oakland-Tri-County at Cerro Gordo

Heart of Illinois
Ridgeview at Tri-Valley
El Paso-Gridley at Lexington
Fisher at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley(GCMS)
Flanagan-Cornell at Dee-Mac
Heyworth at Fieldcrest
LeRoy at Blue Ridge

Big Twelve
Bloomington at Mattoon
Champaign Central at Decatur MacArthur
Danville at Decatur Eisenhower
Normal West at Normal Community
Urbana at Champaign Centennial

Central State Eight
Chatham-Glenwood at Lincoln

Corn Belt
Eureka at Prairie Central
Mahomet-Seymour at Olympia
Pontiac vs. Normal U-High at ISU Hancock Stadium
Rantoul at Bloomington Central Catholic

Sangamon Valley
Clifton Central at Paxton-Buckley-Loda
Iroquois West at Momence
St. Joseph-Ogden at Champaign St. Thomas More

Clinton Police Report for 9-30

 

CITATIONS 9/29/11

JOSHUA C. NELSON 21, MEQUON, WI SPEEDING 75 MPH IN A 55 MPH ZONE. BOND POSTED

ARMANDO J. COSTELLANOS 21, BLOOMINGTON SPEEDING 74 MPH IN A 55 MPH ZONE. BOND POSTED

 

ON 9/29/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED RICHARD T. MOSS 36, DECATUR FOR CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO STATE SUPPORTED PROPERTY. MOSS WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-30

 

September 30, 2011

 

Jail Population: 57

Summons Served: 1

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

Jamie Peck, 33, Decatur, issued a citation for speeding (74 mph in a 55 mph zone). Peck posted her IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Investigation in to the scene of an accident, which occurred at approximately 0637 a.m. on Saturday, September 24, 2011, revealed that a vehicle driven by Donna Scarbrough, 59, Farmer City was traveling south on Royal Road. Scarbrough slowly turned left into Maple Grove Cemetery when she was distracted and left the roadway and drove into the ditch. Scarbrough had minor damage to the undercarriage and front bumper. No injuries were reported. No citations were issued.

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

 

Maroons Spoil Shelbyville Homecoming

In a game heard on WHOW, the Clinton Maroons destroyed the Shelbyville Rams with a final score of 67-22. A good offensive line, great defense, and taking advantage of opputunities put the Maroons in a postion to spoil the Rams homecoming and spoil, they did. Junior Kye Reczek led the way for the Maroons with 11 carries for 215 yards and 3 touchdowns. Senior Mitch Creager also had a big night for Clinton with 11 carries for 182 yards and 2 touchdowns and freshman Alex Wheat had 5 carries for 106 yards and a touchdown in the game. The Rams were led by quarterback Tucker Schwengel who completed 11 of 34 passes for 181 yards and 2 interceptions.

The Maroons head to Decatur St. Teresa next Friday night (10/7) and that game will be live around 7pm on The Big 1520AM and 92.3FM WHOW and on DeWittDailyNews.com.

Sages Beat Sullivan

As heard on 95.9 WEZC, the Monticello Sages beat the Sullivan Redskins 34-0 in their homecoming matchup.  Ryan Donahue had 20 carries for 292 yards and 2 touchdowns one being a 95 yard touchdown run.  Jacob Williams contributed 11 carries for 63 yards. Tune in next Friday as Monticello takes on one of the top teams in the state, Unity.

Cattle Break Free, Graze on Golf Course

A herd of cattle broke free in north-central Illinois and started grazing on a golf course.

About 40 beef cattle crossed a road Thursday morning and made their way onto the fairways and greens at South Bluff Country Club in Peru. Two men, John and Eugene Kurtz of Peru, were getting ready to play when the cattle joined them on the course.

Golf club crews worked to drive the herd back across the road and onto a farm. They used motorized carts to keep the cattle concentrated in the corner of the golf course. Some cattle were on the roadway.

New Rules For Hunters in Illinois, Iowa

Experts have decided to battle the invasive emerald ash borer with a natural predator.

About 1,000 wasps were released into a Lake County forest preserve on Thursday in another effort to stop or slow the spread of the beetle, which is native to Asia.

The imported wasps, which are less than half a centimeter long, are native to China and feast on ash borer larva.

John Lelito, who heads the Michigan lab that raises the wasps, says two species of wasps that attack the beetle are being deployed in Lake County.

The wasps were released in Cook County forest preserves in 2009, where officials say they have had limited success in controlling the beetle.

The larvae of the metallic-green beetle feed on the inner bark of ash trees, killing them.

Macon County Sheriff Says Fight Against K2 Continues Despite Ban

A synthetic form of marijuana known as K2 is popping up on store shelves in Macon County.  Lawmakers banned the sale of K2 but Sheriff Tom Schneider says people are finding tricky ways to modify the drug and get around the law.

[audio:rddK2.mp3]A Word From Schneider[/audio]

Lawmakers banned some of the substances found in K2 but Sheriff Schneider says modifications of the drug are making it difficult to combat the problem.

[audio:rddK22.mp3]A Word From Schneider[/audio]

The product clearly says it shouldn't be consumed but the Sheriff says manufacturers are specifically targeting youth in their marketing efforts.

[audio:rddK23.mp3]A Word From Schneider[/audio]

Schneider says the drug poses a threat to public safety because teens are getting behind the wheel while they're impaired.  He says doctors report the drug speeds up the pulse rate, causes high blood pressure and even impairs breathing.  The Sheriff's Department is partnering with local schools to create a campaign against these synthetic drugs.  He says the plans are already underway and they expect to get the campaign kicked off in the next few weeks.

Financial Planners Say Now Might Be Good Time To Invest

With a high unemployment rate and a risky stock market, many Illinoisans are afraid to invest their money.  Jack Lasday with Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management says fear is not a bad thing but now could be an opportune time to purchase stock.  

[audio:rddMFear3.mp3]A Word From Landsay[/audio]

Lasday says the market is climbing slowly but it will stay in somewhat of a holding pattern until issues are worked out with the European sovereign debt crisis and American entitlements and taxes.

[audio:rddMFear6.mp3]A Word From Landsay[/audio]

Lasday says financial rewards come with riskier investments but it's always smart to have more stable investments in your portfolio.

[audio:rddMFear4.mp3]A Word From Landsay[/audio]

The financial planner urges people to invest wisely, watch the market, and find someone they trust to help manage their money.  Right now, they'd advise investors not to pull out of the market completely but to scale back on some of the riskier stocks.  They say having a plan and sticking to it is the most important thing to remember when it comes to investing.

University of Illinois Finds More Law School Grade Problems

The University of Illinois says an investigation into the use of inflated grades in online law school marketing material has found inaccurate data posted for the four most recent classes.

The university said Wednesday that the ongoing investigation found inaccurate Law School Admissions Test and GPA scores posted in online student profiles for the classes of 2011 through 2014.

University spokesman Tom Hardy said that for 3 of those classes, inaccurate information was also forwarded to the American Bar Association and to ranking organizations, such as U.S. News & World Report.

University President Michael Hogan called the practice "absolutely unacceptable."

The university hired an outside law firm and a forensic data analysis company to investigate after receiving complaints and finding inaccurate data posted online for the class of 2014.

Illinois Seeking Vendors For Jobs Fair

Illinois Department of Human Services officials are seeking vendors and employers for its Career and Job Fair and Disabilities Expo in October.

The expo is dedicated to people with disabilities and their caretakers, and offers services, products and equipment to help them live independently.

The state agency's division of rehabilitation services wants traditional vendors representing employers, educational institutions and support agencies. But this year the event will also feature organizations that offer volunteer opportunities and information about home-based businesses.

The event will be Oct. 19 from noon to 4 p.m. in the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

School Bus Drivers Needed In Champaign

If you're looking for work in the Champaign area, you may qualify to be a school bus driver.  The Champaign school district is looking to hire six full time drivers plus substitutes.  Candidates must be at least 21-years-old and must have had an Illinois drivers license for at least three years in a row.  Drivers work 20 to 40 hours per week and must be available for field trips and other special events.  Depending on experience, drivers are paid anywhere between ten-ninety an hour and 12-eleven an hour.  If you're interested in the job, check out the recruitment fair October 11th through 13th at the Mellon Administrative Offices.

Illinois Farm Land Pricey and Available

Farm land is starting to come up for sale in some parts of Illinois, and it's happening at a time of sky-high prices.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says Illinois farm land is selling for $5,800 an acre. Prices have doubled since 2004. High corn and soybean prices and low investor confidence in other assets have pushed up demand for farm land.

Land brokers in central Illinois say they're starting to see more tracts on the market.

Dave Klein is a broker with Soy Capital Ag Services in Bloomington. He explains his firm has 12,000 acres for sale. That's 20% more than last fall.

Klein believes land could continue to be a good investment if demand for corn and soy keep crop prices high.

Synthetic Marijuana Found In Macon County Stores

Authorities in Macon County say fake marijuana is lining the shelves at some local stores and they say parents should be aware.  The synthetic drug looks like incense or potpourri but it's actually a potentially harmful form of marijuana.  The product is clearly marked that is shouldn't be consumed but that's not stopping some teenagers from indulging.  Sheriff Tom Schneider urges parents to talk to their children and educate themselves on the dangers of synthetic marijuana.  Lawmakers banned k2 earlier this year but some stores simply started purchasing other forms of synthetic drugs.

Report Shows Prison Closure Could Spur Prison Crowding

The Illinois Department of Corrections says the planned closure of a central Illinois prison could mean 1,500 inmates would be housed in prison gyms.

The department detailed the scenario involving the medium-security Logan Correctional Center near Lincoln in a required report to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. The closure also could mean crowding-related lawsuits.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn has called the closure unavoidable given budget cuts by lawmakers. The union representing many of the affected prison workers says the move could endanger corrections workers and inmates.

Meanwhile, plans to close a maximum-security state mental-health center in Chester could require hundreds of thousands of dollars in upgrades at sites elsewhere to accommodate patients.

Hot Summers Ideal For Pumpkin Producers

The hot, dry summer has taken its toll on Illinois' corn and soybean crops, but it's looking like a good year for the state's pumpkin crop.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-26-11 Bumper Pumpkin WRAP.mp3]Jared White With The Story[/audio]

Homecoming Week in Maroa-Forsyth District

It is Homecoming Week in the Maroa-Forsyth district.

Homecoming is a good opportunity for past students to make their way to their alma-matter. This year, the Maroa-Forsyth district has a couple of classes coming back for the weekend to celebrate their graduation anniversaries. According to Superintendent of Maroa-Forsyth Schools Mike Williams, this should be a special weekend for the classes of 1961 and 1991.

[audio:maroahomecoming1.mp3]A Word From Williams[/audio]

With school's in two different communities, the Maroa-Forsyth district faces a challenge in trying to get everyone involved in the activities, specifically the Homecoming pep rally and the parade, in Maroa. Williams says administrators do everything they can to make sure everyone can be a part of all the activities.

[audio:maroahomecoming2.mp3]A Word From Williams[/audio]

The Homecoming parade gets underway at 3 pm Friday afternoon, and will start down Washington Street and end in front of the old Maroa Middle School. Williams says the community support behind the annual parade makes it a well attended event. He says the organizations in the school and others make the parade the big success that it is.

[audio:maroahomecoming3.mp3]A Word From Williams[/audio]

You cannot mention Homecoming without talking about the football game. The top ranked Trojans host Argenta-Oreana this week and of course no homecoming is complete without the traditional Homecoming dance Saturday evening as well.

Talks of Prison Closure in Logan County Already Being Felt

The city of Lincoln may soon be dealing with one of it's largest employers shutting their doors.

Governor Pat Quinn announced earlier this month a plan to close down 9 state facilities, which would result in the loss of nearly two-thousand jobs. One of those facilities is the Logan County Correctional Center. Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder explains the facility in Logan County is not getting shut down because of financial reasons, but according to the Department of Corrections Director, because the jobs are easily transferable to other facilities.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing4.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

Mayor Snyder explains he has been a part of a job loss in the past, and says he sympathizes with the families of the workers. And while the facility is not slated to officially shut its doors until the end of the year, the Mayor says he can already see the effects of just the talks of this happening.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing5.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

One other facility that is set to close as well is a facility in Jacksonville, which employs about 100 people fewer than the Logan County Correctional Center. Mayor Snyder points to a study that was done on the town there to find out what the economic impact would be, he says he fears the same impact may come to Lincoln if the facility does in fact,  get shut down.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing6.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

The Mayor and Lincolnites alike have are being pro-active to fight the closing of the facility. Mayor Snyder says their is a petition that can be signed, there is also an organized rally that will take place in the middle of October and he also encourages residents to contact the Governor's office and voice their opinions.

Should the Logan County Correctional Facility close, it would put over 500 people out of work, which would almost definitely raise Logan County's current 8.4% unemployment rate, and may even impact other counties throughout central Illinois.

Maroons Golfers Win Wednesday

After taking second Tuesday afternoon in the Okaw Valley Conference Tournament, the Clinton Maroons golf team bounced back Wednesday, as they hosted St. Thomas More(JV) and won by 26 strokes, shooting a 161. Zach Newberry and Logan Woolridge both shot a 38. Corey Wisher shot a 42, while Steven Evans shot a 43 and both Blake Newman and Kip Barber registered a 44. The Maroons head-to-head record moves to 17-4 on the season.

Cards Clinch Improbable Wild Card; Cubs, Sox End Season with Losses; Playoffs Set

>>Cards Clobber Astros, Clinch NL Wild Card

(Houston, TX)  --  The Cardinals clinched the National League Wild Card due in part to an 8-0 clobbering of the Astros on Wednesday night at Minute Maid Park.  Following the victory, the Cards watched as the Braves suffered a 4-3 loss to the Phillies in 13 innings.  The win coupled with Atlanta's loss gave the Cards the final playoff spot in the NL.  St. Louis will face the Phillies in Game One of their NL division series in Philadelphia Saturday.  Chris Carpenter struck out 11 in a two-hit shutout.  Carpenter upped his record to 11-and-9.  The Cards scored five runs in the first inning in the win.  Brett Myers gave up seven runs, six earned, through five frames to fall to 7-and-14 on the season.  The 'Stros finished the season at an MLB-worst 56-and-106.

>>Cubs Lose Season Finale To Padres

(San Diego, CA)  --  Wade LeBlanc threw seven strong innings and the Padres ended a woeful 2011 season on a high note with a 9-2 rout of the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday night at Petco Park.  The 2011 season for the Cubs was a breakout one for Starlin Castro.  The 21-year-old shortstop became the youngest player in NL history to top the league in hits with 207.  Ryan Dempster, who was charged with eight hits and a season-high nine runs over five-and-two-third frames, lost his last six decisions to end at 10-and-14 on the season.  The Northsiders finished the season with a mark of 71-and-91.

>>Jays Rally To Top White Sox

(Chicago, IL)  --  Mark Teahen and Adam Loewen each walked with the bases loaded in the top of the ninth as the Blue Jays rallied to beat the White Sox, 3-2, in both team's season finale on Wednesday afternoon at The Cell.  Shawn Camp earned the win out of the bullpen, and Frank Francisco recorded his 17th save.  Chris Sale took the loss for Chicago.  Gordon Beckham lifted a solo shot for the Sox, who were under the direction of pitching coach Don Cooper after Ozzie Guillen was named the manager of the Florida Marlins.  Chicago finished its 2011 campaign with a mark of 79-and-83.

MLB NL
------
New York Mets 3, Cincinnati Reds 0
Colorado Rockies 6, San Francisco Giants 3
Washington Nationals 3, Florida Marlins 1
Philadelphia Phillies 4, Atlanta Braves 3 (13 inn)
St. Louis Cardinals 8, Houston Astros 0
Milwaukee Brewers 7, Pittsburgh Pirates 3
San Diego Padres 9, Chicago Cubs 2
Los Angeles Dodgers 7, Arizona Diamondbacks 5
(End of Regular Season)

MLB AL
------
Toronto Blue Jays 3, Chicago White Sox 2
Baltimore Orioles 4, Boston Red Sox 3
Detroit Tigers 5, Cleveland Indians 4
Tampa Bay Rays 8, New York Yankees 7 (12 inn)
Texas Rangers 3, LA Angels of Anaheim 1
Minnesota Twins 1, Kansas City Royals 0
Oakland Athletics 2, Seattle Mariners 0

>>MLB Playoffs Set After Improbable Wednesday

(Undated)  --  The playoff field in Major League Baseball is set after an improbable night of action on the final day of the regular season.  The Tampa Bay Rays secured the AL Wild Card in dramatic fashion.  The Rays entered Wednesday tied with the Boston Red Sox for the final AL Wild Card spot.  Just moments after Boston allowed two runs in the bottom of the ninth in a 4-3 loss to the Orioles, Evan Longoria hit a walk-off solo homer in the 12th to give the Rays an 8-7 win over the Yankees.  The Red Sox had a nine-game lead in the Wild Card race in September 4th.  No team had ever overcome that many games in September to reach the postseason.  The Rays will face the Texas Rangers in one AL Division Series.  The Yankees will take on the Detroit Tigers in the other best-of-five AL set.

In the National League, the St. Louis Cardinals also clinched the Wild Card on Wednesday.  The Cards, who entered play tied with the Atlanta Braves, clobbered the Houston Astros, 8-0.  St. Louis then watched as the Braves suffered a 4-3 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies in 13 innings.  On August 25th, the Braves had a 10-and-a-half game lead in the Wild Card standings.  The Cardinals earned the right to face the Phillies in the NLDS with the win.  The Milwaukee Brewers will battle the Arizona Diamondbacks in the other National League Division Series.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-29

September 29, 2011

 

Jail Population: 54

Summons Served: 3

Warrant Arrests:

 

Melvin Probus, 70, Heyworth, was arrested and charged with DUI (alcohol). Probus was also issued citations for Failure to Give Information After Striking Property-Mailbox, Driving on Shoulder, Illegal Transportation, and Driving Under the Influence. Probus, posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Kannan Vinayagam, 38, Des Plaines, was issued a citation for speeding (70 mph in a 45 mph zone). Vinayagam posted his IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Linda Robb, 60, Decatur, was issued a citation for failure to reduce speed/accident. Robb, posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Dustin Sparks, 25, Middletown, was arrested and charged for Possession of Cannabis 2.5g-10g and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Sparks posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Lin Lin, 46, Chicago, was arrested and charged with Failure to Appear. Lin posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Education Officials Consider Opting Out Of NCLB

President Obama is giving states the chance to opt out of certain provisions of the No Child Left Behind act.  Mary Fergus, with the Illinois State Board of Education says they're still considering whether they'll take advantage of the opportunity. 

[audio:rddNCLB2.mp3]A Word From Fergus[/audio]

Fergus adds opting out will help get rid of the biggest pressures of NCLB.

[audio:rddNCLB4.mp3]A Word From Fergus[/audio]

New standards emphasize how to apply the learned concepts in real life situations.  Fergus says many of the state's schools are considered some of the best in the best in the nation, turning out highly qualified students but even that's not always enough for the school to meet the annual NCLB standards.  She says reauthorization of the law is long overdue.  It was supposed to be reauthorized in 2007 but was delayed as Congress focused on other, more pressing, issues.

State Debt Continues To Be A Big Problem

Illinois is looking at an eight-point-three billion dollar deficit despite increasing the income tax earlier this year.   Laurence Msall, President of the Civic Federation, says the only way for the state to make up the debt is by cutting spending further.

[audio:rddDebt1.mp3]A Word From Msall[/audio]

Msall adds the state's biggest budget problem is unfunded pensions.

[audio:rddDebt3.mp3]A Word From Msall[/audio]

The majority of the debt is in unpaid bills to state service providers and Medicaid backlog. The income tax increase resulted in three billion dollars in extra funding, but much of that was relegated to growing pension and borrowing costs.

State Senator Says General Assembly Won?t Allow Facility Closures

State Senator John Jones says Governor Quinn is using fear tactics to get lawmakers to give him more money.  He says he’s confident lawmakers are not going to allow the governor to shut down seven state facilities.

[audio:rddhearing4.mp3]A Word From Sen. Jones[/audio]

Jones says he’s confident lawmakers are not going to allow the governor to shut down seven state facilities but AFSCME Council 31 spokesman Anders Lindall says Quinn must be taken seriously.

[audio:rddhearing3.mp3]A Word From Sen. Jones[/audio]

Quinn says lawmakers haven’t given him enough money to operate the facilities and if they don’t pass a supplemental budget, he’s shutting them down.  That will put nearly two thousand people out of work.  Senator Jones says this will be an issue of priority when lawmakers head back to Springfield next month.

AFSCME Urges Lawmakers To Slow Down

AFSCME officials are accusing state officials of rushing through the process to close seven state facilities.  Council 31 spokesperson Anders Lindall says COGFA is not giving people enough time to plan to attend the meetings. 

[audio:rddHearing1.mp3]A Word From Lindall[/audio]

He says a lack of adequate planning prevents the public from speaking up.  COGFA announced the Rockford meeting with less than a week's notice. Lindall says thousands of jobs, local economies, and vital public services are on the line and it would be tragic if the people who'll be impacted aren't given a chance to express their concerns.  Lindall says COGFA's actions don't meet the standard of transparency and accountability.  He wants them to slow the process down and make sure people are given enough time to make plans to attend the hearings.

Taiwan Agrees To Purchase Illinois Corn, Soybeans

Taiwanese officials are looking to import more Illinois corn and soybeans over the next two years.  They signed letters of intent yesterday, agreeing to buy up to 59-million bushels of corn.  That could pump nearly 400-million dollars into the pockets of Illinois corn producers.  Taiwan will also buy up to 14-million bushels of soybeans from the state.  That equates to an additional 182-million dollars for Illinois.  This year Taiwan is the sixth-largest export market for U.S. agricultural products and the fifth-largest market for U.S. corn and soybeans.

Report Shows Lowered Corn Estimate Yields

The Illinois office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service has lowered corn yield estimates for the state.

The Illinois estimate made earlier this month is now 161 bushels an acre, down from 170 in August. The field report notes that the yield fell due to "exceptionally hot weather" while much corn was pollinating.

Monday's state crop report shows that the Illinois corn harvest is 22% complete. Last year at this time it was 54% finished.

Patrick Kirchhofer manages the Peoria County Farm Bureau. He says corn roots didn't penetrate normally because of a wet spring. He says that combined with extreme heat and dry weather meant the plants didn't have "a strong anchor."

Reports Leave Questions, Concerns Over Quinn's Proposed Closings

It's going to cost Illinois nearly $300 million dollars and over 25-hundred jobs if Governor Pat Quinn closes seven state sites.

The governor says Illinois' budget isn't big enough to keep open the sites. His office has filed the closing recommendations and economic impact studies for The Chester, Singer, and Tinley Park mental health centers. As well as the Mabley and Jacksonville Developmental Centers and the Logan Correctional Center and Murphysboro Youth Center.

Advocate Tony Paulauski supports closing Jacksonville and Mabley, if the governor takes his time.

[audio:092711TonyPualauski2.mp3]A Word From Paulauski[/audio]

Governor Quinn wants to close the sites in 90 days. The governor also wants to send prisoners from Logan to gyms in other state prisons. That has Piinckneyville Correctional Center's Randy Hellmann worried.

[audio:092711RandyHellmann1.mp3]A Word From Hellmann[/audio]

Quinn's spokeswoman says lawmakers can always work with the governor this fall to avoid the closures.

Medicare Open Enrollment Going on Now

There are important dates for those who benefit from Medicare within the coming months.

The dates for Medicare open enrollment are different this year, resulting in a shorter timespan to enroll than in the past. Leann Sosamon, the Senior Outreach coordinator of the Dewitt County Friendship Center, wants to make sure those who need to make changes in medicare are taken care of in time.

[audio:medicare1.mp3]A Word From Sosaman[/audio]

According to Sosamon, Medicare created an early cut off date in order to be able to keep up with all of the changes being made to the Illinois Cares Rx program. With recent changes to the program, she says there are several things seniors are able to do before they sign up to find the best rate.

[audio:medicare 2.mp3]A Word From Sosaman[/audio]

Sosamon encourages seniors to not wait until the last minute to make an appointment with her. She notes her time will be limited as the deadline approaches. She also points out some necessary items that need to be brought to her as well. She says the two most important documents are identification and proof of income.

[audio:medicare3.mp3]A Word From Sosaman[/audio]

For more information on Medicare Open Enrollment ,or any other questions you might have, you can call Leann Sosaman at the Friendship Center at 935-9411.

Blue Ridge District Hosting 'Vision Team' Meeting Tonight

The Blue Ridge School district's Mansfield facility project continues to make strides in becoming a reality.

The next step for the project is the "Visioning Team". Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools Susan Wilson explains the group is open to anyone within the Blue Ridge School district, not just Mansfield. She says this is a two night process that gets started tonight.

[audio:blueridgevision1.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Wilson hopes for a good turn out tonight and Thursday night as well, she says it does not matter whether you are for or against the building, everyone's input is welcome and needed.

[audio:blueridgevision2.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Wilson expects to get a lot of input from staff members on various aspects of the building. She stresses getting more variety in perspectives will help the administrators and the architects put together a complete building design that meets the needs of the whole community.

[audio:blueridgevision3.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

The set of meetings begin tonight at the Blue Ridge Jr. High School gym at 6 and will run until 9, with the same time and location for Thursday. Wilson notes, while the cut off to RSVP was yesterday, she does not want to deny anyone the opportunity to participate, so she asks residents to call the district with their information as soon as they can, at 309-928-9141.

Closing of Logan County Correctional Center Could Have Devastating Impact on Community

The community of Lincoln recently received some tough news that one of the biggest employers in the county may be shutting down.

Part of Governor Pat Quinn's proposed closing of 9 state facilities and the loss of nearly two-thousand state jobs is the Logan County Correctional Center. The Mayor of Lincoln, Keith Snyder says while from the outside looking in, it may not seem like a big loss, he says it would be a monumental loss for commerce and business should the facility get closed.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing1.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

Less than a decade ago, the Lincoln/Logan County area saw a very similar situation when Lincoln Developmental Center was closed down. Mayor Snyder is a former Lincoln Board of Education member, he says another aspect of the loss will be to the school districts. He points to families leaving for other job opportunities, which will have a domino effect for the schools of Lincoln and Logan County.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing2.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

The many acres and buildings of the former Lincoln Developmental Center still remain primarily vacant. Mayor Snyder says it was devastating to the community almost 10 years ago, he says for it to happen again is a scary thought for the community.

[audio:logancorrectionalclosing3.mp3]A Word From Mayor Snyder[/audio]

Logan County's unemployment currently sits at about 8% and should the Logan County Correctional Center shut down, it certainly figures to raise that number, and may have a large impact in other counties throughout central Illinois, as the Center employs well over five-hundred people.

Tune in to Regional Radio News tomorrow for more on this story.

Cubs, Sox Win; Cards Tie Braves For Wild Card

>>Cards Climb Into NL Wild Card Tie; Club 'Stros

(Houston, TX)  --  Allen Craig clubbed a three-run homer in the eighth inning to lead the Cardinals in a 13-6 win over the Astros.  Craig's RBI double sparked a four-run seventh inning, while Nick Punto finished 4-for-5 with a homer and two RBI for St. Louis, which pulled into a tie with the Atlanta Braves atop the NL Wild Card standings.  The Braves lost to the Phillies on Tuesday night.  St. Louis rallied from a 5-0 deficit with five runs in the fourth frame.  Eduardo Sanchez was credited with the win.  Cards outfielder Matt Holliday left the game in the third inning with a hand injury.  The teams play the regular season finale tonight with Chris Carpenter opposing Brett Myers.

>>Cubs Drop Padres

(San Diego, CA)  --  Alfonso Soriano clubbed a three-run homer and Aramis Ramirez added a solo shot as the Cubs topped the Padres, 6-2, on Tuesday night at Petco Park.  Blake DeWitt added a two-run single for Chicago, which snapped a three-game slide.  Matt Garza improved to 10-and-10 on the season, pitching seven innings and surrendering two runs while fanning eight.  Chad Qualls gave up three runs in just one inning to absorb the loss.  Kyle Blanks smacked a two-run double to account for all the runs for San Diego, which has lost three-of-five.  The Northsiders play their season finale this evening in San Diego.  Ryan Dempster gets the nod against Wade LeBlanc.

>>Sox Edge Jays Under Cooper

(Chicago, IL)  --  Tyler Flowers clubbed a solo home run to back seven scoreless innings from Mark Buehrle as the White Sox edged the Blue Jays, 2-1, on Tuesday evening at The Cell in interim manager Don Cooper's debut.  Cooper, who was the team's pitching coach, is serving as the interim manager for the Southsiders' final two games of the season after Ozzie Guillen left for the Florida Marlins on Monday.  Buehrle struck out six and gave up just six hits to improve to 13-and-9 on the season.  Chris Sale registered the final five outs to nail down his eighth save.  A.J. Pierzynski knocked in Chicago's other run on an RBI single in the sixth inning.  Mike McCoy's solo home run in the eighth frame accounted for Toronto's lone run of the game.  Philip Humber will be on the bump this afternoon opposite Brandon Morrow in both team's season finale.

>>TUESDAY'S SCOREBOARD

MLB NL
-----
Cincinnati Reds 5, New York Mets 4 (13 inn)
Florida Marlins 3, Washington Nationals 2
Philadelphia Phillies 7, Atlanta Braves 1
Milwaukee Brewers 6, Pittsburgh Pirates 4
Arizona Diamondbacks 7, Los Angeles Dodgers 6 (10 inn)
San Francisco Giants 7, Colorado Rockies 0

MLB AL
-----
Boston Red Sox 8, Baltimore Orioles 7
Detroit Tigers 9, Cleveland Indians 6
Tampa Bay Rays 5, New York Yankees 3
Minnesota Twins 7, Kansas City Royals 4
Texas Rangers 10, LA Angels of Anaheim 3
Oakland Athletics 7, Seattle Mariners 0

>>MLB Announces Potential Wild Card Tiebreaker Games

(New York, NY)  --  Major League Baseball has announced first pitch times for potential wild card tiebreaker games.  If a game between Tampa Bay and Boston is needed, first pitch at Tropicana Field is scheduled for 4:07 p.m. Eastern on Thursday.  The Rays and Red Sox are all even in the American League Wild Card standings entering today's regular season finales.  First pitch is set for 8:07 p.m. Eastern on Thursday at Busch Stadium if an extra game is needed between Atlanta and St. Louis.  The Braves and Cardinals are also locked in a tie in the National League Wild Card race going into the season's final day.

Illinois State To Renovate Hancock Stadium

Illinois State's Hancock Stadium is getting a facelift.  The football stadium will undergo about a $20-million renovation, the first major changes since it was built 50 years ago in 1961.  ISU president Al Bowman made the announcement Tuesday during his annual "State of the Univeristy Address."  The project will be paid for through a various funding sources.  The renovation will feature construction of a new east grandstand, which is scheduled to be complete by the 2013 season.

Bulls' Rose Say NBA Lockout Unnecessary

>> Derrick Rose Says NBA Lockout Unnecessary

Derrick Rose says the NBA lockout is unnecessary and he will consider playing overseas if it drags on.

For now, the Chicago Bulls' star hopes the season can be salvaged, but he also made one thing clear. He sees "no reason billionaires and millionaires should be arguing about money."

While negotiators for the league and players met Tuesday in New York hoping to move closer to an agreement, the league's reigning MVP was unveiling restored courts at his boyhood playground on Chicago's South Side.

Training camps have already been postponed with a week of preseason games canceled, and if the lockout extends deep into the season, he says he might join other players looking to head overseas.

Clinton Police Report for 9-28

ON 9/27/11 AT APPROX. 7:00PMCLINTON POLICE INVESTIGATED A PERSONAL INJURY ACCIDENT AT RT 54 & MAIN ST. A VEHICLE DRIVEN BY SHANNON H. CRAWLEY 42, CLINTON WAS EASTBOUND ON MAIN ST AND HAD STOPPED AT THE STOP SIGN. CRAWLEY LOOKED FOR TRAFFIC AND PROCEEDED INTO THE INTERSECTION WHERE SHE COLLIDED WITH A BICYCLE RIDDEN BY DOUGLAS E. GINDER 45, CLINTON. GINDER HAD NO LIGHT ON HIS BIKE, SO CRAWLEY WAS UNABLE TO SEE HIM. GINDER WAS TRANSPORTED BY CLINTON AMBULANCE FOR TREATMENT. NO CITATIONS ISSUED

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

Clinton Class of '74 Helps Restoration Project in Clinton

BE A PART OF CLINTON......BE A PART OF HISTORY

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BE A PART OF CLINTON......BE A PART OF HISTORY
Doug Brisard, member of the Class of  1974 presented a donation Saturday, September17 to the Clinton Roque Court Peace Park Project. Accepting the donation for the project are Cris Rogers, Bill Good, Kevin Peterson, Bob O'Dea and Mark Cunningham all members of the Class of 1973. Thanks Class of '74 in helping to preserve the history of Clinton!!!

Gas Stations and Sales Tax Fraud

The state is cracking down on gas station owners who don't report all of their sales taxes.  Sue Hofer, with the Illinois Department of Revenue, says 14 stations are currently under indictment for tax fraud and failure to keep records and more charges may be on the way.

[audio:rddGastax1.mp3]A Word From Hofer[/audio]

Since 2008 27-percent of gas stations statewide were found to have pocketed sales tax revenue. Many of those stations paid back the taxes during last year's tax amnesty.  The IDR has collected more than 54-million dollars in back taxes from gas stations in the last four years.

Corn Harvest Better Than Expected

Early harvest numbers in Western Illinois have been better than expected.  Michael Zecher says he's been pleasantly surprised with his first couple of days of picking corn.

[audio:rddCornYield1.mp3]A Word From Zecher[/audio]

Zecher says that means they're looking at yields between 150 and 185.  He hopes to start harvesting soybeans later in the week. He's holding out hope, but does have some concerns.  He says the beans may be smaller than he anticipates.  Zecher farms in the Aledo and Joy areas.

17 Illinois Community Colleges Awarded Grants

Seventeen Illinois community colleges have been awarded $19.3 million as part of the first round of federal grants for job training and workforce development.

The grants were announced Monday by the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Department of Education.

College of Lake County in Grayslake will lead the consortium of schools, which will develop online and classroom training in green economy industries.

The other schools in the consortium are Carl Sandburg College, Danville Area Community College, Heartland Community College, Highland Community College, Illinois Central College, John A. Logan College, John Wood Community College, Kankakee Community College, Lewis & Clark Community College, Lincoln Land Community College, Rend Lake College, South Suburban College, Southeastern Illinois College, Southwestern Illinois College, Triton College and Waubonsee Community College.

Blagojevich Sentence Postponed

Sentencing for former governor Rod Blagojevich is being postponed.  Judge James Zagel announced the delay yesterday and some believe it's because of potential conflict with the Bill Cellini trial.  Cellini is a former fundraiser for Blagojevich who is also on trial for corruption.  Political Scientist Kent Redfield says people often cooperate with federal prosecutors in order to get a lighter sentence but he doesn't think that's what's going on with Blagojevich.

[audio:rddCellini1.mp3]A Word From Redfield[/audio]

Cellini is accused of bribery, fraud and extortion.  He allegedly made deals with Blagojevich insiders in order to protect his political power.  The same judge from the Blagojevich trial is set to preside over the Cellini trial which will start on October third.

IDOT Hiring 16 Supervisors During Budget Crisis

The Illinois Department of Transportation is hiring 16 employees with salaries of up to $100,000 even though critics say they'll duplicate work done by existing staff.

IDOT's new "operations supervisors" will not be union members. The agency ran ads about the new jobs shortly after employees now doing similar work won the right to join a union.

Operating Engineers Local 150 says the new jobs aren't necessary. Union attorney Ken Edwards says nobody can figure out why they're needed.

IDOT spokesman Josh Kauffman says the posts have been planned since 2010 and are necessary for supervising field technicians.

Urbana Man Missing After Six Weeks

A 19-year-old Urbana man is still missing and his mother is calling on the public to help.  Montell Aker went missing six weeks ago on August 13th.  He left home to go to the post office that morning but never returned.  His mother Lavon says there were no pressing issues going on at home and according to authorities, Aker has no criminal background.  They say he left with no car, no money and no extra clothes.  Anyone with information is asked to call Urbana police at 384-2320.

Early Harvest Bringing Surprising Yields

It's been a rough growing season in Illinois, but some producers are being pleasantly surprised by the yeilds in some of their corn fields.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-26-11 Surprising Yields WRAP.mp3]Jared White Has The Story[/audio]

Downey Park Memorial Progressing

Recently, we remembered the everyday heroes in our communities. First responders such as police, firefighters and dispatchers were honored for their strength and courage on September 11 at churches throughout Clinton.

In Clinton there is a way to honor our local heroes all year long. The First Responder memorial at Downey Park is a constant reminder of the men and women who serve and protect us everyday. Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy says that 40 more bricks bearing the names of local or non-local responders will be going into the memorial.

[audio:downeypark1.mp3]A Word From Chief Reidy[/audio] 

Chief Reidy brick orders can be made all year long, as the wall is an ongoing project. He hopes that this memorial will become a source of pride for anyone who wants to honor First responders.

[audio:downeypark2.mp3]A Word From Chief Reidy[/audio] 

Any public servant with or without ties to the Clinton community is welcome to have their name on the memorial according to Reidy.

[audio:downeypark3.mp3]A Word From Chief Reidy[/audio]

Chief Reidy says each year the wall will be added on to, and again hopes for the project to continue on for many years in the future.

For more information on how to buy a brick you can contact Chief Reidy at the Clinton Police Dept. at 935-9441.

Clinton Board of Education Approves Budget

September is the time of year for school districts to approve their budgets for the fiscal year and many schools are seeing a large deficit once again this year.

Clinton Schools are no exception to those deficits. Clinton Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Holmes says the district will see about a $1.5-million dollar deficit. However, Dr. Holmes is optimistic the State of Illinois can make some of the payments the district is owed.

[audio:clintonbudget1.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

According to Dr. Holmes, the district is beginning to receive the payments from last years budget, and he notes, by receiving those payments, the amount of money the state owes the district will begin to decrease.

[audio:clintonbudget2.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn recently cut money from school's transportation funds, which is putting a big burden on a lot of local budgets. Illinois State Representative Chapin Rose feels the governor is trying to take the cuts to schools' education funds and pay for state union employees pay raises.

[audio:clintonbudget3.mp3]A Word From Rep. Rose[/audio]

Legislators reconvene for the fall veto session at the end of October. Rose believes the battle over paying for the AFSCME pay raises and funding downstate schools' transportation will be a major battle, however, he is confident they can get the funding re-established.

Sox Win; Guillen Manages Last Game for Chicago; Cards Fail To Gain Ground in Wild Card

>>White Sox Top Jays In Ozzie's Swan Song

(Chicago, IL)  --  Tyler Flowers bashed a three-run homer to help the White Sox to a 4-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in the final game for Ozzie Guillen as manager of Chicago on Monday night at The Cell.  Dayan Viciedo added an RBI double for the Sox, who won just their second game in five tries.  Dylan Axelrod tossed six innings of three-hit ball and Sergio Santos survived a scary ninth in which he gave up two runs to pick up his 30th save.  David Cooper drove in a pair for the Jays and Adam Lind added an RBI as Toronto lost its third straight.  Dustin McGowan suffered the loss for the Blue Jays.  Before the contest, sources indicated that Guillen would leave the White Sox after the game and become the manager of the Florida Marlins next season.  Mark Buehrle will be on the bump against Henderson Alvarez in tonight's second installment.

>>Guillen To Leave White Sox For Marlins

(Chicago, IL)  --  Ozzie Guillen is out as the manager of the Chicago White Sox.  The "Chicago Sun-Times" is reporting that Guillen will manage the Florida Marlins next season as part of a deal between the two teams.  The two teams are reportedly in the final stages of completing a deal that would send the firey Venezuelan manager of the Southsiders and his 2012 contract to Florida for two players to be named.  Guillen has managed the White Sox for the past eight seasons and won a World Series with the team in 2005.  He played shortstop for the team for 13 seasons.

>>'Stros Stun Cards In Extras

(Houston, TX)  --  Brian Bogusevic scored the game-winning run on Angel Sanchez's bunt single in the bottom of the 10th to give the Astros a 5-4 win over the Cardinals.  Matt Holliday had an RBI single in the third and Lance Berkman added a two-run double to tie the game at four in the eighth for St. Louis, which failed to gain ground in the NL Wild Card standings after Atlanta lost on Monday night to Philadelphia.  The Cards still remain a game back with two games to play.  Octavio Dotel was saddled with the loss.  The second game of the three-game set is tonight with Jake Westbrook opposing Henry Sosa.

>>Latos, Pads Blank Cubs

(San Diego, CA)  --  Matt Latos cruised through seven innings scoreless innings with nine strikeouts as San Diego defeated the Cubs, 2-0, on Monday night at Petco Park.  Latos improved to 9-and-14 on the season.  Will Venable hit a solo home run and Cameron Maybin had a RBI double to account for the Padres runs.  Heath Bell closed the ninth for his 43rd save.  Cubs starter Casey Colemen tossed five-and-two-third innings of two-run ball with seven strikeouts to fall to 3-and-9.  Matt Garza gets the nod opposite Anthony Bass in tonight's second installment.

MLB NL
-----
Cincinnati Reds 6, New York Mets 5
Washington Nationals 6, Florida Marlins 4
Philadelphia Phillies 4, Atlanta Braves 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 9, Milwaukee Brewers 8
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, Arizona Diamondbacks 2
San Francisco Giants 3, Colorado Rockies 1

MLB AL
-----
Baltimore Orioles 6, Boston Red Sox 3
Detroit Tigers 14, Cleveland Indians 0
Tampa Bay Rays 5, New York Yankees 2
Kansas City Royals 7, Minnesota Twins 3
Texas Rangers 4, LA Angels of Anaheim 3
Seattle Mariners 4, Oakland Athletics 2

Illini Notes; MNF Recap

>> Illini Overcome Imperfections For Perfect Start

 Illinois is taking advantage of a favorable early schedule with an undefeated start.

Saturday's win over Western Michigan wasn't pretty. Illinois (4-0) trailed at halftime 13-10.

The Illini turned to their ground game to slug their way to a win. Troy Pollard and Donovonn Young don't start at running back, but both turned in 100-yard games in the 23-20 win.

Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase said Illinois' coaches told the players at the half that every good team has a game it has to win in spite of its play.

The finale of Illinois' 5-game homestand will be Saturday's Big Ten opener with Northwestern.

>> Two Illini Receive Weekly Honors

Two Illinois football players are being honored on the Big Ten's Player of the Week list.

The conference picked kicker Derek Dimke as Special Teams Player of the Week. The senior from Rockford was a perfect 3 for 3 on field goal attempts in the Illini's win over Western Michigan on Saturday. It's the third time Dimke has won the Big Ten's weekly honor.

Running back Donovonn Young is the Big Ten's Freshman of the Week after he rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown on 12 attempts. Young turned in the first 100-yard performance by an Illinois freshman since Jason Ford did it in 2008..

>>Bailey, 'Boys Clip 'Skins

(Arlington, TX)  --  Rookie kicker Dan Bailey nailed a go-ahead 40-yard field goal with 1:47 left in the fourth quarter as the Dallas Cowboys clipped the Washington Redskins, 18-16, on "Monday Night Football" from Arlington.  Bailey accounted for all of Dallas' points with six field goals from 41, 27, 32, 41, 23 and 40 yards, respectively.  Tony Romo, who suffered fractured ribs and a punctured lung in the 'Boys Week Two win at San Francisco, completed 22-of-36 passes for 255 yards with an interception.  Felix Jones added 115 yards via the ground on 14 carries for Dallas, which improved to 2-and-1 on the season.  The 'Boys host the unbeaten Detroit Lions in Arlington on Sunday in Week Four action.

Illinois Wesleyan Announces 25 New Scholarships

Illinois Wesleyan in Bloomington has announced 25 new named scholarships.

Ten were funded by members of Illinois Wesleyan's board of trustees. All of the new scholarships and others named in past years provide financial support to about 200 Wesleyan students.

Named scholarships are typically designated for students with high financial need and who may have a background or circumstances connecting them with a particular benefactor.

Named scholarships are part of the $30 million in annual financial support provided by Illinois Wesleyan. This support helps more than nine in 10 Wesleyan students through a combination of need- and merit-based awards.

The tradition of naming scholarships was first authorized by the board of trustees in 1893 to honor those contributing $1,000 or more.

Replicas of Columbus Sailing Ships Docked in Peoria

Replicas of the Nina and the Pinta, 2 of explorer Christopher Columbus' sailing ships, have docked in Peoria and are open for public viewing.

The ships are on a yearlong journey that takes them from the Gulf Coast to the East Coast to the Great Lakes.

The ships dock 30 to 40 times during the trip to give people a chance to take tours and talk to the crew members. Volunteers crew the ships, which are considered floating museums.

The hand-built ships are equipped with diesel engines and modern navigation gear, but Nina captain Kyle Friauf adds he uses a compass and the sails as often as he can.

University of Illinios' Foundation Fundraiser Reaches Goal of $2.25

The University of Illinois Foundation says its 8-year-old Brilliant Futures fundraising campaign has topped its $2.25 billion goal several months early.

The foundation is the university's fundraising arm. It said in a news release Friday that the campaign has raised $2.267 billion in donations from graduates, corporations and others. The campaign ends Dec. 31.

Foundation President Sidney S. Micek (MEE'-sek) said private donations are increasingly important to public universities. Government financial support for state schools in Illinois and elsewhere has dropped for decades.

Money from the Brilliant Futures campaign will be split among the university's three campuses. So far $1.6 billion is dedicated to the flagship campus in Urbana and Champaign. The Chicago campus will receive $593 million, and the Springfield campus will get $25.9 million.

Official Says Prison Closure in Lincoln Would Hurt Business

 An economic development official in Lincoln says closure of the Logan Correctional Center would be destructive to local businesses.

Earlier this month, Gov. Pat Quinn included the prison on a list of facilities targeted for closure. The prison is among the area's biggest employers with 357 workers.

Michael Maniscalco, executive director of the Lincoln & Logan County Development Partnership says a closure would devastate businesses in the area.

Figures released Thursday show Logan County's jobless rate is 8.3%. The county's population has declined during the past decade by 800 people, to just over 30,300.

Bob Kidd of the Logan County Board of Realtors says he knows of 1 Logan prison employee who decided not to buy a home because of the job uncertainty.

Clinton Board of Education Makes Homecoming Adjustments

The Clinton High School Homecoming activities will a change next year.

The school took some heat this year for their Wednesday activities, the parade and powder puff football game, interfering with several local church's Wednesday evening schedules. The biggest concern was over the route of the parade which blocked  a couple of Clinton Church's patrons from getting to their respective church's. Principal of Clinton High School Ron Connor says almost 15 years ago, it was agreed upon that the Homecoming activities would be allowed to take place one Wednesday out of the year.

[audio:clintonhomecoming1.mp3]A Word From Principal Connor[/audio]

At the Board of Education's September meeting, they discussed in length options to accommodate so as many people could attend the parade, and at the same time not interfere with activities in the community or the school. Board member Rod Werts believes having the parade on Friday afternoon, along with letting school out early, is a great way to get the community excited for the homecoming activities and homecoming football game.

[audio:clintonhomecoming2.mp3]A Word From Werts[/audio]

The district this year had athletes from the football team go to different grade schools in Clinton to get them involved and excited for the Homecoming week. Mark Haas felt as though that went over very well, and should continue in the future.

[audio:clintonhomecoming3.mp3]A Word From Haas[/audio]

The Board decided to move the Homecoming parade to Friday, and for next year Homecoming will be October 5. The board also made the decision to allow for the parade to be later in the afternoon, the football game will be moved to either a 7:30 or 8pm start time. Next year's Homecoming opponent for Clinton will be Decatur St. Teresa.

Clinton City Council To Approve EPA Loan This Afternoon

The Clinton City Council meeting from last Monday evening officially will adjourn this afternoon.

The Council went to recess until this afternoon. The Council approved a loan with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for a number of projects in Clinton. The ordinance for the loan needs to be on file for 7 days before the Council could approve that. And Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peter's explains because the I-EPA needs the application for the loan as soon as possible, so the Council will convene this afternoon at 4:30 to approve the loan.

[audio:councilrecess1.mp3]A Word From Mayor Peters[/audio]

The city will be taking out two loans with the EPA. City Administrator for Clinton, Tim Followell says one loan will be going towards a number of main extensions and the other towards a well repair.

[audio:councilrecess2.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

At the time of the project, Commissioner Tom Edmunds was acting Mayor for Clinton, and it was his signature that was on the paperwork for the loan. Until recently, the EPA informed the Council that they needed current Mayor Peters' signature in order to move forward with the project and approving the loan, which Mayor Peters says, put the city behind, and in a time crunch.

[audio:councilrecess3.mp3]A Word From Mayor Peters[/audio]

The reason for the urgency in getting the loan approved is because there is a 25% forgiveness on the loan, and with the estimated cost of the total loan, the city would save around 300-thousand dollars. The city will be able to pay back the low interest loan, which is a 20-year loan, without raising the sales tax.

The repayment of the well loan will be coming out of the water fees, which have been in place about 10 years. And the water main loan will be coming out of the home rule sales tax.

43rd Apple n Pork Festival Huge Success

The 43rd Annual Apple n Pork Festival took over the City of Clinton this past weekend.

 width=Tens of thousands of people came out this weekend for the Festival. The Apple and Pork officially takes place at the grounds of the CH Moore Homestead, however, has grown and stretches up Center Street in Clinton to Mr. Lincoln Square and then to the west side of town on West 54. Resident Manager of the Homestead Larry Buss feels the Apple and Pork Festival has many unique aspects that set it apart from other festivals around the state.

[audio:appleporkrecap1.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

 width=Something new the City tried this year was a partial closure of Center Street in Clinton. Public Works Director for the City of Clinton Steve Lobb says the closure was a huge success. He credits first year Commissioner Nan Crang with bringing it about after several years of discussing the idea.

[audio:appleporkrecap2.mp3]A Word From Lobb[/audio]

Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy was a big supporter of the closure of Center Street. After watching the Festival from the streets, he feels the closure went over very well.

[audio:appleporkrecap3.mp3]A Word From Chief Reidy[/audio]

Organizers were extremely pleased with the turn out this year. The weather held up nicely for the festival and made it enjoyable for those that came from all over to enjoy the Apple and Pork Festival.

 width=Chief Reidy estimated around 40-thousand people for the Saturday turnout, and close to another 40-thousand for Sunday as well. He felt the early Saturday rain may have kept people away, but the great weather made the Sunday crowd larger than expected.

Cards Within Game of Wild Card; Sox Lose

>>Cards Clip Cubs

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Rafael Furcal clubbed a go-ahead, solo home run in the eighth inning to lead the Cardinals in a 3-2 win over the Cubs on Sunday afternoon.  Yadier Molina also smacked a solo shot for St. Louis, which climbed to within one game of the Atlanta Braves for the NL Wild Card lead.  Octavio Dotel was credited with the win and Jason Motte worked a flawless ninth to nail down his ninth save.  Geovany Soto and Starlin Castro both plated a run for Chicago.  Randy Wells gave all three runs in a complete-game effort to suffer the tough-luck loss for the Cubs, who dropped two-of-three at Busch Stadium.  The Northsiders head to Petco Park for a season-ending three-game series against the San Diego Padres starting this evening.  Casey Coleman will be on the bump opposite Mat Latos in the opener.

>>KC Doubles Up ChiSox

(Chicago, IL)  --  Jarrod Dyson's two-run double in the sixth inning was all the Royals needed as they defeated the White Sox, 2-1, on Sunday at U.S. Cellular Field.  Luis Mendoza tossed seven-and-two-thirds innings of one-run ball, and Greg Holland notched his fourth save of the year.  Kansas City has won two-of-three.  Paul Konerko drove in the lone run for Chicago, which has lost three of the last four.  The Southsiders kick off a season-ending three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays this evening at The Cell.  Dylan Axelrod gets the nod against Dustin McGowan in the opener.

MLB NL
------
Washington Nationals 3, Atlanta Braves 0
Cincinnati Reds 5, Pittsburgh Pirates 4
Colorado Rockies 19, Houston Astros 3
Philadelphia Phillies 9, New York Mets 4
Milwaukee Brewers 9, Florida Marlins 5
Los Angeles Dodgers 6, San Diego Padres 2
Arizona Diamondbacks 5, San Francisco Giants 2

MLB AL
------
Detroit Tigers 10, Baltimore Orioles 6
New York Yankees 6, Boston Red Sox 2
Minnesota Twins 6, Cleveland Indians 4 (10 innings)
Tampa Bay Rays 5, Toronto Blue Jays 2 
Texas Rangers 12, Seattle Mariners 5
Oakland Athletics 6, LA Angels of Anaheim 5
Boston Red Sox 7, New York Yankees 4 (14 innings

Pack Tops Bears; Illini Survives Scare; Rams Blasted

>>Packers Best Bears

(Chicago, IL)  --  Aaron Rodgers threw three touchdown passes to Jermichael Finley as the Packers beat the Bears, 27-17, on Sunday at Soldier Field.  Rodgers passed for 297 yards with an interception for Green Bay, which moved to 3-and-0 on the year.  Greg Jennings had nine catches for 119 yards in the victory.  Jay Cutler passed for 302 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions for the Bears, who have dropped two straight to fall to 1-and-2.  Chicago only had 13 rushing yards on 12 attempts in the loss.  The Bears host the Carolina Panthers in Week Four at Soldier Field.

>>No. 24 Illini Survive Western Michigan

Troy Pollard carried the ball for a career-high 133 yards and No. 24 needed all 3 of Derek Dimke's field goals Saturday to survive Western Michigan, 23-20.

The Illini trailed at the half 13-10 and the game was tied 20-20 with less than nine minutes to play. Booing Illini fans recalled a 23-17 loss to the Broncos (2-2) the last time the teams met in 2008.

Pollard's 49-yard burst midway through the fourth quarter set up a 21-yard Dimke field goal that gave the Illini (4-0) the 3-point lead they wouldn't give up.

Western Michigan quarterback Alex Carder was 30 of 48 with two touchdowns, 306 yards and one interception. His second-quarter scoring pass to Chleb Ravenell gave the Broncos their halftime lead.

Broncos receiver Jordan White caught 14 passes for 132 yards and a third-quarter touchdown that tied the game at 20.

>>Ravens Rout Rams

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Rookie Torrey Smith had five catches for 152 yards and three touchdowns as the Ravens routed the Rams, 37-7.  Sam Bradford threw for 166 yards, a touchdown and an interception for the Rams, who fell to 0-and-3.  Brandon Gibson hauled in a 34-yard touchdown pass in the lopsided loss.  Next Sunday the Rams welcome in the Washington Redskins.  The 2-and-0 Skins face the Dallas Cowboys tonight on Monday Night Football.

NFL
------
San Francisco 49ers 13, Cincinnati Bengals 8
Buffalo Bills 34, New England Patriots 31
New Orleans Saints 40, Houston Texans 33
New York Giants 29, Philadelphia Eagles 16
Cleveland Browns 17, Miami Dolphins 16
Tennessee Titans 17, Denver Broncos 14
Detroit Lions 26, Minnesota Vikings 23 (OT)
Carolina Panthers 16, Jacksonville Jaguars 10
San Diego Chargers 20, Kansas City Chiefs 17
Oakland Raiders 34, New York Jets 24
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 16, Atlanta Falcons 13
Seattle Seahawks 13, Arizona Cardinals 10
Pittsburgh Steelers 23, Indianapolis Colts 20

Clinton Police Report for 9-26

ON 9/25/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED CHARLES D. BOYER 44, CLINTON FOR DOMESTIC BATTERY. BOYER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

Clinton Police Report for 9-26

ON 9/25/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED CHARLES D. BOYER 44, CLINTON FOR DOMESTIC BATTERY. BOYER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report 9-26

September 23, 2011

 

Jail Population: 57

Summons Served: 2

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 24, 2011

 

Jail Population: 56

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 25, 2011

 

Jail Population: 56

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

Scott Dodson, 30, Farmer City, was issued a citation for speeding (71 mph in a 55 mph zone). Dodson posted his IL Drivers license as bond and was released.

 

Tristan Coleman, 26, Atlanta, was issued a citation for Operating uninsured Vehicle. Coleman posted his IL Divers license as bond and was released.

 

Michael Mason, 49, Riverton, was issued a citation for speeding (75 mph in a 55 mph zone). Mason posted his IL Drivers license as bond and was released.

 

Byron Blondin, 27, Heyworth, was issued a citation for operating an un-insured vehicle. Blondin was given a notice to appear and was released.

 

Cathy Marshall, 51, Wapella, was arrested and charged with DUI-Alcohol, Possession Cannabis <2.5g, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Marshall was also issued citations for Improper Display of Registration, Operating Uninsured Vehicle, Speeding (80 mph in a 65 mph zone), Driving While License revoked, and Driving Under the Influence. Marshall posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Christopher Simmerman, 36, Clinton, was arrested on a Logan County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Simmerman posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Mackenzie Fisher, 19, Clinton, was issued citations for Improper Lane Usage, Failure to Reduce Speed/Accident, and Leaving the Scene of Accident. Fisher posted her IL Drivers license as bond and was released.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Farm Safety Tips

Many farm-related medical problems can be prevented by planning ahead and taking safety precautions.

A variety of injuries are caused by farm accidents and other occupational hazards related to farming. Many of these injuries can be prevented by getting adequate rest and taking safety precautions. Dr. Debra Phillips, professor of family and community medicine at SIU School of Medicine, explains.

[audio:siufarm1.mp3]siufarm1[/audio]

Inhaling debris floating in the air during harvest is a serious health hazard. Dr. Phillips advises farmers to use air masks to protect their lungs from the dust and debris in the fields. She also advises taking safety precautions against fires.

[audio:siufarm2.mp3]siufarm2[/audio]

Dr. Phillips advises farmers to keep a first aid kit handy, do a 15-minute safety check for potential hazards, and properly train others who will be operating machinery. If someone has an injury, they should quickly go to their personal physician or hospital emergency department.

 

Look Up Campaign Focuses On Campus Fire Safety


THE ILLINOIS STATE FIRE MARSHAL IS URGING COLLEGE STUDENTS TO “LOOK UP”.

THE “LOOK UP” CAMPAIGN FOCUSES ON FIRE SAFETY ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES…AND IN OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING. FIRE MARSHAL LARRY MATKAITIS SAYS THIS PROBABLY ISN’T A TOP PRIORITY FOR MOST STUDENTS…BUT MAKING SURE SMOKE DETECTORS ARE WORKING AND CANDLES AREN’T LEFT BURNING, CAN SAVE LIVES. HE SAYS THOUSANDS OF POSTERS AND FLYERS ARE BEING HANDED OUT THIS MONTH AT COLLEGES ACROSS ILLINOIS.

[audio:lookup.mp3]lookup[/audio]

STATE LAW NOW REQUIRES EXISTING DORMS AND FRATERNITY AND SORORITY HOUSES TO HAVE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS INSTALLED BY A CERTAIN DATE.

State Senators Want Education Funding Restored

Downstate Senators Gary Forby and John Sullivan are calling on their colleagues to reinstate funding for education transportation and regional superintendents.  Governor Quinn slashed an additional 89-million dollars from transportation funding and the lawmakers say that's caused an unfair burden on rural school districts.  In some cases, children have to walk up to half-a-mile to get to the bus stop.  Forby and Sullivan are also urging the general assembly to reinstate the salaries of 44 regional superintendents who've been working for free since July 1st.  Quinn cut their pay in order to save the state eleven-million dollars.  The education officials had filed a lawsuit asking a judge to force Quinn to pay up but the judge sided with the governor.  The regional superintendents say they're disappointed with the judge's ruling but they've decided not to appeal.

Champaign Freshman Evaluated On New Grading System

 Some students in Champaign will be pleased to know their homework doesn't count toward their grade.  It's part of a new grading system in Champaign that's designed to help students focus on understanding the material.  Central High School is using a new standards-based system for freshman.  That means the incoming students won't get a traditional letter grade for their day-to-day work.  Instead, they'll get a number one, two, three, or four.  The idea is to get students to master a concept before moving on to the next.  Students will have several chances during the semester to earn the highest score of four on a unit to demonstrate they've mastered it.  And as far as homework goes, there is at least one perk for students who choose to do it.  They get to retake tests when they feel that they can improve their score.  And yes, tests still do count toward their final grade.

County By County Unemployment Numbers

Illinois' county by county unemployment numbers for August were released yesterday afternoon.

Illinois saw zero job growth between July and August.

In DeWitt County, unemployment jumped from 8.1% to 8.3%.

In Piatt County, unemployment jumped a whole percentage point, from 7.5% to 8.5%.

Logan County saw a 0.2% drop in their unemployment, down to 8.3%.

McLean and Champaign County saw zero job growth for the month of August, while Macon County saw a drop, from 10.7% to 10.4%.

Sangamon County's unemployment jumped to 7.6%, up just 0.1%, while Tazewell County's dropped 0.1% to 7.9%.

The highest unemployment rate in any Illinois county was in Alexander, which was at 14.4%, up by almost a full percent, 0.7%.

The lowest rate was in Brown County at 4.5%, up by 0.1%.

Regional Superintendents Won't Appeal Judge's Ruling

The Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools says it won't appeal after a central Illinois judge refused to overturn the governor's decision to cut off pay to 44 superintendents and their assistants.

Bob Daiber is association president. He's disappointed in the ruling, but says it's time to focus on the next step. He says the superintendents are building support for a solution that restores state funding.

In July, Gov. Pat Quinn cut off pay to superintendents and their assistants. He says the state can't afford to pay the superintendents' salaries when the budget is so tight that lawmakers cut $150 million from school spending.

Last month, a Sangamon County judge refused to intervene in the dispute.

Illinois' 44 regional offices of education cover a range of responsibilities under law.

Car Seat Inspection Set For Saturday In Clinton

Those visiting the Apple and Pork Festival this weekend with small children have the opportunity to get their car seats checked for free.

The DeWitt/Piatt Bi-County Health Department will be conducting a car seat check in the parking lot of Wal-Mart Saturday morning as a kick off to Child Passenger Safety Week. Dave Remmert is the Public Health Administrator for the Health Department. He notes many times seats are unintentionally installed incorrectly.

[audio:carseat1.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

According to Remmert, his staff will be on site to inspect car seats free of charge. He says those inspecting the seats have to go through extensive training to be able to check car seats. Remmert has a few basic suggestions for parents with small kids when it comes to car seat safety.

[audio:carseat2.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

Remmert notes parents buckling their kids in and buckling themselves in will teach their kids to get into the habit of buckling up in the future. He stresses to make sure they know the safest spot for them is in their car seat.

[audio:carseat3.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

The free car seat inspection takes place tomorrow(SAT) at the Wal-Mart parking lot from 9 am to noon. For more information about the car seat inspection, or other services provided by the DeWitt/Piatt Bi-County Health Department, you can visit their website at www.dewittpiatthealth.com or give them a call at 935-3427 in Clinton, or 762-7911 in Monticello.

Center Street To Be Closed For Apple and Pork Festival

If you are headed to the Apple and Pork Festival this weekend, there are some changes to the layout of the streets of Clinton you should be aware.

For the first time this year, the city will be closing off Center Street from Johnson North to Woodlawn Street. City Administrator for the City of Clinton, Tim Followell says Nan Crang who is the Commissioner of Streets and Public Improvements felt the city should close off Center Street and see how things go this year with that change.

[audio:centerclosed1.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy is happy to see the City give this a try. He says from a public safety aspect, it was a worry to him and his department with the combinations of close to 70-thousand people in the city and most of them walking Center Street, along with cars trying to get through as well. He says while he welcomes the change, the city will probably have some problems on their hands as well.

[audio:centerclosed2.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

Chief Reidy notes with Center Street being closed off for the Festival, more folks will be on the street. He says another change this year for the Tram to go up and down the street, they will mark out a corridor for the tram to have to move about.

[audio:centerclosed3.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

While the street closure is going to be new and an inconvenience for some people, Followell stresses the goal is everyone in attendance's safety.

[audio:centerclosed4.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

Officials advise pedestrians and motorists entering Clinton throughout the weekend to practice patience as several thousand people will be trying to make their way through the city this weekend. They also say the closure of Center Street this year is a trial run. Should things work out well, they will make necessary changes next year to improve the system in place, and should things not turn out so well, they may go back to leaving it open.

DeWitt County Board Adopts New Policy Regarding Public Comments At Meetings

DeWitt County now has an established policy regarding public comments to the County Board and its committees.

Thursday night the full Board voted 11 to 1 to adopt a resolution that outlines a specific procedure in regards to accepting public comments.  It's the first such procedure adopted by the county.  The measure was adopted following lengthy discussion and several amendments to the original resolution brought before the board.  Some of the major components are limiting each speaker to five minutes and limiting the total public comment time to 30 minutes.  Both of which could be extended by the Chair.  Member Dana Evans was one of several to lobby for the five minute time limit as opposed to the three minute limit included in the original proposal.

[audio:922countyboard1.mp3]A Word From Evans[/audio]

Another major part of the new policy gives the Board Chair the authority to curtail a speaker during a public comment if the speaker is repeating prior comments.  The speaker being cut off would have the ability to appeal to the full board.  Member Ed Young believes that right to an appeal is needed to limit some of the Chair's authority.

[audio:922countyboard2.mp3]A Word From Young[/audio]

The new policy also eliminates the publics opportunity to speak before the Board if they are not listed on the posted agenda for the meeting.  Young feels that gives the Board a better idea on what to expect during public comments.

[audio:922countyboard3.mp3]A Word From Young[/audio]

Member Sherrie Brown was the lone vote against the resolution.  She first objected to its consideration, but was unanimously over-ruled.  She then abstained from voting on any of the amendments, and says the policy is a quote - "bad idea."

[audio:922countyboard4.mp3]A Word From Brown[/audio]

With its approval, the new policy goes into effect immediately at all DeWitt County Board and committee meetings.

In other action Thursday night, the DeWitt County Board...
> approved a special use permit for Eon Climate and Renewables to construct a meteorological tower in southern DeWitt County to explore the feasibility of a future wind farm project.

> approved a bid of 550-thousand dollars by Buchanan Communications to proceed with the county's plan to meet federal narrow band radio guidelines.  The county has secured grants that will bring down its estimated costs to just over 241-thousand dollars.

High School Football Week 5 Preview

High school football week 5 action is set for tonight...

The 1-3 Clinton Maroons are playing host to the Monticello Sages, who are 2-2. Both teams are coming off week 4 losses. The Maroons played the Central A & M Raiders in their homecoming game last Friday, and the Sages are coming off a home loss to the top team in the state in class 2A, Maroa-Forsyth. Both teams look to bounce back tonight in Clinton in a clash of Okaw Valley Black Division teams. You can hear the special simulcast broadcast on The Big 1520 AM, 92.3 FM WHOW, 95.9 FM WEZC, and also on dewittdailynews.com.

In other area action....

Okaw Valley (Black)
Shelbyville at Decatur St. Teresa
Tolono Unity at Sullivan

Okaw Valley (Blue)
Maroa-Forsyth vs. Macon Meridian
Central A & M at Argenta-Oreana)
Warrensburg-Latham at Tuscola

Little Okaw Valley
Arcola at Oakland
Arthur-Lovington vs. South Piatt Coop
Cerro Gordo vs. Broadlands-Heritage
Villa Grove at Martinsville

Big Twelve
Champaign Central at Bloomington (H.S.)
Decatur MacArthur at Decatur Eisenhower (Sat.)
Normal West at Danville
Normal Community at Champaign Centennial
Urbana at Mattoon

Central State Eight
Lincoln at Lincoln at Springfield Southeast

Corn Belt
Bloomington Central Catholic at Pontiac
Mahomet-Seymour at Rantoul
Normal U-High at Eureka
Olympia at Frairie Central

Heart of Illinois
Blue Ridge at Heyworth
Fisher at Flanagan-Cornell

Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley at Meer-Mack
Lexington at LeRoy
Fieldcrest at Tri-Valley
Tremont at Ridgeview

Cards Lose Big Lead, Game; Sox Pounded; Cards' Berkman Coming Back

>>Mets Score Six In Ninth To Shock Cards

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Willie Harris smacked a go-ahead two-run single during a six-run ninth inning as the Mets stormed back to shock the Cardinals, 8-6.  Ruben Tejada drilled a game-tying two-run double in the big frame for New York, which trailed 6-1 after seven innings.  Allen Craig clubbed a two-run homer and Albert Pujols added a solo shot for the Cards, who are now two games behind the Braves in the NL Wild Card race.  Marc Rzepczynski was charged with the loss.

>>Tribe Thumps ChiSox

(Cleveland, OH)  --  Asdrubal Cabrera hit a three-run homer and finished with five RBI as the Indians hammered the White Sox, 11-2.  Kosuke Fukudome and Jason Kipnis had solo shots in the first for Cleveland, which earned a split in the four-game set with the win.  Juan Pierre had two hits and an RBI for the White Sox, who closed out the road portion of their schedule with a record of 43-and-38.  Phil Humber was lit up for seven runs and eight hits in six-plus innings to fall to 9-and-9.  The Southsiders return to The Cell to kick off a three-game series with Kansas City.  Zach Stewart gets the nod against Bruce Chen in the opener.

MLB NL
------
Washington Nationals 6, Philadelphia Phillies 1
Houston Astros 9, Colorado Rockies 6
Los Angeles Dodgers 8, San Francisco Giants 2

MLB AL
------
Minnesota Twins 3, Seattle Mariners 2
Oakland Athletics 4, Texas Rangers 3
Baltimore Orioles 6, Detroit Tigers 5
Tampa Bay Rays 15, New York Yankees 8
Toronto Blue Jays 4, LA Angels of Anaheim 3 (12 inn)

>>Berkman Coming Back

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Lance Berkman is coming back to St. Louis next season.  The Cardinals have agreed to a one-year contract with the 35-year-old outfielder for 2012.  The "Post-Dispatch" reports the deal is worth $12-million with no money deferred.  Berkman is batting .300 with 31 home runs and 91 RBI this season.  He made his sixth All-Star team this summer and first since 2008.

>>Cubs At Cards

(St. Louis, MO)  --  After a day off yesterday, the Cubs embark on a six-game road trip tonight to close out the season.  Chicago opens a three-game series against the Cardinals tonight at Busch Stadium.  Ryan Dempster is slated to oppose Chris Carpenter, with St. Louis trying to catch the Atlanta Braves in the NL Wild Card race.  The Cubs play their final three games at San Diego next week.

Illini, Bears, Rams Play At Home; Chase in Loudon; White House To Host '85 Bears

>>Illini At Home This Weekend

The Illinois Fighting Illini host Western Michigan on Saturday afternoon in Champaign.  The Illini are coming off a 17-14 victory over then-18th-ranked Arizona State last weekend to improve to a perfect 3-and-0 on the season.  They also have wins over Arkansas State and South Dakota State.

>>Packers Renew Rivalry With Bears

(Chicago, IL)  --  The NFL's oldest rivalry will be renewed when the Packers battle the Bears in Chicago.  The defending Super Bowl champion Packers moved to 2-and-0 with a 30-23 win over the Panthers last week.  Aaron Rodgers threw for 308 yards and two touchdowns for the Packers, who overcame a 13-0 deficit.  The Bears dropped to 1-and-1 with a 30-13 loss to the Saints.  Green Bay beat Chicago, 21-14, in last year's NFC Championship Game.  The Packers have been victorious in 14 of their last 19 games at Soldier Field.

>>Rams Host Ravens Sunday

(St. Louis, MO)  --  The Rams will try to avoid an 0-and-3 start Sunday when they host the Baltimore Ravens.  St. Louis has dropped a pair of games to NFC East foes, losing to the Eagles in Week One and the Giants this past Monday night.  The Rams hope to have running back Steven Jackson back.  He's been out with a quadriceps injury.  Sunday's game is a sellout and will be on local television.

>>Chase Shifts To Loudon

(Loudon, NH)  --  The Chase shifts to the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon for the Sylvania 300 on Sunday.  Race one is in the books, as the Chase for the Sprint Cup began last Monday in Illinois.  Kevin Harvick holds down the top spot, but it was Tony Stewart who prevailed at Chicagoland Speedway for his 40th career Sprint Cup title.  Last year, New Hampshire Motor Speedway was the first event in the Chase.  Clint Bowyer opened the 10-race classic by winning for the first time in 88 races.  The pole sitter has captured this race four times, including two of the past five years.

>>White House To Host '85 Bears

(Chicago, IL)  --  It took 26 years, but the Super Bowl-winning 1985 Chicago Bears will finally get their turn to be honored at the White House.  Comcast Sports Chicago reports the team has been offered the opportunity to meet with President Obama on October 7th to celebrate its Super Bowl 20 victory over the New England Patriots.  A national tragedy overshadowed Chicago's win at the time, when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in mid-flight, killing all crew members aboard.  Most team members and many of the staff are expected to attend, but a final list has not yet been confirmed.

Sages Top the Maroons

In a game heard on WHOW and WEZC, the Monticello Sages defeated the Clinton Maroons Friday night at Clinton High School. In the game the Sages were led by Ryan Donohue who had 10 carries in the game for 223 yards with 2 touchdowns. Also for the Sages, Jacob Williams had 15 carries for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns in the game. For the Maroons, quarterback Greg Osgood completed 5 of 19 passes for 105 yards including a 58 yard touchdown pass to Kye Reczek, Osgood had 1 interception in the game. Also, Nathan Clark of the Maroons had 10 carries for 57 yards.

Tune in to 95.9FM WEZC as the Monticello Sages host the Sullivan Redskins for their 2011 Homecoming next Friday night. Also, the Clinton Maroons will head down to Shelbyville to take on the Rams, and that game will be heard on 92.3FM WHOW.

Former State Rep Announces Bid For Congress

A former Illinois state representative hopes to be the first elected to the newly drawn 13th Congressional district.  Democrat Jay Hoffman served in the Illinois House for more than 20 years and now he'll run against Republican Tim Johnson for the seat in Washington.  Hoffman says Congress is losing focus on creating jobs when that should be its number-one goal.

[audio:rddHoffman1.mp3]A Word From Hoffman[/audio]

Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady believes Hoffman's past alliances with a certain powerful Democrat will haunt him.

[audio:rddHoffman3.mp3]A Word From Brady[/audio]

It's rare for Congressional freshmen to change the course of the country during their first few months in office. But Hoffman says it'll be his job to bring new ideas to stimulate job growth, something he says his opponent hasn't done in 12-years in office.  The district includes parts of Bloomington, Normal, Springfield, Decatur and the Metro East St. Louis area.

Two Set To Die By Lethal Injection Tonight

Convicted Georgia cop killer Troy Davis is expected to be put to death by lethal injection tonight.  Former death row inmate Randy Steidl says Davis shouldn't be executed.

[audio:DavisSteidl1.mp3]A Word From Steidl[/audio]

The Georgia Pardons and Paroles Board on Tuesday denied clemency for Davis, exhausting his legal appeals.  Davis was convicted and sentenced to death for the 1989 shooting death of Savannah Police Officer Mark MacPhail.  Davis' last hope to stop tonight's scheduled execution was the Pardons and Paroles Board hearing Monday, which didn't go in his favor.

Stalk Issues At Harvest For Producers

It's been a challenging growing season for producers across central Illinois, and it looks like the harvest is also going to pose some difficulties.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-19-11 Stalk Quality Issues @ Harvest WRAP.mp3]Jared White With The Story[/audio]

Entertainment Adds To Apple And Pork Line Up

The Apple and Pork Festival is this weekend for the City of Clinton.

Thousands will make their way to the city this Saturday and Sunday. The festival features food of all varieties and vendors of all types throughout the city, and one aspect of the festival that sometimes gets overlooked is the entertainment. Larry Buss is the Resident Manager at the CH Moore Homestead, the host of the Apple and Pork Festival, he says the goal of the entertainment is to enhance the festival, but not be the reason for the festival.

[audio:applepork1.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

The Saturday morning entertainment will kick off with the Clinton High School band. Buss says he has been hoping to work things out so the band can perform at the festival, and things finally worked out this year. He believes whatever they perform will be an excellent way to kick off the day.

[audio:applepork2.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

While the entertainment is not the draw of the Apple and Pork, the line up of entertainment this year is very good. Buss notes the music fits in very will with traditional Apple and Pork music and there will be something for everyone.

[audio:applepork3.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

Again the biggest event of the year for the City of Clinton, the Apple and Pork Festival takes place this weekend and features miles of craft vendors and food vendors.

Tune in to the Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW for live coverage of the event Saturday and Sunday.

Clinton's New Fire Truck Arrives

 width=The Clinton Fire Department's new firetruck arrived at their station last night.

The new fire truck comes to the department from Pierce Manufacturing in northern Illinois. The new truck is a custom made truck and Clinton Fire Chief Shawn Milton notes the new truck is much safer. He says it will also be a lot more versatile.

[audio:firetruck1.mp3]A Word From Chief Milton[/audio]

Chief Milton explains the old aerial engine was put out of commission during a training exercise. He says the insurance on the truck was a big help financially in getting the new truck. He explains the insurance paid half of the nearly $1 million dollar investment.

[audio:firetruck2.mp3]A Word From Chief Milton[/audio]

 width=The new engine was a tight fit in the station, and with that the discussion of a new station may begin to come about. According to Chief Milton, the department has long outgrown the current station and adds with the growing size of the engines, he would like to see a new station get built.

[audio:firetruck3.mp3]A Word From Chief Milton[/audio]

Chief Milton encourages residents to stop by the fire station and check out the new truck. He says the truck is a municipal property and it is tax dollars being put to use. He asks residents to ring the front door of the station to notify the drivers they are there, but again, anyone is welcome to stop in and see the new engine.

Cards Inch Close in NL Wild Card; Cubs Win Final Home Game of 2011; Sox Beat Tribe

>>Redbirds Rally Past Mets

(St. Louis, MO)  --  David Freese provided the big blow with a three-run jack in the bottom of the seventh as the Cardinals clipped the Mets, 6-5.  Freese also tripled home a pair of runs in the first for St. Louis, which moved to within one-and-a-half games Braves in the NL Wild Card standings.  Jaime Garcia went seven-and-two-thirds to move to 13-and-7 on the year.  Jason Motte got the final four outs for his eighth save.  The three-game series wraps up today with Jake Westbrook opposing Chris Capuano.

>>Garza Goes Distance As Cubs Clock Brewers

(Chicago, IL)  --  Matt Garza struck out 10 while allowing just an unearned run in a complete-game effort as the Cubs closed out their home schedule with a 7-1 win over the Brewers on Wednesday afternoon at Wrigley Field.  Garza gave up six hits and a walk to improve to 9-and-10.  Marlon Byrd belted a three-run homer for Chicago, which took two-of-three from Milwaukee at Wrigley Field.  Randy Wolf was tagged for 10 hits and six runs in six innings of work to fall to 13-and-10 with the loss.  Jerry Hairston Jr. had two hits for the Crew.  The Northsiders are off today.  They kick off a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals starting tomorrow night at Busch Stadium.  Ryan Dempster will go up against Chris Carpenter in the opener.

>>ChiSox Double Up Indians

(Cleveland, OH)  --  Brent Morel hit a two-run homer during a four-run eighth as the White Sox doubled up the Indians, 8-4, on Wednesday evening at Progressive Field.  Alexei Ramirez and Alex Rios added solo shots in the eighth for Chicago, which has won 11 of its 17 meetings with Cleveland this season.  Mark Buehrle tossed six innings of two-run ball to improve to 12-and-9.  Travis Hafner hit a two-run homer for Cleveland.  Ubaldo Jimenez struck out seven, but allowed four runs over seven innings to fall to 4-and-3.  Philip Humber will toe the rubber opposite Jeanmar Gomez in tonight's series finale.

MLB NL
------
Cincinnati Reds 2, Houston Astros 0
San Diego Padres 4, Colorado Rockies 0
Arizona Diamondbacks 8, Pittsburgh Pirates 5
Washington Nationals 7, Philadelphia Phillies 5
Florida Marlins 4, Atlanta Braves 0
San Francisco Giants 8, Los Angeles Dodgers 5

MLB AL
------
New York Yankees 4, Tampa Bay Rays 2
New York Yankees 4, Tampa Bay Rays 2
LA Angels of Anaheim 7, Toronto Blue Jays 2
Baltimore Orioles 6, Boston Red Sox 4
Detroit Tigers 6, Kansas City Royals 3
Seattle Mariners 5, Minnesota Twins 4
Texas Rangers 3, Oakland Athletics 2

NFL Sends Warning About Faking Injuries

>>NFL Warns Teams About Faking Injuries

(New York, NY)  --  The NFL is taking a firm stance against teams that possibly fake injuries on the field.  The league has issued a memo to all 32 clubs warning that players, coaches and teams could face disciplinary action if it determines there is reasonable cause that an injury was faked to disrupt the flow of the game.  Penalties include fines, suspensions or even the loss of future draft picks.  The warning comes after two New York Giants defenders fell to the ground with supposed injuries during an efficient no-huddle drive by the St. Louis Rams on "Monday Night Football."

Maroons Golfers Continue Winning Ways

The Clinton Maroons Golf team took to the links in El Paso yesterday afternoon. The Maroons shot a 174 as a team to beat Lexington by 5 strokes. Ridgeview finished 3rd shooting a 187. Clinton's Zach Newberry and Ridgeview's Kyle Trhlik both were the day's best, shooting a 40 on the Par 36 at the El Paso Golf Club. Corey Wisher shot a 42 for Clinton, Blake Newman a 45 and Logan Woolridge shot a 47. The Maroons golfers are now 16-4.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report

 

September 20, 2011

 

Jail Population: 56

Summons Served: 9

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

September 21, 2011

 

Jail Population: 57

Summons Served: 1

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Naser Bektesoski, 33, Atlanta, was issued a citation for speeding (79 mph in a 55 mph zone). Bektesoski, posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Billy Roden, 36, Clinton, was issued a citation for speeding (77 mph in a 55 mph zone). Roden posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Investigation in to the scene of an accident, which occurred at approximately 0617 a.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2011, revealed that a vehicle driven by Robert Hermes, 84, North Point, FL was traveling southbound on County Highway 2, north of Rt. 54. Hermes said he came to a complete stop and saw no vehicles traveling on Rt. 54. Hermes entered the roadway and collided with Susan Duling, 53, Clinton, causing major damage to both vehicles. Neither the Drivers nor the Passenger were injured. Duling’s vehicle was towed from the scene, due to damage. Hermes was issued a citation for failing to yield at an intersection.

 

Tyler Haas, 28, Decatur, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant, charging him with Failure to Appear. Haas, being un-able to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

State Senator Says Quinn Going Around Legislature To Get Money

State Senator Bill Brady says he's putting the brakes on Governor Quinn's efforts to go around the legislature to get more money.  Brady says lawmakers didn't give Quinn the authority to borrow more so he's trying to take money from funds that are designated for certain charities.  Brady has filed a bill that would prevent the governor from taking money from the special funds.  He says Quinn borrowed more than a million dollars from income tax check-off charities during the last fiscal year.  He's asked the Governor to repay the money.  Quinn has agreed, but Brady says the governor shouldn't have the authority to take money that doesn't belong to the state.

Two Illinois Marines Killed In Training Incident

Two Illinois Marines are dead after a helicopter crashed during a training exercise in California.  Officials say First Lieutenant Thomas Heitmann and Captain Jeffrey Bland were inside the chopper when it went down at San Diego's Camp Pendleton yesterday.  Heitmann was from Mendota and has served since 2008.  Bland was from Champaign and has served since 1997.  Bland had received numerous medals during his time of service, including two Navy Marine Corps Commendation medals, the Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal, Air Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, and the Korean Defense Service Medal.  Heitmann received the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.  The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Man Hit By Train Will Be Cremated

A homeless man who was killed by a train in Springfield will be cremated.  Paul Soenksen suffered severe head and chest injuries after being struck by an Amtrak train on Saturday morning.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  Soenksen didn't leave any money behind to take care of a funeral or burial, so a family member stepped in to pay for cremation.  In the past, families could receive support to pay for funeral expenses but the state cut funding for the program by nearly eleven-million dollars, from 12-point-six to just one-point-nine-million dollars.  A spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Human Services says funds for this year are already gone.  Authorities say they are still investigating the accident.

ISU Opens $2.7 Million Nursing Lab

Illinois State University has opened a new $2.7 million nursing lab on its campus in Normal.

The Mennonite College of Nursing lab is a 10,000 square-foot simulation of a hospital unit. It includes four patient rooms where nursing students will be able to experience simulated patient care before they do their required clinical practice in real hospitals.

Senior Tina Hitz says the lab will allow nursing students to make their mistakes on mannequins before they see real patients.

ISU President Al Boman says the growing nursing school has 418 students and 48 full-time faculty members.

Illinois' Ties With China Already Strong

Illinois' links to China were strong long before Governor Pat Quinn headed east for an eight day trade mission.

But thanks in part to the deal inked Monday, that will allow Archer Daniels Midland to sell 6-point-6 million bushels of soybeans to a Chinese food company, the link between China and Illinois will get stronger.

Good news to Morton-area farmer Dan Farney.

[audio:092011DanFarney1.mp3]A Word From Farney[/audio]

Farney's beans are just some of the lot going to China. Mike Doherty with the Illinois Farm Bureau says China is snapping up all it can find.

[audio:092011Doherty1.mp3]A Word From Dohery[/audio]

Doherty and Farney both say they expect to see China's demand only grow, which they both say should raise the prices Illinois farmers can demand in return.

Illinois Lawmaker Reacts To Unemployment in Illinois

Illinois' unemployment figures were released last week and one local lawmaker is speaking out on the issue.

Illinois' unemployment was at 9.9% for the month of August, which is almost a percentage point higher than the national average, which saw zero job growth in August. Representative Bill Mitchell says on top of those figures, almost 20% of people are unable to find full time employment opportunities.

[audio:unemployment1.mp3]A Word From Mitchell[/audio]

Since Illinois raised the tax rate in January, Mitchell points out more businesses are leaving the state, and taking their jobs with them. Many larger companies have been approached by business recruiters from other states. As many companies have already left, or plan to leave, Mitchell feels it is not a coincidence unemployment numbers in Illinois continue to grow.

[audio:unemployment 2.mp3]A Word From Mitchell[/audio]

Mitchell points people are hurting and the last thing should have been done was raise taxes on those that are the job creators of the state.. According to Mitchell, Governor Quinn and Chicago Democrats need to take full responsibility for the situation.

[audio:unemployment3.mp3]A Word From Mitchell[/audio]

The number of unemployed people in Illinois actively looking for work increased in August by 25,400 to 653,000. That's an increase of 4%. Illinois' County by County figures on unemployment will be out Thursday afternoon.

Clinton City Council Members Attend Conference in Chicago

Last week members of the Clinton City Council and several city employees made the trip to Chicago for the annual Illinois Municipal Leagues Annual Conference.

The Illinois Municipal League's goal is to provide a formal voice for Illinois cities in matters involving common interests, particularly with legislative issues. They try promote competence and integrity in administration of local government, and provide local government officials knowledge and experience to best administer their duties. Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters and several of the Commissioners had the opportunity to be a part of several workshops between Thursday and Saturday, to learn about different aspects of their responsibilities, and the Mayor felt as though it was a good opportunity for her and for the commissioners new to the City Council.

[audio:councilconference1.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

Commissioner John Wise was able to attend and he felt it was a good opportunity for individuals to discuss issues at a local level and find what works well in other places. He says it is an opportunity for government officials to help each other out and better communities throughout the state.

[audio:councilconference2.mp3]A Word From Commissioner Wise[/audio]

Mayor Peter's spoke to the several workshops she was in attendance for. She feels the knowledge she gained will help her in several aspects. Being in her first term as Mayor, Peter's explains she spent time learning to conduct meetings and also on development and hopes to begin putting the things she learned into practice.

[audio:councilconference3.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

The yearly conference was held in Chicago this past Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. All the members of the Council that were able to attend say they learned a lot and look forward to putting the things they learned into practice.

High School Charter School Could Form in Decatur

The Clinton Board of Education met Tuesday evening for their regular monthly meeting.

Of the several things discussed Tuesday evening, one of the discussions focused on a proposed charter school that could potentially form in conjunction with Richland Community College, which is the community college district Clinton Schools are currently in. Dr. Jeff Holmes, Superintendent of Clinton Schools explains should this come about, the district would have to help foot the bill for students in the Clinton district that would potentially attend.

[audio:charter1.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

Dr. Holmes notes each year the cost would be $74-thousand for 10 students to attend, and about $320-thousand over 4-years. Dr. Holmes says while concept of a charter school is a good one, the biggest draw back is the cost associated with sending students there.

[audio:charter2.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

The charter school will encompass eleven districts, and each district will vote in January on whether to approve, or deny the proposal. According to Dr. Holmes, even if all eleven districts reject the proposal, the charter school could still form, leaving all eleven districts accountable for the money associated with sending students there.

[audio:charter3.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

Dr. Holmes says the target demographic for the school would be at risk students first. At the Board of Education's next meeting in October, Chart Pro will present to the Board on the pros and cons of the charter school to the District.

Champaign Man Charged with Killing Homeless Man

A Champaign man has pleaded not guilty to kicking and beating a homeless man to death.

Thirty-six year-old Jermaine Davis is charged with first-degree murder in the death of 54-year-old Russell Allen Stokes.

Stokes was found outside a building in Champaign early Friday and died at a local hospital. An autopsy found he died of brain and neck injuries.

Davis' bond was set Monday at $550,000.

Constance Chapple of Champaign has been charged with obstructing justice by cleaning up blood from an assault on Stokes and concealing a homicidal death by helping remove the body. She has not entered a plea and does not yet have an attorney. Her bond is $25,000.

Former Pekin Councilman Enter Not Guilty Plea


 A former member of the Pekin City Council has pleaded not guilty to running into a police officer with his vehicle.

64-year-old John Neumann entered pleas Monday to aggravated battery of a peace officer and resisting a peace officer.

Police have said Neumann tried to move a police barricade for a YMCA run in August so he could cross a blocked street. According to police, an officer told Neumann he couldn't do that and the councilman drove his vehicle into the officer. The officer was treated at a local hospital for unspecified injuries.

Neumann has waived his right to a preliminary hearing. A judge has set his trial date for Nov. 14. He has resigned his seat on the Pekin City Council.

Illinois Congressman Named As One Of Nations Most Corrupt

One of Illinois' congressmen is being called one of the most corrupt in Washington.  A Democratic leaning organization says Chicago Republican Joe Walsh is a "deadbeat dad" who cares about his own ambitions more than he cares about his children.  Walsh is in a child support battle with his ex-wife.  She claims the politician is more than 100-thousand dollars behind in child-support payments, an accusation that Walsh denies.  The Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington names who they call the most unethical politicians in an annual report.  Walsh isn't the only Illinoisan to make the list.  Former U.S Senator Roland Burris and Congressman Jesse Jackson, Junior both made the list two years ago.

Cards Win; Sox Split DH With Tribe; Cubs Lose

>>Cards Use Six-Run Seventh To Dump Mets

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Adron Chambers' three-run triple highlighted a six-run seventh inning as the Cardinals rallied to clip the Mets, 11-6.  Albert Pujols went 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored for St. Louis, which remained two-and-a-half games back of Atlanta atop the NL Wild Card standings.  Octavio Dotel struck out the only batter he faced to register the victory.  The second of the three-game set is tonight, with Jaime Garcia and Chris Schwinden slated to start.

>>Crew Cruise Past Cubs

(Chicago, IL)  --  Rickie Weeks plated two runs to back eight stellar innings from Shaun Marcum as the Brewers cruised to a 5-1 win over the Cubs on Tuesday night at Wrigley Field.  Starlin Castro clubbed a solo home run in the sixth inning to account for Chicago's lone run of the game.  Randy Wells was tagged with the loss after giving up five runs through five frames.  Aramis Ramirez left in the seventh inning due to a mild right quad strain.  Matt Garza will toe the rubber opposite Randy Wolf in this afternoon's series finale.

>>ChiSox, Indians Split Day-Night Doubleheader

(Cleveland, OH)  --  Alexei Ramirez hit a go-ahead RBI single to cap off a decisive two-run seventh inning as the White Sox edged the Indians, 5-4, to split a day-night doubleheader on Tuesday at Progressive Field.  Juan Pierre also plated a run in the seventh, while Gordon Beckham and Alejandro De Aza each knocked in a run for the Southsiders, who rallied from a 4-0 deficit after four frames to win for just the second time in their last 10 games.  Matt Thornton was credited with the win and Chris Sale registered the final five outs to nail down his seventh save.  Zach Putnam was saddled with the loss.  In the opener, Asdrubal Cabrera hit a tie breaking home run in the fourth inning and the Indians went on to beat the White Sox, 4-3.  Mark Buehrle gets the nod against Ubaldo Jimenez in tonight's third installment.

MLB NL
-----
Washington Nationals 4, Philadelphia Phillies 3 (10 inn) (Gm 1)
Washington Nationals 3, Philadelphia Phillies 0 (Gm 2)
Atlanta Braves 4, Florida Marlins 0
Cincinnati Reds 6, Houston Astros 4
San Diego Padres 2, Colorado Rockies 1
Pittsburgh Pirates 5, Arizona Diamondbacks 3
Los Angeles Dodgers 2, San Francisco Giants 1

MLB AL
-----
New York Yankees 5, Tampa Bay Rays 0
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 10, Toronto Blue Jays 6
Baltimore Orioles 7, Boston Red Sox 5
Kansas City Royals 10, Detroit Tigers 2
Seattle Mariners 5, Minnesota Twins 4
Texas Rangers 7, Oakland Athletics 2

Illini Football Notes

>> 3-0 Illini Emerging Threat in Leaders Division

Illinois is 3-0 for the first time since 2001 and looks like a team to be taken seriously in the Big Ten Leaders Division.

The No. 24 Illini entered the Top 25 this week for the first time in three years after their 17-14 victory over then-No. 22 Arizona State.

A win over Western Michigan this week would give Illinois its first 4-0 start since 1951.

Illinois coach Ron Zook said he knew the defense would be better than many people predicted. Quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase has improved as a passer, and A.J. Jenkins is 1 of the top receivers in the Big Ten.

Illinois has a favorable conference schedule, with Northwestern, Ohio State, Michigan

and Wisconsin at home and Indiana, Purdue, Penn State and Minnesota on the road.

>>Zook Says QB Scheelhaase Shoulder OK After Injry

Illinois quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase briefly left Saturday's win over Arizona State with a shoulder injury but head coach Ron Zook says he's fine and should have no problems playing Saturday.

Zook said Tuesday that the right-handed Scheelhaase bruised his throwing shoulder on a hit last Saturday. Freshman quarterback Reilly O'Toole briefly relieved Scheelhaase in the fourth quarter of No. 24 Illinois' 17-14 win. But Scheelhaase returned to throw the game-winning touchdown.

Zook also said that offensive tackle Corey Lewis will travel to New York this week to have his injured leg evaluated.

Lewis missed 2010 with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. He was projected to start this season but reinjured the leg early this year.

No. 24 Illinois takes on Western Michigan at home on Saturday.

Report Shows Single Mothers Hit Hard By Bad Economy

A new report concludes that single mothers in Illinois have been hit especially hard by economic troubles.

The group Voices for Illinois Children reports that nearly one-quarter of families with children are headed by single women, who face high unemployment, low pay and frequent poverty.

The unemployment rate for single mothers in 2009 was 13.5%, compared with less than 7% for married parents living together.

Nearly 39% of Illinois households headed by single mothers exist at the poverty level. The poverty rate for a married couple was just 6.4%.

Voices for Illinois Children is recommending federal legislation to strengthen the promise of equal pay for equal work. It also says Illinois should provide unemployment benefits to women who leave work because they lack childcare.

Average Price Of Farmland Is Up

It looks like the average price of farmland will continue to move upward in Illinois.  Durkin Young is an appraiser from Monmouth.  He says several recent tracts of land in western Illinois went for some big bucks.

[audio:rddfarmland.mp3]A Word From Young[/audio]

According to latest University of Illinois data, the average price of farmland in Illinois is 58-hundred dollars per acre.  In Iowa, a recent report shows farmground bringing an average price of 83-hundred an acre.

Lawmakers To Target State Employee Health Benefits

The latest attempt to reduce the state budget aims to require state workers and retirees to pay their own health insurance premiums.  Springfield Senator Larry Bomke says he could support a bill that requires current employees to pay the premiums, but not for those who have already retired.

[audio:rddHealth1.mp3]A Word From Bomke[/audio]

Bomke says benefit changes should be negotiated with state employee unions, not forced by law.

[audio:rddHealth2.mp3]A Word From Bomke[/audio]

Bomke says lawmakers who have a large state employee constituency will likely disagree with the proposal.  Any change in law during the fall veto session would require a two-thirds majority vote.

Illinois GOP unveils Jobs Plan

Illinois Republicans have a plan to attract and keep jobs in the state.  Pekin representative Mike Unes [[yoo-nes]] says the idea is to put people back to work and allow businesses to be more competitive with neighboring states.

[audio:rddUnes1.mp3]A Word From Unes[/audio]

Unes says part of their five step plan is to increase the estate tax exemption. 

[audio:rddUnes2.mp3]A Word From Unes[/audio]

The plan is to re-enact the net operating loss deduction, re-enact the Illinois research and development tax credit, extend the life of the existing enterprise zones by up to 20 years, reduce administrative costs for setting up and incorporating a Limited Liability Corporation, and increasing the estate tax exemption from two to five million dollars.  Unes says the five step approach should get support from both sides of the aisle.

President Obama Wants To Cut 33-Billion From Ag Programs

President Obama wants to cut 33-billion dollars from the farm safety net program.  That means some Ag subsidies, payments, and programs will be eliminated, but Brad Grotefendt [[grow-da-fent]] with the Madison County Farm Service Agency says it's too soon to tell how the cuts will actually impact Illinois.  

[audio:rddBradFSA1.mp3]A Word From Grotefendt[/audio]

Grotefendt says lawmakers are just now starting to write a new farm bill ,which will replace the one that expires next year.  He says rewriting that bill isn't an easy job and making changes in one region may have a negative impact in another.  Grotefendt says whatever happens, he hopes the new bill will provide a safety net for disasters and keep food costs down for farmers in the entire nation.

Illinois Ranked Near Bottom For Business


Illinois has long had a bad for business reputation, now there is a new study that shows that reputation may be sticking.

New York based Development Counsellors International asked over 300 company executives to rank the 50 states as either good for business, or bad for business. Illinois ranked as the third worst state. That's not surprising to Mark Denzler with the Illinois Manufacturers' Association.

[audio:091911Denzler2.mp3]A Word From Denzler[/audio]

Denlzer says Illinois has not had much stability for the past eight years. Republican State Representative David Harris says the state can turn its reputation around. But he doesn't know if Illinois will.

[audio:091911Harris1.mp3]A Word From Harris[/audio]

Kelly Jakubek with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity says Illinois has gotten good marks in other business surveys.  Site Selection magazine ranked Chicago the #1 metro area and Illinois the #8 state for corporate facility expansions in 2010. Illinois was also named one of 10 “business friendly” states that are gaining businesses by U.S. News & World Report.

Clinton Board of Education To Meet Tonight

The Clinton Board of Education meets this evening for their regularly monthly meeting.

The Board will begin tonight's meeting by approving their budget for fiscal year 2012. Clinton Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeff Holmes says this is the time of year when that budget must be submitted to the state. He notes the meeting will start at 6:15 for the public hearing on the budget.

[audio:boardpreview1.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

The Board will discuss the High School's Homecoming Parade and Powder Puff football game taking place on Wednesday night. Recently the district has had some concerns expressed because of the local churches activities conflicting with the School's events. Dr. Holmes says the school is very willing to work with the local churches to make sure the students can be a part of both activities.

[audio:boardpreview2.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

The Board will also be discussing the Exelon Power Plant Appraisal Approval request. Dr. Holmes explains they will have a face to face with the folks from the power plant and he hopes a long term agreement can be reached.

[audio:boardpreview3.mp3]A Word From Dr. Holmes[/audio]

The Board will also be discussing the date for the High School's graduation ceremony. They plan to approve the submittal of the PE Waiver to the state to allow for PE to be twice a week at their elementary schools. The meeting of the Board of Education will get underway at 6:15 with the hearing on the 2012 budget, with the regular meeting to follow the hearing, which takes place in the library at Clinton Jr. High School.

Clinton City Council To Take Advantage of Low-Interest EPA Loan

The Clinton City Council met for their second meeting in the month of September.

The Council faced a couple of quick decisions they needed to make. The Illinois EPA has a program that runs out shortly, that distributes loans and has a 25% forgiveness on those loans. The City of Clinton has the opportunity to make a few upgrades to some wells and water mains that are causing problems. Tim Followell, City Administrator for the City of Clinton explains because the time to take advantage of the program is running out, now is the time to take action.

[audio:epalaon1.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

Followell explains the loan will cover projects all over the city. He says it will include a new water well at Kiwanis Park, three water main extensions by Clinton Medical Waste Facility, the Elks Club on East South Street, and one near Lincoln School.

[audio:epaloan2.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

Gregg Myroth is the engineer of the project with AMAC Environment, he says putting the project together last minute, with the 25% forgiveness on the loan from the I-EPA could save the City around 300-thousand dollars.

[audio:epaloan3.mp3]A Word From Myroth[/audio]

The Council went to recess to reconvene next Monday afternoon to approve the loan from the I-EPA.

In other business from Monday evening's meeting...

> The Council approved the purchase of the 4 Fatal Vision Goggles for the Police Department at a cost of just over $827 plus shipping costs.

> The removal of asbestos  from the house at 523 East Julia Street at a cost of just under $5-thousand with Triple A Asbestos Services, Inc.

> The selling of surplus vehicles from the Clinton Police Department with the Clinton Auto Auction.

> And they approved the Facade Agreement for the south side of the Save-A-Lot building with Wilson-Schleder Construction, Inc., who's bid was $8,750.

DeWitt County To Upgrade Narrow Band Radio System

The DeWitt County Sheriff's Office and EMA will be receiving a needed upgrade in their communication systems.

The Sheriff's Office recently received word they will be the recipient for a grant to help upgrade their narrow band radio system. DeWitt County Sheriff Jered Shofner explains the upgrade to the system comes about as part of the Federal Communications Commission(FCC) new regulations that must be met by the end of 2012. Sheriff Shofner explains the equipment they are currently using is from the 1980's.

[audio:narrowband1.mp3]A Word From The Sheriff[/audio]

The grant was awarded to the DeWitt County Emergency Management Agency, however, the equipment that will be purchased will service DeWitt County in their emergency preparedness. Sheriff Shofner is pleased that the grant will help the county's EMA take a big step forward in getting financing together for the equipment.

[audio:narrowband2.mp3]A Word From The Sheriff[/audio]

With the aging system in place frequently failing on the different departments and agencies using it, Sheriff Shofner says the project was one of the biggest projects he saw a need for when he took office. He stresses the grant will enable the County to provide much better public safety communications than they currently do.

[audio:narrowband3.mp3]A Word From The Sheriff[/audio]

The Sheriff says the most important aspect in an emergency is communication, and he feels the upgrade of their system will improve the communication with the public and also make it consistent to keep the public informed.

The 2 grants will total close to $188-thousand dollars. The Sheriff notes the grant cuts the cost nearly in half, as he estimates upgrading the system is close to $400-thousand dollars.

Maroons Golf Team Wins Clinton Invitational

Clinton High School hosted the Clinton Inviational at the Clinton Country Club on Monday.  The Clinton Maroon gold team won the invitational for the second consecutive year shooting a team score of 165 on the Par 35 Clinton Country Club Course.  Trevor Gold from Eureka was the individual medalist shooting an even par 35. Clinton's Logan Woolridge shot a team best 37, which was third overall. Zach Newberry shot a 39 which tied him for 4th.

Giants Beat Ram on MNF

>>Giants Take Care of Business Against the Rams

(East Rutherford, NJ)  --  The New York Giants defense held the Rams to three field goals in four red zone attempts en route to a 28-16 win over St. Louis in a sloppy Monday night game at MetLife Stadium.  The turning point came in the second quarter when linebacker Michael Boley picked up a fumbled, backwards pass and took it 65 yards for a touchdown to put New York up 14-6.  Sam Bradford threw for 322 yards and a touchdown in a losing effort.  Dontario Alexander did the bulk of the work for the Rams receiving crew with three catches for 122 yards and a TD.  Running back Brandon Jacobs and wide receiver Hakeem Nicks each scored their first TDs of the season for the G-Men. The Rams return home to host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.

Cubs, Cards Win; Cards Within 2 1/2 of Wild Card

>>Cards Hold Off Halladay, Phillies

(Philadelphia, PA)  --  Lance Berkman went 2-for-2 with a home run to back seven-and-a-third stellar innings from Kyle Lohse as the Cardinals held off Roy Halladay and the Phillies, 4-3.  Lohse fanned five and gave up just one unearned run on seven hits to improve to 14-and-8 on the season.  Octavio Dotel recorded the final out in the ninth to notch his second save.  St. Louis has won 10 of its last 12 games.  They are just two-and-a-half games back of Atlanta atop the NL Wild Card standings.  The Cards host the Mets for three games starting tonight, with Edwin Jackson opposing Mike Pelfrey.

>>Soto, Cubs Cruise Past Crew

(Chicago, IL)  --  Geovany Soto went 3-for-3 with a pair of two-run homers and an RBI single to lead the Cubs in a 5-2 win over the Brewers on Monday evening at Wrigley Field.  Casey Coleman struck out eight through six innings of two-hit, one-run ball to pick up his first win since May 19th and improve to 3-and-8 on the season.  The Northsiders have won three of their last four games.  Jerry Hairston Jr. and Casey McGehee each smacked solo home runs for Milwaukee.  Randy Wells will toe the rubber opposite Shaun Marcum in tonight's second installment.

MLB NL
-----
Florida Marlins 6, Atlanta Braves 5
Houston Astros 3, Cincinnati Reds 2
San Diego Padres 8, Colorado Rockies 2
Arizona Diamondbacks 1, Pittsburgh Pirates 0

MLB AL
-----
Baltimore Orioles 6, Boston Red Sox 5 (Gm 1)
New York Yankees 6, Minnesota Twins 4
Seattle Mariners 12, Cleveland Indians 6
Toronto Blue Jays 3, LA Angels of Anaheim 2 (10 inn)
Boston Red Sox 18, Baltimore Orioles 9 (Gm 2)

>>Wood Headed For Knee Surgery

(Chicago, IL)  --  Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood will not play for the remainder of the season in anticipation of knee surgery.  Wood, who will require a procedure to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, has to sit out until the swelling subsides before going under the knife.  The 34-year-old reliever appeared in 55 games this season for Chicago, going 3-and-5 with a 3.35 earned-run average and one save.  Originally a fireballing-starter, Wood was converted to a closer near the end of his first tenure with the Cubs in 2008.  He spent the previous two years with the Indians and Yankees in the AL before returning to the north side of Chicago on a one-year deal.

>>Stewart Wins Chase Opener At Chicagoland

(Joliet, IL)  --  Tony Stewart drew first blood in the Chase for the Sprint Cup, winning Monday's rain-delayed Geico 400 at Chicagoland Speedway.  The first of NASCAR's 10-race championship was pushed back one day after getting rained out on Sunday.  It was the first win of the season for Stewart, who pulled to within seven points of standings leader and second-place finisher Kevin Harvick.  Dale Earnhardt Jr., Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski completed Monday's top-five.  The Sprint Cup championship series moves to Loudon, New Hampshire for Sunday's Sylvania 300.

Faculty At SIU To Vote Sept. 28 on Possible Strike

Faculty at Southern Illinois University's flagship campus in Carbondale will be voting later this month on whether to go on strike as part of a lingering contract dispute.

The group representing tenured and tenure-track faculty at the 20,000-student school voted unanimously Thursday to seek a strike-authorization vote. That means the entire membership will vote Sept. 28 on whether a walkout is in order.

A representative of the group says the union began bargaining with the administration in April of last year.

A spokesman for the university told The Associated Press on Friday he hopes both sides continue talks. He says a walkout would be unfortunate but that the school would do whatever it takes to minimize disruption of courses during a strike.

Emerald Ash Borer Surfaces in Southern Illinois

The tree-killing emerald ash borer is continuing its march through Illinois and has reached the southern part of the state.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture said Friday the small, metallic-green beetle native to Asia has surfaced near Salem in Marion County and at an Interstate 57 rest area in Effingham County.

The beetle now has been confirmed in 20 Illinois counties.

Agriculture experts say its larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. But the insect doesn't pose any direct risk to public health.

The supervisor of the state's effort to stop the spread of the beetle says detections are increasingly occurring along major highways or near key intersections. That suggests the beetle may be using transportation corridors to proliferate.

Health Officials Probe Illnes Tied to Cantaloupe

State and local health officials are investigating an outbreak of a serious infection caused by eating a kind of cantaloupe grown in Colorado that was shipped to Illinois and 16 other states.

The Illinois Department of Health says at least 20 people across the U.S. have become ill after eating cantaloupes contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, 2 of whom have died.

There have been reports of possible Listeria cases in Illinois, including some in Cook County, but the health department says none of those have been confirmed.

The confirmed cases have been linked to what are called Rocky Ford cantaloupes shipped by Jensen Farms in Colorado.

The health department is working with the Centers of Disease Control, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and local health departments in Illinois.

Homecoming Ceremonies Held For Illinois Soldiers

Homecoming ceremonies have been held for about 170 Illinois Army National Guard soldiers who returned from deployments that took them to Iraq and Kuwait.

Ceremonies were held Friday in North Riverside, East St. Louis, Paris and Springfield.

The soldiers were with the 1244th Transportation Company in North Riverside.

The guard says they hauled cargo throughout Iraq and Kuwait for the past 10 months. They finished about 220 convoy missions of more than 3.8 million miles with no casualties.

They helped to transport the last British soldiers and their equipment out of Iraq in May.

Soldiers from the company received Bronze Star Medals, Meritorious Service Medals, Purple Hearts among other awards.

WIU Plans For New Police Training Academy

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board plans to open a new residential Police Academy and Research Institute at Western Illinois University.

The board said Friday that its members voted to set up the new institute to replace the program at the University of Illinois. The University of Illinois decided last year to close its Police Training Institute.

The board says the new facility will train new police officers and sheriff's deputies. It will also conduct research into police training.

Western Illinois is already home to the School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, and offers a degree in criminal justice.

The board oversees 12 police and corrections academies around the state.

Illinois Poverty Increasing As State Help Shrinking

State budget cuts are leaving many Illinois social services agencies scrambling, especially homeless shelters.

The result is many of the state's poorest and most vulnerable are left with fewer options and more uncertainty. This comes at a time when census data show Illinois' highest poverty rate in nearly two decades and a high jobless rate.

Legislators chopped the Department of Human Services budget by hundreds of millions of dollars, including $4.7 million for homeless services.

That includes money for REST Shelter in Chicago. It was once a 24-hour homeless facility for more than 100 people, but had to lay off workers and close during the day.

Toni Irving is Gov. Pat Quinn's deputy chief of staff. She says Quinn is trying to get money reallocated, but it's a difficult situation.

Illinois Civil Unions Law Pits Religious, Gay Rights

Two gay central Illinois men recently said, "We do," to having a civil union ceremony. But two bed & breakfasts they approached about hosting it responded, "We don't."

The men's fight against the establishments highlights what advocates say is a growing battle between religious freedoms and gay civil rights.

Todd and Mark Wathen say they plan to file civil lawsuits against the B&Bs.

Both the Beall Mansion in Alton and the Timber Creek Bed and Breakfast in Paxton told the couple they weren't willing to host a civil union.

An attorney for Timber Creek says cases like this one are crucial for "people of faith" who don't believe the government should curtail their religious rights.

The Wathens end up having their ceremony at their Mattoon home.

As Ranchers in Drought Areas Sell Cows, Others Buy

The drought that's forced ranchers in the Southwest to sell off cattle they can't feed is creating opportunity for others farther north.

Beef prices are rising because of strong export demand from Asia at the same time the U.S. supply is relatively low.

Farmers like 29-year-old Chad Bicker in Illinois think that makes this a good time to grow. As ranchers in drought areas sell, Bicker has been buying. He has 25 cows now and hopes to get to 35 by next year.

Experts say ranchers in states from Montana to Wisconsin are doing the same.

But, Iowa State University economist Shane Ellis says those small additions to herds probably aren't enough to offset the number of cattle being cut at big ranches in states like Texas.

Farm Safety Week

Harvest is beginning to ramp up across Illinois, and that means long days in the field for producers.  It also means producers need to remember to be safe.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-19-11 Farm Safety Week WRAP.mp3]Jared White With The Story[/audio]

Volunteer Opportunities Still Available For Apple and Pork

The Apple and Pork Festival will be upon us this weekend and you may be
wondering how you can get involved. If you're not set on volunteering, you
may be when you hear that it can add years onto your life and make you an
all-around happier person.

Silvia Comfort, the head of the Dewitt County Retired and Senior Volunteer
program (RSVP) says that is just the case. Studies have shown that
volunteering can improve both length and quality of life.

[audio:volunteer1.mp3]A Word From Comfort[/audio]

Comfort says that RSVP is busier than ever with the school year beginning.
One of their busiest times is the Apple and Pork Festival. She says that they always need volunteers for this event. One of the many ways you can get involved is through food preparations such as getting lunches ready for the big day.

[audio:volunteer2.mp3]A Word From Comfort[/audio]

There will be opportunities for everyone, no matter the age, this year. Even if
you're not comfortable being outside in certain weather conditions, Comfort
has that taken care of. She says there will be as many jobs indoors as outdoors.

[audio:volunteer3.mp3]A Word From Comfort[/audio]

Comfort says that there are many opportunities for volunteering this fall.
There are always ways to help out at the Food Pantry or to volunteer to be a
big brother or sister to the youth of our communities.

For information on these and more opportunities to volunteer, you can
contact Silvia Comfort at 935-2241 or scomfort@doveinc.org.

Clinton Police Department Purchases Highlight This Evenings Clinton City Council Meeting

The Clinton City Council will convene this evening for their second September meeting.

The Clinton Police Department could be the center of attention this evening as they have several items on the agenda. The Department is seeking the approval of the Council to purchase four pairs of "Fatal Vision Goggles". Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy explains the goggles are used to teach teens the risks of driving under the influence.

[audio:policepurchase1.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

The Department will also be looking to sell three police vehicles with over 100-thousand miles on them. Recently the department made a vehicle purchase thanks to a grant they received. Chief Reidy says the cars will remain in possession of the Department until they complete a training excercise later this month.

[audio:policepurchase2.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

The Department would also like to make a purchase to help out their K-9 area. Chief Reidy explains they would like to purchase a concrete pad for where they keep the dog. He feels this will make keeping the dogs area clean much easier.

[audio:policepurchase3.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

>The Council will also discuss removing asbestos from the property they acquired on East Julia Street. They plan to tear down the house on the property, however, the asbestos must be removed first.

>The Council will look to approve a facade grant on the South side of Save-A-Lot.

The Council meets this evening at 7pm in City Hall.

Illinois Pulls Off Upset, Moves Into Top 25; Bears Lose; Rams At Giants on MNF; More

>> Illinois Upsets #22 Arizona State

Illinois sacked Arizona State's Brock Osweiler six times and turned one into a touchdown in a 17-14 win over the No. 22 Sun Devils on Saturday night.

With Illinois trailing 14-10 in the fourth quarter, defensive end Whitney Mercilus hit Osweiler in the back and knocked the ball loose to linebacker Ian Thomas. Four plays later, Nathan Scheelhaase hit A.J. Jenkins for a 16-yard touchdown that gave Illinois (3-0) the win.

Scheelhaase was 11 of 15 for 135 yards. He threw one interception but also ran for 67 yards. Jenkins had six catches for 103 yards.

The Sun Devils (2-1) outgained Illinois 362-239. Each team had three turnovers.

Osweiler completed 25 of 45 passes for 256 yards. He ran for a touchdown and threw for another, but also tossed two interceptions.

Mercilus had two sacks, and Jonathan Brown had an interception and a sack that led to another interception.

Illinois' 17-14 win over Arizona State wasn't perfect. The Illini turned the ball over three times and struggled on offense.

None of that matters much to quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase. He expected a slugfest and got one. And the Illini were rewarded with the No. 24 ranking, their first time in the Top 25 since 2008.

Arizona State dropped out of the poll after one week. Coach Dennis Erickson said the Sun Devils are a good football team, but seem to take a step back for every one or two they move forward.

Arizona State limited Illinois to 257 yards of offense, but the Illini made the most of the three turnovers they forced.

Illinois linebacker Jonathan Brown said the Illini defense, considered a big question mark coming into the season, has something to prove.

>>Saints, Brees Lights Up Bears

(New Orleans, LA)  --  Drew Brees was 26-of-37 for 270 yards and three touchdowns as the New Orleans Saints bombed the Chicago Bears, 30-13, on Sunday in the Big Easy.  Brees hooked up with Devery Henderson on a 79-yard scoring strike early in the second quarter to put New Orleans ahead for good.  Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was 19-of-45 for 244 yards and a touchdown, but was sacked six times and also lost a fumble deep in Chicago territory.  The Bears were just 2-of-12 on third down, while the Saints were 8-of-17.  Chicago fell to 1-and-1 with the loss.  The Bears host the Green Bay Packers in Week Three.

>>SUNDAY'S SCOREBOARD

NFL
------
Detroit Lions 48, Kansas City Chiefs 3
New York Jets 32, Jacksonville Jaguars 3
Buffalo Bills 38, Oakland Raiders 35
Washington Redskins 22, Arizona Cardinals 21
Tennessee Titans 26, Baltimore Ravens 13
Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Seattle Seahawks 0
Green Bay Packers 30, Carolina Panthers 23
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24, Minnesota Vikings 20
Cleveland Browns 27, Indianapolis Colts 19
Dallas Cowboys 27, San Francisco 49ers 24 (OT)
Houston Texans 23, Miami Dolphins 13
New England Patriots 35, San Diego Chargers 21
Denver Broncos 24, Cincinnati Bengals 22
Atlanta Falcons 35, Philadelphia Eagles 31

>>Rams At Giants Tonight

(East Rutherford, NJ)  --  The Rams are in the national spotlight tonight as they take on the New York Giants on "Monday Night Football" at MetLife Stadium.  St. Louis is looking to bounce back from a 31-13 home loss to the Eagles.  Quarterback Sam Bradford is expected to start despite a finger in jury in Week One.  Running back Steven Jackson is not expected to play due to a quadriceps injury.

>>Youngstown State Beats ISU

Kurt Hess threw four touchdown passes and Youngstown State defeated Illinois State 24-17 on Saturday in the Missouri Valley Conference opener for both teams.

Hess, who has 11 touchdowns against only one interception in the first three games, threw to nine different receivers Saturday. Hess' 44-yard touchdown pass to Andre Barboza gave the Penguins (2-1) a 34-20 lead with 8:05 remaining in the third quarter.

Illinois State scored a touchdown on a 7-yard pass from Matt Brown to Marvon Sanders to cut the lead to 34-27 with 13:18 to play in the game. But the Redbirds were held to only one first down on their final four possessions.

The win gives Youngstown State an 11-10 edge in the series.

Brown, who tied a career record with five touchdown passes last week, threw for 155 yards and three touchdowns for the Redbirds (1-2).

Sox, Cards Win; Cubs Lose; Chase Opener Postponed

>>White Sox Pound Royals

(Kansas City, MO)  --  A.J. Pierzynski went 4-for-5 with two home runs, four RBI and three runs scored as the White Sox doubled up the Royals, 10-5, on Sunday at Kauffman Stadium.  Paul Konerko hit his 30th home run of the season and Brent Morel drove in two runs as Chicago salvaged the finale of the four-game series at Kauffman Stadium.  John Danks gave up four runs in six-plus innings to get the win.  The Southsiders are off today.  They kick off a four-game set at Cleveland starting tomorrow afternoon.  Gavin Floyd will be on the bump against Fausto Carmona in the opener.

>>Cards Blank Phils

(Philadelphia, PA)  --  Chris Carpenter dazzled, tossing eight innings of shutout ball as the Cardinals blanked Philadelphia, 5-0.  Carpenter scattered eight hits while striking out five.  Allen Craig was 3-for-4 with a pair of homers and three RBI and Albert Pujols added a two-run home run of his own for the Cards, who have won four-of-five.  The four-game set wraps up tonight with Kyle Lohse opposing Roy Halladay.

>>Astros Hold Off Cubs As Replay Wipes Out Pena HR

(Chicago, IL)  --  Clint Barmes singled in two runs to cap a three-run top of the first and the Astros held on to clip the Cubs, 3-2, on Sunday in the Windy City.  Ryan Dempster gave up three runs in seven frames to take the loss.  Bryan LaHair and Aramis Ramirez each had a sac-fly for Chicago.  The Northsiders start a three-game series with Milwaukee this evening at Wrigley Field.  Casey Coleman gets the nod opposite Chris Narveson in the opener.

MLB NL
------
Milwaukee Brewers 8, Cincinnati Reds 1
New York Mets 7, Atlanta Braves 5
Washington Nationals 4, Florida Marlins 3
San Francisco Giants 12, Colorado Rockies 5
Arizona Diamondbacks 5, San Diego Padres 1
Los Angeles Dodgers 15, Pittsburgh Pirates 1

MLB AL
------
Toronto Blue Jays 3, New York Yankees 0
LA Angels of Anaheim 11, Baltimore Orioles 2
Tampa Bay Rays 8, Boston Red Sox 5
Cleveland Indians 6, Minnesota Twins 5
Detroit Tigers 3, Oakland Athletics 0
Texas Rangers 3, Seattle Mariners 0

>>Chase Opener Postponed At Chicagoland

(Joliet, IL)  --  The first race in this year's Chase for the Sprint Cup championship will have to wait at least one more day to be run.  Persistent rain on Sunday at Chicagoland Speedway forced NASCAR officials to delay the start of the GEICO 400 until this afternoon.  According to the National Weather Service, the forecast for the Joliet area today calls for a 30 percent chance of precipitation until 1:00 p.m. local time.  Matt Kenseth turned a lap at 183.243 mph during Saturday's qualifying session to win the pole for the 400-mile race.  This is the second race in NASCAR's premier series this month to be postponed due to inclement weather.  Heavy showers associated from Tropical Storm Lee forced a two-day delay of the 500-mile race at Atlanta, which was scheduled for September 4th.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report

 

September 16, 2011

 

Jail Population: 61

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 17, 2011

 

Jail Population: 60

Summons Served: 6

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 18, 2011

 

Jail Population: 61

Summons Served: 2

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

Heather Hamblen, 19, Kenney, was issued a citation for speeding (41 mph in a 30 mph zone). Hamblen posted her IL. Drivers license as bond and was released.

 

Chad Tuggle, 38, Clinton, was arrested and charged with Driving Suspended. Tuggle was also issued citations for Driving While License Suspended and Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle. Tuggle posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Auguy Lubaga, 38, Champaign, was issued a citation for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Lubaga posted his IL Drivers license and was released.

 

Troy Henery, 42, Hudson, was issued a citation for Operating Uninsured Vehicle. Henery posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Flynn McCartney, 30, Farmer City, was issued a citation for Speeding (73 mph in a 55 mph zone). McCartney posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Derek Holmes, 22, Kell, was issued a citation for Speeding (72 mph in a 55 mph zone). Holmes posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Bryant Tingley, 24, Marshall, was issued a citation for speeding (75 mph in a 55 mph zone). Tingley, posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

 

Investigation in to the scene of an accident, which occurred at approximately 10:10 p.m. on Friday, September 16, 2011, revealed that a vehicle driven by Brad Walton II , 38, Decatur was traveling northbound on US Highway 51 attempting to pass a vehicle in the left lane. Walton’s vehicle came upon a slower vehicle in the left lane and “locked up his breaks and pulled his steering wheel to the right”, causing the vehicle to swerve and impact the guardrail. Walton’s vehicle received damage to the front bumper, hood and headlights. Walton was transported from the scene and taken to Decatur Memorial Hospital. Walton was issued citations for Improper Overtaking and Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle. Walton posted his IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Joseph Daniels, 33, Lincoln, was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery. Daniels being un-able to post bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

School Pulls Apple Juice On Reports Of Arsenic Contamination

The Liberty School District has pulled apple juice from their shelves after a popular TV host claimed there were unsafe levels of arsenic in the drink.  Dr. Oz announced on his show that traces of arsenic were found in apple juice concentrate from countries like China, Chile, Brazil, and others.  The food service supervisor at the district says he didn't want to take any chances at harming students if Oz's claims were true.  He pulled the juice after looking at the labels and discovering that it contained concentrate from both China and Chile.  The Food and Drug Administration has since issued a report disputing Oz's claims.  They say the lab method used in the report mentioned by Oz were inaccurate.  Therefore, people have no reason to worry about drinking apple juice.

Illinois Congressman Voted One Of Most Independent

U.S. Representative Tim Johnson is one of the most independent members of Congress, according to a new voting analysis.  The "Politico" analysis shows the six-term Republican from Urbana has voted against the party line 38-point four percent of the time in the 112th Congress.  Only three others, including Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul, voted against his or her party more often.  Johnson said in a news release that he thinks quote, "voters want someone who can think for themselves and is not a slave to party politics all of the time."  Johnson founded the Center Aisle Caucus in 2005 in an attempt to get elected leaders from both major parties to work together more often.

University Of Illinois Faculty Member Arrested

A University of Illinois Urbana faculty member is charged with domestic battery.  Youjun Feng was arrested on Tuesday after he allegedly hit a woman outside of Bevier Hall.  Feng is a Postdoc Research Associate in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology.

Eye On Supreme Court Justice Over Campaign Contributions

One Illinois Supreme Court Justice is in hot water over millions of dollars in campaign contributions.  Justice Lloyd Karmeier won a seat on the court in 2004 in the most expensive court race in Illinois history but a group of attorneys say he was bought by insurance giant State Farm.  The company contributed up to four-million dollars to Karmeier's campaign.  Once seated, Karmeier sided with the majority in overturning a billion dollar claim against the company.  Political Scientist Kent Redfield says wide open campaign contribution laws don't prevent this type of activity in Illinois.  So even though there's the appearance of corruption, Karmeier didn't do anything illegal by taking the money. 

[audio:rddKarm4.mp3]A Word From Redfield[/audio]

Redfield says these types of problems won't end so long as judges are allowed to accept campaign contributions.

[audio:rddKarm3.mp3]A Word From Redfield[/audio]

Whitney Woodward with the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform says this case highlights the need for stricter guidlines within the courts.

[audio:rddKarm1.mp3]A Word From Woodward[/audio]

Woodward believes there's no room for this type of perceived corrruption in Illinois.

[audio:rddKarm2.mp3]A Word From Woodward[/audio]

Karmeier was asked to recuse himself when the State Farm case was decided but he declined to do so.  Now the plaintiffs want the state Supreme Court to reconsider the claim without Karmeier's opinion.  Redfield says judges currently recuse themselves at their own discretion and changing that system means asking the court to police themselves.  He says the legislative branch can't set rules for the judicial branch.  But there have been some contribution limits set in place since the Karmeier election.  Corporations and individuals can now give a 20-thousand dollar maximum to candidates but third party donors can still give without limits.

Illinois Unemployment Up

SLOW JOB GROWTH AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL IS BEING FELT IN ILLINOIS.

THE STATE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE ROSE TO NINE POINT NINE PERCENT IN AUGUST. THAT’S UP FROM NINE POINT FIVE PERCENT IN JULY…AND IN PART…A REFLECTION OF WHAT’S GOING ON NATIONALLY SAYS ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON GREG RIVARA.

[audio:JOBS.mp3]A Word From Rivara[/audio]

ILLINOIS ADDED 31-HUNDRED JOBS LAST MONTH…ESPECIALLY IN THE CONSTRUCTION…TRADE, TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITIES…AND OTHER SERVICES SECTORS.

Lincoln's Railsplitter Festival This Weekend

Logan County will be the place to be this weekend. Festivites will soon be under way for the 41st annual Abraham Lincoln National Railsplitting Festival. The majority of the weekend will take place at the Logan County fairgrounds.

This popular Lincoln tradition, which focuses on the heritage of President Lincoln and Central IL, will be centered around the 150th anniversary of the Civil War this year, according to the director of the Logan County Tourism Bureau, Geoff Ladd. This year's festival will give visitors a better understanding of what life was like in the 1860s.

[audio:railsplitter1.mp3]A Word From Ladd[/audio]

The annual festival features exciting contests such as the National Railsplitter tournament which draws people from all over IL and beyond.  Ladd says that the railsplitting contest is a must-see event for those visiting the festival.

[audio:railsplitter2.mp3]A Word From Ladd[/audio]

According to Ladd, this weekend will feature events such as log rolling, tomahawk competitions and bucksawing. College Forestry teams will be competing also.

There will also be food concessions, flea markets and craft vendors throughout the weekend as well. Ladd added that if you're a crafter or flea marketer you're first booth vendor space will be free.The festival will be running the whole weekend from the 16th-18th.  If you have any questions or would like to get involved you can go www.railsplitting.com for more information.

Clinton's Warner Library Book Sale This Weekend

Book collectors will have the opportunity to add to their collection this weekend.

The Friends of the Warner Public Library are hosting their annual book sale this weekend at the library. Children's Librarian Paula Lopatic says this a good opportunity for anyone with a book collection or personal library to expand on that.

[audio:booksale1.mp3]A Word From Lopatic[/audio]

Lopatik says the book sale is hosted by the Friends of the Warner Library. She says without their time and contributions, many programs the library has would not be possible.

[audio:booksale2.mp3]A Word From Lopatic[/audio]

The book sale is the primary fund raiser for the Friends of the Warner Library.  Bobbi Perryman explains all the proceeds from the various fund raisers done go to benefit the library.

[audio:booksale3.mp3]A Word From Perryman[/audio]

The Saturday of the sale after 12 noon, any book that can be put into a bag is a dollar. The book sale is this Friday and Saturday in he Revere Ware Room of the library.

DOVE Inc Hosting 'Pack Pantry' This Weekend

A simple opportunity to help the less fortunate of DeWitt County will take place this weekend.

DOVE Inc of DeWitt County will be holding their "Pack the Pantry" this weekend. The event takes place Saturday and Sunday. Volunteer Coordinator of DeWitt County, Sylvia Comfort says with the economy in the state it is in, their food pantry is literally empty.

[audio:packpantry1.mp3]A Word From Comfort[/audio]

The pantry is seeking canned food items. Comfort says while they would love to accept fresh food, the pantry simply does not have enough room. She also notes boxed dinners, boxed mixes, and sauces are accepted.

[audio:packpantry2.mp3]A Word From Comfort[/audio]

Other types of items will be accepted as well throughout the day. Comfort explains the pantry tries to provide personal hygiene items as well as baby supplies, such as formula and diapers.

They will also accept gift cards. Comfort says gift cards come in handy when supplies get low, they can use the gift cards to restock.

The Pack the Pantry takes places this Saturday and Sunday. Saturday will be in the Save-A-Lot parking lot from 10 am to 2 pm and Sunday in the IGA parking lot from 11 am to 3 pm. DOVE volunteers will be at the site and will have lists of what they are looking for.

Cubs; Sox Lose

>>Bruce Powers Reds Past Cubs In 11

(Cincinnati, OH)  --  Jay Bruce's two-run, walk-off homer in the bottom of the 11th gave the Reds an 8-6 win over the Cubs. Alfonso Soriano and Darwin Barney each plated a run in the ninth to force extras for the Cubs, who scored their other four runs on two-run homers from Carlos Pena and Marlon Byrd in the first inning.  James Russell took the loss.  The Northsiders return to Wrigley Field this afternoon to open up a three-game series with the Houston Astros.  Matt Garza gets the nod opposite Wandy Rodriguez in the opener.

>>Royals Crush ChiSox

(Kansas City, MO)  --  Billy Butler belted a three-run homer as the Royals crushed the White Sox, 7-2.  Alexei Ramirez had two hits and an RBI for the White Sox, who have dropped five straight.  Mark Buehrle allowed seven runs, six earned, and 15 hits over six-and-a-third innings to fall to 11-and-9.  Phil Humber will be on the bump against Felipe Paulino in tonight's second installment.

MLB NL
------
Washington Nationals 10, New York Mets 1
San Francisco Giants 8, Colorado Rockies 5
Pittsburgh Pirates 6, Los Angeles Dodgers 2
Philadelphia Phillies 3, Florida Marlins 1 (Gm.1)
Philadelphia Phillies 2, Florida Marlins 1 (Gm.2/10 inn)

MLB AL
------
Tampa Bay Rays 9, Boston Red Sox 2
Texas Rangers 7, Cleveland Indians 4
Oakland Athletics 6, Detroit Tigers 1

Bears At New Orleans Sunday; Illini Host First Ranked Opponent

>>Bears, Saints Square Off In Big Easy

(New Orleans, LA)  --  The Chicago Bears look to take their Week One momentum on the road when they face the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome.  The Bears blew out the Falcons 30-12 at Soldier Field.  Brian Urlacher had an interception and also returned a fumble for a score.  Jay Cutler passed for 312 yards and two scores for Chicago.  The Saints have had a few extra days to prepare after losing the Thursday night season opener 32-34 at Green Bay.  Drew Brees threw for 419 yards and three scores and New Orleans totaled 477 yards in defeat.

>>Illini Hosts Ranked Opponent Saturday

(Undated)  --  The Illinois Fighting Illini play a ranked opponent this weekend.  The Illini, who are coming off a 56-3 rout over South Dakota State last weekend to improve to a perfect 2-and-0, outscoring opponents, 89-18, they host 18th-ranked Arizona State on Saturday evening in Champaign.

>>Urlacher Returns To Team

(Lake Forest, IL)  --  Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has returned to the team and practiced on Thursday after leaving to mourn the death of his mother, Lavoyda Lenard.  On Wednesday, Urlacher left the team after the sudden death of his mother.  The Bears issued a statement saying Urlacher's mother passed away Monday at her home in Texas and that the Pro Bowl linebacker had been excused from the team to be with his family.  The "Chicago Tribune" is reporting that the 33-year-old will play on Sunday when the Bears square off against the New Orleans Saints in the Big Easy.  Since 2008, Chicago is 21-and-13 with Urlacher in the lineup and 7-and-8 without him.

NCAA Top-25 Football
-------
#3 LSU Tigers 19, #25 Mississippi State Bulldogs 6

Maroons Golfers Finish Top 10 At Pontiac Invitational

The Clinton Maroons golf team traveled to Pontiac yesterday afternoon for the Livingston County Invitational at Wolf Creek Golf Course. The Maroons finished 9th with a team score of 358, on the Par 72 course. Peoria Notre Dame took top honors shooting a 319. Logan Woolridge shot a team best 84, followed by Zach Newberry's 86, and Corey Wisher shot an 88.

Clinton Native's View Of Texas Fires

Clinton native Joe Brewer submitted these pictures of the recent wildfires near Barstrop, Texas.  Brewer and his family live about 25-miles away from Barstrop.

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DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-16

September 15, 2011

 

Jail Population: 61

Summons Served: 1

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

 

Travis Ramsey, 19, Bloomington was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Unlawful Delivery. Ramsey, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Chadton Winfrey, 21, Champaign IL was arrested on a Champaign County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Winfrey posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

HS FOOTBALL: Maroa-Forsyth Trojans VS. Monticello Sages

As heard on 95.9 WEZC tonight, the number 10 seated team in the conference faced off against the
number 5 seat Maroa-Forsyth Trojans. The Trojans took the early lead coming right out of the gate and held it to the end of the first quarter, 7-0. The Sages pushed, but couldn't make a touchdown in the second quarter, and at the half the Trojans lead 28-0. The Sages finally scored their first touchdown in the third quarter and and yet another one before the quarter was over, and yet again in the fourth. They fought hard, but the Trojans took the victory over them with a final score of 46-19. Tune in again next friday for more Sages action as they face off against the Clinton Maroons at 7PM on both 92.3 and 95.9 WHOW/WEZC.

Raiders Raid Maroons

As heard on THE BIG 1520/92.3AM WHOW, The maroons were crushed by Central A&M Raiders in their homecoming match-up.  Big plays doomed the Maroons as the Raiders had 2 kickoff return touchdowns and 2 big defensive scores.  The Raiders were led by two scores from Josh Crose as he contributed 73 yards on the ground.  Also serving well for the Raiders were quarterback Kurtis Ramsey who was 5 of 7 for 66 yards with 1 touchdown and an INT and Todd Ramsey who had 5 carries for 77 yards and a touchdown.  The Maroons who had 2 drives killed by an interception in the end-zone and a fumble at the Raider 1 yard line finally got on the board with a safety.  In the 2nd half Senior Mitch Creager who had 5 carries for 73 yards crossed the goal line for a Maroons touchdown.  Kadarius Sneed had 17 carries for 80 yards.  Quarterback Greg Osgood had the Maroons other score.  Next Friday the Maroons travel to Monticello to battle the 2-2 Sages.  

New Panel To Advise on Science of Illinois Rivers

A panel of scientists and experts is going to offer advice on how to improve the health of Illinois rivers.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon says the Science Advisory Council will recommend techniques to fight flood damage, protect river ecosystems and keep water safe.

Simon appointed five people Wednesday. They include an official at the Illinois State Water Survey, a Southern Illinois University professor and an executive at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.

In addition, two more members of the council will be chosen by the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center. The research center is based at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey.

Illinois has had an advisory council on rivers in the past, but it was discontinued. Members of the new council won't be paid.

Court Denies Illinois Family's Request to Test Print

A state appellate court has ruled that a fingerprint three members of an Illinois family convicted of murder hoped might free them isn't suitable for testing.

The 4th District Appellate Court agreed with a lower court that the print Michael Slover and Jeannette Slover and their son, Michael Slover Jr., want tested was not complete enough to test. The appellate judges on Friday called the request a shot in the dark.

The Slovers are serving 60-year sentences for their 2002 convictions in the killing of Michael Slover Jr.'s ex-wife, Karyn Hearn Slover. She was shot and pieces of her body dumped in Lake Shelbyville in 1996.

The fingerprint was taken from a nearby bridge railing shortly after her body was found.

Taylorville Teen Charged wIth Sexual Assault

A Taylorville teenager is accused of breaking into a home and sexually assaulting a juvenile girl.  Police arrested John Zini just after 1:00 Wednesday after receiving a call about the abuse.  The young girl was apparently sleeping when Zini entered her room and attacked her.  She was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital where she was treated and released.  Zini is charged with home invasion, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and resisting arrest.

Small Earthquake Rocks Southern Illinois

An earthquake rocked Southern Illinois late Tuesday night.  The U.S. Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 2.7 earthquake just before 10:30 last night.  The epicenter was located five miles northwest of Mount Erie or nine miles southeast of Clay City.  The depth measured 17-point-two miles and at this time, no damage has been reported.  In fact, only a couple of reports have been made to the USGS offices.  The light quake was one of 27 earthquakes that was recorded yesterday across the United States.  It was the only earthquake recorded in the Midwest, most of the others were in California or Arkansas.

Seniors Targets of Scams

Identity theft and scams seem to be a trend coming back around to the local communities.

Scam artists can come at a person from a variety of directions, including e-mail, phone calls and even door-to-door encounters. Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy says many times you may be giving these people information about yourself without even knowing it.

[audio:7-28-11 scams2.mp3]A Word From The Chief[/audio]

Executive Director of the DeWitt County Friendship Center Sissy Leggett says she has been approached several times about the elderly getting phone calls claiming the person on the end is from the government needing confidential information. Leggett says no one from the government will ever call anyone needing that kind of information.

[audio:scams1.mp3]A Word From Leggett[/audio]

Leann Sosaman is the Senior Outreach and Caregiver Advisor at the Friendship Center, she feels the biggest issue many times is people are just uninformed about what is going on. She says once personal information has been given out, there could be major problems in the future.

[audio:scams2.mp3]A Word From Sosaman[/audio]

A couple other tips to keep in mind if you think you are getting involved in a scam. Contact local authorities. Ask for information to be mailed to verify the information you are being told about. And also put yourself on "Do Not Call" lists for solicited phone calls. Chief Reidy says contacting the police is a good safe measure to take. Sosaman believes receiving information with a logo verifies the organization is legitimate and putting your name on "No Call Lists" will help reduce the number of solicited phone calls you receive.

To receive any assistance dealing scams you can contact the DeWitt County Friendship Center at 935-9411.

EMC Opening New Location

One local business will be taking a big step forward this afternoon.

EMC Photography will having a Ribbon Cutting ceremony this afternoon to open their new permanent place of business. Ed Civenas, owner of EMC Photography explains, he and his wife, Krystal have been a home based business for many years, and are seeking to have a place to showcase their work.

[audio:emc1.mp3]A Word From Civenas[/audio]

Civenas feels moving themselves to the downtown area will make them more available to the community, and he hopes it will encourage residents to keep their business in Clinton.

[audio:emc2.mp3]A Word From Civenas[/audio]

Civenas attributes the businesses ability to move to the warm welcome they have received from the community. He says this move is an unofficial 5th anniversary gift for the business, which according to Civenas, comes during the busiest time for them.

[audio:emc3.mp3]A Word From Civenas[/audio]

EMC Photography's Ribbon Cutting ceremony will be at 3pm on the West Side of Mr. Lincoln Square at 3 pm this afternoon(THUR). The move comes in conjunction with Chamber Week in Clinton as well. And before and after the ceremony, the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding an open house in their building on the South side of the square.

Urlacher's Mother Passes; LB Wins Weekly Award; Rams' Bradford Progressing

>>Urlacher Returns Home After Mother's Death

(Lake Forest, IL)  --  Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has left the team after the sudden death of his mother.  The Bears issued a statement saying Urlacher's mother passed away Monday at her home in Texas.  Urlacher has been excused to be with his family and his status for Sunday's game at New Orleans has not yet been determined.

>>Urlacher Named NFC Defensive Player Of The Week

(New York, NY)  --  Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has been named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week on Wednesday.  Urlacher spearheaded a Chicago defense that kept the high-powered Atlanta Falcons out of the end zone in a 30-12 win on Sunday.  He led the Bears with 10 tackles and added an interception while also returning a fumble 12 yards for a touchdown.  The 12th-year veteran from New Mexico earned his sixth weekly honor and first since the 2004 season.

>>Bradford Practices With Special Glove

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Rams quarterback Sam Bradford practiced yesterday wearing a special glove.  The glove is designed to increase blood flow after the second-year signal-caller suffered a bruised index finger in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to the Eagles.  He's expected to play when the Rams travel to the Meadowlands for a "Monday Night Football" matchup against the New York Giants.

Cards Win; Tigers Top Sox For 12th Straight; Holliday Out

>>Cards Clip Bucs

(Pittsburgh, PA)  --  Yadier Molina snapped a 1-all tie with a two-run double in the fourth inning and the Cardinals held on for a 3-2 win over the Pirates.  Allen Craig had an RBI double in the first for St. Louis, which remains four-and-a-half games behind Atlanta for the NL Wild Card.  Edwin Jackson pitched six-and-two-thirds innings of two-run ball for the win.  Jason Motte posted his seventh save.  Charlie Morton took the loss.  Alex Presley and Derrek Lee had RBI doubles for Pittsburgh.

>>Reds Roll Past Cubs; Cueto Leaves

(Cincinnati, OH)  --  Ramon Hernandez hammered a three-run homer in the second innings to give the Reds a 7-2 win over the Cubs on Wednesday at the Great American Ball Park.  Chris Heisey clubbed a solo shot and Juan Francisco knocked in a pair for Cincinnati, which has won back-to-back games on the heels of a three-game slide.  Johnny Cueto tossed three-and-two-third scoreless innings before leaving the game with an apparent strained right lat muscle in his back.  Sam LeCure was credited with the win.  Carlos Pena and Alfonso Soriano each plated a run for Chicago.  Casey Coleman was tagged with the loss for the Cubs.  Randy Wells will toe the rubber opposite Homer Bailey in tonight's series finale.

>>Tigers Rally Late To Top White Sox For 12th Straight Win

(Chicago, IL)  --  Detroit tied the game with a pair of pinch-hit homers in the ninth and Carlos Guillen singled in the go-ahead run in the 10th as the red-hot Tigers rallied to beat the White Sox, 6-5, on Wednesday afternoon at The Cell.  Ryan Raburn's solo shot brought Detroit to within two and Alex Avila followed with a two-run blast to knot the game at five.  Guillen also homered as the Tigers extended their winning streak to 12 games.  Phil Coke got the win and Jose Valverde struck out the side in the 10th for his 44th save.  Sergio Santos took the loss for Chicago.  Alexei Ramirez and Paul Konerko each drove in two runs for the Sox.  The Southsiders hit the road for a four-game series against the Kansas City Royals starting this evening at Kauffman Stadium.  Mark Buehrle gets the nod against Jeff Francis in the opener.

MLB NL
------
Atlanta Braves 4, Florida Marlins 1 
Philadelphia Phillies 1, Houston Astros 0
San Francisco Giants 3, San Diego Padres 1
Washington Nationals 2, New York Mets 0
Colorado Rockies 6, Milwaukee Brewers 2
Los Angeles Dodgers 3, Arizona Diamondbacks 2

MLB AL
------
Toronto Blue Jays 5, Boston Red Sox 4 
LA Angels of Anaheim 4, Oakland Athletics 1
Kansas City Royals 7, Minnesota Twins 3
Texas Rangers 9, Cleveland Indians 1
Baltimore Orioles 6, Tampa Bay Rays 2
Seattle Mariners 2, New York Yankees 1 (12 inn)

>>Cards' Holliday To Sit Rest Of Road Trip

(Pittsburgh, PA)  --  Don't look for Matt Holliday to be in the lineup anytime soon.  The Cardinals have shut down the slugging outfielder for the rest of their road trip.  Holliday has inflammation in his right middle finger and came out of Tuesday's game in the ninth inning.  He's back in St. Louis having his hand examined.  The Cardinals open a four-game series at Philadelphia tomorrow night.

MLB Schedules Released

>>Cubs, Sox 2012 Schedules Released

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox 2012 schedules were both released on Wednesday.  The Northsiders open their campaign on April 5th at Wrigley Field against the Washington Nationals.  They play NL Central division rivals in 16 of their first 26 games.  Meanwhile, the Southsiders start with a six-game road trip to Texas and Cleveland, with Opening Day coming on Friday, April 6th against the Rangers.  They play their home-opener against Detroit on April 13th at The Cell.

>>Cards' 2012 Schedule Released

(New York, NY)  --  The Cardinals will be playing in a new ballpark when they open the 2012 regular season.  St. Louis will take on the renamed Miami Marlins in their new retractable roof stadium on April 4th next year.  The Cards home opener will be Friday, April 13th against the Cubs.  St. Louis plays Interleague series at home against the Royals, Indians and White Sox and at Detroit and KC.

Clinton Police Report for 9-15

ON 9/14/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED BRYAN REEVES 64 CLINTON FOR CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, CRIMINAL TRESPASS TO RESIDENCE AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT. REEVES WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Department

September 14, 2011

 

Jail Population: 66

Summons Served: 6

Warrant Arrests: 2

 

 

Therese Samp, 23, Elk Grove Villiage, was issued a citation for speeding (64mph in a 45 mph zone). Samp posted her Il. Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Joseph Robinson, 28, Decatur, was arrested and charged with a McLean County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Robinson, being unable to post bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Marjorie Black, 55, Clinton , was arrested and charged with a Clay County Warrant charging her with Failure to Appear. Black posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Stinky Flower Blooming At WIU

A giant flower found in the rainforests of Indonesia is blooming at Western Illinois University and ready for visitors. But you may want to pack some nose plugs.

For the third time since last year, a Titan Arum or "Corpse Flower" is on display at the university's greenhouse. The flower got the nickname because when it blooms it smells like rotting meat.

The rare flower is in the same scientific family as calla lilies and philodendrons. It can grow to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide.

Visitors can see the flower at the WIU greenhouse or read about it on the blog of greenhouse manager, Jeff Hillyer.

Census Data Shows Illinois' Poor Population at 14%

Illinois falls somewhere in the middle when it comes to states with the highest percentage of poor people, but the number has grown.

Census data Tuesday shows the ranks of the nation's poor have swelled to a record 46.2 million - nearly 1 in 6 Americans. That's as the recession leaves millions still struggling and unemployed.

Mississippi had the highest share of poor people, at 22.7% and New Hampshire had the lowest share, at 6.6%.

Illinois had 14.1% in 2010, up from 13.2% in 2009.

Bruce Meyer is a University of Chicago professor. He cautions that the worst may be yet to come in poverty levels. Meyer cites continued rising demand for food stamps and very high numbers of unemployed for more than 26 weeks.

Asian Carp Heading To Kitchen Tables

Illinois is finding a way to put Asian Carp to good use.  The fish is known for killing off other fish in Illinois bodies of water, but now it's headed to kitchen tables.  The Department of Natural Resources will make the fish available to hungry families across the state.  In fact, they're adding it to the "Target Hunger Now!" program which allows fisherman to donate the fish to food banks.  The DNR is hosting a cooking demonstration in Chicago later this month to promote the fish as food.

Quinn Adds New Wrinkle to Gambling Expansion

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is airing another concern about gambling expansion that would add a new Chicago casino and four others in the state.

Quinn has repeatedly harped about insufficient regulation in the bill and on Tuesday he said he was worried it could shortchange education funding.

But Democratic Rep. Lou Lang of Skokie said Illinois would still get millions of new dollars if the expansion is approved, even with changes in the sliding scale for taxing casino revenues.

Quinn has talked down the expansion but the governor doesn't have the legislation yet to sign or veto. Lawmakers have held on to it since May to try to deal with Quinn's concerns.

Lang says Quinn has discussed items but not provided a specific list of changes to the bill.

WATCH Community Meeting Scheduled

On Wednesday, September 21, 2001, WATCH Clinton Landfill Association will present a community meeting at 7 p.m. at the Vespasian Warner Public Library’s Revere Room at 301 N. Quincy St., in Clinton, IL.

The meeting will feature a presentation by George Roadcap, PhD who is a geologist with the Illinois State Water Survey. He will present his study of the permit violations of the proposed chemical-waste landfill. Those violations were submitted as comments to the U.S. EPA by the Mahomet Aquifer Consortium.

Roadcap has been a principal investigator on several recent scientific studies of the Mahomet Aquifer. He is considered one of the current experts concerning the aquifer. He also serves as the technical advisor to the Mahomet Aquifer Consortium.

WATCH is a grassroots community-based volunteer group organized to oppose the permitting of the proposed landfill due to the risk of contamination it poses to the areas groundwater, particularly that of the Mahomet Aquifer, which provides water to most of DeWitt County and more than 750,000 people throughout central Illinois.

Again, the meeting is Wednesday, September 21, at 7 p.m. at the Vespasian Warner Public Library’s Revere Room at 301 N. Quincy St., in Clinton, IL.

Local Lawmakers Not Happy With Layoffs & Closures Announcement

With Governor Pat Quinn's recent announcement of his plans to close 7 state facilities and lay off almost 2,000 workers, many local lawmakers are not happy with Quinn's plans.

Quinn plans to close two facilities for the developmentally disabled along with three mental health facilities, a youth detention center and an adult correctional center. Most of the 1,938 layoffs will reportedly align with the facility closings. The governor plans to act quickly on the closings and layoffs, but will face strong resistance from AFSCME, which represents state workers. Quinn previously made a deal with the union, agreeing not to layoff any workers or close facilities through June 2012.

Representative Bill Mitchell is often critical of the Governor, he calls the latest plans of Gov. Quinn another example of his vendetta towards downstate Illinois.

[audio:mitchell1.mp3]A Word From Rep. Mitchell[/audio]

With already overcrowded prisons and a high unemployment rate in Illinois, Rep. Mitchell believes this will only make things worse. He says the Governor should be ashamed of himself.

[audio:mitchell2.mp3]A Word From Rep. Mitchell[/audio]

Bloomington Republican Bill Brady has been very critical of the Governors plan from the moment it was announced. He believes the Governor should have done more research and believes he is losing his credibility in Springfield. Even before the plan was announced, Brady predicted many of the facilities would be in Republican controlled areas.

[audio:mitchell1.mp3]A Word From Sen. Brady[/audio]

The list of closures include: Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln, Illinois Youth Center in Murphsyboro, Chester Mental Health Center, Mabley Mental health Center in Dixon, and Jacksonville Developmental Center. Quinn says lawmakers sent him a budget that doesn't have enough money. But the governor says he's willing to make a deal with the General Assembly in this coming falls veto session.

Blue Ridge's Mansfield Plans Moving Forward

The Blue Ridge School Districts plans for their Mansfield facilities continues to progress forward.

The district is looking to put an addition on at the Jr. High School. Susan Wilson is the Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools, she feels because Mansfield Elementary and Jr. High share certain portions of their facilities, the project makes sense.

[audio:mansfieldupdate1.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Currently the Board is seeking the input from the community. Wilson says so far the feedback has been positive. She notes making sure everyone in the district is aware of what is going on and making sure they are on board is the goal of the Board right now.

[audio:mansfieldupdate2.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

The Blue Ridge Board of Education will meet later this month and at that time will discuss the feedback they have received from the community. At that time, the decision will be made to move forward with their plans. Wilson feels if the Board can put bids out during the winter months they will get a better bid than if they were to put them out during the summer months.

[audio:mansfieldupdate3.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Wilson hopes the new building would prompt an increase in enrollment numbers, as they are down. She adds the school board is aiming to complete the project without effecting the tax rate within the district. The district has been saving money for the project to keep from having to raise taxes.

Flu Shot Season Here

With the temperatures starting to drop for the fall season, local health officials are raising awareness about the flu and preventing it.

It may seem a little early to begin thinking about the winter months and flu season, but now is the time to get those vaccinations. The DeWitt/Piatt Bi-County Health Department recently kicked off their flu clinics. Public Health Administrator at the Health Department Dave Remmert says about 200-thousand people are hospitalized in the US every year from the flu.

[audio:flu1.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

Remmert notes the elderly are more suspect to the flu because of their age. He says while they make get the flu much easier, he says it is recommended everyone get the shot. Getting the flu vaccination is a good safeguard to getting the flu and a good way to promote good health.

[audio:flu2.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

Many times people think of the flu as a stomach virus. Remmert explains that is a myth, he says the flu is a respiratory illness. Because of that, he warns residents to be aware of pneumonia.

[audio:flu3.mp3]A Word From Remmert[/audio]

Flu Clinics at the DeWitt/Piatt Bi County Health Department will be offered Mondays through September from 8:30 am to 3:33 pm. Remmert notes they could be offered beyond September depending on the need for them. Flu Shot are $32. For Questions or more information you can contact the Health Department in Monticello at 762-7911 and in Clinton at 935-3427.

Maroons Golfers Tie For 4th At Heyworth Invitational

The Clinton Maroons Golf Team took to the links yesterday at the Heyworth Invitational. The Maroons tied for 4th with Hartem-Delavan shooting a 176 in the 12 team field. Zach Newberry had the best score for the Maroons, shooting a 41, which tied him for 6th among all players Tuesday afternoon.

Cards Win; Sox Lose As Verlander Wins 23rd, Cubs Lose

>>Cards Edge Pittsburgh

(Pittsburgh, PA)  --  An RBI double by Nick Punto and a sacrifice fly by Albert Pujols in the ninth helped St. Louis edge the Pirates, 6-4.  Starting pitcher Chris Carpenter helped his own cause with his bat, driving in a pair of runs.  On the hill, Carpenter went seven innings and gave up four runs while fanning six, while Kyle McClellan picked up the victory out of the bullpen.  Jason Motte notched his sixth save for the Cards, who have won six-of-seven.  The finale of the three-game set is this afternoon with Edwin Jackson and Charlie Morton the starters.

>>Leake, Reds Clip Cubs

(Cincinnati, OH)  --  Brandon Phillips clubbed a solo homer in the first frame to back eight stellar innings from Mike Leake as the Reds clipped the Cubs, 2-1, on Tuesday evening at the Great American Ball Park.  Leake gave up just one run on six hits with two strikeouts and as many walks to improve to 12-and-9 on the season.  Francisco Cordero worked a 1-2-3 ninth to nail down his 33rd save.  Carlos Pena scored on an Alfonso Soriano double-play groundout in the sixth to account for Chicago's lone run of the game.  Ryan Dempster fanned eight through seven innings of two-run ball to suffer the tough-luck loss and fall to 10-and-12 on the season.  The Northsiders had a three-game winning streak come to an end.  Casey Coleman will toe the rubber opposite Johnny Cueto in tonight's third installment.

>>Verlander Gets 23rd Win As Tigers Blank ChiSox

(Chicago, IL)  --  Justin Verlander tossed seven frames of shutout baseball, leading the Tigers to a 5-0 victory over the White Sox on Tuesday evening at The Cell.  It's the 23rd win of the season for Verlander, who surrendered just six hits and two walks while fanning six to become the first pitcher to hit that mark since 2002.  Victor Martinez clubbed a three-run homer in support of the Major-League leader in wins as Detroit won its 11th straight game.  Gavin Floyd gave up four runs over five-and-a-third innings to take the loss for Chicago.  Alex Rios managed to go 3-for-4 for the Sox, who have dropped three-straight.  Dylan Axelrod gets the nod against Brad Penny in this afternoon's series finale.

MLB NL
-----
Washington Nationals 3, New York Mets 2
Atlanta Braves 7, Florida Marlins 1
Houston Astros 5, Philadelphia Phillies 2
Milwaukee Brewers 2, Colorado Rockies 1 (11 inn)
Arizona Diamondbacks 5, Los Angeles Dodgers 4 (10 inn)
San Francisco Giants 3, San Diego Padres 2 (12 inn)

MLB AL
-----
Baltimore Orioles 4, Tampa Bay Rays 2
Boston Red Sox 18, Toronto Blue Jays 6
Texas Rangers 10, Cleveland Indians 4
Kansas City Royals 4, Minnesota Twins 0
LA Angels of Anaheim 6, Oakland Athletics 3
New York Yankees 3, Seattle Mariners 2

Filling Big Ten Schedules A Balance Act

Players and fans look forward to big early-season games like Ohio State's trip to Miami this weekend. Southeast Missouri State's visit to Purdue doesn't have the same cachet.

Big Ten teams are often criticized for playing so many lower-tier opponents in September, but nonconference scheduling in college football is much more complicated than that. Mid-level programs and smaller schools rely heavily on payouts from big-time teams to balance their athletic department budgets.

Satisfying ticket buyers, attracting recruits and toughening up their players for the conference-game grind requires a balancing act for Big Ten coaches and administrators. They also must consider the number of home games, overall records for bowl bids and the importance of helping out schools in their area who relish playing on a bigger stage.

Clinton Police Report for 9-14

ON 9/13/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED RYAN A. JONES 26, CLINTON FOR IMPROPER LANE USAGE, AND DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL. JONES WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/13/11 CLINTON POLICE INVESTIGATED A PERSONAL INJURY ACCIDENT IN THE 500 BLOCK W. VAN BUREN. A VEHICLE DRIVEN BY STEVE C. KIMLER 62, FARMER CITY WAS EASTBOUND ON VAN BUREN STREET AND HAD WENT UNDER THE UNDERPASS WHEN RACE YOUNG 10,CLINTON ENTERED INTO THE ROADWAY FROM A PARKING LOT ON HIS BICYCLE. KIMLER WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP IN TIME WHEN HE AND BICYCLIST COLLIDED. YOUNG WAS TRANSPORTED TO CLINTON AMBULANCE FOR TREATMENT.

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report 9-14

September 13, 2011

 

Jail Population: 64

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 2

 

 

Shane Baker, 28, Lincoln was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Baker being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Brandt Patton, 35, Lincoln was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Patton being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Ryan Jones, 26, Clinton was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence. Jones posted the necessary bond and was released

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

 

Rain Delays CCHS Homecoming Festivities

CCHS Homecoming festivities for Wednesday have been canceled due to the weather.  The Homecoming Parade and Powder Puff game will be re-scheduled for the same times on Thursday.

Lawmakers on Exchange Panel Get Insurance Funds

The insurance industry is handing out cash to lawmakers who will play pivotal roles in setting up Illinois' health-benefits exchange.

The exchange is supposed to make health insurance more affordable for consumers and small businesses. However, the Campaign for Better Health Care says it is likely the contributions will prompt the Illinois Health Benefits Exchange Legislative Study Committee to issue recommendations benefiting the insurance industry.

Democrats Frank Mautino and William Haine and Republicans JoAnn Osmond and Bill Brady are co-chairpersons of the committee.

Legislators have received a combined total of $70,800 from the insurance industry so far this year.

3 of the four co-chairs say contributions from the industry won't affect their decisions. Haine, an Alton Democrat, didn't return telephone calls.

University of Illinois Law School Data Questioned

University of Illinois' College of Law admissions dean Paul Pless has been placed on leave and an investigation into whether the school inflated test scores and grades in the profile of this fall's incoming class is under way.

According to the university, the inaccurate data about the grades and test scores was posted on its website, but has been removed.

In a Monday email, President Michael Hogan said a " tone of integrity and transparency is apparent across all of our campuses, " adding the university takes "questionable actions seriously."

Pless, a U. of I. law school graduate and dean for the past eight years, couldn't be reached for comment.

University spokesman Thomas Hardy says officials haven't determined if the information was inflated intentionally.

Health Insurance Donations In Run-Up To Health Insurance Exchange

State legislators with key leadership positions have been taking large campaign contributions from health insurance companies as they prepare to create a statewide health insurance exchange. Political Scientist Dr. Kent Redfield says the insurance lobby is buying access to the lawmakers.

[audio:rddHIE1.mp3]A Word From Redfield[/audio]

Combined contributions of over 70-thousand dollars have recently gone to Alton Senator William Haine, Bloomington Senator Dan Brady, Spring Valley Representative Frank Mautino and Antioch Representative JoAnn Osmond. They're the co-chairs of the committe that will determine which providers can participate in the exchange.  The exchange is meant to provide consumer protections and increased access to healthcare.

Quinn Says No To Smart Grid

As promised, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn on Monday used his veto pen on the Smart Grid legislation backed by both Ameren Illinois and ComEd.

The plan would have allowed the two utilities some wiggle room around the current process of review, and open the door for electric grid modernization. But it would have also meant higher bills, $3.40 a month for 10 years for Ameren customers. ComEd customers are bracing for a flat $3 monthly increase.

Governor Quinn said that's just too much.

[audio:091211Quinn1.mp3]A Word From The Governor[/audio]

But Quad Cities Democrat Mike Jacobs says the law would create jobs, build a new power grid, and would keep Illinois on pace with the rest of the country.

[audio:091211Jacobs3.mp3]A Word From Jacobs[/audio]

Jacobs, who shepherded Smart grid through the state Senate, says lawmakers will likely vote to override the governor in October's veto session.

Crop Production Forecast

Corn production is forecast at 12.5 billion bushels, down 3 percent from the August forecast but up fractionally from 2010. If realized, this will be the third largest production total on record for the United States. Based on conditions as of September 1, yields are expected to average 148.1 bushels per acre, down 4.9 bushels from the August 1 forecast and down 4.7 bushels from 2010. If realized, this will be the lowest average yield in the United States since 2005.

Soybean production is forecast at 3.09 billion bushels, up 1 percent from August but down 7 percent from last year. Based on September 1 conditions, yields are expected to average 41.8 bushels per acre, up 0.4 bushel from last month but down 1.7 bushels from last year. Compared with last month, yield forecasts are higher in the Central Great Plains. If realized, the forecasted yield in Nebraska will be a record high. Yield forecasts are below last month across the Southern Great Plains and portions of the Southeast as hot, dry conditions persisted during August. Area for harvest in the United States is forecast at 73.8 million acres, unchanged from August but down 4 percent from 2010.

Chamber Week in Clinton Kicks Off

As was heard on the WHOW yesterday afternoon, it is Chamber Week in Clinton, and throughout the week there will be many opportunities for the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce to have the spotlight shown on them.

The Chamber of Commerce not only works with businesses in the area, but also works in promoting the city and bringing people to Clinton. President of the Chamber Board Scott Williamson feels the greatest strength in being a part of the Chamber is they are their own advertising agency.

[audio:chamber1.mp3]A Word From Williamson[/audio]

Carolyn Sugg was hired on at the Chamber just a few years ago as the Tourism Director. She says while Tourism is nothing new to the Clinton Chamber, she felt as though utilizing social media was a great place to turn in promoting Clinton and the many things the City has to offer.

[audio:chamber2.mp3]A Word From Sugg[/audio]

Again Chamber Week is a nationally recognized week throughout the United States and this week is Chamber of Commerce Week in Clinton. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony downtown Thursday afternoon, and the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding their open house Thursday afternoon, all as a part of Chamber Week in Clinton.

Clinton Board of Education Holding Community Engagement Meeting Tonight

The Clinton Board of Education will be holding another Community Engagement meeting tonight.

The focus of tonight's meeting is improvements to the high school building. Dr. Jeff Holmes, Superintendent of Clinton Schools says the main areas of focus are going to be the commons area, the band area, the library, and the auditorium.

[audio:communityengagement1.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The meeting will be similar to past Community Engagement meetings, however, Dr. Holmes explains tonight will include a tour of each of the areas led by different community leaders, pointing out areas that could use improvements along the way.

[audio:communityengagement2.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Holmes stresses the input from the community is very important to the process and the decision to the Board of Education. He feels the community engagement process thus far has gone very well and he wishes to see it continue moving forward.

[audio:communityengagement3.mp3]comment here[/audio]

Dr. Holmes feels with the community use of the cafeteria and commons area. He feels the restrooms need an upgrade in a big way. He also feels the auditorium seating could use an upgrade as well to make it a more comfortable place for the community to come. Based upon what the community has to say, the Board will then determine what they can do and what they can afford.

Cubs Win; Cards, Sox Lose; Rams Injuries Update

>>Bucs Best Cards

(Pittsburgh, PA)  --  Pedro Ciriaco drove in two runs in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Pirates beat the Cardinals, 6-5.  Albert Pujols lifted a two-run home run for St. Louis, which saw a five-game win streak end.  Mike Rzepczynski took the loss out of the bullpen.  Chris Carpenter opposes Jeff Karstans in the second of the three-game series tonight.  The Cardinals are four-and-a-half games behind the Braves for the NL Wild Card with 15 games to play.

>>Cubs Rip Reds

(Cincinnati, OH)  --  Starlin Castro went 3-for-4 with a two-run homer, three RBI and four runs scored to lead the Cubs in a 12-8 win over the Reds on Monday evening at the Great American Ball Park.  Aramis Ramirez and Jeff Baker each popped solo home runs and Alfonso Soriano knocked in three for Chicago, which has won three games in-a-row.  Rodrigo Lopez gave up five runs through five-and-a-third frames to register the victory.  Brandon Phillips clubbed a pair of homers, while Juan Francisco and Devin Mesoraco both deposited a ball into the seats for Cincinnati.  Dontrelle Willis allowed eight runs through just three-and-a-third innings of duty to suffer the loss.  Ryan Dempster gets the nod opposite Mike Leake in tonight's second installment.

>>Tigers Roar To Victory Over Chicago

(Chicago, IL)  --  Detroit used the strength of a six-run sixth inning to claw their way past the White Sox 14-4, on Monday evening at The Cell.  Jhonny Peralta and Ryan Raburn [[ RAY-burn ]] each plated a trio of runs with a homer while Alex Avila and Ramon Santiago each drove in a pair for the Tigers, who have won 10 straight.  Rick Porcello picked up the win, going six-and-two-thirds innings while allowing three runs.  On the other side, John Danks gave up seven earned runs in just five innings to absorb the defeat.  Brent Morel clubbed a pair of solo homers for the Sox, who have dropped three-of-four.  Gavin Floyd will be on the bump against Justin Verlander in tonight's second installment.

MLB NL
-----
Pittsburgh Pirates 6, St. Louis Cardinals 5
Chicago Cubs 12, Cincinnati Reds 8
Washington Nationals 3, New York Mets 2
Florida Marlins 5, Atlanta Braves 4 (12 inn)
Houston Astros 5, Philadelphia Phillies 1
Arizona Diamondbacks 7, Los Angeles Dodgers 2
San Francisco Giants 8, San Diego Padres 3

MLB AL
-----
Tampa Bay Rays 5, Baltimore Orioles 2
Detroit Tigers 14, Chicago White Sox 4
Oakland Athletics 6, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 3
New York Yankees 9, Seattle Mariners 3

>>Carlos Quentin From DL

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Chicago White Sox activated outfielder Carlos Quentin from the 15-day disabled list on Monday.  Quentin sprained the AC joint in his left shoulder while making a diving catch on August 20th versus Texas and was placed on the DL seven days later.  The 29-year-old is batting .255 with 24 homers and 77 RBI in 117 games this season.

>>Carp Gets Two-Year Extension

(St. Louis, MO)  --  One key piece of the Cardinals rotation will be back next season.  The "Post-Dispatch" reports Chris Carpenter has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth about $21-million.  The 36-year-old is 9-and-9 with a 3.75 ERA this season after starting the year 1-and-7.  Carpenter won the 2005 NL Cy Young and also helped the Cards win the 2006 World Series.

>>Rams Injuries Numerous After Loss To Eagles

(St. Louis, MO)  --  It was a mixed bag of injury news for the Rams after Sunday's loss to the Eagles.  Quarterback Sam Bradford suffered a bruised index finger, not a break, but is expect to play Monday.  Running back Steven Jackson will likely miss Monday's game against the Giants with a strained thigh.  Wide receiver Danny Amendola is expected to miss several months with a dislocated left elbow and cornerback Ron Bartell has two high fractures in his neck and could be out for the year.

>>Brady Leads Pats Over Fins

(Miami, FL)  --  Tom Brady picked apart the Miami Dolphins for 517 yards and four touchdowns in the Patriots 38-24 win.  Brady's record streak of 358 regular season passes without an interception came to an end in the third quarter when he was picked off by Jared Odrick on a tipped pass.  Brady spread the ball around to multiple targets, but Wes Welker led the way with eight receptions for 160 yards and two touchdowns.  The Patriots play their home opener Sunday against the San Diego Chargers.

NFL
-----
New England Patriots 38, Miami Dolphins 24
Oakland Raiders 23, Denver Broncos 20

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-13

September 12, 2011

 

Jail Population: 64

Summons Served: 2

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Investigation into the scene of an accident which happened at approximately 0406 on 9/12/11 revealed that Jennifer Kanta, 29, Weldon, was traveling north bound on County Highway 2 approaching the T-intersection of County Highway 10. Kanta continued northbound through the intersection colliding with the north ditch/embankment. Kanta traveled north into the crop field, coming to rest approximately 50 feet north of the roadway. Kanta’s vehicle sustained severe damage. Kanta was issued citations for Failure to Reduce Speed/Accident and Disobeying Stop Sign. Kanta posted her IL Drivers license as bond and was released.

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

 

Corruption Conviction Lifted For Ex-Illinois Official

A federal judge has vacated the corruption conviction of a former supervisor for the Illinois secretary of state's office.

Cecil Turner was convicted on four counts of wire fraud in 2006 for covering up a scheme in which three janitors were paid for hours they didn't actually work.

Turner did not take any illegal money. He was convicted on the legal theory that he denied taxpayers the honest services they deserved.

Since then, however, the U.S. Supreme Court has narrowed the scope of "honest services" violations.

Turner appealed, and Judge Joe Billy McDade agreed to reverse the convictions.

Turner remains guilty of 2 counts of making false statements to investigators.

Business Recruiters in Nebraska Tempt Illinois Firms To Move

Business recruiters from Nebraska are still trying to persuade Illinois businesses to either relocate to or expand in the Cornhusker state.

Numerous states have been targeting Illinois businesses this year because of recent tax increases there.

Illinois' governor approved a plan in January to increase the state's personal income tax from 3% to 5% and boost the corporate tax rate from 4.8% to 7%.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce says a team of business recruiters went to Illinois in August and met with 89 business executives. The chamber's Phil Phillips says the recruiters emphasized the stability, low operating costs and financial incentives available in Nebraska.

U of I Trustees Approve $5 Billion Budget

University of Illinois trustee have approved a proposed $5 billion budget for the school's three campuses.

The Board of Trustees on Friday approved the budget, which is a 5% increase from fiscal year 2011. It includes $693 million in state money and $939 million from the University Income Fund, which is largely tuition money. The budget would fund campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield.

The university system has been undertaking cost-saving measures since 2009 and the budget includes a savings of $26 million because of those efforts. Trustees also looked ahead to the 2013 fiscal year and approved a budget request for an additional $83 million in state funding. That request will be submitted for consideration from the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

Quinn Denies Partisan in Closure Decision

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is denying Republican claims that partisanship played a role his decision to take steps to close seven state facilities and lay off more than 1,900 workers.

Quinn said Friday "it's very clear" he didn't target facilities in Republican areas. Illinois House Republican leader Tom Cross has accused Quinn of targeting "Republican facilities and Republican jobs."

5 of the seven facilities Quinn targeted to close have both a Republican state senator and representative. A sixth has Democrats and a seventh is split with a Republican senator and Democratic representative.

Quinn maintains that layoffs and closings are necessary to live within the reduced budget passed by lawmakers unless they reallocate money. Cuts include a prison, a youth prison and facilities for the developmentally disabled and mentally ill.

Democrats Say Illinois Would Get Millions Under Obama Jobs Plan

Democrats say Illinois taxpayers and businesses would benefit from billions of dollars in investment and thousands of new jobs under President Barack Obama's proposed jobs plan.

The Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee on Friday released state-by-state analyses of the potential impact of Obama's American Jobs Act.

It says 260,000 Illinois businesses would receive a payroll tax cut while cuts to workers' payroll taxes would save a typical Illinois household around $1,640.

The analysis also says tens of thousands of jobs would be created or saved in Illinois through more than $4.5 billion in investments in transit projects, school construction and refurbishing vacant and foreclosed homes. There'd also be more money for police, firefighters and teachers.

Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin praises the plan. Republican Sen. Mark Kirk wants more details.

3 Charged In Fatal Decatur Shooting

Authorities in central Illinois have charged three people, including a 15-year-old boy, with first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old Decatur man.

Court documents indicate Billy Rutherford was killed because the suspects thought he was stealing drug money and had threatened the teen's life.

Rutherford was pronounced dead at the scene on Aug. 29 after Decatur police officers found his body lying in an alley.

Prosecutors in Macon County formally charged 15-year-old Shitavious Cook as an adult Thursday. Also charged are 28-year-old Felton Estes and 35-year-old Demeco Hill. Cook is being held at a juvenile detention center, while the men are in the Macon County Jail.

It isn't immediately clear if the defendants have attorneys.

Survey Shows Lackluster Crop

Harvest season is underway across Illinois, but a recent yield survey indicates most producers are finding a lackluster crop.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-12-11 Allendale Yield Survey WRAP.mp3]Jared White With The Story[/audio]

Downtown TIF Fund in Clinton Set To Expire in 2012

Downtown Clinton businesses have an opportunity to tap into tax funds they have been paying into and at the same time, increase the visual appeal of their storefront.

The downtown TIF fund for the downtown area of Clinton is set to expire in 2012, and Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters is encouraging businesses to take advantage of the facade grant before it expires.

[audio:tif1.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

Several businesses have already taken advantage of the grant to improve their businesses. Mayor Peters feels like the difference is certainly noticeable for the businesses that have taken advantage of the grant.

[audio:tif2.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

Administrator for the City of Clinton Tim Followell says when a businesses comes up with a project they would like to pursue, the facade grant will pay for half of the lowest bid. He says the business is able to hire anyone they would like, but they must get 2 bids, and the facade grant pays for half of the lowest bid.

[audio:tif3.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

The TIF fund expires at the end of 2012 and Followell says now is the time for downtown businesses to find a project and get estimates on it so they can take advantage of the facade grant and reinvest some of the tax dollars they are paying into. The best way to find out if a business is eligible for the facade grant is to look on the tax bill.

Chamber Week in Clinton

It's Chamber Week in Clinton.

At last Tuesday evening's Clinton City Council meeting, Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters a proclamation that the City will observe this week as Chamber Week. Executive Director the Chamber of Commerce Marian Brisard is excited about the proclamation and looks forward to the week ahead as the Chamber is showcased.

[audio:chamberweek1.mp3]A Word From Brisard[/audio]

As part of Chamber Week, the Chamber has some events this week they will be a part of. The highlight of the events will be their open house on Thursday(9/15). Brisard notes this is a good opportunity to stop in at the Chamber office and Chamber members and enjoy some free refreshments.

[audio:chamberweek2.mp3]A Word From Brisard[/audio]

One of the other events taking place this week is a Ribbon Cutting ceremony at the new location of EMC Photography on the square. EMC Photography is owned by Ed and Krystal Civenas. Also, Rich Roth just opened a ServPro franchise and he will be having a Ribbon Cutting ceremony later in the afternoon as well. Brisard says its an exciting time for the community and the downtown area, and the public is welcome to come and be a part of it all.

[audio:chamberweek3.mp3]A Word From Brisard[/audio]

Again Chamber Week is this week, the 12th-16th. Chamber Week is a nationally recognized week and the Clinton Community will be spotlighting the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW will be live at the Chamber this afternoon with a live broadcast from 1-2pm talking with Chamber members about this week and the role the Chamber plays in the community.

Cubs, Cards Win; Sox Lose

>>Cards Sweep Braves To Make Wild Card Push

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Yadier Molina's three-run double highlighted a five-run third inning as the Cardinals doubled up the Braves, 6-3.  Albert Pujols, Matt Holliday and Lance Berkman all drove in runs for St. Louis, which swept the three-game series to pull within four-and-a-half games of the NL Wild Card leaders.  Jake Westbrook got the win.  St. Louis is at Pittsburgh tonight.

>>Cubs Bounce Mets In Extras

(Flushing, NY)  --  Chicago busted out the bats in the 11th, scoring six on their way to a 10-6 victory over the Mets.  Tyler Colvin drove in three while Carlos Pena and Alfonso Soriano each plated a pair for the Cubs, who have won three-of-four.  Ramon Ortiz earned the victory out of the bullpen.  Rodrigo Lopez will oppose Dontrelle Willis when the Cubs begin a four-game series with the Reds at 6:10 p.m. in Cincinnati.

>>Tribe Takes Down Pale Hose

(Chicago, IL)  --  Lou Marson and Carlos Santant each had two-run doubles to lead the Indians to a 7-3 win over the White Sox.  Zach Stewart gave up three runs in five frames to take the loss.  Juan Pierre and Alexei Ramirez both went 2-for-5 with an RBI for Chicago.  The White Sox are 10-and-a-half back of the Tigers and the Indians 11 in the AL Central.  John Danks will oppose Rick Porcello when the White Sox start a three-game set with the Tigers at The Cell at 7:10 tonight.

MLB NL
------
Washington Nationals 8, Houston Astros 2
Florida Marlins 4, Pittsburgh Pirates 1
Milwaukee Brewers 3, Philadelphia Phillies 2
Colorado Rockies 4, Cincinnati Reds 1
San Francisco Giants 8, Los Angeles Dodgers 1
San Diego Padres 7, Arizona Diamondbacks 6

MLB AL
------
Detroit Tigers 2, Minnesota Twins 1
Toronto Blue Jays 6, Baltimore Orioles 5
Tampa Bay Rays 9, Boston Red Sox 1
Texas Rangers 8, Oakland Athletics 1
New York Yankees 6, LA Angels of Anaheim 5
Kansas City Royals 2, Seattle Mariners 1

Bears Win; Rams Lose Game & Stars

>>Bears Blast Falcons

(Chicago, IL)  --  Jay Cutler threw for 312 yards and three touchdowns as the Bears blasted the Falcons, 30-12.  Matt Forte had a 56-yard touchdown catch and rushed for 68 yards for Chicago.  Brian Urlacher returned a fumble 12 yards for a score in the win.  The Bears travel to take on the New Orleans Saints next Sunday.

>>Vick Eagles Soar Past Rams

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Michael Vick threw two touchdown passes and Juqua Parker returned a Sam Bradford fumble 56 yards for a score as the Eagles beat the Rams 31-13 in the season opener at the Edward Jones Dome.  Bradford was 17-of-30 for 188 yards in defeat.  Steven Jackson ran 47 yards for a touchdown on the Rams' first play.  St. Louis is at the Giants next Monday.

NFL
------
Detroit Lions 27, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20
Buffalo Bills 41, Kansas City Chiefs 7
Houston Texans 34, Indianapolis Colts 7
Baltimore Ravens 35, Pittsburgh Steelers 7
Cincinnati Bengals 27, Cleveland Browns 17
Jacksonville Jaguars 16, Tennessee Titans 14
San Francisco 49ers 33, Seattle Seahawks 17
Arizona Cardinals 28, Carolina Panthers 21
San Diego Chargers 24, Minnesota Vikings 17
Washington Redskins 28, New York Giants 14
New York Jets 27, Dallas Cowboys 24

>>Bradford, Jackson, Amendola Hurt In Rams' Loss

(St. Louis, MO)  --  The Rams lost quarterback Sam Bradford, running back Steven Jackson and receiver Danny Amendola to injury Sunday.  Bradford left with a hand injury midway through the fourth quarter, Jackson injured his quadriceps and had only two carries and Amendola suffered a dislocated left elbow in the fourth quarter.  Their status for Week Two is unknown.

Illini; ISU Win Saturday

>>Illinois Blasts South Dakota State

Freshman running back Donovonn Young introduced himself to Illinois fans with a pair of touchdowns and Nathan Scheelhaase ran for two more on Saturday in a 56-3 blowout over South Dakota State.

Illinois (2-0) rolled up 519 yards of offense and allowed just 96.

Young scored on a 2-yard run to give the Illini a 7-0 lead. The Houston native showed speed and strength on a 41-yard second-quarter touchdown that put the Illini up 35-3 over the Jackrabbits (1-1) at the half.

Scheelhaase took a seat in the third quarter with 93 yards rushing and 102 passing yards on six completions.

Illinois' defense picked off South Dakota State quarterback Thomas O'Brien twice. One was returned for a touchdown by linebacker Trulon Henry and the other set up a scoring pass by Reilly O'Toole to Evan Wilson.

>> ISU Outlasts Morehead State

Matt Brown tied a career high with five touchdown passes, Ashton Leggett ran for 110 yards, and Illinois State scored the game's first 31 points and coasted to a 52-21 win Saturday over Morehead State in the Redbirds' home opener.

Brown attempted only 17 passes and completed just 12, but 5 of them found the end zone. Tyrone Walker had 120 yards receiving on three receptions, all touchdowns, and Marvon Sanders had 127 yards, most of them on a 73-yard scoring grab. Matt Younger caught Brown's final touchdown pass, a 21-yarder that made the score 45-7 in the third quarter.

Darrelynn Dunn added a 25-yard rushing touchdown for the Redbirds (1-1).

The Eagles (1-1) got two touchdown passes from Zach Lewis, who finished 35 of 53 for 371 yards passing, but was sacked eight times. Desmond Cox scored on a 1-yard run for Morehead State's other touchdown.

O'Brien finished with 37 yards on 8 of 18 passing for South Dakota State.

Harvick Takes Checkers At Richmond, Chase Field Set

Kevin Harvick claimed his fourth win of the season and earned the second seed in the championship Chase in Saturday night's Wonderful Pistachios 400 at Richmond International Raceway.  Harvick beat Jeff Gordon out of the pits during a late-race caution and then held off a hard-charging Carl Edwards during the final laps to win the regular season finale. 

Kyle Busch and Harvick each finished with four wins after a 26-race regular season, but Busch's higher point total gives him the top seed in the Chase.  Busch finished sixth Saturday.  Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt Junior and Denny Hamlin clinched the remaining three positions in the 12-driver Chase field.

Clinton Police Weekend Report

 

ON 9/9/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED JASON D. LINGELBACH 25, CLINTON ON A DEWITT & MCLEAN COUNTY WARRANTS. LINGELBACH WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/9/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED LARRY J. WETHERHOLT 24, CLINTON ON A DEWITT COUNTY WARRANT. WETHERHOLT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/10/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED ROBERT N. MOORE 19, CLINTON ON A DEWITT COUNTY WARRANT. MOORE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/10/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED SAVANNA A. KIRK 20, DECATUR AND A 17 YEAR OLD JUVENILE FOR ILLEGAL CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL BY A MINOR. KIRK WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS AND THE JUVENILE WAS RELEASED TO THEIR PARENT PENDING FORMAL CHARGES IN COURT.

 

 

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report

 

September 9, 2011

 

Jail Population: 63

Summons Served: 6

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 10, 2011

 

Jail Population: 65

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

 

September 11, 2011

 

Jail Population: 68

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

Nathan Buggar, 18, Clinton, was arrested and charged with Minors Consumption of Alcohol and Probation Violation. Buggar, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains housed in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Steven Thoms, 32, Clinton, was arrested and charged with DUI. Thoms was also issued citations for Failure to Signal When Required, DUI and Driving Under the Influence with a BAC of .126. Thoms, posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Wade Jarnagin, 26, Rantoul was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Jarnagin, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Justin Oakes, 20, Bloomington, was issued a citation for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Oakes was issued a notice to appear and was released.

 

Andrew Hjortshoz, 20, Hanna City, was issued a citation for Speeding (72 mph in a 55 mph zone). Hjortshoz posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Ellen Splain, 19, Lincoln, was issued a citation for Speeding (75 mph in a 55 mph zone). Splain posted her IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Andrew Spriggs, 28, Rantoul, was issued a citation for No Valid Registration. Spriggs posted his IL Drivers License and was released.

 

Investigation in to the scene of an accident, which occurred at approximately 03:02 a.m. on Friday, September 9, 2011, revealed that a vehicle driven by Justin Dam, 22, Clinton was traveling southbound on IL-48. The vehicle left the roadway after the driver fell asleep, striking an embankment and rolling. Both occupants sustained small abrasions. Both occupants refused medical treatment.

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Weekly Weather Summary

Cooler, dry conditions swept the state this week, but state meteorologist Steve Hilberg says temperatures should start warm next week, but could drop once again for the weekend

[audio:wx.mp3]Hilberg Summary[/audio]

Kinzinger or Obama's Jobs Plan

>>Kinzinger On President Obama's Jobs Plan

(Ottawa, IL)  --  President Obama still wants the wealthiest people and companies to pay their fair share of taxes but Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger says the president's message is contradictory.

[audio:rddKinzJobs1.mp3]Kinzinger[/audio]

While Kinzinger disagrees with raising taxes on the wealthiest companies and people, he says he's in favor of closing most tax loopholes.  He also would lower the corporate tax rate.  Kinzinger says he's glad the President is talking about making Medicare sustainable.

Illinois Foster Care Issue a Matter of Law and Faith

The roughly 2,000 foster parents who work through a Catholic charity in Illinois could soon face a painful decision.

The state is trying to cancel contracts totaling more than $30 million with the group Catholic Charities because it's refusing to recognize Illinois' new civil unions law.

The charity sued, saying it shouldn't be forced to place children with unmarried couples. A judge sided with the state.

If the charity ultimately loses its appeal, its families would have to work with another agency.

Beth Banuelos and her husband have cared for about 50 children through Catholic Charities in southern Illinois. She says she'd probably try working with another agency.

But fellow longtime foster parent Mark Zartman says he wouldn't, in part because foster children need the structure of "a traditional family."

Former Governor Edgar Weighs In On Quinn Cuts

Former Governor Jim Edgar says drastic cuts are inevitable with the state's financial condition but now he says Governor Quinn must look for ways to generate more money.  Edgar says Quinn may not like the gaming bill but it's a good start to boosting revenues.

[audio:rddEdgarCuts1.mp3]A Word From the Former Governor[/audio]

Edgar says he thinks Quinn would've been better off vetoing the budget, even though that would've meant more Republican input on the final product.

[audio:rddEdgarCuts2.mp3]A Word From the Former Governor[/audio] 

Edgar says the state is in a bad way financially and cuts are the only way to relieve some of the stress.

[audio:rddEdgarCuts3.mp3]A Word From the Former Governor[/audio]

Governor Quinn says he'll have to lay off more than 19-hundred state workers by the end of the year if lawmakers don't make changes to the budget they sent him.  His plan is to shut down five mental health facilities, a prison, and a juvenile detention facility.

AFSCME Says Lawmakers Should Pass Supplemental Budget

The state's largest union is calling on lawmakers to pass a supplemental budget.  Anders Lindall with AFSCME Council 31 says the money is there, now lawmakers need to step up and save the 19-hundred jobs that Quinn wants to cut.

[audio:rddJobCuts1.mp3]A Word From Lindall[/audio]

Lindall says these cuts will put 19-hundred people out of work but will also have a resounding impact on people who depend on state services. 

[audio:rddJobCuts2.mp3]A Word From Lindall[/audio]

Governor Quinn says he needs more money in order to pay the state's bills until the end of the fiscal year.  He's asking lawmakers to come back to the negotiating table and make it happen when they head back to Springfield in October.  Otherwise, he says he'll close five mental health facilities, one prison and one juvenile detention facility.  Lindall says they'll do everything they can to save the jobs.

Lawmakers Pan Quinn's Closings

It might be a good thing that Illinois lawmakers won't have to be in the same room as Governor Pat Quinn til the end of next month.

Lawmakers are not happy with the governors plan to close seven state facilities and layoff a;most 2,00 state workers.

Bloomington Republican Bill Brady ran against Quinn last year on a platform of budget cuts, but says this is not what he was talking about.

[audio:090911Brady2.mp3]A Word From Brady[/audio]

State Rep Jim Watson has a developmental center in his district targeted for closing. Watson says Governor Quinn picked the wrong way to play a political game.

[audio:090911Watson1.mp3]A Word From Watson[/audio]

Quinn says lawmakers sent him a budget that doesn't have enough money. But the governor says he's willing to make a deal with the General Assembly in the fall veto session.

September 11th Event To Help Wounded Heroes

With the 10th anniversary of September 11th approaching, the nation will certainly pause to honor the heroes and victims of that day, and one organization is hoping for community support to come and join in an event aimed at assisting those men and women who have put their lives in harms way for freedom.

Charles Richardson is an Iraq War veteran who was wounded by road side bombs and returned to the United States with barely any money. He eventually received the care and attention he needed from The Wounded Warrior Project.

[audio:woundedwarrior1.mp3]A Word From Richardson[/audio]

Richardson explains they give needed items to wounded soldiers through donations of any kind. He says the group is also there for soldiers to meet any other needs they may have.

[audio:woundedwarrior2.mp3]A Word From Richardson[/audio]

Richardson quickly got involved once he realized the efforts that are taken to give veterans the care and respect they deserve, he became an alumni of the organization. His first organized fund raiser for Wounded Warrior will take place this Sunday in Decatur and Richardson hopes it the first of many to come.

[audio:woundedwarrior3.mp3]A Word From Richardson[/audio]

The fund raiser is in conjunction with Westminster Presbyterian Church's 2nd Annual Family Fest will be from 5:00-7:30 p.m. at 1360 West Main Street in Decatur. Free games highlight the evening including bags, an auction, and the Millikan Jazz band will be on site as well. There will be a special moment of silence to honor the victims of September 11th at 6:30 p.m.. 

If you would like to assist or want more information you can call Charles Richardson at 217-358-2235.

Lincoln/Logan County Farm Days This Weekend; Highlights Agriculture in Logan County

The Lincoln/Logan County Tourism Bureau will be having their 5th Annual Fall Farm Days this weekend.

The weekend event is a salute to agriculture in Logan County. The Farm Days are in conjunction with the Atlanta and Mt. Pulaski Fall Festivals this weekend. Executive Director of the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bereau of Logan County Geoff Ladd explains there is no specific tour times, but rather it will be a self guided tour from Chestnut through Beason and Lincoln.

[audio:fallfarmdays1.mp3]A Word From Ladd[/audio]

The Farm Days this year will feature the towns of Mt. Pulaski and Chestnut. Ladd explains Chestnut is now officially the Geocenter of Illinois.

[audio:fallfarmdays2.mp3]A Word From Ladd[/audio]

For the 2nd year now Lincoln Corn Maze will be open from 1 to 10 pm Saturday for anyone to come and enjoy. Ladd notes, the maze this year is much bigger than last years first ever corn maze.

[audio:fallfarmdays3.mp3]A Word From Ladd[/audio]

Saturday events also include Saturday's Farmer's Market in Skully Park. Gail's Pumpkin Patch between Beason and Lincoln will be open and will feature special entertainment by Paul Gleason who is a local historian. Gleason will present from 1-3 pm on Sunday on agriculture during the Civil War.

For more information and a full list of the weekends activities, you can visit www.abe66.com.

Clinton Board of Education Discusses Revisions on Elementary Building

The Clinton Board of Education held a special meeting Thursday evening to discuss the revisions to the new elementary building.

The revisions in the design come as a result of the community engagement meeting, which was held in August. The biggest change to the revisions shows the gym space cut in half, to one full size court. Craig Welter, the architect of the building explains between the full size gym and the cafeteria, there will still be 3 gym spaces able to be used.

[audio:school1.mp3]A Word From Welter[/audio]

President of the Board of Education Buck Carter feels the new design is closer to where the building should be. He feels the board should focus on having a good solid building that will be around for many years.

[audio:school2.mp3]A Word From Carter[/audio]

Carter feels strongly the school district needs to catch up in the area of technology. He feels the district should leave aside money to allow the district to upgrade their technology.

[audio:school3.mp3]A Word From Carter[/audio]

Other discussions centered around space allowed for the Resource Rooms. School administrators feel the space allowed for those in the revised plans needs to be expanded. The other discussions focused on restrooms near the gymnasium and also office space for the physical education teachers. A decision was made to make room for restrooms closer to the gym and allow for space for PE teachers to have an office.

High School Football Week 3 Preview

High School Football week 3 is slated for tonight...

The Clinton Maroons are coming off a thrilling victory against the Meridian Hawks by a final score of 37-26. The Maroons (1-1) were led by senior Mitch Creager who had 10 carries for 117 yards and 3 touchdowns and by Nathan Clark who had 14 carries for 91 yards and 2 touchdowns. Tune in to the Big 1520AM, 92.3FM WHOW, and www.dewittdailynews.com tonight as the Maroons head to Maroa to take on the Trojans.

The Monticello Sages are coming off a 19-0 loss to the Tuscola Warriors in their home opener last Friday. Tonight the Sages (1-1) travel to Meridian to take on the Meridian Hawks(0-2). You can hear that ball game on 95.9 FM WEZC and www.dewittdailynews.com.

Other area games on tap for tonight...

Big Twelve
Champaign (Central) at Normal (Community West)
Danville (H.S.) at Bloomington (H.S.)
Decatur (Eisenhower) at Champaign (Centennial)
Mattoon at Decatur (MacArthur)
Normal (Community) vs. Urbana (H.S.) at Urbana (H.S.)

Central State 8
Jacksonville at Lincoln

Corn Belt
Bloomington (Central Catholic) at Fairbury (Prairie Central)
Mahomet (M.-Seymour) at Eureka [Coop]
Rantoul at Pontiac
Stanford (Olympia) vs. Normal (University) at ISU Hancock Stadium

Heart of Illinois
Colfax (Ridgeview) at Farmer City (Blue Ridge)
Flanagan (F.-Cornell) [F.C.-Woodland Coop] at LeRoy
Gibson City (G.C.-Melvin-Sibley) at El Paso (E.P.-Gridley)
Heyworth at Fisher
Lexington at Minonk (Fieldcrest)
Tremont at Mackinaw (Deer Creek-M.)

Little Okaw Valley
Bement [South Piatt Coop] at Oakland [Tri-County Coop]
Cerro Gordo [Coop] at Arcola
Martinsville vs. Arthur (H.S.) [A.-Lovington Coop] at Lovington
Villa Grove vs. Broadlands (Heritage) [East Central Coop] at Hume (Shiloh)

Sangamon Valley
St. Joseph Ogden @ Momence

Non-Conference Action for tonight...
Decatur (St. Teresa) at Warrensburg (W.-Latham)
Downs (Tri-Valley) at Clifton (Central)
Rochester at Jerseyville (Jersey)
Shelbyville at Tuscola
Sullivan [S.-Okaw Valley Coop] at Argenta (A.-Oreana)
Tolono (Unity) at Moweaqua (Central A & M)

White Sox Win

>>White Sox Trounce Tribe

(Chicago, IL)  --  Paul Konerko belted a grand slam during a seven-run seventh inning as the White Sox trounced the Indians, 8-1.  Brent Morel homered twice and drove in four to help Chicago take the opener of the four-game set.  Matt Thornton was credited with his first win.  Mark Buehrle will oppose Jeanmar Gomez when the series continues tonight.

MLB NL
------
Atlanta Braves 6, New York Mets 5 (Gm.1)
Atlanta Braves 5, New York Mets 1 (Gm.2)
Los Angeles Dodgers 7, Washington Nationals 4 (Gm.1)
Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Nationals, (PPD/Rain)
Philadelphia Phillies 7, Milwaukee Brewers 2
Arizona Diamondbacks 4, San Diego Padres 1

MLB AL
------
Baltimore Orioles 5, New York Yankees 4 (10 inn.)
Toronto Blue Jays 7, Boston Red Sox 4
Chicago White Sox 8, Cleveland Indians 1
Seattle Mariners 4, Kansas City Royals 1

NFL Notes

>>Falcons Face Bears In Windy City Battle

(Chicago, IL)  --  A pair of 2010 division winners battle in Week One as the Atlanta Falcons face the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.  The Falcons earned the top seed with an NFC-best 13-and-3 record last season, winning the NFC South.  After going 7-and-1 at home during the regular season, Atlanta was upset 48-21 at home by eventual Super Bowl champion Green Bay in the Divisional Playoffs.  The Bears won the NFC Central with an 11-and-5 mark.  They beat Seattle at home in the Divisional Playoffs before losing to the Pack in the NFC Championship Game.

>>Eagles Soar Into St. Louis To Play Rams

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Teams with high expectations meet Sunday as the Eagles visit the Rams in St. Louis.  With a new long-term contract, quarterback Michael Vick begins his first season as the full-time starter for Philadelphia.  He made an MVP bid last year after taking over early on for the injured Kevin Kolb, who is now in Arizona.  The Eagles won the NFC East at 10-and-6, but lost to Green Bay in the Wild Card round.  After going 1-and-15 in 2009, the Rams nearly made the playoffs last year at 7-and-9 behind rookie QB Sam Bradford.  They missed out on the final day of the season, losing at Seattle in a game that decided the NFC West champion.

>>Rams Name Trio Of Season Captains

(St. Louis, MO)  --  The Rams have named their team captains for the 2011 campaign.  In a vote of both coaches and players, running back Steven Jackson, defensive end James Hall and kicker Josh Brown have been selected.  The Rams also name weekly captains, with this week's being former Eagles safety Quintin Mikell, wide receiver Danny Amendola and wide out Brandon Gibson.

>>Packers Hold On For Thrilling Win Over Saints

(Green Bay, WI)  --  The Packers opened defense of their Super Bowl title with a thrilling 42-34 win over the Saints.  After a pass interference call, Green Bay's defense stopped a Mark Ingram rush at the goal line on the game's final play to preserve the win.  Aaron Rodgers threw for 312 yards and three touchdowns, while Greg Jennings had seven grabs for 89 yards and a score in the win.  The Packers will be on the road to face the Panthers a week from Sunday.

NCAA Top-25 Football
------
#7 Oklahoma State Cowboys 37, Arizona Wildcats 14

Clinton Police Report for 9-9

 

ON 9/8/11 AT APPROX. 11:17PM CLINTON POLICE INVESTIGATED A PERSONAL INJURY ACCIDENT IN THE 700 BLOCK N. GRANT. A VEHICLE DRIVEN BY JOSHUA L. EVANS 21, WAYNESVILLE WAS SOUTHBOUND ON GRANT ST WHEN HE CROSSED THE CENTER LINE AND OVER CORRECTED . THE VEHICLE LEFT THE ROADWAY AND STRUCK A TREE. A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE ROSS H. THOMAS 21, CLINTON WAS TRANSPORTED BY CLINTON AMBULANCE FOR TREATMENT. EVANS WAS ARRESTED FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL WITH A B.A.C. GREATER THAN .08. EVANS WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-9

September 8, 2011

 

 

 

Jail Population: 63

Summons Served: 5

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

 

Loretta Snyder, 39, Clinton, was issued a citation for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Snyder posted her IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Anthony Kilburn, 28, Bloomington, was issued a citation for Speeding (73 in a 55 mph zone). Kilburn posted his IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Michelle Parac, 43, Clinton, was issued a citation for Speeding (83 in a 65 mph zone). Parac posted her IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Joshua Evans, 21, Waynesville, was arrested and charged with DUI. Evans posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Dakota Browder was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Browder, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Maroons Crushed by Maroa-Forsyth

As heard on WHOW, the Clinton Maroons headed down to Maroa to take on the Trojans. The Trojans jumped ahead early and never looked back with a final score of 56-0. The Maroons did not have much offense in the game with Kadarius Sneed and Mitch Creager having most of the carries for very few yards. The Maroons had 4 turnovers in the game.

The Clinton Maroons look to next week as the host their 2011 Homecoming at Sprague Field in Clinton playing host to the Central A&M Raiders. And that game will be heard live once again on the Big 1520AM and 92.3FM WHOW.

Sages Ground Hawks 42-0

As heard on WEZC,The Monticello Sages beat the Meridian Hawks 42-0. Jacob Williams led the sages ground attack with 103 yards and 2 scores.  Sages running back Ryan Donahue chipped in 73 yards all in the first half before leaving with a knee injury. Sam Parrish was 6 of 9 for 95 yards. Parker Trice had a nice 24 yard touchdown run. TE Colton Gibson led the Sages in receiving with 3 catches for 83 yards. Senior fullback Clay Wright also contributed 5 carries for 67 yards. Up next for the 2-1 Sages will be a home game against state ranked Maroa-Forsyth on Friday.  It can be heard live right here on 95.9 WEZC.

Harvest Started in Parts of Illinois

With September here, many farmers in central Illinois have started harvesting corn.

That's a little bit earlier. But farmers like Dennis Wentworth of Downs says they're only harvesting their driest corn right now.

This week's cool weather has slowed the corn drying process.

Larry Huelskoetter farms near Beason in Logan County. And he's been pleasantly surprised by high yields so far. He expected a hot, dry summer might have burned some of his corn.

In many areas further south where more rain has fallen, farmers say they'll wait a little longer to get started.

University of Illinois crop expert Emerson Nafziger says warmer weather would speed corn drying and that may happen. Forecasters say temperatures should warm across Illinois early next week.

Pontiac Man Gets 36-Years For Murder For Hire

A judge has sentenced an east-central Illinois man to 36 years in prison for trying to hire a hit man to kill his ex-wife and the woman's boyfriend.

A jury found 40-year-old Shan Fieldman of Collum guilty in May of 2 counts of solicitation of murder for hire. Fieldman was sentenced Tuesday. Fieldman maintained his innocence during the court hearing and said the case was a "horrible misunderstanding."

Fieldman also apologized to his family and his ex-wife's family.

Fieldman and an accomplice, Talia Fonce were arrested in July 2010 and accused of offering $7,500 to an undercover state police agent to kill Fieldman's ex-wife and her boyfriend. Fonce was sentenced to 35 years in prison in January.

Illinois Regional Superintendents Say Jobs Are Necessary

Illinois school district superintendents say without regional superintendent positions many basic educational functions wouldn't be accomplished.

Gov. Pat Quinn cut off pay in July to 44 regional superintendents and their assistants. They've been working without pay since then. Last week a central Illinois judge refused to intervene in the dispute.

State Rep. Roger Eddy of Hutsonville is also the local superintendent for the 400-student Hutsonville school district in eastern Illinois. He tells says Illinois law gives the regional superintendents many responsibilities, such as background checks, building inspections and training bus drivers.

Quinn says the state can't afford to pay the superintendents' salaries when the budget is so tight that lawmakers cut $150 million out of school spending.

Herrin Teenager Crashes Car Into House

A Herrin teenager is accused of drinking and driving before crashing his car into a house.  Jamie Brandon was arrested yesterday after he allegedly hit the corner of a house and fled the scene.  He's charged with illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor, resisting a police officer, and leaving the scene of an accident.  Brandon was released on bond.

Quinn's Closing Talk Not Enough

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn is going to have to do more than talk if he wants to close a prison or other state facilities.

The governor is talking about closing a state facility to save money. He's not said what may be closed, but on Tuesday he said he needs to do something because lawmakers, he says, did not do enough.

[audio:090611Quinn1.mp3]A Word From Quinn[/audio]

But he can't wait too long. The State Facilities Closure Act requires the governor to file formal plans on how he intends to close whatever he wants to close. A special legislative commission then has to have hearings and a 30-day public comment period.

The governor is not saying what he will close, or when he will announce his plan.

Quinn Not Final Authority On Closing State Facilities

State Senator Gary Forby says he's fighting to save downstate prisons if Governor Quinn decides to close the facilities.  He says he's already contacted the governor's office to express his concern.  There are reports that Quinn will close a prison or juvenile detention facility in order to make ends meet, but he doesn't have the final say.  The State Facilities Closure Act requires Quinn to file an official notice with the Legislature's Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability.  The Commission will then hold at least one public hearing and a 30-day public comment period before they vote on the governor's recommendation.

Operation Santa Filling Stockings For Troops

Operation Santa is remembering the 9-11 attacks by giving back to the troops.  The organization is collecting stocking stuffers Sunday at the Walmarts in Normal and in Bloomington.  Sharon McCauley with Operation Santa says this is a way for people to contribute to the men and women who protect their freedoms.  

[audio:rddSanta1.mp3]A Word From McCauley[/audio]

The group wants to fill 20-thousand stockings by November, which will then go to overseas troops during the holidays.  Trucks will be taking donations in the Walmart parking lots from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

No Discriminating in Lake Springfield Clubs

It was discriminatory behaviors that led the Springfield City Council to implement  a new ordinance Tuesday night.  A new law bans private clubs and organizations on Lake Springfield from discriminating on the basis of sex.  The move comes after The Anchor Club and the Motor Boat Club refused to allow women to join.  Officials at the Council of Lake Clubs say both clubs are in the process of changing their bylaws so women can become active members.  According to the new ordinance, the only groups not affected are the Boys and Girls clubs.  That means even some religious groups will have to examine their membership policies.

Bloomington Woman Arrested in Fork Stabbing

A Bloomington woman has been jailed after her boyfriend accused her of stabbing him with a fork and hitting him with a hatchet.

McLean County prosecutors say police arrested 33-year-old Tonya Bean on Monday on preliminary charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and domestic battery. She was jailed on $30,000 bond.

Bean hasn't entered a plea. She couldn't be reached for comment because there's no telephone listed for her.

According to prosecutors, Bean stabbed Frank Short with a knife during a dispute in their home. Short tried to take a shower and was stabbed with the fork.

Prosecutors contend Bean later also hit Short with the hatchet. Afterward, Short walked to a nearby business. He had visible injuries, but there's no word on his current condition.

Court Denies LaGrone's Request for New Trial

An appeals court says a Clinton man convicted of murdering his girlfriend's three children shouldn't get a new trial.

Maurice LaGrone Jr. is serving a life sentence.

LaGrone contends his attorneys made a mistake by not asking the judge in his 2006 trial to allow child endangerment as a possible verdict in addition to murder.

But the 4th District Appellate Court's opinion states that there's "not even slight evidence" that LaGrone committed the lesser offense instead of first-degree murder.

LaGrone and his former girlfriend, Amanda Hamm, each were charged with murder after her car became submerged in Clinton Lake with her three children in the back seat. Hamm, however, was convicted of child endangerment.

She was released from prison last year.

Apple and Pork Preperations Continue As Festival Less Than Month Away

Less than a month remains before the biggest event in Clinton takes place.

The Apple and Pork Festival is almost here for the City of Clinton, and preparation continue. Larry Buss is the Resident Manager at the CH Moore Homestead, which hosts the festival. Buss explains he is still in the process of getting things worked out for the festival later this month.

[audio:applepork1.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

The preparations at the site of the CH Moore Homestead takes quite a bit of time as well. Buss says getting where the different food vendors will be at marked and also the flea market area marked traditionally is a job that takes a lot of time.

[audio:applepork2.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

Buss says one of the biggest parts of the event that he is proud of is the fact that of all the vendors around the grounds, they are all not-for-profit groups. He says it a great opportunity for those groups to raise money, and he feels having it that way helps the community a great amount.

[audio:applepork3.mp3]A Word From Buss[/audio]

The Apple and Pork Festival takes place the last weekend of September, 24th and 25th. Buss says they are still seeking the help of volunteers. He says this is a good opportunity for high school kids needing volunteer or community hours to get some of those knocked off. He asks anyone interested to give a call to the CH Moore Homestead at 935-6066.

DJWH 'Cruise Into Good Health' Fair Tonight

Area residents have the chance to "Cruise In To Good Health" this (THU) evening at a special event at Clinton's Dr. John Warner Hospital.

The city-owned facility is hosting its fourth annual cruise night and health fair tonight (THU).  Sandy Rice, Director of Business Development at DJWH, explains the focus tonight is on stroke screenings and several themed tests in that area.

[audio:healthfair1.mp3]A Word From Rice[/audio]

In addition to the vast array of health services, tonight's (THU) event will feature several classic cars. Rice notes the event features a dee jay, free refreshments, and a chef from Richland Community College will be on the site serving up summer salads.

[audio:healthfair2.mp3]A Word From Rice[/audio]

Those in attendance will be able to browse displays from a number of local health providers and agencies. It will also be an opportunity to talk the the DJWH staff in a bit more laid back atmosphere. Dr. John Warner Hospital's annual "Cruise In To Good Health" takes place from 6 to 8 o'clock this (THU) evening in the hospital's parking lot.

Clinton Maroons Golf Team Takes 2nd in Minier

The Clinton Maroons golf team went on the road to Bluegrass Creek Golf Course in Minier Wednesday afternoon where they took 2nd to Tremont, and finished ahead of Hartem-Delevan(Coop). Tremont shot a 171 to the Maroons 178. Hartem-Delevan shot a 181. Sammy Bollinger of Tremont shot a day best 39. Logan Woolridge lead Clinton, shooting a 42. Corey Wisher shot a 44, followed by Blake Newman's 45, Kip Barber shot a 47, Steven Evans shot a 48, and Hunter Heusner shot a 51. Bluegrass is a Par 35. The Maroons are now 13-3 on the season.

Cubs, Cards Win; NFL Regular Season Kicks Off Tonight

>>Carpenter Pitches Cards Past Brewers

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Chris Carpenter tossed a four-hit shutout as the Cardinals blanked the Brewers, 2-0.  Carpenter scattered two walks while striking out five to improve to 9-and-9.  Rafael Furcal homered and Yadier Molina had a sac-fly RBI for the Cards, who took two-of-three in the series.  Zack Greinke permitted both runs over seven innings to fall to 14-and-6.  Milwaukee leads St. Louis by eight-and-a-half games in the NL Central.  The Cards are off today before opening a three-game home series against the Braves tomorrow.

>>Cubs Double Up Reds

(Chicago, IL)  --  Carlos Pena's three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth gave the Cubs a 6-3 win over the Reds.  Aramis Ramirez doubled home two runs in the sixth to help Chicago take the rubber match of the three-game set.  Kerry Wood was credited with his second win.  Carlos Marmol earned his 33rd save.  The Cubs are off today.  They'll begin a three-game set with the Mets in New York tomorrow.

>>Twins Trim White Sox

(Minneapolis, MN)  --  The Twins scored four runs in the third and held on for a 5-4 win over the White Sox.  Danny Valencia and Chris Parmelee plated two runs apiece in the third as Minnesota avoid a sweep in the four-game set.  Paul Konerko went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored for Chicago.  John Danks allowed all five runs, four of which were earned, over six innings to fall to 6-and-11.

MLB NL
------
New York Mets 1, Florida Marlins 0
San Diego Padres 3, San Francisco Giants 1
Philadelphia Phillies 3, Atlanta Braves 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 5, Houston Astros 4
Arizona Diamondbacks 5, Colorado Rockies 3
Los Angeles Dodgers at Washington Nationals (PPD/Rain)

MLB AL
------
Detroit Tigers 8, Cleveland Indians 6
Baltimore Orioles 5, New York Yankees 4 (11 inn)
Tampa Bay Rays 5, Texas Rangers 4 (10 innings)
Oakland Athletics 7, Kansas City Royals 0
Toronto Blue Jays 11, Boston Red Sox 10
LA Angels of Anaheim 3, Seattle Mariners 1

>>Barber Skips Practice

(Lake Forest, IL)  --  Bears running back Marion Barber missed practice on Wednesday due to a calf injury.  Barber suffered the injury on August 27th and hasn't practiced since.  Meantime, defensive end Corey Wootton and wide receiver Sam Hurd were limited in practice for the Bears, who open the season against the Falcons on Sunday.

>>Saints, Packers Raise Curtain On NFL Season

(Green Bay, WI)  --  The curtain raises on the 2011 NFL season with the annual Thursday night kickoff game.  It's a matchup of the last two Super Bowl champions as the Green Bay Packers host the New Orleans Saints at Lambeau Field.  The Pack rode the right arm of quarterback Aaron Rodgers to three straight playoff road wins over the Eagles, Falcons and Bears last season before knocking off the Steelers 31-25 to win Super Bowl 45.  It was Green Bay's fourth Super Bowl title and first since Super Bowl 31 in 1997.  The Saints followed up their Super Bowl 44 victory over the Colts by going 11-and-5 last year and securing an NFC Wild Card berth.  New Orleans went on the road to play the 7-and-9 NFC West champion Seahawks and was upset 41-36 in a first-round shootout in Seattle.  Five-time Pro Bowl quarterback Drew Brees is back to lead the charge as the Saints look to make another championship run in 2011.

Clinton Police Report for 9-8

 

ON 9/7/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED SAMUEL J. JOHNSON 24, CLINTON ON A DEWITT COUNTY WARRANT. JOHNSON WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/8/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED ALLORA D. SPURLING 29, CLINTON ON A DEWITT COUNTY WARRANT. SPURLING WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-8

Jail Population: 58

Summons Served: 2

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Jeremy Mitchell, 24, Clinton, was issued a citation for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Mitchell posted his IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

April Rhoades, 32, Clinton, was issued a citation for Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Rhoades was given a notice to appear and was released.

 

Tanna Hammell, 41, Decatur, was issued citations for Driving while License Suspended and Operating an Uninsured Vehicle. Hammell posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Shayla Hoenes, 21, Normal, was issued a citation for speeding (74 in a 55 mph zone). Hoenes posted her IL Drivers License as bond and was released.

 

Allora Spurling, 29, Clinton, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant, charging her with Domestic Battery/Bodily Harm. Spurling posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Samuel Johnson, 24, Clinton, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant, charging him with Theft Control Intent <$500. Johnson posted the necessary bond and was released

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Illinois Sees 13th Driest August Since 1895

The state climatologist says data show the statewide average precipitation in Illinois during August was 1.6 inches below average.

Climatologist Jim Angel of the Illinois State Water Survey said Tuesday that Illinois saw the 13th driest August on record since 1895. The U.S. Drought Monitor rated moderate to severe agricultural drought in Illinois because of less than average rain and higher than average temperatures.

The weather means damage to corn and soybeans appears significant in areas.

The driest part of the state was south of and near Interstate 74, where rainfall was an inch or less. Lovington in east-central Illinois had only 0.03 inches of rain in August. Northern Illinois did have average or above average rainfall.

The highest temperature recorded during August was 103 degrees in Cairo and Bentley.

U of I Sees Jump In Enrollment

Enrollment at the University of Illinois in Urbana is up by about 600 students.  The school's Division of Management Information reports that 42,606 students attended classes in the first ten days of school.  That's not the same story for Southern Illinois University in Carbondale though.  They're reporting a one-percent drop in enrollment since last year, with just under 20-thousand students.  It's the sixth year in a row the school's enrollment has gone down.

State Senator Says Governor Playing Political Games

Governor Quinn's office won't confirm reports that thousands of state workers will lose their jobs this week to help ease the state's financial shortfall, but they're not denying it either.  Quinn is expected to announce the closing of a prison, a juvenile detention center and homes for the mentally and developmentally disabled.  State Senator Bill Brady says Quinn is misguided in his attempt.

[audio:rddSenBrady1.mp3]A Word From Senator Brady[/audio]

Brady says he's not sure Governor Quinn is serious about the layoffs.  He says it appears Quinn is playing a political game.

[audio:rddSenBrady2.mp3]A Word From Senator Brady[/audio]

Brady adds he thinks state employees understand there are state efficiencies to be met but thinks workers are worried Quinn will do it the political way.

[audio:rddSenBrady3.mp3]A Word From Senator Brady[/audio]

Quinn's budget office has said several state agencies would run out of money by the spring if no action is taken.  State Senator Bill Brady says the state senate passed a budget that included more money but earlier this year, but Quinn chose to go with the House's version instead.

ADM Buys 2 Factories in India

Decatur-based Archer Daniels Midland has acquired two oilseeds processing factories in India, a move that expands its global reach and increases its presence in that market.

Terms of the deal announced today weren't disclosed.

ADM acquired facilities in the cities of Kota and Akola from a company called Geepee Agri.

The Kota site has soy processing capabilities that enable it to supply soy oil directly to the northern Indian market. It also can crush refine and package rapeseed.

The Akola location has soybean crushing, refining and packaging capabilities that will let ADM produce vegetable oil and meal for food and animal feed markets.

ADM also says it has established a new Indian headquarters office near New Delhi in the state of Haryana.

Pro Industry Message Portrayed At Farm Progress Show

As the ethanol industry continues to closely monitor the budget discussion in Washington, one organization took its pro-industry message to the public at last week's Farm Progress Show.  Jared White has more...

[audio:9-6-11 Growth Energy @ FPS WRAP.mp3]Jared White With The Story[/audio]

United Way's Food Drive Huge Success

The United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois had a large presence at last weeks Farm Progress Show in Decatur.

At the Farm Progress Show last week the United Way was waiting at the gates as folks entered Progress City on the campus of Richland Community College. The goal was for the United Way to raise 10-thousand pounds of food, and to have every pound matched with a dollar by Monsanto. Chad Clevenger, Director of Community Impact with the United Way explains the food donated Wednesday alone matched the goal for the week.

[audio:driverecap1.mp3]A Word From Clevenger[/audio]

Volunteers were out at each of the gates collecting food, but some folks chose to give financially as well. Clevenger says the food and money raised last evenly goes to three organizations supported by the United Way.

[audio:driverecap2.mp3]A Word From Clevenger[/audio]

With those that donated money rather than food, Clevenger says usually 18-cents can purchase a pound of food. He credits Monsanto for being a huge partner at the event with the United Way.

[audio:driverecap3.mp3]A Word From Clevenger[/audio]

This marked the 3rd year Monsanto has sponsored the food drive at the Farm Progress Show, both in Decatur and Iowa. Last week nearly 17-thousand pounds of food was raised, with that Monsanto donated 10-thousand dollars to the United Way and just over three-thousand dollars throughout the week for a grand total of just over 13-thousand dollars.

Clinton City Council Makes 2 Proclamations

The Clinton City Council convened Tuesday evening.

Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters made a proclamation that next week, September 12-16 would be Chamber of Commerce Week in Clinton. In her proclamation, Mayor Peters points out this year is the 96th year of Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, a career development organization for the Chamber of Commerce professionals.

[audio:proclamation1.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

The Mayor also made a proclamation that September 17-23 will be Constitution Week in Clinton. The idea of Constitution Week is to reaffirm the ideals of the constitution that it was based on over 200 years ago.

[audio:proclamation2.mp3]A Word From The Mayor[/audio]

The Council made a quick decision on approving a quote for barricades for the Apple and Pork Festival. Steve Lobb explains the company the Street Department has chosen needed a firm commitment for those barricades and so the Council made the approval at cost of almost $700.

[audio:barricades.mp3]A Word From Lobb[/audio]

The Street Department will be completely closing off Center Street for the festival this year. Lobb notes the tram will be the only motor vehicle allowed on that road between 6 am and 6 pm the Saturday and Sunday of Apple and Pork.

Clinton Golfers Win; Cards, Sox Win; More

The Clinton Maroons Golf team took to the links Tuesday afternoon at the Clinton Country Club. The Maroons came out on top, edging Blue Ridge by just 5 strokes, shooting a 181 to the Knights' 186. Tri-Valley took 3rd shooting a 195 and Fisher shot a 240 to round out the field. Austin Sproles of Tri-Valley shot a day best 39 on the par 35 course. Clinton's Logan Woolridge shot a 40, followed by Blake Newman who shot a 43 and Corey Wisher shot a 45. The Maroons are now 13-2 on the season.

>>Cards Double Down On Brewers

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Kyle Lohse tossed six innings of shut out ball as the Cardinals dropped the Brewers, 4-2.  John Jay and Matt Holliday each lifted a solo shot for St. Louis, which had lost two straight.  Jason Motte recorded his third save.  The Brewers lead the Cardinals by nine-and-a-half games in the NL Central.  The Cards put Chris Carpenter on the mound against Brewers starter Zach Greinke tonight in the series finale. 

>>ChiSox Shut Out Twins

(Minneapolis, MN)  --  Jake Peavy tossed six-and-a-third innings of shut out ball with nine strikeouts as the White Sox dumped the Twins, 3-0.  Alex Rios launched a solo shot for Chicago, which looks to complete the four-game sweep tonight.  Sergio Santos earned his 29th save of the year.  Liam Hendriks threw seven innings of three-run ball for the loss.  The Twins have lost five straight.  John Danks gets the nod against Carl Pavano in tonight's series finale.

>>Reds Double Up Cubs In Extras

(Chicago, IL)  --  Joey Votto's RBI double in the 13th lifted the Reds past the Cubs, 4-2.  It was Votto's second RBI of the game, and Miguel Cairo added an insurance run with an RBI single.  Aroldis Chapman earned the win out of the bullpen while Francisco Cordero locked down his 31st save for Cincinnati, which has won two-of-three.  John Grabow gave up two runs in two innings to suffer the loss for Chicago, which has lost four-of-six.  Bryan LaHair hit a pinch-hit two-run homer to tie the game in the ninth and account for the Cubs runs.  Ryan Dempster toes the rubber tonight.

MLB NL
-----
Philadelphia Phillies 6, Atlanta Braves 3
Houston Astros 4, Pittsburgh Pirates 1
Los Angeles Dodgers 7, Washington Nationals 3
New York Mets 7, Florida Marlins 4 (12 inn)
Colorado Rockies 8, Arizona Diamondbacks 3
San Francisco Giants 6, San Diego Padres 4

MLB AL
-----
New York Yankees 5, Baltimore Orioles 3
Detroit Tigers 10, Cleveland Indians 1
Boston Red Sox 14, Toronto Blue Jays 0
Texas Rangers 8, Tampa Bay Rays 0
Kansas City Royals 7, Oakland Athletics 4
Seattle Mariners 2, LA Angels of Anaheim 1

>>Contract Talks On Hold For Bears' Forte

(Chicago, IL)  --  New contract talks between the Chicago Bears and running back Matt Forte have been put on hold for the moment.  The Bears had reportedly offered Forte a deal worth $13-to-14-million guaranteed, but it apparently wasn't accepted.  The two sides had hoped to wrap up a deal before the teams' season opener against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at Soldier Field.  Forte, a 2008 second-rounder out of Tulane, rushed for 1,069 yards and six touchdowns last season.

>>Jeff Gordon Wins Rain-Delayed AdvoCare 500

(Hampton, GA)  --  Jeff Gordon held off a furious challenge from Hendrick Motorsports teammate, Jimmie Johnson, to win Tuesday's rain-delayed AdvoCare 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.  This was only the second Cup race since 1978 to be run on a Tuesday.  It was originally slated for Sunday night, but rain from Tropical Storm Lee forced a two-day postponement.  The 40-year-old Gordon claimed his 85th career victory in the Sprint Cup Series, which put him in sole possession of third on the series' all-time race winners list.  Richard Petty holds the record in NASCAR's premier circuit with 200 wins, followed by David Pearson with 105.  Gordon crossed the finish line 0.6 seconds ahead of Johnson.  It was Gordon's third win of the season and his fifth at Atlanta.  Tony Stewart kept his championship Chase hopes alive with a third-place finish.  Kurt Busch and Carl Edwards rounded out the top-five.

Busch and Ryan Newman, who finished 20th, clinched a top-10 spot each in the Chase, which begins on September 18th at Chicagoland Speedway.  Brad Keselowski secured at least a wild card position after his sixth-place run.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-7

 

Jail Population: 62

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Emily White, 21, Hopedale, was arrested and charged with Mob Action. White being un-able to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

IVCC Volleyball Star Killed In Florida

A star on the Illinois Valley Community College Lady Eagles basketball team is dead.  Shannon Washington was murdered in Florida over the weekend.  She had finished two years with IVCC and earned a scholarship to play for Florida's A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida.  Barely two weeks into the new school year, police say Washington and a friend got into an argument Sunday morning. Washington was stabbed and died at a hospital.  Twenty-year-old Starquinesha Palmer is charged with murder.  A vigil was held at A&M in Tallahassee Sunday.  A memorial is being planned at IVCC in Oglesby and counselors will be available to students.

Illinois Planning For Program That Prepares For Emergencies

Illinois emergency management experts are asking the public's help to develop the state's strategy for dealing with emergencies and disasters.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency has launched "Illinois Homeland Security Vision 2020." The effort is aimed at developing the state's homeland security preparedness and response policies.

IEMA director and Illinois homeland security adviser Jonathon Monken says the "terrorist threat in ever-evolving" and the state's program must "continue to rise to meet those challenges."

The program will include eight meetings across Illinois starting this fall. Participation also is encouraged from religious groups, businesses and individual citizens. Results of the meetings and citizen input will be compiled into a report and presented at a summit of Illinois policy leaders in August 2012.

Lincoln Illustrated Ancestry Donated To Library

Abraham Lincoln's pedigree on a large, illustrated ancestry chart will be donated to the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.

The pedigree traces the 16th president's family back four generations.

The donation comes from FamilySearch. It is a nonprofit organization sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints which has been doing genealogical work for over 100 years.

FamilySearch chief genealogical officer David Rencher will make the presentation Tuesday in the Lincoln Presidential Library's Reading Room.

The pedigree will be on display weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Copies will be for sale in the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum Gift Shop.

Decatur Grave Vandal Busted In Action

A 61-year-old grave vandal has been busted in Decatur.  It happened after a man discovered that lights by his daughter's grave had been kicked down.  The vandalism disturbed him so much that he set up a camera in order to catch the person in action.   That's how he allegedly caught Joyce Gifford kicking the lights down at Graceland Fairlawn cemetery.  He sent her license plates to police who did a little investigating on their own.  They found plastic cemetery flowers in Gifford's yard.  Gifford has been ordered to appear in court over the alleged vandalism.

National Guard Mission In Vermont Over

Governor Quinn says Illinois' mission to help in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene was a success.  Ninety-five National Guard troops were sent to the East coast last week.  They're job was to assist in delivering food, water and other supplies to several towns in Vermont that were isolated by flooding.  The troops are back in Illinois but while in Vermont they were able to provide supplies that were in high demand, including 63 pallets of food, 58 pallets of water four pallets of blankets, three pallets of cots and tarps and one generator.  Units from Peoria, Decatur and Chicago participated in the mission.

Blue Ridge Schools AYP Scores Strong

The Farmer City School District recently received their AYP(Adequate Yearly Progress) Report.

The district as a whole made AYP, but Susan Wilson, Superintendent of Blue Ridge Schools says the high school saw some areas that did not, but she says she is pleased with the progress they made from last year's numbers.

[audio:blueridgeayp1.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Blue Ridge Junior High and Elementary schools saw extremely strong numbers in AYP this year. Wilson attributes the strong numbers to the teachers of the district and also to the parents of the kids.

[audio:blueridgeayp2.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Blue Ridge has a large number of their students eligible for free or reduced lunches, and to have the district achieving the way they are makes Wilson very proud of the district. With the standard of the "No Child Left Behind Act", she says it is disappointing to see the progress of students but they do not get the credit they deserve.

[audio:blueridgeayp3.mp3]A Word From Wilson[/audio]

Wilson says the "No Child Left Behind" standard very frustrating for districts with strong academics. She feels the scattered curriculum at the high school level is a big reason scores vary. But overall, Wilson is very pleased with her districts testing scores and looks forward to seeing the district succeed academically.

Clinton City Council Set To Meet Tonight

The Clinton City Council convenes tonight for the first of their 2 meetings in September.

In August, Public Works Director for the City of Clinton, Steve Lobb, approached the Council about purchasing a new leaf vac system for the streets department. Lobb explains with the streets department's current equipment, fall clean up can sometimes be hard to keep up with. He says purchasing a new leaf vac system will help them keep up better.

[audio:councilpreview11.mp3]A Word From Lobb[/audio]

The Water Department is seeking the approval to make a couple purchases of their own. John Wise, Commissioner of Public Property wants to upgrade the portable light system the city has. He says the current system is a safety issue and simply does not work consistently. He feels the system should have been upgraded already, so now is the time to step up and get the purchase made.

[audio:councilpreview21.mp3]A Word From Wise[/audio]

Also on the agenda for the meeting is an old project that needs completing at D.R. Gordon's office just off the square. City Administrator Tim Followell explains some chipped brick other small maintenance needs to be done on his building. The city, almost 10 years ago was never able to stir up enough interest in bidders to get the project rolling, and now Gordon has a couple contractors willing to do the work, and Followell says now is a good chance to make good on an unfinished project.

[audio:councilpreview31.mp3]A Word From Followell[/audio]

The Council will meet tonight at 7 pm at Clinton City Hall.

Slip Rental Rates Slightly Increase At Clinton Lake Marina

The DeWitt County Board has approved a slight increase in fees for their slip rentals at Clinton Lake Marina.

The increases are to give renters a more a more round number and are not going into effect on all the slips at the Marina. Dennis Rich explains the slips effected have a different price increase to them based on whether they are covered or uncovered. He says they simply rounding the cost up.

[audio:sliprentalfee3.mp3]A Word From Rich[/audio]

DeWitt County Board Chair Melonie Tillie explains the increases come as a part of the County's new budget year. She says the change comes to help keep the numbers in the budget easier. She notes about 5 years ago there was another minor increase in rental fees as well.

[audio:sliprentalfee2.mp3]A Word From Tillie[/audio]

Tillie says despite the tough economy, she feels like boaters are willing to pay the extra money to keep their boats docked rather than transport it back and forth every time they visit the lake.

[audio:sliprentalfee1.mp3]A Word From Tillie[/audio]

Again the slip rental fee increases do not effect all the slips at the lake, and those fees are due back in March. The increase was approved by the Board by a vote of 11-1.

Cubs; Sox Win; Cards Fall Farther Back of Brewers

>>Cubs Clip Reds

(Chicago, IL)  --  Aramis Ramirez plated two runs to back seven-and-two third stellar innings from Matt Garza as the Cubs clipped the Reds, 4-3, on Monday afternoon at Wrigley Field.  Garza gave up three runs, only one earned, on six hits and fanned eight to improve to 8-and-10 on the season.  Carlos Marmol worked a flawless ninth to nail down his 32nd save.  Alfonso Soriano added an RBI single for the Northsiders, who have won back-to-back games on the heels of a three-game slide.  Yonder Alonso and Devin Mesoraco each drove in a run for Cincinnati.  Dontrelle Willis allowed all four runs through seven innings of duty to absorb the loss.  Rodrigo Lopez gets the nod opposite Mike Leake in tonight's second installment..

>>Stewart Shines As Sox Blank Twins, Sweep Doubleheader

(Minneapolis, MN)  --  Zach Stewart went the distance and gave up just one hit, leading the White Sox past the Twins, 4-0, and sweeping a doubleheader.  Stewart struck out nine and took a perfect game into the eighth inning before Danny Valencia hit a lead-off double.  Brent Morel went 3-for-5 with a two-run single while Juan Pierre and Alexei Ramirez added an RBI apiece.  Scott Diamond gave up two runs over five frames to suffer the loss.  In the opener, Philip Humber tossed seven shutout innings as the White Sox topped the Twins, 2-1.  Jake Peavy will toe the rubber against Liam Hendriks in tonight's third installment.

>>Wolf's Gem Lifts Crew Over Cards

(St. Louis, MO)  --  Ryan Braun and Nyjer Morgan both popped solo home runs to back eight stellar innings from Randy Wolf as the Brewers rolled to a 4-1 win over the Cardinals.  Wolf fanned five and gave up just one run on four hits to improve to 12-and-9 on the season.  John Axford worked a flawless ninth to nail down his 41st save.  Corey Hart extended his hitting streak to 17 games with an RBI single in the second for Milwaukee, which has won four games in-a-row.  David Freese scored on an Allen Craig double-play ball in the fifth to account for St. Louis' lone run of the game.  Jake Westbrook was tagged with the loss for the Cards, who have dropped three of their last four.

MLB NL
-----
Washington Nationals 7, Los Angeles Dodgers 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 3, Houston Astros 1
Chicago Cubs 4, Cincinnati Reds 3
Arizona Diamondbacks 10, Colorado Rockies 7
San Francisco Giants 7, San Diego Padres 2
Milwaukee Brewers 4, St. Louis Cardinals 1
Philadelphia Phillies 9, Atlanta Braves 0
Florida Marlins 9, New York Mets 3

MLB AL
-----
New York Yankees 11, Baltimore Orioles 10
Detroit Tigers 4, Cleveland Indians 2
Toronto Blue Jays 1, Boston Red Sox 0 (11 inn)
Tampa Bay Rays 5, Texas Rangers 1
Chicago White Sox 2, Minnesota Twins 1
Kansas City Royals 11, Oakland Athletics 6
Chicago White Sox 4, Minnesota Twins 0
LA Angels of Anaheim 7, Seattle Mariners 3

Clinton Police Report for 9-6

 

CITATIONS

9/4/11

SANDRA G. HOWELL 56, CLINTON OPERATING UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE. BOND POSTED

 

9/5/11

JOHN D. HAMMERS 26, INYOKERN, CA SPEEDING 73 MPH IN A 55 MPH ZONE. NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED

SHARON M. BLAIR 29, CLINTON SPEEDING 73 MPH IN A 55 MPH ZONE. NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED

 

ON 9/2/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED DONALD W. DAY 74, CLINTON FOR BATTERY. DAY WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

ON 9/4/11 CLINTON POLICE INVESTIGATED A FIGHT ON THE SOUTHSIDE OF THE SQUARE. CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED GARY D. SMITH 25, CLINTON FOR GIFT/SELL LIQUOR TO A MINOR. TWO 17 YEAR OLD JUVENILES WERE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY, 1 FOR ILLEGAL CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL BY A MINOR, MOB ACTION AND BATTERY AND 1 FOR MOB ACTION AND BATTERY. ALL 3 SUBJECTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS. A 16 YEAR OLD JUVENILE WAS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR ILLEGAL CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE CLINTON POLICE DEPARTMENT AND RELEASED TO THEIR GUARDIAN PENDING FORMAL CHARGES IN COURT.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-6

 

September 2, 2011

 

Jail Population: 62

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

September 3, 2011

 

Jail Population: 57

Summons Served: 4

Warrant Arrests: 2

 

 

September 4, 2011

 

Jail Population: 60

Summons Served: 1

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

September 5, 2011

 

Jail Population: 62

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Maurice Krause, 67, Lincoln, was issued a citation for speeding (71 mph in a 55 mph zone). Krause posted his Illinois Driver’s License as bond and was released.

 

Paul Buckles, 72, Clinton, was issued a citation for speeding (72 mph in a 55 mph zone). Buckles posted his Illinois Driver’s License as bond and was released.

 

Investigation into the scene of an accident, which occurred at approximately 01:02 a.m. on Sunday, September 4, 2011, revealed that a vehicle driven by Curtis Short, 48, Kenney struck a vehicle that was illegally parked, belonging to Brendan Lester. Short was baking out of a private drive when he struck the illegally parked vehicle. No injuries were reported. No citations were issued.

 

Sean Boliard, 18, Springfield, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Theft over $300. Boliard being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

Kevin Jarvis, 22, Waynesville, was arrested and charged with Battery. Jarvis posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Michael Fuller, 57, Wapella, was arrested and charged with Reckless Conduct and Reckless Discharge of Firearm. Fuller posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

Troy Walker, 25, Champaign, was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery. Walker, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Chelse Byors, 25, Champaign, was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery. Byors. Byors, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

Jerry Moyer, 52, Clinton, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear or Pay for the Conviction of Resisting a Peace Officer. Moyer, being un-able to post the necessary bond, remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

Cubs Win; Sox and Cards Don't

>>Cubs Double Up Bucs
(Chicago, IL)  --  Marlon Byrd knocked in a pair of runs as the Cubs doubled

up the Pirates, 6-3.  Carlos Pena walked four times and scored twice to help the

Cubs avoid a three-game sweep.  Randy Wells tossed six innings of one-run ball

to improve to 7-and-4.  The Cubs continue their six game homestand today

against the Reds.  Matt Garza gets the start for Chicago and he squares off

against Dontrelle Willils. 

>>Tigers Bury White Sox
(Detroit, MI)  --  Miguel Cabrera and Andy Dirks hit two-run homers and

plated four runs apiece as the Tigers buried the White Sox, 18-2.  Jhonny

Peralta knocked in three runs for the Tigers, who outhit the White Sox 24-9 en

route to completing a three-game sweep.  Max Scherzer [[ SURE-zer ]] struck

out six over seven shutout innings to improve to 14-and-8.  Mark Buehrle [[

BURR-lee ]] was shelled for eight runs, seven earned, and 10 hits in

three-and-a-third innings to fall to 11-and-7.  The Sox head to Minnesota to

start a four-game series with the Twins this afternoon.  Philip Humber will take

the mound against Anthony Swarzak in the opener.

>>Reds Rip Cards In Extras
(St. Louis, MO)  --  Juan Francisco's RBI single in the top of the 10th inning

gave the Reds a 3-2 victory over the Cardinals.  Edgar Renteria provided a

two-run homer in the first inning for Cincinnati, which took two-of-three from St.

Louis.  John Jay hit a solo home run for the Cards.  Fernando Salas took the

loss out of the bullpen.  Today the Cardinals open a four-game set with the

division-leading Brewers at Busch Stadium.  Jake Westbrook will take the

mound against Randy Wolf.

Northwest and Illinois Win; Bears Sign Meriweather

>>Brandon Meriweather Signs With Bears
(Chicago, IL)  --  The Bears agreed to terms with safety Brandon Meriweather,

who was cut on Saturday by the Patriots, to a one-year contract on Sunday. 

Meriweather was the  Pats' first-round selection in the 2007 draft out of

Miami-Florida, and was named to the Pro Bowl in each of the last two seasons. 

Meantime, running back Chester Taylor, who was cut by the Bears, signed with

the Cardinals.

>>Northwestern, Illinois Open Up Seasons With Wins
(Undated)  --  The Northwestern Wildcats and Illinois Fighting Illini both

opened up the college football season with victories.  The Wildcats went on the

road and took down Boston College 24-17 with back up quarterback Kain

Colter playing for Dan Persa.  Illinois took care of buisness at home against

Arkansas St. 33-15.

Labor Day Brings Heightened Law Enforcement

State officials are hoping a downward trend in alcohol-related crashes continues this Labor Day holiday.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says its officers have been focusing on stopping drunken boaters this weekend.

The department says officers have been heavily patrolling the state's lakes and rivers since Friday. DNR Conservation Police Officer Ray Wichus says his officers have been seeking boaters operating watercrafts while under the influence.

[audio:laborday1.mp3]Labor Day Cut 1[/audio]

In addition to targeting drunken boaters, the department plans to make sure boaters are using proper safety gear, like lifejackets. Wichus says boaters should be wearing safety jackets and encourages boaters and drivers to have a designated driver or operator if alcohol is being consumed.

[audio:laborday2.mp3]Labor Day Cut 2[/audio]

The Labor Day holiday is traditionally an unofficial end to the summer boating season for some taking to the water. Officer Wichus wants those following the rules to be kept out of harms way and enjoy the final hours on the water for the season.

[audio:laborday3.mp3]Labor Day Cut 3[/audio]

Officers will be doing routine vessel inspections as well, and authorities remind boaters all boats must have personal flotation devices for each boat occupant.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, just 9% of fatal crashes on Labor Day weekend last year involved alcohol. That compared to 40% in 2009 and 58% in 2008.

Dr. Tom Pliura of LeRoy Announces Candidacy for Illinois Senate

DeWitt County will have another candidate to consider for the 51st State Senate Distrcit.

Dr. Tom Pliura (pronounced plura) of LeRoy has announced his candidacy for the Illinois Senate. He will represent the newly redrawn 51st Senate District which includes DeWitt County. Dr. Pliura says he is frustrated with the way things are being run in Illinois and he believes it is time for ordinary citizens to step up who normally wouldn't.

[audio:senate1.mp3]Pliura 1[/audio]

Dr. Pliura has taken an oath that he will not run for more than two full terms should he be fortunate enough to be elected to the Senate. He believes the things he has to say may shake things up.

[audio:senate2.mp3]Pliura 2[/audio]

Dr. Pliura believes the citizens of central Illinois are tired of the arguing and fighting in politics. He says he is going to try to stay away from personal attacks on his constituents and to try to run a clean campaign.

[audio:senate3.mp3]Pliura 3[/audio]

Dr. Pliura says he will focus on issues such as agriculture, health care and creating jobs. He also would like to join in the cause to pass a conceal carry law in Illinois. Current Illinois State Representative Chapin Rose, of Mahomet is also running for the Senate seat in the 51st District, putting two Republican candidates on the ballot. A Democrat candidate has yet to step forward.

Farm Progress Show a Huge Success

The Farm Progress show wrapped Thursday afternoon and organizers are calling the show a success for 2011.

Organizers by far are extremely pleased with the turnout for 2011. Opening day at Progress City on the campus of Richland Community College in Decatur was the biggest surprise by far. Matt Jungmann, national events manager for Farm Progress says beating the 2009 turnout was going to be tough, but overall he is extremely pleased with overall numbers.

[audio:progressrecap1.mp3]Recap 1[/audio]

With continued interest from exhibitors each year, the Farm Progress Show in Decatur is pushing the land limits they have. Beau Hanger is the "Mayor" of Progress City at Richland Community College. He feels with the continued growth of the show, eventually the exhibitors will fill up the 80 acres of land at the site.

[audio:progressrecap2.mp3]Recap 2[/audio]

One of the highlights of the show was a concert put on by country performer Rodney Atkins. Hanger notes the attendance for the show was the best for any concert put on by Richland Community College at Progress City.

[audio:progressrecap3.mp3]Recap 3[/audio]

With new permanent structures built on the site for the show this year, Progress City can now be used for more events other than the every other year event.

The Farm Progress Show moves to Iowa next summer, and returns to Decatur, the now permanent site for the Illinois show, in 2013. Organizers believe this years show went as good as it could have, however, they did see some small areas for improvement that will begin to be worked on.

CornBelters End Season With Victory

The Normal CornBelters, presented by Illinois Corn Farmers, concluded the season on Sunday evening with a 5-3 victory over the Florence Freedom at the Corn Crib.  The CornBelters finish the season with a record of 46-50, two games better than the inaugural season.
 
The CornBelters finally broke onto the scoreboard first, but put up a crooked number in doing so.  Steve Alexander led off with a double, then scored on a one-out double by Daniel Cox.  Mark Samuelson and Andrew Barbaro walked to load the bases, then with two outs, Tyler McNeely singled up the middle to score Cox and Samuelson.  Barbaro came home on a wild throw on an infield hit by Frank Martinez to give the Belters a 4-0 lead, and McNeely scored to make it 5-0 when Asif Shah hit the third double of the inning.
 
The Freedom moved within striking distance in the eighth.  Florence loaded the bases with one out, and former CornBelter Jeff Dunbar singled in two runs with two outs to end the night for starter Tyler Lavigne.  Junior Arrojo blooped a double inside the right field line off reliever Marshall Schuler to score the remaining run, but Schuler was able to leave the potential tying runs in scoring position to end the frame.
 
Tyler Lavigne (7-9) earned the win in his 7.2 innings, giving up the three runs on five hits with four walks and six strikeouts.  Marshall Schuler earned his 12th save.  Freedom starter Anthony Bello (3-8) took the loss.
 
Season ticket and sponsorship packages are available for 2012.  For more information, call 309-454-BALL (2255).

U of I Asks For More Money

The University of Illinois plans to ask the state for about 5% more money in the coming fiscal year. The school plans for its budget to top $5 billion.

A university trustees' committee on Wednesday reviewed plans for a budget just over $5 billion for the 2012 fiscal year. That would be 5.2% more than the 2011 budget. The proposed budget must be cleared by trustees before it's considered by the governor, General Assembly and Illinois Board of Higher Education.

The state is now $313 million behind on money it owes the university from past appropriations. The state government is unable to keep up with money it has promised universities and other institutions because of a multibillion-dollar budget deficit.

Peoria Tunnel Not Slave Hide Out

History buffs and others in the Peoria area now say they don't think a tunnel used this week as a hiding place by a robbery suspect was ever used by runaway slaves.

The man was found in a tunnel that runs between a home, apartments and a church. The apartments' owner thought the tunnel was once used to hide slaves and news reports about that possibility created a local stir.

But workers at the Peoria Public Library and others like Bob Killion of the Peoria Historical Society quickly expressed their doubts.

Sister Judith Ann Croegaert at St. Ann's Catholic Church said the only tunnel she knows of was dug for a boiler.

Killion believes the tunnel held steam pipes or other utilities.

Audit Finds Many Boards; Committees Inactive

A government audit has found nearly a quarter of Illinois' more than 300 boards and commissions have been inactive in recent years.

According to Auditor General William Holland, the inactive boards range from the Governor's Council on Health and Physical Fitness to the Steel Development Board. The audit also found many of the boards and commissions violate open meetings laws and fail to keep attendance at meetings.

Spokesman Brooke Anderson says Gov. Pat Quinn's office is looking for ways to cut down the number of boards and commissions. She said the governor is seeking help from the legislature to move forward.

The audit also found many boards and commissions are hampered by vacancies. Holland noted boards must be fully staffed in order to address policy issues.

Last Eclipse in Illinois Destined For Charity

The last Mitsubishi Eclipse the company's plant in Normal made is headed for a charity auction instead of a dealer's lot.

The car will be auctioned to raise money for earthquake relief through the Japan Red Cross. The auction will be Sept. 17 in St. Charles.

Mitsubishi started making the Eclipse in Normal in 1990.

The plant made its last Eclipses, Spyders and Endeavor SUVs last week. It will now retool to make the new Outlander Sport crossover SUV and continue making the Gallant model for another year.

Some Illinois Road Work Suspended For Labor Day Weekend

Illinois' transportation department is suspending road construction where possible to ease traffic congestion on the busy Labor Day weekend.

Acting Transportation Secretary Ann Schneider says advance notice of construction-zone status will help thousands of motorists plan trips and travel safely.

Starting at 3 p.m. Friday, transportation officials will suspend all non-emergency road work and open up all lanes where possible through Monday night.

Some construction zones will still have closed lanes.

Officials are urging motorists to slow down, obey speed limits and drive with caution. Work zone speed limits are still in effect where posted, even if no workers are present.

Illinois Still Looking To Shirk Immigration Policy

Illinois is still looking to get around recent federal demands to share police records on illegal immigrants.  Mark Fleming, with Heartland Alliance's National Immigrant Justice Center, says the federal government's actions go against the state's rights.

[audio:rddICE2.mp3]A Word From Fleming[/audio]

Fleming says states are not required to help the federal government with regulatory policies.

[audio:rddICE3.mp3]A Word From Fleming[/audio]

The state isn't ruling out the possibility of suing the federal government over the program they say is aimed at mass deportation rather than targeting criminal activity.  Fleming has already filed a lawsuit on behalf of two U.S. residents he says had their rights violated through the Secure Communities program.

Facebook Message Leads To Urbana Man's Conviction

A Facebook message lead to an Urbana man going to jail for up to ten years.  Calvin Rexroad sent a message to a 15 year old girl back in May asking to set-up a sexual encounter with her.  The teenager told her mother about the incident and they reported Rexroad to authorities.  That's when investigators took over the girl's facebook account and cell phone.  Within a week, Rexroad had sent more than 400 sexually explicit text messages to the girl.  Rexroad was arrested and convicted of indecent solicitation of a child.  His sentencing is scheduled for October 3rd.

Drought Conditions Affecting Central Illinois

Drought conditions have come on quickly in central Illinois.

National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Geelhart says the July heat in Illinois produced a flash drought. Geelhart is in the weather service's Lincoln office and he says the worst conditions are from Macomb through Springfield to Decatur.

There have been reports of crop damage, voluntary water restrictions and wells running low or dry. Illinois farming experts say hot, dry weather is cutting early corn yields and soybean yields will suffer if more rain doesn't fall.

Springfield saw 0.25 inches of rain in August, 2.88 inches below normal. It was the second-driest August on record.

Decatur saw 0.01 inches of rain during August. Recently the city has suggested citizen take steps to save water.

Decatur Twins Sentenced in 2009 Mob Murder

Twin brothers from Decatur have been sentenced to prison for their roles in the 2009 death of a man who was beaten and stomped on by a group of teen-agers.

A judge on Wednesday sentenced Fredrick Rhone to 20 years and Dedrick Rhone to 15 years in the death of 61-year-old Jerry Newingham. The 17-year-old twins reached plea agreements that included those sentences in exchange for pleading guilty to first-degree murder.

Newingham was attacked as he rode his bicycle in August 2009. Another man, 46-year-old Kevin Wilson, also was attacked.

Two other defendants have already been sent to prison in the case. Two more have been convicted of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder and await sentencing later this year.

Clinton's Committee For Sustainable Living Kicking Off Year With Party Saturday

A community event aimed at community members to reconnect is scheduled for this weekend.

The "Sustain to Remain" block party Saturday is a kick off project for Clinton's Committee for Sustainable Living. The committee has coordinated with local agencies including Clinton Public Works and the Clinton Fire Department to organize several different activities. Kathy Rodgers, part of the committee explains the committee a conservation project for the community.

[audio:sustain1.mp3]A Word From Rodgers[/audio]

The goal of the event is to bring together neighbors and enjoy the benefits of living in a small town. Rodgers believes an event like this can revitalize a community and bring people together.

[audio:sustain2.mp3]A Word From Rodgers[/audio]

The event is set to run from 2-10pm this Saturday near the Washington School neighborhood. Organizer will be blocking off Macon Street from Elm to Grant Streets for the event from 10am - 10pm. The activities will take place between Elm and Mulberry Streets. Back Porch Barbecue will be serving throughout the afternoon.

Landfill Issue Could Linger With Lawsuit To Come

The application by Peoria Disposal Company for storing higher concentrations of PCB's, or polychlorinated biphenyls, in the Clinton Landfill may experience a bump in the road in the near future.

LeRoy attorney Dr. Tom Pliura has announced he will be filing a lawsuit to stop the US EPA's permit process for a proposed DeWitt County chemical waste landfill. Dr. Pliura recently announced his plans to run for the Illinois Senate. According to Dr. Pliura, with that announcement, he was approached by several citizens hoping he would be willing to take legal action.

[audio:pliuralawsuit1.mp3]A Word From Dr. Pliura[/audio]

Dr. Pliura was involved a few years back in a legal battle with a multi-billion dollar foreign company proposing a new hazardous waste chemical pipeline between Flanagan and Patoka. He was able to successfully stop the proposed pipeline, he calls that victory gratifying and hopes his experience from that can be a guide in the legal battle he will be pursuing.

[audio:pliuralawsuit2.mp3]A Word From Dr. Pliura[/audio]

The lawsuit will challenge many aspects of the application the landfill has filed for. A clause in a 2008 a contract with the landfill states the DeWitt County Board will remain neutral on the issue. Representatives from Peoria Disposal have threatened a breach of contract lawsuit should the county violate the clause. Dr. Pliura believes that clause is illegal.

[audio:pliuralawsuit3.mp3]A Word From Dr. Pliura[/audio]

Other challenges Dr. Pliura plans to make are holding meetings outside the publics eye and state and federal violations that have occurred through the process. He anticipates a lengthy battle and for the landfill to not go down without a fight. According to Dr. Pliura, this project has no business being on the agenda of the County Board.

Labor Day Weekend To Bring Heightened Patrolling

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says its officers will be focusing on stopping drunken boaters over the Labor Day weekend.

The department says officers will heavily patrol the state's lakes and rivers Friday through. DNR Conservation Police Officer Ray Wichus says this weekend his officers will be out in full force looking for OUI's.

[audio:laborday1.mp3]A Word From Officer Wichus[/audio]

In addition to targeting drunken boaters, the department plans to make sure boaters are using proper safety gear, like lifejackets. Conservation police patrolling roadways also plan to be on the lookout for drunk drivers. Wichus says safety on Clinton Lake this year has been good, and he wants to see boaters continue that trend.

[audio:laborday2.mp3]A Word From Officer Wichus[/audio]

For DNR Officers, their goal is to keep those impaired off the water and off the roads. Officer Wichus says many times those operating under the influence increase the chances of causing a disturbance or even causing harm to those boaters following the rules of the water.

[audio:laborday3.mp3]A Word From Officer Wichus[/audio]

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, just 9% of fatal crashes on Labor Day weekend last year involved alcohol. That compared to 40% in 2009 and 58% in 2008.

High School Football Week 2 Schedule

High School Football Week 2 is here...

The Clinton Maroons host their first home game against Meridian. The Maroons are coming off a 42-7 A change on the schedule, the game has been moved to 8 pm, and the Maroons will be conducting their Senior Night activities, those activities have been moved to 7:20. You can hear the game on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and streamed live on dewittdailynews.com.

The Monticello Sages host state runner up Tuscola tonight. The Sages are coming off a 41-0 over Warrensburg-Latham last friday. That game can be heard on 95.9 FM WEZC and also streamed live on dewittdailynews.com.

Other area games this week...

APOLLO Conference
Mt. Zion @ Olney

BIG TWELVE Conference
Champaign Centennial @ Decatur McArthur
Normal West @ Decatur Eisenhower
Normal Community vs Bloomington @ ISU Hancock Stadium
Urbana @ Champaign Central

CENTRAL STATE 8 Conference
Lincoln @ Canton

CORN BELT Conference
Eureka @ Rantoul
Normal U-High vs Bloomington Central Catholic @ ISU Hancock Stadium
Pontiac @ Olympia

HEART OF ILLINOIS Conference
Fisher @ LeRoy
GCMS @ Heyworth
Lexington @ Flanagan
Dee-Mack @ Tri-Valley

Non-Conference Games For Tonight...
Argenta-Oreana @ Decatur St. Teresa
Cerro-Gordo @ Sidell-Jamaica
Blue Ridge @ Champaign St. Thomas More
Maroa-Forsyth @ Unity
Central A & M @ Sullivan
Paxton-Buckley-Loda @ Toledo-Cumberland
St. Joseph-Ogden @ Carterville(Saturda)
Warrensburg-Latham @ Shelbyville

Cards Sweep Brewers


>>Pujols, Cards Sweep Crew

(Milwaukee, WI)  --  Albert Pujols went 4-for-4 with two home runs, including a grand slam, as the Cardinals earned a 8-4 win to complete a three-game sweep of the NL Central-leading Brewers.  Matt Holliday hit the 200th homer of his career and Rafael Furcal added a solo shot for the Cardinals, who have won four straight and six-of-seven.  Octavio Dotel was credited with the win.  The Cards are back home to open a three-game series with the Reds tonight.

MLB NL
------
Philadelphia Phillies 6, Cincinnati Reds 4
Los Angeles Dodgers 6, Pittsburgh Pirates 4
St. Louis Cardinals 8, Milwaukee Brewers 4
Atlanta Braves 5, Washington Nationals 2
New York Mets 7, Florida Marlins 5

MLB AL
------
Oakland Athletics 7, Cleveland Indians 0
Toronto Blue Jays 8, Baltimore Orioles 6
Kansas City Royals 11, Detroit Tigers 8
New York Yankees 4, Boston Red Sox 2
Texas Rangers 7, Tampa Bay Rays 2
LA Angels of Anaheim 4, Seattle Mariners 3

NFL Preseason Wraps Up

>>Bears Best Browns In Preseason Finale

(Chicago, IL)  --  Robert Hughes rushed for 69 yards and two touchdowns as the Bears beat the Browns, 24-14, in their preseason finale.  Caleb Hanie passed for 83 yards and a touchdown in the victory.  The Bears host the Atlanta Falcons next Sunday in their regular season-opener.

>>Rams Dump Jags In Preseason Finale

(Jacksonville, FL)  --  Sam Bradford threw for 133 yards and a touchdown as the Rams dumped the Jaguars, 24-17, in their preseason finale.  Thaddeus Lewis added 164 yards in the air for St. Louis, which went 4-and-0 in exhibition play.  Chase Reynolds and Keith Toston had rushing scores in the win.  The Rams open the regular season a week from Sunday at home against the Eagles.

>>Colts Clip Bengals

(Cincinnati, OH)  --  Taj Smith caught the go-ahead TD pass with 1:08 left in the game to lift the Colts to a 17-13 win over the Bengals.  Smith had eight grabs for 140 yards to help Indy end preseason play with a win.  Kerry Collins was 5-of-10 for 45 yards in his Colts debut.  The Colts take on the Houston Texans next Sunday at Reliant Stadium in their regular season-opener.

NFL Preseason
------
Detroit Lions 16, Buffalo Bills 6
Indianapolis Colts 17, Cincinnati Bengals 13
Philadelphia Eagles 24, New York Jets 14
Miami Dolphins 17, Dallas Cowboys 3
New York Giants 18, New England Patriots 17
Baltimore Ravens 21, Atlanta Falcons 7
St. Louis Rams 24, Jacksonville Jaguars 17
Washington Redskins 29, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24
Green Bay Packers 20, Kansas City Chiefs 19
Chicago Bears 24, Cleveland Browns 14
Minnesota Vikings 28, Houston Texans 0
Pittsburgh Steelers 33, Carolina Panthers 17
Tennessee Titans 32, New Orleans Saints 9
Arizona Cardinals 26, Denver Broncos 7
San Francisco 49ers 20, San Diego Chargers 17

NCAA Top-25 Football
------
#10 Wisconsin 51, UNLV17
#20 Mississippi State 59, Memphis 14

Sprint Cup Series In Atlanta

The Sprint Cup Series heads to the Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend for Sunday's AdvoCare 500 in Hampton.  Kyle Busch is the only one of the four drivers who has previously won a Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta.  He gave Toyota its first-ever victory in the series at Atlanta in March 2008.  He has won four races so far this season.  Busch, the current points leader, Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards and Kevin Harvick have already clinched a spot in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship.  The remaining seven positions in the Chase will be decided during the next two races, Atlanta and Richmond.  Brad Keselowski won last Saturday's race at Bristol.

Clinton Police Report for 8-29 thru 9-2

On 08/27/11 at 2:16am, Clinton Police arrested Morgan J. Phillips, 22, of Clinton on the charge of Disorderly Conduct. He was transported to DeWitt County Jail.

 

On 08/27/11, Clinton Police responded to a single vehicle accident on south Wilson St. A motorcycle being operated by Ryan S. Ingalls, 22, of Clinton was attempting to turn around on Wilson Street, lost control of the motorcycle and laid it down on the street. Ingalls was given a citation for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

 

On 08/28/11, Clinton Police arrested Jordan Watkins,25, of Clinton on the charge of Aggravated Battery from an incident occurring on 08/22/11. Watkins was transported to DeWitt County Jail.

 

On 08/29/11 at 8:24am, Clinton Police arrested Prudencio Hernandez, 30, of Clinton on charges of Domestic Battery and resisting a peace officer. He was transported to the DeWitt County Jail. 

 

On 08/30/11 at 4:49pm, Clinton Police arrested Joy M. Schneider, 31, of Clinton for operating a motor vehicle while license was revoked. She was transported to DeWitt County Jail.

 

 

 

On 08/30/11 at 5:05 pm, Clinton police responded to a two car accident at the intersection of Macon St and N. Center. A vehicle being driven by Rodney D. Mix, 45, of Clinton was on Macon street and turning south onto Center street when he was struck by a vehicle being driven by Angela R. Cornell,26, of Clinton. No injuries were reported.

 

 

ON 9/1/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED RICHARD J. BARRY 48, CLINTON FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS TO STATE SUPPORTED PROPERTY, RESISTING/OBSTRUCTING A PEACE OFFICER, AND OBSTRUCTING JUSTICE. BARRY WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

 

ON 9/1/11 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED CARL D. WILSON 24, CLINTON FOR DOMESTIC BATTERY. WILSON WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW

 

 

 

 

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-2

September 1, 2011

 

Jail Population: 60

Summons Served: 1

Warrant Arrests: 0

 

 

Brandon Shaw, 22, Farmer City, was issued a citation for Illegal Transportation Alcohol. Shaw posted his Illinois Driver’s License as bond and was released.

 

Rhonda Matthews, 43, Clinton, was issued a citation for Speeding (74 mph in a 55 mph zone). Matthews posted her Illinois Driver’s License as bond and was released.

Miller Media Group Buying Charleston Radio Station


The Miller Media Group, based in Taylorville and owners of 8 radio stations in central and northwest Illinois, today announced it has filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission, to purchase WEIC (AM) 1270 Radio in Charleston, from Eastern Illinois Christian Broadcasting, Inc.

Terms of the deal were not announced.  Miller Media’s Kaskaskia Broadcasting, Incorporated, will own and operate WEIC once the purchase is closed, which is expected around October 1.

WEIC operates at 1270 on the AM dial with 1000 watts of daytime power, and 500 watts of nighttime power, covering an area from Illinois Route 16 to Interstate 70, and Shelbyville to the Indiana state line in eastern Illinois.

Kaskaskia Broadcasting, Incorporated, already owns a construction permit for an FM translator in Charleston, and it will re-broadcast WEIC after the purchase is completed.  The FM signal will be at 107.5 on the dial, and cover Coles County and surrounding area.  That signal is expected to be on the air during the 4th quarter of 2011.

Miller Media president Randal J. Miller, said his company is excited about its entry into Eastern Illinois, and looks forward to providing local radio to that area of the state.

Outcomes of Childhood Cancer Improving in Recent Years

Because of better treatment methods, outcomes for childhood cancer patients have improved in recent years.

About 2,500 children are diagnosed with cancer each year in the U.S. Childhood cancer was once thought to be untreatable, but today most children who have cancer can overcome it. Dr. Daniel Niebrugge, assistant professor of pediatric hematology/oncology at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, explains the most common childhood cancers.

[audio:siukidcancer1.mp3]siukidcancer1[/audio]

Dr. Niebrugge, who also is one of the cancer specialists at SIU’s Simmons Cancer Institute, says the most common age group of children who are diagnosed with leukemia are preschool and elementary school ages. Many of his patients receive the benefits of enrolling in national clinical trials, which means they have access to medications that may have fewer side effects. He says research data shows that survival rates are improving.

[audio:siukidcancer2.mp3]siukidcancer2[/audio]

Dr. Niebrugge says today most children with cancer can have a normal life – they can go to school and participate in regular childhood activities. As for warning signs, any child who has persistent fever, sore throat or bone pain lasting for a few weeks should be seen by their pediatrician or primary care physician. The child may be referred to a pediatric oncologist for further evaluation and possible treatment.

Sages Fall to Tuscola

As heard on WEZC, the Monticello Sages fell to the Tuscola Warriors Friday night with a final score of 19-0. The Sages were led by Isaac Veil who had 3 carries for 25 yards. And by Ryan Donahue with 13 carries for 61 yards and 3 catches for 20 yards in the game. The Warriors were led by quarterback Phil Myer with 19 carries for 158 yards.

Tune in to 95.9 WEZC next Friday night (9/9) to hear play by play action of the Monticello Sages taking on the Meridian Hawks.

Maroons Get First Win on Senior Night

As heard on WHOW, the Clinton Maroons defeated the Meridian Hawks with a final score of 37-26. The Maroons, now 1-1, were led by senior Mitch Creager who had 10 carries for 117 yards and 3 touchdowns and by Nathan Clark who had 14 carries for 91 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Hawks are now 0 and 2 on the year.

Tune in to the Big 1520AM and 92.3FM WHOW next Friday night (9/9) as the Maroons head to Maroa to take on the Trojans.

Search Leads Peoria Police To Historic Find

The search for a robbery suspect in Peoria led police to an underground tunnel that a church apparently once used to harbor runaway slaves.

Police were searching for the suspect Monday night when an officer uncovered a partially closed entrance to a tunnel. The officer crawled through the tunnel and found the suspect, who was arrested.

Landlord Mark Monroe says he knew about the tunnel when he took over the building five years ago. Monroe says he was told it connected to a neighboring home and then to a church down the road. Monroe says "the church used it to hide slaves."

Two New Pharmaceutical Laws Signed

Two new laws aim to keep pharmaceuticals out of the hands of kids and out of the environment.  The first law creates a pharmaceutical collection and disposal program to ensure safe disposal of excess prescription medication. The legislation began as an initiative of students from Pontiac and Antioch High Schools, both of which have been active in efforts to collect and properly dispose of unused pharmaceuticals. The program is designed as a joint effort between communities, local pharmacies, police departments, hospitals and others to educate the public about the abuse of pharmaceuticals, as well as their impact on the environment.  A second bill signed into law allows additional locations for pharmaceuticals to be dropped off at and disposed of properly, such as a police station or local pharmacy.  The laws go into effect January 1, 2012.

Two New Pharmaceutical Laws Signed

Two new laws aim to keep pharmaceuticals out of the hands of kids and out of the environment.  The first law creates a pharmaceutical collection and disposal program to ensure safe disposal of excess prescription medication. The legislation began as an initiative of students from Pontiac and Antioch High Schools, both of which have been active in efforts to collect and properly dispose of unused pharmaceuticals. The program is designed as a joint effort between communities, local pharmacies, police departments, hospitals and others to educate the public about the abuse of pharmaceuticals, as well as their impact on the environment.  A second bill signed into law allows additional locations for pharmaceuticals to be dropped off at and disposed of properly, such as a police station or local pharmacy.  The laws go into effect January 1, 2012.

Farmers Donate Grain To Help Feed Poor

Five county farm bureaus in Western Illinois are teaming up for the Bushels For Hunger program again this year.  Farmers can donate some of their grains when they take them to the elevators.  District Three Illinois Farm Bureau Director Wayne Anderson says he hopes this year's challenging growing conditions don't keep farmers from participating.

[audio:rddWayne.mp3]A Word From Wayne[/audio]

River Bend Food Bank executive director Tom Laughlin says they're hoping for a better turn out this year than last.

[audio:rddLaughlin1.mp3]A Word From Laughlin[/audio]

The donated grains will be sold and the money will go to the Riverbend Food Bank to help feed the poor.  It's the second year for the program, which runs until November 30th.  The Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, Stark and Whiteside County Farm Bureaus are participating in the program.

Healthcare Exchange Wants Limited Government Involvement

Most of the advocates, labor unions, lawmakers, and business leaders who are talking about Illinois' to-be-created healthcare exchanges agree on one thing; The state needs to be involved, but not in charge.

But the reasons why vary. Business groups, like the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, told lawmakers in Springfield Tuesday that the market should set prices. The Chamber wants some state support and a few regulations, but little else. Jim Duffett with the Campaign for Better Healthcare wants the state to support the exchanges, but he doesn't want politicians meddling.

[audio:083011JimDuffett1.mp3]A Word From Duffett[/audio]

Bloomington Republican Bill Brady doesn't want the state too involved in the exchanges, because he doesn't think the state needs to be responsible for healthcare for everyone.

[audio:083011Brady1.mp3]A Word From Bill Brady[/audio]

Lawmakers will decide how involved the state will be in the fall veto session. Illinois is supposed to have its healthcare exchanges up and running by January of 2013.

New Law Helps To Eliminate Trespassing

A new state law recently passed by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn allows Illinois landowners or lessees the option of using purple paint markings on trees or posts on their property as a “no trespassing” notice.

While the new “Purple Paint Law” gives Illinois landowners or lessees the option of marking their property with a series of defined purple paint markings on trees or posts, however, additional notice is still required through 2012. Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Ray Wichus says this will allow land owners to protect and mark their property.

[audio:purplepaint1.mp3]A Word From Officer Whichus[/audio]

Officer Wichus feels the new law will weed out those trespassers because it is easy to pull out a "no trespassing" sign, but it is much harder to eliminate purple paint from a tree.

[audio:purplepaint1.mp3]A Word From Officer Whichus[/audio]

Officer Wichus feels the law is common sense law to eliminate people who would normally trespass and tear down any notices. He also encourages anyone that lives owns timber to keep their trees well marked, if they so chose to use the markings to outline their property.

To learn more about the guidelines of the markings you can visit:

http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/PublicAct97-0477.aspx

NASCAR Driver Involved With Local Cause

A NASCAR celebrity is making an appearance this year at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur.

NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace is showing off one of his cars at Progress City on the campus of Richland Community College. Wallace explains the car folks can see this week is the actual car he got sixth with at the Chicago Land Speedway.

[audio:NASCAR1.mp3]A Word From Wallace[/audio]

While Wallace is proud to display his car and promote his race team, he comes to the Farm Progress Show for reasons other than his NASCAR career. Wallace has recently become involved in a cause that benefits family farmers. He says his new role with the American Corn Growers Association is to go to bat for the farmers of America and try to defend farmers against accusations that come at them that are not true.

[audio:NASCAR2.mp3]A Word From Wallace[/audio]

In the brief time Wallace has been the spokesperson for family farmers, he acknowledges the learning experience it has been. He says notes while farming is one of the oldest professions, he says the technology they use continues to advance.

[audio:NASCAR3.mp3]A Word From Wallace[/audio]

Another cause locally Wallace, among other drivers, have gotten involved in is the restoration of the Macon Speedway. He says bringing communities together to keep dirt tracks together in tough times is a goal many drivers take part in. The opportunity to see Kenny Wallace and his car at the Farm Progress Show concludes this afternoon at 4.

Keep your radio dial tuned throughout the day to the Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW for interviews with exhibitors and organizers and also traffic updates.

Wednesday Another Successful Day At Progress City

The first two days of the Farm Progress Show have been a huge success.

After a surprising turn out for day one, the weather for day two turned out to be warmer than expected, but Show Manager Matt Jungmann says things have turned out great so far and everything continues to get better as things go forward.

[audio:wednesday1.mp3]A Word From Jungmann[/audio]

With 600 exhibitors and close to a million people attending the show, Jungmann says its a great opportunity for exhibitors to talk with potential customers. He says if exhibitors leave happy with the amount of people they have come in contact with and communicated with then he feels the show is a success.

[audio:wednesday2.mp3]A Word From Jungmann[/audio]

A recent trend at the Progress Show is for folks to use golf carts or gators to get around the 80 acres and see all the exhibits. Junmgann notes trying to find ways to balance pedestrians on foot and those in the carts is something they continue to try to work around.

[audio:wednesday3.mp3]A Word From Jungmann[/audio]

Jungmann adds several past shows where the temperatures have made conditions tough on folks at the show have led organizers to put up several cooling stations around the grounds. Exhibitors are also allowed to give out bottles of water this year. With temperatures for today's(Thursday) shows, Jungmann encourages everyone at the show to take advantage of the cooling stations, and try to keep hydrated.

Clinton Maroons Golf Wins Again; Cards Win; Cubs, Sox Lose; NFL Updates

The Clinton Golf team took to the links yesterday at the Clinton Country Club hosting Lexington and Meridian. Once again the Maroons golfers were victorious in the match, shooting a 168. Zach Newberry shot a day best 39. Corey Wisher, Kip Barber, and Blake Newman shot 43s. Lexington came in 2nd shooting a 184 and Meridian shot a 216.

>>Cards Crush Crew Behind Westbrook

(Milwaukee, WI)  --  Jake Westbrook lasted five innings on the mound and hit a grand slam as the Cardinals crushed the Brewers, 8-3.  Westbrook allowed three runs, two of which were earned, to improve to 11-and-7.  The grand slam was Westbrook's first career homer.  Rafael Furcal and Albert Pujols launched solo homers in the first for St. Louis, which will try to sweep the three-game series today.  Brandon Dickson makes his first major league start opposite Milwaukee's Yovani Gallardo in the series finale this afternoon.

>>Giants Salvage Series Finale Against Cubs

(San Francisco, CA)  --  Jeff Keppinger and Pablo Sandoval each popped a solo home run to back eight scoreless innings from Madison Bumgarner as the Giants salvaged the finale of a three-game set with a 4-0 win over the Cubs on Wednesday afternoon at AT&T Park.  Bumgarner struck out 11 and allowed just two hits and two walks to improve to 9-and-12 on the season.  Keppinger also added an RBI single and Chris Stewart had a run-scoring double for San Francisco, which snapped a three-game slide.  Starlin Castro and Marlon Byrd each had a hit for Chicago.  Rodrigo Lopez was saddled with the loss.  The Northsiders are off today.  They head back to Wrigley Field tomorrow afternoon to open up a three-game series with Pittsburgh.  Ryan Dempster gets the nod opposite Jeff Karstens in the opener.

>>Twins Hold Off Pale Hose

(Chicago, IL)  --  Jason Repko's solo homer in the seventh inning proved to be the winning run as the Twins held on for a 7-6 win over the White Sox on Wednesday afternoon at The Cell.  Jason Kubel and Luke Hughes hit two-run homers in a six-run first inning for Minnesota, which salvaged the finale of the three-game set at U.S. Cellular Field.  Scott Diamond pitched six innings of three-run ball for his first career win.  Joe Nathan gave up two runs in the ninth, but held on for his 12th save.  Jake Peavy took the loss.  Paul Konerko drove in two runs and Brett Lillibridge homered for the Sox, who fell six back in the AL Central.  The Southsiders are off today.  They head to Comerica Park tomorrow night to kick off a three-game set with Detroit.  John Danks gets the nod against Justin Verlander in the opener.

MLB NL
------
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, San Diego Padres 2
Atlanta Braves 3, Washington Nationals 1
Philadelphia Phillies 3, Cincinnati Reds 0
New York Mets 3, Florida Marlins 2
Houston Astros 2, Pittsburgh Pirates 0
Arizona Diamondbacks 4, Colorado Rockies 2

MLB AL
------
Detroit Tigers 5, Kansas City Royals 4
Cleveland Indians 4, Oakland Athletics 3 (16 inn)
Toronto Blue Jays 13, Baltimore Orioles 0
Boston Red Sox 9, New York Yankees 5
Tampa Bay Rays 4, Texas Rangers 1
Seattle Mariners 2, LA Angels of Anaheim 1

>>Bears Play Preseason Finale

(Chicago, IL)  --  The Chicago Bears wrap up their preseason schedule this evening.  The Bears host the Cleveland Browns tonight at Soldier Field.  Chicago is 1-and-2 so far this preseason.  They host the Atlanta Falcons next Sunday in their season-opener.

>>Rams Face Jags In Final Tuneup

(Jacksonville, FL)  --  The Rams are in Jacksonville tonight for their final preseason tuneup against the Jaguars.  Head coach Steve Spagnuolo is expected to play the starters sparingly in the fourth and final exhibition game.  The Rams have won all three preseason games thus far over the Colts, Titans and Chiefs.  They open the regular season a week from Sunday at home against the Eagles.

>>Colts Play Preseason Finale

(Indianapolis, IN)  --  The Indianapolis Colts wrap up their preseason slate this evening.  The Colts clash with the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium.  Indianapolis is 0-and-3 so far this preseason.  On Tuesday, head coach Jim Caldwell said that backup quarterback Kerry Collins would get a lot of playing time to advance his quick study of the playbook.  Collins was recently signed out of retirement to backup Peyton Manning.  Manning was taken off the physically-unable-to-perform list on Monday.  He was rehabbing from his May 23rd neck surgery.  The Colts take on the Houston Texans next Sunday at Reliant Stadium in their season-opener.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-1

August 31, 2011

 

Jail Population: 65

Summons Served: 5

Warrant Arrests: 1

 

 

Deontre Green, 24, Springfield, was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear. Green unable to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL FOUND GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

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