SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois' latest standardized test results show that the achievement gap among elementary school students is narrowing, largely because of gains among black, special education and low-income students, the Illinois State Board of Education announced Monday. The board also said that nine schools flagged for improvement under the decade-old federal No Child Left Behind Act were taken off that status because they made adequate yearly progress for two years in a row. The improvement came even as the state's proficiency benchmarks rose 7.5 percent over the past two years. "Our students have shown steady, incremental improvement, and we know that represents solid progress," said Christopher Koch, the state's education chief. The state board reported that over time, the achievement gap between white and black students has narrowed by 11.4 percent in math and 7.9 percent in reading. Since 2006, black students have posted a 14.3 percent increase in meeting and exceeding proficiency in math and a 13 percent increase in reading on the Illinois Standards Achievement Test. Hispanic students also have upped their proficiency on the statewide test, improving by 4.7 percent in math and 5.2 percent in reading. The improvements come as the number of minority students in Illinois' public schools continues to climb, from 36.7 percent of students in 1997 to 48.6 percent this year. During that span, the population of the state's low income students rose from 35.7 percent to 48.1 percent. Among special-education students, the achievement gap between students with an Individual Education Program and those without it narrowed. The number of participants meeting and exceeding proficiency increased by 7.6 percent in math and 7 percent in reading over the past five years. During that time, the number of low-income students meeting and bettering proficiency on the ISAT has risen by 10.8 percent in math and 10.4 percent in reading. Monday's announcement comes as the state works on an application for a waiver from certain requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act. The state board announced the plan earlier this month, noting that Illinois was falling behind in meeting the increasingly strict performance targets set by the federal law. President Barack Obama announced in September that states would be allowed to ask the U.S. Department of Education to be exempted from some of the law's requirements under certain conditions, such as enacting standards to prepare students for college and careers and making teachers and principals more accountable. The federal law passed in 2001 with widespread bipartisan support and much fanfare. It sought to hold schools more accountable for student performance and get better qualified teachers in classrooms while offering school choice and extra tutoring to students attending schools deemed failing. The Obama administration said it was offering the waivers because Congress has been slow to address various problems of the law. - http://goo.gl/bjdQ5
Monday, October 31, 2011
Two Injured in Schwartz Road Crash Southeast of Centralia
Two people were injured in a two vehicle crash in the 900 block of Schwartz Road southeast of Centralia Sunday afternoon. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say 49-year-old Mary Tullis of East Noleman in Centralia rounded a sharp curve in the Schwartz Road and struck another vehicle driven by 57-year-old Jami Elmore of Mills Road in Walnut Hill nearly head on. Tullis was taken to St. Mary's Hospital in Centralia by ambulance, while Elmore went to the hospital on her own. Tullis was ticketed for improper lane usage. Deputies say an Ameritech phone box was damaged in the wreck. The call came in at 1:57 Sunday afternoon. - http://goo.gl/a4Unb
Centralia Man Arrested On Arson and Domestic Battery Charges
A 34-year-old Centralia man is in custody at the Marion County Jail for alleged arson and domestic battery. Melvin Creps of South Pine was arrested a short time after allegedly breaking into the home of Jennifer Creps on Jefferson Avenue in Junction City and trying to set the house on fire. Initial reports indicate the fire went out quickly, but Sandoval Firemen were called to check out the situation. Jennifer Creps reportedly received minor burns to her hands, but refused hospital treatment. Based on a vehicle description provided by Jennifer, deputies stopped a vehicle in which Melvin was a passenger in Central City. Creps reportedly had melted red candle wax on his sweatshirt and small cuts on his hand. The driver of the vehicle, Rose Eagan of Central City, confirmed she had earlier stopped at Jennifer's home and let Melvin out of the vehicle. Eagan said she did not get out, but did hear Jennifer scream before Melvin got back into the truck. Eagan was not charged. Another passenger, 36-year-old Matthew Bounds of Richmond Heights Mobile Home Park in Central City, was arrested on an outstanding Marion County Small Claims Warrant. He later was released after posting $150 bond. - http://goo.gl/5bS04
Marion County Police Beat for Monday, October 31st, 2011
Salem Police arrested two people for possession of a stolen vehicle. Police say 19-year-old Carl William Smith of Leavenworth, Indiana and 17-year-old Kaylee Drury of Hardinsburg, Illinois were apprehended after the car taken without permission from Indiana was located on the North Hotze Road. Police had been tipped off by Indiana Police on the approximate location of the vehicle. Smith remains in the Marion County Jail, while Drury was released on a notice to appear in court. A 32-year-old Odin man has been arrested for alleged criminal trespass to railroad property and theft of railroad property. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Eric See of Ticklen Road was picking up railroad spikes and other materials from along the Union Pacific Railroad Tracks near the crossing at Cartter Road when he was questioned. See reportedly admitted collected a half pickup truck load of metal from along the tracks, but didn't think he needed permission since the materials had been left behind by track crews. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 44-year-old Derrick Prior of Metcalf Road in Iuka for driving under the influence. Prior was initially stopped for speeding early Monday morning. - http://goo.gl/7r0bg
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Marion County Police Beat for Sunday, October 30
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Marion County Police Beat for Saturday, October 29th, 2011
A 32-year-old Central City man is being held in the Marion County Jail for alleged aggravated battery to a child. Darrell Casey of Park Street was arrested by Central City Police. 21-year-old Dorothy Mason of West Broadway in Sandoval remains in jail after being arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Deputies for alleged violation of bail bond. 24-year-old Bryan Flanagan of Isle Street in Sandoval posted $100 bond and was released after being arrested by Sandoval Police for alleged disorderly conduct. 27-year-old Ashley Rollinson of Willow Street in Sandoval turned herself in on a Marion County Small Claims warrant. She was released after posting $300 bond. The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating the theft of an aluminum bender break from the Tom Keeley property on Ullman Road in rural Centralia. cYHCw
Kentucky Man Wanted For Attempted Murder Kills Himself Following I-57 Traffic Stop Near Benton
A 39-year-old Sturgis, Kentucky man is dead after shooting himself after State Troopers stopped his vehicle on Interstate 57 north of Benton. State Police Spokesman David Sneed says Timothy Johnson was wanted on a warrant for attempted murder. He reportedly was involved in a domestic dispute at his home in Kentucky around eight Friday morning where his wife was shot in the leg. Police were looking for Johnson's pickup after receiving a tip that Johnson may be in the Mt. Vernon area. The truck was initially spotted near mile post 90 south of Mt. Vernon. The trooper followed the vehicle until more police units were in place. The vehicle was eventually stopped at 12:45 Friday afternoon by officers from several police agencies. As police were exiting their vehicles, they heard what was believed to be a gunshot coming from inside Johnson's pickup. Officers then found Johnson had shot himself. They broke out a window to render first aide. Johnson was taken to Franklin County Hospital in Benton, where he later died. zSrOu
Friday, October 28, 2011
Number of Halloween Activities Set For Friday And Saturday Night
Several special 'haunted' activities are planned for Halloween this weekend. The Kaskaskia College Student Activities Department and Phi Theta Kappa are turning Kaskaskia College's new Fitness Trail into a Haunted Trail from 5:30 to 7:30 Friday night. The entire family is invited for an evening of fun and fright. The event will include spooky music and fright stations. All participants will receive a glow stick, candy, hot chocolate and toothbrushes from the dental assisting club. Costumes are encourages and participants are asked to bring flashlights. The Kinmundy American Legion has been turned into a Haunted Ice House from seven to eleven both Friday and Saturday night. The cost is $5 for adults and $3 for kids 13 and younger. Proceeds will go to the legion's building fund. The Kinmundy United Methodist Church is holding their first annual Halloween Carnival from six to ten Friday night in the church parking lot. Lots of games, a haunted house, treats and prizes. All ages are welcome. There is no charge for any activities, but you are asked to bring canned food items or diapers for the food pantry. This is the final weekend for the Orchardville Ghoul School. The transformed Orchardville Grade School will be open from seven to midnight both Friday and Saturday night. Admission is five dollars. Proceeds go to charities. A number of area communities are holding Trick or Treat Friday night. They include Centralia, Central City, Wamac, Sandoval, Kell and Iuka. Trick or Treat is from six to eight pm for those 12 and under. - http://goo.gl/6fEPa
Police Beat for Friday, October 28th, 2011
Marion County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested an 18-year-old Odin man for residential burglary. Roy Cochrum of Franklin Street was arrested for a burglary earlier this month to the basement of the Kevin Burleyson home on the Odin Road in rural Odin. A compound bow and related hunting items were allegedly taken. The sheriff's department's break in the case came when some of the stolen items were found in a pawn shop. A 50-year-old Wamac man has been arrested by Wamac Police on two counts of aggravated battery to a police officer, criminal damage to property and resisting arrest. Dale Boatman of West 16th allegedly attempted to hit a Wamac officer with his closed fist when he was being taken into custody after allegedly causing criminal damage to property owned by Peggy Wollitz of the same address. Wamac Police say Boatman was eventually wrestled to the ground and was still struggling to get his second hand handcuffed when Centralia Police arrived to provide assistance. 20-year-old Jeremiah Bobbett of South Poplar n Centralia was taken to the Marion County Jail after being arrested by Centralia Police on an outstanding misdemeanor warrant. Two others remained in the Marion County Jail after being arrested on petitions to revoke their probation. 44-year-old James Horton of Rolston Street in Wamac was arrested by Salem Police while 21-year-old Leslie Chumley of James Street in Wamac was arrested at the Marion County Probation Office. 31-year-old Jason Phillips of Euclid Street in Iuka was arrested by Iuka Police on an outstanding Fayette County warrant. He was later transferred to the Fayette County Jail. Salem Police arrested two Centralia men after being called to the Hardee's Restaurant in Salem. 20-year-old Zachary Pierce and 20-year-old Julian Heffron of South Hickory Street are accused of trying to start a fight with a third person. Pierce was arrested for alleged obstructing a police officer and violation of bail bond. Heffron was arrested for alleged resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Pierce had just posted bond at the Marion County Jail a short time earlier for alleged driving under the influence. Both were released after posted $150 bond. - http://goo.gl/yLLsK
$5.7-Million Refrigerated Warehouse Coming To MidAmerica St. Louis Airport
BELLEVILLE, Ill. (AP) - A $5.7 million refrigerated warehouse is coming to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah and it's expected to bring about 80 jobs to southwestern Illinois. The St. Clair County Public Building Commission approved a 15-year deal for the warehouse Thursday. North Bay Produce Inc. of Traverse City, Mich., plans to build the warehouse, which is slated to be open by June. Officials say it will serve as a year-round distribution center for apples, blueberries and other fruits shipped in from Michigan and other states, as well as from other countries. MidAmerica has struggled since opening in 1998, and it lost its last passenger service a decade later. An audit release recently shows that the airport continues to lose money, posting roughly $12 million in red ink last year. - http://goo.gl/mHPAf
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Mt. Vernon man sustained a gunshot wound to the lower back near the intersection of 20th Street and Conger Avenue
A Mt. Vernon man sustained a gunshot wound to the lower back near the intersection of 20th Street and Conger Avenue Tuesday evening.
According to a Mt. Vernon Police Department report, Tevin R. Edwards, 19, of the 800 block of South 20th Street, was admitted to St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital at 9:46 p.m. Monday. The hospital phoned police when medical personnel discovered Edwards sustained a gunshot wound.
MVPD Chief Chris Mendenall said Edwards told police at the hospital that he was walking westbound on Conger past his residence Tuesday night when he felt a stinging pain in his lower back.
Edwards said he was unable to identify a shooter and he immediately returned to a friend’s residence on 17th Street to get a ride to the hospital.
Mendenall said the incident is under investigation. Rmfif
Potential payment for Superintendent Daniels
Illinois regional superintendents may be getting paid soon, but the state wouldn't be signing the check.
Legislation approved by the Illinois House of Representatives would take about $14 million in funds from the Personal Property Replacement Tax Fund, which provides funds to schools, cities, counties and park districts to pay for the salary and benefits of more than 40 regional superintendents, who haven't been paid since at least July.
Hamilton-Jefferson Counties Regional Superintendent of Schools Ron Daniels said he would like himself and his fellow regional superintendents to get paid, but a money grab from the PPRT fund isn't the way to go.
"That will have a negative impact on our schools and counties, who both receive funds through that revenue source," Daniels said. "I think as we are employed by the state, our income should be provided by the state."
The Illinois Municipal League, which lobbies for local governments at the state house, opposes any diversion of local PPRT fund dollars.
Joe McCoy, legislative director for the league, said schools receive 60 percent of the PPRT fund's billion-plus dollars each year.
McCoy said it's not proper for "municipal money to be used for the salaries of non-municipal officials as a result of the governor electing not to cover the salaries with state money."
However, Daniels, who is currently in Springfield, said he and others are being told that this may be their only option to be paid.
He said Speaker of the House Michael Madigan was the sponsor of the original bill to pay regional superintendents that was vetoed by Gov. Pat Quinn and that he has heard Madigan is not likely to recall the bill.
Daniels said among the regional superintendents in Springfield right now to encourage the state to pay them, there is a lot of frustration.
"If something isn't resolved in a couple of weeks, a lot of people are going to have to start looking for other jobs," Daniels said. "It's a chaotic situation for our schools when no one is taking care of the Health, Life and Safety payments or safety compliance checks. We provide a service to our schools. ... It would be nice to receive a paycheck."
Daniels said he was returning to Mt. Vernon on Wednesday to prepare for the Mt. Vernon Conference, which provides training to more than 100 teachers. - http://goo.gl/NouXK
Marion County Board Looks For More Than a Half-Million Dollars in Budget Cuts; Operations of Sheriff's Department Come Under Fire
The Marion County Board's Finance Committee is looking for more than a half-million dollars in budget cuts. The committee spent three hours Wednesday night going through each line item of the budget, but by the time they were done they had only able to reduce the anticipated budget shortfall by $69,000. Nearly $20,000 of that amount was taking out pay raises put in the budget by county department heads until an across the board pay increase is settled upon for non-union employees. The committee's next step is to call each office holder back to look for budget cuts. However, committee members seem resigned to finding bigger cuts at the sheriff's department or face layoffs or furlough days for courthouse employees if they want to avoid eating into their anticipated $1.3-million cash reserve at the end of this fiscal year. The law enforcement budget makes up about 42 percent of the county's expenditures. The committee even brought up the idea of looking for a private company to operate the jail if it could produce cost savings. The county's shortfall is being made worse because the coming fiscal year is one of those rare years where there is an extra payday, adding another $160,000 in expenses. Another unknown is if the State will force counties to pick up the cost of the Regional and Assistant Regional Superintendents of School out of money the counties currently receive from the personal property replacement tax. Committee member Richard Sinclair estimates the budget shortfall at $411,000 without any contingency fund. Member Erwin Hahn would like to see a $200,000 contingency fund to cover any unanticipated expenses. While he might settle for a smaller figure, Hahn said he would not vote for a budget without some contingency. Most of the cuts made Wednesday night were in the sheriff's department. The sheriff's requests for a new car was cut along with a one-dollar an hour raise for his part time employees. Committee members expressed frustration with overtime running over budget. Finance Committee Chair Dolores Wanzo says the Fraternal Order of Police Contract is not the total blame, saying a lot of the problem has to do with scheduling. There were also questions why a full-timedeputy is assigned to court security when court is in session only limited hours of the day. The committee was also critical ofthe court security officer having a county provided squad car. They rejected raising the Deputy overtime line item even though it is $13,000 over budget for the current fiscal year. The committee also cut $1,000 from the prisoner clothing fund, wanting the sheriff to pay that expense out of commissary fund proceeds. They feel that is a much more justified expense than the money the sheriff took out of the fund to purchase a new prisoner transport vehicle. With the need for more cuts, the finance committee no longer expects to make its original deadline of the regular November county board meeting to approve a tentative budget. No dates have yet been set to call in the office holders to look for ways to cut the budget. - http://goo.gl/BpGmB
Centralia Children's Halloween Parade Start Time Changing
The Centralia Children's Halloween Parade start time on Saturday is changing. Halloween and Fall Festival Committee member Butch Mathus says the decision was made so people didn't have to choose between going to the Children's Halloween Parade or the Centralia High School Football team first round playoff game. "We'll move the parade from 1:00pm to 11:00am, and judging will start at 10:30am at the Centralia Library Park, and we hope everybody understands these unfortunate circumstances, but overall I think it's going to be a wonderful, busy day in Downtown Centralia", said Mathus. Mathus says with the new 11 am start time for the Children's Halloween Parade, it will be over before the football playoff game begins at one at Evers Field in Centralia. There will also be one change in the Fall Festival schedule to accommodate the earlier start time of the Children's Halloween Parade. The public tasting for the Chili Cookoff has been moved to immediately after the parade. Meanwhile, the 85th Annual Centralia Halloween Parade will step off as planned at seven Saturday evening. You'll be able to hear live coverage on WJBD-FM 100.1 or watch via video streaming on WJBDradio.com. - http://goo.gl/ZU47T
Two Morning Accidents in Marion County Sends One Person to Hospital
A 19-year-old Iuka man has been injured in a single car wreck Wednesday morning on State Route 37 just south of Salem. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Tyler Powless of Kasznel Road in Iuka ran off the right side of the road, came back across the road, and ran off the left side of the pavement before overturning. The wreck occurred just north of C.J. Heck Road. Powless was taken to Salem Township Hospital for treatment of injuries. A 24-year-old Flora resident escaped injury in a car-deer collision on the State Route 161 Extension near the Roosevelt Road intersection in rural Iuka. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Iuka Fire Department first responders and an ambulance was initially dispatched, but the driver, Heather Henson of South Main, did not require any treatment. The wreck occurred at 8:20 Wednesday morning. - http://goo.gl/Q5p04
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Illinois Lawmakers OK Electricity Measure Despite Veto
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois lawmakers have approved major changes to the state's electricity system over Governor Pat Quinn's veto. Both the House and Senate voted to override the governor Wednesday. They rejected Quinn's argument that the legislation guarantees unfair profits to power companies and seriously weakens the oversight power of state regulators. The Senate voted 36-19 to override. Moments later, the House did the same on a 74-42 vote. The legislation lets ComEd and Ameren raise rates to pay for improving electrical systems, including the creation of a high-tech "smart grid." Supporters say it will create jobs and help customers conserve energy. Critics call it a sweetheart deal for power companies. fBlk8
No Injuries Reported In Two Car-Deer Accidents
A Salem woman escaped injury when her car overturned on its side when she swerved to miss a deer that had been hit earlier. Cynthia Tucker of West Main was able to get out of the car on her own before emergency help arrived. The wreck occurred on U.S. 50 at the Norton Road. Her car reportedly spun around and left U.S. 50 and ended up coming to a stop on the Norton Road. Sandoval Fire and Ambulance personnel were called to the scene, but say Tucker did not require any treatment. A Marion County ESDA member conducting Halloween Patrols for the sheriff's department collided with a deer near the Omega and Bee Branch Road intersection north of Iuka. Sheriff's Deputies say Greg Masters of Jefferson Street in Kell escaped injury. - http://goo.gl/BiHTy
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Wamac Man Arrested for Setting Mobile Home on Fire
A 34-year-old Wamac man has been arrested for residential arson in connection with a fire that heavily damaged a neighbor's mobile home late Monday afternoon. Joshua Keebler of Ralston Street was taken into custody Tuesday morning after being questioned by a Deputy State Fire Marshall. Keebler is accused of setting a fire at a mobile home occupied by James and Misty Horton of 132 Ralston Street while they were away shopping. Reports indicate Keebler was seen leaving the area of the Horton mobile home at the same time smoke became visible. Marion County State's Attorney Matt Wilzbach says Keebler admitted lighting a piece of paper on fire with three matches and then threw it down onto a mattress when it started burning. Other witnesses indicated Keebler had made threats to burn the home down following a disagreement with James Horton earlier in the day. Centralia Fire Protection District Chief Greg Earl says they were able to quickly knock down the fire before it spread from the one room. However, there was heat and smoke damage throughout the mobile home and it is expected to be a total loss. No injuries were reported. Keebler remains in the Marion County Jail pending his first court appearance on Wednesday. z1e2o
Two Big Muddy Prison Employees Face Felony Charges
Two employees at the Big Muddy Correctional Center are being charged in Jefferson County Court at Mt. Vernon with felonies after an internal investigation revealed inappropriate interaction with an inmate. 34-year-old Corrections nurse Kimberly George of Du Quoin is accused of having sex with an inmate who's behind bars for murder and attempted murder. A second employee is also charged. 51-year-old Nova Clarry of Du Quion, a dental hygienist for the DOC, is accused of bringing a cell phone into the facility and giving it to the same male inmate that George allegedly slept with. The employees aren't the only one's who could be in trouble. The inmate, Leslie Matos, is accused of possessing contraband in a penal institution. The Department of Corrections website indicates Matosis now housed at the Pontiac Correctional Center. George and Clarry are both scheduled to appear in court December 2nd. - http://goo.gl/ynyOa
Marion County Police Beat for Tuesday, October 25th, 2011
The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating two residential burglaries and the theft of items from a third home. Ronald Thompson of Echo Lane in Centralia reported entry was gained to his home after the back door was pried open. Beds, dressers and room furnishings were reported missing. Nichole Whiteney of Vernon reported a vacant house she owns on West Effingham Street in Patoka had been entered. Trish Grooms of Green Street Road in Centralia reported several items taken from her residence. A 20-year-old Eldorado woman is being held in the Marion County Jail for alleged felony theft. Brittani Scerba is accused of taking a wallet belonging to Shannon Foster of Pullen Street in Centralia that had inadvertently been left behind on the counter of the Centralia Food Mart on East 15th Street. Centralia Police say Scerba was identified as the person taking the wallet through video surveillance provided by the store. Two others turned themselves in on outstanding Marion County warrants. 22-year-old Joshua Williams of South Brookside in Wamac remains in custody, while 25-year-old Michael Hill of West Georgia in Sandoval was released on 500-dollars bond. - http://goo.gl/jUN92
Centralia City Council Approves Ordinances Regarding Firearms
The Centralia City Council approved two ordinances at Monday night's meetingamending the Centralia Municipal Code regarding firearms.The changes make itillegal to shoot any cross bow, compound or long bow within the city limits. This adds to the stipulation that it is illegal to fire a firearm or air gun within the city limits. The issuance of the ordinance was prompted by an incident in the Raccoon Lake area when someone was shot with a cross bow. Centralia Police Chief Larry Evans says there are a few areas where you can legally hunt with a bow inside Centralia City Limits on the eastern edge of the city. He says before the ordinance passed, there was nothing that limits someone from shooting a cross bow in the area of a home or pedestrian. "I asked for this specifically because in the past we've tried to talk to residence and rationalize with them that it was a terrible idea, but we've encountered some people that are just content that they want to do it, and it's terribly unsafe", said Evans. The new ordinance goes into effect immediately. The board approved two bids for Surplus Real Estate for the sale of property in the city of Centralia. The properties are located at 1029 East Noleman and 218 East 17th Street. The bid amount for the East Noleman property was $100, and the bid for East 17th Street was for $500. An ordinance and purchase agreement will be on the next city council meeting agenda to approve the purchases. The board approved a resolution to accept a bid from Howell Paving, Inc. for resurfacing and storm sewer work at Fowler's Alley, located on the 300 block of East Broadway. The city received a DCEO/CDAP grant for work in the area. Howell Paving, Inc. had the lowest bid of $142,218.40, about $8,000 under the original estimated bid. - http://goo.gl/qlEc0
Monday, October 24, 2011
Line-Up Set For 85th Annual Centralia Halloween Parade; See Parade Line Up
The parade line-up is set for the 85th Annual Centralia Halloween Parade this coming Saturday night. Parade committee member Butch Mathus puts together the annual line-up. He initially had concerns about entries being down this year, but reports that has turned around. "The last week and a half it exploded on me and I think people do that on purpose to give me grey hairs," Mathus joked. "Overall for the 85th Annual Halloween Parade we have 133 entries, we have 29 floats, and we have 14 bands." Mathus says there are two major floats and one group that will be juggling fire sticks. The parade caps a day of activities that make up the Centralia Fall Festival. It steps off down Poplar Street at seven Saturday evening. You'll be able to hear live coverage on WJBD-FM 100.1 and see a live video stream on WJBDradio.com. The annual Children's Halloween Parade will begin at Library Park at one Saturday afternoon. Click here to see the line-up for the Halloween Parade. - http://goo.gl/099QJ
Marion County Police Beat for Monday, October 24th, 2011
A 20-year-old Centralia man is being held in the Marion County Jail for alleged burglary and on two Clinton County misdemeanor warrants. Centralia Police arrested Aaron Gilbert for entering a trailer in the 1400 block of South Pine and taking a number of items. Police report Gilbert's mother bought some of the items and returned them to the owner. Other items were reportedly sold to a second hand shop. A 14-year-old juvenile boy is also being sought in connection with the burglary. A 35-year-old Centralia man remains in custody for alleged reckless driving and aggravated fleeing or eluding police. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Donald Declue of South Wabash was traveling at 98 miles per hour on the Walnut Hill Road when he met a deputy responding to a call. The deputy turned around and attempted to stop Declue, but he allegedly cut through a yard and into a grass field. Declue later turned himself in at the Wamac Police Department. 28-year-old Robert Goodnight of South Main in Sandoval is being held on a Vermillion County felony warrant and for driving on a revoked license. 23-year-old Timothy Smith of East Olive in Salem posted 150-dollars bond and was released after being arrested by Salem Police on a charge of driving on a revoked license. 35-year-old Susan Marie Higgins of Wisconsin Street in Sandoval posted 150-dollars bond and was released after being arrested by Sandoval Police for driving on a suspended license. A 62-year-old Benton woman, Sherry Grutzius, was released on her own recognizance after being arrested on a Franklin County DUI warrant. Salem Police have two motor vehicle burglaries under investigation. Marie Pollard reported her car was entered in the 300 block of East Blair and a digital camera was stolen. Anthony Rinehart of the 200 block of South Pruyn reported his wife's purse stolen from their car. It was later located intact down the road. Both vehicle burglaries were reported Sunday morning. - http://goo.gl/br6co
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Marion County Police Beat for Sunday, October 23
A 24-year-old Centralia man was sent to the Marion County Jail on several charges. Centralia Police arrested Travis Ryan Pokojski of East Green Street Road for alleged criminal damage to property, domestic battery, failure to register and also on a Marion County warrant. He remains in the jail. 44-year-old Kurtis Dean Zimmerman of East 6th Street in Centralia was arrested by Centralia Police for alleged domestic battery and resisting arrest. He remains in the Marion County Jail. 32-year-old Amanda Jean Jamison of Red Stripe Road in Odin was arrested by Salem Police on alleged charges of driving under the influence. She posted $100 and was released from the Marion County Jail. - http://goo.gl/Kyh0U
Prosecutors Attempting to Seize Property Before Drug Conviction
BELLEVILLE, Ill. (AP) - Southern Illinois prosecutors are trying out a new weapon in their war on the area's heroin trade: They're going after an alleged dealer's property even before he's convicted. The St. Clair County State's Attorney's office is seeking the forfeiture of a Belleville home, a Cadillac and cash from Cody Seats, who faces six drug-related charges. State law allows prosecutors to seek forfeiture of his property even if he's not convicted of criminal charges. Prosecutors say the items were used in drug-dealing or were bought with its proceeds. State's Attorney Brendan Kelly said this is the first time his office has sought property from a suspect since authorities kicked off an initiative against heroin earlier this year. Seats' attorney, Michael Rousseau, tells the Belleville News-Democrat that Seats bought his $20,000 house and Cadillac with an inheritance. - http://goo.gl/Lo7yN
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Appellate Court Justice James Donovan To Retire
MOUNT VERNON, Ill. (AP) - A justice with the state's 5th District Appellate Court in southern Illinois says he'll be retiring after more than a decade on the bench. Fifty-nine-year-old James Donovan announced Friday that his retirement from the court covering 37 counties will take effect in December of next year. Donovan says he's announcing his plans to retire more than a year in advance so potential successors can run in next year's primary election. He was assigned to the court in 2002 and was elected two years later. He previously had served as an assistant state's attorney and public defender in St. Clair County, and as an associate and circuit judge in the 20th judicial circuit. ucngq
Fire Marshal Office Urges Safety When Going to Haunted Houses
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois fire safety experts are urging families to be vigilant when they go to temporary haunted houses this Halloween season. The Office of the Illinois state Fire Marshal says it's important for haunted house operators to follow the state's fire safety code requirements. The fire marshal advises that haunted houses should have adequate room for visitors to exit. There also must be panic hardware on exit doors. Haunted houses are considered "special amusement buildings" and must obey state rules for fire sprinklers and detection equipment. Materials in haunted houses must be flame resistant and shouldn't use pyrotechnics unless the operator has specific licenses. More information is available online: http://www.sfm.illinois.gov nYm70
Marion County Police Beat for Saturday, October 22nd, 2011
Wamac Police have arrested two people in connection with the theft of copper from the Canadian National Rail Car building that is in the process of being torn down. 19-year-old Cody Matson of James Street in Wamac and 18-year-old Brittany Atchison of South Sycamore in Centralia are both being held in the Marion County Jail for alleged burglary, criminal trespass and criminal damage to property. Wamac Police say the two were tied to the theft when they allegedly tried to sell the copper that had been taken. 38-year-old Michael Mitchan of East Third Street in Centralia was arrested by Centralia Police for violation of an order of protection. 26-year-old Christopher Short of South Broadway in Salem was arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Deputies for a probation violation. 29-year-old Sabrina Hoercher of College Street in Mt. Vernon was arrested by sheriff's deputies on a petition to revoke her probation. nQu55
Jefferson County Toys for Kids announces dates
Toys for Kids of Jefferson County have announced registration dates and times and put out a call for volunteers.
“This year we’re going to have the Headquarters at the mall open more,” TFK President Jill Holloway said. “All the registrations will be at the mall. ... In the past, we’ve had registration three days for four hours at (a local church) and then three or four eight-hour days at Headquarters. This way, the public has more chance to register or drop off donations at the mall.”
Registration dates will be Oct. 27 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Nov. 1 from 9 to 11 a.m.; Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Nov. 7 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Nov. 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Nov. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Nov. 17 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Nov. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Nov. 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Holloway said last year the group provided Christmas presents for 1,000 children.
“We expect more kids this year,” Holloway said. “There is a definite need for money and toys. Our older kids, from 7 to 14 years-old, are where we are lacking. People don’t donate for the older group as much.”
This year TFK will also have Christmas trees set up at local participating businesses and customers can pick up a card on the tree and purchase the item listed on the card decoration.
“We have already confirmed a tree for Big Lots and Shoe Sensation,” Holloway said. “We hope more businesses will confirm that we can put a tree up. We make sure there are some items on the tree that can be picked up at that business to make it easier on the person making the donation.”
In addition to making donations at the mall at Headquarters, Holloway said donations can still be dropped off at Curves in Mt. Vernon.
The Continental Tire North America Toy Run for Toys for Kids will be held Nov. 5, Holloway said, with participants leaving CTA at about 11 a.m. and bringing donations to Times Square Mall.
Volunteers are still needed for Toys for Kids, with Holloway making dire predictions for what will happen next year if more people don’t step forward.
“Volunteers are way down,” Holloway said. “If people want to volunteer, they can call me at 641-1178 or come by Headquarters and talk to us. If we don’t get more help, I don’t know if there will be a next year for us.” WFTQW
Friday, October 21, 2011
South Central Illinois' Winter Outlook... Cold and Wetter than Usual
South Central Illinois could see another colder and wet winter, similar to last year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released the Winter Weather Outlook for the 2011-2012 season. NOAA predicts colder and wetter conditions in the North, and drought conditions continuing in the South, with warmer and drier conditions. Meteorologist Gary Schmocker of the National Weather Service in St. Louis says the area could experience near-normal temperatures with precipitation slightly above average. He says there is a possibility that this winter may not be as extreme as last winter. However he states precipitation will be above average east of St. Louis, heading into South Central Illinois, Indiana, and the Ohio River Valley. "If this outlook verifies, then areas towards Salem, Illinois verses St. Louis may have a little of a higher likelihood of getting above normal precipitation for the winter", said Schmocker. South Central Illinois experienced significant sleet and freezing rain from a winter storm last February. Schmocker states there could be some significant cold air outbreaks this winter, and he says it's hard to tell when they will occur. He says we are heading into a weak-to-moderate La Nina pattern just like last winter. La Nina is the cooling of the Pacific Ocean that affects the weather. However he states it could be a weaker La Nina than last year. Schmocker says last year's La Nina pattern was stronger, and that the area experienced below normal temperatures and above normal snowfall across the Missouri-Illinois area. "It's very hard to say about snowfall because sometimes you could get one big snowstorm and that could make a world of difference. When you look back at averages, it only takes one big snowstorm to sometimes create above normal snowfall for the winter", said Schmocker. He says the St. Louis area saw 30 inches of snow last year, above the average of 18 inches. Schmocker says the St. Louis weather service office forecasts a week ahead. Long range forecasting is done by NOAA and other weather service bureaus. Jpjr6
Marion County Police Beat for Friday, October 21st, 2011
A 19-year-old Iuka man is being held in the Marion County Jail after he allegedly tried to purchase a truck with a check stolen from his parents. Delbert Dagg was arrested for forgery after the bank was called that had been presented the check and learned it had been taken earlier. 20-year-old Joshua Clark of U.S. 51 South in Centralia remains in custody on an outstanding felony warrant. 23-year-old Steven Myers of Frazier Avenue in Wamac is being held on a warrant for failure to appear on a DUI charge. 39-year-old Cassandra Quick of East Dwebie in Waltonville posted bond after being arrested for alleged driving under the influence and possession of cannabis. 54-year-old Billy Wofford of North Vine in Sandoval posted $150 bond after being arrested by Sandoval Police for alleged disorderly conduct. The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating the theft of a gun from Jason Hodge of Nation Road in rural Salem. lwdAA
Mt. Vernon Man Arrested In Connection With Walnut Hill Home Invasion
A 23-year-old Mt. Vernon man is being held in the Marion County Jail following an early Friday morning home invasion in Walnut Hill. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Marquise Shackleford of College Avenue allegedly entered the Kalee Wodochek and Lenzi Tomblinson home on Jefferson Street, threatened the occupants with bodily harm and reportedly destroyed the TV and other personal items. Shackleford had left the scene after sheriff's deputies were called, but was picked up later by deputies. He was arrested for alleged home invasion and felony criminal damage to property. Shackleford is also being held for alleged domestic battery and felony criminal damage to property following an earlier incident with Wodochek on October 14th. Shackleford is accused of getting into Wodochek's car at the Industrial Tavern and then pulling her hair and breaking her phone as she attempted to walk away on foot towards the Centralia Police Station. Wodochek eventually made it to the police station, but Shackleford was not located on the charges until his arrest on the new charges early Friday morning. MzUAd
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Illinois returns to double-digit unemployment rate
Signaling an end to 12 straight months of single-digit unemployment, the Illinois jobless rate crept to 10 percent in September -- an increase of a tenth of a percentage point over August.
Illinois Department of Employment Security data shows the unemployment rise occurred despite the addition of 1,600 jobs last month.
The discrepancy indicates frustrated job-seekers have suspended the search for new employment.
Unemployment rates reflect the percentage of the workforce that has applied for job benefits in a given month.
People working involuntarily in part-time jobs, the underemployed and the segment of the population that has stopped looking for work are not included in state and federal government employment figures.
The overall jobless rate swells to over 16 percent when those categories are added to the equation.
IDES director Jay Rowell said the September numbers are "not surprising."
"Job growth at this stage in the economic cycle is often accompanied by a slight increase in the employment rate," Rowell said in a statement. "But a broader confidence must be restored at the national level before individual states will show greater wide-spread growth."
The Illinois unemployment rate had shown steady gains since peaking at 11.2 percent in January, 2010. At one point earlier this year, state joblessness dipped to 8.7 percent.
Attempting to brighten the picture, the labor agency noted the state has added 81,000 jobs in the 22 months since unemployment hit 11.2 percent.
Still, the IDES reports 663,300 Illlnois residents collected unemployment benefits in August.
Nationally, unemployment stands at 9.1 percent.
The September jobless rate in Missouri came in at 8.7 percent, a 31-month low. - http://goo.gl/xX9ik
Unpaid Regional Superintendent Of Schools Resigns After Going 14 Weeks Without Pay
TAYLORVILLE, Ill. (AP) - A central Illinois regional school superintendent has announced his resignation after going without pay for 14 weeks. Christian and Montgomery County Regional Superintendent of Schools Tom Campbell on Wednesday told the Breeze Courierin Taylorville he can't continue. Campbell blames "political decisions made by our governor" for taking "a tremendous toll" on his ability to "stay positive and focused on remaining in office." In July, Gov. Pat Quinn cut off pay to superintendents and their assistants. He says the state can't afford to pay the salaries. Quinn wants local governments to pay the salaries, but made no arrangements before vetoing the money. Campbell says the decisions by state leaders show "total disrespect" for those who work in regional education offices in Illinois. Taylorville is about 25 miles southeast of Springfield. - http://goo.gl/60s5G
Illinois Jobless Rate Hits Ten-Percent
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) - Unemployment in Illinois rose in September for a fifth straight month and hit ten-percent for the first time since August 2010. The state Department of Employment Security on Thursday blamed continued weakness in consumer confidence across the country for the increase. The federal government earlier this month said national unemployment for September was 9.1-percent. That was unchanged from August. The state rate was 9.9-percent in August.The Department of Employment Security says Illinois employers created 1,600 new jobs in September. But the number of unemployed people increased to 663,300. That's 10,500 more than in August. The biggest job gains were among educational and health services employers, which added 4,900 jobs. Construction-related employers cut 3,000 jobs. - http://goo.gl/d7BAE
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Late Payments Complicate Business for Illinois Prisons
CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) - Illinois prisons have not escaped the problems stemming from the state's late payment of its bills. Corrections officials insist the chronically late payments do not create security concerns. But the department's chief financial officer wrote a letter in June warning of "a big looming problem" if a food supplier halted deliveries. Bryan Gleckler asked the state comptroller to expedite a big payment to a vendor. He noted that food is the most important part of the day to inmates and a disruption would "create huge security concerns." Officials now downplay the warning. But a watchdog group says it also has seen problems with clothing, toothpaste and pesticides. In early September, the department had $39.3 million worth of unpaid bills that were at least a month old. Some were from November. - http://goo.gl/2CPzR
25 Now Dead in Listeria Outbreak in Cantaloupe
WASHINGTON (AP) - Twenty-five deaths in 12 states are now linked to listeria in cantaloupe, the deadliest known outbreak of foodborne illness in the U.S. in more than 25 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday that 123 people have been sickened, including those who died. The tainted Colorado cantaloupes should be off store shelves by now. But the number of illnesses may continue to grow, as the symptoms of listeria can take up to two months to appear. The CDC on Tuesday confirmed a sixth death in Colorado and a second in New York. Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming have also reported deaths. Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo., recalled the cantaloupes last month. - http://goo.gl/aMKCo
Doctor Data Back Online in Illinois
CHICAGO (AP) - Illinois patients once again can use a public website to find out whether their doctors and chiropractors have shady histories. The Physician Profile became available Wednesday on the website for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. It allows consumers to see whether a doctor has been disciplined in Illinois or in another state. Malpractice judgments and settlements going back five years are posted. The searchable database was taken offline last year when the Illinois Supreme Court declared a medical malpractice reform law unconstitutional. A new law reinstated the database and gave doctors 60 days to review the information before the site went live. That review period has passed, allowing the comeback. The website drew more than 150,000 hits weekly before it went dark in 2010. - http://goo.gl/18gYz
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Sheriff: Two People Found Dead in Southwestern Illinois Home
EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. (AP) - Authorities are investigating the death of a woman and man whose bodies were found in their home near the southwestern Illinois city of Edwardsville. Authorities haven't publicly identified the bodies found Monday afternoon. Relatives went to the home after no one there responded to telephone calls. The Madison County Sheriff's Department says a preliminary investigation appears to show that the deaths were domestic-related. Illinois State Police are assisting in the probe. Autopsies are planned. 8J4XI
Illinois Backlog Adds to Schools' Money Problems
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois schools are getting less money from the state this year and they'll have to wait a long time to collect it.As the school year got under way, state government was already more than $449 million behind in education payments. Rockford schools, for instance, were waiting on nearly $7 million. Schools in the western Illinois town of Avon were due $47,800. The Chicago backlog dwarfed everything else - $112 million. Schools have cut teachers, dipped into cash reserves, postponed purchases, slashed training and delayed paychecks.Tremont Superintendent Don Beard says it has become the "way of doing business." The slow payments come at the same time state and federal funds are down. In all, schools will see an 8.4 percent drop. rFdmm
Illinois to Be Part of 1st Nationwide Alert Test
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - On November 9th, Illinois radio and TV stations will participate in the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System. Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Jonathon Monken says the test will be at 1:00 p.m. for three minutes. Several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will participate in the test. Monken says the alert system is an important tool for providing information during emergencies. He says the nationwide test is ambitious, but critical to testing the system's viability. The test will be similar to those watchers and listeners are familiar with except all broadcast outlets will conduct it simultaneously. The system is available for the U.S. president to address Americans during crises. Authorities can use it to send alerts and warnings to local outlets. 5ONne
Regional Superintendents Lobbying Lawmakers To Reinstate Pay
Springfield, IL -- Veto session is just one week away and lawmakers are expected to find a way to reinstate pay for regional superintendents. Bob Daiber, with the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents, says the option to pay them from the Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax fund has stirred up a bit of controversy. "It's House Bill 3828, and some opponents are not for us being paid from that source of revenue in fear that it will be lost revenue", said Daiber. The 44-elected superintendents have been working for free for nearly four months. Governor Pat Quinn cut their salaries from the budget in an effort to save about ten-million dollars. Quinn wants the regional superintendents to be paid from the corporate personal property replacement taxes instead of from the state's operating budget. GFzVs
Ameren Encourages Customers To Inspect Heating Systems
Springfield, IL -- Winter weather is moving in and Ameren Illinois' Leigh Morris says now's the best time to protect yourself from potential heating dangers. "Every year, there's news stories about somebody getting sick or dying from carbon monoxide poisoning", said Morris. Morris says customers should have their heating systems inspected and serviced to avoid the danger. He says inspectors will make sure the system is operating at its peak efficiency. If it's not working properly, Morris says it could cost you more to heat your home. He encourages customers to replace the system if its going bad so they're not without heat during the coldest winter months. IG7ae
Monday, October 17, 2011
Marion County Sheriff's Office Asking for Help in Farm Thefts
The Marion County Sheriff's Office, along with Marion County Crime stoppers, is asking the public for help in solving several thefts of farm equipment over the past couple of weeks from throughout rural Marion County. The thefts include the following: -a red 21-foot Kewanee fold up disk, model # 1020, taken from Allen Road in rural Iuka on or around October 7th, 2011 -a 1983 John Deer 750 tractor w/ belly bush hog mower, a 20 horsepower Simplicity lawn mower, and an Allis Chalmers tractor with front end loader taken from a barn on Possum Trot Road in rural Alma on or around October 10th, 2011 -a black homemade from 4" steel pipe low boy trailer with fold over ramps, wood floor, tandem axle in rear and single axle in front, and one red wheel, taken from Keller Road in rural Iuka on or around October 13th, 2011 -a homemade 20 foot long green flatbed hay trailer with an orange frame taken from Seedhouse Road in rural Iuka on or around October 14th, 2011 -a 300 bushel capacity Kilbros grain wagon, hand painted pea green with a blue chassis, taken from Krutsinger Road in rural Kinmundy on or around October 15, 2011. Anyone with any information on these thefts is urges to call the Marion County Sheriff's Office at 548-2141 or Marion County Crime stoppers at 800-499-UTEL (8835). Callers are reminded that all calls to Crime stoppers are anonymous and confidential. Those with information leading to an arrest in these thefts may be eligible for a cash reward. Oag0a
Five New Casinos Coming To Illinois, Two In Chicago
Springfield, IL -- Five new casinos are coming to Illinois, including two near Chicago. "Having something that's honest all the time with proper oversight is very important to the city of Chicago and to all cities in Illinois. It's making sure you don't have excessive expansion. Chicago is not interested in that", said Quinn. Governor Pat Quinn announced today a new casino would be built in Chicago and one in southern Cook County. Quinn also rejected an expanded gambling bill, saying it was too "willy-nilly" and would over saturate the market. Other casinos will be built in Danville, Lake County and Rockford. There will not be any slot machines at city airports and the State Fair. BWILo
Combines Start Three Fires In Kinmundy-Alma Area, One Burns 40 Acres Of Crops
Combines are blamed for starting three fires in the Kinmundy-Alma Fire Protection District over the weekend. A Sunday fire ended up burning 20 acres of standing soybeans and another 20 acres of standing corn before being brought under control. Kinmundy-Alma Fire Chief Kevin Day says the fire began when Randy Engle was harvesting in a field off the Gray Road southeast of Kinmundy. The combine apparently picked up a piece of metal, creating sparks that started six fires along a half mile path. The wind fueled fire quickly moved to land farmed by Gary Conant, which sustained most of the damage. Day reports the combine escaped damage. Firemen were on the scene for about two and a half hours beginning around 2:20 Sunday afternoon. Farina Fireman provided mutual aide, bringing a pumper truck to the scene. The other two fires were late Friday afternoon. Some bean dust on a combine being driven by Gary Conant in a field off the Kinmundy Road in rural Alma caught fire due to a small fuel leak. There was no damage to the combine and the fire did not spread to the field. A combine on the Robb Farms off the Press Road north of Kinmundy received minor damage after picking up a piece of metal and causing sparks. The fire on the combine went out on its own. Several spot fires started in the field caused no serious damage. - http://goo.gl/o1bAx
Two Arrested On Methamphetamine Charges Following Separate Traffic Stops
Two people are in custody following separate Sunday night arrests on methamphetamine related charges. 41-year-old Lindle Tarlton of Marvin Street in Central City is being held in the Marion County Jail for alleged possession of methamphetamine and meth manufacturing. Centralia Police say they initially stopped Tarlton's vehicle for an expired registration. After the Centralia canine alerted on the car, police discovered a plastic bottle under the passenger seat with a clear liquid melting down lithium batteries. Police determined the bottle contained an active 'shake and bake' meth lab. At that point, the State Police Meth Lab response team was called. Centralia Police say the bottle contained 359 grams of liquid being cooked into meth. A 37-year-old Centralia man, Daniel Rivera of East Broadway, is in the Marion County Jail for alleged possession of methamphetamine under five grams, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving on a suspended license. Marion County Sheriff's Deputies say Rivera was initially stopped after learning his license was revoked. They allegedly found a flashlight with cannabis residue in the battery compartment and a metal container in Rivera's pocket that had a white residue that later tested positive for meth. Rivera told deputies he had used the methamphetamine in the bathroom at the Gas Mart on East McCord in Centralia after he spotted police watching him. Rivera said at the same time he placed a package with three grams of cannabis in his shoe that was recovered during the booking procedure. - http://goo.gl/Wz50B
Walnut Hill Motorcyclist Hurt in Crash
A 61-year-old Walnut Hill man was injured when his motorcycle crashed into the rear of a car on the Walnut Hill Road two miles west of Walnut Hill early Saturday night. State Police say Gerald Murphy was eastbound on the Walnut Hill Road behind a car driven by 21-year-old Joshua Telford of Walnut Hill. When Telford stopped quickly to avoid a deer, Murphy wasn't able to stop and struck Telford's vehicle in the rear. Murphy was taken to St. Mary's Hospital in Centralia for treatment of injuries. He was also ticketed for following too closely. Telford was not injured in the wreck that occurred at 7:05 Saturday evening. - http://goo.gl/AGvga
Marion County Police Beat for Monday, October 17th, 2011
Two people remain in the Marion County Jail following Sunday arrests on outstanding warrants. 40-year-old Michael Wheeler of East Nolen Road in Mt. Vernon is being held in lieu of $5,000 bond for failure to appear in court or pay fines on an outstanding possession of drug paraphernalia conviction. 54-year-old Kenneth Pokojski of Devonia Drive in Centralia was arrested by Centralia Police on an outstanding traffic warrant. 21-year-old Christopher Keech of Hillcrest Road in Salem posted 150-dollars bond and was released after being arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Deputies for driving on a revoked or suspended license. The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating the theft of a trailer taken from the Marlin Hanks residence on Krutsinger Road in rural Kinmundy. The trailer is owned by Linda Heistand of Perry Road in Alma. The sheriff's department also is investigating the theft of a deer stand. Curtis Black of South Perrine Street in Salem reported the deer stand was taken from a field off Omega Road in rural Kinmundy. - http://goo.gl/edoaU
Saturday Search For Jared Hanna Near Jolliff Bridge Road Northwest of Centralia Fails To Produce Any New Leads
Clinton County Sheriff's Department officials say a search of an area where personal items belonging to a missing Jerseyville man were found last Monday failed to turn up any new information on his whereabouts. 28-year-oldJared Hanna disappeared on July third after his truck apparently ran out of gas on the Jolliff Bridge Road northwest of Centralia. The personal items found Monday were located about a mile and a half closer to Centralia than where the truck was found. Clinton County Chief Deputy Mark Etter declined to discuss the items that were recovered, but says they had been positively identified as belonging to Hanna by his family members. He says the location and condition of the items did not give them any new information on what may have happened to Hanna. About 40 volunteers and cadaver dogs were involved in the search Saturday morning. Hanna is believed to have last been seen knocking on a door near where his truck ran out of gas asking for directions to the nearest town. He then headed east towards Centralia. Hanna is the father of two young children, ages 3 and six. He was last seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt and blue jeans. Hanna may have been wearing a black and white hat. He is five foot seven inches tall, weighs 195 pounds and had a buzz haircut. Anyone with information on Hanna's whereabouts is asked to contact the Clinton County Sheriff's Department at 594-4555. - http://goo.gl/XZjQK
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Belleville Boy Dies In Crash While Being Rushed To Hospital For Facial Injury
BELLEVILLE, Ill. (AP) - A 3-year-old Belleville boy has died in a crash of a minivan that was rushing him to a hospital for a face injury. The Belleville News-Democrat reports that Illinois State Police say Taiseer Noubani was ejected from the vehicle, driven by 23-year-old Lma Awwad of Belleville on Sunday afternoon. She told authorities she was traveling about 60 mph in the posted 45 mph zone near Belleville when she lost control of the vehicle. The boy had been riding on the lap of 18-year-old Mohammed Awwad, who was riding in the rear passenger seat. Neither the child nor the teenager was wearing a seat belt. State police say the child was ejected through a passenger window before the minivan came to rest on top of him. hVhC9
Hundreds Join Protests Against Corporate Greed in Springfield and Peoria
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Hundreds in Springfield and Peoria have joined the protest against corporate greed and economic disparities that began with the Occupy Wall Street movement in New York. About 300 protesters marched in downtown Springfield on Saturday to join a global day of demonstrations. The Occupy Springfield rally was peaceful and there were no arrests. One protester - 55-year-old Joe Feiden of Petersburg - told the (Springfield) State Journal-Register he was at the rally because corporations have too much political influence. Another 300 people staged a march Saturday in Peoria. The (Peoria) Journal-Star reports the group plans to rally every Saturday and may set up a permanent occupation in a park. The mostly liberal protesters included some supporters of Texas Republican Ron Paul, a favorite of libertarians. bqYBH
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Salem Area Emergency Providers Complete Drill To Test Their Preparedness
A Salem factory with a toxic chemical spill that sent a plumb of chemicals into the air over the west side of Salem that forced the closure of West Main Street and the evacuation of a number of west side businesses was the scenario for a drill for emergency service agencies Friday. The drill included use of the region's mobile command and communications vehicles. Salem Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Terry Mulvany says a drill is required every two years for the agency to keep its accreditation. "It gets everybody together number one. We had officials from the City of Salem and Marion County. We had the Regional Illinois EMA coordinator for Marion County here to assist me. It's just a time we work together, we call in state agencies to assist, the Mt. Vernon Fire Department haz mat team was here, the Robinson ITEC folks were hear with their trailer.We brought in people from outside Marion County area for this exercise to assist us," Mulvany said. Mulvany says it was an excellent drill and like all those before in his 32 years he learned something new. The agencies will sit down later to review how they did and look for ways to improve. Salem Fire Chief Roger Mann says they have a lot more resources as a result of the inflow of federal grants since 9-11. "We have a haz mat team in Centralia. We have a haz mat team in Mt. Vernon. They work together. They have both been credentialed with the state. They are credentialed to go anywhere in the state, or actually any where in the country where they might be needed," Mann explained."Through those grants people way above us in the federal government have decided to put this money down and filter it in different ways for people to pickup. We're really blessed." Mann says the mobile command vehicle can replace damaged facilities and the mobile communications vehicle, complete with its own radio tower, can replace damaged communications equipment and put all of those involved in handling an incident on a special frequency away from other traffic. He was impressed with the enthusiasm of the public safety agencies in attendance. Salem Police Sergeant Susan Miller, who also helped put together the drill, was also appreciative of all those who gave their time to prepare for an emergency situation. sFNDs
Mt. Vernon Trick-or-treating hours announced
Princesses, superheroes and maybe a Transformer or two will soon be heading into neighborhoods in search of candy.
Each village and town in Jefferson County has slightly different dates and times for Halloween trick-or-treating.
The city of Mt. Vernon will hold its trick-or-treat hours on Halloween, Oct. 31, from 5 to 8 p.m.
The village of Bonnie has not set a specific time for trick-or-treating at this time, according to personnel at the Bonnie Village Hall.
Bluford has no set trick-or-treating hours, but always holds trick-or-treating on Halloween night, according to personnel at the Bluford Village Hall.
The Village of Dix will hold its Halloween trick-or-treating hours at the same time as the city of Mt. Vernon — 5 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31. Those who wish to participate in handing out candy are asked to have their porch lights on.
The village of Ina will also have trick-or-treating from 5 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31.
Woodlawn’s trick-or-treating time will be on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Information about trick-or-treat times and dates for the villages of Belle Rive, Walnut Hill and Waltonville, as well as the city of Nason, was not immediately available.
In addition to going door-to-door, at least one community church plans to hold a trunk-or-treat, where people will decorate their trunks and costumed youngsters can go trunk-to-trunk instead of door-to-door.
First Methodist Church in downtown Mt. Vernon will hold its annual trunk-or-treat from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31, in the parking lot adjacent to the church and City Hall.
Church members will decorate their trunks and provide the candy, and the community is welcome to attend, said church personnel. CwUg9
Marion County Police Beat for Saturday, October 15th, 2011
Two people remain in the Marion County Jail following Friday arrests.17-year-old Donald DeClue Junior of South Wabash in Centralia was arrested by State Police for driving under the influence and possession of drug paraphernalia. 26-year-old David Shuler of North Walnut in Centralia is being held in lieu of $5,000 bond for failure to appear in court or pay on a burglary conviction. 20-year-old Timothy Bryan of Racetrack Road in Centralia posted $100 bond and was released after being arrested by Centralia Police for alleged domestic battery and resisting arrest. 22-year-old Nathan Foltz of Frazier Street in Centralia posted $100 after being arrested by State Police for alleged driving under the influence of drugs and possession of cannabis. 23-year-old Brendan Heffron of North Sycamore in Centralia posted $300 bond andwas released on an outstanding warrant for driving under the influence and a new charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. The Marion County Sheriff's Department has several burglaries and thefts under investigation. Michael Dirkner of North Beech Street in Centralia reported his shed broken into and several items missing. Vernon Quandt of Quandt Road reported a 20 foot long flat bed trailer was stolen from a barn on his farm. Quandt reported a boat that was on the trailer was pushed off. Thomas Greenwood of Loy Road in Kinmundy reported several car parts and tools were stolen from his yard. The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating something being thrown off the Nation Road overpass on Interstate 57 late Friday night. It damaged a semi driven by 30-year-old Jesus Mendez of Bolingbrook. However, he was not injured. 6icMq
Friday, October 14, 2011
New Evidence Found In Jared Hanna's Disappearance; New Search Set For Saturday
The Clinton County Sheriff's Department plans a new search for a missing Jerseyville man after new evidence was found this week. Chief Deputy Mark Etter says personal items belonging to 28-year-old Jared Hanna were discovered along Crooked Creek southwest of the Jolliff Bridge Road north of West McCord Street on the northwest side of Centralia. He reports the items were reported to the sheriff's department on Monday and later confirmed as belonging to Hanna by family members. Etter says several groups and cadaver dogs will join efforts on Saturday to search the area in hopes of coming up with more evidence about Hanna's disappearance on July third. He reports the department has adequate manpower and no additional volunteers are needed. Hanna's truck was found abandoned out of gas on the Jolliff Bridge Road about 2.5 miles northwest of Centralia. - http://goo.gl/LIHAC
Illinois Man Accused of Exposing Others to HIV
COLLINSVILLE, Ill. (AP) - A man infected with HIV, who claims Illinois and Missouri residency, has been charged with intentionally infecting other people. Patrick Wayne Gregory is charged with criminal transmission of HIV for knowing he is infected and not informing the person of the danger. Three counts of the same charge have been filed in St. Louis for acts Gregory committed between March 2010 and last month. Under Illinois and Missouri laws, victims do not have to become infected with the virus in order for charges to be filed. The 26-year-old Gregory, who was arrested in Collinsville, Is being held in lieu of $100,000 bond in the Madison County Jail. Assistant Police Chief Thomas Coppotelli said the charges are rarely filed. However, he says what Gregory was passing on is "a silent killer." - http://goo.gl/V0u8K
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Harvest Fest parade lineup announced
The parade lineup for Saturday's Southern Illinois Harvest Festival has been announced.
According to parade organizer Bonnie Jerdon, some entries may be missing from the lineup announced.
"With the Columbus Day holiday on Monday, I'm afraid some entries may not have gotten to us in the mail," Jerdon said. "If anyone isn't in this lineup and they sent in an entry, give us a call. It's not too late to be included."
Anyone whose parade entry is not included in the parade lineup should contact Jerdon at 242-3151.
The parade route will be from Seventh Street down Main Street to 10th Street, go down 10th Street to Broadway, then back down to Seventh Street. The parade begins at 2 p.m., and entries should line up at noon.
Those lining up on the south side of Main Street between Seventh and Eighth streets are:
Elks Lodge 819 with the 30 by 40 foot American flag
Mt. Vernon Police Chief Chris Mendenall
Mt. Vernon Mayor Mary Jane Chesley
Jefferson County Sheriff Roger Mulch
Mt. Vernon Fire Department Chief Jim Brown
Jefferson County Fire Protection District
Those lining up on the south side of Main Street between Sixth and Seventh streets are:
Mt. Vernon Township High School Marching Rams band
Southern Illinois Harvest Festival queens
Mister Spooky's Haunted Attraction
Amvets and Auxiliary Post 4
Those lining up on the north side of Main Street between Seventh and Eighth street are:
Heartland Young Marines
Rick's Towing
Fifth Third Bank
Shriners Widgets
Jefferson County Shrine Krazy Klowns
Those lining up on the north side of Main Street between Sixth and Seventh Street are:
Citizens for Sen. Dave Leuchtefeld
Circuit Clerk John Scott
State's Attorney Nicole Villani
Regional Superintendent of Schools Ron Daniels
County Treasurer Dan Knox
Jefferson County for Ron Paul
Those lining up on the east side of Seventh Street between Broadway and Main streets are:
Senior Saint Joyce Bardo
Senior Saint Sharon Bradford
Senior Saint Zack Greenwell
Senior Saint Hazel Heckler
Those lining up on the west side of Seventh Street between Broadway and Main streets are:
Senior Saint John Hicks
Senior Saint Dick Jones
Senior Saint Virgie Moore
Senior Saints Jean and Pat Rettig
Senior Saint Nancy Sodders
Those lining up on the east side of Seventh Street between Jordan and Broadway streets are:
Wayne City Marching Indians Grade and High School Band
Academy of Music and Dance (Affton Walden)
Southern Illinois Hope Pageant and Creative Modeling
Jefferson County Crime Stoppers
Community First Bank
Those lining up in the alley behind the Armory are:
JC Jets Inc.
VFW Post 9233
Pizza Pro
Those lining upon the south side of Jordan Street between Sixth and Seventh streets are:
Jefferson County 4-H
Mt. Vernon Health Care
Kunce Computers Inc.
First United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat
Those lining up on the south side of Jordan Street between Seventh and Eighth streets are:
Girl Scouts
Residential Living Center
Peoples National Bank
King City Theater Company
Jefferson County Relay for Life
Those lining up on the east side of Seventh Street between Casey Avenue and Jordan Street are:
Salem South Baptist Chainsaw Crew
Salem South Baptist Search and Rescue
Centre Stage Dance Studio
Christ Our Rock Lutheran High School
WVYN Radio
Those lining up on the south side of Casey Avenue between Seventh and Eighth streets are:
Dale's Harley Davidson
ABATE Southern Illinois Chapter
Little Caesars Pizza - http://goo.gl/iIwgv
Odin Man Arrested For Inhumane Care and Cruel Treatment Of Animals; 17 Dogs Seized
A 57-year-old rural Odin man has been arrested on an outstanding Marion County warrant for inhumane care of animals and cruel treatment of animals. Hank Henson of Delmar Avenue in the Royal Lakes area was taken into custody at his home Thursday morning after efforts to get him to give up all but five of his 17 dogs on Wednesday failed. Bond for Henson on the two misdemeanor charges was set at $50,000 by Judge Michael McHaney. Sheriff Jerry Devore says Veterinarian Dr. A.J. Sprague and Animal Control Officer Bobby Patton Juniornegotiated with Henson for two hours before talks ended and a report was sent to the State's Attorney's office that resulted in the arrest warrant being issued. If Henson is able to post bond, one of the conditions is he is not allowed to have any animals. Sprague and Patton began removing the dogs from Henson's home following his arrest. Devore says the investigation into Henson began in September following complaints from neighbors about the poor condition of some of the dogs, reports of some dogs dying in fights between them and the remains being eaten by other dogs. The sheriff reports Henson had been given until October third to get the dogs vaccinated, a deadline that was not met. In an effort to work out a compromise with Henson on Wednesday, Dr. Sprague had offered to spay, neuter and vaccinate the five dogs that Henson would have been allowed to keep at no cost. However, the offer was rejected. - http://goo.gl/ux5zw
Police Beat for Thursday, October 13th, 2011
A 25-year-old Salem man has been arrested by Salem Police for alleged felony theft. Jacob Dellinger of South College is accused of stealing wire from the CSX Railroad in the 500 block of West Songer. Police report a witness allegedly watched Dellinger load the wire into his vehicle. The vehicle was later spotted at Dellinger's home, where he was taken into custody. Police say the stolen wire, valued at over $500, was recovered. Dellinger is being held in the Marion County Jail pending a first court appearance. Salem Police arrested 33-year-old Gerardo Hernandez-Cruz of Salem for alleged disorderly conduct and on an immigration hold. Police report Hernandez-Cruz was standing in the one-thousand block of West Whitaker trying to a stop a woman who was leaving her driveway. When she returned, Hernandez-Cruz was standing in her driveway. She was able to pull in her garage and close the door. Hernandez-Cruz then allegedly began banging on the door. Police were called at that point and Hernandez-Cruz was arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail. 29-year-old Julie McPhail of South Lincoln in Centralia remains in jail after being arrested by Marion County Sheriff's Deputies for driving on a suspended license. Two others remain in jail on outstanding warrants. 20-year-old Cameron Jones of Jolliff Bridge Road in Centralia was arrested by Centralia Police on an outstanding felony warrant. 30-year-old Justin Heern of North James in Centralia was arrested by Centralia Police on an outstanding traffic warrant. Two others posted bond on outstanding warrants and were released. 20-year-old Audrea Shanafelt of Nancy Lane in Salem turned herself in on a warrant for failure to appear for possession of cannabis. She was released on $200 bond. 44-year-old Denise Dulaney of South Boles in Alma posted $600 bond on a Fayette County small claims case and was released. - http://goo.gl/0A9dP
New Winery Opens in Centralia Friday
A new winery officially opens for business on Raccoon Lake on the east side of Centralia Friday. The Roundhouse Wine Company at 1938 Dogwood Lane is owned by Jerry and Sheila Kapes. Sheila Kapes is excited about getting the three-quarter of a million dollar facility open. "We've been working towards this for ten years in an amateur way and since 2005 as a serious business venture," Kapes explained. Kapes says the Wine Company occupies a total of 12 acres. "We have three buildings. We have a tasting room and gift shop where we retail the wine. There's also enough room in there to seat about 60 people indoors and another 40 or so outdoors. We have our actual winery, ourproduction facility, where we willmake the wine. We also have an event pavilion we call The Trestle. It is for wedding receptionsand other parties. We can accommodate 200 indoors and a couple hundred more on our outdoor patios," Kapes said. Kapes says they currently have a half-acre of grape vines, which they plan to expand to two acres. For now, Roundhouse will buy only Illinois grown grapes from others. They will also feature wine from other wineries on the Heartland River Wine Trail. The winery will be open year round from 10 am to 6 pm seven days a week. Dogwood Lane is located east of Central City just off of Green Street Road. - http://goo.gl/hVrBm
Mt. Vernon Motorcyclist Receives Minor Injuries When Crashing Into Car
A 74-year-old Mt. Vernon man received apparent minor injuries when his motorcycle crashed into the rear of a car stopped to make a left turn from Wells By Pass onto Veterans Drive just outside of Mt. Vernon Wednesday afternoon. State Police say Donald Hefner was taken to Crossroads Hospital in Mt. Vernon for treatment. He was ticketed for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. The driver of the car, 31-year-old Erica Robison of Mt. Vernon, and two passengers in her vehicle escaped injury. - http://goo.gl/QN2Y7
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Tennessee Couple Charged in Illinois in Alleged Abduction
LINCOLN, Ill. (AP) - A Tennessee couple is jailed in Illinois after the abduction of a 14-year-old girl police say they met through Facebook. Logan County State's Attorney Michael McIntosh said Wednesday that 30-year-old Jarrod S. Sanford and 21-year-old Jessica M. Lidy are initially charged with human trafficking, child abduction, involuntary servitude of a child after their arrests Friday in Lincoln. The town is 35 miles northeast of Springfield. McIntosh said the couple have not appeared in court and do not have attorneys. Police say they are from Friendship, Tennessee. Investigators say the girl is safe after being returned to her family in Tennessee. Police say they arrested the couple after getting a call from a restaurant about a girl being held against her will. Police said the girl met Lidy through Facebook. NlAfj
Cruise Night winners announced
MT. VERNON — Winners of the Downtown Mt. Vernon Development Corporation Cruise Night have been announced.
The event, which took place on Saturday in downtown Mt. Vernon, brought in crowds of spectators as well as a record number of entries.
In the truck category, sponsored by St. Mary's Good Samaritan Hospital, Richard Briesacher took top honors with a F-100.
The Mopar award, sponsored by Walgreens, was presented to Rex Briesacher for his Dodge Super Bee.
Best Import, sponsored by Dish on the Square, went to Bill Schulte and his 1971 Morgan 4/4.
The Best Motorcycle award, sponsored by Cusumano and Sons went to Daniel Ricklefs.
Best Chevy Award, sponsored by 9th Street Grill, was the Chevy Classic Sports Sedan 1957, owned by Herman Rawles.
Best Ford Award honors, sponsored by Hughey Funeral Home went to Jerry Jones for his 1940 Ford.
The Best GM, sponsored by Community First Bank, went to Jim Jackson for his 1959 Corvette. - http://goo.gl/06FwK
Marion County Police Beat for Wednesday, October 12th, 2011
Three people remain in the Marion County Jail following Tuesday arrests. 24-year-old Jeremy Shered of East Kell Street in Centralia is being held for alleged criminal damage to property. Shered was arrested after allegedly kicking two dents into a car owned by Marilyn Scott of East Rasback. The incident reportedly happened during a domestic problem on North Lincoln Street in Centralia. 23-year-old Megan Neff of North Morrison in Central City is being held on a drug court sanction. 18-year-old Brandon Marcum of Dawley Street in Salem remains in jail after being arrested by Salem Police for failure to appear in court on a curfew violation. The Marion County Sheriff's Department is investigating burglaries to three vehicles parked at a home in the 12-hundred block of North Gary Street in Centralia. Scott Kendall, Amy Kendall and Kermit Stinde reported lose change, a few dollar bills and old CD's taken from their vehicles. The burglaries were reported at 7:45 Tuesday morning. Gary Martin of the 1100 block of North Beech in Centralia told the sheriff's department a person burglarizing his car was apparently startled and left without closing the door or taking several items that had been moved inside the car. The only items reported missing were a couple CDs. The sheriff's department is also investigating a tractor stolen from Harold Herman of Susan Street in Salem. Rebecca White of the 2100 block of State Route 161 in Centralia reported several Halloween decorations were stolen from her property. - http://goo.gl/wwTmF
Illinois Associated Fire Fighters State Case to Centralia City Council
There was a large crowd at the Centralia City Council meeting Tuesday evening. Firefighters and paramedics came to the meeting protesting comments that were made during a finance committee meeting last month. Councilman David Sauer made a broad recommendation about closing one of the fire stations as a way for the city to reduce the budget deficit. District Three Vice President Adam Ruderman addressed the council over the situation. He says the comments made have been a great concern for firefighters and community members. "When it comes to persuading the community with the premise that if the firefighters don't make concessions during negotiations that the community will suffer the loss of a fire station is ludicrous. This type of progressive thinking is what will make a progressive community lose any prospect of new growth through a decline of services and business development", said Ruderman. Rudermansays he understands the economic situation across the state, but says there are other ways to maintain services without having cuts and closures. He says there is a long road ahead, and at the end of the day, it's the cost of doing business. Centralia Mayor Tom Ashby also addressed the audience as well, saying that there has been rumors that the budget deficit has been made up. He says the finance committee was made for a reason, and it wasn't made for the reason of laying off employees or eliminating positions, but for the reason of economics. "This is not about attacking one type of person or individual; this is about trying to make a city operate on January 1st. It's not that we don't think the expertise of any individual, whether they work on the street or in the police or fire department, they are all paid professionals, and they do an excellent job. It's just whether we can afford the level", said Ashby. Ashby says he welcomes any recommendations from any of the departments, but he states he will not support raising taxes and rates, saying it has killed the growth of the town. Councilman Sauer says there have been public meetings over the budget crisis, but no one has shown up to them. He states something has to be done. "It's my guarantee that if things don't change, we will not meet payroll in January or February of 2012. These are not things that we have been making up; these are things that we have been talking about in public meetings in the last ten public meetings where no one shows up", said Sauer. Mayor Ashby says he plans to have a work session opened to the public over the budget deficit within the next two weeks. The finance committee only gives broad recommendations to the council. The City Council has final approval on all financial recommendations - http://goo.gl/85Xyv
Illinois' Debt Rises, Credit Rating Declines, Citizens Paying More in Interest
CHICAGO-A new report shows Illinois citizens how much the state owes in debts and the dangers from it. U.S. Republican Senator Mark Kirk today released the Report on Illinois Debt. The report shows that the state owes over $30 billion on top of unpaid bills. The state's unpaid bills have totaled $8.3 billion. Health and pension obligations have totaled over $140 billion. Illinois has payed almost $3 billion in interest on the money already borrowed annually. Prospects for repayment are difficult. Illinois lost over 190,000 jobs since January 2001. The City of Chicago lost over 200,000 people during the same period. Illinois citizens face higher taxes and larger debts because so many of their fellow citizens have moved to other, more fiscally responsible states. The State lost over 85,000 net taxpayers between 1995 and 2007 to neighboring states. Taxpayer flight between 1995 and 2007 cost Illinois an estimated $2.4 billion in tax revenue. Most people have went to Wisconsin and Indiana. The people of Illinois owes twice as much to the state as people in Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri, and three times more than people in Wisconsin and Michigan. While Illinois is an American state with substantially stronger institutions than Europe, its debt load per person is higher than for citizens in Spain, Portugal, Ireland, or Greece. According to the report, the state of Illinois has the lowest credit rating in the nation, classified as a A1 rating. Bordering states such as Indiana and Iowa have the highest credit ratings in the nation, classified as a triple-a rating. Because Illinois has such a poor credit rating, local governments must pay higher interest rates than similar communities in better-run states. The report was prepared in consultation with Senator Kirk's Sovereign Debt Advisory Board, chaired by financial expert Henry Feinberg. - http://goo.gl/WOUk1
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Country Bob's New Facility To Expand Operations
Country Bob's in Centralia is preparing to expands operations by moving to a new facility. Spokesperson Reed Malkovic says the new facility will be located about three miles south of Centralia on U.S. Highway 51 in the new Principle Meridian Business Park. Malkovic says it was time to grow. "We've just had steady growth over the last five to six years, and we're just running out of room in our current building", said Malkovic. Country Bob's is currently located at Second and Lincoln Street. The current facility has 20,000 square feet. The new facility on U.S. 51 will have 35,000 square feet, and will create an additional two-to-five jobs along with retaining 14 current jobs. Malkovic says they will break ground next spring and expect to have the building completed next fall. Country Bob's makes all purpose sauce, seasoned salts, and barbecue sauce. - http://goo.gl/C6KqQ
Fall Harvest Moves Into Full Swing; Yields Down From Last Year
The fall harvest has moved into full swing across South Central Illinois. It appears the harvest across northern Marion County is better than in the Centralia area which received less rainfall during the latter part of the growing season. Russell Vandeveer of Natures Acres north of Salem says all the corn is ready to come out of the field and many bean fields are ready for harvest as well. "So far itlooks likeeveryone is working ontrying to getthe corn crop harvested and they have done it with a pretty rapid pace with the nice weather we've hadthe last week. I think people are now getting into the soybean harvest also and it's going to slow up the corn pace a little bit because people are going to switch and try and get their soybeans out," Vandeveer said. "If it does happen to rain, it would probably be a little bit of a blessing because itis gettingpretty dry and I've noticethere have been several combine fires." Vandeveer is averaging 35 to 45 bushels an acre for soybeans and 125 to 135 bushels per acre for corn. That's down 10 to 15 bushels per acre for soybeans and 25 to 50 bushels per acre for corn from last year's near perfect weather and record crop. Considering the dry weather the second half of summer, Vandeveer is happy with the results. The harvest numbers aren't as good in the Centralia area, where Larry Juenger at the Maco Elevator shares some early yield results. "Beans are averaging 33 to 35 bushelsan acre, which most of my growers are happy withthat considering the conditions. The corn, we've gotten in 110 to 120 bushels per acre. We knew going in the corn was going to be a disappointment, so that is pretty well what we expected," Juenger said. Both Juenger and Vandeveer say there is still plenty of time to complete the harvest. - http://goo.gl/ggNRn
Three-Year-Old Chicago Girl Killed In Effingham County Wreck
A three-year-old Chicago girl has died in a single vehicle wreck on Interstate 57 in Effingham County that sent eight other Chicago area residents to the hospital for treatment. State Police say Kendall McDonald was pronounced dead on the scene. The driver of the SUV, 42-year-old Muriel Davis-McDonald, was traveling northbound on I-57 just south of the Effingham-Shelby County line when she left the roadway, overcorrected, lost control, rolled over, and came to rest in the roadway ditch. Davis-McDonald was taken to St. John's Hospital in Springfield, while seven others were transported to Carle Hospital in Champaign. State Police report only the driver and one seven-year-old passenger were wearing seatbelts. The wreck occurred at 7:32 Monday morning. - http://goo.gl/0xcFF
Marion County Police Beat for Tuesday, October 11th, 2011
Two people remain in the Marion County Jail following drug related arrests by Centralia Police. 27-year-old Melia Welch of West North Avenue in Bluford is being held for possession of a controlled substance. 21-year-old Odell Wright of Jackson Street in Centraliais being held for possession of less than ten grams of cannabis. 56-year-old Paul Lewis of North Kell in Centralia was arrested by Sandoval Police for alleged disorderly conduct. 35-year-old Jennifer Harpool of Ash Street in Edgewood posted $600 bond after being arrested on an Effingham County small claims warrant. The Marion County Sheriff's Department has two burglaries under investigation. James LeBeau of Centralia reported a barn on his mother's property on the Possum Trot Road in rural Alma was broken into. A new tractor and brush hog are reported missing. Ubia Benjamin of Jeff Road in Walnut Hill reported her home was burglarized over the weekend. - http://goo.gl/gb3cj
Monday, October 10, 2011
Marion County Police Beat for Monday, October 10th, 2011
A 29-year-old Centralia man is being held in the Clinton County Jail for alleged robbery and domestic battery. Cesar Munoz is accused of going to the Clarissa Glass home on Dover Street and knocking Glass down and physically taking her cell phone. Centralia Police say Munoz claimed Glass owed him money, leading to the altercation. A 25-year-old Centralia man has been arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail by Centralia Police for alleged aggravated domestic battery and felony criminal damage to property. Centralia Police say Eddie Armstrong of East 5th went to the Kimberly Burton home on Saddler Street. When she didn't answer the door, Armstrong allegedly broke out the windows in her car. Once Burton came out of her home, Armstrong allegedly began choking her. Salem Police arrested a 21-year-old Salem man on multiple charges following a traffic stop on his motorcycle early Monday morning. Christopher Keech of Hillcrest Drive was arrested for alleged driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a controlled substance and cannabis and driving on a suspended license. - http://goo.gl/uVhW0
MVTHS updates attendance policy
Mt. Vernon Township High School has updated its attendance policy in the wake of new state truancy guidelines.
"We can't carry out our mission without students in school," said Principal Wes Olson. "We want them to meet their fullest potential."
MVTHS has set a goal of raising attendance 2 percent in response to the changes in the Illinois School Code that went into effect at the beginning of the new school year, which allow students to miss only nine days unexcused rather than 18.
Olson said he expects the new system to result in 90 percent of students accruing less than five unexcused absences, with another 5 percent between three and eight and the remaining 5 percent over the limit of nine.
"Through a framework which provides three tiers of support to our students and families (prevention, early intervention and more intense intervention strategies), the 2011-12 Attendance Plan will assist our students in being successful," information states. "It will take the entire community to support the importance of education and the need for students to be at school every day."
Olson said a fundamental part of the new plan is to hold accountable four groups: school personnel, students, parents and the community.
According to information provided by the school, expectations for students include planning appointments outside school hours and coming to school with minor illnesses rather than staying home; for school personnel, educating the medical community on the attendance plan and reducing out-of-school suspension for tardies and other minor offenses; for the community, providing incentives to be given to students with good attendance, such as iPods, and creating and hanging posters about the policy; and for parents, making sure their children get an adequate amount of sleep and planning vacations around school times.
"This can make a real difference in your child's life. You just have to get them here," Olson said.
Action steps for preventing truancy have toughened up as well: the first day of truancy results in a letter to the student's parent; the second, a call home and five days of social suspension; and the third, a call and/or home visit from school social workers to create a plan for the child. Steps increase in severity until all the student's days are exhausted. - http://goo.gl/eHOVY
Salem Recycling Center To Be Closed All Week Following Arson Fire
Keep Salem Beautiful Coordinator Jane Marshall says the city's recycling center on the county's parking lot off North Broadway and Schwartz Street will be closed this week following an early Monday morning fire. Marshall says the trailer housing the recycling containers is being aired out and will have to be power washed before it is put back into service. Salem Police noticed the fire shortly before two am and called the fire department. Firemen say the cardboard inside the metal trailer that houses the recycling center had been set on fire. The blaze destroyed some of the plastic containers housing the recycled materials and scorched some of the outside paint. No one was seen around the center before the fire was discovered. Salem Police and Fire officials are investigating. Marshall says she's frustrated with the action, but says the recycling center will return. She notes all of the recycled materials that were in the bins will have to be thrown out because it is contaminated with the smoke smell. - http://goo.gl/aSny3