Officials at Northern Illinois University say the FBI has searched the campus police station.

FBI spokeswoman Joan Hyde said Wednesday that agents and officers executed a search warrant at the campus, but offered no details. NIU spokesman Joe King said authorities were at the campus police station but declined to elaborate. The FBI says the search warrant is part of "an ongoing criminal investigation" including Illinois State Police, the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

In February a DeKalb County grand jury indicted a former NIU police officer of sexual assault. The indictment follows last month's firing of former NIU Police Chief Donald Grady for the mishandling of evidence in the initial sexual assault case. There is no confirmation Wednesday's search warrant was related.

State reps are preparing for a debate on medical marijuana. Representative Lou Lang says allowing sick people to use the drug will cut down on a lot of headaches.

[audio:rddMedMary1.mp3] [/audio]

Rep. Lang says the latest bill would allow some sick people to buy two-and-a-half ounces of marijuana every 14-days

[audio:rddMedMary2.mp3] [/audio]

Lang hasn't been able to get enough votes in previous years to pass the proposal. But, he says he hopes to convince the new state reps that this is an important issue. A House committee passed the bill with bi-partisan support.

Gov. Pat Quinn says that any state revenue from gambling should go toward education.

Quinn delivered a budget address on Wednesday that includes $400 million in cuts for schools.

But Quinn says any new gambling legislation must have ethical protections.

Quinn has vetoed two gambling expansions that lawmakers have sent him. Both bills proposed nearly half a dozen new casinos in the state, including one in Chicago.

Quinn is calling for a ban on contributions from the gambling industry, but lawmakers haven't been thrilled about it.

The Senate's executive committee was scheduled to look at another possible gambling expansion later Wednesday.

Governor Quinn says more gambling could bring in much needed money for the state, but he says he won't sign a bill unless it protects people from organized crime.

[audio:rddMobster1.mp3] [/audio]

Governor Quinn says he'll back a gambling bill, but only if it takes steps to keep mobsters out of the state. Lawmakers laugh at the suggestion that the mob might take over in Illinois. State Rep Lou Lang explains why.

[audio:rddMobster2.mp3] [/audio]

The senate acted quickly on a new gaming bill after hearing Quinn would support it. The new bill would ban political contributions by anyone who has a gambling license. It passed out of committee just hours after Quinn's budget address, and could get a vote on the senate floor as early as today.

U.S. home prices jumped in January, a sign the housing market is gaining momentum as it nears the spring selling season.

CoreLogic, a real estate data provider, says home prices rose 9.7% in January from a year earlier. That's up from an 8.3% increase in December and the biggest annual gain since April 2006. Prices rose in all states except Delaware and Illinois.

Home prices also rose 0.7% in January from December. That's a solid increase given that sales usually slow over the winter months.

Sales of previously owned homes ticked up in January after rising to their highest level in five years in 2012, according to the National Association of Realtors. At the same time, inventories of homes for sale fell to a 13-year low.

Republican venture capitalist Bruce Rauner is moving closer to running for Illinois governor in 2014.

In a press release Tuesday, Rauner says he's forming an exploratory committee to consider a bid. He's also launching a 60-day statewide tour to hear from Illinois citizens and gauge their interest in his candidacy.

An Illinois native, Rauner says it's "heartbreaking" to see the mess the state is in. He says he's considering running for governor because Illinois needs change.

Rauner was 1 of the early partners in the investment company Golder, Thoma, Cressey, later known as GTCR. He's also been active in the charter school movement.

He's never run for public office. But he has the financial means and connections to fund a serious campaign.

After pummeling the nation's midsection with heavy snow, a late-winter storm is converging on the nation's capital.

Mid-Atlantic residents are bracing for snarled traffic, power outages, and school and government shutdowns.

The National Weather Service is predicting snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches in the Washington area and up to 21 inches in the Virginia mountains by Wednesday night.

The storm had dumped nearly 10 inches of snow on Chicago. Schools were closed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois, and more than 1,100 flights were cancelled at Chicago's two major airports, prompting delays and closures at others, including in Washington.

A semi-trailer slid off a snow-covered interstate in western Wisconsin, killing one person. The search for a second person, believed to be a passenger, was suspended overnight.

The House is moving to ban certain types of assault weapons in Illinois but State Representative Brandon Phelps isn't happy about it.

[audio:rddAssaultBan1.mp3] [/audio]

Police officers would still be able to carry assault weapons if they're banned in the state, under a new proposal. But Rep. Phelps tells Representative Ed Acevedo that's just not right

[audio:rddAssaultBan2.mp3] [/audio]

State Rep Frank Mautino doesn't like the bill because he says one amendment could send those who already own guns to prison.

[audio:rddAssaultBan3.mp3] [/audio]

Mitchell Uzis, Beretta AR-70's, Tec-9's, Glock 19's, Ruger 1022's, and assault rifles with detachable magazines are among those that could be banned. One amendment would allow people who already own the guns to keep them, but they'd have to register them with the state police. State reps voted up or down on several amendments to create the bill, some of the amendments contradict others but the idea is to gauge what does and doesn't have support. None of the amendments got 60 votes. That's what would be needed to pass the actual bill.

The owner of the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars will be the speaker at this spring's commencement ceremonies at the University of Illinois.

Shahid Khan is a 1971 graduate of the university's Engineering School. The native of Pakistan also owns the Urbana-based Flex-N-Gate Corporation and lives in the city.

University spokeswoman Robin Kaler says Kahn came to the university in 1967 without much more than his admission letter and a place to stay at the local YMCA.

Khan and his wife, Ann Carlson Khan, have also been major donors to the university. Their donations have, among other things, financed the school's tennis complex.

Graduation ceremonies will be held May 12.

More details have been released on a house fire in Clinton Tuesday evening.

At approximately 6:20 pm, Clinton Fire Fighters were called to a house fire at 205 South Elm Street in Clinton. Clinton Fire Chief Shawn Milton says the cause of the fire is still undetermined, as the State Fire Marshall's Office will be investigating.

[audio:3713housefire1.mp3] [/audio]

Along with three rigs from the Clinton Fire Department, fire fighters were called in from Kenny, Maroa, and Wapella. Crews were on the scene over five hours. Chief Milton says the snow fall from Tuesday did not hinder their efforts, but the windy conditions did.

[audio:3713housefire2.mp3] [/audio]

Crews left the scene around midnight but were called back again this morning for a smoldering mattress.

Chief Milton says the second floor of the home was a complete loss.

Less than two weeks ago, crews were called in to battle a home blaze that left a Clinton home in a total loss. Chief Milton says he is not seeing any trends in the cause of the fires.

Tax Season is here and you might have several questions if you are a beneficiary of Social Security.

There is a list of several items that everyone should know regarding how Social Security pertains to taxes. Jack Myers, with Social Security, says one of those issues is in regards to whether Social Security benefits are taxable. Myers says one-third of people usually end up paying taxes on their benefits.

[audio:3613taxes1.mp3] [/audio]

Another big issue is beneficiaries wondering how much money one has to claim from Social Security benefits. Myers explains a record of what is recieved from Social Security should come in the mail. Those records can be turned over to your tax advisor as information they will need when you file.

[audio:3613taxes2.mp3] [/audio]

Another issue addresses young families who have just had a baby. For parents wanting to put their child on a tax return as dependent, Myers says they must have a Social Security number. He explains there are other steps that need to be taken as well.

[audio:3613taxes3.mp3] [/audio]

Myers adds it's also important to have your name updated if it has been changed due to marriage or other reasons.

For information regarding all of these issues, you visit Social Security's website at www.socialsecurity.gov or contact your local Social Security.

Over the past few months, school districts have shifted their focus to better security in their schools.

Monticello Schools battle keeping their campus secured as they have four out of five buildings were built before 1924. Superintendent Dr. Vic Zimmerman says the tragedy of Newtown, CT showed no matter how much security a school has, a person who has no value for life can be difficult to stop.

[audio:3613montsecurity1.mp3] [/audio]

Monticello's challenge to keep their older buildings up-to-date with security has not been much of a problem. Dr. Zimmerman explains they've had to retro-fit their doors with security. He says they do a good job of keeping the buildings secure.

[audio:3613montsecurity2.mp3] [/audio]

Shortly after the Newtown, CT tragedy, schools around Illinois and the country began discussing having armed security in and around the school, some school administrators even discussed arming their school's administrators. Dr. Zimmerman feels that's more of a knee-jerk reaction to something that could come at a steep cost.

[audio:3613montsecurity3.mp3] [/audio]

Dr. Zimmerman says they are going to a system that locks all their doors. He says anyone wanting to enter will have to be buzzed in through a security system with video that feeds back to the office. He says for districts with older buildings, the system is pretty common.

>>Blackhawks Extend Points Streak

The Chicago Blackhawks set a franchise record with their 10th consecutive victory and extended their points streak to 29 games with a 5-3 win against the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday night.

Bryan Bickell scored twice in the first period and Patrick Kane added a big goal in the third as Chicago (20-0-3) remained the only team in the NHL without a regulation loss. It also snapped a tie with the 1977-78 Montreal Canadiens for the second-longest points streak in league history.

Ryan Suter scored his first goal with Minnesota, sending a power-play slap shot past a screened Corey Crawford in the third period. Kyle Brodziak then poked his own rebound to get the Wild within one at 10:32. But Kane beat Darcy Kuemper just 61 seconds later.

Brandon Saad had a goal and two assists for the Blackhawks, who host the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday night.

>>Kings Outgun Blues

(Los Angeles, CA) -- The Kings scored five unanswered goals, four in the third period and one in the second, to earn a 6-4 victory over the Blues. Mike Richards, Jake Muzzin [[ MUZ-in ]], Jeff Carter and Anze Kopitar [[ AHN-jay KOE-pih-tar ]] tallied the goals in the final period. It was the second time Muzzin hit the the back of the net in the game. Jonathan Bernier allowed three goals on eight shots and got pulled in favor Jonathan Quick. Quick saved five of the six shots he faced for the Kings, who improved to 12-7-and-2. St. Louis extended its lead in the second period on goals off the sticks of David Perron and Chris Stewart. Jaroslav Halak [[ YAR-oh-slahv huh-LOCK ]] was pulled in the third period for giving up five goals on 21 shots, while Brian Elliot gave up a goal on eight shots in relief. The Blues are 11-9-2.

NHL
------
Tampa Bay Lightning 5, New Jersey Devils 2
New York Islanders 6, Montreal Canadiens 3
Washington Capitals 4, Boston Bruins 3 (OT)
Carolina Hurricanes 4, Buffalo Sabres 3
Columbus Blue Jackets 4, Edmonton Oilers 3 (SO)
New York Rangers 4, Philadelphia Flyers 2
Florida Panthers 4, Winnipeg Jets 1
Detroit Red Wings 2, Colorado Avalanche 1
San Jose Sharks 3, Vancouver Canucks 2 (SO)

The ballot for the 2013 College Football Hall of Fame is out.  Heisman Trophy winners Vinny Testaverde, Ron Dayne, Danny Wuerffel and Eric Crouch are among the 77 players up for election.  Other notable names on the ballot include Brian Bosworth, Eric Dickerson, Kirk Gibson, Rocket Ismail, Orlando Pace, Antwaan Randle El, Sterling Sharpe, Derrick Thomas and LaDainian Tomlinson.  Colorado's Bill McCartney is one of five coaches also on the ballot.  The 2013 Hall of Fame Class will be announced on May 7th.  Induction ceremonies are slated for December 10th in New York.

>>Team USA Ties White Sox In Exhibition

(Glendale, AZ) -- Team USA opened exhibition play with a 4-4 tie against the Chicago White Sox Tuesday as it gears up for this week's opening round of the World Baseball Classic in Arizona. The Marlins' Giancarlo Stanton drove in three runs and the Brewers' Ryan Braun went 3-for-4 for the U.S, which overcame an early 4-0 deficit to salvage the tie. Rangers pitcher Derek Holland allowed one run in three innings as the starter. Paul Konerko and Gordon Beckham each went 3-for-3 with an RBI for Chicago. The U.S. lost first baseman Mark Teixeira [[ tuh-SHARE-uh ]] of the Yankees to a strained forearm in batting practice. Team USA plays an exhibition against Colorado tonight. The U.S. opens WBC play Friday against Mexico.

>>Konerko Could Join Team USA

(Phoenix, AZ) -- White Sox first baseman could be joining Team USA for the World Baseball Classic. U.S. first baseman Mark Teixeira of the New York Yankees withdrew yesterday with a wrist injury. Konerko, along with Prince Fielder of the Detroit Tigers and Ryan Howard of the Philadelphia Phillies,are being considered as replacements.

The Bulls wrap up their brief two-game road trip tonight in San Antonio when they meet the Spurs. Chicago lost at Indiana on Sunday, snapping a two-game winning streak. The setback dropped the Bulls to 34-and-26, which is good for a tie for fourth in the Eastern Conference. The Spurs hold the NBA's best record at 47-and-14. Tip off is at 8:00.

NBA
------
Boston Celtics 109, Philadelphia 76ers 101
Oklahoma City Thunder 122, Los Angeles Lakers 105
Denver Nuggets 120, Sacramento Kings 113

Devyn Marble scored 21 points and Iowa beat Illinois 63-55 on Tuesday night for its fifth win in seven games.

Josh Oglesby added 10 for the surging Hawkeyes (19-11, 8-9 Big Ten). They tied a school record with 12 blocked shots, including six from Gabe Olaseni off the bench.

Oglesby buried back-to-back 3-pointers to turn a 2-point lead into a 54-46 cushion with 3:19 left. D.J. Richardson then missed a dunk and Marble followed with a 3-point play that put Iowa ahead by 11 with 1:39 to go.

Brandon Paul had 18 points to lead Illinois (21-10, 8-9), which lost for just the second time in eight games. The Illini shot just 28.6% from the field.

NCAA Top-25 Men's Basketball ("USA Today" Rankings)
------
#13 Ohio State Buckeyes 67, #2 Indiana Hoosiers 58
#4 Duke Blue Devils 85, Virginia Tech Hokies 57
#10 Kansas State Wildcats 79, TCU Horned Frogs 68
#17 Marquette Golden Eagles 60, Rutgers Scarlet Knights 54
#20 Memphis Tigers 56, UTEP Miners 54
#24 Notre Dame Fighting Irish 66, St. John's Red Storm 40

Some IHSA Boys Basketball Sectional and Super-Sectional matchups were postponed Tuesday due to the weather, and some played through it. Here is a rundown.

Class 1A

At Carbondale (SIU) Super Sectional

Nokomis 57 F-OT
Gallatin County 54

At Normal (ISU) Super Sectional

Cissna Park 7:30pm
Illini Central

Due to weather, the game will be played on Wednesday, March 6th, at 7:30

Class 2A

At Carbondale (SIU) Super Sectional

Teutopolis 66
Harrisburg 77

At Springfield (UIS) SUPER-SECTIONAL

Riverton 7:30pm
St. Joseph-Ogden

Due to weather, tonight's game has been moved to Wednesday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Class 3A

At Mt. Zion

Taylorville 7:30pm
Champaign Centennial

The Taylorville vs. Champaign Centennial game in the Mt. Zion Sectional has been postponed until today at 7:30 due to weather. The Chatham vs. Lincoln game will now be played on Thursday at 7:30. The Championship game will be played Friday at 7:30.

Class 4A

At Pekin
SECTIONAL SEMIFINAL
Normal West 55
Rock Island 63

March 5, 2013

Jail Population: 64

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 9:50 pm on 3/5/13 revealed that Joshua Mcquaid, 18, Farmer City, was traveling westbound on State Route 54 west of Birbeck Road when his vehicle skidded on the snow covered roadway into the south side ditch. Upon entering the ditch Mcquaid hit a guard rail end. As a result of the impact the vehicle sustained major damage to its passenger side. The vehicle was towed out of the ditch where it was ultimately driven from the scene. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 9:32 pm on 3/5/13 revealed that Kathryn Sherman, 20, Clinton, was traveling northbound on US Highway 51 just south of County Highway 11 when she lost control on the icy roadway. Sherman traveled into the snow covered median colliding with the ditch embankment. The vehicle sustained minor damage to the front bumper and possibly sustained damage to the undercarriage. Sherman was not injured as a result of the collision with the embankment. The vehicle was towed from the ditch, it was driven away from the scene.

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

Gov. Pat Quinn says the state budget he'll present this week will be "hard and difficult" because of Illinois' massive pension debt.

The Democrat told reporters Monday he has to lay out the facts for the lawmakers to see the strain Illinois' nearly $100 billion in unfunded liability is going to affect other areas. He says that includes education.

Quinn gives his budget address Wednesday.

His administration has already projected a cut of about $400 million to education.

Quinn says the agreement reached with the state's largest union last week is a good step forward.

After 15 months at the bargaining table, Quinn's administration and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees reached an agreement where workers will pay more of their health costs.

Governor Quinn says no to new gambling in Illinois.  He vetoed a bill that would’ve allowed for five new casinos, plus slot machines at racetracks across the state.  He says the bill is flawed because it doesn’t have enough control on gaming lobbyists.  Quinn wants lawmakers to ban lobbyists from giving campaign contributions.  He says such a ban will keep corruption out of the gaming industry.  He also doesn’t like the idea of slots at racetracks, because families go there with their young kids.  Quinn says he isn’t opposed to more gaming, but urges lawmakers to work with him to come up with something more reasonable.

Illinois' two U.S. senators - Democrat Dick Durbin and Republican Mark Kirk - say they and other senators will introduce a bill to crack down on gun trafficking and straw purchasing.

In a news release, they announced Monday the Stop Illegal Trafficking in Firearms Act of 2013 will be considered Thursday by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill combines legislation Durbin and U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy introduced to crack down on those buying guns legally to provide them to those who can't legally own them and anti-gun trafficking legislation Kirk and New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand have introduced. Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins is also a sponsor.

Durbin says the bill would create the first specific prohibitions in federal law to deter straw purchasing or gun trafficking.

The National Weather Service says a winter storm could bring up to 10 inches of snow to northern Illinois.

The weather service has issued a winter storm warning that starts at 3 a.m. Tuesday and lasts throughout the day. Forecasters say snow is expected to be heavy from late Tuesday morning through early Tuesday evening with 1 to 1 ½ inches falling an hour. Weather service officials say snow removal could be difficult and travel extremely dangerous. Winds are forecast to gust at between 25 and 30 mph.

The storm also is expected in central Illinois, where snow, rain and sleet are expected. Accumulations are forecast at between 3 and 5 inches along and north of Interstate 74.

Forecasters say up to 8 inches of snow could accumulate in Chicago.

One local school district's long term facilities improvement plans are nearly ready to begin planning the next step.

Maroa-Forsyth School are finishing the first of a four-phase facility improvement plan. The first phase included the upgrades to the schools football and track fields, and Superintendent of Maroa-Forsyth Schools, Mike Williams says the phase also saw a new greenhouse for the district get put up as well. He says the track needs some minor work still, otherwise, phase one is complete.

[audio:3513facility1.mp3] [/audio]

Phase two of the four-phase plan is most likely not going to get underway for another three to four years according to Williams. He says the next phase is expansion of the high school. He notes the class sizes are dictating the need for expansion.

[audio:3513facility2.mp3] [/audio]

The building plans were designed with expansion in mind. Williams explains there is property to the north of the high school building that can be added on to when the time comes.

[audio:3513facility3.mp3] [/audio]

Williams says the final two phases will be possible expansion to the grade school, and the final phase will be a new middle school. Williams explains the current middle-school is the old high school, and being build over 80 years ago, it has served the district well, but it is not conducive to today's standards for learning.

[audio:3513facility4.mp3] [/audio]

The four-phase plan began implementation last winter and is a ten-year outline for upgrades to the districts facilities. Williams says have all of the district's facilities under 25-years old has been a goal for their Board of Education.

The infrastructure of America over the past two and a half decades has begun to crumble in many parts of the country.

This has not gone unnoticed by many lawmakers and for local highway engineers, they face a lack of funding to make improvements on a regular basis. One local engineer, Craig Fink, DeWitt County's Highway Engineer addressed the Clinton City Council Monday evening to update them on the condition of city and county roads and the challenges they face.

[audio:3513roads1.mp3] [/audio]

Fink explains the tax you pay at the pump is slowly becoming a general tax. He explains there have been increases in fees in other areas but they are no longer subsidizing the costs for road maintenance, instead, they are going into a general capital fund, that locals do not have access to.

[audio:3513roads2.mp3] [/audio]

An alarming trend Fink says they are seeing is the revenues they receive from the Motor Fuel Tax remain steady, but the cost of projects increasing.

[audio:3513roads3.mp3] [/audio]

A cause for concern according to Fink is the state continues to increase certain fees that originally would have come back to roads, however, it no longer is. He believes they don't have any interest in making sure there is enough money come back locally to keep up roads.

[audio:3513roads4.mp3] [/audio]

Much of the data Fink presented the City Council Monday, he says was very difficult to track down. He feels that should not be the case. He says tax payers should know where the taxes they pay at the pump are specifically going.

The National Rifle Association announced Monday a sponsorship deal with NASCAR to sponsor the April 13th Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway.  The race will be called the NRA 500.  While the organization sponsored a Nationwide Series race at Atlanta last season, this will be the first NRA-branded race in NASCAR's premier series.  Texas Motor Speedway president Eddie Gossage says the deal is for one year with a one-year option.

>>Blues Face LA Kings Tonight

(Los Angeles, CA) -- The Blues are in Los Angeles to take on the Kings tonight from STAPLES Center. St. Louis has lost four out of six to dip to 11-8-and-2 on the season. It's the second of a five-game road trip for The Note. LA enters the game at 11-7-and-2 after beating Nashville last night. Tonight's game starts at 9:30.

>>Blackhawks Put Streak On Line Against Wild

(Chicago, IL) -- The Blackhawks put their NHL-record points streak on the line tonight when they host the Minnesota Wild. Chicago moved to 19-0-and-3 with Sunday's shootout victory in Detroit. It's the best start to a season in NHL history. Minnesota comes in having won three out of four to move to 11-8-and-2. The puck drops tonight at 7:30.

NHL
------
Toronto Maple Leafs 4, New Jersey Devils 2
Pittsburgh Penguins 4, Tampa Bay Lightning 3
Phoenix Coyotes 5, Anaheim Ducks 4 (SO)
Los Angeles Kings 5, Nashville Predators 1

The Knicks ended a 10-game losing streak in Cleveland as they defeated the Cavaliers, 102-97, behind 22 points and six rebounds from Amar'e Stoudemire. Carmelo Anthony left the game in the first quarter with a right knee injury and did not return. New York trailed by as many as 22 in the first half before pulling out the win to improve to 36-and-21. J.R. Smith added 18 off the bench, while Steve Novak hit four of seven threes. Tyson Chandler blocked Kyrie Irving's game tying three-point attempt on Cleveland's final offensive possession. Irving made his return after missing the three previous games with a hyperextended right knee. He scored 22 points with six assists and five rebounds. The Cavs are 20-and-40.

NBA
------
Milwaukee Bucks 109, Utah Jazz 108 (OT)
Miami Heat 97, Minnesota Timberwolves 81
Orlando Magic 105, New Orleans Hornets 102
Denver Nuggets 104, Atlanta Hawks 88
Portland Trail Blazers 122, Charlotte Bobcats 105
Golden State Warriors 125, Toronto Raptors 118

The Cubs signed 21 players yesterday, including second baseman Darwin Barney.  All the contracts were deals for the 2013 season.  Barney hit .254 with seven homers and 44 RBI last season.  Catcher Welington Castillo and pitcher Travis Wood, Brooks Raley and Chris Rusin were among the other notables to agree to terms.

The Colts have planned a press conference for Thursday at Noon to allow former center Jeff Saturday to officially announce his retirement.  Saturday initially made the news public at the Pro Bowl last month.  He spent 13 years with Indianapolis, playing in 197 regular season games and making the Pro Bowl five times.  Saturday spent last year with the Packers.

Illinois State has kicked All-Missouri Valley Conference defensive tackle Shelby Harris off its football team.

Coach Brock Spack announced Harris' dismissal in a brief news release Monday. The coach did not say why Harris is being removed from the team and said he wouldn't provide further details.

Harris started all 13 games last fall for a Redbird team that made the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. He had 85 tackles, seven sacks and 16 tackles for losses.

Harris played in a total of 33 games at Illinois State after transferring from Wisconsin in 2010.

The senior had one year of eligibility left.

Illinois football coach Tim Beckman says he has suspended wide receiver Darius Millines indefinitely but will not say why.

Beckman would only say Monday that the junior receiver had violated team policies. Beckman said he will re-evaluate Millines' situation in early May. When asked if Millines could return he said the "ball's in Darius' court, now."

A shoulder injury would have kept Millines out of most of the team's spring practices even before the suspension. Spring football starts Tuesday at Illinois

Millines was the No. 2 receiver in yardage last fall behind Ryan Lankford on a team that struggled to move the ball. Millines caught 32 balls for 319 yards and no touchdowns.

Beckman said Millines will continue injury rehabilitation with the team.

Illinois hits the road tonight to play Iowa. The Fighting Illini are battling for seeding in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament. Illinois is tied with Minnesota at 8-and-8 in conference and is one game up on the Hawkeyes and Purdue Boilermakers. At 21-and-9, the Illini are looking for their seventh win in eight games. Tonight's tip is set for 6:00.

>>Gonzaga Number-One For First Time

(Undated) -- Gonzaga is the new number-one in this week's "USA Today" top-25 men's college basketball poll. The 29-and-2 Bulldogs received 29-of-31 first-place votes and 773 points to assume the top spot for the first time in school history. Indiana fell from first to second, with Kansas, Duke and Georgetown rounding out the top-five. Louisville is number-six, followed by Miami-Florida, Michigan, Florida and Kansas State. Kansas and Louisville received one first-place vote each.

NCAA Top-25 Men's Basketball ("USA Today" Rankings)
------
#3 Kansas Jayhawks 79, Texas Tech Red Raiders 42
#6 Louisville Cardinals 67, Cincinnati Bearcats 51

One DeWitt County official is calling into question the validity of the reporting methods of an area publication.

DeWitt County State's Attorney, Karle Koritz released a statement Tuesday morning questioning information being printed by "DeWitt County Constitution" Editor David Holt. Koritz claims there has been a lot of mis-information printed in recent editions.

[audio:3613koritzstatement1.mp3] [/audio]

Koritz implores the public to attend County Board meetings and see how business is handled, and if what is happening is in line with what is being reported.

[audio:3613koritzstatement2.mp3] [/audio]

Koritz calls out Holt to name his sources, who many times, go unnamed. He questions if Holt has too much control over members of the County Board, or vice versa.

[audio:3613koritzstatement1.mp3] [/audio]

Koritz feels the scrutiny leaders are put under by Holt in his publication is preventing many decent people, whom he feels would be good candidates, from running for public office.

The full statement can be heard, or read below.

[audio:3613koritzstatementfull.mp3] [/audio]

DATE: March 4, 2013

OPEN LETTER TO THE CITIZENS OF DEWITT COUNTY

While I was in court on Friday, a friendly colleague placed a copy of DeWitt County’s weekly newspaper on the table before me , pointed to an article on the front page, and stated that she was glad that she didn’t have to put up with that nonsense. My curiosity up, I glanced at the article and read the headline “County board, state’s attorney at odds over employee discipline.” This puzzled me because the full county board has not recently voted to discipline an employee. Reading further, I was surprised to learn that the alleged conflict “was made public when Koritz placed an item on the cancelled meeting’s public agenda to rescind the discipline” issued to two county employees. In fact, I did no such thing. While that item did appear on the agenda for last Thursday’s cancelled meeting, I was certainly not responsible for it. The allegation that I placed that item on the agenda was only the latest example of what could only be a deliberate lie, irresponsible journalism, or false information provided by a member of our Board’s leadership. It may well be all three.

The purpose of this letter though is not to point fingers or fight negativity with more negativity. I’ll take the advice of Ben Franklin to never argue with a man who buys ink by the barrel. No, the purpose of this letter is to encourage our citizens to get involved in the political process to see for themselves how our government actors are behaving at the local level. Come to the board meetings to provide public comment or observe how business gets done. Ask county employees about the issues they face and the morale of their peers in the county building. Demand openness. Demand transparency. Demand that our public officials, myself included, are held accountable for their actions and their leadership. Wait around until 10 o’clock in the evening so you can witness the Board’s most controversial votes take place. Come to the meetings so you can judge for yourselves whether the accusations printed in the county’s weekly newspaper are consistent with what actually happened in the meeting. Ask whether the county board’s leadership has too much influence on our county’s weekly newspaper. Ask whether our county’s weekly newspaper has too much influence on our county board’s leadership. Demand that our weekly newspaper editor actually name the person being quoted in his stories instead of prefixing long quotes with “One county official said…” or “Sources confirmed that…”. Ask yourself where this information is coming from and why the source doesn’t want to be identified. Ask why the newspaper man won’t identify the source. Ask if the phantom source ever existed at all or if it’s just a device for the editor to quote himself anonymously. The first amendment gives the media a lot of power. This is a good thing, but we must expect this power to be used responsibly. Reporters should expose corruption, not manufacture it. The media should seek to promote honest government, not attack honest government officials to sell newspapers and settle personal scores.

I’m often asked what I feel about the attack articles and cartoons written about me in our weekly newspaper. I tell people I can take a punch – even sucker punches. You don’t run for state’s attorney in a small county if you don’t have thick skin or can’t handle honest criticism. That’s what the people deserve from their media – honest criticism, not personal attacks. Among those serving on the county board are some very good, decent, hardworking individuals. There are many more decent and caring people in our communities who would make wonderful leaders, but they won’t run for office because they don’t want to become immersed in the bitterness and negativity. I know because I’ve spoken with many of them. They don’t want their spouse to open up the weekly newspaper and read the venom written about them. They don’t want their children to go to school and have a fellow student comment on the nasty cartoon about their dad. They are afraid that their business might suffer if the weekly newspaper editor disagrees with them on a particular issue. It is for good reason they have these reservations. Over the years, good men and women who ran for local office seeking only to serve their community have been unprofessionally attacked and made the object of ridicule and scorn simply for having the audacity to disagree with a newspaper man. This particular publication has deliberately stirred dissension in Wapella, and it is now doing the same for the county. This is sad, and it’s a poor reflection of our county and our citizens. Outsiders looking in are not seeing the best that we have to offer and we sometimes struggle to see the best in ourselves.

It is for all these reasons that I encourage our citizens to get involved. You can make a difference. I would never tell you what to think, and I’m not asking you to choose sides. I’m just encouraging you to come to board meetings, be informed and make your voice heard. Ask that our citizens, county employees, and public officials are treated with decency and respect. You can make us better. Together, let’s make some good news.

March 5, 2013

Jail Population: 66

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

Shay Burke, 36, Wapella, was arrested and charged with Driving On Suspended License. Burke was issued a citation for Driving on Suspended License. Burke posted the necessary bond and was released.

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

CITATIONS

3/3/13

KATELYN R. LOCKARD 19, CLINTON FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELT. NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED

KATHY A. DUBSON 52, CLINTON OPERATING UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE.NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED

KYLE B. BARRY 22, CLINTON NO VALID DRIVERS LICENSE, OPERATING UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE. NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED

3/4/13

ON 3/4/13 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED JAMIE L. HANLON 28, CLINTON DRIVING WHILE LICENSE SUSPENDED AND OPERATING UNINSURED MOTOR VEHICLE. HANLON WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 3/4/13 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED MALCOLM L. GRAY 21, DECATUR FOR THEFT UNDER $500. GRAY WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

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

The Federal Aviation Administration today (Tuesday) released the list of airport control towers that could be closed due to sequistration.

According to the FAA, airport control towers in Bloomington-Normal, Decatur, and Springfield in Central Illinois, could be closed, as part of the 600-million dollars that the Department of Transportation has to cut according to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

LaHood says some air traffic control tower employees may have to be furloughed to come up with the 600-million dollars in mandatory cuts.

It's not known if or when these 3 airports will lose their air traffic controllers.

Lawmakers in Illinois want to slow down the review process for a major electricity line project by utility company Ameren.

Ameren Transmission Co. is seeking to build a 380-mile electric transmission line from Missouri to Indiana that would stretch across 19 Illinois counties.

Republican state Sen. Chapin Rose of Mahomet has introduced legislation that would slow the regulatory review process.

Rose says the project's necessity is at question, and that he has heard from constituents concerned about the new power lines.

Ameren spokesman Leigh Morris says the company opposes the measure, calling it is too restrictive.

Morris says the project is meant to improve reliability and market efficiency and to meet increasing electricity demands.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources soon is expected to make public a study recommending the removal of 2 eastern Illinois dams where at least seven people have died in recent decades.

Reports out of Danville indicate the IDNR's director, Marc Miller, in coming weeks will provide to Danville city leaders its recommendations for removing the Ellsworth Park and Vermilion River dams.

Removal of the Vermilion River dam has been discussed for years as the site of 3 deaths in the past two decades, the last one in 2003. The newspaper says four drownings have happened at the Ellsworth Park dam since 1970.

Miller says removing the dams will produce a free-flowing river that will improve water quality and allow fish to migrate downstream, improving spawning conditions.

A child is dead after getting attacked by a dog.  Galesburg Police say the seven-year-old boy was playing in a yard when the dog attacked about 1:00 in the afternoon on Saturday.  Police say the boy was visiting the home on Whiting Avenue when the incident occurred.  Police were able to get the dog off the boy, but they had to shoot the animal when it turned toward them.  The boy was pronounced dead at Galesburg Cottage Hospital about 40 minutes later.  Officers aren't releasing much else about the attack, but say an investigation is underway.

Construction soon will begin on a planned Eastern Illinois University research lab focusing on renewable energy.

Reports from Charleston indicate officials with the university joined community members in Charleston on breaking ground Friday on the Center for Clean Energy Research and Education.

The 5,000-square-foot$, million lab will include a brainstorming "incubator" where students will be able to connect with businesses and community members to conceive future projects. The lab also will research biofuels to pinpoint which products are most effective.

The university received grants for its research using equipment funded by Charleston Area Charitable Foundation, which now is donating to the lab.

Eastern is to approve bids for construction in May, with the lab to be completed in a year.

The University of Illinois says it will be spending the next year and a half re-evaluating its logos and branding, calling the effort overdue in sparking interest among recruits and fans.

Champaign reports indicate university officials say the review is unrelated to Chief Illiniwek.

As the university's assistant athletic director for corporate sponsorships, Marty Kaufmann says the university hasn't updated any of its brands since before 2007.

Kaufmann adds the university will work with Nike's graphic designers and marketing experts to refresh the school's look and brand, at Nike's expense. That could include tweaking a font or making the colors more consistent.

He says any changes likely won't be apparent until the fall of next year.

Kaufmann says the rebranding push won't address the mascot issue.

Local students considering their next level of education can learn more about one educational establishment later this week.

Richland Community College will be hosting their annual "College 101" night. Stuart Coon, Counselor and Academic Advisor at Richland says the event is going to be an informative evening for anyone considering Richland Community College.

[audio:3413college101.mp3] [/audio]

While some departments may only have a few faculty on hand to talk with students, Coon notes two departments that will have a lot of people available will be the financial aid and academic advising departments. Coon explains he and his peers will be on hand to talk about everything from the basic college experience to guiding you through getting registered for classes

[audio:3413college102.mp3] [/audio]

Faculty will also be on hand to help students find financial aid opportunities. Coon says there is a great wealth of opportunity for financial aid and encourages everyone to come inquire about those opportunities.

[audio:3413college103.mp3] [/audio]

College 101 will be this Thursday night at the campus of Richland Community College in from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Shilling Center.

There will be opportunities to register to win a 3 credit hour tuition waiver, gas cards and other prizes.

For further details or questions, you can contact Richland Community College at 875-7211 ext. 267 or visit www.richland.edu to reserve a spot. It is encouraged, though not required, to call ahead and reserve a spot.

The City of Lincoln is looking into acquiring "The Depot" right of the railroad tracks that run through the center of Lincoln.

The City has been working to acquire the Depot as a part of their downtown revitalization. Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder says some 20-thousand people get on and off the Amtrack that makes daily stops in Lincoln and he explains they'd like to see that rejuvenated.

[audio:3413lincolndepot1.mp3] [/audio]

The Mayor explains for the better part of 20 years, the Depot has been privately owned and operated as a banquet hall. He say before that it was a regular terminal for the train that came through Lincoln.

[audio:3413lincolndepot2.mp3] [/audio]

The history of the Depot not only branches from the history of the rail-line, but there is some history at the site involving Abraham Lincoln. Mayor Snyder explains the site is where it is believed Lincoln christened the City of Lincoln.

[audio:3413lincolndepot3.mp3] [/audio]

Because the Depot is not a large area, the City would investigate some expansion opportunities. One of those, according to the Mayor would be to remove some railcars that have been in place for many years. Mayor Snyder says those cars are not original to the building and there are some maintenance and upkeep issues to them.

[audio:3413lincolndepot4.mp3] [/audio]

The City of Lincoln has been looking to do some rejuvenation of their downtown areas, which extends to the areas near where the rail-line runs through Lincoln.

Clinton High School and Richland Community College are in preliminary discussions in partnering together to bring expanded learning opportunities to students around central Illinois.

First year Clinton High School Principal Dr. Candice Swift recently reached out to Richland Community College officials to discuss the possibilities of a regional science labs. That idea according to Dr. Swift stemmed from a discussion about up-to-date science labs at Richland's coming site behind Clinton High School. She was concerned students would take courses through Richland but would not have the proper labs.

[audio:3413sciencelab1.mp3] [/audio]

Expounding on the idea of a regional science center, Dr. Swift says they began to think broader in terms of who could use the labs. She explains other schools in the area that may not have the resources to conduct certain experiments would be invited to use their facilities.

[audio:3413sciencelab2.mp3] [/audio]

Dr. Swift has also notes she would like to partner with Syngenta to give them examples of how their science skills could make them more employable post-high school or college. She says these would not just be opportunity for Clinton students as Clinton is in an ideal geographic location to make these things happen.

[audio:3413sciencelab3.mp3] [/audio]

Dr. Swift notes she and the high school science department have been looking into making upgrades to their outdated labs. She says they will also be discussing the few items that would turn those labs into functional college level labs.

Dr. Swift emphasizes these are just basic general conversations, no partnerships or financing agreements have been agreed to yet.

Michael Thompson shot 1-under 69 on Sunday and picked up his first PGA Tour victory at the Honda Classic. Thompson had three cuts and a tie for 78th in four previous starts this season, but the overnight co-leader tallied three birdies and an eagle at
blustery PGA National on Sunday and closed at 9-under 271 -- good for a 2-
stroke victory over the late-charging Geoff Ogilvy, who birdied two of his
last three holes for a final-round 69. Two-time heart transplant recipient Erik Compton shot 70 and produced his best finish on the PGA Tour with a tie for fourth at 3-under. He was joined by Keegan Bradley (71), Justin Rose (71), Lucas Glover (70) and David Lynn (69), while Lee Westwood (74), Graeme McDowell (70), Charl Schwartzel (69) and Graham DeLaet (72) tied for ninth at minus-2. Tiger Woods managed a lackluster 74 despite closing his final round with an eagle at the par-5 18th. The world No. 2 shot 70 on each of the first three days, and couldn't produce a repeat of last year's final-round 62, which left him two stokes behind winner Rory McIlroy.

>>Blackhawks Edge Red Wings In Shootout To Keep Streak Intact

(Detroit, MI) -- Patrick Kane scored the tying goal with 2:02 to go and then netted the lone goal in the shootout, as the Blackhawks edged the Red Wings 2-1 at Joe Louis Arena to keep their record point streak intact. The 'Hawks extended their NHL-record season-opening point streak to 22 games. They also matched the 1977-78 Montreal Canadiens for the second-longest regular season point streak in league history at 28 straight, dating back to last season. Corey Crawford made 32 saves plus stopped all three shootout attempts for Chicago, which has won nine straight for the first time since December 2008. Tomas Tatar scored the lone goal for the Wings, who have lost five in-a-row to the 'Hawks all by one goal. Jimmy Howard denied 32 shots but couldn't hold off Kane in the shootout.

>>Stars Skate Past Blues

(Dallas, TX) -- Derek Roy tallied a goal and two assists as the Stars skated past the Blues 4-1 at American Airlines Center. Loui Eriksson had a goal and a helper, while Jaromir Jagr [[ YAR-oh-meer YAH-ger ]] and Erik Cole also lit the lamp for the Stars, who had dropped four-of-six coming in. Kari Lehtonen [[ KAR-ee LET-ih-nin ]] made 25 saves in the victory. David Perron scored the lone goal for St. Louis, which has lost four of its last six. Brian Elliott gave up all four goals on 27 shots in defeat.

NHL
------
New York Islanders 3, Ottawa Senators 2 (SO)
Columbus Blue Jackets 2, Colorado Avalanche 1 (OT)
Carolina Hurricanes 3, Florida Panthers 2
Montreal Canadiens 4, Boston Bruins 3
New York Rangers 3, Buffalo Sabres 2 (SO)
Minnesota Wild 4, Edmonton Oilers 2
Calgary Flames 4, Vancouver Canucks 2

Carl Edwards ended a 70-race winless streak by taking the checkered flag in Sunday's Subway Fresh Fit 500 from Phoenix International Raceway.  It was the second-longest drought of Edwards' career as he led the final 78 laps for the victory.  Last week's Daytona 500 champion Jimmie Johnson finished second followed by Denny Hamlin.  Brad Keselowski came in fourth place followed by Dale Earnhardt Jr., who was second last week at Daytona.  Danica Patrick had a rough ride in her follow-up to a strong Daytona 500 run.  Patrick wrecked on lap 185 and finished 39th.  The Sprint Cup circuit heads to Las Vegas next week. 

>>Cubs To Place Garza On DL

(Mesa, AZ) -- Cubs pitcher Matt Garza will start the season on the disabled list. The team announced Garza is experiencing a recurring pain in his left side. Chicago will start Jeff Samardzija on Opening Day at Pittsburgh.

>>Cards Shut Down Furcal

(Jupiter, FL) -- The Cardinals have shutdown shortstop Rafael Furcal with an elbow injury. The veteran is recovering from a torn ligament in his right elbow. The "Post-Dispatch" reports that Furcal had a setback with the ailment. He's expected to be re-evaulated today.

Prior to today's deadline, the Bears placed their franchise tag on defensive tackle Henry Melton.  Melton started 14 games last season and recorded 44 tackles with six sacks and two forced fumbles.  He was a fourth-round selection of Chicago in 2009.

David West scored 31 points and George Hill added 21, leading the Indiana Pacers past the Chicago Bulls 97-92 in a Central Division showdown Sunday night.

Indiana (38-22) has won 7 of its last eight games, going 6-1 since the All-Star break, and holds a 4-game lead over second-place Chicago.

The Bulls were led by Marco Belinelli and Jimmy Butler, who each had 20 points for a team that was missing four important players with injuries.

The difference was clear. Chicago fell behind late in the first quarter and spent most of the rest of the game trying to play catch-up.

The Bulls finally tied the score at 72 on Luol Deng's 8-footer early in the fourth and again at 80 when Butler made two free throws with 7:04 left.

NBA
------
Miami Heat 99, New York Knicks 93
Oklahoma City Thunder 108, Los Angeles Clippers 104
Washington Wizards 90, Philadelphia 76ers 87
Memphis Grizzlies 108, Orlando Magic 82
Sacramento Kings 119, Charlotte Bobcats 83
Houston Rockets 136, Dallas Mavericks 103
San Antonio Spurs 114, Detroit Pistons 75
Los Angeles Lakers 99, Atlanta Hawks 98

>>Rose Sits With Team

(Indianapolis, IN) -- Bulls guard Derrick Rose sat on the bench with his teammates Sunday for the first time since tearing the ACL in his left knee last April. Rose started traveling with the team after the first of the year and had previously been watching games from the locker room. Rose is still questionable to return this season as he continues to rehab the injury.

>>Missouri State Downs Bradley

Anthony Downing and Christian Kirk scored 15 points each as Missouri State clinched the No. 7 seed in the Missouri Valley Conference tournament with a 64-56 victory against Bradley on Saturday night.

Marcus Marshall and Nathan Scheer added 11 points apiece for the Bears (10-21, 7-11), who finished in a three-way tie with Drake and Bradley for seventh in the conference standings.

Under MVC tiebreaking procedures, Missouri State finishes on top and faces No. 10 seed Southern Illinois on Thursday in St. Louis. Drake is the No. 8 seed and plays No. 9 Bradley on Thursday.

Jordan Prosser and Walt Lemon Jr. scored 13 points each for the Braves (16-15, 7-11), who did not score after a jumper by Dyricus Simms-Edwards got Bradley within 58-56 with 2:09 remaining.

Scheer drilled a 3-pointer and, after a turnover by Lemon, Gavin Thurman hit a jump shot to make it 63-56 with 47 seconds to play.

The Braves missed their last four shots from the floor.

>>Northern Iowa Tops ISU

Anthony James scored 19 points and Jake Koch and Seth Tuttle each had double-doubles Saturday night as Northern Iowa defeated Illinois State 80-72 in the Missouri Valley Conference regular-season finale for both schools.

Koch had 18 points and 11 rebounds and Tuttle had 15 points and 12 rebounds. Marc Sonnen also scored 18 points for the Panthers (18-13, 11-7), who will be the No. 3 seed in the MVC tournament next weekend in St. Louis.

Tyler Brown led the Redbirds (17-14, 8-10) with 28 points and nine rebounds. Johnny Hill scored 14 for Illinois State.

Northern Iowa held a 42-26 rebounding advantage, including 19 offensive boards that led to an 18-4 edge in second-chance points.

The Redbirds jumped to a 19-8 lead, but the Panthers came back to lead 39-32 at halftime.

Illinois used double-figure scoring from five players to hold off stubborn Nebraska Saturday, 72-65.

The Huskers led 57-55 with just over 6 minutes to play. But the Illini (21-9, 8-8 Big Ten) went on a 7-0 run started by a 3-pointer from D.J. Richardson to go up 62-57. They never trailed again.

Tracy Abrams led Illinois with 16 points. Brandon Paul had 14 and Richardson, Myke Henry and Nnanna Egwu also scored in double figures.

Nebraska (13-16, 4-12) was led by 23 points from Ray Gallegos and 20 by Dylan Talley.

The win helps build Illinois' NCAA tournament case with two regular-seasons games left. The Illini play at Iowa Tuesday and at No. 16 Ohio State March 10.

NCAA Top-25 Men's Basketball
------
#4 Michigan Wolverines 58, #10 Michigan State Spartans 57
Purdue Boilermakers 69, #16 Wisconsin Badgers 56

March 1, 2013

Jail Population: 64

Summons Served: 2

Warrant Arrests: 0

March 2, 2013

Jail Population: 61

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

March 3, 2013

Jail Population: 65

Summons Served: 0

Warrant Arrests: 0

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 1:15 pm on 2/27/13 revealed that Dustin Wyatt, 27, Clinton, was traveling south bound on highway 51 in the right lane. The road was covered in snow and ice mix. Wyatt lost control of his vehicle and swerved into the left lane. Wyatt left the roadway crossing into the left lane in front of Robert Mulvihill, 42, Geneva, which was traveling in the same direction as Wyatt. Wyatt was hit in the left side when crossed in front of Mulvihill and then both vehicles left the roadway ending in the median. Wyatt’s vehicle had damage to the driver side and Mulvihill’s vehicle had damage to the front left side. Both vehicles were able to drive away from the scene. Dustin Wyatt was issued a citation for Failure to Reduce Speed / Accident. Wyatt promised to comply and was released.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 4:34 pm on 2/28/13 revealed that Rodney Van Zee, 42, Clinton, was traveling west on State Highway 54 near intersection of Green Valley Road. Danny Deavers, 60, Kenney, was traveling behind Deavers was traveling behind Van Zee near same location. Van Zee was slowing to turn north onto Green Valley Road when he began sliding, unable to maneuver turn. Deavers approached Van Zee also unable to slow due to the weather conditions and struck Van Zee. Deavers struck Van Zee on the front driver’s side causing major damage to both vehicles. Both drivers were treated by Clinton Ambulance and released on scene. Van Zee advised he would be going to the Emergency Room to be treated for his minor wound to the right side of his head. Deavers had no visible signs of any injuries and did not report any at the scene. No citations were issued. Both vehicles were towed per owners request.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 4:31 pm on 2/27/13 revealed that Oscar Uuloa-Gonzalez, 21, Clinton, was traveling east bound on State Route 10. Oscar lost control of his vehicle near Sumpter Road and swerved into the west bound lane and ending up in the ditch. Chad Hoke, 47, Clinton was driving west bound on State Route 10 and attempted to swerve out of the way when Oscar lost control and swerved into Chad’s lane. Chad was unable to avoid striking Oscar in the passenger side of his vehicle. Airbags deployed in both vehicles and Fire and Rescue were called to the scene to provide medical assistance. Everybody was released from the scene and vehicles had to be towed away. Oscar Uuloa-Gonzalez was issued citations for No Valid Driver’s License and Failure to Reduce Speed/ Accident. Uuloa-Gonzalez was issued a notice to appear and was released.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 5:36 am on 3/02/13 revealed that Larry Peterson, 55, Normal, was traveling on Highway 51 near Carl Springs Road. The roads were covered with snow and ice mix and it was raining. Peterson had lost control of his vehicle and slid off the road and into a ditch. When the vehicle left the roadway it caused the vehicle’s tire to go flat and minor body damage to the vehicle. The vehicle was stuck in the snow and mud and had to be pulled out by Baum’s towing. Peterson stated he was wearing his seatbelt and stated he had no injuries at the time of the crash. The vehicle was towed to Baum’s Chevrolet in Clinton.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred at 4:08 pm on 2/21/13 revealed that Rustin Binger, 53, Decatur, was traveling Southbound on IL 51. The weather was snowy with low visibility and the roads were slick. Binger approached the intersection of IL 51 and IL 54 when a vehicle unlawfully entered the intersection as he was about to. Binger jerked his steering wheel to the right to avoid a collision with the oncoming vehicle. While doing so his vehicle slid into the right turn lane and subsequently slid into the median of IL 54, causing damage to the front driver’s side wheel well and tire. Binger was unable to describe the oncoming vehicle, which caused the accident. No injuries were claimed on scene. Ziegler’s was summonsed for the tow.

Trenton Butler, 18, Clinton was arrested and charged with Illegal Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor. Butler posted the necessary bond and was released.

Austin Swank, 22, Clinton was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Swank was issued citations for Speeding 86 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone and 3 counts of Driving Under the Influence. Swank posted the necessary bond and was released.

William Coleman, 33, Clinton was arrested and charged with Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor and Gift/ Sale or Delivery of Alcohol to Minor. Coleman posted the necessary bond and was released.

Anita Stoneburner, 34, Dalton City, was arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Stoneburner was issued citations for improper lane usage, Operating Uninsured Vehicle and 2 counts of Driving Under the Influence. Stoneburner posted the necessary bond and was released.

Jacob Wren, 20, Clinton, was arrested and charged with Driving on Suspended License. Wren was issued citations for Operating Uninsured Vehicle and Driving while License Suspended. Wren posted the necessary bond and was released.

Steven Cearlock, 36, Belleville was issued a citation for Speeding 73 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Cearlock posted his IL Driver’s License as bond and was released.

John Lahey, 30, Wapella was issued a citation for Illegal Transportation Alcohol. Lahey was issued a notice to appear and was released.

Brandy Coffey, 21, Clinton was issued a citation for Illegal Transportation Alcohol. Coffey was issued a notice to appear and was released.

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

The Children's Advocacy Center's recent "Blue Kids Benefit" raised money for their CASA Program.

The CASA Program trains community volunteers to provide advocacy for abused and neglected children. Executive Director of the Children's Advocacy Center, Judy Brucker explains the volunteer will speak on their behalf at court hearings to make sure they are being taken care of properly.

[audio:3513casa1.mp3] [/audio]

Because of the turnover in the social work field, Brucker says they find sometimes the most consistent person in some situations is the CASA worker. She says it takes a lot of dedication to be a CASA worker, as cases can take up to two years or more to be resolved.

[audio:3513casa2.mp3] [/audio]

CASA workers will not be asked to be continuously on a case, in fact, Brucker notes they always encourage their CASA workers to take a break once a case has been closed.
She says their volunteers last year helped over 150 children in need and dedicated thousands of hours.

[audio:3513casa3.mp3] [/audio]

The need for CASA workers is very high right now, and Brucker explains the "Blue Kids Benefit" fundraiser will help them in their goal to expand the program. She explains they would like to find enough CASA workers to benefit another 60 children that come into their care.

[audio:3513casa4.mp3] [/audio]

CASA workers will always have a professional advisor to guide them through their case. Brucker says each CASA worker is required to complete 40-hours of training. That training is completed over several weeks, and there is always continuing education they can take as well.

To learn more about the CASA program or to become a volunteer, you contact Judy Brucker at the Children's Advocacy Center at 309-888-5656.

THE ILLINOIS HOUSE PASSED TWO TRAFFIC SAFETY BILLS FRIDAY.
 
THE FIRST MEASURE IS SPONSORED BY REPRESENTATIVE JOHN D’AMICO OF CHICAGO AND IS NAMED AFTER PATRICIA MCNAMARA…WHO DIED IN A CAR CRASH IN MCHENRY COUNTY.
 
[audio:patricia.mp3][/audio]
 
THE SECOND BILL APPROVED BY THE HOUSE IS KELSEY’S LAW. IT REQUIRES YOUNG DRIVERS TO FESS UP WHEN THEY APPLY FOR A LICENSE ABOUT ANY TICKETS THEY RECEIVED WHILE DRIVING WITH A LEARNER’S PERMIT. BOTH MEASURES MUST BE APPROVED BY THE SENATE AND GOVERNOR AS WELL TO BECOME LAW.

 
Sinusitis is a common condition in which the spaces in the bones surrounding the eyes and nose are inflamed, causing pain and difficulty breathing.
 
If your nose is stuffy, you have thick, yellowish mucus, and you feel tired and achy, you may have sinusitis. Sinusitis affects about 3l million adults annually, says Dr. Richard Bass, professor of otolaryngology at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield. He describes some symptoms of the disease.
 
[audio:siusinus1.mp3][/audio]
 
Dr. Bass says chronic sinusitis is an inflammation of the nose and sinus tracts that lasts for three months or longer. Those symptoms may include nasal congestion and drainage down the back or front of your nose. Or there may be some pressure in the face and the teeth may hurt.

[audio:siusinus2.mp3][/audio]

Dr. Bass also suggests treating the condition with nasal saline irrigations. Anyone who has chronic sinusitis should see their primary care physician, who may refer them to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation and possible treatment.

 
It's been one of the wettest winters in recent history. This weekend will continue seeing temperatures in the 30s and will continue next week. State Climatolgist Jim Angel has more.
 
[audio:wx31.mp3][/audio]

A House committee Friday morning passed legislation that would offer in-state college tuition to veterans across the country  and attract them to stay in Illinois to live and raise their families.   The legislation is sponsored by State Representative Adam Brown (R-Decatur).It would provide parity for those individuals who have been honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States to receive in-state tuition rates as statute currently allows active duty military members.
 
The legislation does not waive the tuition but allows the governing board of the university to deem that person an Illinois resident for tuition purposes even if he or she is not a resident of this State.
 
[audio:3113BrownHB1163a.mp3][/audio]

After an effort that took more than four years, two Decatur business people have been granted presidential pardons for crimes committed nearly 20 years ago.

Jon Christopher Kozeliski and Karen Alicia Ragee in 1994 were sentenced to a year of probation, including six months of home confinement, for using Star Silkscreen Design Inc. in an effort to traffic in counterfeit goods.

Their attorney, J. Steven Beckett, said the pair were told Friday of their pardons. He said it was "a very pleasant surprise," because they didn't know in advance of the president's decision.

Beckett said other than their one offense, Kozeliski and Ragee have been good citizens and have shown remorse.

The White House offered no details on why the pair were pardoned by Obama, who has issued few pardons.

 
THE ILLINOIS SENATE IS APPROVING AN EXPANSION OF MEDICAID UNDER PRESIDENT OBAMA’S AFFORDABLE CARE ACT.
 
MEDICAID CURRENTLY COVERS ABOUT TWO POINT EIGHT MILLION POOR AND DISABLED ILLINOISANS. THE MEASURE OKAYED BY THE SENATE WILL MAKE ANOTHER 500 TO 600 THOUSAND PEOPLE ELIGIBLE FOR BENEFITS STARTING NEXT YEAR. SENATOR HEATHER STEANS (stains) OF CHICAGO SPONSORED THE BILL.
 
[audio:expansion.mp3][/audio]
 
THE HOUSE WILL ALSO NEED TO APPROVE THE EXPANSION. THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WILL PAY FOR THE ADDITIONAL ENROLLEES FOR THE FIRST THREE YEARS.

A Bloomington woman convicted of strangling her mother-in-law has been sentenced to 55 years in prison.

Misook Wang was sentenced Friday in McLean County Circuit Court. A jury in December found the 46-year-old woman guilty of first-degree murder in the death of 70-year-old Wenlan Linda Tyda of Crest Hill in September 2011.

Wang also goes by Misook Nowlin. During her trial, Wang admitted paying someone to lure her mother-in-law to central Illinois with a job offer. But Wang said she choked her with a purse strap and sweater in self-defense during a struggle.

NBA
------
Houston Rockets 118, Orlando Magic 110
Indiana Pacers 93, Toronto Raptors 81
New York Knicks 96, Washington Wizards 88
Boston Celtics 94, Golden State Warriors 86
Los Angeles Clippers 105, Cleveland Cavaliers 89
Dallas Mavericks 98, Brooklyn Nets 90
New Orleans Hornets 100, Detroit Pistons 95
Miami Heat 98, Memphis Grizzlies 91
San Antonio Spurs 130, Sacramento Kings 102
Phoenix Suns 92, Atlanta Hawks 87
Utah Jazz 98, Charlotte Bobcats 68
Denver Nuggets 105, Oklahoma City Thunder 103

NHL
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St. Louis Blues 4, Edmonton Oilers 2
Chicago Blackhawks 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 3 (OT)
Anaheim Ducks 3, Minnesota Wild 2

MLB Grapefruit League
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Minnesota Twins 8, Miami Marlins 7
Philadelphia Phillies 10, New York Yankees 5
Baltimore Orioles 6, Pittsburgh Pirates (ss) 5
St. Louis Cardinals 8, Houston Astros 8
Toronto Blue Jays 5, Tampa Bay Rays 4
New York Mets 6, Detroit Tigers 2
Washington Nationals 6, Atlanta Braves 5
Boston Red Sox 5, Pittsburgh Pirates (ss) 2

MLB Cactus League
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Kansas City Royals 3, Cincinnati Reds 2
Cleveland Indians 9, Chicago White Sox 7
Arizona Diamondbacks 6, Chicago Cubs 2
San Diego Padres 7, Los Angeles Dodgers (ss) 5
Los Angeles Angels 16, Los Angeles Dodgers (ss) 8
Seattle Mariners 8, Texas Rangers 6
San Francisco Giants 13, Oakland Athletics 9
Colorado Rockies 5, Milwaukee Brewers 2

NCAA Top-25 Basketball ("USA Today" Rankings)
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No Games Scheduled

 The Blackhawks continued their record start to the season with a 4-3 overtime win over the Blue Jackets.  Chicago extended its NHL record of games without a regulation loss to 21 straight.  Brent Seabrook had the deciding goal.  Viktor Stalberg had a goal and an assist while Bryan Bickell and Patrick Sharp also lit the lamp for the 'Hawks.  Ray Emery made 19 saves as Chicago moved to 18-0-and-3.  Vinny Prospal, Artem Anisimov [[ ARE-tem  uh-NEE-see-mahv ]] and Ryan Johansen all scored for Columbus.  Steve Mason turned away 31 shots for the Blue Jackets, who have lost four straight and are last in the NHL with a 5-12-and-4 record. 

The Monticello Sages fell to the St. Joe-Ogden Spartans by a fianl score of 65-38 on Friday Night. The Sages were led by Ryan Donohue with 11 points. Bryan Phipps also chipping in with 8 points. Your First State Bank player of the game was Ryan Donohue. With the loss the Sages end their season at 23-6 With the win the Spartans improve to 28-3 and continue on to the Super-Sectionals. You can hear the game live on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.

On Chicago's violence-plagued South Side, a group of college students is pressuring the University of Chicago Medical Center to reopen a trauma department it closed 25 years ago.

The facility was shut down long before most of these activists were even born. But they and others believe restoring it will help save people wounded in the city's maelstrom of gun violence, many of them poor and black.

Chicago's experience reflects a nationwide trend: An increasing number of U.S. hospitals have closed trauma departments for financial reasons. Impoverished minority communities are frequently the hardest hit.

But the issue is complex, with no clear evidence that lives have been lost.

The activists' cause is also personal. 1 of their friends was shot in 2010 and died in an ambulance.

March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and the Illinois Lottery is joining in the activities to mark the occasion.

It's teaming up with the National Council on Problem Gambling. They say their objective is to raise awareness about those who gamble too much.

The Illinois Lottery is known for catchy commercials intended to get people to play the lottery.

But in a Thursday news release, it also says it's creating a series of public service messages aimed at eliminating excessive lottery play.

Lottery Superintendent Michael Jones says in the release that he encourages any adults to play the games because it is fun. But he says he wants everyone to play responsibly.

The state has reached a tentative deal with AFSCME.  The two sides have been at the bargaining table for months.  State workers have been working without a contract since last November, when Governor Quinn cancelled their contract.  AFSCME reports their bargaining committee came to a  deal just after midnight this morning.  The union had put its members on notice and had planned to strike if they didn't reach an agreement soon.  The deal apparently averts that plan.  No details of the deal have been released yet. 

Pension reform in Illinois is hitting a brick wall. State reps overwhelmingly shot down several options during a test vote Thursday. GOP Leader Tom Cross says the whole process is a joke.

[audio:rddPenJoke1.mp3] [/audio]

Cross doesn't want to participate in the pension reform process.

[audio:rddPenJoke2.mp3] [/audio]

House Speaker Michael Madigan was attempting to draft a bill on the floor, by having lawmakers vote up or down on several options. The proposals would have had state workers contribute five percent more toward their pensions and, they would've had to stay on the job until they were 67. Another option was to terminate the cost of living adjustments until the state could get control of the pension systems. There are at least four other pension bills that have yet to be considered.

Hundreds of Illinois homebuyers may be eligible for financial assistance to cover down payments and closing costs through a new state-run program.

Gov. Pat Quinn on Thursday announced the initiative called SmartMove Trio.

The initiative offers eligible first-time homebuyers a 30-year fixed rate mortgage and up to $6,000 in cash for down payment and closing costs.

Homebuyers can also receive a federal income tax credit of up to $18,000 over the life of the mortgage.

The Illinois Housing Development Authority is managing the initiative.

Interested buyers will be able to apply for the SmartMove program during the expo.

THE GUN DEBATE IN SPRINGFIELD IS NOW TURNING TO ASSAULT WEAPONS.

AT ANOTHER HOUSE HEARING ON GUN CONTROL…LAWMAKERS…GUN RIGHTS ADVOCATES AND OPPONENTS DISCUSSED A PROPOSED BAN ON ASSAULT WEAPONS. THOSE AGAINST THE BAN…INCLUDING REPRESENTATIVE DENNIS REBOLETTI OF ADDISON SAY ANOTHER FIREARM LAW WON’T STOP THE MAJORITY OF THOSE COMMITTING GUN CRIMES.

[audio:assaultban1.mp3] [/audio]

WHILE THOSE WHO SUPPORT OUTLAWING ASSAULT WEAPONS WOULD PREFER TO SEE A NATIONWIDE, FEDERAL BAN ENACTED…MOST AGREE ILLINOIS SHOULDN’T WAIT AROUND FOR THAT TO HAPPEN. THAT INCLUDES REPRESENTATIVE EDWARD ACEVEDO…WHO IS ALSO A CHICAGO POLICE OFFICER.

[audio:assaultban2.mp3] [/audio]

THE ILLINOIS SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION SAYS INSTEAD, MORE EMPHASIS SHOULD BE PLACED ON ENFORCING EXISTING GUN LAWS AND IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES.

Construction equipment maker Caterpillar says it will cut more than one in three jobs at its Belgian plant because of high labor costs and sluggish growth in its European market.

Caterpillar Inc. says Thursday it plans to cut 1,400 of the 3,400 jobs at its Gosselies plant south of Brussels alongside other measures aimed at restoring the site's competitiveness.

It says the facility is hampered by Europe's low growth prospects and labor costs that are so high that "it currently costs less to import machines to Europe from some other Caterpillar locations than to produce them in Gosselies."

The Belgian plant, 1 of Caterpillar's largest globally, produces hydraulic excavators, loading vehicles, engine parts and components.

The Peoria, Illinois-based company is the world's largest maker of construction and mining equipment.

Two more people have joined a federal lawsuit accusing police in Bloomington of racial profiling.

1 of the new plaintiffs, William Hosea II, is a former city worker who says officers searched him, a city truck and a pothole he had just filled for drugs.

The other new plaintiff is Eric Tapley. He alleges police targeted him in five illegal traffic stops starting in 2011.

Reports out of Bloomington indicate a jury acquitted Tapley of resisting a police officer, a charge filed after 1 of the stops.

They are now part of a federal civil rights action filed against the city and officers in September by Anthony Johnson.

Peter Jennetten, the city's attorney, says accusations that the black men were stopped because of their race are without merit.

The Life Center for Indenpendent Living in Bloomington is providing a unique program for those with vision problems.

The program is geared toward people over the age of 55 who have severe vision loss. Kim Tarkowski, with the Center, is in charge of the Low Vision Support Group, explains individuals who participate do not have to be legally blind. She says there is a difference between legal blindness as opposed to low vision.

[audio:3113vision1.mp3] [/audio]

Tarkowski says they try to look at each person through their own personal needs during the clinics. The Center posesses several tools that can aid people with vision problems.

[audio:3113vision2.mp3] [/audio]

The Life Center serves McLean, Livingston, Ford and DeWitt counties. Tarkowski, along with other staff members, visit DeWitt County on a regular basis to conduct the Low Vision Support Group at the DeWitt County Frienship Center.

[audio:3113vision3.mp3] [/audio]

The meetings are on the second Monday of each month.

For more information on these sessions as well as other services, you can call Kim Tarkowski at the Life Center for Independent Living at 309-663-5433.

Clinton Community members still have a week left to help the Clinton Board of Education decide on the name of the new elementary school.

The Clinton Board of Education is seeking the community's input as to what they would like to see the new elementary school be named. Superintendent Dr. Jeff Holmes explains the Board has come up with three possible names, but Dr. Holmes notes, there will be a write-in option as well.

[audio:3113schoolname1.mp3] [/audio]

Dr. Holmes and the Board of Education feels the community has played a vital role to this point in getting the building to the point it is. He says they feel the community should have a say in the naming rights.

[audio:3113schoolname2.mp3] [/audio]

The school district has opened voting up at their website. Voting ends March 8.

The Clinton Athletic Boosters are hosting their largest fundraiser of the year this weekend.

Saturday night the Athletic Boosters will hold their 3rd annual Maroon Madness event at the Clinton Elks. Vice-President of the Athletic Boosters, Mike Walker explains the evening features a meal, some light snacks, a silent auction and money being given away throughout the night.

[audio:3113maroonmadness1.mp3] [/audio]

Each year the event has grown in popularity and size. Walker explains it has become so popular they are nearly outgrowing their venue at the Clinton Elks. He says the first year they raised almost $10-thousand and doubled the amount last year, and Walker hopes for another solid showing again this year.

[audio:3113maroonmadness2.mp3] [/audio]

Walker says of the money they raise each year, it all goes back into the school districts sports programs. He explains funds they are supporting coming up include a new scoreboard to the high school gym and potentially providing some financial assistance for the wrestling program to buy new wrestling mats.

[audio:3113maroonmadness3.mp3] [/audio]

The event is sold out for this year. Walker thanks all those who have shown support and continue to support the booster club.

NASCAR heads to Phoenix for Sunday's Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway.  Jimmie Johnson opened the Sprint Cup season with a win in the Daytona 500 this past Sunday.  Denny Hamlin is the defending champion of this event, while Kevin Harvick won the most recent race in Phoenix last November.

Ray Emery and Corey Crawford combined for a 21 save shutout as the Blackhawks blanked the Blues 3-0 to keep their record-setting point streak intact. Emery stopped 15 shots over the final two periods, while Crawford denied all six shots in the first stanza before leaving with an upper body injury. Jonathan Toews [[ TAYVZ ]] scored twice and Andrew Shaw also lit the lamp for the 'Hawks, who remain unbeaten in regulation in 20 games to open the season. Chicago is 17-0-and-3. Jaroslav Halak [[ YAHR-roh-slav HAH-lak ]] allowed all three goals on 23 shots for St. Louis, which has lost three-of-four.

NHL
------
Boston Bruins 2, Ottawa Senators 1 (OT)
Toronto Maple Leafs 5, New York Islanders 4 (OT)
New York Rangers 4, Tampa Bay Lightning 1
Carolina Hurricanes 4, Pittsburgh Penguins 1
Buffalo Sabres 4, Florida Panthers 3 (SO)
Winnipeg Jets 3, New Jersey Devils 1
Edmonton Oilers 5, Dallas Stars 1
Colorado Avalanche 5, Calgary Flames 4
Minnesota Wild 4, Phoenix Coyotes 3

>>Two Giants Pull Out Of WBC

(Scottsdale, AZ) -- The San Francisco Giants' list of participants in the World Baseball Classic continues to shrink. CSN-Bay Area says outfielder Andres Torres and relief pitcher Jose Mijares have both pulled out of the tournament with injuries. Torres has a strained oblique while Mijares is complaining of elbow tenderness. Torres was scheduled to join Team Puerto Rico this weekend. Mijares was slotted on Venezuela's roster. The Giants will still have eight participants in the WBC.

>>Twins' Mauer And Wife Expecting Twins

(Fort Myers, FL) -- The next generation of Minnesota baseball players could be on the way. Minnesota Twins star Joe Mauer [[ MOW-er ]] and his wife, Maddie, are expecting twins. The 29-year-old catcher tells the "Pioneer Press" that they're obviously really excited and happy and that everything so far is good. Mauer says it's too early to tell whether the twins will be boys or girls. The 2009 AL MVP is a three-time batting champion. He's spent his entire nine-year career with Minnesota.

NFL teams will have a little extra breathing room when it comes to the 2013 salary cap.  NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports the cap is set at 123-million-dollars, a 2.4-million-dollar jump from last season's 120.6-million.  All teams will have a minimum salary benefit of 900-thousand, bringing the total to 123.9-million-dollars.  The new league year begins on March 12th.

The changes across the landscape of college athletics continue on.  ESPN reports the seven catholic schools leaving the Big East will take the conference name with them plus play its conference tournament at Madison Square Garden.  In addition, Xavier and Butler are expected to join DePaul, Georgetown, Marquette, Providence, St. John's, Seton Hall and Villanova.  The report also states Creighton is expected to make it an even 10 teams in the conference with Dayton and Saint Louis joining in 2014 to create a 12-team conference.  Fox Sports Network is said to be behind the new Big East creation and will have the television rights.

Joakim Noah had 23 points, 21 rebounds and a career-high 11 blocks for his third career triple-double and the Chicago Bulls ended a 2-game losing streak with a 93-82 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday.

Carlos Boozer added 21 points and 12 rebounds while Kirk Hinrich and Luol Deng had 15 and 12 points, respectively, as the Bulls completed a 3-game regular season series sweep.

Noah tied the Bulls record for blocks in a regulation game, previously set by Artis Gilmore in 1977.

Jrue Holiday paced the Sixers with 22 points, Spencer Hawes added 20 points and 15 rebounds while Evan Turner had 12 points.

The loss was Philadelphia's season-high seventh in a row.

NBA
------
Los Angeles Clippers 99, Indiana Pacers 91
Los Angeles Lakers 116, Minnesota Timberwolves 94

>>DJ Richardson Quietly Leading Illinois' Resurgence

D.J. Richardson joined a stacked lineup at Nevada's Findlay Prep for his senior year of high school.

To win a place on the court he had to rely on his defense.

In his almost four full seasons at Illinois, Richardson has been a streaky offensive player.

But that defense has kept him on the court through sometimes wild ups and downs. His team has been to the NCAA tournament but it has also seen coach Bruce Weber fired for a collapse.

This season, the Illini (20-9, 7-8 Big Ten) are close to an NCAA tournament bid. And coach John Groce says Richardson is a big reason why.

Richardson led a comeback win over No. 1 Indiana. And the senior's leadership helped keep the team afloat during a slump.

>>Illini Set To Host Huskers

(Champaign, IL) -- The Fighting Illini host Nebraska this Saturday at Assembly Hall. Illinois had a five-game winning streak broken by Michigan over the weekend. The Illini are currently 7-and-8 in the Big Ten and 20-and-9 overall. The Huskers are 13-and-15 and just 4-and-11 in conference.

NCAA Top-25 Basketball ("USA Today" Rankings)
------
#2 Gonzaga Bulldogs 70, BYU Cougars 65
Virginia Cavaliers 73, #3 Duke Blue Devils 68
#15 Ohio State Buckeyes 63, Northwestern Wildcats 53

February 28, 2013

Jail Population: 62

Summons Served: 8

Warrant Arrests: 1

Paige Zumwalt, 23, Farmer City, was arrested on a DeWitt county warrant charging her with Disorderly Conduct/ FTA. Zumwalt posted the necessary bond and was released.

Dennis Wagner, 53, Clinton, was issued a citation for Speeding 74 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Wagner posted his IL Driver’s License as bond and was released.

Ginny Campbell, 39, Lincoln, was issued a citation for Operating Uninsured Vehicle. Campbell was issued a notice to appear and was released.

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

The Democratic-led majority in the Illinois House earlier this week debated to lay down limits on where exactly gun owners can legally carry their weapons in public.

In the day long action that went into the evening hours, 27 proposals ranging from whether guns should be allowed in buses and trains to stadiums and amusement parks were voted upon as HB1155. Many Republican representatives and even downstate Democrats felt that with all of the amendments gunowners would be lucky to be able carry weapons in their own back yard.

House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, set aside a special order of business to address the controversial issue and require votes on each individual amendment to a Democratic bill. Madigan, the state’s Democratic Party chairman, called for up-or-down votes on the long line-up of amendments rather than weeding them out in committee or behind closed doors—and then tacking on a few changes in the full House.

State Representative Bill Mitchell told House members the debate proved while the Democrats have the majority….they can’t lead.

[audio:Mitchellguns.MP3] [/audio]

The Federal Appeals Court ordered the state to legalize concealed carry by early June. Most Republicans supported House Bill 997, the original concealed carry proposal which has nearly 50 sponsors from both parties. It was attached as amendment 27 and incorporates all of the other amendments that were approved on Tuesday and while it was approved, it now contains a lot of conflicting amendments along with 9 hostile amendments that were added.

The negotiations continue.