Local News

Illinois Sending Approvals To Marijuana Patients

Officials say the first approval letters have been sent to Illinois patients who've applied to use medical marijuana legally.

Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold confirmed Monday that about a dozen letters have gone out as the state reviews applications from patients, which have come in by the thousands.

According to reports, Jim Champion of Somonauk (SAHM'-uh-nahk) received an approval letter last week. He's a 48-year-old veteran with multiple sclerosis, a qualifying condition under the new law.

Illinois is taking applications from patients whose last names begin with A through L.

Patients whose last names begin with M through Z are asked to wait until Nov. 1 to apply.

State WIC Program Switching To Skim, One-Percent Milk

An Illinois nutrition program is tweaking the diet of the low income residents it helps feed.

In a news release, the Illinois Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children says that beginning Wednesday, many of those who receive food vouchers will be offered skim milk or one percent milk instead of whole milk in an effort to improve their health.

The release from the program called WIC says skim or one percent milk will be offered to pregnant women, new mothers, women who are breast feeding and children over the age of two. To insure proper growth and development, children between one year and 23 months will continue to receive whole milk.

Senator Defends Ed Reform Bill

State Senator Andy Manar says he's frustrated that Republicans are trying to kill an education reform plan. The Senate approved the bill in the spring. It would shift state funding to the schools that need it the most.

[audio:rdd093014Manar1.mp3] [/audio]

Republicans are concerned that the plan will make big cuts to some districts, and they've filed a resolution to kill the plan. Manar says his plan is all about trying to balance current inequities. He's hoping the House will take up his bill this fall.

ISU Reviewing This Year's Enrollment 'Sweet Spot'

Illinois State University is questioning whether it actually hit its enrollment "sweet spot" this year.

Reports indicate ISU previously said it was pleased with its fall enrollment of 20,615 students, including the school's largest freshmen class since 1989.

During a review of the fiscal year 2015 budget, ISU board member Bob Churney suggested that tuition revenue could be increased by aiming to enroll about 1,000 more students. He said the expansion would depend on variables such as adequate student housing and the school's mission to keep classes at a 19:1 student-faculty ratio.

Tuition revenue makes up more than 42 percent of ISU's projected operating revenue in the proposed budget for fiscal year 2015. The board is set to vote on the budget on Oct. 24.

Weekly Crop Report

 width=FARMERS HAD PLENTY OF TIME TO WORK IN THE FIELDS THIS PAST WEEK AS WE HEAR IN THE WEEKLY CROP REPORT.

WARM, DRY CONDITIONS HELPED MOVE ALONG HARVEST PROGRESS SAYS STATE CROP STATISTICIAN MARK SCHLEUSENER.

[audio:crop1.mp3] [/audio]

68 PERCENT OF SOYBEANS ARE DROPPING LEAVES AND SEVEN PERCENT OF THE CROP HAS BEEN HARVESTED. 78 PERCENT OF THE SOYBEAN CROP IS RATED IN GOOD TO EXCELLENT CONDITION.

[audio:crop2.mp3] [/audio]

10 PERCENT OF SORGHUM HAS BEEN HARVESTED AND TWO PERCENT OF WINTER WHEAT HAS BEEN PLANTED.

AVERAGE STATEWIDE TOPSOIL MOISTURE NOW STANDS AT ONE PERCENT VERY SHORT, NINE PERCENT SHORT, 80 PERCENT ADEQUATE AND 10 PERCENT SURPLUS.

Local Lawmaker Looking To Put Education Funding In Spotlight During 2014 Campaign Season

 width=200 height=148 />One local lawmaker feels the issue of school funding hasn't been dealt with properly over the last decade. <br /> <br />State Representative Bill Mitchell explains the State of Illinois has been prorating school districts the last couple years. This mean schools are getting much less than what the State should be giving them. The 2014 Illinois Campaign Trail has been ignoring this important issue according to Mitchell.<br /> <br />[audio:92914prorate1.mp3] [/audio]<br /> <br />Rep. Mitchell notes the current administration needs to take responsibility for their record. He also targets Republicans saying they need to step up and challenge Democrats on the issue. <br /> <br />[audio:92914prorate2.mp3] [/audio]<br /> <br />Mitchell stresses that the current administration is cutting close to a half billion dollars from the education budget for this fiscal year which he calls outrageous.</p>						</div>

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Lincoln High School Introducing New Technology Throughout School

 width=One local high school has dedicated themselves to implementing the latest technology in the classroom.

Lincoln Community High School has followed the recent wave of ever-changing technology in recent years and Superintendent Robert Bagby notes nearly every computer on site is less than four years old. He adds the School Board has put aside funds to fulfill requests for certain items.

[audio:92614lchstech1.mp3] [/audio]

Even though more could always be done in the classroom, Bagby stresses he's currently satisfied with the state of technology at Lincoln High School. There have been less textbooks bought in recent years, which will pave the way for more technology to enter the school.

[audio:92614lchstech2.mp3] [/audio]

Bagby mentions most technology also needs a trial-and-error period. He feels the students and teacher have provided great feedback on new items brought in to LCHS.

DeWitt County Human Resource Center Falls Short In Bid For Technology Upgrades

A local non-profit who was a part of a sweepstakes to receive major improvements to it's technology fell short in it's bid.

The DeWitt County Human Resource Center was the focus of an annual sweepstakes through the technology company, RK Dixon. According to Executive Director Lynn Scoville, the sweepstakes would have provided much needed upgrades to their technology, however their bid fell short this summer.

[audio:92514hrctechbid1.mp3] [/audio]

Despite falling short on the bid for a sizable first place prize, Scoville indicates they will be working with RK Dixon for an updated printer to their main office. She feels any upgrades are welcome to their technology collection, as it is very dated.

[audio:92514hrctechbid2.mp3] [/audio]

Scovill thanks the community and those supporters of HRC who took time to vote in the online process and helped to make their video clip that is on YouTube.

MNF Recap; NFL Notes

>>Chiefs Maul Patriots On Monday Night Football

(Kansas City, MO) -- It got ugly at Arrowhead Stadium on "Monday Night Football" as Jamaal Charles reached the end zone three times leading the Chiefs to a 41-14 beatdown of the Patriots. Charles also totaled 108 total yards and Knile Davis ran for 107 yards. Alex Smith threw for three touchdowns and 248 yards in the win, while Travis Kelce [[ KEL-see ]] had his break out game hauling in a TD along with 93 yards receiving. Kansas City is 2-and-2.  width=Tom Brady turned the ball over three times with two interceptions and a fumble. Husain Abdullah returned one of the picks for a 39-yard TD. Wide receiver Brandon LaFell was the one bright spot for New England with six catches, 119 yards and a TD. The Patriots have fallen to 2-and-2.

>>AEG Officials Want More Time To Land NFL Team

(Los Angeles, CA) -- AEG is asking for more time to land an NFL team in Los Angeles. AEG officials say they are making headway with the NFL and asked L.A. city leaders Monday for an additional six months to land a franchise. As it stands now the company has until October 17th to land a team and begin building "Farmers Field" stadium. Mayor Eric Garcetti has said he's willing to give AEG the extra time it needs, but there is no word on when an official decision will be made.

>>Neutral Arbitrator To Rule In Rice Appeal

(Undated) -- A neutral arbitrator will rule on the NFL Players Association's appeal of former Ravens running back Ray Rice's indefinite suspension. ESPN reports the league has agreed to the move for the first time in a personal conduct disciplinary case. Both sides have reportedly submitted candidates for the task. The NFL says commissioner Roger Goodell never intended to hear the appeal himself. Rice was suspended indefinitely after a second video was released of him knocking out his then-fiancee, though he was initially suspended just two games.

>>Raiders Fire Dennis Allen

(Alameda, CA) -- The Oakland Raiders are parting ways with head coach Dennis Allen. FOX Sports reports the team has fired Allen after an 0-and-4 start to the season. The Silver and Black were blown out 38-14 by the Dolphins on Sunday in London. Allen was just 8-and-24 in his first two seasons with Oakland before the winless start this year.

>>Cardinals' Dwyer Charged With Hitting Wife

(Phoenix, AZ) -- Arizona Cardinals running back Jonathan Dwyer is facing nine charges for hitting his wife and infant son. Dwyer has been formally charged with assaulting his wife in two arguments in July at their Phoenix apartment. The 25-year-old has been charged with felony aggravated assault and eight misdemeanors. Investigators say Dwyer broke his wife's nose during a July 21st argument and engaged in a dispute the following day in which he punched his wife and threw a shoe at his 17-month-old son, who wasn't injured. He was detained at the team's training facility on September 17th on suspicion of aggravated assault against his son. The day after his arrest, the Cardinals placed Dwyer on the reserve/non-football illness list, meaning he can't play for Arizona again this season.

>>Bills Replace Manuel With Orton At QB

(Orchard Park, NY) -- Four games into the season, the Buffalo Bills are making a change under center. Veteran signal-caller Kyle Orton will take over for E.J. Manuel at quarterback when the Bills play the Lions Sunday in Detroit. Manuel was 21-of-44 for 225 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 23-17 loss at Houston. Buffalo is now 2-and-2 after a 2-and-0 start. Orton has been a backup the last three seasons, playing in three games last year with Dallas.

Derrick Rose, Bulls Notes

Bulls star Derrick Rose understands the concerns surrounding his knees. He sees only one way to ease them.

 width=The 2011 NBA MVP is ready to go after being sidelined the past two seasons by knee injuries. Rose says the only way to quiet his doubters is to "actually be on the court and actually playing."

Besides getting their point guard back, the Bulls brought in Pau Gasol to help ease some of the scoring load and defend the rim. They also added Nikola Mirotic and drafted Doug McDermott, giving them more shooting options.

But Rose still remains a question mark with practices starting Tuesday and the opener Oct. 29 at the New York Knicks.

>>Bulls Open Training Camp

(Chicago, IL) -- Training camp is officially underway for the Bulls. The team held its annual Media Day yesterday and now begins to prepare for the upcoming season. The Bulls will host the Washington Wizards in the preseason opener on Monday. The regular season starts October 29th.

>>Blazers Exercise Fourth-Year Option On Lillard

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland Trail Blazers are exercising the fourth-year option on guard Damian Lillard. In two seasons, he has averaged 19.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and six assists. Last season, Lillard averaged a career-high 20.7 points per game. His 403 three-pointers through his first two seasons are the most in league history. Lillard is already tied for eighth on Portland's all-time list for three-pointers.

>>Celtics Ink Evan Turner

(Boston, MA) -- The Boston Celtics are adding guard Evan Turner to their backcourt. The two sides finalized a deal that ESPN reports is a two-year contract in the range of 3.3-million-dollars per season. The former second-overall pick out of Ohio State averaged 14 points, five rebounds and more than three assists per contest in 81 games between the 76ers and Pacers last season.

>>Suns Sign Morris Twins To Contract Extensions

(Phoenix, AZ) -- The Suns are locking up a pair of twins. Phoenix has signed power forwards Markieff and Marcus Morris to contract extensions. The "Arizona Republic" reports Markieff's deal is four years for 32-million-dollars, while Marcus gets a four-year deal worth 20-million. ESPN had reported the 52-million combined would be split evenly down the middle. The two twins played with each other at the University of Kansas and were reunited when the Suns acquired Marcus from the Rockets in a trade. After losing Channing Frye during the offseason, Markieff is expected to be the team's starting power forward.

Baseball Playoffs Open Tonight; Cards, Cubs Sox Notes

 width=>>Cardinals Rest Up For NLDS

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Cardinals have a few more days to rest up before the start of their National League Division Series. The NL Central champs play Game One of their best-of-five series Friday against the NL West champion Dodgers in LA. Adam Wainwright is slated to oppose Clayton Kershaw.

>>Carpenter Cardinals' Nominee For Aaron Award

(St. Louis, MO) -- Third baseman Matt Carpenter is the Cardinals' nominee for this year's Hank Aaron Award. It's given annually to the top offensive performers in each league. Fans can vote through Sunday exclusively at MLB.com. The winners will be announced during the World Series later this month.

>>Cardinals' Oquendo Up For D'backs Managerial Job?

(Phoenix, AZ) -- Cardinals third base coach Jose Oquendo may be a candidate to fill the Diamondbacks' vacant managerial position. He is expected to be interviewed by former Cards manager Tony La Russa, who is the Chief Baseball Officer in Arizona. The D'backs fired Kirk Gibson last week.

 width=>>Cubs, White Sox Look To Offseason

(Chicago, IL) -- With the 2014 season in the rear-view mirror, the Cubs and White Sox are looking to the offseason. Each team completed 73-and-89 campaigns on Sunday. In other news, Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo and White Sox slugger Jose Abreu were named Hank Aaron Award finalists.

>>A's Face Royals In AL Wild Card Game Tonight

(Kansas City, MO) -- The American League Wild Card game takes place tonight as the Oakland A's face the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Jon Lester takes the mound for Oakland, while KC counters with James Shields. The A's are in the playoffs for the third straight year, while the Royals are making their first postseason appearance in 29 years. KC hasn't been in the playoffs since winning the World Series in 1985. The winner of this game moves on to face the AL West champion Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the best-of-five American League Division Series beginning Thursday in Anaheim.

>>Astros Introduce Hinch As New Manager

(Houston, TX) -- A.J. Hinch is the new manager of the Houston Astros. He was formally introduced Monday and says he's humbled to be in his new role. The 40-year-old Hinch replaces Bo Porter, who was fired September 1st in his second season and replaced by interim skipper Tom Lawless. Hinch was most recently in the San Diego Padres' front office as vice president of scouting. He was previously a manager with the Arizona Diamondbacks, going 89-and-123 in parts of two seasons. The Astros finished fourth in the American League West this year with a 70-and-92 record.

>>Nationals' Zimmermann NL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- Washington Nationals pitcher Jordan Zimmermann is the National League Player of the Week. He fired a no-hitter against the Miami Marlins in a 1-0 win in Sunday's regular-season finale. Zimmermann struck out 10 and walked just one en route to his first career no-hitter.

>>A's Gray, Reddick Share AL Player Of Week Honors

(New York, NY) -- Oakland A's pitcher Sonny Gray and right fielder Josh Reddick are the Co-American League Players of the Week. Gray threw a six-hit shutout against Texas on Sunday as the A's clinched a Wild Card berth. Reddick hit .480 in six games, including an RBI triple against Texas on Sunday.

>>Twins Fire Manager Ron Gardenhire

(Minneapolis, MN) -- After 13 seasons, Ron Gardenhire is out as manager of the Minnesota Twins. The team says Gardenhire will not return for the 2015 season. He had one year remaining on the two-year extension he signed last season. "Gardy" took over for Tom Kelly, who retired following the 2001 season. He was named the 2010 American League Manager of the Year and led the Twins to six AL Central titles. The Twins have lost at least 90 games the past four seasons under Gardenhire. It marks the first time Minnesota has fired a manager since Ray Miller in 1986.

Illini Expect Rose To Return Against Purdue

 width=Illinois coach Tim Beckman expects quarterback Wes Lunt to play Saturday against Purdue.

The quarterback missed Saturday's 45-14 loss at Nebraska with a knee injury. Illinois didn't announce Lunt wouldn't play until just before kickoff.

Offensive coordinator Bill Cubit said Monday that Lunt's injury is "a little bit like a sprain" in his right knee. It happened when a teammate fell on him in Illinois' win over Texas State.

Both Beckman and Cubit said Lunt sat out of the Nebraska game because they didn't think he could scramble well enough to protect himself. Reilly O'Toole started for Illinois (3-2).

Cubit said that against Purdue, Lunt will need to get rid of the ball fast. The Boilermakers (2-3) are third in the Big Ten in sacks with 13.

Clinton Police Weekend Report

ON 9/27/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED NICHOLAS J. CAPPELLIN 25, CLINTON FOR THEFT OVER $300, BURGLARY AND DRIVING WHILE SUSPENDED AND LEVI T. TARBOX 20, CLINTON FOR THEFT OVER $300, ILLEGAL CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL BY A MINOR, POSSESSION OF CANNABIS, POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, AND ILLEGAL TRANSPORTATION OF ALCOHOL BY A PASSENGER. BOTH SUBJECTS WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 9/28/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED SEAN E. WHEELER 35, CLINTON ON A DEWITT COUNTY WARRANT. WHEELER WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 9/28/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED KADARIUS D. SNEED 20, CLINTON FOR CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY. SNEED WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

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

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report, for 9-30

September 24, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 25, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 26, 2014

Jail Population: 46
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 27, 2014

Jail Population: 49
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 28, 2014

Jail Population: 50
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 1

September 29, 2014

Jail Population: 50
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0


Devin Kemp, 18, Clinton was arrested and charged with Driving While License Suspended. Kemp posted the necessary bond and was released.

Shannon Hicks, 37, Fairmount was issued a Citation for Speeding 74 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Hicks was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Jason Moyer, 32, Clinton was issued Citations for Driving While License Revoked, 2 Counts Driving Under Influence, No Valid Driver’s License and Improper Lane Usage. Moyer was arrested and charged with Driving Under Influence alcohol and Driving on Revoked License. Moyer unable to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

Jimmy Hutchison, 24, Eureka was issued Citations for 3 Counts Driving Under Influence. Hutchison was arrested and charged with Driving Under Influence alcohol. Hutchison posted the necessary bond and was released.

Bradley Burton, 20, DeWitt was arrested and charged with Consumption Alcohol Minor. Burton posted the necessary bond and was released.

Jamie Hanlon, 30, Decatur was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging her with Driving on Revoked License. Hanlon posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Baum Continues to Recouperate Following Motorcycle Accident

 width=A Clinton businessman continues to recouperate in a Springfield hospital, following a serious motorcycle accident in Arizona.

Scott Baum, owner of Baum Chevrolet-Buick in Clinton, was involved in a motorcycle accident August 18th in Kingman, Arizona, where he was riding with several friends from the Clinton area. The motorcycle came down on Baum's right leg.

He was airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital, then later transferred to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield where he's been treated since August 27th.

Surgeons have performed 5 different surgeries to graft skin, veins and muscle, to Baum's lower right leg. The most recent surgery was on Wednesday of last week, lasting some 12 hours. Doctors have been pleased so far, with the results from Wednesday's operation.

At present, there is no timetable for Baum's discharge from the hospital. It's anticipated that if the latest grafts are successful, the next step will be physical therapy.

Baum is doing well. He and his family appreciate the expressions of support they've received from customers and friends.

Clinton Lady Maroons Volleyball Snaps 7 Game Losing Streak

The Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball team improved to 2-7 on the season and snapped a seven game losing streak Monday against Monticello. The Lady Maroons won in three games going 17-25, 25-14 and 25-18.

Only five of the Lady Maroons varsity squad members made it on the stat sheet but it was enough.  Haley Ginger had four aces and twenty-five digs. Jessica Scott recorded five kills on the night. Taylor Filkin also had five kills and added three blocks. Payton Bieber also had three blocks. Michaela Elliott finished the night with fourteen assists.

Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more coverage of Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball action as they get set to take on Tuscola at home Thursday October 2 at 7:00 PM.

Rep. Mitchell Calls for Lawmakers to Focus on School Funding

One local lawmaker feels the issue of school funding hasn't been dealt with properly over the last decade.

State Representative Bill Mitchell explains the State of Illinois has been prorating school districts the last couple years. This mean schools are getting much less than what the State should be giving them. The 2014 Illinois Campaign Trail has been ignoring this important issue according to Mitchell.

[audio:92914prorate1.mp3] [/audio]

Rep. Mitchell notes the current administration needs to take responsibility for their record. He also targets Republicans saying they need to step up and challenge Democrats on the issue.

[audio:92914prorate2.mp3] [/audio]

Mitchell stresses that the current administration is cutting close to a half billion dollars from the education budget for this fiscal year which he calls outrageous.

Durbin to Seek Probe of Control-Center Sabotage

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin says he'll seek an investigation into how a contract employee was able to sabotage a regional control center and bring Chicago's two international airports to a halt.

Durbin said Sunday that he will ask inspectors general at the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration to investigate whether there was a security breach when the employee entered the building early Friday with a suitcase.

Authorities say 36-year-old Brian Howard of Naperville started a fire in the basement telecommunications room of the control center in suburban Aurora and then tried to commit suicide. He faces felony charges.

At the height of the travel misery Friday, more than 2,000 flights in and out of the airports were canceled, disrupting travel nationwide

Diabetes Informational Workshops to Be Held in October

One local nutrition program will soon be educating DeWitt County about Diabetes.

The University of Illinois Extension will be holding a series regarding various diabetic topics which will begin in October. Caitlin Huth, with U of I Extension, notes the workshops will cover a wealth of information from fitness to how food affects blood sugar. Lifestyle planning will also be covered.

[audio:92514diabetes1.mp3] [/audio]

Huth explains diabetes is a preventative disease. This means genetics don't always have to determine whether one gets the disease. She adds those who take care of themselves will have greater health outcomes over a longer period of time.

[audio:92514diabetes2.mp3] [/audio]

The classes will run four Thursdays beginning in late-October. Huth explains a diabetic-safe lunch will be provided, since the class will be held over the lunch hour. Physical fitness will also be once of the major components covered.

[audio:92514diabetes3.mp3] [/audio]

The series begins on Thursday, October 23rd at 10:30 am and will be held at the DeWitt County Extension in Clinton. For more information, you can find them online at web.extension.illinois.edu/dmp/ or by phone at 935-5764.

Social Security Provides Answers Regarding Retirement Age and Benefits

One of the major questions asked of Social Security involves full retirement age.

Retirement age is defined differently depending on a beneficiary's date of birth. Jack Myers, with Social Security, explains full retirement age is closing on 67 for anyone born passed 1960. He adds anyone who decides to collect Social Security prior to the full age will be subject to reductions and earnings limits.

[audio:92414retireage1.mp3] [/audio]

Myers notes several factors go into determining earnings limits. Those who decide to work and collect retirement benefits may be subject to lower or higher earnings limits depending on when they reach full retirement age. He stresses limits may also fluctuate from year to year.

[audio:92414retireage2.mp3] [/audio]

Anyone wishing to retire under the age of 60 will have their earnings calculated from their 35 highest grossing years of earnings. The figures will also be adjusted for inflation, according to Myers.

[audio:92414retireage3.mp3] [/audio]

Myers encourages anyone wanting more information on benefits or retirement to visit www.socialsecurity.gov. Once there, you can click on the "benefits" icon to learn more.

Sunday's Scoreboard


NFL
------
Green Bay Packers 38, Chicago Bears 17
Indianapolis Colts 41, Tennessee Titans 17
Houston Texans 23, Buffalo Bills 17
Baltimore Ravens 38, Carolina Panthers 10
Detroit Lions 24, New York Jets 17
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 27, Pittsburgh Steelers 24
Miami Dolphins 38, Oakland Raiders 14
San Diego Chargers 33, Jacksonville Jaguars 14
San Francisco 49ers 26, Philadelphia Eagles 21
Minnesota Vikings 41, Atlanta Falcons 28
Dallas Cowboys 38, New Orleans Saints 17

MLB National League
------
Cincinnati Reds 4, Pittsburgh Pirates 1
Atlanta Braves 2, Philadelphia Phillies 1
Washington Nationals 1, Miami Marlins 0
Chicago Cubs 5, Milwaukee Brewers 2
San Francisco Giants 9, San Diego Padres 3
St. Louis Cardinals 1, Arizona Diamondbacks 0
Los Angeles Dodgers 10, Colorado Rockies 5

MLB American League
------
Cleveland Indians 7, Tampa Bay Rays 2
Baltimore Orioles 1, Toronto Blue Jays 0
Detroit Tigers 3, Minnesota Twins 0
New York Yankees 9, Boston Red Sox 5
Kansas City Royals 6, Chicago White Sox 4
Oakland Athletics 4, Texas Rangers 0
Seattle Mariners 4, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 1

MLB Interleague
------
New York Mets 8, Houston Astros 3

(End of Regular Season)

NHL Preseason
------
Chicago Blackhawks 5, Edmonton Oilers 0 (at Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
Washington Capitals 2, Montreal Canadiens 0
New Jersey Devils 3, Philadelphia Flyers 1
Toronto Maple Leafs 3, Buffalo Sabres 2 (SO)
Calgary Flames 2, Colorado Avalanche 1
Los Angeles Kings 4, Anaheim Ducks 2

NASCAR
------
AAA 400 (at Dover, DE)

1.Jeff Gordon
2. Brad Keselowski
3. Jimmie Johnson

PGA
------
Ryder Cup (at Gleneagles, Scotland)

Team Europe 16.5, Team USA 11.5

Cardinals Blank D'backs, Win NL Central

The Cardinals clinched the NL Central title on the final day of the regular season.  The Cards shut out the Diamondbacks 1-0 in Arizona but had already won the division when the Pirates lost 4-1 at Cincinnati.  Justin Masterson got the win and Kolten Wong drove in the lone St. Louis run with a sixth-inning groundout

Cubs Beat Brewers In Season Finale

 Arismendy Alcantara snapped a 2-all tie with a two-run double in the sixth inning and the Cubs went on to beat the Brewers 5-2 in the season finale in Milwaukee.  Anthony Rizzo his 32nd home run for Chicago.  Jacob Turner got the win and Hector Rondon his 29th save.  The Cubs finished 73-and-89.

Oullette, Sprague lead Ohio past E Illinois 34-19

A.J. Oullette rushed for 87 yards with two touchdowns and quarterback JD Sprague added a pair of rushing scores, lifting Ohio over Eastern Illinois 34-19 on Saturday.

Trailing 3-0 early, the Bobcats (3-2) raced to a 21-3 lead sparked by Oullette's two touchdowns, including a 65-yard breakaway on Ohio's first play in the second quarter.

Grant Cunningham blocked a punt that led to a late field goal by Josiah Yazdani, making it 24-10 at half.

Starting in place of injured quarterback Derrius Vick, Sprague threw for 143 yards with two interceptions and rushed for 69 yards on 12 carries. He ran for an 8-yard touchdown to make it 34-10 before Greg Windham relieved Sprague in the fourth quarter.

Jalen Whitlow threw for 289 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown to Anthony Taylor in the fourth quarter. Whitlow also ran for 112 yards and a score for Eastern Illinois (1-4).

 

Southern Illinois downs Western Illinois, 34-17

Mark Iannotti threw for 272 yards and two touchdowns, both of which went to MyCole Pruitt, to lead Southern Illinois over Western Illinois 34-17 on Saturday.

Pruitt, the only tight end in Missouri Valley Conference history with more than 2,000 receiving yards, had nine catches and 106 yards for Salukis (4-1, 1-0). Mika'il McCall and Malcolm Agnew each rushed for a touchdown.

Western Illinois (2-3, 0-1) took a 14-10 lead into halftime on a touchdown pass from Trenton Norvell to J.C. Baker and a 3-yard run by Devon Moore. However, Southern Illinois outscored the Leathernecks 24-3 in the second half. The Silukis have outscored opponents 83-13 in the second half in their five games this season.

Norvell threw for 271 yards and Lance Lenoir had 115 yards receiving to lead Western Illinois.

Coprich, Roberson, Illinois St. beat Austin Peay

Marshaun Coprich ran for 156 yards and two scores, Tre Roberson threw four touchdown passes and Illinois State beat Austin Peay, 55-6, Saturday night.

Roberson completed 12 of 16 passes for 222 yards and Lechein Neblett had four catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns.

Illinois State (3-0) racked up 27 first downs, punted just twice and scored a touchdown on its first five possessions of the second half. The sixth was an eight-play, 28-yard drive which bled the final 5:35 off the clock.

Austin Peay (0-4) has now lost 16-straight games dating back to a 38-31 win over Tennessee Tech on Nov. 17, 2012. The Governors didn't get a first down until the second quarter and had just 88 total yards in the first half as Illinois State jumped to a 20-0 halftime lead.

Abdullah, No. 21 Nebraska run over Illinois 45-14

Ameer Abdullah ran for 208 yards and three touchdowns, Imani Cross added a career-high 109 yards and a TD, and No. 21 Nebraska beat Illinois 45-14 on Saturday night.

The Cornhuskers (5-0, 1-0 Big Ten) are off to their best start since 2010 heading into next week's game at No. 9 Michigan State.

Wearing all-red alternate uniforms on homecoming, the Huskers rushed for 458 of their 624 total yards.

Illinois (3-2, 0-1) started Reilly O'Toole at quarterback in place of Wes Lunt. O'Toole was 17 for 38 for 261 yards and two touchdowns and was intercepted three times, twice by Daniel Davie.

Knox College Nears End of $16 Million Renovation

Knox College in Galesburg is completing a $16 million renovation project on its alumni building from 1889.

The refurbished Alumni Hall will be dedicated Oct. 11 and is expected to open in January. Work began about a year ago on the building, which will house the admissions office, career center and alumni relations office.

College advancement vice president Beverly Holmes says the building has housed classrooms, a theater, offices and a library in the past. It largely fell out of use in the 1970s.

Hard pine that's more than 150 years old was pulled from the former theater floor and will be used in a gallery for visitors.

Trial Set for Man Accused of Lobbying for Zimbabwe

The trial of a Chicago man accused of illegally lobbying U.S. lawmakers to lift sanctions against leaders in Zimbabwe it set to get underway.

C. Gregory Turner's trial begins Monday in U.S. District Court in Chicago. A second man, Prince Asiel Ben Israel, has pleaded guilty to illegal lobbying.

Federal prosecutors say the two men lobbied lawmakers in the U.S. to lift sanctions against longtime Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe and members of his regime in exchange for a promise of $3.4 million.

The complaint says the men met with Mugabe, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Gov. Gideon Gono and other officials "multiple times" in the U.S. and Africa. They allegedly agreed to lobby U.S. federal and state officials on Zimbabwe's behalf in exchange for the promised payments, which the defendants apparently weren't able to collect in full.

Mugabe's government has been under sanctions since 2003 for alleged democratic violations.

Springfield Officials Ask: Too Many Schools?


Springfield public school officials are questioning whether they have too many schools.

School board members, administrators and other officials will likely raise the issue in developing a long-term strategic plan this year.

The district is the state's fourth-largest with just over 15,000 students. It has 32 schools including and only three sit on the city's far west side, which has seen the bulk of population growth.

The newspaper found that 23 of 32 school buildings are under capacity this year.

Experts say heating and cooling so many buildings is inefficient. But consolidating schools - and closing the neighborhood schoolhouse - is one of the more contentious issues a community can face.

The district closed two schools last year and saved $245,000.

Illinois Woman Pleads Guilty to $50,000 Fraud

A former fire department office manager in central Illinois has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $50,000 from the district.

45-year-old Dawn Sanchez pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of mail fraud as a Chatham Fire Protection District employee. The U.S. Justice Department says she is free on bond until sentencing in January. She could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.

Sanchez admitted that she fraudulently wrote district checks to herself and used its credit card to buy money orders from Jan. 2009 to July 2012. She resigned in June 2012.

The district says it has recovered a substantial amount of the money and will seek restitution for the remaining funds.

Rauner Political Giving Shifted More Republican

Reports indicate that wealthy businessman Bruce Rauner shifted 

his political donations to go all-out Republican after deciding to challenge Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn.

The Republican and his wife, Diana, have given $15 million to federal and state politicians since the late
1990s.

But more than $11 million of that - including $2 million from Rauner's political fund - has gone to Illinois
Republicans just this year.

Before running for governor, the Rauners gave to Republicans and Democrats, though highly favoring
the GOP.

Most of the money to Democrats went to Chicago-area politicians such as former Mayor Richard M.
Daley.

Kent Redfield is a Springfield-based political scientist. He says that reflects Rauner's keen interest in
issues such as Chicago school reform more than party ideology.

Apple And Pork Festival A Big Hit

With the 46th Annual Clinton Apple and Pork Festival coming to an end, nobody can say they left hungry or unsatisified. With many tents and vendors lining up and down Center St. and many more on the C.H. Moore Homestead grounds, there was much entertainment there to gather people from all across the country.

Larry Buss, Manager of the C.H. Moore Homestead, was in attendance. One thing Larry discussed most was that even though it's always fun to have people out and about on the grounds, he cares most about the money that comes in to help the Homestead.

[audio:92814Larry.mp3] [/audio]

Clinton Police Cheif Ben Lowers was also there to monitor the festival, which he said was made easy because there were no major problems this year. When asked what the grand total would be this year, Lowers said he it had alot to do with things like the weather.

[audio:92814BenLowers.mp3] [/audio]

The Clinton Apple Pork Festival always brings in big numbers and this year was no different.

Weekly Weather Update

We had a warmer, drier week with above average temperatures. This weekend will see highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid 50s. State Climatologist Jim Angel has more.

[audio:wx926.mp3] [/audio]

State Unemployment Slightly Decreases In August

Unemployment figures were unpredictable in many local counties throughout August as local unemployment figures were released Thursday afternoon.

DeWitt County saw unemployment slightly increase from 6.7% in July to 6.8 in August.

Piatt County grew slightly, going from 6.6% to 6.8%.

Macon County's unemployment slightly decreased going from 9.5% in July to 9.4% in August.

Logan County saw unemployment go from 7.2% to 7.3%.

Unemployment in McLean County shrank in July, going from 6.6% to 6.5%.

In Champaign County, employment also increased,up to 7.5%.

Unemployment in Sangamon County stayed steady at 6.5%.

The highest unemployment rate was at 10.7% in Hardin County.

Brown County once again had the state's lowest unemployment rate at 3.5%.

The state's unemployment actually dropped, going from 7.0% to 6.7% in August. The national unemployment rate sits at 6.3%.

First Day of Clinton's Apple & Pork Festival Sees A Crowd Of 51,000

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The 46th Annual Clinton Apple & Pork festival saw a crowd that was on pace to be a record-setter for the weekend. 51,000 people turned out Saturday to taste the multitudes of food and see all the craft making that takes place at the festival. 

Police Chief Ben Lowers said the crowd was definitely a large one.

[audio:ChiefLowersRecapAudio.mp3] [/audio]

Tune in Sunday September 28th from 11 AM to 4 PM for more coverage of this weekends Apple & Pork Festival on The Big 1520 AM and 92.3 FM WHOW and streaming live on dewittdailynews.com. width=

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Local Pharmacy Thanks Customers With Free Lunch On Friday

One local business celebrated their upcoming two-year anniversary by treating locals to a free lunch.
 
 width=Friday saw Clinton's Sav-Mor Pharmacy hold a Customer Appreciation Day to thank the people of Clinton for supporting them the last two years. Brian Eddings, Pharmacist with Sav-Mor, noted the day featured a free lunch in appreciation of their customers. Close to one-thousand pork burgers were grilled outside on Friday afternoon.
 
[audio:92714savmor1.mp3] [/audio]

Eddings mentioned Sav-Mor Pharmacy has been growing over the last two years while building their customer base. He added Sav-Mor would like to thank the people of Clinton for welcoming them into the community.  
 
[audio:92714savmor2.mp3] [/audio]
 
Sav-Mor Pharmacy's Customer Appreciation Day was held 11-1 on Friday. Along with lunch, guests were able to register for prizes as well.
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Durbin Pressing To Close Corporate Loopholes

Using a southwestern Illinois steel plant as a backdrop, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin will lobby for legislation designed to reward companies that keep their headquarters in the U.S., his office said.

The Illinois Democrat on Friday planned to tour Alton Steel northeast of St. Louis and speak publicly about the Patriot Employer Tax Credit Act he says he introduced in the Senate during the summer.

The measure would give companies a tax credit of roughly $1,200 per worker if they remain U.S.-based, provide Affordable Care Act-compliant health insurance to their employees, and pay most of their workers an hourly rate equal to 150 percent of poverty-level wages.

Syverson Not Happy With New Smoking Ban Proposal

State Senator Dave Syverson [[ SEE-ver-son ]] isn't happy about the state's plan to ban smoking on outdoor patios and beer gardens. He says business owners spent big money building the decks to accommodate their smoking customers and this sends the wrong message.

[audio:rddSmBan11.mp3] [/audio]

He says it's unfair for the governor's administration to try and sneak the new rules past the legislature, when everything seemed to be going OK.

[audio:rddSmBan21.mp3] [/audio]

The new rule states that no one can smoke within 15 feet of any of the workers or servers at the restaurant, even if they're outside. Syverson says that's ultimately going to hurt businesses and cost people their jobs. He says if the governor wants to change the law he should propose a bill and let it go through the legislative process.

The new rule needs to clear a committee before it becomes law. The committee is slated to vote next month but people can weigh in by sending an email.

Guilty Plea In $60-Thousand In Illinois Township Thefts

A former township supervisor in eastern Illinois has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $60,000 from the township and using the money to gamble.

Leon Eddie Mondy, 35, of St. Anne, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud Wednesday in Urbana federal court, prosecutors said. Mondy admitted that he took the money from various township accounts and spent it on gambling while he was acting Pembroke Township supervisor, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors said he took money from retirement funds and water, community center, senior nutrition and social security accounts, among others.

St. Anne is about 70 miles south of Chicago.

Mondy is to be sentenced Jan. 23 in Peoria.

Jumper Injured At Eastern Illinois Courhouse

A man jailed on a drug charge jumped from a second floor of a courthouse in eastern Illinois Thursday morning, injuring himself when he landed on the building's main floor, authorities in Coles County said.

According to reports, Chief Deputy Kerry Whitley of the Coles County Sheriff's Office says the inmate was taken to Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center and was expected to recover.

Jail records show the man, Anthony B. McFarland, 53, had been arrested and jailed last week for a methamphetamine precursor charge. He was among a group deputies had escorted to the courthouse for court appearances.

Madigan Taking Lead On Jimmy John's Breach

Attorney General Lisa Madigan is taking the lead role in investigating a credit card breach at Jimmy John's.  More than 200-stores across the country were hit by hackers, including some in Springfield, Champaign, Charleston, Quincy, Collinsville and Chicago.  Madigan says anyone who used their credit or debit cards at the sandwich chain between June 16th and September 5th should keep a close watch on their accounts and report any unauthorized charges.  Jimmy John's is offering credit protection services to customers who are impacted. 

Central Illinois Man Facing Child Pornogrpaphy Charges

A central Illinois man has been charged with possessing and distributing thousands of computer files containing child pornography, prosecutors said Thursday.

Jacob R. Stark, 26, of Chatham, in Sangamon County, was arrested Thursday after investigators searched his place of employment in Springfield, Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office said. He was charged with five counts of distribution of child pornography and five counts of possession of child pornography, and a bond hearing was set for Friday.

Madigan's office said an internet address traced to Stark allegedly was seen trading more than 14,000 images of child pornography.

The arrest was the 69th under a program launched in 2010 to investigate and arrest the most active child pornography traders, Madigan said.

The Sangamon County State's Attorney's Office will prosecute the case.

Springfield Hospital Says Donations Not Stolen

A children's hospital official in central Illinois accused of embezzling $500,000 from the institution since 2008 didn't steal money received as charitable donations, hospital officials said.

According to reports, St. John's Children's Hospital executive director Margaret "Peggy" Curtin, 55, was released from the Sangamon County Jail on bond Wednesday after being charged with felony theft Tuesday. Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser said $100,000 in cash was paid for her release after a judge set bond at $1 million on Tuesday.

Hospital spokesman Brian Reardon said there is no indication that donated funds were misused. The nonprofit Friends of St. John's Foundation raises money to support the children's hospital and other programs.

Reardon declined to comment on which of the hospital's sources of revenue may be involved in Curtin's case, citing the ongoing investigation. She has been suspended without pay, he said Tuesday.

Bev Neisler, chief development officer of the Friends of St. John's Foundation, said Curtin never had access to donations because the children's hospital and the foundations are separate. She said she has been reassuring donors that their gifts weren't misused.

Peoria Man Sentenced For 13th Revoked License

A Peoria man has been sentenced to 3 ½ years in prison after pleading guilty to his 13th count of driving with a revoked license.

Willie Drummer, 60, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a felony count of aggravated driving while license revoked in Fulton County court. The sentence includes one year of supervised release.

Drummer has received 13 counts of driving with a revoked license since 1998, Fulton County Assistant State's Attorney Justin Jochums said. Twelve were in Peoria County and one was in Fulton County.

Decatur Drug Maker Expanding

A pharmaceutical plant in Decatur is expanding and could eventually add jobs, city officials said.

Akorn Inc. on Thursday broke ground on a project that will add 40,000 square feet to its plant. The company recently bought a neighboring property to accommodate the expansion.

Akorn is also remodeling and modernizing equipment as part of an $18 million project to increase production.

The Decatur-based maker of generic pharmaceuticals employs 435 people and says the expansion could create more jobs.

Decatur has struggled with high unemployment in recent years due in part to layoffs by other manufacturers.

The state Department of Employment Security says the unemployment rate in the area was 9.4 percent last month. That's down from 12.5 percent a year earlier.

All Metro Areas See Improved Unemployment

The unemployment rate is down in every metropolitan area in the state, compared to this time last year. Employment Security Spokesman Greg Rivara says that signals a positive comeback in the economy.

[audio:rddAugMetro11.mp3] [/audio]

Rivara says the state saw quite a bit of job growth in the areas of construction and professional and business services. Anyone who's still looking for work can check out IllinoisJobLink.com.

Clinton PD Taking Part in National Take Back Initiative Saturday

 width=The Clinton Police Department this weekend will be taking part in a nationwide effort to properly remove and dispose of unused prescription drugs.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates this weekend is that national Take Back Initiative, which aims to give people the opportunity to have unused prescription drugs handed over to law enforcement officials, who will see to it they get disposed of properly. The initiative is administered through the Drug Enforcement Administration.

[audio:92614takeback1.mp3] [/audio]

Given the busy nature of the weekend in Clinton, Chief Lowers says this isn't a one time opportunity for residents. While the Take Back Initiative focus is this Saturday, the Chief explains unused prescription drugs can be dropped off at the Police Department at any time.

[audio:92614takeback2.mp3] [/audio]

Law enforcement officials across the country have seen a rise in abuse of prescription drugs, and Chief Lowers says that problem has been seen locally in better than the last decade. He feels this initiative by the DEA is a good start in trying to curb what he calls an epidemic.

[audio:92614takeback3.mp3] [/audio]

The Chief points out it is against the law to have unused prescription drugs in your possession and the unlawful use of prescription drugs is also a crime.

This weekend, collection sites will be at the police station in Clinton, and also at the command post at the corner of Woodlawn and Center Streets as a part of Apple and Pork Festival. Those drop off points are available to anyone, not just Clinton residents.

Organizers of First Time 5K Run Ready For Big Weekend

 width=Organizers of a first of it's kind event in Clinton are gearing up for a big weekend.

The "Swifty Swine 5K Run/Walk" at Weldon Springs State Park are gearing up for their first time event. Lead organizer Margie Gehres indicates they have found registration numbers to be positive leading up to the event, and expect many more Saturday morning.

[audio:92614ap5k1.mp3] [/audio]

Attempting to get a boost in awareness, Gehres and her fellow organizers turned the social media avenues. She indicates their Facebook page has been very successful and some of the same names she sees that like their page have also turned up on their registration list.

[audio:92614ap5k2.mp3] [/audio]

Much thought and consideration went into the date for such an event and according to Gehres, she found other communities, in particular Monticello, who host like events, organizers have indicated they found attendees of races would like to have something to do in the community afterwards.

[audio:92614ap5k3.mp3] [/audio]

Paper applications can be picked up at the Dr. John Warner Hospital or online registration forms are available through active.com, and a search of "Swifty Swine 5K" will take you to the DJWH event registration form.

Race day registration is available. The race takes place at Weldon Springs State Recreation area at 7:30 am with the race beginning at 8 am.

County Board Approves Expense for County Highway Department Project

 width=A short and rather uneventful DeWitt County Board meeting Thursday night once again lasted less than an hour.

Thursday night, the Dewitt County Board approved the spending of budgeted Highway Department money to install a culvert.

The board approved the hiring of an excavation service for the price of $32-hundred. They also hired a crane service to lift necessary pieces into place to the tune of $88-hundred.

At the end of the meeting, Board member Terry Hoffman was critical of the the work done by other board members throughout the meeting and Board member Dan Ballenger chided Hoffman. Ballenger felt Hoffman needs to give other board members, and County employees credit for their work.

[audio:92514Ballenger1.mp3] [/audio]

The next Dewitt County Board meeting will be next Thursday October 2nd at the Dewitt County Courthouse.

NASCAR Notes

>>Chase Heads To Dover

(Dover, DE) -- The NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup heads to Dover this week to close out the Challenger Round. Four of the 16 drivers in the Chase will be eliminated after this round entering the next three races in the Contender Round.  width=Sunday's race gets underway at 2:00.

>>Logano Rewarded With Contract Extension From Penske

Joey Logano has already advanced to the next round of the NASCAR Sprint Cup playoffs and on Thursday signed a contract extension to remain with Team Penske.

Terms of the multi-year agreement for the Chase for the Sprint Cup contender were not disclosed.

Logano has seven career NASCAR Sprint Cup race victories, including five since joining Team Penske for the start of the 2013 season. He has four wins this year and sits second in the Chase for the Sprint Cup standings after last week's win at the Sylvania 300 in New Hampshire.

The 24-year-old Logano was the 2009 Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year and finished a career-best eighth in last year's Chase standings.

Ryder Cup Set To Tee Off From Scotland

 width=The 40th Ryder Cup tees off from Scotland today with the Friday Four-Ball matches at on the PGA Centenary Course at the Gleneagles Hotel. There are a total of 10 major championship winners between the two teams of 24 total golfers, six on the American side. Each team has three Ryder Cup rookies. The Ryder Cup also has eight of the top 10 players in the world. The European team is captained by Paul McGinley, and the Americans are led by Tom Watson. Europe achieved one of the greatest comebacks in Ryder Cup history in 2012 in the 39th edition of the event by winning eight and tying one of the 12 singles matches. The US has not won a Ryder Cup on foreign soil since 1993. This time, for the first time since 2008 and only the second since 1995 that Tiger Woods has not been a part of the event.

Thursday Night College Football Recap

 width=>>UCLA Crushes Arizona State

(Tempe, AZ) -- Number-10 UCLA used a rash of big plays to cruise past 12th-ranked Arizona State, 62-27, in a Pac-12 matchup at Sun Devil Stadium. The Bruins fell behind 17-6 and then outscored the Sun Devils 56-10 the rest of the way. Ishmael Adams had a 95-yard interception return for a touchdown and a 100-yard kick-off return for a score. Brett Hundley threw for 355 yards and four touchdowns, including connecting on two 80-yard TDs with Eldridge Massington and Jordan Payton. UCLA is 4-and-0 overall and 1-and-0 in conference. ASU outgained the Bruins 622-580, but four turnovers came back to haunt the Sun Devils. Mike Bercovici got the start at QB for the injured Taylor Kelly and tossed for 488 yards through the air with three touchdowns and two interceptions. The Devils are 4-and-1 and 1-and-1.

 width=>>Oklahoma State Battles Back To Beat Texas Tech

Daxx Garman threw for four touchdowns and ran for another as 24th-ranked Oklahoma State outgunned Texas Tech, 45-35, in the Big 12 opener for both programs.

Garman hooked up with James Washington for two scores and finished with 370 yards and two interceptions for the Cowboys (3-1, 1-0 Big 12), who have won three straight since a season-opening loss to No. 1 Florida State.

Davis Webb also tossed four touchdown passes and had Texas Tech (2-2, 0-1) within striking distance before going down with a left shoulder injury early in the fourth quarter.

The teams combined for 1,034 yards of offense and 287 penalty yards.

>>Report: UC Football Player Killed In Motorcycle Crash

(Cincinnati, OH) -- A University of Cincinnati football player is dead after a motorcycle crash. WXIX-TV reports Chamoda [[ sha-MAH-duh ]] Kennedy-Palmore was killed this afternoon on Vine Street in the Avondale neighborhood when he was hit by a car. Kennedy-Palmore was a redshirt freshman walk-on for UC and a graduate of Lakota East High School. Police say he was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Bears, Packers Meet Sunday; NFL Notes

 width=>>Packers Play Bears In Windy City

(Chicago, IL) -- An NFC North class takes place at Soldier Field this Sunday as the Green Bay Packers visit the Chicago Bears. It's the second straight divisional game for the Packers, who dropped a 19-7 decision at Detroit last weekend. Green Bay was limited to just 223 yards of offense, with Aaron Rodgers throwing for just 162 and one score. The Packers are 1-and-2 overall, including 0-and-2 on the road. The Bears return home after back-to-back road wins over the 49ers and Jets. Those followed a season-opening home loss to the Bills in overtime. Chicago has lost six of its last seven against Green Bay.

>>Rams Off Sunday

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams have no game on Sunday as they are on their bye. The team returns to action a week from Sunday on the road against the currently unbeaten Eagles. Philadelphia is 3-and-0 and plays at San Francisco on Sunday. The Rams are 1-and-2 after losing 34-31 to Dallas last weekend.

 width=>>Bears Sign Sharpton, Release Fiammetta

(Lake Forest, IL) -- The Bears are changing up the roster. Linebacker Darryl Sharpton has been signed to a one-year deal. The team also released veteran fullback Tony Fiammetta with an injury settlement. Sharpton played 42 games for the Texans from 2010 to 2013.

>>Bears Injury Report

(Lake Forest, IL) -- The Bears are looking to get healthy ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Packers at Solider Field. Jared Allen, Roberto Garza and Matt Slauson were among those that did not practice yesterday. Brandon Marshall was also held out with his ankle injury.

>>Giants Pummel Turnover-Prone Redskins

(Landover, MD) -- Eli Manning threw three touchdown passes to tight end Larry Donnell as the Giants crushed the Redskins 45-14 at FedEx Field. Manning finished 28-of-39 for 300 yards with four touchdowns and an interception while Donnell made seven grabs for 54 yards and the three scores. Manning also ran for a TD while Victor Cruz had six catches for 108 yards. Andre Williams ran for 66 yards and a TD as New York improved to 2-and-2. Kirk Cousins was intercepted four times and lost a fumble as part of Washington's six turnovers. He finished 19-of-33 for 257 yards with a touchdown to Andre Roberts. Alfred Morris ran for 63 yards and a score as the 'Skins fell to 1-and-3 on the year.

>>Bengals' Still's Daughter Has Tumor Removed

(Philadelphia, PA) -- The daughter of Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Devon Still is recovering after having her cancerous tumor completely removed Thursday. Four-year-old Leah underwent a nearly six-hour surgery, but still faces another round of chemotherapy, radiation and stem-cell transplants. Still was originally cut by the Bengals before the season started, but was named to the practice squad by the team so that he could retain insurance to pay for his daughter's medical bills. He has since been promoted to the active roster, and the team is closing in on selling 10-thousand of his jerseys to raise one-million-dollars for the Cincinnati Children's Hospital's pediatric cancer research efforts.

Sox Lose; Cards Finish Regular Season on Road; Jeter Leaves Yankee Stadium In Style

 width=>>Royals Shrink Magic Number To One

(Chicago, IL) -- Eric Hosmer homered and drove in two as the Royals reduced their magic number to clinch a playoff berth to one with a 6-3 win over the White Sox in Chicago. Lorenzo Cain went 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored for KC, which remains two games behind Detroit for first in the AL Central and is now one game ahead of Oakland for the top Wild Card spot. Kelvin Herrera got the win and Greg Holland earned his 45th save. Josh Phegley hit a two-run homer for the Sox, who have dropped three straight. Jose Quintana was tagged for five runs in seven-and-a-third frames to dip to 9-and-11 with the loss.

MLB National League
------
Cincinnati Reds 5, Milwaukee Brewers 3
New York Mets 7, Washington Nationals 4
Miami Marlins 6, Philadelphia Phillies 4
Washington Nationals 3, New York Mets 0
Pittsburgh Pirates 10, Atlanta Braves 1
San Francisco Giants 9, San Diego Padres 8

MLB American League
------
Seattle Mariners 7, Toronto Blue Jays 5
New York Yankees 6, Baltimore Orioles 5
Detroit Tigers 4, Minnesota Twins 2
Boston Red Sox 11, Tampa Bay Rays 1
Texas Rangers 2, Oakland Athletics 1

 width=>>Cardinals At D'backs Tonight

(Phoenix, AZ) -- The Cardinals begin their final series of the regular season tonight in Arizona. Michael Wacha [[ WHA-kuh ]] takes the mound for St. Louis, while the Diamondbacks counter with Trevor Cahill [[ KAY-hill ]]. The Cardinals' magic number to clinch the National League Central is three.

>>Cubs, Brewers Meet Tonight In Milwaukee

(Milwaukee, WI) -- The Cubs and Brewers start a three-game series in Milwaukee tonight to close out the season. Eric Jokisch takes the mound for Chicago, making his first big league start. The Brewers counter with Jimmy Nelson. First pitch from Miller Park is set for 7:10.

>>Cardinals' Jay Expected Back Tonight

(Phoenix, AZ) -- Jon Jay is expected to be back with the Cardinals tonight. The center fielder missed Wednesday's series finale in Chicago as he left the team to attend to a personal matter. Manager Mike Matheny said the club knew about the situation ahead of time. Peter Bourjos started in his place.

 width=>>Jeter Writes Storybook Ending For Final Home Game

(Bronx, NY) -- The Captain has played his final home game in Yankees pinstripes. Derek Jeter wrote himself a fairytale ending with an RBI walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth to lift the Yankees in a 6-5 win over the Orioles at the Stadium. Jeter finished 2-for-5 with three RBI and a run scored in his final game from the Bronx. The magical moment was only made possible after closer David Robertson blew a save in the ninth by allowing a pair of homers and three runs. The Yankees close out the season with three games at Fenway Park this weekend against the Boston Red Sox.

>>D'backs Name Dave Stewart New GM

(Phoenix, AZ) -- Four-time 20-game winner Dave Stewart is the new general manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. He takes over for the fired Kevin Towers. Stewart will be formally introduced at a Friday press conference. The D'backs have also hired Los Angeles Dodgers executive De Jon Watson as their senior vice president of baseball operations. Both will report to Diamondbacks CEO Tony La Russa.

After retiring as a player following the 1995 season, Stewart worked in the front offices of the Oakland A's, San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays. He also served as a pitching coach for the Padres, Blue Jays and Milwaukee Brewers. The 57-year-old has been operating his own sports agency, Sports Management Partners, since 2002.

Illinois Opens Big Ten Play, Allison To Return; ISU Hosts Austin Peay

>>Illinois Set To Meet #19 Nebraska Saturday

(Lincoln, NE) -- Big Ten Conference action gets underway for a pair of teams on Saturday night, as the surprising Illinois Fighting Illini hit the road to challenge the 21st-ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers.

 width=Illinois, which won a total of four games all of last season, is on the verge of matching that win total as the team has logged a 3-1 mark by beating Youngstown State (28-17), Western Kentucky (42-34) and Texas State (42-35), sandwiched around a loss at Washington (44-19). Despite their early success, Tim Beckman's squad will have its hands full with the majority of its
conference foes so improving much beyond last year's four wins won't be easy.

Josh Ferguson ran for a career-high 190 yards and accounted for a pair of touchdowns in helping Illinois battle from behind to take down visiting Texas State last Saturday. It was the third time in as many victories that the Illini had to overcome a second-half deficit.

In addition to Ferguson's performance, quarterback Wes Lunt went 25-of-39 for 266 yards, with two touchdowns and an interception, hitting Mike Dudek seven times for 90 yards and a score.

Lunt has hit the mark on 65.8 percent of his throws for 1,237 yards, 11 TDs and only three INTs this season. Dudek paces the club with 19 grabs for 249 yards and three scores, while ferguson has 316 yards and three TDs on 50 carries (6.3 ypc).

Nebraska used a punishing ground attack to topple visiting Miami last week, as Ameer Abdullah ran for 229 yards and two touchdowns. Adding another score on a short pass play in the second quarter, Abdullah wound up with a career-high 313 all-purpose yards in helping the Huskers to 456 yards of total offense. Tommy Armstrong, Jr. completed only nine passes, tallying 113 yards with a pair of TDs and one INT. He did add 96 yards on 13 totes to complement the effort of Abdullah. Kenny Bell finished with four grabs for 70 yards and a
score.

From a defensive standpoint, the Cornhuskers were on their game with regard to stopping the run, as the Hurricanes tallied just 76 yards on 23 attempts. The visitors did however, generate 359 yards via the pass, scoring three TDs along the way.

For the season, Nebraska is scoring more than twice as many points as the opposition (45.5 to 20.2 ppg), and the offense is generating 559.8 ypg compared to only 329.8 ypg for the enemy. The Huskers run for 329 ypg, ranking them fifth in the country heading into action this week, and their total yardage ranks them eighth.

 width=>>ISU Returns To Action Saturday Hosting Austin Peay

The No. 22-ranked Illinois State football team is off to a 2-0 start, after a strong 34-15 defeat of in-state foe Eastern Illinois in the Mid-American Classic on Sept. 13. The Redbirds will face another Ohio Valley Conference foe on Saturday, when they welcome the Austin Peay Governors (0-3) to Hancock Stadium for the final non-conference match up of the season. Kickoff under the lights is set for 6:30 p.m.

>>Illini WR Allison Expected To Play Saturday

Illinois receiver Geronimo Allison will play when the Illini take on No. 21 Nebraska on Saturday.

According to the pregame injury report released Thursday night, however, defensive tackle Teko Powell won't take to the field.

Allison missed the Texas State game last weekend with an ankle injury. This week's injury report did not include Allison, who is among the team's leading receivers with 16 catches for 300 yards and two touchdowns.

Powell has played in three games so far and has eight tackles.

Illinois (3-1) faces the Cornhuskers (4-0) at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Maroons Host Decatur St. Teresa, Cerro Gordo Heads To Niantic

 width=Coming off homecoming victories last Friday night, the Clinton Maroons and Cerro Gordo Bement Broncos will take different paths into their Friday night matchups.

The Maroons remain at home as they play host to Decatur St. Teresa. At 2-2 on the season, the Maroons look to continue to build on the momentum they've built after a 13-9 victory over Central A&M last week on homecoming night. The Bulldogs come into the matchup tonight at 3-1 with a big week two victory over power Maroa-Forsyth in Maroa.

Tonight's ballgame is set for a 7 pm start time. It can be heard on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and online at dewittdailynews.com.

Coming off a dominant performance over Decatur LSA, the Cerro-Gordo Bement Broncos will travel west for a matchup with new Little-Okaw Valley Conference member Niantic Sangamon Valley.

 width=In the first year of the Little Okaw being split into two divisions, the non-divisional opponents will meet coming off very different starts to the season, but with identical 2-2 marks.

Sangamon Valley picked up dominating victories in their first two weeks, but have come up short the last two.

Cerro Gordo-Bement, who celebrated part one of two homecoming games last week, fell just short of a 2-0 start with losses to Oakland Tri-County and Pawnee, but have looked sharp since, with wins over Toledo-Cumberland and Decatur LSA.

Game time tonight from Niantic, due west of Decatur, is set for 7 pm. Live action can be heard on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.

Other week five games across the area tonight...

Central Illinois

Decatur St. Teresa at Clinton
Meridian at SullivanOkaw Valley
Tuscola at Central A & M
Warrensburg-Latham at Shelbyville

Little Okaw Valley (Northwest)

Arcola at Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond
Argenta-Oreana at Decatur LSA

Little Okaw Valley (Southeast)

Martinsville at Palestine
Oakland Tri-County at Toledo Cumberland
Villa Grove-Heritage at Oblong

Okaw Valley

Champaign St. Thomas More at Rantoul
Maroa-Forsyth at Tolono Unity
Monticello at St. Joseph-Ogden

Heart of Illinois

Tri-Valley at Deer-Mack
El Paso-Gridley at Flanagan-Cornell-Cornell-Woodland
Heyworth at Tremont
Lexington at Fisher
Fieldcrest at Ridgeview

Central State Eight

Decatur Eisenhower at Jacksonville
Rochester at Springfield Southeast
Springfield at Decatur MacArthur
Springfield Lanphier at Chatham Glenwood
Springfield (Sacred Heart-Griffin) at Lincoln

Big Twelve

Bloomington at Champaign Centennial
Champaign Central at Normal Community
Danvilleat Normal West

Corn Belt

Bloomington Central Catholic at Pontiac
Eureka at Olympia
Prairie Central vs. Normal U-High at Hancock Stadium, Normal
Mahomet-Seymour at Illinois Valley Central

Mid-Illini

Limestone at Washington
Canton at Metamora
Dunlap at Morton
Pekin at East Peoria

Non-Conference action tonight...

Galesburg vs. Peoria Notre Dame at Richwoods Stadium
Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley at Paxton-Buckley-Loda
Hampshire at Urbana
LeRoy at Concord Triopia (Sat.)
Peoria at Rock Island
Peoria Richwoods at Peoria Manual

Maroons Defeated by Bulldogs

As heard on the Big 1520AM and 92.3 FM WHOW, St. Teresa defeated the Clinton Maroons 54-18 Friday night.

For the Maroons (2-3), Tanner White went 10-23 with 119 yards and two touchdowns. He also had four carries for 30 yards with one touchdown. Alec Cooley had 15 carries for 54 yards. Tyler Vidmar had 7 catches for 65 yards and two touchdowns.

For the Bulldogs (4-1), Zack Jarrett had 25 carries for 286 yards with three touchdowns. Chris Hein had 6 carries for 137 yards with two touchdowns.

The next Maroons broadcast will be next Friday night as they will be traveling to Tuscola on WHOW.

Cerro Gordo Lets Sangamon Valley Slip Away

As heard on 95.9 FM WEZC the Cerro Gordo Broncos fell to 2-3 on the season Friday night losing 27-12 to the Sangamon Valley Storm.

For Cerro Gordo Dalton Woolridge was five for thirteen sixty-eight with one interception. Chase McNamara had fourteen carries for sixty-five yards. Dalton Groehler also carried eleven carries for forty-nine yards and a touchdown. Noah Hendricks left the game with a severe injury.

For Sangamon Valley Mason Hutchins had five carries for seventy-five yards. Garrick Myers carried fifteen for fifty. Wyatt Royce carried nine times for seventy-four yards. Miles Hutchins had ten carries for fifty-six for two touchdowns and went to the air eight times and connected on six for eighty-six two touchdowns.

The next Broncos broadcast will be next friday as the Broncos host Arthur-Lovington for homecoming on WEZC. Kickoff at 7PM.

Treasurer's Employees Cited For Faking Records

The Executive Inspector General for the Illinois Treasurer has asked Dan Rutherford's office to review its timekeeping policies after an investigation found three top staff members falsified timecards.

David Wells' investigation, recently posted on the website of the state's Executive Ethics Commission, found three top administrators, who have since been fired from Rutherford's office, had broken timekeeping policies and falsified records.

Wells said in his six-page report that the investigation started after former director of Invest Illinois Ashvin Lad, sent a cellphone picture of himself from Wrigley Field to several co-workers. The caption accompanying the photo read "I'm playing Hooky ... SHHHHH."

Treasurer's office deputy chief of staff Lori Ann McCabe later verified that Lad had been signed in on the employee time system and said he was working during that time, although Lad in his response to the report said he was at the ballpark during lunch.

The report found that Lad and colleagues Patrick Carlson and George Daglas had exchanged computer passwords and entered working times for one another if they were not in the office. Wells also found that Carlson and Daglas went to local gyms to exercise while on the clock.

All three men disputed the allegations in written responses and asked that their names be redacted from the report.

Rutherford fired the men in July after Wells completed the report, which was released publicly Sept. 18. Rutherford wrote in response to the report that the employees' behavior left him "appalled and disappointed."

Buyers Encouraged To Shop Illinois Saturday

Illinois officials urged support of local businesses and products Wednesday by promoting "Shop Illinois Saturday" Oct. 4.

The initiative is part of the state Department of Agriculture's Illinois Products Program. It forges a partnership with six communities - Springfield, Carbondale, Alton, Genoa, Pontiac and Canton - which are part of the Illinois Main Street program, a co-sponsor.

Gov. Pat Quinn said in a prepared statement that shopping locally is "what good neighbors do."

The effort by state officials is part of the "Buy Illinois Challenge" to boost the state economy and generate awareness of Illinois-made products. The program encourages every Illinois household to pledge to dedicate $10 of its existing weekly budget to purchasing Illinois products.

If every household took the $10 pledge, it would mean a $2.4 billion "re-investment" annually in the Illinois economy, the Agriculture Department said.

More Than 350 Apply For Illinois Marijuana Business

More than 350 groups have applied to be the first to legally grow or sell medical marijuana in Illinois, state officials announced Wednesday.

A preliminary count of the applications that beat the Monday afternoon deadline showed 158 applications for cultivation centers and 211 applications for dispensaries.

Bob Morgan, coordinator of the state's medical cannabis program, said the volume of applications "will allow us to pick the most qualified applicants." He added the applicants weren't deterred by the stringent qualifications. It's still unclear how the applications are distributed around the state. That will be announced next week.

Illinois expects to grant up to 21 permits for cultivation centers and up to 60 permits for dispensaries before the end of the year. That would mean the first legal marijuana would be available to registered patients in the spring of 2015.

Fees From Medical Marijuana Business Applicants Brings In $5-Million

Fees submitted by businesses with their applications to Illinois' new medical marijuana program have topped $5 million.

State officials announced Wednesday that they'd received 158 applications for marijuana cultivation centers and 211 applications for dispensaries.

Those numbers would mean the state collected more than $5 million in nonrefundable fees.

The Illinois law that set up the state's first medical marijuana program requires money collected to be used to implement, administer and enforce the program.

The law says that any funds leftover must be used for crime prevention programs.

Illinois Spends Big On Political Races

People in Illinois can hardly watch TV without being slammed with political ads. A new report reveals politicians and Political Action Committees have paid for nearly 35-thousand-ads since the campaign season heated up in early 2013. Ben Wieder [[ Weeder ]], with the Center for Public Integrity, says that's not even the half of it.

[audio:rddPolAds11.mp3] [/audio]

Wieder adds Bruce Rauner's team has put out most of those ads.

[audio:rddPolAds21.mp3] [/audio]

In all, the ads come with a tab of about 26-and-a-half-million-bucks. Bruce Rauner has dropped eleven-million-dollars of his own cash on the governor's race. An outside group known as Illinois Freedom PAC has spent about five-million-trying to keep him out of office. Political experts say people can expect to see a lot more of the candidates in the coming weeks.

Peoria Nonprofit Helps Veterans With Housework

A Peoria nonprofit group is aiding veterans in central Illinois with free home repairs and yard cleanups.

Reports indicate, the Illinois Valley Fuller Center for Housing has done 20 home repairs and 70 yard cleanups in Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties since its founding in November 2013. Many veterans that the group helps are in their 80s and served in World War II, president Greg Woith said.

The organization primarily does light repairs such as painting and fixing windows because of limited equipment, but has also removed carpeting and redone flooring, Woith said. The group plans to start rehabilitating houses and selling them to area veterans next year.

Veteran and Fuller Center volunteer Sherwood Dees said volunteering is a way for him to give back to other people who served the country.

Lake Decatur Sediment Project Plants Prairie Grass

A new project hopes to bring new life to Lake Decatur's sediment by providing a foundation that will allow prairie grasses to grow.

According to reports, the grasses may be used for a forage crop or a bioenergy crop, which would allow people to burn them for heat and power generation says Tim McMahon, biomass/watershed specialist for the Agricultural Watershed Institute. The Decatur-based institute encourages farmland owners to prevent erosion by planting such grasses.

In 2012, Decatur received a grant for the sediment project from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The city council in July approved a $237,000 contract to move 11,000 cubic yards of sediment from the Oakley basin to the former Corley Landfill.

The institute plans to plant a cover crop of cereal rye this fall, McMahon said, and the plant a mixture of grasses, including Indiangrass, big bluestems, switchgrass and a variety of forbs, in the spring.

The project will also reduce maintenance costs for the city, such as mowing. Keith Alexander, the city's director of water management, hopes it will spark interest in learning out bioenergy grasses.

Jimmy John's May Be Victim Of Data Breach

It looks like Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches may have been the victim of a data breach.  An ongoing investigation reveals that those who swiped credit or debit cards at about 215 locations between June 16th and September 5th may be affected.  A full list of potential locations and timeframes is available on the Jimmy John's website. 

DeWitt County Sheriff's Office Reference Point For Agencies Across State, Country

 width=After the recent events that transpired to cause great turmoil in Ferguson, Missouri, the DeWitt County Sheriff's office has been the point of reference for agencies looking to make sure their bases are covered in the future.

The DeWitt County Sheriff's office was one of the first law enforcement agencies to introduce a trial of body cameras that several officers wore while on patrol. According to DeWitt County Sheriff Jered Shofner, the discussion and research of using body cameras has significantly increased in the last month.

[audio:92514bodycams1.mp3] [/audio]

The Ferguson, Missouri events have brought into question corruption and prejudicial officers in America. The Sheriff says while the body cameras are not going to automatically make bad officers become good officers, the body cameras have been very helpful in their short use in DeWitt County.

[audio:92514bodycams2.mp3] [/audio]

The Sheriff feels body cameras allow his officers to get the best evidence possible. When he first came on as the Sheriff of DeWitt County, he explains most of their evidence was being collected through the video of the dash board. Sheriff Shofner says the body cameras have paid major dividends already in his office.

[audio:92514bodycams3.mp3] [/audio]

The laws and policies for the Sheriff's department in regards to use of the body cameras has been very difficult to write. According to Sheriff Shofner, the policy is currently very conservative and he has to do much tracking from a state and national level about the eavesdropping laws.

Assistant Manager at CH Moore Homestead Bringing New Flavor To Apple and Pork Festival

 width=In her second go round as the assistant manager of the CH Moore Homestead, Joey Woolridge is taking the reigns and introducing something new to the 2014 festival.

According to Woolridge, she will be introducing a history lesson into this year's event. She explains one of the stories she has prepared is the story of a DeWitt County resident many years ago known as the apple wizard.

[audio:92514applewizard1.mp3] [/audio]

Along with his desire to find such an apple containing the characteristics he wanted, Woolridge notes, he had some very progressive ideas that did not make him very popular with the locals.

[audio:92514applewizard2.mp3] [/audio]

After a long life lived in poverty and later sickness, the man was finally able to produce the apple he was striving for. According to Woolridge, by the late 1800s, this apple was the top producing apple in the country.

[audio:92514applewizard3.mp3] [/audio]

 width=The story of Peter Gideon was turned into a book in the 60s and 70s. According to Woolridge, the author purchased the house of Gideon from his days in Minnesota.

[audio:92514applewizard4.mp3] [/audio]

Woolridge says that is just one of the many fascinating stories she has prepared for the weekend. She hopes to hold sessions throughout the weekend on the front lawn of the Homestead grounds and has plans to have signage prepared for those attending to be made aware.

Full coverage of the 2014 Apple and Pork Festival can be heard all weekend on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and on 95.9 FM WEZC.

WEZC will broadcast the event while Eastern Illinois football is on WHOW Saturday. Game time for Panther football is 1 pm, as EIU travels to Ohio.

Apple and Pork coverage on the Miller Media Group radio stations gets underway Saturday morning at 10 am and lasts until 5 pm. Then Sunday tune in to WHOW for coverage from 11 am to 4 pm.

Stewart Cleared By Grand Jury; NASCAR Introduces Rule Changes

>>Stewart Cleared By Grand Jury in Ward Jr.'s Death

NASCAR driver Tony Stewart will not face charges for his role in the death of Kevin Ward Jr. during an accident in the Aug. 9 sprint car race at a dirt track in Upstate New York.

A grand jury in Ontario County, New York began its deliberation on Tuesday and then revealed its findings on the following day. The Ontario County District Attorney's Office announced on Sept. 16 that a grand jury would determine if charges should be filed against Stewart for his involvement in the fatal accident.

 width=Ontario County District Attorney Michael Tantillo said during a press conference on Wednesday that approximately two dozen people testified before the grand jury. These included a number of race car drivers, racetrack employees and volunteers, two accident reconstructionists, medical personnel and a number of police officers.

Tantillo noted the grand jury reviewed a number of photographs and video recordings as well as other documentary evidence.

Tantillo also said a toxicology report indicated that Ward was under the influence of marijuana at the time he was competing in the race. There was no toxicology work performed on Stewart.

Stewart, a three-time champion in NASCAR's premier series, struck and killed 20-year-old Ward at Canandaigua Motorsports Park. The incident occurred during a caution when Ward climbed out of his car and then walked down the dirt track, pointing his finger in the direction of Stewart and apparently yelling at him to express his displeasure. The right rear of Stewart's car hit Ward and dragged him briefly across the track.

The caution came when Stewart and Ward made contact while battling for position, with Ward spinning out and hitting the wall.

Ward died from massive blunt trauma.

Following the announcement of the grand jury's decision, Stewart released a statement, saying, "This has been the toughest and most emotional experience of my life, and it will stay with me forever. I'm very grateful for all the support I've received and continue to receive.

"I respect everything the District Attorney and Sheriff's Office did to thoroughly investigate this tragic accident. While the process was long and emotionally difficult, it allowed for all the facts of the accident to be identified and known.

"While much of the attention has been on me, it's important to remember a young man lost his life. Kevin Ward Jr.'s family and friends will always be in my thoughts and prayers."

NASCAR also issued a statement on the decision.

"There are no winners in tragedy," NASCAR chief communications officer Brett Jewkes said in the statement. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Kevin Ward Jr. family and Tony Stewart as they all cope with this tragic incident at Canandaigua Motorsports Park. This has been a difficult time for everyone involved, and we have respected the local authorities responsible for reviewing this case."

Stewart missed three Sprint Cup Series races -- Watkins Glen, Michigan and Bristol -- while he was in seclusion following the incident at Canandaigua. He returned to competition the last weekend in August at Atlanta. Stewart did not qualify for the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship. The series will be at Dover this weekend for the third race in the Chase.

>>NASCAR Reveals New Rules Package For 2015 Sprint Cup Season

NASCAR announced on Tuesday major changes to the rules package for Sprint Cup Series teams in 2015, including a ban on private team testing and reduction of horsepower.

NASCAR is eliminating team-facilitated private testing for next year; however, teams will be invited to participate in NASCAR/Goodyear tire tests. The sanctioning body also noted that January testing at Daytona International Speedway prior to the Daytona 500 -- known as "Preseason Thunder" -- will not take place next year.

Among the biggest rule modifications for the Sprint Cup race package next season is reduction of horsepower from 850 to 725 through a tapered spacer, an engine part used in the Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series.

NASCAR also announced that group qualifying will be used for the first time in determining the front row for the Daytona 500. The group qualifying format was introduced to all three of its national series at the start of this season, but qualifying (time trials) for the Daytona 500 had included the traditional format of single-car runs. The remainder of the starting lineup for that race was decided by the twin-qualifying events. The twin-qualifiers at Daytona will remain.

Packers, Bears Notes

 width=>>Packers Not Panicking, But Looking For Improvements

There is no panic among the Green Bay Packers.

The Packers do say they're unhappy with the offensive output after a 19-7 loss last week to Detroit. They're determined to get better going into Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears.

Receiver Jordy Nelson said the Packers remain calm, and will keep trying to get more production. Green Bay had just 223 yards of total offense against the Lions.

The running game has sputtered. Running back Eddie Lacy said one of the things he's working on is keeping his pads low when he's carrying the ball.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers said the team has had slow starts in recent years. He's confident the offense will improve.

 width=>>Bears LB McClellin To Miss Packers Game

Chicago Bears linebacker Shea McClellin will miss his second straight game because of a hand injury.

Coach Marc Trestman called McClellin "week to week" and said he will not play Sunday against Green Bay. McClellin sat out Monday's win against the Jets in New York after getting injured in practice.

Trestman also said Wednesday he's "not optimistic" about center Roberto Garza and left guard Matt Slauson returning from their ankle injuries. Both players have missed the past two games.

>>Giants, Redskins Look To Get Back To .500

(Landover, MD) -- NFC East rivals looking to get back to .500 meet up Thursday night as the New York Giants face the Washington Redskins at FedEx Field. Both are 1-and-2. The Giants are coming off their first win of the season after beating the Texans 30-17 at home on Sunday. Rashad Jennings ran for 176 yards and a touchdown for New York, which lost its first two games to the Lions and Cardinals. The Redskins fell 34-31 at home to the Eagles on Sunday. Washington's lone victory thus far was a Week Two home win over Jacksonville. Kirk Cousins starts again at QB in place of the injured Robert Griffin the Third.

>>Dolphins Not Endorsing Tannehill As Starter

(Davie, FL) -- The Miami Dolphins are mum about who their starting quarterback is going forward. Head coach Joe Philbin has refused to endorse third-year QB Ryan Tannehill all week, and speculation has begun that Matt Moore could take over. ESPN reports Tannehill approached Philbin on Wednesday about the lack of public support. The Dolphins are off to England on Thursday ahead of Sunday's game against the Raiders from London's Wembley Stadium.

>>Raiders' Branch, Streater Both Need Foot Surgery

(Bagshot, England) -- Oakland Raiders safety Tyvon Branch and wide receiver Rod Streater both need foot surgery. Head coach Dennis Allen revealed the news Wednesday. Branch has 29 tackles and one sack in three games this season. He missed 14 games last year with a fractured fibula. Streater has nine catches for 84 yards and a touchdown in three games this season. The Raiders play the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at London's Wembley Stadium.

Sox, Cubs Notes

 width=>>Benches Clear Briefly In Tigers/Sox Game

Chicago White Sox ace Chris Sale and Detroit's Victor Martinez exchanged words in the sixth inning Wednesday, causing the benches and bullpens to empty briefly. The situation didn't escalate.

After striking out Martinez in the third, Sale turned and tipped his hat toward center field. Then when Martinez came up in the sixth with one out and none on, Sale's first pitch hit him around the back of his left shoulder. Martinez walked slowly to first, and the two eventually started jawing at each other. An agitated Sale pointed out toward center field.

The benches and then the bullpens emptied, but the situation was diffused fairly easily. Martinez eventually came around to score, tying the game at 1.

Martinez is 15 of 29 against Sale in his career.

 width=>>Wrigley Reconstruction To Begin This Weekend

(Chicago, IL) -- Reconstruction at Wrigley Field is set to begin this weekend. The Cubs will start their 375-million-dollar project with the home schedule complete. Bleacher expansion and renovation of the home clubhouse are first on the list. The project will take the next four offseasons.

>>Report: D'backs Offer GM Job To Dave Stewart

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Former four-time 20-game winner Dave Stewart is in line to be the next general manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. "USA Today" reports the Snakes have offered Stewart the job, but no contract terms have been reached. The 57-year-old has a longtime relationship with D'backs Chief Baseball Officer Tony La Russa. After 16 big league seasons, Stewart worked in baseball operations with three teams, served as a pitching coach twice, and also worked as a player agent. Kevin Towers was fired as GM earlier this month, but has been offered another role within the organization.

Cubs Top Cardinals, Sox Fall Apart At Detroit

 width=>>Cubs Down Cardinals Behind Arrieta

(Chicago, IL) -- Jake Arrieta struck out ten over seven innings to lead the Cubs in a 3-1 win over the Cardinals at Wrigley Field. Arrieta improved to 10-and-5 after allowing two hits and a walk along with an unearned run. Arrieta also had a two-run triple in the fourth while Chris Valaika added an RBI single for Chicago. The Cubs have won three of five and closed their home schedule at 41-and-40. John Lackey fell to 3-and-3 after striking out eight and allowing two runs over six-and-two-thirds innings for St. Louis. Yadier Molina was 2-for-4 with a run as the Cardinals hold a one-and-a-half-game lead on the Pirates atop the NL Central.

 width=>>Tigers Break Through Late To Beat White Sox

(Detroit, MI) -- Ian Kinsler double home the go-ahead run in the seventh inning and the Tigers pulled away for a 6-1 win over the White Sox at Comerica Park. Kinsler finished 2-for-3 with two walks and two RBI for Detroit, which scored one in the sixth, two in the seventh and three in the eighth after trailing 1-0. Justin Verlander struck out six while allowing seven hits and one run in eight innings to improve to 15-and-12. Chris Sale fanned 10 over six innings of one-run ball in a no-decision. Javy Guerra gave up the go-ahead runs in the seventh to take the loss. Dayan Viciedo tripled in Chicago's lone run in the top of the sixth.

MLB National League
------
New York Mets at Washington Nationals (PPD, Rain)
Philadelphia Phillies 2, Miami Marlins 1
Atlanta Braves 6, Pittsburgh Pirates 2
Milwaukee Brewers 5, Cincinnati Reds 0
San Diego Padres 4, Colorado Rockies 3
Los Angeles Dodgers 9, San Francisco Giants 1

MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 9, New York Yankees 5
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 5, Oakland Athletics 4
Toronto Blue Jays 1, Seattle Mariners 0
Cleveland Indians 6, Kansas City Royals 4
Boston Red Sox 11, Tampa Bay Rays 3
Texas Rangers 5, Houston Astros 1

MLB Interleague
------
Minnesota Twins 2, Arizona Diamondbacks 1

Illinois State Suspends Freshmen TE

 width=Illinois State University has indefinitely suspended freshman tight end Malik Harris.

Football coach Brock Spack said in a news release Wednesday that Harris was suspended for unspecified conduct. Spack said Harris "needs to take care of some personal matters at this time" but didn't elaborate.

Harris has an ankle injury that was forcing him to redshirt this season. He is from Omaha, Nebraska.

County Board Approves Expense for County Highway Department Project

Thursday night's meeting saw the Dewitt County Board approve the spending of budgeted Highway Department money to install a culvert. 

The board approved the hiring of an excavation service for the price of $3,200. They also hired a crane service to lift necessary pieces into place to the tune of $8,880.

Board member Terry Hoffman appeared critical of the the work done by other board members throughout the meeting. Board member Dan Ballenger told Hoffman he needed to start giving other board members credit for their work.

[audio:92514Ballenger1.mp3] [/audio]

The next Dewitt County Board meeting will be next Thursday October 2nd at the Dewitt County Courthouse.

Lady Maroons Lose Tough Match to Central A&M

Tuesday night’s high school volleyball match saw the Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball team lose two close games to the Central A&M Raiders falling 20-25 and 22-25 respectively.

Jessica Scott and Haley Ginger each had an ace on the night. Ginger also contributed twelve digs for the Lady Maroons. Taylor Filkin and Alexis Estes put up three blocks apiece. Filkin also recorded five kills on the evening. Michaela Elliott finished with six assists.

Coach Megan Mitchell said “Yeah, we played tough (but) just couldn’t quite get there.”

Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more coverage of Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball action.

Lady Maroons Volleyball Drops to 1-7 By Losing 7th Straight Match

The Clinton Lady Maroons lost their 7th straight match falling to St. Teresa in two games going 20-25 and 17-25.

Hannah Ritter, Kate Gehres and Haley Ginger all had an ace apiece for the Maroons at the service line.  Ginger also had fifteen digs.  Taylor Filkin contributed nine kills and one block.  Kaitlin Hayden, Payton Bieber and Alexis Estes also had one block each. Michaela Elliott finished the night with fourteen assists.

Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more coverage of your Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball team as they get set to take on Monticello Tuesday September 29 at 7:00 PM.

Rams, NFL Notes

 width=>>Rams On A Bye

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams get a chance to rest up this weekend as they have their bye in Week Four. The Rams are looking to regroup after blowing a 21-0 lead against Dallas on Sunday, losing 34-31 to fall to 1-and-2. The Rams' next game is a week from Sunday against the Eagles in Philadelphia.

>>Rams' Quarterback Controversy?

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams may have a quarterback controversy on their hands when they return to action next weekend. Backup Austin Davis has played well in place of starter Shaun Hill, who has been out with a quad injury since Week One. Head coach Jeff Fisher maintains Hill will start if healthy.

>>Report: Bironas Threatened To Kill Students Before Crash

(Undated) -- The story behind the deadly crash involving former Titans kicker Rod Bironas continues to evolve. A Belmont University student tells "The Tennessean" that Bironas threatened to kill the four passengers in his vehicle and attempted to sideswipe their truck during a confrontation.  width=Connor Fraley said his car was behind Bironas when they smelled something burning from his vehicle. Fraley told Bironas of the smell while driving and the kicker responded with a threat, saying he was going to kill everybody in the car.

The Belmont student said Bironas kept pace with them afterward and tried to hit the side of his truck. Fraley said they were driving at about 110 miles-per-hour when they got away. The incident is said to have occurred before Bironas tried to run a couple off the road later that night. Nashville police say Bironas died in a single-car accident near his home on Saturday night. Bironas lost control of his SUV on a curve and crashed less than a mile from home and was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

>>NFL Won't Suspend Redskins Baker

(Undated) -- Washington Redskins defensive lineman Chris Baker will not be suspended by the NFL following his blindside hit on Eagles quarterback Nick Foles on Sunday, according to the "Washington Post." The hit sparked a brawl on the field which led to Baker and Eagles left tackle Jason Peters being ejected. NFL Executive Vice President of football operations Troy Vincent said that Baker did not do anything wrong and that he would not be fined for his hit. Vincent also said he looked at the hit very closely and saw that Baker did not hit Foles in the head or neck. Baker could still face a fine for the incident involving Peters.

Cubs Down Cards, Sox Lose Late

 width=>>Cubs Clip Cardinals

(Chicago, IL) -- Welington Castillo singled in the winning run in the bottom of the 10th to lift the Cubs to a 4-3 win over the Cardinals from Wrigley Field. He also hit a two-run homer in the second inning for Chicago, which had lost four of five. Matt Szczur [[ SEE-zer ]] also went deep for the Cubs. Zac Rosscup picked up the win. Matt Holliday hit a two-run shot for St. Louis, which is up a game-and-a-half on the Pirates for first place in the NL Central. Pat Neshek took the loss.

 width=>>Tigers Edge White Sox In Ninth After Blowing Lead

(Detroit, MI) -- Miguel Cabrera hit a walk-off RBI-single in the bottom of the ninth inning to lift the Tigers past the White Sox 4-3 in the second of three at Comerica Park. David Price cruised through eight innings before giving up three runs in the top of the ninth for a no-decision. Joe Nathan was credited with the win after recording the final out in the ninth. Ian Kinsler and Torii Hunter both drove in a run while Rajai Davis scored twice for the Tigers, who remain one game ahead of the Royals for first in the AL Central. Avisail Garcia had a two-run single in the ninth for Chicago and then scored the tying run on Marcus Semien's RBI-single. Jake Petricka suffered the loss.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 4, New York Mets 2
Miami Marlins 2, Philadelphia Phillies 0
Pittsburgh Pirates 3, Atlanta Braves 2
Cincinnati Reds 3, Milwaukee Brewers 1
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, San Francisco Giants 2
Colorado Rockies 3, San Diego Padres 2

MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 5, New York Yankees 4
Kansas City Royals 7, Cleveland Indians 1
Toronto Blue Jays 10, Seattle Mariners 2
Tampa Bay Rays 6, Boston Red Sox 2
Texas Rangers 2, Houston Astros 1
LA Angels of Anaheim 2, Oakland Athletics 0

MLB Interleague
------
Minnesota Twins 6, Arizona Diamondbacks 3

>>Giants Outfielder Pagan Out For Season

(San Francisco, CA) -- The San Francisco Giants will be without outfielder Angel Pagan for the rest of the regular season and any possible postseason games. CSN Bay Area reports Pagan will undergo back surgery Thursday to repair an inflamed nerve and bulging disk. His recovery period is three months. The 33-year-old played in just 96 games this season. Pagan finishes the season with a .300 average, 26 extra-base hits and 27 RBI.

>>Mets Extend GM Alderson, Exercise Option On Collins

(Flushing, NY) -- Sandy Alderson will be sticking around for a while as general manager of the New York Mets. The team has extended his contract through the 2017 season. The Mets have also exercised the 2015 contract option on manager Terry Collins. Alderson has been GM of the Mets since October 2010.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-24

September 23, 2014

Jail Population: 45
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

Shawn O’Brian, 18, Wapella was issued a Citation for Speeding 75 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. O’Brian was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

Mason Dial, 18, Maroa was issued a Citation for Speeding 70 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Dial was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

 

 

 

 

 


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

Monticello Junior Joins Elite Company With Friday Night Performance

 width=Junior Noah Freemon of Monticello High School had a career night Friday night in a thrilling come from behind win as the Sages took down rival Tolono Unity 58-55 in Okaw Valley Conference football action.

Freemon was on the receiving end of 10 catches from junior quarterback Brandon Wildman for 348 yards. The yardage puts Freemon at second on the all time single game list according to the IHSA record books.

As a part of the ten catch night, Freemon also caught five touchdowns, which puts him at 18th all time for touchdown catches in a game, also according to the IHSA record books.

Wildman accounted for 602 yards through the air in Friday's win, according to IHSA records, that ranks him fifth on the all time list for passing yards in a game.

The Sages are 3-1 on the season and heads to an Okaw Conference game Friday at St. Joe-Ogden, who is 4-0.

Stats became official late Tuesday.

Chicago Mayor Pushes For Reduced Drug Penalties

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel wants lawmakers to reduce the penalties for people who are busted with small amounts of drugs.

[audio:rddPot11.mp3] [/audio]

He feels people shouldn't have to carry a petty crime around with them for the rest of their lives.

[audio:rddPot31.mp3] [/audio]

He adds people who have less than 15-grams of marijuana on them shouldn't always be arrested.

[audio:rddPot21.mp3] [/audio]

He says the state needs to get smarter, not tougher, in its approach to crime.

[audio:rddPot41.mp3] [/audio]

Emanuel says reducing the penalties will free up resources and keep officers on the street so they can deal with more serious crimes. The city of Chicago allows its officers to write tickets for people who are busted with less than 15-grams of marijuana. They've seen about 41-hundred fewer arrests, a significant reduction in burglary, and a drop in racial disparity when it comes to marijuana citations in the last two years. Emanuel says the state would see similar results if lawmakers put the same type of law on the books.

State Hearing Focuses On Nuclear, Renewable Energy

Advocates for nuclear power and renewable energy told Illinois regulators on Tuesday that those energy sources should play important roles in helping the state meet tougher federal limits on pollutants blamed for global warming.

The Illinois Commerce Commission held the second of three meetings to gather input on a plan that must be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency outlining how the state will contribute to a sweeping Obama administration proposal to curb carbon dioxide emitted by the nation's power plants by 30 percent by 2030. Each state was given a customized goal - Illinois' is a 33 percent reduction from its 2012 levels - and the flexibility to decide how to reach that target.

Illinois already gets about half of its energy from 11 nuclear reactors, which don't emit carbon dioxide, so preserving those facilities is crucial to meeting that goal, said Kathleen Barrón, senior vice president of federal regulatory affairs and wholesale market policy at Exelon Corp., which owns all of Illinois' nuclear plants

Environmental groups made a push for renewable energy, including wind and solar, saying that it's a better long-term solution than coal or nuclear power. They also said investing in renewable energy was a big economic development opportunity for the state.

The coal industry has warned that the new rules could force power plants to close, costing jobs and potentially hurting the power supply.

The federal rule is expected to be finalized next year.

Treasurer Hopefuls Look To Boost Office's Image

The two candidates who want to be Illinois' next treasurer have different ideas for improving the image of the office, which has been tarnished by a sexual harassment suit and questions of whether taxpayer dollars were used in mixing state and political business.

Former House Republican Leader Tom Cross said he wants to create a government integrity unit charged with reviewing state financial documents. Democratic state Sen. Mike Frerichs, meanwhile, says he would publish his schedule online and blunt "cronyism and corruption" with a self-imposed audit of the office.

Both candidates say the office needs to reduce travel costs spent on the treasurer's I-Cash unclaimed property program. Current Treasurer Dan Rutherford has weathered criticism for using state funds to travel to program events throughout the state which were held in close proximity to political fundraisers. Rutherford had defended his mixing of activities as the byproduct of him working long hours for Illinois.

The race for treasurer, the state's chief investment officer, has been marked with unusual intensity as it is the lone open statewide post on the November ballot. Rutherford is vacating the seat after his GOP primary bid for governor fizzled last spring after a harassment suit was filed by a former employee.

The 56-year-old Cross enjoys better name recognition after his two decades as a legislator in Springfield. The 41-year-old Frerichs claims he has more financial expertise after serving previously as Champaign County's auditor.

Quinn, Rauner Woo Latino Voters

Governor Quinn and Bruce Rauner are both trying to build support among Latino voters.  Quinn released a new ad in Spanish, blasting his GOP opponent on the issue of taxes.  Meanwhile, Rauner teamed up with New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and met with Latino pastors in Chicago.  He nabbed the support of quite a few prominent Black pastors yesterday.  They say they're voting Republican this year because Democrats haven't made good on the promises they've made on the campaign trail.   Minority voters make up a major part of Quinn's base, and political experts say if he loses their vote, he'll lose his job.  

Energy Company Reaches Out To Illinois Residents

A Texas energy company that wants to build a 1,100-mile pipeline that would cross west-central Illinois plans to answer residents' questions this week.

Reports indicate Energy Transfers Partners representatives will meet with residents about the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline on Wednesday at Lincoln Land Community College campus in Litchfield and Thursday at the American Legion post in Jacksonville.

They will address concerns about the pipeline stretching from the Bakken formation in North Dakota, to Patoka, Illinois, spokeswoman Vicki Granado said.

A map from the company shows the pipeline would be underground through Montgomery, Macoupin and Morgan counties, and along the eastern border of Scott County. It is expected to transport 450,000 barrels of crude oil a day.

The company wants to have the pipeline built and working by the end of 2016.

Bradley University Revises Sex Assault

Bradley University has revised its policies on sexual assault to make it clearer what support is available to students who are victims.

The university spent 18 months working on the revisions.

Nathan Thomas is the private university's vice president of student affairs. According to reports, he says the intention was to make the reporting process less intimidating for victims.

As part of the changes, a director of student support services will work with victims to make sure they know how to report a crime and the other resources available to them.

At the request of student government, the school also now offers amnesty for victims from penalties resulting from underage drinking that might otherwise prevent them from reporting the crime.

Springfield Children's Hospital Official Arrested

A children's hospital official in central Illinois faces a charge of embezzling $500,000 from the institution since 2008, according to a published report.

Reports indicate Springfield police on Monday arrested 55-year-old Margaret "Peggy" Curtin, executive director of St. John's Children's Hospital. State's Attorney John Milhiser says she is in custody at the Sangamon County Jail on $1 million bond.

Curtin has been charged with felony theft after St. John's Hospital officials "discovered financial irregularities related to certain hospital operations and contacted law enforcement". "St. John's Hospital officials are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate the matter."

St. John's spokesman Brian Reardon said Curtin has been suspended without pay.

Wise Hears From University of Illinois Faculty About Professor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus Chancellor Phyllis Wise told faculty members that she is proud the school can have the kind of "difficult, uncomfortable" debate about the decision not to hire a professor over his profane, anti-Israel Twitter messages.

Wise addressed the campus' Faculty Senate on Monday during its crowded regular meeting.

According to reports, she heard from both her critics and supporters during the meeting.

Wise told Native American Studies professor Steven Salaita on Aug. 1 that he wouldn't be hired. Months earlier he accepted an offer from the university to start work in August.

Professor Jodi Byrd told Wise the decision had harmed the department.

But student-body President Mitch Dickey told the crowd he and others support Wise.

Experts Predict Vibrant Fall Colors In Illinois

Fall tree colors are expected to be vibrant in Illinois this year due to spring and summer weather, including plenty of rainfall, according to experts.

The autumnal equinox took place Monday night, marking the official beginning of fall. Some sugar and red maples have already started to turn colors, said Patrick Murphy, a horticulturalist and curator at the Fell Arboretum.

He says because of rain lots of rain there should be good vibrant color and it should last long enough for trees to go through several color changes.

According to Murphy, a drastic weather change last November caused the leaves of many trees to change before the final color stage. Reports indicate some trees are stressed from last year's drought, which can trigger early color changes.

The fall tree colors could stick around for a while, according to Kopsell, if the first frost holds off a while longer and leaves aren't knocked off the trees due to strong storms.

Cooler temperatures produce better colors, said Kelly Allsup, a University of Illinois Extension Office educator in horticulture.

Lincoln High School Reports Fifth Straight Year of Balanced Budget

 width=Despite the economic downturn that has hit local school districts hard, one area school is proud to report they have once again turned in a balanced budget.

Lincoln High School Superintendent Robert Bagby indicates for the fifth straight year, his Board of Education has worked to see Lincoln High School have a balanced budget in Fiscal Year 2014. Among the major factors for that, Bagby credits his staff and touts the one cent sales tax they continue to reap the benefits from.

[audio:92414LHSbalanced1.mp3] [/audio]

The money districts have been cut from the state of Illinois in just the last five years is astounding, and not a problem exclusive to Lincoln High School. Still, Bagby says the district is very fortunate to be balancing their budget year after year despite the state's shortfalls.

[audio:92414LHSbalanced2.mp3] [/audio]

Bagby says the downturn of the state's economy and funding cuts from Illinois were not hard to predict. He feels the warning signs of what is happening were evident over six years ago when schools began facing cuts.

Lincoln High School is a stand alone district in Lincoln. Their feeder districts include District 27, West Lincoln-Broadwell, Chester-East Lincoln, and New Holland-Middletown.

Organizers Ready For Clinton's Biggest Weekend of the Year

The annual Apple and Pork Festival in Clinton is this weekend and organizers say they are ready for things to get going.

Larry Buss is the resident manager of the CH Moore Homestead and the primary organizer of the biggest yearly event in Clinton. He says it feels good to be at the head of an event that does so much for the community.

[audio:92414apprepare1.mp3] [/audio]

 width=The Apple and Pork Festival was originally a small event the CH Moore Homestead hosted as a fundraiser for their yearly upkeep. In the last couple decades, the festival has exploded to become a big fundraiser not only the CH Moore Homestead, but also for DeWitt County's non-profits groups.

[audio:92414apprepare2.mp3] [/audio]

According to assistant manager at the Homestead, Joey Woolridge, the weekend is reliant on volunteers all over the grounds. She explains jobs may include helping prepare food in the gift shop to helping clean up before and after the event each day. She notes there is a job for anyone looking to get involved.

[audio:92414apprepare3.mp3] [/audio]

The 2014 Apple and Pork Festival is this Saturday and Sunday. For a full list of entertainment and a map of the grounds, or for further information on volunteer opportunities this weekend, visit www.chmoorehomestead.org. You can also find them on Facebook.

Full coverage of the 2014 Apple and Pork Festival can be heard all weekend on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and on 95.9 FM WEZC.

WEZC will broadcast the event while Eastern Illinois football is on WHOW Saturday. Game time for Panther football is 1 pm, as EIU travels to Ohio. 

Apple and Pork coverage on the Miller Media Group radio stations gets underway Saturday morning at 10 am and lasts until 5 pm. Then Sunday tune in to WHOW for coverage from 11 am to 4 pm.

Big Ten, College Football Notes

 width=>>Big Ten 12-1 Weekend Mark Best In Six Years

The Big Ten is coming off its best week of non-conference play in six years with wins in 12 out of 13 games.

It followed the league's worst showing in non-conference play in 22 years, one in which Big Ten teams lost six of nine games and had national college football analysts howling about the conference's lack of strength.

The stunning turnaround didn't result in any chest thumping among the coaches on Tuesday's teleconference with reporters. Nebraska's Bo Pelini said it's "ludicrous" to judge a conference on one weekend, good or bad.

The last time the Big Ten had a winning percentage of .923 (12-1) or better during a week in which it played more than two non-conference games was Sept. 26, 2008, according to STATS. The league went 11-0.

 width=>>Barkley's Pac-12 Record Grows

(Undated) -- Oregon State quarterback Sean Mannion will have to threw a few more yards than expected to become the Pac-12's all-time passing yards leader. The "Oregonian" says there was an error on the record held by former USC QB Matt Barkley. His record is now 12,327 yards instead of 12,274. Mannion needs 989 yards to break Barkley's mark.

>>MSU's Dantonio: Win Your Conference To Make Playoffs

(East Lansing, MI) -- At least one college football coach thinks you should have to win your conference championship to qualify for one of the four spots in the new College Football Playoff. Michigan State's Mark Dantonio said at his weekly news conference Tuesday that he feels a team should be the champion of its league before it can try and be champion of the country. Dantonio says teams shouldn't be able to go 11-and-1 but not win their conference title game and make the playoffs. The ninth-ranked Spartans are 2-and-1, with a loss at Oregon. A 13-member committee will select which four teams play in the national semifinals.

>>Another Longhorns Player Kicked Off Team

(Austin, TX) -- Another Longhorns player is being kicked off the team. Offensive tackle Kennedy Estelle has been dismissed for violating team rules. He'd already been suspended once by head coach Charlie Strong. Estelle is the ninth Longhorns player to be kicked off the team this year.

Durbin On Board With Investigation Into Quinn Program

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says he doesn't see any problems with the investigation into Governor Quinn's 55-million-dollar failed anti-violence program. According to reports, he doesn't know who's behind any potential wrong doing but he doesn't think it's a good idea to walk away from it. Both state and federal officials are taking a closer look at the program after an audit revealed it was rushed to implementation just before the 2010 election and that millions of dollars are unaccounted for. Durbin says he trusts the integrity of the state auditor and if he says something is wrong, then it should be investigated.

Republicans say Quinn used the cash to drive votes in minority communities that usually have low turnout at the polls. Quinn has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

Watson Mom Speaks At Daughter's Memorial Event

It's been more than a year since authorities found the body of seven-year-old Willow Long stuffed in a bag near the Little Wabash River. The young Watson girl was stabbed to death by her uncle last September. The community held a walk in her honor over the weekend. Long's mom, Ciara DeRyke, spoke at the event and told the crowd that Long was the "most beautiful, happy little girl ever." DeRyke is on probation right now for lying to police about when she last saw her daughter alive.

She told cops that Long was up and watching cartoons just hours before she went missing. That turned out to be a lie. DeRyke's brother Justin DeRyke had killed the girl the night before while he was babysitting. He's serving life in prison.

More Choice, Not Dollar Shifting Best Fix For Schools

State Representative Ron Sandack is leading the charge against the proposed school funding changes that would give schools money based on their level of need. He says that idea creates winners and losers, and wouldn't do anything to fix the state's other education woes.

[audio:rddSandack21.mp3] [/audio]

He says that's a bad idea that could hurt more students in the long run and if Democrats really want to talk about education reform, they should consider giving kids more options to choose which school they attend.

[audio:rddSandack31.mp3] [/audio]

Sandack says large suburban and downstate cities would see their taxes rise under the proposed school funding changes and the pension cost shift. He says he's sounding the horn and trying to make it known that Democrats have been meeting behind closed doors, possibly trying to reach a one-party deal on how to move forward with the school funding issue.

Man Charged With Possessing Springfield Pipe Bomb

A 34-year-old man accused of robbing a bank in August has been charged in connection with a pipe bomb found in downtown Springfield in July, authorities said.

Bradford Moss was charged Monday with possession of an explosive or incendiary device and with attempted theft. He is accused of trying to blow up an ATM outside a Chase Bank near where the bomb was found, according to the charges. A Secretary of State Police bomb squad disabled the 7-inch PVC pipe bomb with a water cannon before it could detonate.

Moss was already charged with robbing a Marine Bank on Aug. 4. He slipped a teller a note demanding money and implying he was armed before leaving with $2,000, police said.

Authorities received confidential information that led them to conclude Moss was responsible for both crimes, Deputy Police Chief Dan Mounce told the State Journal Register. He declined to elaborate.

The U.S. Marshal Service helped locate Moss in Las Vegas. He is being held in Springfield on $250,000 bond. Online jail records didn't indicate an attorney.

Rauner Efforts To Woo Black Voters Paying Off

Bruce Rauner's efforts to woo black voters seem to be paying off. He got the endorsement of quite a few black ministers in Chicago but Political Scientist Kent Redfield says that may not mean success on Election Day.

[audio:rddBlackVote11.mp3] [/audio]

He got the endorsement of quite a few black ministers in Chicago and Redfield says if that turns into actual votes, it could mean trouble for Governor Quinn.

[audio:rddBlackVote31.mp3] [/audio]

Quinn got 81-percent of the vote out of Chicago in 2010 and 58-percent of out suburban Cook County. Many of those votes come from Black, Hispanic, and other minority voters. Quinn needs to maintain those kinds of numbers in order to win the election. He also needs to pull about 40-percent of the vote in downstate Illinois.

Quinn, Rauner Differ on 'Common Sense' On Guns

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn and challenger Bruce Rauner both endorse what they call "common sense" in gun laws, but disagree over what that means.

Quinn, a Chicago Democrat running for re-election in November, has repeatedly called for a ban on assault weapons in Illinois and tried unsuccessfully to impose more safeguards in the state's law allowing concealed carry of firearms.

Rauner, a Republican businessman from Winnetka, applauded Illinois becoming the last state in the nation to approve concealed carry, and warns that too many regulations on assault weapons and other firearms can run afoul of constitutional rights.

The two candidates sketched out those opposing views in an Associated Press campaign questionnaire. And Rauner reinforced his message Monday after being asked about assault weapons at an appearance on Chicago's West Side, where residents see guns contributing to a stubborn violence problem.

He said, "It's important that we keep guns away from criminals and the mentally ill, but going much beyond that creates constitutional issues."

Meter Installation Refusal Comes At A Cost

An Illinois utility said customers who refuse to have an electricity meter installed will see an additional $20 monthly fee on their bills.

According to reports, Ameren Illinois says the so-called smart meters, which transmit details about power usage, enable the utility to pinpoint outage problems and fix them faster. They add the meters can be read remotely and the $20 fee covers the cost of sending out a person to read the older analog meter.

The company is set to install 780,000 of the new electricity meters in central Illinois and 468,000 upgraded gas meters, which offer similar capabilities.

The Illinois Commerce Commission, the state's utility regulators, approved the extra charge and says the company should be compensated for meters that require a person to visit them.

It also approved a $70 onetime "exchange fee" for customers who accept a smart meter but then change their minds.

Some opposition groups in Decatur and other cities claim the meters pose a health risk through their communication signals, but Ameren rejects the health risk argument.

Other critics have said the meters' transmission of power usage is a breach of privacy. Ameren said the meters' information is too general to be seen as an invasion of privacy.

University of Illinois Foundation Receives Increase in Donations

The University of Illinois Foundation said Monday that it received $259.5 million in donations during the fiscal year that ended June 30, a 10.5 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.

The money came from cash gifts, pledge payments, annuities, life-income gifts and estate distributions, said foundation treasurer Walter Knorr, who also is the University of Illinois' chief financial officer. The foundation raised $234.9 million in fiscal year 2013. The foundation noted that the 2014 total is the seventh straight year of more than $210 million in donations.

About 29 percent of funding came from other foundations, the largest donor source, the University of Illinois Foundation said. Corporations came in second at about 21 percent. The foundation processed 151,250 gifts during fiscal year 2014, a 4 percent increase from a year ago, officials said.

Officials say the combined University of Illinois Foundation endowment totaled $3.2 billion at the end of the fiscal year.

Electronic Recycling Done Away With In DeWitt County

 width=A service provided through a local non-profit group that was heavily used and relied on in DeWitt County has gone away.

The electronic recycling program through the DeWitt County Human Resource Center has been done away with because of rising costs to operate the service. HRC Executive Director Lynn Scoville says the service has become too much to justify offering it free of charge to the community.

[audio:92314electrorecycle1.mp3] [/audio]

Despite the program leaving, there is still a need for electronic recycling, however, Scoville says there is not an option any longer. She explains they have had some issues with dumping of electronics on their east property and even people bringing them things to deal with. She is encouraging the community to respect their inability to handle those kinds of donations at this time.

[audio:92314electrorecycle2.mp3] [/audio]

Scoville says the decision has been a disappointment not only to their patrons but to them as well. She recognizes what the service meant to the community. She feels HRC prides themselves on being able to provide services to the whole community, and not being able to offer electronic recycling is going to hurt a lot of people.

DJWH Board Discusses Future and Clears Misconceptions

 width=Monday night's Doctor John Warner Hospital Board meeting featured discussions of several key issues.

Interim CEO Robert Wolleben (picture right) presented his Financial Performance Improvement Plan during the session. He explains finances seemed to be looking up for the month of September with several areas of the hospital being ahead in volume. Conversations have already begun to form regarding treating and keeping local patients at DJWH.

[audio:92314hospital1.mp3] [/audio]

Dixie Walden, President of the DJWH Foundation, also addressed the Board on Monday night. One of the topics she addressed was the public being unaware of various services offered by the hospital such as free blood-pressure checks. Wolleben is attempting to create a focus group process within the community which will also inform the public of the hospital's services.

[audio:92314hospital2.mp3] [/audio]

Several misconceptions regarding DWJH were also mentioned by the Board. Board Member Joanna Holtman says the public is still confused how the hospital's new electronic sign was purchased. She stresses the DJWH Foundation was the source for the sign. Board Member David Wilson addressed the community's questions about the new parking lot, he explains a loan provided the means for its' completion.

[audio:92314hospital3.mp3] [/audio]

Monday night's meeting also saw the full August Financial Report presented to the Board.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News in the coming days for information regarding the hospital's recognition on a state and national level.

Local Law Enforcement Set To Ramp Up For Apple and Pork Festival Weekend

 width=The biggest weekend in DeWitt County is upon us for 2014, which makes for a major challenge for Clinton and DeWitt County law enforcement offices.

With yearly attendance for the annual Apple and Pork Festival between 80 and 100-thousand people, the city of Clinton's population grows exponentially this time each, but according to Clinton Chief Ben Lowers, the amount of criminal activity in the community does not. The Chief attributes this to the nature of the festival.

[audio:92314APlaw1.mp3] [/audio]

Given the spike in traffic and the amount of people looking for somewhere to park in a small area of the city, the Chief says residents handle the weekend very well. He also notes the amount of disturbances are usually at a minimum.

[audio:92314APlaw2.mp3] [/audio]

For better than 25 years, former Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy coveted a formula he would use to estimate the crowds, and it took nearly 50 weeks from the previous festival for him to pass along to Chief Lowers to use for this year's event.

Full coverage of the 2014 Apple and Pork Festival can be heard all weekend on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and on 95.9 FM WEZC.

WEZC will broadcast the event while Eastern Illinois football is on WHOW Saturday. Game time for Panther football is 1 pm, as EIU travels to Ohio. Pregame will begin at 12:30.

Apple and Pork coverage on the Miller Media Group radio stations gets underway Saturday morning at 10 am and lasts until 5 pm. Then Sunday tune in to WHOW for coverage from 11 am to 4 pm.

Former USC Football Player Sues School

 width=A former USC football player is taking the school to court over a head injury.  Ex-cornerback Brian Baucham is suing USC and former head football coach Lane Kiffin, saying he was forced to play with a concussion and suffered a brain injury as a result.  He says the medical staff has told him he shouldn't take the field, but that Kiffin ordered him to play in a game against Cal in the fall of 2012.  USC isn't commenting on the lawsuit.

Team Penske Chasing Another Title

 width=What a year its been for Team Penske in NASCAR and the IndyCar Series.

Last month, Will Power claimed his maiden IndyCar championship and gave Penske its first title in that series since 2006. His teammate, Helio Castroneves, finished second in the point standings. Castroneves also came up 0.06 seconds short of winning the Indianapolis 500 for a record-tying fourth time.

With the IndyCar season concluded, Team Penske is now aiming for its second championship in NASCAR's premier series in three years. Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano have punched their tickets to the next round in the 2014 Chase for the Sprint Cup title -- the "Contender Round." Keselowski, the 2012 Sprint Cup champion, won the Chase opener last week at Chicagoland, and Logano scored the victory on Sunday at New Hampshire. Both drivers currently sit 1-2 in the point standings, with only one point separating them.

Penske has been on a roll in Sprint Cup within the past month, winning four of five races. Logano won the night event at Bristol, and Keselowski took the checkered flag for the regular-season finale at Richmond.

Luiten Jumps To 36 in World; Furyk, Stenson Swap Spots

 width=Joost Luiten emerged from a crowded top of the leaderboard at the Wales Open on Sunday to win by one shot, and that victory propelled him up 12 spots to No. 36 in this week's world rankings.

Luiten shot an even-par 71 on Sunday and finished one shot ahead of Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry at 14-under 270. Luiten was previously No. 48 in the world.

With the PGA Tour not in action last week, there was not much change to the world's top players. This year's Open champion and PGA Championship winner Rory McIlroy remained the No. 1 player in the world followed by Adam Scott and Sergio Garcia.

The only change within the top 20 was Jim Furyk and Henrik Stenson swapping spots. Furyk jumped one to No. 4, while Stenson fell back to No. 5. Justin Rose, Bubba Watson, Jason Day, Matt Kuchar and Rickie Fowler rounded out the top 10 from No. 6.

Nos. 11 through 20 remained the same as well, with Phil Mickelson, Martin Kaymer, Jordan Spieth, Billy Horschel, Tiger Woods, Zach Johnson, Dustin Johnson, Graeme McDowell, Jimmy Walker and Hideki Matsuyama holding firm.

Bulls Re-Sign Mohammed

 width=Nazr Mohammed will play his 17th season in the NBA after re-signing with the Chicago Bulls on Monday.

Mohammed returns on a one-year contract. He spent the last two seasons playing in his hometown of Chicago.

The 6-foot-10 center out of Kentucky was drafted 29th overall by the Jazz in 1998 and was traded to the 76ers on draft night. Along with Philadelphia and Chicago, Mohammed played for six other franchises.

Bears Win On Monday Night Football; NFL Notes

 width=>>Bears Outlast Jets

(East Rutherford, NJ) -- The Bears' defense held strong on the last two plays from inside their own 10-yard line to escape MetLife Stadium with a 27-19 win over the Jets. Jay Cutler threw for 225 yards and two touchdowns as Chicago improved to 2-and-1 with both wins on the road. Martellus Bennett hauled in both TDs while Alshon Jeffery had eight catches for 105 yards. Brandon Marshall was held to one catch for six yards in the win. Geno Smith tossed two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. He ended with 316 yards passing and a touchdown as New York slipped to 1-and-2. Jeremy Kerley had seven receptions for 81 yards and a score in the loss. The Jets outgained the Bears 414 to 257 in total yards.

 width=>>Rams' Cook Apologizes To QB Davis For Sideline Shove

(St. Louis, MO) -- Rams tight end Jared Cook is apologizing for shoving quarterback Austin Davis on the sidelines during Sunday's game against Dallas. Cook took to Twitter to thank Davis and his teammates for their support. Cook was upset when Davis tried to console him for dropping a potential TD pass.

>>Chargers Running Back Danny Woodhead Out For Season

(San Diego, VA) -- A San Diego Chargers running back is out for the season. Danny Woodhead needs surgery and is out for the season after he broke his fibula in Sunday's 22-10 win over the Buffalo Bills. Team officials said Monday that he is a vital part of the organization, but only had 15 carries for 38 yards and five catches for 34 yards so far this season. It's expected the Chargers will sign a veteran free agent running back in the near future.

>>Ravens' Pitta Out For Season

(Owings Mills, MD) -- The season has been cut short for Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta for the second straight year. He is going on injured reserve after surgery for a dislocated right hip. Pitta was carted off the field in the Ravens' 23-21 win at Cleveland on Sunday. He awkwardly fell to the turf after catching a short pass from quarterback Joe Flacco. The fifth-year pro fractured and dislocated the same hip in last season's training camp. He was able to come back last year and play in Baltimore's final four games. Pitta hauled in 16 catches this season for 125 yards.

>>Vikings' Rudolph Out With Sports Hernia

(Eden Prairie, MN) -- Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph is out indefinitely with a sports hernia. The "Minneapolis Star-Tribune" reports Rudolph will miss at least six weeks. Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer said Monday that Rudolph has a "core" injury and will see a specialist in Philadelphia. The fourth-year pro has 10 catches for 96 yards and one touchdown in three games so far this season. He was limited to eight games last year due to a broken foot.

>>Steelers To Bring Back Harrison

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- James Harrison is reportedly set to come out of retirement. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports the Pittsburgh Steelers will sign Harrison in the next few days. Harrison spent last season in Cincinnati after playing his first 10 years with Pittsburgh. The five-time Pro Bowler has 66 career sacks in 647 games. The 36-year-old will fill the void left by linebackers Ryan Shazier and Jarvis Jones, who are both out with injuries.

Cards, Sox Win; Braves Fire GM

 width=>>Wainwright, Cards Shut Out Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- Adam Wainwright and two relievers combined on a four-hit shutout as the Cardinals blanked the Cubs 8-0 in the opener of a three-game series at Wrigley Field. Wainwright struck out eight as he became the second 20-game winner in baseball. Jon Jay drove in three runs and Matt Adams knocked in two for the Cards, who remain two-and-a-half games ahead of the Pirates for first in the NL Central. Pittsburgh blanked Atlanta 1-0 on Monday. Matt Holliday and Jhonny Peralta both plated a run and scored twice in the victory. Travis Wood was rocked for seven runs, six earned, in five frames to fall to 8-and-13 with the loss, the Cubs fourth in five games.

 width=>>White Sox Blank Tigers

(Detroit, MI) -- Rookie Chris Bassitt fired seven-and-two-thirds shutout innings as the White Sox blanked the Tigers 2-0 in the opener of a three-game series at Comerica Park. Bassitt, making just his fourth career start and fifth appearance overall, scattered six hits while striking out three for his first win. Jake Petricka recorded the final four outs to earn his 14th save. Tyler Flowers hit a two-run homer in the second inning for Chicago, which has won four of six. Kyle Lobstein pitched seven solid innings for the Tigers but allowed the homer to Flowers for his first career loss. Victor Martinez was 2-for-2 with a walk for Detroit, which is now just one game ahead of Kansas City for first place in the AL Central.

MLB National League
------
Pittsburgh Pirates 1, Atlanta Braves 0
San Diego Padres 1, Colorado Rockies 0
San Francisco Giants 5, Los Angeles Dodgers 2 (13 inn)

MLB American League
------
Cleveland Indians 4, Kansas City Royals 3 (10 inn, Completion of suspended game from 8/31)
New York Yankees 5, Baltimore Orioles 0
Kansas City Royals 2, Cleveland Indians 0
Toronto Blue Jays 14, Seattle Mariners 4
Texas Rangers 4, Houston Astros 3
Oakland Athletics 8, LA Angels of Anaheim 4

MLB Interleague
------
Arizona Diamondbacks 6, Minnesota Twins 2

>>Braves Fire GM Frank Wren

(Atlanta, GA) -- Frank Wren is out as general manager of the Atlanta Braves. He was fired Monday, just one day after the team was eliminated from playoff contention. Braves president John Schuerholz [[ SURE-holz ]] says the timing is right. The Braves were swept over the weekend by the New York Mets and entered Monday just 4-and-14 in the month of September and 76-and-79 overall. Wren had been the team's GM since October 2007 and had been with the organization since 2000. John Hart will serve as interim general manager. He, Schuerholz and Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox will lead a transition team that will work to hire a new full-time general manager.

>>Indians' Kluber AL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- Cleveland Indians pitcher Corey Kluber [[ KLOO-ber ]] is the American League Player of the Week. The right-hander went 2-and-0 last week, striking out 14 batters each in wins over the Astros and Twins. Kluber became the ninth pitcher all-time with at least 14 strikeouts in consecutive starts.

After Bye Week, ISU Moves Up Top-25 Football Polls

 width=Despite not playing due to a bye week, the Illinois State football team moved up spots in both national Football Championship Subdivision Top-25 polls Monday.

The Redbirds moved up two spots to No. 22 in the FCS Coaches Poll and debuted in The Sports Network FCS Top 25 at the No. 23 spot. ISU first appeared at No. 24 in the FCS Coaches Poll last week and just missed out on being voted into The Sports Network FCS Top 25, falling just three spots outside the Top 25.

The MVFC led all conferences with a league-record seven schools ranked in the coaches poll, with North Dakota State leading the way in the No. 1 spot. South Dakota State (No. 9), Northern Iowa (No. 10), Youngstown State (No. 12), Southern Illinois (No. 16), Illinois State (No. 22) and Missouri State (No. 24) comprised the record-breaking list of ranked teams.

The Redbirds return to action on Saturday, Sept. 27, at home against Ohio Valley Conference foe Austin Peay State (0-3, 0-1 MVFC), with kickoff at Hancock Stadium scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

Game Time Announced For Illinois vs. Purdue Game Oct. 4

 width=The Big Ten Conference announced times and television information for the weekend of Oct. 4 on Monday. The Fighting Illini home game against Purdue at Memorial Stadium is set for 11 a.m. CT and will be televised by ESPN2.

Illinois will celebrate its 125th football season with several events surrounding the weekend of Oct. 4. Numerous festivities to welcome former players, coaches and staff back to campus, including a reunion, will take place. Illinois' first football season was in 1890.

Illinois has four remaining game times to be announced for the 2014 season. Those game times are expected to be announced 12 days before the game date but could be announced as late as six days before the day of the game. Full Big Ten broadcast information for Oct. 4 is below.

Despite Reynolds' Solid Day, Maroons Can't Place At Invitational

 width=Chase Reynolds shot a 45 to lead the Clinton Maroons boys golf team to a team score of 212, which wasn't enough to place at the Maroon Invitational at the Clinton Country Club.

Tucsola shot a days best 179, led by Seth Icenogle with a score of 42. LeRoy placed second with a team score fo 179 and Hartem-Delevan finished third with a team score of 180.

Trevor Gold of Eureka shot a days best 37 for an individual. Chase Picken of Midwest Central and Cayden Brilley of St. Teresa shot a 41 to tie for second. Brett Egan of LeRoy, Icenogle, and Caleb Pryzkipanski of Mt. Pulaski tied for third with a day's score of 42.

The Clinton Invitational consisted of the host Maroons, Heyworth, St. Teresa, Midwest Central, LeRoy, Maroa-Forsyth, Mt. Pulaski, Eureka, and Tuscola.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-23

September 22, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

Michelle Denno, 26, Farmer City was issued a Citation for Speeding 76 MPH in a 50 MPH Zone. Denno was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

Sally Traylor, 55, Potomac was issued a Citation for Speeding 78 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Traylor was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

David Armstrong, 35, Bloomington was issued a Citation for Speeding 80 MPH in a 65 MPH Zone. Armstrong was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Clinton Police Report For 9-23

ON 9/19/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED JOSHUA T. ROBINETTE 20, CLINTON FOR HARASSMENT BY TELEPHONE. ROBINETTE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 9/20/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED REINALDO BAEZ 28, CLINTON FOR AGGRAVATED DOMESTIC BATTERY. BAEZ WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 


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

Quinn Says There's No Plan B Before Court Ruling

Amid signals that Illinois' pension overhaul could be found unconstitutional, Gov. Pat Quinn argued Friday that it makes no sense to develop a contingency plan.

The Chicago Democrat, who "fervently" believes the plan is constitutional, said in an Associated Press interview that he'd like to get feedback from the courts before proceeding despite Illinois' urgent financial difficulties.

Quinn says "that's a very bad strategic position".

Quinn's comments come as he faces a tough re-election challenge from Republican businessman Bruce Rauner (ROW-nur). He opposes the law Quinn signed in 2013.

After years of debate, lawmakers approved a plan that cuts benefits for most employees and retirees aimed reducing the state's massive unfunded liability. Unions sued over the law, saying it violates the Illinois Constitution.

But in a separate case on retiree health care, the Illinois Supreme Court in July ruled a law requiring retirees to pay more for health insurance was unconstitutional. The decision centered on the constitution's strong protections for retirement benefits.

Illinois' $100 billion shortfall in funding employee retirement benefits is considered the worst pension crisis nationwide. For years, Illinois lawmakers and governors skipped or shorted payments to their state's five pension systems.

Rauner, of Winnetka, has proposed freezing the current pension accounts and moving employees to a 401 (k)-style retirement system.

Illinois Awards $28.5-Million In Health Outreach Grants

Most of the same Illinois organizations that helped consumers sign up for insurance in the first year of President Barack Obama's expanded health coverage will receive additional funding for a second year, state officials announced Friday.

The Illinois Department of Public Health released a list of 37 community groups that will share a total of $25.8 million in federal funding. The groups will use the money to employ outreach counselors, sometimes called navigators.

Department of Public Health Director LaMar Hasbrouck says this is a strong team of organizations that will be aggressively reaching out to the uninsured in every corner of the state and making sure they know what they need to do to get covered.

The groups on the list include the Illinois Migrant Council, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, the Springfield Urban League, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and the Erie Family Health Center in Chicago.

Several county health departments - DuPage, McHenry, Will and Winnebago - will receive funding. The Illinois Public Health Association will get the largest single grant - $2.4 million - for work in western, central and southern parts of the state. United Way of Metropolitan Chicago will get $1.8 million.

For consumers, Nov. 15 is the date to remember: the opening day for enrollment in health plans sold on the marketplace for coverage in 2015. Consumers buying marketplace plans can qualify for tax credits to help with the cost.

Lawmaker Wants Pumpkin To Be Official Illinois Pie

Pumpkins are big business in Illinois. A state lawmaker has a sweet idea for making sure people know it: he wants to make pumpkin pie the official state pie.

Republican state Rep. Keith Sommer introduced legislation to make the designation last month, in time to honor the yearly pumpkin festival which just took place in his hometown of Morton, in the heart of Illinois pumpkin country.

Pumpkins are a $33 million industry for the state, the top producer in the country.

Morton, southeast of Peoria, is home to the Nestle USA Libby's plant, which processes much of the canned pumpkin distributed in the U.S. About 90 percent of the country's canned pumpkin comes from surrounding Tazewell County and nine other Illinois counties.

According to reports, Somner says he likes pie in general.

He's not alone.

Gov. Pat Quinn issued a proclamation this month designating Sept. 13 as Pumpkin Pie Day in Illinois. It was presented to officials at the festival in Morton last weekend.

According to Quinn, few foods are "more purely American than pumpkin pie".

No other state has dibs on pumpkin pie as its official pie. Sommer expects his bill to come up for debate next spring.

Journal Aims To Stoke Interest In Midwest History

When a group of historians gathered last spring in Omaha to discuss the revival of teaching Middle America's history, among their plans had been to start an online Midwest history journal.

Instead, this week they saw the University of Nebraska Press send out the inaugural print editions of the Middle West Review, an academic journal devoted to the history of the Midwest and Plains.

The 180-page issue features eight peer-reviewed articles, 18 book reviews and an interview with a 94-year-old former University of Wisconsin-Madison history professor it deemed "the last prairie historian."

University of Iowa graduate student Paul Mokrzycki, the journal's editor-in-chief, says it will help preserve the region's history and provide a place for historians to publish their work, helping them get college tenure, grant funding and book deals.

GOP's Rauner Gets Another $1-Million From Hedge Fund CEO

A Chicago hedge fund manager has donated another $1 million to GOP Illinois governor candidate Bruce Rauner, according to state campaign records.

Citadel LLC founder and CEO Kenneth Griffin's donation was reported in records released Friday, bringing his total donations to Rauner to $4.58 million. According to reports, that money includes cash or in-kind services since last year, according to state campaign records.

Records show Griffin has lent his jet to Rauner and in June donated $2.5 million to Rauner's campaign.

Rauner is challenging Democratic Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn in the November election.

Quinn's campaign spokeswoman Izabela Miltko said the contributions support "Rauner's efforts to eclipse the interest of the middle class and put their economic security at risk."

Among Quinn's biggest supporters are labor unions, which have contributed millions to his campaign and for anti-Rauner advertising.

Rauner's campaign declined comment on the contribution or the Quinn campaign's statement.

Doctors Asked To Help With Anti-Heroin Program

A southern Illinois prosecutor wants doctors to participate in a prescription monitoring program that aims to stop heroin abuse.

St. Clair County State's Attorney Brendan Kelly and St. Clair County Medical Society President Dr. Steven Morton sent a letter Sept. 8 to doctors, the Belleville News-Democrat reports (http://bit.ly/1sRHbKD). The letter encourages doctors to use an online monitoring program to prevent prescription opioid painkiller abuse.

The Prescription Monitoring Program lets doctors review a patient's prescription history to see if they have visited multiple doctors to try to get controlled substances. Data entered is reported weekly to pharmacies in Illinois. Pharmacists and other controlled substance dispensers can log-in to check records for current or potential patients.

Chamber Of Commerce Backs Rauner

The Illinois Chamber of Commerce is backing Bruce Rauner for governor.  It's the largest business association in the state.  The group's CEO calls Rauner a champion for job creation and says he has a vision to restore Illinois' mantle as the economic engine of the Midwest.  Rauner has also nabbed the endorsements of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association and the National Federation of Independent Business. 

CTA Says Fewer People Trespassing On Train Tracks

A campaign to remind people to stay off city train tracks appears to be paying off as the Chicago Transit Authority said reports of people trespassing on its tracks have dropped significantly in the last 12 months.

CTA President Forrest Claypool says they're pleased to see the numbers declining, but unfortunately far too many people are still making the dangerous and unfortunate decision to go onto the tracks.

According to the CTA, in the last 12 months, there were 323 trespassing reports, compared to 388 the previous 12-month period, a drop of 16.8 percent. The release did not include the number of arrests, but officials acknowledged that because most people only stay on the tracks a short time there are few arrests.

The CTA pointed out the dangers of walking on the tracks extend beyond the risk of getting struck by a train. The agency said the third rail that propels the trains carries enough electricity to kill a person who touches it.

Customers who drop items onto the tracks should never jump on the tracks to retrieve them, but they should alert a CTA employee so trains can be slowed or stopped or power cut off to the third rail, officials said.

Deadline Nearing For Illinois Marijuana Business

With a Monday afternoon deadline approaching, people who want to own medical marijuana businesses in Illinois are hurrying to complete their applications for a limited number of permits.

Two state agencies - the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the Department of Agriculture - are accepting applications for dispensaries and cultivation centers until Monday at 3 p.m.

The state's new medical marijuana law went into effect Jan. 1, but the first crop can't be planted until permits for growers are issued later this year. The law prohibits patients from growing their own cannabis. Commercial growers will pay a 7 percent privilege tax on their marijuana sales.

Panels of legal and policy experts will review and score the applications in a competitive process. Illinois expects to grant up to 21 permits for cultivation centers and up to 60 permits for dispensaries.

The Marijuana Policy Project, a Washington, D.C.-based lobbying group, has said the Illinois fees for cultivation centers are the highest in the nation. There is a non-refundable application fee of $25,000 and a first-year registration fee of $200,000.

Medical Marijuana Applications Due Today

Two Illinois state agencies will accept applications for medical marijuana businesses until 3 p.m. Monday.

The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the Department of Agriculture will take applications for dispensaries and cultivation centers.

The state's new medical marijuana law went into effect Jan. 1, but the first crop can't be planted until permits for growers are issued later this year. The law prohibits patients from growing their own cannabis. Commercial growers will pay a 7 percent privilege tax on their marijuana sales.

Illinois expects to grant up to 21 permits for cultivation centers and up to 60 permits for dispensaries.

There is a non-refundable application fee of $25,000 and a first-year registration fee of $200,000.

Farm Accidents Increase In Illinois Over Past Year

Farming claimed the lives of 21 people in Illinois from July 2013 through June, nearly double the number of deaths during the same period a year earlier, according to Bloomington-based Country Financial.

According to reports, the statistics have some calling for more efforts to reduce the injury and fatality rates.

There were only 12 farming-related deaths from July 2012 through June 2013.

The highest farm death toll in recent years was in 2000, when 39 people died, Country Financial spokesman Chris Stroisch said. More than 200 Illinois farmers are injured in accidents that result in physical disabilities each year.

Nine of the state's 21 farm-related deaths over the past year were due to tractor accidents. Roadway collisions and grain bin accidents are also major causes of death.

Bob Aherin, professor and program leader at the University of Illinois says older farmers should be encouraged to use tractors with rollover protection when working on areas with significant slopes. Fifty-seven percent of farm death victims in Illinois were 65 or older.

For the past decade, agriculture has been the deadliest industry in the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, beating out mining and construction in deaths per 100,000 workers. It's the same on a global scale, according to the International Labour Organization, with more than half of the 335,000 workplace fatalities worldwide occurring in agriculture.

Board Chairman Defends University of Illinois Denial To Professor

University of Illinois Board of Trustees Chairman Chris Kennedy said in a newspaper interview published Friday that the university was right to deny a faculty job to a professor whose anti-Israel Twitter messages were considered by some to be anti-Semitic.

Steven Salaita accepted an offer starting this fall to be a Native American Studies professor but was told would not be hired after he later posted profanity-laced Twitter messages during Israel's war with Gaza in July. The Board of Trustees last week declined to change that decision.

According to reports, Kennedy says it was absolutely clear they could not bring Salaita onto campus.

Supporters of Salaita, who has said he now plans to sue the university, believe he effectively already had been hired and so his speech was protected by academic tenure. They said professors routinely begin work before the board approves their hires.

Kennedy defended senior university officials against accusations from some faculty members that they violated Salaita's due process and infringed on academic freedom and faculty hiring procedures.

Peoria Man Arrested After Driving Truck Into River

A Peoria man was arrested after authorities said he drove his truck into the Illinois River and then swam away to avoid officers.

Officers with Peoria Police Department responded to Galena Marina on Thursday afternoon after someone called 911, saying they watched a black truck drive off a boat ramp and into the river. Another witness told police that he had just parked his car before he saw a pickup truck circle once around the lot and then accelerate into the water.

According to reports, the vehicle rested about 100 feet from the bank with water up to its headlights.

When police arrived at the marina, they learned the driver who they identified as Johann D. Smart, 36, was sitting in the truck. Police said they called out to Smart, who opened a door, stepped into the water and swam through the marina into the Illinois River.

Authorities tracked him as he swam, and a river rescue team composed of Peoria firefighters arrived in a boat. A fireman jumped into the water to retrieve Smart.

Smart was later arrested and held in Peoria County Jail on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, operating an insured motor vehicle, reckless driving and a violation related to carrying a license or permit.

Online jail records show he was released after posting bond.

Man Charged Over Body Found In Illinois

Prosecutors in central Illinois have charged a man in connection with the discovery of a Decatur woman's body in a shed.

Reports indicate Bradley D. Perkins, 40, is charged in Sangamon County with concealment of a homicidal death.. Prosecutors said more charges may be coming.

The skeletal remains of 43-year-old Tracy Trimby were discovered in July in a backyard shed in the village of Rochester, outside Springfield, by a resident who was cleaning.

Perkins, originally of Rochester, is the only suspect in the case, said Sangamon County state's attorney John Milhiser.

He recently relocated to Utah and had been in custody there on an unrelated DUI warrant. He was brought back to Sangamon County several weeks ago, Milhiser said.

Perkins is being held in the Sangamon County Jail on $250,000 bond. He was scheduled to make his first court appearance Friday.

It was not immediately clear if he already had an attorney.

Decatur Man Gets 50 Years In Toddler's Death

A central Illinois man was sentenced Friday to 50 years in prison after admitting he killed a 2-year-old boy by slamming him against a wall after the child would not stop jumping on a bed.

Reports indicate Manuel Gonzales, 29, pleaded guilty in Macon County Circuit Court to a first-degree murder count related to the death last December in Decatur of Dominic Bradley.

Authorities said Gonzales was dating Bradley's mother when the boy died of blunt trauma to the head, with Gonzales admitting to police he slammed the child with such force that the boy's head dented the wall. The boy also had bruises on his face, back, legs and buttocks, police said.

Court Says Illinois Inmate Pay For Incarceration

An Illinois appeals court has ruled that a Logan Correctional Center inmate must pay nearly $20,000 from a lawsuit settlement he received toward the cost of his incarceration.

The Fourth District Appellate Court recently made the ruling against Johnnie Melton, 49, a Cook County inmate imprisoned at the Lincoln facility on drug charges. Reports indicate Melton received the money from a wrongful death lawsuit involving his mother.

The state's claim on the money applies to Melton's time behind bars from Oct. 28, 2011, to Jan. 8, 2013. Melton had argued that he didn't receive advance notice from the state that it wanted control of his money.

Illinois state law allows the state Department of Corrections to forward information about inmate assets to the state attorney general so that office can request the prisoner help pay incarceration costs.

Clinton Fire, Police Departments To Receive New Vehicles

 width=The Clinton Fire Department and Clinton Police Department could soon be seen rolling through the streets of the city in new vehicles.

Clinton Fire Chief Shawn Milton indicates his department is purchasing a new pick up truck that will replace their Chevrolet Suburban they've had for many years. He notes they will have to have it outfitted once they purchase it.

[audio:92214emergencyvehicle1.mp3] [/audio]

The Clinton Police Department is going to take over a vehicle they have in impound. Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates the department will also be acquiring a Chevrolet Silverado. Chief Lowers explains the vehicle could potentially be useful to any department in the city who may need it.

[audio:92214emergencyvehicle2.mp3] [/audio]

 width=The Silverado is worth between $15 and $20 thousand, however, Chief Lowers indicates there is still around $9-thousand left on the lean of the vehicle with minimal legal fees attached.

The Fire Department purchased the Ford pickup truck from Anderson Ford in Clinton at a cost of just over $29-thousand.

DeWitt County Board Member Criticizes County Officials In Thursday Diatribe

 width=A very short DeWitt County Board Meeting saw one Board Member presenting a personal statement over recent budget proceedings.

Board member Terry Hoffman spoke his thoughts regarding last Tuesday's special budget session at Thursday night's meeting. He recapped the vote following Board Chair Sherrie Brown's request for each county department's budget be reduced by five percent and referenced Sheriff Jered Shofner's reaction to Brown's request.

[audio:91914hoffmanbudget1.mp3] [/audio]

Hoffman believes the budget session with Administrative Assistant Dee Dee Rentmeister was "flawed" from the beginning because not all department heads werepresent for the meeting. According to Hoffman, a reduction in the Exelon Nuclear Power plant property value was part of Brown's decision to request the five percent cuts.

[audio:91914hoffmanbudget2.mp3] [/audio]

Rentmeister's estimated expenditures and revenue for 2015 came under scrutiny from Hoffman as well. He says he's heard several department heads discussing higher taxes to make up for the 1.3 million dollar difference in the 2015 budget. Several in the crowd disagreed when Hoffman claimed he was speaking for the taxpayer.

[audio:91914hoffmanbudget3.mp3] [/audio]

Sheriff Shofner's reaction to recent budget proceedings came under fire from Hoffman, who called them "politically motivated". He also criticized other department heads for not finding much to cut as of Tuesday's budget session.

[audio:91914hoffmanbudget4.mp3] [/audio]

State's Attorney Karle Kortiz also drew criticism for "politically motivated" actions by Hoffman becuase of to not acting on non-payments of fees by the Clinton Landfill. He drew more negative reaction from several individuals in attendance due to remarks about Better Government for DeWitt County and accepting hazardous waste.

[audio:91914hoffmanbudget5.mp3] [/audio]

Despite Hoffman's lenthy remarks, Thursday night's meeting saw a running time of less than hour.

Logano Wins Crash-Filled Chase Race at New Hampshire

 width=Joey Logano has advanced into the next round of the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship by winning Sunday's Sylvania 300 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, a race plagued with accidents that involved several of the Chase members.

Logano took the lead from Kevin Harvick following a restart with 30 laps to go and then held off the field in a pair of restarts in the closing laps, including one for a green-white-checkered finish, before crossing the finish line 1.15 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Kyle Larson, a rookie this season.

Logano, who hails from nearby Middletown, Connecticut, scored his fourth win of the season and the seventh of his Sprint Cup Series career. His first victory in the series occurred in a rain-shortened race at this flat 1.058-mile New England track during his 2009 rookie season. Logano's Cup debut also happened here in September 2008.

Cards Clinch Playoffs Despite Loss; Sox Win

 width=>>White Sox Sink Rays

(St. Petersburg, FL) -- Marcus Semien [[ SIM-ee-in ]] hit a three-run homer as the White Sox sank the Rays 10-5 from Tropicana Field. Avisail [[ ah-vee-cy-EEL ]] Garcia hit two solo homers for Chicago, which has won three of five. He ended 3-for-5 with two runs and a pair of RBI. John Danks allowed two runs in six innings for the win. Nathan Karns gave up six runs in five-plus innings for the loss. Brandon Guyer knocked in two runs for Tampa Bay, which has lost three of four.

 width=>>Cards Clinch Playoff Berth Despite Loss To Reds

(St. Louis, MO) -- The St. Louis Cardinals are into the playoffs despite a 7-2 loss to the Reds at Busch Stadium. The Cards clinched their fourth consecutive playoff berth with Milwaukee's loss to Pittsburgh and currently lead the Pirates by two-and-a-half games in the NL Central. Jay Bruce homered twice and knocked in three, Devin Mesoraco hit a three-run blast and Todd Frazier also went deep for the Reds, who snapped a six-game losing streak. Alfredo Simon tossed six innings of two-run ball to up his mark to 15-and-10. Lance Lynn struck out nine over six frames but allowed three runs and fell to 15-and-10. Xavier Scruggs and Randal Grichuk plated a run each for the Redbirds in defeat.

>>Dodgers Down Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- Matt Kemp went 4-for-5 with a two-run homer and totaled four RBI to lead the Dodgers to an 8-5 win over the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Hanley Ramirez and Adrian Gonzalez both tallied a pair of hits and drove in a run for LA, which holds a four-and-a-half game lead over the Giants in the NL West. Chris Perez picked up the win in relief and Kenley Jansen closed it out for his 43rd save. Jacob Turner got tagged for four earned runs in five frames of work for his 11th loss of the season. Welington Castillo cracked a solo shot and Luis Valbuena went 2-for-4 with an RBI for Chicago, which has dropped three of four.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 2, Miami Marlins 1
New York Mets 10, Atlanta Braves 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 1, Milwaukee Brewers 0
San Diego Padres 8, San Francisco Giants 2
Colorado Rockies 8, Arizona Diamondbacks 3

MLB American League
------
New York Yankees 5, Toronto Blue Jays 2
Boston Red Sox 3, Baltimore Orioles 2
Cleveland Indians 7, Minnesota Twins 2
Kansas City Royals 5, Detroit Tigers 2
Houston Astros 8, Seattle Mariners 3
Texas Rangers 2, LA Angels of Anaheim 1

MLB Interleague
------
Oakland Athletics 8, Philadelphia Phillies 6 (10 inn)

>>Cards Fighting Flu Bug

(St. Louis, MO) -- As the Cardinals head toward the playoffs, they are fighting a flu bug that's going around the clubhouse. First baseman Matt Adams and third baseman Matt Carpenter missed their second straight game on Sunday. Manager Mike Matheny says more than 10 players are affected.

>>Cardinals At Cubs Tonight

(Chicago, IL) -- The Cardinals open their final road trip of the season tonight in Chicago. Adam Wainwright tries for his 20th win, while the Cubs start Travis Wood. St. Louis will also play three at Arizona this weekend. The Cardinals lead the Pirates by two-and-a-half games in the NL Central.

>>Tanaka Returns To Yankees

(Bronx, NY) -- Masahiro Tanaka [[ mah-sah-HEER-oh tuh-NAH-kuh ]] was back on the mound with the New York Yankees on Sunday for the first time since early July. He was out with a partially torn UCL in his right elbow. He tossed five-and-a-third innings of five-hit, one-run ball for the win. Tanaka improved to 13-and-4 in his first Major League season as the Yankees beat the Blue Jays 5-2.

Bears Meet Jets In New Jersey On Monday Night Football

>>Bears Face Jets On "MNF"

(East Rutherford, NJ) -- A pair of 1-and-1 teams coming off vastly different Week Two results meet as the Chicago Bears play the New York Jets on "Monday Night Football" at MetLife Stadium. The Bears overcame a 17-0 second-quarter deficit, scoring 21 fourth-quarter points to rally past the 49ers 28-20 last Sunday night. Chicago capitalized on four San Francisco turnovers, with Jay Cutler throwing three of his four touchdown passes to Brandon Marshall. Chicago lost 23-20 to the Bills in overtime in Week One. The Jets, meanwhile, squandered a 21-3 second-quarter lead and lost 31-24 to the Packers in Green Bay. Quarterback Geno Smith threw one touchdown pass and also ran for a score in defeat. The Jets opened the season with a 19-14 home win over the Raiders.

 width=>>Injury Update For Bears/Jets Monday Night Game

Chicago Bears star receivers Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery were listed as questionable for Monday night's game against the New York Jets while four starters were ruled out.

Marshall (ankle) and Jeffery (hamstring) were limited participants in Saturday's workout. Both played through their injuries last week in a win at San Francisco after getting hurt in the season-opening loss to Buffalo.

Starting center Roberto Garza and left guard Matt Slauson remain sidelined by ankle injuries after missing last week's game, but the Bears will also have to do some juggling on defense after defensive tackle Jeremiah Ratliff (concussion) and Shea McClellin (hand) were ruled out.

Brian de la Puente and Michael Ola filled in for Garza and Slauson last week. With Ratliff out, the Bears figure to lean more on rookies Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton.

Jonathan Bostic figures to start at strong side linebacker with McClellin sidelined.

The Bears also ruled out backup cornerback Sherrick McManis.

Wide receiver Eric Decker is listed as questionable and cornerback Dee Milliner doubtful for the New York Jets' game Monday night against the Chicago Bears.

Decker, dealing with tightness in his right hamstring, was limited in practice Saturday after sitting out the previous three days. The Jets' leading receiver with nine catches for 137 yards and a touchdown will likely be a game-time decision for the game at MetLife Stadium.

Milliner, the Jets' top cornerback, appears unlikely to play after sitting out a second straight day. He made his season debut last Sunday after suffering a high ankle sprain in training camp, but now also is being hobbled by tightness in his quadriceps.

Antonio Allen and Darrin Walls are likely to start at cornerback for the third time this season.

>>Former NFL Kicker Bironas Killed In Car Crash

(Nashville, TN) -- Former NFL kicker Rob Bironas [[ bih-ROE-nuss ]] is dead at the age of 36. Nashville police say Bironas died in a single-car accident near his home on Saturday night. Bironas lost control of his SUV on a curve and crashed less than a mile from home and was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Bironas spent nine seasons with the Tennessee Titans but was released in March. He was one of three kickers to work out for the Detroit Lions just last week.

Cowboys Stun Rams, Packers Can't Contain Lions

 width=>>Cowboys Storm Back, Hold Off Rams

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Cowboys erased an early 21-point deficit then held on late for a 34-31 win over the Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. DeMarco Murray ran for 100 yards and a touchdown while Tony Romo threw for 217 yards with two scores and an interception. Dez Bryant finished with six catches for 89 yards and a TD while Bruce Carter intercepted a pass and returned it 25 yards for a score as Dallas improved to 2-and-1. Austin Davis was 30-of-42 for 327 yards with three touchdowns and two picks for St. Louis. Jared Cook made seven grabs for 75 yards while Zac Stacy ran for 67 yards in defeat. The Rams fell to 1-and-2.

 width=>>Lions Slide Past Packers

(Detroit, MI) -- The Lions withstood three turnovers from Matthew Stafford to get past the Packers 19-7 at Ford Field. Stafford had 246 yards passing and two interceptions while also losing a fumble. Reggie Bush ran for 61 yards and a touchdown while Don Carey returned a fumble 40 yards for a score as Detroit improved to 2-and-1. Aaron Rodgers was held to 162 yards and a touchdown for Green Bay while James Starks and Eddie Lacy combined for just 74 yards on the ground. Andrew Quarless had 43 yards and a touchdown receiving as the Packers fell to 1-and-2.

NFL
------
Philadelphia Eagles 37, Washington Redskins 34
New York Giants 30, Houston Texans 17
New Orleans Saints 20, Minnesota Vikings 9
Cincinnati Bengals 33, Tennessee Titans 7
Baltimore Ravens 23, Cleveland Browns 21
Indianapolis Colts 44, Jacksonville Jaguars 17
New England Patriots 16, Oakland Raiders 9
San Diego Chargers 22, Buffalo Bills 10
Arizona Cardinals 23, San Francisco 49ers 14
Seattle Seahawks 26, Denver Broncos 20 (OT)
Kansas City Chiefs 34, Miami Dolphins 15
Pittsburgh Steelers 37, Carolina Panthers 19

Illinois, Eastern Illinois Win; Western Loses To Northwestern

 width=>>Illinois Survives Texas State

Illinois combined two touchdowns and 190 yards rushing from Josh Ferguson with the kind of desperate, second-half comeback the Illini have relied on all season to escape Texas State on Saturday, 42-35.

All three Illinois (3-1) wins this season have come after trailing in the second half.

The game was delayed for almost two hours by lightning that started in the second quarter. Before the delay the game was almost all Texas State (1-2). And after, the Illini clawed back.

Texas State built a 21-6 second-quarter lead.

But the Illini scored 17 fourth-quarter points to put the game away.

Wes Lunt threw for 266 yards and two touchdowns for the Illini.

Tyler Jones threw for 336 yards and four touchdowns. He ran for another score but also threw a late interception that V'Angelo Bentley returned 45 yards for a touchdown to give the Illini a 42-28 lead.

 width=>>Eastern Illinois Crushes Austin Peay

Jalen Whitlow threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more to put Eastern Illinois up 63-7 over Austin Peay on Saturday.

Whitlow was 13 of 15 for 159 yards passing and ran for a team-high 137 yards on 15 carries. He was replaced by Andrew Manley early in the third quarter once the Panthers (1-3, 1-0 Ohio Valley Conference) had achieved a 42-point lead.

In the first half, Whitlow and Jimmy Lera ran for two touchdowns each and Taylor Duncan caught a Whitlow TD pass to give the Panthers a 35-7 lead at the break.

Whitlow connected with Duncan again early in the third quarter for a touchdown. Less than two minutes later, Antoine Johnson blocked an Austin Peay punt and returned it 12 yards for another score, extending the Panthers' lead to 49-7.

The Governors (0-3) were held to just 224 total yards.

 width=>>Western Makes Northwestern Earn Victory

Solomon Vault rushed for two touchdowns, Justin Jackson had 92 yards rushing and a score, and Northwestern snapped a six-game home losing streak with a 24-7 victory over Western Illinois on Saturday.

Vault and Jackson, both freshmen running backs, led the way as the Wildcats amassed 166 yards on the ground. Jackson had 21 carries for an average of 4.4 yards, while Vault had 31 yards on six carries, an average of 5.2.

Quarterback Trevor Siemian was 15 of 25 for 117 yards.

Northwestern (2-1) had lost nine of 10 games going back to last season. The Wildcats began last season with four straight wins and finished at 5-7.

Northwestern opened this season with losses against California (31-24) and Northern Illinois (23-15).

Western Illinois (2-2) lost despite having a 376-283 advantage in total yards.

NCAA Top-25 Football ("USA Today" Rankings)
------
#1 Florida State Seminoles 23, #24 Clemson Tigers 17 (OT)
#2 Alabama Crimson Tide 42, Florida Gators 21
#3 Oregon Ducks 38, Washington State Cougars 31
#4 Oklahoma Sooners 45, West Virginia Mountaineers 33
#7 Texas A&M Aggies 58, SMU Mustangs 6
Mississippi State Bulldogs 34, #8 LSU Tigers 29
#11 Michigan State Spartans 73, Eastern Michigan Eagles 14
#14 Georgia Bulldogs 66, Troy Trojans 0
#16 South Carolina Gamecocks 48, Vanderbilt Commodores 34
#17 Wisconsin Badgers 68, Bowling Green Falcons 17
Indiana Hoosiers 31, #19 Missouri Tigers 27
#22 Nebraska Cornhuskers 41, Miami Hurricanes 31
#23 BYU Cougars 41, Virginia Cavaliers 33
East Carolina Pirates 70, #25 North Carolina Tar Heels 41

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report

September 17, 2014

Jail Population: 48
Summons Served: 4
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 18, 2014

Jail Population: 47
Summons Served: 7
Warrant Arrests: 1

September 19, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 20, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 5
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 21, 2014

Jail Population: 45
Summons Served: 1
Warrant Arrests: 0

Monica Golliday, 29, Clinton was issued a Citation and was Arrested and Charged with Driving on Revoked License. Golliday posted the necessary bond and was released.

Casey Fisher, 26, Clinton was Arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging her with Operate Uninsured Vehicle. Fisher posted the necessary bond and was released.

Delano Wilson, 28, Lauderdale, FL was issued a Citation for Improper Lane Usage. Wilson was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Nancy Gorden, 64, Blue Mound was issued a Citation for Speeding 76 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Gorden posted the necessary bond and was released.

Mary Totel, 70, Decatur was issued a Citation for Speeding 76 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Totel posted the necessary bond and was released.

Gene Whitehouse, 59, Leroy was issued a Citation for Speeding 75 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Whitehouse was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Dominika Szacilo, 19, Arlington Heights was issued a Citation for Speeding 101 MPH in a 70 MPH Zone. Szacilo was issued a Notice to Appear and was released.

Craig Smith, 26, Clinton was issued a Citation for Speeding 80 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Smith was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

 

 

 

 

 


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

Lady Maroons Volleyball Team Loses Fifth Straight Game

 width=Thursday night the Lady Maroons volleyball team fell to 1-5 on the season, losing to Shelbyville in two games going 15-25 and 18-25.

Taylor Filkin had five kills on the night. Michaela Elliott contributed seven assists while Hannah Ritter finished with eight digs. Taylor Filkin, Jessica Scott, and Payton Bieber all recorded a single block each for the Maroons.

Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more coverage of Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball as they get set to take on Central A&M Tuesday at 7:00 PM. 

Trout Fishing Season Begins


STATE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES SPOKESPERSON CHRIS YOUNG SAYS 80 THOUSAND TROUT HAVE BEEN STOCKED AT 50 PONDS, LAKES AND STREAMS THROUGHOUT ILLINOIS. AND NEW THIS YEAR…SOME SITES WILL OFFER CATCH AND RELEASE FLY FISHING STARTING ON OCTOBER 4TH.

[audio:trout.mp3] [/audio]

YOUNG REMINDS ANGLERS NEED TO HAVE THEIR FISHING LICENSE AND INLAND TROUT STAMP BEFORE THEY PARTICIPATE. FOR A LIST OF TROUT FISHING SITES…VISIT THE WEBSITE: I FISH ILLINOIS DOT ORG.

 

First Cases of West Nile Deaths Reported

THE FIRST WEST NILE VIRUS RELATED DEATHS ARE BEING REPORTED IN ILLINOIS.

TWO PEOPLE FROM NORTHERN ILLINOIS WHO TESTED POSITIVE FOR THE VIRUS HAVE DIED. BUT AS A WHOLE, WEST NILE HASN’T HIT ILLINOIS AS HEARD THIS YEAR SAYS STATE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH SPOKESPERSON MELANEY ARNOLD.

[audio:wnvdeaths.mp3] [/audio]

STILL…THE VIRUS…WHICH IS TRANSMITTED THROUGH THE BITE OF AN INFECTED MOSQUITO...REMAINS A THREAT UNTIL THE FIRST HARD FREEZE.

IDOT Urging Motorcyclists to Engage in Free Training

THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS URGING MOTORCYCLE RIDERS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE TRAINING CLASSES.

I-DOT’S MOTORCYCLE SAFETY PROGRAM DIRECTOR TERRY REDMAN SAYS THERE ARE DIFFERENT COURSES FOR ALL LEVEL OF RIDERS. THEY INCLUDE ABOUT 20 HOURS OF HANDS-ON INSTRUCTION.

[audio:moto.mp3] [/audio]

TO FIND A FREE TRAINING COURSE NEAR YOU, VISIT THE WEBSITE: START SEEING MOTORCYCLES DOT ORG.

Clinton Police Dept. Takes Part in Railroad Safety Week

This past week, the State of Illinois introduced a new initiative geared towards safety near and around railroad crossings.

Being a community built around the rail lines that run through it, the Clinton Police Department felt it would be a perfect effort to join in on. Police Chief Ben Lowers says this week they've increased patrols near busy rail crossings in hopes of shedding light on laws that are sometimes overlooked.

[audio:92014railsafe1.mp3] [/audio]

The Chief says the focus of the week it to just bring awareness to being alert at crossings, where accidents have been on the rise in recent years across the state.

[audio:92014railsafe2.mp3] [/audio]

As hunters soon begin to gear up for the 2014 hunting season, Chief Lowers indicates it is also illegal to hunt on railroad property. He says any accident on the railway is a serious incident, and he hopes to just raise awareness of honoring the crossing guards and the flashing lights, no matter the proximity to an on coming or passing train.

Jeb Bush Stumps For Illinois Governor GOP Candidate

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush was expected to headline a Thursday luncheon fundraiser for Illinois GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner who's trying to unseat Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn.

The November matchup in Illinois is expected to be one of the most competitive governor's races nationwide. Rauner is making a first run for public office, while Quinn is seeking a second full term.

Bush's appearance is preceded by several visits from Republican Gov. Chris Christie, who's the head of the Republican Governors Association.

Tickets for the Thursday luncheon at a downtown Chicago hotel cost $500 a person, according to an invitation circulated by the Rauner campaign. Attending a private round table and photo reception was listed at $5,000 a ticket.

In response, the Democratic Governors Association had planned a news conference at a nearby park to talk about Bush's record, according to an Illinois spokeswoman for the DGA.

Bush, who served from 1999 to 2007, has been vague on his plans for 2016. But he has said he'll step up his schedule to help Republicans this fall. His upcoming events include a fundraiser next month for Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.

Report Says Six SIU Students Arrested In Sex Assault

Six students at Southern Illinois University have been arrested in connection with two reported sexual assaults on the school's Carbondale campus last weekend, according to a newspaper report Thursday.

Reports indicate, four of the suspects - all 18 years old - were taken into custody last Saturday on suspicion of criminal sexual assault in the alleged attack on a fellow 18-year-old student. That person was treated at a hospital and released.

Two other students, ages 20 and 18, were arrested late Sunday as suspects in an alleged criminal sexual assault involving an 18-year-old who does not attend the school, the Post-Dispatch reported. That person also was treated at a hospital.

Rae Goldsmith, a spokeswoman for the school, said both cases were being investigated.

GOPs Rauner Not Fan of Airport Slot Machines

Republican candidate for governor Bruce Rauner (ROW'-nur) said Thursday he's not a fan of gambling or a plan to put slot machines at Chicago's international airports, but he wouldn't stand in the way of adding casinos if local communities support it.

Lawmakers for years have pushed for expanding gambling as a way to generate funds to address Illinois' huge financial problems.

Rauner said any gambling expansion must maximize taxpayer benefit. But he made clear he has misgivings.

He says he does not gamble nor does he like gambling. He feels it can be an addictive thing and it can hurt families that can't afford to be hurt.

Rauner also said he'd likely lean against putting slots at O'Hare and Midway airports - one of the proposals being considered in the Illinois Legislature.

Quinn has twice rejected gambling expansion proposals, largely over ethical concerns about corruption. He's said Illinois shouldn't settle for a gambling bill that "includes loopholes for mobsters."

Rauner said he also would push for "careful, thoughtful restrictions about who's involved" in any gambling expansion.

Lawmakers have considered adding five casinos statewide, including in Chicago. Another option would put a mega casino in Chicago and nowhere else.

Illinois Innocence Project Awarded $250-Thousand Grant

A project at the University of Illinois Springfield that is dedicated to investigating wrongful convictions has been awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice.

University officials say the $249,999 in federal funds will allow legal staff and students at the Illinois Innocence Project to continue bring closure to existing cases and expand the project's effort to look at other wrongful convictions.

The Illinois Innocence Project was founded in 2001. Over the past 13 years, it has assisted in the release of six people who were where wrongfully convicted. The project provides services at no cost, and works with inmates' private attorneys.

This is the second grant awarded to the Illinois Innocence Project by the Department of Justice. The Project previously received a grant of the same amount in 2011.

Illinois Man Convicted Of Sexual Assault

A jury has found a Bellevue man guilty of sexually assaulting two women and holding them and a man at knife point.

David Strickfaden, 20, was convicted Wednesday in Peoria County court of two counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault and three counts of aggravated unlawful restraint. Reports indicate he faces six to 30 years in prison.

The assaults occurred when Strickfaden visited friends with his girlfriend in November 2013, the prosecutor said. Strickfaden ordered his girlfriend, her friend and another man into a back room where he sexually assaulted the women and held the three with a knife.

A fight started after the group moved into a kitchen area, the prosecutor said. Strickfaden was stabbed with a knife. The victims left the house and called police.

Strickfaden's attorney said his client admitted he held the people but did not sexually assault anyone.

The judge revoked Strickfaden's bond pending his sentencing hearing in November.

Fake Tweets Stir Debate About Parody, Lawsuit

An Illinois man who created a spoof Twitter account in the name of the Peoria mayor is taking his case to federal court.

Jon Daniel says he modeled the satire on other fake accounts that lampooned hockey and football stars. Many of his tweets included profane messages about sex, drugs and alcohol.

Mayor Jim Ardis saw the spoof as an attempt to steal his identity. Police later raided Daniels' home, igniting a debate about online humor and free speech.

Daniel says he never intended for the account to be seen by anyone other than his friends. And it never attracted more than a few dozen followers.

With help from the American Civil Liberties Union, he's filed a lawsuit that alleges the city violated his civil rights.

Rauner Won't Weigh In On NFL Controversy

The Republican candidate for governor, Bruce Rauner is part owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team, but he's not weighing in on the controversial domestic violence or abuse issues. He says he hasn't spoken to anyone in the Steelers' front office about how the NFL is handling the Ray Rice or Adrian Peterson cases.

[audio:rddRaunerNFL1.mp3] [/audio]

Governor Quinn slammed Rauner for keeping quiet on the issue. He says the NFL should stop putting profit before what's right. He adds that team owners should wake up, pay attention, and do what's right for women who have been victims of domestic violence.

Champaign County Ordering Less Road Salt

Higher prices for road salt mean at least one central Illinois county will try to make do with a smaller supply.

According to reports, Champaign County Engineer Jeff Blue says they ordered 2,300 tons of road salt this year. He adds that's about two-thirds of a normal order. The price - $108 a ton - is double what the county paid last year, Blue said.

He says as of right now, that's all they budgeted for and is worried because of predictions of a wet, cold winter.

Last winter's record frigid temperatures and snowfall depleted supplies of road salt, leaving many Illinois communities scrambling.

He says it's going to be tough on our budget there is another difficult winter.

McLean County Coroner Warns of Smoking On Oxygen

The McLean County Coroner's office is citing two recent deaths in warning residents about the dangers of smoking and using oxygen tanks simultaneously.

Officials said in a Thursday news release that two county residents died this month in less than a 10-day span from thermal burns as a result of smoking while on home oxygen. Both residents, a 75-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman, suffered injuries to their faces from fires which started after they lit cigarettes.

Coroner Beth Kimmerling noted that smoking in "oxygen rich" environments is a safety hazard not only to smokers but to those living with them.

Company Wants To Drill For Oil In McLean County

A Pennsylvania company has asked McLean County for a special use permit to drill for oil and gas, according to county officials and documents.

According to reports, Minard Run Oil Company of Bradford, Pennsylvania, said in a letter to the McLean County Department of Building and Zoning that geological studies and seismic surveys have found 274 acres near Downs are favorable for oil and gas accumulations.

Minard has a one-year permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to drill and operate an oil well. Minard would lease the property from two trusts.

The company wants to drill about 1,000 feet down in one location, said Phil Dick, director of McLean County's building and zoning department. If oil isn't found, the company would plug the hole and not pursue the site. If oil and gas are found the company would drill at about a dozen other sites on the property, Dick said.

The McLean County Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public hearing on the permit Oct. 7.

ISU President Gives Upbeat Assessment of School

The president of Illinois State University gave an upbeat assessment of the school's future, saying Thursday the school has the capacity for moderate growth that can be achieved with increased diversity.

Larry Dietz listed the university's enrollment increases, national rankings and fundraising productivity as good news before an audience made up mostly of faculty and staff.

Reports indicate Dietz also outlined plans to build on student diversity through both statewide recruitment efforts and international partnerships to bring more foreign students to the university. He also said attention will be paid to increasing diversity among faculty and staff.

Without mentioning the circumstances of his elevation to the presidency, Dietz said many people had "experienced confusion, if not contention" in the past year.

Dietz became Illinois State's 19th president earlier this year after Timothy Flanagan abruptly resigned. His departure came days before being charged with a misdemeanor for an altercation with a former grounds crew worker. Flanagan's lawyer says the disorderly conduct charge is unfounded.

Economy Remains Slow In Rural Parts of Ten States

A new survey suggests economic growth in rural areas of 10 states in the Plains and the West will continue slowing down in the next few months.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said Thursday that crop prices are significantly lower than last year, and that's a drag on the economy in rural areas.

The overall economic index from the monthly survey of bankers declined to 48.2 in September from August's already weak 48.3 reading.

The survey indexes range from 0 to 100. Any score below 50 suggests decline in the months ahead.

The bankers continue to doubt the economy. The confidence index fell to 33.4 in September from August's 39.9.

Bankers from rural areas of Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

District B Seat Remains Vacant; Up To Republican Committee To Find New Nomination

 width=The vacant District B seat on the DeWitt County Board was once again the subject of debate at Thursday night's meeting.

Board Member Sue May-Witted addressed Board Chair Sherrie Brown regarding a request made by Republican Chairman Dustin Peterson on September 9th. Peterson and Christy Pruser, widow of late-Board Member Tom Pruser, explain they are willing to meet with Brown at a convenient time. May-Witted notes all evidence points to Brown not wanting to bring forward anyone who disagreed with her.

[audio:91914seatvacant1.mp3] [/audio]

Board Member David Newberg asked Brown if she responded to Peterson and Pruser but she already declined the nomination at a previous meeting and it wasn't her responsibility to bring forward another name for the seat.

[audio:91914seatvacant2.mp3] [/audio]

The vacancy has been unfilled for 84 days as of Thursday.

Thursday night's meeting also saw the Board unanimously approve the re-establishment of the EMA Administrative Assistant position.

Chase Shifts To Loudon

 width=Brad Keselowski is into the next round of the Chase, but someone else could join him this week when the Sprint Cup Series heads to New Hampshire.  The number-two car will automatically be in the Contender Round after winning last week.  Sunday's race at Loudon starts at 2:00 

Bulls Officially Sign Moore

 width=The Bulls have officially signed guard E'Twaun Moore.  The team did not announce the terms of the deal.  Moore comes over from Orlando, where he spent the last two seasons.  He averaged 6.3 points and 1.7 rebounds in 79 games last season. 

Illini Hosts Texas State, College Football Notes

 width=>>Illini Focused On Fixing Slow Starts Against Texas State

Illinois has been a strong second-half team so far this season, though the first halves have left the Illini in trouble.

Illinois (2-1) has trailed at the half of every game so far.

Texas State (1-1) comes to Champaign Saturday and might provide the antidote.

The Bobcats trailed Navy 28-0 midway through the first quarter last weekend. They have a strong quarterback in Tyler Jones and Texas State coach Dennis Franchione says protecting him will be the key to success.

If the Illini do struggle, quarterback Wes Lunt could get a chance for more late-game heroics. He's thrown for more than 300 fourth-quarter yards this season.

>>#5 Auburn Top #20 Kansas State

(Manhattan, KS) -- Nick Marshall tossed two touchdowns to help number-five Auburn hold off 20th-ranked Kansas State 20-14 in Manhattan. Marshall ended 17-of-31 for 231 yards and an interception for the Tigers, who improved to 3-and-0. He added 46 yards on the ground while D'haquille Williams hauled in eight balls for 110 yards and a TD. Jake Waters threw for 245 yards and two picks for the Wildcats, who slipped to 2-and-1. Curry Sexton had 11 catches for 121 yards in the loss.

 width=>>Texas Tech DC Wallerstedt Resigns

(Undated) -- Texas Tech defensive coordinator Matt Wallerstedt is resigning. The school announced the move on Thursday after he told head coach Kliff Kingsbury. ESPN reports he was under the influence of a substance while on the campus. He joined Kingsbury in 2013. The defensive duties will be handled by co-DC Mike Smith.

>>UC Football Player Suspended After Weekend Arrest

(Cincinnati, OH) -- A football player at the University of Cincinnati has been suspended following his arrest over the weekend. Head coach Tommy Tuberville says Alex Thomas was busted at an off-campus house party, charged with obstruction and running from the scene. Three other players were cited on misdemeanor charges during the same party. Tuberville says those players were disciplined, but didn't elaborate. He called the incident unacceptable and "not indicative" of Bearcats football.

Falcons Crush Bucs; Packers, Rams Play Sunday

>>Falcons Steamroll Bucs

(Atlanta, GA) -- The Falcons made easy work of the Buccaneers behind Matt Ryan and Julio Jones in a 56-14 romp at the Georgia Dome on "Thursday Night Football." Jones hauled in nine receptions for 161 yards and two touchdowns, while Ryan completed 21-of-24 passes for 286 yards and three TDs. Devin Hester scored on a 62-yard punt return and a 20-yard reverse. The return TD was Hester's 20th of his career breaking Deion Sanders record. Atlanta is 2-and-1. The Love Smith era in Tampa isn't off to the start they were hoping as they committed five turnovers on the way to falling behind 56-0 in the third quarter. In the fourth Mike Glennon found Vincent Jackson in the end zone and Danny Lansanah had a 27-yard pick to the house. Tampa is 0-and-3. Starting quarterback Josh McCown left the game with a thumb injury and didn't return.

>>Hester Breaks Sanders' Record

(Atlanta, GA) -- Devin Hester high-stepped down the sideline on 62-yard punt return in the Falcons' "Thursday Night Football" win over the Buccaneers at the Georgia Dome. It was Hester's 20th-career return TD breaking the record set by former Falcons star Deion Sanders. Sanders was in the building for the feat as a part of the broadcast for CBS and NFL Network. Also seeing Hester's feat was his coach when he was with the Bears, Lovie Smith, who now mans the sideline for the Bucs.

 width=>>Cowboys Clash With Rams In St. Louis

(St. Louis, MO) -- A pair of 1-and-1 teams hook up on Sunday as the Dallas Cowboys take on the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. After dropping their home opener in Week One 28-17 to the 49ers, the Cowboys bounced back with a 26-10 win at Tennessee this past Sunday. DeMarco Murray rushed for 167 yards and a touchdown in the win. The Rams also lost their home opener 34-6 to the Vikings in Week One before rebounding on the road for a 19-17 win at Tampa Bay last weekend. Filling in for the injured Shaun Hill, Austin Davis threw for 235 yards and no interceptions against the Bucs.

 width=>>Packers, Lions Renew Rivalry In Motown

(Detroit, MI) -- The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions renew their longtime NFL rivalry this Sunday when the teams meet at Ford Field. Home is where the heart is for these clubs, who have won their first home games of the season while losing big on the road. Green Bay overcame an 18-point deficit to beat the Jets 31-24 in Week Two. That followed a 36-16 loss at Seattle in the NFL's season opener in Week One. Detroit dominated the Giants 35-14 on "Monday Night Football" in Week One, but had three turnovers in a 24-7 setback at Carolina this past Sunday. The Lions have lost five of their last six against the Pack.

>>Bears Injury Report

(Lake Forest, IL) -- Receiver Brandon Marshall was among seven players out at Bears practice on Thursday. Center Roberto Garza, defensive end Jared Allen and cornerback Sherrick McManis were also missing due to injury. There are still two more practice days before the team leaves for the East Coast. The Bears battle the Jets in East Rutherford on Monday night.

Cards Maintain Central Lead, Cubs Lose; Baseball Notes

 width=>>Cardinals Top Brewers In 13 Innings

(St. Louis, MO) -- Tony Cruz delivered the game-winning single in the bottom of the 13th to give the Cardinals a 3-2 win over the Brewers at Busch Stadium. Jon Jay and Matt Adams both added an RBI as the Cards banged out 12 hits in the victory. Shelby Miller struck out four and allowed one earned run in six frames for the no-decision. Sam Freeman logged the win in relief. St. Louis remains two-and-a-half games up on the Pirates in the NL Central. Aramis [[ uh-ROM-es ]] Ramirez and Scooter Gennett [[ jen-ET ]] drove in the lone runs in the loss. Kyle Lohse [[ lowsh ]] pitched seven-and-a-third innings and allowed one run before Jimmy Nelson lost his eighth game of the season. The Crew sit three-and-a-half games out of a Wild Card spot.

>>Dodgers Storm Past Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- The Dodgers scored seven runs in the final three innings to top the Cubs 8-4 at Wrigley Field. Eight different Dodgers drove in a run as Yasiel Puig [[ YAH-see-EL pweeg ]] led the way with three hits. Hanley Ramirez and Juan Uribe collected two hits each and starter Zack Greinke [[ GRAIN-kee ]] allowed four runs in five innings for the no-decision. Paco Rodriguez grabbed the win in relief as LA leads the NL West by two-and-a-half games. Jorge Soler drove in two runs for the Cubs while Mike Olt added an RBI. Neil Ramirez took the loss out of the pen after allowing five runs, four of them unearned. The Cubs saw a three-game winning streak end.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 6, Miami Marlins 2
Colorado Rockies 7, Arizona Diamondbacks 6
San Diego Padres 7, Philadelphia Phillies 3

MLB American League
------
Texas Rangers 7, Oakland Athletics 2
New York Yankees 3, Toronto Blue Jays 2
Cleveland Indians 2, Houston Astros 1 (13 inn)
Seattle Mariners 3, LA Angels of Anaheim 1

MLB Interleague
------
Pittsburgh Pirates 3, Boston Red Sox 2

 width=>>Cubs' Rizzo Wins Branch Rickey Award

Chicago Cubs All-Star first baseman Anthony Rizzo is the winner of the 2014 Branch Rickey award in recognition of his community work with pediatric cancer patients.

At 25, he's the youngest person to receive the award - 4 1-2 months younger than last year's winner, Los Angeles Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw.

Created by the Rotary Club of Denver in 1991, the Branch Rickey Award honors individuals in baseball who contribute to their communities and are strong role models for young people.

Each year, major league teams nominate a player, coach or executive, either active or retired, for the award. The award is named in honor of the late baseball executive known for creating the framework for the modern minor league farm system and for breaking baseball's color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson, the first black player in the major leagues.

>>Cubs Linked With Silver Hawks

(South Bend, IN) -- The Cubs are now affiliated with the South Bend Silver Hawks of the Midwest League. Chicago was previously with the Kane County Cougars but met with the Silver Hawks in South Bend on Wednesday and announced the new PDC on Thursday. The deal with the Class-A team runs through 2018. The Cubs also joined with the Eugene Emeralds of the Northwest League in the Class-A Short Season.

>>White Sox At Rays

(St. Petersburg, FL) -- The White Sox are on the road facing the Rays tonight in St. Pete. The Sox will go with Jose Quintana while the Rays send Jeremy Hellickson to the hill. Chicago has lost three of four to slip to 69-and-83.

>>Cardinals Host Reds Tonight

(Cincinnati, OH) -- The Cardinals begin their final regular season home series tonight with the first of three games against the Reds at Busch Stadium. John Lackey puts his 13-and-9 mark up against Cincinnati's David Holmberg, who is 1-and-1. The Cards play at Chicago and Arizona next week.

Maroons, Cerro Gordo-Bement For Homecoming

 width=The Clinton Maroons, fresh of a tough 50-19 loss at Shelbyville last week, will play host to Central A&M Friday night. This Friday is homecoming week in Clinton.

Central A&M is 0-3 to start the season with loss Milford, at Illini West, and Decatur St. Teresa.

Tonight's game gets underway at 7 pm. Hear all the action live on The Big 1520/92.3 FM WHOW and streamed live online at dewittdailynews.com.

 width=Off their first win of the season, the Cerro Gordo-Bement Broncos will look to build on that and even their record as they host Decatur LSA for homecoming in Cerro Gordo.

Last week, the Broncos escaped 38-12 over a game that was closer than the final score indicated, as Cerro Gordo-Bement downed Toledo-Cumberland.

Game time tonight in Cerro Gordo is at 7 pm. Hear all the action live on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.

Other games across the area tonight...

Central Illinois

Meridian at Decatur St. Teresa
Central A & M at Clinton
Shelbyville at Tuscola
Sullivan-Okaw Valley at Warrensburg-Latham

Little Okaw Valley (Northwest)

Argenta-Oreana at Arcola
Niantic Sangamon Valley at Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond

Little Okaw Valley (Southeast)

Oakland Tri-County at Martinsville (Tue.)
Palestine at Villa Grov-Heritage
Toledo Cumberland at Oblong

Okaw Valley

Rantoul at Maroa-Forsyth
St. Joseph-Ogden at Champaign St. Thomas More
Tolono Unity at Monticello

Heart of Illinois

Ridgeview at Tri-Valley
Fisher at Heyworth
Flanagan-Cornell at Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley
LeRoy at El Paso-Gridley
Minonk (Fieldcrest) at Lexington

Apollo

Charleston at Effingham
Mattoon at Mt. Zion
Salem at Taylorville

Big Twelve

Champaign Centennial at Champaign Central
Normal Community at Danville
Urbana at Bloomington

Central State Eight

Chatham Glenwood at Rochester
Decatur MacArthur at Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin
Jacksonville at Springfield
Lincoln at Decatur Eisenhower

Corn Belt

Illinois Valley Central at Prairie Central
Normal U-High at Eureka
Pontiac at Mahomet-Seymour
Olympia at Bloomington Central Catholic
Springfield Southeast at Springfield Lanphier (Sat.)

Mid-Illini

East Peoria at Dunlap
Morton at Limestone
Pekin at Canton
Washington at Metamora

Non-Conference action tonight...

Big Rock Crossroads Academy at Dee-Mack (Sat.)
Normal West at Grayslake North
Oakland Tri-County at Clifton Central (Sat.)
Peoria vs. Peoria Notre Dame at Richwoods Stadium
Peoria Richwoods at Galesburg
Quincy at Peoria Manual
Tremont at Iroquois West

Maroons Victorious Homecoming Weekend

As heard on The Big 1520 AM and 92.3 FM WHOW, the Clinton Maroons beat the Central A&M Raiders 13-9 on their homecoming night on Friday .

For the Maroons (2-2), Dalton Whitted had five carries for 64 yards. Alec Cooley had 13 carries for 92 yards and a touchdown. Tanner White went 3-6, throwing for 45 yards and a touchdown. Josh Hickman batted down a ball in the end zone to stop a Raider touchedown and also had an interception.

For the Raiders (0-4), Keaton Garner went 1-4, throwing for 2 yards and an interception. He also had 11 carries for 55 yards. Ethan Woodward also had 13 carries for 68 yards and a touchdown.

The next Maroons broadcast will be next Friday when the Maroons host St. Teresa on WHOW.

Cerro Gordo-Bement Forces Mercy Clock in Win Against Decatur Lutheran

As heard on 95.9 FM WEZC and streaming live on dewittdailynews.com the Cerro Gordo-Bement Broncos dominated the Decatur Lutheran Lions 53-22 Friday night. Cerro Gordo-Bement improves to 2-2 on the season.

For the Broncos Dalton Woolridge went to the air and connected five out of ten times for one hundred yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Dalton Groehler had fourteen carries for one hundred and forty-seven yards and four touchdowns. Mason Neissle had four catches for ninty-five yards and two touchdowns. Neissle also returned a kickoff for a touchdown. JR Menezes finished the night with ten carries for ninety-nine yards and a touchdown.

Tune in to 95.9 FM WEZC Friday September 26th to catch the Cerro Gordo-Bement Broncos as they take on Sangamon Valley. Kickoff at 7pm.

Rauner Ethics Plan Targets Lobbyists, Lawmakers


Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner's plan for ethics reform released Wednesday includes a temporary ban on state officials becoming lobbyists and broadening recall powers, ideas government watchdog groups called a step in the right direction but difficult to implement.

Rauner has made promises to fight corruption a theme in trying to unseat Gov. Pat Quinn. Calling the Chicago Democrat a "corrupt career politician," Rauner outlined how he'd change the Illinois Constitution to allow legislators to be expelled more than once for the same reason and reiterated his push to prohibit legislative leaders from outside jobs.

His proposed one-year ban would extend to chiefs of staff and legislators.

Illinois Campaign for Political Reform chairwoman Susan Garrett called Rauner's blueprint a "good start." However, she said how things would be executed mattered.

Political experts said some of the proposals involving constitutional changes would be hard to pass in the state Legislature.

Others said Quinn's ethics reform record has been notable, particularly in signing Illinois' first limits on campaign contributions in 2009.

Quinn's campaign said Rauner had "zero credibility" on ethics, claiming the venture capitalist profited from "fraud" in previous business dealings. A Quinn television ad released Wednesday blasted a healthcare company partly owned by Rauner's former firm.

Rauner dismissed the notion and said he wasn't directly involved.

Rauner Throws Jabs At Top Democrats

Bruce Rauner is throwing jabs at House Speaker Mike Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton. His latest ad claims the two top Democrats have helped produce 100-years of failure in Illinois.

[audio:rdd100years1.mp3] [/audio]

The ad goes on to say that the Democrats have been involved in hiring scandals, federal investigations, and secret insider deals. They're specifically referring to Governor Quinn's patronage scandal at IDOT, and the fact that the federal government is investigating his troubled anti-violence program. Governor Quinn's team is firing back though. They say Rauner has zero credibility when it comes to ethics. They point out that Rauner pays to get what he wants and that his businesses have been connected to Medicaid fraud and abusing seniors in nursing homes.

Quinn Wants Black Voters To Take Another Look

Black voters have been coming out in support of Bruce Rauner, but Governor Quinn's team is trying to get them to take a closer look at the Republican. A new radio ad points out that not one African American is on the payroll at Rauner's investment firm.

[audio:rddAfAmJobs1.mp3] [/audio]

Rauner has been accused of trying to buy the black vote. He donated a million dollars to a south side Chicago bank aimed at helping minorities get loans to start businesses. He also opened a campaign office on Chicago's south side last month, complete with a barbecue for people in the community.

But one prominent black voter says Rauner hasn't given him anything for his support. Former state senator James Meeks says he's backing Rauner because it's time to shake up the Democratic Party and hold them accountable to the promises they make on the campaign trail.

Illinois Launches Catch-And-Release Fly Fishing

Selected Illinois waterways will open ahead of the regular trout season for catch-and-release fly fishing, the Department of Natural Resources announced Wednesday.

The new catch-and-release season will open Oct. 4 with the regular trout fishing season starting Oct. 18. The department stocks about 50 Illinois lakes and rivers with approximately 80,000 trout before the season opens.

The catch-and-release waters are located in Apple River State Park in Jo Daviess County, White Pines State Park in Oregon County, Siloam Springs State Park in Adams County, Gridley Lake in Cass County, Horton Lake in Hancock County and IDOT Lake in Sangamon County.

Most adults must have a fishing licenses and inland trout stamps to fish during either the catch-and-release or the regular season. Licenses and stamps are available at many bait shops, sporting goods stores and other retail outlets.

The daily limit is five trout per angler.

Bloomington Group Helps NFL With Domestic Violence

A national organization based in Bloomington will team up with the National Football League to address domestic violence.

Reports indicate, the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence signed on to work with the NFL to review and ramp up its policies regarding sexual assault and domestic violence. The organization helps companies develop policies and training that raise awareness and prevention of domestic violence in the workplace.

Kim Wells, executive director of the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence, says what people see are the players every week.

She adds there are 1,000 men and women who work for the NFL. Our work on the policies is to keep everybody safe

The NFL's effort coincides with a recent viral video that shows Baltimore Ravens player Ray Rice physically assaulting his then-girlfriend. The incident occurred at an Atlantic City casino in February. He has since been charged and suspended for two games.

The NFL was one of the organization's founding corporate partners when it was established in 1995.

Central Illinois Conference Football Team Creates Unwelcome Noise

 width=Gib Smart wishes the high school football team in Shelbyville could turn down the noise just a bit.

The Shelbyville Rams beat Clinton last Friday 50-19. And after every score the booster club set off fireworks.

According to reports, that has people complaining to Smart, a member of the City Council in the eastern Illinois town, about the noise.

Mayor Jeff Johnson said he gave the booster club permission for the fireworks. He said the club met the required conditions.

Smart accepts that the boosters will be launching more fireworks. But he wonders whether the team might hold down the scoring just a bit to limit the noise, and the complaints.

Budget Discussion Makes Up Three-Hour Special Board Meeting

The DeWitt County Board's special budget session on Tuesday night exposed a large budget gap for the county.

A special meeting was called after Board Chair Sherrie Brown called for five percent cuts across the board, however, the move came under much scrutiny, most notably from DeWitt County Sheriff Jered Shofner. Administrative Assistant Dee Dee Rentmeister says projections are based on estimates at this point.

[audio:918142015budget1.mp3] [/audio]

The projected 2015 revenue is $5,210,605 which is the expected cash available as of December 1st of this year. According to Board member David Newberg, the projected revenue is over three million dollars less than last year's.

[audio:918142015budget2.mp3] [/audio]

The lowest possible projected expenses for 2015 came to just short of $6.5-million, which creates a $1.3 million difference for next year's budget. Newberg says every department would need to be cut by twenty-percent to balance this budget.

[audio:918142015budget3.mp3] [/audio]

The discussion lasted nearly three hours with several county department heads discussing their respective budgets. The Board set up another meeting for absent department heads to attend Monday night at 6pm.

Listen to the majority of Tuesday's meeting below:

[audio:918142015budget4.mp3] [/audio]

[audio:918142015budget51.mp3] [/audio]

Anderson Ford Hosting Drive One For Your School

 width=The Anderson Ford dealership in Clinton is once again hosting their "Drive One For Your School" test drive event to benefit the sports programs at Clinton High School.

Owner Randy Anderson says this has been a great event in recent years and it goes to benefit the sports programs within the high school. He explains anyone can come in and take a no strings attached test drive, and Ford will make a donation to the Clinton Athletic Booster Club, of up to $6-thousand.

[audio:91814driveone1.mp3] [/audio]

For added incentive to get Clinton School district staff involved, Anderson indicates he will be donating $10, up to 120 test drives, for each staff member that takes a test drive. He says the money will be distributed among each building in the district.

[audio:91814driveone2.mp3] [/audio]

According to high school Principal, Jerry Wayne, the fact Anderson Ford has done this for several years now speaks to his commitment to the community, but Wayne notes it is great to have a business like Anderson Ford be a supporter of the district.

[audio:91814driveone3.mp3] [/audio]

The added incentive of staff of the school district helping their own cause is something Wayne encourages his peers to do. The drive, this Friday and Saturday, is a short process and he feels it is very generous of Anderson to contribute his own funds into classrooms, not just the athletic programs.

[audio:91814driveone4.mp3] [/audio]

Anderson notes the test drive fundraiser has been an up and down turn out for the dealership. He hopes to be able to contribute the maximum amount of funds into the Booster Club and the school district this weekend. He says it is a great effort to get behind because the Clinton Athletic Booster Club does a great deal for the programs across the district.

The Drive One For Your School drive takes place this Friday from 9am - 6 pm and 9 am - 5 pm on Saturday at Anderson Ford in Clinton. Anderson notes every car is up to be test driven, however, only one person from each household is allowed a test a drive, and that is per Ford policy.

Anderson serves as the girls track and field coach in the winter and spring.

College Football Notes

 width=>>Texas, Michigan Agree To Football Series

(Undated) -- The Texas Longhorns and Michigan Wolverines will square off in a blockbuster college football non-conference series. CBS Sports reports the two football powers have agreed to a home-and-home series. Texas will travel to Ann Arbor on August 31, 2024, while the Wolverines will head to Austin a couple of years later on September 4, 2027. UT and U-of-M have only met once in their storied history. The teams played in the 2005 Rose Bowl when the Longhorns came back from down 10 points to defeat the Wolverines in a thriller, 38-37.

>>Texas' Ash Career Over

(Austin, TX) -- Texas quarterback David Ash's career is over. Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong stated during a press conference Ash will no longer play because of numerous bouts with concussions. Ash played the entire game under center in the Longhorns season-opening win over North Texas, but began experiencing concussion-related symptoms following the game. The junior was medically redshirted last season because of a concussion he suffered in Texas' second game. Ash has started 22 contests for the Longhorns and owns a 15-and-7 record. Tyrone Swoopes has taken over the QB position.

Florida Suspends Dwight Howard's Driver's License

 width=Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard won't be driving around the state of Florida anytime soon.  Yahoo! Sports reports Howard's license has been suspended for failing to stop at red lights and failing to pay the fine behind his driving violations.  The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year has racked up 10 tickets for running red lights in the Orlando area, along with four speeding tickets, 12 citations for failing to pay highway tolls and one for failing to change his address on his license, all civil traffic infractions.  Howard played eight seasons for the Magic after Orlando selected him number-one overall in the 2004 NBA Draft.

Bears, NFL Notes

 width=>>Fuller Honored By NFL

(New York, NY) -- Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller is the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week for Week Two. Fuller had two interceptions and six tackles as the Bears dropped the 49ers on Sunday night. He was selected 14th overall in this past draft.

>>Bears Sign Three To Practice Squad

(Lake Forest, IL) -- The Bears have signed three players to their practice squad. Wideout Chris Williams, tight end Blake Allen and cornerback Jordan Sullen have all been added to the practice squad. Williams was waived on Monday after making his NFL debut for Chicago on Sunday. The team has an open spot on the 53-man roster.

 width=>>Ex Raven Donates Kidney To His Ex-Steeler Brother

(Baltimore, MD) -- Former Baltimore Raven Ma'ake Kemoeatu [[ mah-AH-kay CAME-way-AH-too ]] says he didn't think twice about ending his career in the NFL to donate a kidney to his brother Chris, who's a former Steeler. Both men are recovering down the street from University of Maryland Medical Center after successful surgeries. Chris tells "USA Today" he stopped playing football in 2011 when the pain became too much to stand. Ma'ake left the league in 2012 to support his brother. Both say their careers in the NFL are probably over, but they had a good run. Chris spent eight years in the league and Ma'ake played for ten.

>>Cardinals Running Back Dwyer Arrested

(Tempe, AZ) -- Arizona Cardinals running back Jonathan Dwyer is the latest NFL player to be hit with accusations of domestic violence. Dwyer was taken into custody Wednesday at the team's training facility in Tempe, Arizona. Phoenix Police Sergeant Trent Crump says Dwyer faces several charges. Phoenix PD says the 25-year-old Cards player has admitted to the incidents, but denied any physical assaults. The charges stem from two separate incidents that allegedly happened in late-July. The 27-year-old female victim, who suffered a fracture, alleges Dwyer threatened to harm himself if she contacted the authorities. The Cardinals say they are aware of the situation and given the serious nature of the allegations they have deactivated Dwyer from all team activities.

>>Bucs Face Falcons In First Road Test

(Atlanta, GA) -- NFC South rivals share the Thursday night spotlight this week as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. It's the first road game for the Bucs, who are looking for their first win of the season after consecutive home losses to the Panthers and Rams. This kicks off a stretch of three straight away games for Tampa Bay, which will also play at Pittsburgh and New Orleans the next two weeks. The Falcons are coming off a 24-10 loss at Cincinnati on Sunday that evened their record at 1-and-1. Atlanta and Tampa split their two games last season, with each winning at home.

Cardinals, Cubs Win

 width=>>Cubs Clip Reds

(Chicago, IL) -- Rookie Kyle Hendricks fired seven innings of one-run ball to lead the Cubs to a 3-1 win over the Reds and a three-game sweep at Wrigley Field. Hendricks improved to 7-and-2 on the year. Hector Rondon pitched a scoreless ninth for his 25th save. Luis Valbuena plated a run and scored while Ryan Kalish and Chris Valaika also drove in a run each for the Cubs, who have won four of five since a seven-game losing streak. Yorman Rodriguez knocked in the lone run for Cincinnati, which dropped its fourth straight. Daniel Corcino allowed two runs in five-and-two-thirds frames to suffer his first career loss.

 width=>>Cardinals Shut Out Brewers

(St. Louis, MO) -- Adam Wainwright tossed a complete-game shutout leading the Cardinals to a 2-0 win against the Brewers in the second of three at Busch Stadium. Wainwright struck out seven and allowed seven hits on his way to his 19th victory. Johnny Peralta had the only RBI for St. Louis, which is still two-and-half games ahead of the Pirates for first place in the NL Central. Carlos Gomez and Gerardo Parra each had two hits in the loss. Mike Fiers fell to 6-and-3, allowing one earned run in seven innings. The Brewers are two-and-half games behind Pittsburgh for the second Wild Card spot in the NL.

>>Royals Move Half-Game Within AL Central

(Kansas City, MO) -- Lorenzo Cain went 3-for-5 with a three-run homer as the Royals defeated the White Sox 6-2 in the rubber match of a three-game series at Kauffman Stadium. Alcides Escobar added a solo shot and scored twice for the Royals, who moved within a half-game of the Tigers for first place in the AL Central. Detroit lost 8-4 in Minnesota on Wednesday. Yordano Ventura struck out seven over seven innings of one-run, three-hit ball to up his mark to 13-and-10. Adam Eaton and Alexei Ramirez plated a run each for Chicago. Chris Sale slipped to 12-and-4 after allowing five runs in five frames.

MLB National League
------
Colorado Rockies 16, Los Angeles Dodgers 2
San Francisco Giants 4, Arizona Diamondbacks 2
Atlanta Braves 3, Washington Nationals 1
Miami Marlins 4, New York Mets 3
Philadelphia Phillies 5, San Diego Padres 2

MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 6, Toronto Blue Jays 1
New York Yankees 3, Tampa Bay Rays 2
Cleveland Indians 2, Houston Astros 0
Minnesota Twins 8, Detroit Tigers 4
LA Angels of Anaheim 5, Seattle Mariners 0
Texas Rangers 6, Oakland Athletics 1

MLB Interleague
------
Pittsburgh Pirates 9, Boston Red Sox 1

>>Bryant Honored At Wrigley

(Chicago, IL) -- Cubs prospect Kris Bryant was named the team's Minor League Player of the Year earlier in the week and was honored at Wrigley Field last night. The 22-year-old third baseman split time in 2014 with Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa. He hit .325 with 43 homers and 110 RBI between the two clubs.

Homecoming Week Highlighted By Football Game, Dance

 width=The 2014 Homecoming week at Clinton High School is set to conclude today with the annual parade and football game Friday.

High School Principal Jerry Wayne indicates the students this year have planned a week full of activities and of course each class has been hard at work putting the finishing touches on their floats for the annual parade.

[audio:91914homecomingweek1.mp3] [/audio]

The Homecoming parade is a great way for the community to find themselves at the center of the festivites that conclude the week. According to Wayne, the parade will feature the high school band, with the homecoming king and queen along with several of the sports teams highlighted as well.

[audio:91914homecomingweek2.mp3] [/audio]

Friday night, the Maroons take on Central A&M at Clinton High School. The Maroons are 1-2 on the season and are in the midst of their inaugural year in the Central Illinois Conference.

The homecoming dance will conclude the week Saturday night.

Lady Maroons Take Third Place at Home Tournament

Saturday saw the Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball team take third overall in their annual Clinton Classic tournament.

 width=Clinton lost their first game to Blue Ridge in two games going 25-18 and 25-14.

They then won their next four straight. They beat Illini Central in two game 25-16 and 25-16, Bismarck-Henning in three games 25-16, 26-28, and 19-17, Ridgeview 25-17 and 25-3 and finally, took down Heyworth 21-25, 25-23 and 15-10.

Eight Lady Maroons made it on the stat sheet Saturday.  Haley Ginger had fifty-six digs and thirteen aces. Hannah Ritter contributed twenty-nine digs. Kaitlin Hayden added fifteen digs, one ace and one block. Kate Gehres put up three aces. Michaela Elliott finished the day with three aces and sixty-nine assists. Taylor Filkin slammed down forty-six kills and made four blocks. Payton Bieber had five blocks while Sarah Gehres added another three blocks.

Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more Clinton Lady Maroon volleyball action.

Lawmaker Panel Delays Decision On Fracking Rules

A legislative panel said Tuesday that it wants more time to decide whether rules written by the Department of Natural Resources to govern hydraulic fracturing in Illinois can take effect.

The legislature's Joint Committee on Administrative Rules received proposed rules for high-volume oil and gas extraction from the DNR on Aug. 29, after the agency reworded some rules based on more than 30,000 comments on it original draft. But industry and environmental groups said they would ask JCAR to seek dozens of changes.

The panel originally had 45 days -until mid-October - to act on the rules, but exercised a 45-day extension, asking the DNR to ensure the rules comply with the intent of a law passed last year after intense negotiations that included industry and environmental groups.

An industry coalition has outlined more than 65 areas of concern, including rules that it believes violate the legislative compromise. Among their objections is language says the DNR can consider overall health and environmental impacts of multiple wells when evaluating a permit for a single well.

Environmental groups also are seeking changes, including to provisions that cap the total amount that companies can be fined.

Fracking generally uses a chemical-laced mixture to release trapped oil and gas deep underground. Opponents fear it will cause pollution and health problems.The industry insists the method is safe and will bring a badly needed economic boost to southern Illinois.

Grand Jury Subpoenas Anti-Violence Documents

A federal grand jury in Chicago has its hands on information about Governor Quinn's troubled anti-violence program.  According to the "Chicago Tribune," the jury subpoenaed copies of all original and electronically stored records, memos, notes, invoices, payment records, time sheets, and other documents.  The subpoena was issued on August 27th, and the jury was scheduled to convene on September 4th.  The feds in Springfield, the Cook County State's Attorney, and a legislative panel have launched separate investigations into the program, which was implemented just before the 2010 election.  Republicans have called the 55-million-dollar program a "slush-fund" to help Quinn win votes that year.  A state audit reveals Quinn rushed to implement the program and some of the agencies that received grants to help reduce violence kept horrible records.  Millions-of-dollars are unaccounted for. 

Bruce Rauner Would've Vetoed Medical Marijuana Law

Bruce Rauner says he would not have signed the medical marijuana law if he were governor when it cleared the legislature. The GOP candidate for governor says the process of giving companies the right to grow and dispense medical pot is too secretive and too restrictive. The law only allows the state to give out 21 grow licenses and allows for only 60-dispensaries.

Agencies under Governor Quinn's control will sift through the applications and decide who is and who isn't. Rauner is calling for a more transparent process, one that leaves Quinn's administration out of the loop. He's calling for a public auction that will allow companies to bid for their licenses.

Foundation Formed As Firefighter Tribute

A new foundation to help the families of first responders is also being created as a memorial to a fallen firefighter from the central Illinois community of Hudson.

Reports indicate, the Chris Brown Foundation will honor volunteer firefighter Chris Brown, who was killed while on duty in 2013 after a semitrailer truck crashed into scene of an accident.

Mike Brown, Chris Brown's father, says the foundation is being set up to provide financial help and support for the families of first responders who are injured or suffer illness because of in incident while on-duty.

Hudson Fire Chief Dan Hite said he hopes the foundation will "be a living tribute to Chris and to the core values that he brought to life and to the fire service."

University of Illinois Chancellor Regrets Uproar Over Professor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Phyllis Wise told a committee of faculty leaders that she regretted the uproar caused by the decision not hire a professor whose Twitter messages were considered by some to be anti-Semitic.

Wise told the campus' Senate Executive Committee on Monday that the university's board of trustees will be asked to consider approving the hiring of future tenured faculty much earlier in the process.

According to reports, Wise wished she'd have consulted faculty who already had signed off on the decision to hire Steven Salaita (suh-LY'-tah).as a Native American Studies professor.

Salaita accepted a job offer starting this fall but was told after he later posted numerous anti-Israel Twitter messages that he would not be hired. The Board of Trustees last week declined to change that decision.

Salaita's supporters believe he effectively already had been hired, so his speech was protected by academic tenure. They said professors routinely begin work before the board approves their hires.

Salaita has said he plans to sue the university.

McLean County Nixes Marijuana Cultivation Center

The McLean County Board denied a special use permit for a proposed medical marijuana cultivation center on Tuesday, saying it would be more like a factory than a farm.

According to reports, board members voted 15-2 to deny the permit requested by Tim Jones, who wanted to build the facility on land he owns near the central Illinois village of Downs.

Board member William T. Caisley says quote-"How many farms have 112 parking spaces and 61 hired men to farm ... and requires security?"

He added quote-"No reasonable secure watermelon or pumpkin patch has that. I think this is an industrial use proposed to be plopped down in the middle of agriculturally zoned property."

But member Laurie Wollrab, who voted in favor of the facility, said medical marijuana "is a legal product like flowers or button mushrooms we eat at meals. They're growing something, it's just a different product."

Jones, who blamed the denial on "fear and ignorance," said his proposal is dead, because the deadline to file an application with the state is Monday.

The county Zoning Board of Appeals held two days of hearings on Jones' request earlier this month and recommended approval by the County Board.

Peace Meals For DeWitt County Friendship Center To Return In October

Senior citizens in DeWitt County will see the return of their Peace Meals on Friday in just two weeks.

October 3 is the target date for the daily hot meal program to return on Fridays. Sissy Leggett is the Executive Director of the DeWitt County Friendship Center and has been outspoken about the benefits the Peace Meal serves the senior population of the County. She says for over three years, seniors have gone without hot meals on Fridays, but that will change come the first Friday of the new month.

[audio:91714peacemealfriday1.mp3] [/audio]

The Peace Meal program across the state has been through tough waters in recent years. Leggett notes, it was just last year, the program was set to close down permanently, but thanks to efforts of local citizens and lawmakers, the program stayed but remained a four day a week service.

[audio:91714peacemealfriday2.mp3] [/audio]

There were many factors that went into the decision to do away with the warm meals on Fridays, including rising costs on just about everything. Leggett believes it was always the intent of the company who runs the program to return the meals to their regular Friday schedule.

[audio:91714peacemealfriday3.mp3] [/audio]

Leggett stresses the Peace Meal program means a great deal to the seniors as a whole, but especially to home bound seniors. She explains the volunteers who deliver meal to those home bound seniors are in many cases, the only person to person contact they may have through the week.

[audio:91714peacemealfriday4.mp3] [/audio]

Leggett says the Peace Meal is a great way for seniors who are new to DeWitt County or the Friendship Center to meet people and begin building friendships. She feels the regulars to the Friendship Center and their regular activities are very welcoming to the new faces they get.

School Board Vice-President Commends High School Leaders For Right Moves During Difficult Week

 width=Hard times fell on Clinton High School and the community a few weeks ago when a 17-year old student passed away.

At the Tuesday night Clinton Board of Education meeting, Clinton High School leaders were commended for the way they handled a very difficult situation after the sudden passing of senior Evan Workman. It was the Board's first meeting since the tragic event took place, and Board Vice-President, John Blythe complimented Clinton High School Principal Jerry Wayne for the way he handled the situation. He says "you could not have made any more right moves".

[audio:91714chsdeath1.mp3] [/audio]

Since Wayne (picture bottom left) was named Principal at the start of the year, his message has been the students and faculty of the high school are a family. Blythe says that message could not have been any more evident when the news of what had happened began to spread.

[audio:91714chsdeath2.mp3] [/audio]

 width=The school board and those in attendance recognized a moment of silence before the meeting began.

The visitation for Evan Workman was held at Clinton High School's gymnasium and the scheduled three hour visitation had over a thousand people attend and lasted well past the 8 pm scheduled finish, into the early morning hours.

School Board Vice-President Commends High School Leaders For Right Moves During Difficult Week

 width=Hard times fell on Clinton High School and the community a few weeks ago when a 17-year old student passed away.

At the Tuesday night Clinton Board of Education meeting, Clinton High School leaders were commended for the way they handled a very difficult situation after the sudden passing of senior Evan Workman. It was the Board's first meeting since the tragic event took place, and Board Vice-President, John Blythe complimented Clinton High School Principal Jerry Wayne for the way he handled the situation. He says "you could not have made any more right moves".

[audio:91714chsdeath1.mp3] [/audio]

Since Wayne (picture bottom left) was named Principal at the start of the year, his message has been the students and faculty of the high school are a family. Blythe says that message could not have been any more evident when the news of what had happened began to spread.

[audio:91714chsdeath2.mp3] [/audio]

 width=The school board and those in attendance recognized a moment of silence before the meeting began.

The visitation for Evan Workman was held at Clinton High School's gymnasium and the scheduled three hour visitation had over a thousand people attend and lasted well past the 8 pm scheduled finish, into the early morning hours.

Quarterback Olsen No Longer Enrolled At Miami

 width=Just a day after his DUI arrest and possession of a fake or stolen driver's license, quarterback Kevin Olsen is no longer enrolled at the University of Miami.  The school says he is no longer a student, and they wish him the "very best in the future."  Yahoo! Sports reports the 19-year-old redshirt freshman was arrested and booked early Monday morning after displaying slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and the stench of alcohol on his breath.  Olsen failed a field sobriety test because he was unable to maintain his balance.  He allegedly blew a .04 on a Breathalyzer test and was also in possession of five different IDs from four different states.  The former four-star recruit never saw the playing field for the 'Canes.  He was suspended the first game of the season after reportedly failing a drug test. 

Kings To Retire Peja's Number In December

 width=The Sacramento Kings will retire the number-16 jersey of former forward Peja Stojakovic [[ PAY-juh  stoy-OCK-oh-vitch ]] this season.  The ceremony will take place December 16th when the Kings host the Oklahoma City Thunder.  Stojakovic played eight seasons with Sacramento after being selected 14th overall in 1996 and was a member of perennial playoff teams under former head coach Rick Adelman.  He ranks first all-time in games played with 518 and second in points with 9,498 during the Sacramento-era of the franchise. 

Blackhawks Open Training Camp Friday

 width=The Blackhawks start training camp Friday on the campus of Notre Dame.  The action at Compton Family Ice Arena runs through Sunday.  The 'Hawks will then return to United Center on Monday for the annual Training Camp Festival, which is also open to fans.

Grand jury to review Tony Stewart's case

 width=The Ontario County District Attorney's Office announced on Tuesday that a grand jury will determine if charges should be filed against NASCAR driver Tony Stewart for his involvement in a fatal accident during the Aug. 9 sprint car race at a dirt track in Upstate New York.

Stewart, a three-time champion in NASCAR's premier series, struck and killed another competitor, 20-year-old Kevin Ward Jr., at Canandaigua Motorsports Park. The incident occurred during a caution when Ward climbed out of his car and then walked down the dirt track, pointing his finger in the direction of Stewart and apparently yelling at him to express his displeasure. The right rear of Stewart's car hit Ward and dragged him briefly across the track.

The caution came when Stewart and Ward made contact while battling for position, with Ward spinning out and hitting the wall.

Ontario County District Attorney Michael Tantillo released a statement regarding the Stewart/Ward investigation, saying, "Over the past several weeks, I have reviewed with members of the Ontario County Sheriff's Department their investigation, as it progressed, in the Tony Stewart matter.

NASCAR is continuing to monitor Stewart's case.

NFL Notes

>>Anheuser-Busch Unhappy With NFL's Response To Issues

(St. Louis, MO) -- Anheuser-Busch is voicing its displeasure over the NFL's handling of off-the-field issues. The parent company of the league's official beer issued a statement saying it is disappointed and increasingly concerned over the recent incidents that have overshadowed the NFL this season.  width=The major brewer goes on to say it is not yet satisfied with the league's handling of behaviors that so clearly go against their own company culture and moral code. Anheuser-Busch is in the midst of a six-year deal that makes Bud Light the official beer of the NFL. The league has been plagued by domestic violence and alleged child abuse issues involving several of its players.

>>NFL Finance Committee To Meet Today To Discuss Sale Of Bills

(Undated) -- Kim and Terry Pegula's winning bid to buy the Buffalo Bills could be approved by the NFL's finance committee as soon as today. The committee plans to meet this afternoon. This is just the first step to approving the Pegula's as the new owners of the Bills. NFL owners will also have to approve the sale of the team, that's expected to happen at a meeting in early October.

>>Vikings Place Peterson On Exempt/Commissioner's Permission List

(Eden Prairie, MN) -- The Vikings have undergone another change of mind regarding running back Adrian Peterson. Peterson was placed on the Exempt/Commissioner's Permission list keeping him away from all team activities until his legal issues are resolved. The star running back was deactivated by the team for this past Sunday's home opener against the Patriots after being indicted in Texas on allegations of child abuse. Minnesota announced on Monday it was planning on playing him at the Saints this weekend before deciding on this course of action.

>>NFLPA Files Ray Rice Appeal

(New York, NY) -- The NFL Player's Association is appealing the league's indefinite suspension of former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice. The NFLPA states it is filing the appeal to "protect the due process rights of all NFL players." The union is requesting for a jointly selected arbitrator to overview the case. Rice was originally suspended two games for knocking his now-wife unconscious with a punch to the face in February. The 27-year-old was cut and the NFL then suspended him indefinitely after TMZ released footage from inside the elevator last week showing exactly what happened.

Sox, Cubs Win; Baseball Notes

 width=>>Gillaspie Lifts White Sox Past Royals

(Kansas City, MO) -- Conor Gillaspie smacked a go-ahead three-run triple in the seventh inning to lift the White Sox past the Royals 7-5 at Kauffman Stadium. Alexei Ramirez drove in a run and scored, while Adam Eaton went 4-for-5 and scored twice for Chicago, which snapped a brief two-game skid. Eric Surkamp picked up the win and Zach Putnam earned his fifth save. Alex Gordon had a two-run single and a run scored and Norichika Aoki had four hits, an RBI and scored for the Royals, who remain a game-and-a-half behind the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers and are now just one game up on Seattle for the second Wild Card spot. Kelvin Herrera suffered the loss.

 width=>>Cubs Blank Reds

(Chicago, IL) -- Jake Arrieta [[ air-ee-ET-uh ]] took a no-hitter into the eighth inning and fired a complete game one-hit shutout as the Cubs blanked the Reds 7-0 at Wrigley Field. Arrieta racked up 13 strikeouts and walked one for his ninth win. Jorge Soler hit a home run and drove in two while Chris Coghlan [[ COG-len ]] finished with three RBI. The Cubs have won three of their last four. Johnny Cueto [[ KWATE-oh ]] walked five and allowed six earned runs in five-and-two-thirds innings for the loss. Cueto struck out eight with his record falling to 18-and-9. Brandon Phillips recorded the lone hit in for the Reds and Billy Hamilton walked. The Reds' elimination number is two.

>>Brewers Rally To Beat Cards In 12

(St. Louis, MO) -- Hector Gomez singled in the go-ahead run in the top of the 12th inning to lift the Brewers past the Cardinals 3-2 in the opener of a three-game series at Busch Stadium. Matt Clark plated the tying run with a sac-fly in the top of the ninth. Gerardo Parra homered in the fourth for Milwaukee, which has won five of six and is now four games behind St. Louis for first place in the NL Central. The Brewers are also just a game-and-a-half behind Pittsburgh for the second Wild Card spot. Brandon Kintzler notched the win and Francisco Rodriguez posted his 42nd save. Matt Adams walked in a run and Jon Jay scored on a double play ball for the Redbirds, who had won their previous three. Kevin Siegrist took the loss. The Cards are two-and-a-half up on Pittsburgh in the division.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 3, Atlanta Braves 0
New York Mets 9, Miami Marlins 1
Colorado Rockies 10, Los Angeles Dodgers 4
San Francisco Giants 2, Arizona Diamondbacks 1
San Diego Padres 5, Philadelphia Phillies 4

MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 8, Toronto Blue Jays 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 4, Boston Red Sox 0
Tampa Bay Rays 6, New York Yankees 1
Cleveland Indians 4, Houston Astros 2
Minnesota Twins 4, Detroit Tigers 3
Seattle Mariners 13, LA Angels of Anaheim 2
Texas Rangers 6, Oakland Athletics 3

MLB Interleague
------
Pittsburgh Pirates 4, Boston Red Sox 0

>>Voting For Clemente Award Begins Wednesday

(New York, NY) -- The nominations are in for this year's Roberto Clemente Award. All 30 major league teams selected one player for fans to vote on who best represents both sportsmanship and community involvement. Fans can begin voting Wednesday through October 6th at ChevyBaseball.com. The winner will be announced during the World Series. More than 1.3-million votes were cast last year, with the award going to then St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Carlos Beltran.

>>Cubs Extend Triple-A Affiliation With Iowa Through 2018

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago Cubs are extending their player development contract with Triple-A Iowa through the 2018 season. The current deal was set to expire after 2016. The Cubs have been affiliated with Iowa since 1981.

>>Yankees' Tanaka Slated To Start Sunday

(St. Petersburg, FL) -- The New York Yankees could be getting ace Masahiro Tanaka back this weekend. Manager Joe Girardi says the Japanese import is tentatively slated to start Sunday's home game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Tanaka has been sidelined since early July with a partially torn elbow ligament. He threw five scoreless innings in an instructional league game Monday at the Yankees' spring training facility in Tampa. The 25-year-old right-hander is 12-and-4 with a 2.51 ERA in 18 starts this season, his first in the big leagues.

>>Yankees Martin Prado Done For Season

(St. Petersburg, FL) -- The season is over for New York Yankees utilityman Martin Prado [[ mar-TEEN PRAH-doh ]]. The team has placed him on the 60-day disabled list after he underwent an emergency appendectomy. The Yanks acquired Prado from Arizona at the non-waiver trade deadline on July 31st. He was batting .316 with seven homers in 37 games for the Pinstripers.

More ISU Football Players Receive National Recognition

A trio of Illinois State football standouts earned College Football Performance Awards (CFPA) Weekly Awards recognition Tuesday, as Lechein Neblett, Pat Meehan and CJ Laros were recognized for their performances in the team's 34-15 win over No. 24 Eastern Illinois.

Neblett earned CFPA National Wide Receiver of the Week honors, after catching four passes for a career-high 155 yards and tying a career-best with two touchdowns in the win over the Panthers.  width=The 100-plus yard receiving performance was the third of Neblett's career and his first since the team's loss in the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs in 2012, after he was forced to miss the entire 2013 season with a knee injury.

Meehan and Laros also earned weekly CFPA honors. Meehan was named CFPA National Defensive Performer of the Week and CFPA National Linebacker of the Week, while Laros was named Honorable Mention Punter of the Week.

The national honor is the third for Meehan, who was selected as a national player of the week by The Sports Network a College Sporting News All-Star Monday. Meehan also earned Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors, after he led the team with 11 tackles against EIU and set career-bests with two sacks and four tackles-for-loss.

Laros set a career-long with a 72-yard punt late in the second quarter and finished the day with a 45.2 yards-per-punt average on six attempts. Laros placed two balls inside the 20 yard line and recorded a touchback in the win as well for the Redbirds.

Still No Motion for County Board Vacancy

 width=Once again, the Thursday night DeWitt County Board meeting has no motion to fill the vacancy open for representation in District B.

Last week was the first meeting since August where no appointment has been on the agenda. It is the County Board Chair's responsibility to bring appointments forward, however, the lone appointment made by Board Chair Sherrie Brown was declined by Jeff Gibbs (pictured right shaking hand of Dan Ballenger).

The seat on the Board has been vacant since June 29, as of the Thursday Board meeting, the vacancy will have been unfilled 84 days.

 width=The DeWitt County Republican Central Committee, various board members and the public have been calling for Brown to appoint Christie Pruser, the widow of the late Tom Pruser, to fill her late-husband's position.

Brown claims she has contacted Pruser about the position but has not heard back as to whether she is interested in the position. Last week, Brown claimed she had spoke to Pruser prior to the meeting but would "not get into it with this mob".

Thursday's meeting is at 7 pm at the DeWitt County Building.

Quinn Says Monitor Not Needed To Oversee State Hiring

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, in a filing late Monday in federal court, contends a court appointed monitor is not necessary to ensure compliance with political hiring bans as suggested by an anti-patronage attorney.

In the filing by the attorney general's office, Quinn contends his response to allegations of political hiring in the Department of Transportation has been "prompt, appropriate and aimed at a long-term solution to preventing any such improprieties in the future."

Last month, Quinn aides announced the Transportation Department was laying off 58 people at the center of a state investigator's findings that more than 250 people were improperly hired for political reasons at the agency over the past decade. The report found that the questionable hiring of "staff assistants" accelerated under Quinn, despite his claims to have cleaned up the practices of his predecessor, Rod Blagojevich.

The issue boiled over in April when Chicago attorney and anti-corruption campaigner Michael Shakman filed a petition asking for the appointment of an independent monitor to oversee IDOT hiring. He was responding to a Better Government Association report in August 2013 that detailed political hiring in the Transportation Department.

Under a court decree known as "Rutan," most government jobs are supposed to be filled through merit and insulated from political considerations. But the decree allows a governor to hire political loyalists for positions that involve confidential information, policy making or public statements.

Video of Lawmaker Tirade Resurfaces In House Race

An Illinois state representative showed little restraint when he took to the floor of the state House in 2012 and unleashed a furious rant against Democrats, complete with hollering, paper-throwing and fist-waving.

A video of Mike Bost's (bahst) outburst circulated widely on the Internet and briefly raised his political profile. Now the footage has resurfaced as he seeks a congressional seat in southern Illinois that has been in Democratic hands for more than two decades but has grown increasingly conservative.

Bost's challenge to Rep. Bill Enyart is shaping up to be one of the nation's most competitive House races.

Democrats have tried to portray Bost as a loose cannon. But Bost and some supporters say the attention on the video could help his campaign.

Governor Candidates Spotlights On Business, Hiring

Illinois' gubernatorial campaigns took jabs at each other on business and hiring Monday, with Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn's running mate accusing Republican businessman Bruce Rauner of profiting "from fraud" and Rauner calling hiring under Quinn's Department of Transportation a "scam."

Both campaigns - locked in a competitive race - intensified focus on issues previously in the headlines.

Rauner blasted IDOT hiring three days after Quinn's administration released a list of agency employees who initially were hired under a title that's been the subject of a federal lawsuit and inspector general's report. He called for Quinn to fire them, vowing to work with a federal hiring monitor if elected.

Quinn has said he addressed hiring issues by calling for a systemic review, abolishing the "staff assistant" position and laying off those still holding the title.

His running mate, Paul Vallas, called attention to APS Healthcare Inc., a company owned by Rauner's former firm. The state of Georgia and the federal government alleged the company failed to provide services it was paid for. Without admitting fault, APS agreed to a 2011 federal settlement for $13 million.

Rauner spokesman Mike Schrimpf said Rauner wasn't on the board at APS and played no role in managing the company.

Union Backs Quinn

Illinois' largest union is backing Governor Quinn over Bruce Rauner.  AFSCME made the announcement over the weekend.  The union has had a tumultuous relationship with Quinn since he's been in office.  They went to bat with Quinn after he refused to honor pay raises for thousands of workers.  He claimed lawmakers did not put the cash in the budget but a judge eventually told him to pay up with interest.  Unions also disagreed with Quinn on the pension issue.  Despite the disagreements, union leaders say Quinn is the better candidate than Rauner. 

Lincoln Vault Getting Facelift

The vault that held President Lincoln's casket before it was moved into its final resting place is getting a facelift.  Officials are pumping 300-thousand-dollars into the old vault at Springfield's Oak Ridge Cemetery.  That will cover the cost of repairs to the stone façade, gate restoration, drain installation, and waterproofing.  President Lincoln and his son Willie's caskets were kept in the vault for just over seven-months back in 1865.  The repair work should be done by next May, in time for the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's funeral.  

Peoria Cricket Group Attracts Indian Immigrants

A group of cricket enthusiasts is helping immigrants from India feel more at home in central Illinois.

Reports indicate the Cricket Association of Peoria, a nonprofit that supports cricket teams and hosts matches, attracts nearly 300 players and their families, president of the organization, say it's been exciting to see it grow from a few teams to about 17 or 18 teams.

The Cricket Association of Peoria mainly relies on sponsors, including Citizens Equity First Credit Union and Geometric Engineering Inc., to fund the total cost of $9,000 per season, running from May to mid-September, according to Kadium. The organization hopes to get more people involved by increasing awareness of cricket, he said.

Cricket is one of the only games played by most people of Indian descent, cricket player Rakesh Vundru said.

Monticello Schools Leader Indicates District Received Four Payments in FY14

 width=School leaders across the area are singing positive notes about this past year's fiscal year budgeting cycle.

School leaders say they received all four of their required state payments, and Monticello schools are among them. Superintendent Dr. Vic Zimmerman says every school district across the state received the three payments they were expecting plus a fourth payment, but notes, they were all pro-rated.

[audio:91614monticelloblack1.mp3] [/audio]

While all districts were made whole in 2014, Dr. Zimmerman says the same message they received word they would get all their 2014 payments, they were warned the circumstances may not be the same again ins 2015.

[audio:91614monticelloblack2.mp3] [/audio]

Reaction among superintendents has varied as to whether they view the four payments is a sign things in Springfield are turning around. Dr. Zimmerman says things in Springfield continue to be very questionable when it comes to the challenges and issues they face and funding schools properly.

[audio:91614monticelloblack3.mp3] [/audio]

Major decisions lie ahead for the residents of Monticello when it comes to possibly expanding the budgets of the school district. Dr. Zimmerman notes, they will be placing a pair of referendums on the ballot in November for voters to consider.

They will deal with implementing a one-cent sales tax towards district facilities and part of those funds are likely to be geared towards a new high school, if the voters give that a thumbs up. We'll hear more on both initiatives later this week on Regional Radio News.

Clinton Chamber Continues Preparations For Opening of Haunted House

 width=With the fall decorations beginning to crop up across the area, one of the top rated Haunted House's from just a few years ago that was shut down is continuing to prepare for their grand reopening.

Late last summer it was announced the Clinton Chamber's Haunted House, Terror on Washington Street, would have to close for the season. Now they are readying for a reopening just over a year later. Executive Director of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, Marian Brisard says they have received a great amount of support from their board and the community.

[audio:91614hauntedhouse1.mp3] [/audio]

Organizers of the Haunted House are targeting October 10 as the opening day. While things are certainly going in a positive direction right now, Brisard notes they aren't out of the woods yet. There are still several things that need to come together before they entertain guests.

[audio:91614hauntedhouse2.mp3] [/audio]

 width=For the several weekends the Haunted House operates, it requires dozens of volunteers. In years past, Brisard indicates they have been fortunate enough to have several area groups that step up. While the Haunted House is a fundraiser for the Chamber, it is also a fundraiser for the groups that get involved.

[audio:91614hauntedhouse3.mp3] [/audio]

For any groups interested in helping out the Chamber during the several weekend the Haunted House operates, contact Brisard at the Chamber at 217-935-3364.

To find dates of operation and for further event information on the Chamber's Terror on Washington Street Haunted House, visit their website at www.clintonhauntedhouse.com.

Clinton City Council Approves Repairs To Mr. Lincoln Square, Exemptions For Apple and Pork Vendors

A quiet and uneventful Clinton City Council meeting Monday night saw relatively minor business taken care of.

Some repairs to the Mr. Lincoln Square stage are required and according to Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters, the repairs are necessary to the bandstand. She notes the wall where many patrons sit could use some tuck pointing. The cost was capped at just over $20-thousand.

[audio:91614downtownrepairs.mp3] [/audio]

 width=When non-for-profit groups in the Clinton Community do various sorts of fundraisers, some of those require special licenses to perform, mainly for raffles and different types of giveaways. Because the Apple and Pork Festival has so many such occurrences, the Clinton City Council Monday night approved exceptions for a handful of businesses and groups for the upcoming Apple and Pork weekend.

Other business from the Monday night meeting...

>>The Mayor announced the hours for this year's trick or treating as Friday, October 31 from 5 pm to 8 pm.

>>The Council approved a purchase of fire prevention materials for the Fire Department at a cost of $1750.

>>An appraisal of 310 North Madison Street was approved through Rob Nord and Associates Inc. at a cost of $1500.

NCAA Football Notes

 width=>>Rutgers Apologizes To Penn State Over Fans' Sandusky Signage

(Piscataway, NJ) -- Rutgers University is apologizing to Penn State after some Rutgers fans displayed signage and T-shirts referencing the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse scandal at last weekend's football game between the two schools. Rutgers athletic director Julie Herman issued a statement Monday apologizing for the "classless display." Herman also made it clear the fans' actions in no way represent the views of the university. NBC 4 New York reports pictures of fans wearing shirts that read "Beat Ped State" were posted on an official Rutgers football Facebook page. Herman says the photos were removed immediately.

>>Man Who Fell At AT&T Stadium Still Critical

(Arlington, TX) -- The man who fell around 15 feet at AT&T Stadium in North Texas is still in critical condition. Doctor Alex Eastman is the Interim Director of the Trauma Center at Parkland Hospital in Dallas and says he's seen similar injuries before. The unidentified man plunged from the 100 section to the floor level during halftime of Saturday's UCLA-Texas Longhorns game. He was spotted talking to medics who responded to the scene. AT&T Stadium is investigating. UCLA won the game, 20-17.

NASCAR Note: Keselowski Peaking At Right Time

After winning the regular season finale at Richmond and then the opening race of the Chase for the Sprint Cup at Chicagoland, Brad Keselowski is proving he's the championship favorite.

 width=Keselowski clinched the first seed in the 10-race Chase by scoring his fourth victory of the season on Sept. 6 at Richmond, where he started on the pole and led 383 of 400 laps.

The driver of the No. 2 Ford for Team Penske had a much tougher time winning on Sunday at Chicagoland after he started deep in the field. Since Friday's qualifying session was rained out, he was positioned 25th on the grid based on his practice speed.

Keselowski patiently made his way through the field and went on to lead three times for a total of 62 laps. Following a restart with 19 laps to go, Kevin Harvick and rookie Kyle Larson fought each other for the top spot. But Keselowski, who restarted in fourth, caught up with Harvick and Larson and then squeezed through the middle of them in a three-wide pass for the lead
with 16 laps left.

With the win at Chicagoland, Keselowski has secured a spot in the second round of NASCAR's new Chase. He also holds a seven-point lead over Gordon in the championship standings.

MNF, Bears Notes

>>Eagles Storm Back In Second Half, Edge Colts

(Indianapolis, IN) -- For the second straight week the Eagles pulled off a comeback with a 30-27 victory against the Colts on "Monday Night Football" at Lucas Oil stadium. Cody Parkey clinched the win with a 36-yard field goal as time expired. Philadelphia trailed 20-6 in the third quarter before scoring 24 of the next 31 points. Darren Sproles had a 19-yard TD run to cap a huge game that included 152 receiving yards. Foles threw for 331 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while LeSean McCoy added 79 yards and a TD on the ground. With Indianapolis up seven late in the fourth quarter and in field goal range Andrew Luck threw an interception to Malcolm Jenkins leading to Jeremy Maclin's game-tying TD catch. Philly improved to 2-and-0. Luck finished 20-of-34 for 172 yards with three TDs and the pick. Ahmad Bradshaw was on the receiving end of two of the TD passes. The Colts sit at 0-and-2.

 width=>>Bears Place Tillman On Season-Ending IR

(Lake Forest, IL) -- Chicago Bears defensive back Charles Tillman is done for the season. The team has placed him on season-ending injured reserve with a ruptured right triceps. Tillman suffered the injury in the Bears' 28-20 comeback win at San Francisco on Sunday. The 33-year-old has 36 interceptions and 42 forced fumbles in his 12-year career, all with Chicago. He is expected to rehab the injury and come back next season. "Peanut" signed a one-year deal with the Bears in the offseason.

>>Report: Peterson Investigated For Separate Abuse Incident

(Houston, TX) -- The attorney for Adrian Peterson says reports of the Minnesota Vikings running back being investigated for a second case of alleged child abuse are "simply not true." KHOU-TV in Houston reported Monday Peterson is being investigated for a separate incident with another son. The television station posted a Twitter picture of a young boy with his face blotted out but showing a large Mickey Mouse bandage over his right eye. Attorney Rusty Hardin says the allegation was "unsubstantiated and was shopped around to authorities in two states over a year ago and nothing came of it."

Peterson was reinstated by the Vikings on Monday and the former NFL MVP is expected to practice this week and play Sunday against New Orleans. He was indicted last week on charges of reckless or negligent injury to a child for allegedly "spanking" his four-year-old son with a tree branch. He issued a statement Monday saying he never meant to cause his son harm and is, without a doubt, not a child abuser.

>>Radisson Suspends Sponsorship With Vikings

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Radisson is suspending its sponsorship deal with the Minnesota Vikings in the wake of the scandal surrounding star running back Adrian Peterson. The Minneapolis-based hotel chain says it takes the matter of child abuse very seriously and has a long-standing commitment to the protection of children. Radisson adds that it will closely follow the situation and evaluate the facts and circumstances. The Vikings re-instated Peterson on Monday despite his indictment for allegedly hitting his four-year-old son.

>>"RG3" Does Not Have Fracture, Won't Require Surgery

(Ashburn, VA) -- Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin the Third is avoiding surgery on his injured ankle. Head coach Jay Gruden says an MRI revealed that "RG3's" ankle is not broken. Griffin says he does not think he will need surgery. He left Sunday's win against Jacksonville with a dislocated ankle. "RG3" is calling it "positive news" and is optimistic he can return to the playing field this season. It was the fourth time in 31 career NFL games that Griffin has had to leave a game due to injury.

>>Chiefs' Charles Has High Ankle Sprain

(Kansas City, MO) -- Kansas City Chiefs star running back Jamaal Charles is dealing with a high ankle sprain. Head coach Andy Reid says the injury doesn't "look to be a real severe one," but it is not clear if Charles will miss Week Three's matchup with Miami. The three-time Pro Bowler suffered the sprain on a rush in the first quarter of the Chiefs' 24-17 loss to Denver on Sunday. Charles has nine carries for just 23 yards in KC's two losses this season. Safety Eric Berry, who also left Sunday's game, is suffering from an ankle sprain as well.

Cubs Win, White Sox Lose

 width=>>Cubs Walk Off Reds

(Chicago, IL) -- Anthony Rizzo hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth lifting the Cubs to a 1-0 win against the Reds in the first of three from Wrigley Field. It was Rizzo's 31st long ball of the season and second hit of the night. Travis Wood tossed six shutout innings and reliever Hector Rondon earned his fourth victory. Chicago has won two of three. Pedro Villarreal [[ vee-uh-ray-AL ]] gave up the homer to Rizzo to take the loss. Cincinnati was held to three hits as they fell for the third time in four games.

>>Royals Rally Past White Sox

(Kansas City, MO) -- Lorenzo Cain legged out a walk-off infield single as the Royals rallied for a 4-3 win over the White Sox at Kauffman Stadium. Jarrod Dyson tied the game after stealing third then scoring on a wild pitch earlier in the inning, bringing Kansas City back from a three-run deficit. Omar Infante and Alex Gordon added RBI singles as the Royals won their second in third games and sit two games ahead of the Mariners for the second wild card spot in the AL. James Shields allowed three runs over seven innings while Wade Davis logged the win. Avisail Garcia and Conor Gillaspie each singled in a run for Chicago, which has lost two straight. John Danks pitched six scoreless innings while Jake Petricka [[ puh-TRITCH-kuh ]] took the loss in relief.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 4, Atlanta Braves 2
Miami Marlins 6, New York Mets 5
Los Angeles Dodgers 11, Colorado Rockies 3
Arizona Diamondbacks 6, San Francisco Giants 2
San Diego Padres 1, Philadelphia Phillies 0

MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 5, Toronto Blue Jays 2
Tampa Bay Rays 1, New York Yankees 0
Houston Astros 3, Cleveland Indians 1
Detroit Tigers 8, Minnesota Twins 6
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 8, Seattle Mariners 1

 width=>>Cardinals Host Brewers Tonight

(St. Louis, MO) -- After a day off Monday, the Cardinals resume their final homestand of the regular season with the first of three against the Brewers tonight at Busch Stadium. John Lackey puts his 13-and-9 mark up against Milwaukee's Wily Peralta, who is 16-and-10. First pitch on ESPN is at 7 p.m.

>>A's Lester Named AL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- Oakland Athletics pitcher Jon Lester is the American League Player of the Week. The left-hander went 2-and-0 with a 1.29 ERA in wins over the White Sox and Mariners, striking out 15 over 14 innings of work. Lester is the first A's pitcher to win the weekly award since Gio Gonzalez in July, 2011.

>>Dodgers' Kershaw NL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw is the National League Player of the Week. The left-hander went 2-and-0 with 17 strikeouts in wins over the Padres and Giants. Kershaw leads the majors with 19 wins this season and a 1.70 ERA.

Coaches Say Illini Need Run Game To Ease Pressure On Lunt

 width=Early in the second half Saturday at Washington it looked like Illinois might get its running game going.

But in a repeat of games earlier this seaso,n something went wrong. In this case it was a Josh Ferguson fumble in the 44-19 loss.

But offensive coordinator Bill Cubit said Monday that if it isn't one thing it's another. Penalties. Turnovers. Failure by backs to read the holes.

Those problems have left Illinois (2-1) with a run game ranked 118th in the country. The Illini are producing just 71.3 yards a game.

Cubit says a better run game would take pressure off quarterback Wes Lunt, who was sacked four times Saturday.

Lunt says better running would also cut down on third-and-long plays that plague Illinois.

ISU Football Notes

>>ISU Lineback LB Rolls In National Accolades

Just a day after being named the Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Week, Illinois State junior middle linebacker Pat Meehan was selected as a national player of the week by The Sports Network and College Sporting News on Monday.

The national honors are the first for Meehan in his three-year career at Illinois State.

The Frankfort, Illinois, native was also named a College Sporting News All-Star.

 width=Meehan was all over the field and led the way for the Redbird defense in its 34-15 defeat of No. 24-ranked Eastern Illinois Saturday in the Mid-America Classic. He led the team with 11 tackles against EIU and set career-bests with two sacks and four tackles-for-loss. Meehan also added a pass breakup and intercepted his first career pass, which he returned for 12 yards late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory for the Redbirds and knock the Panthers out of the TSN Top-25 poll.

>>ISU Jumps Into FCS Top-25

Thanks to a 2-0 start to the season and a win over the No. 24 nationally-ranked Eastern Illinois Panthers on Saturday, the Illinois State football team has cracked the Top-25, debuting at No. 24 in the FCS Coaches Poll on Monday.

The FCS Coaches Poll is based exclusively on a voting panel of head coaches in the FCS under the cooperation of the Collegiate Commissioners Association (CCA) and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and is administered by the Southern Conference.

The national ranking is the first for the Redbirds since early in the 2013 season. ISU just missed out on being voted into The Sports Network FCS Top 25 as well, falling just three spots outside the Top 25.

The Redbirds earned 47 points to nudge their way into the top 25 at No. 24, thanks to a strong 34-15 win over the Panthers on Saturday in the 103rd meeting of the Mid-America Classic. The loss brought the Panthers to 0-3 on the season and dropped them out of both of the national FCS polls.

The Missouri Valley Football Conference led all conferences with six teams in the FCS Coaches Poll top 25, which tied a league record. North Dakota State was yet again the No. 1 team in the FCS Coaches Poll. The Bison just nearly missed being a unanimous No. 1 selection for the second straight week, receiving 25 of the 26 first-place votes. South Dakota State remained in the top 10 in the No. 10 spot and Northern Iowa remained steady at No. 11. Southern Illinois (No. 13) and Youngstown State (No. 15) also moved up a spot each in the rankings this week.

Crimestoppers Investigating Weekend Theft

 width=The Clinton Police Department is seeking the public's help and information in solving a theft that occurred over the weekend of September 12th – 14th.

On Friday September 12th, a 2011 model S 175 Bobcat skid steer was delivered to a local construction site after the piece of machinery was rented for the weekend. Upon the rental company returning to the job site on Monday to retrieve the Bobcat, it was learned that suspects had provided false identification and rental information and had stolen the skid steer.

This piece of machinery is described as being white in color and bears the rental number 310152 on both arms leading to the bucket. The model number “S175” is visible as well on both sides of the vehicle. This Bobcat has 4 rubber tires as opposed to a track style machine.

Crimestoppers will pay a cash reward of up to $1000 when a felony arrest is made as a result of information provided. Anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of this stolen piece of property or any other other crimes or fugitives are asked to contact the Clinton Area Crime stoppers at 217-935-3333.

Crimestoppers reminds callers their phone line is not recorded and does not utilize caller identification.

Crimestoppers wants your information, not your name.

Solar Storm Hits Earth, Not A Problem Though

A solar storm zapped Earth on Friday but it was causing few, if any, problems. It also may allow more people to see the colorful northern lights.

Space Weather Prediction Center forecaster Chris Smith said the storm left the sun on Wednesday and first arrived on Earth at 9:55 a.m. EDT, and will continue disrupting the magnetic field through Saturday. It will likely only be noticed by specialized equipment.

He said it was a strong hit for Earth - the biggest since June last year. But he said the strongest of the energized particles went just above Earth.

Areas as far south as Seattle; Des Moines, Iowa; Chicago; Cleveland and Albany, New York, potentially could see the northern lights Friday and Saturday nights, depending on the weather and lighting conditions.

Medical Marijuana Law Sponsor Defends Secret Bids

The state lawmaker who sponsored Illinois' medical marijuana law said it bars the release of information about those applying to grow and sell the drug to prevent the state officials who review the applications from being influenced by political connections.

According to reports, State Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, said Friday that the law's confidentiality clause also prevents companies from getting information about competitors that could give them an advantage.

Government watchdog groups expressed concern that keeping applicant names secret would make it harder to determine if politically connected companies had received preferential treatment. Several companies hired lobbyists, including a former chief of staff to Gov. Pat Quinn and a former state police director, to help them through the process.

Lang said he understands the concerns, but that he thinks shielding the applicant names from open records requests was the better way to go. He also said he thinks the names will eventually come out in lawsuits brought by companies that are passed over for licenses.

The application period opened Monday and lasts through Sept. 22. The state will issue 22 cultivation center licenses and 60 dispensary licenses.

Nearly 100 Groups Form School Funding Coalition

Nearly 100 organizations are joining together to push Illinois lawmakers to pass a school funding reform proposal in the spring.

Funding Illinois' Future members include community foundations, civil rights organizations, school officials, and business and education reform groups statewide. All support the passage of a school funding proposal sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Andy Manar of Bunker Hill.

The legislation would overhaul Illinois' dated school funding formula, first put in place in 1997. While there's wide agreement that the state's funding formula should be altered, how it should be changed remains under debate.

If Manar's bill is approved, it would direct more state money to poorer rural districts at the expense of wealthier suburban districts. The bill passed out of the state Senate last spring. A group of top House Democrats have been studying the issue and plan to hold hearings on the bill in the fall.

Opponents said the bill unfairly penalizes some districts able to spend more money on students because of rich property tax bases.

Robin Steans, director of education reform group Advance Illinois, said the coalition plans to hold a series of community meetings statewide on the bill.

Schools Getting Federal Money For Fruits, Veggies

More than 200 Illinois schools are getting cash from the feds to give kids more fresh fruits and veggies. Mary Fergus, with the State Board of Education, says the schools will split about 500-million dollars.

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Fergus says some schools are finding creative ways to make sure the students get a snack.

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Officials say this is a great way to incorporate healthy snacks into the students' diets, especially low-income students who might not have a lot of access to fresh fruits and vegetables outside of school.

Rauner's School Plan Raises Eyebrows

Proposals to tie teacher merit pay to student test scores and alter tenure policies to make it easier to fire bad teachers are among the most recent education ideas being pushed in Illinois by GOP gubernatorial bidder Bruce Rauner.

The ideas were introduced last week as part of Rauner's 26-page education blueprint and did not offer many details. But school officials and education reform advocates are nonetheless questioning whether the state needs to be immediately tinkering after the passage of other significant reforms in recent years and while education budgets remain tight.

Some note that teacher salaries normally are left to local school districts, while others are concerned about teacher evaluations becoming too punitive.

Rauner, a Winnetka venture capitalist running against Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, has contributed millions to school reform efforts in Illinois. His new plan suggests tying "student academic growth to teachers' compensation." He also calls for changing the way Illinois schools grant teacher tenure and highlighted a Florida practice providing annual contracts for teachers.

The Quinn campaign has criticized Rauner's approach to education overall. The governor's running mate, former Chicago Public School's CEO Paul Vallas, called Rauner "reckless and irresponsible" for pitching reforms that allegedly would cost the schools districts billions of dollars, increase classroom sizes and raise property taxes. Rauner rejects those claims.

Congressional Candidate's Residency Under Scrutiny

Illinois congressional candidate Ann Callis' previous out-of-state residence has come under scrutiny, with a published report Sunday saying she signed mortgage documents while a judge in Illinois that listed her home as in Missouri.

Callis, a former Madison County judge, is trying to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis in the district that stretches from Champaign to the St. Louis suburbs. The election is Nov. 4.

Reports indicate Callis signed multiple mortgage papers identifying her residence as a home in Kirkwood, Missouri, while a judge in Illinois. The newspaper cited copies of mortgage records it obtained.

Callis campaign spokesman David Miyashiro confirmed Callis signed the documents, but said they were limited in how much information they could show. The records show details of transactions by Callis and her husband, a St. Louis businessman.

Miyashiro said the Callis family listed the Missouri house because of limited space on documents.

He said Callis is a resident of Illinois and registered to vote in the state. She lived in a house she owns in Troy until moving to a rental house in Edwardsville for the campaign.

However Davis' campaign questioned the residency, alleging that Callis was being untruthful.

Reporter Says He Has Six Months To Live

A TV news anchor in central Illinois says his days are numbered.  Dave Benton, with WCIA-TV in Champaign, has been fighting brain cancer and the tumor is too large for surgery or radiation.  He told viewers Thursday he only has four to six months to live.  He's hoping to add a few days by trying out a new treatment that might be able to slow the growth of the tumor.  Benton says he'll work as long as he can.  He grew up in the Chicago suburb of Addison.  Benton and his wife have two adult kids. 

Freshman Enrollment Drops At University of Illinois

Freshman enrollment at the University of Illinois's flagship campus is down this semester by 5.4 percent from a year ago, according to the school.

The freshman class enrolled this fall at the Urbana-Champaign campus has 6,937 students. That's down from 7,331 in the fall of 2013. The record high was 7,583 in 2005.

The university didn't provide a reason for the drop but noted without details the percentage of students who are accepted to the university is down. That's become an ongoing problem at the university as the cost of attendance has risen. A year at the university including housing now costs more than $20,000.

Of the freshmen enrolled this fall, 4,297 are from Illinois, according to the release. The class includes 1,061 foreign students. The largest group is from China, with 658 students.

Decatur Police Chief Retires After 25-Plus Years

The former head of the Decatur Police Department has turned over his badge after more than 28 years with the department.

A retirement party was held for former police chief Todd Walker last week. According to reports, Walker turned over his badge during a brief Friday ceremony.

Walker joined the department in 1985 as an intern and was hired as a patrol officer shortly after. He became sergeant at 27 and lieutenant a few years later. He announced his retirement last month.

He's credited with helping the department move into new headquarters, upgrading technology and re-establishing foot patrols. Fellow officers said he led by example.

Walker says retirement has brought him peace.

Jim Chervinko, who has been serving as deputy chief of the patrol division, was named as the interim chief.

Lincoln Chamber Feels Balloon Fest Expansion A Good Thing For Individual Events

 width=2015 will se some major changes for one of Lincoln's most popular events.

The Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival will be expanding to several separate weekends next year. Andi Hake is the Executive Director of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, who is the primary organizer of the busiest weekend in Lincoln. She explains organizers believe the festival needed to expand in order to have long-term viability.

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Several favorite activities have now been moved to June and July. June 5-7 will see the Up in Smoke Barbecue Competition, Car Show , Flea Market and Beer & Wine Tent. According to Hake, July will see the Art Fair paired with the Art of Wine Tasting tent in Latham Park.

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August of next year, the traditional Balloon Festival at the Logan County Airport will take place and she hopes the usual activities can be enhanced due to the ability to focus on one event. In addition the 1800s Craft Fair will also be paired with the National Railsplitter Festival in September of 2015.

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For a preview of what's coming in 2015, Hake encourages visitors to go to the Lincoln Chamber's Facebook page or www.lincolnillinois.com. There is also a new website for Logan County Tourism coming soon, mark your favorites tab with www.destinationlogancounty.com as the website continues it's development.

Clinton YMCA Meets Campaign's Goal; Looking To Future

 width=The Clinton YMCA's Strong Kids' Campaign recently surpassed their goal of $100,000 for their 2014 campaign.

According to Executive Director Rennie Cluver, the Y once again saw great support from the Clinton community over the last yea and adds there is still money coming. The Y is grateful to have a supportive base throughout the community, which other YMCA's cannot say.

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Next year's goal will likely stay at $100,000. Cluver explains most of the $100-thousand is given out in scholarships. He notes the Y may need to look at revamping the ways they generate funds.

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The goal of the Clinton YMCA is to better the lives of their members and those in the community thta take advantage of their scholarships. Over the next decade, Cluver hopes to see a decrease in the need for scholarships by individuals bettering their lives through receiving their scholarships and membership assistance programs. Cluver would like to see the Y would evaluate each individual case to see if the Strong Kids Campaign is actually impacting them personally.

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For anyone wishing to donate to Strong Kids, you can stop in at the Y, mail in a donation or donate online. You can find the Clinton YMCA online at www.clintoncommymca.org.

County Board Sets Date, Time For Special Budget Meeting

 width=The DeWitt County Board set a date for their special budget meeting on Thursday night.

The Board approved a special session at a meeting in August but last Thursday, the time and date was finally decided on. Board Chair Sherrie Brown explains the budgets were sent out to the various department heads after she requested a 5% reduction in department budgets. Rentmeister had over three-quarters of the budgets returned as of Thursday evening.

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The meeting has been set for this Tuesday at 6 p.m. Board Member Terry Hoffman requested Rentmeister bring the reason the Board doesn't actually have a budget after being ten million dollars over in expenditures.

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Board members had many requests of the DeWitt County Board Administrative Assistant. Hoffman requested the proposed reductions for Exelon and reports from the Sheriff's office be brought to the meeting. Newberg wanted reports of how the budget would be affected by the loss of over one million dollars in hosting fees from the Clinton Landfill.

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Rentmeister informed the Board each county department head would try to be present to review their budgets.

Both Redman and Brown encouraged as many DeWitt County taxpayers as possible be present for this meeting. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday evening at the DeWitt County Building.

Keselowski Captures First Win In Chase

 width=Brad Keselowski drove the number-two car to victory lane at Chicagoland Speedway in the first race of NASCAR's Chase for the Sprint Cup.  Keselowski used a late-race pass to get by Kevin Harvick and Kyle Larson for his fifth win of the season.  The victory for Keselowski will automatically move him to the second round of the Chase.  Four drivers will be eliminated based on points after every third race.  Jeff Gordon finished second, followed by Larson, Joey Logano and Harvick.  The Chase heads to New Hampshire Motor Speedway next Sunday.

Horschel Captures Tour Championship, FedEx Cup

 width=Billy Horschel pulled away with a two-under 68 to earn a three-shot victory at the Tour Championship and capture the FedEx Cup.  Horschel finished 11-under-par for the week and earns the ten-million-dollar bonus that comes with winning the FedEx Cup.  Prior to this year, Horschel's career earnings were just over 4.5-million.  Jim Furyk and Rory McIlroy tied for second at eight-under.  Chris Kirk, Jason Day and Justin Rose shared fourth at seven-under.

Cardinals Win, Maintain Central Lead; Pirates Top Cubs; Sox Lose

 width=>>Gonzalez Deals Cardinals Past Rockies

(St. Louis, MO) -- Marco Gonzalez fanned nine batters in five-and-two-thirds innings of one-run ball to lead the Cardinals to a 4-1 sweep-clinching victory over the Rockies at Busch Stadium. Gonzalez improved to 3-and-2 with the win and Trevor Rosenthal closed it out for his 44th save of the season. Jhonny Peralta blasted a two-run homer and Matt Holliday went 2-for-4 with an RBI-double for St. Louis, which has won 12 of its last 16. The Cards hold a three-game lead over the Pirates for the top spot in the NL Central. Jordan Lyles fell to 6-and-3 giving up three runs off nine hits in six innings of work for Colorado. Brandon Barnes plated the lone run as the Rockies dropped their sixth straight game.

>>Pirates Drop Cubs

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- The Pirates used a six-run fifth inning to power them to a 7-3 win over the Cubs at PNC Park. Neil Walker went 3-for-4 with a solo home run and two RBI. Josh Harrison also plated two runs for Pittsburgh, which has won eight of its last 10. Edinson Volquez struck out five in seven innings to improve to 12-and-7. The Pirates are three-and-a-half games behind the Cardinals for first place in the NL Central but still hold the second Wild Card spot. Jacob Turner gave up all seven runs in four-and-a-third innings of work to fall to 5-and-10 for Chicago. John Baker and Chris Coghlan [[ COG-len ]] each batted in a run for the Cubs, who have lost eight of nine.

 width=>>Twins Clip White Sox

(Chicago, IL) -- Jordan Schafer [[ SHAY-fer ]] belted a two-run home run to lead the Twins to a 6-4 win over the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field. Trevor Plouffe [[ ploof ]] added a solo shot in the victory and Kurt Suzuki drove in two. Trevor May stuck out 10 and allowed three runs in six frames to improve to 3-and-4 with Glen Perkins locking down his 34th save. Jose Abreu and Adrian Nieto powered the White Sox offense with solo shots and Conor Gillaspie [[ gill-ESS-pee ]] added an RBI single. Hector Noesi [[ no-AY-see ]] fell to 8-and-10 after six-and-two-thirds innings of five run ball.

MLB National League
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Washington Nationals 3, New York Mets 0
Miami Marlins 5, Philadelphia Phillies 4
Milwaukee Brewers 9, Cincinnati Reds 2
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, San Francisco Giants 2
Arizona Diamondbacks 8, San Diego Padres 6

MLB American League
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Tampa Bay Rays 6, Toronto Blue Jays 5 (10 inn)
Detroit Tigers 6, Cleveland Indians 4
Boston Red Sox 8, Kansas City Royals 4
Houston Astros 6, LA Angels of Anaheim 1
Oakland Athletics 4, Seattle Mariners 0
Baltimore Orioles 3, New York Yankees 2

MLB Interleague
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Texas Rangers 10, Atlanta Braves 3

Bears, Packers Come Overcome Big Deficits For Victories, Rams Win

 width=>>Bears Bounce Back Against Niners

(Santa Clara, CA) -- The 49ers jumped out to a 17-0 lead, but it wasn't enough as the Bears stormed back for a 28-20 win in the opener at Levi's Stadium. Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall hooked up for three touchdowns. Cutler threw four total including the go-ahead score to tight end Martellus Bennett with 13:14 left in the fourth quarter. Rookie cornerback Kyle Fuller picked off Colin Kaepernick twice. Chicago bounced back from a Week One loss to the Bills and evened up its record at one. Kaepernick had three interceptions and lost a fumble. Frank Gore ran for 63 yards on 13 carries with a touchdown. The 49ers are also 1-and-1.

 width=>>Packers Rally To Beat Jets

(Green Bay, WI) -- The Packers overcame a 21-3 second quarter deficit to pick up a 31-24 victory over the Jets from Lambeau Field. After an aborted snap opened the game for Green Bay, Aaron Rodgers threw for 346 yards and three touchdowns while passing Bart Starr for second in franchise history for passing yards. Jordy Nelson caught nine passes for 209 yards and a score and Randall Cobb caught two TDs as Green Bay picked up its first victory of the season. Geno Smith tossed for 176 yards and a touchdown with a pick while also running for 26 yards and a score. Smith threw a game-tying touchdown to Jeremy Kerley in late in the game that was negated by a timeout called by Jets offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg. Eric Decker hauled in four balls for 63 yards and a TD before leaving in the second half with a hamstring injury. New York is 1-and-1.

 width=>>Rams Rally Past Bucs

(Tampa, FL) -- Greg Zuerlein [[ ZER-line ]] nailed a go-ahead 38-yard field goal with 38 seconds left to lift the Rams past the Buccaneers 19-17 at Raymond James Stadium. Zuerlein made all four of his field goal attempts and Austin Davis finished 22-of-29 for 235 yards in his first career start. Zac Stacy had 71 yards on the ground and the lone touchdown for St. Louis, which bounced back from a 34-6 season-opening home loss to Minnesota. Bobby Rainey rumbled for 144 yards on 22 carries and quarterback Josh McCown had a pair of rushing scores for the Bucs, who have dropped two straight at home to begin the year. McCown was 16-of-21 for 179 yards and an interception in defeat.

NFL
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Buffalo Bills 29, Miami Dolphins 10
Washington Redskins 41, Jacksonville Jaguars 10
Dallas Cowboys 26, Tennessee Titans 10
Arizona Cardinals 25, New York Giants 14
New England Patriots 30, Minnesota Vikings 7
Cleveland Browns 26, New Orleans Saints 24
Cincinnati Bengals 24, Atlanta Falcons 10
Carolina Panthers 24, Detroit Lions 7
San Diego Chargers 30, Seattle Seahawks 21
Houston Texans 30, Oakland Raiders 14
Denver Broncos 24, Kansas City Chiefs 17

>>Bears Lose Tillman To Triceps Injury

(Santa Clara, CA) -- The Bears win over the 49ers was tampered a bit with a tough break for one Chicago player. Cornerback Charles Tillman injured his right triceps and didn't return to the game. He had an injury in the same area the previous season that he wasn't able to return from. It occurred on a play in the third quarter. Tillman played in only eight games in 2013.

>>Rice To Appeal Indefinite Suspension

(Undated) -- Ray Rice is looking to get back into the NFL as soon as possible. Pro Football Talk reports the former Baltimore Ravens running back will appeal his indefinite suspension from the league on Monday. The appeal will be handled by the NFLPA and a lawyer obtained by Rice. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Rice last week after TMZ released a video of him knocking out his now-wife, Janay. The Ravens released him on that same day.

>>Redskins Lose RG3, Jackson To Injuries

(Landover, MD) -- The Washington Redskins are dealing with injuries to two of their biggest offensive stars. Quarterback Robert Griffin the Third suffered a dislocated ankle in Sunday's 41-10 win over the Jaguars. He was replaced by Kirk Cousins. RG3 is expected to undergo more tests on Monday, but ESPN reports the injury could be season-ending. Washington also lost wide receiver DeSean Jackson during the game. He has been diagnosed with a sprained AC joint in his shoulder. Jackson will also have further tests done.

>>Chargers Rip On Richard Sherman

(San Diego, CA) -- After the Chargers win against the Seahawks on Sunday, a couple of San Diego's wide receivers had words for Seattle cornerback Richard Sherman. Keenan Allen said Sherman is a "normal guy" and "he's not really a shutdown corner." Allen caught five passes for 55 yards. The Stanford graduate responded on twitter saying "Lmao Exposed? .... Complete 3 passes 0 touchdowns 0 explosive passes.... These guys make me laugh." Sherman spent much of the offseason having a public feud with Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson over who was the best at the position in the NFL.

>>Eagles Clash With Colts On "MNF"

(Indianapolis, IN) -- The Philadelphia Eagles head to Indianapolis to take on the Colts on "Monday Night Football" at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Eagles are seeking a 2-and-0 start after rallying from a 17-0 halftime deficit against Jacksonville to beat the Jaguars 34-17 at home in Week One. After two fumbles and an interception in the first half, quarterback Nick Foles settled down to finish with 322 yards passing and two touchdowns in the win. Reigning NFL rushing champ LeSean McCoy and Darren Sproles combined for 145 yards and a score on the ground. The Colts are 0-and-1 after opening the season with a 31-24 road loss at Denver. Indianapolis fell behind 24-0 in the second quarter before a frantic rally fell short. Andrew Luck completed 35-of-53 passes for 370 yards and two touchdowns for the Colts, but he was also picked off twice and sacked three times. Indianapolis managed just 54 yards rushing in the setback.

ISU Wins Big, Western Wins; Illinois Crushed On Road

 width=>>Illinois State Crushes ISU

Lechein Neblett caught three passes for 109 yards and two touchdowns, including a 61-yard second quarter strike from Tre Roberson, to lead Illinois State to a 34-15 win over Eastern Illinois in the annual Mid-America Classic on Saturday.

Marshaun Coprich had 21 carries for 106 yards and two touchdowns for the Redbirds (2-0), whose defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions of Panthers quarterback Jalen Whitlow.

Nick Bruno kicked two field goals for the Panthers (0-3). Whitlow scored the only Eastern Illinois touchdown, a 14-yard run on the first drive of the third quarter, which cut the Redbirds lead to 21-13. Illinois State, however, would score the final 13 points.

The 0-3 start for Eastern Illinois is just its third such start since moving to Division I in 1981.

The game was the 103rd meeting between the two schools dating back to 1901.

>>Illinois Crushed Saturday

 width=Linebacker Shaq Thompson returned an interception 36 yards for a touchdown, picked up a fumble and rumbled 52 yards for another score, and Washington routed Illinois 44-19 on Saturday, improving to 3-0 under Chris Petersen.

Thompson became the first Washington player to score via fumble and interception in the same game since at least 1978, according to the school's records. Thompson was on the verge of adding a TD on offense but stumbled on a 13-yard run when it looked like he had a clear path to the end zone.

Washington quarterback Cyler Miles threw a 75-yard touchdown to John Ross as part of a 21-point blitz that took less than six minutes of the first half. Dwayne Washington's 12-yard TD run gave the Huskies a 28-3 lead on the first play of the second quarter.

Wes Lunt threw for 230 yards for the Fighting Illini (2-1), but was unable to take advantage of Washington's depleted secondary. Illinois was trying for just the fifth 3-0 start in the past 25 years.

 width=>>Western Illinois Tops Drake

Trenton Norvell accounted for two touchdowns to lead Western Illinois to a 38-13 victory over Drake Saturday.

Norvell completed his first five pass attempts, then rushed for a 7-yard touchdown on Western Illinois' opening drive. He threw a 71-yard touchdown pass to Quadarias Mireles in the fourth quarter to cap the scoring for the Leathernecks.

Norvell was 15 of 22 for 205 yards and J.C. Baker ran for 130 yards on 20 carries to lead Western Illinois (2-1).

Cody Thibault came off the bench and threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to Michael Hudson and Ben Tesson kicked a 43-yard field goal to pull Drake (1-2) within 14-10 at the half.

David McDaniel blocked a Cam Bohnert punt and Brad Blumenshine returned it 27 yards for a touchdown to give Western Illinois a 28-10 lead in the third quarter.

>>FSU, Alabama Still Atop "USA Today" Poll

(Undated) -- Florida State and Alabama are still one-two in the latest "USA Today" college football top-25 poll. The idle Seminoles received 50 first-place votes while the Crimson Tide held serve with an easy win over Southern Miss. Oregon moved up to third from the fourth spot while Oklahoma dipped down a spot. Auburn remains fifth while Baylor, Texas A&M, LSU, Notre Dame and UCLA round out the top-ten. USC took the biggest fall after a loss to Boston College, dropping from tenth to 21st. Georgia also fell from sixth to 14th after losing to South Carolina while the Gamecocks jumped from 23rd up to 16th. BYU is the lone new team to the poll at 23rd while Virginia Tech fell out.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report

September 9, 2014

Jail Population: 38
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 10, 2014

Jail Population: 38
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 11, 2014

Jail Population: 44
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 12, 2014

Jail Population: 46
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 1

September 13, 2014

Jail Population: 46
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 14, 2014

Jail Population: 49
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

Quentin Stevens, 37, Clinton was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant Charging him with Theft Control Intent <$500.00/ Failure to Appear. Stevens unable to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

Manuel Briceno, 22, Clinton was arrested and charged with Driving Under Influence Alcohol. Briceno was issued Citations for Failure to Reduce Speed/Accident, Improper Lane Usage and 3 Counts Driving Under Influence Alcohol. Briceno posted the necessary bond and was released.

Marcy McIntosh, 57, Riverside was issued a Citation for Speeding in a Construction Zone 66 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. McIntosh was issued a notice to appear and was released.

Junior Perez, 34, Clinton was arrested and charged with Driving Under Influence Alcohol. Perez unable to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

 

 

 

 

 


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

Weekend Fire Destroys Kenney Home

A weekend fire in the village of Kenney has left a home a total loss.

According to Kenney Fire Chief Earl Jiles, firefighters arrived 420 West Benjamin to portions of a single story home fully engulfed in flames. Fire crews were able to knock down the fire but because of smoke and heat damage, the home is likely a total loss.

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Crews were on scene for approximately two hours. Right now Chief Jiles speculates the cause could be electrical, however, an investigation is ongoing. He adds the owner of the home was not in the house at the time of the fire but was nearby.

Crews from Clinton and Maroa came to the scene and Wapella brought a tanker. Warrensburg was brought as a stand by at the Kenney Fire Station.

Chief Jiles adds, the Red Cross was also on scene to provide firefighters with assistance.

Two Lawmakers Proposing Legislation To Outfit Police With Body Cameras

TWO STATE LAWMAKERS ARE PROPOSING A PLAN TO ARM POLICE WITH BODY CAMERAS.

REPRESENTATIVE JEHAN GORDON-BOOTH OF PEORIA IS INTRODUCING LEGISLATION THAT HIKES TRAFFIC AND CRIMINAL FINES BY SIX DOLLARS. THE MONEY RAISED WOULD BE USED TO HELP LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENTS PURCHASE VIDEO CAMERAS FOR SQUAD CARS AND FOR OFFICERS TO WEAR. THE PROPOSAL IS SUPPORTED BY ILLINOIS LAW ENFORCEMENT TRAINING AND STANDARDS BOARD DIRECTOR KEVIN MCCLAIN.

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SEVERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT GROUPS ARE ALSO BACKING THE BILL…WHICH WAS PROMPTED IN PART BY THE UNREST IN FERGUSON, MISSOURI.

Seniors and People With Disabilities May Now Sign Up For Winter Heating Assistance

ELIGIBLE SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES MAY NOW START APPLYING FOR WINTER HEATING ASSITANCE.

THE STATE’S LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSITANCE PROGRAM, OR LIHEAP…PROVIDES GRANTS TO QUALIFYING ILLINOISANS THAT STRUGGLE TO KEEP THE HEAT ON EACH WINTER. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY SPOKESPERSON DAVE ROEDER SAYS LIHEAP ASSISTANCE GOES STRAIGHT TO YOUR UTILITY COMPANY TO HELP PAY THE BILL.

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TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY AND BEGIN THE APPLICATION PROCESS…VISIT THE WEBSITE: LIHEAP ILLINOIS DOT COM, OR CALL TOLL FREE AT 1-877-411-WARM.

NASCAR Driver Promoting Coal Energy

As the NASCAR senior circuit shifts to one of the most watched times of the year, this weekend's race in Chicago is given a driver the opportunity to promote the fight for access to coal-based electricity.

Regan Smith will be at the Chicagoland Speedways this weekend and currently sits in second place in Nationwide Series Standings. He's using his platform to spread the word about the importance of coal as an energy source.

[audio:91214smithcoal1.mp3] [/audio]

Smith believes Illinois should be concerned with the EPA's attempts to remove coal for America's energy sources because forty-three percent of Illinois' electricity is powered by coal. Many jobs are also affected due to coal as well.

[audio:91214smithcoal2.mp3] [/audio]

For more information on Smith's effort, visit americaspower.org or keepamericaspoweron.org.

Lawmakers Pushing For Police Body Cameras

Illinois lawmakers want police in every town and city across the state to wear body cameras. State Rep Jehan Gordon-Booth says they've been working to make that possible for quite a while, but the need has been heightened since the Michael Brown shooting in Ferguson, Missouri.

[audio:rddBodyCams11.mp3] [/audio]

State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth wants all police forces in Illinois to have body cameras or dash cams rolling when they're on duty.

[audio:rddBodyCams21.mp3] [/audio]

State Senator Bill Haine says it just makes sense to move in this direction.

[audio:rddBodyCams31.mp3] [/audio]

Senator Bill Haine says that could cut out a whole lot of confusion in questionable cases.

[audio:rddBodyCams41.mp3] [/audio]

Lawmakers want to create a special fund to help law enforcement agencies buy the cameras. Supporters call it a win-win situation because the cameras will protect the integrity of police officers and keep people safe. The law would require that cameras provide both video and audio of any confrontation. Agencies would be required to turn the footage over to the State's Attorney and those who represent a person depicted in the recording. Lawmakers are hoping to clear the bill when they head back for veto session in November.

Quinn Up In Polls For First Time

A new poll puts Governor Quinn up in the race for governor for the first time during the campaign season.  He leads Bruce Raunerr by just three percentage points, with a total count of 43-to-40.  Five prevent of those polled are backing the Libertarian candidate, Chad Grimm.  Global Strategies Group conducted the poll, which shows Rauner is becoming less appealing to Democratic and Independent voters.

Peoria Man Gets 80 Years In Wife's Murder

A former Baptist missionary convicted of shooting his wife to death on Valentine's Day last year has been sentenced to 80 years in prison.

According to reports, Peoria County Circuit Judge Kevin Lyons sentenced Nathan Leuthold, 39, on Wednesday in the execution-style murder of Denise Leuthold, 39. Lyons spoke to Leuthold and the crowded courtroom for 26 minutes, saying Leuthold "poisoned" his otherwise good, law-abiding life.

Leuthold was accused of shooting his wife in her parents' Peoria home so he could pursue an affair with a 21-year-old Lithuanian woman. He and his wife sponsored her to study in the U.S.

Leuthold has denied he shot his wife. His attorney argued that someone broke into the house. He said prosecutors didn't prove their case against his client and there was no proof Leuthold and the Lithuanian woman were having an affair.

University of Illinois Trustees OK $5.64-Billion Budget

University of Illinois trustees on Thursday approved a $5.64 billion budget for the current fiscal year. That's an increase of $11.1 million, or .2 percent.

University President Robert Easter said the small increase reflects in part of the university's hope that it can keep students costs from rising too rapidly. A year on campus at the flagship campus in Urbana-Champaign costs a student more than $20,000.

The vote by the Board of Trustees approving the new spending plan was unanimous and made without comment.

The new budget includes $4.5 billion for daily operations at the three campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Springfield and Chicago.

The state appropriation this year is $667.5 million. Tuition provides $1.1 billion.

The budget includes money for merit pay raises that will average 2.5 percent, which Easter called critical to hiring and holding onto key faculty.

Local Motorcyle Group Holding Weekend Rally In Wapella

One local chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association, or CMA, will be holding their annual State Rally this weekend.

The group "Heavenly Chariots" is a local non-denominational chapter within CMA that seeks to utilize a relationship between motorcyclists and ministry. Scott McKinney is President of the local Heavenly Chariots Chapter, he explains CMA has been around since the 1970s and has two active chapters in Bloomington and Decatur.

[audio:91214motorcycles1.mp3] [/audio]

This weekend marks their annual State Rally, to be held in Wapella. McKinney explains state chapters from Illinois, plus a few from Indiana, will be present. The weekend is highlighted by a motorcycle stunt group, Real Encounter, performing Friday night. McKinney notes the motorcyle community will recognize them because of their appearance on "America's Got Talent".

[audio:91214motorcycles2.mp3] [/audio]

The weekend is designed to bring together dozens of the CMA chapters for a weekend of fellowship and rejuvination. He explains there will be chances for men and women to have their own break-out sessions. He notes its not all about serious discussion though, biking games highlight their Saturday lineup.

[audio:91214motorcycles3.mp3] [/audio]

McKinney stresses the purpose of CMA is to "be there when someone needs them". He feels it's CMA's role to first earn the respect of the biking community and establish relationships with hundreds of bikers across the area.

The state rally gets underway this evening and goes through Sunday just outside Wapella. The rally is open to the public free of charge.

For further information, visit cmancr3.org/IL.

WEZC To Broadcast Cerro-Gordo Bement Football Games Starting Friday

 width=The Cerro-Gordo Bement Broncos are coming off a season where they reached the third round of the IHSA Class 2A playoffs and after a couple early season losses are looking to right the ship.

Clinton native and head coach of the Broncos, Andy Kerley says this is a team that statistically is returning just 300 total yards of offensive production, and have more new faces than returners. And from the same perspective, the fifth-year coach says a good portion of those new faces are sophomores.

[audio:91214cerrogordo1.mp3] [/audio]

Coach Kerley says his group has the talent to be special but he wants to see them become more consistent. He says his group last year would run the same play several times in a row and get four yards minimum, but the group is still figuring things out.

[audio:91214cerrogordo2.mp3] [/audio]

Expansion to the Little Okaw will likely highlight this year's conference season for Cerro-Gordo Bement. The conference expanded from five to twelve teams in the offseason and Coach Kerley says while there's always been a misconception about the Little Okaw, he believes this could be a year those misconceptions get laid to rest.

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So far, the 0-2 Broncos have lost in overtime, 21-20, to Oakland Tri-County then had a heartbreaking loss to Pawnee in week two, 26-24. Tonight, the Broncos play their first home game as Toledo Cumberland comes to town for a 7 pm kickoff.

Starting tonight, you can catch all the action of Cerro-Gordo Bement football game on 95.9 FM WEZC and streamed live online at dewittdailynews.com. You can hear the entirety of the interview with Coach Kerley in the pregame, about a quarter til 7 tonight.

District B County Board Seat Goes Unfilled, Heated Words Exchanged Over The Matter

 width=The duration and conclusion of Thursday's DeWitt County Board meeting saw no one fill the vacant District B seat once again.

There was no agenda item regarding the vacant seat for the September 11th meeting however, board member David Newberg made a personal statement regarding the issue towards the end of the meeting. He challenged Board Chair Sherrie Brown why she hadn't filled the late Tom Pruser's seat after 75 days, when Illinois statute gives 60 days. He requests Brown step down and allow Vice-Chair Pete Daugherty to appoint Christy Pruser.

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Brown argues she called the State Board of Elections and they only would like the seat to be filled after 60 days. She shared pointed words with State's Attorney Karle Koritz and Board Member Sue-May Witted over her attempts to contact Pruser.

[audio:91214vacantseat2.mp3] [/audio]

When Newberg attempted to have Brown answer his questions she moved to adjourn the meeting but several board members continued to argue despite the motion, even a number of audience members made their opinions known. The meeting was adjourned despite not officially being approved, but Danny Ballenger and Camille Redman continued the argument with Brown.

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The Board seat has been vacant since June 26, or 77 days. The DeWitt County Republican Central Committee has been pressuring Brown to appoint Pruser's widow, Christy, to the seat.

The meeting also saw the Board unanimously approve the resolution in support of Salveo Health and Wellness' Medical Marijuana Cultivation Facility. Board Members Doug Tucker and Ron Savage were absent Thursday.

Stay tuned to Regional Radio News for further coverage of Thursday's meeting including the approval of a special budget meeting this coming Tuesday.

Kirk, Horschel Share TOUR Championship Lead

 width=Chris Kirk and Billy Horschel are tied atop the leaderboard after the first round of the TOUR Championship.  Both carded a four-under 66 on Thursday at East Lake Golf Club to lead a pack of four golfers by one shot.  Patrick Reed, Jason Day, Jim Furyk [[ FURE-ick ]] and Bubba Watson are all at minus-three.  Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia both opened with a one-under 69.  Kirk is currently number-one on the FedExCup points list after winning the Deutsche Bank Championship two weeks ago.  Horschel is coming off a win at last week's BMW Championship and is second on the points list.  Any of the current top-five players on the points list would claim the FedExCup title with a win this week, while anyone outside the top five will need a win and some help. 

NASCAR Starts Chase Sunday

 width=309 height=163 />The Chase for the Sprint Cup gets underway this Sunday at Chicagoland Speedway.  The new format takes center stage as the first three races of the Chase will be known as the Challenger Round.  Drivers race at New Hampshire and Dover before part of the field is eliminated. </p>						</div>

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Ravens Rock Steelers On Thursday Night Football

For a few hours the attention turned to the field in Baltimore where the Ravens cruised to a 26-6 win over the Steelers. Joe Flacco found Owen Daniels in the end zone twice and Baltimore ran for 157 yards on 36 carries. Bernard Pierce was the workhorse back with 96 yards, while Justin Forsett had the long run of the night on a 41-yard gain. Justin Tucker connected on four field goals. The Ravens are 1-and-1. Pittsburgh turned the ball over three times, two fumbles and one interception. Le'Veon Bell piled up 107 total yards and Antonio Brown hauled in seven catches for 90 yards. Ben Roethlisberger was held without a touchdown pass and was sacked twice. The Steelers are also 1-and-1.

Bears, Packers, Rams Notes

 width=>>49ers Host Bears

(Santa Clara, CA) -- The San Francisco 49ers play their first regular season game at the new Levi's Stadium on Sunday night when they host the Chicago Bears. The Niners are coming off a 28-17 blasting of the Dallas Cowboys. San Francisco caused four turnovers and score on one of them. Tight end Vernon Davis hauled in two first-quarter touchdowns from QB Colin Kaepernick. The Bears are looking for their first win after dropping the season opener 23-20 in overtime to the Buffalo Bills. Running back Matt Forte had 169 total yards but failed to find the end zone. Chicago's wide receiver duo of Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffrey status is unknown due to injuries.

 width=>>Packers Open Home Slate At Lambeau Field

(Green Bay, WI) -- Lambeau Field will be the site as the Packers play their home opener versus the Jets Sunday afternoon. Green Bay's season got off to a disappointing start when they were whooped by the Seahawks, 36-16, in the NFL's Week One Thursday night special. Running back Eddie Lacy is expected to play despite suffering a concussion in the loss. Aaron Rodgers was held to 189 yards passing with a touchdown and a turnover. New York comes in at 1-and-0, but didn't face a strong test with the victory against the Raiders. The Jets will try to take advantage of a Packers run defense that allowed 207 yards on 37 carries last week. New York posted 212 yards of its own on the ground including 71-yard touchdown run by Chris Ivory. Second-year QB Geno Smith showed off his growth completing 23-of-28 passes, but still showed signs of immaturity with an interception and fumble lost.

 width=>>Bucs Battle Rams In Matchup Of Winless Teams

(Tampa, FL) -- A pair of winless teams hookup Sunday as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the St. Louis Rams at Raymond James Stadium. The Bucs are coming off a disappointing 20-14 home loss to the Cam Newton-less Carolina Panthers in Week One. Tampa was held scoreless until midway through the fourth quarter. Josh McCown threw for just 183 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the loss. Without top quarterback Sam Bradford, veteran signal caller Shaun Hill and the Rams opened up with a 34-6 home setback to the Minnesota Vikings. Hill left, however, after the first half with a quad injury and is listed as day-to-day. Second-year QB Austin Davis came in and finished 16-of-23 for 192 yards and an interception. Davis will make his first career start if Hill can't play.

 width=>>Bears Need Cutler To Be Stabalizer

If ever the Chicago Bears needed Jay Cutler to be a stabilizing force, this would seem to be the time.

Two Pro Bowl receivers and a pair of starting offensive lineman are injured. The Bears are coming off a brutal season-opening loss, and they're staring at a matchup with San Francisco this weekend that could make even the healthiest teams blink.

No need to remind Cutler. He understands what he has to do.

The Bears could have two spots on the offensive line manned by reserves with center Roberto Garza and left guard Matt Slauson nursing ankle injuries. Pro Bowl receivers Brandon Marshall (ankle) and Alshon Jeffery (hamstring) could be out.

 width=>>Packers Run Defense To Be Tested Against Run Heavy Jets

Julius Peppers and the Green Bay Packers are hoping to get better at stopping the run.

The defense allowed 207 yards rushing last week to Seattle. The New York Jets come to Lambeau Field on Sunday for Green Bay's home opener after running for 212 yards against Oakland.

A big point of emphasis in Green Bay this week is on tackling. It was a problem at times last season, too.

Peppers was brought in as a free agent during the offseason to help boost the pass rush. But Peppers says to be effective, the defense also has to slow down the running game.

The Jets hope they have a new one-two punch at running back with Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory. They also feature a mobile quarterback in second-year player Geno Smith.

>>Bears Back Goodell

The Chicago Bears top executives say they back Commissioner Roger Goodell and support an independent investigation into the NFL's handling of the Ray Rice domestic violence case.

Chairman George McCaskey calls Goodell "a man of integrity" and says the Bears have "complete faith in him." He also said Thursday that fans deserve to know the facts.

The NFL has brought in a former FBI director to look at how it handled the case involving the former Baltimore running back. The move Wednesday came hours after The Associated Press reported that a law enforcement officer said he sent a league executive a video in April showing Rice striking his then-fiancee in a casino. Goodell has said no one in the league saw the video until TMZ Sports released it on Monday.

Sox Win, Cards Lose Pitchers Duels

 width=>>Cueto Outduels Lynn As Reds Blank Cards

(Cincinnati, OH) -- Johnny Cueto [[ KWAY-toh ]] and Aroldis Chapman combined on a three-hitter as the Reds edged the Cardinals 1-0 at Great American Ball Park. Cueto fanned seven while allowing three hits and one walk over eight innings to improve to 18-and-8. Chapman worked the ninth for his 33rd save Cincinnati took three of four in the series. Ramon Santiago plated the lone run of the game with a bloop to center that turned into a force play at second base, but scored Brandon Phillips in the bottom of the eighth. Lance Lynn allowed just three hits in a complete-game loss to fall to 15-and-9 for St. Louis.

 width=>>Sale Outduels Kazmir As White Sox Edge A's

(Chicago, IL) -- Chris Sale outdueled Scott Kazmir as the White Sox edged the Athletics 1-0 at U.S. Cellular Field. Sale struck out nine while allowing just two hits and two walks in eight innings to improve to 12-and-3. Jake Petricka allowed two runners in the ninth before closing it out for his 13th save. Marcus Semien homered for the game's only run in the bottom of the sixth inning as Chicago took three of four in the series. Kazmir went the distance in defeat. He struck out seven while allowing one run on four hits and a walk to fall to 14-and-8. Jed Lowrie had two of Oakland's three hits in the setback.

MLB National League
------
San Francisco Giants 6, Arizona Diamondbacks 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 4, Philadelphia Phillies 1
Washington Nationals 6, New York Mets 2
Milwaukee Brewers 4, Miami Marlins 2

MLB American League
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Cleveland Indians 8, Minnesota Twins 2 (Game 1)
Cleveland Indians 2, Minnesota Twins 0 (Game 2)
New York Yankees 5, Tampa Bay Rays 4
LA Angels of Anaheim 7, Texas Rangers 3
Boston Red Sox 6, Kansas City Royals 3

>>Marlins' Stanton Helped Off Field

(Milwaukee, WI) -- National League MVP hopeful Giancarlo Stanton is suffering from an injury following a hit-by-pitch on Thursday in Milwaukee. The Miami Marlins slugger took a pitch off the face from Brewers pitcher Mike Fiers [[ FY-ers ]]. He was taken off the field by a stretcher. Stanton suffered facial lacerations and fractures along with dental damage. He will be looked at again Friday in Miami. Reed Johnson replaced Stanton and was also hit with a pitch. Benches cleared, and Marlins third baseman Casey McGehee and manager Mike Redmond were ejected. Stanton is hitting .288 with 37 homers and 105 RBI.

Illini Lose PG Abrams For Season

 width=Illinois says starting point guard Tracy Abrams is out for the season with an anterior cruciate ligament tear, the school said Thursday.

Abrams started all 35 games for the Illini (20-15) as a junior last season. He was second on the team in scoring with 10.7 points a game. He also averaged 3.2 assists while playing 30.1 minutes a game and handling the bulk of point guard duties.

As a senior Abrams was again expected to be the lead point guard.

Illinois opens with an exhibition against Quincy on Nov. 7. The season starts at home against Georgia Southern on Nov. 14.

In State FCS Rivals Square Off in Normal

 width=Coming off a decisive 62-0 win over Mississippi Valley State in the season opener last week, Illinois State (1-0) will host in-state rival Eastern Illinois (0-2) at Hancock Stadium in the 103rd meeting of the Mid-America Classic.

The Panthers are off to an 0-2 start to the 2014 season, with losses at FBS foe Minnesota (42-20) and at home last week to Missouri Valley Football Conference and in-state rival Southern Illinois (38-21).

The game renews the oldest FCS football rivalry in the state of Illinois and the 13th-oldest at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level. ISU and EIU have played 102 times, with the first game being played in 1901. The Redbirds have won eight of the last 12 games against the Panthers and lead the series, 52-41-9.

Redbird junior quarterback Tre Roberson wore a Superman shirt under his pads in the win against Mississippi Valley and one could say it gave him special powers against the Delta Devils. The transfer from Indiana accounted for four touchdowns and 245 yards of total offense in the 62-0 victory and helped ISU amass 622 yards of total offense against the Delta Devils. Roberson was dangerous with his arm and legs, as he was 10-for-15 for 204 yards and two scores through the air and added a pair of scores and 41 yards on the ground in two-plus quarters of work.

 width=Quarterback Andrew Manley leads the way on offense for the Panthers. The redshirt senior transfer from New Mexico State has completed 37-of-64 pass attempts for 440 yards and thrown three touchdowns, while also rushing for a pair of scores. His favorite target has been senior wide out Adam Drake, who has 20 receptions for 48 yards with one touchdown through the first two games.

Defensively, the Panthers are led by senior linebacker Adam Gristick, who has 14 tackles and a sack early in the season. Fellow senior linebacker Robert Haynes leads the Panthers with two sacks and 4.5 tackles-for-loss.

Saturday's game gets underway around noon central time and will be broadcast live on Comcast SportsNet Chicago, as part of the Illinois State Television Network and will also be streamed live on ESPN3.com.

Illini Get First Road Test of 2014 Season

 width=After two close calls at home to start the regular season, the 2-0 Fighting Illini will hit the road for a west coast game this Saturday afternoon as they head to Husky Stadium in Seattle to take on Pac-12 opponent Washington.

Last year at Soldier Field in Chicago, the Huskies pulled out 34-24 victory. A much more high powered offense lead by sophomore quarterback Wes Lunt will try to get to a defense with a lot of inexperience in the secondary, however, the front seven of Washington is one of the Pac-12's most experienced.
LBs Shaq Thompson and John Timu and NT Danny Shelton have already combined for 57 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.

Washington can be scored though. After escaping with a 17-16 road victory at Hawaii in week one, Washington held on in a shootout over FCS powerhouse Eastern Washington, 59-52.

After Coach Beckman called on his defense to force more turnovers, the Illini forced two turnovers that resulted in 14 points, including a 77-yard pick-six by safety Taylor Barton.

Game time Saturday is 3 CT on FOX.

Week 3 High School Football Preview

 width=After two hours of waiting out severe thunderstorms last Friday, the Clinton Maroons and Fithian Oakwood-Armstrong-Potomac played a very late football game before the Maroons were able to come away with a 22-20 victory on the road.

Tonight the Maroons make another long road trip to Shelbyville to play their inaugural game in the Central Illinois Conference. At 1-1, the Maroons are looking to get to an elusive fifth victory, which would qualify them for postseason play, something the Maroons haven't accomplished under John Hayden.

The high powered 2-0 Shelbyville Rams come in with dominating wins over Pawnee (47-12) and Rantoul (56-20). Shelbyville was just 3-6 last year and a victory tonight would match their win total from last year after just three games.

Game time tonight is set for 7 pm. Hear all the action starting on The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and streamed live online at dewittdailynews.com. After dusk, the game will be on WHOW's repeater, 92.3 FM.

 width=The Cerro-Gordo Bement Broncos are coming off a couple early season losses and are looking to right the ship tonight.

So far, the 0-2 Broncos have lost in overtime, 21-20, to Oakland Tri-County then had a heartbreaking loss to Pawnee in week two, 26-24. Tonight, the Broncos play their first home game as Toledo Cumberland comes to town for a 7 pm kickoff.

Starting tonight, you can catch all the action of Cerro-Gordo Bement football games on 95.9 FM WEZC and streamed live online at dewittdailynews.com. Game time tonight is set for 7 pm.

Other games across the area for Week 3....

Central Illinois

Decatur St. Teresa vs. Central A & M
Tuscola at Sullivan-Okaw Valley
Warrensburg.-Latham at Meridian

Big Twelve
Champaign Central at Urbana
Danville at Champaign Centennial
Normal West at Normal Community

Central State Eight

Chatham Glenwood at Springfield Southeast
Decatur Eisenhower at Decatur MacArthur (Sat.)
Jacksonville at Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin
Springfield at Lincoln
Springfield Lanphier at Rochester

Corn Belt

Bloomington Central Catholic at Eureka
Chillicothe Illinois Valley Central at Normal U-High
Prairie Central at Pontiac
Mahomet-Seymour at Olympia

Heart of Illinois

Downs Tri-Valley vs. Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland] at Woodland High School
El Paso-Gridley at Ridgeview
Fisher at Fieldcrest
Lexington at LeRoy
Tremont at Dee-Mack

Non-Conference games tonight...

Arcola at Palestine
Champaign St. Thomas More at Argenta-Oreana
Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley at Tolono Unity
LaSalle-Peru at Bloomington
Maroa-Forsyth at Heyworth
Moline at Peoria Richwoods
Monticello at Clifton Central
Oblong at Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond
Peoria Manual at Peoria
Peoria Notre Dame vs. Rock Island Alleman at Augustana College
Rantoul at Taylorville
St. Joseph-Ogden at Monmouth-Roseville (Sat.)
Villa Grove-Heritage at Decatur Lutheran

Clinton Chamber Haunted House New Sprinkler System Being Installed

(Pictures courtesy Marian Brisard/Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce)

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The Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Haunted House, closed down by fire officials last year due to a lack of a sprinkler system, is getting a new sprinkler system that will be completed in time for this year's Haunted House which opens October 10.

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Chamber executive director Marian Brisard tells dewittdailynews.com that water for the new sprinkler system has been ran into the building on East Washington Street, and will hopefully be completed next week.  Following that, a local plumber will be connecting the water supply to the new sprinkler system, then Automatic Fire Sprinkler, the vendor who installed the new sprinkler system, will come and complete their installation.

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The Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Haunted House will operate on Friday and Saturday nights from 7pm to 11pm October 10 thru November 1st, at their building at 513 East Washington Street.

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Clinton Maroons Football Loses Big to Shelbyville

As heard on The Big 1520AM and 92.3FM WHOW, Shelbyville dominated the Clinton Maroons 50-19 Friday night.

For the Maroons (1-2), Alex Wheat had six carries for fifty yards. Alec Cooley rushed fourteen times for forty-one yards and a touchdown. Tanner White went four for ten in passing with sixty-six yards and a touchdown. Tyler Vidmar finished the night with four receptions for sixty-six yards and a touchdown.

Notable players for Shelbyville include Tice Robinson, Lucas Duckett and Turner Pullen. Robison rushed sixteen times for one hundred two yards finishing with two touchdowns. Duckett connected through the air ten times of fourteen for one hundred sixty-two yards and a touchdown. Turner Pullen also took to the air eleven times completing eight of those attempts for a total of one hundred twenty-nine yards and three touchdowns.

The next Maroons broadcast will be next Friday night as the Maroons host the Central A&M Raiders for homecoming on WHOW at 7:00pm.

Cerro- Gordo Broncos Defeat The Pirates

As heard on 95.9 WEZC, Cerro-Gordo/Bement defeated Cumberland 38-12 Friday night.

For the Broncos (1-2), Dalton Woolridge thre 9-14 for 117 yards. He threw two touchdowns and two interceptions. Mason Neissle also had four catches for 99 yards. Gage Fowler accounted for four touchdowns ( 2 catching, 1 rushing and an interception for a touchdown).

Cumberland is now 0-3.

The next Broncos games will be next friday as the Broncos host Decatur LSA on their homecoming night on WEZC.

Illinois State Lottery Announces End of My3 Game

The Illinois Lottery has decided to remove My3 from its draw game portfolio, following a recommendation from its private manager.

Northstar Lottery Group initiated the game two years ago and suggested that it end because of low sales performance. It's a daily game that holds drawings twice per day.

My3 was designed to be an easier alternative to the Pick 3 and Pick 4 options. Participants pick three lucky numbers between 0 and 9.

My3 prizes can be claimed within one year of the drawing date.

The final My3 drawing will be on Sunday evening.

Industry Seeking Changes In 'Fracking' Rules

Supporters of high-volume oil and gas extraction said Wednesday that they'll seek dozens of changes in proposed rules to govern the practice in Illinois that appear to violate a hard-won compromise between industry and environmentalists.

A coalition of industry groups will outline more than 65 areas of concern to a legislative panel that must decide whether the rules - written by the Department of Natural Resources to implement a new hydraulic fracturing law - can take effect as written, said Mark Denzler vice president of the Illinois Manufacturers Association.

The law passed last year was seen as a national model of compromise, but both advocates and opponents since have been critical of the rule-making process.

The DNR reworded some rules after receiving more than 30,000 comments on it original draft, and submitted the new version to the Joint Committee on Legislative Rules Aug. 29. JCAR has 45 days to approve the rules, reject them or ask for changes.

Among the objections: New language says the DNR can consider the cumulative health and environmental impact of multiple wells when evaluating a permit for a single well.

Environmentalists dislike a cap on the total amount that companies can be fined.

Illinois Officials Keep Medical Pot Under Wraps

It's unclear if state officials will release complete information about companies seeking to grow or sell medical marijuana in Illinois.

Applications from prospective companies aren't subject to state open records laws, according to the law that legalized medical marijuana in Illinois. The application period opened Monday and will close Sept. 22. Melaney Arnold, a spokeswoman for Illinois' medical marijuana pilot project, said the state won't release any information about the number of applicants until after the deadline.

The lack of transparency will make it difficult to determine whether state regulators will show favoritism for companies with strong political connections, former state Sen. Susan Garrett, who oversees the Chicago-based Campaign for Political Reform. According to reports, she says nobody should be denied this information.

Lobbyists and former government officials have already begun to team up to compete for the 22 growing center licenses or 60 dispensary licenses. Applicants have to pay a $5,000 nonrefundable application fee to sell marijuana and a $25,000 fee to grow it.

Inmates Busy Making Signs, Furniture, Other Products

Illinois prisoners impact your everyday lives more than you may think. Every time you see a stop sign, a park bench, or even a barbeque grill at a state park, you can give thanks to someone who's behind bars.

[audio:rddICI11.mp3] [/audio]

Jen Aholt, with Illinois Correctional Industries says the training helps them find decent work when they are released.

[audio:rddICI21.mp3] [/audio]

The inmates also make office furniture, uniforms, mattresses, sheets, and more. They even process meats and other foods that are served at prisons in Illinois and other states. But contrary to popular belief, they do not make Illinois license plates. About 950 inmates are on the payrolls every day. They can make between thirty-cents and one-sixty-an hour depending on their job and skill level.

Illinos Congressional Delegation Reacts To Obama

Some members of Illinois' congressional delegation appear to be somewhat behind President Obama's plan for a military campaign to "degrade and ultimately destroy" Islamic State militants in two Middle East nations.

In an address to the nation Wednesday, Obama announced he was dispatching nearly 500 more U.S. troops to Iraq to assist that country's besieged security forces.

Congressman Adam Kinzinger, a Republican from Channahon, said the nation must be focused on eradicating the threat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, and "strong leadership from President Obama will be key in the coming weeks and months."

In his statement after Obama's speech, Kinzinger said no options should be off the table in the destruction of ISIS.

US. Sen. Dick Durbin said although he remains resolute no ground troops be used, it is critical the U.S. work jointly with international partners to contain and eliminate ISIS.

Echoing Durbin, 10th District Democratic Congressman Brad Schneider also said he is opposed to the use of U.S. ground troops against ISIS. He added the battle against ISIS must be thoughtful and sustained.

Decision Expected On Professor's University of Illinois Job Offer

Attorneys for a professor who lost an offer to work at the University of Illinois because of anti-Israel Twitter messages expect the school's Board of Trustees to make a final decision on his employment on Thursday.

Steven Salaita was offered and accepted a job in 2013 to begin teaching this fall in the university's Native American Studies Program after working at Virginia Tech University. But after he wrote the sometimes-profane and, according to his critics, anti-Semitic tweets in July and August, Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Phyllis Wise informed him he wouldn't have a job.

Salaita's hire hadn't been approved yet by the Board of Trustees. That would be the final step in granting him tenure. His defenders say that the approval was a formality since professors regularly start work before the board OKs their appointments. They believe he was already affectively employed and his speech protected by tenure.

The trustees will hold their regular quarterly board meeting Thursday in Urbana. Their meeting agenda doesn't include a reference to Salaita. But the university has issued a news release saying that Wise, trustees Chairman Christopher Kennedy and university President Robert Easter will speak to reporters after the meeting. The release didn't specify the subject.

A decision is expected Thursday, Salaita attorney Maria LaHood said. Salaita has threatened legal action is he doesn't get the job.

Caterpillar Plans New Lab At University of Illinois

Caterpillar Inc. plans to open a new data analytics laboratory at the University of Illinois, the Peoria-based company announced this week.

The heavy equipment-maker already operates a center in the university's Research Park where it uses computer-aided engineering to simulate and develop new products. It employs about 55 people in addition to the 60 students working there.

Reports indicate the new lab is expected to open in the Research Park later this year says Gwenne Henricks, Caterpillar's chief technology office. It isn't clear yet how many people will work there.

The lab will focus on analyzing data on areas such as fleet and equipment management.

The new lab expects to rely on university faculty and students for some of its work, Henricks said.

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

The month of September is dedicated to help fight and raise awareness about childhood obesity.

National Childhood Obesity Month began in September of 2010 and Monica Nyman, with the St. Louis Dairy Council, explains the month gives local communities a chance to find solutions to fix the problem. She says First Lady Michelle Obama has been in the forefront of fighting the epidemic.

[audio:91114obesity1.mp3] [/audio]

Childhood obesity has gained in great numbers over the last three decades and Nyman says kids who are overweight will be more likely to remain that way into adulthood. Obesity could lead to many health problems as one gets older.

[audio:91114obesity2.mp3] [/audio]

One of the major reasons for the recent wave of childhood obesity is larger portion sizes of food, a lack of excercise, and technology. Most kids do not receive the necessary amount of physical activity that they did 10-20 years ago which means children don't get the opportunities to burn off the calories they take in when eating.

[audio:91114obesity3.mp3] [/audio]

Nyman says most kids only need to have a maximum time 1-2 hours of TV or computer time a day.

For more information on National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, you can visit www.stldairycouncil.org.

Monticello City Council Gives Approval For Medical Marijuana

Earlier this week, the Monticello City Council approved adjustments to their zoning rules that will allow them to potentially host a medical marijuana cultivation center.

Monticello Mayor Cris Corrie explains they had to adjust their zoning regulations to allow a portion of property to be the site for a potential, future marijuana cultivation center. He says it would appear the Monticello City Council is behind the effort given their vote of approval for the property the firm is seeking to use.

[audio:91114monticellomarijuana1.mp3] [/audio]

Perhaps the most common misconception for the general public to understand is the difference between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana. Mayor Corrie emphasizes the form of medical marijuana is completely different from recreational marijuana. He calls it "a shame" to call the medical form marijuana.

[audio:91114monticellomarijuana2.mp3] [/audio]

For now, the Mayor says he is behind this effort. Because the medical form of marijuana will be very controlled and is a form of pain relief for people with extreme medical conditions, he is not going to come out against that. He does note though, if the regulation and use begins to change, his opinions may change.

[audio:91114monticellomarijuana3.mp3] [/audio]

Because the concept of medical marijuana is hard to understand for many, the Mayor says the job of educating the public may be the biggest challenge beyond receiving the permit. According to Mayor Corrie, many though, say they see the benefit of having a cultivation center in the community.

[audio:91114monticellomarijuana4.mp3] [/audio]

Only one permit will be issued by the State of Illinois per state police district. Monticello sits in district ten, and Mayor Corrie says the permit application process is highly competitive.

The State began accepting applications for permits last week.

PGA Tour Notes

 width=>>TOUR Championship Preview

The final event of the FedExCup Playoffs begins this week, as the top 30 players on the playoff points list qualified for the Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Course in Atlanta, Ga. This group will battle it out for the top prize of $1,440,000, but the winner of the FedExCup on Sunday will pocket $10 million.

Chris Kirk is in the top spot with 4,314 points, followed by Billy Horschel with 4,305, Bubba Watson with 4,058, World No. 1 Rory McIlroy with 3,735, and Hunter Mahan with 3,363. Mahan captured the first playoff event, The Barclays; Kirk won the second playoff event at the Deutsche Bank Championship; and Horschel captured the BMW Championship. The points are reset prior to this
tournament. Kirk leads with 2,500 points, followed by Horschel with 2,250, Watson with 2,000, McIlroy with 1,800, and Mahan with 1,600.

The top five players (Kirk, Horschel, Watson, McIlroy and Mahan) on the points list can win the FedExCup if they win this tournament. Other players outside of the top five need to win and have other scenarios take place in order to capture the Cup.

>>McIlroy Says Tiger, Phil "Just Getting Older"

(Atlanta, GA) -- Rory McIlroy isn't ready to proclaim himself the new face of golf, but acknowledges that longtime stars Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson may be slowing down. It's the first time in more than 20 years than neither Woods or Mickelson qualified for the TOUR Championship, which begins Thursday in Atlanta. It's the finale of the four-event FedEx Cup playoffs. The field is normally comprised of the top-30 in FedEx Cup points but this year's field is just 29, with Dustin Johnson taking a leave of absence for personal issues.

Winter Classic Set For Nationals Park

 width=The 2015 NHL Winter Classic is officially set for New Year's Day at Nationals Park.  The league, the Washington Capitals and the Washington Nationals announced that the Caps will host the Chicago Blackhawks in the annual outdoor game.  The Caps will unveil special uniforms on September 23rd to be worn during the Winter Classic.  This will be the seventh Winter Classic and the first one held in DC. 

NBA Notes

 width=>>Adam Silver Defends Danny Ferry

(Barcelona, Spain) -- NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is taking the side of Atlanta Hawks general manager Danny Ferry. Silver told "USA Today" on Wednesday that Ferry does not deserve to be fired for his racially charged remarks regarding former free agent Luol Deng. Silver explained in detail that Ferry has a clean track record and he was relaying a scouting report on Deng during a conference call with owners and basketball personnel. Silver also noted that this is a team decision but in his eyes, it is not a terminable offense. Hawks CEO Steve Koonin has also indicated he has no plans to fire Ferry.

>>Brand, Hawks Agree To Deal

(Undated) -- Elton Brand is staying with the Atlanta Hawks. Yahoo! Sports reports the two sides agreed to a one-year deal worth two-million-dollars. Brand averaged 5.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game with the Hawks last season, his first with the team. He's posted career averages of 16.6 points and 8.8 rebounds in 15 seasons in the NBA.

Bears, Rams, Packers Notes; NFL Notes

 width=>>Bears Injury Update

(Lake Forest, CA) -- Bears receivers Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery are day-to-day. Marshall is suffering from an ankle injury while Jeffery also missed practice with a hamstring injury. Center Roberto Garza didn't practice on Wednesday with an ankle sprain. Chicago plays San Francisco in Week Two.

 width=>>Rams' Long To Have Ankle Surgery

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams will be without defensive end Chris Long for a while. Head coach Jeff Fisher says Long will have ankle surgery this week and miss at least "a few" games. Long was injured in Sunday's loss to the Vikings. Multiple reports say he will be out one-to-two months. Long will be placed on short-term injured reserve with the designation to return later this season.

 width=>>Report: Lacy Expected To Play Sunday For Green Bay

(Green Bay, WI) -- The Packers backfield should be at full strength when they face the Jets on Sunday. The "Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel" reports running back Eddie Lacy is expected to play as Green Bay tries to avoid falling to 0-and-2. Lacy suffered a concussion during Green Bay's loss last Thursday to the Seahawks. He had 34 yards on 12 carries and three receptions for 11 yards in the opener. The Jets held the Raiders to 25 rushing yards on 15 carries in their win against the Raiders Week One.

>>Ex FBI Director Mueller To Conduct NFL Investigation

(Undated) -- Former FBI director Robert Mueller the Third is conducting an independent investigation into the NFL. NFL.com reports commissioner Roger Goodell will fully cooperate with Mueller and that the findings will be made public. New York Giants owner John Mara and Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney will oversee the investigation of Goodell and how the league handled the evidence of former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice. Rice was originally suspended two games by the NFL, but a new video of his domestic violence incident surfaced Monday. This led to the Ravens releasing Rice and the league suspending him indefinitely.

 width=>>Congress Looking Into NFL Rice Case

(Washington, DC) -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is now being questioned by Congress concerning the Ray Rice case. A dozen House of Representatives Democrats sent a letter to Goodell on Wednesday demanding "the highest level of transparency." Congress is also asking the league to reveal more about its investigation efforts to obtain the video acquired and broadcast by TMZ. Goodell has maintained the NFL never received the graphic elevator video of Ray Rice punching his now-wife Janay and knocking her out at a casino in Atlantic City. In an interview on Tuesday, Goodell said he doesn't believe his job is in jeopardy.

>>Rice-less Ravens Welcome Steelers To Town

(Baltimore, MD) -- The Ravens will look to put distractions of Ray Rice's release behind them when they welcome the hated Steelers to M&T Bank Stadium for a Thursday night AFC North clash. Baltimore released the running back earlier this week after video was released showing him striking his then-fiancee in a casino elevator in February. The Ravens are also attempting to avoid an 0-and-2 hole after losing their opener to the Bengals, 23-16. The team intends to use a trio of running backs including Bernard Pierce, Justin Forsett and rookie Lorenzo Taliaferro going forward. The Steelers are fresh off a thrilling 30-27 win over the Browns at home. Pittsburgh blew a 24-point lead before Shaun Suisham [[ SWEE-sham ]] delivered a 41-yard field goal as time expired. The division rivals split last year's meetings, with each team winning at home. The Ravens have won four of six but trail the regular season series with a 16-and-20 mark all-time.

>>49ers, Pac-12 Suspend Announcer Robinson

(Undated) -- Play-by-play announcer Ted Robinson will be missing some time in the booth. The San Francisco 49ers and Pac-12 Network have suspended Robinson two weeks, meaning he will miss two Niners' games for his comments about former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice and the domestic violence incident surrounding him. He has since apologized for his comments made on KNBR radio.

>>Saints Buy Bengals Jerseys For Good Cause

(Cincinnati, OH) -- The New Orleans Saints have placed an order for 100 Cincinnati Bengals jerseys, but it's all for a good cause. The Bengals announced this week that proceeds from the sale of Devon Still's jerseys will go to fight pediatric cancer. Still recently revealed his four-year-old daughter has stage four neuroblastoma. WXIX-TV reports the Saints ordered 100 of the jerseys, which are going for 100-bucks each. Still thanked the team on his Twitter page.

The Bengals also announced that Devon Still has been taken off the practice squad and placed on the team's active roster. The move will effectively triple Still's salary.

>>Panthers' Newton "Absolutely" Ready To Start Sunday

(Charlotte, NC) -- Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is confident he will make his season debut this Sunday. Asked after Wednesday's practice if he will be ready to start against the Detroit Lions, he said, "Absolutely." Newton was inactive this past Sunday for the first time in his career while recovering from a fractured rib he suffered during the preseason. Veteran Derek Anderson stated Sunday's game at Tampa Bay and led Carolina to a 20-14 victory.

>>Cardinals' Fitzgerald Responds To Father's Criticism

(Tempe, AZ) -- Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald says his father's controversial Twitter comments do not reflect is own feelings or mood. Larry Fitzgerald Sr. took to the social media site hours after the Cardinals' comeback win over the San Diego Chargers on Monday, to say the team did not target his son because of the politics of the business. The Pro Bowler was targeted only four times, and hauled in one catch for 22 yards in the victory. The younger Fitzgerald says his only concern is that the team is winning football games. There is much speculation that the team will release "Fitz" following the season due to his 23.6-million-dollar salary cap figure for 2015.

Sox Win, Cubs, Cards Lose; Cardinals Postseason Tickets Go On Sale Today

 width=>>White Sox Sink A's

(Chicago, IL) -- Avisail Garcia knocked in two runs with a single in the bottom of the eighth to give the White Sox a 2-1 win over the Athletics at U.S. Cellular Field. Chris Bassitt allowed a run in six-plus innings for a no-decision. Zach Putnam got the win while Jake Petricka [[ puh-TRITCH-kuh ]] added his 12th save. Chicago has taken two of three to start the four-game series. Jeff Samardzija [[ suh-MAR-juh ]] gave up six hits in seven scoreless innings for a no-decision. Luke Gregerson fell to 4-and-4. Adam Dunn knocked in a run against his former team as Oakland slipped to nine games back of the Angels for first place in the AL West.

>>Reds Hold Off Cardinals

(Cincinnati, OH) -- Alfredo Simon tossed seven innings of two-run ball as the Reds pushed past the Cardinals 4-2 at Great American Ball Park. John Lackey pitched two innings before being ejected for arguing balls and strikes. Tyler Lyons took the loss in relief. Matt Adams and Oscar Taveras [[ tuh-VARE-ess ]] each recorded an RBI as the Cards lead the Brewers by three-and-a-half games in the NL Central.

>>Blue Jays Blast Cubs

(Toronto, Ontario) -- Edwin Encarnacion, Dioner Navarro and Danny Valencia all had two RBI to power the Blue Jays to an 11-1 win over the Cubs from Toronto. Anthony Gose was 2-for-2 with an RBI and three runs for Toronto, which has won four straight. Drew Hutchison picked up his 10th win with six-and-a-third innings of one-run ball and 10 strikeouts. Kyle Hendricks allowed four runs in five-and-two-thirds innings for the loss. Jorge Soler hit a solo homer for Chicago, which has lost six in-a-row.

MLB National League
------
Atlanta Braves 6, Washington Nationals 2
Pittsburgh Pirates 6, Philadelphia Phillies 3
New York Mets 2, Colorado Rockies 0
Milwaukee Brewers 4, Miami Marlins 1
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, San Diego Padres 0
San Francisco Giants 5, Arizona Diamondbacks 0

 width=MLB American League
------
Baltimore Orioles 10, Boston Red Sox 6
Minnesota Twins at Cleveland Indians (PPD)
New York Yankees 8, Tampa Bay Rays 5
Kansas City Royals 3, Detroit Tigers 0
LA Angels of Anaheim 8, Texas Rangers 1
Houston Astros 5, Seattle Mariners 2

>>Cardinals Playoff Tickets On Sale Today

(St. Louis, MO) -- Fans looking for Cardinals playoff tickets can start buying them today. Tickets for potential National League Wild Card and Division Series games go on sale at 10 a.m. They can be purchased online at Cardinals.com/postseason, by phone or at the Busch Stadium ticket windows.

State's Top Point Guard Chooses Villanova Over Illinois

 width=Stevenson High School point guard Jalen Brunson, who received scholarship offers from Illinois and other major college basketball programs, announced Wednesday he has decided to attend Villanova.

Brunson said the coaching staff at Villanova was a major reason he chose the university in Philadelphia. Brunson added he thinks he will fit in with the Wildcats because the team is made up of a "great group of guys."

The son of retired NBA guard and former Chicago Bulls assistant coach Rick Brunson helped lead Stevenson to the final four in Class 4A during the last two seasons.

Brunson, a 6-foot-2 senior, said Villanova coach Jay Wright told him the team needs him to make an immediate impact, not just on the court but also in the locker room.

Iowa Western Community College Transfers Having Big Impact For Illini

It's hard to argue with adding national champions to the Illinois roster. Whether it's at the high school or junior college level, the Illini have more than a few champs rounding out the football team. In fact, every quarterback on the roster won a high school state title. Receivers Martize Barr and Geronimo Allison both came to Illinois from Iowa Western Community College, a top junior college program and proven national champions. The pair still carries a natural note of confidence thanks to their winning ways as they are hopeful to get back to that point, this time in Orange and Blue.

 width=When going from a junior college to a four-year school, especially an academic school like Illinois, the adjustment is tough from a rigor standpoint. But Illinois offers so much support academically that the transition is easy. Illinois' recruiting coordinator, Alex Golesh, thinks Illinois has the best academic support in the country. Between its academic advisors and academic counselors, the support team works as hard as the coaches, doing whatever it takes to get the kids through school in an environment where they can be successful after college.

On the football side, Golesh says that if they're mid-year guys, meaning they enroll in January, it takes until the end of spring ball to figure everything out. If they're a May graduate, it generally takes them a year. By transferring early, they have six months in the strength program, whereas the May graduates have eight weeks in the strength program and then they're playing. Strength training is usually the biggest deficiency the players have coming into school. At many junior colleges, they don't have training or nutrition programs, so they didn't eat right and they didn't necessarily lift and train right because of the resources available to them.

Historical Marker Points To Once-Secret Corn Plot

After months of research, historians have discovered a once-secret plot of farmland that served as a testing ground for the first hybrid corn breeding experiment in northern Illinois.

On Monday, that small patch of land along Nelson Road in DeKalb was recognized with a state historical marker.

Reports indicate the experimental plot was created in 1925 and produced a yield 35 percent greater than the open-pollinated variety.

The historical marker notes some of DeKalb County's other agricultural innovations, including its status as the birthplace of barbed wire.

The hybrid corn plot was difficult to find because it was originally a secret, said County historian Sue Breese.

It was also small - originally the size of a garden at about half an acre. Its creators revealed it only after a few years, when it became a clear success.

The marker shows the spot, on Nelson Road off Route 38.

Western Illinois Mail Carrier Admits To Mail Theft

A western Illinois postal worker admitted in federal court that mail she stole while working included a debit card she put to use.

Abra Albrecht, 31, of Carrollton pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court in East St. Louis to one felony count of mail theft.

Albrecht admitted that while working at the Kampsville and Hardin post offices in February, she stolen mail that had been deposited for delivery, authorities said. One of the pilfered letters included a debit card that ultimately led to her arrest when she was seen on surveillance video putting it to use, prosecutors said.

Albrecht faces up to five years in federal prison when sentenced Jan. 12.

Southwestern Illinois Teachers Vote To Strike

Teachers in a southwestern Illinois school district authorized a strike Tuesday night and rejected the school board's latest contract offer after hours of negotiations.

Highland School District teachers are set to begin striking Thursday. Members of the local teachers union voted 139-15 to decline the district's offer of a one-year contract without a raise but with a $500 stipend.

All school buildings except the main office are expected to be closed starting Thursday, Superintendent Mike Sutton said. No school-sponsored activities will take place.

It will be the district's first strike, the union president said.

The two sides met for about six hours on Monday night. Teachers are demanding wage and benefit increases of 6 percent. The district doesn't have the money to meet their requests, Sutton said.

There are no more meetings scheduled between the teachers and administrators. Sutton said both sides have expressed a "willingness to come together at the discretion of the federal mediator."

The teachers' last three-year contract expired at the end of August.

Scammers Targeting Netflix Customers

Internet thieves are turning to Netflix to bilk people out of their money.  Better Business Bureau investigator Bill Smith says scammers are trying to convince Netflix users into downloading malicious software that's disguised as "Netflix support software."  To avoid this scam and others like it, Smith says you should never let someone log into your computer remotely.  He says people should also pay close attention to the URL in links and emails and be careful not to click on links that have a common name with a mix of jumbled letters or numbers.  And, always look up the business' phone number on its website. 

Fewer Motorcycle Deaths This Year

Fewer people are dying in motorcycle crashes on Illinois roads this year.  According to IDOT data, there were 84 deaths last year between January and July and only 60 during the same time period this year.  The most significant drop in fatalities is in Morgan County.  There were five motorcycle deaths there last year and none so far this year.  

Durbin Says ISIS More Dangerous Than Al-Qaeda

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says ISIS seems to be much more dangerous than Al-Qaeda.

[audio:rddISIS11.mp3] [/audio]

Durbin says there are some serious differences between ISIS and other terrorist groups that have existed in the past.

[audio:rddISIS21.mp3] [/audio]

Durbin says the U.S. can't stand by and ignore the threat of ISIS, considering they've beheaded two American journalists in the past several weeks. He says the U.S. is taking serious steps to bring those involved in the beheadings to justice. A White House spokesman said the President is not contemplating sending U.S. combat forces into Iraq or Syria. Durbin agrees with that sentiment, saying the U.S. is war weary, but must also take security threats seriously.

Quinn, Rauner To Meet With Tribune Editorial Board

Governor Quinn and his GOP opponent Bruce Rauner are sparring over who can and can't be trusted when it comes to hiring practices. The two appeared on the same stage yesterday to field questions from the "Chicago Tribune" editorial board.  But before they could get to the meat of issues like taxes and education, they started swinging about hiring scandals that are lingering for each candidate.  Rauner slammed Quinn on IDOT patronage while Quinn says Rauner hired former Rod Blagojevich conspirator, Stuart Levine, to handle Illinois pension business.  He says Rauner kept his mouth shut about the hire and took the money.  

Rauner Accused Of Trying To Bribe Lawmakers

Governor Quinn is making a scathing accusation against his GOP opponent, Bruce Rauner.

[audio:rddBribe11.mp3] [/audio]

Quinn says Rauner wanted to dish out campaign cash to any Republican rep who voted against the pension deal but Rauner adamantly denies that claim. And House Leader Jim Durkin denies that claim, calling it an outrageous lie and a new low from Governor Quinn. Republicans say Quinn is desperate to deflect attention off of the fact that he's under federal investigation. And, they say Quinn is the one who offers bribes for votes. They point to former state reps Careen Gordon and Bob Flider, who both got high paying state jobs after voting in favor of the income tax hike in 2011.

University of Illinois Professor Who Lost Job Offer Will Speak

A professor who lost a job offer from the University of Illinois over dozens of profane Twitter messages that critics deemed anti-Semitic said Tuesday that those messages were a product of his strong feelings and demanded he be given his job back.

Salaita said he and his wife sold their home and quit their jobs at Virginia Tech where he was a professor, in anticipation of a move to Illinois. He would have started last month, before the University of Illinois Board of Trustees approved his hire.

Urbana-Champaign campus Chancellor Phyllis Wise told him Aug. 1 that the job was no longer being offered. She's said her decision was based on what she believed was the abusive nature of some of those messages.

Salaita's supporters argue he already had been essentially hired when Wise told him he didn't have a job, meaning that his tenure as a professor could have protected his speech. On Tuesday, before the press conference, about 150 students and others gathered in a steady rain outside the student union to protest Wise's decision.

Salaita's attorneys said they believe the board of trustees will make a decision on Salaita at a meeting Thursday.

University of Illinois Springfield Enrollment Highest Ever

Enrollment at the University of Illinois Springfield has surpassed 5,400 for the first time in the school's history, officials said.

Reports indicate the fall census of 5,431 students eclipsed the previous record of 5,174 set in 2010, and marks the fifth consecutive year that enrollment has topped 5,000.

The number of international students increased more than 115 percent, to 827 this fall.

"One of our highest priorities has been growing our enrollment and we are pleased with this fall's census," UIS Chancellor Susan Koch said.

Koch also said more students are living on campus this semester and campus housing is more than 97 percent occupied, reflecting efforts to "enhance student life on campus."

It also illustrates the need for more student housing on or near campus, she said, adding that the university is working with developers on housing plans.

UI Urged To Give Professor Job Despite Controversial Views

The University of Illinois is being urged to reinstate a professor who was given the boot after posting controversial opinions about the Israeli government.  Steve Salaita posted several Tweets over the summer expressing harsh criticism about the attacks on Gaza.  He was slated to come on board as a tenured professor in the American Indian Studies program this year, but university officials withdrew the offer after hearing about the Tweets.  Donors reportedly put pressure on the university and threatened to pull funding if they brought Salaita on board, knowing his views might cause some sort of division.  But thousands of people have signed petitions calling on the university to reverse the decision.  Some students staged a walk-out and a day of silence in protest over the matter, and several lecturers have canceled appearances. 

Illinois State Team Takes Part In Solar Challenge

Illinois State University's solar car team plans to travel the United Arab Emirates to show off its alternative energy vehicle.

Reports indicate the team will participate in the Abu Dhabi Solar Challenge in January. The team was selected as part of an international field from six continents. The university's selection follows a second-place finish in the Formula Sun Grand Prix last year.

The event's ending coincides with opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit. The United Arab Emirates is among the 10 largest oil and gas producers in the world, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Event organizers are subsidizing getting the car from Illinois to Abu Dhabi, but team members estimate another $20,000 to $30,000 will be needed for the team's transportation, food and lodging.

ISU President Larry Dietz said that finding the additional money is "still under discussion."

Clinton City Council Discusses Center Street Future of Apple and Pork Festival

As the 2014 edition of the annual Apple and Pork festival approaches, local leaders recently discussed ways to keep Center Street cleaned up.

Last Monday night, the Clinton City Council approved payments for AREA Disposal to collect trash along Center Street of the Apple and Pork Festival. The service used to be gifted to the City from AREA, but that changed last year, and only once through the course of the weekend was it collected. Commissioner Tom Edmunds says that cannot happen again becuase it is a matter of public health.

[audio:9814aptrash1.mp3] [/audio]

Porta-potties are provided on the grounds of the CH Moore Homestead during Apple and Pork weekend, but now local groups who set up along Center Street and on the downtown square are asking for the City to help pay for porta-potties there. Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters says because of the large number of groups, the question would become, who do they help?

[audio:9814aptrash2.mp3] [/audio]

Because there is no business between the vendors along Center Street, Edmunds suggests potentially taking over that space, and Commissioner Nan Crang even suggested having the nearly 50 vendors along the corridor help pay for a couple porta-potties to be set up in future years.

[audio:9814aptrash3.mp3] [/audio]

While nothing could be acted on this close to Apple and Pork Festival weekend, September 27-28, the Council seemed decided something should be done in future years about getting more organization and record keeping of vendors along Center Street.

Rose Helps U.S. Past Slovenia

 width=314 height=160 />Bulls guard Derrick Rose had 12 points and five assists to help the U.S. in a 119-76 win over Slovenia in the quarterfinals of the FIBA Basketball World Cup from Spain.  Team USA faces Lithuania in the semifinals.  That contest is scheduled for tomorrow. </p>						</div>

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After Tough Weekend, Big Ten Looking Ahead

 width=There are a couple of nonconference tests and rivalry games on the Big Ten schedule this week, but this week is more about recovery.

The brand took a hit with decisive losses by Michigan State, Ohio State and Michigan to high-profile opponents, and the Spartans have this Saturday off. The Buckeyes and Wolverines host teams from the Mid-American Conference.

There were some shaky wins last week, too, with Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois barely getting by lower-tier foes.

But, hey, there are plenty of games left.

The postseason outlook already brightened since that rough weekend. Penn State learned it will be bowl eligible, with the lifting of NCAA sanctions stemming from the child sex-abuse scandal revealed three years ago.

>>Terps To Wear "Star-Spangled" Uniforms

(College Park, MD) -- Maryland's football team will be sporting new "Star-Spangled" uniforms for Saturday's game against West Virginia at College Park. Under Armour designed the uniforms to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Baltimore and the writing of the National Anthem. Words to the poem that inspired the song are written on the helmet and both shoulders. The helmet logo features an outline of Fort McHenry and the famous flag that flew through the night of the battle.

Saturday is 200 years to the day that soldiers successfully defended Baltimore from the British bombardment during the War of 1812. Maryland also announced today that Under Armour will continue to outfit the university's men's and women's varsity athletic teams for the next ten years.

NFL Notes

>>Devon Still Jerseys Helping Fight Pediatric Cancer

(Cincinnati, OH) -- The Cincinnati Bengals are helping to fight pediatric cancers. All proceeds from the sale of Devon Still's jersey will go to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Two months ago, the practice squad defensive tackle announced that his four-year-old daughter Leah has stage four neuroblastoma. You can pre-order Still's jersey from the Bengals' team shop for 100-dollars.

 width=ESPN reports that within 24 hours of going on sale, Devon Still's number-75 jersey was sold more times than any other player in the history of the Bengals.

>>Texans RB Arian Foster Comments On Domestic Violence In Home

(Houston, TX) -- Houston Texans running back Arian [[ AIR-ee-an ]] Foster is opening up on domestic abuse in his own life. Foster tweeted that he grew up in a domestically violent household and knows how tough it is. He also tweeted he wishes "that family" love and nothing but the best, in reference to the Ray Rice situation. Rice was suspended indefinitely by the NFL and kicked off the Baltimore Ravens yesterday after video surfaced of him hitting his now-wife. Foster adds there needs to be forgiveness, because forgiving the one who caused turmoil in his life freed him.

>>Nike Dropping Endorsement Deal With Ray Rice

(Undated) -- Embattled running back Ray Rice is taking another hit to the pocketbook. After having his contract terminated by the Baltimore Ravens on Monday, Bloomberg reports that apparel giant Nike is dropping its endorsement deal with the 27-year-old. Rice was cut by the Ravens after surveillance video was released Monday showing him knocking out his now-wife with a punch to the face in an Atlantic City casino elevator in February.

All Locals Lose; Baseball Notes

 width=>>Athletics Roll White Sox

(Chicago, IL) -- Josh Donaldson drove in four runs on five hits as Oakland rolled the White Sox 11-2 at U.S. Cellular Field. Sam Fuld added two RBI in the win while Eric Sogard, Jed Lowrie and Josh Reddick plated a run each. Jon Lester fired eight frames of one-run ball to improve to 14-and-10. The Athletics were 9-for-22 with runners in scoring position and maintain the top spot for the AL Wild Card. John Danks pitched six innings and surrendered two earned runs in the loss. Dayan Viciedo [[ DIE-on vee-see-AY-doh ]] tagged his 20th home run and Carlos Sanchez added the other RBI for Chicago, which has lost five of its last six.

>>Reds Blast Cardinals

(Cincinnati, OH) -- Devin Mesoraco blasted a two-run homer, totaled three RBI and scored three times to help guide the Reds to a 9-5 victory over the Cardinals at Great American Ball Park. Brandon Phillips and Chris Heisey [[ HIGH-zee ]] each plated a pair of runs for Cincy, which had lost six of seven coming into this one. Mike Leake fanned six batters in six-plus innings to improve to 11-and-11 and Aroldis Chapman picked up his 31st save. Michael Wacha got tagged for five earned runs in four-plus frames of work to fall to 5-and-6 as St. Louis had its three-game winning streak snapped. Jon Jay and Jhonny Peralta each went 1-for-3 with an RBI in defeat.

 width=>>Bats Power Jays Past Cubs

(Toronto, Ontario) -- Jose Bautista drove in four as the Blue Jays downed the Cubs 9-2 at Rogers Centre. Jose Reyes and Munenori Kawasaki each drove in two for Toronto, which has won three straight. Mark Buehrle [[ BURR-lee ]] scattered ten hits and two runs over seven innings to improve to 12-and-9. Wellington Castillo went 3-for-4 with an RBI while Javier Baez was 2-for-3 and scored twice for Chicago. Jake Arrieta [[ air-ee-ET-uh ]] gave up two runs over six-and-a-third innings while Neil Ramirez suffered the loss. The Cubs have lost five straight.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 6, Atlanta Braves 4
Philadelphia Phillies 4, Pittsburgh Pirates 3
New York Mets 2, Colorado Rockies 0
Miami Marlins 6, Milwaukee Brewers 3
San Diego Padres 6, Los Angeles Dodgers 3
San Francisco Giants 5, Arizona Diamondbacks 1

MLB American League
------
Minnesota Twins 4, Cleveland Indians 3
Tampa Bay Rays 4, New York Yankees 3
Detroit Tigers 4, Kansas City Royals 2
Baltimore Orioles 4, Boston Red Sox 1
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 9, Texas Rangers 3
Houston Astros 2, Seattle Mariners 1

 width=>>Cubs Prospect Bryant Honored By "Baseball America"

(Chicago, IL) -- Cubs third base prospect Kris Bryant is being honored by "Baseball America." The publication named him the minor league player of the year. Bryant is the first Cub to win the award since its inception in 1981. The 22-year-old slugged 43 homers between Double and Triple-A.

>>Mets' Wright Done For Season

(Flushing, NY) -- New York Mets third baseman David Wright is done for the season. The All-Star is dealing with shoulder inflammation and is being shut down. Wright says he doesn't want the injury to linger. An MRI taken on the area revealed an issue near the rotator cuff. The team thinks he can avoid surgery. The 31-year-old Wright hit .269 with a career-low eight homers and 63 RBI in 134 games this season.

No Appointment For Vacant District B Seat On County Board Agenda

 width=The DeWitt County Board agenda released late Tuesday by the County Clerk's office has no motion for appointment to the District B seat that has been vacant since late June.

The first September meeting for the DeWitt County Board has no mention of filling the seat left vacant by the passing of Tom Pruser in late June.

The County Board has gone back and forth in recent meetings about who to appoint to fill the vacancy. Board Chair Sherrie Brown motioned to appoint Jeff Gibbs, but Gibbs unexpectedly declined the appointment in late August saying it was the right thing to do.

The DeWitt County Republican Central Committee has been pushing Brown to appoint Christie Pruser, the widow to Tom who passed in a farming accident June 26.

Pruser also served on the Clinton Board of Education, who filled his seat over a month ago when Russell Long was sworn in.

Also on the agenda for Thursday's meeting is a motion to approve a Resolution in support of Salveo Health and Wellness, LTD to apply for a medical marijuana cultivation facility.

A motion is on the agenda to schedule a special budget meeting with Dee Dee Rentmeister for clarification on how the budget process works.

The Board will also discuss slip rental rates for 2015.

NCAA Lifts Penn State Bowl Ban

 width=The NCAA has removed the final two years of Penn State's football postseason ban while restoring the program to a full allotment of scholarships beginning with the 2015-16 season.

In a statement released Monday, the NCAA executive committee said it witnessed significant progress made by Penn State to comply with the sanctions it imposed on the athletic department in July of 2012 for its role in the child molestation scandal involving former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky.

The reduction of penalties were also made upon recommendations from former U.S. Senator George Mitchell, who had monitoring Penn State's compliance with the athletic integrity agreement it made with the NCAA.

The Nittany Lions are now eligible to participate in both a bowl game as well as the Big Ten Championship Game this season. Penn State had previously been forbidden from postseason play in 2014 and 2015 as part of the penalties levied against the school by the NCAA.

Penn State still must vacate all its football wins between 1998 and 2011 and remains on probation through the 2016-17 academic year. The $60 million fine the university was handed by the NCAA also still remains in effect.

The football program currently has a 75-player scholarship limit, up from 65 after Mitchell positively graded the athletic department in his first annual report, and will now return to the maximum 85 scholarships beginning next season.

NCAA Football Notes

 width=The top-five college football teams remain unchanged in the latest "USA Today" Coaches Poll.  Florida State, Alabama, Oklahoma, Oregon and Auburn make up the top teams in the nation.  Georgia moved up from eighth to sixth while Baylor is up to seventh from the ninth spot.  After a road loss to Oregon, Michigan State fell from sixth down to 13th.  Texas A&M, LSU and USC round out of the top-ten while Notre Dame moved up to 11th after thrashing Michigan.  Virginia Tech jumped into the polls at 19th after cruising past Ohio State on the road, though the Buckeyes remain one spot ahead of the Hokies.  OSU fell from seventh to 18th. 

>>SMU's Jones Steps Down

(Dallas, TX) -- Southern Methodist University head football coach June Jones is stepping down for personal reasons. The moves comes less than nine months after Jones signed an extension through 2017. Associate head coach/defensive coordinator Tom Mason will take over the coaching reins. SMU is 0-and-2 on the young season and went 36-and-43 in six-plus years under Jones. The Mustangs reached four straight bowl games before going 5-and-7 last season.

>>UCF, Stanford Announce Football Series

(Orlando, FL) -- Central Florida and Stanford are set to meet on the gridiron for the first time ever. The schools have announced a home-and-home series that has the Cardinal hosting the Knights September 12th, 2015. Stanford will travel to UCF on September 14th, 2019. It will be the first time Stanford plays a team from the state of Florida as well as the first time UCF is scheduled to play a California program.

>>USC's Haden Issues Apology

(Los Angeles, CA) -- USC athletic director Pat Haden is trying to make amends for his behavior during the Trojans win over Stanford on Saturday. Haden was caught on camera arguing with an official on the sideline. The AD released a statement through the school that stated "I apologized to Commissioner Scott, to the game officials, to Stanford and to the fans for any distraction I might have caused during Saturday's football game. In retrospect, I should not have approached the game officials. I should have waited until after the game and gone through the appropriate channels. In the best interests of our team and our coaches, I will stay off the sidelines for our next games." The 2-and-0 Trojans are at Boston College on Saturday.

Bulls Reach Out To Allen

 width=259 height=194 />The Bulls could be looking to bring in Ray Allen.  ESPN reports Chicago has contacted the veteran guard to gauge his interest in joining the team.  Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau was an assistant with the Celtics when the 39-year-old Allen won a championship in 2008. </p>						</div>

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Ravens Release Rice After Video Surfaces

 width=The Baltimore Ravens have terminated the contract of running back Ray Rice following the release of video footage that showed him punching his now-wife in an Atlantic City casino elevator during the offseason.

In addition, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced that Rice's previous two-game suspension will now run indefinitely due to the new information that has been made available.

TMZ.com released video of the actual incident on Monday that showed Rice throwing a left-handed punch at then-fiancee Janay Palmer and knocking her out cold at the Revel Casino back in February.

Surveillance video originally released by the celebrity gossip website only revealed the aftermath of the incident, with Rice dragging Palmer out of the elevator.

The new video shows Rice and Palmer entering the elevator at the now-closed casino. The two are standing next to each other before a minor shove. Rice then moves away and Palmer rushes toward him before he reacts with a quick left-handed blow.

Bears, NFL Notes

>>Trestman Says Bears Evaluating Injuries

Coach Marc Trestman gave little clarity about the status of the Chicago Bears' injured players, a day after Pro Bowl receivers Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall got banged up along with center Roberto Garza and left guard Matt Slauson.

The Bears suffered a surprising 23-20 overtime loss to Buffalo on Sunday.

 width=Garza and Slauson exited with ankle injuries, leaving the Bears without two starters on the line. Jeffery spent most of the second half on the sideline with a hamstring injury and Marshall limited down the stretch after twisting his right ankle.

Trestman says the evaluations were "ongoing" for the next two days. Chicago plays at San Francisco on Sunday night.

>>Bears Sign Dixon, Waive Hurst

(Lake Forest, IL) -- The Bears are bringing in rookie safety Ahmad Dixon. The team signed Dixon off the Vikings' practice squad on Monday and parted ways with cornerback Demontre Hurst. The Cowboys selected Dixon in the seventh round of the 2014 draft out of Baylor.

>>Trestman To Adjust Travel For Bears

(Lake Forest, IL) -- Bears head coach Marc Trestman is changing things up with his team's travel. Instead of departing Saturday for Sunday night's road game against the 49ers, the Bears will leave after Friday's practice. Trestman says the move is to get acclimated to the two-hour time change.

>>Lions Charge Past Giants

(Detroit, MI) -- Calvin Johnson caught seven passes for 164 yards and two first quarter touchdowns as the Lions roared past the Giants 35-14 at Ford Field in Detroit. Quarterback Matthew Stafford was 22-of-32 for 364 yards and the two TD tosses while also running for a score. Detroit piled up 417 yards of offense while the defense held New York to just 197 yards. Joique Bell ran for 51 yards and a TD in the season-opening win. Eli Manning threw for 163 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Rashad Jennings carried it 16 times for 46 yards and a score while piling up 50 yards receiving. Larry Donnell had five grabs for 56 yards and a touchdown in defeat.

>>Cardinals rally to beat Chargers

Carson Palmer threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes as the Arizona Cardinals closed out Week 1 of the NFL season with a come-from-behind 18-17 win over the visiting San Diego Chargers on Monday night.

Palmer completed 24-of-37 throws and finished with 304 yards for the Cardinals (1-0), who missed the playoffs last season despite winning 10 games.

Philip Rivers was 21-of-36 for 238 yards, one touchdown and an interception for San Diego (0-1), which is coming off a run to the divisional round of the playoffs.

 width=>>Roc Nation Sports Signs Ndamukong Suh

(Undated) -- The sports management branch of Jay Z's Roc Nation is adding Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh [[ en-DOM-ah-ken SOO ]] to its roster. Roc Nation Sports announced the new addition Monday. Suh celebrated the news by posting a picture of himself on Instagram along with the caption, "New season. New partnership." "Bloomberg" reports that Roc Nation will help negotiate a new contract for Suh after he becomes a free agent at the end of this season.

Among the other athletes on the Roc Nation Sports roster are NFL stars Geno Smith, Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. The NBA's Kevin Durant and the WNBA's Skylar Diggins are also part of the Roc Nation Sports Family.

>>Report: Bills Sale Moving To Sabres Owner Terry Pegula

(Buffalo, NY) -- A sale of the Buffalo Bills could be coming soon. The "Buffalo News" reports a decision could come as soon as Tuesday with all signs pointing to Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula as the front-runner to buy the team. He has reportedly submitted the highest bid and would likely be able to keep the team in Buffalo because of his ties to the city. Rumors have circled recently that the team might be on the move. The Bills have been looking for new ownership since the death of Ralph Wilson in March.

>>Texans' Clowney Has Surgery On Torn Meniscus

(Houston, TX) -- Houston Texans pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney is recovering from surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. The top selection in this year's draft will be out four-to-six weeks. Clowney left Sunday's season opener against the Redskins in the second quarter. He had one tackle before exiting.

White Sox, Cardinals Win

 width=>>Flowers Lifts White Sox Past A's

(Chicago, IL) -- Tyler Flowers hit a game-tying solo homer in the ninth and a walk-off solo shot in the 12th to lift the White Sox past the Athletics 5-4 at U.S. Cellular Field. Conor Gillaspie also went deep and drove in two for the Sox, who snapped a four-game losing streak. Javy Guerra pitched two scoreless innings to pick up the win. Josh Reddick and Jed Lowrie hit back-to-back homers in the fifth for Oakland, which has dropped nine of 11. Sam Fuld plated the go-ahead run for the A's on a bunt-single in the eighth before Flowers tied things up for Chicago in the ninth. Jesse Chavez fell to 8-and-8 with the loss.

 width=>>Cardinals Blank Reds

(Cincinnati, OH) -- Shelby Miller tossed seven shutout innings to lead the Cardinals in a 5-0 win over the Reds from Great American Ball Park. Miller allowed just three hits and struck out four to improve to 9-and-9. Matt Adams hit a three-run homer in the ninth to break the game open. Matt Carpenter also had a two-run single as St. Louis won its ninth in ten games and is four-and-a-half games up on the Pirates in the NL Central. Cincinnati starter Dylan Axelrod left after recording one out in the first with a right oblique strain. Manny Parra suffered the loss in relief while Brandon Phillips was 2-for-3 in defeat. The Reds have lost six of seven.

>>Blue Jays Blank Cubs

(Toronto, Ontario) -- Marcus Stroman went the distance to lead the Blue Jays in an 8-0 win over the Cubs at Rogers Centre. Stroman improved to 10-and-5 while striking out eight and allowing just three hits in his complete-game gem. Jose Bautista hit a three-run homer while Dioner Navarro was 2-for-3 with two RBI. Toronto has won seven of nine. Jacob Turner allowed five runs in six innings for Chicago and fell to 5-and-9. Jorge Soler, Mike Olt and Chris Valaika managed base hits for the Cubs, who have dropped four straight.

MLB National League
------
Washington Nationals 2, Atlanta Braves 1
Pittsburgh Pirates 6, Philadelphia Phillies 4
New York Mets 3, Colorado Rockies 2
Miami Marlins 6, Milwaukee Brewers 4
Los Angeles Dodgers 9, San Diego Padres 4

MLB American League
------
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 12, Cleveland Indians 3
Detroit Tigers 9, Kansas City Royals 5
Baltimore Orioles 4, Boston Red Sox 0
Seattle Mariners 4, Houston Astros 1

Illinois Football Notes

 width=>>Lunt, Dudek Earn Weekly Big Ten Honors

Illinois sophomore quarterback Wes Lunt was named Big Ten Co-Offensive Player of the Week and freshman receiver Mike Dudek earned conference Freshman of the Week honors on Monday after helping the Illini to a 42-34 win over Western Kentucky. Both are the first weekly honors of the 2014 season for Illinois players. Steve Hull was the most recent Illini to be named Offensive Player of the Week, earning it on Nov. 25, 2013, while Dudek is the first Illini to be named Freshman of the Week since Aaron Bailey on Sept. 30, 2013.

Lunt posted the second-most passing yards in Memorial Stadium history and fourth-most in UI history in the Illini win, completing 35-of-50 passes for 456 yards and three touchdowns with only one interception. He engineered Illinois' second-straight fourth-quarter comeback, completing 10-of-11 passes for 154 yards and a score in the final stanza of Saturday's game. In two starts for the Illini, Lunt has passed for an eye-popping 741 yards and seven touchdowns, both school records in the first two starts of a quarterback's career. He ranks fifth in FBS in passing yards per game (370.5 ypg) and passing touchdowns (seven), and seventh in total offense (361.5 ypg) and completions per game (29.5).

Dudek posted his second-straight game with a receiving touchdown, becoming the first Illini newcomer to do so since junior-college transfer Kelvin Hayden in 2003. He had four catches for 55 yards on the game, including a 32-yarder in the first quarter.

Lunt shared Offensive Player of the Week honors with Minnesota running back David Cobb, Iowa defensive end Drew Ott was named Defensive Player of the Week, and Nebraska punter Sam Foltz earned Special Teams Player of the Week.

 width=>>Illini Leaning On Safeties To Lead Improvements On Defense

Taylor Barton's interception return for a touchdown against Western Kentucky on Saturday helped turn the game for the Illini.

And the team (2-0) is so far leaning heavily on Barton and fellow safety Zane Petty.

The two have played almost every snap in Illinois' two games so far. The Illini take on Washington (2-0) this Saturday.

Illinois defensive coordinator Tim Banks said Monday that he wants to play more people at safety. But he says the players behind Barton and Petty aren't ready to see serious action yet.

Barton said he and Petty have formed a pretty good partnership so far at safety.

And he said that if they have to the two can keep carrying the load for Illinois.

 width=>>Illinois, Texas State Game Time Moved To 3 pm

The Big Ten Conference announced times and television information for the weekend of Sept. 20 on Monday. The Fighting Illini home game against Texas State at Memorial Stadium is set for 3 p.m. CT and will be televised by ESPNews.

San Jose State at Minnesota will also be played at 3 pm to be aired on the Big Ten Network. Other Big Ten games to start at 3 will be the Massachusetts at Penn State game, aired on the Big Ten Network, and Indiana at Missouri, to be aired on the SEC network.

Texas State (1-0) plays Navy at home this Saturday. The Fighting Illini are at Washington this Saturday before returning to Memorial Stadium on Sept. 20 to host the Bobcats.

Fire Damages Home in DeWitt County

 width=A small fire in a home in the community of DeWitt damaged a small room in the home Saturday evening

According to Clinton Fire Chief Shawn Milton, at approximatley 6 pm, Clinton Fire Department was called to a home on the outskirts of DeWitt after a fire was reported in a small laundry room. The Chief says his crews took care of the small fire, but not before it did some damage to portions of the home.

[audio:91014dewittfire1.mp3] [/audio]

The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time, but the Chief notes the family was doing laundry, so preliminarily that is what they are attributing it to. Chief Milton adds, the fire was large enough to keep crews on scene for approximately two and a half to three hours.

[audio:91014dewittfire2.mp3] [/audio]

Chief Milton indicates crews from Kenney, Farmer City, Wapella and Weldon Fire Departments on hand for water supply and man power.

He reminds all residents to keep their smoke alarms current with fresh batteries. He explains they will begin their annual fire prevention campaign in a few weeks as they approach fire prevention week, highlighted by the annual fire truck parade in Clinton the first full week of October.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Weekend Report

September 4, 2014

Jail Population: 36
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 5, 2014

Jail Population: 37
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 6, 2014

Jail Population: 37
Summons Served: 1
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 7, 2014

Jail Population: 38
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 8, 2014

Jail Population: 38
Summons Served: 1
Warrant Arrests: 0

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/7/14 at 12:38 P.M. revealed that Megan Monahan, 29, LeRoy was traveling on Rosebud Road at the intersection of Prairie Chapel Road. Monahan said she turned left and entered into the intersection when she observed a motorcycle traveling eastbound on Prairie Chapel Road. Shad Bonnell, 40, Wapella said he looked up on the rear brake and entered into the north ditch to avoid collision with Monahan. Bonnell said his motorcycle then fell onto his left side as it entered the ditch, coming to rest next to a concrete culvert. The motorcycle sustained damage to the entire left side and rear area from skidding on its side. Both vehicles were driven from the scene.

Kirk Brimberry, 54, DeWitt was issued a Citation for Operating Uninsured Vehicle. Brimberry was issued a notice to appear and was released.


Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/5/14 at 4:20 P.M. revealed that Jeffrey Klawitter, 34, Wapella was westbound on North First Street in Wapella, approaching Locust Street. Alicia Short, 24, Heyworth was northbound on Locust Street, and came to a stop at North First Street. Klawitter stopped at the stop sign, then turned south onto Locust Street. The turn was cut short, and Klawitter struck the front driver’s side of short. There were no injuries reported or observed. Klawitter was issued a Citation for Improper Lane Usage. Klawitter was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/4/14 at 12:18 A.M. revealed that Holly Thomas, 36, Clinton was traveling southbound on Cotton Street in Hallsville and proceeded to turn eastbound onto Church Street. Thomas was weaving to both sides of the road, leaving tire marks where she had traveled. Thomas left the roadway driving north onto private property. She struck the driveway which was elevated. The vehicle sustained damage to the front passenger side tire and the plastic bottom of the bumper became dislodged and was left at the accident scene. Thomas left the scene of the accident. She was found and no injuries were claimed by the driver or passenger. Thomas was issued Citations for Failure to Report Accident to Police Authority, Improper Lane Usage, Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Failure to Reduce Speed/ Accident. Thomas was issued a notice to appear and was released.

Richard Koslofski, 71, Decatur was issued a Citation for Speeding 64 MPH in a 45 MPH Zone. Koslofski was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Michael Bagar, 40, Mount Pulaski was issued a Citation for Speeding 80 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Bugar was issued a promise to comply and was released.

Paula Serapin, 26, Bloomington was arrested and charged with Possess Drug Paraphernalia and Possess Cannabis 2.5-10 Grams. Serapin posted the necessary bond and was released.

 

 

 

 

 


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

DeWitt County Sheriff's Office Responds To Several Weekend Vehicle Accidents

The DeWitt County Sheriffi's Department responded to several weekend vehicle accidents between September 4 and 7.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/7/14 at 12:38 P.M. revealed that
Megan Monahan, 29, LeRoy was traveling on Rosebud Road at the intersection of Prairie Chapel Road.
Monahan said she turned left and entered into the intersection when she observed a motorcycle
traveling eastbound on Prairie Chapel Road. Shad Bonnell, 40, Wapella said he looked up on the rear
brake and entered into the north ditch to avoid collision with Monahan.  width=Bonnell said his motorcycle
then fell onto his left side as it entered the ditch, coming to rest next to a concrete culvert. The
motorcycle sustained damage to the entire left side and rear area from skidding on its side. Both
vehicles were driven from the scene.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/5/14 at 4:20 P.M. revealed that Jeffrey
Klawitter, 34, Wapella was westbound on North First Street in Wapella, approaching Locust Street.
Alicia Short, 24, Heyworth was northbound on Locust Street, and came to a stop at North First Street.
Klawitter stopped at the stop sign, then turned south onto Locust Street. The turn was cut short, and
Klawitter struck the front driver’s side of short. There were no injuries reported or observed. Klawitter
was issued a Citation for Improper Lane Usage. Klawitter was issued a promise to comply and was
released.

Investigation into the scene of an accident which occurred on 9/4/14 at 12:18 A.M. revealed that Holly
Thomas, 36, Clinton was traveling southbound on Cotton Street in Hallsville and proceeded to turn
eastbound onto Church Street. Thomas was weaving to both sides of the road, leaving tire marks
where she had traveled. Thomas left the roadway driving north onto private property. She struck the
driveway which was elevated. The vehicle sustained damage to the front passenger side tire and the
plastic bottom of the bumper became dislodged and was left at the accident scene. Thomas left the
scene of the accident. She was found and no injuries were claimed by the driver or passenger. Thomas
was issued Citations for Failure to Report Accident to Police Authority, Improper Lane Usage, Leaving
the Scene of an Accident and Failure to Reduce Speed/ Accident. Thomas was issued a notice to appear
and was released.

Five Midwest Governors, Japanese Officials Meet

Governors from five Midwest states joined Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad on Monday in meetings with Japanese governors, officials, and company executives for the annual gathering of the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association.

The group, founded in 1967, meets yearly to discuss the growth and progress of economic relations of the American Midwest and Japan.

Governors from Nebraska, Missouri, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin planned to give speeches. The Japanese ambassador and the consulate general from Chicago attended the meeting.

The speakers also included Kikkoman Corp. Honorary CEO Yuzaburo Mogi, who is credited with introducing soy sauce to the United States in 1959. He is the Japanese conference chairman. He says the theme this year is building a robust and sustainable future. They hope this meeting will help identify and develop business opportunities for all of us.

Mogi joined executives from Nippon Airways, Toshiba and Toyota at the conference to discuss continued trade, government and business relationships between the two countries.

It is the 46th year the organization has met. Former Illinois Gov. Jim Thompson, the U.S. conference chairman, said this year's goal is to find new synergies between the states highlighting growth in environmental industries and in the health and wellness sectors as the population of Japan and the U.S. states age.

Dozens Fall Sick With Rare Entovirus

Dozens of people are fighting a rare illness in Illinois.  Several hospitals have recently reported clusters of a severe respiratory illness, especially children.  The CDC has identified the illness as a rare form of Entovirus.  It's transmitted through close contact with an infected person and by touching objects after an infected person has touched them.  State officials say they're keeping a close watch on the situation.  They say people can keep the virus at bay by washing their hands with warm, soapy water, avoiding shaking hands with people who are sick, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.  People who are having a hard time breathing should see a doctor immediately and, they should stay home from work or school until they feel better.

Madigan Wants Cameras In Nursing Home Rooms

Nursing home residents may soon be allowed to put cameras up in their rooms. Attorney General Lisa Madigan is pushing for a new law that will make it possible. She says it's the next line of defense in keeping seniors safe.

[audio:rddNurseCam21.mp3] [/audio]

She says the cameras will help family members keep an eye on their loved ones when they can't make it to visit.

[audio:rddNurseCam31.mp3] [/audio]

The video and audio taken from the cameras will be permissible in civil and criminal proceedings if someone is busted abusing a resident. And, anyone who's caught hampering with the camera or the recording could face charges. State officials get nearly 19-thousand calls a year with complaints of nursing home abuse. They respond to more than five-thousand of those calls.

Rauner Education Plan

A prominent Chicago Democrat is backing Bruce Rauner for governor.  Former state senator James Meeks says he likes Rauner's plan for education because what the state has now isn't working for all students.  He says it only makes sense to try something new.  Rauner unveiled the plan today, which favors charters schools.  He'd like to see the state provide more funding for the schools and lift the cap on the number of charter schools a city can have.  Rauner also wants to revamp the state's current funding formula for schools.  He says some school districts lose out under the current formula because they receive less money from the state.  Rauner's plan supports giving merit pay to "great teachers" and giving them a tax credit when they spend money out of their own pockets to help kids in need.  

Rauner's Education Plan Focused On Teachers, Funding

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner outlined an education reform plan Monday that touched on teacher merit pay, overhauling tenure and changing the state's school funding formal, but the proposal didn't contain specifics on what exactly he would change or how he would accomplish them.

The venture capitalist said his ideas would help create "world class schools" and he vowed to increase school funding in the first year if he wins office without raising the income tax or property taxes. He said he wanted to change the teacher tenure system, but wasn't advocating doing away with it.

Rauner, seeking his first run for public office, is trying to unseat Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn. It's expected to be one of the most competitive governor's races nationwide.

"The state government in Springfield is hostile to school reform," he said a news conference with his wife, Diana Rauner, who runs the Ounce of Prevention Fund.

His other ideas included lifting the cap on charter schools, tax credits for teachers who spend their own money on school supplies and consolidating school-related agencies. The 26-page plan did not outline details on which agencies would be consolidated or how he wanted to proceed.

Quinn's lieutenant governor running mate Paul Vallas, a former Chicago Public Schools CEO, deemed the plan "reckless" and "irresponsible."

Dan Montgomery, the president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, questioned if the plan would strip teachers of their rights.

Champaign Considers Bamboo Ban

Members of the city staff in Champaign are recommending that the City Council add bamboo to the list of plants local residents are barred from planting.

Bamboo species that send out runners to grow can crack concrete and colonize neighbors' yards, city code compliance manager David Oliver. According to reports, he says the plant is a nuisance.

The city already bans 15 plants including marijuana, poison oak and kudzu.

But the bamboo problem, Oliver said, has only shown up at two homes.

One of those belongs to Dmitri Novikov. His bamboo has been the subject of numerous complaints, the city says. But he denies the plant damages neighbors' property.

Neighbor Martha Mills disagrees. She says bamboo weighed down by snow pulled electrical wires away from her home last winter.

The City Council will consider a bamboo ban on Tuesday.

Teen Charged In Baby-In Trash-Bin Case

Days after a 17-year-old girl accused of leaving her newborn baby alive in a trash bin was arrested for child abandonment, prosecutors in the west-central Illinois community of Jacksonville have decided to charge her with attempted first-degree murder.

According to reports, prosecutors announced Monday the teen will be tried as a juvenile. Her name has not been released because of her age.

The teen was arrested last week, five days after the baby was discovered inside the trash bin. Authorities have said the teen abandoned the baby boy less than 12 hours after he was born.

Police have said it was fortunate the baby was found early in the morning before temperatures inside the bin climbed high enough to cause heat-related injuries.

Eight Closed Illinois Interstate Rest Areas To Reopen

Eight of Illinois' 30 interstate rest areas that have been closed are set to reopen this fall.

According to reports, maintenance was required at the closed facilities, but it's not clear why most of it happened around the same time period, Paris Ervin, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Transportation.

The Salt Kettle rest area, on Interstate 74 west of Danville, parts of the Silver Lake rest area, along Interstate 70, and the Gateway rest area, Interstate 64 near St. Louis, have been undergoing bathroom renovations and upgrades.

The Funks Grove rest area, south of Bloomington on Interstate 55, has been shuttered the longest. It was closed in spring 2013 because of a septic system failure.

The Trail of Tears rest area along Interstate 57 near the Missouri border has been closed for sewer work since July.

The Pride of the Prairie rest area on Interstate 72 was closed last month for a pavement project, while the Coalfield rest area on Interstate 55 was closed for roofing repairs.

The closed rest areas should all be reopened by November. The cost of the work was not immediately known.

Illinois Business and Farm Groups Announce Opposition to Proposed Waters of the U.S. Regulations

A coalition of Illinois business organizations, professional associations and farm groups hosted a news conference to discuss impacts of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) proposed changes to the regulations connected to the Clean Water Act.

The proposal would give the U.S. EPA and the Corps power to regulate or prohibit land use, farming practices and certain business practices by regulating tributaries, ponds, lakes, wetlands, roadside, irrigation and storm water ditches, adjacent waters, floodplains, puddles and even ephemeral streams, which are bodies of water that contain water only during a major storm event.

Lauren Lurkins, director of natural and environmental resources, Illinois Farm Bureau says they see the changes as "limitless federal jurisdiction and an end-run around Congress" since the law can only be changed by Congress and the proposed rule changes are far beyond what Congress intended when it drafted the law.

She adds the rule change would have a tremendous economic impact on more industries than agriculture, including home building, mining and construction.

Under the proposed rule, farmers and other landowners would have to apply for and wait for a permit to build fences, use pesticides and carry out other practices common to farming or land ownership on property the U.S. EPA considers part of the Waters of the U.S.

Twenty-four business organizations and farm groups joined the coalition to voice their opposition to the proposal including llinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Beef Association, Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and Illinois Corn Growers Association.

Decatur Puts Well Proposal On Back Burner

Decatur has put plans to drill wells to help supplement the local water supply on hold. And the move may be permanent.

City staff members recommended in a memo ahead of the Sept. 2 City Council meeting that the project be put on hold while they look at other options.

Reports indicate the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency found some well sites were too close to sources of contamination while water at other sites identified by a contractor was too heavy in iron.

The well proposal was made as the city endured severe drought in 2012. Lake Decatur is the source of most local drinking water and was very low.

Now the city will look to other possibilities such as buying a lake that's now privately owned and improving a well field the city already owns, said Keith Alexander, the director of water management.

ISU President 'Enjoying The Heck' Out of the Job

Illinois State University's new president says he's enjoying every aspect of the job.

Reports indicate Larry Dietz, who recently began his first full academic year as the president of the university, everything is "hunky-dory." He was named president of ISU on March 22, following Timothy Flanagan's disorderly conduct conviction and resignation.

Dietz is focused on the future of the university, prioritizing stronger enrollment and more stable leadership this semester, he said. All four vice president positions will be filled in an effort to bring fresh eyes and perspectives to the university, Dietz said.

His Educating Illinois strategic plan aims to provide a supportive, student-centered educational experience, strengthen organizational operation, enhance outreach and partnerships, and prepare students to excel in a globally competitive, culturally diverse and changing environment.

"I'm enjoying the heck out of this position," Dietz said.

He is set to give his first State of the University address next Thursday.

NASCAR Starts Chase Sunday

 width=200 height=106 />The Chase for the Sprint Cup gets underway this Sunday at Chicagoland Speedway.  The new format takes center stage as the first three races of the Chase will be known as the Challenger Round.  Drivers race at New Hampshire and Dover before part of the field is eliminated. </p>						</div>

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Horschel Moves Into Top 25 in World Rankings

 width=Billy Horschel earned his second PGA Tour win on Sunday at the BMW Championship and he jumped into the top 25 in this week's world rankings.

Horschel jumped 22 spots to No. 23 thanks to his 2-shot win at Cherry Hills Country Club. Meanwhile, European Tour winner David Lipsky skyrocketed 215 spots to No. 154 this week.

Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott remained Nos. 1 and 2 in the new rankings. Sergio Garcia shared fourth place behind Horschel, and that helped Garcia move up one spot to third in the rankings. That move pushed Henrik Stenson down a notch to fourth.

Justin Rose held steady in fifth and he was followed by BMW runner-up Bubba Watson, who jumped three to No. 6. Jim Furyk stayed at seven, Jason Day slipped a pair to eight and Matt Kuchar was down one to ninth.

Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler and Martin Kaymer remained No. 10, 11 and 12. Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods exchanged places with Spieth up to 13. Zach Johnson followed Woods at No. 15.

Dustin Johnson moved to 16th as Graeme McDowell fell one to 17th. Jimmy Walker climbed one to 18 and that bumped Hideki Matsuyama to 19. Hunter Mahan rounded out the top 20 again this week.

Ditka In Ad For Republican Gubernatorial Candidate

Da Coach has weighed in on Da Campaign for Illinois governor.

Ex-Chicago Bears football coach Mike Ditka appears in a new TV ad for Republican candidate Bruce Rauner (ROW'-nur). It aired Sunday during a broadcast of the Bears game against the Buffalo Bills.

The 30-second spot plays off Ditka's reputation as a no-nonsense task master.

Ditka sits across a table and tells Rauner he likes him because he opposes special interests. Ditka slams his clenched fist and adds, "Hit 'em right in the mouth."

When Rauner responds that maybe he's "been too hard" on special interests, Ditka gives him a 10-second, silent stare before barking: "Stick to the game plan, Bruce!"

Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn's campaign responded in a statement, saying "only a billionaire" could afford such an ad.

Quinn, Maryland Governor Tout Higher Minimum Wage

Gov. Pat Quinn has received help from a fellow Democrat in Maryland as he continues to make the minimum wage a focus in his re-election campaign against Republican Bruce Rauner.

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley appeared Sunday with Quinn in Chicago. O'Malley touted legislation he signed this year that'll eventually increase his state's minimum wage to $10.10.

Quinn highlighted how he lived on $79 for this past week to draw attention to how minimum-wage workers can struggle on Illinois' current $8.25 rate.

In a statement, Quinn says the experience gave him "a small glimpse" into those struggles. He wants the rate raised to at least $10.

Rauner's position has shifted during his campaign. He now says he'd back an increase under certain circumstances, including if it came with business reforms.

Moody's Says Illinois Pension Debt Versus Revenue Is The Worst

A major credit-rating house reports that Illinois' pension liability as a percentage of its revenue is far and away the nation's highest.

Moody's Investors Service has released a report showing that the state's three-year average liability over revenue is 258 percent. The next closest is Connecticut at about 200 percent.

The report averaged the Illinois percentage from 2010 through 2012.

The state has a $100 billion deficit in the amount of money it should have invested in five state-employee pension accounts. Lawmakers adopted an overhaul plan last fall that cuts benefits and increases worker contributions to significantly cut that debt.

But Moody's points out that even if the law gets Illinois constitutional approval from the Supreme Court, the state will face decades of financial digging out.

Illinois Begins Taking Marijuana Business Applications

Entrepreneurs wanting to cultivate or dispense medical marijuana under a new Illinois law are getting their chance to be considered.

The state on Monday was to begin accepting applications from aspiring cultivation centers and dispensaries vying for one of a limited number of permits.

A state law enacted last year authorized a four-year pilot project that will expire in 2017, but so far, not a single marijuana seed has been planted. State officials have said the first products may be sold next year.

The state's Department of Public Health last week said more than 2,000 people registered for Illinois medical marijuana identification cards in the first three days of applications. Officials had expected just a few hundred applications.

East Peoria Letter Carriers Honored For Rescue

Two East Peoria letter carriers are receiving a national award for rescuing a 12-year-old boy from a registered sex offender who was later convicted of kidnapping.

According to reports, Cristy Perfetti and Steve Plunkett helped rescue the boy in May 2013 after seeing him crying in the parking lot behind the East Peoria post office. Teddy Meyer was holding the boy's arm. Perfetti contacted her supervisor and Plunkett followed Meyer while post office employees called police.

Meyer was sentenced to life in prison for aggravated kidnapping.

Perfetti and Plunkett will fly to Washington, D.C., on Monday to accept a Heroes of the Year unit citation from the National Association of Letter Carriers. The organization represents about 280,000 members and gives a handful of hero awards each year.

Quinn's Plan To Ground, Sell State's Airfleet OK With Local Lawmaker

A local state representative has been calling for the State of Illinois to ground it's airfleet and sell them off to pay back some of the State's debt. Now Governor Pat Quinn has a proposal in Springfield to do just that.

State Representative Bill Mitchell acknowledges that bill has been proposed by him many times but those bills have gone nowhere. The State's airfleet can be grounded several ways, first through a bill to ground them or to not fund them, both of which Rep. Mitchell has attempted.

[audio:9814airground1.mp3] [/audio]

Despite Gov. Quinn doing this without crediting Rep. Mitchell with putting up the original fight, the Representative says his feelings aren't by the Gov. doing this. He feels the end result is the ultimate goal and feels he knows the Gov. M-O despite not getting any credit.

[audio:9814airground2.mp3] [/audio]

Rep. Mitchell feels the move by Quinn, who references the action in his latest campaign ad, is a political ploy. Rep. Mitchell says whether the Governor actually does ground and sell the state's air fleet remains to be seen.

Hospital Sponsored 5K Adds To Busy Apple and Pork Weekend In Clinton

Organizers for the Doctor John Warner Hospital's first ever Swifty Swine and Pigglet Prance 5K run/walk are hoping their event adds to the biggest weekend in Clinton and DeWitt County.

With the yearly festival just weeks away, organizers say they are excited about what the run/walk event held at Weldon Springs State Recreation Area, could add. Margie Gehres, the primary organizer with DJWH, explains the run will be promoting health and wellness in the Clinton community.

[audio:9214swiftyswine1.mp3] [/audio]

Gehres recently attended a meeting with staff from various area hospitals. She heard about Kirby Medical Center's annual Kirby Derby 5K during that time. The Monticello 5K inspired her to think about events the DJWH could offer to the Clinton community.

[audio:9214swiftyswine2.mp3] [/audio]

As of last month, the race had 21 participants signed up for the weekend. After consulting other race directors, Gehres understands many racers don't sign up until the day before or day of the event so they are hoping for 75 on Apple & Pork weekend.

[audio:9214swiftyswine3.mp3]comment here[/audio]

The Swifty Swine 5K Trail Run/Walk will take place Saturday September 27th at 8am at Weldon Springs "Old Farm Trail". Further details and registration forms are available through active.com and can be found at the events Facebook page as plans continue to come together for the first ever event.

Keselowski Cruises To Richmond Win

 width=Brad Keselowski led 383 of the 400 laps to win Saturday's Federated Auto Parts 400 at Richmond International Raceway, concluding the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series regular season.  Keselowski crossed the line well ahead of Jeff Gordon and Clint Bowyer for his fourth win of the season.  The Chase's "Challenger Round" begins this week at Chicagoland Speedway.

Horschel Captures BMW Championship Win

 width=Billy Horschel finished with a one-under 69 on Sunday to win the BMW Championship at Cherry Hills Country Club.  Horschel finished two shots ahead of Masters champion Bubba Watson, who posted a four-under 66 and was alone in second place at minus-12.  Morgan Hoffmann finished in third place at 11-under.  With the victory, Horschel climbs to second in the FedExCup points standings.  He's nine points back of Chris Kirk while Bubba Watson is third and Rory McIlroy sits fourth heading into next week's season-ending Tour Championship in Atlanta. 

Cardinals Win; Cubs, Sox Lose

 width=>>Cardinals Rock Brewers

(Milwaukee, WI) -- Adam Wainwright fired a complete game and allowed one run as the Cardinals rolled the Brewers 9-1 at Miller Park. Wainwright improved to 17-and-9 with three strikeouts and one walk. Jhonny Peralta hit a two-run homer in the win and Matt Carpenter added two RBI. The Cardinals lead the NL Central by four-and-a-half games over Pittsburgh. Carlos Gomez drove in the lone run in a pinch-hit single for Milwaukee, which remains a half-game out of the second Wild Card spot. Jimmy Nelson fell to 2-and-7 after allowing four runs in five frames.

>>Pirates Top Cubs

(Chicago, IL) -- Gerrit Cole tossed six-plus innings of four-run ball as the Pirates topped the Cubs 10-4 to sweep the three-game series at Wrigley Field. Cole improved to 8-and-5 while hitting a two-run homer. Neil Walker, Jordy Mercer and Andrew McCutchen also went deep for Pittsburgh, which is four-and-a-half games back of St. Louis for first in the NL Central. The Bucs are half a game up on the Braves and Brewers for the second Wild Card spot. Travis Wood gave up seven runs in under two innings for the loss. Mike Olt was 3-for-3 with a run and an RBI for Chicago.

 width=>>Indians Top White Sox

(Cleveland, OH) -- Carlos Carrasco tossed eight-and-two-thirds innings of four-hit ball as the Indians blanked the White Sox 2-0 from Cleveland. Carrasco improved to 7-and-4 while Cleveland swept the Sox. Michael Brantley was 2-for-3 with an RBI for the Tribe. Cody Allen locked up his 19th save. Cleveland sits three-and-a-half games behind Seattle for the second Wild Card spot. Scott Carroll allowed two runs in seven innings for the loss. Chicago has lost four straight.

MLB National League
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Miami Marlins 4, Atlanta Braves 0
New York Mets 4, Cincinnati Reds 3
Washington Nationals 3, Philadelphia Phillies 2
Colorado Rockies 6, San Diego Padres 0
Los Angeles Dodgers 7, Arizona Diamondbacks 2

MLB American League
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Cleveland Indians 2, Chicago White Sox 0
Kansas City Royals 2, New York Yankees 0
Toronto Blue Jays 3, Boston Red Sox 1
Baltimore Orioles 7, Tampa Bay Rays 5 (11 inn)
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 14, Minnesota Twins 4
Texas Rangers 1, Seattle Mariners 0
Houston Astros 4, Oakland Athletics 3

MLB Interleague
------
Detroit Tigers 6, San Francisco Giants 1

>>Yankees Hold Elaborate Ceremony On "Derek Jeter Day"

(Bronx, NY) -- "Derek Jeter Day" in New York will be remembered as one of the most elaborate player ceremonies ever. Retiring Yankee captain Derek Jeter was honored before Sunday's game against the Royals, with the festivities lasting nearly an hour. Among those on hand were NBA legend Michael Jordan, baseball Hall of Famers Cal Ripken Jr., Reggie Jackson and Joe Torre [[ TORE-ee ]], plus new commissioner Rob Manfred. Jeter was presented with numerous gifts, including a check for 222-thousand-222-dollars and 22 cents for his Turn 2 Foundation. The Yankees also unveiled a 30-foot banner of the 40-year-old shortstop, and three NASA astronauts tipped their cap to Jeter from space.

Bears, Rams, Colts Lose

 width=>>Bills Take Down Bears In OT

(Chicago, IL) -- Dan Carpenter kicked a 27-yard field goal in overtime to send the Bills to a 23-20 win over the Bears at Soldier Field in Chicago. It was Carpenter's third field goal of the game. C.J. Spiller ran for 53 yards and caught a touchdown while EJ Manuel threw for 173 yards with the TD and one interception. Fred Jackson ran for 61 yards in the win for Buffalo. Robbie Gould tied the game with a field goal in the final minute for Chicago, which had three turnovers. Jay Cutler threw for 349 yards with two interceptions and two scores while Matt Forte ran for 82 yards and had another 87 yards receiving. Brandon Marshall had eight catches for 71 yards and a TD while Martellus Bennett also hauled in a score in the loss.

>>Vikings Blow Away Rams

 width=(St. Louis, MO) -- Wide receiver Cordarrelle [[ core-DARE-ull ]] Patterson had 102 yards rushing with a touchdown as the Vikings exploded for a 34-6 win over the Rams at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis. Patterson also had 26 yards receiving while Matt Cassel threw for 170 yards and two touchdowns. Greg Jennings had 58 yards on six catches with a TD while Adrian Peterson ran for 75 yards for Minnesota. Harrison Smith took an interception back 81 yards for a score late in the fourth to seal the win. Shaun Hill threw for 81 yards and an interception before suffering a thigh injury and giving way to Austin Davis, who was 16-of-23 for 192 yards and an interception. Brian Quick had seven catches for 99 yards in the loss.

>>Manning Gets Win Against Former Team

(Denver, CO) -- Peyton Manning and the Broncos pulled out a 31-24 win against his former team, the Colts at Mile High on "Sunday Night Football." Manning and Julius Thomas connected on three second quarter touchdowns helping Denver jump out to a 24-0 lead. Manning finished with 269 yards through the air and Thomas was on the receiving end of 104 of them. Montee Ball added a three-yard TD run in the fourth quarter and finished with 67 yards on the ground. Andrew Luck attempted to manufacture one of his patented fourth quarter comebacks, but fell short. Luck found Dwayne Allen and Hakeem Nicks for touchdowns in the final eight minutes, but a fourth-down pass to Reggie Wayne fell incomplete with less then two minutes left to end the rally. The former number-one pick out of Stanford compiled 270 yards, two TDs and two interceptions. Wayne hauled in nine catches for 98 yards in the defeat.

NFL
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Atlanta Falcons 37, New Orleans Saints 34 (OT)
Pittsburgh Steelers 30, Cleveland Browns 27
Philadelphia Eagles 34, Jacksonville Jaguars 17
New York Jets 19, Oakland Raiders 14
Cincinnati Bengals 23, Baltimore Ravens 16
Houston Texans 17, Washington Redskins 6
Tennessee Titans 26, Kansas City Chiefs 10
Miami Dolphins 33, New England Patriots 20
Carolina Panthers 20, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 14
San Francisco 49ers 28, Dallas Cowboys 17

>>Lacy Clears First Stage

(Green Bay, WI) -- Packers running back Eddie Lacy cleared the first step of the NFL's concussion protocol on Friday. Lacy left the opening contest on Thursday with a concussion in the fourth quarter. Green Bay plays the New York Jets on Sunday and the team is hopeful the running back will be ready to play.

>>Giants, Lions Look To Bounce Back From Disappointing Seasons

(Detroit, MI) -- Two teams looking to bounce back from disappointing 2013 seasons meet up in the first game of a "Monday Night Football" doubleheader as the New York Giants face the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. The G-Men stumbled out of the gate last year to an 0-and-6 start and couldn't recover, finishing 7-and-9 in the NFC East. The Giants ranked just 28th in the league in points last year, while leading the NFL with 44 turnovers. Longtime offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride retired, with Ben McAdoo coming over from Green Bay to take over this season. The Lions started 6-and-3 last year, but lost six of their final seven games to miss out on the playoffs at 7-and-9. It was the 13th time in 14 years the Lions failed to reach the postseason. Detroit fired head coach Jim Schwartz after the season and replaced him with former Colts head coach Jim Caldwell. The Lions lost to the Giants 23-20 in overtime in Week 16 last year.

>>Chargers, Cardinals Square Off On "MNF"

(Glendale, AZ) -- After finishing the preseason against one another, the San Diego Chargers and Arizona Cardinals meet to open the regular season as the second half of a "Monday Night Football" doubleheader at University of Phoenix Stadium. Riding the arm of quarterback Philip Rivers, the Chargers won their final four games of last season to sneak into the playoffs as an AFC Wild Card at 9-and-7. The Bolts then beat Cincinnati before falling to eventual AFC champion Denver in the divisional round. Rivers threw for nearly 45-hundred yards and 32 touchdowns last season. The Cardinals know every game is precious after missing out on the postseason last year despite a 10-and-6 record. Carson Palmer returns under center for Arizona after passing for a career-high 4,274 yards and 24 touchdowns a year ago. The Cardinals' defense will try to overcome the absence of defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in practice, and stud linebacker Daryl Williams, who is suspended for the entire season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

College Football Notes

>>Virginia Tech Upsets #7 Ohio State

(Columbus, OH) -- Virginia Tech rolled into Columbus and upended seventh-ranked Ohio State 35-21 to provide college football with its first major upset of the season. Donovan Riley took an interception 63 yards for a touchdown in the final minute to seal victory for the Hokies, who improved to 2-and-0. Michael Brewer threw for 199 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the win. J.T. Barrett was intercepted three times and finished with 211 yards passing and one TD for the Buckeyes. Barrett also ran for 70 yards and a score as OSU fell to 1-and-1.

 width=>>Top Teams Unchanged In "USA Today" Poll

(Undated) -- The top-five college football teams remain unchanged in the latest "USA Today" Coaches Poll. Florida State, Alabama, Oklahoma, Oregon and Auburn make up the top teams in the nation. Georgia moved up from eighth to sixth while Baylor is up to seventh from the ninth spot. After a road loss to Oregon, Michigan State fell from sixth down to 13th. Texas A&M, LSU and USC round out of the top-ten while Notre Dame moved up to 11th after thrashing Michigan. Virginia Tech jumped into the polls at 19th after cruising past Ohio State on the road, though the Buckeyes remain one spot ahead of the Hokies. OSU fell from seventh to 18th.

>>USC's Haden Issues Apology

(Los Angeles, CA) -- USC athletic director Pat Haden is trying to make amends for his behavior during the Trojans win over Stanford on Saturday. Haden was caught on camera arguing with an official on the sideline. The AD released a statement through the school that stated "I apologized to Commissioner Scott, to the game officials, to Stanford and to the fans for any distraction I might have caused during Saturday's football game. In retrospect, I should not have approached the game officials. I should have waited until after the game and gone through the appropriate channels. In the best interests of our team and our coaches, I will stay off the sidelines for our next games." The 2-and-0 Trojans are at Boston College on Saturday.

Wisconsin Pounds Western Illinois

 width=Tanner McEvoy overcame a slow start to throw for three touchdowns and run for another, and No. 18 Wisconsin pulled away from second-tier Western Illinois to win its home opener 37-3 Saturday.

Melvin Gordon ran for just 38 yards on 17 carries with the Fighting Leathernecks (1-1) consistently stacking the box against one of the country's best rushers. McEvoy shook off a couple bad throws early to finish 23 of 28 for 283 yards with one interception.

Leading just 9-3 at halftime, the Badgers (1-1) opened things by throwing on first down and using more play-action.

McEvoy hit fullback Austin Ramesh on fourth-and-2 for a 3-yard touchdown pass with 9:18 left in the third quarter before connecting with Gordon on an 8-yard scoring pass three minutes later for a 20-point lead.

Western Illinois could only muster a 29-yard field goal by Nathan Knuffman in the first half.

Southern Illinois Rallies Past Eastern Illinois

 width=Malcolm Agnew ran for 147 yards and three touchdowns, Mark Iannotti threw for two more and Southern Illinois rallied in the second half to beat Eastern Illinois 38-21 on Saturday night.

Trailing 21-14 in the third quarter, SIU (2-0) scored 24 straight points to take control of the game and held Eastern Illinois scoreless in the second half to cement the win. Agnew had 18 carries in the game, punching in scores from the 2, 32 and 24. Iannotti was 25 of 34 for 233 yards and an interception.

LaSteven McKinney hauled in the go-ahead TD catch, a 19-yarder with 10:12 to go in the third quarter, and Hans Carmien had a 2-yard touchdown grab in the fourth. Thomas Kinney had a 50-yard field goal.

Andrew Manley was 19 of 30 for 240 yards, including a touchdown and two interceptions for Eastern Illinois (0-2), while Adam Drake had nine catches for 139 yards.

Illinois State Crushes Mississippi Valley State

 width=Marshaun Coprich ran for a career-high 169 yards and two touchdowns to help Illinois State beat Mississippi Valley State 62-0 on Saturday night.

Illinois State (1-0) racked up 656 total yards - the fifth most in school history - including 356 yards rushing and recorded its first shutout since beating Murray State 42-0 in 2005.

Patrick Ivy intercepted a pass from DraShane Glass on Mississippi Valley State's first possession, setting up the first of two rushing touchdowns by Redbirds quarterback Tre Roberson with 10:28 left in the first quarter.

Roberson completed 10 of 15 passes for 204 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. He added 41 yards rushing on seven carries.

James Graham finished with 115 yards rushing in his first collegiate action.

Four Mississippi Valley State players combined to go 6-of-15 passing for 36 yards and the Delta Devils (1-1) converted on 2 of 15 third downs.

Illini Win Shootout With Western Kentucky

 width=Illinois quarterback Wes Lunt threw for three touchdowns and Taylor Barton returned an interception for a late score to secure a comeback win over Western Kentucky Saturday, 42-34.

Lunt was 35 of 50 with one interception for the Illini (2-0).

Barton picked off Hilltopper quarterback Brandon Doughty in the fourth quarter for a 77-yard touchdown that put Illinois up 35-27.

Illinois trailed 17-7 late in the second quarter on a 16-yard touchdown pass from Doughty to tight end Tyler Higbee.

Western Kentucky (1-1) went ahead again in the third quarter on a 95-yard fumble return by cornerback Wonderful Terry

Hilltopper running back Leon Allen finished with 118 yards on 24 carries and a touchdown. Doughty was 28 of 48 for 297 yards, a touchdown and the interception.

Illinois wide receiver Justin Hardee caught six balls for 110 yards and one touchdown.

Clinton Police Weekend Report

CITATIONS 9/05/14
HEATHER L. PERRING 27, CLINTON NO VALID DRIVERS LICENSE. NOTICE TO APPEAR ISSUED
MARY C DIVERDE 33, CLINTON NO VALID REGISTRATION, OPERATING MOTOR VEHICLE WHEN REGISTRATION SUSPENDED FOR NON INSURANCE. BOND POSTED

ON 9/6/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED MONE D. BROWN 21, DECATUR ON A MACON COUNTY WARRANT. BROWN WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

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

Clinton Teen Passes Away Saturday Night

 width=At approximately 5:30pm Saturday evening, the Clinton Police Department along with Dewitt County EMS and Clinton Fire Dept, repsonded to 101 Aspen Drive to investigate the report of an unresponsive victim. Subsequent investigation by Clinton PD and the Dewitt County Coroner, Randy Rice, revealed a deceased juvenile male.

Clinton Police Chief Ben Lowers indicates the investigation has been turned over to the coroner's office.

Due to the sensitive nature of the circumstances and a juvenile victim, Clinton Police do not intend to release the name or any further details of the incident at this time.

Coronor records indicate 17-year old Evan Workman of Clinton, passed away Saturday evening. A phone call to Conoror Randy Rice did not get immediately returned.

This story will be updated.

Local McDonald's Restaurants Honoring Service Men and Women

 width=In honor of the 13th anniversary of September 11, central Illinois McDonald's locations will be honoring area service men and women.

September 8 through the 12, area service men and women can take an official government issued identification card to their local McDonald's and receive a free small McCafe Smoothie. According to Mikel Petro, Part Owner and Operator of the Milan/Petro organization, owners of McDonald's restaurants across central Illinois, the service men and women they will be serving includes fire fighters, police officers and EMS workers.

[audio:9914smoothies1.mp3] [/audio]

He adds this is just one way they can show their appreciation for those who serve and protect communities across the area.

[audio:9914smoothies2.mp3] [/audio]

Any fire fighter, police officer, and EMS worker can bring their valid state-issued identification card to their local McDonald's and receive a free Small McCafe Smoothie now until Friday at locations across central Illinois.

Clinton Schools Leader Reacts To Death of Student

 width=The head of the Clinton School district says the death of 17-year old Evan Workman "is a tragedy above any proportion I could have thought".

The Clinton community learned late Saturday evening of the death of Workman and Superintendent Dr. Jeff Holmes says when he was first informed by Principal Jerry Wayne of the news he was left speechless and devastated.

[audio:9914workmanremember1.mp3] [/audio]

Upon learning of the passing, Wayne opened up the high school for students to come and gather to remember and share their stories. Dr. Holmes says Wayne has always preached making the high school a family, and he applauds his efforts over the weekend to bring together the students and staff who make up that family.

[audio:9914workmanremember2.mp3] [/audio]

To remember Workman, Wayne has encouraged his students to write or draw things to remember Evan. Those pieces will be put together in a scrap book and given to his parents, Randy and Tammy Workman of Clinton. There is also a banner up in the high school commons to remember Evan.

[audio:9914workmanremember3.mp3] [/audio]

Dr. Holmes indicates over 25 counselors are on hand this week at the school to talk with students. He explains the high school's auditorium has been opened up to students who need someone to talk to.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Calvert Funeral Homes of Clinton. Visitation will be held from 5-8 on Wednesday at the Clinton High School gymnasium. The funeral will be held at 11am on Thursday and the First Christian Church in Clinton with Ernie Harvey, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Clinton, IL.

Memorials can be made to the Evan B Workman Memorial Fund.

State to Offer Seal of Biliteracy


FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER…THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION IS OFFERING A BACK TO SCHOOL WEBINAR FOR PARENTS.

THE BOARD IS TEAMING UP WITH THE ILLINOIS P-T-A TO HOST THE WEB CONFERENCE ON SEPTEMBER NINTH WHICH SPOKESPERSON MARY FERGUS SAYS WILL COVER A VARIETY OF TOPICS.

[audio:biliteracy.mp3] [/audio]

THE WEBINAR WILL ALSO DISCUSS LEARNING STANDARDS AND NEW STANDARDIZED TESTING. IT WILL BE HELD AT SEVEN P-M ON TUESDAY. TO REGISTER, VISIT THE WEBSITE: ISBE DOT NET AND LOOK FOR THE WEBINAR LINK.

State Board of Education to Offer Back-To-School WEBinar

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER…THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION IS OFFERING A BACK TO SCHOOL WEBINAR FOR PARENTS.

THE BOARD IS TEAMING UP WITH THE ILLINOIS P-T-A TO HOST THE WEB CONFERENCE ON SEPTEMBER NINTH WHICH SPOKESPERSON MARY FERGUS SAYS WILL COVER A VARIETY OF TOPICS.

[audio:webinar.mp3] [/audio]

THE WEBINAR WILL ALSO DISCUSS LEARNING STANDARDS AND NEW STANDARDIZED TESTING. IT WILL BE HELD AT SEVEN P-M ON TUESDAY. TO REGISTER, VISIT THE WEBSITE: ISBE DOT NET AND LOOK FOR THE WEBINAR LINK.

Weekly Weather Update


It was a warm, wet week across Illinois this week and according to State Climotologist Jim Angel, after some Friday rain showers, we're in store for cooler temperatures throughout the weekend into next week.

 

[audio:wx.mp3] [/audio]

Local Football Scores, Many Games Postponed

Football scores from around the area:

Bloomington 16 Pekin 20

Champaign Central 41 Dunlap 14

Indianapolis Shortridge, IN 21 Champaign St. Thomas Moore 7

Metamora 8 Morris 12

Morton 21 Urbana 20

Peoria Manual 46 East Moline United 32

Peoria Richwoods 35 Rock Island 14

Princeville 55 Peoria Heights 0

Baum Recovering Following Motorcycle Accident

 width=A Clinton businessman is in Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, after a motorcycle accident in mid-August in the western United States that shattered his right leg.

Scott Baum was riding with several other Clinton residents who also were on motorcycles, in Kingman, Arizona on August 18th, when Baum took a spill and his motorcycle landed on his right leg.

The impact shattered the leg bones into many pieces. He was airlifted from Kingman to University Medical Center in Las Vegas.

Doctors stabilized the leg enough for him to be flown to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, where he was admitted August 27th.

Since being there, specialists have had to perform several skin grafts on the leg. Another round of grafts are scheduled for this week.

Baum and his family own and operate the Chevrolet and Buick dealership in Clinton.

Influential Education Group Announces Endorsements

An influential education reform group is announcing its endorsement and financial backing of nearly two dozen Illinois legislative candidates in the November election.

Stand for Children is an Oregon-based education reform group that was instrumental in the passage of a 2011 law making it tougher for teachers to strike and for performance evaluations to be a major factor in achieving tenure.

The group has $1.8 million in its war chest. It has been backed in the past by GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner (ROW'-nur), but is only making endorsements in legislative races.

Stand for Children is backing 20 House candidates and two Senate candidates, with endorsements evenly split between Republicans and Democrats.

Government affairs director Jessica Handy tells The Associated Press all candidates favor school funding reform to some degree.

Democrats Once Again Blast Rauner Money

Democrats are taking another jab at Bruce Rauner's wealth.  Governor Quinn's running mate, Paul Vallas, says Rauner is too rich to be governor because he can't relate to the needs of working families.  For example, he says Rauner's plan to tax things like mini-storage and printing services would be a big burden on people who earn modest incomes.  Vallas is also slamming Rauner for wanting to lower the minimum wage at one point.  Rauner was caught on video making that point last year but he has since switched positions on the issue.  Now he says he'll support a minimum wage increase if lawmakers make several pro-business reforms. 

Cross Slams Frerichs For Skipping Out On Taxes

State Representative Tom Cross says voters should question whether his opponent in the race for Treasurer can handle the job.

[audio:rddCrossTax11.mp3] [/audio]

Cross is referring to state senator Mike Frerichs, who's planning to spend more than a-million bucks on TV ads in the next two months. Cross points out that Frerichs skipped out on paying the taxes on his legislative office in Champaign for six years. Frerichs paid the 18-hundred-dollar tab last month after reporters uncovered the deficit. Frerichs' aides say he thought he was exempt from paying the bill because the office space is used strictly for public purposes.

Strawberry Farmers May Get Help For Lost Crop

Strawberry farmers are getting a break after Mother Nature gave the state's crop a pretty good beating this year. Frank Butler, with Strawberry Acres in Danville, says he lost his entire crop when a storm rolled through just before harvest time.

[audio:rddStrawberry11.mp3] [/audio]

Butler says about 60-thousand strawberry plants were wiped out back on May 21st. He and strawberry farmers in six Illinois counties may be eligible for low-interest emergency loans to help cover their costs. Federal Ag officials have issued disaster declarations for Champaign, Douglas, Edgar, Ford and Iroquois, and Vermillion counties. Those who suffered crop losses from the May 21st storm have eight months to apply for loans through the Farm Service Agency.

Peoria Diocese Says Sheen Cononization Bid Stalls

The Catholic Diocese of Peoria says a bid to canonize the late Archbishop Fulton Sheen - an Illinois native - is stalled indefinitely.

Reports indicate Peoria Bishop Daniel Jenky sought to have Sheen's body brought to Peoria to be inspected, and for relics to have been collected as part of the canonization process. But the Archdiocese of New York won't release Sheen's body to the Peoria diocese as part of the process.

Advocates who want Sheen to be made a saint have finished an investigation into a miracle they attribute to Sheen.

Sheen died in 1979 and is entombed in New York, where he spent much of his career and gained national fame for his radio and television commentaries.

The New York archdiocese isn't commenting publicly.

University of Illinois Chancellor Says Hiring Process Needs To Change

University of Illinois Chancellor Phyllis Wise says the faculty hiring process should change amid an ongoing controversy over the decision to rescind a job offer to one professor.

According to reports, Wise says new professors shouldn't be working before they've been approved by the Board of Trustees.

The university recently decided not to hire Virginia Tech University professor Steven Salaita over a series of profane anti-Israel Twitter messages that some students and university donors say were also anti-Semitic.

Salaita accepted a job offer at Illinois and would have started teaching last month, before the board considered his hire.

Salaita's backers claim he was already essentially hired and should have the job. Several departments have approved votes of no confidence in Wise.

Wise hopes to heal the rift on campus.

University of Illinois May Consider More Financial Aid

A top administrator says the University of Illinois may need to increase its spending on financial aid after watching growing numbers of students decide to go elsewhere because of rising costs.

According to university spokesman Tom Hardy, Vice President for Academic Affairs Christophe Pierre said during a board of trustees committee meeting Wednesday the money could come from increasing the enrollment in higher-tuition programs such as engineering or adding higher-paying international students at the Chicago campus.

Hardy says students who are accepted but decide not to enroll usually cite costs. They often get better aid packages from other public or private schools.

A year of tuition at the Urbana-Champaign campus costs $12,036. Four years of tuition, room and board tops $100,000.

IWU Looking For Youth To Step Up Big In 2014

 width=A perrenial power in NCAA Division III football opens their season this weekend with a lot of questions.

Illinois Wesleyan football coach Norm Eash has helped the Titans become one of the country's most highly-regarded and respected teams in the NCAA Division III. He is looking forward to what the upcoming season has for him and his Titans. Eash will not have his thirty-two seniors he had last year, which he says will be different when it comes to having a team that isn't as experienced as it was last year.

[audio:9514IWU1.mp3] [/audio]

The 5-time "Coach of the Year" explains with all of the new talent, there will be many changes to what they do. He says it's important to work with the talent you have and have a system fit to their skills.

[audio:9514IWU2.mp3] [/audio]

With new players comes new problems with how to deal with the pressure these freshman will be dealing with. Eash says when putting true freshman out on the varsity can sometimes be a coin toss because how each player transitions to the college game varies.

[audio:9514IWU3.mp3] [/audio]

The Titans biggest question comes at the quarterback position, where for the first time in many years, Coach Esh and the Titans will turn to a freshman. Jack Warner will lead the team under center Saturday afternoon. Coach Eash says the kids respond well to Warner and feels Warner is more than capable of leading the offense in 2014.

The Titans will be playing their first game at home against Franklin College at 1PM. Coach Eash calls this year's non-conference schedule the toughest he's had in his 20-plus years at Wesleyan. The Titans will hit the road the next two weeks and head to Albion College in Michigan and then to Simpson College in Iowa.

Big Brothers, Big Sisters of DeWitt County Seeking In School Mentors

The local Big Brothers Big Sisters organzization has begun their in-school mentoring programs for the fall in DeWitt County.

Several high schoolers have already started to mentor in local schools around Clinton and Farmer City but Brie Weaver, Program Manager with BBBS, hopes those mentors who began in the spring will also continue to volunteer into this school year.

[audio:9514mentors1.mp3] [/audio]

Mentors for BBBS go through a thorough an extensive application process before being approved. Weaver explains background checks are done after applications are submitted. She stresses they want to make sure every mentor is suitable to work closely with a child.

[audio:9514mentors2.mp3] [/audio]

The need for mentors in DeWitt County is great because there is a waiting list for several kids at the moment. Weaver explains there will be an informational meeting September 17th at the Warner Vespasian Library regarding mentoring and other BBBS topics.

[audio:9514mentors3.mp3] [/audio]

Anyone interested in being a mentor can contact the Clinton Office at 217-935-1234 or contact Weaver at b.weaver@bbbscil.org.

County Board Approves Special Budget Session

The DeWitt County Board approved a motion for a special meeting regarding the county budget at their most recent meeting.

The County Board budget recently came under fire after Board Chair Sherrie Brown proposed 5% cuts across the entire county building. Board Member Camille Redman proposed an educational meeting on the budgeting process with Administrative Assistant Dee Dee Rentmeister, who has 25 years of experience dealing with the County Budget.

[audio:9514budget1.mp3] [/audio]

Board Member Terry Hoffman didn't think the procedure or the meeting with Rentmeister was necessary. He questioned why the Board would have a meeting when their budget was nearly double of the amount the county spends.

[audio:9514budget2.mp3] [/audio]

Redman question Hoffman regarding a finance meeting he sat through when he was running for County Board. She claims Hoffman got up and left when the topic turned to the budget but Hoffman says it didn't matter since he wasn't on the Board.

[audio:9514budget3.mp3] [/audio]

Brown took issue with the special meeting and the fact the current Board went through the Budget process last year but Board Member Danny Ballenger argues Brown presented the Board with a last minute budget in November.

[audio:9514budget4.mp3] [/audio]

The motion passed 7-3 with Brown, Hoffman and George Wismiller voting no. Board Member Keith Koons was absent at the August 21st meeting.

Last chance to make the Chase

 width=It's now or never for a lot of drivers if they want to clinch a spot in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship.

Just two positions remain in the 16-driver Chase field, as the Sprint Cup Series concludes its 26-race regular season on Saturday night at Richmond International Raceway.

Kasey Kahne punched his ticket into the playoffs by earning his first win of the season this past Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. With his Hendrick Motorsports teammates Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson already locked in, Kahne had been under a lot of pressure to make the Chase. Prior to Atlanta, he was 33 points behind Greg Biffle for the 16th and final spot on the provisional Chase grid.

McIlroy, Spieth, Woodland share lead at Cherry Hills

 width=World No. 1 Rory McIlroy opened with a 3-under 67 on Thursday and was tied for the lead when the first round of the BMW Championship was suspended because of bad weather.

McIlroy was joined atop the leaderboard at Cherry Hills Country Club by Jordan Spieth and Gary Woodland. McIlroy won the Open Championship and PGA Championship among his three PGA Tour victories in 2014.

U.S. Open champion Martin Kaymer is one of nine players tied at 2-under. He stands alongside Sergio Garcia, Graham DeLaet, Matt Every, Billy Horschel, Kevin Chappell, Russell Henley and Chesson Hadley. Henrik Stenson was also at 2-under through 17 holes when play was suspended due to lightning in the area.

Justin Rose, the 2011 winner, managed a 1-under 69 and was tied with Erik Compton, K.J. Choi, Charles Howell III, Ryan Palmer, Chris Stroud and Hideki Matsuyama.

Jerry Kelly and 2008 champion Camilo Villegas are also 1-under par, but have two holes and one hole remaining in their opening rounds.

The round was suspended with nine players left on the course and will resume at 1 p.m. ET on Friday.

Florida State Investigating Jameis Winston

 width=Florida State University is following through on a required investigation into Heisman-winning quarterback Jameis [[ JAME-iss ]] Winston. The "Tampa Bay Times" reports FSU has restarted its Title Nine investigation into the rape allegations of Winston from nearly 21 months ago. The law states schools must investigate alleged sex crimes, whether law enforcement investigates them or not. The school interviewed Winston's female accuser in August, and asked for a detailed account of the allegations. The accuser's attorney, John Clune, expects code of conduct charges to be brought against Winston. If found to be in violation of FSU's code of conduct, Winston could face anywhere from expulsion from school to probation or a verbal reprimand. The university has not made any indication that will happen.

Last December, a Tallahassee prosecutor said they lacked evidence from the 2012 incident to charge Winston, who went on to win the Heisman Trophy and lead his team to the national championship in January.

Seahawks Crush Packers; Bears, Rams, Colts Open Seasons Sunday

 width=>>Seahawks Crush Packers To Open 2014 Season

(Seattle, WA) -- The Seahawks picked up right where they left off in dominating the Packers, 36-16, to kick off the 2014 NFL season at CenturyLink Field. Marshawn Lynch led the way for the defending Super Bowl champions, scoring two touchdowns and rushing for 110 yards on 20 carries. Russell Wilson completed 19-of-28 passes for 191 yards, two scores and no turnovers. Percy Harvin compiled seven catches for 59 yards and four rushes for 41 yards. Seattle outgained the Packers 398 yards to 255. Aaron Rodgers was held to 189 yards through the air with a touchdown, interception and he was sacked three times. Running back Eddie Lacy left the game with a concussion. Randall Cobb caught a TD and John Kuhn got into the endzone in the defeat.

>>Packers' Lacy Leaves With Concussion

(Seattle, WA) -- Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy is dealing with a concussion after just one game. He left Thursday night's 36-16 season opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks with the injury. Lacy was held to just 34 yards on 12 carries. He will have to go through the NFL's concussion protocol before he can return to action. The Packers host the New York Jets in their home opener a week from Sunday.

>>Packers O-Lineman Bulaga Exits Early

(Seattle, WA) -- The Green Bay Packers are without starting offensive lineman Bryan Bulaga for the rest of the season opener. He left in the first half with a knee injury. The fifth-year man out of Iowa was replaced by Derek Sherrod at right tackle. Bulaga spent the entire 2013 season on injured reserve with a knee injury. He started 33 of the first 37 games in his career.

 width=>>Bears, Bills Clash From Soldier Field

(Chicago, IL) -- The Chicago Bears welcome the Buffalo Bills to Soldier Field, looking to rebound from just missing the playoffs in 2013. The Bears enter their second season under head coach Marc Trestman, following an 8-and-8 year where they fell to the Green Bay Packers in Week 17 that cost them the NFC North crown. Jay Cutler enters his sixth season under center for Chicago. He is the franchise's all-time leading passer with nearly 15-thousand yards. The team boasts two one-thousand-yard receivers in Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery from 2013. Buffalo enters its second season under coach Doug Marrone [[ mah-ROAN ]] and second-year QB E.J. Manuel. The team has posted back-to-back-to-back 6-and-10 seasons, and has not been above .500 since 2004. Buffalo is excited about its offense with Manuel and 2014 first-round pick, wideout Sammy Watkins. The Bills enter their first season without owner Ralph Wilson, who passed away in the offseason.

 width=>>Rams Try To Push Past Bradford Injury Against Vikings

(St. Louis, MO) -- The St. Louis Rams open up the 2014 season with a different look at the most important position when the Vikings invade the Edward Jones Dome Sunday afternoon. St. Louis lost starting quarterback Sam Bradford during the third week of the preseason and he will be replaced by veteran Shaun Hill. Hill hasn't started a game since he played for the Lions in 2010. The Rams are coming off their second consecutive seven-win season as they try to break through in the difficult NFC West. Minnesota first-year head coach Mike Zimmer decided to go with veteran QB Matt Cassel instead of rookie Teddy Bridgewater. The Vikings look to help Cassel out with an improved offense under coordinator Norv Turner. Turner will have star running back Adrian Peterson at his disposal along with potential breakout candidates in second-year wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson and tight end Kyle Rudolph. Minnesota stumbled to a 5-10-and-1 record in 2013.

>>Manning Welcomes Luck To Mile High

(Denver, CO) -- Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos look for revenge against Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts under the bright lights of NBC's "Sunday Night Football" at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Colts handed Denver its first loss of 2013 after a 6-and-0 start. The Broncos went on to a 13-and-3 season and advanced all the way to the Super Bowl before they were embarrassed by the Seahawks. To get over the hump, linebacker DeMarcus Ware, cornerback Aqib Talib and safety T.J. Ward were added to the defense. Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders was signed to replace the departed Eric Decker, but he will be asked to do even more with Wes Welker suspended the first four weeks for a drug violation. Indianapolis is shooting for its third straight playoff appearance in Luck's third year at the helm. The Colts have finished 11-and-5 each of the previous two seasons. Wide receiver Reggie Wayne and tight end Dwyane Allen return from injuries that kept them out for significant chunks of last season to help diversify the offense.

>>Colts Visit With RB Leshoure

(Indianapolis, IN) -- The Colts may be looking to add some depth in the running game. NFL.com says the team had a visit with former Lions running back Mikel Leshoure. He was waived last month as the teams were cutting rosters for the regular season.

 width=>>Chris Long Restructures Deal With Rams

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams and defensive end Chris Long are creating more salary cap space for the upcoming season. ESPN reports St. Louis and Long have agreed to restructure his contract. The team will convert three-million-dollars of his 2014 salary into a signing bonus. The move allows them to spread out the cap hit over the 2015 and 2016 seasons, saving two-million against this year's salary cap. Long agreed to a four-year, 50-million-dollar contract extension in 2012.

>>Vikings' Peterson Predicts TD On First Run

(Eden Prairie, MN) -- Like baseball legend Babe Ruth, Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is calling his shot. With prompting from reporters, Peterson predicted Thursday he would score on his first carry of the season Sunday against the Rams. Peterson said he told some teammates that same thing last year and then ripped off a 78-yard touchdown run on his first play against the Lions. After initially saying he hopes this year works out the same way, he put it out there saying, "Yeah, I might as well speak it. Touchdown. First run."

>>Texans' Clowney Cleared From Concussion

(Houston, TX) -- The top selection from the NFL Draft is ready to go for Week One. Houston Texans pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney has cleared the league's concussion protocol and is set to face Washington in Sunday's season opener. Clowney suffered the head injury in Houston's second preseason game against the Broncos, and sat out the final two exhibition games. The Texans selected Clowney first overall out of South Carolina in May.

Cards Top Reeling Brewers

 width=>>Cards Clip Reeling Brewers

(Milwaukee, WI) -- Kolten Wong's RBI-single in the third inning held up as the Cardinals clipped the reeling Brewers 3-2 in the first of four games at Miller Park. Yadier Molina had a two-run single in the first for St. Louis, which won its sixth straight and increased its NL Central lead to four games over Milwaukee. Marco Gonzales picked up the win and Trevor Rosenthal earned his 42nd save. Rickie Weeks homered and Jonathan Lucroy doubled in the other run for the Crew, who have lost nine in-a-row and are now tied with Atlanta for the second NL Wild Card spot. Wily Peralta allowed all three runs in six frames to fall to 15-and-10 with the loss.

MLB National League
------
Arizona Diamondbacks 5, San Diego Padres 1

MLB American League
------
New York Yankees 5, Boston Red Sox 4
Detroit Tigers 11, Cleveland Indians 4 (11 inn)
Toronto Blue Jays 1, Tampa Bay Rays 0 (10 inn)
Seattle Mariners 10, Texas Rangers 2
LA Angels of Anaheim 5, Minnesota Twins 4

MLB Interleague
------
Baltimore Orioles 9, Cincinnati Reds 7

 width=>>Cubs Clash With Pirates

(Chicago, IL) -- The Cubs welcome in the Pirates today for the first of a three-game series at Wrigley Field. Tsuyoshi Wada toes the rubber for Chicago while Vance Worley goes for the Bucs. Pittsburgh took two of three the last time the teams met in June.

>>White Sox At Tribe

(Cleveland, OH) -- The White Sox start a three-game series at Cleveland tonight. Chris Sale gets the call for the Sox, who took one of three the last time the teams met in late August. T.J. House toes the rubber for the Indians.

>>D'backs Fire GM Towers

(San Diego, CA) -- The Arizona Diamondbacks are moving on without general manager Kevin Towers. AZCentral.com reports the team will announce the firing of Towers as the GM Friday morning. Towers was hired in 2010, and the team won 94 games and the National League West in his first full season. The D'backs went .500 with 81 wins in each of the last two seasons. The D'backs are 59-and-81 this season. The firing comes about four months since the team brought in Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa as the Chief Baseball Officer.

Illini Hosts Western Kentucky

 width=After a season-opening 28-17 victory over Youngstown State, the Illinois Fighting Illini will look to improve to 2-0 for the second-straight season when Western Kentucky comes to Memorial Stadium on Saturday at 11 a.m.

In the win over YSU, sophomore quarterback Wes Lunt turned in the best Illini quarterback debut in terms of passing yards (285) and touchdowns (4) in school history. His first three TD passes put the Illini back in front, while his final one sealed the victory. After a slow start, Lunt shined in the fourth quarter, going 9-of-11 for 155 yards and three touchdowns to notch his first fourth-quarter comeback win with the Fighting Illini.

Newcomers to the Illini receiving corps - Geronimo Allison, Mike Dudek, and Malik Turner - accounted for nine receptions, 146 yards and a touchdown in their debuts on Saturday, 51.2 percent of Lunt's 285 passing yards.

The Illini continue to maintain they need to start fast, and a fast start could be vital against a high powered Western Kentucky offense. The defensive focus for week 2 will be keep the passing game in check and try to force more turnovers, something Illinois has had trouble doing in the past.

Illinois State Opens Season At Home Versus Mississippi Valley State

 width=The Illinois State (0-0, 0-0 MVFC) football team will open its 2014 season in front of a home crowd at Hancock Stadium Saturday, Sept. 6 at 6:30 p.m., against the Delta Devils of Mississippi Valley State (1-0, 0-0 SWAC). Saturday's game marks the first meeting in program history between the two teams and the second competition against a Southwestern Athletic Conference member for the Redbirds.

Coming off its first sub-.500 season in the last five years, the Illinois State football team was picked to finish sixth in the 2014 Missouri Valley Football Conference preseason poll. Three-time defending national champion North Dakota State was selected first in the annual list selected by the league's head coaches, sports information directors and media.

High School Football Enters Week 2 Action

 width=Coming off a difficult 13-12 loss to Class 1A opponent Flanagan-Cornell in week 1, the Clinton Maroons hits the road tonight for a game at Fithian Oakwood. Fithian Oakwood is coming off a 40-6 loss to Carrollton in week 1.

Fithian Oakwood is coming off a 1-8 season in 2013.

Tonight's game can be heard live at approximately 7 pm. Tune in to The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW and online at dewittdailynews.com.

Other games on tap for week 2 in high school football...

Central State Eight

Decatur MacArthur at Springfield Lanphier
Lincoln at Chatham Glenwood
Rochester at Springfield (Sat.)
Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin at Decatur Eisenhower
Springfield (Southeast) at Jacksonville

Corn Belt

Eureka at Mahomet-Seymour
Normal U-High at Bloomington Central Catholic
Pontiac at Illinois Valley Central
Olympia at Prairie Central

Non-conference action for tonight...


Macomb at Monticello (Sat.)
Limestone at Taylorville
Decatur St. Teresa at Maroa-Forsyth
Cerro Gordo-Bement at Pawnee
Tri-Valley at Watseka
Bismarck-Henning at Paxton-Buckley-Loda
Bloomington at Pekin
Champaign Central at Dunlap
Chicago Collins Academy at East Peoria (Sat.)
Ridgeview at Jamaica Salt Fork
Georgetown-Ridge Farm at Tuscola
Indianapolis Shortridge, IN at Champaign St. Thomas More
Kincaid South Fork at Warrensburg-Latham
Meridian at Bunker Hill
Marion at Champaign Centennial
Martinsville at Arthur-Lovington
Metamora at Morris
Monmout-Roseville at Tolono Unity
Morton at Urbana (H.S.)
Central A & M at Illini West (Sat.)
Normal West at Belleville (East)
Mt. Olive at Sullivan-Okaw Valley
Normal Community at Belleville West
Peoria Manual at East Moline United
Peoria Richwoods at Rock Island
Princeville at Peoria Heights
Shelbyville at Rantoul
St. Joseph-Ogden at Clifton Central
Villa Grove at Argenta-Oreana
Washington at LaSalle-Peru

Clinton Maroons Football Improves To 1-1 On The Season

After a two hour rain delay in a game that saw some questionable officiating, Friday night's game
between the Clinton Maroons and the Fithian-Oakwood-Armstrong-Potomac Comets saw the Maroons
improve to 1-1 on the season in a spectacular showing.

Tanner White had thirteen carries for forty-one yards and one touchdown. He also was two for seven in
passing with forty-six yards and one interception. Alex Wheat carried the ball fourteen times for ninety-
nine yards with one touchdown. Eli Logue had two catches for eighty-one yards. Noah Griffen went two
for two passing finishing with forty-four yards.

Tune in to the Big 1520 AM Friday September 12th as the Maroons head in to Central Illinois
Conference action against Shelbyville to take on the Rams at 7:00 pm

Opponents of Illinois Mine Hope To Stop Permit

Opponents of a coal mine proposed for eastern Illinois are trying to muster opposition as state regulators consider whether to grant the operation a permit.

Sue Smith is a landowner in the Homer area and an opponent of Sunrise Coal's plan to open a mine near town. According to reports, she hopes people use the current public comment period to tell the Illinois Department of Natural Resources about their opposition.

The department's decision on the permit is the final step before Sunrise could open the mine. Homer is about 20 miles east of Champaign.

Opponents worry runoff from the mine could pollute the Salt Fork River.

Terre Haute, Indiana.-based Sunrise Coal says the mine would be heavily regulated and would bring an economic boost to the area.

SIUC Enrollment Up For First Time In Nine Years

It looks like SIU Carbondale may be out of a recruitment slump.  Officials say they have 25 more students coming in this year than they did last year.  That may not seem like a lot but the school has seen a drop in its enrollment over the last nine years.  There are 18-thousand students enrolled this year, more than 26-hundred are freshmen.  Another 18-hundred-40 are international students.

Springfield Development Organization Struggling

An economic development organization that's promoted Springfield's central business district for two decades is reaching out to the city for help covering the costs of major entertainment events.

Downtown Springfield Inc. is a not-for-profit organization funded largely by private investors.

The struggling organization has raised about $20,000 of the $50,000 it needs to operate through the end of the year.

Several of its summer events suffered losses, in part because of bad weather.

According to reports, Director Victoria Ringer says the organization doesn't expect cash from the city. But it wants help at major events with services like policing, cleanup and utilities.

Mayor Mike Houston sits on the organization's board of directors and says the city has helped where it could but that he is open to discussions.

Quinn Blasts Rauner Over Wine In New Ad

Governor Quinn's campaign team is blasting Bruce Rauner for spending 100-grand to join a wine club.  Quinn's latest ad shows someone pouring a glass of wine until it flows out onto the table.  No words are spoken in the ad but a "Washington Post" headline appears on the screen, claiming Rauner "spends more on wine than the average Illinois household spends on everything."  Rauner also released an ad today, blasting Quinn for rising property tax rates.  He promises to freeze the tax rates if he's elected governor.  Voters will likely start seeing the candidates throw many more jabs in radio, TV, and online ads as election season winds down. 

Rauner Leads Quinn In Latest Poll

A new poll puts Bruce Rauner ahead of Governor Quinn by eight-and-a-half-points in the race for the state's top job.  Rauner pulls in 45-percent of the support from those polled in the "Reboot Illinois, We Ask America" poll, compared to Quinn's 37-percent.   Rauner leads among women voters, as well as independent and downstate voters.  Quinn has a slight lead in suburban Cook County.  Seven percent of the respondents say they're backing the Libertarian candidate, Chad Grimm. 

Rauner Promises To Freeze Property Taxes

Bruce Rauner is promising to give homeowners a bit of relief on their property taxes if he's elected governor.

[audio:rddRaunerAd11.mp3] [/audio]

Rauner makes the promise in his latest ad, but doesn't lay out any details on how the plan will work or when it'll go into effect. The issue of property taxes isn't new to Springfield. Governor Quinn has promised to give homeowners a 500-dollar check by the end of the year to help offset the burden. Quinn and Rauner are in a heated race as they head into the final two months before the election. The latest poll puts Rauner up by eight-and-a-half points.

Quinn: Living On Minimum Wage Is Hard

Governor Quinn says he's had to cut back on his meals this week, while trying to live on a minimum wage budget.

[audio:rddWagesHard1.mp3] [/audio]

Quinn has been trying to stretch 79-dollars for the week, hoping to bring attention to the sacrifices and struggles that the minimum wage workers have to make. Republicans are criticizing his efforts, though. They say it's a political stunt designed to take the focus off the real issues facing the people of Illinois.

Jimmy Carter To Speak At Illinois College

Jimmy Carter is scheduled to speak next month at a liberal arts college in central Illinois.

Reports indicate the former president will be on campus at Illinois College on Oct. 14.

A spokesman for the Jacksonville-based school, Todd Spann, says details of Carter's visit will be worked out later.

The 89-year-old Democrat will speak as part of the Phi Alpha lecture series. It's named for a literary society at Illinois College. Previous speakers have included U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and journalist Helen Thomas.

Carter served in the White House from 1977 to 1981. He turns 90 on Oct. 1.

Illinois College is located about 35 miles west of Springfield.

ADM Sells Off Chocolate Business

 width=206 height=244 />Archer Daniels Midland is selling off its global chocolate business because of weak returns on cocoa.  Cargill has agreed to pick the company up with a price tag of 440-million dollars.  Cargill officials say the new acquisition will fit right in with their existing chocolate business and help them better serve their customers.  The sale is expected to close during the first half of 2015. </p>						</div>

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Rep. Mitchell Says Recent Program Evidence Why State is Broke

 width=State Representative Bill Mitchell (R-Forsyth) says if you want an example of why Illinois is broke, just look at the All-Kids program.

Rep. Mitchell points to a recent audit of the program by the state’s Auditor General that exposed the expansion of benefits and he says it is millions of dollars going to illegal immigrants.

[audio:090214MitchellAllKids1.MP3] [/audio]

The representative believes illegal immigrants are coming to Illinois because they get free health care benefits. He adds, Illinois has more people on welfare than people are working.

[audio:090214MitchellAllKids2.MP3] [/audio]

ALL KIDS is a remnant of disgraced former Gov. Rod Blagojevich, which provides health care coverage for children, regardless of immigration status. Undocumented enrollees are not eligible for federal Medicaid funds, so the entire cost of providing health insurance to illegal immigrants is paid for by Illinois taxpayers.

City of Lincoln Working With Alabama Econcomic Development Firm To Attract Retail Business

 width=As rural communities in central Illinois compete to attract businesses to spur economic development, one local community has brought on an outside firm to aid them in the process of being successful.

Lincoln has partnered with Retail Strategies to get a strategy together for Lincoln in attracting business, but according Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder, they also go out seek those retail businesses to come to the community.

[audio:9414lincolnretail1.mp3] [/audio]

The firm takes a look at a lot different numbers and figures, some of which can't be gathered from census data. According to Mayor Snyder, the numbers can be intriguing, but at the same time they can be somewhat scary because of all the information on people at a collective level that is available to these types of firms.

[audio:9414lincolnretail2.mp3] [/audio]

The benefits of having a relationship with a firm like Retail Strategies takes a lot of the research work out for a potential retailer looking to locate to the city of Lincoln. The Mayor explains the firm will take much of the data to that company that would show why it is a good idea to come to Lincoln.

[audio:9414lincolnretail3.mp3] [/audio]

Mayor Snyder says having the firm put the data together puts them ahead because of the relationships they already have in place.

He adds while the process and relationship with the firm is early on, he feels it holds a lot of potential and opportunities for the City of Lincoln.

Clinton Rotary Club Doing Fundraiser In Conjunction With NFL Season

 width=A local organization aimed at bettering the community is changing things up in the way they are able to garner funds to distribute out.

The Clinton Rotary Club for many years did a reverse raffle fundraiser that was a hit at first, but has slowed down in recent years. Because of that, Rotary President Bryce Lynch indicates they are turning to a fundraiser that will coincide with the NFL regular season, which gets underway Thursday (today).

[audio:9414rotarynfl1.mp3] [/audio]

An organization the Rotary Club works with has provided the Rotary Club with "Football Mania" tickets, and Lynch explains it takes a random trio of teams on a card, and the highest and lowest point values for the three teams combined determines a sizable payout. Lynch notes, essentially card holders are purchasing rights to music downloads so the "football mania" part of the card is not considered illegal gambling.

[audio:9414rotarynfl2.mp3] [/audio]

Because Rotary's goal in the community is to give back, Lynch notes they have specifically targeted a couple charities within the community for the money raised to go towards. This year they are donating money to Angel Tree, Right Stuff For Kids, Clinton Food Pantry and the Clinton YMCA among others.

[audio:9414rotarynfl3.mp3] [/audio]

Their goal was $7-thousand, and they have already exceeded that total. Lynch notes, the money raised equaled more than from the reverse raffle.

Lynch adds, ticket holders can keep track of how well the teams on their ticket can do so by visiting www.charitymania.com.

Bears Notes; Packers Open Season With Seattle Tonight

 width=>>Briggs Doesn't Give Team Of Reason For Day Off

When Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs asked coach Marc Trestman for a personal day this week, he left out a detail - it was to attend the grand opening of his barbecue restaurant.

He didn't mention it afterward, either.

Briggs raised a few more eyebrows with that revelation while being grilled by reporters on Wednesday.

With the season opening this week he found himself at the center of attention for missing practice to be at the opening of his barbecue restaurant near his hometown of Sacramento, California.

His comments on Wednesday added some more heat.

He said "no" after someone asked if he told Trestman the day off was for the opening of the restaurant he part-owns.

 width=>>Defending Champion Seahawks Open Up Against Packers

(Seattle, WA) -- The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks start the defense of their title against the Green Bay Packers at CenturyLink Field in the NFL's Thursday night opener. The 'Hawks won the NFC West last season with a 13-and-3 record before beating the Saints and 49ers in the playoffs. Seattle capped it off with a 43-8 drubbing of the Broncos in Super Bowl 48 from MetLife Stadium. Quarterback Russell Wilson and a top-rated defense will look to become the first team since the Patriots in 2004 and 2005 to repeat as champions. Green Bay won the NFC North last season with an 8-7-and-1 record before falling to the 49ers in the first round of the playoffs. Aaron Rodgers, second-year running back Eddie Lacy and a talented receiving corps will look to become just the second team to win in Seattle in the last two seasons.

>>Cowboys Sign Michael Sam To Practice Squad

(Arlington, TX) -- Defensive end Michael Sam is now a member of the Dallas practice squad. Sam recorded eleven tackles and two and-a-half sacks in the preseason for the Rams, but he was unable to earn a spot on a deep defensive line. Sam was picked by the Rams in the seventh round of this year's NFL Draft, making him the first openly gay player in NFL history.

Wacha Returns For St. Louis, Castro Out For Cubs; Baseball Notes

 width=>>Wacha To Return Tonight

(Milwaukee, WI) -- Cardinals starting pitcher Michael Wacha [[ wah-kuh ]] will be back on the mound tonight as St. Louis begins a four-game series at the Milwaukee Brewers. He is making his return after going down with shoulder stress to his right pitching arm. Wacha has been out since June 17th.

>>Cubs Castro Expected To Miss Rest of Season

All-Star shortstop Starlin Castro is expected to miss the remainder of the Chicago Cubs' season with an ankle injury.

Castro left Tuesday night's 7-1 win over Milwaukee after getting hurt on a first-inning slide into home plate. Tests showed he sustained a high ankle sprain.

Castro, a three-time All-Star, was holding out hope that he could beat the four-week prognosis to return. But general manager Jed Hoyer said Wednesday the organization will move forward as though Castro had played his final game this season.

 width=Cubs rookie Javier Baez, a natural shortstop, will shift over from second base and take Castro's place in the field.

>>Giants' Bumgarner Named NL Pitcher Of The Month

(New York, NY) -- San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Madison Bumgarner is the National League Pitcher of the Month for August. Bumgarner went 4-and-1 with a 1.57 ERA in six starts during the month. He had 56 strikeouts and just three walks in 46 innings. It's his second monthly award of the season after also winning in May. Chicago Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks is the NL Rookie of the Month after going 4-and-0 with a 1.69 ERA.

>>Pirates' Harrison Named NL Player Of The Month

(New York, NY) -- Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Josh Harrison is the National League Player of the Month for August. He led the NL in total bases with 71, extra-base hits with 19, hits with 41 and a .602 slugging percentage. He batted .347 with nine RBI in the month.

>>Tigers' Victor Martinez Named AL Player Of The Month

(New York, NY) -- Detroit Tigers slugger Victor Martinez is the American League Player of the Month for August. Martinez hit .350 with six homers, 30 RBI and a .442 on-base percentage in 31 games.

>>Angels' Shoemaker Named AL Pitcher, Rookie Of The Month

(New York, NY) -- Los Angeles Angels pitcher Matt Shoemaker is the American League Pitcher and Rookie of the month for August. Shoemaker went 6-and-1 in seven starts for the AL West-leading Halos. He had a 1.31 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 41-and-a-third innings. He is just the fourth pitcher to win both awards in the same month.

Cubs, Cards Sweep Mid-Week Series'; Sox Hammered

 width=>>Cardinals Walk-Off Pirates To Win Fifth-Straight

(St. Louis, MO) -- Peter Bourjos [[ BORE-juss ]] drove in the only run of the game with a walkoff single in the ninth inning as the Cardinals beat the Pirates 1-0 from Busch Stadium for the three-game sweep. Bourjos and John Jay both went 2-for-3 in the victory. Trevor Rosenthal picked up the win in relief to jump to 2-and-6. Shelby Miller threw seven scoreless innings of three-hit ball for the Cardinals, who have won five straight. Pirates closer Mark Melancon [[ meh-LAN-sen ]] was saddled with the loss after giving up the run in his second inning of relief. Neil Walker went 3-for-3 with a double for the Bucs, who have lost four in-a-row.

 width=>>Cubs Sweep Brewers

(Chicago, IL) -- Chris Valaika clubbed a two-run homer as the Cubs cruised past the Brewers 6-2 to sweep the three-game series at Wrigley Field. Jorge Soler had a two-run double during a four-run third inning for the Northsiders, who have won five of seven. Welington Castillo and Logan Watkins both went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored in the victory. Kyle Hendricks tossed five-and-two-thirds innings of two-run ball as he moved to 6-and-1. Logan Schafer and Lyle Overbay plated a run each for Milwaukee, which has lost eight straight to fall three games behind the NL Central-leading St. Louis Cardinals. Matt Garza gave up six runs in three frames in his return to the mound as he fell to 7-and-8. He was making his first start since August 3rd due to a strained left oblique.

 width=>>Twins Hammer White Sox

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Kennys Vargas blasted a two-run homer and totaled three RBI to guide the Twins to an 11-4 win over the White Sox at Target Field. Eduardo Nunez went 4-for-6 with two RBI, and Eduardo Escobar batted in a pair of runs for Minnesota, which has won two of three. Trevor May struck out six in five frames to pick up his first career win. John Danks got rocked for seven runs in four-and-two-thirds innings to fall to 9-and-10 for Chicago, which had won three of four entering the game. Dayan Viciedo drove in three runs, including a two-run homer, in the loss.

MLB National League
------
Atlanta Braves 7, Philadelphia Phillies 4
Washington Nationals 8, Los Angeles Dodgers 5 (14 inn)
Colorado Rockies 9, San Francisco Giants 2
New York Mets 4, Miami Marlins 3
Arizona Diamondbacks 6, San Diego Padres 1

MLB American League
------
Seattle Mariners 2, Oakland Athletics 1
New York Yankees 5, Boston Red Sox 1
Cleveland Indians 7, Detroit Tigers 0
Toronto Blue Jays 7, Tampa Bay Rays 4
Houston Astros 4, LA Angels of Anaheim 1
Kansas City Royals 4, Texas Rangers 1

MLB Interleague
------
Baltimore Orioles 6, Cincinnati Reds 0

Illini Defense Focused On Forcing Turnovers

 width=For a moment Saturday it looked like Illinois' turnover drought might end. But linebacker Austin Teitsma (TIGHTS'-muh) dropped Youngstown State quarterback Dante Nania's poorly thrown pass.

With its 28-17 victory Saturday, Illinois has gone more than two games now without forcing a turnover. The Illini had just 11 last season.

Coach Tim Beckman calls the lack of turnovers an Achilles heel for his defense.

The near interception in Illinois' victory might have helped seal up the game much earlier than Illinois managed to and get a tired defense off the field.

But defensive coordinator Tim Banks says his players also missed a couple of chances to create fumbles.

The Illini (1-0) could use the help turnovers offer this weekend when Western Kentucky (1-0) brings its powerful passing attack to Champaign.

Clinton Lady Maroons Volleyball Falls To 1-1

 width=Thursday night's match between the Clinton Lady Maroons and the Heyworth Hornets saw the Lady Maroons take their first loss of the season just two days after their first win. 

The Lady Maroons lost the first game by just 2 points going 23-25. The second game they turned the tide winning 25-21. They then lost a disappointing game going 15-25.

Hannah Ritter and Michaela Elliot each contributed two aces apiece. Elliot also added 14 assists. Taylor Filkin had eight kills with Payton Bieber putting up six blocks while Haley Ginger had nine digs.

Coach Megan Mitchell, when asked about how she felt about the match, said the first two games were tough games but that 'it still stinks to lose'.

The Lady Maroons look for their next win against the Tolono-Unity Rockets on Tuesday, September 9th at 7:00 pm.  Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more coverage of your Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball action.

Illinois Medicaid Pushes Long-Acting Birth Control

Gov. Pat Quinn's administration wants to double down on long-acting birth control methods for the poor, hoping to save taxpayer money on unplanned pregnancies.

Officials with the Illinois Medicaid program plan to increase payments to doctors and clinics for methods such as intrauterine devices.

Dr. Melissa Gilliam is a family planning researcher at University of Chicago Medicine. She's been working with state officials to change policies on contraception. Her goal is to prevent unwanted pregnancies among teenagers.

But the Illinois Catholic Health Association is worried about a requirement in the plan for their hospitals to report annually to the state how they'll refer women elsewhere for birth control services.

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services seeks comments by Sept. 15 on its family planning action plan.

US EPA OKs FutureGen Plan For CO2 Storage

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved permits for the FutureGen clean coal project to store carbon dioxide underground.

The permits approved Tuesday are a key piece of the project. FutureGen aims to capture carbon dioxide from coal at a power plant in western Illinois and store it. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas linked to climate change.

The EPA said the permits are the first of this type for carbon sequestration.

FutureGen Alliance CEO Ken Humphreys called the permits a major milestone.

The alliance has said construction recently started on parts of its long-planned $1.6 billion project in Meredosia, Illinois The U.S. Department of Energy is providing $1 billion.

The project still faces a complaint filed by the Sierra Club with the Illinois Pollution Control Board over potential air pollution.

Rauner A Member Of Exclusive Wine Club

The GOP candidate for governor is making it very clear that he belongs to some pretty elite groups.  Bruce Rauner says he's a member of a wine club that cost 100-thousand-dollars to join.  Rauner is a multi-millionaire venture capitalist who says he's not ashamed of his cash because he worked hard for it.  Governor Quinn is using the money against Rauner.  He claims the cash stash creates a divide between Rauner and the hard-working people in Illinois.  More recently, Quinn slammed Rauner over business investments that he made in the Cayman Islands.

Governor To Live On Minimum Wage Income This Week

GOVERNOR PAT QUINN SAYS HE’S LIVING ON THE MINIMUM WAGE FOR A WEEK TO UNDERSCORE THE NEED FOR AN INCREASE IN ILLINOIS.

GOVERNOR QUINN HAS ALLOTTED 79 DOLLARS FOR HIS MEALS AND OTHER EXPENSES DURING THE WEEK, SAYING THAT’S ABOUT WHAT’S LEFT AFTER PEOPLE PAY THEIR OTHER BILLS. HE POINTS OUT THAT’S NOT MUCH TO WORK WITH.

[audio:liveonmin1.mp3] [/audio]

HE SAYS IT HASN’T BEEN EASY…AND HAS BEEN ORDERING WATER WHEN DINING OUT AND HAVING THINGS LIKE MAC N’ CHEESE OR GRAHAM CRACKERS FOR DINNER.

[audio:liveonmin2.mp3] [/audio]

QUINN WANTS TO SEE THE MINIMUM WAGE BOOSTED TO AT LEAST 10 DOLLARS AN HOUR. VOTERS WILL BE ASKED ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT IF THEY WOULD SUPPORT SUCH AN INCREASE.

Rauner Criticizes Quinn On Veterans

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner (ROW-nur) is going after Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn's record on veterans.

Rauner says a lack of economic growth under Quinn's administration has led to high unemployment among veterans. He also alleges patronage hiring has left out job candidates who are veterans. He didn't provide an estimate of how many or detail examples.

Quinn had long touted his record on veterans issues, particularly with homeownership and jobs.

He told reporters Tuesday that Illinois has the most veteran friendly programs in the country.

Rauner launched a veterans coalition the same day at a news conference with U.S. Sen Mark Kirk.

Gubernatorial Candidates Discuss Jobs, Veterans

Illinois gubernatorial candidates are making post-Labor Day appearances with Gov. Pat Quinn publicizing efforts to spend only a minimum wage salary and Republican challenger Bruce Rauner (ROW-nur) hammering the Chicago Democrat's record on veterans.

Quinn has vowed to live on $79 for food and other expenses this week to highlight efforts to raise Illinois' $8.25 rate. He's documenting the promise on social media and told reporters Tuesday that it involves having graham crackers for dinner.

Meanwhile, Rauner says Quinn's policies have indirectly impacted veterans' unemployment. That includes a lack of economic growth that's left a higher rate of joblessness among veterans. He also claims patronage hiring has left out veteran job applicants.

Quinn says Illinois has some of the nation's best veterans' programs.

Normal Man Gets 8-Year Sentence In Fatal DUI Crash

A 19-year-old central Illinois man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a drug-related crash that killed another man.

According to reports, Garrett Peterson was sentenced on Tuesday. He had pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated driving under the influence in exchange for prosecutors dropping several other charges.

Prosecutors say Peterson admitted that he'd been drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana at a party in November before getting behind the wheel.

The single-vehicle rollover crash killed passenger Peyton Schneuermann of Somonauk and injured a second passenger.

Prosecutors say the case serves as a reminder about the dangers of drunken driving.

Some Illinois Farmers Predicting Later Corn Harvest

Some Illinois farmers say this year's corn harvest could be later - and more expensive - than usual.

Reports indicate wet, cloudy days and cooler temperatures have slowed the crop's progress.

Adam Kestner farms in western Illinois and is vice president of the Adams County Farm Bureau.

At the start of growing season he expected an early harvest because farmers were able to plant earlier this year. But now Kestner is predicting a "long, drawn-out harvest" starting in the middle of September.

Kestner says recent warmer temperatures have helped, but "we could use less moisture in the forecast."

The mild summer also could mean farmers will incur additional costs to dry corn. If corn isn't dry enough, there can be issues with mold during long-term storage.

County Board Gives Approval Of Medical Cannabis Facility In DeWitt County

Last month, representatives from Salveo, a company seeking to aid Clinton and DeWitt County in pursuing a medical cannabis growing facility.

The group presented to the Clinton City Council and the DeWitt County Board in hopes of garnering support from both groups to proceed with the application process. According to Alex Thiersch (TEER-sch), who presented to the County Board August 21, this would be a three year pilot program, and Thiersch stresses their goal is for this to be a long term investment locally.

[audio:9314potfacility1.mp3] [/audio]

The application process will open up bidding for a limited amount of cultivation centers, which means the application process will be very competitive. Thiersch notes the applications could range anywhere from 800 to 15-hundred pages.

[audio:9314potfacility2.mp3] [/audio]

Thiersch points out the State of Illinois has been very thorough and swift in getting this pilot program up and going. He adds while their timeline of getting dispensaries ready to distribute medical cannabis by next spring is somewhat ambitious, Salveo will work to make that timeline happen if DeWitt County is awarded a permit.

[audio:9314potfacility3.mp3] [/audio]

The question of waste disposal was brought up at the recent DeWitt County Board meeting. According Thiersch, that's where a local company like Stericycle would come into play. He notes however, they have a very low percentage of waste in their cultivation centers.

[audio:9314potfacility4.mp3] [/audio]

According to Thiersch, a letter of support from the County Board and the City Council, along with petitions from community members and business leaders would go a long ways in aiding Salveo obtaining the permit from the state. He notes, community support is scoring part of the application process through the Department of Agriculture.

[audio:9314potfacility5.mp3] [/audio]

The DeWitt County Board directed State's Attorney Karle Koritz to craft a letter of support for Salveo and their efforts to apply for a permit for DeWitt County to be home to a medical cannabis growing facility.

Winter Road Salt Supply Almost Non-Existent For Local Communities

Late August and early September have finally brought a real feeling of summer to central Illinois, however, local authorities are already thinking about old man winter.

Last winter was one of the more harsh winter's in recent memory, and sent local road authorities across the state and midwest scrambling for road salt as snow storm after snow storm pounded Illinois. According Clinton's Public Works Director, Steve Lobb, salt shortages continue to plague communities as they prepare their supplies for this coming winter.

[audio:9314saltshort1.mp3] [/audio]

Because of the devastating winter across the country, Lobb says every vendor is reporting they have no salt to sell. According to Lobb, there is a vendor who can provide the city with a limited salt supply, but he notes, if the winter is anything like this past year's, there will be real cause for concern because the amount purchased plus what is on hand won't be enough.

[audio:9314saltshort2.mp3] [/audio]

Because of the rare circumstances the Public Works department faces, the payment to this vendor will be paid up front, before the product is ordered. Lobb says it's not an ideal situation, especially because payments are normally made once the product is delivered.

[audio:9314saltshort3.mp3] [/audio]

Lobb indicates the city is still on waiting lists through their local vendors but those vendors are saying seek options elsewhere. The Illinois Department of Transportation along with DeWitt County are a part of what Lobb calls the "renewal pool" and they are expecting to get salt, but Lobb advises them to be cautious. He believes just because the state and county are part of this renewal program, does not mean they will get the salt they need. He says he would not be comfortable until he sees the salt on their ground.

The City Council approved the purchase of the 300-tons of salt, to be delivered by the end of October, at a cost of $37,500.

>>The Council also approved the purchase of a 2015 truck for the Clinton Fire Department through Anderson Ford at a cost of $29, 340. The truck will replace the department's Chevy Suburban.

>>Laptop computer purchases were approved for the Clinton Street Department and Water Department at a cost of $15-hundred and $1000 respectively.

PGA Tour Notes

>>Kirk, Otto Soar In World Rankings

Chris Kirk and Hennie Otto won their respective events over the weekend and soared in this week's world rankings.

Kirk picked up his third PGA Tour win on Monday at the Deutsche Bank Championship and jumped 20 spots to No. 25 in the latest rankings. Otto also won for the third time on the European Tour and he soared 160 spots to No. 97.

 width=The top-five players in the world rankings were the same as last week with Rory McIlroy being trailed by Adam Scott, Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose.

Jason Day and Jim Furyk exchanged spots with Day inching up to sixth and Furyk sliding to seventh. Matt Kuchar was eighth again and he was followed by Bubba Watson, Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler.

Martin Kaymer jumped a pair to No. 12 and that knocked Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth down to 13th and 14th.

Zach Johnson, Graeme McDowell, Dustin Johnson and Hideki Matsuyama remained 15th to 18th again this week. Jimmy Walker and Hunter Mahan flip-flopped spots with Walker inching up to 19th and Mahan dipping to 20th.

>>Watson Selects Three Veterans For U.S. Ryder Cup Team

(New York, NY) -- United States captain Tom Watson is sticking with veterans for the Ryder Cup team. Watson has named Keegan Bradley, Hunter Mahan and Webb Simpson to the squad. Bradley and Simpson each played in the 2012 Ryder Cup and also were on last year's Presidents Cup team. Mahan was on the 2008 and 2010 Ryder Cup teams. Those three players join Bubba Watson, Rickie Fowler, Jim Furyk, Jimmy Walker, Phil Mickelson, Matt Kuchar [[ KOO-cher ]], Jordan Spieth [[ speeth ]], Patrick Reed and Zach Johnson who all qualified. Brandt Snedeker [[ SNED-eh-ker ]] and current FedExCup playoff points leader Chris Kirk were left off the team. The Ryder Cup begins September 23rd in Perthshire, Scotland.

Big Ten Notes; Top 25 Poll Shuffles After Week 1

 width=>>Big Week For Big Ten Football

It's a marquee week for the Big Ten.

Michigan State visits Oregon, Michigan goes to Notre Dame and Ohio State hosts Virginia Tech. The three high-profile matchups give the conference a good chance to make a statement early in the season, which may be more important than ever with the new playoff format.

A 13-person committee will select the final four teams who get a chance to play for the national championship at the end of this season. So getting quality wins before a conference season that is perceived to be not as competitive as those in the SEC, Big 12 and Pac 12 will be crucial.

Ohio State coach Urban Meyer says he is rooting for all the Big Ten teams this weekend.

>>Top-Five Unchanged In Latest "USA Today" Coaches' Poll

(Undated) -- The top-five went unchanged in the latest "USA Today" top-25 Coaches' Poll. The Florida State Seminoles remain first, followed by Alabama, Oklahoma, Oregon and Auburn. Ohio State slipped from sixth to seventh with Michigan State moving up from eighth to sixth. Georgia jumped up four spots to eighth. Baylor and Stanford round out the top-10. Texas A&M made the biggest move going from 20th to 13th following its win over South Carolina. The Gamecocks fell from ninth to 21st. Washington dropped from the rankings with Missouri moving in at number-22.

>>Badgers' Stave Out Indefinitely

(Madison, WI) -- Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Joel Stave is out indefinitely with a shoulder injury. Wisconsin head coach Gary Anderson said Tuesday that the best thing for him right now is to shut it down and give him some rest. Anderson added that Bart Houston will backup starter Tanner McEvoy this Saturday against Western Illinois. The 19th-ranked Badgers are coming off a season-opening loss to LSU on Saturday. McEvoy was just 8-of-24 for 50 yards and two interceptions in defeat.

Bears, NFL Notes

 width=>>Bears Place WR Wilson on IR With Designation To Return

The Chicago Bears have placed receiver Marquess Wilson on injured reserve with a designation to return this season and signed cornerback Kelvin Hayden.

The moves were announced on Tuesday.

Wilson, who appeared in 10 games last season, broke his collarbone in training camp. He will miss the first eight weeks and will not be eligible to play until Nov. 9, when the Bears visit Green Bay after their bye.

With Wilson out, the Bears brought in veteran Santonio Holmes. He figures to be the No. 3 receiver.

Hayden was released by the Bears on Saturday as they trimmed their roster to 53. He missed last season because of a torn hamstring after appearing in 16 games in 2012.

 width=>>NFL Suspends Wes Welker

(New York, NY) -- The NFL is suspending Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker four games for violation of the league's policy against performance-enhancing drugs. Pro Football Talk reports Welker took a Molly that was cut with amphetamines while at the Kentucky Derby. He tested positive for the PED and lost his appeal, which took place two weeks ago. He will not be permitted to practice with the team during the suspension. The 33-year-old will be eligible to return in Week Six as the Broncos have a bye week in Week Four. Welker returned to the practice field Monday as he continues through the NFL's concussion protocol after he suffered his third concussion since November 17th during the preseason. He hauled in 73 passes for 778 yards and 10 touchdowns during his first season in Denver in 2013.

>>Cowboys' Brent Reinstated

(Undated) -- The NFL is reinstating defensive tackle Josh Brent as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. He will serve a 10-game suspension for his January conviction of intoxication manslaughter following the death of teammate Jerry Brown Jr. in a 2012 accident. Brent will be eligible to visit team facilities after Week Six. He can begin practicing if he complies with a list of conditions, including evaluation, treatment and counseling. After the 10-week suspension, he will be considered for full reinstatement following an additional report from the NFL's substance abuse program advisers. Brent won't see action until Week 12 at the earliest as the Cowboys have a bye in Week 11.

>>NFL Player, Heavyweight Contender, Charlie Powell Dies

(San Diego, CA) -- Former NFL player, pro baseball player and heavyweight prizefighter Charlie Powell has died at the age of 82. "U-T San Diego" reports Powell died on Monday, and had been suffering from dementia for years. He was such a good multi-sport athlete in high school that he had contract offers to play baseball with the St. Louis Browns and basketball with the Harlem Globetrotters, he had football scholarship offers from Notre Dame and UCLA, and he was a champion in both the 100-yard dash and the shot put. His greatest success was as an NFL player and a boxer, even matching up against Muhammad Ali. Powell played five seasons in the NFL as a defensive lineman for the 49ers and Oakland Raiders.

>>Steelers Preparing To See Manziel Week One

(Pittsburgh, PA) -- Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin says his team will be ready for Cleveland Browns backup quarterback Johnny Manziel [[ man-ZELL ]] in their Week One matchup. Tomlin anticipates both starter Brian Hoyer and Manziel will both see playing time on Sunday. Hoyer beat out the former Heisman Trophy winner in the preseason, but Tomlin says the Browns did not draft Johnny Football "in the first round to watch. We fully expect them to utilize him in some capacity in this football game." Hoyer threw for 261 yards and a touchdown and an interception in the preseason, while Manziel passed for 296 yards and two touchdowns.

Cardinals, Cubs, Sox Notes

 width=>>Cardinals Activate Motte, Add Four Others

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Cardinals have activated right-hander Jason Motte from the 15-day disabled list. Motte was out with a lower back sprain. The Cards also recalled lefties Marco Gonzales, Nick Greenwood and Tyler Lyons along with catcher Tony Cruz from the minors.

>>Cardinals' Holliday NL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday is the National League Player of the Week. Holliday hit .370 during last week with four home runs, 13 RBI, 24 total bases and a .889 slugging percentage for the NL Central-leading Cards. He's hitting .268 with 16 homers on the season.

>>Cards Move Masterson To Bullpen

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Cardinals are sending Justin Masterson to the bullpen. The right-hander was acquired at the trade deadline from the Indians, but has struggled to a 2-and-3 record with a 7.90 ERA since joining St. Louis. Masterson has allowed five or more runs in four of his six starts for the Cards.

>>Wacha To Start For Cards Tomorrow

(St. Louis, MO) -- When the Cardinals start a crucial four-game series with the Brewers tomorrow in Milwaukee, it will be youngster Michael Wacha [[ WOCK-uh ]] on the hill. Wacha hasn't pitched for the Cards since June 17th. He's been dealing with a stress reaction in his right shoulder.

>>Redbirds Open Playoffs Tonight

(Omaha, NE) -- The Memphis Redbirds, the St. Louis Cardinals' Triple-A affiliate, open the playoffs tonight against the defending Triple-A champion Omaha Storm Chasers. Tim Cooney gets the ball in the opener of a five-game series. Omaha counters with Aaron Brooks. The first two games are in Omaha and the series shifts to Memphis Friday.

 width=>>Cubs' Castro Suffers Injury

(Chicago, IL) -- Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro left last night's game in the first inning with a left ankle sprain. Initial tests appeared to rule out a fracture, but Castro is due for an MRI and more tests. He left the field under his own power after sliding into the plate and getting his spikes caught in the dirt.

>>Cubs Say Rizzo Is Out Indefinitely

(Chicago, IL) -- An MRI has revealed a mild back strain for Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo. The All-Star will be out indefinitely with the injury and would be heading to the disabled list if rosters had not expanded for September. Rizzo has already missed eight games.

>>Cubs Recall Seven From Triple-A

(Chicago, IL) -- The Cubs are expanding their roster. Chicago recalled seven players from Triple-A Iowa prior to yesterday's game. Outfielder Junior Lake, catcher Rafael Lopez and pitchers Arodys Vizcaino, Brian Schlitter, Dan Straily, Zac Rosscup and Eric Jokisch joined the team.

 width=>>White Sox Call Up Seven

(Minneapolis, MN) -- The White Sox are adding to the roster. Chicago recalled seven players prior to yesterday's game. Right-handed pitchers Chris Bassitt and Scott Carroll, outfielder Jordan Danks, catcher Josh Phegley, infielder Marcus Semien and left-hander Eric Surkamp are up from Triple-A.

>>Yankees' Ellsbury AL Player Of Week

(New York, NY) -- New York Yankees outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury is the American League Player of the Week. Ellsbury hit .522 during last week with four home runs, a triple, nine RBI, two stolen bases and a 1.174 slugging percentage.

>>Yankees To Wear Jeter Patch

(Bronx, NY) -- The New York Yankees will soon add a patch to their hats and uniforms to honor retiring captain Derek Jeter. The patch bearing his number-two and indicating his final season will debut this Sunday, when the Yankees hold a special tribute to the longtime shortstop. The team will continue to wear the patch through the rest of the season.

Cardinals, Cubs, Sox Win

 width=>>White Sox Top Twins In 10

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Dayan Viciedo [[ DIE-on vee-see-AY-doh ]] hit a go-ahead solo homer in the top of the 10th and Tyler Flowers added a two-run shot later in the inning, as the White Sox topped the Twins 6-3 at Target Field. Flowers also had a two-run blast in the third, while Carlos Sanchez went 3-for-4 with an RBI-double for Chicago, which has won three of four. Daniel Webb earned the win and Jake Petricka [[ puh-TRITCH-kuh ]] picked up his 11th save. Kennys Vargas hit a two-run homer and Danny Santana doubled in the other run for the Twins, who have dropped eight of ten. Lester Oliveros suffered his first career loss.

 width=>>Cardinals Clip Pirates

(St. Louis, MO) -- Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright helped himself at the plate to lead them to a 6-4 win over the Pirates at Busch Stadium. Wainwright had three RBI and made it through six innings to pick up his 16th win with Pat Neshek closing it out for the save. Peter Bourjos [[ BORE-juss ]] and Matt Carpenter each chipped in an RBI to help St. Louis to its fourth straight victory. The Cards are two games ahead of the slumping Brewers for first place in the NL Central. Jeff Locke [[ lock ]] surrendered four earned runs in three-plus innings to fall to 6-and-4 for Pittsburgh, which has lost three in-a-row. Starling Marte blasted a two-run homer and Russell Martin and Jordy Mercer added solo shots in the loss.

 width=>>Cubs Upend Brewers Behind Arrieta

(Chicago, IL) -- Jake Arrieta [[ air-ee-ET-uh ]] tossed six innings of one-run ball as the Cubs downed the Brewers 7-1 at Wrigley Field. Arrieta moved to 8-and-5 while Arismendy Alcantara [[ air-is-MEN-dee al-CAHN-ter-uh ]] hit a two-run homer in the win. Luis Valbuena was 2-for-4 with an RBI and two runs as Chicago won its eighth in 12 games. Yovani Gallardo [[ yo-VAH-nee guy-YAR-doh ]] dipped to 8-and-8 after allowing seven runs in five innings, though two of the runs were unearned. Ryan Braun drove in a run while Aramis [[ uh-ROM-es ]] Ramirez had two hits for Milwaukee, which slips two games back of the Cardinals in the NL Central with its seventh straight loss.

MLB National League
------
New York Mets 8, Miami Marlins 6
Philadelphia Phillies 4, Atlanta Braves 0
San Francisco Giants 12, Colorado Rockies 7
Los Angeles Dodgers 4, Washington Nationals 1
San Diego Padres 2, Arizona Diamondbacks 1

MLB American League
------
Boston Red Sox 9, New York Yankees 4
Detroit Tigers 4, Cleveland Indians 2
Toronto Blue Jays 8, Tampa Bay Rays 2
Houston Astros 8, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 3
Kansas City Royals 2, Texas Rangers 1
Seattle Mariners 6, Oakland Athletics 5

MLB Interleague
------
Baltimore Orioles 5, Cincinnati Reds 4

Maroons Boys Golf Take Meet With Decatur St. Teresa, Sullivan

 width=The Clinton Maroons Boys golf squad took the links Tuesday afternoon, hosting Central Illinois Conference members Decatur St. Teresa and Sullivan at the Clinton Country Club.

The Maroons not only shot a day's best as a team, 186, but Chase Reynolds also shot a 35-even par, which was seven-shots better than the next closest golfer among the three teams at the meet.

Clinton's Steven Bruss shot a 47, Austin Ellrick a 50, and Grant Davenport a 54 on the Clinton Country Club's par 35 nine hole course.

Sullivan was led by Tommy Schibur who carded a 47, 12-over par.

St Teresa'S Cayden Brilley turned in a 42, 7-over par and Lake Genenbacher carded a 45, 10-over.

DeWitt County Sheriff's Report for 9-3

August 26, 2014

Jail Population: 43
Summons Served: 2
Warrant Arrests: 0

August 27, 2014

Jail Population: 38
Summons Served: 4
Warrant Arrests: 0

August 28, 2014

Jail Population: 37
Summons Served: 4
Warrant Arrests: 0

August 29, 2014

Jail Population: 39
Summons Served: 7
Warrant Arrests: 1

August 30, 2014

Jail Population: 39
Summons Served: 1
Warrant Arrests: 1

August 31, 2014

Jail Population: 40
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

September 1, 2014

Jail Population: 41
Summons Served: 3
Warrant Arrests: 0
September 2, 2014

Jail Population: 41
Summons Served: 0
Warrant Arrests: 0

Jennifer Baker, 38, Wapella was issued a Citation and arrested and charged with Driving Under Influence of Alcohol. Baker posted the necessary bond and was released.

Carl Roberts, 35, Wapella was arrested and charged with Sex Predator/ Public Park. Roberts unable to post the necessary bond remains lodged in the DeWitt County Jail.

Jennifer Taylor, 25, Normal was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging her with Failure to Appear. Taylor posted the necessary bond and was released.

Michael Herald, 23, Kenney was arrested on a DeWitt County Warrant charging him with Criminal Trespass Land, Criminal Trespass Remain on Land and Disorderly Conduct. Herald posted the necessary bond and was released.

Lucy Burtle, 19, Taylorville was issued a Citation for Speeding 76 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone. Burtle was issued a Promise to Comply and was released.

Ross Thomas, 23, Clinton was issued Citations for Failure to Report Accident to Police Authority, Failure to Reduce Speed/ Accident and Illegal Transportation Alcohol. Thomas posted the necessary bond and was released.

Caleb Mahoney, 24, Clinton was issued Citations for Use of Electronic Communication Device, Leaving Scene of Accident/ Vehicle Damage, Failure to Report Accident to Police and Failure to Reduce Speed/ Accident. Mahoney was issued a Notice to Appear and was released.

Sarah Churchill, 22, Roanoke was issued a Citation for Operating Uninsured Vehicle. Churchill was issued a Notice to Appear and was released.

 


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

Archaeologists Excavate Historic Illinois Home

Illinois archaeologists are excavating the remains of an 1851 home owned by a former slave in an effort to get the village of Brooklyn listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Reports indicate the archaeologists are digging up the buried remains of the home of Priscilla Baltimore. Slaves led by Baltimore who fled St. Louis founded the village around 1830. It now has a population of about 650 and its local government depends on revenue from strip clubs.

Excavation leader Joe Galloy says the team hopes to unveil archaeology about 2 feet below the village's surface. He says the strip clubs shouldn't prevent the village from being listed but there isn't enough surviving architecture.

There are about 88,000 historical sites on the national register.

Illinois Agency Promoting Disaster Preparedness

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is encouraging people to be more prepared for disasters.

The agency will team up with local emergency management agencies, as well as local, state and federal agencies across the U.S., throughout September to observe National Preparedness Month.

The campaign explores a different area of emergency preparedness will be explored each week, including reconnecting with family after a disaster, planning for specific needs before a disaster, building an emergency kit and practicing for an emergency.

The agency plans to post daily preparedness tips through Facebook and Twitter.

Jonathon Monken is director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. He says: "Spending just a few minutes today on personal preparedness can help you and your family stay safe when disaster strikes."

Veterans Get Second Shot To Clear Up Outstanding Warrants

Veterans who have outstanding warrants in Madison County are getting a chance to clear things up without the fear of being arrested. State's Attorney Tom Gibbons says they're having an amnesty day for the veterans on September 12th.

[audio:rddAmnesty1.mp3] [/audio]

Veterans who received things from traffic warrants to felony warrants in Madison County can go in to the courthouse on September 12th and make arrangements to deal with them. The program does not apply to federal warrants or civil contempt citations. Veterans must bring a photo ID in with them, along with a DD-214 form to qualify.

Parents Have Options For Getting Rid Of Newborn Babies

A newborn baby is alive and doing well after being found inside a Jacksonville trash bin. But, police officers are reminding parents that they can turn their kid over to a police station, fire house, or hospital if they don't want it.

[audio:rddBabyUp11.mp3] [/audio]

That's Lieutenant Eric Hansell with the Jacksonville Police Department. He reminds parents there is a safer option for those who don't want to keep their kid.

[audio:rddBabyUp21.mp3] [/audio]

That's Lieutenant Eric Hansell with the Jacksonville Police Department. He says the state's Safe Haven Law allows parents to leave kids up to 30 days old with police, fire, or medical officials, with no questions asked, so long as the baby has not been abused. The law has been on the books since 2001 and nearly 100 babies have been turned over safely since then.

Patients To Start Applying For Medical Marijuana

One unanswered question about a new state law legalizing medical marijuana is just how many Illinoisans will actually ask for permission to use it.

The extent of the demand will start to become clearer starting Tuesday as agencies begin taking applications from patients or their registered caregivers.

For now, only those with last names beginning with letters "A'' through "L'' can apply. Other patients must wait two more months to apply.

Reports indicate some estimates were that as many as 100,000 Illinoisans could qualify.

But Department of Public Health spokeswoman Sheila Porter says it's hard to know how many applications will come in. She says the agency is expecting the number to run into the thousands over the next four months.

Kraft Recalling 7,700 Cases Of Cheese Singles

Northfield based Kraft Foods has ordered a large recall of its single packaged American cheese slices.  Nearly 77-hundred cases of the product are being recalled.  The company says a storage issue could have caused some of the cheese to spoil.  The cheese was produced at the Kraft plant in Springfield, Missouri.  Anyone who purchases a package labeled with the "Best When Used By" dates of February 20th and 21st, 2015, should return it to the store. 

US Eating Habits Improve A Bit Except Among Poor

A new study says Americans' eating habits have improved - except among the poor.

Those results show a widening wealth gap when it comes to diet. Yet even among wealthier adults, food choices remain far from ideal.

The 12-year study used an index of healthy eating where a perfect score is 110. U.S. adults averaged just 40 points in 1999, and that climbed to 47 points in 2010. Scores for low-income adults were lower than the average and barely budged during the years studied.

Higher scores mean greater intake of heart-healthy foods including vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy fats. Low scores mean less of those foods and a greater chance for diet-related illnesses including diabetes, heart problems and obesity.

The study was published Monday in JAMA Internal Medicine.

State To Start Accepting Medical Marijuana Apps

People with things like cancer, HIV, Aids, Chrohn's Disease, MS, and seizure disorders can start applying for a medical marijuana license tomorrow.  The state will start accepting applications from those whose last names begin with letters A through L.  They'll need to have a prescription from their doctor in order to get the license.  They'll also need to submit fingerprints and get a background check.  The Department of Health will have up to 30-days to review the application.  Patients who are approved will be allowed to get up two-and-a-half ounces of medical marijuana every two-weeks.

Leaders In Illinois Agricultures Honored

A journalist, the first female director of Illinois' Department of Agriculture and two others are being honored by the Alumni Association of the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation.

According to reports, the four received the association's "Torch of Leadership" awards.

One honoree is Orion Samuelson of Huntley. His reports on WGN Radio and his TV show, "This Week in Agribusiness," made him one of the most recognizable voices in agriculture.

Becky Doyle of Gillespie was director of the agriculture department under Republican Gov. Jim Edgar.

Another honoree is Normal's Dan Kelley. He retired in 2012 as board chairman of the farmer cooperative Growmark.

The fourth honoree is Gerald Salzman. The Mundelein man recently retired as senior director of global marketing harvesting at Case IH.

Man Found Dead In Central Illinois Was Hit By Car

Authorities say a 26-year-old found dead in rural central Illinois apparently was struck by a motor vehicle while he walked home after visiting family.

McLean County Coroner Beth Kimmerling said Monday that an autopsy showed Blaine B. Umstattd, who last lived in Holder, Illinois, died of head injuries. His body was found early Sunday morning on the side of a road in rural LeRoy.

He was taken to a Bloomington hospital where emergency department workers pronounced him dead.

Kimmerling saysan initial investigation suggests Umstattd had been visiting with family in LeRoy earlier Sunday and was walking home when he was hit.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the McLean County sheriff's office.

Bloomington Shuttle Bus Driver Charged With DUI

A 32-year-old Bloomington man who drives a late-night shuttle bus has been charged with aggravated drunken driving.

Authorities say Stephen Mckenna of Bob's Blue Night Limo failed standard field sobriety tests that indicated his blood-alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit for driving. Reports indicate, Mckenna was driving a bus used primarily by downtown bar patrons early Sunday morning when Bloomington police were flagged down.

Court documents filed Sunday say officers saw several people chasing after and banging on the sides of the bus. They say the doors were open and people were standing on the entry stairway as the bus moved.

Police say the vehicle struck a utility pole wire as they approached it.

Illinois School Honors Marine Killed In Jet Crash

A central Illinois high school has opened a memorial garden for one of its graduates who was killed in a fighter jet crash during a U.S. Navy training exercise.

According to reports, Olympia High School planted a new garden in memory of U.S. Marine Corps Major Reid Nannen. The 32-year-old from Hopedale was killed March 1 when his jet crashed near Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada. He was permanently stationed in Japan with the Marines, but was on temporary duty at the U.S. Navy's "TopGun" school.

The school's superintendent says there isn't a better role model for Olympia students. Nannen graduated from Olympia in 2000. The high school hosted the visitation for him in March.

Nannen's parents say they're humbled by the creation of the garden.

Biggest Lincoln Event To Expand In 2015

 width=The 2014 Lincoln Art and Balloon has concluded, yet exciting plans for the future are already in progress.

The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau recently announced the festival will expand in 2015. Several individual events will soon have their own weekends dedicated to them. Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder notes the yearly festival tends to pack quite a bit into one weekend. He explains the expansion should allow more opportunities for visitors to come to Lincoln.

[audio:829142015fest1.mp3] [/audio]

Snyder explains events such as the Up In Smoke Barbeque will have their own event next year. The Art Show will also be rebooted along with the Art of Wine tent. The Mayor says all of the events are successful but need the opportunity to expand. Another reason for the expansion is to allow for more local volunteer assistance.

[audio:829142015fest2.mp3] [/audio]

Snyder says changing times has allowed the Art Fair to expand and grow over the years. Thousands of people are able to view artists' creations due to the online experience. The local 1800s Craft Fair will also join forces with the Lincoln Railsplitter Festival in the fall of 2015.

[audio:829142015fest3.mp3] [/audio]

The Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival will become the Lincoln Balloon Festival and take place August 28th and 29th of 2015.

Up In Smoke Barbecue will move to June 5th-7th along with the Craft Fair, Flea Markets and Auto Shows.

The Fine Art Fair, which includes the Art of Wine and Beer, will take place the weekend of July 18th and 19th.

Local Couple Biking For Charity

 width=A local couple is taking part in an annual bike ride that will benefit a group they are very passionate about.

The "Stop the Cycle of Abuse" ride to benefit local chapters of the Childrens Advocacy Centers, is going on it's third, and final run locally. Steve and Dana Lobb got involved last year and say they are gearing up for yet another go round. Steve indicates last year's ride went from Chicago to St. Louis, however, this year's may be a little more tame in comparison.

[audio:9214lobbsride1.mp3] [/audio]

Getting behind the cause was not something Steve says was a hard choice. He believes child abuse is something everyone knows about, but he feels taking part in the "Stop the Cycle of Abuse" is an easy way to do a simple act of awareness raising, while at the same time doing some fundraising.

[audio:9214lobbsride2.mp3] [/audio]

After last year's ride from Chicago to St. Louis, Lobb became more involved in the local Children Advocacy Center organization. He now serves on the organization's state board, which is where the money from last year's event went. However, in 2014, the proceeds are going to the Advocacy Center office in Bloomington, which also serves DeWitt County.

[audio:9214lobbsride3.mp3] [/audio]

The ride for 2014 is September 19-22 and according to Lobb, to take part in all three days, they have to raise a certain amount of money. He notes they have surpassed their goal for that, and are now just trying to raise as much money as possible, because he says it will effect kids in DeWitt County.

To help the Lobb's in their pursuit of providing financial help to the Childrens Advocacy Center, you can visit www.cyclingforkids.net. Lobb says any donation is never too big or too small. Lobb is grateful for the support he's received from the community in his previous efforts and for those who have helped this year as well.

College Football Notes

 width=>>Louisville Crushes Miami In First ACC Game

Dominique Brown rushed for 143 yards and a touchdown as the Louisville Cardinals beat the Miami-Florida Hurricanes, 31-13, in a rematch of last season's Russell Athletic Bowl.

Will Gardner completed 20-of-28 passes for 206 yards and two touchdowns for the Cardinals (1-0, 1-0 ACC). Gerald Christian caught six passes for 59 yards and a score.

Freshman Brad Kaaya connected on 17-of-29 passes for 174 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions for the Hurricanes (0-1, 0-1), who went 9-4 last season.

Duke Johnson carried the ball 20 times for 90 yards. A broken ankle ended his 2013 season.

>>FSU Lifts Suspension On Wilson

(Tallahassee, FL) -- Florida State is lifting the suspension on sophomore wide receiver Jesus Wilson. Head coach Jimbo Fisher announced on Monday that Wilson will be eligible to play against The Citadel this Saturday. Wilson was suspended after he was charged with a felony for stealing a scooter on campus in June. The felony was dropped to two misdemeanors in July. He missed this past Saturday's season opening win over Oklahoma State.

>>David Ash Hurt, Out For BYU Game

(Austin, TX) -- Longhorns quarterback David Ash is out for this week's game against BYU. Coach Charlie Strong announced today Ash is being held out because of concussion-like symptoms. Ash was hurt in Saturday's 38-7 win over UNT. Tyrone Swopes will start.

Kirk Holds Off Horschel At Deutsche Bank

 width=Chris Kirk's final-round, five-under 66 helped him hold off Billy Horschel to win the Deutsche Bank Championship at TPC Boston on Monday.  Kirk finished the week at 15-under-par and is atop the FedExCup playoff points list heading into the BMW Championship in Colorado.  Horschel finished tied with Geoff Ogilvy and Russell Henley two back.  John Senden and Rory McIlroy were each tied for fifth at 11-under-par.  McIlroy is in second place and 819 points back in the FedExCup standings with Hunter Mahan holding down third.  After the BMW Championship, golfers will head into the final event of the playoffs at the Tour Championship. 

Rams, NFL Notes

 width=>>Michael Sam Not Added To Rams Practice Squad

(St. Louis, MO) -- Michael Sam is free to sign with any team in the NFL. Sam was cut by the St. Louis Rams over the weekend and was also left off their 10-man practice squad. He was drafted by the Rams in the seventh round of this year's NFL Draft, making him the first openly gay player in NFL history. Sam recorded 11 tackles and three sacks in four preseason games with the Rams.

>>Rams Claim Keenum

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams are adding depth to the quarterback position. St. Louis claimed Case Keenum off waivers from the Texans. He was released after Houston acquired Ryan Mallett from the Patriots in a trade over the weekend. Keenum started eight games last season throwing for 1,760 yards, nine touchdowns and six interceptions. St. Louis is starting Shaun Hill under center after they lost Sam Bradford for the season.

>>Texans Ink Watt To Long Term Deal

(Houston, TX) -- Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt is getting his wish. Houston signed the two-time Pro Bowler to a long-term deal on Monday night. The "Houston Chronicle" reports the contract is worth 100-million-dollars over six years with nearly 52-million-dollars guaranteed. Watt becomes the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, passing former Texan Mario Williams' deal of 96-million-dollars. The Wisconsin product had expressed his interest in staying with Houston during the preseason. The 25-year-old was taken 11th overall by the Texans in the 2011 draft and has racked up 36-and-a-half sacks during his tenure.

>>Carr Gets Starting Call For Raiders

(Oakland, CA) -- Oakland Raiders coach Dennis Allen says rookie Derek Carr is his starting quarterback for Sunday's opener against the Jets. Carr made one start during the preseason and threw for 326 yards and four touchdowns with one interception in the four games. The rookie completed 11-of-13 passes against Seattle last week and found the end zone three times. The Fresno State product beat out Matt Schaub for the position, who the team acquired via trade from Houston in the off-season. The Raiders took Carr in the second round of the draft and he was the fourth quarterback taken overall.

>>49ers Alex Boone Ending Contract Holdout

(Santa Clara, CA) -- The San Francisco 49ers and guard Alex Boone have reportedly agreed to terms on a revamped two-year contract. Multiple sources say Boone is ending his holdout after missing all of training camp, and may be ready to see some game action when the team opens its regular season Sunday in Dallas. The 49ers have reportedly reworked Boone's existing contract that would have paid him about three-point-seven million dollars this year and again in 2015. Instead, Boone will make closer to six-million-dollars in each of the next two seasons.

>>Gronkowski Cleared To Start Season

(Foxborough, MA) -- When the New England Patriots take the field to begin the 2014 season, tight end Rob Gronkowski says he will be "good to go." Gronkowski underwent surgery last January to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. He did not suit up the entire preseason. Gronkowski says he will likely wear a brace over the knee. In seven games last season "Gronk" caught 39 passes for 592 yards and four touchdowns. The Pats open up the season on the road against the Miami Dolphins on September 7th.

Cards, Cubs Win; Sox Notes

 width=>>Cards Rally Past Pirates

(St. Louis, MO) -- Matt Holliday singled in the go-ahead run in the seventh inning as the Cardinals rallied past the Pirates 5-4 in the first of three from Busch Stadium. Kolten Wong hit a pinch-hit two-run homer earlier in the seventh to tie the game at four. Holliday also had a two-run double in the third for the Redbirds, who have won three straight to take over first place in the NL Central. St. Louis now leads Milwaukee by one game in the division after the Brewers lost their sixth straight to the Cubs on Monday. Seth Maness picked up the win in relief and Trevor Rosenthal earned his 41st save with a flawless ninth. Andrew McCutchen homered, Neil Walker had a two-run double and Andrew Lambo doubled in a run for the Bucs, who are three games behind the Cards. Gerrit Cole yielded all five runs in six-and-a-third frames to suffer the loss and fall to 7-and-5.

 width=>>Cubs Double Up Struggling Brewers

(Chicago, IL) -- Welington Castillo hit a two-run homer and drove in three as the Cubs doubled up the Brewers 4-2 in the opener of a three-game series at Wrigley Field. Luis Valbuena added a solo shot for the Northsiders, who snapped a two-game skid. Jacob Turner struck out seven over six-and-a-third innings of one-run ball as he upped his mark to 5-and-8. Hector Rondon closed it out for his 23rd save. Khris Davis and Gerardo Parra both hit solo homers as Milwaukee dropped its sixth straight. Jimmy Nelson allowed three runs in six frames to fall to 2-and-6 with the loss.

MLB NL
------
Miami Marlins 9, New York Mets 6
Philadelphia Phillies 7, Atlanta Braves 0
San Francisco Giants 4, Colorado Rockies 2 (Completion of suspended game)
San Diego Padres 3, Arizona Diamondbacks 1
Colorado Rockies 10, San Francisco Giants 9
Washington Nationals 6, Los Angeles Dodgers 4

MLB AL
------
Tampa Bay Rays 4, Boston Red Sox 3 (10 inn)
Minnesota Twins 6, Baltimore Orioles 4
Detroit Tigers 12, Cleveland Indians 1
Oakland Athletics 6, Seattle Mariners 1
Kansas City Royals 4, Texas Rangers 3

 width=>>White Sox Face Twins Tonight

(Minneapolis, MN) -- The White Sox start a two-game set with the Twins tonight at Target Field in Minneapolis. Chicago sends Hector Noesi to the hill. He's 8-and-9 with a 4.75 ERA. Minnesota counters with Tommy Milone, who is 6-and-4 with a 4.21 ERA. First pitch is at 7:10.

>>Dunn Says He'll Retire After Season

(Oakland, CA) -- Former White Sox slugger Adam Dunn says he's retiring after this season. Dunn was traded to the Oakland Athletics on Sunday and homered in his first at-bat with his new team yesterday. The 34-year-old hit .220 with 20 homers and 54 RBI for Chicago this season.

Clinton Police Weekend Report

ON 8/28/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED NICHOLAS J. LUCAS 18, CLINTON FOR RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY. LUCAS WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 8/29/14 CLINTON POLICE ARRESTED EMILY K. HUNT 19, CLINTON FOR RESISTING A PEACE OFFICER. HUNT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

ON 9/1/14 CLINTON POLICE INVESTIGATED A PROPERTY DAMAGE ACCIDENT ON RT 10 EAST & COUNTY HIGHWAY 1. A VEHICLE DRIVEN BY ERIC S. WHITNEY 43, DECATUR WAS NORTHBOUND ON COUNTY HIGHWAY ONE WHEN HE MISSED THE CURVE AND WENT OVER A CURB AND INTO THE GRASS AREA AND CROSSED RT 10 INTO THE GRASS AREA. WHITNEY WAS ARRESTED FOR IMPROPER LANE USAGE, ILLEGAL TRANSPORTATION OF ALCOHOL, DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL AND DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL WITH A B.A.C. GREATER THAN .08. WHITNEY WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE DEWITT COUNTY JAIL AND RELEASED TO CORRECTIONS.

 

 

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

Clinton Lady Maroons Volleyball Team Wins Season Opener

 width=The Clinton Lady Maroons volleyball team and coach Megan Mitchell both added their first win to the column by beating the El Paso-Gridley Titans in non-conference action Tuesday night. 

Clinton lost the first game 22-25. They then rallied to crush the Titans 25-11 in the second game. The final game was much closer with the Lady Maroons escaping with a 25-20 victory.

Taylor Filkin, middle hitter for the Maroons, provided 23 kills and had one block. Payton Bieber and Faythe Newberry also added a block apiece. Bieber and Haley Ginger both had an ace. Ginger also had 23 digs while Michaela Elliot contributed 23 assists.

Taylor Filkin believes the team will be successful this year because a majority of the girls on the team have been playing together for many years.

[audio:vball4.mp3] [/audio]

Coach Megan Mitchell was glad to get her first win. She was pleased with the success of her team but says there is still room for improvement.

[audio:vball5.mp3] [/audio]

The Lady Maroons look for their next win on Thursday against the Heyworth Hornets at 6:30. Stay tuned to dewittdailynews.com for more Lady Maroons volleyball action.

Sunday's Scoreboard

MLB National League
------
New York Mets 6, Philadelphia Phillies 5
Cincinnati Reds 3, Pittsburgh Pirates 2
St. Louis Cardinals 9, Chicago Cubs 6
San Francisco Giants 15, Milwaukee Brewers 5
Los Angeles Dodgers 7, San Diego Padres 1
Arizona Diamondbacks 6, Colorado Rockies 2
Atlanta Braves 1, Miami Marlins 0

MLB American League
------
Toronto Blue Jays 4, New York Yankees 3
Baltimore Orioles 12, Minnesota Twins 8
Boston Red Sox 3, Tampa Bay Rays 0
Chicago White Sox 6, Detroit Tigers 2
Houston Astros 3, Texas Rangers 2
LA Angels of Anaheim 8, Oakland Athletics 1
Cleveland Indians at Kansas City Royals (Suspended)

MLB Interleague
------
Seattle Mariners 5, Washington Nationals 3

WNBA Playoffs
------
Minnesota Lynx 82, Phoenix Mercury 77
(Best-of-three Western finals tied, 1-1)

NCAA Top-25 Football ("USA Today" Rankings)
------
#10 Baylor Bears 45, SMU Mustangs 0

NASCAR
------
Oral-B USA 500 (at Hampton, GA)
1. Kasey Kahne
2. Matt Kenseth
3. Denny Hamlin

Cubs to Host Jackie Robinson West Little Leaguers

A championship team will be at Wrigley Field on Labor Day: The Jackie Robinson West All-Stars.

The team that won the national Little League championship game before falling to South Korea in the world championship game last month will be honored by the Cubs on Monday. .

In a news release, the Cubs say the little leaguers will get to meet the Cubs during batting practice, throw a ceremonial first pitch and then during the 7th inning stretch, lead the crowd in the traditional singing of 'Take Me Out To The Ballgame.'

Last week, the Jackie Robinson West All-Stars were welcomed back to Chicago with a rally on the city's South Side, a parade through the city and another rally at Millennium Park.

White Sox Take Down Tigers

Jose Quintana tossed seven innings of two-run ball as the White Sox topped the Tigers 6-2 at Comerica Park.  Quintana moved to 7-and-10 while Avisail Garcia went 2-for-4 with two RBI.  Chicago split the four-game weekend series and is back in action at Minnesota tomorrow. 

Mizzou Cruises In Season Opener

Maty Mauk threw for 178 yards and three touchdowns as Missouri cruised to a 38-18 win over South Dakota State to open the season on Saturday in Columbia. Darius White had two TD catches for 83 yards and Russell Hansbrough ran for 126 yards and a score for the Tigers. Mizzou travels to Toledo this Saturday.

Illinois Tops Youngstown State In Opener

Wes Lunt tossed for 285 yards and four touchdowns as Illinois topped Youngstown State 28-17 to begin the year on Saturday in Champaign.  Mike Dudek had three catches for 61 yards and a score, while Martize Barr, Josh Ferguson and Jon Davis also had TD catches.  The Illini host Western Kentucky this Saturday.

Cardinals Rally To Beat Cubs

 The Cardinals rallied from an early five-run deficit to defeat the Cubs 9-6 at Busch Stadium.  Matt Holliday went 3-for-4 with a homer and four RBI while Jhonny Peralta finished 3-for-4 with two RBI.  Kolten Wong also went deep for St. Louis, which is now tied with Milwaukee atop the NL Central.  Pat Neshek earned the win in relief while Trevor Rosenthal notched his 40th save. 

IHSA Weekend Football Scores

Class 8A
1. Loyola (1-0) beat Marquette University, Wis., 44-0.
2. Stevenson (1-0) beat Kenosha Indian Trail, Wis., 35-0.
3. Naperville Central (0-1) lost to Waubonsie Valley 20-6.
4. Bolingbrook (0-1) lost to Hinsdale Central 23-15.
5. Edwardsville (1-0) beat Gary West, Ind., 56-0.
6. Naperville Neuqua Valley (0-1) lost to Naperville North 14-13.
7. Homewood-Flossmoor (1-0) beat Harlan 48-0.
8. Glenbard West (1-0) beat Wheaton Warrenville South 21-10.
9. Maine South (1-0) beat Montini 36-35.
10. Marist (1-0) beat DuSable 45-0.

Class 7A
1. Chicago Mt. Carmel (0-1) lost to St. Joseph's Prep, Pa., 28-27.
2. Lincoln-Way East (0-1) lost to Oak Park River Forest 49-34.
3. Cary-Grove (1-0) beat Wheaton North 38-28.
4. Lake Zurich (1-0) beat Fremd 10-7.
5. St. Rita (-) vs. Simeon, Sunday.
6. Wheaton Warrenville South (0-1) lost to Glenbard West 21-10.
7. Providence (1-0) beat Joliet Catholic 21-10.
8. Belleville West (0-1) lost to Normal West 30-23.
9. Batavia (0-1) lost to Oswego 40-38.
10. Wheaton North (0-1) lost to Cary-Grove 38-28.

Class 6A
1. Sacred Heart-Griffin (Springfield) (1-0) beat Springfield 49-0.
3. East St. Louis (0-1) lost to Cin. St. Xavier, Ohio, 35-20.
4. Rockford Boylan (1-0) beat Rockford Auburn 41-13.
5. Nazareth (1-0) beat Bloomington 42-7.
6. Champaign Centennial (1-0) beat Morton 62-12.
7. Rock Island (1-0) beat Peoria Manual 19-12.
(tie) Belvidere North (1-0) beat Belvidere 41-20.
9. Crete-Monee (1-0) beat Thornton Fractional South 43-6.
10. Kaneland (1-0) beat Brooks Academy 30-8.

Class 5A
1. Montini (0-1) lost to Maine South 36-35.
2. Joliet Catholic (0-1) lost to Providence 21-10.
3. Highland (1-0) beat DuQuoin 56-0.
4. Washington (1-0) beat Bloomington Central Catholic 26-12.
5. Sycamore (0-1) lost to Lincoln Way West 14-13.
6. Geneseo (1-0) beat Dunlap 42-14.
7. Normal University (1-0) beat Urbana 27-12.
8. Mahomet-Seymour (0-1) lost to Mt. Zion 60-36.
9. Metamora (1-0) beat Sterling 29-14.
10. Woodstock Marian (1-0) beat Crystal Lake South 32-0.

Class 4A
1. Rochester (1-0) beat Eisenhower 56-28.
2. Rockford Lutheran (1-0) beat Quincy Notre Dame 35-6.
3. Rock Island Alleman (0-1) lost to Peoria (H.S.) 50-7.
4. Althoff Catholic (1-0) beat Collinsville 34-14.
5. Quincy Notre Dame (0-1) lost to Rockford Lutheran 35-6.
6. Bishop McNamara (1-0) beat IC Catholic 41-0.
7. Coal City (1-0) beat Reed-Custer 27-13.
8. Stillman Valley (0-1) lost to Phillips 51-0.
9. Herrin (0-1) lost to Waterloo 28-27.
10. Columbia (1-0) beat East Alton-Wood River 62-0.

Class 3A
1. St. Joseph-Ogden (1-0) beat Paxton-Buckley-Loda 27-7.
2. Tolono Unity (1-0) beat Decatur St. Teresa 50-13.
3. Williamsville (1-0) beat Auburn 20-0.
4. Wilmington (1-0) beat Sandwich 39-17.
5. Elmwood-Brimfield (1-0) beat Mercer County 28-0.
6. Aurora Christian (1-0) beat Senn 42-6.
7. Mt. Carmel (1-0) beat Harrisburg 46-12.
8. IC Catholic (0-1) lost to Bishop McNamara 41-0.
9. Winnebago (0-0) lost to Pontiac 29-26.
10. Byron (0-1) lost to Marengo 21-7.

Class 2A
1. Sterling Newman (1-0) beat Rockridge 20-14.
2. Mercer County (0-1) lost to Elmwood-Brimfield 28-0.
3. Rockridge (0-1) lost to Sterling Newman 20-14.
4. Momence (1-0) beat Deer Creek-Mackinaw 60-22.
5. Auburn (0-1) lost to Williamsville 20-0.
6. Maroa-Forsyth (1-0) beat Macon Meridian 56-6.
7. Eastland-Pearl City (1-0) beat West Carroll 62-0.
8. Clifton Central (1-0) beat Fairbury Prairie Central 15-13.
(tie) Bismarck-Henning (1-0) beat CICS Hawkins 34-12.
10. Illini West (Carthage) (1-0) beat Rockford Christian 46-12.

Class 1A
1. Lena-Winslow (1-0) beat Pecatonica 56-0.
2. Stockton (0-0) vs. River Ridge, ppd.
3. Forreston (1-0) beat Galena 28-7.
4. Casey-Westfield (1-0) beat Paris 40-0.
5. Camp Point Central (1-0) beat North Greene 32-6.
6. Carrollton (1-0) beat Oakwood 40-6.
7. Stark County (1-0) beat Knoxville 48-0.
8. Galena (0-1) lost to Forreston 28-7.
9. Aquin (1-0) beat Ashton-Franklin Center 31-15.
10. Brown County (0-1) lost to Greenfield-Northwestern 36-14.

SIU Hoping Enrollment Doesn't Fall Again This Year

Officials at Southern Illinois University say they're "guardedly optimistic" new figures will show an end to a trend of dropping enrollments.

Official enrollment numbers for the Carbondale school are expected to be released on Tuesday.

The school has seen its student body drop from about 21,600 to just less than 18,000 since 2004. That's a 16.8 percent fall. Figures show that just 60.8 percent of SIU's 2012 freshmen class stayed or came back for their sophomore year. Interim Provost Susan Ford says "that's not a good number."

The school created a retention task force two years ago to address the problem. Members put together a plan that was initiated in January. It includes mentoring, accountability and curriculum efforts.

Newborn Baby Found Alive in Illinois Trash Bin

Police say a newborn baby found alive inside a trash bin in the central Illinois community of Jacksonville is in good condition.

Lt. Chris Johnson of the Jacksonville Police Department says authorities are still searching for the mother of the infant. The baby was apparently placed in the trash bin Saturday morning, less than 12 hours after it was born.

Johnson says police aren't releasing the gender of the baby or exactly where it was found.

An employee taking out garbage heard a noise coming from inside the trash bin and discovered the unclothed baby inside.

Police say it's fortunate that the baby was found early in the morning before temperatures inside the bin climbed high enough to cause heat-related injuries.

Rauner's Vow Revives Governor's Mansion Question

No Illinois governor has lived full time at the Executive Mansion in Springfield in more than a decade. But Bruce Rauner's promise to live there is reviving the question of its importance for Illinois.

The wealthy Republican says he will be honored to live in Springfield if he defeats Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn in November. Quinn says he would continue to split time between Springfield and Chicago if re-elected.

Former governors Jim Thompson and Jim Edgar say it makes a difference managing the state. Not living in Springfield brings criticism that a governor doesn't pay enough attention to the rest of Illinois.

Yet state business is done from Chicago, technology makes it easier to be away from Springfield and living in a public residence brings scrutiny and less privacy.

Quinn To Live on Minimum Wage for Week

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is hoping to show first-hand what it's like to live on the state's minimum wage of $8.25 an hour.

Quinn has made raising Illinois' minimum wage a cornerstone of his re-election campaign against Republican challenger Bruce Rauner. On Sunday the governor announced at a campaign event that he would limit his spending on food and other expenses for the next week to $79.

That's how much money he says someone working full time for minimum wage has to spend after housing, transportation and taxes.

Rauner has said that he's open to raising the minimum wage if it is tied to business reforms so small businesses can absorb the added labor costs.

Quinn first announced in late July that he planned take the minimum wage challenge.

Social Security Answers Questions Regarding Prisoner Benefits

One lingering question regarding Social Security involves benefits for prisoners.

Kevin Rice, with Social Security, explains many wonder what happene2 to Social Security dollars once a beneficiary has been imprisoned. He adds they administer two specific programs to deal with these situations. If a person's in jail for more than 30 days, checks will stop under the SSI program. Yet, Social Security benefits will only stop if there is a conviction with incarceration.

[audio:82914prisoners1.mp3] [/audio]

Rice notes the families of prisoners benefits will usually continue. He says family member have done nothing wrong so they won't be punished.

[audio:82914prisoners2.mp3] [/audio]

For more information on any Social Security topic, Rice encourages you to visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

Lincoln Heritage Museum Looking Forward to Future

One local museum is looking toward the future in order to keep visitors coming.

The Lincoln Heritage Museum ,on the campus of Lincoln College in Lincoln, opened their new facility back in April. The new location helped the Museum exceed their average yearly attendance in three months. Museum Director Ron Keller says they can't rest on the laurels of their successful opening. He adds many events have been planned for the fall including living history workshops and book signings.

[audio:9114museumfuture1.mp3] [/audio]

Keller explains the Museum is currently looking at possibilities for traveling exhibits in the future. Yet, he stresses a special exhibit coming next year to Lincoln. 2015 will mark the 150th anniversary of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Keller says the exhibit will not be morbid, but respectful of an event that affected the entire country.

[audio:9114museumfuture2.mp3] [/audio]

Keller explains the exhibit will feature many artifacts to commemorate the anniversary.

The new location of the Lincoln Heritage Museum can be found at 1115 Nicholson Road on the north side of the Lincoln College Campus.

Regular Hours will be Monday-Friday 9am-4pm and Saturdays 1pm-4pm.

For more information on the museum, you can go online to www.lincolnheritagemuseum.org.

Local Red Cross Encourages Safety During the School Year

With school back in full swing, the local chapter of the Red Cross wants kids and parents alike to remember basic safety tips.

After a couple months of summer, families should remind themselves of ways to be safe during the school year. Carl Baker, Executive Director of the Mid-Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross, says smaller kids need to remember important phone numbers before going off to school. Parents also should make sure their children are safe around buses and school crossings.

[audio:9114schoolsafety1.mp3] [/audio]

Baker stresses that drivers give themselves stopping distance behind school buses. It's against the law to pass a stopped school bus and could very likely put kids in danger. He notes any kids riding bikes need to wear helmets and ride alongside the traffic flow.

[audio:9114schoolsafety2.mp3] [/audio]

Baker also encourages parents to monitor what their children do after school and to know the emergency plans for the various school buildings.

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