Local News

Mach 1 Coming Soon

A new Mach1 will be open for business in Clinton soon as it is making progress towards  opening day. Michael Meyer who owns and operates Mach1 gas stations in Central Illinois, with an update on some of the progress construction is making. 
 

 

 
The new Mach1 will also include a Little Caesars inside. It will be the first site to include a Little Caesars, and Meyer is currently in the process of hiring his staff.

 

 
Meyer says that he is looking toward the end of September for the store opening, but nothing is for sure just yet.
 

 

 
Meyer says when Mach1 does open, it will be a soft open. They do not plan on having a large grand opening ceremony

3rd Annual Brain Tumor Nature Walk at Weldon Springs

A National Brain Tumor Nature Walk is taking place this coming Septemeber, over at Weldon Springs State Recreation Area east of Clinton. The walk is to create awareness and to honor all who are suffering or have suffered from brain cancer.  
 
Lauren Thompson experienced first hand, as her mother passed away from a glioblastoma malforma (GBM). Lauren wanted to help raise awareness by starting her own event.
 

 

 
The goal of the event is to raise $25,000 dollars for the National Brain Tumor Society and find a cure for brain tumors. The nature walk will be on September 8th at 10 a.m. For more information on the event visit nbtsevents.braintumor.org or by calling Lauren Thompson at (217)-622-8294.
 

Swifty Swine 5K

As it gets closer to September that means we get closer to the Annual Apple and Pork Festival. It will be its 50th year of having the Annual Apple and Pork festival but also during that weekend Warner Hospital and Health Services teams up with the YMCA to host a 5K.
 

 

 
The run/walk will be that Saturday morning of the Apple and Pork Festival at 8 a.m. over at Weldon Springs. You can contact Warner Hospital and Health Services for more information.
 

Tempetures Staying Warm

As we start to go into September the seasons begin to change. Then with the seasons change so does the tempeture but meteorologist Chris Miller says that the tempetures for fall could stay a little warmer.
 
 

 

 
Miller did mention more that going through the fall to be safe and watch out for those tornado types of weather as this year's fall will be sligtly warmer. 
 
You can find more information about the weather reports at www.weather.gov.
 

Bost Says Mt. Vernon, Southern Illinois Have Special Opportunity with New Trans-Loading Site

Illinois Congressman Mike Bost says as the House looks to put together an infrastructure bill, he continues to work with Mt. Vernon city leaders to pave the way for a new trans-loading site in the community. He says Mt. Vernon and southern Illinois have a special opportunity to be at the center of national economic growth for many years to come.
 

 

 
Mt. Vernon is one of three cities in the United States where 3 national railroad lines intersect, with the other two cities being Chicago and Nashville, TN.

Attorney General announces Clergy Abuse Hotline.


 
ATTORNEY GENERAL LISA MADIGAN’S OFFICE IS LAUNCHING A NEW CLERGY ABUSE HOTLINE. 
AS INVESTIGATIONS INTO SEXUAL MISCONDUCT BY CLERGY MEMBERS INCREASE…ATTORNEY GENERAL MADIGAN SAYS THEY WANT TO GIVE VICTIMS AND WHISTLEBLOWERS A PLACE TO REPORT WHAT’S HAPPENED TO THEM OR WHAT THEY’VE SEEN.
 
 
CALLERS CAN ALSO LEAVE A MESSAGE FOR STAFF TO CONTACT THEM LATER. THE NUMBER IS 1-888-414-7678.

Clinton Area Farmers and Artisans Market September Events

Clinton Farmers Market goes on every weekend down in the square and has local produce for sale. September though is gonna have some more than just produce available for kids and family says guest speaker Beth Burns.
 

 

 
With the Apple and Pork festival coming the farmers market will also bring in a couple more attractions. 
 

 

 
If interested in the farmers market you can call Burns at (217)-722-2496 or visit the Facebook page at ClintonILFarmersMarket.

Craft Brewers Now Better Able to Partner

Craft brewing is exploding around the state and now those operations will be better able to partner with each other to showcase their own products. Matt Porter the CEO of Destihl in Normal says an outdated law kept craft brewers from being able to work together and sell each other’s beers or ciders. 
 

 

 
Another change in state law will allow for craft brewers to store beer offsite. Before that product needed to be kept where the brewing was being done, limiting the expansion of some operations. 
 

Weekly Crop Report

CORN IN ILLINOIS IS BEGINNING TO MATURE AS WE HEAR IN THE WEEKLY CROP REPORT. (two stories, same lead).
 
RAINFALL WAS ABOVE NORMAL THIS PAST WEEK…ALTHOUGH SOME AREAS, ESPECIALLY WESTERN ILLINOIS, NEED RAIN. CROP STATISTICIAN MARK SCHLEUSENER SAYS CORN IS CHUGGING ALONG.
 

 

 
16 PERCENT OF SOYBEANS ARE TURNING COLOR AND 29 PERCENT OF SORGHUM IS MATURE. THE THIRD CUTTING OF ALFALFA HAY IS NOW 84 PERCENT COMPLETE. AVERAGE STATEWIDE TOPSOIL MOISTURE IMPROVED TO SIX PERCENT VERY SHORT, 20 PERCENT SHORT, 68 PERCENT ADEQUATE AND SIX PERCENT SURPLUS.

Governor signs law giving patients needing pain relief access to medical marijuana instead of opioids.

GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING A NEW LAW THAT WILL GIVE PATIENTS MORE PAIN RELIEF OPTIONS. 
 
THE LAW LETS PATIENTS WHO WOULD NORMALLY BE PRESCRIBED HEAVY DUTY PAINKILLERS, USE MEDICAL MARIJUANA INSTEAD. IT WAS SPONSORED BY SENATOR DON HARMON OF OAK PARK…WHO SAYS THEY WANT TO HELP LOWER THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE ADDICTED TO POWERFUL OPIATES.
 

 

 
THE LAW ALSO MAKES THE APPLICATION PROCESS EASIER SO PATIENTS CAN QUICKLY GET ACCESS TO MEDICAL CANNABIS.

Supporters want to override Governor's veto of Tobacco 21 legislation.

ADVOCATES ARE PUSHING TO OVERRIDE THE GOVERNOR’S VETO OF TOBACCO 21 LEGISLATION.
 
THE BILL RAISES THE AGE TO PURCHASE CIGARETTES FROM 18 TO 21. IT’S AN ISSUE THAT SENATE PRESIDENT JOHN CULLERTON HAS STRONGLY SUPPORTED…SAYING IT WILL SAVE LIVES.
 

 

 
CULLERTON SAYS IT WON’T BE EASY BUT HE WANTS LAWMAKERS TO OVERRIDE THE VETO WHEN THEY RETURN TO SPRINGFIELD IN NOVEMBER. GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER ARGUES THAT 18 YEAR OLD’S ARE MATURE ENOUGH TO MAKE THEIR OWN CHOICES AND THAT RAISING THE LEGAL AGE WILL DRIVE CUSTOMERS TO BORDER STATES TO BUY SMOKES.

Opioid Hotline Adds New Features

Help is a phone call away for opioid users and addicts and thousands have used the state’s service. New features are now available for callers to speak to trained specialists to discuss treatment options and to hear back from the person that you talked too. Danielle Kirby with the Department of Human Services says it’s a big upgrade.
 

 

 
If you need help or know someone that does dealing with opioid addiction you can call 833-2-FIND HELP.

Bost Reflects on McCain

Tributes continue to pour in for Senator John McCain, who passed away over the weekend from brain cancer. Among those are Illinois Congressman Mike Bost, who says they worked on the same conference committee a few years ago.
 
Bost says he respected the late Senator.
 

 

Senator McCain's life will come full circle this week as he's laid to rest in the place where his service to the country began more than six decades ago. McCain's career began at the U.S. Naval Academy. He will be buried there on Sunday in a private service.
 

Durbin Salutes McCain

Senator Dick Durbin has honored his late colleague Arizona Senator John McCain. On the Senate Floor, Durbin said McCain's death after a battle with brain cancer leaves a void on Capitol Hill....
 

 

 
Durbin credited McCain with making tough votes on issues like immigration and health care that generated unfavorable response from many conservatives, a group McCain relied on as a Republican for re-election. Durbin said their friendship, which dated back to the early 80's when both served in the U.S. House, was strained on occasion but survived all challenges, including McCain campaigning for current Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin against Durbin in a 2002 Senate race.

Rate 11 Power Disruption Scheduled For Tomorrow

Corn Belt Energy has scheduled a power disruption for residential members who are part of the Rate 11 load control program. Members of Rate 11 will have an interruption in electrical service tomorrow from 2 to 5 p.m. 
 
Director of Communications and Marketing Hillary Cherry explained why they are conducting this test.
 

 

 
The tests are to make sure all equipment is working correctly for Corn Belt Energy in case they need to fix the power grid of Central Illinois.
 
If any participating members power is not back on by 5:15 on Thursday they should contact Corn Belt Energy at 800-879-0339. 

Bowl for Kid's Sake

Big Brothers Big Sisters a program based here in Dewitt County and McLean County looks to help bring kids together and create a better stress-free environment. The program helps support children who are struggling with whether it be in school or at home. To help run the program Big Brothers Big Sisters runs a fundraiser.
 
 
Bowl For Kid's Sake is a national event where every Big Brother Big Sister programs host. The Bowl For Kid's Sake is every first weekend of March. To find more information you can go to bbbscil.org.
 

Cerro Gordo adds on to Schools

Updating schools is always a process but Cerro Gordo gets the job done as they upgrade the school over the summer. Superintendent Brett Robinson talked about some of the new additions to the school.
 
 
Robinson and the Board allowed the community to give some of their opinions about new additions.
 

 

 
The additions will continue to be added on throughout the school year.
 

New law requires insurance coverage of egg/sperm preservation.

GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING A NEW LAW TO HELP CANCER PATIENTS START A FAMILY. 
 
THE LAW REQUIRES INSURANCE COMPANIES TO COVER THE COST OF PRESERVING A PATIENT’S EGGS OR SPERM WHILE THEY BATTLE CANCER SAYS GOVERNOR RAUNER.
 

 

ILLINOIS IS ONLY THE THIRD STATE IN THE NATION TO REQUIRE THIS COVERAGE.

Dewitt County Board on Shadow Flicker

County board met up to discuss the wind turbine's amendments. The county board had their meeting last week to discuss six different amendments, three of which the people of Dewitt County were hoping to change. One of those amendments was the shadow flicker from the wind turbines. Chairman of the County Board Dave Newberg, explained the amendment on shadow flicker.
 

 

There was a motion to try and change the amendment instead of 0 shadow flicker to 15 but failed. Then a motion to carry the original amendment also failed. More planning will still have to be done before the wind turbines are placed. 

Clinton CUSD #15 Looking For a New School Board Member

Clinton schools are busy with the school year starting up and so is the Board of Education.
Mike Walker, who has been president of the School Board for several years will be leaving says Clinton Superintendent Curt Nettles.
 

 

Nettles and the rest of the board are trying to fill in the empty school board position.
 

 

You can call Clinton CUSD #15 at (217)-935-8321 to find out more information.

Teacher of the Year Candidate Baldwin Talks about students and tips for teachers

Over at Clinton high school, teacher Rodger Baldwin has been nominated Teacher of the Year Finalist. Baldwin who teaches chemistry, physics, physical science, and theater, talks about how teaching has changed over the years.
 
 
Baldwin talked about what he thinks helps make a better teacher.
 

 

Rodger is one of 10 finalists for Illinois, who will be named in Normal, IL on October 20th at the "Those Who Excel" banquet.

Illinois celebrates Bicentennial of first Constitution

Downtown Springfield is a more beautiful place for pedestrians along the Capital City's most historic corridor. The Illinois Realtors Association joined Governor Rauner and the Marching Illini in dedicating their new Bicentennial Plaza Project between Fifth and Sixth streets along Jackson Street. First Lady Diana Rauner thanked the Realtors for helping complete a historic Downtown Puzzle...

 

Governor Bruce Rauner continues to be the Bicentennial's biggest cheerleader....

 

Intense heat threatened a star attraction, a 300 pound Bicentennial Eli's Cheesecake shipped in from Chicago.
 

High School Kids Free to Take As Many Dual Credit Classes as they Can

As high school students get back to class they can begin work on their college course work. And new a new state law removes cap on the number of dual credit classes that student can take. Dual credit courses are taught at high schools but also count for college credit. It can be a way for students to cut the amount of time they have to be enrolled by lessening the amount of courses they need to take when they get to a university. 
 
State Representative Dan Swanson says that’s a great way to save money. 

 

Supporters say this means some kids could leave high school with an associates degree.

Governor signs bill permitting growth of industrial hemp and easing weight-limit restrictions on state highways during harvest time.

ILLINOIS FARMERS WILL BE ABLE TO ADD INDUSTRIAL HEMP TO THEIR CROP PRODUCTION UNDER A BILL SIGNED SATURDAY BY GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER.
 
HEMP PRODUCTS ARE ALREADY SOLD ALL OVER THE STATE…BUT ILLINOIS FARMERS PREVIOUSLY COULDN’T GROW IT ON THEIR OWN SAYS GOVERNOR RAUNER.
 

 

THE ISSUE HAS BEEN DEBATED FOR YEARS SINCE THE HEMP PLANT CARRIES TRACE AMOUNTS OF T-H-C. THE GOVERNOR ALSO SIGNED A BILL EASING WEIGHT-LIMIT RESTRICTIONS ON STATE HIGHWAYS DURING HARVEST TIME.

New law attempts to end "lunch shaming" in Illinois schools

A NEW STATE LAW ATTEMPTS TO END “LUNCH SHAMING” IN ILLINOIS SCHOOLS. 
 
SENATOR STEVE STADELMAN OF ROCKFORD SPONSORED THE MEASURE…SAYING EVERY STUDENT THAT ASKS FOR A LUNCH AT SCHOOL…SHOULD GET ONE.
 

 

THE LAW REQUIRES SCHOOLS TO GIVE KIDS THAT CAN’T PAY A LUNCH, WITHOUT MAKING A BIG DEAL OUT OF IT. ADMINISTRATORS CAN THEN CONTACT THE PARENTS AND WORK OUT A PAYMENT PLAN OR DIRECT THEM TO APPLY FOR FREE OR REDUCED LUNCHES. IF THE DEBT REACHES 500 DOLLARS OR MORE…SCHOOLS CAN ASK THE STATE TO TAKE THE MONEY OUT OF THE FAMILY’S TAX REFUND.

Practicing Plans

Schools started up last week, and teachers always have to be prepared in case of an emergency. Before schools in started Clinton, School Resource Officer Mike Bennett and the rest of the faculty practiced emergency plans.

 

 

Bennett said after going through those plans, the staff can look and decide what works best for the school.
 

A New Permanent Exhibit at the McLean County Museum of History

The McLean County Museum of History has a new permanent exhibit. The museum has been working tirelessly for the past 4 years curating what life was like for the working class in central Illinois. 
 
The new exhibit, "Challenges, Choices, and Change: Working for a Living", begins in the 1800s - highlighting more than 80 local workers and their daily on-the-job experiences.
 

Guest curator, Mike Matejka, wants to show how people were able to progress and transition as new technologies displaced workers.

 

 

The McLean County Museum of History is number 4 on the list of top 200 museums in Illinois and is nationally accredited with the American Alliance of Museum - an accreditation only 26 Illinois museums hold.
 
The new exhibit opens Saturday, September 8 at 1pm and is located at 200 N. Main Street in Bloomington.
 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois looks to provide mentors for children

Sometimes it can be tough for children growing up in unwarranted circumstances, as the goal of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported 1-to-1 relationships that change their lives for the better.
 
Case Manager Heather Peavler works in both DeWitt and McLean counties, as she explains the different programs that are offered.
 

 

Volunteers are a huge part of the program, but there are certain stipulations to become a peer-mentor.
 
 
For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois visit bbbscil.org.
 

DeWitt County Farm Bureau Celebrates 100 Years

An event 100 years in the making took place Saturday night in DeWitt County.
 
The DeWitt County Farm Bureau celebrated its 100th anniversary Saturday night with an event at Little Galilee Camp south of Clinton.  Farm Bureau Manager, Janell Baum Thomas, notes the evening featured guest speakers, historical exhibits, and good food.
 

 

 
As with any centennial celebration, there was plenty of looking back at the DeWitt County Farm Bureau's rich history.  Ken Bjelland served as the manager for the organization for over 35 years.  He feels some of the highlights of his time were the projects completed by the group in regards to local resident safety.

 

 
Illinois Farm Bureau President Rich Guebert provided remarks to the crowd, and touched on the current challenges facing farmers across the state, and the nation.  He says letting legislators hear the voices of agriculture is as important now as it's ever been.  
 

 

 
Kim Kidwell, Dean of the College of ACES at the University of Illinois, was the night's keynote speaker.  She addressed the future of agriculture, and specifically how the U of I hopes to continue to point students down the path of agriculture.
 

 

 
DeWitt County Farm Bureau President, Tom Heironymous, served as emcee for the event.  He's been a part of the organization for 35 years, and sees Farm Bureau at all levels as a way to protect the interests of farmers.
 

 

 
Recently appointed DCFB board member, John Klemm, agrees, and hopes to see the organization continue to adapt and evolve in the future.

 

 
Nearly 150 people attended the DeWitt County Farm Bureau's 100th anniversary celebration.  To learn more about the organization, visit dewittcountyfarmbureau.com.

Attorney General candidates make case to rural Illinois

The Republican candidate for Attorney General, Erika Harold, told farmers and other members of the Agricultural Legislative Roundtable that she’d make fighting public corruption and drafting legislation to reform workers compensation laws a priority in her first 100 days. She criticized her Democratic opponent, state Senator Kwame (KWAH-mee) Raoul (rah-OOL), for introducing legislation that would amend state administrative law and allow any person that feels adversely affected by a state agency to sue;
 

 

 
Raoul says he’d make an assessment of the Attorney General’s office to retain talent and begin rooting out internet predators his priorities for his first 100 days. As far as legislation that some thought would bring frivolous lawsuits on such things as approving a new or expanded location of a livestock farm approved by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, he says once he heard from opponents, he decided not to pursue the proposed law's passage;
 

 

 
Following his formal presentation, Raoul criticized Harold as someone who has no experience dealing with workmen’s compensation matters, while he does as a lawmaker and former prosecutor. The two did agree that they both would have an advisory panel to advise them on agricultural and rural issues. Harold, who hails from the Champaign area, and Raoul, who grew up and represents a state senate district in Chicago, participated in the candidate forum Wednesday afternoon on a farm outside of the Bloomington-Normal area.
 

A NEW STATE LAW CRACKS DOWN ON THE OWNERS OF DANGEROUS DOGS.

DOGS CAN ALREADY BE DEEMED “DANGEROUS” BY AUTHORITIES…AND NOW OWNERS WHOSE DOG HAS KILLED ANOTHER PET AND STILL LET THEM RUN LOOSE COULD BE PUNISHED BY THE COURTS. SENATOR LAURA MURPHY OF DES PLAINES SPONSORED THE BILL, SAYING OWNERS NEED TO BE HELD RESPONSIBLE.
 

 

IF FOUND GUILTY…THE DOG OWNER WILL LOSE THEIR PETS AND BE BANNED FROM GETTING ANOTHER DOG FOR UP TO THREE YEARS. THE LAW KICKS IN JANUARY FIRST.

County Board on Wind Farm Setback

County Board met up last Wednesday night to discuss the amendments of the windmills in Dewitt County. Chairman of the Board Dave Newberg, came in to talk about some of the amendments they discussed. One of those amendments was to have a 1,640-foot setback from the windmill. 
 

 

Newberg did mention that for anyone to build the windmills, they will still go and get permits meeting the standards before anything can be built. 

Upcoming Illinois waterway lock repairs will cause disruption with river transportation

There’s much to be done on inland waterways, especially on those that run through Illinois. Some help is on the way though, but it will not come without some hardship. Six locks will be closed on the Illinois Waterway from LaGrange Lock and Dam near Versailles all the way up to Brandon Road Lock and Dam in the west suburbs of Chicago. Most of the work will be done in 2020 and will add some life to the infrastructure says Tom Heinold with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rock Island District.
 

 

Heinold refers to LaGrange as the “posterchild” for decaying infrastructure. It’s defined as the nation’s number one priority for lock rehabilitation on the nation’s inland navigation system. 
 
Illinois Farm Bureau staff will be working with other commodity shippers and with the grain marketing industry to inform farmers about the pending disruptions and their potential impacts on the marketing of Illinois’ 2019 and 2020 crops.

Du Quoin Fair Ready to Open

Illinois has two state fairs and the second one – the Du Quoin State Fair is getting underway on Friday. It opens the same way the bigger fair does in Springfield – with a parade and this year there is a new ride on the grounds according to Assistant Fair Manager Tibretta Reiman, a double Ferris wheel.
 

 

The fair attracts plenty of campers as it sits on more than 1200 acres and just a small portion of that is dedicated to fair style events.

JOB LINK ON PHONES

YOU CAN NOW SEARCH FOR JOBS…AND EMPLOYEES ON THE STATE’S “JOB LINK” WEBSITE FROM YOUR PHONE.
 
THE ILLINOIS JOB LINK SITE NOW HAS A MOBILE VERSION…MAKING IT EASIER TO LOOK FOR WORK SAYS STATE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON BOB GOUGH.
 

 

THE WEBSITE IS: WWW.ILLINOISJOBLINK.COM.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FALLS

THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FELL IN ALL OF ILLINOIS’ 14 METRO AREAS LAST MONTH.
 
MORE PEOPLE WERE WORKING THIS JULY THAN IN JULY OF 2017, DRIVING DOWN THE JOBLESS RATE SAYS STATE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON BOB GOUGH.
 

 

GOUGH NOTES THAT THE CHICAGO METRO AREA ENJOYED ITS LOWEST JULY UNEMPLOYMENT RATE ON RECORD LAST MONTH.

A NEW STATE LAW CRACKS DOWN ON THE OWNERS OF DANGEROUS DOGS

OWNERS WITH DOGS THAT HAVE KILLED ANOTHER DOG AND CONTINUE TO LET THEM RUN LOOSE COULD BE DEEMED ‘RECKLESS” BY A JUDGE AND LOSE THEIR PETS. SENATOR LAURA MURPHY OF DES PLAINS SPONSORED THE MEASURE…BASED ON AN INCIDENT IN HER DISTRICT.
 
CUT:

 

ANYONE FOUND GUILTY WILL BE BANNED FROM OWNING DOGS FOR UP TO THREE YEARS. THE NEW LAW TAKES EFFECT JANUARY FIRST.

Dave Ferguson recognized for service to 4-H

A DeWitt County volunteer was honored for their service as a 4-H volunteer. Dave Ferguson of DeWitt county was one of 71 volunteers recognized by the Illinois 4-H Foundation as a 4-H Hall of Fame recipient during a ceremony Saturday, Aug. 14 at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.
 
This year celebrated the 14-year anniversary of the award, said Angie Barnard, Illinois 4-H Foundation executive director. 
 
The Illinois 4-H Foundation established the statewide Hall of Fame in 2004 to honor and celebrate extraordinary 4-H alumni, volunteers, and former 4-H staff. Each inductee received a commemorative Hall of Fame medallion. 

Rauner signs legislation to boost youth hearing

Governor Bruce Rauner has signed legislation to help the state's young people get access to replacement hearing aids. Rauner was flanked by ten-year-old Hunter Martin of Illiopolis as he signed a bill mandating insurers cover replacement hearing aids for each ear and covers all hearing-impaired people at age 18 or younger.....
 

 

 
Martin previously testified in front of House and Senate committees on the issue...
 

 

 
Replacements are required every three years. The law also says repairs to those hearing aids and ear examinations, fittings and adjustments to ear molds must be covered “when deemed medically necessary”. Hearing aids can carry a cost of up to $4,000. Rauner says lack of proper equipment can cause hearing impaired youth to fall behind academically and socially. 

Jobs Are Plentiful Around Illinois

The state keeps reporting jobs numbers that continue to scrape historical lows. The Illinois Department of Employment Security says that more people are staying employed or keep getting work. Bob Gough with IDES says the numbers show a strong economy.
 

 

 
There are 14 metro areas in the state and job gains were found in 10 of them.

Armed Robbery at Clinton Pantry

At around 11:40 p.m. Clinton Police responded to an armed robbery over at Clinton Pantry. The employee on duty reported to police that a white male wearing dark clothing, with a sweatshirt pulled over his head, black mask and sunglasses, entered in the store demanding money. The man said he was armed but never showed a weapon. After the suspect was handed the money he fled the store on foot. 
 
Anyone with information is to contact the Clinton Police Department at 217-935-9441.
 

Watching School Crossings

School has started back up for Clinton and with the school year starting kids will be walking to school. The Clinton schools have set up crossing guards to help kids walk to school safely, but Superintendent Curt Nettles says some people have ignored some of these rules.
 

 

 
Nettles wants everyone to make sure all kids walk and get to school safely. Look out for your school crossings in your area and school crossing guards helping kids walk to school. 

School Resource Officer Gives Tips For Parents and Schools

The School year has started and kids are back in the classrooms. After school is over with then it is time for those students to head back home. School Resource Officer came in Wednesday to help give some tips to parents and kids.
 

 

 
Bennett also mentioned more about parents talking with their schools' teachers to help communicate an understanding between the two that way all rules are followed. 
 

 

 
If you ever have any questions Bennett suggested going through the student handbook or by calling your school to find more information.

Clinton YMCA hours change after Labor Day

The Clinton YMCA has been closed on Sunday's since Memorial Day Weekend as they will be changing their hours after the Labor Day weekend according to Director Rennie Cluver.
 

 

 
For more information on the Clinton YMCA visit www.clintoncommymca.org.

Governor's signs 'groundbreaking' higher education legislation

Governor Rauner has signed legislation into law which the bill’s sponsor, State Representative Dan Brady (R-Bloomington) says focuses on trying to keep the state’s best and brightest students at home in Illinois..
 

 

 
 Brady’s HB 4781 streamlines admission testing and information. He said the bill, as with the other legislation presented this session by the Joint Senate and House Higher Education Group, will help convince students to stay in state.

Unemployment Rate Dropped In Illinois

THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FELL IN ALL OF ILLINOIS’ 14 METRO AREAS LAST MONTH. (two stories, same lead).
 
THE METRO NUMBERS COMPARE JULY OF THIS YEAR TO JULY OF LAST YEAR…AND SHOW MORE PEOPLE ARE WORKING SAYS STATE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON BOB GOUGH (goff).

 

JOBS GAINS OVER-THE-YEAR WERE SEEN IN 10 METRO AREAS INCLUDING CHICAGO AND THE SUBURBS, AS WELL AS KANKAKEE, EAST ST. LOUIS AND CHAMPAIGN-URBANA.

Job Link Website On Phones

YOU CAN NOW SEARCH FOR JOBS…AND EMPLOYEES ON THE STATE’S “JOB LINK” WEBSITE FROM YOUR PHONE. 
 
ILLINOIS JOB LINK DOT COM MAKES IT EASY FOR PEOPLE TO CREATE A RESUME, UPLOAD IT, AND LOOK FOR A JOB. EMPLOYERS CAN ALSO SEARCH FOR WORKERS WITH THE SKILLS THEY ARE SEEKING. STATE DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON BOB GOUGH (Goff) SAYS NOW THEY HAVE A MOBILE SITE.
 

 

 
ILLINOIS JOB LINK DOT COM FEATURES MORE THAN 100 THOUSAND HELP-WANTED ADS.

Full House or Full School

The School year has started back up and Clinton Elementary wanted to help create a fun welcome back, get to know the teachers' video. Ben Mooney and the rest of the teachers set up a video showing the fun side of Clinton Elementary.
 

 

The video has been viewed over 900 times on youtube. You can go to Clinton Elementary website or go to their Facebook and Twitter page to see the video.
 
 
 

Annual Astronomy Jamboree

Rock Springs Nature Center gets ready to celebrate a long-lasting tradition that will go on its 34th time to celebrate, the Annual Astronomy Jamboree. Manager Richie Wolf talked about some new activities at this year's Astronomy Jamboree. 
 

 

 
After the concert, there will be some stargazing, free food, and drinks for the families. All ages can come and attend the Astronomy Jamboree. The night sky exploring event will be this Saturday, August 25th from 6:30 to 9 p.m.Free registering is available online at www.maconcountyconservation.org.

Two endangered monkeys added at Miller Park Zoo

Protecting and helping endangered species is a big goal for many zoos including the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington.  Recently, the zoo added two new animals that will look to provide a lot of energy according to zoo Directory Jay Tetzloff.
 

 

 
Tetzloff says that the relatives are the first monkeys of their kind to live in Miller Park.
 

 

 
The Francois Langurs are named Ping and Kuantan, with both being over 10 years old.  For more information on the animals at the Miller Park Zoo visit www.bloomingtonparks.org.  

Rose emphasises keeping students in state

Recently-enacted laws are designed to keep college-bound students at home in Illinois, and that’s a must, according to State Senator Chapin Rose, if we’re to counter the brain drain and loss of economic benefits when Illinois high school students attend college out of state.  Ray Watt reports...

 

 

Governor Rauner Signs Mental Health Bills

GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING A PACKAGE OF BILLS TO INCREASE HEALTH CARE OPTIONS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE PATIENTS. 
 
THE SERIES OF FIVE NEW LAWS AIM TO MAKE SURE PATIENTS HAVE ACCESS TO TREATMENT AND FAIR HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE SAYS ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE DIRECTOR JENNIFER HAMMER.

 

ONE OF THE LAWS WILL EXPAND ACCESS TO TELE-MEDICINE FOR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES…ESPECIALLY FOR RURAL AND MEDICAID PATIENTS WHO MIGHT HAVE A HARD TIME FINDING A PROVIDER. ANOTHER CREATES A PILOT PROGRAM TO SPECIFICALLY REACH TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS.

August heat to return heading into weekend

August isn’t over just yet and either are typical August type temperatures. Eric Schmidt with EJS weather in Newton says some below normal temps are being felt this week, but that will change heading into the weekend. 
 

 

 
Schmidt is not expecting an early frost this year. The first day of fall is September 22nd.

DeWitt County Board votes on text amendment changes for wind farms

Last night the DeWitt County Board and more than 100 patrons gathered at the County Building for a special board meeting to vote on the language for text amendments surrounding the wind farm project by Tradewind Energy.
 
After more than three hours of public comments addressing the board, the board voted on six different motions.  The public wearing bright yellow shirts saying "vote yes" wanted the board to approve the text amendment changes revolving a minimum setback of 1,640 feet from the property line, zero shadow flicker, and the installation of lighting mitigation.  All three of these text amendment changes were recommended to the board by the Regional Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals.
 
The board voted no on two of those three motions.  They voted 10-1 not to approve a 1,640-foot setback distance from the property lines of a non-participating resident.  Many residents and concerned members of the community disagreed with this decision, while Tradewind's Dr. Brandon Storm said a setback like this would've been devastating.
 

 

 
County resident Patricia Klem was one of many to share why they wanted these text amendments to be changed.
 

 

 
The installation of a lighting mitigation system was approved by the board. A third amendment, language to ensure there would be zero shadow flicker at a non-participating residence also failed, on a 9-2 vote.
 
Tradewind has said they expect to present their plans to the County Board in the coming months.  

Young American Legion Members Go to Boys State

New American Legion members Cameron and Rusten Wurtz got involved with Boys State in July. Cameron and Rusten of the American Legion Post 103 went to Eastern Illinois University to learn but weren't the only ones getting involved from the Legion said, Commander Joshua Thielen.

 

 

 
Not only do they go and get involved with other programs at these state events, they also learn more about government.
 

 

 
You can contact the Crang-Bennett American Legion Post 103 in Clinton, IL by going to their website at www.ccrangbennett.wixsite.com.com to see how you can get involved with the American Legion. 
 

Apple 'n Pork Festival celebrates 50 years

Since the first modest festival which was held on the museum grounds in 1968 and consisted of a kettle of soup and stack of sandwiches, the Apple ‘n Pork Festival has grown to become one of Central Illinois’ largest and best-attended fall events.  Always the last weekend in September, the festival is already gearing up for what should be a very busy weekend.
 

 

 

Joey Woolridge is the Director at the C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum, as she explains with the special occasion the ever so familiar festival logo has gotten a new update.

 

 

 
Merchandise items with the new logo are for sale in the museum gift shop.  The Apple 'n Pork Festival is set to begin September 29.  

Rauner signs legislation designed to slow exodus of college students

Governor Rauner has signed legislation designed to slow the exodus of college students to other states. Rauner signed legislation creating a new merit-based grant program....

 

 

 
The AIM HIGH Grant Pilot Program mixes 25 million dollars in state funding for Fiscal Year 2019 with matching dollars from Illinois universities. 
 
The National Center for Education Statistics says enrollment at public colleges in Illinois fell by 50,000 people between the early 1990s and 2014. 

Dick Van Dyke leads the list of top actors in Illinois history

DICK VAN DYKE LEADS THE LIST OF THE TOP 10 ACTORS IN ILLINOIS HISTORY. 
 
OTHER FAVORITE ACTORS WITH THE MOST VOTES INCLUDE BILL MURRAY WHO GREW UP IN WILMETTE, GENE HACKMAN WHO LIVED IN DANVILLE AND HARRISON FORD FROM THE CHICAGO AREAS SAYS ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM SPOKESPERSON CHRIS WILLS.
 

 

 
YOU CAN VOTE NOW IN THE NEXT CATEGORY…TOP ENTERTAINERS FROM ILLINOIS ONLINE AT: ILLINOIS TOP 200 DOT COM.

Two Clinton veterans are returning from an Honor Flight trip to Washington D.C. tonight

Ron Savage and Bob Van Fossan are both Vietnam veterans that are spending the day with the Central Illinois Honor Flight in Washington D.C.  They will be returning from the trip tonight.  The community is encouraged to welcome them back.  A short ceremony will be held between 11 & 11:30 tonight in the Dollar Tree parking lot in Clinton.

Clinton YMCA Sprint Triathlon deemed a success

The Clinton YMCA held their third annual Sprint Triathlon at Clinton Lake over the weekend challenging participants to a tough physical test which included a 400-yard swim, 13-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile trail run.  Overall, the event was the most successful it's been according to YMCA Director Rennie Cluver.
 

 

 
The event also included outdoor activities that helped to make the triathlon a full weekend activity.
 

 

 
The top three overall men and women, as well as the top three men and women in each age group, received prizes.  

Establishing a Home Routine for Young Students

Somedays getting out of bed is easier said than done and the same holds true for young children. With the school year beginning this week, Principal Beth Wickenhauser, advises setting a routine.
 

 

 
Wickenhauser says to pick a bedtime and stick to it. Through experience, she has noticed that parents, specifically of young children, don't necessarily understand how many hours of sleep a kindergartener needs and how it affects the child at school.
 
Not only does missing school affect your child, it also affects the school. The school has to report absences to the state. Those absences effect resources.
 

 

 
The first day of school for kindergarten and first grader is August 22. August 23 is the first day for pre-school. For more information visit www.cusd15.org.

Hawaii comes to Monticello

Hawaii comes to Monticello as Allerton Park and Event Coordinator Hannah Dole look to host a new event this coming Saturday. Allerton Park is having a Hawaii style party resembling Robert Allerton's property down in Hawaii. Allerton Parks "Aloha Allerton" helps bring Hawaii to people in Monticello. People will be able to see fire dances, eat buffet style foods, and drink some tropical drinks. 
 
"Aloha Allerton" is helping serve as an end of summer bash says, Dole.
 

 

Lodging will be provided at the mansion for people to get the full experience of "Aloha Allerton." People interested can call Allerton Parks to help get registered to attend the "Aloha Allerton" event. 

State Fair Foundation Ready for Million Dollar Gift

The Illinois State Fair Foundation was announced two years ago to help pay for renovations on the State Fair Grounds but little fund raising had been accomplished until this year. On Tuesday Governor Bruce Rauner announced that he and his wife were pledging a million dollar donation to the fairgrounds foundation – earmarked to speed renovations at the shuttered coliseum. 
 

The million comes at a time when the Foundation had little to show for fundraising efforts. Just $32,000 had been raised in 2017. State Fair Foundation Chairman John Slayton – a volunteer – says the reconstruction will soon be underway.

 

 

 
The Rauner’s helped raise more than $12 million to renovate the Governor’s Mansion and now are willing to do the same for the fairgrounds.

Two new hunting laws crackdown on poaching and let hunters wear pink in the fields

GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING TWO NEW HUNTING-RELATED LAWS. 
 

THE FIRST MEASURE GIVES HUNTERS A NEW FASHION CHOICE IN HOPES OF MAKING THEMSELVES MORE VISIBLE SAYS GOVERNOR RAUNER.

 

 

A HANDFUL OF OTHER STATES ALSO ALLOW HOT PINK FOR HUNTERS. THE SECOND NEW LAW TAKES EFFECT IN JANUARY AND CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL HUNTING…ESPECIALLY THE POACHING OF WHITE-TAILED BUCKS.

Bill Eases Worry for Police to Seek Mental Health Help

First responders see some of the worst things one person can do to another. But sometimes they may avoid getting help for mental health issues because they are afraid of what it could mean for their job. A new bill is designed to protect police officers from worries about keeping their spot on the force if they seek mental health help. Illinois State Police Director Leo Schmitz says no one should worry about keeping their job.
 

 

 
The bill was signed by Governor Bruce Rauner this weekend.

New law bans the sale of ivory in Illinois

A NEW STATE LAW BANS THE SALE OF IVORY IN ILLINOIS.
 
ACCORDING TO THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES, MORE THAN 30 THOUSAND ELEPHANTS ARE KILLED BY POACHERS EACH YEAR FOR THEIR TUSKS. REPRESENTATIVE MARTY MOYLAN OF DES PLAINES SPONSORED THE BILL IN THE HOUSE, SAYING THE ANIMALS NEED TO BE PROTECTED.
 
 
THE BAN ALSO APPLIES TO THE SALE AND PURCHASE OF RHINOCEROS HORNS. ANTIQUE WEAPONS OR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS THAT CONTAIN IVORY ARE EXEMPT UNDER THE NEW LAW.

Gov. Rauner signs bills to help protect Mahomet Aquifer

Governor Bruce Rauner signed legislation that requires gas storage field owners to notify local communities if natural gas leaks threaten to expose residents and businesses to contaminated water. The new law also mandates annual storage field inspections by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
 

 

 
Aimed at protecting the Mahomet Aquifer, East Central Illinois’ primary water source, House Bill 4746 responds to a gas leak in Champaign County in 2016. Local officials and area residents were not informed about the leak that contaminated private wells according to Sen. Chapin Rose.
 

 

 
The annual DNR inspections will look for infrastructure deficiencies or failures that could affect public health. The costs of the annual inspections will be paid by the owners of the gas storage fields. The DNR will establish criteria for what constitutes an incident.
 

Monticello School District prepare for the upcoming year

The Monticello Community Unit School District like many districts across Central Illinois made improvements and changes over the summer to prepare for a new school year.  Superintendent Vic Zimmerman elaborated on some of those changes.
 

 

 
The first day of school for the Monticello CUSD is August 22.  

Summer renovations in Bement Community Unit School District #5

The Bement Community Unit School District has already opened their doors for students as class is underway.  But, over the summer the district made some changes and implemented a new program for the upcoming school year.
 

 

 

Superintendent Shelia Greenwood joined the WHOW Morning Show and went into depth on improvements with facilities that occurred over the summer.

 

 

 
The 2018-19 school year is already in session for the Bement CUSD. 

Traffic Fatality Awareness Day looks to help make Illinois roads safer

With traffic deaths on the rise in Illinois and throughout the country, Governor Bruce Rauner has announced today as Traffic Fatality Awareness Day in Illinois.  The proclamation was announced by the Illinois Department of Transportation and several other partners.  IDOT Secretary Randy Blankenhorn says the solution to fatalities is drivers making better decisions.

 

 

 
Current work being done by IDOT and their supporters includes crashed cars on display at rest areas as a physical reminder of the importance of responsible driving, dynamic message signs, and continued development on improved safety in work zones.  Earlier this year, IDOT introduced Life or Death Illinois, a multimedia campaign that includes vivid imagery and statistics to underline the importance of safe driving.  For more information visit www.lifeordeathillinois.com.  

Illinois Treasurer talks up Ag Invest program

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs continues to promote the state’s Ag Invest program. He says it’s all about locking in low interest rates.
 

 

 
Farmers can learn more about the program at "illinoistreasurer.gov" and then typing in “AG Invest” in the search box. 

Downstate Superintendent Hopes "All Parties" Considered as Governor Signs Law Banning Dual-Credit Limits for Students

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner recently signed a law barring school districts from enacting limits on the number of dual-credit courses high school students can take. While Mt. Vernon Township High School District Superintendent Jeff Fritchtnitch is in favor of the new law, he hopes all parties affected by the law got equal consideration.
 

 

 
Dual-credit courses are classes that students can receive college credit in addition to the high school credit they would already receive.

Women to Women Giving Circle to Host Grant Writing Sessions

The Women to Women Giving Circle of Illinois Prairie Community Foundation will host two grant writing information sessions in September for nonprofits interested in applying for the giving circle’s fall grants.
 
Women to Women will again focus its grants on impacting children, especially girls, ages newborn-5 who live in McLean, DeWitt, Livingston and Logan counties. Research shows that early intervention to build family stability for the very young impacts those children positively throughout life – at significantly lower costs than later “rescue” efforts.
 
The grant writing sessions will be 9-10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, and 2-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, both at Calvary United Methodist Church, Normal. The sessions will cover the application process and timeline; collaborative process; objectives, goals and measurements for grants; grant budgets; and other requirements for the Women to Women grant. Interested nonprofit applicants are asked to attend with their partner(s). If nonprofits do not have a partner yet, they can look for one at the sessions.
 
Both sessions will cover the same material, so participants need only attend one session. Applicants are not required to attend one of these sessions, they are simply offered to help potential applicants better understand the process.
 
If you would like to attend a session, please RSVP with Michele Evans at Illinois Prairie Community Foundation at 309-662-4477 or email her at mevans@ilprairiecf.org.

Richland welcomes new Dean

Richland Community College would like to welcome Jessica Pickel as its new Dean of Liberal Arts.
 
Jessica earned her Master of Education in Educational Organizational and Leadership and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication from the University of Illinois.  
 
She is a familiar face at Richland, having served two years ago as the Assistant to the Dean in Health Professions and as the Director of Adult Education. Jessica most recently served as the Assistant to the Dean, College of Education and Human Services at the University of Illinois at Springfield. Her experience working with the Illinois Community College Board and her interest in community college education will make her an asset to Richland and its students.
 
Jessica started today in her new position. She currently lives in Decatur.

Farmer City chief of police to take new position in Danville

The City of Farmer City will soon be searching for a new Police Chief.  Chief Terry Scott submitted his resignation Tuesday, August 14, 2018, to accept a new opportunity as the Executive Director of the Danville Public Building Commission.  His last day with the City will be August 31, 2018.
 
Chief Scott came on board in February 2017 when he replaced Chief Andrew Denno.  Scott worked as a Farmer City police officer in the 1980’s, then went on to pursue other interests.  He then returned to lead the department.   Scott oversaw many changes during his tenure, including an aggressive and successful code enforcement program, increased training opportunities for the officers and improved relationships with other regional organizations.
 
The City intends to bring in an interim Chief while it undergoes a formal recruitment process.  Please contact City Manager Sue McLaughlin at (309) 928-3412 with questions. 

DeWitt Co. Farm Bureau celebrates 100 years

 DeWitt County Farm Bureau will host its 100th Anniversary Celebration on Aug. 25, 2018, at the Little Galilee Christian Assembly Activity Center in rural Clinton.
 
The celebration will include a full display of DeWitt County and Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) history, a porkchop dinner, appearance and remarks by IFB President Richard Guebert, and a keynote address by University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences Dean Kim Kidwell.
 
Tickets for the event are $10 for adults and $5 for children. They will be available until Aug. 21.  To sign up, members may visit www.DeWittCountyFarmBureau..com to download and mail an order form, ILFB.org > Member Center to pay online, or stop by the office at 1060 State Highway 54, Clinton.
 
As part of the celebration, DCFB also is making available commemorative “Established 1918” gate signs for $25.
 
For more information, please call the DeWitt County Farm Bureau office at 217-935-2126 or email dcfb3@frontier.com. 
 

Millikin University to celebrate University Commons 1st Birthday Aug. 20

Millikin University will commemorate the first year of its University Commons with a 1st Birthday Celebration on Monday, Aug. 20, from 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the first floor lobby of the University Commons. The University Commons 1st Birthday Celebration is free and open to the public.
 
As part of the celebration, Millikin's Center of Academic and Professional Performance will host a part-time job fair from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
 
From 3 – 5 p.m., cake, ice cream and free coffee from Common Grounds will be provided to all those in attendance. Millikin University's mixed A cappella group Dissonance, comprised of 17 members, will perform at 3 p.m. The celebration will also include remarks from Millikin President Dr. Patrick E. White at 3:10 p.m.
 
Additionally, the celebration will have a Pepsi tasting, giveaways, face-painting and a scavenger hunt.
 

OSF St. Joseph Medical Center Names New VP of Clinical Excellence

OSF HealthCare is pleased to announce Toni Bishop-McWain, RN, DNP(c), MSN has accepted the role of Vice President of Clinical Excellence for OSF HealthCare St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.
 
In this role, Bishop-McWain will be accountable for providing leadership in planning, directing, coordinating and improving health care services consistent with the policies, objectives and standards for quality nursing and patient care services for OSF St. Joseph.
 
Bishop-McWain has served OSF HealthCare since 2012, most recently as the Director of Critical Care and Cardiopulmonary Services for OSF HealthCare Cardiovascular Institute. Throughout her career, Bishop-McWain has held leadership, educational and clinical roles.

Reduce Diabetes Risks with Wake Up Call Prediabetes Nutrition

More than 1 in 3 adults in Illinois have prediabetes, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Higher than normal blood glucose levels raise your risk of heart disease and stroke as well as type 2 diabetes. This fall, learn how you can lower your diabetes risk in the free University of Illinois Extension class Wake Up Call – Eating to Avoid Diabetes.
 
Several opportunities to attend the class will be offered in DeWitt County with the first being held at the Vespasian Warner Public Library District on September 8 from 10:00-11:00 am.  To sign up, contact Marie at 217.935.5174 or maltby@vwarner.org by September 6. This class is free and open to the public.
 
In Wake Up Call, learn about small steps you can take, from losing a small amount of weight to choosing healthier foods, that can help prevent prediabetes from developing into diabetes. 

Supply drop off days at Douglas and Lincoln Schools

The Clinton Community Unit School District will open their doors for a new school year next week.  In an effort to make life easier for parents and families with children attending Douglas and Lincoln schools there will be a supply drop off day Monday of next week according to Principal Beth Wickenhauser.
 

 

 
The first day of school for kindergarten and 1st grade will be August 22 and the preschool classes will begin August 23.

Clinton American Legion Post #103 forms Sons of the American Legion

 
On Saturday August 4th, the Sons of the American Legion charter was presented to the newly organized Squadron 103. Those present during the ceremony were (from left to right), Carm Sartie, Tom Reddington, Ron Jones, Eugene Gort, Illinois SAL Detachment Commander, Nate Ennis SAL Commander, Rob Volker SAL Vice Commander, Ron Devore and Gavin Devore, SAL members. The Legion members, Reddington, Jones and Devore are on the advisory committee, appointed by the Post.
 
The Sons of the American Legion were first founded in 1932, as a civilian organization founded on the principles of serving older veterans, patriotic holiday observances, and other civic functions. The purpose of the squadron is “to foster and perpetuate a true spirit of Americanism.” Membership is comprised of Grandsons, Fathers, and Sons of veterans who have served our nations armed forces, during past wars and conflicts. Eligible male descendants of any age may join. The SAL charter is displayed with the American Legion and Legion Auxiliary charters.
 
SAL Commander Nate Ennis is recognized for his coaching of American Legion sponsored ball teams, and a travelling team called “Revolution.” His vast military family history dates to the American Revolution. Vice Commander Rob Volker is the son of a decorated marine. Both are very encouraged to lead the squadron into the future. You can follow or join the sons by contacting the American Legion on its website, https://crangbennett.wixsite.com/clintonil.

30 new badges released by Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts is a youth organization for girls that looks to empower and promote compassion, courage, confidence, character, leadership, entrepreneurship, and active citizenship through activities.  In doing these different tasks members of the group can earn badges for their accomplishments, and it's been announced there are up to 30 new badges for the scouts to earn.

 

 

 

Mary Anderson is the Manager of Marketing and Development for Girl Scouts Council in Central Illinois.  She adds other badges also include engineering, astronomy, and much more.  Giving the girls in the organization a wide range of learning and growing opportunities is the main focus of the group.

 

 

 
For more information on Girl Scouts and the new badges visit www.girlscouts.org.

The state unemployment rate fell slightly to 4.2% last month

THE STATE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DROPPED SLIGHTLY LAST MONTH. 
 
JULY’S JOBLESS RATE CAME IN AT FOUR POINT TWO PERCENT…DOWN FROM FOUR POINT THREE IN JUNE. ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY SPOKESPERSON BOB GOUGH (goff) SAYS 37-HUNDRED JOBS WERE ADDED LAST MONTH.
 

 

 
THE NATIONAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR JULY IS THREE POINT NINE PERCENT.

New state law cracks down on texting while driving

A NEW STATE LAW SPEARHEADED BY SECRETARY OF STATE JESSE WHITE CRACKS DOWN ON TEXTING WHILE DRIVING.
 
THE LAW MAKES THE OFFENSE A MOVING VIOLATION…INSTEAD OF A NONMOVING VIOLATION. THAT MEANS IT WILL GO ON YOUR DRIVING RECORD SAYS SECRETARY OF STATE SPOKESPERSON HENRY HAUPT.
 

 

 
ACCORDING THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DRIVING WHILE TEXTING IS SIX TIMES MORE DANGEROUS THAN DRIVING DRUNK.

Applications now being accepted for tree buffer program

The 2019 Illinois Buffer Partnership Program has been announced by Trees Forever. The effort encourages landowners across the state to plant trees by offering matching grants and in person aid. Debbie Fluegel is the Program Manager for Trees Forever. 
 

 

 
10 to 20 partners will be chosen for the 2019 program and the deadline to apply to be a grant partner is December 31st with winners announced in January of 2019. To apply, go to TreesForever.org. 

New law requires hospitals to have specially trained staff for victims of sexual assault

SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIMS WILL SOON RECEIVE MORE SPECIALIZED CARE WHEN THEY GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM. 
 
A NEW STATE LAW REQUIRES HOSPITALS TO HAVE A SPECIALLY TRAINED PROVIDER ON STAFF AROUND THE CLOCK TO TREAT VICTIMS BY 2022. IT WAS SPONSORED IN THE HOUSE BY REPRESENTATIVE MICHAEL UNES OF PEKIN…WHO SAYS THE IDEA IS TO PROVIDE SENSITIVE CARE TO VICTIMS…ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO COLLECTING EVIDENCE.

 

THE LAW ALSO LETS VICTIMS UNDER 13 HAVE THE EXAM DONE AT AN APPROVED LOCAL PEDIATRIC FACILITY.

State Rep. Candidate McMillin issues debate challenge to Caulkins

State Representative candidate Jen McMillin has challenged Republican nominee Dan Caulkins to two town hall-style debates, to be hosted in the location of his choosing.  McMillin says she sent a letter to Caulkins and his team to organize the debates.
 

 

 

She adds that a response from Caulkins might be anticipated in early September.

 

 

 

The Rauners put their money where their mouth is at the State Fair

Recently, news stories profiled a slow start for the new Illinois State Fairgrounds Foundation. So far, the foundation has raised just about enough to buy a nice vehicle, which hardly begins to address millions of dollars in repair needs for fairgrounds buildings and facilities. The foundation's efforts moved into the fast lane with one donation. Governor Bruce Rauner addressed a packed house at the State Fair's Orr Building at the Agriculture Day Breakfast....and he may have received the biggest ovation of his political career, including the night of his 2014 victory speech.....
 

 

 

Rauner wants Illinois youth to weigh in on the building's name...

 

 

 
In the recent state budget, lawmakers provided 30 million dollars for fairgrounds repairs and improvements. State Ag Director Raymond Poe believes the Coliseum, which draws horse lovers from around the world, even the likes of William Shatner, will be open in time for next year's State Fair. 

State's opioid helpline hits 5,000 calls; new features added

FIVE THOUSAND PEOPLE HAVE ALREADY CALLED IN TO THE STATE’S OPIOID HELPLINE…AND NEW FEATURES ARE BEING OFFERED TO PROVIDE FURTHER ASSISTANCE. 
 

MOST OF THE CALLERS HAVE EITHER BEEN SOMEONE THAT IS ADDICTED TO OPIATES OR ARE CONCERNED ABOUT A FAMILY MEMBER. ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES’ DANIELLE KIRBY SAYS TRAINED SPECIALISTS ANSWER QUESTIONS AND DISCUSS TREATMENT OPTIONS, AND NOW OFFER FOLLOW-UP CALLS.

 

 

 
THE HELPLINE NUMBER IS 833-2-FIND HELP…OR YOU CAN VISIT THE WEBSITE: HELPLINE IL DOT ORG.

New law will help small Illinois banks

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner has signed House Bill 4589—aimed at leveling the playing field for smaller banks when it comes to audits. Now, instead of financial institutions paying extra money to have an audit every 12 months, smaller banks will only need the work done every 18 months. Steve McIntyre, the residential real estate lender at the First Savanna Savings Bank, says that customers of smaller banks like his, will see a difference sooner rather than later...

 

 

State Representative Tony McCombie of Savanna, who sponsored the bill, says the passing of this legislation goes to show how important it is for community members to speak up to their representatives...

 

 

The Illinois Bankers Association, among others, were supporters of this bill that they say reduces costly red tape for smaller banks.

Rauner Signs MAP Grant Bill

College students have been leaving the state at higher and higher numbers over the past few years. One reason has been grant programs that were in doubt during the years when the state didn’t have a budget. Republican Governor Bruce Rauner signed a bill to ease concerns about MAP grants being granted year by year.

 

 

 

IDOT Summit Planned for Business Owners

Minority and female business owners are encouraged to attend Saturday's summit in Collinsville hosted by the Illinois Department of Transportation. It's a summit that will show business owners information to help grow their business through the state agency. IDOT Director of Business Workforce Diversity Pam Simon says there will be information on getting certified, training, speakers, and breakout sessions.
 
 
The conference is free and will take place at the Gateway Center, located at 1 Gateway Drive, in Collinsville. Registration and breakfast are at 7:30 a.m. The conference will conclude with a networking lunch, followed by optional training sessions. 

Merit Badge Fair recap

This year’s Merit Badge Fair, hosted and held at Exelon, enters the 30th year of helping Boy Scouts earn badges. Scoutmaster Don Husted of Clinton Troop 142 informed a huge crowd of nearly 500 scouts, leaders, parents, counselor and others at the gathering they had exceeded 4500 merit badges earned since the year 2,000. 
 
Exelon’s help has made the annual fair an affordable event for Scouts and their troops. This year was the largest gathering known since the about 2000 — doubling last year’s attendance alone. 
 
Plus, Exelon’s employees offer to counsel several specialized merit badges including one in nuclear science. 
 
Scouts from all over Illinois, plus Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin and Missouri attended. The one day event even has a special treat for Scouts. Exelon allows them to camp at the site usually reserved for Exelon employees and their families on Clinton Lake the night before and after the fair.

Gov's Sale of Champions

 

 
That’s the sound of the Grand Champion Steer being sold at the Governor’s Sale of Champions at the Illinois State Fair. It brought $60,000. The steer was shown by Adam Miller of Gridley. All the grand champion animals were sold last night and the kids get to keep a portion of the money; part of it is also donated to Illinois FFA and the 4H. The CME Group along with other sponsors donated money so each youth exhibiter can receive a $6,000 check for a college scholarship.

In honor of this year's Bicentennial celebration, we take a look at some favorite Illinois State Fair foods and talk with longtime vendors

IN HONOR OF THE STATE’S BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION THIS YEAR…WE LOOK AT SOME OF THE OLDEST VENDORS ON THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIRGROUNDS AND CLASSIC FAIR FOOD FAVORITES. 
 
CULLER’S FRIES SITS IN THE SAME SPOT ON GRANDSTAND AVENUE WHERE IT OPENED 73 YEARS AGO. THEY SELL ONE, VERY POPULAR PRODUCT: FRIES IN A CONE WITH PLENTY OF SALT AND VINEGAR FOR CUSTOMERS TO ADD SAYS JIM CULLERS.
 

 

 
ANOTHER MAINSTAY AT THE FAIR IS VOSE’S CORNDOGS…WHICH ALWAYS HAS A LONG LINE. BOB VOSE HAS BEEN ON THE FAIRGROUNDS FOR MANY YEARS…STARTING ON AN ICE TRUCK IN THE 1940’S.
 

 

 

Weekly Crop Report

CORN CONTINUES TO PROGRESS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE AS WE HEAR IN THE WEEKLY CROP REPORT. 
 
90 PERCENT OF CORN IS IN THE DOUGH STAGE AND 45 PERCENT IS DENTING. THAT’S WELL AHEAD OF LAST YEAR AND THE FIVE-YEAR AVERAGE SAYS CROP STATISTICIAN BRAD SUMMA.
 

 

 
90 PERCENT OF SOYBEANS ARE SETTING PODS AND 73 PERCENT OF THE CROP IS RATED IN GOOD TO EXCELLENT CONDITION. THAT’S DOWN SLIGHTLY FROM THE PREVIOUS WEEK. AVERAGE STATEWIDE TOPSOIL MOISTURE STAYED ABOUT THE SAME AT 10 PERCENT VERY SHORT, 30 PERCENT SHORT, 59 PERCENT ADEQUATE AND ONE PERCENT SURPLUS.

Mid-week rain should help with short soil moisture in Illinois

Much of Illinois could use a good mid-August rain and that’s a good possibility over the next couple of days says agriculture meteorologist Dan Hicks with Freese Notis Weather. 

 

 

 
The latest USDA crop report has Illinois topsoil moisture at 40-percent short to very short. 

Families and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to check out Conservation World at the Illinois State Fair

FAMILIES AND OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS ARE URGED TO STOP BY CONSERVATION WORLD AT THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR. 
 

CONSERVATION WORLD IS A 30 ACRE PARK WITH PONDS, GRASS AND SHADE TREES. STATE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES DIRECTOR WAYNE ROSENTHAL SAYS SOME OF THE STATE’S BEST SPORT FISH CAN BE SEEN IN A NEW AQUARIUM.

 

 

 
THERE’S ALSO THE PAUL BUNYAN LUMBERJACK SHOW, KID’S FISHING CLINICS AND GAMES, A BUTTERFLY HOUSE, YOUTH ARCHERY AND BB-GUN INSTRUCTION AND FOOD AND DRINK VENDORS. CONSERVATION WORLD IS OPEN FROM 10 TO SEVEN DAILY.

Governor Bruce Rauner signs package of six bills to help streamline services for veterans and more

SUNDAY WAS VETERANS DAY AT THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR…AND GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING SIX NEW LAWS IN HONOR OF THE OCCASION. 
 
ONE NEW LAW MAKES IT EASIER FOR VETS TO GET THE BENEFITS THEY ARE ELIGIBLE FOR BY PROVIDING HOMELESS VETERANS A FREE COPY OF THEIR MEDICAL RECORDS. A SECOND MEASURE ADDS VETS TO THE STATE’S SILVER ALERT PROGRAM SAYS GOVERNOR RAUNER.
 

 

 
ANOTHER NEW LAW DESIGNATES NOVEMBER FOURTH AT G-I BILL OF RIGHTS DAY IN ILLINOIS WHILE TWO OTHERS LET COMBAT VETS AND VETS WHO EARNED THE SOUTHEAST ASIA SERVICE MEDAL DURING OPERATION DESERT STORM HAVE THAT HONOR REFLECTED ON THEIR LICENSE PLATES.

New state law helps Illinois brewers expand their businesses

ILLINOIS BREWERS WILL HAVE MORE FREEDOM TO EXPAND THEIR BUSINESSES UNDER A NEW STATE LAW.
 
THE LAW STRIPS OUTDATED REGULATIONS FROM THE LIQUOR CONTROL ACT OF 1934. MATT PORTER…C-E-O OF DESTIHL IN NORMAL SAYS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENTS HELPS THE WHOLE BREW INDUSTRY.
 

 

 
THE LAW ALSO LETS BREWERS USE STORAGE FACILITIES TO HOUSE THEIR EXTRA PRODUCT INSTEAD OF HAVING TO OPEN A SECOND LOCATION OR MOVING TO A LARGER SPACE.

CJHS Making Changes

Clinton Junior High School is initiating changes this coming school year and making plans for the next few years. Three of the changes are becoming a "one-to-one" school, switching to standard base grading, and incorporating a program called Restorative Practices.
 
In the past students had ipads available for the classroom only. This year students will take the ipads home with them, allowing for outside school work.
 
CJHS is on a 5 year plan to implement standard base grading. Instead of the typical ABCD system, the school will have a 1234 grading system. This increases student achievement.
 

Over the summer faculty and staff participated in a workshop explaining the Restorative Practices program. Maxwell says this program is to promote positivity and healthy relationships within the school and the community.

 

 

 
Josh Maxwell was appointed to Principal after being the Assistant Principal for 3 years. Classes begin August 22.

Winner of the Illinois State Fair's Hog Calling Contest

A REPEAT CHAMPION IS THIS YEAR’S WINNER OF THE HOG CALLING CONTEST AT THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR.
 

 

 
ANDREW METHENY OF GEORGETOWN, ILLINOIS TOOK HOME THE TOP PRIZE…AND A CHECK FOR 250 DOLLARS. WHAT’S HE GOING TO DO WITH THE BIG BUCKS?
 

 

 
THIS WAS METHENY’S THIRD WIN IN A ROW. SECOND PLACE WENT TO PERENNIAL COMPETITOR CHRIS KARR OF SEYMOUR.

Governor signs package of education bills

GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER IS SIGNING A PACKAGE OF BILLS TO IMPROVE EDUCATION AND REDUCE THE TEACHER SHORTAGE IN ILLINOIS. 
 
A SURVEY CONDUCTED LAST YEAR FOUND THAT 78 PERCENT OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN ILLINOIS HAVE STAFFING ISSUES. GOVERNOR RAUNER SAYS THESE NEW LAWS SHOULD HELP ADDRESS THE PROBLEM.
 

 

 
ANOTHER LAW LETS DISTRICTS CONTRACT WITH RECRUITERS TO BRING IN MORE TEACHERS.

81 cadets graduate from the Illinois State Police Academy

81 CADETS ARE GRADUATING FROM THE ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ACADEMY…AND WILL HIT THE ROAD AS NEW TROOPERS ALL OVER THE STATE. 
 

THE CADETS MADE IT THROUGH A GRUELING 25 WEEK PROGRAM IN SPRINGFIELD…THAT INCLUDED PHYSICAL CHALLENGES…CLASSROOM WORK AND VEHICLE AND FIREARMS TRAINING. STATE POLICE DIRECTOR LEO SCHMITZ TOLD THE GRADUATING CLASS THEY MADE AN EXCELLENT CHOICE.

 

 

 
THE STATE POLICE IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR CADET CLASS 129, TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED FOR NEXT APRIL. FORMS MUST BE TURNED IN BY WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15TH. VISIT ILLINOIS TROOPER DOT COM MORE DETAILS.

Durbin looking forward to Biden visit this week

In recent years, Illinois Democrats broke from the tradition of making the Illinois State Fair a key public gathering place. The annual Democratic rally remains on the same day Democrats are honored at the fair but the cheers and hoopla have moved to a Springfield hotel. There's added excitement for Dems this year as former Vice President Joe Biden will make his return to Springfield Thursday. The man who extended the invite to the Democratic County Chairs event was his former Senate colleague, ,Illinois' Dick Durbin....
 

 

 
While some Biden backers would like to see him run for the White House in 2020, Durbin weighed in....
 

 

 
Demand for tickets to the Biden appearance at Springfield's Crowne Plaza Hotel has led party officials to book additional space.

Attorney General files lawsuit against H&M Trucking in Clinton

Attorney General Lisa Madigan has announced a lawsuit against H&M Trucking Co. in Clinton for a diesel fuel spill that contaminated a pond and nearby creek.

 

The AG's office filed a lawsuit in Dewitt County Circuit Court against the trucking company, which specializes in transporting food products.  The lawsuit alleges that approximately 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel were spilled at H&M's trucking terminal located at 6287 Sky Rd according to AG spokesperson Annie Thompson.

 

 

Along with the lawsuit, Madigan also filed a motion for a preliminary injunction requiring H&M to clean up the contaminated areas and prepare a report detailing the cause and extent fo the diesel leak.  H&M has hired an environmental consultant to help evaluate the contamination and oversee emergency cleanup while the litigation is ongoing.  

 

 

 

 

Library changing classification of non-fiction books

Many library goers are used to the Dewey Decimal System when searching for books on the shelves.  The system is a proprietary library classification method first published in the United States by Melvil Dewey in 1876.
 

 

 
In an effort to make the search process for books easier, the Vespasian Warner Public Library is planning on changing their classification system according to Children's Librarian Paula Lopatic.

 

 
Lopatic explains what the library is envisioning for this reclassification.

 

 
While this will make searching for books much easier, it'll be a long process reorganizing into the new system.

 

 
For more information on the Vespasian Warner Public Library visit www.vwarner.org.  

Back to school cookout at CJHS

The school year is fastly approaching which means time for class schedules and orientations.  The Clinton Junior High School will be hosting a back to school night for students and their families to get familiar with their surroundings and for a night of fun according to Principal Josh Maxwell.
 

 

 
The first day of school is August 22. 

Springfield Professor weighs in on early Governor's race

The campaigning has been well underway for the upcoming Governor election with the two heavyweights in incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic nominee J.B. Pritzker already taking up much of the airwaves.  Both campaigns have large sums of money, thanks to the heavy pockets of both candidates, but political science Professor Dr. Kent Redfield says the bought up air time by these candidates could hurt some of the other races around the state.
 

 

 
Dr. Redfield adds that the early negative campaign ads from both sides could also hurt the turnout come election day.  

Rauner Signs Bill to Help Keep Illinois Students In-State for College

Illinois State Senator Paul Schimpf praising Bruce Rauner after the Governor signs legislation to make it easier for Illinois high school seniors to go to college in-state. Schimpf is on the higher education committee. He says for his district to do well, the state’s colleges and universities have to do well.

 

 

 
Enrollment numbers show SIU-Carbondale’s freshmen enrollment has dropped roughly 40 percent between the fall of 2015 and the fall of 2017.

New law lifts limits on how many dual credit courses high schoolers can take

A NEW STATE LAW WILL HELP GIVE HIGH SCHOOLERS A HEAD START ON COLLEGE.
 
THE LAW LIFTS THE LIMITS ON THE NUMBER OF DUAL CREDIT COURSES A STUDENT MAY TAKE…AND HOW MUCH COLLEGE CREDIT THEY CAN EARN. DUAL CREDIT CLASSES LET STUDENTS EARN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE CREDIT AT THE SAME TIME...SAVING TIME AND MONEY SAYS GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER.
 

 

 
THE GOVERNOR SAYS DUAL CREDIT COURSES CAN ALSO HELP STUDENTS GRADUATE COLLEGE EARLY.

Legislation would steer state jobs back to Springfield area

Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed legislation to reverse the flow of state jobs out of Springfield. He signed legislation authored by State Representative Sarah Jimenez, designed to bring hundreds of jobs back to the Springfield area. The bill declares Sangamon County is the default location for most state jobs, unless there is a specific reason the job needs to be in a different location. Governor Bruce Rauner threw shade at former Governor Rod Blagojevich for the exodus of jobs....

 

 
Senate Minority Leader Bill Brady, whose district includes Springfield and surrounding areas, concurred...
 

 

 
A recent report identified nearly 400 jobs that could potentially be relocated to the capital city. The bill, effective immediately, applies to newly created or newly filled positions.

Warrensburg-Latham Members Attend Illinois FFA Leadership Camp

Warrensburg Latham FFA members Cole Barry & Jason Edwards had a great week at Illinois FFA Leadership Camp! The camp is hosted at 4-H Memorial Campground in Monticello, IL. Campers have the opportunity to participate in various outdoor activities while building leadership skills and getting to know agriculture students from around the state.
 
If you are interested in supporting the newly rechartered Warrensburg-Latham FFA Chapter, please consider joining the Warrensburg-Latham FFA Alumni & Supporters group. This group will support opportunities such as sending students to camp in future years. You may contact Mrs. Willow Klein at kleinw@wl.k12.il.us for information on future meeting dates.

The Illinois State Fair is officially underway in Springfield

THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR IS OFFICIAL UNDERWAY IN SPRINGFIELD. 
 
THE SMELL OF MINI DONUTS AND CORN DOGS…MIXED WITH WHIFFS OF LIVESTOCK. THE SOUNDS OF KIDS SCREAMING ON CARNIVAL RIDES…AND BANDS IN THE BEER TENTS. THE STATE FAIR IS HERE AND GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER URGES EVERYONE TO COME OUT AND ENJOY.
 

 

 
THE FAIR RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY AUGUST 19TH. VISIT ILLINOIS STATE FAIR DOT INFO FOR ALL THE DETAILS, CONCERT TICKETS, DAILY SCHEDULES AND MORE.

IDPH reminds families to make sure everyone is up to date on recommended vaccinations

THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH IS REMINDING FAMILIES TO MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS UP TO DATE ON RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS. 
 
VACCINES PROTECT BABIES FROM 14 DISEASES BY THE TIME THEY REACH TWO YEARS OF AGE…AND IT’S IMPORTANT THAT THEY RECEIVE ALL OF THE DOSES ON TIME. SOME ARE REQUIRED BEFORE A CHILD GOES TO BACK SCHOOL SUCH AS THE CHICKEN POX VACCINE. PUBLIC HEALTH SPOKESPERSON MELANEY ARNOLD SAYS GETTING IMMUNIZED ISN’T JUST ABOUT PROTECTING YOURSELF.
 
 
ARNOLD SAYS ADULTS SHOULD GET THE FLU SHOT ANNUALLY AND A TETANUS SHOT EVERY 10 YEARS. SENIORS ARE ADVISED TO GET THE SHINGLES AND PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINES.

New Dairy Revenue Protection Insurance Plan Available Nationwide

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) has announced a new insurance plan for dairy producers that insures against unexpected declines in quarterly milk sales. Sign-up for the new product begins Tuesday, October 9, 2018, with the first available coverage starting the first quarter of 2019.
 
The new plan, called Dairy Revenue Protection, provides insurance for the difference between the final revenue guarantee and actual milk revenue if prices fall. It also provides a greater choice of prices, from those that focus on cheese to fresh milk, protein or butterfat. Coverage levels are available from 70 to 95 percent of revenue. Dairy Revenue Protection is available in all counties in all 50 states.
 
Participating producers are not precluded from participation in the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Margin Protection Plan.
 
Dairy Revenue Protection was developed and approved through the Federal Crop Insurance Act’s 508(h) process, which allows private parties to develop insurance products that are in the best interests of producers, follow sound insurance principles and are actuarially appropriate.
 
Dairy Revenue Protection is another risk management tool in the toolbox available to dairy producers. Federal crop insurance helps producers and owners manage risks and strengthens the rural economy. Additional information regarding Dairy Revenue Protection is available on the RMA website’s Livestock page, located at www.rma.usda.gov/livestock/.
 
For more information about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net, visit www.rma.usda.gov.

CES 2nd year Principal excited for start of school

August 22 marks the start of school for the Clinton Community Unit School District and one administrative member is ready to begin her second year as a principal.
 
Sasha Young expressed her anticipation for the first day in what will be her third year at Clinton Elementary School.
 

 

 
Young explained the schedule for the start of school at CES, as the teachers are expected back in less than two weeks.
 

 

 
While the end of summer can be saddening for students, there still is an excitement when arriving to meet teachers and classmates the first day.

 

 
Along with meeting new teachers and classmates, students will get a special presentation to end the first week back.
 

 

 
Registration is currently open for the 2018-19 school year at cusd15.org.  

Documentary details Dixon, Illinois $53.7 million embezzlement case

A Chicago filmmaker still gets the same question today. How did Rita Crundwell embezzle $53.7 million from Dixon, Illinois and who’s to blame? Kelly Richmond Pope attempts to answer in her documentary All the Queen’s Horses.

 

 

 
Crundwell used the ill gained money to support her lavish lifestyle competing and showing quarter horses throughout the country.  She is now serving 19-years-and-7 months in federal prison. 
 
Dixon would eventually sue its former auditing firm and a bank where the Crundwell transactions took place. They were awarded $40-million from the litigation and gained another $9-million through auction proceeds from Crundwell’s forfeited assets.

Working while disabled and how Social Security can help

For many, employment provides much more than just an income and if an inability to work arises because of a disability there are ways that Social Security can help.
 
There are work incentive programs that allow someone to work while receiving disability benefits without jeopardizing your benefits according to Public Affairs Specialist Jack Meyers.
 

 

 
The Social Security Disability program, or SSDI, looks to help those disabled on a month-long basis.
 

 

 
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is the other program offered but varies in how it affects benefits.
 

 

 
To learn more about working while disabled and more information on Social Security visit www.socialsecurity.gov/work.  

Illinois Dept. of Labor inspecting rides at the Illinois State Fair for safety

THE CARNIVAL RIDES AT THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR ARE BEING CAREFULLY INSPECTED TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE SAFE FOR FAIRGOERS AS THE FAIR OPENS TODAY.
 
THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF LABOR IS LOOKING OVER THE MORE THAN 65 RIDES IN THE CARNIVAL MIDWAY, ADVENTURE VILLAGE AND HAPPY HOLLOW PAVILIONS. STATE FAIR MANAGER LUKE SAILER SAYS IT’S SOMETHING THEY TAKE VERY SERIOUSLY.
 

 

 
RIDERS ARE URGED TO FOLLOW THE MINIMUM HEIGHT AND WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS AND TO MAKE SURE THEY USE THE SAFETY EQUIPMENT ON THE RIDES LIKE SEAT BELTS AND LAP BARS.

Butler named Bicentennial Co-Chair

Gov. Bruce Rauner has appointed Illinois Rep. Tim Butler to serve as co-chair of the Illinois Bicentennial Commission. Butler isn't taking the honor or duty lightly....
 

 

 
Butler says the Illinois State Fair is a great launching point for the final stretch of the bicentennial year celebration. On August 26th, the bicentennial celebration hits a key milestone as the state celebrates the 200th anniversary of adopting its own constitution. There will be a dozen events around the state, including the deciation of a new bicentennial plaza near the Governor's Mansion in Downtown Springfield.

No National Guard For Chicago

The city of Chicago is dealing with a rash of violence that saw nearly 70 people shot this past weekend. But Republican Governor Bruce Rauner says that sending in troops to help police the streets is not an option.

 

 

 
Rauner called the violence outrageous and says creating economic opportunity in the city for black youth and men would be one way to help stem the tide of shootings and murders.

CJHS Principal talks new hires for the upcoming school year

The 2018-19 school year is less than two weeks away for the Clinton Community Unit School District and with students and parents gearing up for the school year they can anticipate seeing some newer faces in the halls at Clinton Junior High School.
 
Josh Maxwell is in his first year as principal at CJHS and joined the WHOW Morning Show to advise of some new hires and positions staff will be in for the new school year.
 

 

 
A total of eight new teachers were added to the junior high as well.

 

 
The first day of school for all buildings in the CUSD is August 22.  

Vespasian Warner Public Library receives donations into Marcia Washburn Collection

The Vespasian Warner Public Library has added some new toys to their collection from generous donations made by several residents of the area.
 
The Marcia Washburn Collection is named in the honor of the former Clinton native, and it looks to support early childhood education according to Children's Librarian Paula Lopatic.
 

 

 
More information on the Vespasian Warner Public Library can be found at www.vwarner.org.  

DeWitt County Development Council announces Business of the Month Spotlight

The DeWitt County Development Council looks to actively engage current and potential businesses to market DeWitt County to attract commerce and encourage job growth.
 
In an effort to recognize those businesses who have done their part, the DCDC announced their first ever Business of the Month Spotlight to Owner Delfino Naxi of Ted's Garage and Cinco de Mayo in Clinton.
 

 

 
David Torbert is President of the DCDC, as he says the Business of the Month Spotlight will be an avenue to help promote local businesses.  
 
Naxi has been in Clinton since 1996 and over the last several years has taken ownership of the two local restaurants.  He says this acknowledgment shows he made the right choice in location for his business'.
 

 

 
The DCDC will also be taking suggestions from community members to help decide each month's local Business of the Month Spotlight. 

Ivanka Trump Tours Godfrey Campus

Touring the nation in support of her father's National Council for the American Worker executive order, Ivanka Trump stopped in Godfrey yesterday at Lewis and Clark Community College. The visit was planned so that she could see first-hand some of the programs geared toward teaching skills that some say are in short supply around the nation. 
 
Ms. Trump is a senior adviser to the president, and spent time observing the welding program before sitting down for a round-table discussion with various community leaders. She says there is a "skills mismatch" in the United States right now, with more jobs than there are qualified candidates to fill them.
 

 

 
There are now more than 6.1 million unfilled jobs in the United States, according to information released by The White House. Estimates predict 73 million Americans, approximately one-third of the current civilian labor force, could be displaced by 2030 thanks to a move toward more automation. 

Butter Cow Helps Open The State Fair

The Illinois state fair is soon to be officially underway. The ribbon will be cut today at 3 and the Twilight Parade rolls on to the grounds as the unofficial welcome to the 11 day run in Springfield. The fair is taking time to celebrate 200 years of Illinois and one of the most visible will be the state’s Butter Cow – a tradition not quite 200 years in the making. State Director of Ag Raymond Poe has been coming to the fair for years and says this cow is a great symbol of the fair and a real part of Illinois history.
 

 

 
The butter cow is on display – slowly rotating around in her cooler every day inside the dairy building.

Moderate temps over next week to 10 days for much of Illinois

August is the last full month of summer and although we likely won’t get fall-type temperatures in Illinois this month, there will be some moderation from the heat so says DTN chief agriculture meteorologist Bryce Anderson. 
 

 

 
The first day of fall is Sept. 22. 

Rodeo event among new entertainment added to State Fair

The Illinois State Fair is all about tradition and some fairgoers might say that's all well and good, but what's new. Well, State Fair Manager Luke Sailer has good news for you if you want something new and you're a rodeo fan....
 

 

 
Sailer also hit the refresh button in other areas of the entertainment lineup....
 

 

 
The Illinois State Fair kicks off today with the annual Twilight Parade starting at 5:30 at Springfield's Lincoln Park.

Purple Heart recipients honored at the State Capitol

THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS IS HONORING PURPLE HEART RECIPIENTS.
 
THE PURPLE HEART IS AWARDED TO ANY MEMBER OF THE U-S ARMED FORCES WHO HAS BEEN WOUNDED OR KILLED IN COMBAT. IT’S ONE OF THE OLDEST MEDALS STILL AWARDED TO SOLDIERS. VETERANS’ AFFAIRS DIRECTOR STEPHEN CURDA THANKED THE APPROXIMATELY FIVE THOUSAND ILLINOIS HEROES WHO HAVE RECEIVED A PURPLE HEART.
 
 
A PURPLE HEART MEMORIAL WAS BUILT AT OAK RIDGE CEMETERY IN SPRINGFIELD A FEW YEARS AGO.

DeWitt County TRIAD to begin Senior Academy

The DeWitt County Triad is an organization consisting of local law enforcement, senior organizations and senior community members working together to make a better and safer tomorrow for senior residents and the community.
 
With many different programs and resources, one of the bigger program and events put on each year by TRIAD is their Senior Academy according to group member Connie Unruh.
 

 

 
The first day of the Senior Academy gets underway this Thursday, August 9, and will run each Thursday for the next three weeks.  Speakers will attend each day to give helpful advice on different topics.
 

 

 

Another speaker will look at the topic of "Family Love Letters."

 

 

 
Some other areas that will be covered include assisting and protecting seniors, wellness and associated scams, advantages of pre-planning funeral arrangements, and elder financial fraud.
 
Snack and refreshments will be provided each day.  For more information on the TRIAD Senior Academy or the organization visit their Facebook page at DeWitt County Triad.

Scovill Zoo to host Walk on the Wild Side fundraiser

The Scovill Zoo will look to provide a night of adult entertainment and fun with their fundraiser Walk on the Wild Side, formerly known as their Zoo-rific Evening.
 
Director at the zoo Ken Frye explains the event and what patrons can expect.
 

 

 
He also says along with the food there are also animal encounters along with other activities.
 

 

 
The adult-themed event has helped to raise money to help fund the zoo and bring new additions to the facility.
 

 

 
There will also be an after-hours event serving food and beverages.  The Walk on the Wild Side fundraiser will take place Saturday, August 18 beginning at 5:00 p.m. and costs $75 per person.  For more information on the event visit scovillzoo.com.  

Safe Routes to School Program seeking proposals for projects

The Illinois Department of Transportation is in search of proposals through the Safe Routes to School program for projects that help children walk and bike to school says coordinator of the program John Paris.

 

 

 
Administered by IDOT using federal funds, successful applications demonstrate this initiative to improve routes to school.  Eligible applicants include school districts, local governments, metropolitan planning organizations and nonprofit associations.  For more information visit idot.illinois.gov.  

Supporters urge Governor to sign bill creating the Illinois Council on Women and Girls

ADVOCATES ARE URGING THE GOVERNOR TO SIGN LEGISLATION CREATING THE ILLINOIS COUNCIL ON WOMEN AND GIRLS INTO LAW. 
 
THE COUNCIL AIMS TO GIVE FEMALES A SEAT AT THE POLICY-MAKING TABLE…ADVISING THE GOVERNOR AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON SEVERAL ISSUES SAYS BILL SPONSOR, REPRESENTATIVE ANNA MOELLER OF ELGIN.
 

 

 
MOELLER SAYS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE COUNCIL WILL ENSURE THAT WOMEN’S VOICES ARE HEARD AND INFLUENCE POLICIES AND LEGISLATION.

Ivanka Trump to Visit Godfrey

President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka will be visiting Godfrey on official business today. In her role as senior adviser to the president, Ms. Trump will participate in a round-table discussion with Congressman Rodney Davis (R-13th) and others at the Weber Workforce Development Center on the campus of Lewis & Clark Community College.
 
Ms. Trump is touring the nation to promote the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, signed by President Trump last week. The legislation focuses on what has been described as a "holistic approach" to developing skills needed in the growing economy. Wednesday's event is by invitation only.
 

Durbin believes colleagues will ignore political consequences on Kavanaugh vote

Senator Dick Durbin has expressed continued reservations about the choice of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for the U.S. Supreme Court. Durbin says he can't speak for colleagues, but he believes others will take issue with Kavanaugh.....
 

 

 
Durbin believes fellow Democrats with concerns will vote their conscience, regardless of political consequences...

 

 
Durbin appeared on CNN.

2nd Annual Vault BBQ, Awards, and Olympics honor those involved with organization

The Vault has continued to evolve in its construction and work within the community.  The organization took time for their 2nd Annual Vault BBQ with Awards and Vault Olympics to showcase the progress of those on leadership teams.  
 
Several student awards were given out according to Founder Michelle Witzke.
 

 

 
Another award looked to honor the legacy of Spencer Toohill.
 

 

 
For Earl, the award was a special recognition that hit especially close to home.
 

 

 
Earl says her and Toohil grew up together, and when the friends entered high school he always knew how to put a smile on her face or brighten anyones day.
 

 

 
The Vault hopes this award will not only keep Spencer's memory alive but inspires people to live with the same level of compassion and love for others.

DeWitt County Friendship Center taking seniors to Illinois State Fair

The Illinois State Fair kicks off later this week with a flurry of different events and themed days.  One day in particular looks to promote seniors all around the state on Monday, August 13 it will be Senior Day at the fairgrounds.  
 
In an effort to get seniors to the fair the DeWitt County Friendship Center is providing buses to transport those interested in attending the State fair according to Friendship Center Director Paula Jiles.
 

 

 
More information on how to register for the bus ride and the activities for the day can be found at the DeWitt County Friendship Center or by calling (217) 935-9411.

Illinois State Fair going extra mile to promote Illinois Products

The Illinois State Fair has always been a solid promotional vehicle for Illinois Products. In this bicentennial year, Erin Cleary with the Illinois Department of Agriculture says the department is stepping up their game says they will be stepping up their game at the Illinois AG tent....
 

 

 
Cleary notes there will be something special for future Illinois Products buyers....

 

 
The Illinois Ag tent is easy to find at Main and Central on the Fairgrounds, near the Coliseum and Expo Buildings.

IEMA reminding about back to school safety

As students from kindergarten to college prepare to head back to school, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and local emergency management agencies across the state are reminding educators about school safety.  The Illinois Terrorism Task Force School Safety Working Group recently gave 13 recommendations to Governor Bruce Rauner to help make Illinois schools safer according to Chairman of the Taskforce Mike Chamness...
 

 

 
The recommendations were compiled over a 30-45 day period and are available online for the public.
 

 

 
Chamness says while there is no single answer to achieving school safety the Taskforce hopes to expand on these recommendations so schools can exercise them to make a safe learning environment.  

Weekly Crop Report

CORN PROGRESS IS SURGING AHEAD AS WE HEAR IN THE WEEKLY CROP REPORT. 
 
81 PERCENT OF CORN IS IN THE DOUGH STAGE AND 21 PERCENT IS IN THE DENT STAGE. THAT COMPARES TO EIGHT PERCENT AT THIS TIME LAST YEAR. 81 PERCENT OF THE CORN CROP IS IN GOOD TO EXCELLENT CONDITION…A SLIGHT IMPROVEMENT FROM THE PREVIOUS WEEK. CROP STATISTICIAN MARK SCHLEUSENER NOW TURNS TO SOYBEANS.
 

 

 
25 PERCENT IS SORGHUM IS TURNING COLOR AND THE THIRD CUTTING OF ALFALFA IS NOW 58 PERCENT COMPLETE. AVERAGE STATEWIDE TOPSOIL MOISTURE DROPPED TO EIGHT PERCENT VERY SHORT, 31 PERCENT SHORT, 59 PERCENT ADEQUATE AND TWO PERCENT SURPLUS.

Architects dominate the list to top Illinois artists and architects

ARCHITECTS DOMINATE THE LIST OF TOP ILLINOIS ARTISTS AND ARCHITECTS IN THE LATEST ILLINOIS TOP 200 POLL.
 
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT, FAMOUS FOR HIS “PRAIRIE SCHOOL OF DESIGN” AND THE “FATHER OF SKYSCRAPERS,” LOUIS SULLIVAN WERE AMONG THE TOP 10 ILLINOIS ARTISTS AND ARCHITECTS CHOSEN BY VOTERS. ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY SPOKESPERSON CHRIS WILLS SAYS WHILE WRIGHT WAS NUMBER ONE ON THE LIST…SCULPTOR LORADO TAFT CAME IN AT NUMBER TWO.
 
 
OTHERS ON THE LIST INCLUDE SCULPTOR PRESTON JACKSON AND PAINTER KERRY JAMES MARSHALL. VOTE NOW IN THE NEXT CATEGORY: TOP ACTORS AT: ILLINOIS TOP 200 DOT COM.

Bost on USDA Aid package

A $12-billion USDA aid package implemented by President Donald Trump is intended to help farmers deal with the fallout of an escalating trade war with foreign countries - in particular, China. Republican backlash is growing, but one that supports the move is Illinois Congressman Mike Bost from Murphysboro. Since the trade war began, overseas sales of agricultural products have suffered, cutting deep into farmers’ already-slim profit margins. Bost says he believes the market will eventually level out.

 

 

 
The package includes direct payments to farmers, efforts to promote U.S. goods overseas, and an expansion of a program that purchases surplus farm output and distributes it to food banks and other anti-hunger programs.

Heyworth Community Unit School District's New Positions and Important Dates

As the school year sets to begin, Heyworth Community Unit School District is making changes at mulitple levels. These changes are to fill gaps to meet students' needs. At the secondary level there is one counselor to help more than 500 students. This lead the district to create a new director position.
 

 

 
Superintendent Lisa Taylor also notes important dates to remember, including registration, orientation, and back-to-school nights. Taylor says online registration closed over the weekend, but walk-in registration begins this week.
 
August 13 - 15 is preschool orientation, elementary back-to-school night, and junior high and high school back-to-school night. Information for registration, orientation, and back-to-school nights can be found on their facebook page @heyworthCUSD4 and on the district website www.husd4.org.

Governor signs bill requiring more education on sexual harassment in the workplace and on college campuses and the definition of consent

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL BE LEARNING MORE ABOUT HANDLING SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE AND ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES UNDER A NEW LAW SIGNED BY GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER. 
 
REPRESENTATIVE STEPHANIE KIFOWIT FROM OSWEGO SPONSORED THE BILL IN THE HOUSE AND SAYS STUDENTS IN HER DISTRICT SUGGESTED ADDING THE TOPICS TO CURRENT SEX-ED CURRICULUM. SCHOOLS WILL BE ABLE TO INCORPORATE THE LESSONS HOWEVER THEY SEE FIT.
 

 

 
THE LAW ALSO REQUIRES INSTRUCTION ON WHAT CONSTITUTES CONSENT AND WHAT MAY BE CONSIDERED SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR ASSAULT.

Fair Beer Cheaper This Year

The State Fair is less than a week away and you can save some money if you’re planning on coming to the 11 day event in Springfield. As long as you are 21 that is... Luke Sailer the State Fair Manager says that beer will be cheaper this year.
 

 

 
It’s $10 to get in. Kids 12 and under are free, seniors are $5. And the fair has a few discount days where everyone saves, the first Thursday, Ag day and the final day of the fair.
 

Missing vet legislation signed by Governor

Veterans in Illinois who are suffering a physical or mental health condition are now added to an alert system that notifies law enforcement and the public when a person goes missing. State Representative Dan Swanson of Alpha sponsored the legislation, which has been signed into law by Governor Bruce Rauner. 

 

 

 
House Bill 4212, passed unanimously out of the Illinois House and Senate and will provide a mechanism for law enforcement to immediately respond to a missing veteran or active duty military member. 

IDNR now accepting applications for archery deer hunting on private property

THE ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ARCHERY DEER HUNTING ON PRIVATE PROPERTY. 
 
MORE THAN 120 DEER HUNTING SITES ARE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC THIS OCTOBER THROUGH THE ILLINOIS RECREATIONAL ACCESS PROGRAM. D-N-R SPOKESPERSON ED CROSS SAYS HUNTERS NEED TO GET THEIR APPLICATIONS IN BY AUGUST 24TH TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE “I-RAP” PROGRAM.
 

 

 
YOUTH HUNTERS ARE URGED TO APPLY AND WILL BE GIVEN PREFERENCE IN THE LOTTERY WHEN SITES ARE ASSIGNED. VISIT: DNR DOT ILLINOIS DOT GOV FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Tabor School of Business Dean receives International Fellow Award

Dr. Najiba Benabess, dean of the Tabor School of Business at Millikin University, was awarded the 2018 Academy for Global Business Advancement (AGBA) Fellow Award at the AGBA's 15th Annual World Congress, held at the National Institute of Development Administration in Bangkok, Thailand on July 2-4.
 
The AGBA Fellow Award is the highest honor bestowed to an academic scholar/leader in recognition of the person's globally-acclaimed professional accomplishments.
 
Dr. Zafar U. Ahmed, Founder, President and CEO of the Academy for Global Business Advancement noted, "The AGBA Fellow Award recognizes the most distinguished academic accomplishments on a global stage. The AGBA's Global Board of Trustees selected Dean Benabess for this coveted global honor for her outstanding professional accomplishments that distinguishes her among her peers."
 
Additionally, Dr. Benabess presented a research paper at the AGBA World Congress titled "Bottom of Pyramid Ventures Calls for Effective Governance."
 
Bottom of Pyramid refers to a market-based model of economic development that promises to simultaneously alleviate widespread poverty while providing growth and profits for multinational corporations.
 
Dr. Benabess also provided a keynote speech sharing with the audience appropriate ways to motivate faculty, by type, to be productive.
 
Dr. Najiba Benabess was appointment dean of the Tabor School of Business at Millikin University on April 25, 2016. She previously served as the director of the School of Business and Management within the College of Professional Schools at Norwich University in Northfield, Vt. She came to Norwich University in 2007 as an assistant professor teaching a variety of courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics and quantitative methods.
 
Her areas of research include industrial organization, international economics and fiscal policy. She has taught a variety of courses at the undergraduate level such as economics, finance and quantitative methods; and at the Master of Business Administration level such as strategic resources management and international business. 

Applications for becoming an Illniois State Trooper are being accepted

Applications for becoming an Illinois State Police (ISP) Trooper are continually accepted by the ISP Merit Board. The ISP Merit Board is currently processing applications for Cadet Class 129, which is tentatively scheduled to begin April 2019. In order to be considered for this Cadet Class, the Merit Board must receive a completed application and all required documentation by August 15, 2018.  Officials with the ISP are encouraging those individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to visit the ISP Merit Board website to complete an application for employment.  
 
The ISP is committed to continue to be one of the premier law enforcement agencies in the country.  We provide cutting-edge training in a variety of law enforcement functions.  Initially, all ISP Academy graduates are assigned to patrol; however, Troopers have the opportunity to transition to one of the many specialty functions within our agency.  Opportunities include crime scene investigations; SWAT; and becoming a pilot, K-9 officer, investigator, motorcycle officer, or safety education officer on patrol to name a few.
 
Anyone with questions about becoming an ISP officer can contact Sergeant Hector Alejandre or Special Agent Jarran Riley.  Sergeant Alejandre can be reached by telephone at (708) 522-4946 or email at Hector_Alejandre@isp.state.il.us. Special Agent Riley can also be reached by telephone at (217) 558-5902 or e-mail at Jarran_Riley@isp.state.il.us.

Dean Williams presents The Making of a Historical Film, "Abraham Lincoln in Logan County" - an official Illinois Bicentennial Event

Dean Williams presents The Making of a Historical Film, "Abraham Lincoln in Logan
County" offered by the Elkhart Historical Society at the Wild Hare Cafe in Elkhart. The
doors will open at 4:45 pm and the dinner will begin promptly at 5:30 pm.
 
This is a special official Illinois Bicentennial project celebrating President Abraham
Lincoln and the local community. Elkhart Historical Society is partnering with Lincoln
College and the Central Illinois Film Commission to update the film, “From Surveyor to
President, A. Lincoln in Logan County.”
 
The film, originally produced in 2003, is being revised to include footage of the new Lincoln Heritage Museum, highlights of the Lincoln/Oglesby connection, and additional information on President Lincoln’s support of the university that was to be built and named for him. The entire footage of the original film was shot in Logan County, and many at sites that are still in existence, and many of the extras are from Logan County as well.
 

Dove's Domestic Violence Education and Volunteer Training

Training is available for individuals interested in educating themselves on the issues surrounding domestic violence. The training will take place September 10 through 26,  Monday through Thursday afternoons, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., in Decatur, at Dove, 302 S. Union, Dean Simcox Conference Center. 
 
This 40-hour training is approved by ICADV, Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence.  Our training is facilitated by two Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals, one of whom is also an Illinois Certified Partner Abuse Intervention Professional.  There is a $150 fee for the training, with some scholarships available.
 
To register, contact Barbara Blakey at Dove at 217.428.6616.   A phone interview starts the process and needs to take place by Noon, Tuesday, September 4.
 
Individuals interested in making a difference in the lives of victims and children served by Dove’s Domestic Violence Program are encouraged to participate in this training.  Be an advocate for peace in your school, workplace or church.  This extensive training program will allow you to volunteer in many areas,  such as support group facilitation, legal advocacy and children's services.  Dove provides services to Macon, Moultrie, Shelby, DeWitt and Piatt Counties.

Western Amateur Final Stroke Play Results

Medalist honors weren’t on the mind of Cole Hammer, of Houston, when he woke up for the final 36 holes of stroke play at the Western Amateur on Thursday.
 
But after a course-record, 10-under 61 in the third round at Sunset Ridge Country Club, he started giving it serious thought.
 
Hammer, a freshman at Texas, followed the bogey-free round with a 67 in the afternoon and ended up tying for first place with Sam Stevens, of Wichita, Kansas, with a tournament-record total of 261 (23 under).
 
Both players advanced to the Sweet 16 – the match-play portion of the Western Amateur – for the first time.
 
The former stroke-play record was set by Aron Price in 2004 at Point O’ Woods Golf & Country Club in Benton Harbor, Michigan, when he posted 265.
 
After starting with a par on No. 1, Hammer birdied five of his next six holes and added five more birdies on the second nine to finish with a personal-best round. He closed out the day by carding four birdies on his final six holes. 
 
A former player at Oklahoma State, Stevens was steady all day. He earned a share of medalist honors by rolling in a 50-foot putt on his 36th hole.
 
In making the Sweet 16 for the first time, Hammer and Stevens join golf luminaries such as Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. 
 
Coming off a win at the Pacific Coast Amateur last week, Isaiah Salinda, of South San Francisco, California, took solo third at 20 under. The No. 2-ranked player in the Scratch Players World Amateur Ranking, Collin Morikawa, of La Canada Flintridge, California, finished fourth at 19 under.
 
Brandon Wu, of Scarsdale, California, posted the best score of the fourth round with a 64. Tied for 21st after 36 holes, Wu, a senior at Stanford, birdied four of his final five holes to secure his first trip to the Sweet 16. He shared fifth place with Min Woo Lee, of Perth, Australia, at 18 under.
 
Lee, ranked No. 4, is back in the Sweet 16 for the second year in a row. He advanced to the semifinals in 2017 at Skokie Country Club in Glencoe, Illinois. The No. 3-ranked player, John Augenstein, of Owensboro, Kentucky, qualified for match play after finishing 13th at 14 under. 
 
Local favorite Patrick Flavin, of Highwood, Illinois, earned his first match play appearance in his fourth Western Amateur, tying for seventh at 17 under.

Aboard Ballistic Missile Submarine, Clinton Native Keeps America's Nuclear Adversaries at Bay

A 2012 Clinton High School graduate and Clinton, Illinois, native is presently engaged in a critical mission for the security of the United States: deterring nuclear war.
 
Petty Officer 2nd Class Ethan Sherman, an electrician's mate (nuclear) is servingaboard one of the world’s most advanced ballistic missile submarines, USS Kentucky. Based at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington, not far from Seattle, USS Kentucky is one of 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines in the Navy’s fleet. 
 
As an electrician's mate (nuclear), Sherman is responsible for providing electrical distribution and propulsion and maintaining all electrical equipment aboard a submarine.
 
“I like the variety of maintenance that we do, no day is the same for us,” Sherman said. “One day we could be working on a motor, the next we could be doing switchboard maintenance. You know way more about everyone onboard than you would on any other type of vessel, you know a lot more personally. We have a better work environment, which translates into getting work done easier.”
 
Sherman draws from lessons learned growing up in Clinton.
 
“I baled hay for five years in Clinton and that taught me a strong work ethic,” Sherman said.
 
The Navy’s ballistic missile submarines, often referred to informally as “boomers,” serve as undetectable launch platforms for intercontinental ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles, and they are the only survivable leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear forces, which also include land-based missiles and aircraft.  As long as nuclear weapons remain in the hands of potential adversaries, the nation’s nuclear forces provide a safe, secure and credible deterrent to the threat of nuclear attack. 
 
The Navy’s continuous at-sea deployment of submarines like USS Kentucky provides the ability to mount an assured response.  As effective as the Ohio-class submarines have been over their decades-long lifetimes, the fleet is aging, with the oldest submarines now more than 30 years old, well past their planned service lives. 
 
A new and effective successor is critical to national security, and the Navy is well into the process of designing and fielding a more advanced ballistic missile submarine, which will provide the necessary sea-based nuclear deterrence into the 2080s and beyond.
 
Submarine sailors are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly technical, and each crew has to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on board. Regardless of their specialty, everyone also has to learn how everything on the submarine works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniforms.
 
"The men and women from across our nation who volunteer for military service embody the fundamental values of honor, courage and sacrifice that are the bedrock of our Republic," said Rear Adm. Blake Converse, Commander, Submarine Group Nine. "They protect and defend America from above, below, and across the world's oceans. The entire nation should be extremely proud of the hard work that these sailors do every single day to support the critical mission of the Navy and the submarine force."
 
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Sherman and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.

Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs recognizes Purple Heart Day in Illinois

Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) will recognize Illinois Purple Heart
Recipients during a ceremony in the Illinois State Capitol rotunda on August 7th.
The Illinois General Assembly has designated August 7th as Purple Heart Day in Illinois, set aside to honor and remember those in the military who have been wounded or killed in battle and honored with a Purple Heart.
 
The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration still awarded to members of the United States military. It was established by General George Washington on August 7, 1782. Initially called the Badge of Military Merit, the Purple Heart is a decoration awarded to any member of the Armed Services who has been wounded or killed in action.
 
The night of August 7th the Capitol Grounds in Springfield will be lit in purple.

State Wants To Honor Top 200 Vets

The state is rolling on with its celebration of its’ 200th anniversary and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs wants you to tell them about 200 outstanding vets from the state. IDVA’s Dave MacDonna says they need more nominations.
 

 

 
You’ve got one more month to get someone submitted. You need to go to Illinois dot gov slash veterans to get started.

Bustos co-sponsoring Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act

Western Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos co-sponsoring the Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act. The legislation allows surviving military spouses to break their leases without penalty in the aftermath of losing their spouse in the line of duty. 
 

 

 
The bill has passed in the House with bi-partisan support. Companion legislation has also been introduced in the U.S. Senate. 

Alleged dog abuse video shown on social media in DeWitt County

The DeWitt County State's Attorney Office is investigating an alleged video that shows a dog being abused by a woman on social media.  

 

The video shows a woman who allegedly puts a Husky on the ground and yells at the dog before hitting it.  

 

A DeWitt County Sheriffs Office post on social media said, "We want to add that we determined the dog depicted in the video is no longer in the care of the woman depicted in the video. Our investigation has been completed. The evidence has been forwarded to the DeWitt County State's Attorneys Office for further action.

 

The video has been deleted from social media.  

 

 

Strategic Planning Evaluated at Blue Ridge Community Unit School District Board Meeting

The Blue Ridge Community Unit School District discussed and evaluated the districts strategic plan at their board meeting last month.
 

 

 
Susan Wilson is the Superintendent for the district, as there are plenty of initiatives and goals in the plan, several goals have been met while others resurfaced on the table for discussion.
 

 

 
Another goal involves making sure the well-being and mental state of students are in good spirits.
 

 

 
Several other areas of the strategic plan were also brought about.

 

 
The first day of school for the Blue Ridge Community Unit School District is August 22.

Gambling expansion hearings scheduled

State Representative Bob Rita of Blue Island is leading a pair of Sub-Committee Hearings on Gaming Expansion in Illinois. The first one, set for August 22nd--is about Senate Bill 7. 

 

 
The second sub-committee hearing, planned for October in Chicago, is to discuss expanding into Internet Gaming, Fantasy Sports and Sports Betting. 
 

 

 
Opponents to gaming expansion have raised concerns about the infrastructure needed to regulate sports and internet gambling in Illinois. 

Lawmaker's legislative career goes "Sauer"

GOP State Representative Nick Sauer is the latest lawmaker to leave the Illinois General Assembly, with some claims surfacing that he ignored crucial career advice...
 

 

 
House Minority Leader Jim Durkin says Sauer is resigning amid allegations that he posted nude photos of an ex-girlfriend on social media. Politico reports Sauer set up an Instagram account under the Chicago woman's name and posted explicit photos. Politico indicates the woman filed complaints with Chicago police and the legislative inspector general. Ironically, the 35-year-old Sauer is a member of the House Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Task Force. While Sauer is Republican, Governor Bruce Rauner placed blame on the other side of the aisle...
 

 

 
Sauer is a first term lawmaker from Lake Barrington.

Life-Threatening Health Conditions that Have No Symptoms

Some diseases can really be hidden and in turn be life-threatening.  That is the case for several different diseases that have no symptoms to warn for the potential trouble before it's too late.  
 
Five diseases, in particular, can have no visible symptoms and if not treated or improved they can lead to potential health problems according to Dr. Christine Horner, a Natural Health Specialist and author of books about best prevention practices for a wide range of disease conditions.
 
The first silent killer that can cause health issues is high blood pressure.

 

 

The second and third conditions that can cause issues include HPV and Pancreatic Cancer.

 

 

 
The other two condition include diabetes and sleep apnea.  All of these conditions have means of combating or preventing life-threatening illness as Dr. Horner suggest regular checkups with a health practitioner and healthier diet/lifestyle.
 
For more information on ways to prevent conditions like these and to become more aware of health and screening tips visit www.drchristinehorner.com.

The Illinois State Fair kicks off next week

THERE WILL BE LOTS OF OLD FAVORITES AT THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR INCLUDING CONSERVATION WORLD, LIVESTOCK SHOWS, CAR RACING, HARNESS RACING AND THE CARNIVAL MIDWAY. STATE FAIR MANAGER LUKE SAILER URGES FAMILIES TO PURCHASE A MEGA PASS FOR UNLIMITED RIDES IF THEY HAVEN’T ALREADY.

 

 
ADMISSION COSTS 10 DOLLARS FOR TEENS AND ADULTS, THREE BUCKS FOR SENIORS AND KIDS UNDER 13 ARE FREE. THERE ARE ALSO A FEW DISCOUNT ADMISSION DAYS. SAILER SAYS TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR GRANDSTAND CONCERTS FOR ACTS LIKE LUKE COMBS, FOREIGNER, BOY GEORGE AND THOMAS RHETT.

Phase 1 Work at The Vault Continues to Evolve

The Vault in Clinton is a teen center where students can have a fun and positive place to hang out with their friends while also being encouraged to reach their full potential through a variety of opportunities and services. 
 
With fundraisers and donations The Vault has been undergoing construction on the first level of the building part of their Phase 1 operation according to Founder Michelle Witzke.
 

 

 
Olivia Earl is one of the student leaders at The Vault and has helped along with many others in the design and renovation of Phase 1.  She says while the project has been hard work, the benefits of working together outweigh the long days.
 

 

 
The completion of Phase 1 is anticipated to be completed by the end of the summer.  
 

New Clinton Athletic Director Excited for Start of School Year

Several months ago it was announced that the Clinton Community Unit School District hired Matt Koeppel as their new Athletic Director.
 
Koeppel comes to Clinton from Olympia High School where he spent 12 years helping to coach a flurry of different sports.  Now in his first year as an AD, he looks to provide an energetic and inviting presence.
 

 

 
Koeppel joined the WHOW Morning Show and said he has had high anticipation for the start of the school year, as junior high baseball and softball are already underway and some high school activities beginning quite soon.
 

 

 
One night Koeppel says he's looking forward to and thinks will help signify the start of the athletic seasons is "Meet the Maroons." 
 

 

 
"Meet the Maroons" night is scheduled for August 17.  

Bloomington-Normal YMCA to Host National Night Out

A night of family fun and community peacemaking is what the Bloomington-Normal YMCA will look to provide as they host National Night Out, an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
 

 

 
Tessa Gehrer (Gear) is the Director of Marketing/Membership with the Y, as she explains activities such as corn hole, a bounce house, painting kindness rocks, and much more will be on the agenda.  Gehrer says the hopes of the event are to provide an exciting and safe place for members in the community to come and enjoy.

 

 
National Night Out will take place Tuesday, August 7 at the Bloomington-Normal YMCA. 

State fair really old; state fair manager really young

A sure sign that summer vacation is nearly over. It’s almost Illinois State Fair time.
 

 

 
That’s first year State Fair Manager Luke Sailer. He was just 25 when named to the position last March. The state fair runs August 9th through the 19th. This year’s theme runs in line with the state’s bicentennial celebration, “Celebrate Illinois: 200 Years of Amazing”.

Weekend Parade in Downtown Springfield Will Relive Historic Lincoln Parade

If you love parades, you can double your pleasure in the coming days. In addition to next week's State Fair Twilight Parade, Springfield is gearing up for a parade soaked in history. A parade Saturday evening will be a re-enactment of the 1860 parade supporting favorite son Abraham Lincoln's run for the presidency. The Lincoln Wide Awake Parade will begin at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and move on to the Old State Capitol. Spectators can join reenactors in the march, just like the Lincoln supporters known as the Wide Awakes did in the mid 19th century. The event is one in a series of activities tied to the Illinois Bicentennial.

"Parents with a Purpose" Provides Support for Parents in DeWitt County

A group of local teachers has come together in an effort to help make life easier for parents and those families who have special needs.
 
The group "Parents with a Purpose" was formed back in March according to 2nd-grade teacher at Clinton Elementary School Autumn Kenney.

 

 
With 15 years of teaching, Kenney saw and heard from parents within the county that a group like "Parents with a Purpose" was much needed.
 

 

 
The group is composed of 15 members of both teachers and parents who are planning goals, programs and events for the program.
 

 

 
More information on upcoming events and how to get involved for "Parents with a Purpose" can be found on their Facebook page Parents with a Purpose DeWitt.  
 

Registration for Blue Ridge Community Unit School District

With the school year right around the corner, registration is taking place at school districts all across Central Illinois.
 
This holds true for the Blue Ridge Community Unit School District as Superintendent Susan Wilson shares how to register kids for school.
 

 

 
Wilson also hits on important meetings and dates for activities to begin the new school year.
 

 

 
The official start to school for all buildings in the Blue Ridge Community Unit School District is August 22.

Weather Outlook for August

Cooler temperatures hit Central Illinois to end the month of July, but August should bring back warmer temperatures at least in the beginning of the month according to Warning Coordination Meteorologist for the National Weather Service Chirs Miller.
 

 

 
It's also the time of year to pay attention to the coastal weather as it can cause issues for the Midwest.

 

 
Miller also advises keeping an eye on forecast predictions with county fair season in full swing and the State fair upcoming.

Innocence Project Takes Issue with Rauner Veto

The Illinois Innocence Project is taking issue with Gov. Bruce Rauner's use of his veto pen. Rauner rejected legislation designed to combat false testimony from jailhouse informants. The legislation added new safeguards, including requiring a hearing be held to determine whether an informant is reliable. Prosecutors would also have to inform defense attorneys if deals were cut to obtain the information. Jailhouse informants often testify in hopes of gaining leniency for their own crimes. The Innocence Project says that incentive to testify often leads to unreliable witnesses offering false testimony.

Redneck Fishin' Tourney this weekend in Bath, Illinois

An Illinois River community continuing its tradition of taking on the flying Asian carp. It’s The Original Redneck Fishin’ Tournament in Bath, Illinois this Thursday through Saturday. The event brings attention to the issue, helps rid the waterway of the invasive species and also lets participants have fun. But no fishing poles are allowed, the fishing is done with handheld dip nets says organizer Betty DeFord. 
 
 
This marks the 13th year for the competition and it costs $50 per boat to register. The top year for the tournament removed 10,600 Asian Carp from the Illinois River. Complete details on the weekend are available at www.originalredneckfishin.com. 

Weekly Crop Report

Here is this weeks crop report with crop statistician Mark Schleusener.
 

 

 

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