ATLANTA — The last time a historic wave of women ran for office, in 1992, California became the first state to send two women to the U.S. Senate.
Here’s a link to the story at the Southern Illinoisan.
More than 20 states, including Illinois, have never had a woman as governor
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
31-year-old Harrisburg man dead in Sunday car crash
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
A 31-year-old Harrisburg man died Sunday afternoon in a single-vehicle crash on Illinois 34.
Here’s a link to the story at the Southern Illinoisan.
Trump: Caravan migrants are ‘wasting their time’
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
President Trump told Fox News on Monday evening that Central American migrants who are approaching the U.S.-Mexico border in caravans are “wasting their time” and vowed, “they are not coming in.”
Here’s a link to the story at Fox News.
Cardinals’ new hitting coach Albert has modern-day approach
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
It’s fitting Jeff Albert is into CrossFit — he’s fascinated by modern takes on athletics, the evolution of sport. And so, there he was Monday morning with his friend, attacking some squats, when he got the text message that changed his life. He was the hitting coach for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Here’s a link to the story at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Klay Thompson splashes NBA record 14 3-pointers on Bulls in 149-124 Warriors rout
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
Everything you needed to know about the history-chasing Warriors’ unselfishness played out in full display as they set more records Monday night at the United Center.
Here’s a link to the story a the Chicago Tribune.
At least 26 people shot on Sunday, the second most violent day of the year in Chicago
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
Chicago saw one of its most violent days of the year Sunday, with 26 people shot over 18 hours, many of them in neighborhoods on the West and South sides
Here’s a link to the story at the Chicago Tribune.
Saluki head coach Nick Hill’s weekly press conference
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
Football 10/29/2018 | 3:09:00 By Tom Weber, SIUSalukis.com
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Here are excerpts from Saluki football head coach Nick Hill‘s weekly press conference held Monday afternoon at Saluki Stadium. Southern Illinois hosts Western Illinois on Saturday at 1 p.m. CT in a game that will be televised on ESPN3.
On Western Illinois.
Our process here doesn’t change — win or lose. It’s back to the same process of preparation. We have to have a great week of practice. I’m excited for our guys going on the road and getting a tough win (at Missouri State), but we can’t be thinking about that, we have to be hungry to go get another one. Excited to get back at home, where we haven’t won yet this year. We’ve talked about that — we have to play well at home.
I really respect the heck out of Coach (Jared) Elliott. He’s a great coach, a great person and a he’s done a great job in his first season. They have a senior-led team. Defensively, it’s probably the best defensive line, maybe the best defensive group we’ve played all year long. (Khalen) Saunders, in my opinion, is probably the best defensive lineman in our league. I haven’t seen one who plays as good as him, maybe in the country. He makes plays all over the place, probably playing on Sundays next year. They’re just led by a senior group that’s played in the playoffs, played a lot of football together. Offensively, a really good quarterback who has played a ton of games and is as experienced as anybody in our league. He’s tough, he’ll run it, he’ll stand in there. He’s no-doubt their leader.
On the impact of Saturday’s win on the team.
Winning is what you set out for, that winning feeling, that excitement, celebrating together. Coming to work knowing that your preparation is validated. We went and finished the job and we hadn’t done that for six weeks in a row. I liked our work yesterday, our team meeting, our lift, the same as the previous six weeks. Obviously, you feel a little bit better in your gut, when you come to work and you’re watching those things you have to get better from, after a win than a loss. There’s a lot of things we could have corrected on Saturday to play even better on both sides of the ball, special teams, things that we have to continue to coach, emphasize and get better from. We still have three (games) to play and we can have that same feeling on Saturday, but it’s not just given, you have to earn it.
I think that this team would have stayed together regardless, but any time you’re talking about leading 18-to-22 year-old guys and you put in a ton of work, you want to be rewarded at the end. Our process wouldn’t have changed, if I would sat up here and we’d have gotten beat on Saturday, the message to our guys wouldn’t have changed. We’ll continue to lead these guys and our coaches have to model the way. We have to put our nose down and keep working and that won’t change this week, either.
On the offensive line’s play at Missouri State.
Aaron Harris has done a really good job of coming in and playing the last two weeks. I’m really happy for Aaron. He played well at center against Indiana State. We ran the football well that game, then we ran it well again Saturday and he moved to guard. Getting (Jacob) Marnin back and Big Z (Zeyveon Furcron) went from having the worst game of his career (at Illinois State) to having his best two. Those guys have gotten better up front, playing together, just having the physical mindset. Ernest probably leads that group every single week, plays solid football, and Ben Bailey. I thought they did a solid job, especially in pass pro.
On senior guard Josh Podzielinski, who will miss the rest of the season with torn ligaments in his wrist.
He’ll go down as a great Saluki, a leader, what you want when you recruit a kid. He comes here and handles his business off the field, represents the program, the university. He’ll go on, and everything he wants to do, he’ll be successful. I hate it for him because he has the right attitude. He came out and practiced Tuesday with a big club on his hand. The X-rays came back negative, so he was like, alright, I’m going. We thought maybe he’d sit out a couple weeks but then got the MRI results and he’ll have surgery this week.
On former wide receiver Joe Patterson stepping into a starting role at safety.
Joe has done a great job of stepping in and playing. That’s what we talk about — you never know when your number his going to be called, and Joe’s has been called. We saw in training camp and in the spring that he could be a pretty good player and he’s gotten a ton of reps. He hasn’t come out of the game the last couple weeks. He plays hard, he’s a great kid, he came here as a receiver but he had a background of playing DB in high school. I thought he did a good job on Saturday. A couple balls that were caught were really well-contested. He was there and the kid made an unbelievable play on 4th-and-5 on the sideline diving out of bounds and dragging his foot in. Joe was in coverage on that but had him covered up.
On whether safety or cornerback is Jeremy Chinn’s best position.
Saturday was the first day he lined up at corner. He’s such a smart, intelligent player getting everybody lined up. You can probably lead better at the safety position as far as being trustworthy and making sure the calls are right. Now, he creates some problems with his length and size at corner. Going forward, as far as the NFL goes, I think just his versatility, you get called upon throughout your career in the NFL, unless you’re just a lockdown corner getting paid a lot of money, you’re getting asked to do a lot of things.
On what special preparations the offense makes to handle a player such as Saunders.
We’ve blocked him before, played him last year and the year before that, watch him on film, look at his tendencies, try to do a good job. We’re not going to change what we do, we have to go block him. We have the guys to do that. He’s just a heckuva football player. Every team has players that create different challenges for your team that you have to study, practice well, play with physicality and good technique. He’s proven to be an elite player, a special player in this league. He plays extremely hard. To be a great defensive lineman, you have to have a motor. I tell our guys, that’s the number-one compliment — the kid’s playing hard all the time, chasing plays down.
Don Gasaway: Winter wildlife watching
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
By Don Gasaway
A red fox dives for fleeing mice in field of brown grass. An eagle soars overhead calling to its mate with a shrill scream. A white-tailed deer browses on the edge of a thicket. Canada geese rest in the wetlands. This is outdoor recreation at its wildest.
Nature lovers can find all sorts of birds and animals to watch throughout the woods and fields. Especially popular are the bird watching. Hunters learn the habits of their quarry that will improve their success ratio next hunting season.
A variety of vegetation and terrain attracts and holds numerous species of birds and mammals. Birds are residents, migrants, or frequent visitors to your area.
Watching wildlife does not take a lot of expensive gear. Binoculars and some guide books are a good beginning. Field guides assist in identification and help at home when reviewing ones notes from a day afield.
When heading out, be sure to take a notebook. Field notes should include the date, location, weather conditions and animal behavior, along with any unique observations.
Beginners must learn to identify animals and birds by sight and sound. Noting the color, shape and other outstanding observations make it easier to identify species.
Familiarize yourself with animal behavior and favored habitats. For example, deer tend to prefer thick cover until late in the day when they move out into fields to feed. Learn to recognize animal habitats. This knowledge assists in identification and helps to eliminate species not associated with a specific habitat.
Advanced wildlife watchers learn the calls and songs of mammals or birds. This helps to identify those species which may be hidden in dense cover. By familiarizing oneself with bird songs and mammal calls, one can chase down each sound until he discovers the source.
The direct approach is not the best way to seek out wildlife. Wild animals must always be wary of possible danger and when an intruder comes straight at them it is usually a signal of a threat. By acting disinterested while sneaking a glance now and then, you may be able to observe the unfolding drama of their activities.
It is important to be patient and avoid direct attention to the animal encountered. Appear disinterested. Fiddle with vegetation, look away from the animal while moving slowly closer and you will be able to approach much closer than you would think. Staring at an animal causes them fear and uneasiness. Quick looks are much less obvious and less likely to make the animal nervous.
Some animals such as ducks and geese can become very approachable due to constant association with human activity. Other animals are so skittish that the first hint of the presence of humans sends them fleeing.
Generally, however, the use of patience in observing wildlife works well. It will result in closer views for you and less intimidation for the animal. Watching wildlife can be challenging and educational.
For more information on lodging accommodations as well as outdoor activities in Williamson County, or to receive a free color Visitors Guide, contact VisitSI at 1602 Sioux Drive, Marion, IL 62959. Call 800-GEESE-99 or email info@VisitSI.com. Current information is also available online at www.VisitSI.com.
Governor announces expansion of Starved Rock, Matthiessen state parks
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
State acquires 2,629 acres of open space from Lone Star Industries
OGLESBY — Gov. Bruce Rauner today announced the state has acquired 2,629 acres of property in LaSalle County to protect natural resources and expand recreation opportunities, tourism and economic development near Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks.
“More than 3 million people visit Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks each year. They are among the most beautiful destinations in our state,” Rauner said. “This expansion increases the amount of open space that will be managed and protected there by more than 50 percent and gives people even more reasons to enjoy the outdoors in LaSalle County.”
The state acquired the land from Lone Star Industries Inc., which, along with its predecessor companies, has owned much of the property since the early 1900s. The land originally was mined for coal. It also has been mined for limestone and used as a site for cement manufacturing.
Thanks to mined land reclamation, existing forested areas, lakes, and a stretch of the scenic Vermilion River, the site is ideally suited for development of outdoor recreational uses.
“The decision to sell this land to preserve open space represents Buzzi Unicem USA’s effort to be a good corporate citizen and an environmentally responsible neighbor,” said Daniel B. Nugent, senior vice president of Technical Services and Governmental Affairs for Lone Star Industries, doing business as Buzzi Unicem USA. “Sustainable development is a core value of our business model. We strive to do business in a way that can meet the needs of present generations without jeopardizing the ability to satisfy the needs of future generations.”
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will manage the property as part of the Starved Rock/Matthiessen state park complex. Planning is underway to restore forest, prairie and wildlife habitat, develop trails, a campground, picnic areas, and boat, canoe and kayak access, as well as foster horseback riding, cross country skiing, fishing and hunting opportunities.
“I want to thank Gov. Rauner for his vision in supporting this expansion of our busiest state park complex — and thank Lone Star Industries for working with the state to make this property available for the use and enjoyment of area residents and visitors from throughout the state, the nation, and around the world,” said IDNR Director Wayne Rosenthal. “Opportunities like this don’t come around very often, and we’re delighted to add this parcel to Starved Rock and Matthiessen for the enjoyment of visitors for generations to come.”
The IDNR purchased the property for $11,050,000 through the state’s Open Land Trust, established to acquire property for conservation and recreation purposes.
“Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks are gems for the Illinois Valley and the state,” said State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris. “The beauty of these parks is unmatched in Illinois, and this new land acquisition will only add to the pleasurable experience for visitors. This is great news for the area and will provide an additional boost to economic development and tourism as people will want to explore these areas, watch the wildlife, and see more of Illinois in an exciting new way. The expansion will add to the already rich natural resources portfolio of the region, especially when we market Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks beyond our borders.”
Seventh Criminal Justice Scholarship Roundup sets new records
October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment
INA, Ill. – Rend Lake College students and local leaders shared the stage at the Seventh Annual Criminal Justice Roundup for Scholarships event, held last night in the RLC Student Center’s Private Dining Area, for an evening of celebration and gratitude.
In a record-setting year, the Roundup brought in $4,000 last night for student scholarships. During this academic year, seven students received financial assistance for their enrollment in the program – more than any previous year. As part of their way to say thank you, the students met face-to-face with donors.
Ron Meek, RLC Criminal Justice Professor and event organizer, offered opening remarks and special words of thanks to three individuals who donated the full $500 scholarship for students to use during the 2019-20 academic year.
“At this point, we’ve given around 40 scholarships to Rend Lake College students, and we couldn’t do it if it wasn’t for the people in this room who donate and support the students. I really appreciate that,” said Meek. “There are a few people who donated the full scholarship, and I wanted to take a moment to recognize them, and thank them for their support. Rob and Tammy Austin; my wife, Beverly Hart-Meek; and J. Nelson Wood. Thank you all for that extraordinary donation to our program.”
Three generous donors gave the full $500 scholarship to the RLC Criminal Justice Program to be used for students in the 2019-20 academic year. Pictured is, FROM LEFT, RLC President Terry Wilkerson, donor Tammy Austin, donor Rob Austin, RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek, donor Beverly Hart-Meek, and RLC Dean of Applied Science and Advanced Technology Gabriele Farner.
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)
Three of the seven scholarship recipients also spoke briefly about what the scholarship has meant to them. The other four students are Jeffrey Boner (Zeigler), William Heard (Valier), Joe Shirrell (Mt. Vernon), and Tyler Weeks (Christopher).
“This really means a lot to me, because I come from a family where most people didn’t go to college. My parents always talked about the importance of going to college, because they want me to do more than they did in life,” said Chase Witbracht of Pinckneyville. “There wasn’t a whole lot of extra cash lying around to put two kids through college. It means a lot to me that there’s people out there who are willing to make a difference by helping us with college to better ourselves. Thank you all so much.”
Another student, Kaylie Williams of Waltonville, added, “When I decided to go into this major, I knew that whatever area I chose, I would hope that I could make a difference and make an impact. As we all know, women are a minority in the criminal justice field and I see this as a challenge and I’m honored to be given this opportunity. I would like to thank the donors for their generosity.”
Six scholarship recipients were in attendance at the Criminal Justice Roundup for Scholarships event. They are, FROM LEFT, Tyler Weeks (Christopher), Kaylie Williams (Waltonville), William Heard (Valier), Joe Shirrell (Mt. Vernon), Chase Witbracht (Pinckneyville), and Keaton Hawk (Pinckneyville). Also pictured is RLC President Terry Wilkerson, LEFT, and RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek, RIGHT. Not pictured is recipient Jeffrey Boner (Zeigler).
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)
Keaton Hawk of Pinckneyville, concluded the student speakers with more words of thanks. He said, “Thank you everyone for coming out. It means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to my peers. This line of work has always been something natural that I’ve fallen into, and I love this line of work. Thank you and without your help, I don’t think we could go anywhere, because you make everything go around.”
Next on stage were two donors representing local businesses wanting to give back. As they have done in previous years, the Jefferson County State’s Attorney’s office made a $1,000 donation out of the Drug Forfeiture Fund. The fund is comprised of money seized from criminals and is utilized for training in the county. Blake Jennings, Assistant State’s Attorney, spoke on behalf of States Attorney Sean Featherstun when presenting the donation.
“It’s a really neat idea that the money taken from crime can be later used to, indirectly, fight crime. I thank you for having me here and I know we’re happy to be able to help your program, because it’s a great program. It’s a very noble undertaking to pursue a career in law enforcement and I applaud you,” said Jennings. “As somebody who has benefitted from scholarships myself, I know there’s never enough to go around and the scholarships you do get, there’s never enough to go around, so I wish you all the best of luck.”
Blake Jennings, LEFT, Jefferson County Assistant State’s Attorney, presents a $1,000 donation to the RLC Criminal Justice Program from the county’s Drug Forfeiture Fund. He is pictured with RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek, RIGHT.
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)
Similarly, Darrel Mays, owner of Darrel Mays Agency Inc., made a $750 donation thanks in-part to a matching-funds program through parent company American Family Insurance.
“I get to work with a lot of police officers, and I’ve seen a lot of good character come out of this program. We have the opportunity to have American Family Insurance match some of our money, and we’re able to get them to do that. We’re just happy to help, and thank you all,” said Mays.
Darrell Mays, SECOND FROM LEFT, presents a $750 donation to the RLC Criminal Justice Program during the seventh annual event. He is pictured with, FROM LEFT, RLC President Terry Wilkerson, RLC Dean of Applied Science and Advanced Technology Gabriele Farner, and RLC Criminal Justice Professor Ron Meek.
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)
Two local professionals also shared the stage to offer words of advice. Chief Trent Page of the Mt. Vernon Police Department stressed the importance of training hard and upholding integrity.
“We’re so supportive of this program, because it excels. When you look at the program, it stands apart. We have seen this program grow over the last few years and really become something. We get lots of calls from people who need assistance for this and that, but it’s always a ‘yes’ for Mr. Meek,” said Page. “The training you are getting is what we’re seeing at police academies. Its scenario-based training and the instructors know what to do. They’ve been in this industry and that makes a huge difference. You have a tremendous resource here.”
He continued, “This is a beginning point. The foundation you’re laying is important. Even at 18 or 19, your decisions make a huge impact upon you. You must have your integrity from the beginning. I challenge each of you – know what you’re getting into. Know that as you build your foundation and move forward. What they can’t take from you is your personal pride and how you do the job. I would like to congratulate the recipients here today.”
Judge Jerry Crisel of the Second Judicial Circuit echoed Page’s advice on integrity, and added an uplifting sentiment.
“I have so much respect for this program. Your profession is a noble profession. I see police officers every day; worked with them. You must always maintain your credibility and integrity, no matter what. It has long lasting, positive effects if you’re a police officer with integrity. It carries a lot of weight,” said Crisel. “Remember that the profession of a peace officer is vital to the function of our system, our country. There are many things that are vital there. As peace officers, you’re helping to perpetuate the finest system in the world. It’s not perfect by any means, but it is the finest. I have nothing but the highest respect for the recipients and students, the faculty and administration.”
Two RLC administrators also thanked the donors and offered words of encouragement to the students. President Terry Wilkerson focused on the connections being made across the room.
“This is an honorable and meaningful way of life and profession, so don’t let anyone take that away. Always keep that in mind and conduct yourself in that fashion,” said Wilkerson. “Take some time tonight to connect with these folks. They’re getting their wallets out to support you, but they’re also giving you their time. That time is important, because it’s not always who you know, but who knows you. Make those connections with folks and your classmates, because this is just the beginning.”
Focusing on the donors, Gabriele Farner, RLC Dean of Applied Science and Advanced Technology, spoke about the return on investment she and the Criminal Justice faculty expect out of the students and graduates.
“We have three instructors who have almost 70 years of experience in criminal justice. That doesn’t even count for their teaching experience on top of that. They demand discipline and respect of the students in the program, and that is something modeled by everyone,” said Farner. “When they’re coming here, they’re getting a great return on investment.”
To learn more about RLC’s Criminal Justice program, visit www.rlc.edu/criminal-justice, or contact Meek at 618-437-5321, Ext. 1239 or meekr@rlc.edu.
