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.”

Filed Under: Breaking News

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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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.

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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.

Filed Under: Breaking News

Op-Ed: How to make an extra $3 billion, the Illinois way

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Buried beneath the election chatter this week was a wonky labor ruling in a Springfield appellate court. But the issue at hand could wind up being more costly than almost anything else Illinoisans hear discussed on debate stages.

Here’s a link to the editorial at Illinois News Network.

Filed Under: Columns

Pastor Rick Warren: God Knows Our Weaknesses and Still Loves Us

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

By Rick Warren

”[Jesus] understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most” (Hebrews 4:15-16 NLT).

Years ago, there was a book called Why Am I Afraid to Tell You Who I Am? Well, here’s the answer: If I tell you what I’m really like and you don’t like it, I’m up a creek without a paddle, because I’m all I’ve got.And so, we spend most of our lives wearing masks, pretending to be people we’re not, because we’re afraid if we let others see what we really are, they would reject us. It’s one of our deepest fears.

But because God is always good and never bad, God will never reject you, even when you sin against him and disobey and hurt him. You can come back! He will receive you, not reject you, when you humbly confess to him.

The Bible says, “Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close . . . My enemies are waiting for me . . . Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:10-11, 13 NLT). You may have messed up and made a huge mistake. God is the God of second chances. Why? Because he is a good and gracious Father.

Now, because God is always good and gracious, when we pray, we can be always bold and confident. We don’t have to come slinking in to God with our tail between our legs. We can just come and say, “God, you know I blew it—that’s who I am. But you are a good Father—that’s who you are. And it’s who you are that matters.”

“[Jesus] understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most” (Hebrews 4:15-16 NLT).

Talk It Over

  • Why do you think Jesus allowed himself to be tempted while he was on Earth, even though he never sinned?
  • How does your relationship with your parents affect the way you read Psalm 27:10? How would you describe the language used in this verse?
  • In what ways has your fear of rejection affected how you approach God in prayer?

Give hope, prayer, and encouragement below. Post a comment & talk about it.

Filed Under: Columns

Your Daily Prayer: A Prayer to Love When It’s Inconvenient

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Your Daily Prayer Devotional Banner

A Prayer to Love When It’s Inconvenient
By Karen Ehman

“Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.”  Philippians 4:5 (NLT)

Recently as I waited in line at a coffee house, a frail, elderly woman stood in front of me ordering a meal. She seemed distressed as she fumbled for her change, paid the worker, and then gathered up her bag of food and her drink. As she headed for the door, her large purse began swinging off of her shoulder, nearly knocking her, and all of her lunch, to the floor.

“Oh … how am I going to do this? Oh my … oh dear … I can’t …” she mumbled to herself, trying to shift her weight and her cargo, while pushing open the door at the same time. Though I’d just finally reached the front of the line, God used today’s key verse to tap me on the heart and shift my momentary schedule.

“Here, let me get that for you,” I uttered as I held the door open and steadied her drink. “Would you like me to carry your food to your car?” She stopped in her tracks, her bright blue eyes looking up at me with gratefulness. “Oh dear … you must have a grandmother living that you’re so kind to an old woman.”

“No ma’am, I don’t,” I answered. “I just love Jesus and He wants me to help you.”

Her face softened. She shook her head and decidedly declared: “Of course! You people have always been so helpful to me. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” You people. I’m pretty sure she meant, “You Christians.”

It reminded me of the age-old truth: More is caught than taught. And it demonstrated to me that people are watching. What do they see? Do they see us being considerate in all we do? Sadly, I have been told the following:

· By a waitress: “Christians are the worst tippers, especially after a Sunday supper out. Sometimes they leave no money at all.”

· By a sweet, misguided teenager from a tumultuous home, looking for love with her heart and announcing it with her body: “I tried going to church once. There was a sign on the front door that said, ‘All are welcome, but please dress appropriately.’ I didn’t know what appropriately meant, but I knew it wasn’t me. So I turned around and left.”

I know followers of Jesus — and I count myself in particular — don’t always portray to others the considerate and loving ways of Christ, as urged in today’s key verse. But we can do better. We need to remember that people are watching our behavior. If all they see are uncaring or condemning Christians, why, oh why, would they want to become one?

Father, forgive me for the times I choose condemnation over love, rudeness over kindness, or desire to do nothing rather than do the right thing. Please prompt my heart and interrupt my momentary schedule so my actions may reflect who You are. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Filed Under: Columns

Trump and his supporters are being blamed for a climate of rage and hate – but here’s the truth

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Predictably, the establishment is blaming President Trump and his supporters for a climate of rage and hate.

Here’s a link to the editorial at Fox News.

Filed Under: Columns

Budget groups: Pritzker’s plans would cost taxpayers billions more

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

While a couple of state budget analysis groups differ on how much more Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker could spend if he’s elected, they agree Pritzker will cost taxpayers more.

Here’s a link to the story at Illinois News Network.

Filed Under: Featured

Jackson County Sheriff investigating after hunters find human skeletal remains in woods north of Carbondale

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has opened a death investigation after hunters found human skeletal remains in the woods north of Carbondale.

Here’s a link to the story at the Southern Illinoisan.

Filed Under: Featured

Children in Southern Illinois need not worry — despite heavy rains predicted for Halloween, the candy will still flow, but in some cities and towns, a day earlier.

October 30, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Children in Southern Illinois need not worry — despite heavy rains predicted for Halloween, the candy will still flow, but in some cities and towns, a day earlier.

Here’s a link to the story at the Southern Illinoisan.

Filed Under: Featured

RLC Foundation hosts 29th Scholarship Dinner

October 29, 2018 By Leave a Comment

INA, Ill. – Hundreds of Rend Lake College students and donors met for the first time last week for an evening of celebration during the 29th Annual RLC Foundation Scholarship Dinner, held Thursday, Oct. 18 at the Benton Civic Center.

During the event, guest speakers Joe Gliosci, Megan Rounds, Suzanna LeFebvre, and Phillip Smith shared their experiences giving or receiving scholarships. RLC Foundation CEO Kay Zibby-Damron and Board Chairperson Robert Bornheimer were also on hand to share in the evening’s festivities.

Zibby-Damron welcomed the audience to the event and, after introductions, thanked every person in attendance for their specific role – either as donors and alums or as students pursuing a college degree.

“To our scholarship donors, thank you for believing in the importance of education, for believing in Rend Lake College, and for believing in our students. Know that we are committed to doing everything we can to be good stewards of your gift,” said Zibby-Damron to the donors in the room. To the group of alumni donors, she added, “thank you for staying connected to Rend Lake College and for giving back to the place where you began your journey. Rend Lake College is very proud of you.”

To the students, she continued, “As you go home tonight and you go back to class, I want to ask two things of you. Number one, do your best. The people who are here tonight are interested in you and they know the value of education and they want to help you. It’s now your responsibility to be accountable for this gift. Simply do your best, show up, and don’t give up. Two, I want you to look for ways to pay it forward. Get involved in your community, help others, and as you start your career, I hope that you too will consider how you can give back to Rend Lake College. You are our future scholarship donors.”

Bornheimer echoed with words of appreciation to the students.

“As donors, we’ll tell you this is one of our favorite evenings of the year, because this is where our contributions come to life. We get to see the person who benefits from it, and getting to know you, what your plans are, that inspires us to keep giving. Thank you all for attending and giving us some time to get to know you a little bit,” he said.

First on stage for the guest speakers was Joe Gliosci, Illinois Region President of Legence Bank. As a surprise announcement, Gliosci said Legence Bank will sponsor two new scholarships for $1,000 each to be awarded during the 2019-20 academic year.

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Joe Gliosci, Legence Bank Illinois Region President, addressed the audience at the 29th Annual Rend Lake College Foundation Scholarship Dinner last week. It was during his speech that he announced the creation of the Legence Bank Merit Scholarship and Legence Bank Burt H. Rowe Jr. Memorial Scholarship.
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)

“We are excited and extremely thankful to be able to offer two scholarships to students who reflect how we approach our business every day,” said Gliosci. “We seek bright, curious, engaging students who make a difference in our communities. Our core values guide our Legence Bank team to help our customers and communities grow stronger, and these are the same values we look for in the scholarship recipients. They have professionalism, a strong work ethic, are a team player and community-minded, honesty with integrity, innovative, loyal, and my favorite, positive and enthusiastic attitude. We approach work with the spirit of generosity and look for students who approach education with the same manner. I have a feeling next year, we won’t have any problem finding two students to award this scholarship to.”

In response to the announcement, Zibby-Damron added, “Thank you. This is very exciting. This new scholarship creates two new opportunities for RLC students for next year. Thank you very much Joe and Legence Bank for your support.”

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Legence Bank Illinois Region President Joe Gliosci, SECOND FROM LEFT, presents a $5,000 check donation to the RLC Foundation for two new student scholarships for the 2019-20 academic year. He is pictured with, RLC President Terry Wilkerson, LEFT; RLC Foundation CEO Kay Zibby-Damron, SECOND FROM RIGHT; and RLC Foundation Board Chairman Robert Bornheimer, RIGHT.
(Reece Rutland / RLC Public Information)

Next at the podium was RLC AmeriCorps Director Megan Rounds who shared her experiences as both a scholarship donor and recipient.

“Coming from a family of coal miners and farmers, I understand that education is not always something our parents or grandparents may have pursued. I was raised with the words, ‘when you go to college’ not ‘if you go.’ While most of my family may not have had a college education themselves, they did want that opportunity for me,” said Rounds.

She continued, “When it was time to leave high school, every penny made a difference for our family. I was blessed to receive an art scholarship for photography at Rend Lake College as well as financial support to attend SIU from my grandparents. When I received that scholarship, it was the community who were there to help support me, as well as my family.”

Rounds, alongside her husband Zach, made the decision to give back nearly two years ago. This year, the couple decided the increase their donation to the RLC Foundation.

“You’re here because you value education, the people within our communities, and we have joined together to provide them with support for their education. Zach and I decided to give a scholarship because we wanted to build upon the support already given to us by our community,” said Rounds. “We are hopeful we can make a difference each year, even if it is only one student. We know every penny counts, just as it did for my family. And we are so thankful we have the ability to do that now. We give in the hope that it will inspire others to help when and where it matters. Congratulations to all the students here. We are very proud of you.”

The program closed with two scholarship recipients giving words of thanks and sharing their experiences in college. First up was Suzanna LeFebvre of Mt. Vernon, who, after becoming homeless without a high school degree, found herself succeeding at RLC thanks, in part, to donors who made her dream a reality. She is currently a sophomore music major who aspires to become a music therapist.

“Ever since I was a little kid, I always dreamt about going to college and becoming an adult with a big career and lots of money; however, that dream started to fade when I was 18 and found myself without a home and a high school education,” said LeFebvre. “With no money and no job and no diploma to get a job, how was I going to be anyone?”

She continued, “After two years of hard work and getting good grades, I applied to the State Board of Education to receive my diploma. When I graduated, I received two scholarships that have helped me immensely. This year, I was even more blessed to receive scholarships again. The scholarships I have received have helped me – someone who once thought they were a nobody – to go to college to pursue a dream I once thought was impossible to reach.”

Last to take the podium was sophomore Phillip Smith of Christopher who shared the hardships of going back to school while also working and taking care of his family. Smith will graduate in May with an Associate Degree in Nursing.

“I went back to college after a less-than-stellar performance in high school. I went back, not as a teenager fresh out of high school, but as a husband and father several years after the fact. I’d often given a considerable thought about going back to school to join the medical community, but the financial ability often played a role in preventing that from occurring,” said Smith.

He continued, “Were it not for the generous donations of each and every one of you here tonight, myself and many other students might well be stalled in our efforts of laying the foundations of our own success. It is a great relief to have one less burden to bear so that our focus can be placed solely on our grades in the classroom and beyond. This summer, I will proudly be able to call myself a registered nurse. This is an achievement I can take a great deal of pride in, not only because of the hard work and long hours required to attain it, but also because, just a few years ago, it was nothing more than a dream. Your commitment to helping me achieve that is a gift I cannot possibly thank you enough for. That being said, I’ll give it a try. Thank you everyone, for every opportunity you’ve given to every recipient here, for your generosity and selflessness. You have done so much more than you know.”

During the 2018-19 academic year, the RLC Foundation has awarded nearly $200,000 in scholarships to Rend Lake College students. Incoming and current students can complete the 2019-20 RLC Foundation Scholarship application online at www.rlc.edu/foundation.

Those who would like to learn more about supporting RLC students with a scholarship, contact the RLCF at 618-437-5321, Ext. 1214, or send an e-mail foundation@rlc.edu. Legence Bank sponsored the event.

Filed Under: Breaking News
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