Tyra Buss cementing legacy in IU women’s basketball program

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Tyra Buss hit the national landscape in January 2010 by finishing second in a 12- and 13-year-old Punt, Pass and Kick competition at the site of the AFC championship in San Diego. Her legend and legacy has only continued to grow in stature through the years.

Featured in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd” in the magazine’s Feb. 28, 2011 edition, she drew the attention of people in her hometown back in 2003. From an early age, it was obvious that Buss was something special, perhaps rivaling Archie Dees as the best athlete to ever come out of Mount Carmel, Illinois.

Please click to read the full story from Gordon Engleheart of the Evansville Courier and Press.

http://www.courierpress.com/story/sports/2018/01/04/buss-cementing-legacy-indiana-university-womens-basketball-program/998226001/

Filed Under: College Sports, Featured, Sports

Carbondale man killed in car vs. semi crash on I-57

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

BENTON –  A Carbondale man was killed in a crash Saturday night on I-57.

Please click on the link for preliminary information from Brandon Richard of WSIL-TV.  More information will be added as it becomes available.

http://www.wsiltv.com/story/37210082/carbondale-man-killed-in-semi-vs-car-crash-on-i-57

 

 

Filed Under: Breaking News, Featured, Franklin Co. News

Illinois EPA Joins National Safety Council to Promote Vehicle Recall Awareness

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Check To Protect Information Available at Vehicle Emissions Testing Facilities

 

CHICAGO – Illinois EPA Director Alec Messina announced the Illinois EPA is partnering with the National Safety Council to inform drivers about the importance of checking their vehicle’s recall status and scheduling a free repair if needed.

The Illinois EPA will display posters at each of its vehicle emissions testing facilities to promote Check To Protect, a recall awareness campaign recently launched by NSC. The posters will hang in test station lobbies, as well as waiting booths, to encourage drivers to visit www.CheckToProtect.org and learn their vehicle’s recall status while emissions testing takes place. Drivers will need their Vehicle Identification Number, which is located on the vehicle’s driver’s side door jamb or windshield.  It is also located on vehicle insurance cards.

Almost 1 in 4 vehicles on the road today in Illinois has an open recall. Many of these recalls can pose serious safety risks to drivers and passengers if they are neglected. NSC and the Illinois EPA want all drivers to know that recalls are 100 percent free to have repaired at a local dealership.

“Illinois EPA is pleased to partner with the National Safety Council to encourage motorists to check on safety recalls for their vehicles,” said IEPA Director Alec Messina. “Approximately 2 million motorists visit our emissions test stations each year and this is a great opportunity to provide them with additional information to keep themselves and their families safe.”

The Illinois EPA also has created a link to Check To Protect from its website, www.illinoisairteam.net. Under the Motorist section, drivers may click on the topic, “Does My Vehicle Have an Open Recall?” and quickly learn the answer after they enter their VIN.

“We applaud the Illinois EPA for taking a leadership role in promoting recall awareness to drivers across the state,” NSC President and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman said. “More than 10 million vehicles are registered in Illinois, and nearly one-quarter of those vehicles have open recalls. It is important for all drivers to take a couple of minutes and check their vehicle’s recall status today.”

The Illinois EPA is the first agency to partner with Check To Protect as part of its emissions testing program. Since it was launched in June by NSC and founding coalition member FCA US, more than 100,000 visitors have clicked to check for open recalls at www.CheckToProtect.org.


About the Illinois EPA’s Vehicle Emissions Testing Program

The Illinois EPA’s vehicle emissions inspection program plays an important role in improving air quality and public health in Illinois.  The federal Clean Air Act requires vehicle emissions inspection programs in large, urbanized areas that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone.  Although Illinois has made significant strides to clean the air, air pollution levels in the Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis areas still exceed those standards.  Additionally, the Illinois Vehicle Emissions Inspection Law of 2005 requires a vehicle emissions inspection program to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles in these areas of Illinois.

About the National Safety Council

The National Safety Council (nsc.org) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to eliminate preventable deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy. Founded in 1913 and chartered by Congress, NSC advances this mission by partnering with businesses, government agencies, elected officials and the public in areas where we can make the most impact.
Filed Under: Breaking News, State News

Freezing Rain, Drizzle and Sleet Impacting Travel in Illinois

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Motorists should be prepared for hazardous driving conditions in impacted areas

 

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation is advising the public that a combination of freezing rain, drizzle and sleet is expected to impact travel throughout today and during the overnight hours. Icy conditions will make driving treacherous and motorists are advised to make preparations if they plan to be on the road.

“If you are going to be traveling, you should first ask yourself if your trip is necessary before heading out,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. “We are working hard to make our roads safe and passable, but conditions are expected to be challenging. We are asking the public to please plan ahead, slow down and expect much longer than usual travel times.”

Throughout the state, whenever possible, IDOT crews today have been pretreating bridges, overpasses and ramps, the areas most susceptible to icing. The department will have available more than 1,700 trucks and equipment statewide, applying salt and treating roads.

Motorists should expect slick roadways and be extra cautious when driving. For regular updates on statewide road conditions, visit www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You can also follow IDOT on Facebook and Twitter.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a mix of light snow, sleet and freezing rain starting this morning, primarily in the central and southern regions of the state. Freezing drizzle is anticipated in northern Illinois this afternoon and evening. Coupled with very cold pavement conditions due to recent subzero temperatures, roads will become hazardous if the precipitation persists after the sun sets and into the overnight hours.

If you have to travel:

• Take it slow, especially when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas. All are prone to black ice, an invisible danger during some winter storms.
• Make sure your gas tank is full.
• Keep a cellphone, warm clothes, blankets, food, water, a first aid kit, washer fluid, and an ice scraper in your vehicle.
• If you have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route and schedule.
• Carry a cellphone and dial *999 in the Chicago area for roadway assistance in case of
emergency. Reminder: Using handheld phones while driving is illegal in Illinois, unless it is an emergency situation.
• Always wear a seat belt, whether you’re sitting in the front seat or back seat. It’s the law.

Filed Under: Breaking News, Franklin Co. News

IDNR Reminding Anglers of the Importance of Safety When Ice Fishing

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

 

Being prepared could save your life

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources graphic.

SPRINGFIELD, IL – As the temperatures drop in Illinois, those who enjoy year-round fishing may start heading to their favorite location to participate in ice fishing.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is reminding anglers that heading to their favorite frozen fishing holes does come with risks this time of year.

“The IDNR cannot stress enough the importance of safety when ice fishing.  Ice fishing can be a great and fun time, but can change into a dangerous situation in just seconds.  Being prepared and ready for anything can save your life,” said IDNR Conservation Police Chief Rafael Gutierrez.

Those planning to ice fish should stay off of ice that is less than 4 inches thick.  It is recommended anglers carry a rope or floatation device with them to help assist if someone falls through the ice.  Wearing a life jacket/personal floatation device (PFD) is always recommended when fishing offshore, including when ice fishing.

For additional information on ways to make your next ice fishing trip a fun and safe one, visit the “I Fish Illinois” website at

Filed Under: Breaking News, Featured, Franklin Co. News

Winter Weather Advisory goes into effect at 6:00 p.m. tonight until 6:00 a.m. tomorrow morning

January 7, 2018 By Leave a Comment

An upper level system moving across the area will produce rain, which may begin as freezing rain or sleet for a short period of time before changing over to all rain. Even though air temperatures are expected to rise to just above freezing in many communities, very cold ground temperatures are expected to lag the slightly warmer air temperatures. This will result in the light rain freezing on contact until the ground has more of a chance to thaw. The best chance for these conditions will begin in portions of southeast Missouri by Noon, and over portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana and the northern Kentucky Pennyrile area by 6 PM this evening. A special weather advisory is in effect for the remainder of the area, where there is slight chance of freezing rain development. (NWS Paducah)

Winter Weather Advisory

 

…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 AM CST MONDAY…

* WHAT…Freezing rain expected. The ice will result in difficult
travel conditions. Total ice accumulations of less than one
tenth of an inch are expected.

* WHERE…Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana and
western Kentucky.

* WHEN…6 PM today to 6 AM Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Even though air temperatures are expected
to rise to just above freezing in many locations, very cold
ground temperatures are expected to lag the slightly warmer air
temperatures. This will result in light rain freezing on contact
until the ground has more of a chance to thaw.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of freezing rain
will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads.
Slow down and use caution while driving. The latest road
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by
calling 5 1 1.

Hazardous Weather Outlook

.DAY ONE…Today and Tonight

A wintry mix of precipitation is expected to develop over
southeast Missouri this afternoon and spread across the entire
area tonight. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for
portions of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, southwest
Indiana and far northwest Kentucky. Please refer to the Advisory
product and the Special Weather Statement for more details.

 

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN…Monday through Saturday

A storm system will affect the entire area Thursday night into
Friday night. A brief wintry mix will be possible Thursday night
into early Friday morning, with precipitation becoming all snow late
Thursday night into Friday from west to east. At this time, it
looks like some snow accumulation will be possible.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT…

Spotter activation will not be needed. However, spotters are asked
to relay any reports of winter weather or slick roadways to the
National Weather Service.

Seven Day Forecast

This Afternoon
A 40 percent chance of rain, mainly after 4pm. Cloudy, with a steady temperature around 37. South wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.
Tonight
Rain or freezing rain likely before 8pm, then rain. Low around 34. South wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Little or no ice accumulation expected.
Monday
A 30 percent chance of rain before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 41. South southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Monday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 43. Calm wind becoming east southeast around 6 mph in the morning.
Tuesday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. East southeast wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south after midnight.
Wednesday
A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 58. South wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
Wednesday Night
A chance of showers, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. South wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
Thursday
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. South wind 9 to 14 mph becoming west southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.
Thursday Night
Rain likely before 10pm, then rain and snow likely between 10pm and 11pm, then snow likely after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25. West southwest wind 9 to 11 mph becoming north northwest after midnight.
Friday
A chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 31. North northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.
Friday Night
A slight chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20. North northwest wind around 8 mph.
Saturday
Partly sunny, with a high near 31. Northwest wind 7 to 9 mph.
Filed Under: Breaking News, Franklin Co. News

Webber students compete at RLC’s Warrior Superfan Day

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

INA, IL – Local high school students filled the stands at Rend Lake College’s second Warrior Superfan Day during a doubleheader against Wabash Valley College this afternoon. The students attended the men’s and women’s games for free to participate in a basketball shooting contest for prizes.

Pictured is, FROM LEFT, Dalton Hart, Brendan Frazier, and Peyton Hill, all students at Webber Township High School.
(ReAnne Palmer / RLC Public Information)

Three high school students were drawn to compete in the Warrior Challenge, during which they attempted to make a lay-up, free throw, and 3-point shot in 30 seconds. Those three students were Brendan Frazier, Dalton Hart and Peyton Hill, all from Webber Township High School.

The final Warrior Superfan Day is set for Wednesday, January 17 in the James “Hummer” Waugh Gymnasium on the Ina campus with the same Warrior Challenge during halftime of the RLC Men’s game. All in-district high school students are invited to attend and compete for free. Students who compete are also invited back on Saturday, February 17 for a winner-take-all half-court shot competition, with the winner taking home an Academic Award for 12 free credit hours at RLC – valued at $1,500.

For more information about the Warrior Superfan Days, contact RLC’s Welcome Center at 618-437-5321, Ext. 1343 or welcome@rlc.edu.

 

Filed Under: Breaking News, Franklin Co. News

Three miner trainings scheduled at Rend Lake College

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

INA, IL – Three specialized trainings for surface and underground miners are set for this month at Rend Lake College. All training courses are held on the Ina campus.

First up for surface-only miners is an Annual Refresher Training set for 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20. Both surface and underground miners can also take the Annual Refresher Training the following Friday, Jan. 26 from 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. The cost of each course is $50.

A five-day Inexperienced Miner Training is also scheduled to start Monday, Jan. 29. The class will meet 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Friday. The cost of the class is $165, and attendees must pre-pay and pre-register.

For more information or to register for any of the trainings, contact Sally Heathcoat at 618-437-5321, Ext. 2373.

Filed Under: Breaking News, Franklin Co. News

Saluki Men’s Basketball falls at Valparaiso, 83-72

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

 

Armon Fletcher posted career-high 32 points, 14 rebounds

 

By Tom Weber 

VALPARAISO, IN — Missouri Valley Conference newcomer Valparaiso used a 23-2 run in the final eight minutes of the first half en route to an 83-72 win over Southern Illinois on Saturday and its first-ever league victory.

The Crusaders (10-7, 1-3) made 10-of-18 shots from 3-point, plus got 28 points and 10 rebounds from its two 7-foot centers. They snapped a four-game losing streak and won for just the second time in their last 10 outings.

“It can’t be missed, and I talked about this publicly, how well our team has been practicing, and how much they’ve continued to fight and continued to work,” said second-year Valpo head coach Matt Lottich. “It’s a testament to their character, because it hasn’t been easy the last month.”

Armon Fletcher had a career high 32 points against Valpo. (SIU Media Services photo)

Armon Fletcher had a career night for the Salukis (10-7, 2-2) with 32 points and 14 rebounds, but as a team, Southern shot 42 percent. Fletcher became SIU’s first player to score 30 points in a game since Anthony Beane did it versus Drake on Feb. 13, 2016.

“That’s the one positive coming out of here,” said SIU head coach Barry Hinson. “Armon Fletcher came to play a basketball game. We saw a side of him we haven’t quite seen. I really liked that. That was encouraging and we have to hope that will spread to the other guys.”

After making five of their first six shots and leading by as many as nine points, the Salukis went stone cold during the final eight minutes of the half, missing their last 11 shots and falling behind, 43-29, at the break. Meanwhile, the Crusaders’ confidence snowballed and carried over into the second half when they made seven of their first eight shots.

“When you go in at halftime and you’re up 14 and you’ve lost every game in the Valley, you start feeling ok, now we’re pretty good,” Hinson said. “It’s kind of like pouring kerosene on a fire and that’s what we did.”

The Salukis fell behind by as many as 22 points in the second half and only a late flurry of threes in the last two minutes kept the final score from becoming a blowout.

“I did see it — I saw it coming into this game,” Hinson said. “I threw them out of practice yesterday. I was upset. They were taking things for granted. We deserved everything we got today.”

Defensively, Southern locked down Valpo star guard Tevonn Walker, holding him to three points on 1-of-10 shooting, but his supporting cast stepped up, as five different players scored double figures for the Crusaders. With 17 points, Max Joseph more than doubled his scoring average for the season, while Bakari Evelyn had 14 points and made 4-of-5 from long range.

Valpo’s 7-foot twin towers of Derrik Smits (11 points) and Jaume Sorolla (17 points) were a force inside. They combined to make 9-of-13 from the field.

“Their big guys just killed our big guys,” Hinson acknowledged. “Our big guys were 7-for-21 with four rebounds.”

SIU’s hot and cold season continued. They haven’t won or lost more than three games in a row.

“We can’t handle success,” Hinson said. “We win one game and we think we’re invincible. That’s our biggest opponent right now is our head.”

Hinson said he’s looking for a player to step up and lead.

“We have zero leadership going on right now with our team,” he said. “We’re searching for that guy. I don’t know who it is. I thought I did, but we somebody’s got to step forward and be a leader for us.”

 

Filed Under: College Sports, Sports

Virgil Owsley – Orient

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Lowell Virgil Owsley, age 94, of Orient IL; passed away at 10:45 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2018 at the Benton Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.

Mr. Owsley pre-arranged his own cremation services in 2008, and chose not to have any formal public services.

He was born on November 11, 1923 in West Frankfort, the son of Bert Owsley and Maggie (Perkins) Owsley.

Virgil proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was involved in battles including Rome, Anzio, and Po Valley, where he would obtain 3 Service Bars, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 3 Bronze Battle Stars.

He formerly worked at Norge in Herrin, and was a former member of the Orient American Legion Post# 1961. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving is two sons: Lonnie Owsley of Orient, Jim Owsley of Elgin; a daughter Sheila Monroe and husband Jeff Bowers of Phoenix, AZ; a host of grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two daughters: Marilyn Votow, and Carolyn McAplin; and two brothers: Berty Owsley and Harvey Lamasters.

To leave online condolences to the family, or to share memories of Virgil, visit www.lpfuneralhome.com

Filed Under: Obituaries
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