Fire breaks out on roof of Trump Tower

January 8, 2018 By Leave a Comment

Provided to the NY Daily News by NBC.

NEW YORK, NY – A small fire broke out on the roof of Trump Tower on Monday morning, officials said.

Smoke was seen billowing off the top of the Manhattan skyscraper, carrying for several blocks.

Firefighters were called to the Fifth Ave. skyscraper, located at East 56thSt., at about 7:20 Monday morning.

Please click on this link the link for the developing story from the New York Daily News.

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/manhattan/fire-breaks-trump-tower-roof-article-1.3744249

 

Filed Under: Breaking News, National News

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

Prosecutor: Benton man stole $500,000 from employer

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

BENTON –  A Benton man now faces federal fraud charges for stealing more than $500,000 from his employer.

The U.S. Attorney charged Cary E. Mosley, 48, of Benton with six counts each of wire and mail fraud.

Please click on the link of the full story from WSIL-TV

http://www.wsiltv.com/story/37203131/prosecutor-employee-stole-500000-from-employer

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

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Report 1/5/18

January 6, 2018 By Leave a Comment

BENTON –  All of the alleged are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

12-29-17 at 11:19 pm a traffic stop in West Frankfort resulted in the arrest of a 16 year old male juvenile for driving under the influence of drugs. Drug paraphernalia was also recovered pursuant to a K-9 search of the vehicle. A 17-year old male passenger was also taken into custody as he had been reported as a runaway. The 16 year old was released to his parents and the 17 year old was  taken into custody by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services  Both juveniles were from Mt. Vernon.

12-30-17 at 4:28 am Deputies responded to a single vehicle traffic crash on Forrest Baptist Church at intersection with south Forest Baptist Church Rd. A 2004 Chevrolet Impala driven by Brett R. Eubanks age 28 of Benton was north bound and failed to negotiate the curve, striking a tree. The driver received major injuries and was transported to an out of state hospital. The driver will be cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and for operating an uninsured motor vehicle. The accident is still under investigation as alcohol is believed to have been a factor.

12-30-17 at 6:58 am Deputies responded to a dispute between two hunters north of Whittington. The investigation resulted in the arrest of Jerry W. Ing age 23 of Sesser for battery.

12-30-17 at 10:52 pm Deputies responded to a two vehicle crash on ll. State Hwy. 154 at Gun Creek Trail. A 2008 Dodge Durango driven by Ryan L. Sieveking age 40 of Ewing, was turning west on Rt. 154 and failed to yield to a 2016 Nissan Versa driven by Shelby Kail age 26 of Stoughton Wisconsin, which had been east bound on Rt. 154. There were no injuries; however Sieveking fled the scene on foot prior to the arrival of officers. A search for Sieveking was conducted and utilized by the Sheriff’s K-9. The K-9 was able to successfully track Sieveking to the Rend Lake Season’s Lodge successfully identifying the apartment he had fled to. Sieveking was taken into custody without incident. He was charged with leaving the scene of an accident, felony driving under the influence of alcohol, and failing to yield right of way.

1-2-18 at 6:32 am Deputies responded to a two vehicle traffic crash on N. Thompsonville Road near the coal mine. A 2017 GMC Sierra driven by Mason K. Mccord age 33 of West Frankfort, was north bound and rear ended a 2000 Chevrolet S-10 driven by Donald E. Norris age 39 of Pittsburg that was also north bound that had slowed to negotiate a left turn. There were no injuries and Mccord was ticketed for failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash and for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

1-3-18 at 12:01 p, Deputies responded to a two vehicle traffic crash on Ewing Rd. at Log Cabin Rd. A 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Stephen L. Friar age 68 of Ewing was south bound on Log Cabin Road and failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of with Ewing Rd. and struck a 2011 Dodge Durango, driven by Melissa D. Diefenback age 40 of Macedonia that was east bound on Ewing Rd. Both drivers received major injuries and were air evacuated out to out of state hospitals. Friar was ticketed for disobeying a stop sign.

1-4-18 Deputies are investigation a major residential burglary that occurred at a home in rural north eastern Franklin County. Several long guns were reported stolen and leads are actually being pursued. The public is reminded that most residential burglaries are committed during daylight hours and to please report suspicious activity.

WARRANT ARRESTS

12-30-17 Eric E. Rich age 46 of West Frankfort. Failure to appear for domestic battery
1-5-18 Jennifer R. Shelton age 28 of Thompsonville. Failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance
1-5-18 Kendall W. Miller age 42 of Thompsonville. Battery

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