Two arrested on alcohol and drug-related charges

Benton police conducted a routine traffic stop on Saturday night and arrested two Franklin County teenagers on alcohol-related charges.

According to the police report a vehicle was stopped in the 700 block of Washington Street and through the investigation authorities arrested Layla C. Davidson, 19 of West Frankfort for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, zero-tolerance and unlawful possession of alcohol.  Also during the traffic stop Benton police arrested Connor L. Babington, 19, of Benton for unlawful consumption of alcohol and unlawful possession of alcohol by a minor.

Davidson and Babington were both taken to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

 

RLC Warriors to hold celebration on Wednesday

On Saturday, the Rend Lake College Men’s Basketball team won the NJCAA National Championship with an exciting win over Moraine Valley Community College. Join the team in the gym at 1 p.m., Wednesday, March 27, to celebrate this achievement.

Benton Public Library takes a giant step into the future

By Erin Steinsultz

Benton Public Library is joining with 427 libraries in southern Illinois that make up SHARE (Sharing Heartland’s Available Resources Equally), a consortium of libraries that belong to the Illinois Heartland Library System.

benton public library

On April 9, 2013, SHARE will go live with a new automation software platform known as Polaris, the software system it uses to circulate books, movies, and other materials, and issue library cards to patrons.

“SHARE is made up of four automated systems that currently have their own software platform containing more than two million items,” said Benton Public Library director Erin Steinsultz.

“When all of the systems combine on April 9, there will be almost ten million items, almost two million library users. It’s been quite a feat to get everything combined into one database.”

Several library experts have commented that SHARE is the largest library automation consortium in the country.

“This means Benton Library has access to nearly all of those ten million items from those 427 libraries,” said Steinsultz. “It’s really amazing how much information this will make available so quickly.”

As SHARE libraries prepare to transition to the Polaris software, the library and its users will experience some slightly diminished library service.

“There will be a new online patron access catalog, or PAC, where you can search for items you are interested in, place holds, pay fines, and so on. The new PAC will be available beginning April 9,” said Steinsultz. “It will have some really great search features. In the meantime, the old PAC will be offline for about a week or so.”

“We are learning completely new software that is as different as night and day from our current software,” commented Steinsultz. “We may take just a bit longer than usual to perform a task at the computer. Also, please bring your library card. The new software will only allow us to find your library card record through your card number, so please bring your card with you every visit.”

Users will also experience a short stoppage in some library services. Patrons will also not be able to place holds on items from March 15 to April 9. No new items will be added to the library collections between March 22 and April 9. Items that were on hold but not received by their requestor prior to March 22 will have the hold cancelled. This is necessary to allow the current items to be loaded into the Polaris automation system.

All of the member libraries will be using an offline version of the Polaris software from April 1 through April 8. During that time, library users will be able to return books to their home library, and check out books there as well. Neither patrons nor library staff will be able to place holds or request items until Go Live Day on April 9.

“We have about 48,000 items in house that should offer most users a wide variety to choose from during that time,” said Steinsultz. “We will also gladly assist the patrons with making a list of the items they should place on hold once Polaris goes live.”

Benton Public Library staff is looking forward to the changes.

“This is something I am very excited to be able to offer our patrons. I hope they will enjoy the final product and be just a little patient as we transition over a few weeks,” said Steinsultz.

For more information on the changes happening with the Polaris transition or any library programming, please call 438-7511.

RLC advances at NJCAA DII Tournament

By Nathan Wheeler

Rend Lake College’s 12-point lead at halftime over Cecil College was a promising start in today’s opening round of the 2013 NJCAA DII Men’s Basketball Championship Tournament in Danville.

It got better.

After recovering from a meltdown in the opening minutes of the second half, the Warriors took control and won 98-75 over a Seahawks squad that logged an atypical 33.7 percent from the field. Cecil led the nation in three-point shooting during the regular season.

BronsonVerhinesMugBut it was Rend Lake that hit from beyond the arc in the second half – 44 percent. Big shots from long range came courtesy of players like Dawson Verhines (Woodlawn) who finished with 12 points; Cortez Macklin (Louisville, Ky.) who had 13 points, six rebounds and two assists; and Stephon Bryant (Louisville, Ky.) who had seven points and five rebounds. RLC got good inside penetration and rebounding from Bronson Verhines (Woodlawn) and Noel Allen (Guttenburg, N.J.). The combination of shooting and rebounding lifted The Lake to the next round.

RLC will play South Suburban (Ill.) at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 20. Rend Lake beat the Bulldogs 76-68 when the two teams met back in November. The games are available live on local radio by tuning in to WQRL 106.3FM or online at wqrlradio.com and on a video stream at www.ihigh.com/njcaatv.

Bronson Verhines finished with a double-double – 18 points and 15 rebounds. Two of the biggest factors in the game were rebounding and bench points. Rend Lake out-rebounded Cecil 61-35 and had 41 points from the bench, compared to the Seahawks’ 10. Cecil players appeared to be running on empty toward the end of the fast-paced game.

Montez Buford (Louisville, Ky.) had an outstanding first half for the Warriors and was a big part of the lead going into halftime. Buford finished with 15 points.

Others contributing to RLC’s cause were point guard Trice Whaley (Jeffersonville, Ind.) with six points and two steals; Corey Ayala (Metropolis) with four points and two assists, Allen with 10 points and seven rebounds, Dennis Froemling (Campbell Hill) with two points, Alonzo Singletary (Chicago) with two points and six rebounds, and Jeril Taylor (Louisville, Ky.) with nine points, nine rebounds and five assists.

For all things athletic at The Lake, visit RLC online at www.rlc.edu/warriors.

 

 

Franklin County Housing Authority hears good report on bedbug problem

By Bruce A. Fasol

The Franklin County Housing Authority board met for its regular monthly meeting on Monday night.

The Board voted to abandon their natural gas lines at their Franklin County facilities. The responsibility for the natural gas feeds will be turned over to Ameren. Executive Director Monica Stewart said that the move “gets the Franklin County Housing Authority out of the utility business.”

Easements were granted to Ameren for work that will have to be done. According to Stewart, Ameren will run their own piping system to units instead of using the aging system currently part of the infrastructure. Individual meters will be installed.

Stewart had what she said was good news concerning bedbugs. The Franklin County Housing Authority has been fighting bed bugs for some time. Expensive heat treatments have helped eradicate the problem in units where bedbugs have been confirmed. And, a proactive educational effort among clients has also been effective in limiting spread.

Stewart reported that only one case was confirmed last month, at the Kuca Highrise. The Anna Gray Highrise reported no new cases. It had been Anna Gray building that had seen the bulk of the problems, previously. Stewart said, ” I hope we are getting a hold on this.”

The board accpeted a $1250 per month contract renewal with a St.Louis company for service on their aging elevators .Kone Elevators will be responsible for service, and routine maintenance and preventive service. The contract that the two sides had previously, expired in December.

The outdoor work contract for this summer season went to J-S Services, located in Desoto. The amount for the service was $34,000 per season. This marks the third season that the firm has performed such services for the FCHA. Board member Richard Glodich questioned how often the contract was let for bids, and if any local firms had actually bid. He then voted ‘no’ on the motion which carried with a majority vote.

Other work performed by the FCHA staff could also be affected this summer as two workers were out with injury, it was reported.

 

Zeigler Fire Department plans to ‘Raise the Roof’

By Bruce A. Fasol

The Zeigler Fire Department is using the popular St. Patrick’s Day holiday to hopefully bring folks out to their next “Raise the Roof” fundraiser. Saturday night March 16th has been set for the event. The name implies exactly what the event intends to do. Money generated will go toward building an addition to the Zeigler Fire Dept. which is located adjacent to city hall.

There will be a mostaccioli dinner at the Zeigler Eagles, Saturday night. The food will be available from 6 pm to 8 pm.  Music from Deanna Freeman will run from 8 pm to 11 pm. Cost for the dinner is $15 for adults and $7 for children, 12 and under in age. There will be a cash bar open to attendees 21 years of age and older.

Tickets will be available at the door.

American Fitness: Small town flavor – big city equipment

 

af 1Tucked away in the small town of Christopher is a state-of-the-art fitness center worthy of a big city. American Fitness LLC is not only one-of-a-kind where the facility is concerned, but I was impressed by the integrity and spirit of giving that characterizes the owners.

The club is a 24hr-accessible gym that offers state-of-the-art cardio and weight equipment, a 1,500 sq. ft. aerobics room with an extensive lineup of classes, massage therapy, a personal trainer, daily lockers, showers, dry saunas and more in a 10,000-square-foot building. The facility is well maintained and meticulously clean. There is security inside and out, and the parking lot is well lit for the safety of their members.

The fact that this amazing facility is located in the small town of Christopher, Illinois isn’t the only unusual factoid about American Fitness. Once you meet the owners and their employees, you quickly learn why American Fitness LLC is so special.

Co-owner & Operator Trent Hudgens knows exactly what he wants American Fitness to be, but it isn’t there … yet. Since they opened in November 2010, their membership has steadily increased month after month. Their members are loyal, and if you spend much time with Hudgens or his mother, Vicki Rowland who happens to be the other co-owner, you’ll quickly see why that loyalty is there.

“This gym promotes overall health. You won’t find sodas, coffee or tanning here. Those things aren’t good for you. I won’t compromise my personal or business values just to make more money.” Trent explained adamantly. “I don’t care how much money I can make on something. If it isn’t healthy, I won’t sell it.”

af2Trent went on to explain, “My goal is for American Fitness LLC to be the largest gym — with the best rates –in Franklin County.”  After meeting Trent & his Mother I have no doubt that this goal will be achieved and soon!  The bond & partnership between the two is indescribable and very strong.

Vicki Rowland lights up when she talks about their members. She enjoys talking about giving back to the community. You can tell that she truly cares for their members, and she has instilled that type of value in her son.  “We love our Members. Without their support & loyalty, we would NOT be here today. Whatever they ask for, Trent & I try to give them.” she said in a matter of fact tone.

American Fitness has exciting things like Monthly Drawings, Membership Specials, Bench Press Contests, 8 Week Challenge (Biggest Looser) Contest, 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, and Food Drives to name a few. Athletic Scholarships are given out along with a Scholarship to one of its Member’s son or daughter who is a graduating Senior. These things prove their Members are of the utmost importance to them!
af3Hudgens and Rowland are proud of their employees too. The reason is pretty simple though. Most of the employees are family – not just people they care about, but real blood relatives. Hayley, Trent’s wife, who teaches 1st grade at Christopher elementary also, teaches American Rhythm and Dance, one of the many fitness classes they offer.  Clint Mayer, Trent’s Brother-in-law, teaches Boot Camp classes. Storey Mayer, Trent’s Niece, teaches Tabata classes.  Allie Mayer, another Niece, is one of the Office Managers. Cody Levanti, the other Office Manager, is not a blood relative, but you can tell she is no less appreciated.

The other young man worthy of a mention is Scout, Trent’s son, Vicki’s grandson. He may only be 7 ½ but Trent & his wife Hayley stated that he will be the future owner. When asked what is his favorite part about they gym, he looked at me and declared “Working out.” I’m pretty sure there was an unspoken “DUH” attached to his statement. He loves the gym…and according to Grandma Vicki, he works out 2-3 times per week with his Dad!
Wrapping up this article, I simply want to say that if you are looking for a Great place to workout, you owe it to yourself to check out American Fitness. The place is amazing and there is something for everyone, at every fitness level. You can start where you are and feel comfortable working out in this gym. If you are physically fit and looking to challenge yourself even more, American Fitness LLC is definitely the place to go. I believe you’ll love it there. I know I did!kid

af4

 

Early voting at Denning Township on March 23

By Bruce A. Fasol

Denning Township Supervisor Nancy Bundy has announced March 23rd as an Early Voting opportunity for all Franklin county voters.

voting logo

No matter which precinct you live in, and normally vote in, you may vote early at Denning Township from 8:30 am until 12 noon, on the 23rd. This will not affect any future voting in your own precinct.

However, if you have begun the absentee ballot process you are prohibited from voting early.

Early voters should bring ID as it may be required.

Denning Township offices are located at 217 S. Horn Street in West Frankfort, two blocks off Main Street. You should turn south at the Country Companies/Financial – Liquor Barrel corner.

Benton police make multiple arrests

The following is a report from Benton police concerning a number of arrests that were made in recent days.

On March 11th, 2013 Benton Police arrested Joshua C. Sims, age 20, of Benton on an active Franklin County warrant for failure to appear. Sims was transported to the Franklin County Jail with bond being set at $7500.

On March 9th, 2013 Benton Police were dispatched to the 1400 block of Lincoln Drive in reference to a suspicious person. Through investigation, police arrested Jake R. Harris, age 20, of Benton for unlawful consumption of alcoholic liquor, resisting a peace officer, and criminal damage to property. Harris was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On March 9th, 2013 Benton Police arrested Jennifer Lewis, age 20, of Benton on an active Fayette County warrant for failure to appear. Lewis was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On March 10th, 2013 Benton Police arrested Shannon D. Tindall, age 38, of Benton on an active Franklin County warrant for petition to revoke conditional discharge. Tindall was transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

Busy Benton street to be closed on Tuesday

The city of Benton has announced a road closure for Tuesday that could impact travel plans.

North Du Quoin Street between Carlton Street and Petroff Road will be closed on Tuesday, March 12, 2013 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.  KPS Construction Company will be performing work on the city’s sanitary sewer system.

North Du Quoin Street is a north-south road that runs off West Main Street only a short distance east from Interstate 57.  The area to be closed is located on the far north end of North Du Quoin Street, north of the Benton Post Office.

 

Benton, West Frankfort, Illinois News | Franklin County News