Save the date: RLC announces important dates for upcoming Fall Semester

With the Fall Semester quickly approaching Rend Lake College is announcing a list of important red-letter dates for students to remember.

Fall 2013 – Important Dates

Friday, July 26 – Payment deadline for fall 2013 classes; any registration conducted after this date requires payment by the end of that day
Monday, July 29 – Open walk-in registrations begin, ending Friday, August 16
Monday, August 19 – Fall 2013 classes begin
Friday, August 30 – Last day to drop classes with a refund
Friday, November 15 – Last day to withdraw from classes
Friday, December 6 – Last day of regular class

Enjoy Your Holiday, Play It Safe and Return Home Alive

Rend Lake – Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death, yet the number of deaths by drowning could be reduced drastically if everyone would wear a life jacket. Statistics show that 89 percent of those who drown at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes and rivers may have survived if they had worn a life jacket. Here are some safety tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday.

drowningSwimming in open water is different and more difficult than in a swimming pool. You can tire more quickly and get into trouble due to waves, current, lack of experience, exhaustion or your abilities have decreased. You could find yourself in a situation where you are fighting for your life with no chance of survival. Even the best swimmers can misjudge their skills and abilities while swimming in a lake or river. Conditions can change quickly in open water, so before entering the water, please wear a life jacket. While wearing a life jacket you will not use as much energy, it will help you float and most importantly it will help ensure that you return home alive to those who love you. Peer pressure can sometimes kill people so friends should make friends swim in designated areas and wear a life jacket.

While on or near the water watch your children at all times. It only takes 20 seconds for a child to drown. National Water Safety Program Manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pam Doty stated, “Usually people believe that if someone is drowning they will yell for help and that is not the case at all. Several people drown every year within 10 feet of safety because the people around them did not recognize the signs of drowning.” This is because the four signs of a drowning victim can resemble someone just playing in the water. They include head back, mouth open gasping for air, no yelling or sound, and arms slapping the water like they are trying to climb out of the water. Properly rescuing someone should never include contact with them unless you are a trained lifeguard. Reach out to the victim with something to keep your distance or throw them something that floats to pull them to safety.

Boaters or those swimming near boats should be aware that carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible, and silent killer. Carbon monoxide can accumulate anywhere in or around your boat regardless of what type of boat you have. It is heavier than air and lighter than water, so it floats on the water’s surface. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include eye irritation, headache, nausea, weakness and dizziness. Knowing these signs what to do to prevent them can help you stay alive. Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors on and inside your boat. Maintain a fresh circulation of air through and around your boat at all times. Avoid areas of your boat where exhaust fumes may be present. Do not let those you love swim under or around the boarding platform because this silent killer could be waiting for them and they will not even know it before it is too late. While having fun this 4th of July holiday remember these tips to help ensure you return home safely to those you love.

If you need a place to recreate during the holiday the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the Nation’s largest provider of outdoor recreation, managing more than 420 lake and river projects in 43 states. To find a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project near you visit www.CorpsLakes.us.

 

 

Benton Police report busy weekend

Benton police reported a busy weekend with multiple arrests.

On Friday June 28, 2013 Benton Police arrested Ronald W. England, age 59, of West Frankfort for driving while suspended.  England was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On June 28, 2013 Benton Police arrested Bobby L. Williams, age 60, of Benton for criminal trespass and resisting a peace officer.  Williams was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On June 29, 2013 Benton Police arrested Trevor J. Myers, age 22, of Benton for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of cannabis, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, and illegal transportation of alcohol.  Myers was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On June 29, 2013 Benton Police arrested Kevin J. Phelps, age 31, of Thompsonville for driving while license suspended.  Phelps was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On June 29, 2013 Benton Police were dispatched to the 700 block of Glendale Street in reference to a fight in progress.  Through investigation, police arrested Ashley S. Adams, age 18, of Benton for unlawful consumption of alcoholic liquor.  Police also arrested Linda Copher, age 54, of Benton for unlawfully permitting a minor to become intoxicated.  Curtis R. Key, age 37, of Buckner was also arrested for endangering the life of a child.  All suspects were charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

On June 30, 2013 Benton Police were dispatched to the 300 block of North Stotlar street in reference to a domestic disturbance.  Through investigation, police arrested Cody D. Zinzer, age 25, of Benton for aggravated assault.  Zinzer was charged and transported to the Franklin County Jail for further processing.

RLC Practical Nursing program to hold pinning ceremony

 

 

rlc nursing 1These students are in the final days of completing Rend Lake College’s Practical Nursing program, which prepares them for the state licensure exam. They will attend their pinning ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 27, in the RLC Theatre. FRONT ROW, FROM LEFT: Randee Kurtz (Tamaroa), Marlo Smith (Mt. Vernon), Khristi Spurlock (Bluford), Ashlee Summers (Benton), April Emery (Scheller), Emmalee Jones (Mt. Vernon) and Amanda Miller (Benton). SECOND ROW, FROM LEFT: Kaitlyn Catron (Ina), Sarah Carter (Bonnie), Taylor Belmont (Dahlgren), Cory Capps (Belle Rive), Josh Owens (Mt. Vernon), Erica Maple (Christopher), Aaron Dunn (Mt. Vernon), Katie Blagg (Thompsonville) and Rachel Flood (Buckner). THIRD ROW, FROM LEFT: Penny Huff (Benton), Stephanie Moore (Dix), Heather Zuber (Mt. Vernon), Alicia Barnes (Woodlawn), Cameron Yosanovich (Christopher), Amber Labrie (Bluford) and Sarah Anderson (Mulkeytown). FOURTH ROW, FROM LEFT: Barton Shurtz (Valier), Jenni Vosburgh (Mt. Vernon), Trisha McPheeters (Mt. Vernon), McKenzie Haeuber (Woodlawn), Tiffany Moore (Thompsonville), Misty Martin (Mt. Vernon) and Susan Dismore (Mt. Vernon). FIFTH ROW, FROM LEFT: Theresa Hewlett (Thompsonville), Jamie Carney (Benton), Brenna Choisser (West Frankfort), Jordan Young (Mulkeytown), Bryce Hamburger (DuQuoin) and Casey Wininger (Mt. Vernon). BACK ROW, FROM LEFT: Connie Owens (Mt. Vernon), Tomi Heil (McLeansboro), Alisha Capps (Mt. Vernon), Amy Lampley (Thompsonville), Mackenzie Kerley (Logan) and Whitney Winstead (Benton). (Photo by Nathan Wheeler / RLC Public Information)

Gov. Quinn: Dear Taxpayers …

Gov. Quinn:  Dear Taxpayers …

pat quinn

Here’s the link to the story at the Springfield State Journal-Register.

Mr. Bost goes to Washington? Republican veteran considering congressional run

An 18-year Republican veteran of the Illinois House is considering a run for a U.S. congressional seat in Southern Illinois.

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

Democrats call for Gov. Quinn’s verdict on concealed carry bill

Some Illinois Democrats on Thursday urged the governor to act quickly on legislation allowing the carrying of concealed weapons in the state, saying they need him to accept or reject the measure so lawmakers can avert a “public safety and constitutional crisis” as they try to meet a court-ordered deadline.

Here’s the link to the story at Huffington Post Chicago.

Benton fire that destroyed house is ‘suspicious’ authorities say

BENTON –Franklin County authorities are investigating a Sunday morning fire that destroyed an unoccupied house.

The fire, which originated in the rear of a house located at 107 North Stotlar St., was reported at 12:50 a.m. and is being labeled as “suspicious.”  There is no electricity at the residence leading authorities to believe that foul play is involved.

Firefighters from four neighboring communities battled the blaze for four hours before getting it under control.

 

 

 

Rend Lake College to host naturalization ceremony on June 28

Staff Report

Dozens of people from all over the world will converge at Rend Lake College later this month to officially become American citizens.

The United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois will host a Naturalization Ceremony at 10 a.m. Friday, June 28, 2013, at the Rend Lake College Theatre.

United States Bankruptcy Judge Kenneth J. Meyers will preside at the ceremony where the United States Custom and Immigration Services will welcome approximately 50 new citizens.

The Southern District of Illinois is one of three federal judicial districts in Illinois and is comprised of the 38 southernmost counties. Although the ceremony is an official court proceeding, the Court elects to host Naturalization ceremonies at locations throughout the district several times each year in order to provide students and the public an opportunity to witness the Naturalization process and learn more about how immigrants to the United States become citizens.

For more information, see the court’s website, www.ilsd.uscourts.gov, or contact the Clerk of Court, Nancy Rosenstengel, at 618-482-9172.

Busy, busy, busy – There’s a lot happening this summer at Benton Public Library

Benton Public Library launches its Have Book, Will Travel! Summer Reading Program on June 13 with a family picnic in the library’s back yard from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Over the next two months, the library will host a range of free activities for children, teens, and adults that encourage and support a love of reading. Participants can also win prizes for reaching their reading goals.

benton public library“We’ve got a great program planned for kids to make the library their number one destination this summer,” said library director Erin Steinsultz. “We’ve tried to include something that will be of interest to every member of the family.”

Special events include a Story Time visit from the Benton Fire Department on June 26 at 10 a.m. and repeating at 2 p.m., musicians from the group Tales & Scales will perform on August 1 at 10 a.m., and the Southern Illinois Miners mascots will present an anti-bullying program on August 8.

“We have Story Time every Wednesday, special family programs on Thursdays, and activities on select Fridays,” said Steinsultz. “We have teen activities on every Tuesday, and some Mondays. There is something happening at the library nearly every day the entire summer.”

A returning favorite will be John Ham with Animal Tales of Mayfield, Kentucky. John will be presenting the program Animal Underground on animals from five continents that make their homes underground.

“Live animals are always a huge hit with the kids,” said Steinsultz. “John is bringing a Paraguayan Screaming Hairy Armadillo, a Harris Hawk, an African Spurred Tortoise, an Egyptian Fruit Bat, and a Woma Python. That should make for a great show.”

The Summer Reading Program encourages families to view the library as a destination for great, family-friendly, free entertainment. However, there is a serious side to summer reading as well. Research has shown that reading over the summer prevents summer reading loss.

“Studies also indicate students who read recreationally out-performed those who don’t. Students read more when they can choose materials based on their own interests,” Steinsultz added. “Our libraries are committed to supporting lifelong learning and educational enrichment for all families.”

Registration for the Summer Reading Program continues through the end of the program on August 10. To learn more about summer programming at the library, please call 438-7511.

A full schedule of events follows:

June 10 – Registration Begins. Continues throughout the program.

June 12 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity.

June 13 – Family Picnic, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hot dogs, chips and drinks provided. Potato sack races, duck pond, face-painting, and more in the library’s back yard! Featuring an obstacle course from Inflatable Fun! Please bring lawn chairs and blankets.

June 17 – Teen Summer Reading Program, SPAMALOT at the Muny in St. Louis! We’ll take a backstage tour and have a picnic on the grounds of Forest Park. Advanced registration and permission slips required. See Ms. Erin for more information!

June 18 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Activities & Games, 2 p.m. Kick off the Teen Summer Reading Program with a fun, casual get-together for all teens! Fun, games, and, of course, food!

June 19 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

June 19 – Book Discussion Club for Adults, Noon. Join us as we discuss Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck. All are welcome. Join us even if you haven’t read the book. Feel free to bring your lunch!

June 20 – Pet Show, 10 a.m. Join us in the backyard for this Benton Public Library tradition. Well-behaved pets on leashes or in carriers welcome. Winners receive ribbons.

June 21 – Family Game Time, 4 p.m. Children, families, and groups welcome to join library staffer Ms. Lynette for some games in the meeting room. Fun activities will vary and may include the BPL Summer Reading classic, BINGO!

June 25 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Book Discussion & Activity, 2 p.m. Teens and tweens welcome to join us as we discuss The Lord of the Flies by William Golding. Join us even if you haven’t read the book! There will be food!

June 26 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., with special guest readers from the Benton Fire Department! See a fire truck up close and learn about fire safety. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

June 27 – Science Guy Jason Lindsey, 10 a.m. Awesome science experiments! Last year, Jason made a watermelon blow up inside the library! What will he do this year???

June 28 – Family Crafting, 4 p.m. Children, families, and groups are welcome to join library staffer Ms. Lynette for crafting in the meeting room. We’ll make some fun, simple crafts with a travel theme that can be taken home.

July 2 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Make a Fishing Lure with Bob Hagerman, 2 p.m. Teens can join BCHS instructor Bob Hagerman to learn how to make a variety of fishing lures. This is a fun activity for all teens. The lures can be used for fishing, as key chains, and more. Supplies are provided.

July 3 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. Guest readers will join us throughout the summer. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

July 4 – Library closed. Happy 4th!

July 9 – Blood Drive, 2 to 6 p.m., Visit the American Red Cross bus and save up to three lives in just one hour’s time! As many people travel this summer, the need for blood is great. Please donate.

July 9 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Teen Games & Activities, 2 p.m. All teens and tweens welcome to join Ms. Erin for games and activities with the Have Book…Will Travel theme! Guest presenter anticipated.

July 10 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. Jennifer Newbury from the University of Illinois Home Extension joins us for a special program about nutrition. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

July 11 – Rick Rayburn, 10 a.m. Musical artist Rick Rayburn returns to the library to perform after a few years away! Rick is always a favorite! He’ll perform such great hits as Are We There Yet? and The Homework Blues! Not to be missed!

July 12 – Family Game Time, 2 p.m. Children, families, and groups welcome to join library staffer Ms. Lynette for some games in the meeting room. Fun activities will vary and may include the BPL Summer Reading classic, BINGO!

July 15 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Game Day, 2 p.m. Teens and tweens welcome for board games and snacks!

July 16 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Book Discussion & Activity, 2 p.m. Teens and tweens welcome to join us as we discuss The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. Join us even if you haven’t read the book! There will be food!

July 17 – Book Discussion Club for Adults, Noon. Join us as we discuss The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver. All are welcome. Join us even if you haven’t read the book. Feel free to bring your lunch!

July 18 – Family Movie – Curious George, 6:30 p.m. The Man in the Yellow Hat travels to Africa where he accidentally adopts an adorable, and always funny, chimpanzee named George. Rated G.

July 19 – Family Crafting, 4 p.m. Children, families, and groups are welcome to join library staffer Ms. Lynette for crafting in the meeting room. We’ll make some fun, simple crafts with a travel theme that can be taken home.

July 20 – Animal Undergound, 10 a.m. Join the staff of Animal Tales, to learn about five animals from across the globe that makes their homes underground. Featured animals are the Paraguayan Screaming Hairy Armadillo, Harris Hawk, African Spurred Tortoise, Egyptian Fruit Bat, and a Woma Python. We’ll get to meet those animals in person, too!

July 23 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Movies ‘til Midnight!, 6:00 p.m. to Midnight. We’ll show movies with a travel (or time travel) theme. Movies may be rated PG-13 or above, and you will be staying late at the library, so parental permission will be required. This is a TEEN event. See Ms. Erin for more information.

July 24 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. Jennifer Newbury from the University of Illinois Home Extension joins us for a special program about nutrition. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

July 25 – Talent Show! 6:30 p.m. Are you a fantastic singer or secretly a magician? Show off your talents at our BPL Talent Show! A variety of acts are encouraged. More information will be available closer to the Talent Show date.

July 27 – International Children’s Films with WSIU, 10 a.m. Join us for some short films from other countries. All films will be easily understood and enjoyed! There will be special activities to match the films and a special guest from a featured country! All who attend will receive a free book!

July 30 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Book Discussion & Activity, 2 p.m. Teens and tweens welcome to join us as we discuss Beauty Queens by Libba Bray. Join us even if you haven’t read the book! There will be food!

July 31 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. Guest readers will join us throughout the summer. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

August 1 – Tales and Scales, 10 a.m. This is highly interactive, jazz-infused telling of the story MICE! Hear and see the story of three mice and their quest to rid themselves of a frightening problem – the farmer’s new pet cat – through a blend of music, story, theater and creative movement calling musictelling.

August 6 – Teen Summer Reading Program, Backyard Water War & Twister, 2 p.m. Water balloons against opposing teams! Plus play a game of outdoor twister on the lawn and other outdoor games. Teens and Tweens only! Loads of fun – you don’t want to miss it!!!!

August 7 – Children’s Story Time, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Read books, have a snack, and do a simple activity. Jennifer Newbury from the U of I Home Extension joins us for a special program about nutrition. The same program will be offered at both 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join us at either time!

August 8 – Grounder’s Bully-Free Zone! with the Southern Illinois Miners Mascots, 10 a.m. Just in time for back-to-school, meet the mascots at this anti-bullying program. Learn how Grounder handles being bullied on his first day of school and what to do if it happens to you.

Benton, West Frankfort, Illinois News | Franklin County News