Forecast

TUESDAY: Partly sunny and breezy with a few scattered showers or thunderstorms. High: 84. Winds: Southwest 10-20 mph, gusting to 30 mph.

TUESDAY NIGHT: Showers and thunderstorms likely -- some could be strong to severe. Low: 61. Winds: Southwest 5-10 mph.

WEDNESDAY: Mostly cloudy with lingering showers. High: 79. Winds: West 10-15 mph.

Joe Crain
Storm Team 20 Meteorologist

more...

Web Watch - Links You Hear About on The News

Energy Saving Tips

Road Trippin': Lincoln Hapton Inn

Road Trippin': daphne's family Restaurant

Road Trippin': Lincoln Speedway

AYUSA Website
Link to information on getting involved with AYUSA International Exchange.

Click It Or Ticket

March of Dimes' March for Babies

Locations for American Cancer Society Prevention Study-3 Sign UP
Here is the link to where you can sign up for the Prevention Study-3.

Medical Marijuana Fact Sheet

March of Dimes
March of Dimes walk in Springfield will take place Saturday, May 18th at 9:00 a.m. at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in the Food-A-Rama building.

Brandt Pleasant Plains Research Farm
http://brandt.co/ResearchFarmBlog/tabid/268/language/en-US/Default.aspx

NRA Basic Pistol Course
Big Oak Hunting Paradise outside of Lincoln, IL and Pistol Prep Academy will host an NRA Basic Pistol Course on June 1st and June 27th from 9 AM - 5 PM. The course will be taught by local NRA Certified Instructor, Annette Chapman, and will cover the basics of safe gun handling and shooting.

Annette Chapman: 309-830-7182
e-mail: info@pistolprepacademy

Sleep Problems? Here are some answers
St. John's Sleep Center has a variety of services for those who have trouble sleeping at night. Find a physician and get screened for common sleep disorders.

Bike and Pedestrian Plan

Four Numbers to Know

FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
Click on the link above to connect to IC3, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. The website also features useful information to keep you from getting caught in the World Wide Web.

Tinysuperhero Cape
Have a special kid in your life that's a TinySuperhero? When you purchase a TinySuperhero cape, an additional cape will be made and donated to an Extraordinary TinySuperhero.

Springfield Tourism Website
For more information on festivals and events in Springfield this summer

Road Trippin': Our Lady of the Snow

Road Trippin': Eckert's

Road Trippin': Art on the Square

Road Trippin': The Edge

Road Trippin': Taps N' Corks

Road Trippin': Cahokia Mounds

Life After College For 2013 Grads

Springfield Summer Camps
Here is a little bit of information on summer camps held by the Springfield Park District.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Locator

Child Passenger Safety Facts

Illinois Firefighter Memorial & Firefighter Medal of Honor Awards.
Click on the link to find out more about this year's Illinois Firefighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Awards.

Cullerton's Amendment to Pension Bill

Sean Sloe Funeral Procession

Driving Safety for Older Drivers

Illinois Foreclosure Prevention Network

Illinois residents who are having trouble paying their mortgage or are facing foreclosure should reach out to IFPN as soon as possible by calling the IFPN hotline at 855-KEEP-411 or by clicking the link to IFPN.

Road Trippin': Amish Country Heirloom

Urbana Market at the Square Map

Volunteer for Making the Grade Mentoring at Lanphier
Anyone interested in volunteering for "Making the Grade" should contact Hannah Jones at or 217/525-3249. The initiative is part of Lanphier's 3-year "Transformation Plan" funded by a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education. Lanphier currently is in year two of the plan.

Lanphier High School 2012 Report Card: Profile for Parents

Oak Ridge Cemetery Foundation
Find out how you can donate or get involved with the renovation of the original gate at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

IEMA Public Assistance Program

The Public Assistance (PA) Program provides federal disaster assistance to state and local government organizations for debris removal, emergency protective measures and the permanent restoration or replacement of public facilities that are owned and operated by an eligible organization. Assistance may also be provided to certain private non-profit organizations that provide services of a governmental nature open to all persons within the community.

District 186 Other Administration Salaries
District 186 administration salaries (list includes those who are not defined as administrators by the Illinois State Board of Education).

District 186 Administrators Salaries
Here's the list of administrators (as defined by the Illinois State Board of Education) in District 186 and what they make.

Lincoln Funeral Coalition
The historical reenactment of Abraham Lincoln's funeral procession is scheduled for April and May of 2015.

The Lincoln Funeral Coalition already has a tentative schedule on its website.

Coaches vs. Cancer

The Coaches vs. Cancer program empowers coaches, their teams, and communities to join the fight against cancer by participating in awareness efforts, advocacy programs, and fundraising activities. Guided by the Coaches vs. Cancer Council, participating coaches help people with cancer today and to find cures to end the disease tomorrow, and have raised more than $87 million to help the American Cancer Societys mission.

Information on Land of Lincoln Health

Reporting Potholes in Springfield
How to report a pothole in Springfield

Air Quality Awareness Week

District 186 Public Meeting on 2013 Superintendent Search
2013 Superintendent Search - Public Meeting

When
Saturday, May 4, 2013 at 9 a.m.

Where
Springfield School Board Room, 1900 W. Monroe Street.

What
School Board members will provide an overview about the search process and solicit feedback from attendees.

Hometown Award Application

Experience Decatur

Chevrolet Hall of Fame Museum

Sandres Harristown Depot Antiques

THE WARF

Debbies Diner

Disaster Recovery Program for Weather-Related Damage
Go there to find out more about low interest loans available through the office of the state treasurer. You can also call the hotline at 866-523-0641.

Fund for Manchester Homicide Victims

An effort is underway to raise money for the burial of five people shot to death this week in the small central Illinois town of Manchester.

A spokeswoman for Peoples Bank & Trust says a fund has been set up by a friend of Rita Luark, the mother of one of the victims and the grandmother of the two young boys who died, because Luark cannot afford burial costs.

Spokeswoman Lorie Doolin says the fund has been set up in the bank's branch in nearby White Hall. For more information, visit their website, www.bankpbt.com.

Inaugural Komen Springfield Race for the Cure

City of Havana Website
For more information on flooding and resources

Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

NATIONAL INFANT IMMUNIZATION WEEK

Disinfecting your well following a flood

Children Vaccinations
The site provides a printable schedule of recommended vaccines and at what age children should receive them. You can also create and instant, customized vaccination schedule by entering your child's birth date.

Flood Safety

The link will provide you with more information on flood safety and real-time updates on storms.

List of Road CLosures
Here you can find out which roads have been closed due to flood waters.

What to see and do in Quincy

Flooding Insurance: Do you need it?

Suttil's Gardens
For more information on the vegetable grower and plant nursery in Springfield.

Illinois Roads Closed for Flooding

Money Smart Week Information

Flood Levels
Click on the link for the latest flood levels in Central Illinois.

Is government putting a damper on your life?

Pregnancy RiskLine (Utah)

Governor Quinn Unveils $12.6 Billion Transportation Construction Plan
Check out which projects are proposed in your area.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU'S WISE GIVING ALLIANCE

YMCA of Springfield
for more information on donating to the Y's scholarship program

Suicide Prevention Hotline
In the U.S., call 1-800-273-8255

Schnucks Grocery Store

Scholarships Available for Health Care Students
If you're pursuing a health care degree, scholarships are available thanks to St. Mary's Hospital Auxilary and generous donors.

SB 649: Gun Legislation, Safe Communities, Safe Schools Act of 2013
To read more about the US Senate Billl regarding gun control, check out the link.

Ameren Illinois
For more information on electical rates or to report power outages.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
Interested in participating in Walk a Mile in Her Shoes? It takes place Saturday, April 20th in Downtown Springfield at 10:45. For more information, click on the link or call the Prairie Center Against Sexual Assault at 744-2560.

Triple Creek Farm Greenhouse
Family operated greenhouses in Petersburg and Cass County.

ICash Program
Find out if there's something for you to claim through the Illinois Treasurer's office!

PlugInIllinois
Illinois Commerce Commission website offering information on electrical aggregation and alternative electrical suppliers.

Deer Hunt for People With Disabilities
Veterans wounded in combat are encouraged to apply for the 25th Annual Deer Hunt for People With Disabilities. Applications are available at the Lake Shelbyville project office or by contacting the Environmental Stewardship Department at 217-774-3951 ext. 7049. Click the link for more details.

Weather Radios for Springfield Township Residents
Springfield Township is once again distributing NOAA weather alert radios. A small $5.00 fee to help cover administration of the program will be collected.

Individuals must provide proof of Springfield Township residency. Individuals receiving radios last year will not be eligible.

To reserve your radio, contact the Springfield Township administrative office at 217-525-1464 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on April 16 or 17. Radios will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis while supplies last.

Reserved radios may be picked up between the hours of 10:00 a.m.and 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, with proof of residency.

West Nile Virus Information

Rebuilding Jeep For Paralyzed Friend
Here's the link to the duo's Facebook group. Check in for updates on the Jeep's progress.

To Be A Girl Scout Volunteer

There are so many ways volunteers help girls tap into their full potential through flexible volunteering opportunities and the time commitment is up to each individual.

It's easy to become a volunteer! Just visit the website above.

Springfield Heart Walk

The 2013 Springfield Heart Walk

Southwind Park

May 4th

9-11:00 a.m.

Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Stroke
From the Brendon Smile website:

It is vital that we recognize the warning signs of an acute stroke and realize that a stroke can happen in children. The following are warning signs/symptoms of an acute stroke, and vary according to the age of the child:

Newborns- seizures, apnea, poor feeding, decreased tone, unilateral weakness, and other signs of depressed function in the immediate newborn period. Around 50% of strokes that happen in the perinatal period are not recognized until infancy or later when the child shows early hand preference (e.g. before 12 months), or other delays in motor, language, or cognitive development.
Infants and Young Children- acute stroke in this age range typically appears as a sudden change in function with hemiparesis, with or without seizures. Often in this age group stroke occurs with fever, headache, and lethargy as well.
Older children- acute stroke presents similarly to younger children but sudden disrupted language/communication may be more commonly recognized in this age group

Sangamon County Voting: Where to Go?

Lincoln Half Marathon

Jefferies Orchard
For more information on the Sangamon County produce farm.

Save the Courthouse
Third Grade Class
Mt. Pulaski Grade School
119 N. Garden
Mt. Pulaski, IL, 62548

Please make checks payable to: The Courthouse Foundation.

You can also make an online donation by clicking here.

Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs: Stand Up and Be Counted
Contact the veterans' service office outside of office hours.

National Walking Day

These days, adults like you are spending more time at work than ever before. An unfortunate side effect is that, as a nation, we're becoming more inactive. This is a problem when you consider the fact that physical inactivity doubles the risk of heart disease!

But take heart! It's a problem you can help fix by convincing your company to take part in the American Heart Association's National Walking Day.

On this day, employees are encouraged to wear sneakers to work and take at least 30 minutes out of their day to get up and walk. It's a great way to raise awareness of the importance of physical activity and to give your coworkers a friendly push toward a healthier life.

National Public Health Week

Plans to deal with Veteran Benefit backlog

Upcoming Springfield Road Construction Projects
Click here for a regularly updated list of city of Springfield road construction projects.

Worrell-Leka Land Services
For more sales listings and results from the recent Rexroat farm sale that brought record prices.

Police Report from Tasering Incident
Click the link to see the police report from the tasering incident in the parking lot of Best Buy Saturday.

WARNING: The text of this report contains very strong language.

Click here for our most recent story on the incident.

Witness Video of Police Tasering Incident

Video has been posted to YouTube of the police tasering incident in the parking lot of Best Buy Saturday.

WARNING: This video contains very strong language.

We remind you we are not responsible for the content of the YouTube page, and we have not verified the video's authenticity. We are only providing this link for your reference.

Click here for our most recent story on the tasing incident.

Community Adapted Sports Clinic

Saturday, April 20 at noon.

Free and open to the public.

Child Abuse Prevention Month
Find out how you can help prevent child abuse in Illinois.

Farm Rich Frozen Food Recall
Here you can find the list of which Farm Rich products are being recalled and what you should look for.

How To Become An Organ Donor
Here you can learn what steps you need to take in order to become an organ donor.

Logan County: Register if you have home oxygen, special needs, or other medical condition
Logan County Emergency Responders are encouraging people in Logan County that have oxygen in their home, a mental or physical disability, or another underlying medical condition, to register their information. That will allow them to be prepared when coming to your home in case of an emergency.

New Logan County Scanner Frequencies:

Logan EMA: 155.7300
Rural Fire-Page: 158.7600
Rural Fire-Dispatch: 154.0925
Lincoln Fire Dept.: 154.4450
IREACH: 155.0550
MERCI: 155.3400
ISPERN: 155.4750
IFERN: 154.2650
Logan Highway: 151.0850
Lincoln Street & Alley: 151.4750

Triptych Brewing Website

Cracked Truck Website

I Watch DeWitt App
Do you want to send a crime tip into the Clinton Area Crime Stoppers/DeWitt County Sheriff? Now, you can do it on your smartphone through the "I Watch DeWitt" App. Clink on the link to learn more or downland the App.

The Autism Program of Illinois
Here is a link to the Hope Institute and the The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP).

Test Your Diabetes Risk

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight Information

Red Cross Disaster Shelter Training - Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, ILLINOIS - The Red Cross helps disaster victims by providing safe shelter, hot meals, essential relief supplies, emotional support and health services like first aid.

When a family's home is flooded or damaged, without power, without heat-or all of the above, Red Cross shelter volunteers are there to help. This vital assistance provides a safe, warm place to sleep and warm meals for disaster victims.

On March 26th and 27th, the Red Cross will hold a two part class that trains participants about how to set up and run a Red Cross shelter, and how to provide compassionate care to disaster victims.

Date: Tuesday, March 26 (Part One); Wednesday, March 27 (Part Two)
Time: 5:30pm to 9:00pm
Location: Central Prairie Chapter (700 North Prairie Street, Jacksonville)

Advanced registration is encouraged to ensure adequate number of course materials. Please contact     Katie.Gregory@redcross.org <mailto:Sondra.Hayes@redcross.org     to register.

IL Medical Marijuana Bill Gaining Support
Follow the link to read about the Medical Marijuana Bill introduced by Representative Lou Lang (D- Skokie). The link takes you to the Illinois General Assembly website. The bill is HB1. On the left side of the page beneath the header "Legislation & Laws", left click Bills and Resolutions. When the new page loads, scroll down to the House Bills section; it's the second set of bills listed. Then click on "0001-0100". The link you need is the first on the new page. Left click "HB0001 Medical Cannabis" to read about the bill.

Share the Spirit Foundation

Mayes Antique Tractors
for more information on antique tractor master-restorer Russell Mayes, and his business in Raymond.

Springfield Community Federation Chili Lunch Fundraiser

Air Traffic Control Towers Slated for Closure
Full list of air traffic control towers slated for closure by the FAA.

Where is Your Tax Refund?
Click on the link to track your tax refund.

Trout Fishing Licenses & Stamps

Senate Bill 1 (Pension Bill) Vote Total
Find out how your senator voted on the pension reform bill.

18th Annual Kick Butts Day PSA

Open The Books App
Download this free app to find out how federal money is being spent in your hometown.

iPhone download
Android download

Sangamon County CATCH Program
Information about the Sangamon County Coordinated Access To Community Health (CATCH) program, which helps provide healthcare to low-income and uninsured residents.

Take Pride in Your Block Grant Program
The timeline to submit these grants has been extended to May 1st.

For more info: "Like" Cory Jobe for Alderman- Ward 6" on Facebook to stay up-to-date on events and activities in the area.

District 186 Audit Paperwork
Official paperwork from Sangamon County Regional Superintendent's Office. Shows how schools are in violation.

City of Decatur
For more information on the city's alternate water source plan.

Youth Violence Prevention Week

Illinois Fish Advisory

Ball-Chatham Elementary Redistricting Proposal

This link (also above) will take you to the redistricting proposal. If you follow this link to the district website, you can see the agenda in full. You'll need to left-click on the date in the upper, left corner of the webpage. The agenda will appear on the left side of the page. Scroll down to agenda item 9.1 under Old Business and left-click again. The Boundary Proposal is there as a PDF.

Bright Pink: Educating Young Women About Breast and Ovarion Health

http://www.brightpink.org/about-us/

Bright Pink is more than just a color. It is a movement, a community, a way of life. It is the belief that being proactive is better than being reactive, that prevention is better than treatment. Educate yourself, take action, and join us in Being Bright Pink.

http://centralilbrightpink.wordpress.com/

Bright Pink is the only national non-profit organization focusing on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women while providing support for high-risk individuals. We are working on creating a Central IL Chapter of Bright Pink but currently as we are in the beginning stages we are considered an Ally. Once we get participation up we may be granted a chapter. We will be having fun events like, yoga night, cooking classes, zumba classes, pink cupcake receptions and much more fun events and fundraisers to try and paint this town BRIGHT PINK!

District 186 Educator of the Year Nominations

J.O. Harris Sale
Morgan County implement dealer and manufacturer of custom planters.

Local Auction Opportunities

Decatur School Board Approves Cuts

Illinois Department of Agriculture Grants
For more information on the $600,000 in specialty crop grants that the department is taking applications for.

Fund for Infant Who Died of Brain Cancer

Annabelle Phillips died at 5-weeks-old after a battle with brain cancer. The Mount Pulaski community is coming together to support her family as they try to handle medical bills from Annabelle's medical treatment.

"Annabelle Phillips Fund"

Farmers Bank Attn: Kelly or Leslie

PO box 170

Mt Pulaski IL 62548

Sangamon County Farm Bureau
For more information on the Young Leaders and other Farm Bureau programs.

K&T Llamas
Llama farm and maker of Llama wool clothing

Secretary of State: Avoid the Scam

The Secretary of State's office encourages all investors, especially seniors, to investigate before you invest.

State Board of Education Budget Request vs. Governor Quinn's Budget Proposal

Mercy for Animals
National animal rights organization advocating for cruelty free practices in raising livestock.

Illinois Farm Families
Organization offering consumers an up close look at Illinois farm practices.

Illinois Pork Producers Association
For information on pork production, hog farms, and upcoming pork promotions.

Jacksonville District 117 Budget Proposal

Ameren Repayment Plan Options

Some customers maybe eligible to receive bill payment assistance through LIHEAP (Low Income HomeEnergy Assistance Program). LIHEAP provides payment assistance to eligible low-income households, elderly persons and those with disabilities. LIHEAP information is available by calling the Energy Assistance Hotline at1-877-411-9276.

Another source of financial assistance is Warm Neighbors Cool Friends, a program of the Energy Assistance Foundation. The program is designed to help Ameren customers who generally do not qualify for federal or state heating assistance. Information is available on the program website, WarmNeighborsCoolFriends.org.

The Ameren Illinois ActOnEnergy program helps customers gain greater control over their energy usage in order to reduce their energy bills. The program provides free advice, as well as rebates and financial incentives. For more information on residential programs, visit ActOnEnergy.com, call 1-866-838-6918, or send an e-mail to ActOnEnergyResidential@ameren.com

Family Service Center Scholarship
High school seniors, who have been adopted or in foster care, are eligible to apply for two $1,000 scholarships offered by the Family Service Center in Springfield. This is the second year of the program.

Qualifying applicants must reside in the Family Service Center service area, which consists of Sangamon, Montgomery, Christian, Menard, Logan, Mason, Morgan and Macoupin counties.

An essay about the applicant's education plan and a recommendation from a high school counselor or principal should be included with each application. The deadline for submission is April 30, 2013.

"Jump In" The Movie

Welfare Benefits
Assistance Totals: Single Mom of two making $19,000

Department of Welfare
- LIHEAP: $400
- Child Care: $14,976
- Medical Assistance: $6,045 (includes Health Department and SCHIP)
- Food $6,028 (SNAP, WIC: average $52.32 per person, school meal programs, Dept of Ag)

HUD
- Housing Voucher: $7,148

Pennsylvania Utility Commission
- Lifeline: landline ($30 for instillation and $200 interest free loan/yr) and cell phone with 200 min and 250 text and email ($480/yr)
- PA Weatherization Assistance Program: Ave. $6,500/per household

Department of Agriculture
- Farmers Market Nutritional Program $20

Department of Education lunch programs
- National School Lunch Program ($5/day)
- School Breakfast Program ($3/day)
- Child and Adult Care Food Program ($5/day)
- After School Snack Program ($2/day)
- Summer Food Services Program ($5/day)
- At-Risk Afterschool Meals Program ($5/day)

Department of Health
- Healthy Woman Program (free clinical breast examination, cervical cancer screenings, mammogram, pelvic examination, pap smear and follow up diagnostics to low income women): $1,245
- Bureau of Community Health Immunization Program

Department of Insurance
- SCHIP (included in Medical Assistance)

Legal Services Corporation
- 2010 federal budget $420,000,000, assisted 2.3 million people in 2011: $182.61/person @ LSC.GOV

Tax Breaks
- Earned income tax credit: $4,800
- Additional Child Tax Credit: $2000
- Withholdings return on $0 taxable income: $1900

Education
- Pell Grant: Maximum $5,500
- Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant: Grants up to $4,000 per year. - Students who have been awarded a Federal Pell Grant receive priority.
- National SMART Grant: Maximum $4,000 (National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant: students in third or fourth year of college.)
- Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant: Max: $4,000 to be a teacher.

Department of Education and Office of Childhood Development in DPW
- Head Start: $6,700 per child/2009 in PA per HHS numbers
- Early Head Start: $6,700 per child/2009 in PA per HHS numbers

Schedule a Colonoscopy: Get Your Butt in There
Follow the link above to schedule a colonoscopy this Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Midwest Tribute To The King Competition

Bullet Proof Mind: Lt. Co. (Ret.) Dave Grossman
Local law enforcement attended a day long class on how to mentally prepare for mass shootings and terrorist attacks taught by Grossman.

Ready Illinois - Severe Weather Preparedness

Rochester School District Current Budget

The deficit reduction plan for Rochester Schools will impact positions in the district next year. The budget concerns are brought on by a fourth straight year of lower than normal funding from the state of Illinois. Follow the link to see budget information for the current school year.

5 Life-saving health tests for women

Central Illinois Horse Rescue

For more information on adopting rescued horses or donating to the operation, click this link.

Citizens' Efficiency Commission for Sangamon County

Norovirus Outbreaks - Stay Healthy, Wash Your Hands

Hear you can find more information on how to steer clear of norovirus.

ISU Motorcycle Safety Program
Check this link out for dates and times to attend the ISU Motorcycle Safety Program.

Illinois New Teacher Collaborative
The Illinois New Teacher Collaborative (INTC) is at the forefront of providing statewide leadership for promoting new teacher induction and mentoring programs and supplying resources for those who support new teachers.

Sangamon County Rural Transportation

Sangamon County Road Conditions

Interstate Road Conditions

"Diversity Matters" - Illinois Dept of Transportation
Website links minorities and minority owned businesses to opportunities within the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Salvation Army of Springfield

Sequester Spending Cuts Hitting Illinois
See the complete list of scheduled federal spending cuts that will affect Illinois residents.

Community Garden

For more information and to sign up for a spot in the community garden at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Medicare Drug Problems
Read about waste and abuse of the government's main health programs for seniors.

The Immigration Project

Illinois Beef Expo
For more information on the cattle shows, sales, and trade show.

IDOT Interstate Road Conditions

Central Illinois Food Bank
For more information on helping the Springfield based agency that serves 145 partner agencies in 22 counties.

G.E.D. Testing Information
If you want to take the G.E.D., especially before the new rules kick in on January 1st, 2014, you must register at your Regional Office of Education site. For locations and phone numbers, click on the link.

Red Cross Hero Nominations

Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs

History of Korean War & Illinois' Involvement

Tax Assistance Centers & Tax Credit Information
Another helpful site:
WWW.REVENUE.STATE.IL.US.

Contacting Snuggles Group
Volunteers welcome, and group will pick up knitted squares from your home.
Contact Jennifer Millay
Email: snuggles.sa@gmail.com
Phone: 217-367-2100

Urbana Free Library Events Calendar

Clay Center Observatory
Live USTREAM broadcast of asteroid DA-14 passing by the Earth.

Hill Prairie Winery
Check out this link to to learn more about the Menard County winery, vineyard, and entertainment venue.

One Billion Rising - Stopping Violence Against Women and Girls

Information on One Billion Rising:

http://onebillionrising.org/

Information on local domestic violence and sexual assault crisis centers:

http://www.sojournshelter.org/

http://www.prairiecasa.org/

Land of Lincoln Chorus
More information on the Springfield-based chorus for barbershop quartet-style music.

Schedule Pickup of an Old Refrigerator
Click the link to schedule a free pickup of an old refrigerator. You'll get $50 just for turning in your old appliance, and you'll be entered for a chance to win $2,000.

LLCC Scholarship Applications
Apply for LLCC scholarships for the 2013-2014 academic year.

Abraham Lincoln Library & Museum Volunteers Needed
VOLUNTEERS WILL BE ASKED TO ATTEND FOUR TRAINING SESSIONS:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19
TUESDAY, MARCH 5
TUESDAY, MARCH 12
AND TUESDAY, MARCH 19.

EACH SESSION WILL START AT 5:30 P.M. AND LAST APPROXIMATELY THREE HOURS.

TO REGISTER, CONTACT JEREMY CARRELL, DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEER SERVICES, AT (217) 558-8984.

Midstate Kart Club
For more information on karting and the Jacksonville Grand Prix.

Crossroads Beekeepers

Crossroads Beekeepers meets on the second Monday of every month from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at the University of Illinois Extension Center in Effingham.

Petition to Pardon David Camm

Springfield Firefighter Testing Fee Waiver
Springfield firefighter applicants are required to pass a physical fitness test that normally costs $150, but Mayor Mike Houston is encouraging applicants to apply for a fee waiver if they're eligible. The mayor said he wants to make it possible for everyone to take the entry-level examination. Waivers will be granted to individuals who qualify under the WIC income eligibility guidelines. Click the link for more information.

Toby Keith Concert Tickets
To purchase tickets, go to ticketmaster.com beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb.9, call 1-800-745-3000 or visit any Ticketmaster outlet.

Jacksonville School District #117 Budget Review

Burn Awareness Week

For more information about preventing scald burns, contact the American Burn Association at (312)-642-9260 or www.ameriburn.org.

For more information about visiting the Springfield Fire Department's Children's Safety Village, call (217)-788-8472.

Land of Lincoln Barbershop Chorus
Springfield based chorus offering Valentine's Day serenades.

Buena Vista Farm
Resort near Jacksonville

Preparing for an Earthquake
An earthquake can strike at anytime. Join the movement to be ready for the natural occurrence.

I-Cash
Head to this website to find out if the state is holding any money or unclaimed property with your name on it.

Find Stimulus Projects in Your Neighborhood
This government website allows you to check out American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects in your neighborhood.You can also click here for another map with more information.

Girl Scout Cookie Finder
Enter your zip code to find Girl Scout cookie sales near you.

Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering Academic Challenge
Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering (WYSE) is an international program, headquartered at the University of Illinois offering the annual Academic Challenge competition, a summer camp and other programs.

District 186 Budget Vote Descriptions
To access the agenda for District 186 School Board meetings, go to the above website. Select "agenda list" from the menu under the calendar on the right side of the page. Select the date on the left side of the new page, February 4, 2013. Scroll down to "Roll Call Action Items" on the new page. Items 9.3 to 9.6 relate to budget votes. Select the names next to the item number for additional information.

FFA Feeding the World
National FFA's global campaign to feed the hungry

God Made a Farmer
Ram Trucks Superbowl commercial featuring the late Paul Harvey, for each view or share, Chrysler is donating 1 dollar to the National FFA's Feeding the World initiative.

THR & Associates Liquidation
Liquidation Auction for THR & Associates.
Aumann Auctions out of Nokomis, IL.

Information on the Central Illinois Food Bank

Community Foundation For The Land of Lincoln
Area non-profit groups can apply for small grants from this organization.

Heart Health Awareness Month

Lieb Farms

Click link for more information about a buffalo ranch near Monticello in Piatt County.

Relay for Life of Sangamon County Registration
Relay for Life of Sangamon County will be held at Lincoln Land Community College on June 22, 2013. Teams can register by logging onto http://www.relayforlife.org/sangamonil.

Pizzas 4 Patriots
Organization devoted to delivering pizzas from home to troops stationed overseas.

List to Find Your Unclaimed Money

Norovirus, also known as "stomach flu"
Click here for symptoms and tips for prevention

Illinois Sheriff's Association Scholarships
Here you can learn how you can apply to receive a college scholarship from the Illinois Sheriff's Association.

Macon County Student Scholarships

Champaign County Forest Preserve

SENATOR DICK DURBIN'S THOUGHTS ON GUN LAW
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) at a news conference to announce the introduction of new gun control legislation that would renew limits on military-style assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Earned Income Tax Credit
Site for more information on the Illinois tax credit, as well as locations for free tax preparation help.

Information on Filing a FAFSA
http://www.uis.edu/financialaid/apply/index.html

"Fire Season" Strains Red Cross Resources

Aero Force Balloons
Balloon company operated by Bill Smith, who attempted a 200+ mile long jump flight from Springfield, Il.

Free Tax Return Preparation for You by Volunteers
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify.

Kohl's Gotta Dance Program

Land Of Lincoln Honor Flight Applications
Here you can find information and applications for upcoming Land of Lincoln Honor Flights. There are 3 upcoming flights booked. The first is March 26th, the second is April 23rd and the third is May 21st.

Leadership Springfield Nominations
Click here to apply or nominate someone for the next class of participants for "Leadership Springfield", sponsored by The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce. Or Call Sharon Theison at (217) 525-1173

CWLP Scholarship
The Illinois Municipal Utility Association, of which CWLP is a member, is offering four $500 scholarship opportunities to high school seniors whose parents or legal guardians are residential customers of IMUA-member utilities like CWLP. Click the link for an application.

Nominate a Hero

The American Red Cross is accepting nominations for its eighth annual Red Cross Heroes Breakfast fundraiser. You can nominate a hero you know for any of the nine hero categories: Youth, Civic, Community, Healthcare, Education, Military, Workplace, Public Safety, and Senior. Click the link to submit your nomination.

Flu Precautions at Memorial Medical Center
Memorial Medical Center in Springfield is limiting patient visitors to help stop the spread of the flu virus. Some classes held at Memorial are being canceled as well. Click the link for more information.

Local First Springfield

Flu Shot Locations

Superintendent’s Budget Recommendations: Updated January 11, 2013

Ice Skating in Springfield

Need a Flu Shot?
Click the link to find the nearest pharmacy or health department offering flu shots. The flu season typically runs through March.

Sievers Equipment
Central Illinois based Case IH, JCB, and Kubota dealership chain.

Sloan Implement
Assumption, Illinois based chain of John Deere dealerships.

2012 Springfield Crime Statistics
Courtesy of the Springfield Police Department

How deadly is the flu?
The CDC explains how many people die from the flu nationwide each year, as well as how these statistics are calculated.

Track the Flu
Track the flu activity in your area and sign up to receive Flu Alert emails to keep you informed of flu activity throughout the season.

Cyndi's Catalog of Garden Catalogs

The Ledger
Illinois Comptroller's financial transparency website.

Engrained Brewing Company
New brew-pub and full service restaurant that will be opening in late summer.

FBI Crime Statistics

Free Teacher Self Defense Training

2013 Healthy Family Kick-Off

Health Fair

MAP Grant Priorities Change

"We Are One Illinois" Coalition on Pension Reform
Click here for the group's recommendations of Pension Reform for Illinois State employees and retirees.

Blood Donations Needed
Click here for a list of local blood drives

King's Daughters Grant Letter Entry
Fill out the form for opportunity to receive grant funding for senior citizen organizations.

Memorial's "Choosing to Lose"
SPRINGFIELD - Memorial Medical Center's Food and Nutrition Department will offer an 11-week course to help people learn how to conquer unhealthy eating habits.

Sangamon County Road Conditions

Cost of a DUI

Champaign County Museum

LLCC Baseball Camps

Don't Be Sorry 2013 Youth Art Contest

Fire Safety Tips

Illinois' Gift Card Law

http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/banking/gift-cards-and-certificates-statutes-and-legis.aspx

Governor's Award for Contributions in Health and Safety

Christmas Tree Drop-Off Sites

Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon

IRS Year End Giving Tips

Operation Hero Miles
Donate your unused frequent flier miles to help military families fly to see injured service members overseas.

U of I Student's Fundraiser for Sandy Hook

County Highway Road Condition Map - Sangamon County
See the latest driving conditions on Sangamon County highways.

Mamatoga's 26 Random Acts of Kindness for Newtown

Ameren Outage Center
Ameren Illinois website for outage information as well as safety tips and information.

The Menard County Sandy Hook Project
According to organizers, a special account has been set up at the National Bank of Petersburg for victims of the Sandy Hook tragedy. The account is called The Menard County Sandy Hook Project.

Donations will go to:
Sandy Hook Fire and Rescue
Attn: School Fund
P.O. Boz 783
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
This is the fire station children were taken to after the shooting, according to project organizers.

The account will be open until January 4. Green and white ribbons are available upon request.

Continue Reading over Winter Break
The state board of education encourages families to read together during winter break. There are lots of online resources available, including the "Find a Book" utility at lexile.com/findabook.

Volunteerism in Illinois
Illinois recently ranked 25 among the 50 states in volunteering. For information about volunteer opportunities near you, click on this link.

Teddy's For Newtown
Teddy Bear donations can be dropped off at:

Taylorville Home Source
919 West Spresser Street
Taylorville, Illinois 62568

(217) 824-2264

Illinois Treasurer's Unclaimed Property Program

Superintendent's Budget Recommendations
Here is a narrative of fiscal year 2014 (2013-2014) proposed cuts from Dr. Walter Milton.

Report Fraud, Waste or Abuse Involving State Agencies

District 186 Community Budget Review Committee Recommendations
Get a glimpse of the Community Budget Review Committee's recommendations for the next two fiscal years ahead of their presentation at the Monday night school board meeting.

Kenzie's Christmas Wish

DEA Impersonator Scam

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine.
40% of Illinois is now under quarantine from the little green beetle that has destroyed millions of ash trees. Click here for a list of counties and what the quarantine means for you.

Blessings on State Bed and Breakfast
Here you can find information on the Blessings on State Bed and Breakfast in Jacksonville.

District 186 Budget Survey
Ends December 10, 2012 at 10 a.m.

Danville Fischer Theatre

Operation Reunite. Discover What's Yours.

Cory Craig Auctioneer
Cory Craig Auctioneer: For sale bill for Smith Family Farm closeout sale, a large auction featuring 3 generations of farm equipment for in Shelby County.

Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach
Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach responds to the sick, poor and needy through a medical equipment and supply recovery and distribution program and education and awareness opportunities.

If you want to volunteer, call 217-525-8843 or email Jill at Mission Outreach at jwright@mission-outreach.org.

Military APO/FPO/DPO Holiday Shipping Deadlines
Click on the "shipping deadlines" tab for info on sending mail to military members overseas.

District 186 Agenda and Possible Job Cuts
Click on the date in question for the agenda with a list of potential job cut areas.

East Side Pride
If you would like to donate to East Side Pride or volunteer, a Springfield grassroots organization, you can call Mike Williams at 217-502-3701.

Holiday Gift Ideas

LLCC Ag Club
Organization for agriculture students at Lincoln Land Community College.

Go Green for Christmas
Tips for an environmentally responsible holiday from the U.S. E.P.A.

25 Days of Christmas Contest
Click the link to visit the Illinois Department of Agriculture's Facebook page and learn more about their 25 Days of Christmas Contest

The Leapfrog Group's Hospital Safety Scores

Tips for Going Green this Holiday Season

Holiday Farmers Market
Farmers Market held at the Illinois State Fairgrounds on Decmber 15th, from 9am to 1pm..

Holiday Mail for Heroes
Click the link for more information on how you can send holiday cards to troops over seas, veterans and their families.

Ambassadors of Hope

Making the Holidays Brighter for Seniors, Families in Need
Learn how paying your Ameren bill online could give back to families in need this holiday season!

Hardy's Reindeer Ranch
Rantoul reindeer farm and Holiday destination.

Track Your Family Health History

Yard Waste Burning Regulations

Sangamon County:

http://search.municode.com/html/16612/level3/TIT8HESA_CH8.04SOWAMA_ARTVIIBUWA.html#TIT8HESA_CH8.04SOWAMA_ARTVIIBUWA_8.04.360EX

Jerome:

http://www.villageofjerome.com/FireRegulation.pdf

Grandview:

http://villageofgrandview.com/home/current_news_alerts

Sherman:

http://www.shermanil.org/Government/PublicWorks/AuthorizedBurnDates.aspx

Chatham:

http://www.chathamil.net/policefaq

If you do not see your community listed please call your local government representative for the appropriate information.

Generation Healthy Coalition

Destination Dinner Table

Illinois Policy Institute's Piglet Book
The Illinois Policy Institute's Piglet 2012 highlights nearly 200 examples of wasteful government spending in Illinois, totaling more than $354 million. Each item highlights the decisions of politicians who have lost sight of the core services they were put in place to provide.

Unclaimed Property Auction
Click on the link for more information about the upcoming unclaimed property auction. It's being held from Nov. 26th through the 30th.

Raynauds Disease Clinical Study
For more information:
217-545-7045

raynauds@siumed.edu

Gov. Quinn's Grassroots Campaign for Pension Reform

Sexual Abuse Resources Locally
Check out the Sangamon County Child Advocacy Center for more on resources available to children locally impacted by sexual abuse.

Abraham Lincoln Historic Sites
Click the link for more information on Abraham Lincoln historic sites in Springfield and around the state.

Diabetic Alert Dogs
Click the link to make a donation to help offset the costs of a Diabetic Alert Dog for U.S. Army National Guard Veteran, Dereck Bly.

You can also mail a donation to:
SDWR
PO Box 910
Orange, VA 22960
(make a note in the memo that the donation is for Dereck Bly)

Overflow Shelter

Hospice Dreams
Organization dedicating to giving hospice patients a final dream come true.

Winter Emergency Kits for Home and Auto
click here for a list of things you should have NOW -- before the ice and snow strikes.

Veterans History Project
The Veterans History Project of the American Folklife Center collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war.

Legal Help for Veterans
Click on the link for more information on the "Legal Rights of Illinois Service Members."

Girls on the Run

Girls on the Run is a 501(c)3 positive youth development program which combines an interactive curriculum and running to inspire self-respect and healthy lifestyles in pre-teen girls. Our core curriculum addresses many aspects of girls' development - their physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Lessons provide girls with the tools to make positive decisions and to avoid risky adolescent behaviors. We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.

Helping Victims of Sandy

American Red Cross:

http://www.redcross.org/

United Way:

http://www.unitedway.org/

Salvation Army:

http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf

The Community Food Bank of New Jersey:

http://www.njfoodbank.org/blog/news/5367/hurricane-sandy-relief

JerseyCares:

http://www.jerseycares.org/HOC__Affiliate_Home_Page

26th Annual Bluegrass Music Festival
November 9-11 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield.

Concert times -

Friday: 2:30pm and 7:00pm
Saturday: 10:30am, 1:00pm, and 7:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am

Holiday Farmers Market
Learn more details on the November 17th event.

Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance
Organization offering training and further education for workers

RV Travel
Additional link:

GoRVing.com

Downtown Lincoln Redevelopment & Revitalization Study
Click the link to view preliminary study information for Downtown Lincoln and to give your feedback.

Allegiant Air
Airline returning to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport and offering flights to Punta Gorda Airport in Florida

Who's Donating to the Candidates?
Here's a link to a website where you can search who's donated to candidates in the federal races.

Electrical Aggregation

Illinois Commerce Commission answers questions about municipal electrical aggregation

Electrical Aggregation

Ameren information on municipal electrical aggregation

Electrical Aggregation
Citizens Efficiency Commission of Sangamon County proposal on municipal electrical aggregation

Sign up student for the Do the Right Thing Initiative
Do you know a District 186 student who goes above and beyond to do the right thing? If so, nominate that student to be honored at one of the City Council meetings.

Broom Orchard
The Carlinville area orchard makes and sells fresh apple cider.

Funny Money: If You Receive Counterfeit Money

Suggestions from the Secret Service for handling money you suspect is counterfeit.

Do not return it to the passer.

Delay the passer if possible.

Observe the passer's description, as well as that of any companions, and the license plate numbers of any vehicles used.

Contact your local police department or United States Secret Service field office. These numbers can be found on the inside front page of your local telephone directory.

Write your initials and the date in the white border areas of the suspect note.

Limit the handling of the note. Carefully place it in a protective covering, such as an envelope.

Surrender the note or coin only to a properly identified police officer or a U.S. Secret Service special agent.

American Red Cross Blood Donations
Click the link to find a local American Red Cross and find out more about when and where you can donate blood.

Illinois Judge Ratings
All judges running for retention, as well as candidates for Illinois judicial offices who won in the March 20 primary election, have been rated by Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) evaluation committees, or in a poll of lawyers conducted by ISBA. Results were made available today on-line at www.isba.org/YouBeTheJudge

In Cook County, an ISBA Judicial Evaluations committee used the results of a questionnaire, background investigations, and interviews to rate candidates for all judicial offices. Candidates for the Appellate and Supreme Court outside Cook County were also evaluated using this process.

In counties outside Cook, ISBA conducts an advisory poll of members in the circuit or district from which a candidate seeks election or retention. Licensed lawyers who are not members of ISBA may request a ballot. The poll reflects the opinion of those lawyers who choose to respond, and not the opinion of ISBA.

"Voters often have difficulty learning about the qualifications of candidates for judicial office," said John E. Thies, of Urbana, president of the 33,000-member organization. "These independent ratings and polls are based on the views of the candidates' peers, and I encourage voters to consider them when deciding how to vote on November 6."

The ISBA, with offices in Springfield and Chicago, provides professional services to Illinois lawyers, and education and services to the public.

Electrical Aggregation Information
There's a large amount of information about electrical aggregation available online. Some links:
Citizens' Efficiency Commission of Sangamon County proposal on municipal electrical aggregation
Ameren information on municipal electrical aggregation
Illinois Commerce Commission answers questions about municipal electrical aggregation (Microsoft Word Document)
Illinois Municipal Aggregation of Electric website

The Salvation Army Keest Center
The Salvation Army Keest Center in Lincoln is looking for volunteers for its Red Kettle Campaign and to help staff the shelter. If you're interested in learning more, you can contact the Director, Tony Shuff, at (217) 732-7890 or email him at Tony_Schuff@USC.salvationarmy.org

You can also drop by the facility at 307 North Kickapoo Street, Lincoln, IL 62656

LIHEAP- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Click here for eligibility requirements and what you'll need to bring.
Must apply in person.
(217) 535-3120

Contact Info For Local U.S. Lawmakers
U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk
Phone: (217) 492-5089
E-mail

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin
Phone: (217) 492-4062
E-mail

15th District U.S. Rep. Timothy Johnson
Champaign Office Phone: (217) 403-4690
Charleston Office Phone: (217) 348-6759
E-mail

17th District U.S. Rep. Bobby Schilling
Phone: (309) 649-3307
E-mail

18th District U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock
Springfield Office Phone: (217) 670-1653
Jacksonville Office Phone: (217) 245-1431
E-mail

19th District U.S. Rep. John Shimkus
Phone: (217) 492-5090
E-mail

World Stroke Day
Click here for a link to more information

Danville Dashers Hockey

Get Your Licks on Route 66

JDC Statement Regarding Patient Transitions

Springfield Crime Reports

Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournaments

Additional Information on Meningitis Outbreak

Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Learn more about this organization dedicated to eliminating breast cancer!

Blood Donation Information

Concerned Veterans for America Survey Results

Buy U of I basketball tickets here!

Jaycees Hallowhomp
Find out more information about the Springfield Jaycees Halloween Party.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Illinois Chapter

Illinois Symphony Orchestra Concert Schedule
Find out when the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is playing in Springfield.

"Be Aware Women's Fair" at the State Fairgrounds
Click here for link and discount coupon.
Sponsored by Memorial Medical Center
Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds
Saturday October 20th from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Admission $4

Boy Scout Ineligible Volunteer Files (Perversion Files)

Springfield Urban League

Serve Illinois

ONE Moms
Kelly's blog: www.mochamomma.com

livefashionable.com

Ladybugs and Boxelder Bugs
Here's a link for information on Boxelder bugs: http://hyg.ipm.illinois.edu/article.php?id=434

And here's more on Ladybugs and Asian Lady Beetles: http://www.ladybuglady.com/infestation.htm

Stimulus Money Waste Watch

Halloween Attractions in Central Illinois

Click on the link above to vote for your favorite Halloween attraction in the area. To see schedules and learn more about each attraction click the links below.

Auburn Haunted House

Terror on the Square

Lincoln Jaycees Haunted House

Clayville Haunted House

Riverside Stables Haunted Hayride

Carter Bros. Hayride

Rochester Boo Crew Haunted House

Medicare Part D -- Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment period runs until December 7, 2012. You can also call 1-800-548-9034

The Baby Fold

The Baby Fold--Springfield office

Noll MedicalPavilion, 5220 South Sixth Street Road Suite 2200 B Springfield, IL

Problem Property Court Hearing List

Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce Chillifest
Find out how to sign-up for this year's chili cookoff in Taylorville!

Caveny Farms
Caveny Farms: Monticello are farm raising Heritage Turkeys, Ducks, and Geese.

Tracking Down Sex Offenders

The Illinois State Police Sex Offender Registry can be found at: http://www.isp.state.il.us/
For Sex Offender Registry in Springfield go to: https://www.crimereports.com/
For additional crime tips go to: http://www.communitynotification.com/cap_safety.php?office=55244

Springfield Water Restrictions
for details on stage 3 restrictions that are still in effect.

Helping Hands of Springfield

Hunting Harvest Totals
Illinois D.N.R. page where visitors can find out how many game animals have been harvested

Illinois SPortsmen Against Hunger
Program for deer hunters to donate meat to help feed the needy.

Creative Whitetails Taxidermy
Pleasant Plains based taxidermist.

Retiree Issues: Where the Candidates Stand
The Alliance for retired Americans released this information about where both President Barack Obama and his opponent Governor Mitt Romney stand on retiree issues.

Farm To School Month

Voter Registration Information
Voter registration for the 2012 election must be done by Tuesday, October 9th. Are you registered to vote? Do you have questions regarding how to register, where to register, and what you will need? Click on the link for more information.

Illinois Kids Can Hear
Direct link to the petition: http://ilkidscanhear.org/petition/

Registering To Vote
Need to find out how or where to register to vote?

New Horizon Breast Cancer Support Group

Sangamon County Election Information

Wagon Wheel Pumpkin Farm
Here you can get an inside look at this DeWitt County pumpkin patch and agritourism site.

Donate to the Central Illinois Food Bank

Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County
For more information, call 217.523.2710.

3.8 Additional College Graduates by 2025
To see all of the nearly 490 public colleges and universities involved with Project Degree Completion, click the above title.

Springfield Ovarian Cancer Support Group
If you would like to learn more--email Monica Hay:
SpOCSGroup@gmail.com.

Black Walnuts
for more information on black walnuts, and to find a hulling location to sell them.

Dutchess Burn Fund
Click on this link to find out how you can help a kitten that survived a fire but is in need of medical care.

Future Fund Grant information
The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln is currently accepting proposals for grant requests from the Future Fund. The Future Fund is the endowment fund of the Young Philanthropists giving circle. The Fund was established in 2006 in order to create a permanent grantmaking resource for Sangamon County.
The focus area for the 2012 Future Fund award is children and youth programs. One grant of up to $6,000 will be awarded in 2012. This will be the seventh annual grant from the Future Fund and will bring the total grantmaking from this group to $34,000.
Access to the online grant application and instructions on completing the proposal can be found on the Foundation's web site listed above. Local nonprofit organizations that serve Sangamon County and provide services or programs for children and youth are encouraged to submit a proposal before the November 1, 2012 deadline.

Tickets for Mary Todd Lincoln Retrial
A series of events next fall marking the life of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham Lincoln, will include the staging of retrials of her insanity case.
   The events are being produced and sponsored by the Illinois Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.
   Mrs. Lincoln was tried in 1875 when her son Robert brought allegations of insanity against her. She ultimately was declared a "lunatic" and placed in the Bellevue Sanitarium in Batavia, Illinois.
   During the retrials, actors portraying Robert Lincoln and Mary Lincoln will testify dressed in period costumes. The retrials will take place in Chicago on Sept. 24 and in Springfield on Oct. 1. Tickets are available online.

Hot Slots RC Racing

Gail's Pumpkin Patch

Spaulding Veteran's Memorial Wall

More information can be found in the following links:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Spaulding-Veterans-Memorial-Wall/353564441395164

http://spauldingveteransmemorialwall.blogspot.com/

Hazardous Waste Collection

Museum Day Coupon
Saturday, September 29th is the only day of the year you can get into the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum for free. Click the link to download and print a Museum Day coupon from the Smithsonian Magazine.

Prairieland Steam Show &Fall Festival Days

Gender Wage Gap by Occupation
Many women are finding they have to work a lot longer than they first thought before they can retire. That's if they can afford to retire at all.

Sangamo Scripts Program
Click here for a link. You can sign up or get a new card for the discounted prescription drug program for residents in Sangamon County.

Comcast's Internet Essentials Program

Making Strides for Breast Cancer
Link to a list of Making Strides walks scheduled throughout the State of Illinois during the month of October

Cancer Companions
Our Savior's Lutheran Church
2645 Old Jacksonville Road
Springfield, IL
Start Date: October 15, 2012

For more information and registration: Kim Meyer (217) 546-4531
kimmeyerrn@hotmail.com

List of 15 Suspects Arrested in Drug Trafficking Bust

Sunrise on the Farm: Smartphone Apps for Nitrogen Application
To access the application from Apple, go tohttp://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mrtn-nitrogen-application/id560788301?
To access the Android version, go tohttp://web.extension.illinois.edu/csrec/index.html

U of I Election Analytics

Fall Fire Safety Tips and Resources

Live in Lincoln? Need Help Paying Water Bill?
Sometimes customers face circumstances that stretch their financial resources. California American Water is here to assist. Our customer service representatives will work with you on a plan to pay the balance of your bill over time. You may also be qualified to receive assistance through our H2O Help to Others Program.

Monticello Railway Museum

Broom Orchard Upcoming Events
Broom Orchard is celebrating their 21st annual Pumpkin Festival, Saturday and Sunday, October 13th and 14th from 9:00 to 6:00 each day.

Medicaid Cost Overruns
Medicaid has been given the Golden Hammer Award calling attention to flaws within the program. It seems the US Department of Health and Human Services may have some explaining to do after an Inspector General found more than $1.5-billion in cost overruns.

Walk to End Alzheimer's

Info on the Route 66 Mother Road Festival

The following streets will be closed to traffic for the downtown area on Friday September, 21:

Noon:

5^th Street at Jefferson

6^th Street between American Legion Drive and Jefferson

Side streets between 4^th and 7^th Streets in the downtown area.

Adams Between 6^th and 7^th Street

5:00 pm:

7^th Street at Jefferson

Washington Street at 4^th Street

Monroe West side of 3^rd Street RR Tracks

Capitol Ave east of RR overhead.

4^th Street at Jackson Street

Capitol Avenue west of 7^th Street.

Public Hearings Scheduled for Trash, Recycling Changes
Scheduled public hearings:

-Wed., Sept. 26
7:00 p.m.
South Side Christian Church

-Thurs., Sept. 27
6:00 p.m.
Wanless Elementary School

-Thurs., Oct. 4
6:00 p.m.
Prairie Heart Institute

Illinois Open Data Site
Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is ordering state agencies to make more data available online and urging local governments to do the same.
   Agencies now have to make sharing data a priority when setting up new computer systems. They also have to step up their efforts to find raw data to share.
   Information ranging from daily traffic to retail sales is already available. But that's just a fraction of the facts and figures generated by state government.
   Agencies have four months to produce a plan for complying with the executive order issued Tuesday.
   A "chief information officer" will establish policies to guide the project. Quinn says local governments can use that policy manual to launch their own transparency efforts.

Recommendations About Dealing With Arsenic In Food

Illinois Sex Offender Information
The Illinois State Police provides an online listing of sex offenders required to register in the State of Illinois. The database is updated daily and allows searching by name, city, county, zip code, compliance status, or any combination thereof. In addition, geographic searching can now be performed by choosing the Mapping link in the menu or the Geographic Search option on the right.

Morgan County Legal Self-Help Center
A link to the Morgan County Legal Self-Help Center

U.I.S. E.C.C.E. Speaker Series
for more information on upcoming events in the series.

Chiari Malformation
http://www.asap.org/
http://www.rarediseases.org/

Friends of Sangamon Valley

Unclaimed Property Auction

Urbana Climate Action Plan

Springfield Art Association
Learn more about this local art organization

Springfield International Soccer Club at Kiwanis Soccer Field
For information on the Springfield International Soccer Club visit their website. For information on the Springfield Park District, check out its website.

Recycling Grants

Recycling Program Description from linked website, www.ildceo.com

Short Description
DCEO's REM Program helps Illinois businesses and organizations to become "greener." The REM Program is an opportunity that is good for business, good for the environment, and good for Illinois (more jobs!). By awarding matching grants to Illinois businesses for Market Expansion, and Waste Management Modernization projects, the REM Program diverts materials from the solid waste stream, thereby conserving our natural resources, boosts the performance of Illinois businesses to sustain and expand the Illinois economy, and demonstrates the public economic benefits of job creation.

Lincoln and Logan County Tourism
For more information on upcoming events including the Abraham Lincoln Railsplitting festival.

Project 225 - Constitution Week
Learn more about the Illinois Supreme Court initiative to boost your child's knowledge about the US Constitution

Suicide & Crisis Services
If you believe someone is at risk of suicide, ask them. Experts say it won't put the idea in their head, or make it more likely to happen.

Call the national hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Illinois Senior Olympics Information
View a full schedule of Illinois Senior Olympics events.

"I Will. Be Ready." Service Project
Other links for information:

www.ready.gov
www.seniorcorps.gov

Flu Shot Clinics
Click the link for more information on flu shot clinics in Sangamon County.

Springfield Underwater Search and Rescue Team
Tel: 217-529-5191
200 East Lake Shore Drive
Springfield, Illinois 62707

Gail's Pumpkin Patch
Here you can learn more about the pumpkin patch and store in Logan County.

Fall Farm Day 2012
Click here to visit the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau for more information.

PrairiErth Farm
Logan County organic farm that sells their products in Springfield, CHampaign/Urbana, and Bloomington/Normal.

Washington State University Rebuttal to Stanford Organic Food Study
Article also has a link to a counter-study released by the WSU Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources

Stanford Organic Food Study
academic study focused on whether organic foods are more nutritious than convential counterparts.

Lincoln Land Community College Avation Program

Contact Aviation Program Director for more information

Jim Van Kleek

217 544 4965

Salute To Agriculture
Here you can learn more about the Salute to Agriculture.

Drought.Illinois.Gov
State of Illinois information site on the drought and programs to help those affected by it.

Land of Lincoln Honor Flights

Food Babe

Severe Weather Safety Tips
Even though the remnants of Hurricane Isaac are gone, learn how you can be prepared if more severe weather hits central Illinois.

Illinois Preparedness Month

IMDA Springfield Races
This weekend's motorcycle races are rescheduled for September 15-16. Check for the latest information here!

Childhood Cancer Research Fund Checkbox

Brandt Research Farm Blog Hub
Here you can check out the Brandt Research Farm Blog Hub.

Aflatoxin
information on the fungus from Iowa State University Extension

Illinois Department of Agriculture
for information on Aflatoxin, and levels across the state.

The 2012 Farm Progress Show.
Click here for discounted advanced tickets or WEBCAM!
Boone, Iowa August 28-30

Sunrise on the Farm: Illinois Drought Resources Website

Central Illinois Foodbank
Learn how you can get involved and help local hunger

Sangamon County Clerk's Office
Find out if there's a check returned from the U.S. Postal Service for you!

Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival
Balloon rides were canceled today, but are set for tomorrow (weather permitting). Learn more about the festival here.

Soles4Souls
Learn about the effort to make sure everyone around the world has a pair of shoes!

Gail's Pumpkin Patch

For more information on the pumpkins, holiday store, and agri-tourism destination located in Logan County.

Baby Day 2012
Click here for a link to Baby Day 2012 - Sunday, August 26h, from Noon - 3:00PM at Springfield's Crowne Plaza Hotel (Main Ballroom). S-I-U Healthcare is offering 3D Ultrasounds if you are at least 26 weeks pregnant, and you can even receive a CD copy to take home. Donations and advanced appointments for the ultrasound are suggested. Admission to Baby Day 2012 is $2 at the door. All proceeds benefit The March of Dimes.

Report: 40% of Food is Wasted in U.S.
At a time when one in six Americans does not know where their next meal will come from, about 40% of food in the U.S. is wasted; according to a report by the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Mini O'Beirne Crisis Nursery
The Mini O'Beirne Crisis Nursery is desperately in need of a few items. It is one of only six crisis nurseries in the state and serve more than 2000 children each year. They mainly serve children in the Springfield and Sangamon County area. Call them at 217-525-6800.

Breakfast cereal
Diapers size 4/5
Dishwasher Detergent
Enfamil Lipil
Grahm Crackers
JUICY JUICE !!!
LIQUID LYSOL !!!
Walmart Gift Cards

Old Capitol Blues and BBQ

http://drought.illinois.gov
State of Illinois website providing information on drought assistance programs.

American Red Cross
for more information on the Decatur Chapter of the American Red Cross

Central Illinois Foodbank

Preventing Senior Fraud
If you'd like a Senior Fraud Protection Kit, call the Home Instead Senior Care office in Springfield.
Telephone: (217) 527-1200
Office: 901 South Grand, Springfield

Celebration Mass for Arch Bishop Sheen
On September 9th, Bishop Jenky will celebrate a mass of thanksgiving to honor the Venerable Fulton Sheen. It takes place in Peoria. Click on the link for more information.

Habitat for Humanity of Logan County Build
If you'd like to help with the Logan County Habitat for Humanity build go to the Habitat website. Look for the "Build Schedule" tab; information will be posted there. If you'd like to schedule a crew to work on the site e-mail hfh@habitatlogan.org or call 217.732.6412.

Springfield BMX Club
BMX Track location and more.

Riverside Park BMX Club
CONTACT LUANN CARRON - RIVERSIDE PARK BMX CLUB -- (217) 971-6058

Epinephrine Act (EpiPen Act)
A Springfield woman also writes her own blog about severe milk allergies.
You can learn more about her experience as a parent and she navigates the challenges allergies can present.

http://milkallergymom.blogspot.com/

Ballon Fest Volunteer

Illinois State Fair

Reporting a Pothole in Springfield
You can report a pothole in Springfield online at the city's website.

District 186 Tentative Budget 2012-2013

Jacksonville School District Bus Schedule

Balloonfest Volunteers Needed

"Operation Teen Safe Driving" Contest
Application deadline for high schools in Illinois is October 1st.

Ameren Illinois Helps Low-Income Residents Beat the Heat
Ameren Illinois is offering energy assistance to qualified low-income customers.

Ameren Rebates for Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Ameren Illinois offers rebates for customers upgrading to energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems. Visit their website for more information.

Report Internet/Email Scam
Internet scammers are trying to reach families of deployed soldiers to defraud them out of more than $1,000. If you get an email from an Illinois National Guard official asking for money, Guard leaders say it's a scam. Report it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Illinois Department of Insurance
Learn more about the new women's preventive health care now covered under the Affordable Care Act.

Victimizing Vets

Decatur Water Restrictions
The second stage of restrictions for decatur water customers and residents that takes effect on August 9th.

US Senator Mark Kirk Update Video
From YouTube Published on Aug 3, 2012 by SenatorKirk

"United States Senator Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) reveals the progress that he has made in his recovery after suffering an ischemic stroke in January. Sen. Kirk recently completed a 9-week mobility study at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, where he worked tirelessly to improve his walking, speech, and mobility. During the course of the study, Sen. Kirk walked a total of 14.79 miles and climbed 145 flights of stairs. Learn more at Kirk.Senate.Gov"

Brandt Racing
Here you'll find more information on the Brandt sponsored #31 Chevy driven by Justin Allgaier.

Brandt Research Blogs
Here you'll find more information on research farms around the world.

JACK FITZGERALD'S 'DEATH TAX' SIMPLIFICATION PLAN

Family Service Center Playground Build

RSVP for the August 25 "Playground Build".

Dought Response Task Force
Learn how Illinois farmers can receive financial assistance for crops lost in this summer's heat.

2012 Illinoisans of the Day
The Illinois State Fair Museum Foundation has named its ten
winners of the Illinoisan of the Day award for 2012. They will be honored at noon on the Farm
Bureau stage under the Commodities Pavilion each day of the fair, which runs August 10-19.

18 M&M Foundation
Contact to learn about a charity auction being held on July 30th.

Kunz Mower Service
Springfield lawn equipment dealership selling new and used equipment and repairs on most brands.

Reporting Identity Theft
Just whom should you contact if you find your identity has been stolen?

Human Case of West Nile Virus Found

Suttil's Garden
The link offers more information on the vegetable farm and plant nursery in Southern View.

India Association - School Supplies
Monetary Donations Accepted at:
PO BOX 2314
Springfield, IL. 62705

Also, be sure to check out STUFF THE BUS
August 4th
8:00am- 11am
Horace Mann Parking Lot ( 9th/Jefferson)

Vermilion County Gems: Sleepy Creek Vineyard

Is Your Community Under a Burn Ban?
The incredibly dry conditions are leading to a heightened fire danger all across central Illinois. To help residents stay safe, counties are issuing burn bans, restrictions, and advisories. Click the link to see what measures your area is taking.

Inner City Mission

Decatur Water Restrictions

Illinois Capital Area Red Cross

All volunteer orientations occur on the second Thursday of each month. Please call
217-787-7602 or email valerie.goodwin@redcross.org to sign up!

The next volunteer orientation is on Thursday, August 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Illinois State Fair Information, Schedule, Volunteer Opportunities

First Day Fund Donations
Click on the link to learn more about how you can help The First Day Fund. The programs helps students in Springfield, Pawnee, and Auburn with school supplies.

Drought Illinois

Hospice Volunteering
Click for more information about volunteering for Memorial Home Services Hospice.

Make-A-Wish Foundation

Get Fit on Route 66
Learn about a new program that helps your kids keep track of their fitness over the summer!

Nelson Center Pool Hours

District 186 Capital Improvement Plan

Fit-Friendly Company Award Application
Deadline: July 31

HH Gregg Now Hiring

Big Brothers, Big Sisters Illinois Capital Region
Click the link to find out more about how you can become a mentor and to see a list of upcoming events.

Breast Ovarian Health 101 Workshop
07.19.12
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Northfield Inn and Suites
3280 Northfield Drive
Springfield, IL 62702
RSVP to Lisa: lisaludesigns@me.com

Dirty Dining: Sangamon County Restaurant Inspection Reports
A link to the Sangamon County Department of Public Health's restaurant inspection reports

Menard County Fair
for a full fair schedule, information on admission prices, and more.

Make My NonProfit Run Better Contest

State Drought Assistance
The state of Illinois has a new website for farmers to learn more about state and federal programs to help them with drought assistance.

Sign up for playground building on August 25
Year-round, Family Service Center helps foster children. Now you can help too. Foster kids and children from the neighborhood are hoping you will help build their dream playground on Saturday, August 25th. Bring your kids along because there will be things to keep them busy. The build is expected to last for about six hours, and there will be free food for volunteers. Blue Cross Blue Shield is donating $80,000 to make the project happen. Family Service Center is on South Grand between 7th and 8th Street. Follow the link and select "RSVP" to sign up. They want to know how many lunches they should have for you volunteers.

Fresh Food & Vegetable Program

Rantoul Veteran's Memorial
Information on memorial and how to donate found here.

Edwards Place

Learn more about the historic site where Abraham Lincoln once stayed, or how you can contribute to its renovation.

Broom Orchard
Hear you can find more information on the Carlinville area orchard.

Information on OMS (Brain Disease)

Illinois Association of Groundwater Professionals
Click the link for tips to reduce your water usage and deal with a drying well.

Looking for Lincoln App

Healthcare Reform Quiz

Kailey's Krew
Kailey's Krew was established in 2011 by Gary & Shelli Wilmarth in memory of their daughter, Kailey, who lost her battle with leukemia. In it's first year, Kailey's Krew has already given thousands of dollars in emergency financial aid to local families.

The mission is to provide financial assistance to families of children in central Illinois with long term illnesses or disabilities. The goal is to generate and gift $100,000 each year.

Bereavement Support Group Meetings

Springfield:

https://www.memorialhomeservices.com/Hospice/Bereavement.aspx

Jacksonville:

http://www.passavanthospital.com/_data/files/HED-Support%20Group%20Listing.pdf

Taylorville:

https://www.taylorvillememorial.org/Events/EventDetails.aspx?i=1001&s=1278

Find A Panel On The Aids Quilt
To locate a loved one's panel on the Aids Quilt, visit the new site created by developers at the University of Iowa.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library
Learn more about events taking place at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library!

Illinois Vital Record
Were you adopted in Illinois? Click here for a link to apply for your original birth certificate.

Illinois Gaming Board

http://www.igb.illinois.gov/VideoGaming/VideoGamingBanMemo.pdf

Report Roadway Buckling
Click the link to report buckling of interstate roadways to the Illinois Department of Transportation.

DNS Changer Malware
A link to more information from the FBI on the DNS Changer malware

State Fair Culinary Competitions
Four new culinary competitions will be featured at this year's Illinois State Fair. Click here to find out how you can win cash and prizes for your winning dish.

Disaster Preparedness For Businesses

Project Safe Childhood
Learn about a national effort against child pornography and how you can report suspected cases.

Hiring Our Heroes
Other helpful links for veterans:

Illinois Department of Veteran Affairs
http://www2.illinois.gov/veterans/Pages/default.aspx

IDES: Jobs for Illinois Veterans
http://www.ides.illinois.gov/page.aspx?item=843

United States Department of Labor
http://www.dol.gov/

Illinois WorkNet Center
http://www.illinoisworknet.com/vos_portal/?partner=

Illinois Employment Benefits
http://www.standingupforillinois.org/homefront/employment.php

How to Help Battle Homelessness in Champaign County

Macon County Conservation District
Learn more about the agency that organizes the Independence Day 1860 celebration each year in Decatur!

High-speed Rail Feedback
Information below from the IDOT website:

Public Involvement Program

An important component of the Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is the public involvement program. It has been designed to educate and engage stakeholders along the corridor. These stakeholders include residents, business owners, adjacent property owners, municipalities, townships and counties. Whether you live, work, travel or own a business in the corridor, your input is welcome at the public open house meetings held at key project milestones. You can also:

Sign-up for study newsletters and emails or submit a comment
Call the project hotline at 1-855-IDOT HSR (436-8477)
Write to us at:
Miriam Gutierrez
Illinois Department of Transportation
Division of Public & Intermodal Transportation
James R. Thompson Center
100 West Randolph Street, Suite 6-600
Chicago, Illinois 60601-3229
Join the project's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/illinoishighspeedrail

Just for You Salon

Lifeline Program
Click here to see a list of telecommunications companies offering assistance to low income individuals.

Directory of Illinois Health Departments
Find your local health department.

Substance Abuse Treatment
24-Hour Helpline 877-321-RECOVER (7326)

Electronics Recycling Drop-Off Locations

Champaign-Urbana Autism Walk

Red Cross

We are not responsible for any content, changes, links or other uncontrollable information in the pages that follow. These pages do not reflect the views or opinions of ABC 20, Sinclair Broadcast Group or any of it's employees. It is for information purposes & recreation only.

Talkers

Justin Bieber Booed While Accepting Milestone Award
BILLION dollar deal makes 26-year-old America's next tech tycoon
Million Dollar Rocks Film Festival
Chopard jewels worth $1 million have been stolen at the Cannes film festival, local police said Friday.
Study: Handbags May Have More Bacteria Than A Toilet Seat
Country Runs Out of Toilet Paper
Man Hovers Drone Over a Family’s House for ‘Research’
"Star Trek' Could Have Been Very DIfferent
Taylor Swift Fan Arrested for Swimming to Singer's Beach Pad
Disney Now Investigating Parents' Scheme
Scientist Grows $325,000 Burger Using Stem Cells
Council 'Disturbed' That Fire Chief Chauffeured Son, Date to Prom in Fire Engine
Bald Eagle Steals Fish Right Off Fishing Pole
Rich Manhattan moms hire handicapped tour guides so kids can cut lines at Disney World
Mom Speeds Up to 140 MPH in a 900 HP, Manual Sports Car
‘Ice Tsunami’ Videos Out of Canada and Minnesota are Pretty Incredible
High-Speed Ferrari Crash Is Terrible & Horrifying
Angelina Jolie's Medical Revelation
‘Space Oddity’: International Space Station Commander Reprises David Bowie’s Classic…240 Miles above the Earth
Long Lost Sisters Reunited At Track Meet
Judge bans girl, 14, from EVERY school in the county!
Woman Kicked Off Plane for Refusing to Stop Singing Whitney Songs
Seven cyber-criminals part of $45m '21st century bank heist'
'Duck Dynasty' Stars Not Impressed by Food at White House Dinner
See the "Kiss Cam" Video Everyone's Talking About
Newly Weds Told To Live Separately
Prince Harry Begins U.S. Tour
See These New Airport Sleeping Pods!
7-Month-Old Waterskiing Baby Is Beyond Epic (Video)
105-Year-Old Woman Reveals Bacon as her Secret behind Long Life
Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Explains Why Some Say He Hates Fat Chicks
12-Year-Old Confronts Officer About Illegally Parking His Bike
Singer Lauryn Hill gets 3 months for failing to pay taxes
Teacher Gets $85,000 in flag stomping deal
Raw video: Bieber attacked in Dubai
Cicadas are back!
Viagra to be sold online
Over the top baby clothes
Charges coming for YouTube videos?
Reese Witherspoon’s arrest video is now public, and it is awesome
‘Redneck Day,’ ‘White Trash Wednesday’ don’t go over so well at public schools
Super Drunk Principal Gives Cuffs The Slip
Hilarious Parent Reactions to a Cruel Texting Prank From Their Kids
CA Teacher and Student Fight on Tape
News Blooper: Weather person never stops the forecast!
Ballparks with the most expensive and cheapest beer [SLIDESHOW]
'Self-cleaning shirt' released by US firm
Anne Frank's Diary Too 'Pornographic' For 7th-Grade Students?
Beards: What Women Really Want
Woman calls 911 because of frisky kittens!
The 7 Germiest Places at the Gym
Tim Tebow....Out!
20 Tiny Homes From Around the World
Reality Star Shows Off Big Engagement Ring
Man arrested for selling newborn grandson on Facebook
SKY FALL! Man tumbles off Empire State Building
Tattoo Warning for First Daughters
Virgin America flights allow mile-high flirting
Alligator Stalks Little Boy
Danica Patrick told to ‘shut up and race’
WATCH: Military Mom Delivers Big Surprise to Daughter
Dad Punches Croc to Save Son
WATCH: Teen Contestant Steals the Talent Show!
8-Year Old Scores TD During College Game
Baby Is Seriously Not Impressed With His Brother's Attempt To Sing 'Happy Birthday'
WATCH: Soccer Player BITES Opponent During Match
VIDEO: Reporter Covers China Earthquake While Wearing Wedding Dress
Surprise Found Inside Book From 1963
Singer Becomes Police Officer
WATCH: Fighter Jets Rattle Freeway Drivers
Amazing Underage Rock Stars Rock It Out
Man's Trash Collection Worth Over $100,000
A Pot Holiday in Denver
Geyser Erupts In Parking Lot
Washington McDonald's Supports Transgender Rights With Bathroom Message
Receipt Leads To Million Dollar Lawsuit
Moms Group Wants Kmart's 'Ship My Pants' Commercial Pulled From The Air
Her Mom's Obit Got Her Fired
US tourist faces jail in Turkey for collecting beach 'stones'
Maternity Photo With Husband Goes Viral
Hollywood's Most Hated Celebs: Do You Agree?
About Jay-Z: We've Got Better Things to Do
Fork vibrates when you eat too quickly
Woman Called 911 "Because She Was Lonely"
Inside The Elite Swiss Boarding School Where The World's Most Powerful People Send Their Kids
Is This the Best Animal Picture Ever?
Donald Trump Booed Out of Madison Square Garden
Dangerous New Car Trend Your Should Know About
Rare Lamborghini Worth Up to $1.7 Million Goes Up in Flames
How Much Tape Does It Take to Lift a Car?
See 8 Amazing Tiny Apartments
7-year-old steals the show during spring game
Airport Baggage Handler Accused of Stealing $84,000 Worth of Belongings from Passengers
Mohawk gets kindergartener suspended
Dreamliner Back in the Air!
Medical Pot for Dogs?
4-Year Old Refuses to Kiss Prince!
Fast Food Workers Go On Strike
Police Warn Students Not To Play Kicking Game
Man Enjoys Beings a Mermaid
"Real Housewives" Brawl
Woman Fakes Her Own Funderal
LEAKED: Here's What Facebook's New Phone Software Will Look Like
VIDEO: First Look Inside The Sinkhole That Killed A Man In Florida
VIDEO: Skyscraper Engulfed in Flames
Flights to cost more for overweight passengers
4 percent of Americans believe lizard people control world
See The Strange Red Arcs in the Sky
Student Livid Over School Dess Code
Hackers Expose J.Lo, Lady GaGa Finances
See The Anti-Drone Hoodie!
Justin Timberlake to Make White Hosue Debut
18 Photos of Presidential First Pitches — Just in Time for Baseball Season
Driver Crashes Into Walmart And Attacks Customers
"Buckwild" Cast Member Shain Gandee Found Dead
Food Fight: Man Arrested After Throwing Dinner at McDonald’s Worker
Police received a 911 call at 9:47 p.m. to respond to McDonald's because a man was out of control at the drive-through window, police said.
Chevy Has Revived A Barely Street-Legal Version Of Its Iconic Camaro
Dog Walks 10 Miles For Love
Is there a Mistake in a Geico Ad...or Just Awkward? WATCH
WATCH: Baby Born 15 Pounds, 7 Ounces: 2nd Biggest Baby Born Naturally in UK History
Bible comes to life as locusts swarm Israel
WATCH: 2-Year-Old ‘Bedtime Bandit’ Picking a Lock to Get Stuffed Animals
Disabled man awarded $8000 after being stranded on Disneyland ride
Yahoo Buys A Mobile News Startup Founded By A 15-Year-Old For $30 Million
Pro Golfer Pulls Off Unbelievable Swing: Climbs a Tree and Shoots a Perfect Backwards, One-Handed Shot into the Fairway
Pepsi bottles get first makeover in two decades
World’s smallest blood monitoring implant tells your smartphone when you’re about to have a heart attack
Prince Harry to visit the United States
Kate Answers Whether She Wants a Boy or Girl Baby
Breath Test for Stress
Why does the devil in 'The Bible' look like President Obama?
Company Makes Eggs Without Chickens
Red Bull Says It's Being Blackmailed
New Claims That Ben Affleck Is a Spy
Girl Goes To School With Backpack Full of Money
Teens accused of ‘gallon smashing’ at local store
Dennis Rodman to Rome; Meet with the New Pope?
Does Taylor Swift Toss Her Fan Mail?
Viral Video: Funny Kids' Reaction to 'Harlem Shake'
Basketball Coach’s Celebratory Gatorade Bath Goes Terribly Wrong
Billy Joel Stuns Vanderbilt Student; ‘Greatest Moment’ of His Young Life
Idaho Girl Scouts seek end to sales tax on cookies
Dog Swallows 111 Pennies
Google to Pay For Eavesdropping
What It's Like To Quit Facebook
Crazy Critter Crashes a Soccer Match and Bites Player
Google's Talking Shoe Motivates You to Move
Loyal German Shepherd Prevents Owner From Committing Suicide
High school student says teacher made her give lap dances to male students — in class
Martha Stewart's S-Bomb After Court
WWE Legend Dead at 58
Are the Royals Expecting a Daughter?
Dog Helps Save Polish Girl's Life
Craziest End to a High School Basketball Game You May Ever See
School sends letters to parents telling them their kids are fat
Teacher Makes Guns Threat On Chalkboard
TSA Suspects Adult Toy Fans
Looking for Love at Wal-Mart
School Locked Down Over "Fresh Prince" TV Theme Song
IRS Has New $430k Beef with T.O.
Fashion Show Turns to Fashion Brawl (Video)
Second-grader suspended for having breakfast pastry shaped like a gun
You Can Make YouTube Do "The Harlem Shake"
Does Fingernail Length Predict Success?
Beyonce Makes Big Demands!
Woman Sues FedEx Over Alleged Marijuana Delivery Gone Wrong
Florida man shot by his dog, police say
Lousy taste ‘Buds’ lawsuit
Plans for Titanic replica set sail as Australian billionaire avoids sink jinx
Man arrested after calling 911 nine times trying to order a cheeseburger
Restaurant Owner Finds Dedicated Teen Walking 10 Snowy Miles for Job Interview — Guess Where He’s Working Now
Study: Facebook status updates more memorable than human faces
9-year-old rapper's adult-themed videos prompt state probe
Winner Kicked Out Of Oscars For Throwing Paper Planes
Can Your Pet Get Food Stamps? YES
Why Did a Photo Gets a Travel Blogger Thrown Off a United Airlines Flight?
See the Amazing Half-Court, Tumbling Trick-Shot Orchestrated by a College Cheerleader
Bad News Buried in the Bible?
Study: Beards Can Prevent Skin Cancer
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2282422/Philadelphia-chef-plans-introduce-HORSE-MEAT-menu-popular-Sicilian-restaurant.html
Student’s Clever Response to Test Question Goes Viral
Is This the Most Ingenious Résumé You’ve Ever Seen?
Whole Foods' Ad Outrages Neighbors
No More Anonynous Comments on the Web If...
‘Zombie’ Cells That Can Increase Performance After Death?
Is This the ‘Worst Free Throw Ever’?
11-Year-Old Cancer Survivor Catches Fire While In Hospital
Crazy Things People Have Tried To Deduct on Taxes
Wild Video Captures the Massive Cafeteria Brawl Between Muslim and African-American Students at Minn. High School
Burger King Battle: A Man and His Cold Onion Rings
FBI: Man Slapped Crying Toddler On Delta Flight
Police Lock Down High School After Food Fight Out of Control
Blade Runner Oscar Pistorius charged with murder...of girlfriend
Apple loses right to iPhone name in...
Students Told to Stop ‘USA!’ Chant, Take Off American Flag Bandanas
Awkward Family Photos For Valentine's Day (VIDEO)
Lady Gaga unable to walk, postpones 4 shows
Valentine's Gesture From Dead Husband To Wife Will Make You Melt
Airline Crew....Gone Wild!
Meet a 9-Year Old Genius
Mom's Response To Her Daughter Calling Her Fat
3-Year-Old Caught Red-Faced in the Sprinkle Jar (But Wait Until You Hear His Denials)
California no longer requiring eighth graders to take Algebra
Could this 'Star Trek' headband help banish migraines?
Man's Startling Claim Against an IRS Agent
MTV Renews ‘Buckwild’ For Season 2
How Much TIme Do You Spend Cyber Loafing? A Lot Apparently
First Grader Becomes Youngest Person To Develop Mobile Game App
Flash Mob Mayhem: New York Powerless
Library Gives Free Pole Dancing Lessons To Help Boost Attendance
Feds Consider Tax on....Pot
Purple Patch of Mysterious Jelly-Like Spheres Found in Ariz. Desert
School District considers copyright policy that takes ownership of students’ work
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/02/04/blame-beyonce-boomer-told-of-2-power-outages-during-halftime-rehearsals/
‘I Give God 10%’ Tip Story Takes Interesting Twist: Pastor Revealed & the Waitress Has Allegedly Been Fired
Woman Headed To Granddaughter's Recital Cited 4 Times For Speeding
Police Accused of Cuffing 7-Year-Old & Interrogating Him for Hours Over $5
Family Pet Survives 30 YEARS Living in a Record Player Box Inside Filthy Storage Room
6-Year-Old Expelled for Bringing Toy Gun to School
Cats: Natural Born Killers?
Taco Bell pulls Super Bowl ad after allegations that it’s insensitive to vegetable lovers [VIDEO]
Students read Pledge of Allegiance...in Arabic
The Cutest Sporting Event of the Year!

See the phoots!
Texas Inmate, Set To Be First Woman Executed In U.S. Since 2010
Man Arrested in Ohio After Posting Photo With Baby, Gun
A man is being held on $2,000 bond after he was accused of posting a photo on Facebook that showed him with a baby and a gun.
Nickel from 1913 likely to fetch millions
Home Sells for $117.5 Million!

It's the highest-priced residential sales ever in the U.S.
Couple Finds Evidence of 'Big Foot', They Say
Can Taylor Swift and Tim Tebow just date already?
Powerball Winners Surprise Their Small Town.
Last year, Mark and Cindy Hill made a pledge as they received their portion of the largest Powerball jackpot in history.
Coins Sells for 70 Times Its Value
A man who died in a climbing accident unknowingly bequeathed a valuable inheritance to his family - a rare coin struck after the turbulent birth of the United States.
5th Grader Shows Paper Gun; Searched in Front of Class
Melody Valentins grandfather had made her the gun " which resembled a piece of paper with a chunk torn out of it " the day before, and she stuck it in her pocket and forgot about it.
Soccer Star Ejected After Kicking Ball Boy in the Ribs — and Cameras Caught It All (VIDEO)
Is this Super Bowl ad too sexy?

Mercedes ad getting attention even before the game on Feb. 3.
"I'm in," Star Says of "Saved by the Bell" Renion
"Saved By The Bell" Reunion: "I'm In
Is there a Dirty Facebook Secret?
Who Will Play Ronald Reagan in the Coming Movie?
Pope on social networking: the virtual is real
Pope Benedict XVI put Catholic Church leaders on notice Thursday, saying social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter aren't a virtual world they can ignore, but rather a very real world they must engage if they want to spread the faith to the next generation.
Waiter Refuses to Serve 'Discriminatory' Customers
The waiter was offended and said he would not serve them, so they left.
This Is a ‘Beast’ of a Chicken Egg (VIDEO)
Sean Wilson posted a video showing what he calls a beast of an egg.
Sheryl Crow Talks About Lance Armstrong
Crow sat for the interview with Entertainment Tonight in order to address rumors she knew about Lance's illicit use of performance-enhancing drugs for years.
Mother Dismayed When 4-Year-Old Goes to Dentist for Routine Procedure and Comes Out Looking Like This (Image)
Loyal Dog Continues to Attend Mass Every Day at Church Where His Owner’s Funeral Was Held
China Seizes TVs
http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/01/15/sometimes-brutal-honesty-is-the-best-policy-check-out-the-viral-cover-letter-sweeping-wall-street/
The cover letter is unapologetically honest and people on Wall Street are calling it one of the best letters they have seen.
http://www.myfoxorlando.com/story/20596310/400k-in-diamonds-stolen-from-car-parked-at-orlando-restaurant
It is not clear why the victim had diamonds in his possession, or why he did not take them inside the restaurant with him while he was eating.
Bill Clinton: Hillary's "Got Time To Have Three More Husbands" (VIDEO)
What he said about Hillary's future husbands.
Big News for 'Same Name' Couple
Shes a Florida girl, and Im a Texas guy, the husband says.
Woman Solves 'Wheel' Puzzle with One Letter (VIRAL VIDEO)
She "had a good feeling" about it.
See the Half Court Shot Everyone's Talking About
A fan somehow landed the ball on the back edge of the rim...and it got stuck there!
200 Brawl at Baby Shower
It was a violent brawl at a Massachusetts baby shower in which bottles and punches were thrown and furniture was smashed.
Why Everyone is Buzzing About This Photo
Many are touting the image as a shining symbol of love and dedication.
Teacher Sues After Officials Demand She Remove Bible Verses, Religious Items From Classroom

A Christian high school teacher in Cheektowaga, N.Y., is suing her employer after district officials told her to take personal signs and religious items out of her classroom.
Oh those Beauty Queens...
Miss California (Leah Cecil) thought euthanasia was a vaccine.
An "Armed Fortress" Neighborhood
The group, named Citadel, intends to purchase 2,000 to 3,000 acres for the project in western Idaho.
Is This the World's Worst Landlord?
When actress Laura Evelyn inspected an apartment for rent in London, she says that she was handed a typed list of 31 "house rules" by her potential landlord.
Images Showing a Red Dust Storm Overtaking Australia’s Coast Are Breathtaking
Western Australia was exposed to a haboob " a large dust storm " earlier this week, which resulted in stunning images of a massive, red wall of dust as it approached Onslow.
Valuable Items Recovered at Goodwill
When a keen-eyed employee at Goodwill came across a striking painting of a woman sipping a cup of tea, she knew well enough to set it aside.
Meet The ‘Meanest Mother In Wyoming’ — Another Example Of Good Parenting?
This advertisement is burning up the Internet and will probably end up being featured on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
10 words/phrases the FBI may be searching for in your emails
New software co-developed with the FBI might allow companies to sift through employees emails to identify a problem before its too late. Here are 10 words/phrases they're looking for.
Dancing Baby ‘Storms the Stage’ During Dad’s Christian Concert — and Steals the Show (VIDEO)
Christian Singer Coffey Anderson was in for a surprise when he performed at a New Years Eve concert in Irving, Texas. As he was smack-dab in the middle of a song, his young son stormed the stage and began dancing feverishly. The crowd, naturally, loved it.
Restaurant Turns to Facebook to catch Tip Jar Thief
The restaurant owners chose not to file a formal report, but they have been in contact with the sheriff's Office where a representative says social media has changed the landscape of law enforcement.
Is this the Best Pickpocketer in the World?

Although you might not consider pickpocking anything but a crime, perhaps after watching a man considered one of the best pickpocketers in the world, youll see a bit of art in the practice.
A Fork That Watches What You Eat?

The $99 HAPIfork, available this spring, uses sensors to monitor its movement from plate to mouth.
Loyal Italian Cat, Toldo, Brings Gifts To Owner's Grave (Photos)
A loyal cat has been bringing his owner small gifts everyday in a show of affection. The catch? The cat's owner has been dead for over a year.
Something Odd Seen on Mars (Photos)
New photos of Mars from NASA's Curiosity rover have sparked a buzz of discussion over an odd formation that some have dubbed a "flower" embedded in a Martian rock.
Musician Recovers iPhone From Thief Using a Computer, $20 and a Hammer
While out on the town on New Years Eve, 27-year-old musician Nadav Nirenberg lost his iPhone in the back of a cab. But...
President for Life?
Congressman reintroduced a bill to repeal the 22nd amendment establishing term limits for the president.
Town Offers $25 to Incinerate Video Games
A Connecticut town thirty miles from Sandy Hook will give people $25 to incinerate their violent video games.
Armed Police Officers Booted from Denny's Restaurant

An Illinois police chief is ordering his officers to get their pancakes from anywhere but Dennys, calling the restaurant political stupidness.
Coming Soon

Illinois Headlines

Gambling sponsor withdraws name from bill

Ill. House: Senate pension plan saves less money

State police scientist testifies at Beason trial

Illinois Senate overrides 'Smart Grid' veto

Dozen arrests at mine worker rally

Ill. tea party makes call to action at IRS protest

'Bishop' would-be pipe bomber gets 37 years

NIU administrator to retire after FBI probe

Man pleads guilty to fatally stabbing Bears fan

Ill. House committee approves Medicaid expansion

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Your Voice. Your Future.
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Watch extra news footage, full interviews, and extended stories that didn't make it on air. "Raw News" may include content that is not suitable for children and is intended for mature ...
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Home Room
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No Text Zone
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Pet of the Week
The cutest video you'll see anywhere! You won't be able to resist these adorable friends who need someone to love them.
Cruisin' Illinois
Get your motor running! Find out about the latest events and activities for central Illinois motorcycle enthusiasts.
Illinois Central
Every week Illinois Central brings you the stories about the people in central Illinois. From our weekly Cruisin' Illinois segment, which features motorcycle culture, to the arts and everything in between, ...
Waste Watch
How are your tax dollars being spent? Waste Watch tracks whether local, state and federal governments are using your money wisely...or wasting it.
Washington Guardian
The Washington Guardian is an online newspaper committed to providing watchdog journalism from the nation's capital aimed at safeguarding everyday Americans' tax dollars, security and freedoms.
Health Care Reform
The Supreme Court ruling to uphold the Affordable Care Act sparked a new battle. Check here daily for the latest developments, locally and across the country.