State News

Phelps Aims to Speed Up Coal Mining Approval Process, Cut Government Red Tape

Monday, March 21 by Jc Tinsley

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To help stimulate the local economy, state Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg, introduced legislation making it easier for coal companies to receive approval of mining applications. “Coal is vital to Southern Illinois’ economy and despite recent efforts by President Obama and...

IEMA Reminds People About Weather Alert Radio Contest

Friday, March 18 by Jc Tinsley

SPRINGFIELD – Nearly 50 weather warnings were issued Tuesday evening across the northern half of Illinois, including 19 tornado warnings. Several tornado touchdowns were reported, resulting in damage to dozens of structures. Fortunately, it appears no serious injuries or deaths resulted from the storms. James...

Illinois State Police Committed to Community Relations‏

Friday, March 18 by Jc Tinsley

Along with our commitment to keeping Illinois’ roadways and communities safe, officials with the Illinois State Police (ISP) continue to work on ensuring we maintain a trusted and positive relationship with the citizens of Illinois. From sports and youth camps,...

SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST ANNOUNCES BI-ANNUAL SNAKE ROAD CLOSURE

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

HARRISBURG, Ill. (March 14, 2016) – On March 15, 2016, the Shawnee National Forest will temporarily close LaRue Road #345 (also known as the Snake Road) between mile post 3.0 and mile post 5.8. This section of the road will remain closed until May...

Phelps Expresses Anger, Disappointment Over Lack of FEMA Funding

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

State Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg, issued the following statement Thursday after receiving word that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied Illinois’ request for flood assistance:“I think it is absolutely ridiculous that we were denied assistance from FEMA for the flooding...

Phelps Continues Fight to Stop Retirement Tax, Calls on Residents to Sign Petition Backing His Efforts

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

As residents gather their documents and prepare to file their taxes, state Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg, is renewing his call Thursday to join him in his fight to oppose a tax on retirement income. “Tax season is a painful reminder for some folks...

ANNUAL OZARK TOUR TO HIGHLIGHT WATERFALLS AND WILDFLOWERS

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

HARRISBURG, Ill. (MARCH 11, 2016) – Several interested citizens and civic groups have partnered with the Shawnee National Forest to relive Trigg’s Trails, Tours and Detours, also known as the Ozark Tours. Experience the extraordinary scenic beauty of this region by embarking in the...

Shimkus: ISIL is Committing Genocide

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

Ratcheting up pressure on the State Department, Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) supported bipartisan House legislation today to recognize the atrocities committed by the Islamic State, also known as ISIL or ISIS, as acts of genocide.“These Islamists are beheading people across...

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE ANNOUNCES UPCOMING REACCREDITATION ASSESSMENT

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

The Illinois State Police (ISP) will undergo its 8th reaccreditation assessment by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) beginning on April 11. For four days, a team of CALEA assessors will examine all aspects of ISP...

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE AND AMERICAN LEGION OFFICIALS PREPARE FOR SUMMER YOUTH POLICE PROGRAM

Thursday, March 17 by Jc Tinsley

Officials with the Illinois State Police (ISP) and the American Legion announce plans for the 44th Annual American Legion Youth Police Camp (ALYPC). The camp will again be held at the Illinois State Police Academy in...