Illinois Summary - 10/31/11

Major Issues Still On Table In Springfield

(Springfield, IL)  --  Several major issues are still in limbo after lawmakers wrapped up their first week of veto session.  There's still no word on whether they'll give Governor Quinn more money so 19-hundred state workers can keep their jobs.  Passing a supplemental budget without an additional revenue stream will mean drastic cuts to other state programs.  Gaming enthusiasts say adding more casinos and slots at racetracks across the state will pour millions into the state's bank account, but lawmakers have yet to address the issue.  Quinn is expected to meet with legislative leaders this week to strike a deal on gaming.

Strike At SIU Carbondale Could Come This Week

(Carbondale, IL)  --  Officials at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale have just four days to strike a deal with union workers before they head to the picket lines.  Members of four different unions are set to strike Thursday if no deal is reached.  The employeess have been working without a contract for more than

a year now.  They'd hoped a strike authorization would show university officials they were serious about moving forward with contract negotiations, but they say they still haven't seen any progress.  The idea of a strike causes concern for city officials and business owners because they say it will have a major impact on the local economy.

Woman Dead After Falling From Construction Scaffolding On University Campus

(Bloomiongton, IL)  --  One woman in is dead after falling from construction scaffolding near a dormitory last night.  Authorities at Illinois State University are not releasing the woman's name but say she was not a student.  Eye witnesses told the "Daily Vidette" the woman climbed the scaffolding and then jumped while authorities tried to talk her down.  Students who need counseling can contact Student Counseling Services.

Man Found Dead At Granite City Steel Mill

(Granite City, IL)  --  Authorities in Granite City are investigating the death of a man whose body was found at the Granite City Works of U.S. Steel early yesterday morning.  Co-workers discovered Dennis C. Courtaway's body in a carbon monoxide filled area of the mill.  He was not wearing the appropriate breathing or safety gear.  A preliminary investigation indicates Courtaway entered the hazardous zone with the intentions of taking his own life.  Officials say they found what could be a suicide note in one of the mill's offices.

Redbox Rentals Going Up

(Oakbrook Terrace, IL)  --  Redbox rental prices are going up today.  Officials at the Illinois based company say increased debit card fees are forcing them to raise the price of DVD rentals from one dollar to one dollar and 20 cents.  The price of Blu-ray discs and games won't change, though, they'll stay at one-50 and two dollars a night.  The company enjoyed a 99-percent profit rise last quarter, but some financial analysts say the increased rental cost could drive some customers away.

Deer, Driver Accidents Increase This Time Of Year

(Springfield, IL)  --  State officials say drivers should look out for deer on the roadways this time of year.  Josh Kauffman with the Department of Transportation says most deer cross roads at dusk and dawn, so drivers should be particularly cautious during those times.  IDOT reports more than 17-thousand crashes involving cars and deer last year, most of which occurred on rural roads.