Our Resolution: More Blogging!

Hello friends!

As you can see, it's been a couple of months since we've blogged. I know, you're disappointed. But we're going to try to get back on the horse in the new year, and bring you additional information, and behind the scenes fun from News 3 This Morning.

Check back with the blog Monday when we'll share recipes that involve January's fruit & vegetable of the month. Perfect for those who resolve to be healthy in 2011! Also on Monday's morning show- our Smart Money segment with David England. He'll take your questions about gold, silver, and pensions. If there's anything you'd like us to ask, leave a comment here, or email news3am@wsiltv.com . And... we're working on booking a spokesman for the Better Business Bureau out of St. Louis to tell us how to stay scam-free in the new year!

For now, take a look back at some of our favorite memories from 2010. Thursday on the morning show, we aired a little "Year-in-Review" compilation. It includes a number of highlights, like Kevin getting tased, zombies and reptiles invading the set, and more. Click here to check it out!

Stay safe during your New Year's Eve celebrations, and join us bright and early Monday starting at 5:30 am!

Emily

Kick off November with Us!

Good Morning! Here's a quick rundown of the stories we're working on for this morning's show! We're on the air starting at 5:30 am, and you can also join us on our Cover it Live chat to discuss these stories and more!

• Investigators are looking into a mail bomb plot that was barely averted over the weekend.
• 38,000 bottles of Lipitor are being recalled- we'll have the details.
• Nascar was in Talladega over the weekend- our Racing Superfan has a wrap-up.
• We'll have a live phone interview with green party candidate for governor, Rich Whitney
• Can brain size impact your waist size? We'll tackle that topic in To Your Health.

Together Again!

Good Morning! The News 3 This Morning crew is back together again. We hope you'll join us starting at 5:30 am for the latest news headlines & the Weather on the 3's. Dont' forget- we're up and running on our Cover it Live chat during the morning show. Let us know what you think about stories in the news, or anything else of interest!

• Wild Weather... a look at the crazy conditions across the country, and what's in store for our forecast.
• Gambling Expansion... some expect lawmakers to expand Illinois' gambling system in a matter of months. Are you in favor of it?
• No money... no cars? The Harrisburg police department has several cars out of commission... because the city can't come up with money for repairs.
• Throw a Bash with a Little Cash... We'll offer several ways to save money on your Halloween party.
• Tricks & Treats of Personal Finance... sticking with the Halloween theme- CFP Jeff Rose tells you waht to look out for. Click Here to visit his blog.
• Winterize Your Skin... how to combat that dry, itchy feeling!

Join us starting at 5:30 am for the only local morning show in HD!

Windy Day Ahead

Good Tuesday morning.

We are off to a windy start this morning. Clint is monitoring the situation from the News 3 Weather Center. Several parts of the viewing area are under a tornado watch until noon on Tuesday. Tune in to News 3 for the very latest.

Other stories we're working on...

A Union County woman who police say was kidnapped Monday night, has been found alive. She's been taken to the hospital for treatment, and the suspect, her ex-boyfriend has been arrested. We'll have an update.

Firefighters in Cambria and Carterville have been battling fires all night. Five of them in Cambria alone.

Tech Tuesday highlights include a new partnership between the creators of Farmville and Facebook, the latest technology from Apple, and the death of the Sony Walkman. Rest in Peace...

Halloween isn't just about dressing up and eating lots of candy. Certified Financial Planner Jeff Rose talks about the tricks and treats of your money.

Join us starting at 5:30 a.m. And remember, you can chat with us on Cover it Live. http://www.wsiltv.com/p/news_details.php?newsID=6741&type=top

Happy Monday

Good Monday morning. Kevin and Clint are back from their respective vacations (no they were not together. :D) And Emily is taking a much deserved couple of days off.

Here's a look at what we're working on this morning:

Midterm Elections are just 8 days away. What's the latest on the national front? We'll take a closer look.

Parents will want to know more about ateething tablet recall. Hyland's Teething Tablets are coming under fire.

Denny Hamlin shines in the NASCAR race from over the weekend. Where is he in the Chase for the Cup? Our racing superfan sorts it out, and has a story that local race fans will get revved up over.

A couple of Cairo businesses burned in a weekend fire. Crews are still putting out hot spots and the fire marshall is expected to arrive on the scene later today.

It's wedding bells for a couple of celebrity couples. See who tied the knot over the weekend.

All bets are off this morning as we look at the debate over gambling. John Jackson from the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute offers some insight as to whether legalized gambling can help pull the state out of its financial woes.

Many will be trick of treating by the end of the week, but make sure your costume, and your kids' is a safe one. We'll offer some advice in our To Your Health segment.

The Countdown to Halloween is On!

Earlier this week we asked for your festive fall pictures! Here's one emailed to us at news3am@wsiltv.com from Kristin Stewart from McLeansboro. She has 28 pumpkins in her front yard. Thanks for the great picture, Kristin!

There are lots of Halloween-related events popping up around the region. Today we'll preview two of them during the morning show. We'll hear all about the "Haunted Hallows" at Touch of Nature in Carbondale. Also, an event with the goal of sharing- not scaring. The Grand Avenue Pumpkin Run is happening on Halloween- and the event raises money for Green Earth Inc., as well as a mission trip to Africa.

Other stories we're working on this morning that we hope you'll discuss on our Cover it Live chat!

• Women are more skin-savvy than men... according to a new report, more females are asking for skin cancer screenings.
• Sorry men, but another study says women give more to charity! Feel free to debate the issue on Cover it Live!
• Recalls-- Strollers and Toyotas (again!) We'll have the details on both.
• First it was Snookie... now Jersey Shore's "The Situation" is writing a book. He calls it "The Bible for the Situation Nation".... would you read it?
• 3 Adorable Pets of the Week! A terrier, a cocker spaniel, and a dauschund.
• Eat This, Not That-- Snack food edition!
• Last night Bill Brady & Pat Quinn took part in a debate in Chicago. We'll have a full recap.

Join us for these stories and more starting at 5:30 am!

Carving up a Great Tuesday!

Good Morning! Hope you're having a good Tuesday so far. Have you carved up a pumpkin yet this season? Today we're offering some tips! News 3 Meteorologist Katie Walls crafted this paw-print pumpkin. We'll learn her secrets in our 6:00 half hour. And if you have a creative pumpkin, email your pictures to news3am@wsiltv.com

Other stories we're working on for today's show...

• The latest on a Saline County gas plant's goals for re-opening, following yesterday's explosion and fire.
• The mid-term election is 2 weeks away... we'll have the details on the coast to coast campaigning.
• A 12 pound tumor on a man's face?? How doctors successfully removed it.
• A Union County pastor is not fit to stand trial. Details on Bill Vandergraph's court hearing yesterday.
• Tech Tuesday... We're talking about several high tech gizmos... including one that could PAY you for driving safe & avoiding your cell phone!
• Making Strides Against Breast Cancer-- this event is coming up this weekend. We'll explain in a live interview.

Join us for these stories and much more starting at 5:30 am!

And share your comments on our Cover it Live chat!

All Girl Week on News 3 This Morning

Good Morning! How was your weekend? We're working on this morning's show- but it's kind of a different crew. Kevin & Clint are both on vacation, so Christen & Emily will bring you the news, and Meteorologist Katie Walls will have the weather. A rare all-female show! We'll also have some video updates this week from Kevin's Disney World vacation!

Here are some other stories we hope you'll weigh-in on-- on our Cover it Live chat.

• Some of the country's biggest names in politics are campaigning, and fundraising for their party's candidates. We'll have a wrap-up.
• Do you suffer from fibromyalgia? See why yoga might be a good treatment for the condition.
• Our Racing Superfan recap's the weekend's race at Charlotte!
• Authorities are investigating a weekend fire in Sesser... we'll have an update.
• Saying goodbye to the woman who played June Cleaver... Barbara Billingsley passes away at age 94. That story and more- in the Buzz report.
• Southern Illinoisans who're part of the Marion Medical Mission return from Africa. We'll hear about their efforts to provide clean drinking water, and the obstacles they've run into.
• Could doodling actually be productive for kids in class? We'll see what the experts have to say.
• The whole enchilada.... just got a whole lot bigger! We'll show you in our Video of the Day.

We're on the air starting at 5:30 am!

Tune in for the only local news in high definition!



Happy Thursday!

Miner Luis Urzua alongside President Sebastian Pinera

courtesy: hurriyetdailynews.com

We say "Happy Thursday"... but that's probably an understatement for the Chilean miners who've spent two months trapped underground, and have now been reuinted with their families. All 33 were safely rescued in a matter of 22 hours. Were you watching TV coverage as the miners were brought to the surface? As you think about what they've been through- has it changed your outlook on life?

Other stories we're working on for Thursday's show...

• Too much testing? Are doctors ordering you to take more tests than necessary? A closer look at the issue in medical news.
• Debate Tonight! The candidates for goveror-- Pat Quinn, Bill Brady, and Rich Whitney will debate tonight at SIU. It airs live tonight on PBS at 8 pm, and will be re-broadcast on WSIL at 11:05.
• Pets of the Week! We'll introduce you to Reign, Pippa, and Stewart... animals up for adoption at local shelters.
• Livestrong Program... Southern Illinois Healthcare is hoping for your votes to receive grand money for the new Cancer Transitions program.
• Eat This, Not That... It's all about Halloween candy!
• Pumpkin Smash... Elephants get to eat, and play with pumpkins at the Indianapolis Zoo. Stay with us till the end-- That's our video of the day!

Discuss these stories and more on our Cover it Live chat!

Start your day with us from 5:30 to 7:00 am!

News 3 This Morning Joins the Bra Brigade

Have you caught a glimpse of this scene as you travel route 13 in Carterville? Bras are hanging from the River Radio building... it's part of a breast cancer awareness & fundraising campaign headed up by z100's Kent Zimmer & Julie Ingram known as the Bra Brigade. They're asking women across southern Illinois to donate a bra and $10. The money goes to the Southern Illinois Healthcare "Women with Hope" program. Today on News 3 This Morning- we're switching things up in our 6:30 half hour. Emily will head over to z100, and Julie will come to the WSIL studio (we're neighbors, so it's easy) to talk about the Bra Brigade project. We'll be live at both locations!

Some other stories we're working on for this morning's show...

• Miner Rescues- some have already been brought to the surface, and these rescues will continue all day today and into tomorrow. We'll have live reports from ABC in Chile.
• Not Guilty Plea...Robbie Mueller appears in Perry Co. Court. He's accused of shooting & strangling fellow teen Sidnee Stephens in July.
• Hand Sanitizer- do you encourage your child to use it? It might not be the best idea. We'll explain in medical news.
• A longer wait at Starbucks?? If you rely on some Starbucks to get your day going... you may want to set the alarm clock back a few minutes. Details in business news.
• Trying to lose weight? We'll tell you how rearranging the fridge can cause you to make healthier choices.
• Thrifty Costumes... We'll share 3 Ways to Save on Halloween costumes, along with your advice!

We're the only local morning show in HD!

Join us starting at 5:30... and chat about the news on Cover it Live!

Good Tuesday Morning!

Good Morning everyone! How's Tuesday treating you so far? Here's a look at some of the stories you'll see today on News 3 This Morning... Feel free to join our Cover it Live chat to share your opinions!

• Trapped Miners- it's expected to be their last day underground. The latest on preps to rescue them.
• A stem cell treatment is used on a human for the first time- we'll have the details.
• A skydiver takes 3 HOURS to reach the ground! He encountered an obstacle along the way.
• Tech Tuesday! The latest high tech headlines...Would you feel safe in an automobile that can drive itself? Also- the top reasons for "de-friending" on Facebook.
• A group of Carterville high school students continues to raise money for the Connor Fenton Memorial Scholarship fund. How you can support the cause.
• Imagine heading to a yard sale to get some Halloween decorations-- and then you get a REAL skeleton!
• Eldorado residents say they're fed up with run down properties in town. We'll tell you how the city plans to tackle the problem.

We're on the air starting at 5:30 am...

The ONLY local morning show in HD!

Happy Columbus Day!

courtesy: Illuminati News

Good Morning & Happy Columbus Day! That's a picture of Mr. Columbus right there. Do you have the day off today? How are you planning to spend it? Here's a look at the news we're working on for today's show...

• The trapped miners in Chile could be free within days. We'll have the latest on the progress. 
• Are you the owner of a 2010 or 2011 Mercedes? Certain models are being recalled. Look for the details in our State of the Economy report. 
• Our Racing Superfan had an interesting experience with some Junior Dragsters at the I-57 Dragstrip!
• Hungry? We'll show you 8,000 FEET of sandwiches! And explain why such a thing exists.
• A soldier who's battled post traumatic stress disorder tries to help others. We'll have his story.
• The latest stock market info in our Money Monday segment with David England!
• A local rotary club is handing out free dictionaries to 3rd graders! Details in a live interview.
• Governor Pat Quinn is in town today... more on that and a recap of the Giannoulais/Kirk debate

We're on the air starting at 5:30 am!

Can't get us on TV? Watch online HERE

Going to War!

We're going old school this morning on News 3.  It's the annual Civil War Days on the campus of John A. Logan College.  We'll hear from a man impersonating Gen. Robert E. Lee.  Also, the keynote speaker who will focus on President Abraham Lincoln.  We'll end the show with a bang and fire the cannon off again.  So Carterville residents, prepare for a boom around 6:58.

Medical news this morning, we'll look at why mothers are encouraged to give up on alcohol during pregnancy.

And we'll break down the nutritional information in Girl Scout Cookies and Boy Scout popcorn.

Best of all, we're now in HD.  WSIL is the first station in the market to broadcast in high defintion.

Click here to chat.

We Go to the Dogs This Morning

Good Wednesday morning!  Weiner dogs are helping to raise money and awareness for children's health issues.  Look for more on that story around 6:39 this morning.

Here are some of the other stories we're working on today...

5:34 a.m. The U.S. Supreme Court takes up with issue of protestors at military funerals.  You may remember members of the Westboro Church in Kansas showed up in southern Illinois a few years ago.

5:55 a.m. Is it divine intervention or just a coincidence?  A woman claims she sees the face of Jesus on her MRI.  We'll take a closer look and let you decide.

6:09 a.m. More evidence the economy is improving.  Americans are cutting back on luxury buys, and that's making a difference.

6:25 a.m. Business is up for dollar stores around the country.  We'll offer 3 Ways to Save when shopping at these stores and show you some of the best bargains there.

6:39 a.m. Ready, Set, Go!  The annual Weiner Dog Races return to the Kids Fest in Anna this weekend.  The event is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Anna City Park.  The dogs run at 2:30 p.m.

6:47 a.m. The little blue pill Viagra could be a life saver from some infants.  We'll take a closer look in To Your Health.

Join us for these stories and more, plus your weather forecast every 10 minutes. Chat with us on Cover it Live.  See you at 5:30 !

Is the Economy Improving?

Good Morning! In today's State of the Economy report- we're sharing some numbers on how Americans feel about the economy. Here's a sneak peek....

• 31% of Americans believe the economy is improving (up 7% from last month)
• 71% of Americans are dissatisfied with the government's handling of the economy (down 7% from last month)

We hope you'll share your opinion on our Cover it Live chat this morning from 5:30 to 7:00 am. We're working on these stories too!

• The city of Marion officially established a Star Bond district at last night's meeting. The vote was unanimous. We'll tell you what this means for the destination development project.
• If you're having trouble losing weight, try getting a good night's sleep! Details in medical news.
• What are your thoughts on the races for Governor & U.S. Senate? See if your opinion matches up with the latest polls.
• Tech Tuesday! We're talking about Google TV, a high-tech bar tab... and much more.
• October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Don't miss our live interview... letting you know the signs, and how you can help a friend in need.
• It's one of the most common health problems among children-- iron deficiency. Kevin tells you what to look out for, and how to correct it.
• Got an idea for a great Halloween costume? Many people say they'd like to dress up as ex-governor Rod Blagojevich!

Tune in starting at 5:30 a.m.!

Feeling like Fall!

Good Morning Everyone! Sure does feel like fall outside! Join us starting at 5:30 a.m. to see how the rest of the day- and the rest of the week is shaping up weather-wise. Clint brings you the forecast at the top of each half hour- and on the 3's.

Here's a look at some of the stories in the news this morning... We hope you'll log on to our Cover it Live chat to discuss them!

• Terror Alert - tourists headed to Europe are issued a warning from the government
• Can too much time on a laptop give you a problematic skin condition? Details in medical news.
• Verizon customers could be getting some credits/refunds... learn more in our State of the Economy report.
• Nascar Recap & local racing highlights! Our Superfan joins us with a full wrap-up
• Looking for an opportunity to give the gift of life? We'll tell you about a blood drive happening this week on the SIU campus.
• Paris Hilton is coming back to the small screen with a new show. Yep!
• You know him from Money Monday.... but David England is bringing back "Financial Friday" on the John A. Logan college campus. He'll join us to explain.
• A heads up for those who travel interstate 57 at night- there's some construction to be aware of.

We're on the air starting at 5:30 a.m.!

Can't get us on TV? Watch online HERE

Who's Hungry?

Yep... that's a foot-long burger. We'll tell you where it comes from- and explore the other foot-long sandwich trends in today's Eat This, Not That segment. You may be surprised at what sandwich is the least healthy!

Other headlines we hope to discuss on our Cover it Live chat (starting at 5:30 a.m.)

• Mammograms... how effective are they? We'll have the latest research
• Stamp prices are going up today- find out how high...
• 3 high school football teams are undefeated- find out what makes them so successful
• Have you noticed the 100 foot sunflower along route 13? We'll show you the installation.
• Jersey Shore's Snookie is writing a book. Will you read it? Be honest...
• Pets of the Week! We have 3 to show you!
• Bill Brady & Pat Quinn debated in Chicago... Green Party candidate Rich Whitney wasn't invited, and spent the time protesting instead. Should he have been included?
• Art & Wine are the focus of a weekend festival in Carbondale. Tune in for the details.

Join us starting at 5:30 am!

What's on your mind?

Good Morning! Chances are, when you watch the news... you have something to say about the stories you see. When you're up checking your email or facebook in the morning- we have one more place we'd like you to visit. Our Cover it Live chat is a great way to share your feedback- and talk directly with Kevin & Emily during the newscast. Your comments might be posted on the air! It's designed to be a news chat, but there's lots of fun as well. We'd love to have you! The chat is up and running every weekday from 5:30 to 7:00 a.m. Just click the icon below! (or in our sidebar).

Some of the topics & stories we'll discuss this morning...

• Local News First... headlines from John A. Logan College, Hardin County, and Eldorado.
• Terror Plots against Europe & possibly the US? Law enforcement take an incident at the Eiffel Tower as a warning.
• "Put Illinois to Work"... as federal funding for this program runs out, the state will continue to pay for this jobs program temporarily. Is that a good plan?
• 3 Ways to Save- Do you love to tailgate, but don't love the cost of getting the party together? We'll have some money-saving advice. Please share your own tips as well!
• Shop with a Cop- Christmas is months away... but funds are needed for the Shop with a Cop program... which allows kids in need to get some items on their Christmas wishlist. Details on a wrestling event that will support this cause in a live interview. (Kevin will not be wrestling this time :)

Get Ready to Rumble on Tuesday!

Good Morning! If you're a loyal News 3 This Morning viewer- chances are, you're aware of Kevin Hunsperger's love for wrestling...

Why stop at just dressing like a warrior? Today Kevin explores the world of mixed martial arts on live TV. He'll demonstrate some moves along with trained fighter Josh Hewlett of Marion. Yes, we will have a mat :)

Other news we're working on today...

• President Obama tries to rally young people to support Democrats in the upcoming election. Is that really enough?
• The Happy Meal goes on trial in one California city! What do you think about banning toys from meals? Will it deter kids from eating unhealthy food?
• There's a new sheriff in Gallatin County... We'll have the full story on Raymond Martin getting booted from office.
• TECH TUESDAY! A text message arrest, freedom from Farmville updates on Facebook, and much more.
• Local folks are in Africa installing wells to provide clean drinking water there. We'll have an update on the efforts of Marion Medical Mission.
• Our video of the day... a man has a very unique relationship with his CROCODILE! Interesting stuff.

Discuss these stories and more on our Cover it Live chat- there's a link on the right!

It's a busy day with lots to talk about! Plus your Weather on the 3's!

Monday's Agenda!

Good Morning! Feeling like fall outside today. Here's a look at the stories we're working on for today's show...

• BREAKING NEWS- a high speed chase through Williamson & Franklin counties leads to a major meth bust... authorities say it may be one of the largest in southern Illinois. We'll have the details.
• Medical news... we'll tell you about a procedure that can decrease a person's risk for stroke. Also, the cost of treating cancer is on the rise...
• Racing Superfan... Ross brings us a wrap-up of Nascar action in Dover
• Money Monday... David England tells us about the rising value of Gold & Silver
• The Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra is about to kick-off a new season. We'll tell you all about it in a live interview in our 6:30 half hour.
• Traffic Alert! Some specific areas to avoid around the route 13 expansion project- also some road work in Perry County to tell you about.

Join us on our Cover it Live chat starting at 5:30 am!

(there's a link in the right sidebar!)

Have a GREAT day!

Our special guests!

Here's a look at our stars of the show this morning! A baby alligator and a gila monster!

photos courtesy Scott Gross

TGIF! Hunting & Fishing Days Preview

Good Morning! We're getting ready for the show... lots in store- including an alligator and a gila monster live on the set! It's part of a preview for this weekend's Hunting & Fishing Days at John A. Logan College.  The event includes lots of fun presentations- including the Dock Dogs as you see below!

We have lots of other stories making headlines today as well...

• The latest on several southern Illinois court cases- including Gallatin Co. Sheriff Raymond Martin, former Saline Co. Deputy Todd Fort, Austin Sandefur, and more.
• Our Racing Superfan previews this weekend's race in our 5:30 half hour
• The gator is live on the set during the 6:30 half hour!
• A sneak peek at this week's Unsung Hero
• Did you notice the Facebook outage yesterday afternoon? Many people took the opportunity to put out some witty Tweets on the topic.

Join us starting at 5:30 am!

And don't forget to sign in to the Cover it Live chat to talk with Kevin & Emily during the show!

You've got questions? We've got answers!

Hello friends!
Just wanted to give you a heads up about a new feature here on our blog... you may notice there's a box in the right sidebar that says "Ask Anything!" this is our Formspring account. Basically you can ask anonymous questions, and we'll answer them! If you've ever wondered about the makings of a newscast, what happens behind the scenes, or how we do the news, just ask! We'll answer the questions here, and if it's successful- we may answer on the air or in a special segment on our blog or website. Our main Formpsring page can be accessed here: http://www.formspring.me/News3AM 

Happy First Full Day of Fall!

Good Morning!! Happy Thursday. It's the first full day of fall! We have lots to talk about on the show today... including the history of Alexander County and Cairo. The Friends of Cairo & Alexander County Tourism are hosting a bus tour Saturday- it starts at 9 at the Custom House Museum, and ends at 3. We'll have the details in a live interview... and talk about what makes Alexander County history so interesting. There is definitely some amazing architecture around Cairo- check out this pic we found on the Friends of Cairo Facebook Page...

Also happening today on News 3 This Morning...

• Former Saline County Deputy Todd Fort has been arrested again- we'll have the latest in Local News First.
• Prices at the pump are expected to go down... but the cost of certain coffee drinks at Starbucks is on the way up. Details in our State of the Economy report.
• A man in an ape suit on an ATV get's arrested... you'll see why!
• Efforts are underway to preserve the Eurma Hayes Center in Carbondale. More on that in a live interview.
• Could a former Bachelor on the ABC hit show be brought back to try it again?? Details in the Buzz report.
• Looking for a furry friend? We have 2 Pets of the Week to tell you about today.
• Eat This Not That... the focus is on Thai Food. Perfect segment to watch if you're concerned about making a healthy choice.

Join us starting at 5:30 am!

Also- join our Cover it Live chat (click the link on the right side) to share your thoughts on some of the stories mentioned above!

Good Morning! It's Wednesday...

Good Morning! We've made it halfway through the week. Here are some of the things you'll see on Wednesday's show! And don't forget to click the Cover it Live icon in the right sidebar to discuss these stories and more... it's always up and running from 5:30 to 7:00 am!

• Migraine Headaches... do you suffer from them? Some experts believe they've found an effective treatment
• Cowboy Boots... will your feet suffer as you try to be trendy this season? 
• Herrin in USA Today... Herrin is featured in USA Today as a community rebounding after layoffs. The article suggests other cities should model themselves after Herrin. As a resident of southern Illinois- do you agree?
• Anti-Meth campaign... Chances are, you've seen the ads. Do they resonate with you? One group says they're not having the desired effect. 
• Cooking with Joy! We're making 2 recipes inspired by a couple of Dancing with the Stars contestants.
• Local Court Updates... We're following the federal trial of Gallatin County Sheriff Raymond Martin and the Christopher Watkins trial.
• Record-setting Dog... one of the longest dog tongues you've ever seen!

Early Bird Web Exclusive! Here are links to a few of the websites mentioned in today's 3 Ways to Save segment-- all about daily deal sites that can help you save on stuff for your baby. What websties do you turn to in order to save money?

http://www.babyhalfoff.com/
http://www.ecobabybuys.com/
http://www.kidsteals.com/

Look for all of theses stories and much more

starting at 5:30 am on News 3 This Morning!

Tech Tuesday: Fall Colors!

                                                photo courtesy mainefoliage.com

It's getting to be the time of year when people like to bask in the fall colors... but how do you know when the time is right? For many people, the answer is the internet. There is a small army of foresters, park rangers, volunteers, and others who collect information about when the colors are brightest. Their observations are often posted online as part of foliage forecasts for different regions of the US. To learn more about the fall colors here in Illinois visit "The Miracle of Fall" website from the University of Illinois Extension.

Turns out- fall foliage is a multi-million dollar business for tour operators, inns, restuarants, and attractions that cash-in on the rush of camera-toting visitors. In Vermont, for example, visitors spend $347 million each year in the September to November season.

*New* Tech Tuesday!

Good Morning everyone!
Hope your Monday is going well so far. If there's one thing that's always changing, it's the world of technology. That's why News 3 This Morning is unveling a new weekly segment tomorrow- Tech Tuesday! We'll compile some technology related headlines. The stories may pertain to interesting websites, new gadgets, video games, and more. Feel free to leave us a comment here, letting us know what technology topics interest you the most!

-What aspect of technology leaves you confused?
-Do you have an interesting and unique website to share?
-Do you care about advancements in cell phone technology?
-Are you interested in viral videos on YouTube?
-Do you care about the latest video games on the market?

Thanks for participating! And remember, you don't have to have a Blogger account to leave us some feedback here! You can also post on our News 3 This Morning Facebook page.
Have a great day!

It's Monday! Put on your dancing shoes...

Mornin! It's Monday... but we have something fun in store to help you wake up-- Dancing! We'll be joined by a local dance instructor and a couple of dance students... they'll show off four styles that you'll likely see this season on Dancing with the Stars! The season premiere is tonight at 7:00 on ABC. Any early guesses on this season's winner?

And here are some of the topics we want your input on today on our Cover it Live chat! Also our facebook page & Twitter too!

• 5:40 - What is your favorite way to workout? Some trainers say your local playground can provide lots of challenges!
• 5:50 - Did you tune in for any Nascar action over the weekend? Our Racing Superfan has a recap.
• 5:55 - Would you every try this at your house? Goats and sheep are used to clear a vacant lot... an alternative to machines or chemicals.
• 6:05 - Dancing!! Our guests take us through the Waltz and the Fox Trot.
• 6:20 - Are you a veteran? "Helping our Hometown Heroes" will help you learn more about the benefits you've earned. We have the details in a live interview.
• 6:35 - More dancing! A live demonstration of the Cha Cha and East Coast Swing. Have you ever tried to learn how to ballroom dance? What was that experience like?
• 6:45 - Attention FAST FOOD lovers... what the convenient food could be doing to your kidneys.
• 6:55 - Our "videos of the day" - Waiter races and a wedding at Black Diamond Harley Davidson!

We're on the air starting at 5:30 am! 



Friday Fun!

Good Morning News 3 viewers! We have a fun morning in store for your Friday. Here's a quick rundown of some of our special segments of the day...

• 5:50 Racing Superfan- Ross Wece gives us some insight on the upcoming Nascar race in New Hampsire.
• 5:55 Dating Website... it's devoted to those who see themselves as "ugly"... we'll explain
• 6:05 The Golconda Shrimp Festival- a preview of the events happening Saturday, plus we'll learn more about the southern IL shrimp industry from local shrimper Grover Webb from the Tanglefoot Ranch.
• 6:20 General Logan's Country Jam... It's happening next Saturday. We'll tell about the big names that will be performing, and who the concert will benefit.
• 6:35 Cooking with Shrimp! Chef Dylan Lipe shows us a couple of recipes live on the air. Yum!
• 6:55 Video of the day! We'll take you to the site of a roller coaster wedding.

Also-- some news headlines we'd like you to weigh-in on through Facebook, or our Cover it Live chat...

• Illegal drug use is at its highest level in a decade... what needs to change?
• Unemployment and poverty are high nationwide, and also in southern Illinois. Who's to blame? How are you coping?
• Childhood asthma- genetics may be a factor. Is it a problem for your child?

Join us starting at 5:30 am!



Food, Fun, and Fashion on Thursday

Good afternoon! Hope your day is going well so far. We're planning some segments for tomorrow's show. Along with the headlines, sports, and weather- we're going to have some fun! Here's what's on the agenda:

• Eat This, Not That ... We're focusing on dessert! We'll compare the nutrition info on some of your favorites, letting you know what's the best choice. What are your favorites?
• Murphysboro Apple Festival ... It's that time of year again! We'll preview the annual event in Murphysboro- highlighting the key attractions for this year's festival in a live interview. Are there any aspects that keep you coming back every time?
• Ugliest Shoes! The ultimate fashion DON'Ts when it comes to shoes. We'll run down some of the most obnoxious footwear you'll probably ever see.

Join us starting at 5:30 a.m. Many people don't realize this, but we also stream the morning show live online... and we have our Cover it Live chat where you can share your feedback on stories in the news. Just click the Cover it Live icon in the right sidebar tomorrow morning. See you then!

JALC Investors Club

CARTERVILLE-Monday night at John A. Logan College the worlds of investing and health insurance overlap. It's the first meeting of the year for the JALC Investment Club.

The program starts at 6 p.m. at the David Hancock Room. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Spicy Pork Tacos

Bill Barker from Devil's Breath Chile Company in Hamilton County joined us for some cooking.

He shared his recipe for Spicy Pork Tacos. Here's the ingredient list.


3# ground pork
6 oz sliced portabello mushrooms
3 sweet corn ears, (cut kernel off cob)
1 each red, green and yellow peppers, sliced
1 sweet vadalia onion, sliced
1 jar Devil's Breath Bread & Butter Jalepenos
12 oz shredded monterey jack cheese

Welcome to the News 3 This Morning Blog!

Good Morning!

Thanks for stopping by our blog. We actually created it out of necessity, but plan to keep it updated with random information, behind-the-scenes tid bits, and other stuff that pertains to the morning show. This morning we found that our main website, wsiltv.com, had been hacked! Therefore a couple of fixtures of our morning show, the Cover it Live chat and JustIn TV live streaming feature wouldn't be available. This blog will serve as a way you can continue to access those features (even when wsiltv.com IS up and running), as well as other morning news info. We hope you'll bookmark this address and continue to check back!

Have a great day,

Emily

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