Story Ideas for January 30

1. There's a new study out regarding eye strain in the technological era, according to a Chicago news report, "Digital eye strain a computer use concern." Everything is becoming digitized here on campus, from the Music Department bringing in iPads, to simply the use of joule for every assignment. How is it really affecting our eyesight? Are more people wearing contacts/glasses? Are students finding it difficult to focus their eyes?

2. The recent flu outbreak in Illinois has hospitals being really cautious by restricting visitors and turning away visitors with any flu-like symptoms. How bad is it really? Is it affecting Bourbonnais? Why is the flu seemingly worse this year? Apparently it's the same strain of H1N1 that spread like wildfire in 2009. It's regional, according health officials, and not widespread. According to health officials, the flu season can last until March and April. It's not to late to get a flu shot!

3. A simple story on winter blues. We all occasionally feel a little depressed about the freezing cold and lack of sunlight. How can we make the most of the rest of winter?

Bank president killed in car crash

(This article was an exercise written for my Beat Reporting class. It is not based on actual events.)

James Westhaver, president of the Merchants National Bank, along with his wife, Martha, was killed in a two-car accident on Ninth and Elm at 4:30 p.m. Monday.

Police said the car opposite the Westhaver's was heading south on Ninth Street and went through a red light. The car hit the Westhaver's vehicle broadside, causing it to roll over three times and come to a rest against a light pole.

The car that struck the Westhaver’s vehicle was driven by James West, 42, with Samuel Blackwater, 32, in the passengers seat. Both are city employees in the Park and Recreation department. West incurred a broken leg and possible concussion, and Blackwater had two broken arms and a broken nose.

Police ticketed West for careless driving. Prosecuting Attorney James Taylor said he would investigate before determining whether involuntary manslaughter charges should be made against West.

Both prominent members of the community, Westhaver had been employed at the Merchants National Bank for 33 years, while Martha hosted a talk show on KTGG. Westhaver was also chairman of the United Way this year and treasurer of the Chamber of Commerce, according to Jack Frost, a bank official.

“James was always in good spirits when coming into work. He knew how to make people feel at ease, and cared enough to get to know the people he was working with. He will be greatly missed,” Frost said.

Funeral arrangements for the Westhaver’s are incomplete, but gifts may be sent to the Springfield Funeral Home.