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A CALL FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS TO SECEDE

BY JEFF SMYTH

Every so often someone comes up with what they think is the novel idea for Southern Illinois to secede and become its own state. The first movement actually occurred when Illinois was in its infancy as a geopolitical entity. It persists today.

The disdain is predominantly caused by Chicago’s dominance over the affairs of the Land of Lincoln and a feeling we share of being treated like redheaded stepchildren. Northern politicians only pass through these parts when they want our votes. The remainder of the time we’re viewed as chigger-scratching, stump-jumpers who still brew our own moonshine. Well darn it, if chiggers are sucking on your skin cells then you have to scratch them and we don’t make white lightening anymore; we make meth.

I have a keen interest in the secession notion. I’m from the arrogant upper regions Illinois. I spent 18 years there as a matter of fact, but was unimpressed. It’s an okay place if you like bitter-cold winters, nasally speech and people so intense that the simplest things become high drama. That’s not for me.

I hadn’t given much thought to the Southern Illinois becoming the 51^st state until I was invited on Facebook to join the cause calling for just that. I checked it out but didn’t notice a lot of recent chatter on the page so I thought I’d give the organizer a little boost.

THE FOREST COMES ALIVE

Life has returned from its slumber in the forests throughout Southern Illinois. With beautiful temperatures now is the time return to nature. Just remember to check for ticks.

THE MOREL OF THE STORY: DON'T TELL THEM WHERE YOU PICKED THEM

It's "go-time" for morel mushroom hunters. The fungi morsels are popping up in the woods all throughought Perry County. Hunting them can be both a challenge -- you might get skunked in one stretch of woods -- or easy -- you could stumble upon a minefield of them. But bagging them isn't the only part of the game; deception and stealth also play a big role. If you find a patch the last thing you'll want to do is announce it to your fellow hunters lest they pillage it like Atilla the Hun tearing through Asian villages. If you find some 'shrooms that are brag-worthy, post them on this site. We will share in your glory. Just remember to include the GPS coordinates to where they were found.

PINCKNEYVILLE: THE NEWEST ROADSIDE ATTRACTION

BY JEFF SMYTH

The recent announcement that Pinckneyville would soon be home to two new museums had a lot of folks atwitter at the prospect that our town will become known as more than just the clogged artery of Ill. 127. We will be a tourist destination, by golly, and that means cash money from the pockets of all those we trap in our web.

That the focus of the museums will be high school basketball and farming isn’t surprising. They seem to be within our comfort zone no matter how much of a yawner the subjects are to some of us.

Don’t misunderstand, the quality of the people behind these projects is uncontested and they are sure to make them top-notch enterprises. It is just that with the window of opportunity open to grab state funds to create museums I can only image what could have been.

Since no one invited me to their planning parties (I still scratch my head and wonder why) I’m offering up my ideas whether they want to hear them or not. That’s how I roll.

IT'S GETTING BETTER ALL THE TIME

Our rods and cones are exploding with excitement as the landscape begins bursting with color. These trees are in full bloom at the site of the old Galum Church. If you have pictures of spring -- no matter what part of the world you reside -- share them with the Pinckneyville community. Go to Post It, register and upload your's today.

SOMETHING IS FISHY IN 'THE VILLE'

The heat was on at the Pinckneyville Firehouse Friday morning and firemen hurried to prepare for the 73rd annual fish fry. More than 750 pounds of fish will be cooked throughout the day. Spokesman Randy Reiman said everything served is made from scratch including the batter, slaw, potato salad and even salad dressing. The event raises about $4,000 that is put into the Volunteer Fire Department fund and used to purchase small equipment.

PANTHERS WHIP SENECA

The Panthers rebounded from Tuesday's loss to defeat Seneca 9-5 at home. CJ Opp shutdown the Irish for six innings to record the win. Drew Dudek homered for the second straight game. The Panthers' next opponent is Steeleville at home April 1.

GIRLS TRACK TEAM COMPETES AT NASHVILLE

PCHS girls track team competed at the Nashville Invitational March 31. The team placed fourth among five schools competing. Pinckneyville won the 400 meter relay with a time of 54.01 seconds. It also won the 800 meter relay with a time of 1:55.6 seconds. The girls return to Nashville April 7 for its next meet.

WOES CONTINUE FOR PANTHERS

The varsity Panthers went to 1-5 for the season after losing to Zion-Benton 9-3 March 30 at home. Drew Dudek and Landon Chandler each homered for the Panthers. The Panthers face Seneca March 31 at home and host Steeleville April 1.