NSA gets info and more

   The Washington Post reports an investigation of National Security Agency online intercepts of legally targeted foreigners over a 4-year period collected information from 9 times as many ordinary Internet users, both Americans and non-Americans. The newspaper says its investigation determined that the NSA also collected material of considerable intelligence value.

Governor signs boating bills

   Governor Pat Quinn has approved several laws aimed at increasing boater safety. Quinn signed the 3 measures on Saturday. They requires safety courses, set down rules for towing people on water tubes and impose stricter DUI penalties.

2 area fairs start this week

   Something’s either going to be pulled or smashed almost every night of this year’s LaSalle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair. Illini State Pullers Truck and Tractor Pull occurs this Thursday and Friday  and a Demo Derby Saturday night. All kinds of exhibits will be judged during the show’s 4 1 / 2 day run in southwest Ottawa.

    If you’re closer to Marshall Putnam Counties, their fair also runs July 9 through the 13th in Henry. New this year is Game Show Gurus, Arm Wrestling and returning to the fair is the Original Rodeo, Wine Tasting and Hat Contest, Imagination Acres, Inflatable rides and an Open Speed Show.

Mother Nature may provide fireworks

    Mother Nature herself may add to the fireworks show you’re going to see tonight. The National Weather Service says severe weather is a possibility tonight with winds up to 60 mph, heavy rainfall, quarter sized hail and the usual cloud to ground lightning.

  Thunderstorms could occur late Monday night through Wednesday. The Illinois River is expected to fall below flood stage at LaSalle this evening. Last nights reading put it at about 10 inches above flood stage.