Legislator offers help
<p class="p1">With water levels rising in the aftermath of heavy rain, State Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg, is offering his assistance to local residents, businesses and community leaders in whatever way possible.</p><p class="p1">“This flood has the possibility of doing a lot of damage, and it’s important for folks to know that I’m here to do whatever I can to help out,” Phelps said in a news release on Dec. 28. </p><p class="p1">“Whether it’s volunteering or donating boxes and tape, we all need to pitch in and lend a hand to the victims of this flood.”</p><p class="p1"> Phelps said he went to a meeting Monday morning, Dec. 28, with Jackson County officials to discuss the flooding anticipated to hit Southern Illinois. </p><p class="p1">The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was expecting the Mississippi River to crest on Friday, Jan. 1, but they only expect it to last half the day before the levels begin to drop. </p><p class="p1">For residents of Jackson County, Phelps is asking people to check www.JacksonCountyEMA.com for updated information on the flooding. </p><p class="p1">Residents have started a Facebook page, “Bottom’s Flood Evacuation Information,” to help coordinate volunteers, donations and other information relating to the flood. </p><p class="p1">Phelps was encouraging all those who can to help out and volunteer. </p><p class="p1">According to the Jackson County Emergency Management Agency’s website, volunteers can call the volunteer coordinator at 618-534-9212 for more information. </p><p class="p1">“As Southern Illinoisans, we must come together and work our tails off to protect people’s homes, businesses and livelihoods from falling victim to the flooding,” Phelps said. </p><p class="p1">“I’ll be working around the clock with local, state and federal officials to ensure the proper resources are being sent to the affected areas. I encourage every abled body person to pitch in and help their neighbors in whatever way they can.”</p><p class="p1">Phelps represents the 118th District in the Illinois General Assembly, which includes all or portions of Alexander, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, Saline and Union counties. </p>