MARION, IL (KFVS) - State Rep. John Bradley (D-Marion) invited local students to participate in Google's "Doodle 4 Google" contest for the opportunity to have their artwork featured on the Google homepage.

Those feature could receive a $30,000 college scholarship and a $50,000 technology grant from their school.

"The Doodle 4 Google contest is an innovative way to encourage students to demonstrate their creativity," Bradley said. "We have a great many talented students in our community, and I encourage all of them to take advantage of this opportunity to help fund their college education, while supporting their current school at the same time."

Doodles are the fun versions of the Google logo that appear on the Google homepage to recognize special events and people. The theme for this year's contest is "My Best Day Ever..." and students are invited to submit their entries by mail or online by March 22.

(KFVS) - The Illinois Gun Owner and Lobby Day will include a rally and march for right to carry in Illinois on Wednesday, March 6.

The group will be leaving from Marion, Ill. to travel to Springfield for the event. A schedule of events includes:

• 7 a.m.Depart Sam’s Club parking lot, 2709 Walton Way, Marion, IL just west of I-57 exit 54 park at north edge of lot.
• 10:30 a.m.Lunch Golden Corral, Springfield, IL  $11.00 includes meal-drink-tax-tip
• 11:45 a.m.Registration/Rally, Prairie Capital Convention Ctr, 1 Convention Center Plaza
• 1 p.m. March to the State Capitol to lobby legislators
• 4 p.m. Reception at Vinegar Hill Mall - 107 W. Cook St. - 2 blocks south of Capitol Bldg.
• 5 p.m. Buses load up at Vinegar Hill Mall for trip home

Advance reservations are required for the bus. You can go to www.IGOLD.isra.org or call 815-635-3198 to reserve your spot.

(KFVS) - Ameren Illinois will be collecting old, energy guzzling refrigerators and freezers from residents.

Those getting rid of their appliances will be eligible to receive $50, save $150 or more a year and have a chance to win a $2,000 shopping spree.

To be eligible for the $2,000 shopping spree, eligible refrigerators and freezers must be picked up by ActOnEnergy no later than March 31. The $2,000 prize will allow the winner to purchase one or more Energy Star certified appliances of the winner’s choice.

When residential customers schedule a free pickup of an eligible refrigerator or freezer, ActOnEnergy will make certain that old unit is given new life.