2010 August | The Rock River Times

Archive for August, 2010

Board approves one fee increase, lays over others

Friday, August 27th, 2010

• News and notes from the Aug. 26 Winnebago County Board meeting

By Stuart R. Wahlin
Staff Writer

Although a vote was expected regarding a proposal to increase nearly 30 fees and permit costs assessed by the Winnebago County Health Department’s Environmental Division, expected to add nearly $40,000 to the department’s revenues for 2011, Republicans expressed hesitance, resulting in a layover until the Sept. 2 meeting.

“The Republican Caucus had a lot of questions about this,” John Ekberg (R-10) indicated. Some members of the caucus are concerned about raising fees given the poor economy, although 26 of the 29 increases would be $20 or less—many under $10.

The sharpest fee hike—more than 30 percent—would be for new soil borings, increasing from $301 to $393.

George Anne Duckett (D-12), Angie Goral (D-7), Paul Gorski (D-5), Bob Hastings (D-13), Pearl Hawks (D-6), Karen Hoffman (D-11) and Dorothy Redd (D-6) voted against the layover.

Because the proposed increases would not take effect until next fiscal year, Public Health Administrator Mike Bacon said the two-week delay would not pose any difficulty.

Board members had no problem agreeing to heartily increase penalties associated with building permit transgressions, however. The board voted unanimously to amend the county’s building code to step up fines issued for work having begun without a permit.

Prior to the vote for the amendment, the affected portion of the code stated only, “When a permit is required by this code, and work is started or proceeded with, prior to obtaining such permit, the fees above specified shall be doubled.”

The amended stipulation now reads: “When a permit is required by this code, and work is started or proceeded with prior to obtaining said permit, the fees established in Section 108.2 shall be doubled and not less than $250.00. This penalty may be waived by the building official if the person in violation has not obtained a permit in the last year and is the owner of the property. For the second offense within a twelve (12) month period, starting or proceeding with the work prior to obtaining a permit, the fees…shall be doubled and not less than $500.00 plus an additional fee of $500.00 shall be paid for each day work continued without said permit. For any subsequent such instance within a twelve (12) month period, the fees…shall be tripled and not less than $750.00 plus an additional fee of $750.00 shall be paid for each day work continued without said permit.”

New Milford asks county to put up a stink about the stink

Paul Gorski (D-5) said he met with New Milford officials, who asked that he pass along their plea to County Board members to help resolve increased odors attributed to area landfills, one of which—Veolia ES Orchard Hills—lies just over the Ogle County line.

“The odors from those landfills are affecting their health, quality of life and their home values, they believe,” Gorski explained. “Whatever assistance we can give them, they’re asking for.”

Meantime, Gorski continues urging residents to report the odors to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

Public hearing

No comments were made, and no questions were asked, during a public hearing regarding a proposal to issue $4.09 million in bond debt to finance the purchase and renovation of the City Plaza, 555. N. Court St. in Rockford, in which the Health Department will consolidate three of its facilities.

Resolutions

• Rejecting a $112,690.60 bid from Northern Contracting, Inc., of Sycamore, for the installation of traffic signs in Burritt, Pecatonica and Shirland townships, as well as in the Village of Pecatonica. According to County Engineer Joe Vanderwerff, the county estimated the cost to be less than $25,000.

• Rejecting a $163,328.61 bid by Alliance Contractors, Inc., of Woodstock, for concrete pavement patching on behalf of the Highway Department. Vanderwerff indicated the bid exceeded estimates by 65 percent.

• Authorizing execution of an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Loves Park to allow the city’s construction and maintenance of sidewalks and paths along county rights-of-way. Per the agreement, the county is also indemnified of any potential claims resulting from public use of the sidewalks and multiuse paths.

Appointments, reappointments

Jim Hughes, deputy director of Regional Planning & Economic Development, was appointed to complete the five-year term of the late Eugene Quinn on the Winnebago County Housing Authority Board. His term expires September 2014.

Board member Lynne Strathman (R-1) was appointed to a two-year term on the Winnebago County Extension Board, expiring September 2012.

Board member Angie Goral (D-7) was reappointed to a two-year term on the Winnebago County Extension Board, expiring September 2012.

Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman Jim Webster was reappointed to a two-year term on the Winnebago County Extension Board, expiring September 2012.

Robert Johnston was reappointed to a five-year term, expiring September 2015, on the Winnebago County Housing Authority Board.

Proclamation

The week of Aug. 30 was proclaimed Workforce Development Week.

Absences

Tom Owens (R-1) presided in Chairman Scott Christiansen’s (R) absence. Dave Fiduccia (R-4) and Mel Paris (D-8) were also absent.

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Suspect in custody following armed robbery at Villa Di Roma

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

From press release

At 1:55 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 26, Rockford Police officers responded to Villa Di Roma, 1620 Harrison Ave., regarding an armed robbery in progress. Responding officers observed the suspect flee south on foot from the business. Rockford Police officers pursued this suspect on foot, and a perimeter was set up to contain the suspect.

A 69-year-old employee inside Villa Di Roma had been shot and beat up during the robbery. The man was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated and released for a gunshot wound to his lower extremity and a cut on his head.

Law Enforcement Aviation Coalition (LEAC) was contacted and a helicopter was utilized, along with a K-9 from Belvidere Police Department, and Rockford Police officers took John A. Shabazz, 20, into custody after finding him hiding in a yard in the 2600 block of Kinsey.

Rockford Police detectives conducted a follow-up investigation and the following charges have been authorized against Shabazz by the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office: armed robbery and aggravated battery with a firearm.

Shabazz is being held at the Winnebago County Jail without bond.

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Eureka! Classifieds: Week of Aug. 25-31, 2010

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

REAL ESTATE

FOR RENT

Apartments

APARTMENTS FOR RENT 1,2,3,4-BR available. Please call 815/690-5288. 1/19/11

905 HASKELL 2-bedroom, $525. 1-bedroom, $475. Call Ron 815/914-1337. 8/25

1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 1520 15th Ave. $450. Call Ron 815/914-1337. 8/25

1-BEDROOM NORTHWEST Heat/appliances included. Hardwood & French doors. Garage & laundry. Quiet, convenient location. $465 lease and deposit. 815/289-1607. 9/1

HUGE 2-BEDROOM Beautiful hardwood floors, dining room, storage, laundry, $550. 815/621-0353. M.R.A.A. 8/25

1-BEDROOM VICTORIAN with beautiful landscaped yards. Lots of flowers. You can plant too!
904 N. Court Street. Big 2nd floor apt. with pocket-window sun porch. Perfect artist’s studio. Big living room, big bedroom, big kithchen, big deal! Heat, water, garbage, off-street parking included, cooking gas paid, dishwasher, microwave, A/C, freshly redone hardwood floor, freshly painted, sculpture in yard, only $525/month. Call Frank 815/964-9767, 815/640-6770. TFN

RIVER DISTRICT APARTMENTS: 1 STUDIO, $450. 1-BEDROOM, $550. 2-BEDROOM, $650. Included – 30s arts & crafts decor, heat, water, garbage, new stove-refrigerator-dishwasher, rooftop garden, indoor heated parking. Winner of Heart of Rockford Award for Residential Restoration. Contact Frank 815/964-9767. TFN

1-BEDROOM VICTORIAN Heat, water, garbage included, off-street parking, freshly painted, partially furnished, big closets, plenty of cupboard space, big girly-girl bathroom, 8’ ceilings, carpeted, sculpture in yard. 1st plus deposit required. $425. Call Frank 815/964-9767. TFN

LARGE 3-ROOM, 1-BEDROOM (Could be 2). Appliances, security building, laundry on-site, lot storage, garage, assisted rent OK. 847/609-7811. 9/8

2-BEDROOM APARTMENTS Rent $525. Security deposit $525. Basement/storage area, parking space, water, sewer, & trash all included. 312/391-5232. 9/8

2-BEDROOM APT. & 3-BEDROOM HOUSE $500-$625/month, no deposit. Nice, newly-renovated unit. Tenant pays electric. Laundry, parking, storage. 815/964-0344. 8/25

411 KISHWAUKEE ST. 2-Bedroom upper apartment in duplex, 1 bath. Gas and electric paid by tenant. $500 rent plus security deposit. 815/964-0102. TFN

NORTHWEST - Large 1- & 2-bedroom, $450 & $500. Coin-operated laundry, hardwood floors, garage. 815/354-7822. 8/25

NORTHWEST, 2-BEDROOM 1-BATH APARTMENTS, FROM $560. On bus line near stores, library, & hospital. A/C, coin laundry. HEAT, WATER, & GARBAGE included. No pets. Pay rent for August, and get 1/2 month’s rent in September free. Some Sec. 8 OK. 815/382-7667. 9/1

WANTED ROCKFORD’S BEST TENANTS! 2-bedroom 1-bath – Across from golf course. Air conditioning, carport, coin laundry, Heat, WATER, GARBAGE INCLUDED. non-smoking. Pets? From $620/month. Get 1/2 month FREE with good credit! 815/382-7667, 815/528-2158. 9/1

207 RIVER LANE , LOVES PARK. 2-Bedroom apartment. Gas and electric paid by tenant. $695 rent plus Security Deposit. 815/964-0102. TFN

5118 N. 2ND. ST. ,LOVES PARK 3-Bedroom townhouse-style apartment. Gas and electric paid by tenant. $850 rent plus Security Deposit. 815/964-0102. TFN

2-1/2 BEDROOM BROWNSTONE APARTMENT 510 Market St. Hardwood Floors, Large Living & Dining Room, Spacious Kitchen & Bath, Claw Foot Bathtub with Shower, Bedrooms with Walk-In Closets. $650/month plus deposit. 815/964-0102. TFN

Condos

3-BEDROOM, 2-BATH SPACIOUS CONDO in quiet SE Rockford. Storage room adjacent to unit, fireplace, balcony, off-street parking, laundry on premises. Sec. 8 welcome. $750/mo. 773/547-1673. 9/1

Townhouses

TOWNHOUSE 2 BEDROOMS 1½ baths, basement, small fenced-in backyard. $650/mo. 2912 La Salle Ave Rockford, IL. 847/847-6903. 9/15

Duplexes

1608 15TH ST. 3-BEDROOM duplex, non-smoking. $650/mo. + deposit. 815/505-5662. 8/25

Houses

3-BEDROOM 2-BATH 1006 So. 3rd St. $650. Call Ron 815/914-1337. 9/8

FOR RENT: 2-STORY 3-BEDROOM FARMHOUSE. Ogle County near Oregon, IL. 815/874-2033. 9/1

SMALL 2-BEDROOM HOUSE- Fenced yard, basement, Sec. 8 OK. $600/mo. + deposit. 815/375-0500, 815/243-2110.9/1

415 KISHWAUKEE ST. 3-Bedroom single family home, 1 bath, gas and electric paid by tenant. $550 rent plus security deposit. 815/964-0102. TFN

RIVER DISTRICT HOUSE Cute. $550. No pets. 815/519-4616. 9/1

Commercial Rental

3 STOREFRONTS AVAILABLE Will build to suit. 917 S. Main. Each space 1,400 sq.ft. mol. Contact Kerry Knodle, CCS, Inc. 815/963-6236, kknodle@youthbuildrockford.org . TFN

Roommate Wanted

SENIOR SWM seeking SENIOR SWF roommate. DL, non-smoker, non-drinker, Heated garage. Reasonable rates. 815/670-3957. 8/25

SEEKING MATURE ROOMMATE to share a spacious home. Rent $280. $250 sec. Free Sept. rent with a signed 3-mo. lease. Rent includes utilities, basic cable, 2 full baths, kingsize bed. Contact W. Fox 815/980-6354. 9/1

Timeshares

TIMESHARE RESALES: Up To 50% Off Resort Prices On 3, 4 & 5 Star Timeshare Worldwide! NO Commissions, NO Appraisals Fees EVER To Sellers! Call Now! 1-888-464-2992. (MCN)
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Homes For Sale

2212 9th St. 2-STORY HOME 2-3 bedrooms. 1¾ baths. 2-car garage. Fenced yard. Priced low 60’s. Terms available. Call 815/398-3762. TFN

$32,900 OBO. 3 garages on double lot with 1-bedroom house. 3019 7th St. off Brooke Rd. 815/209-5247. 8/25

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN FREEPORT, IL. 5 single-family homes, 1 duplex. Great cash flow & tenant history. Motivated seller. $108,000 takes all! Call 815/291-6225. 9/8

***FREE FORECLOSURE LISTINGS*** Over 400,000 properties nationwide. LOW Down Payment. Call NOW! 1-800-785-4121. (MCN)

Open House

HOUSE FOR SALE, Loves Park, IL. Close to I-90, furnished or unfurnished. Main floor: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, 2 dining areas, living room, family room with fireplace, 1st-floor laundry, 3-season porch. Basement has rec room with pool table, family room,kitchen, bath, exercise room, 2 storage rooms. Open house: Sat & Sun 2-4. 6056 Nimtz Road, Loves Park, IL 61111. 9/8

Investment Properties

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN FREEPORT, IL. 5 single-family homes, 1 duplex. Great cash flow & tenant history. Motivated seller. $108,000 takes all! Call 815/291-6225. 9/8

Lots for Sale

FOR SALE: LARGE VACANT LOT in beautiful Candlewick Lake, Poplar Grove, IL. Good investment. Only $10,500. Broker owner. 815/621-5406. 8/25

20-ACRE RANCHES ONLY $99 per/mo. $0 Down, $12,900. Near Growing El Paso, Texas. Owner Financing, No Credit Checks. Money Back Guarantee. Free Map/Pictures. 1-800-755-8953 www.sunsetranches.com . N-8/25

ARIZONA BIG BEAUTIFUL LOTS $89/mo. $0 down, $0 interest. Golf Course, Nat’l Parks. 1 hour from Tucson Int’l Airport. Guaranteed Financing. No CREDIT CHECK. Pre-recorded msg. 800-631-8164 Code 4032, www.sunsiteslandrush.com . (MCN)

Eureka! Classifieds

AUTOS

Autos For Sale

1974 GMC WRECKER New tires, good mechanical condition. $9,795. Call Kar Kraft Centre – 815/964-9071. 8/25

1994 F-150 $1,500. 815/312-1532. 9/1

1998 FORD WINDSTAR VAN Very clean. 3.0 V-6. New tires. Stereo. Great runner. $1,300. 779/771-0017. 9/8

CAR TROUBLES? 100% of COVERED Repairs PAID 130,000 Miles or Less 24hr Roadside Assistance/Towing Coverage Rental Car Reimbursement Free Quote 888-364-1669. N-8/25

CRUISE NIGHT / CAR SHOW Saturday Night August 28th , 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM , NAPA AUTO PARTS Rockford. 1670 Northrock CT , Rockford, IL 61103. DJ, Door Prizes, Trophies, Food, 50/50 Raffle, no entry fee. 8/25

Motorcycles

WANTED OLD JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES KAWASAKI Z1-900 (KZ900) 1972-1976, KZ1000 (1976-1980), KZ1000R (1982,1983), Z1R, S1-250, S2-350, S3-400, H1-500, H2-750, HONDA CB750 (1969-1975), SUZUKI GS400, GT380, CASH PAID, FREE NATIONWIDE PICKUP. 1-800-772-1142, 310-721-0726. (MCN)

Equipment

CASE GARDEN TRACTOR 442 w/ front end loader & bucket. $1,195 OBO. 815/968-1780. 9/1

Auto Parts and Accessories

SET OF 4 GOODYEAR WRANGLER SR-A TIRES. 215-65-17. Tread-ware 500. White, raised lettering. 9/32. $200. 815/573-7300. 9/1

4’x8’ TRAILER FOR SALE Please call 815/969-9849 or 815/980-7522 for more info. 9/1

TOPPER ALUMINUM 5’x7’6” Silver color. Nice shape. $125. 815/865-5892. 9/1

12ft. TRAILER TRUSSES- Good condition, $75. Set of golf clubs for sale, $75. 815/397-1406. 9/1

PAIR OF GOODYEAR ALLEGRA TIRES P205-75R14. Plenty of ware left. $25 for pair. 815/874-5999. 9/1

TRAILER SPECIAL: 6′ x 10′ enclosed $2199.00, 7′ x 16′ enclosed $3899.00, Car toters (dollies), Skid loader trailers, Dump trailers, Close-out on Motorcycle tow behind trailers. www.fortdodgetrailer- world.com 515-972-4554. (MCN)

Recreational Vehicles

1996 YAMAHA KODIAK ATV 4×4. 850 original miles. One owner. Ready to ride. $3,800. 815/703-6616. 9/1

2007 TRAVEL TRAILER 37’ Must sell! Front slide-out. Good condition. Washer/dryer. $13,500 OBO. 815/540-8729. 9/1

1996 POLARIS XLT SPECIAL SNOWMOBILE. 600cc, triple. Ready to ride. Cobra windshield. Fast. $1,700. 815/703-6616. 8/25

Boats

1985 STRATOS BASS BOAT 150 HP. Merk 24-volt electric trolling motor. Plenty of storage asking $4,000 OBO. 815/978-3837. 8/25

Autos Wanted

WANTED: FULL-SIZE CHEAP CHEVY/GMC PICK-UP. Automatic, 4×4, V-8 motor, condition not important. 815/703-6616. 9/1

WANTED: 1940 FORD COUPE Serious callers only. YOU HAVE A BUYER! 608/666-2146. 9/1

DONATE A CAR– HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES. Fast, Free Towing. Call 7 days/week. Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408. N-8/25

DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation! Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. 800-771-9551 www.cardonationsforbreastcancer.org . N-8/25

DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax deductible/Fast, Free Pick-up! 1-888-380-7845. (MCN)

DONATE VEHICLE RECEIVE $1000 GROCERY COUPON. NOAH’S ARC Support No Kill Shelters, Research to Advance Veterinary Treatments. FREE TOWING, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted. 1-866-912-GIVE. (ICAN) (NOT AFFILIATED WITH NOAH’S ARK OF ROCKFORD.)

FOR SALE

Antiques

ANTIQUE WHEAT SHEAF CLOCK made by New Haven Clock Company. $200 firm. Serious only. 815/639-3471. Leave message. 9/8

TWO INDIAN BLANKETS Navajo 52”x83” & Chimaya 46”x88”. Serious only. 815/639-3471. 9/8

Appliances

SHARP CAROUSEL MICROWAVE OVEN, black. $30. 2721 Ellen Ave., Rockford. 9/8

WASHER & GAS DRYER, Maytag, white, $200/pair. Maytag dishwasher, $50. Call 815/312-4694. 8/25

12 C FT. UPRIGHT FREEZER, $95. 10 cft. chest freezer, $95. Call after 5pm. 815/871-7511. 8/25

WHIRLPOOL ELECTRIC DRYER 3-speed, apt.-size. $150 OBO. Call 815/670-3429. 8/25

Baby & Children’s Items

CRIB, MATTRESS, DRESSER/changing table, solid cherry-wood, $175 set. Glider rocker & foot glider, $50. 815/623-2432. 9/8

CRIB. White. Mattress included. $50. 815/226-8804. 9/8

TODDLER BED. White. Matresses included. $40. 815/226-8804. 9/1

Burial/Cemetery Plots

RIVER VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS Dundee, IL. 4 spaces, Catholic section by the shrine. Paid $6,000. Asking $5,000. 815/558-1478. 9/8

Collectibles

OAKLAND RAIDERS PLAYER PLAQUE. Have duplicates. Paid $30, will take $5. 815/543-1163. 9/1

Electronics

GREAT BUY! For Sale: DVD/VCR player. $40 firm. Works great! 815/637-1946. 9/1

Used XEROX 5028 black and white office copier. Includes storage base; 15 page sorter; two letter size, one legal size and one 11”x17” size paper trays; one extra toner. Copy cartridge partially used. Automatic doc. feeder needs repair. $500 OBO. Call 815/964-9767 M-F, 9:30-5:00 and ask for Marilyn or Frank. TFN

Fashion & Clothing

VERA BRADLEY PURSE, $40. Marble-top table, $45. Tom Heflin prints, 815/399-9231. 8/25

WOMEN’S VERY NICE J.C.PENNEY Black dress & belt. Size large. Tags still on it. Paid $50, will sell for $10. 815/543-1163. 9/1

Furniture

NEST Furniture & home décor 218 E. State St. 30% off All dining tables & chairs. 815/968-0361, 815/988-7956. 9/8

MAPLE BEDROOM SET Bed, dresser, & mirror, $195. Nice condition. 815/227-4807. 9/8

MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA VISCO MATTRESSES WHOLESALE! T-$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES – $799 FREE DELIVERY 25 YEAR WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP 1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM . N-8/25

LARGE BLACK TRUNK, $150. Antique table, white/blue trim, $30. Roundjungle table, $40. 815/977-4645. 9/1

ROUND OAK TABLE with 4 chairs & 2 leaves. $200. 815/871-7511 after 5pm. 9/1

5 LADDERBACK CHAIRS. $85 for all. Also, oak chairs. 262/248-2519. 9/1

2 FULL-SIZE BEDS. Excellent condition. 815/877-2133. 9/1

NICE WOODEN DESK, $35. Antique vanity dresser & mirror, $175. Call 815/397-4483. 9/1

Home Decor

HOUSE PLANTS. Best offer. 815/229-1963 after 5pm.9/1

Industrial Equipment

1ft3 ELECTRIC CEMENT MIXER on wheels, $110. 2 heavy-duty engine stands on wheels, $50 each. 815/988-5713. 9/1

1100 CFM Dust KOP COLLECTOR, 55gal drum, lots of misc. duct work fittings, $350 for all. 815/988-5706. 9/1

Misc. Items For Sale

KENMORE FREEZER, $40. Antique dresser, best offer. Schwinn AirDyne, $30. 815/484-3544. 8/25

SINGER SEWING MACHINE- Huge assortment of cherry wood cabinets. All types/sizes. Willing to separate or sell as set. Must see! 815/721-6318. TFN

2 MICROWAVES, 2 LEAF BLOWERS/MULCHERS, DVD/CD player, 5 fishing poles. 815/962-5376. 9/8

ORECK AIR PURIFIER 8 months old. $200 OBO. 815/670-3429. 9/8

32” PRE-HUNG STEEL DOOR $65. 32” storm door, $35. Six 22’ floor joists 11¾”h, $15 each. 815/997-4448. 9/8

GARAGE DOOR- Aluminum. Call for size. Good condition. Spiderman Heeleys black, red, size 1, new. 815/965-0119. 9/8

GLASS AQUARIUM 30”l x 12”w x 12”h. Pond kit with pump 55”l x 34”w x 19”h. Like new. 815/484-0442. 9/8

LADIES COASTER BIKE, like new, $30. Samsung microwave, black & silver, $20. 2 lamps, $10 each. 815/398-0165. 9/1

HYDRAULIC CHAIR, shampoo bowl, & hair dryer. 815/968-9781. 9/1

POULAN CHAINSAW 18” with case, Troy Built walk-behind weed eater, & queen-size magnetic mattress pad. 815/877-4919. 9/1

Swimming Pools & Spas

COLEMAN HOT TUB 6-person, theraputic jets, color-changing waterfall. $3,500 OBO. 815/289-9022. 9/8

Sporting Goods

THULE CARTOP BIKE CARRIER. All hardware. For 2 bikes. $140. 815/227-4807. 9/1

Tools

BRAND NEW GENERATOR 8Kw, 13HP, 120-240, 12V, 9 hours run time. Still in the box! $700. 815/704-5903. 9/1

KENNEDY TOOLBOX with tools. 815/742-5178. 9/1

Yard & Garden

YARD UTILITY TRAILER for riding mower. 42”x32”. $40. 815/965-3900. 9/1

Thrift Store

CRUSADER THRIFT SHOP, 310 7th Street – open Mon. -Sat. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All clothes on sale. Dresses ½-off. TFN

FHC THRIFT SHOP, 710 Broadway. 815/299-3615, Open 9-5, Mon.-Sat. Call for emergency after-hour appointments. TFN

ROCKFORD MEMORIAL AUXILIARY THRIFT SHOP - 2830 Glenwood Ave. 815/971-4156. Hours: M-F 9:30-5. First and Third Sat. 9:30-12:30. Clothes, house-wares, antiques, & more. TFN

BROOKE ROAD THRIFT SHOP, 1404 Brooke Rd. Lots of clothes, shoes, knick knacks, and misc. Open Wednesday’s, 9-12. TFN

SECOND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH THRIFT SHOP. 318 North Church Street. Open Tuesday 9am – 1pm. TFN

Garage Sales

BIG GARAGE SALE! 2330 11th St. Aug 26, 27, 28. 8/25

GARAGE SALE – 2215 TACOMA AVE. between Lawndale & Van Wie. Four-runner, spa, tools, plants, much more. 8/25

SERVICES

Adoption

UNIQUE ADOPTIONS, LET US HELP! Personalized Adoption Plans. Financial Assistance, Housing, Relocation and More. Giving the Gift of Life? You Deserve the Best. Call Us First! 1-888-637-8200. 24-HR Hotline. (MCN)

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? We can help you! Housing, financial, medical assistance available. You can choose adoptive family and be involved in plans. Call 24/7. Forever Blessed Adoptions. 1-800-568-4594. (MCN)

BIRTHMOTHER: We’ll care about you as you get to know us…open-minded, married couple hoping to become adoptive parents. Expenses paid. Lisa 1-888-324-8934 www.mileslisa.com. (MCN)

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Call Us First! Living expenses, Housing, Medical and continued support afterwards. Choose Adoptive Family of Your Choice. Call 24/7. ADOPT CONNECT 1-866-743-9212. (MCN)

Carpet Cleaning

PAUL’S CARPET CLEANING: 30 years experience in carpet cleaning. 3 bedrooms, living room, & hallway, $60. Carpets are vacuumed, pre-sprayed, deep-cleaned, & extracted. For FREE ESTIMATE CALL- 815/378-5472. 9/1

Child Care

LICENSED DAYCARE FOR 25 YEARS in Winnebago, across from Simon grade school, has openings. Days only. 815/335-2739. 8/25

Cleaning Services

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING Home/offices. $10/hr. Insured. 815/980-5585. 9/8

HOUSECLEANING Residential, Experienced, Reliable, References. $15/hr. Rockford-Roscoe-Rockton. 815/654-7005. 2/10

Clock Repair

BEHIND THE TIMES CLOCKS Antique clock repair. One-year warranty on all repairs. Call 815/980-3188. 6/22/11

Concrete

SUPERIOR CONCRETE RAISING: Sidewalks, Driveways, Patios, Foundations, and Front Stoops. 815/962-6245. 8/25

Education

GET YOUR DEGREE ONLINE *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com . N-8/25

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Accounting, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com . N-8/25

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in 4 Weeks! PACE Program. FREE Brochure. CALL NOW! 1-866-562-3650 Ext. 30 www.southeasternhs.com . N-8/25

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in just 4 Weeks! PACE Program. FREE Brochure. CALL NOW! 1-800-532-6546 Ext. 412 www.continentalacademy.com . N-8/25

Financial

REDUCE YOUR DEBT NOW! $10k + in Credit Cards, Store Cards, Medical Bills? FREE Debt Settlement Matching Service! Settle in 12-48 months Free Consultation 800-593-3446. N-8/25

CASH NOW! Get cash for your structured settlement or annuity payments. High payouts. Call J.G. Wentworth. 1-866-SETTLEMENT (1-866-738-8536). Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. N-8/25

CASH NOW! Get cash for your structured settlement or annuity payments. High payouts. Call J.G. Wentworth. 1-866-SETTLEMENT (1-866-738-8536). Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. (ICAN)

Flight Instruction

LEARN TO FLY! Experienced instructor, affordable rates. Call John 815/873-0337. No answer, call cell 815/505-1692. 8/25

Handyman

PROFESSIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICE: Payment Plan Available. Kitchens, bathrooms, patios, tree trimming & removal, gutter clean-out and repair, roofing, flooring, plumbing, electric, painting, doors & windows, & much more. FREE estimates. 815/975-4268. 9/8

JOSH OF ALL TRADES - 815/988-1232. Painting, Electrical, Landscaping, Decks, & Odd Jobs. Friendly, Reliable, Fair. 8/25

Hauling

CHAD’S HAULING SERVICE. Free estimates, yard waste, spring cleanup & removal of anything unwanted. Solid 6-year reputation, 15% senior discount, fully licensed & insured. Call Chad, 815/979-7593. 9/22

ANDY’S A-1 HAULING & DUMPSTER SERVICE “We’ll Dash for Your Trash”. Reliable Service & Fair Rates – Full- service or roll off container. Residential & Real Estate clean-up
service. Complete estate, property, house, & garage clean-outs. Locally-owned & operated. Thank You for your Business! 815/965-3289, 815/262-5417. Please recycle. 9/1

BRENDA & JOE’S HAULING We do it all for a fair price. Fall clean-ups starting at $35! 815/382-2841. See our ad on page D4. 9/8

Health & Medical

MOBILE HEARING SERVICE Complete hearing exams including the evaluating, testing, fitting and programming of your new hearing aids. Service and repairs of your existing hearing aids. Quality service for affordable pricing. Over 10 years experience. We make house calls!! Please call 815-563-4309 or www.mobilehearingservice.com . 10/27

** DIET PILLS** Maximum Prescription Strength! (PHENTRAZINE 37.5 white/blue spec.60 Tabs $59.95) No Prescription Needed. FREE SHIPPING. Order Now 1-866-611-6885 www.RapidWeightloss.com . N-8/25

FREE HEARING TEST, Courtesy of Miracle Ear. CALL For Appt. with a LOCAL Specialist. Rediscover the Life You’ve Been Missing! Call Today – 1-877-339-3847. (MCN)

MEDICAL ALERT FOR SENIORS-Monitoring 24/7. FREE Equipment, FREE Shipping, Easy Set-up. ONLY $29.95/mo. CALL Medical Guardian Today! 1-888-375-9729. (MCN)

Lawn & Landscape Services

$25 CUTS! Call John at 815/873-0337. No answer, call cell- 815/505-1692. 8/25

garden rototilling, STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL -SPRING CLEAN-UP, tree removal and trimming, leaf and brush clean-up, skid- loader work. Fully-insured. 815/378-0671. 9/8

Lawn Mower Repair

BECK’S LAWN MOWER REPAIR Repair of all makes of lawn mowers, snow blowers, chainsaws. 30 years experience. Reasonable prices with quality, honest service. Pick up and delivery available. 815/540-0091. 9/8

Legal Services

$$$ACCESS LAWSUIT CASH NOW!!! As seen on TV, Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500-$500,000++ within 24/hrs after Approval? Compare our lower rates. CALL NOW 1-866-386-3692 www.lawcapital.com . N-8/25

Massage Therapy

CREATIVE TOUCH THERAPY: Alleviate stress, muscle tension, improve circulation, encourage overall well-being. Techniques meet your needs. Contact Glenn LMT 815/965-1787. itreasurefinds@yahoo.com . 12/22

Misc. Services

REACH OVER 30 MILLION HOMES with one buy. Advertise in NANI for only $2,795 per week! For information, visit www.naninetwork.com. N-8/25

REACH 2 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS! Do you have a product, service, or business that would be helped by reaching over 2.5 million households throughout Iowa and the surrounding states? The Midwest Classified Network will allow you to reach these potential customers quickly and inexpensively. For more information concerning a creative classified ad call this publication or Midwest Free Community Papers at 800-248-4061 or get information online at www.mcn-ads.com . (MCN)

SEARCH THOUSANDS OF CLASSIFIED ADS FROM AROUND THE MIDWEST! Give it a try! Go to http://www.mw-ads.com. Ads from Free Papers offer you great bargains. (MCN)

WANT TO ADVERTISE TO THE MIDWEST? Place your classified ads in the Midwest Classified Network anytime online at www.midwestfreeclassifieds.com . (MCN)

DIRECTV FREE BEST PACKAGE for 5 months with NFL SUNDAY TICKET! + NO Start Costs + FREE HD/DVR upgrade! New cust. only, qual pkgs Direct-StarTV 1-800-620-0058. N-8/25

DIRECTV NFL SUNDAY TICKET DEAL! FREE HBO, STARZ, SHOWTIME, CINEMAX for 5 months! PLUS FREE HD/DVR upgrade! New cust. only, qual. Pkgs. Call DirectStarTV 1-800-279-5698. N-8/25

DISH NETWORK FREE HD 4 Life! 295+Channels! From $24.99/mo! NFL Red Zone only $7/mo! FREE HBO +Showtime! $500 Bonus! Call Now! 1-800-229-4764. N-8/25

FREE HD FOR LIFE! Only on DISH Network! Lowest Price in America! $24.99/mo for over 120 Channels! $500 Bonus! 1-877-805-7991. (MCN)

FREE HD FOR LIFE! Only on DISH NETWORK. Lowest Price in America! $24.99/mo for OVER 120 Channels! PLUS – $500 Bonus! Call Today. 1-877-478-1894. (MCN)

DIRECTV’s BEST PACKAGE FREE for 5 months + No Start Costs + FREE HD/ DVR upgrade! Buy NFL SUNDAY TICKET, w/ 2yr agmt. New cust. only. DirectStarTV 1-800-206-6525. (MCN)

Painting

BRENDA & JOE’S HAULING: We do it all for a fair price. 815/382-2841. See our ad on page D4. 9/8

MJR PRO PAINTING and HANDYMAN SERVICE - Drywall, decks, tile, gutters. Insured. 815/713-8524.9/1

WE PAINT FOR LE$$ 1-Bedroom Apt. or Home for $299. Any 2-Bedroom Apt. or Home for $399. 815/765-2264. 8/18

Remodeling

BRENDA & JOE’S HAULING: We do it all for a fair price. 815/382-2841. See our ad on page D4. 9/8

DAN’S HOME REMODELING Appliance Repair and Small Engine Repair. Reasonable Rates and Free Estimates. 815/923-2890 or 815/276-9545. 8/18

Therapy

ROCKFORD LAUGH CLUB. Meeting Tuesdays 7p.m. and Saturdays 10a.m. for stress relief. To join call 815/979-1944. TFN

ROCKFORD AREA MENTAL HEALTH NETWORK www.ramhn.com , info@ramhn.com . Jenner Counseling 815/713-9386, www.jennercounseling.com . Relationship Resource Center, www.relationshipresourcecenter.org . 815/299-1600. 8/25

Weddings & Occasions

Need a caring minister for counseling or for your special occasion? Inexpensive. 815/342-6064. TFN

JOBS

Courtesy of The Rock River Times – Warning from the Better Business Bureau.

Work-at-home and fraudulent employment opportunities. Work-at-home and business opportunity scams are frequently found online as well as in the classified sections. They promise high income for minimal work and minimal effort. However, when an interested consumer “applies”, they almost always ask for money up-front to pay for materials, training kits, or investment money. After sending payment, most consumers either have their checks deposited and never hear anything again, or obtain something that is completely useless- essentially junk mail. Internet employment opportunities, mostly found on job boards, looking for “shipping” or “billing managers”, “payment processors”, or anything with a financial sounding name, very frequently turn out to be fraudulent listings that are in actuality looking for victims to commit money laundering by accepting and forwarding payments.
Help Wanted

TRRT SEEKING EXPERIENCED WRITER – The Rock River Times is seeking a part-time or full-time reporter for coverage of city council and county board meetings. Experience and knowledge of AP Style required as well as excellent grammar skills.
Submit clips and rèsumè to:
TRRT/R 128 N. Church St. Rockford, IL 61101.

REPLACE YOUR INCOME WITHIN 90 DAYS PART-TIME. Serious callers only. 319/310-4331. 10/6

GENEALOGIST WRITER NEEDS COLLEGE STUDENT Computer-skilled person to do technical tasks on computer. Please leave message- 815/397-5668. 9/8

**ALL SATELLITE SYSTEMS ARE NOT THE SAME. Monthly programming starts under $20 per month and FREE HD and DVR systems for new callers. CALL NOW 1-800-799-4935. N-8/25

HANDS ON CAREER – Train for a high-paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. Call AIM today (866)854-6156. N-8/25

$$$ 47 PEOPLE WANTED $$$ EARN Up To $4,794 Weekly Working From Home Assembling Information Packets. No Experience Necessary! Start Immediately! FREE Information. CALL 24hrs. 1-866-899-2756. N-8/25

$50/HR POTENTIAL. Get Paid to Shop and Eat. Retail Research Associate Needed. No Experience. Training Provided. Call 1-800-742-6941. N-8/25

AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high-paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888) 686-1704. N-8/25

AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high-paying Aviation Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-231-7177. (MCN)

PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Weekly Mailing Brochures from home. 100% Legit! Income is guaranteed! No experience required. Enroll Today! www.national-work.com (VOID IN SD). (MCN)

ASSEMBLE MAGNETS & CRAFTS from Home! Year-Round Work! Excellent Pay! No Experience! Top US Company! Glue Gun, Painting, Jewelry, More! Toll Free 1-866-844-5091. (MCN)

THE JOB FOR YOU! $500 Sign-on-bonus. Travel the US with our young minded enthusiastic business group. Cash and bonuses daily. Call Ryan 888-285-1347 today. (MCN)

$8000+ FOR ENVELOPES! Receive $6-$8 for every envelope stuffed with our sales brochures: Guaranteed! Postage, supplies furnished. 1-800-778-7617. (MCN)

INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP seeks VOLUNTEER HOST FAMILIES For Foreign Exchange Students. Or EARN extra cash as an Area Rep! 800-647-8839 internationalfellowship.org . (MCN)

Sales

SALES REPRESENTATIVE NEEDED. Most earn $50K-$100K or more. Call our branch office at 309-662-9615. Ask for Patricia Cochran, or e-mail patricia.cochran@insphereis.com Visit www.insphereis.com . (ICAN)

Stylist

2 BARBER OR COSMETOLOGIST POSITIONS- Clientele required. Ideal location & setup. 815/398-2494. 9/15

Drivers

DRIVERS: CDL-A. $800 and 2000 miles GUARANTEED. Home Every Weekend! Only 5 Openings! Call 800-593-6433. Ask Jamie for Details! 8/25

TRUCK DRIVERS WANTED - Best Pay and Home Time! Apply Online Today over 750 Companies! One Application, Hundreds of Offers! http://hammerlanejobs.com. (MCN)

MIDWEST OWNER OPERATORS WANTED. 64% of revenue or up to 1.10 per mile loaded 1.00 per mile empty. Generous fuel surcharge paid all miles. Permits, and fuel taxes paid. FRONTIER TRANSPORT 800 991 6227. (ICAN)

DRIVER – Weekly Hometime. Average 2,400 miles / week! OTR, Regional, Teams. Local orientation. Daily or weekly pay. 98% no touch. CDL-A, 6 months OTR experience. 800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com . (ICAN)

DRIVERS - Owner / Operators $3000 – $4000 / week, Your Tractor – Our Trailer, must run 2800-3000 miles per week and home every 14 days. Midwest to Southwest runs 1-800-817-3962. (ICAN)

DRIVERS - CDL/A Top Hometime! Solos & Teams Highest Team Pay CDL/A with 1yr. recent OTR req’d. 800-942-2104 Ext. 238 or 243 www.totalms.com . (ICAN)

DRIVERS – CO & O/O’S Looking for an outbound freight opportunity in your area? FFE seeks O/O’s & CO Drivers. Class A CDL & 1 yr. Exp. Call 214-819-5680 or recruit@ffex.net . (ICAN)

OWNER OPERATORS PSS Trucking has dedicated Midwest lanes, off weekends, paid daily, top miles / money, customer freight – drop & hook dedicated customers – paid orientation 800-494-3532 www.pssjms.com . (ICAN)

RIGHT NOW! Owner Operators. 3% Bonus Potential! Paid Weekly! Local & Regional. Home Daily. Lease Purchase Prog. 1 Yr. CDL A 1.877.775.7375 NOW! RoadLink.com. (ICAN)

*MOST UPDATED EQUIPMENT ON THE ROAD** OTR Drivers, Pre-Pass EZ-pass, 100% APU equipped, Latest Qualcomm Navigation. 2007 and newer equipment. Pass-Pet Policy. 1-800-528-7825. (ICAN)

REEFER, TANKER, FLATBED DRIVERS NEEDED! Experienced drivers & Class A commercial students welcome! Our Incredible Freight network offers plenty of miles! 1-800-277-0212 www.primeinc.com . (ICAN)

DRIVE for the BEST! Gordon Trucking, Inc. Ask about our Sign On Bonus! Teams – All the miles you can log! Regional & OTR. Full Benefits, 401k, Regular Hometime. We have the Freight! Talk to a recruiter live! www.TEAMGTI.com 888-832-6484. (ICAN)

Seeking Employment

I AM WILLING TO DO ODD JOBS: CALL 7am-8pm, M-Sat. Rockford only. 815/262-2900. 9/8

Business Opportunity

WANT TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS? No Franchise Fees, No Royalty Payments, and No Advertising Fees. If you would like to learn more about Cornwell Tools Franchise, Call Dwain Callis @ (262)497-0512 or E-Mail dcallis@cornwelltools.com ., Financing available for qualified individuals. 9/1

AVON- Work Less, Earn More! $10 to start. DeAnne 815/222-7571. www.youravon.com/deanneclay . 9/29

TONS OF GREAT PAYING FRAC SAND hauling work in Texas. You need, truck, pneumatic trailer and blower. 817-769-7621. Investors call Flex Frac Logistics 817-769-7704. N-8/25

GOOGLE IS PAYING OUT BIG MONEY! WAY TOO EASY! No Promoting or Marketing Required. Not MLM. This Is Sooooo Amazingly Simple. BIG Check Sent to YOU Every Month! www.NewLazyCashSystem.com (VOID IN SD).
MUSIC

USED CORONET, $100. 815/226-8417. 9/8

VIOLIN LESSONS – Beginning – advanced, all ages. Children & adults beginning piano. 1215 Oakland Ave. 815/963-1216. 9/29

FEMALE-FRONTED DANCE/ROCK ORIGINAL BAND searching for bass player. Prefer age range 21-27. Has exciting shows currently booked. Influences: Shiny Toy Guns, Paramore, Cobra Starship. Practice space near Rochelle. Plenty of potential with the right people! www.myspace.com/midmostmusic . 815/922-7537 ask for Caleb. TFN

PERSONALS
RESPONSIBLE PARTY WANTING TO RENT A GARAGE in Loves Park area. 815/639-1102. 9/8

TO THE LADY WHO HAS GARAGE FOR RENT – I NEED YOUR PHONE NUMBER. Call 815/639-1102. 9/8

AFRICAN-AMERICAN ATTRACTIVE TRANSSEXUAL: Educated, outgoing, wants to meet gentleman. Race unimportant. Age 30-60. Serious calls only! 815/209-7989. TFN

SWM 40 years old looking for SWF 21-45 for friendship, possible LTR. Call Charlie – 815/963-2561. 9/8

DIVORCED ITALIAN GENTLEMAN 65 years old & very generous, honest, polite, well-dressed, wants to meet a beautiful girl 25-35 for friendship & more. 815/885-8066. 8/25

THIS BISEXUAL MALE is seeking other guys for friendship and possible roommate options. For more details call 815/218-0374. TFN

SWF 63 seeking MATURE SWM, 60-70, for companionship, festivals, barbecues, movies, walks, etc. 815/961-2611. 9/1

SWM looking for SWF that’s laid back and likes to enjoy life. If that’s you, call 815/218-9917. 9/1

SWM 48 seeking attractive female for live-in companion. For details call 815/312-1532. 9/1

CHRISTIAN LADY, 60’s, seeking companionship with a gentleman with good values. Call evenings only. 815/765-0375. 8/25

SWF 60, Attractive, seeking non-smoking, non-drinking gentleman for companionship, possible LTR. 779/770-3201. 8/25

WHITE GUY, 28 looking for a white or Hispanic lady, 21-39 for dating. 779/770-7194. 9/1

Public Announcement

ATTENTION CIVIL WAR ENTHUSIASTS - Associate Memberships are available to all males in Sons of Confederate Veterans. Benefits include monthly meeting, participation in memorial services and re-enactments, receive our magazine, membership card, lapel pin & window decal, learn more about our history, and be affiliated with one of the oldest male decent organizations in the U.S. Membership $25/yr. Contact Jacob Lake -815/904-5937 or e-mail jacob.lake@gmail.com. 9/8

BISHOP EDWARD A.JOHNSON , SR. I’ll pray for you & you pray for me. Watch God change things! 815/388-4546. Donations welcome: 505 N. Main Apt. 904, Rockford, IL 61103. We are looking for a place to hold worship services every Sunday. Reasonable price. Thank you & God Bless. TFN

FIGHTING for JUSTICE March and Memorial Celebration August 28th, 2010. March at 11:00a.m. Celebration 12:00p.m. 8/25

ATTENTION ANIMAL WORKERS - Do you work with swine, turkeys, geese, or ducks? Are you age 18 or over? If so, you may be eligible to enroll in the University of Florida’s Prospective Study of US Animal Agricultural Workers for Emerging Influenza Virus Infections. The purpose of the research study is to follow ag workers and their household members for influenza (flu) infections from both animal and humans. Compensation available. For more information, view our study website at http://gpl.phhp.ufl.edu/AgWorker or contact Whitney Baker at 352-273-9569 email: wsbaker@phhp.ufl.edu . (ICAN)

Performing Arts

THEATER COMPANY AUDITION Send résumés to: PO Box 8714 Rockford, IL 61128. Ages 16 & up. Deadline Oct. 16. 9/8

WELCOME TO ST. SEBASTIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH. Traditional liturgy every Sunday, 10:30 a.m., 2415 Charles St., Suite 20×1, Rockford, IL. Call 815/520-4374. TFN

LOOKING FOR ANSWERS? Try Bible call. 24-hour automated service- 815/316-2650. (Church of Christ). TFN

PRE-VATICAN II CHURCH is alive and well. St. Sebastian. Call 815/520-4374. TFN

AL-ANON, support group for families and friends of alcoholics. Help-line: (815) 399-0456. TFN

POSITIVE IMAGE CHURCH - Basic Life Skills Programs. Free. 1408 Elm Street. For information: 815/967-9061. TFN

INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGES! http://burrittchurch.exactpages.com/sermons.htm . TFN

Events

CRUISE NIGHT / CAR SHOW Saturday Night August 28th , 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM , NAPA AUTO PARTS Rockford 1670 Northrock CT , Rockford, IL 61103. DJ, Door Prizes, Trophies, Food, 50/50 Raffle, no entry fee. 8/25

Happy Anniversary

GEORGE MOORE, Tu eres mi corazon por vida. I love you boo. – Mrs. Erica Moore. 8/25

Organ, Blood, & Tissue Donation

26-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER desperately needs kidney Type A+. Waiting 6½ years. (630)400-6849. TFN

SINGLE YOUNG MOTHER with 2 children desperately needs kidney donor. Blood type O positive/negative. 815/397-6703. TFN

55-YEAR-OLD ITALIAN MOTHER desperately needs Mediterranean kidney donor Type A or O, waiting 4 years. 815/978-3422 or 815/282-2551. TFN

WWW.LINKSFOR LIFECAMPAIGN.COM Read the stories, see the faces of those desperately in need of a lifesaving organ transplant, or set up your own link for free. TFN

The Rock River Times
is now offering a special classifieds section

reserved for individuals or families

seeking organ donations.
This is a totally free service

for those who are in need.

Please feel free to call: (815)964-9767,
fax: (815)964-9825, or e-mail: contact@rockrivertimes.com
your FREE 15-word ad for this special section.
For more information on organ & tissue donation,

visit www.giftofhope.org
To contribute to

The Angela Rushford Children’s Organ Donation Fund,

visit the foundation of Northern Illinois’ web site:
www.cfnil.org .

In Loving Memory

THE COLONEL PLAYS ON- Website for astonishing guitar player David Leis. www.thecolonel.info. TFN

PETS

For Sale

2 ADORABLE TEACUP CHIHUAHUAS - Female. $350 each. Call Vivian – 815/608-8200, 949/646-8004. 9/8

(3) PURE GRAY KITTENS - Two males & one female. To forever-loving indoor homes only. $10. Call 815/980-7863. TFN

READY TO GO! YORKIES. $800. Potty-trained. Have all shots except rabies. 815/633-2726. Will take payments. 9/8

PITBULL, DOBERMAN, LAB MIX PUPPIES. 6 weeks old. $75 each. 815/608-7761. 8/25

TOY PUREBRED DACHSHUND with papers. Must sell. Paid $1,200, will sell for $400 OBO. 815/335-2739. 8/25

ENGLISH BULLDOG AKC 12-week-old male, updated shots. $1,500. Maurice 815/969-9034 or 815/243-0733. 8/25

Misc Pets

WANTED: LOVING & CARING FOSTER HOMES for kittens & cats that haven’t been rescued yet, but desperately need to be as soon as possible. If you can help, please call me at 815/980-7863. Thanks so much. – Lori. TFN

SEE LIVE ELEPHANTS on the elecam at www.elephants.com . TFN

WHIPS, SCARS, CHAINS, & BARS. Circus suffering is NOT entertainment. TFN

DON’T BREED OR BUY while homeless pets die. Adopt from shelters or rescues. www.wcasrock.org . TFN

WANTED

WANTED: SIMPLICITY CORONET LAWN MOWER. Call 815/312-1532. 9/8

BOOKS WANTED! Any unwanted books in your home will be put to good use. Thank you. Call 815/621-5265. 9/8

WANTED: GIRL’S TODDLER BED in good condition, reasonable. 815/968-9781. 8/25

NEEDED FOR MY SON who is nursing home resident: his favorite music artist, Bob Seger- albums, records, CDs, etc. Thanks for calling, Don, 815/262-0214. TFN

NEED CASH? Diabetic Test STRIPS WANTED. Will pay up to $14 a box. Quick & local. Nancy. 815/519-9966. TFN

I WILL BUY YOUR OLD CD collections. Top prices paid. 815/218-3054. 8/25

CASH! FOR YOUR ANTIQUES, GOLD, SILVER, OR ANYTHING OF VALUE. Call 815/558-1900. 9/1

WANTED: SNOWMOBILES AND PARTS from the 70’s and 80’s., Kitty Cats and other small snowmobiles. 815/623-6591. TFN

WANTED: Riding mowers, ATV’s, minibikes, scooters, dirt bikes, power wheels, go-carts, mopeds, & antique vehicles. Running or not. 815/397-4483. 9/1

WANTED: OUTSIDE FIRE/BURN PIT. Must be in good shape, reasonable. Must have top. 815/382-7667. 9/1

SELL YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS. We buy Any Kind/Any brand Unexpired. Pay up to $16.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Call 1-800-267-9895 or www.SellDiabeticstrips.com. N-8/25

OLD GUITARS WANTED! Fender, Gibson, Martin, Gretsch, Prairie State, Euphonon, Larson, D’Angelico, Stromberg, Rickenbacker, and Mosrite. Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1930’s thru 1970’s TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440. N-8/25

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Classifieds | No Comments »

Auditions for TownSquare’s The Mystery of Edwin Drood Aug. 30-31

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

From press release

WOODSTOCK, Ill.—TownSquare Players (TSP), the oldest resident community theater company of the Woodstock Opera House, has announced details on open auditions for its next musical, The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

Artistic/vocal director Geoffrey King and choreographer Maggie McCord are seeking 13 men and nine women for the November 2010 production of the Tony Award-winning musical by Rupert Holmes that’s based on an unfinished novel by Charles Dickens. At each of the Woodstock Opera House performances, a maximum audience of 200 will interact with the cast and determine the ending of this fun-filled, musical whodunit.

Auditioners will be seen between 7 and 9:30 p.m., Monday or Tuesday, Aug. 30-31, at the Woodstock Opera House in downtown Woodstock. Callbacks will be at the same time and location Thursday, Sept. 2. No appointment is needed. No parts have been pre-cast. Auditioners are asked to use the Calhoun Street entrance.

King asks that each auditioner be prepared to sing a song that shows his/her vocal range and acting abilities. Singing a song from the show is a “plus,” but not necessary. An accompanist will be provided, so each person trying out should bring sheet music for her. A convincing British accent will be required.

McCord will teach a dance from the show to all auditioners, so she asks that each auditioner wear clothing he/she can move in. Dance shoes are not required.

Rehearsals for successful auditioners will begin after Labor Day. The musical will be presented at the Woodstock Opera House the first three weekends in November. Rehearsals will typically be on Sunday afternoons, as well as Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights. Those involved with key solos, especially the various endings to the show, will also rehearse on occasional Wednesday evenings.

Desired stage ages range from 20s to 70s for male characters, and 20s to 50s for female characters. However, director notes about the show, and desired age ranges and vocal ranges/other character traits for each of the 22 roles, can be found at the TSP website (tspinc.org).

For any additional questions, contact co-producer Char Ulanowski by phone (815-790-7883), or co-producer Paul Lockwood by e-mail (paul@tspinc.org) or phone (815-529-7123).

Posted in Happening Now | No Comments »

Playground to be built at Barbour Language Academy Aug. 28

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

From press release

More than 200 volunteers from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Rockford Public Schools, organizers from KaBOOM! and residents of the local community will join forces Saturday, Aug. 28, to build a new playground at Barbour Language Academy, 1506 Clover Ave., Rockford. The playground design is based on drawings created by children who participated in a Design Day event in June.

The new playground will provide 600 children who attend Barbour Language Academy with a safe place to play. Currently, the children who attend the Academy only have old, out-dated equipment to play on, which will be removed to make way for the new playground. The playground is the fifth of eight being built by KaBOOM! and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois this year, and one of more than 150 builds KaBOOM! will lead across the country in 2010 in an effort to provide a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America.

Schedule is as follows:

8:30-9 a.m.—Kickoff ceremony and volunteer deployment

11 a.m.-1 p.m.—Best viewing of playground construction

1-2:30 p.m.—Final construction phase and adjustments

2:30-3 p.m.—Ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate new play area

Posted in Happening Now | No Comments »

Ford predicts investor loss after GM public offering

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Jim Hagerty
Staff Writer

Ford Motor Co. announced last week that investors may reduce significant holdings in the company to buy shares in General Motor’s recent IPO.

General Motors Co. filed documents to reduce the U.S. Treasury’s 61 percent share in the company, marking GM’s return to public trading.

According to Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford, the offering could reach approximately $16 billion, but should not be a factor in whether the company his great-grandfather founded in 1903 will remain profitable.

“Some money will be rebalanced into GM, but look: our company and GM ultimately are going to succeed or not based upon performance,” Ford said Friday, Aug. 20. “It doesn’t make any difference to me where our shares are or their shares are on any given day.”

Ford stock fell by 7 cents as of last Friday morning stalling a 19 percent increase throughout the year.

Meantime, Ford execs don’t expect the announcement to affect UAW members, who agreed to 2009 contract changes based on a company promise to save $500 million per year by reducing raises and bonuses.

“I’m confident that as we go through negotiations we’ll work it out,” Ford said. “Any negotiation is a big deal, but I feel very good about our relationship with the UAW.”

Ford remains the only of the Big 3 to avoid bankruptcy. Before the markets stalled, Ford borrowed $26 billion, which has allowed the company to pay debts and focus on widening its Lincoln line and boosting sales of the Taurus and Fusion.

Ford reported $4.7 billion profit for the first half of 2010, the largest six-month total in 12 years. Sales in the U.S. were up 23 percent, passing the industry average by 8 percent.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Raw Energy: Learn how to soar with plant-based protein

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Brenda Richter

One of the biggest questions on a raw-food, plant-based diet is where do you get your protein? Here are some quality plant-based protein sources: hemp protein, yellow pea protein, brown rice protein, flaxseed, chlorella, almonds, pseudograins, dark green leafy vegetables, figs, broccoli, cabbage, celery, kale, quinoa, mustard greens and lemon.

Why did I not include soy? Despite its popularity as a vegetarian alternative to animal protein, soy has several faults. It is difficult to digest and contains enzyme inhibitors that actually halt protein digestion.

Soy is highly processed and contains naturally occurring toxins and carcinogenic residues. Soy is also acid-forming in your body, and is also one of the common allergens, causing symptoms that are challenging to identify and frequently go unrecognized. Most soy is also genetically modified, unless organic.

Athletes often turn to whey protein, although this is derived from dairy. Another common allergen, it is also acid-forming in your body. Whey is an isolate, just like many “vitamins,” and your body does not recognize or process isolates well. Whey is difficult to digest and has only about 70 percent digestibility with the ability to absorb the nutrients. Low digestibility means your body cannot efficiently use the food for nutrients, and low protein absorption results in the protein being stored as fat.

Plant-based protein sources have many benefits: they are easy to digest and are alkalizing, low in saturated fat and promote a healthy body weight and energy level. Instead of burning extra energy to digest animal-based protein, this energy may be utilized for physical or mental activities.

Our culture has a bias toward high-protein foods. Animal protein is highly acidic. The more alkaline you are, the healthier you are.

Studies show that people who get 70 percent of their protein from animal products have major health difficulties compared to those who get just 5 percent of their protein that way. Seventeen times the death rate from heart disease and five times the likelihood of dying from breast cancer. A strong correlation exists between animal protein and several kinds of cancer.

Although there may be some nutrients in animal-based foods, when you consider the high volume of health risks in cancer, the high levels of acidity, the added stress and energy levels required to digest and extract those nutrients, in addition to the longer time it takes to break those animal proteins, it may not be worth the risks.

Vegetables carry all the amino acids (the building blocks of protein) the body needs. Green leafy vegetables are particularly high in protein, at about 50 percent protein. Vegetables and fruits taken together have about 15 percent of their calories as protein. The Recommended Daily Allowance is only slightly higher than that (at 20 percent).

Consider the strongest animals in the world like the gorilla and the elephant do not eat meat, but live on grass and leaves. Expert research suggests we need only 25 grams, just one ounce of protein, a day. The average American eating meat, eggs and dairy gets 75 to 125 grams a day, three to five times more than we actually need. To learn more about the benefits of a raw food diet, go to myrawenergy.com.

Brenda Richter is a graduate of Living Light Culinary Arts Institute, where she received her certification as a Raw Culinary Arts associate chef and instructor. She’s passionate about sharing the living foods lifestyle with others, and teaches raw culinary arts classes in the Rockford area.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Anger and rage in modern society

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Jim Hagerty
Staff Writer

For decades, anger management classes have been filled with individuals who’ve lost a battle with heightened emotions . “Flying off the handle” has become a cliché in domestic abuse cases, employee shootings and street fights. Anger management seems to be in high demand.

While millions agree that controlling anger is the only way to stop ourselves from making split-second decisions complicated by horrific consequences, others fail to lay blame where it belongs. Anger, as defined, isn’t responsible for the fury involved in losing control and bulldozing everything in one’s path.

Anger is a healthy emotion and almost always can be harnessed to facilitate positive change, even in the midst of the seemingly impossible. It’s when anger’s ugly counterpart rage takes over that situations go from difficult to destructive.

According to mental health professionals, anger and rage are as different as night and day, apples and oranges—monkeys and kittens. Healthy anger is not used to berate, belittle, punish or shame. Rage destroys and will dismantle anything salvageable in an emotionally heightened moment.

Origins of rage

In modern society, we categorize a rampaging person as one with serious psychological issues, even evil. While true in some cases, a woman who loses control in slow traffic, where expletives and single-digit salutes abound, can find the root of her rage in the same place as a spree-killer will find his.

Rage, therapists claim, is a shame- and fear-based expression of anger. Feelings of fear, guilt, inadequacy and shame have the abilities to instantly turn healthy anger into rage.

“Many people believe that explosive and volatile anger is a sign of power (and) confidence,” David Decker of ANGEResources notes. “In fact, this is not the case at all. Rage and disrespectful anger actually come out of a deep sense of powerlessness, inadequacy, and despair. Another word for that place is shame.”

Children spend years hearing direct statements like, “Men don’t cry,” “You should be ashamed of yourself,” “I’ll give you something to cry about,” and “What is wrong with you?”

Being shamed leaves a lasting, bio-chemical imprint and can stunt emotional growth patterns. As adults, when situations trigger those emotions, healthy anger takes a menacing back seat.

“Children often feel that it’s not OK to be angry,” social worker Julie Logan said. “If children don’t learn how to express anger, they will internalize that they are not worthy of having their needs met because there is something wrong with them. This prevents them from setting boundaries with adults and as adults. Healthy anger is to step back, recognize it and ask for our needs to be met. We must also understand and accept that we may not get what we want.”

More information about anger and rage is at angeresources.com and julieloganlcsw.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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‘Sweet Lou’ bids farewell; former Rockford Expos manager takes Cubs’ reins

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Lou Piniella

By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

I wrote a column a few weeks ago basically declaring the Chicago Cubs officially dead this year. One of the facts I used to support that theory was their manager, Lou Piniella, had just announced his retirement a few days before that column was written.

At that time, Piniella said he would stick it out until the end of the season before calling it a career. At that time, I thought he meant in October sometime. Obviously, now that the Cubs are 21 games out of first in the National League Central, the end of the season is here.

Even though it looks to me like Lou is jumping ship before the deck chairs get too wet, he claims it is because of family obligations. His mother is ill and is in her 90s. In his defense, he has taken two leaves of absence this season to attend to “personal matters.”

As Piniella explained in his farewell statement: “I didn’t think my career would end this way. But my mom needs me home. She hasn’t gotten any better since I’ve been here. She’s had a couple other complications, and rather than continue to go home, come back, it’s not fair to the team, it’s not fair to the players. So the best thing is just to step down and go home and take care of my mother.”

Piniella finishes his career with more than 1,800 wins in 23 seasons as a manager, and with 1,705 hits in an 18-year career as a player. He is a three-time Manager of the Year winner, including 2008 with the Cubs, and he managed the Cincinnati Reds to the 1990 World Series title. He is the 14th-winningest manager in Major League history, with a 1,835-1,712 record in 22-plus seasons. He’s fourth among active managers in wins.

Mike Quade, the former manager of the Rockford Expos (1989-1990), will assume the managerial duties for the remainder of the season. Quade has been with the Cubs’ organization since 2003, and spent this season as the third base coach.

Cubs General Manager Jim Hendry said Quade would be considered as a permanent replacement for Piniella.

Whoever does end up as Piniella’s permanent replacement next season will have his hands full. These are the Cubs we are talking about. I’m not sure why anyone in their right mind would even want that job. GOOD LUCK!

Doug Halberstadt can be reached via e-mail at Dougster61@aol.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Your Horoscope: Week of Aug. 25-31, 2010

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Denise Guzzardo

This Week: Now that we are in the middle of Mercury retrograde, we can, well, shall I say, get kind of used to it? The biggest shakedown occurred last week with the full moon on the 24th, as well as Mercury retrograde. This seemed to turn everything topsy-turvy. Just remember to pay close attention in traffic, and mind your e-mails and messages. For those of you involved in equestrian activities, be cautious as well. Remember, the horse is the oldest form of transportation. After the 12th of September, all will go back to “normal” again, whatever that means…LOL.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)—You have made a connection with a unique individual who helps you see many different angles to a specific project now. Once you’re able to formulate a plan, you can move mountains with your long-term goals. You also have an opportunity to socialize with a love or friend from your past. Connect all of the dots. Don’t leave anything out.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)—Make sure your personal path is clear before you worry about taking on anymore mischief or frustration. When you tend to overlook the obvious, someone will be more than willing to point it out to you. Beautify your surrounding area, and make room for growth. Could you be purposely self-sabotaging your goals? If not, is another trying to do this for you? Avoid negativity like the plague.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)—Take this week to show another how much you care. You may have been too overwhelmed to show any appreciation previously. Now is your chance to “catch up” on your personal life. Plan a weekend away, and lay the plans down for this now. It will arrive soon enough.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)—You are so overwhelmed with your emotions you can’t see the forest through the trees early this week. Take a step back, and try to figure out from where this is all stemming. Midweek provides you with answers to a long-standing problem, and by week’s end, you’re ready to celebrate with the love of your life.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)—You feel so relieved after getting all of these overwhelming burdens off your chest. Your ability to communicate runs smoothly, and you’re able to get everything under control once and for all. A focus on property may become a driving element to “get things done.” You will find a burst of energy arrives just in the nick of time.

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)—You feel lucky at love and work this week. Love falls under a giant category. Friends, family, our four-legged connections and a significant other all align in your heart with perfect order. You have more tolerance and can see the big picture without picking it apart. Take time out to focus on your appearance. All eyes are on you.

Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)—A work associate may try to feed gossip or bully a fellow employee this week. You may need to step in and give them an earful. Normally, you would rather stay out of this kind of drama, but you have reached your last nerve with it all. Choose your words carefully, but let it be known you will not tolerate this kind of mean-spirited energy.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)—Romance aligns in a favorable light. You feel as though you are complete with all of the aspects that have been presented to you now. A lucky break regarding a vehicle or employment will arrive shortly. Keep your eyes and ears open for information with this aspect. The weekend holds some interesting surprises for you.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)—Those around you provide you with much love and support. You are so surprised at the outpouring of affection you could become quite emotional over it all. Receive this love graciously, and return it whenever you can. This contagious affection is a wonderful epidemic. Your finances begin to make sense, and you’re able to set some money aside for a rainy day. Express your creative self.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)—Expansion with career will increase your finances and allow you to see the big picture in the months to come. Romance becomes a major focus midweek. You’re able to get to the bottom of a confusing element with another and clear it up for good. With that said, you can move on to bigger and better things.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)—A change in home, work or career entirely is on the forefront. This is an exciting development that promises success and satisfaction. Take a leap of faith, and go for it. You can no longer worry about the “what ifs” in life and expect to expand and grow. Once everything falls into place, you breathe a big sigh of relief.

Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)—You are in a wonderful position to acquire wealth and knowledge. However, you cannot let the past get in the way of the present. Open your mind to the possibilities of change. The picture becomes clear by week’s end.

For an extended astrological forecast or psychic consultation, contact Denise at (815) 398-3983.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Guest Column: A new standard…Green Star Restaurants

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Randall Smith
Clock Tower Inn & Resort Executive Chef

Editor’s Note: Chef Smith and I have been thinking about this concept for a holistic ranking for restaurants for some time. Many of our readers are aware of the Michelin Guide for restaurants, wherein three stars is the highest rating. Please look for Chef Smith’s upcoming column to watch our Green Star Rating system develop. We welcome your suggestions at frank.schier@rockrivertimes.com.

It’s 5:30 on a weeknight in August. You find yourself the last in a line of cars at the nearest burger joint. The choice seemed easy. Grab some grub on the way home for the family.

They have 45 minutes to eat before Johnny’s baseball game. You don’t have time to think about the choice and really don’t want to be bothered. You hand over a remarkably small amount of money, and are handed a sack full of food. You check to see if the order is complete.

Four burgers and a fried chicken sandwich in foam containers. Three large orders of fries in greaseproof boxes and four large drinks in 24-ounce plastic cups with plastic lids and straws, a handful of napkins and half-a-dozen packs of ketchup in foil pouches.

The beef and chicken are produced on chemical- and resource-intensive factory farms, the fries and drinks are laden with corn and soybean products that are made cheap by public subsidies and produced with enormous chemical inputs, the whole meal is served up in packaging that will almost entirely end up in a landfill. It was the easy choice, but was it the right choice?

Until recently it has been the only choice. But restaurants and operators do exist that are trying to deliver good food responsibly. They are taking baby steps as the market allows and responding to a growing number of consumers’ wishes to deliver a more responsible product. Making the right choice is becoming easier, and may be as simple as driving a couple doors farther down the road.

In an earlier column, I bemoaned my industry’s contribution to unsustainable practices, but it is now time to spotlight those who are trying to do the right thing. My goal is to make this choice easier by pointing out local restaurants that have made a commitment to sustainability and green food service. We can call it the Green Star rating.

Green Star establishments strive to commit to some or all of the following criteria:

→ Reducing the use of toxic or potentially toxic chemicals in cleaning supplies.

→ To purchase as much food as possible that has been grown and processed with the minimum chemical impact. Not necessarily organic, but responsibly produced where such options are available.

→ Offer a menu that is less meat-laden.

→ Offer a menu that allows for enough flexibility to take advantage of seasonality and local goods.

→ Limit use of disposables, but when necessary, use recyclable and compostible materials.

→ Purchase products packaged with recycled content.

→ Practice responsible waste reduction and handling.

→ Ongoing self-monitoring of green practices.

→ Educate and persuade operators and patrons about the importance of sustainable food service practices.

These restaurateurs that embrace these practices, in whole or in part, should be applauded, recognized and patronized for making these commitments. I, along with The Rock River Times, would like to help you make those choices. Look for recommendations in future columns.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Corey Chisel, Miles Nielson perform at Block 5 Festival Aug. 28

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Described by Rolling Stone as one of the Best New Artists in 2009, Corey Chisel and the Wandering Songs have been touring the world during the last year, filling 2,500-seat venues and even making time for an appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon last October. Photo provided

From press release

Music aficionados, food lovers and fans of pedicures, salons and boutiques all know Block 5 (500 block of East State Street in Rockford’s River District) is one of the true epicenters of Rockford’s entertainment and arts scene. Aug. 28, the merchants of Block 5 will host the 17th Annual Block 5 Festival featuring Corey Chisel and Wandering Sons as well as special guests Miles Nielsen and Mickey Rosenquist. For just $5, you can enjoy an evening of music, food and drinks from 7 p.m. to midnight on one of the premiere blocks in downtown Rockford.

Described by Rolling Stone as one of the Best New Artists in 2009, Chisel and the Wandering Sons have been touring the world during the last year, filling 2,500-seat venues and even making time for an appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon last October. “Born Again,” the lead track on the band’s most recent CD, Death Won’t Send A Letter, ranked No. 20 on Radio Milwaukee’s top 100 songs, and last fall, the track was featured on USA Today’s Playlist.

Although Chisel and the Wandering Sons are the headliners, many music fans in the area will be excited to see local favorites Nielsen and Rosenquist complement the lineup.

Nielsen, who on his website states, “most of my childhood was spent on a tour bus traveling with Cheap Trick,” has evolved into an accomplished musician and songwriter, performing throughout the Midwest while earning legions of fans through Facebook, Twitter and MySpace. Like Nielsen, Rosenquist is also a career musician. He started playing live in the area 15 years ago with bands such as Fluid Oz and the Snaggs. A graduate from Northern Illinois University with a degree in music, Rosenquist still performs regularly in addition to teaching music privately and at Keith Country Day School.

Along with the amazing entertainment, Block 5 will feature food, food and more food as well as an assortment of drinks. Most downtowners agree, when it comes to culinary choices as well as a range of drink specials, you can hardly find a better lineup than the Irish Rose Saloon, Bamboo, Brio Restaurant, Social, Deli Italia, Red Lion or the Office Night Club—all of which have partnered to make Block 5 better than ever.

In addition to the restaurants, Block 5 organizers include MedicineMan, 5 Spa, Scratch Pedicure Parlour, Plush Gift Gallery and the Element. For more information about Block 5, call Sandi Kohn at (815) 969-0960.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Music, Vibe Entertainment, Vibe Entertainment News | No Comments »

On Outdoors: Rains blamed for mosquito crop, West Nile not a concern

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Jim Hagerty
Staff Writer

While officials aren’t able to locate the command post that seems to be sending millions of mosquitoes to battle, there’s little doubt the Chicago/Rockford region has been a war zone where humans have had little chance this summer.

According to health officials, heavy rains in the region have created a bumper crop of mosquitoes, which continue to multiply quickly around an unusual number of floodwaters. Although bites are plentiful and repellents hot sellers, there seems to be no evidence potentially deadly Culex mosquitoes are part of the blood-thirsty assault of 2010.

Culex mosquitoes have been known to carry a number of diseases, most notably West Nile virus and malaria. No human cases of West Nile have been reported so far, and the swarms seem to be nothing more than hungry floodwater pests.

However, with an above average number of storms this year, even the average back yard can produce dozens of bites per minute.

Mosquito traps set by abatement officials are seeing increases of up to 45 percent in some areas. The majority of mosquitoes caught have been of the floodwater variety. However, the Culex genus has been recorded.

In 2009, five people contracted West Nile believed to be associated with Culex bites. Officials say the worst year for the virus was 2002, when 884 cases were reported in Illinois.

Culex mosquitoes are slightly different than the average floodwater mosquito.

“If it’s buzzing around your ears, it’s probably not a Culex,” Illinois Extension entomologist Philip Nixon said. “(Culex mosquitoes) are sneaky, quiet biters.”

Protecting against floodwater and Culex mosquitoes involves common precautions such as the use of DEET, lemon oil, eucalyptus and other agents. Dumping standing water, especially from birdbaths and rain barrels, reduces breeding areas around homes. However, avoiding the outdoors during sunset and dusk seems to be best reprieve this year.

Outdoors news and photos can be sent directly to Jim Hagerty at jim.hagerty@rockrivertimes.com. Glossies and hard-copy press kits can be mailed or delivered to The Rock River Times’ office at 128 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61101. Jim can be reached at (815) 964-9767.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Belvidere North looking to finish off run this season

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

A heartbreaking loss against Boylan last season left Belvidere North sitting at 2-4 and their season was almost over. Then, they didn’t lose another game until a close loss in the IHSA Class 6A state quarterfinals.

This season, the Blue Thunder are hungry for more. After a taste of a deep playoff run, they are looking to finish the job this year.

“After last year, everyone is coming back with a lot of confidence and we want to do a lot better,” returning quarterback Tony Tindle said. “We all want to get to the same goals, and we’re all in it together.t”

For new coach Ryan Zarembski, the trick will be playing for this season instead of trying to live up to last season.

“It’s not fair to this year’s team to constantly compare them to last year’s team,” he said. “A lot of our guys that are returning played a big part in that. Hopefully, that experience serves them well and they can pull the younger guys with them.”

That experience has led to some lofty expectations for Belvidere North. Not only are they looking to return to the playoffs and go even deeper, but they are also looking to compete for a conference crown.

“We would like to be closer to the Hononegahs and Boylans,” Zarembski said. “That’s where the cream of the crop is in the conference. We want to be in the same breath as them.”

To reach those goals, Zarembski said his team needs to solidify their defense. With an explosive offense last year, points were usually not a problem for the Blue Thunder. But a porous defense led to a lot of shootouts.

More than anything, however, Zarembski said he wants to see their running game on offense catch up to the passing game. He said his team lacks the depth of most teams, and a running game will help them offset those problems.

“If we can come out in the first game and run the ball a little bit, that would be a good sight for my eyes,” he said. “That’s what we’ve lacked, and if we can run the ball a little bit, that will make our lives easier. It’s going to shorten up the game, and we don’t have a lot of guys. So the more we can run, the shorter we can make the games, the better chance we have to win.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Chicago Shoreline Marathon Aug. 27-28

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Lincoln Park Boat Club National Dragon Boat Team. Photo by Richard Hodgkins

From press release

Get your paddles ready! The Fourth annual Chicago Shoreline Marathon (CSM) is quickly approaching Aug 27-28. The CSM consists of three races and a clinic led by world surfski champion Dawid Mocke.

Race consists of a 4×4 mile relay (all skill levels), an 8-mile-two-beach race (intermediate paddlers), and a 25-mile marathon.

If the wonderful sport of paddling isn’t motivation enough, check out the following prizes:

First-place single, $3,000

Second-place single, $1,500

Third-place single, $1,250

Fourth-place single, $1,000

Fifth-place single, $750

Sixth-place single, $500

Seventh-place single, $250

First place woman single, $1,000

First-place double, $1,000

Canoe and Kayak Racing magazine had an excellent article on the race – see pages 23, 24, 25 at http://issuu.com/ckrmagazine/docs/july-aug_2010.

For more info, see the official CSM website: http://www.chicagoshorelinemarathon.com.

LPBC Dragon Boat Team wins in Chattanooga, Tenn. July 23

Congratulations to the Lincoln Park Boat Club National Dragon Boat Team!

This second-year team is composed of athletes from many different paddling disciplines, some of whom were rookies to this team sport. Since deciding to compete at the Nationals last October, the LPBC crew has been training year-around: winter circuit workouts at the boat club and summer water practices in Racine, Wis. (the site of the closest available dragon boat). This dedication and commitment paid off in a huge way.

In addition to winning the division, they won the overall award for the best team at Nationals this year with a perfect seven wins in seven races (including heats and finals). This was a phenomenal result for such a young team. In addition to winning the 2010 U.S. Club Crew National Title, the LPBC Dragon Boat Team also won a berth to compete at the World Club Crew Championship in Hong Kong in 2012 (idbfworldchamps.com).

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Independence Village collection site for recycling used eyeglasses

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Independence Village was recently designated as a collection site for used eyeglasses. Anyone with used glasses or frames can drop them off at the village, which is at 3655 N. Alpine Road.

According to Pat Vaughan, village manager, it’s a natural fit for the retirement center to be a collection site.

“There are a number of residents at Independence village who have some sort of visual impairment,” said Vaughan. “We are helping others with similar vision problems by collecting used glasses and donating them to the Center For Sight and Hearing, where they are sorted and refashioned so they can be used again.”

Independence Village and the Center for Sight and Hearing have other collaborations. For instance, Barbara Schlomann, a vision rehabilitation therapist from the center, conducts an eight-week New Visions class at the village. In this class, those who are visually impaired will learn strategies to function independently within their home, work and community. The class also gives participants an opportunity to share ideas and experiences with others who have visual impairment.

Independence Village of Rockford is an enhanced retirement community that is committed to making its residents’ senior years the best of their lives. Under the direction of the on-site managers, the village staff works tirelessly to meet residents’ needs and exceed their expectations. They do so efficiently and effectively and in an environment that is beautiful, warm and inviting—just like home.

For more information about Independence Village, visit indvillage.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Songs and Scenes: iPods and the last stand of the liner notes

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Jonathan Hicks
Staff Writer

I gave away my age in last week’s Songs and Scenes. In a less direct fashion, I will do so again this week. For my birthday this year, I was given my first iPod. Of course, this means I am officially almost caught up with the technology of 2004. All I need now is a PlayStation, and I’ll be all set. But, I digress…

For the record, there was reasoning behind not buying an iPod. It is the same reason why, after the release of cassette tapes and compact discs, people still clung to vinyl records. It is why I tend to avoid digital music in general—I miss the artwork too much.

Knowledge and beauty lie in the art. I grew up believing albums were complete pieces of artwork. They were the visual component that took the audio to another level. Beyond that, as an information source, there is no substitute for flipping through liner notes.

Liner notes are like little encyclopedias—everything you need to know about an album is there. Where was an album recorded? Who produced it? Who is the primary songwriter? Were there any guest musicians? The answers are all there.

The liner notes can even tell you a little about the artist that the songs themselves might not. A “thank you” section is almost always included. These are windows into whom and what the artist finds important. As a rock journalist, this is an often overlooked, but invaluable, resource.

In the last decade or so, I have amassed a CD collection that numbers more than 1,000. It is an assortment I still feel is far from complete. Anytime I have a few extra dollars burning a hole in my pocket, I find an independent record store and pick up something new. Sure, the Apple website can tell me what other people think is good or popular, but then I am denied the chance to have a conversation with someone. One of the great aspects of a record store is hearing what song is playing on the loudspeaker and having a conversation with the shop owner/clerk about why they chose it.

To put it in perspective: I have bought more albums on vinyl in the last year than I have albums via digital media. I was an undergrad during the Napster file-sharing phase. That time taught me two things: 1) If digital music isn’t worth illegally downloading, it’s not worth downloading legally, either and 2) If music IS worth buying, it’s worth going to a store and purchasing.

I am going to enjoy having an iPod. It will make carrying around thousands of songs much easier. That said, you can also bet that when I next add new music to my cache, I will do so with a record in my hand, not with a folder on my laptop.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Songs and Scenes, Vibe Entertainment, Vibe Entertainment News | No Comments »

Astro-Weather: Week of Aug. 25-31, 2010

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Guy Spiro

Wednesday, Aug. 25—Consider the full moon and all of the attendant energies to remain very much with us through today and tomorrow. Reread the past few days, and apply the warnings carefully. Be aware of three more major energies today. The first is yesterday’s energy for communication in relationships, which peaks early this morning and runs strongly on through today. The second would normally be very good for making new beginnings in communication and transportation, and for negotiation and coming to long-term agreement. Remember, however, that Mercury is retrograde, and focus on issues from the past. Make a fresh start on an old project that still needs attention and completion. The third is connected to the full moon, but is more positive. This energy sheds light on things normally kept behind the scenes and under the surface, but not in a threatening way in most cases. Keep the eyes and ears open as there will be much to learn, and positive changes on deep levels are possible.

Thursday, Aug. 26—Remember to consider the full moon and all of its related major energies to run on through today and into tomorrow. Reread and apply the cautions, but also make use of the positives from yesterday and today. Be aware of five additional major energies today. The first is positive for communication and transportation, but with Mercury retrograde, you may want to focus on issues already at play. The second is related, and adds a great deal of energy to it. This can lead to problems where people try to do and say too much. Avoid biting off more than you can chew and promising more than you can deliver. The third is related to yesterday’s positive energy; with this, you can make solid the changes you started to put in motion then. In dealings with authority, seek to present yourself as aware of the inner workings and solid and disciplined in your approach. The fourth is related to the first two and adds intensity and eccentricity. Watch for the crazies once again on parade, and be careful in traffic. The fifth sheds light on relationships and supports positive recent gains in relationships that may have been made. Be aware of a short moon void of course period tonight from 8:59 until 9:48 when the moon enters Aries. At that point, the energy will shift noticeably, and general moods will tend to become somewhat more assertive and aggressive.

Friday, Aug. 27—Fallout from this remarkable full moon period, which for all intents and purposes has run through the entire past seven or eight days, will linger through today. There are many cautionary as well as positive energies to have chosen from. It is probably a good idea to read back over the new moon and full moon periods as there is much to learn, and it may give you clues as to what you are dealing with in this recovery period. The major energies from yesterday will remain active through today, especially fourth and fifth, so reread and apply carefully through today. There is no help from minor energies today, so good choices will be needed. Have fun tonight.

Saturday, Aug. 28—Late Friday night social scenes will run well into today’s predawn. Watch the mid-predawn for relationship issues. We get another break from major energy over the next few days, which is well-deserved after what we’ve just been through. Regroup and regenerate. Watch the late predawn into the very early morning for a brief period of irritability and argumentativeness. The midday through the late afternoon has scattered minor irritability to sidestep. Watch for aggressive attitudes, relationship issues and spaciness. Once into the evening, the energy will open up, and this can be a positive social Saturday night. Make the right choices and enjoy.

Sunday, Aug. 29—Late Saturday night party scenes will easily extend well into today’s predawn, and moods will become more positive in the mid to late predawn. Party hards will want to hang on for that. A moon void of course period occurs this morning from 3:47 until 9:34 when the moon enters Taurus. At that point, the energy will lift noticeably, and general moods will tend to become more down-to-earth and concerned with enjoyment. Relax, and take it easy through the void of course, tending to old business and not taking new things too seriously. A brief period of minor irritability may arise following the void of course, but this will be short-lived, and good moods follow. Watch for some people to fall into erratic hard attitudes in the late afternoon, and don’t get sucked in. Much better moods roll in through the evening into the late night. Enjoy.

Monday, Aug. 30—Late Sunday night good moods may give way to minor irritability and coercive attitudes in today’s early predawn. Make the right choices to pass on this and keep the earlier glow going. The rest of the predawn through the morning is open and positive to do with what you will. Take a communicative approach, and get a lot done through the workday, but watch the afternoon for some minor erratic and exaggerated emotional reactions. The evening into the late night has more minor irritants with coerciveness, hard attitudes and the very late-night chipping in with erratic aggressiveness. Choose well.

Tuesday, Aug. 31—Today’s early predawn has minor erratic aggressiveness, but this will fade fast, and most of the rest of the predawn is open. Watch the late predawn into the early morning for some minor erratic emotional issues. This should also pass quickly, if it’s noticed at all. The rest of the morning is open, but watch the early afternoon for some spaciness. Passing on that, this can be a productive workday. Good moods will roll in through the late afternoon into the early evening, but be aware of a short moon void of course period this evening from 6:13 until 7:18 when the moon enters Gemini. At that point, the energy will shift noticeably, and general moods will tend to become more communicative. Good moods will continue on through the rest of the evening through the late night. Enjoy.

Guy Spiro, editor of the Monthly Aspectarian magazine and Astro-Weather (lightworks.com), has been a professional astrologer, astrology teacher and Tarot reader for 30 years. Visit http://www.guyspiro.com/Untitled-5.html for more information.

From the Aug . 25-31, 2010 issue

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Tindle steady hand guiding Blue Thunder ship

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

Two reasons existed for Belvidere North’s amazing run in the playoffs. One was execution. The other was turning over the quarterback spot to Tony Tindle full time.

Now, Tindle is back as a senior, and returns ready to lead a potent offense that has most of its key components back.

For Tindle, leading is second nature. He plays with a smooth confidence that can be confused with reckless abandon. And his teammates fall in line and leave it all on the field.

“I try to bring confidence to the team,” Tindle said. “I want my team to be confident. If you come into a game scared, you’re not going to pick it up until the second quarter, and we know we’re not sneaking up on anyone. We want to score right away out there.”

But Tindle knows he can’t go at it alone. He points to other players, like senior Austin Smaha, who will have to play at a high level for the team to be successful.

“I like to bring my speed to scare the defense,” he said. “And if I can throw them off with my speed, our whole offense should be able to tear up the defense. It’s not a one-person team, it’s all of us together.”

Tindle said he has worked this offseason on being smarter in the passing game and making better reads. And Head Coach Ryan Zarembski said in their spread offense, the decisions he makes will determine the offense’s success.

“For us, in the system we run, the quarterback is the most important player,” he said. “He has to do a lot. He’s responsible for making reads and the ball is in his hands all the time. If you’re going to run the spread, you have to have a real athletic quarterback, and we’re lucky we have Tony for two years here.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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What are essential oils and how do they work?

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Alice Stacionis
Young Living Distributer

So much is heard today about natural remedies. Many are seeking out alternatives to allopathic remedies. One remedy so popular today are essential oils. Many ask, “What are they and how do they work?”

Essential oils are the subtle, aromatic and volatile liquids extracted from the flowers, seeds, leaves, stems, bark and roots of flowers, herbs, bushes and trees through distillation. They are the regenerating, oxygenating and immune defense properties of plants.

How does healing happen? Given the right support, our bodies heal themselves. Essential oils provide that support to the immune, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, digestive, nervous and other body systems.

Essential oils work their healing in several ways. They have:

→ been shown by research to create an environment in with microbes such as bacteria, fungus, mold, viruses and yeast cannot survive.

→ high antioxidant levels, creating an unfriendly environment for free radicals.

→ the highest level of oxygenating molecules of any known substance.

→ molecules small enough to penetrate cells.

→ the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

→ the ability to purify the atmosphere.

→ “good vibrations.” Essential oils have high frequencies.

→ the ability to clean cells, erase negative programming, and replace it with correct cellular information.

Create an environment in which microbes cannot survive

Essential oils contain natural chemicals that have been found by research to create an inhospitable environment for microbes.

High antioxidant levels

Recent research has shown that essential oils are 60 times more powerful than pycogenol. Many of us have heard blueberries are high in antioxidants. Compare this data on Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity (ORAC scale):

→ Blueberries: 2,400

→ Essential oil of Clove: 10,786,875

The highest level of oxygenating molecules of any known substance

Essential oils increase the uptake of oxygen and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel for individual cells. Thus, they help to keep cells healthy by maximizing their intake of oxygen and nutrients.

Certain essential oils contain high levels of sesquiterpene molecules, which deliver oxygen molecules to cells, like hemoglobin does in the blood. Sesquiterpene molecules are very small, and thus are able to cross the blood brain barrier (which is actually more like a sieve), bringing oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

The lipid-soluble structure of essential oils is very similar to the makeup of our cell membranes. This structure, combined with the small size of essential oil molecules, gives them the unique ability to penetrate cell membranes and diffuse throughout the blood and tissues. When applied to the skin, essential oils will easily penetrate into the body. In fact, an essential oil placed on the sole of the foot will be distributed to every cell in the body in about 20 min

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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RAM Talks Art: Artwork by Jesus Correa at RAM Art Annex through Sept. 19

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

"Jesus Correa is most inspired by childhood heroes like Charles Schultz and Daniel Klaus. With a playful color palette of sky blue, avocado green and rusty oranges, and the peculiar addition of clumsy knitted pieces and random nails, the seemingly innocent images beckon a closer inspection."--Melissa Seipel. Image of artwork provided

By Melissa Seipel
Graphic Art Director, Rockford Art Museum

The Rockford Art Museum (RAM) Art Annex is an education space and also features artwork by local artists. Currently showing in the RAM Art Annex is 30-year-old Rockford native Jesus Correa. If that name sounds familiar to you, it may be because in addition to making artwork, Correa has recently been in the public periphery through his run as mayoral candidate.

Although very shy and soft-spoken, Correa claims one of the reasons he makes art is because he is generally not good at talking, and it is his way of talking. When asked if there is a message in the work, his response: “Not on purpose,” and, in fact, instead of having a plan, he lets the work evolve and likes to “just see what happens.”

He is most inspired by childhood heroes like Charles Schultz and Daniel Klaus. With a playful color palette of sky blue, avocado green and rusty oranges, and the peculiar addition of clumsy knitted pieces and random nails, the seemingly innocent images beckon a closer inspection. It then becomes clear something is awry. Correa’s quirky characters seem to be from a forgotten population of misfits. His vacuous landscapes contain sketchy caricatures reminiscent of a Shel Silverstein book, but only as far as the painting style. Wearing bizarre rompers, some of his characters have freakishly out-of-proportion limbs and bear the world’s most cruel jokes. With titles like “The Germs Would Have Killed a Smaller Man,” it is difficult not to find these scenarios amusing. Some are playfully cerebral, including “Endoplasmic Reticulum’s Gone Wild” with crude line drawings of the former in meticulous detail.

With no formal training in art, Correa says he has “a lot of patience with inking. I am really sloppy and loose with most things, crediting part of that to also being a performer. I am really, really meticulous about it. …” Same as knitting, which is something that he has recently gotten into. He says it has a kind of meditative quality for him. “It’s just a thing that I do,” he said.

When asked about common themes in his artwork, Correa credits recently falling two stories off a roof in Chicago as an impetus for falling being one of the themes. Strangely, he didn’t break anything, but regrets that he killed a pigeon in the process, unclear if the unintentional pigeoncide happened mid-flight or on the ground. These are the kind of stories Correa is telling.

Artwork by Jesus Correa remains on view in the RAM Art Annex through Sunday, Sept. 19. For more information, call Rockford Art Museum at (815) 968-2787.

Contact RAM Graphic Art Director Melissa Seipel at mseipel@rockfordartmuseum.org.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Byron Crossroads Blues Festival set for Aug. 28

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

BYRON, Ill.—The Inaugural Byron Crossroads Blues Festival is being held from noon to midnight, Saturday, Aug. 28.

Tickets for the fest are available in Byron at Byron Bank, Byron City Hall, Snyder’s Market, The Barber Shop, Leombruni’s Italian Village, Fifth Alarm, Tailgater’s Sports Bar and Grill, Spanky’s Byron Inn Tavern, the Cave Inn, Karla’s and Poor Pauly’s Pub and Sunrise II Restaurant.

Tickets are also available from all Crossroads Blues Society officers and board members, in Rockford at Guzzardo’s Music and Big Cities Lounge and online at: byroncrossroadsbluesfestival.blogspot.com. Ticket prices are $5 in advance and $10 at the gate.

The festival is run by the Crossroads Blues Society (CBS), a non-profit organization in the Rockford area that runs Blues In The Schools programs to educate area youth about the blues and roots of American music.

CBS has run 81 school programs that have reached out to more than 23,000 students since 2002. They are running this festival with the assistance of the Downtown Byron Bar and Restaurant Association.

Members of the association will provide all the food served at the festival, highlighting the great fare available at their Byron restaurants. The association is composed of The Cave Inn, The Fifth Alarm, Leombruni’s Italian Village, Karla’s and Poor Pauly’s Pub, Sunrise II Restaurant, Spanky’s Byon Inn Tavern and Tailgater’s Sports Bar and Grill. Food will be served outdoors in the festival area and in their establishments; they are all within the festival area, and access to their restaurants and bars is available to patrons.

Beer and other malt beverages will be available at three location in the festival area, centered at the crossroads of Second and Union streets in downtown Byron. The local bars will remain open late until 2 a.m., some with live music.

Opening the festival at noon will be the Barstool Bob Blues Band. Headed by Bob Levis, this band plays traditional Chicago blues. Levis toured the U.S. and the globe for many years with the legendary Otis Rush. He later toured as the rhythm guitar player with the great Lonnie Brooks. He was also in the house band for Kingston Mines for 18 years, one of the top blues clubs in Chicago. Levis now lives in Rockford, and produced his first solo CD recently.

The Resistors play their brand of rocking blues at 2 p.m. Another local band with pop and power, they will impress the listener with their gutsy authentic Chicago sound.

The music switches to acoustic blues at 4 p.m. with Filisko and Noden. Joe Filisko is a noted harmonica virtuoso who also custom builds harps (the blues term for harmonicas). Eric Noden is an accomplished acoustic guitar player, solo artist and blues music educator. He and Filisko often team up as a duo for performances around the country to great acclaim. Crossroads has used them many times for school and local performances.

The Cashbox Kings are at 6 p.m. These young guys play a straight-up and clean sounding old-style Chicago blues. Their recent CD, titled I 94, on Blue Bella Records, has received high marks from critics and a lot of airplay on radio stations nationwide. Guitar legend and Grammy winner Billy Flynn will be joining them as they perform for the festival.

Next up is the Westside Andy/Mel Ford Band from Madison, Wis., at 8 p.m. These guys perform a jumping and swinging sounding blues and have a huge following in the Midwest. Andy’s harp and Mel’s big guitar sound pack venues every time they perform, and an added treat will be Barrelhouse Chuck accompanying them on keyboards. Chuck learned to play piano at the feet of legends like Sunnyland Slim and Little Brother Montgomery; his barrelhouse piano and organ work is truly amazing.

Closing out the night will be Dave Weld and the Imperial Flames. Chicago and Rockford favorites, this band lacks national exposure because Dave has stayed in the area to attend to his mother who was ill. She unfortunately passed away recently, but now he has completed a new CD long in the making and is touring again. Burnin’ Love is his new release on Delmark Records, and it has run up the charts fast. Dave learned guitar from Chicago Westside Blues Hall of Fame legend J.B. Hutto and delivers a raucous and hot brand of blues. With Howlin’ Wolf’s sax man Abb Locke, the sweet-sounding Jeff Taylor on drums, Brother Dave K on bass and the ebullient and soulful Monica Myhre assisting on vocals, these guys and gal will please the festival crowd with their great sound.

A kids’-oriented music event will be held at about 2 p.m. in the festival. The first 50 kids 12 years old and younger who arrive at the Crossroads tent at 2 p.m. will receive a free harmonica and harmonica lesson from Joe Filisko!

The event will be held rain or shine; bring chairs, no coolers or outside food and beverages are allowed but plenty of food, soft drinks, and beer will be available. Beer and hard lemonade coolers are $3.50, soda pop and half-liter waters are $1 and an assortment of affordable food will be served.

Festival menu items include burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, Italian sausage, chicken wings, Chicago-style hot dogs, Polish sausage and kraut, pizza, brats, walking tacos, pork chop sandwiches, corn on the cob, Chicken George, barbecued ribs, beef brisket sandwiches and more, plus the restaurants in the festival area are serving much of their normal menu items indoors.

For more information, visit byroncrossroadsbluesfestival.blogspot.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Music, Vibe Entertainment, Vibe Entertainment News | 1 Comment »

Hononegah hopes to stay in title chase

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

The Hononegah Indians return an experienced group to the field in 2010. Photo by Matt Nestor

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

The last two seasons, Hononegah has only lost to Harlem and Boylan. They have also done something those teams haven’t, and won a playoff game each year.

This year, the Indians return an experienced group. Combined with the fact that Harlem and Boylan have both lost a lot of talent, and the Indians have every right to be confident in their ability to win a conference title this year.

“We continue to have a goal of competing for a conference championship,” Head Coach Tim Sughroue said.

Spearheading the push will be returning quarterback Chase Robinson. The senior was a second-team all-conference player last year, and will be among the top players in the conference this season.

Also leading this veteran, explosive offense will be running back Bryan Rothmaler, who was among the best running backs in the conference last year as well.

While the Indians will return a potent offense, defense will be a struggle early. Hononegah will have to replace just about every starter on defense, and could struggle early.

“The commitment over the summer was more inconsistent than it has been compared to recent years,” Sughroue said. “Finding consistency in our execution will be critical to our success during the season.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Book pays tribute to West High’s 1955 basketball title

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Field generals who helped forge a Rockford basketball team into a sports legend were together again in Rockford last week to celebrate Rockford West High School’s 70th anniversary and the 55th reunion of their West High School class that cheered the Warriors on to their first of two consecutive state championships.

Starting guards Rex Parker and Rod Coffman played key roles in the team’s 28 wins against a single loss that year and participated in a championship game that included what acclaimed Chicago sportswriter Bill Gleason described as his “most memorable” moment in sports. It was a moment that Gleason said stood apart from and above anything in any of the World Series and Super Bowl or NFL, Major League Baseball, and National Hockey League games he covered for Chicago newspapers and for SportsChannel America’s nationally syndicated TV program The Sportswriters.

Parker, a Rockford resident, and Coffman, who arrived in Rockford last week from his home in Monte Sereno, Calif., are energetic and articulate spokesmen for a team that was featured in news around the nation and created excitement throughout Illinois. They were playmakers and team leaders who rallied the Warriors for spectacular come-from-behind victories that earned them the title “the comeback kids”—one of which is Gleason’s most memorable moment in sports.

Parker, Coffman and other Warriors are central characters in a new book by Rockford resident John Gile chronicling the era and the championships. Warriors Forever (ISBN: 978-0910941-37-2), in the works for two years, tells the story of a community coming together, the story of an event that made the river through Rockford disappear and joined every section of the city and every socioeconomic constituency in community solidarity no person who experienced it will ever forget.

Warriors Forever is told in the words of those who lived through it and preserves for posterity the times, the trials and the triumphs of courageous coaches, courageous players and the people who cheered them on to victory.

The book will be available in trade paperback with photos for $14.95. Visit jgcunited.com for more information.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010

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Michelle Dorr’s ‘Happy Hour!’ opens at Kortman Aug. 27

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

"Fly Ball" by Michelle Dorr. Image of artwork provided

From press release

Party faces, lovable dogs and vibrant insects are the subjects of Michelle Dorr’s colorful portraits, which will go on exhibit Friday, Aug. 27, in the Kortman Gallery.

Dorr’s exhibition, titled “Happy Hour!”, features paintings of acrylic on canvas that are dazzling and exuberant works of art.

Dorr is a self-taught artist who was greatly influenced by her father, who was a graphic designer with a home studio.

“I grew up in a family of artists and especially loved watching my father create portraits of people and animals,” said Dorr. “I always paid special attention to the way he did eyes, and I never forgot it.”

Dorr has also applied her images to jewelry that she hand makes.

“My jewelry is created from miniatures of my paintings that I cast in resin and adorn with glass seed beads,” Dorr said. “The pieces are casual, fun, wearable art.”

"Stink Bug" by Michelle Dorr. Image of artwork provided

Kortman Gallery Director Doc Salfkosky said: “Because Michelle Dorr’s art is so visually entertaining, we thought this would be a great art show to have in the gallery during On the Waterfront. The whole family will enjoy Michelle’s colorful paintings.”

The Aug. 27 opening reception for “Happy Hour!” by Michelle Dorr will be from 5:30 to 9 p.m., upstairs in the Kortman Gallery at J.R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 N. Main St., downtown Rockford. For more information, call (815) 968-0123 or visit jrkortman.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Children’s Farm’s 40th Birthday Bash at Lockwood Aug. 28

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Rockford Park District invites everyone to the Children’s Farm’s 40th Birthday Bash at Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 28 (weather permitting).

This birthday celebration offers one day of fun at the park for the entire family. All the activities will take place in several areas within the park, including wagon and pony rides, and games and crafts for the children.

The Children’s Farm is designed to give children from the city an opportunity to experience the aspects of rural life. Preserving our rural heritage and the charm of old farming days when horses pulled wagons and horseback riding was the common mode of transportation, the Children’s Farm offers an ideal country learning and fun atmosphere for people of all ages.

“Many childhood memories have been made over the years at the Children’s Farm,” said Lockwood Park Manager Debbie Ackerman. “We hope this event will bring new and seasoned visitors to celebrate the Children’s Farm’s 40th birthday.”

Admission to the event is free; fees will be charged for some activities, and refreshments will be available for purchase from the Friends of Lockwood.

The mission of Lockwood Park is to help people enjoy life through their connection with animals. The park program provides a variety of experiences and learning opportunities to promote healthy, positive interactions between people and animals. Lockwood Park offers 94 miles of scenic trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

For more information about Lockwood Park and equestrian programs, call (815) 987-8809, or visit rockfordparkdistrict.org/lockwood.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Young Bucs look to recapture glory

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

The Belvidere Bucs look to have the size and athletic ability to work their way back to the top of the conference in 2010. Photo by Matt Nestor

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

The Belvidere Bucs are used to being at the top of the NIC-10 conference. Last year, that was not the case.

Despite injuries hurting an already young team last year, Belvidere was able to make its way into the playoffs. But when matched up with the top teams in the conference, there was a significant talent gap.

But things may be turning for Belvidere. Then-freshman quarterback Troy Vandenbroek and sophomore running backs Marcus Gooden and Kyle Harris all got significant playing time and made their mark in the conference, which should give them confidence coming into this season.

“We have a lot of guys that are still young for the conference, that competed and helped get us to the playoffs and got playoff experience,” Head Coach Matt Weckler said. “We’re coming in with guys who have experience at the varsity level playing games rather than juniors that are coming in to start and have never played a high school game.”

One thing the Bucs are trying to improve more than anything is their defense. Weckler said they feel with their young backfield, they have the ability to score. But he is not sure if they can simply outscore other teams.

“We really stress defense this year,” Weckler said. “We’ve given up a lot of points the last few years. We don’t have the overall weapons like Harlem, with all their speed, or Boylan with their athletic ability. We think we have to stop them, get a break and get a score here or there and win some 14-7 games or 21-14 games, rather than 35-21 games.”

Belvidere certainly looks to have the size and athletic ability to work their way back to the top of the conference. They have talent across the board, and if they lack anything, it may only be the ability to back up some of that talent.

“Our weakness could be our lack of depth on the offensive and defensive line,” Weckler said. “We’re confident in the kids that we have, but a school our size in our conference, if we get some people hurt early and can’t come back, then we’ll be a little bit behind the eight ball. But with the guys we have right now, I think we can compete.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 1 at Wired Cafe

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m., Sept. 1, at Wired Café, 414 E. State St. The specialty coffee shop and café opened July 12 in Rockford’s downtown River District.

City of Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (I), Rockford Chamber of Commerce and River District Association officials will be in attendance and will join owner Crystal Douglas in making comments. Refreshments will be served.

Douglas has a passion for coffee and has had a long-time dream of running a family-owned coffeehouse with her daughters Shanna and Maggie. Douglas attended the Midwest Barista School in Holland, Mich., where she learned the art and skill of making coffee and running a coffee business.

Shanna and Maggie bring their experience and expertise from working and managing coffee shops and cafés to the business, as well. They have contributed to creating the menu, cooking, serving, washing dishes, making coffee and everything else needed to run the business.

Douglas’s son, Ryan, has also been working at the café this summer and will return to school soon to start his senior year of high school and busy sports schedule. Husband Robert is busy on the family’s organic dairy farm, but is a strong supporter and sounding board for the café.

Crystal said when she saw the location at 414 E. State St. she knew that was the place for her.

She liked the small-town feel with the close proximity of the buildings and neighborly feel of the area. She loves the historic character of the building, too.

Wired Café specializes in coffees, teas, smoothies and desserts. Wired also serves breakfast, lunch, homemade bakery items and offers free Wi-Fi. Watch for daily specials. Hours of operation are 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday. Hours may change for the fall/winter season.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Tube Talk: Weirdest crossover ever? Ghost Hunters and Real Housewives of Atlanta

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Paula Hendrickson
Contributing Writer

Most TV crossovers make sense, like when a case on NCIS leads the agents to Los Angeles and they wind up in an episode of NCIS: Los Angeles, or having Criminal Minds’ Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness) use her computer-hacking expertise for both the original show and its upcoming spin-off, Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior.

Others are a bit of a stretch. Finding out Homicide’s Detective Munch (Richard Belzer) took a new job with the Special Victim’s Unit on Law & Order: SVU was plausible. After all, Homicide and the original Law & Order did multiple crossover episodes, so they were already part of the same “universe.” But Munch turning up on Arrested Development? That was a bit of a stretch.

(I believe Belzer still holds the record for playing the same character on more television series than anyone in TV history.)

But those are scripted series. Reality crossovers aren’t nearly as common. MTV’s Real World and Road Rules crossed over into a separate competition series, Real World/Road Rules Challenge. And every now and then, some reality “star” or another pops up on another reality show—like Kate Gosselin on Dancing with the Stars or Rock of Love’s Bret Michaels on Celebrity Apprentice. The Amazing Race has even had competitors from its fellow CBS reality competition shows, Big Brother and Survivor.

But Ghost Hunters meets Real Housewives of Atlanta? Now that’s a stretch even Gumby might have trouble with.

First, Syfy’s Ghost Hunters crew is based out of Rhode Island, not Atlanta. Most of their investigations take place in or around New England. Second, the unusual phenomena that Grant, Jason and the TAPS team encounter on Ghost Hunters sometimes seems more realistic than the contrived situations seen on any edition of Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise.

What’s the connection? Syfy and Bravo are both part of the NBC Universal family.

Crossovers usually work because the shows share a similar fan base (like the recent crossover between Eureka and Warehouse 13), but other than sharing the same parent company, Ghost Hunters and Real Housewives of Atlanta have nothing in common. Despite the two shows’ vastly different audiences, there is a reason behind the crossover: exposing the shows to a new demographic might lure fans of one show into watching the other.

Sure, viewers may tune in hoping to see a laugh riot of a train wreck, but will the stunt have any long-term results? I doubt it.

Does this mean if Ghost Hunters’ ratings soar when Atlanta’s Sheree, NeNe and Kim “help” investigate Atlanta’s landmark Rhodes Hall, we can expect the TAPs crew to be taking road trips to other Real Housewives locations? I hope not.

Honestly, I’d rather see them take another Bravo reality star, Kathy Griffin (My Life on the D-List), along on an investigation. Since paranormal investigations require a bit of silence, they probably wouldn’t get much done with Griffin around, but just imagine the questions she might ask the supposed ghosts. Then again, she’d probably have a better time on Real Housewives.

Programming note

Ghost Hunters mid-season premiere airs Wednesday, Aug. 25, at 8 p.m.

Paula Hendrickson writes regularly for Emmy, Variety and Creative Screenwriting, and has a feature article about the classic 100-year-old California Craftsman bungalow—owned by the couple who created the series NUMB3RS—in the current issue of American Bungalow (Fall 2010).

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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East looks to continue continuity in 2010

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

The East E-Rabs were the exception to most schools, keeping the same coach for eight years in Jeff Matzl. Now, they are on their second new coach in as many years.

For most programs, that would be an issue, but for new coach Jeremy Warren, it has almost been business as usual for East.

Despite some grumblings about another change at first, Warren said the returning players have bought into the changes, and now they are looking on building on an encouraging season last year.

“We had great continuity here compared to other schools. Then, we have one change and then a short time later, another change,” Warren said. “So, at first, I think there was some ‘Who is this, what are they doing and who are our coaches?’ But all in all, I think it’s going pretty good so far.”

More than anything, however, everything is going good because there is some experience back for East. A number of sophomores were called up for the E-Rabs last year, and while there are certainly some senior leaders, there are also some junior leaders.

One of the top seniors returning for the E-Rabs is Zach Mutton, who plays both sides of the ball, but was one of the top running backs last year.

For the juniors, and one of the most important pieces, is quarterback Andrew Lantz. Lantz took over the position in the second half of the season and gives Warren an experienced signal-caller under center.

“He’s a smart, athletic kid who is only a junior,” Warren said. “Experience makes a big difference, especially from an evaluation standpoint. Especially when you are talking about the quarterback position. It’s one thing to be good in seven-on-seven or simulating some game situations. But there is something different about being under center when the lights come on Friday night and you have to make plays and make decisions.”

One thing Warren was excited about with his new team is the size of his linemen. He said the team, while they need to work on their strength, is still bigger than he expected, and gives them the ability to compete physically.

The size, depth and experience has led Warren to concentrate on one big thing that he hopes may lead them into the playoffs. More than anything, Warren hopes the E-Rabs just don’t beat themselves.

“I think the discipline is huge and important for us and this program,” he said. “When talent is close, the discipline will win. You have a chance to be in the game when you don’t beat yourself up. And I hope our kids compete. You get in those competitive situations, and you see how your kids respond.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Katie’s Cup presents movie Leap of Faith Aug. 27

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Katie’s Cup coffeebar, 502 Seventh St., Rockford, presents a movie and discussion series titled “Through the Lens…Christianity and Film.”

From 6:30 to 10 p.m., Friday, Aug. 27, the movie Leap of Faith will be featured. There is no charge for the program, although donations will be accepted.

Leap of Faith is a 1992 American dramedy starring Steve Martin, Liam Neeson and Debra Winger. Martin plays Jonas Nightengale, a fraudulent Christian faith healer who uses his revival meetings in Rustwater, Kan., to bilk believers out of their money.

Popcorn and drinks will be available for purchase.

For more information, contact Katie’s Cup at (815) 986-0628.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Auburn looks to bounce back

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

The Auburn Knights will return a very talented group to the field this season. Photo by Matt Nestor.

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

Last season, many came into the season looking at Auburn as a potential sleeper. They were big on both lines and had an all-conference junior in defensive lineman Kenny Coleman.

But things didn’t work out, and the Knights didn’t win a game. But the rough season has not hurt their focus, and they are ready to come out and prove that everyone had it right going into last season.

“My expectations are always going to be high, and I tell these young men to always set their expectations high. So the sky is the limit for us,” Head Coach Billy Cook said. “Last year showed us we can’t win with individuals. We had a couple of guys that thought we wanted to lean on them. I think this group right here is a more cohesive group.”

The Knights are returning a very talented group as well. In addition to Coleman, linebackers Demarshay Martin, who led the team in interceptions last year, and Jarod Kimble will help lead the defense, while running backs Justin Graves and Bruce Whitaker will lead the offense.

The Knights will hang their hat on their defense, however, and Cook thinks the unit is ready for the challenge.

“They’ve been flying around, and that’s what you need on defense,” Cook said. “A bunch of hungry, crazed dogs. They’re wearing those black shirts, and it’s for a reason now.”

Coleman will be the key. He is one of few returning first-team all-conference players, and he will command double teams on almost every play.

“He’s going to eat up two guys,” Cook said of the lineman. “There’s no way anyone in the conference is going to take him one-on-one.”

More than anything, Cook said he is ready for his team to get after another team. And he thinks that if they don’t beat themselves, everything else should take care of itself.

“It’s hard to tell what you’ve got until you get a different colored jersey in front of your face,” he said. “The biggest thing I’ve been trying to tell my coaches and the players is when you come out here you have to execute. I want to see my guys flying around and having fun.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Theater Review: Once on This Island

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Edith McCauley
Theater Critic

Once on This Island, originally staged in 1990, winning many awards, has not been seen in many venues. David Bell, director/choreographer, brings to the Lincolnshire Marriott Theatre a stunning version that combines song, dance, and the storytelling of the African Griot. Rarely is a director able to combine these aspects of theater in the sparse space of theater in the round while using light and fabric with such creativity.

The cast is amazing. Every actor danced beautifully, and their vocals are superb. All are members of Equity and have years of experience in every aspect of musical theater. The story begins on a remote island where Tonton Julian (Michael James Leslie) and his wife, Mama Euralie (Joslyn Jones), discover a little girl, Ti Moune, played as the child by the adorable Nya high in a tree, and take her home to raise her as their own. As the years pass, she becomes the lovely young woman eager to find the wider world. Chasten Harmon plays the adult Ti Moune. Her exquisite interpretation is a highlight.

The population of the island consists of the natives and the French, who literally own everything. Although never specifically mentioned, it seems to be Haiti. Brandon Koller is Daniel Beauxhomme, the beloved son of Armand (Max Kumangai), a powerful landowner whose every word is law. When Daniel is injured in an automobile accident, Ti Moune finds him, cares for him, then follows him back to the city hospital, where they fall in love. The entire story unfolds through the words and music of the Storytellers—Papa Ge (Jesse Means), Asaka (Melody Betts), Agwe (Byron Glenn Willis), Erzulie (Melinda Wakefield Alberty), Alysha Deslorieux, Melvin Brandon Logan and Donica Lynn.

As the lovers soon discover, their love is not to be. Ti Moune’s spectacular dance is too African, and Armand and Daniel explain that he is to marry Andrea (Caitlainne Rose Gurreri).

The use of fabric brings the set alive. From a number almost like that of a whirling dervish to the tree that centers the story, the color and movement keeps our eyes focused on every aspect of the play. The orchestra, directed by Patti Garwood, supports the singers and emphasizes the music of Africa and the Caribbean.

As the show ended, one of the ushers came to us with a message. She said Julian’s granddaughter was in the cast and wanted to see us. Waiting in the lobby, we were completely puzzled, but when Donica Lynn approached, we realized that several years ago, she and Julian had been in Steppin’ at ETA, and Julian had played her grandfather. It is so good to renew old friendships.

Once on This Island closes Aug. 29, so if you want to see it, act soon. A Chorus Line opens Sept. 1, and the season closes with The Music Man opening Nov. 3. The Marriott Theater is a bit of a drive, but well worth the trip. The box office is at 10 Marriott Drive, in Lincolnshire, Ill. The phone is (847) 634-0200. The box office is closed on Mondays.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Jefferson coming together with new coach

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

The Jefferson J-Hawks had a simple goal last season: end a 16-game losing streak.

It became 17 before the streak ended. And after winning that one game, the team didn’t win again the rest of the year.

That has led to a new coach for Jefferson, with Rick Schmitz coming on board. And while things have been frustrating at times for the new coach, he feels his new team is starting to come together.

“I’m not sure what they think of me. They probably think I’m half nuts, if not completely,” he said. “We’ve got some pretty good kids. They work hard and they’re meshing together. As a coach, that’s all you can ask.”

The J-Hawks are again fielding a young team. While they do have returning players like Gerrion Jones and Royce Dixon, for the most part, they will lack experience coming into the season.

“We have a number of kids that it’s their first go-around,” Schmitz said. “We talked about just getting better and we talked about adversity. Everyone can go along when things are going well. When the wheels start falling off, we’ll see what we do.”

Schmitz said his team has worked hard this summer preparing for their season-opener. And he hopes his team comes out ready to compete from the opening kickoff.

“We want to be tough and moving until the whistle blows,” he said. “Knowing what we’re supposed to do, not being out of position and hustling.”

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Daughter’s Labor Day request: Let’s go to Tennessee to see a Volunteers’ game

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

Area high school football teams kick off their 2010 season this Friday night. I urge everyone to try to get out and support one of many teams in our region that will be taking to the gridirons each and every week for the next 10 weeks or so.

The college football season will begin the following week. Much to my delight, I plan on making a Labor Day weekend trip to Knoxville, Tenn. My 9-year-old daughter Meredith and I will be among the 100,000 or so people clad in orange and white to welcome in the 2010 University of Tennessee football season.

The way in which those plans came to fruition is the real story here that I would like to share. While at dinner one night last week, I suggested to Meredith that we take a little trip over Labor Day. I brought up a ride out to Mt. Rushmore, or down to Branson, Mo. With no provocation or hints from me whatsoever, she declined those offers and advanced her own destination suggestion: “Dad, let’s go to Tennessee. I want to see a Vols game.”

You could have knocked me over with a feather. At that precise moment, I was in proud dad football heaven.

I told her I didn’t even know if they had a home game that weekend. She said, “Let’s go online and look when we get home.” I could not believe her enthusiasm.

After checking the UT athletics website, we found out they indeed are at home for their opening weekend. I immediately booked a hotel room and then brought up a version of “Rocky Top” (the Vols’ theme song).

I told her the Pride of the Southland Marching Band would be playing that song as they made their way past the throngs of awaiting fans and into the stadium that evening. We plan on being in the front row right on Peyton Manning Pass (the street named after the former UT quarterback) when the band passes.

The trip from Rockford to Knoxville takes about 10 to 11 hours. I’ve made the trip many times. Never will it be as sweet as this time. Taking my daughter to see her first-ever college football game will make those hours fly by.

We plan on breaking it up into two segments, part of the way on Friday night and then stop and check into a motel. We’ll get up and get back on the road early enough to get into Knoxville by noon or so. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. That should allow us plenty of time to soak in the color and pageantry that accompanies a major college football game.

Can you tell I’m excited? Great idea, Meredith! We’ll get to Mt. Rushmore next year.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Michael Miller performs at JustGoods Aug. 27

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Southern California troubadour Michael Miller will perform an all-ages show at JustGoods, 201 Seventh St., Rockford, Friday, Aug. 27. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door.

I Made You Up, Miller’s second full-length album, was released in the fall of 2009. He describes the recording process of I Made You Up as “effortless,” thanks to the group of elite luminaries involved.

“They’re mostly old friends who all know each other and also happen to be some of the most talented players in L.A.,” Miller said. “I feel remarkably fortunate to have had them on this project.”

The cast includes drummer Brendan Buckley (Damien Rice, Shakira), bassist Dan Rothchild (Fiona Apple, Sheryl Crow, Beck), pedal steel guitarist Eric Heywood (Ray LaMontagne, The Pretenders, Son Volt), keyboardist Patrick Warren (Aimee Mann, Fiona Apple, Tom Waits, Sam Phillips), guitarist Lyle Workman (Jellyfish, Beck, Sting), B3/keyboardist Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters, The Wallflowers), lap steel guitarist Ben Peeler (The Wallflowers, Jim White), cellist and violinist Stevie Blacke (Beck, Madonna, Snoop Dogg) and guitarist Mike Roe (The 77s).

I Made You Up was recorded at Elliott Smith’s studio, New Monkey Studios, in Van Nuys, Calif.

“I was a huge fan of Elliott, so I was pretty excited that we got to use all of Elliott’s crazy mics and analog gear that he freakishly collected,” Miller said.

I Made You Up was produced by Miller and Buckley, co-produced by Joe Ongie, engineered by Mike Terry (Foo Fighters, The Eagles) and mixed by Ryan Freeland (Aimee Mann, Crowded House, Jakob Dylan, Son Volt, Rodney Crowell, Joe Henry).

Miller has been touring the U.S. and U.K., and has shared the larger stage with the likes of Daniel Lanois, Pete Yorn, Ron Sexsmith, Tracy Bonham, Duncan Sheik, Shawn Mullins and Tom Morello.

Miller wrote his first songs at the tender age of 6.

“My best friend and I would make up these silly theme songs about all the kids in the neighborhood,” Miller said. “They were sometimes cruel but extremely hilarious—at least to the minds of 6-year-olds—and we would get the rest of the kids to sing along.”

These days, Miller’s secret muse for inspiration now comes from his ongoing habit to go exploring in other countries.

“It became an annual tradition and sort of my drug of choice,” Miller said. “Besides the sweet freedom and built-in surprise of a new, faraway world, I just love getting lost, literally, in strange lands, hanging with the locals, the natives, and seeing how they live. It’s sort of like soul mining. I get to go dig for beauty and truth in other people’s back yards, and the discoveries and treasure-finds typically end up in my songs in some way.”

When Miller is not out trotting the globe, you’ll find him drawing “little doodles,” as he calls them, for several different international greeting card lines.

“I still have a line with Hallmark,” Miller said. “At one point, they fired some of their best art directors and VPs, then axed my line, saying they were ‘reassessing their taste guidelines’ and thought my work was too irreverent or inappropriate. They then asked if I would be willing to draw for their writers and editors on another line. I agreed, but insisted that I use my pseudonym, which was, in fact, my ‘porn star name.’ You know that game? I still get a kick out of seeing my ‘porn star’ byline in mainstream card racks.”

For more about the show, contact Dori Kearney at JustGoods at (815) 965-8903.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Ethnic Heritage Museum offers Italian Gallery events

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From flier

The Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford, is offering a special class in Trapunto from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 29. In “Make-N-Take Trapunto,” students will learn the classic needlework called trapunto from Pat Aiello, who has worked with various forms of needlework. Sign up for one-half-hour timeslots at a $5 fee to recreate the past art of trapunto.

Join the Ethnic Heritage Museum every Sunday throughout November from 2-4 p.m. to view some of the most outstanding Italian forms of needlework. Gorgeous laces, trapunto and handmade linens, chenille bedspreads (including rose petals for the bride), wedding gowns from 1917, the war years, Salvatore Castronovo’s original gown, and the wonderful stories and shapes of Bombonieri’s.

Don’t miss this outstanding display for you to recall with family the Old World Italian traditions. Brava! Call Shirley Martignoni Fedeli at (815) 877-2888 for sign-up. For more information about the museum, go to ethnicheritagemuseum.org.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Amid summer heat, time to think about skiing

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

In what has been one of the hottest and, thanks to the high humidity levels, one of the most uncomfortable summers in recent memory, I received an e-mail this week that reminded me that in about four to five months we’ll be 80 degrees or so colder and longing for these dog days of summer.

The Rock Valley Ski Association (RVSA) announced the plans for their ski trips for the upcoming 2011 season. They will open things up with a three-day trip to Big Powderhorn Mountain in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The cost for the Jan. 7-9 trip is $360 per person. The trip includes lift tickets, lodging, transportation and meals including dinner in the Caribou Lodge.

Later that month (Jan. 21-29), the group will team up with the Chicago Metropolitan Ski Club for a trip to Bad Gastein, Austria, one of Austria’s largest ski areas. Accommodations will be at the Hotel Weismayr that features a ski bus stop at the door. Optional day trips will be available. The trip cost is $1,695, which includes airfare and accommodations. A three-day extension, Jan. 29-Feb. 1, to Munich, Germany, is available for an extra $300.

If you and your significant other are looking for a unique way to celebrate next Valentine’s Day, the RVSA has just the answer. They are planning a romantic ski vacation to Jackson Hole, Wyo., Feb. 11-15. This intensive ski experience combines diverse terrain and Western ambience. A new aerial tram is available for trips to the top of the mountain. Lodging will be at the Parkway Inn. Cost, which includes accommodations, lift tickets and a direct flight to Jackson Hole Airport, is $875.

The final planned trip for the 2011 season is to Big Sky, Mont. The March 5-12 trip includes optional access to Moonlight Basin ski area. The cost is $1,485. Accommodations for this trip will be at local condominiums. The fee also includes airfare and lift tickets.

Trip information and reservations are available from Jack Wonderlick at (815) 601-3157 or online at wonderhinds@aol.com. A deposit is needed, and payments can be scheduled over several months.

RVSA is an adult club for those interested in skiing, snowboarding and travel. In addition to winter activities, the club also offers various cycling, hiking and social events throughout the year. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at Thunder Bay Grille. Go to skirockford.org for more information.

If you do join the RVSA on one or more of their trips this year, the good news is you won’t have to deal with all of this heat and humidity when you’re finally swooshing down those cool, snow-covered mountains. Sounds inviting, doesn’t it?

Doug Halberstadt can be reached via e-mail at Dougster61@aol.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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To the Editor: Appreciation for OSF St. Anthony and Gift of Hope

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

I would like to express my support of Saint Anthony Hospital and their request to join the Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Network. Gift of Hope will forever be a part of my life as my son, Noah Gabriel, lives on through this great organization.

I will never forget a conversation I had with Noah. We were standing in our kitchen one morning when he was about 18 years old and, out of the blue, he initiated the topic of organ donation. I was not aware at the time, but that conversation was a gift to his father and me. Feb. 9, 2004, we experienced a tragedy that I wish no family would ever have to go through. As Noah drove to class, he hit a snow drift and lost control of his vehicle. Noah did not survive the accident. Recalling Noah’s wish to be an organ donor, we connected with Gift of Hope and a representative from this wonderful organization. Noah’s donations helped to improve the quality of life for approximately 25 people.

In September of 2004, we received an invitation from Gift of Hope to attend our first “Day of Hope and Remembrance.” We did not attend because we just weren’t ready. The next year, after reality had set in, we not only accepted the invitation, but also sent in Noah’s picture for a presentation honoring organ and tissue donors at the event. As we were about to leave, my husband wanted to ask a staff member a question and approached a group of them standing together. The Gift of Hope representative asked how our loved one was, and of course, I was ready with a picture and told her his name is Noah Gabriel. She turned to the other staff members and said, “Hey, everyone, this is Noah’s family.”

We left our first Day of Hope and Remembrance feeling like Noah was a celebrity and that he was a special person to them, as well as to us. We are so grateful to know that Noah lives on, not only in our hearts and memories, but in reality through the Gift of Hope.

I think Saint Anthony Hospital and the patients it serves would really benefit by joining such an incredible organization.

Gayle Boos

Rock City, Ill.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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This week in The Times: Kaylie-Lynn Kurtzweg

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Vitals: Kaylie-Lynn Kurtzweg, 8, is a third-grade student at Ralston Elementary School. Recently, she learned that “Joker,” a Rockford Park District Police Department K-9, was diagnosed with Type B Lymphoma cancer. Since then, Kaylie-Lynn has spent the majority of her summer helping raise awareness regarding Joker’s situation. Though the cancer is in remission, Joker faces a costly uphill battle associated with his aftercare treatment.

1. What inspired you to take such an active role in helping to raise funds for Joker’s medical expenses? When I first found out, I felt very sad. I love dogs, and I knew I wanted to help in some way. After my grandmother told me, my first thought was, “What can I do to help?” So, I decided to start telling more people and began raising money.

2. Having met Joker, how would you describe him to those who have not? First, he’s a very sweet and smart dog. He loves to play fetch and his favorite toy is his red ball. He is still fast enough to take down bad guys; but because of his illness, he may only have two more years as a police officer. If other people met him, they would want to help him just like me.

3. How can others get involved with this cause? We are having “Joker Fest” on Saturday, Sept. 25, at the Indoor Sports Center. They could come to that event because the money raised there would go to take care of Joker. We are also selling cookies and other baked goods to raise money as well. Plus, my grandmother and I will be walking in the Rockford Labor Day Parade asking for donations instead of giving away candy. Also, people can visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/joker to make an online donation.

4. Did having a dog of your own influence your decision to help Joker? Yes, it did. I love dogs, and Joker is lovable just like all other dogs. Cancer is ugly for people and for animals. If we want to help people and animals like Joker who are fighting cancer, we can get out there, get involved and kick cancer in the butt for both people and animals so no more people or dogs have to die from it. We can also work harder so more people know about stories like Joker’s.

5. Question from last week’s “This week in The Times” participant, Mike Cooksey: Who is your hero? My hero is Joker because he keeps us all safe from drugs, guns and criminals. He takes care of us, now we need to take care of him.

“This week in The Times” is a weekly survey of people selected by The Rock River Times staff. The column does not accept unsolicited submissions.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Lieutenant governor candidate visits efficiency, history in Ogle County

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Sheila Simon (from left), Bob Vogl and Sonia at the Kickapoo Nature Center. Photo by Andrea Raila

By Drs. Robert & Sonia Vogl
President and Vice President
Illinois Renewable Energy Association

As part of Sheila Simon’s visit to Ogle County, we took her and several guests on a tour of the Kickapoo Nature Center near Oregon, Ill. The building, owned by the Kickapoo-Mud Creek Nature Conservancy, is a model of innovative ideas for energy efficiency in heating and cooling.

Its walls and ceiling are built with SIPS (structurally insulated panels), chip board with up to 10 inches of insulation sandwiched between. With an R value of 49, their insulating level is very high. As an example, we visited Victor and Polly Zaderej’s home one winter night a few years ago to check the indoor temperature. Outdoor temperatures that day had been below zero, yet the interior of the building was nearly 70 degrees.

ICFs (insulated concrete forms) used for below-ground foundation walls provide an R rating of 20.

The effectiveness of the steel roof as a winter heat source is being monitored by Dr. William Miller of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Zaderej, the building designer. Air flowing below the outer roof and blown under the floor by a low-power fan warms the building in winter. Instrumentation measures essential parameters that will provide a model for other efficient new buildings.

Sheila Simon (from left) views the Kickapoo dwelling with Sonia and Bob Vogl. Photo by Andrea Raila

An earth tube constantly brings fresh air into the building. As the outdoor air is drawn through the tube, it becomes the temperature of the surrounding earth—cool in summer and warm in winter, requiring less energy to either raise or lower it to comfortable temperatures.

The display room uses track LED lighting designed by Zaderej for Molex. LEDs use less power than compact fluorescents, which just a few years ago were cutting-edge energy-savers. In addition to their efficiency, LEDs have the advantage of directing the light where it is needed, not diffusing it into the entire room. They also are available across the spectrum, producing close to natural light.

Simon was impressed that sparsely-populated rural Ogle County is home to such cutting-edge developments in energy efficiency.

The building, which will be open for the annual Solar Tour, is surrounded by native prairie plants that provide a vibrant, colorful setting. Conservancy Directors Kent and Kathy Lawrence asked the Illinois Renewable Energy Association (IREA) and the Prairie Preservation Society of Ogle County (PPSOC) to plan and manage the plantings. Simply Prairies of Ogle County prepared the final design, provided the plants and planted the prairie.

Although the plants are non-hybridized natives, the resulting planting is not a replica of pre-settlement (before the 1830s) prairie, but a more showy prairie garden. Selected species provide visitors a view of several graceful grasses and many dramatic forbs in a relatively small area.

Begun last fall, the Kickapoo prairie looks as though it had been established several years ago. Colorful blooms appear from early spring through late fall. Prairie smoke, a delicate pink, appeared in March, followed by golden alexanders, puccoon and birdsfoot violet. Little bluestem grass waved between the flowers along the entry walk.

Numerous others, including lupine, wild senna, blazing star, brown-eyed susans, purple coneflower, rattlesnake master, cardinal flower, blue lobelia and queen of the prairie bloom throughout the summer. Purple and pink asters, fall’s final glory, are beginning to show their colors.

To conclude the visit, the group drove past the Kickapoo residence with south-facing windows and overhang, trombe wall and native limestone all visible from the lane. Simon recalled her parents’ passive solar home with south-facing windows and overhang. She lived with energy efficiency and understands.

Energy-efficient buildings and native species are some key components of sustainable living.

Drs. Robert and Sonia Vogl are founders and officers of the Illinois Renewable Energy Association (IREA) and coordinate the annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyle Fair. The Vogls and the IREA are members of the Environmental Hall of Fame. Dr. Robert Vogl is vice president of Freedom Field, and Dr. Sonia Vogl is a member of Freedom Field’s Executive Committee. The Vogls consult on energy efficiency, renewable energy and green building. They have 3.2 kW of PV and a 1 kW wind generator at their home. Forty acres of their 180-acre home farm are in ecological restorations. They are active in preserving natural areas and are retired professors from Northern Illinois University. E-mail sonia@essex1.com.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Public hearing to be held Aug. 26 regarding issuance of $4M in bonds for City Plaza

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Stuart R. Wahlin
Staff Writer

During its Aug. 26 meeting, the Winnebago County Board will conduct a public hearing regarding the proposed issuance of $4,090,000 in bonds “for the purpose of buying real property and paying expenses associated with certain renovations/remodeling of the building to be used by the Winnebago County Health Department and incidental thereto, to pay bond discount, capitalized interest, reserve requirements and legal, other financing and related administrative fees and costs.”

The bond issuance could be forced to a Nov. 2 referendum, however, if at least 7.5 percent of eligible county voters file a petition with the county clerk within 30 days of the public notice, which was published in the Rockford Journal in the middle of August.

The issuance of debt is related to the board’s December decision to purchase the City Plaza, 555 N. Court St. in Rockford, for the building’s $775,000 market value as part of a plan to consolidate three Health Department facilities in one central location. Remodeling and upgrades to the building, much of which has already been approved by board members, will cost millions of dollars, however.

Earlier in August, McDermaid Roofing was awarded a $167,397 bid to replace the building’s roof. $245,500 for architectural services related to remodeling was awarded to Richard L. Johnson Associates, Inc., in March, followed by a $2,425,000 contract to Rockford Structures Construction for the physical work. In July, $405,464 was allocated for Trane, of Madison, Wis., to replace the four-story building’s heating and cooling systems.

Steve Schultz (R-2) and John F. Sweeney (R-14) are the only board members to have consistently voted against the expenditures, including the initial purchase of the building.

According to Mike Bacon, public health administrator, 60 percent of the purchase price would be covered by grant dollars. Property taxes and increased fees are expected to knock out the remaining 40 percent. The honoring of existing leases should be enough to cover debt service payments, officials anticipate.

Also during the Aug. 26 meeting, board members will vote whether to increase fees for the Health Department’s Environmental Division.

For a full report of the Aug. 26 meeting, see our online edition.

Zoning request involving septic to face a vote in September

In other upcoming board news, a petition to rezone approximately 10 acres at 56XX N. Main Road in Owen Township from agricultural to commercial is expected to return to the board floor Sept. 23 after having been laid over several times since July at the request of the petitioners.

The board’s Zoning Committee voted 4-3 to recommend denial of the request, despite a unanimous recommendation for approval by the Zoning Board of Appeals. The request is in conflict with the county’s 2030 land-use plan, which discourages new developments on septic systems.

Because the development is not planned for connection to public infrastructure, the City of Rockford has filed as a legal objector, which would mean the petition would require a supermajority—at least 21 of 28 votes in favor—for approval.

Todd Cagnoni, deputy director of the city’s Community Development Department’s Construction & Development Services Division, explained, “This property is within the city’s future urban development [area], and we want to ensure that the property develops in a positive manner on this important gateway to our community.”

When the issue came to the board floor for a vote Aug. 12, Zoning Committee Chairman John F. Sweeney (R-14) explained he’d received a letter from the petitioner’s attorney, Barton Henbest, requesting that the matter be laid over until the Sept. 23 meeting as negotiations continue among the city and petitioner.

“We are currently in discussions with the property owner and evaluating solutions that meet both our concerns,” Cagnoni indicated, noting that, for now, the city’s objection still stands.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Rockford News | 1 Comment »

Guest Column: Rockford Public Schools: Are all parachutes real?

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Paula Coulahan

I’m a little old to re-read “What Color is Your Parachute?” I made a major career change at 40, when I left public relations and earned a master’s degree in elementary education. I entered Education, a post-9/11 attempt to do something more, after I found I enjoyed teaching adults with reading disabilities. I entered with a strong sense of purpose because, as Phyllis Hunter, a member of the board of The National Institute for Literacy said, “It takes a literate workforce to support a democracy.”

So, I don’t tell the following story lightly. It is a story of a lack of fairness and justice. It is an example of what can happen when a governing body fails a community and the community fails to take those who govern to task. And, sadly, it points to a trend, not just in Rockford and not just in education, to devalue unions and break their membership.

I taught in the Rockford Public Schools for four years. A Rockford native, I taught in the manufacturing neighborhood I grew up in and understood the needs of the children. I brought years of experience in journalism, public relations, and local politics to my classroom. I recruited dedicated parent volunteers who moved up with my class when I changed grade levels. With excellent reviews, I was about to receive “tenure.”

Then, the Rockford Board osuperintendent. She began her tenure by taking police officers out of the schools, taking the teeth out of the discipline code, convincing the board to spend $5.5 million on consulting services to overhaul curriculum, and firing several building principals. About this time, an Auburn High School student was arrested for bringing a loaded .32-caliber handgun to school and wearing a bulletproof vest. Perhaps removing the officers was a bad idea after all. But the community did not take the Board to task.

The teachers-union, the REA, voted to take a one-year contract extension, and Sheffield gave Molly Phalen, REA president, “her word” that if she made staff cuts, she would not cut people with three and four years of service. Remember, most of the four-year people were up for tenure. Then, Sheffield turned around and fired everyone with four years of service or less, Title I Reading Specialists, and some administrators. You have to have guts to cross Molly Phalen. But, again, the community did not take the board to task.

The administration made it clear, in a sound bite, that their reasons were not fiscal. They didn’t want to “get stuck with” tenured teachers who were not up to their standards. There was a protracted process for reapplying for jobs and getting them back: portfolios, essays, interviews. Building principals scrambled to get their own staff members back, but in the fallout, there were not enough positions. Former administrators and some reading Specialists with more than 30 years in the district-filled classroom positions, filing successful grievances with the REA to secure their jobs. And who could blame the REA for granting the grievances? They were playing by the rules.

So, remember, this isn’t just my story. It could be anyone’s. Talk to political candidates in general this election year, and in 2012. Ask what they have done for education and educators. Ask if they have the interests of their own community in mind. Ask if they understand the role of unions in preserving the middle class and protecting the disenfranchised. Ask if they mind seeing America sold out, because that is what is happening. The Rockford Public Schools debacle is just a small piece of the pie.

Paula Coulahan is a former Rockford teacher caught in the last rounds of cuts.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Left Justified: Rule of mob or of law?

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Stanley Campbell

A mob storms the jail, drags someone out to a tree and strings him up. Is that what you want?

Mobs rule when emotions are high, and this country was ready to bomb anyone after Sept. 11, 2001. Still, many people opposed our country’s invasion of Iraq. “Don’t use our grief for your war,” the banners said, and we still say “go after Osama” instead of occupying Afghanistan.

Right now, the mob is being led to oppose building a mosque next to where the Twin Towers stood in New York. Never mind that Muslims lost friends like everyone else when those towers came down. And they forget that our country’s very first amendment is defending freedom of religion, and that even George W. Bush said we are fighting terrorists, not the Islamic faith.

But the mob still rules.

In the movies, the mob can sometimes be talked out of taking the law into their own hands. The hero (and sometimes heroine) can face down a mob, talk to them individually, make them see the error of their ways.

Not so often in real life. Mobs ruled southern towns less than 70 years ago, stringing up black people and opposing federal attempts at anti-lynching laws. States’ rights, they said. Senators, governors and even presidents shrugged their shoulders and let the mob rule.

Now, the mob is being led to attack Muslims. Our president, the proverbial sheriff, is trying to defend the Constitution, but the grieving, the embittered, the unscrupulous and the racist are waving the bloody shirt and crying for revenge, no matter the innocent.

When Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, a man who kinda looked like John Wilkes Booth was taken out to a tree to be hanged. Someone finally got the mob to stop and look at what they were doing. “This is not the assassin.” “Well, he should be hanged anyway,” said one of the disgruntled.

Same thing goes for the beleaguered immigrant. There’s an economic downturn, rampant crime and who’s to blame? The dark-skinned stranger among us, the person who doesn’t speak English so well, and we never liked them anyway, even though we never knew them, anyway.

I am proud of Rockford. They have celebrated the variety of religious freedoms, and welcomed the stranger. And we welcome the new mosque being built on the southeast side of town, which is half a mile from the Buddhist Temple and surrounded by United Methodist and Lutheran churches. May we continue to celebrate America’s freedoms, and share those freedoms with the world.

Stanley Campbell is executive director of Rockford Urban Ministries and spokesman for Rockford Peace & Justice.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Left Justified | 1 Comment »

Linked development projects receive nods from aldermen

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

News and notes from the Aug. 23 Rockford City Council meeting

By Stuart R. Wahlin
Staff Writer

A long debate was settled Aug. 23 by Rockford aldermen, who’d been weighing the merits of two proposed projects tied together by New York-based LandWhite Developers, LLC. Both were approved.

For a year—some would say much longer—the fate of the former Church School on Blaisdell Street has been in limbo. Neighborhood residents, who purchased the building in 1997 as Progressive West Rockford Community Development Corp., planned to transform the building into a community center. The building and the property it is on eventually proved to be too much for the group to maintain, however, resulting in numerous fines by the city that led to a lien.

A year ago, the city began foreclosure proceedings to seize the property after the group refused to sell it to LandWhite, which plans to rehabilitate the structure into senior citizen housing.

Meantime, with the property now under city control, LandWhite has been busy finishing plans for a 158-unit apartment complex near the Southgate Shopping Plaza at Sandy Hollow Road and 11th Street, of which it is part owner.

Plans to rehab Church School, the developers say, can only come to fruition if the apartment project is approved, because only in tandem can LandWhite be eligible for the federal assistance and tax credits it needs for both projects.

All told, LandWhite expects the endeavors to total more than $25 million in investment, which will also include improvements at the shopping center.

The Rev. Earl Dotson Sr., of Progressive West Rockford Community Development Corp., submitted a letter to the council that stated: “It has come to my attention that the City of Rockford has been authorized to sell Church School to a developer. …Considering that the city normally puts properties up for bid, this seems an unwise deviation from that process, as it is unfair and potentially unprofitable. We therefore urge the city to continue the process of bidding properties, and halt the sale of Church School without bidding.”

According to city Legal Director Patrick Hayes, per the purchase agreement, LandWhite would acquire Church School for a sum of $100,000, “contingent on financing.”

Although some residents would prefer that Church School be turned into a community center, most aldermen were in agreement that rehabilitation of the dilapidated Church School in any form will be a big plus. Others, however, weren’t jumping for joy at the prospect of building apartments in a tax increment financing (TIF) district intended for commercial and industrial development.

Ald. Lenny Jacobson (D-6), who represents the area in which the Village at Southgate apartments would be built, expressed numerous reasons for his opposition to the proposal. He wants to see the area reserved for commercial and industrial growth.

“No. 1, the density. No. 2, the location,” Jacobson began. “In today’s society, with what’s going on with housing as you drive around our community, it’s pretty obvious to me that there are a lot of places for rent. There are a lot of houses boarded up. I’m a little bit leery as to the quality of life when you put someone between Bypass 20, and located behind Kmart.”

Ald. Linda McNeely (D-13) echoed his sentiments, particularly with regard to what she described as an “abundance of available housing” in the neighborhood already. She, too, preferred that the area remain dedicated to commercial development.

“That area along Sandy Hollow, and along 11th Street, is a business district for individuals that are west of the river prefer to go…rather than drive all the way east,” she explained.

The Village at Southgate project was first to come before aldermen in May. But after the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) recommended denial of LandWhite’s petition, the developers withdrew their request to restart the zoning process from the beginning. The petition failed at the ZBA level, because two board members were not present for the vote. Although three of the five present voted in favor, the vote fell short of four-out-of-seven majority required to recommend approval. This would mean that a supermajority of at least 10 affirmative votes by aldermen would be required for the permit to be issued. LandWhite’s petition skated through the ZBA the second time around, meaning only a simple majority vote by councilmen was required for approval.

In an 8-4 vote Aug. 23, the special-use permit for the 158-unit apartment development was approved. Aldermen Venita Hervey (D-5) and Bill Timm (R-9) joined Jacobson and McNeely in voting “no.”

The second component of the tied projects, a purchase agreement for LandWhite to acquire Church School, came to a vote moments later.

Although she’d voted against the apartments being built on the southeast side, Hervey supported the sale of Church School and its related rehab.

“One thing that we have a dearth of, in south Rockford in particular, is senior citizen housing,” she said. “My opposition to the other part is of the project that was sort of tied with this one is the preponderance of affordable housing in south Rockford. …But I am happy that this portion will be going forward.”

Ald. Ann Thompson-Kelly (D-7), whose ward is home to Church School, noted the senior housing facility will also serve as a police substation. She then took aim at those who would prefer the site to be a community center.

“This city, as well as myself and staff, spent many hours and dollars trying to work with the previous owner to develop it into something, and nothing ever happened,” she asserted.

The purchase agreement was ultimately approved, with only Jacobson and McNeely voting “no.” The measure will face final approval in the form of an ordinance during the Aug. 30 meeting.

Ordinance

→ Giving final approval to a development agreement with JMZ Properties for TIF assistance whereby JMZ will be reimbursed up to $47,290 of its eligible costs related to rehabilitation of a building at 110 N. First St. Aldermen Timm and McNeely voted “no.”

Resolution

→ Authorizing submission and execution of an application to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) on behalf of the Rock River Valley Greenway project. According to IDOT: “ITEP provides funding for community-based projects that expand travel choices and enhance the transportation experience by improving the cultural, historic, aesthetic and environmental aspects of our transportation infrastructure. Project sponsors may receive up to 80 percent reimbursement for eligible project costs. The remaining 20 percent is the responsibility of the project sponsor.” The application deadline is Aug. 31.

Committee reports

→ Authorizing a change order to provide Rock Road Companies, of Janesville, Wis., an additional $411,000 for city-wide residential street resurfacing, bringing the company’s contract total to $2,178,881.08.

→ Settling a $2,115.25 claim by Amber Sawyer, whose vehicle was sideswiped by a Human Services Department Head Start bus, according to city Legal Director Patrick Hayes.

Public comments

Robert Pfluger continued his history of the Federal Reserve, a private organization, and its direct connection to inflation through devaluation of currency. Pfluger argued the U.S. Constitution intended that Congress regulate monetary policies. He suggested that a federal lawsuit be filed against the Federal Reserve to take back such authority.

Prophet Yusef addressed the area’s lack of academic achievement. To combat this, Yusef proposed that parents develop a book-a-week program with their children as a means to achieve greater success in education and life.

Proclamations

Aug. 26 was proclaimed Pink Heals Day for cancer awareness. Now through Sept. 10 was proclaimed One Community to Storm the Vote in honor of Tim Storm, founder of FatWallet.com, who is one of four finalists in the running to be named Entrepreneur magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year. Votes may be cast at http://www.entrepreneur.com/e2010/vote/established.php.

Absences

Aldermen Nancy Johnson (D-8) and Bill Robertson (I-14) were absent.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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Community news and notes: Week of Aug. 25-31, 2010

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

The United Way of Rock River Valley recently welcomed seven new board members. Each new board member will serve a three-year term and may be elected to one additional successive term. The new board members included: Craig L. Carlson, Chase N.A.; Bill Derry, Field Fastener Supply; Cedric Lewis, Rockford Public Schools; Pam Maher, KMK Media Group, Inc.; Dan Parod, Rockford Health System; Jim Ryan, City of Rockford; and Andrea Ward, Harris N.A. Board member duties include overseeing the organization’s financial affairs, actively participating in the management of the organization, remaining sufficiently informed about the activities of the association, following the organization’s governing policies and overseeing the effective use of organizational resources. … Linda Matheson, Ph.D., RN, has been selected to serve as the chief administrative officer of Rockford Cardiovascular Associates. Matheson previously served as director of the Regional Heart Institute and Rehabilitation Services at OSF Saint Anthony Medical for four years. She earned her Ph.D. in nursing from Marquette University in 2008 and her master’s degree in community health nursing from the University of Illinois. Matheson has been an employee of OSF HealthCare for more than 24 years.

Send your “Community news and notes” to The Rock River Times, ATTN: People In Our Times, 128 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61101; e-mail contact@rockrivertimes.com; call (815) 964-9767; or fax (815) 964-9825.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Community News and Notes | No Comments »

To the Editor: The struggle for power and oil

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Ever since Sept. 11, 2001, the attacks upon America, our soldiers have been fighting the longest war ever! But I believe wholeheartedly that President G. W. Bush did, in fact, start an undeclared and senseless war (so far, 12,001 unto 2010). But we have a new president (somewhat new) in office. He carried on where his predecessor left off (President G.W. Bush—eight years). But, instead of bringing home all of our troops out of one nightmarish war, he purposely looked the other way, while many people have continued (as usual) to be killed. All because President Bush hated Saddam Hussein!

And now America might be in graver danger because Iran’s president has given our president an ultimatum (a choice) “That if President Barack Obama doesn’t withdraw the troops (out of Iraq) by the date of Dec. 31, 2011, we (Iran) will attack America!” But they will not come against us. Why? Because Iran’s leaders (M.A. and I.C.) will be too busy, gloating and laughing about the fact that they had bluffed our president, Obama, out of Iraq!

Philip J. Wilson

Rockford

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Letters to the Editor | No Comments »

Rockford hits a triple with solar

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

From press release

Interest in solar photovoltaic (PV) energy has increased significantly in Illinois. According to the IREC Solar Market Trends Report 2010, Illinois installed 1.7 megawatts (MW) of solar PV systems in 2009, up from 0.4 MW in 2008 and is now in 18th place among U.S. states. A MW can provide power for about 200 Illinois homes a year.

To meet this growing demand for solar PV, Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) is offering a 40-hour solar PV training workshop that begins this week. The training will be hosted at Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc., in Rockford, and is taught by Applied Professional Training (APT).

Students will participate in classroom learning Monday through Wednesday, with a hands-on lab Thursday and Friday. The Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) Alternative Energy Level 1 Certification exam will be proctored Friday afternoon. Students will also be registered to take the NABCEP PV entry level exam.

ISEA, Comprehensive Community Solutions, YouthBuild Lake County, and APT have recently entered into an agreement to conduct training programs in renewable energy to low- and very-low-income youth participating in YouthBuild programs. The goal is for this program to launch in late 2010 or early 2011. ISEA is seeking business partners who can provide entry-level jobs or internship opportunities to newly-trained installers.

Rockford has recently become a hub for solar with the grand opening of Wanxiang, a solar panel manufacturing plant, as well as the announcement of an up to 62 MW Rockford solar project. ISEA is excited to add to the momentum by providing another component to solar growth, the professionally trained installer.

Illinois Solar Energy Association is a non-profit organization that promotes the widespread application of renewable energy through education and advocacy. As the Illinois chapter of the American Solar Energy Society, we are the local resource for educational classes, events, renewable energy related-policy developments, local news and access to local renewable energy vendors.

Everyone is invited to attend the Illinois Solar Tour Oct. 2, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a free, self-guided, statewide event to provide an opportunity for home and business owners to learn how well solar works in Illinois. Visit tour.illinoissolar.org.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Renewable Energy | 2 Comments »

AMCORE Financial requests liquidation of assets

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

By Stuart R. Wahlin
Staff Writer

AMCORE Financial, Inc., parent of the former AMCORE Bank, reported Aug. 20 the company had filed a petition the day before in Chicago requesting permission to liquidate its assets under the federal bankruptcy code’s Chapter 11 protection.

April 23, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of the Comptroller of the Currency closed seven financial institutions, including the failing AMCORE Bank, which had more than 60 branches throughout Illinois and Wisconsin. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was named the receiver of AMCORE, whose failure was primarily attributed to excessive loans to homebuilders while also trying to increase its presence in the Chicago area.

AMCORE closed 2009 with a loss of more than $200 million, despite urging by federal regulators to improve the bank’s performance. Although AMCORE cut staff and sold 18 branches throughout the region, the bank’s financial outlook did not improve. Prior to its closure, AMCORE was the largest publicly-traded company in Winnebago County.

Branches reopened the following day as Harris Bank, which is owned by the Bank of Montreal Financial Group. Harris agreed to assume AMCORE’s $3.4 billion in deposits, plus $3.8 billion in assets, from the FDIC at a premium of .01 percent. AMCORE’s liabilities reportedly total $75.4 million.

Last month, Harris Vice President of Corporate Communications Jim Kappel told The Rock River Times: “We will be closing 18 former AMCORE branches, mostly in the Chicago area, and centralizing the former AMCORE technology, operations, and corporate support functions to Harris. None of the branch closings are taking place in Rockford.”

AMCORE Financial’s bankruptcy came as a result of defaulting on a line of credit in December from lender JPMorgan Chase & Co., which is claiming $11.9 million, according to the Aug. 19 petition.

The liquidation plan is expected to be announced this week.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

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YouthBuild Rockford’s 15th class largest ever

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR YOUTHBUILD FRIENDS FROM ALL OF US AT THE ROCK RIVER TIMES: The members of this year’s graduating class are: Front Row (left to right): Paul Thompson, Tamisha Shivers, Shunkeyta Henderson, Michael Cooksey, Kenny Jones Jr., Sylvia Edwards; Second Row (left to right): Hector Flores, Sergio Ramos, Ella Saxton, Destiny Friar, Precious Tamayo, Zac Keller; Third Row (left to right): Arcadio Mendoza, William Thomas, Adrianna Hernandez, Seymone Dixon, Brandon Brown, Sherita Pouncy, Corprell Delaney, Phillip Ozier, Jernicka Moore, Collin Hardy, Dane Countryman, Sherancia Morrow; Fourth Row (left to right): Victor Banuelos, David Williams, Angelic Maclin, Tiera Pittman, Dominique Hightower, Jermaine Landry, Joqual Williams, Shaquaya Sago, Ryan Lawnduski, Eric Wolfe; Fifth Row (left to right): Takia Williams, Joyaparis Walston, Rosie Morrow, Gregory Cooper, Shavon Smith, Startisha Trammel, Brianna Anderson, Felicia Farris; Sixth Row (left to right): Dwayne Broom, Javon Lambert, Stephen Lindeman, Ashley Latino, Eddie Ortiz, Antoinetta Watson, Raeneshia Smith, Terrance Meadows. Photo by Melanie Richardson

From press release

Wednesday, Aug. 18, graduation ceremonies were held at Memorial Hall for the Class of 2010 of YouthBuild Rockford. The keynote speaker was Honorable Judge Ronald J. White, Winnebago County Circuit Judge. One-hundred eight young adults began the program in the fall of 2009, and the ceremonies marked the largest graduating class in the history of the program. In addition to diplomas and individual awards, the YouthBuilder of the Year Award was given to Sergio Ramos.

YouthBuild is recruiting for its next class, which begins Sept. 20. For eligibility information or applications, call (815) 963-6236 or stop by YouthBuild at 917 S. Main St.

About YouthBuild Rockford

YouthBuild is a comprehensive youth and community development program as well as an alternative education program. YouthBuild Rockford, one of 270-plus such programs across the nation, is a year-long program for 16-to 28-year-old, out-of-school, unemployed young people. Participants learn vocational skills in construction or computer technology and construction trainees build affordable housing for low-income families. Each student also participates in basic educational classes leading to a GED.

YouthBuild also provides young people with classes in leadership development, life skills, and employability, and helps youth achieve self-sufficiency through a combination of counseling, support groups and cultural activities.

Graduates of the innovative development program have careers, internships, apprenticeships and post-secondary education waiting for them when they complete the program.

YouthBuild Rockford is a program of Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc.

The YouthBuild Rockford Class of 2010

→ 94 graduates

→ 44 honors graduates, seven of whom were recognized as National YouthBuild Honors Graduates by YouthBuild USA

→ 23 received their GED while in YouthBuild

→ 46 received AmeriCorps Education Awards totaling more than $82,000 to help pay for college or vocational school.

→ 85 have earned nationally recognized construction credentials, one from the National Center for Construction, Education, and Research (NCCER) and one from Home Builder’s Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Training (PACT)

→ The YouthBuild Rockford Class of 2010 has completed the construction of two new single-family homes, and logged 51,800 hours of community service in the Rockford area.

→ This class brings the total number of YouthBuild Rockford graduates to 524.

From the Aug. 25-31, 2010 issue

Posted in Rockford News | No Comments »

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