Archive for May, 2012

Man sentenced to 19 years for 2010 shooting on South Day Avenue

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

Earl Boyd, 40, was found guilty Feb. 17 of aggravated discharge of a firearm after a jury trial in front of Judge John Truitt and sentenced May 31 to 19 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Aug. 23, 2010, officers were called to 119 S. Day Ave., Rockford, in reference to a shooting. Police observed that the rear of a Pontiac Grand Am in the driveway had been struck three times by gunfire, as well as that there were two bullet holes in the front door of the house. Witnesses saw Boyd with a gun that evening and an eyewitness saw Boyd with a gun heading in the direction of 119 S. Day St. before hearing multiple gunshots.

Aggravated discharge of a firearm is a class 1 felony, class X sentencing, six to 30 years with three years mandatory supervise release. Truth in sentencing applied at 85 percent.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Construction to begin on 173, 251 in Machesney Park

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. — The Village of Machesney Park is advising motorists of two areas that will be under construction in June.

The north side of the intersection of Illinois Route 173 and North Frontage Road/Orlando Drive will be closed beginning Monday, June 4. The closure is necessary for construction crews to construct the north half of the intersection at Illinois 173 and North Frontage Road. A detour will be in place up North Alpine Road to Gateway Circle, allowing access to businesses along North Frontage Road. The closure will be in place until about June 18.

The village has also announced that the inside lane of Illinois Route 251/North Second Street will be closed in the area of the former Machesney Park Mall (now Machesney Town Center) beginning May 31. The closure is necessary for construction crews to construct a new, fully signalized intersection with Illinois 251, midway between Copper Drive and Roosevelt Road. Construction will include new turn lanes, signals and drainage improvements to facilitate future development and growth of the new Town Center. The closure will be in place for about a month.

For more information, contact Machesney Park Community Development Coordinator Gregory Anderson at (815) 877-5432.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Olympian swimmers Emily Silver, Gil Stovall at Peak Sports Club June 2

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

LOVES PARK, Ill. — Two Olympian swimmers and world-class clinicians — Emily Silver and Gil Stovall — will host a Fitter & Faster Tour event at the Peak Sports Club, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, Ill., from noon to 3 p.m., Saturday, June 2.

Silver is an Olympic silver medalist and Stovall competed at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. The event is open to swimmers of all ages, but particularly 7-14.

Visit http://www.fitterandfaster.com/detail/rockford-il/ for more details.

The Fitter & Faster Tour is a series of professionally managed events featuring many of the world’s greatest swimmers. Over the past two years, the tour has been to more than 100 cities with more than 10,000 families from hundreds of teams attending.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Strip club surcharge passes House, awaits governor’s approval

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — By a vote of 92-23-3, the Illinois House of Representatives approved House Bill 1645, Amendment 3, which would establish a strip club surcharge and fee structure.

Funds raised through the surcharge and fee structure would go to fund rape crisis centers, which have seen state funding decline by about 28 percent over the past five years.

The bill now awaits Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn’s (D) signature.

Under the bill, strip club owners would choose to pay the state a $3-per-patron surcharge on an annual basis, or opt to pay a flat fee based on the taxable receipts they report to the Illinois Department of Revenue each year.

Clubs that report taxable receipts of $2 million or more would pay $25,000 a year; clubs that report total receipts of $500,000 to $2 million would pay $15,000; and clubs that report total receipts of less than $500,000 would pay $5,000, according to the legislation.

The $3 surcharge and fee structure in House Bill 1645, Amendment 3, replaced the $5-per-patron entrance fee proposed in an earlier bill. The new language was agreed to by rape crisis advocates, club owners and sponsor State Sen. Toi Hutchinson, D-Chicago Heights.

The newly generated revenue would go into the new Sexual Assault Services and Prevention Fund and be distributed by the Department of Human Services for community-based assistance to victims of sexual assault and sexual assault prevention. At least 32 rape crisis centers — 10 in the Chicago-metro region and 22 in the non-metro area — would benefit from the funding. State funding for the centers has decreased about 28 percent in the past five years.

In a statement May 31, Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon (D) said: “I want to thank all of the advocates who answer rape crisis hotlines and counsel women, men and children who survive sexual abuse and assault. Sen. Hutchinson worked hard on your behalf to negotiate a compromise with the adult entertainment industry and garner bipartisan support for legislation that will help restore critical funding during tough budget times. My thanks also go out to Rep. Feigenholtz who ushered this bill through the House, again with bipartisan support. This is an example of how the process should work. All parties worked together for the good of our state.”

Last year, the Texas Supreme Court upheld legislation that funded crisis centers through a $5 entrance fee at strip clubs that permit alcohol based on the correlation between alcohol, live nude dancing and negative secondary effects, such as sexual assault. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge of that decision, effectively opening the door for other cities and states to purse similar measures. California is among the states seeking legislation; it is considering a $10-per-patron fee.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Bill to outlaw third-party phone charges goes to governor for approval

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (D) applauded House and Senate lawmakers May 30 for supporting a ban on phone bill “cramming,” a scam that has hit hundreds of thousands of Illinois consumers and businesses with bogus charges on their phone bills.

Cramming happens when third-party vendors use consumers’ phone numbers much like a credit card. They add charges to phone bills for bogus products or services, such as identity theft protection, website design or e-mail service, that consumers and businesses never requested — and never used.

House Bill 5211, which now goes to the governor for consideration, would ban all billing by a third-party company with some limited, common-sense exceptions for legitimate services. Estimates indicate telephone companies place at least 300 million third-party charges on their customers’ bills each year. According to a U.S. Senate Commerce Committee report, third-party billing generates at least $2 billion annually.

“For too long, phone companies and scam artists have made millions by ‘cramming’ charges for unwanted and unused services on subscribers’ monthly bills,” Madigan said. “This legislation will finally stop scammers from using our phone number as a credit card for their fraudulent services by prohibiting phone companies from placing other companies’ charges on our phone bills.”

Phone cramming scams originally were perpetrated primarily through telemarketers, especially before the Do Not Call Registry was established. More recently, however, the scam has flourished online. Internet users report submitting their phone number, among other personal information, for online prize drawings, surveys or free recipes. Weeks or months later, consumers find charges on their phone bills for unauthorized services.

“The people of Illinois lose hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to these telephone bill scams,” said State Sen. David Koehler, D-Pekin, Senate bill sponsor. “Banning third-party billing is a simple, common-sense solution to a problem that affects thousands of Illinois families and businesses.”

State Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Oak Lawn, House bill sponsor, added: “I applaud my fellow lawmakers for their support today. This legislation will better protect consumers from a scheme that uses their phone numbers like a credit card and has cost them millions of dollars in unauthorized charges.”

To date, the Attorney General’s office has filed 30 lawsuits against crammers, representing more than 200,000 Illinois businesses and residents who were victim to these phone billing schemes. Among the most glaring of targets for these scams was cited in Madigan’s 2009 lawsuit against U.S. Credit Find Inc., a Venice, Calif.-based operation, which crammed a Springfield public library’s dial-a-story telephone line. Last summer, Madigan also advocated for a nationwide ban on phone bill cramming, testifying in July 2011 before the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee and filing comments with the Federal Communications Commission.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Three contaminated Rockford sites to get $200,000 each in grants for cleanup

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

CHICAGO — The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) announced May 29 it has awarded three $200,000 grants to assist with the cleanup of three contaminated sites in Rockford.

The three sites are the Depot site, the Lorden/Eclipse site and the former Tapco site. Each site will get $200,000 in grants for cleanup purposes.

The grants are part of $3.1 million in “brownfield grants” awarded by the USEPA. Brownfield grants are to be used to assess and clean up abandoned industrial and commercial properties.

EPA Region 5 Administrator Susan Hedman explained: “EPA’s brownfield grants will spur redevelopment in Illinois. These grants will help prepare contaminated properties for productive uses.”

Other Illinois brownfield grants distributed included the following:

• Antioch, site assessment, hazardous substances, $200,000;

• Midlothian, site assessment, $400,000;

• Ottawa, site assessment, $400,000;

• Stephenson County, cleanup, former mortuary site, $200,000;

• Illinois EPA, revolving loan fund, $800,000; and

• South Suburban Mayors and Managers’ Association, revolving loan fund, $500,000.

The Illinois grants are part of the EPA’s $69.3 million 2012 nationwide brownfields grants to clean up and redevelop contaminated properties, boost local economies, create jobs and protect public health.

See a list of all awarded brownfields grants by state at http://cfpub.epa.gov/bf_factsheets/.

More about EPA’s brownfields program can be found at www.epa.gov/brownfields/.

More about brownfields success stories can be found at www.epa.gov/brownfields/success/index.htm.

Posted May 31, 2012

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State Legislature passes bill aimed at combating spread of synthetic drugs

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (D) applauded state lawmakers May 30 for passing a bill that would help combat the spread of synthetic drugs in Illinois.

The bill, which Madigan’s office helped craft, targets the retail sale of synthetic drugs by defining a “synthetic drug product” as containing a controlled substance not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

H.B. 5233 also addresses how these drugs are packaged and sold, often with misleading claims that the products are legal and “not intended for human consumption.”

The legislation would make it illegal under the Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act to sell any form of synthetic drugs in Illinois.

“With drug-makers continually reformulating these toxic substances, our state laws can quickly become outmoded when new variations arrive in stores,” Madigan said. “This bill seeks to end the game of ‘catch up’ by classifying as illegal any chemical that’s sold to be taken as a drug, regardless of what it’s called or how it’s labeled.”

State Sen. Kwame Raoul, D-Chicago, sponsored the measure in the Illinois Senate. House Bill 5233 now goes to the governor for consideration.

“Too often, our drug laws lag behind the development of new varieties of recreational drugs and new strategies for marketing them,” Raoul said. “This legislation clarifies the law on synthetic drugs so that retailers know when they sell these products, whether they contain controlled substances or are mislabeled, they will face criminal penalties and risk losing their businesses.”

The bill also significantly increases the penalty for selling synthetic drug products or misbranded drugs.

“As a former police officer who understands how illegal drugs can decimate communities, I enthusiastically sponsored this legislation on behalf of Attorney General Madigan,” said House sponsor State Rep. Jerry Costello II, D-Sparta.“This legislation directs our focus to those involved in making and distributing constantly evolving drug concoctions.”

‘Operation Smoked Out’ update

In addition to proposing this legislation, Attorney General Madigan is working with local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to address the growing use of synthetic drugs, particularly among teens and young adults.

In December 2011, Madigan launched retail store sweeps, known as “Operation Smoked Out,” shortly after hosting the state’s first emergency summit to increase awareness of synthetic drugs. Since the retail store visits began, store owners across the state have relinquished nearly 25,000 packages of synthetic drugs and bath salts with a street value of almost $544,000.

These efforts come at a time when Poison Control Centers across the country have reported a dramatic increase in calls about synthetic marijuana and “bath salts,” another type of synthetic drug that contains chemical compounds that mimic the effects of cocaine or methamphetamine.

In 2010, Poison Control Centers nationwide received 2,915 calls related to synthetic marijuana use. That figure jumped to 6,890 calls in 2011. Reports of bath salts were made 303 times to Poison Control Centers in 2010. A year later, the centers received 6,072 calls about bath salts.

States, including Illinois, initially responded to the rise of synthetic drug use by passing laws that banned specific formulas of synthetic marijuana and bath salts. Drug makers attempted to sidestep these laws by replacing the banned chemicals with new formulas.

A new Illinois law that went into effect Jan.1 takes a broader approach and bans all chemicals that are structural derivatives of the previously banned chemicals. The measures proposed in House Bill 5233 seek to complement the new law.

Posted May 31, 2012

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House passes bill co-authored by Manzullo that would reform trade promotion efforts

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation May 30 designed to strengthen U.S. trade promotion efforts to help American companies sell more of their goods overseas and create more American jobs.

The Export Promotion Reform Act (H.R. 4041) would integrate the administration’s export promotion agenda by giving the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee budget review authority over the numerous export promotion programs managed by the administration.

The bill would also deploy U.S. Commercial Service personnel and budgets to help U.S. firms win sales in the markets with the best opportunities.

H.R. 4041 requires performance assessments of the effectiveness of our embassies in carrying out commercial diplomacy and helping U.S. exporters. The legislation, co-authored by U.S. Reps. Howard Berman, D-Calif., and Don Manzullo, R-Ill., now heads to the Senate for consideration.

“Currently, each trade promotion agency submits its budget to the president and is judged on its own,” Manzullo said. “The Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee should be able to review each agency budget first and determine how it fits in with other export promotion programs to implement the trade promotion agenda of the administration. The TPCC could then recommend to the president an integrated trade promotion budget that works most efficiently on behalf of U.S. exporters to create American jobs.”

Manzullo, who represents the heavy exporting 16th Congressional District of Illinois, introduced legislation in 2006 and 2008 to reform the TPCC and move its responsibilities to the Executive Office of the President. Many of those reforms were realized when the president formed the Export Cabinet in 2010 and adopted many of the reforms included in Manzullo’s earlier bills.

In 2010, Manzullo joined with former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords in introducing legislation to remedy the current problem. Rep. Berman continued Giffords’ legacy by joining Manzullo on the legislation the House approved.

Posted May 31, 2012

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Illinois Attorney General supports bill to keep debtors from being sent to prison

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

Online Staff Report

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (D) applauded state lawmakers May 30 for supporting the Debtors’ Rights Act of 2012, a measure that would protect poor people from being jailed over unpaid debts.

House Bill 5434 would prevent creditors from abusing the court system to put debtors in jail to collect on a debt they are clearly unable to pay.

Over the last year, Madigan has learned residents in roughly a third of Illinois’ counties commonly face incarceration when they fail to appear in court over a previously entered judgment to pay a debt. In many of these cases, notices of court hearings were mailed to addresses that were no longer valid, leaving many debtors unaware of the hearings.

In spite of the failure to notify the debtors, courts have frequently issued warrants for their arrests.

“Long ago, our society recognized that it was immoral to send a poor person to debtor’s prison,” Madigan said. “Yet, this practice has reappeared in Illinois through creditors’ abuse of the courts. This legislation will ensure that people who have the means will pay their debts, while also preventing poor older and unemployed persons from being illegally and unfairly incarcerated.”

Compounding the problem, Madigan said, is that many victims of these practices are living solely on income that is legally protected from being used to pay outstanding debt judgments, including Social Security, unemployment insurance or veterans’ benefits.

Madigan’s legislation would also ban abusive and burdensome “pay or appear” orders that are routinely entered against debtors in some Illinois counties. These orders — which usually remain in effect for three years — require debtors to make a monthly payment or appear in court each month to explain why they are unable to pay, even if their financial circumstances have not improved.

Madigan said if a debtor misses just one payment and court hearing, they can end up in jail. Debtors who have been victim to this practice typically owe outstanding medical bills, credit card debts or payday loans.

The legislation would amend the Code of Civil Procedure to codify and clarify practices followed by attorneys, creditors and courts across Illinois to ensure courts make a finding of a consumer’s ability to pay before entering a payment order.

The legislation also would prohibit payment orders that rely on legally protected income and prevent arrest warrants from being issued unless the debtor was personally served with a hearing notice.

“The fact that impoverished debtors can still go to jail in several Illinois counties casts a shadow on our entire state,” said state Rep. Ann Williams, the House sponsor of the bill. “As lawmakers, we have a duty to protect the due process rights of Illinois residents and to preserve the integrity of our legal system. This legislation serves both of those vitally important purposes.”

According to court documents obtained by Madigan’s office, one Illinois court entered a “pay or appear” order against a mentally disabled man living on legally protected disability benefits that provided him with $690 a month. Even though the man informed the court of his circumstances, he was still ordered to either pay $100 a month or appear in court once a month for a three-year period.

State Sen. William Haine, D-Alton, Senate bill sponsor, said, “The Attorney General’s bill, which I am pleased to shepherd through the Senate, balances the rights of creditors to collect a just debt with fairness to those who may be forced into debt by economic loss or medical tragedy.”

Posted May 31, 2012

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Walter Trout plays at Rockford’s Adriatic June 5

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

Walter Trout, whose T-shirts proclaim “Too Loud and Too Many Notes,” will play a June 5 show hosted by Crossroads Blues Society at the Adriatic Club, 327 W. Jefferson St., Rockford. Show starts at 8 p.m.

Trout’s new CD, Blues For The Modern Daze, is a set of 15 new tunes with great social commentary about society and today’s world.

Tickets — $15 in advance, $20 at the door — are available at the Adriatic. Call (779) 537-4006 or the Adriatic at (815) 967-9939 for tickets or more details.

Posted May 30, 2012

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Bar 3 hosts Ritual Control, an Industrial and Gothic music DJ event

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

Bar 3 of Rockford is hosting a night of gothic and industrial music. The one-night-only DJ event titled “Ritual Control” will be from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday, June 2, at Bar 3, 326 E. State St., Rockford.

The event, sponsored by Negative Gain Productions (www.negativegain.com), will feature DJs The Nof and Deadhaus as they serve up the best selection of new and classic dark dance music by Nine Inch Nails, Bauhaus, Ministry, Einsturzende Neubauten, Front 242, the Cure, Skinny Puppy, Nitzer Ebb, Prodigy, Joy Division, Rammstein, KMFDM, Lords of Acid, and many more. They also welcome requests consistent with the genre.

“Obviously, we’re huge fans of the music, so we’re happy to be part of a unique event like this happening in Rockford,” said DJ The Nof.

DJ Deadhaus added: “Every good party deserves great music. And Bar 3 easily has the best sound system in the stateline area.”

Free giveaways including CDs, buttons, stickers and T-shirts await guests to the event. Admission is $5, and the show is for ages 21 and older.

For more information, visit www.Bar3Live.com or join the Ritual Control event on Facebook.

Bar 3 is in one of the oldest buildings in downtown Rockford and has been hosting live shows, parties and concerts since 2007.

Posted May 30, 2012

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Billy Flynn conducts blues music programs for Crossroads

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Online Staff Report

Crossroads Blues Society hosted a day of Blues In The Schools (BITS) Tuesday, May 15. Guitar player, singer and songwriter Billy Flynn taught and performed for Machesney Park Harlem Middle School in Loves Park in the morning and Mary Morgan Elementary School in Byron in the afternoon.

Crossroads Board Member Rick Davis accompanied Flynn for the sessions, and helped make the day a success. About 350 students were in attendance at each session.

Crossroads has now done 104 school BITS programs for close to 31,000 student in the past 10 years. These programs expose students to the blues, the music uniquely developed in America from which most of today’s music owes its origins.

That evening, after the two school events, Flynn performed at the bar in Leombruni’s Italian Village in Byron, where about 30 fans heard Billy do a couple of sets of tunes in a very intimate setting. Flynn even broke out his mandolin for some hot performances of blues in a very old-time style.

Flynn will return to Byron as part of the Cash Box Kings, who will reprise their performance from 2010 at this year’s Third Annual Byron Crossroads Blues Festival Aug. 25.

The festival features headliner Candye Kane, along with internationally-known acts like the Cash Box Kings and Nick Moss and the Fliptops, along with Madison, Wis., bands The Jimmys and Aaron Williams and the HooDoo.

For more about the festival, BITS or Crossroads Blues Society, contact Steve Jones at (779) 537-4006 or via e-mail at sub_insignia@yahoo.com.

Posted May 30, 2012

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Theater Review: Lifescape’s Senior Follies, ‘Words & Music’, among best ever

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Alan Jones
Director of Marketing & Fund Development, Lifescape Community Services, Inc.

Lifescape Community Services’ Senior Follies, Words & Music, was held Wednesday, May 16, at Rockford First Church, and it was a hit! The all-senior, all-volunteer cast put on a show that many long-time attendees recalled as the best ever.

Nearly 1,500 people saw the show that featured Paul Logli as the emcee and entertainer, and showcased the singing of Dr. Kris Tumilowicz, Carl and Dianna Cole, and Patte Lund. The show even featured a little comedy from Candice King and Ben Hutchison, part of the WTVO Channel 17 morning news. The Dixieland Docs and The East Bank Commanders added to the atmosphere by playing before show.

But the true stars of the show were the senior singers and dancers, who worked hard for many months in rehearsals learning songs and dance routines, perfecting their timing and showing the public there are talented seniors in the community.

As always, Angie Fellows created and directed a marvelous show that brought together words and music from separate eras into a solid hit of entertainment.

Lifescape’s Senior Follies is not only a showcase for talented seniors, but it’s also a fund-raiser for the agency. All the money raised goes back into the general budget to fund its nutrition programs, including Meals on Wheels and the senior dining sites, Brightside Adult Day Service and SeniorAssist, our information and referral service. We serve approximately 10,000 seniors annually, and Senior Follies, along with our annual Senior EXPO, allow us to provide that service.

We’re already working on the 2013 Senior Follies for next May. So, be sure and clear your calendar! It’s going to be a great show!

Posted May 30, 2012

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Park District provides update on proposed multi-use trails

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Online Staff Report

At the May 22 Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners meeting, the board received an update about a proposed mountain bike trail at Anna Page Park, 3102 N. Springfield Ave., Rockford, and Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford. The trail transformation being proposed at Anna Page Park would be approximately 5 miles.

May 7, the Rockford Park District held a neighborhood meeting to solicit feedback about the proposed mountain bike trail.

Concerns expressed included safety and security of trails, losing existing trails, and lack of education among multi-use path users.

As a result of the neighborhood meeting, Rockford Park District staff assembled a team of local, regional and national experts to assist in trail advancement for all Rockford Park District parks and trails for all users to enjoy.

Committee members bring a total of 239 years of various riding experience to the project and include the following:

• Dewayne Buratti, International Mountain Bicycling Association, 27 years riding experience;

• Aaron Flemming, president of Rock Cut Trail Crew, 22 years riding experience;

• Steve Forss, IMBA certified trail builder, 24 years riding experience;

• Andy Garrison, founder of Rock Cut Trail Crew, 24 years riding experience;

• Jean Greenlee, Horsemen’s Council of Illinois, 47 years riding experience;

• Terry Herbig, treasurer of Valley Trail Riders, 25 years riding experience;

• Peter Veit, Horseman’s Council of Illinois, 47 years riding experience; and

• Juli Zanocco, homeowner along Safford Road, 25 years riding experience.

As a result of the first committee meeting, the proposed multi-use trail system was modified, and a “separate” trail for mountain bike users at Anna Page Park will be developed. Park District staff will establish two to three safe crossings to allow south access for homeowners along Safford Road. The committee will also oversee the implementation of a new equestrian trail on the southeast corner of Anna Page Park. The first phase of the multi-use trails at Anna Page Park will open in early/mid June.

The committee will implement future phases, which will include teaming up with the homeowners along Safford Road. The plan is to complete the 5-mile trail by spring 2013.

Posted May 30, 2012

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‘Tour De Marsh’ at Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin June 2

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Online Staff Report

HORICON, Wis. — Horicon Marsh in Dodge County, Wisconsin, offers “Tour De Marsh” from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, June 2. The event will feature bicyclists, hikers, motorcyclists and autos touring around and through Horicon Marsh.

Named one of the “seven wonders of Wisconsin” and a “Wetland of International Importance,” seeing and experiencing Horicon Marsh is a great opportunity to enjoy one of nature’s treasures. Covering 33,000 acres, Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States.

Eight communities, Dodge County Parks and two non-profit organizations are partnering for this event. There is no entry fee, and it is open to everyone. A free drawing is available for participants who visit all five stops around the tour.

Participating neighbors of the marsh will have maps available at designated spots as well as refreshments available along the route. The map is a suggested route for a self-guided tour around and into the famous Horicon Marsh as well as into the neighboring communities. Participants can start at one of these designated community stands and then proceed on their tour. Each starting/rest stop will have parking, refreshments, maps, information cards and restrooms available.

The starting/rest points for the “Tour De Marsh” event are as follows:

• Horicon National Wildlife Refuge hiking trail parking lot off Route 49

• Federal Refuge Office and Visitor Center off Highway Z (W4279 Headquarters Road)

• Horicon Marsh International Education Center off Highway 28 between Horicon and Mayville (N7725 Hwy. 28)

• Chances Bar & Grill in Burnett on Route 26 (N8592 Front St.)

• Kekoskee Park on Highway TW in Kekoskee.

A guided bicycle tour will be offered from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Interested parties should meet at the main parking lot off Highway 49 on the north end of the marsh. Bring binoculars and cameras for viewing/photos along the tour. Total loop for this guided bicycle tour is 9 miles.

“Tour De Marsh” provides participants a close view of Horicon Marsh. New routes along Dike Road and Old Marsh Road open two major nature areas allowing the visitor into the heart of refuge areas, which allows wonderful views of nature.

Bill Ehlenbeck, manager of Dodge County Parks, notes that one of the highlights of this bike route is the ability to cross right through the belly of the marsh on Dike Road. Not only does it give a unique view of the marsh, but it now provides the casual bike-rider or family the ability to more easily accomplish a smaller loop ride rather than having to circle the entire marsh.

Featured stops along the route include the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, where visitors can see the Horicon Marsh Story movie, and at the Horicon National Wildlife Federal Refuge Office & Visitor Center to view and study marsh exhibits. Ledge Park and Marsh Haven are also listed as attractions on the map. Prime overlooks like Palmatory Street, Bayview Road and Bud Cook Hiking Area will ensure visitors see beautiful views of the marsh and countryside.

Jerry Moede, mayor of Mayville, said, “The bike and car tour map that was produced by people of the surrounding communities is an absolute treasure for people that are interested in what happens in and around the Horicon Marsh.”

For more about the “Tour De Marsh” event and printable map, go to any of the participating community or Chamber of Commerce websites or to www.horiconmarsh.org. You may also call Friends of Horicon Marsh International Education Center at (920) 387-7890.

Posted May 30, 2012

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Rock County Cancer Coalition to hold Walk for Hope June 1 in Janesville, Wis.

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

The Rock County Cancer Coalition will hold their first Walk for Hope from 5-9 p.m., Friday, June 1, at the Rock County Fairgrounds, 1301 Craig Ave., Janesville, Wis.

Walk for Hope is a celebration of hope for all whose lives have been touched by cancer and in memory of those who have lost their battle to cancer.

The mission of the Rock County Cancer Coalition is to assist cancer patients within the Rock County area. In 2011, RCCC assisted 27 clients with such benefits as helping with gas cards for travel to cancer treatments and doctor visits, paying for prescriptions, and other types of financial help deemed necessary while fighting cancer.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Walk for Hope. Food will be available for purchase from local restaurants. There will be kids’ activities and a balloon release in honor of cancer survivors and in memory of those who have passed. Information booths will be set up from Mercy Hospital, Look Good Feel Better, Beloit Regional Hospice, and local cancer support groups. Stop by and walk a lap for those fighting cancer and those who have lost their fight with cancer.

Posted May 30, 2012

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Judges left out of Illinois pension reform plan

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Andrew Thomason
Illinois Statehouse News

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Legislation intended to curb the rising cost of public pensions in Illinois would reduce the benefits for recipients, except for the judges.

Judges receive the highest average annual pension of any public employee, yet their benefits would remain untouched, according to legislation introduced by Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago.

The nearly 1,000 retired judges earn an average annual pension of more than $112,000. The average public employee retiree draws an average annual pension of about $40,000.

At the heart of Madigan’s legislation is a stark choice for current employees and retirees.

One, choose between smaller cost-of-living increases and remain eligible for retiree health care. Or two, get larger COLAs but be ineligible for retiree health care. The changes are borne from an attempt to slow the ballooning cost of public pensions, which is increasing from $4.2 billion this year, to $5.1 billion next year. How much the state would save won’t be known until employees and retirees choose an option.

Unions say the choices are unconstitutional, that they reduce benefits for current retirees, no matter what recipients decide. Reducing benefits for current retirees could violate Illinois’ constitutional provision, calling pension benefits an unbreakable contract, unions say.

If the current changes to public pensions manage to squeak out of the General Assembly and get Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn’s (D) OK, the public unions would probably sue the state.

Ultimately, the fate of the legislation would be decided by the justices of the Illinois Supreme Court, who, coincidentally, are members of the public pension Judges’ Retirement System.

“I would call this buying off the judges. It’s a very sad situation, but it’s inevitable,” said Ann Lousin, a professor at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago who helped draft the Illinois Constitution in 1970.

Madigan said judges were left out of the legislation to avoid a conflict of interest.

Madigan danced around questions of whether the omission of judges was a way to get a favorable ruling from the Illinois Supreme Court.

Judges were included in 2010 when the Legislature approved increasing the age of retirement for public employees from 62 years old to 67 years old for anyone hired after Jan. 1, 2011. That legislation also capped the maximum salary a pension could be based on at $106,800 for anyone hired after Jan. 1, 2011.

Illinois House Republican Leader Tom Cross, R-Oswego, has his own reasons for criticizing Madigan’s recent pension legislation. But, Cross said, he would have liked to have seen judges’ pensions included this time around, too.

In addition to handing out the largest annual pensions, JRS has the second-highest discrepancy between what it owes current and future retirees compared to the assets it has on hand, also known as an unfunded liability.

A 2011 report on the five systems that make up the state’s public pensions shows that the JRS has an unfunded liability of $1.3 billion, or 71 percent. The worst funded public pension system is the General Assembly Retirement System, which has an unfunded liability of $197 million, or 78 percent, and is included in the pension reform legislation.

Andrew Thomason can be reached at andrew.thomason@illinoisstatehousenews.com.

Posted May 30, 2012

Posted in Happening Now, Statehouse News | 3 Comments »

Keepin’ it Kleen: Should a casino come to Rockford?

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Michael Kleen

By Michael Kleen

Last week, the Illinois House passed a bill that would authorize five new casinos, including one in Rockford, and allow slot machines at the state’s racetracks. This bill was just short of the 71 votes needed to shield it from Gov. Pat Quinn’s threatened veto.

It is my contention that Gov. Quinn should not only sign this bill into law, but the Illinois legislature should go one step further and replace the state’s haphazard gambling laws with one simple piece of legislation that taxes, regulates and treats gaming in Illinois like any other entertainment industry.

Legal gambling has come to Illinois in fits and starts. For much of our history, most forms of gambling were prohibited by law and either controlled by organized crime or occasionally tolerated by public officials and law enforcement.

Betting on horse races has been legal since 1927, an Illinois lottery began in 1972, and in 1990, then-Gov. Jim Thompson signed a bill authorizing 10 licenses for riverboat casinos.

In 2009, legislators voted to legalize the video poker machines that had already been operating in thousands of bars, restaurants and truck stops throughout the state. Gov. Quinn, however, has dragged his heels over any further expansion, and he vetoed a gaming bill last year that would have brought a casino to Rockford.

Evangelical Christian churches have long opposed gambling, card playing, lotteries, and horse racing as immoral distractions from a pious and virtuous life. Gambling opponents in general believe it is a predatory form of entertainment with no redeeming value. The presence of a casino, they argue, will devastate the community by attracting undesirable businesses, greatly increase crime, and create a rash of gambling addicts who will ruin their lives and families by spending all their money on games of chance. While all of these concerns have their merits, I believe they are wildly exaggerated. With the right protections in place, gambling is no different from any other form of entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans already patronize race tracks and riverboat casinos every year. Every weekend at Arlington Park, friends and families place a few bets and enjoy horse races, good food and live music. The overwhelming majority of them go home without emptying their bank accounts or becoming gambling addicts. Yes, they may lose money, but no more than they would have spent at Six Flags or a Cubs game. In fact, there is no substantive difference between spending $100 at a professional baseball game and $100 at a casino, except that at a casino you have a chance of coming home with more money than when you arrived.

As for concern over compulsive gamblers, I suspect the percentage of them is no higher than those who are alcoholics, compulsive eaters or shopaholics. Perhaps the State of Illinois should ban shopping, since there are people who max out their credit cards and go bankrupt because they buy too many expensive shoes. For Illinois casinos, at least, there is a list of “self-excluded” people who are banned from entering riverboats in the state, and the penalties for marketing to them are severe. In May 2008, Hollywood Casino in Aurora was fined $800,000 for mailing promotional material to 146 “self-excluded” people.

Fears that casinos increase crime are largely unfounded. In 2010, for example, the city of Las Vegas had lower burglary, larceny and motor vehicle crime rates than Chicago, Dallas, Miami or Oklahoma City. Las Vegas was not even in the top 50 for U.S. cities with a population of 250,000 or greater when ranked by larceny rate, and it was 25th on the list in terms of violent crime, behind even Milwaukee. There are, by the way, 20 cities in Wisconsin with at least one casino, and robbery, violent crime, and motor vehicle theft rates in that state have declined every year since 2006.

Moreover, the economic benefits of a casino are many. A Rockford casino would employ dozens of local residents, and visitors from outside the city would fuel their cars at our gas stations, eat at our restaurants, take in shows at our theaters, and perhaps even stay at hotels in the area. It will allow Rockford to compete with Dubuque, Iowa, Beloit (once the Ho-Chunk casino opens), Wis., and Elgin, Ill., as an entertainment destination in the region. A casino is not a cure-all for our economic ills, but there are plenty of reasons to include one among other local businesses.

Fundamentally, I support a casino coming to Rockford because I believe a person should be able to spend his or her own money on entertainment of his or her own choice. Let those who are opposed to gambling refrain from gambling, and allow the rest of us the freedom to choose for ourselves.

Michael Kleen is a local author, historian, and owner of Black Oak Media. He holds a master’s degree in history and master’s degree in education. Read his previous columns online at makleen.com.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Commentary | No Comments »

Your Horoscope: Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Denise Guzzardo

By Denise Guzzardo

Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

This Week: This highly-charged time frame is preparing us for the kickoff of the full moon in Sagittarius June 4. Not only that, but Venus will be eclipsing the sun. We will not see an event like this again in our lifetime. Sagittarius brings to us knowledge of the universe, the big picture, while Venus provides us with the beauty and opportunity of all things that we can be and can contribute to humanity. Some may try to stop you or drag you into their garbage pit of thinking. If you have been living off the backs of others or have not done your work regarding your long-term goals, spiritually, physically or mentally, you will be challenged. If you have been selfish or have not lent a hand to those in need, you’re going to find yourself in some real trouble around this time. Those who have may find resistance from those who have been able to take advantage of you previously, but hold your ground — this is a test you must pass for the greater good. Time to cram for a spiritual exam. I hope all of you pass with flying colors.

Aries (March 21 to April 19) — A romantic aspect begins to take shape into a solid foundation during the next few months. You’re no longer puzzled by the intentions of another. Light is at the end of the tunnel, and news you hear shortly clarifies what your “gut” has been telling you for quite some time. You can ease up on your busy schedule a bit to socialize and catch up with friends and family. Don’t worry, you’ll be right back to the grindstone next week.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20) — A remedy for a long-standing problem will arrive this week. This appears to be something that has been shoved to the back of your mind, and yet, it never seems to go away. Now, you find a solution and take the steps to improve the quality of your life in ways you could not fathom before. A major breakthrough with finances arrives midweek.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20) — You’re able to cover a lot of ground this week. Between business and romantic elements, you’re in rare form and attempting to balance all the books. If romance has been a bit stale as of late, the full moon June 4 will certainly make or break you. If you have been one of these Geminis who have not put forth the effort regarding your loved ones, you may find yourself shocked into an awakening that cannot be changed. For those of you twins who have gone the extra mile, love and blessing will shower you.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22) — You’re receiving recognition from the powers that be this week. A business proposal once removed should be back on track for you soon. Receive this element graciously, and try not to say “I told you so.” A loss of a female may be on your mind. Precious memories are something no one can ever take away from you.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22) — Your energy levels are beginning to improve, and your health is becoming a top priority. A hidden advantage with your work environment will grow into an uncomplicated solid foundation. It may not be visible to the naked eye just yet, but it will be unveiled shortly. Peace and harmony within that sector of your life have been a long time coming.

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22) — You may feel as though you have to choose between two romantic aspects or work situations. Don’t complain. After a bit of a dry spell, this should be a welcome relief. Take time out to connect with friends and family this week. Interesting information is revealed when you finally hook up.

Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22) — Romantic elements have some interesting twists and turns this week. Just when you think you have this aspect figured out, another clue arrives. Take a step back and try not to jump to conclusions until all of the data have been presented. You may find there is some truth in the matter, but the timing is way off.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21) — Things begin to heal up this week after a long, tedious previous month. A holistic approach to a health concern may hold the key for success in the long run. A negative diagnosis may not be accurate. Take a leap of faith, and try alternative methods for you or a loved one. By week’s end, progress is made.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21) — Romantic aspects begin to bless you as a result of this next full moon June 4. All you had to do was get out of your own way or get someone who has trampled all over your heart out of your way once and for all. Finances continue to improve throughout the month of August. A New Age or alternative method of communication promotes your business or offers a new career option for you. Take a look at all opportunities presented.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19) — You may feel angry for a short period of time about a past love or past situation. Let this go, and watch the tables turn right before your eyes. Your anger dissolves, and your empathy grows as you begin to heal from within. Take a night out on the town with a friend or family member. You won’t be disappointed.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) — If you have recently distanced yourself from friends or family, it is time to reach out and resume contact. No one really knows what has caused this element, and it’s only human to assume they may be at the bottom of the problem. Lighten the load, and clarify what has been going on. This confusion will be completed shortly.

Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20) — An unexpected stroke of luck arrives at the 11th hour regarding finances or a legal matter. Once you have all of these aspects put into place, you can take a break and celebrate with friends and family. You have put a tremendous amount of energy into your significant other. You will see this pay off very soon.

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

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Horoscopes, Your Horoscope | No Comments »

Reducing oil dependence to save money

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Kjell Aleklett

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

Kjell Aleklett, president of the Association for the Study of Peak Oil & Gas, reports that global oil production has remained flat for the past six years at roughly 82 million barrels per day.

While global production leveled off, oil production in North America has risen, and is expected to continue to rise in the years ahead. Yet, the increased North American production has had a limited impact on the price of oil.

A recent report by the Diplomatic Council on Energy Security concluded that the high, volatile oil prices are likely to persist, and the United States remains dangerously exposed to the damaging effects these prices have on U.S. oil trade and its economy.

The report, developed by U.S. diplomats living outside the country, presents our current energy situation in a far less optimistic way than that being reported within our country.

Oil and its byproducts are critical to the U.S. economy for domestic use and the production of goods produced for export. Even if U.S. oil consumption remains relatively stable over time, expenditures on oil will rise if prices climb, as expected, as a result of increased global demand and the rising costs of securing energy,

While secure international trade in oil is essential, the report sees no simple, single solution to our oil dependence. The concern is most notable in the transportation sector.

The report identifies vehicle efficiencies, alternative fuels and infrastructure as major ways to reduce demand. Recent federal policies stimulate important fuel efficiency gains. Additional gains are possible in both light- and heavy-duty trucks and fleet vehicles.

Fuel alternatives, such as biomass, compressed and liquefied natural gas, hydrogen and electricity can help decrease our reliance on oil. Vehicle electrification is showing the most promise for substantial reductions in oil consumption. Hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and pure electric vehicles are the leading commercial alternatives to oil.

There are some possible signs of changes in how youth view the role of autos in their lives. In a recent conversation, our nephew, living in suburban Minneapolis, indicated he had to pressure his teen-age son into owning a car. We were surprised, and he indicated few of his son’s friends are eager to drive.

A demonstration electric cart developed by students from Rock Valley College. (Photo provided)

It might be a result of Minneapolis’ receiving a $25 million federal grant to devise its own cohesive transportation system for biking and walking and a supportive educational program. Rather than a limited patchwork of bike trails and pedestrian paths, a comprehensive system for non-car travel is now in place.

Perhaps recent efforts to promote hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking within the Rock River corridor can help facilitate more commuter-friendly biking and hiking trails within the surrounding communities.

We plan to have some interesting new student projects at this year’s Illinois Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyle Fair Aug. 11-12 at Ogle County Fairgrounds in Oregon, Ill. One is a demonstration electric cart developed by students from Rock Valley College. The second is conversion of an existing motorcycle to electric power by University of Illinois Engineering student Misha Zaderej, with assistance of his father, Victor Zaderej.

We expect to have more electric vehicles at the fair.

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. E-mail sonia@essex1.com.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Renewable Energy | No Comments »

Obama’s empty promises — FORWARD to disaster

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

President Barack Obama’s new campaign buzz word is FORWARD, and it is tantamount to his empty promise of HOPE and CHANGE.

Looking at the past and blaming President George W. Bush for the failures of Obama and his ultra-liberal agenda is not the way FORWARD.

Bush can be credited with taking positive action to root out and punish the terrorists behind the attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Have we forgotten seeing the televised coverage of the burka-clad women celebrating the carnage?

Bailing out the faltering auto, banking and solar businesses exacerbating our debt burden is not the way FORWARD.

Other actions that are not FORWARD are: extreme taxation and over-regulation of businesses, obstructing access to coal and oil deposits in America, and pandering to union bosses for votes and campaign funding. Other items are: bowing, groveling and apologizing to OPEC and getting nothing in return for concessions to Russia.

Israel is our only true ally in the Mideast and the cold shoulder to Netanyahu during his visits with Obama is not the way FORWARD.

Continuing with Obama’s failures will doom us to a future of despair and the ultimate demise of our nation.

The real way FORWARD is with a true conservative at the helm.

Charles E. Sims
Rockford

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Letters to the Editor | 3 Comments »

Wild West Weekend at Summerfield Zoo

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

BELVIDERE, Ill. — Wild West Weekend at Summerfield Zoo! El Gato, the dancing horse, is back by popular demand. And lots of other activities are planned.

Summerfield Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, June 2, and from11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, June 3. Admission is only $5 per person; all proceeds go to the care of the animals, many of which are rescue animals.

Kelly Reynolds, El Gato’s manager said: “Bring your sense of adventure, along with your cowboy boots and hat to Wild West Weekend. El Gato, the dancing horse, has returned to perform at the zoo. See the authentic TeePee and Indians. Dirty Sally is returning with Rosie, her donkey, and Ed, her horse. Flash and Tony the Pony will be here for pony rides. We will have stick horse races, panning for gold, and an opportunity to lasso a cow. There will be a contest for best-dressed cowboys and cowgirls. It will be a fun weekend for all!”

Enjoy animal presentations, pony rides, petting zoo, lunch and shop for gifts at the gift shop all while at the zoo.

Summerfield Zoo is a not-for-profit organization providing an up-close and personal animal experience for the whole family. As it is a small zoo, visitors can get up close and meet many of the animals.

For more information about Summerfield Zoo and the exotic animals, visit the website www.summerfieldfarmandzoo.com or call (815) 547-4852. The zoo is at 3088 Flora Road, Belvidere.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Living, Outdoors | No Comments »

June is Dairy Month: Consumers win with dairy products

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Phyllis Picklesimer
Media/Communications Specialist, University of Illinois College of ACES News and Public Affairs

URBANA, Ill. — Consumers have reason to celebrate the approach of June, which is Dairy Month, said a University of Illinois animal sciences professor emeritus.

“The cost of dairy products has dropped in many markets because the price paid by dairy farmers has dropped 20 percent at the farm gate,” said Mike Hutjens. “This lower farm milk price has led to ‘good dairy buys’ with milk available at $2.50 per gallon and butter at $2 a pound in selected markets.”

Hutjens noted that Dairy Month focuses on dairy products, new dairy product recipes, displays in the dairy case in supermarkets, and dairy breakfasts with farm tours featured in dairy states.

“Dairy products remain popular because they contain high-quality protein with all the essential, important amino acids and whey proteins,” he said. “Milk contains high levels of calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous and key vitamins.”

Milk and milk products can be particularly important for older consumers because osteoporosis, or bone deterioration in adults, can occur as a result of a calcium deficiency.

Calcium recommendations are 1,000 milligrams per day for adults, 1,500 milligrams for adults older than 51, 1,300 milligrams for adolescents, and 500 to 800 milligrams for young children. One serving of milk has about 250 milligrams of calcium. Milk and milk products can provide 73 percent of the calcium in a balanced diet, he said.

So, what kinds of milk and dairy products are most favored by U.S. consumers?

“If you were the average U.S. consumer in 2010, the last year for which data is available, you consumed 23.5 pounds of low-fat milk, 45.9 pounds of whole milk, 60.3 pounds of reduced-fat milk, 26.8 pounds of fat-free milk, and 13.7 pounds of flavored milk,” he said. “You also ate 33.9 pounds of cheese, 11.8 pounds of ice cream, and 5.1 pounds of butter.”

Dairy products that did quite well in 2010 include flavored milk with a 13.5 percent increase over 2009, and yogurt, which saw an 8.3 percent increase in consumption. The amount of frozen yogurt purchased increased by 7.1 percent.

“These trends indicate changes in dairy products reflecting the consumer’s desire for lower-calorie products such as yogurt,” he said. “The advantage of a wide variety of dairy products is that consumers can pick their favorite product based on fat content, calorie content, flavor, taste, cost and food recipe alternatives.”

No dairy products were purchased in 2011 by the government milk price support program. Mexico was the largest foreign customer, and the United States exported nearly 13 percent of all dairy production in 2011, with record exports improving the U.S. balance of payments. Canada and China were the next largest importers of U.S. dairy products. The dollar value of 2011 dairy exports reached $4.89 billion, whereas imports totaled $2.94 billion.

In 2011, there were 9.19 million dairy cows in the United States, up 0.8 percent from 2010, with these cows producing 196.2 billion pounds of milk, up 1.8 percent over 2010. The number of dairy farms in 2011 dropped by 1,651 to 51,481 commercial licensed dairy farms, averaging 179 cows per farm.

Currently, dairy farmers receive $15 to $17 per 100 pounds while the cost to produce this milk ranges from $16 to $18, depending on region of the United States, feed costs, herd size, and investments needed to house and manage cows.

“Also in 2011, U.S. dairy cows averaged 21,345 pounds of milk per cow,” said Hutjens. “In comparison, the European Union, with its 27 countries, has 24.1 million dairy cows producing 13,167 pounds of milk per cow.”

Continued improvements in efficiency in the U.S. dairy industry reflect higher milk yield per cow, resulting in lower-priced milk and dairy products for U.S. consumers. This successful story is not over, as the highest-yielding U.S. Holstein cow produced more than 72,000 pounds of milk, he said.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Health & Fitness, Living | No Comments »

Eureka! Classifieds: Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

FOR SALE

Antiques

CHILDREN’S SCHOOL DESKS and chairs, Royal typewriter from late 1950’s 815/877-4498. 6/6

Now & Then Antiques and Collectibles Rockford Plaza 2520 Charles St. Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 316-1088 Open 10 to 5 Mon-Sat, 10-3 Sun 6/6

Appliances

KENMORE, ALMOND, SIDE-BY-SIDE refrigerator, scratched up, good for garage or shop. $125 815/871-7511 after 5pm. 6/13

GE 1000 WATT MICROWAVE, turntable, excellent condition $40 815/980-7863. TFN

REFRIGERATOR COMPRESSOR New, never installed. Fits many fridges. Part W10285060, includes drip tray kit $150. 815/398-4475. 5/30

ROPER WASHER, large load capacity and Roper dryer, heavy-duty super-capacity, $150 each. Four Hunter ceiling fans (brushed nickel, white, brass, woodtone) $100 firm. Two General Electric AC window units w/remote control, $100 each. Kinetico brand water softener $100 815/978-7610. TFN

WASHERS, DRYERS, STOVES, refrigerators, ladders & lawn mowers, furniture items. Warranties included, delivery available. 815/721-6318. TFN

Cemetery Plots

TWO BURIAL PLOTS in Last Supper Section of Sunset Memorial Gardens. $2500 + fees 815/633-9003. 6/13

TWO SPACES Roscoe Cemetery, $2000 each. 608/364-1904. 6/6

4 LOTS WILLWOOD in Concordia Area $1795 each. Will discount. 815/877-0145. 6/6

WILLWOOD CEMETERY 4 spaces Concordia area $1795 each. 815/877-0145. TFN

1 SPACE IN SUNSET MEMORIAL GARDENS (Lutheran section). $1,600 + fees. 941/358-0374. janey08@comcast.net. TFN

RIVER VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS Dundee, IL. 4 spaces, Catholic section by the shrine. Valued at $6,000 – Make offer. 815/558-1478. TFN

Collectibles

PARKING METER, phonograph, LP records, Royal typewriter – late 50’s 815/877-4498. 6/13

ALEX RODRIGUEZ BOBBLE-HEAD DOLLS 10 left at $75 each or 2 for $130. Valuable collector’s items. 779/771-3907 or 815/315-0662. 5/30

Electronics

COMPLETE COMPUTER SYSTEM & desk, works very good – Best offer. 815/977-5405. 6/13

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 Frank. TFN

Equipment

CRAFTSMAN 8HP RIDING lawn mower, good condition $175 815/871-7511 after 5pm. 6/6

LAWN MOWER Yardman with bagger, self-propelled in excellent condition 815/877-8183. 6/6

8 HP KOHLER ENGINE Magnum, side-shaft 1″x3″, can hear run, $145 OBO 815/968-1780. 5/30

MEYERS SNOWPLOW & PUMP. $500 OBO. Call Sam 815/505-6833. TFN

Furniture

SLEEPER SOFA neutral colors $125, pine glider rocker $30, black wooden rocker $15 815/968-7181. 6/6

TV ENTERTAINMENT CENTER Special built 57” wide, 58” tall, A beauty! Asking $175 815/621-5406. 6/6

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, great shape, reasonable pricing. Contact Mike or Janet 815/315-0662. 5/30

ROLL -TOP DESK solid dark oak, 30-year-old, antique, excellent condition, 30” deep, 54” wide, 50” high, 7 drawers. $900. 815/398-7941. TFN

entertainment center holds up to 37” TV, $75. 815/988-5796. TFN

Garage Sale

MOVING OUT SALE Everything must go! For info and directions call 815/847-8584. 6/13

BARN SALE 4175 & 4325 favor Rd. June 1 & 2, 8-5pm, off Rt. 75 & Owen Center. Barn is loaded! 5/30

Best Garage Sale Ever 6/15/ 8:00-5, 6/16/ 8:00-2 Unity of Rockford Church 4381 Manchester Dr. Reasonable prices Treasures and Clean Garments 6/13

ESTATE SALE Wed-Fri. 779/770-9621. 5/30

Horses

NEED PASTURE,SHELTER, good fences, N/NW, please call 815/566-2020. 5/30

2006 REGISTERED Peppy San Badger Paint gelding. Has the looks, disposition & soundness, needs professional training, $400. 779/348-0591. 6/20

HORSE SALE: Belle Plaine Western Exchange, Belle Plaine, IA. Next Scheduled Sale: Saturday, June 9, 2012. For more complete details go to website. Sale Times: Tack 10:00 a.m. & Horses immediately following unless noted below. Sale 2nd Saturday of every month. Upcoming Sale: July 14th- regular sale. Check out our website for details and special sale announcements www.westernexchange.com; Info/To Consign: 319-444-2320; email: bpwe@netins.net (MCN)

Misc. Items For Sale

YAMAHA 12 CHANNEL MIXER + mics & more $200. Call Jake 847/323-3112. 6/13

Hartman Luggage. 3 piece matching set. Brown tweed/leather trim. Great condition. $35 239-313-0580 6/13

LAWN TRACTOR TIRES (2) 15×6.00 (2) 20×8.00 plus seat $15 for all 815/874-8478. 6/6

FOR SALE SEARS KENMORE sewing machine with pedal, excellent condition. $50 815/566-1581. 6/6

8PKS. OF mED. DIAPERS 20 in each pk. $50, call 779/203-5309. 6/6

ROLAND DB-500 160 W tube/solid bass amp $325, call Jake 847/323-3112. 6/6

OLYMPIC-SIZE TRAMPOLINE and a vintage wheel horse mower (needs some work) 815/543-0899. 6/6

HANDMADE WOODEN CANES Ask for Phil 815/962-0530. 6/6

WURLITZER ORGAN $300 815/877-0145. 6/6

PROMOTIONAL STUFFED ANIMALS like Tom and Jerry, Snuggles, the Bulls, Rice Krispies, others. Make an offer. 815/234-3111. 5/30

POOL FOR SALE 12’x20’x4’ deep, comes complete, Must sell. Call 815/738-2332. 5/30

RESTAURANT & BAR EQUIPMENT for sale 815/847-0073. 5/30

INTERIOR DOORS WITH HARDWARE solid prefinished, three vinyl windows 24×36, like new ceiling fans 815/874-2353. 5/30

JASON MODEL 304 Astronomical telescope with 5 lenses, 2 metal detectors, 10 fishing poles, 815/962-5376. 5/30

Selmer bundy ii saxophone $60, 815/494-3627. 5/30

DISH NETWORK. Starting at $19.99/month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months! SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL – 888-543-6232 (MCN)

MANTIS DELUXE TILLER. NEW! FastStart engine. Ships FREE. One-Year Money-Back Guarantee when you buy DIRECT. Call for the DVD and FREE Good Soil book! 866-542-5009 (MCN)

THRILL DAD with 100 percent guaranteed, delivered–to-the-door Omaha Steaks! SAVE 69 percent – PLUS 2 FREE GIFTS – THRILL THE GRILL ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1-866-414-8037 or www.OmahaSteaks.com/dd30 use code 45393RLT (MCN)

BUNDLE & SAVE on your CABLE, INTERNET PHONE, AND MORE. High Speed Internet starting at less than $20/mo. CALL NOW! 800-291-4159 N-5/30

GET CENTURY LINK HIGH SPEED INTERNET! ONLY $14.95/mo. 12 mos. SAVE & Bundle your home Phone. Limited Time CALL NOW! 800-257-1431 N-5/30

MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA MATTRESSES T-$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES – $799 FREE DELIVERY LIFETIME WARRANTY 90 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM N-5/30

AT&T U-VERSE for just $29.99/mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (select plans). Limited Time Call NOW! 877-276-3538 N-5/30

STOP PAYING TOO MUCH FOR TV! Satellite is cheaper than cable! Packages from $19.99/mo.ÐFREE movies, FREE upgrades & FREE HD: Limited Offer-CALL NOW! 800-364-5192 N-5/30

AT&T U-VERSE just $29.99/mo! Bundle Internet+Phone+ TV & SAVE. Get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time CALL 800-418-8969 & Check Availability in your Area! N-5/30

Sporting Goods

MEN’S BICYCLE, Bianchi Italia, $75, orig. $535. Call Al Fioretti 815/621-5406. 6/13

8 FT POOL TABLE 1-year old, like new, good price 815/566-0500. 6/13

2010 YAMAHA GOLF CART fully equipped, like new, one owner. $8000 new, sacrifice $5800 OBO. 815/494-5694. 6/6

GUN & KNIFE SHOW June 2 & 3, 2012, Sat 8-4, Sun 8-3, Admission $5, Winnebago County Fairgrounds Pecatonica, IL, email to admin@nirpc.com for flyer. 5/30

GOLF CLUBS (two sets) wheeled bags, tees, balls, $35 each call 815/962-1543. 5/30

MEN’S BIKE 18spd, like new, originally $170, asking $45 815/621-5406. 5/30

GOLF PRO CLUBS 5 irons, 3 woods, putter & bag $35 815/623-2234. 5/30

Thrift Store

Crusader Thrift Shop,310 7th Street - Open Mon.-Sat. from 11am to 3pm. Many kid’s clothes & toys, $1 and under. 90% ladies clothes on sale, 3 pair ladies pants $1 (not new ones). Entire books on sale. Large microwave, like new baby buggy, highchair like new, Robey drill & charger. In need of brown paper grocery bags. We put out new supplies every day. TFN

FHC Thrift Shop, 710 Broadway. 815/299-3615, Open 9am – 5pm, Mon-Sat. Call for emergency after-hour appts. TFN

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

Brooke Road Thrift Shop, 1404 Brooke Rd. Lots of clothes, shoes, knick knacks, and misc. Open Wednesdays, 9-12. TFN

MISSION MART THRIFT Benefits Rockford Rescue Mission. 1405 Kishwaukee St. 1235 Sandy Hollow, M-S 9-5pm. TFN


SERVICES

Adoption

Loving married couple wishes to adopt a child, newborn to 24 months. Stable home. Michelene & Richard 877-507-5471. hope2adop@comcast.net. Provider ID #01299 TFN

ADOPT: Happily married, secure, loving, Christian couple yearn to adopt a newborn. Expenses paid. Please call Doug & Ellen. 1-877-742-6061 (MCN)

Child Care

KAY’S LICENSED DAYCARE openings now for ages newborn to 12 yrs. M-F 6am-6pm, EMT & CPR licensed instructor. Contact Kay 815/980-4346. 5/30

Dance

Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Ballroom• Hip Hop• Dancercise Ages 3 – Adult. 815/633-0753. 5/16

Education

Dental Assistant Training Starting Very Soon! www.goodmancareerinstitute.com call (815)-394-7400 for more details 5/30

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-401-2385 www.CenturaOnline.com (MCN)

WORK ON JET ENGINES – Train for hands-on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-231-7177. (MCN)

AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA-approved training. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL AIM 800-481-8312 (ICAN)

ADULT HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA At Home 4-6 Weeks. Tuition $199.00. Accredited. FREE Class Ring. College Admission Guaranteed. FREE BROCHURE. 305-940-4214 N-5/30

AIRLINE CAREERS begin here Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA-approved training. Financial aid if qualified Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM (888)686-1704 N-5/30

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com N-5/30

MEDICAL CAREERS begin here Online training for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com N-5/30

WORK ON JET ENGINES Train for hands-on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 854-6156. N-5/30

Financial

EVER CONSIDER A REVERSE MORTGAGE? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 866-215-9894 (MCN)

$$$ ACCESS LAWSUIT CASH NOW!! Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500-$500,000++ within 48/hours? Low rates Apply Now By Phone! 1-800-568-8321. www.lawcapital.com (MCN)

CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY HAVE IT REMOVED! Minimum $7,000 in debt to qualify. Utilize Consumer Protection Attorneys. Call now! 1-888-237-0388 N-5/30

YOU DIE WE PAY DON’T DIE WE PAY. FULL RETURN OF PREMIUM TERM LIFE INSURANCE. PREMIUM RETURNED IN 20 YEARS IF YOU DON’T DIE. NO EXAM, NO BLOOD REQUIRED. 1-800-559-9847 www.buynoexamlifeinsuranceonline.com N-5/30

Hairstylist

SHERYL, FORMERLY OF GREAT CLIPS is now at The Galleons, behind Rathskeller 815/965-1401 or 909/499-3640. 6/13

Hauling

CHAD’S HAULING & GENERAL LABOR 10-year solid reputation. Garage, basement & estate clean-outs. Yard waste removal, gutter cleaning, tree trimming, etc. FREE Estimates. 15% Senior Discount. www.chadshauling.com 815/979-7593. 6/13

Health & Medical

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 1-888-737-9930 (MCN)

ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-705-4795 (MCN)

CANADA DRUG CENTER is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 866-983-1784 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. (MCN)

TAKE VIAGRA/ CIALIS? Save $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only-$99! +4-Bonus Pills FREE! #1 Male Enhancement. Discreet Shipping. Call 1- 877-595-1024 (MCN)

TAKE VIAGRA 100MG AND CIALIS 20MG! 40 Pills +4FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement. Discreet Shipping. Save $500! Buy The Blue Pill! 1-888-796-8870 N-5/30

Legal Services

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. WIN or Pay Nothing! Start Your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today! Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 888-835-8412 (MCN)

NEED LEGAL HELP? FREE REFERRAL Call 877-270-3855 Courtesy of the Illinois State Bar Association at www.IllinoisLawyerFinder.com (ICAN)

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. 6/27

Misc. Services

REACH 2 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS! Do you have a product, service, or business that would be helped by reaching over 2 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)

TO INVESTIGATE OTHER ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Call PaperChain at 931-922-0484 or e-mail info@paperchain.com (MCN)

FREE SHAKLEE MEMBERSHIP: $19.95 plus tax savings until May 31st with any size order, no set amount to buy each month as a member. Call 605-266-2735 or contact idabuchholz@yahoo.com (MCN)

If you need it, you can find it at WWW.MW-ADS.COM. Thousands of classifieds from the Midwest! Refreshed weekly! (MCN)

NEED TO PLACE YOUR AD in more than 300 Illinois newspapers? Call Illinois Press Advertising Service 217-241-1700 or visit www.illinoispress.org (ICAN)

REACH OVER 20 MILLION HOMES nationwide with one easy buy! Only $2,395 per week for a 25 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com N-5/30

Tree Service

Tree removal and trimming Bucket truck service, stump grinding/removal, skid-loader work. Fully insured. References available. 815/378-0671. 9/5

PERSONALS

SWM 47 SEEKS lonely women for intimate companionship. For details, call 815/312-9076. 6/13

FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT widower, mid-60’s, wants to meet the second Mrs. Right, ages 50-70 815/319-0643. 6/6

SWM 48 needs the affection of an older woman, 55-80 years young. Must travel to Freeport, race unimportant 815/275-8195. 6/6

SWM 47, 6’1” 250LBS. muscular, attractive seeks attractive female companion, age/race unimportant. Call 815/312-9076, leave message. 5/30

DISCREET SM seeking lonely women for intimate encounters. If interested call 779/221-9780, older women preferable. 5/30

SINGLE FEMALE Plus-size Christian seeking single male 40-57 for dating, LTR. Text or call 920/342-7017. 5/30

I AM TRANSGENDER 36, looking for someone to date, guys or girls, upper 20’s-40’s. Leave a message. Please don’t call restricted or private, I will not answer. 815/766-0627. 6/13

WHITE TALL GUY would like to meet a single Hispanic lady 30-45 for romance and LTR, call or leave message 779/770-7194. 6/6

THIS BISEXUAL MALE is seeking other guys for dating and possible roommate options. For more details call 815/290-9012. TFN

AFRICAN-AMERICAN ATTRACTIVE TRANSSEXUAL: Educated, outgoing, wants to meet gentleman. Race unimportant. Age 30-60. Serious calls only! 815/516-6298. TFN

Public Announcement

Youth Becoming Leaders, INC. is now accepting charitable contributions for their Imagine Me campaign, serving high-risk populations in Winnebago and Stephenson counties. For donations or details, please call Barb, at (815) 713-9937. Thank you. 6/13

SOS LIBERTY These high school students can explain why our HUGE national debt will hurt their generation. All invited Tues. June 5, 6:30 pm to Belvidere Community Center, 111 W. First St to hear SOS LIBERTY. 5/30

ANNUAL PECATONICA RIVER QUEEN Sunday, July 29th 815/599-5690, usyf.org. Volunteers needed. 7/25

come worship with us at 10th Street Church of Christ 815/397-1855. TFN

COME WORSHIP WITH US at Kishwaukee Church of Christ. TFN

MORRIS KENNEDY/NASHOLD SCHOOL- all class reunion. Sat. July 21st, Blackhawk Springs Park, 5260 S. Mulford Rd. For info call Barb 815/282-8439 or Olga 815/229-5992. 7/18

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS Court St. Methodist, Mondays at 6pm. TFN

REIKI ENERGY HEALING resumes at RVC, 3350 N. Bell School Rd. on Wednesdays, Starting February 15, 6-9pm. TFN

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

LOOKING FOR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS to sponsor underprivileged & special needs children & adults. Call for details. 815/332-2312. TFN

Looking for answers? Try Bible call. 24-hour automated service – 815/316-2650. (Church of Christ). TFN

Positive Image ChurcH – Basic Life Skills Programs. Free. 1408 Elm Street. For information: 815/967-9061. TFN

Pre-Vatican II church is alive and well. St. Sebastian. Call 815/520-4374. TFN

Power of the Blood SDC Ministry 816 Marchesano Dr, Rockford, IL 61102. We are looking for a building. Services currently held every 3rd & 4th Thursday @ 7pm. APOSTLE EDWARD A. JOHNSON OVERSEER I’ll pray for you & you pray for me. Watch God change things! 779/770-9853, 815/904-0080. Thank you & God Bless. TFN

Welcome to St. Sebastian Orthodox Church. Traditional liturgy every Sunday, 10:30 am, 2415 Charles St., Suite 20×1, Rockford, IL. Call 815/520-4374. TFN

Organ, Blood, & Tissue Donation

26-YR-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. 815/670-9082. TFN

www.LinksForLifeCampaign.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 Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Web site: www.cfnil.org .


PETS

For Sale

STUD DONKEY 1-year old, calm, needs handling, $150 OBO. Joel 815/656-1365. 6/13

1-YEAR OLD MALE PYGMY GOAT intact. $50 Christina 815/978-2590. 6/13

KITTENS, 2 litters, white with black or gold, long-haired 779/770-6101. 6/13

Shih Tzu’s, purebred, born May 20, ready July, $450, will hold with $75 deposit, 779-537-9476. 6/13

KITTENS 7 weeks old, long hair, $15 each 815/262-3944. 6/6

5 KITTENS 6 weeks old, 3 white, 1 gray and 1 turtle. $10-25 each. 815/645-2440. 5/30

Rescue/Foster

MY NAME IS PEPPER I am a very sweet & loving 1½ yr old female black Lab & pitbull mix. I am looking for a forever loving home with you. I have been spayed and have all my shots. $50, serious calls only. 815/980-7863. TFN

3 BOY KITTENS- Gold & white. 9 months old. All shots. Neutered. Looking for forever-loving indoor homes. $20. Serious calls only. 815/980-7863. TFN

RESCUED CATS- 2 pure gray females, 2 pure gray males. Sweet & loving, spayed & neutered, shots. Looking for forever-loving indoor homes. $20. Serious calls only. 815/980-7863. TFN

‘PAWS’ neeDs foster homes for dogs. Call 299-PAWS (7297) or visit the website at www.pawshs.org. TFN

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. TFN

WHIPS, SCARS, CHAINS and bars. Circus suffering is not entertainment. Boycott circuses with animal acts. 6/6


WANTED
WANTED: CAT CARRYING cage, 779/500-4518. 6/6

280 LB. MAN IN NEED of free folding wheelchair & hand crutches 815/633-2049. 6/6

WANTED: FREE PUZZLES and yarn, also frogs, also Harley Sturgis beer can $50 1998 779/770-2477. 5/30

WANTED: SOMEONE WHO CAN work on a Cub Cadet rear engine riding lawn mower. Call 815/312-9076. 5/30

I BUY OLD STEREO EQUIPMENT. Working or not, also looking for tube equipment & testers. Rick 815/871-2538. 6/20

Wanted: Rototillers, Snowblowers, Riding mowers, go-carts, minibikes, dirt bikes, scooters, ATVs, antique vehicles. 815/397-4483. 6/6

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

PAYING CASH! Diabetic Test STRIPS WANTED. Will pay up to $17 per box. Quick & local. Call Nancy. 815/519-9966. TFN

WANTED UNEXPIRED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS UP TO $26/BOX. PRE PAID SHIPPING LABELS. HABLAMOS ESPANOL! 1-800-266-0702 www.SellDiabeticStrips.com (MCN)

WANTED UNEXPIRED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS UP TO $26/BOX. PRE PAID SHIPPING LABELS. HABLAMOS ESPANOL! 1-800-266-0702 www.SellDiabeticStrips.com N-5/30

FAST PAYMENT for sealed, unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! Free Shipping, Best Prices and 24 hour payment. Get paid and help others. Call Patti at 855-578-7477 or visit us at www.TestStripSearch.com (MCN)

**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-5/30

CA$H PAID-UP TO $27/BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. SE HABLA ESPANOL. Emma 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com N-5/30

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Classifieds | No Comments »

Charlotte’s Web celebrates 40 years June 1-2

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

Charlotte’s Web for the Performing Arts invites you to its 40th Anniversary Celebration, which will take place over two days at two downtown locations.

It all begins 7 to 9 p.m., Friday, June 1, with an art opening at Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. Charlotte’s Web wants to provide a total component with live music and arts. The art opening at Kryptonite will honor and celebrate the graphic artists of the past four decades including John Berry, H. Ward Sterret, Frank Houtcamp, Leslie Dahlgren, Bill Bruning, Andy Whorehall, Graham Spencer, Jack Pine, Matthew Myhre and J. Richardson.

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, encompassing 415-420 N. Main St., will be the setting for celebration Saturday, June 2. Hours for this event are 1 to 9:15 p.m.

Two stages June 2 will offer eight hours of music and dance featuring about 45 artists to honor and celebrate the performing arts of 40 years of Charlotte’s Web. Live concert recordings from the vast collection from the Charlotte’s Web archive vault will be playing in the air-conditioned comfort of the second floor of Emerson House. A parent-staffed supervised kid area, complete with crafts, games and nap zone, will be available from 2 to 6 p.m.

A silent auction June 2 will feature items and services donated by local “Webbies,” including a rack of lamb from Open Range Products, museum membership package from Discovery Center, gift certificates from J.R. Kortman Center for Design, Rapunzel’s Hair Company, Family Video and more, concert and season tickets from Mendelssohn PAC and more, a book by

A Charlotte’s Web music calendar from March 1978.

local author Nancy Hanewall Stacy, a CD titled Open Book, released on the Columbia label in 1991 by Fred Simon & Bard, download cards from Old Town School of Folk Music, and more.

Following is the musical lineup for the June 2 event:

1:30 p.m. — Outside stage kicks off with Piper Road Spring Band

2 p.m. — Inside stage kicks off with Jim Post

2:30 p.m. — Outside stage: Miles Nielsen

2:40 p.m. — Inside stage: Pete Johnsson

3 p.m. — Inside stage: Bonnie Koloc/James Lee Stanley

3:30 p.m. — Outside stage: Ernie Hendrickson

3:40 p.m. — Inside stage: Tom Kastle

4 p.m. — Inside stage: Peter Lang

4:30 p.m. — Outside stage: Escape

4:40 p.m. — Inside stage: Mr. Taps

5 p.m. — Inside stage: Emily Hurd

5:30 p.m. — Outside stage: Beat Merchants

5:40 p.m. — Inside stage: Andy & Ron Holm

6 p.m. — Inside stage: Dan Pincus & Jim McElhaney

The Dean Moriarty Jazz Band will play on the inside stage from 7:45 to 9 p.m., Saturday, June 2. (Photo provided)

6:30-7:15 p.m. — Outside stage: Too Deep

6:40 p.m. — Inside stage: Ron Rawhoof

7:15 p.m. — Everybody moves inside Mendelssohn for the announcing of the winners of the silent auction items/services.

7:45-9 p.m. — Inside stage: Dean Moriarty Jazz Band

9:15 p.m. — Good night, everybody!

Celebrate with Charlotte’s Web, rain or shine. Wristbands for admission are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Some seating is provided, and chairs are encouraged. Absolutely no coolers are permitted.

Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Advance tickets are available at: Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State, (815) 963-6765; both Postal Shoppe locations: Edgebrook Center, (815) 397-7301 and 2205 S. Perryville, (815) 484-0940 and JustGoods, 201 Seventh St., (815) 965-8903; or by mail: send a check and SASE to 420 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103. Indicate artist or performance date on check. Credit card payment accepted only at www.charlotteswebofrockford.org via PayPal. A $2 ticket processing fee is included. Print your receipt. Info: Call (815) 964-2238.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

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

Yoga Rockford: It’s yoga — what do you expect?

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Jennie Williford
Pranayama Yoga Studio

Yoga is a vast and amazing subject. No matter what you might look for from yoga, it is bound to be there … plus a whole lot more. It can touch your body, your mind and the whole of your being. You just have to be willing to let go of expectations and open up to learning all it has to offer.

When I started yoga, it was not yet very popular, and I had no idea of what it was or could be. I went merely to stretch out stiff muscles. However, it has taken me to places I never dreamed of: I’ve gone from hating every class that challenged my all-too-stiff body to traveling to India to study with one of the world’s most celebrated yoga teachers.

I believe it helped that I had no expectations about yoga when I started. I tried many styles, and experienced and studied different aspects of yoga before choosing a method I felt held true to the ancient traditions of the path. Even today I am amazed almost daily about what yoga brings to every aspect of my life.

With its popularity, now we are told what to expect from yoga: inner peace, meditation, physical and mental health, etc. We are not encouraged to explore the subject on our own, and we develop a strong idea of what “yoga” is before we even step into the classroom.

From our first experience, we expect to be more centered or even enlightened, led by a teacher who guides us on an amazing journey of inner discovery and peace. Or, maybe we just expect the class will give us a work-out, that through the practice we will look and feel like the people on the front cover of Yoga Journal.

Unfortunately, expectations can be tricks of the mind that typically lead us toward disappointment and distress. When we want something from a simple act of doing something else and that “something” doesn’t happen, then we are disappointed, and maybe just give up. We do this with a lot of situations, and we even do it with yoga.

As a yoga teacher, I have encountered many a student with common media-enhanced expectations of either a sweaty workout through fast-moving poses or a quiet experience of guided meditation.

Iyengar Yoga, the method I teach, does not focus solely on these certain advertised aspects of yoga, though they are included in a well-rounded practice.

In teaching Iyengar Yoga, we aim to cover the whole of yoga as described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and we are guided by techniques developed by BKS Iyengar. Class time is the opportunity for students to learn what they need to carry yoga into their own life.

Iyengar Yoga is typically taught in sessions of eight or more weeks of classes in which all aspects of the physical postures are taught in progression. Starting from the basics of physical poses, classes gradually incorporate breath work and meditative contemplation. Students learn gradually to quiet the fluctuations of the mind, the true definition of yoga.

In the land of instant gratification, it is difficult to let go of our expectations. We want the results we want, and we want them NOW! So, if we do not like what we experience at first, how do we persist to experience the unknown benefits?

I wonder this a lot, since I thought many times about quitting yoga when I first started. If I had stopped going before my paid eight weeks were up, before I had the experience of the subtle quieting of my mind, where would I be today? If I had only stayed with what “felt good” in my practice, would I ever have developed the amazement and awe for yoga that I have now?

Enduring the short-term pain of stretching tight muscles and the frustration of working out bad physical habits somehow brought me to more self-awareness and the long-term benefits of mental quietude and contentment.

Letting go of our expectations — of our attachment to what a yoga class should be or how a yoga teacher should look or act — allows us to open up to experience every possibility within the practice of yoga — and within our own self.

The Bhagavad Gita reads: “For fickle is the thought-organ, impetuous, mighty and hard. The restraining of it is very difficult, as of the wind.” Yoga is ultimately the practice of quieting the mind, and the first step is restraining the mind tricks of expectation. Take that first step, and give yoga a try! A new session begins at Pranayama Yoga Studio June 18.

For more information about Pranayama Yoga Studio, visit www.yogarockford.com or call (815) 968-9642.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Living, Naturally Rockford | 1 Comment »

Auto News: Mr. Green Car: Kia Soul: Boxy design a hot seller among young and old alike

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

The 2012 Kia Soul. (Photo by Allen Penticoff)

By Allen Penticoff
Free-lance Writer

In my continuing reports about small economical new cars, this week I’ll report about the 2012 Kia Soul.

There is an interesting double entendre in the name. First of all, Kia is a Korean automaker. Seoul is the capital city of South Korea, which we Americans, long-time allies of that nation, pronounce as “soul.” Yet, soul defines a spirit, something wherein lies the person, the being. And that can apply to things like cars. Some do have soul, and Kia’s boxy little car is full of it.

I spent three years of my U.S. Army career in South Korea and Seoul. A lovely country that I really liked, with whom America has no better friend. I’ve found the Korean workers are among the world’s best, and the products they make are of good quality at reasonable prices. While the Soul is 99 percent Korean sourced and built, our relationship with Korea is not one of competition so much as mutual benefit.

Enough of the political. The Soul is a great fun car. Several others on the market are similar — the Scion Xb and the Honda Element, to name two. This is sort of a new niche of cars — they have a boxy look to them, and are kind of short station wagons or small SUVs. What the boxiness gives them is a lot of interior volume for the overall size of the vehicle. Four people can comfortably ride in a Soul, and bring some stuff with them. Fold down the rear seats and a LOT of stuff can be hauled.

The boxy little cars are almost exclusively marketed toward the young, hip scene, with hamsters driving around to hip-hop music featured in commercials. Being cool is what is important — not what the car can do. However, and this is a big however, these are selling like hotcakes to the older-than-50 crowd. You almost can’t get one — they don’t stay on the dealer lot long enough to get dusty. Why? Because the boxy, tall configuration makes them very easy to get in and out of for people with less-than-gymnastic joints.

I found the interior very comfortable and particularly liked the clear analog instrumentation. (Photo by Allen Penticoff)

The AARP crowd doesn’t mind the sportiness or the good gas mileage, either. They ain’t dead yet. I took a Kia Soul for a brief test drive from Rock River Kia, aided by sales representative Frank Calabrese and other helpful folks. Frank sent me out with a Soul equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. My favorite test vehicle — one with a stick-shift. It was appropriately sporty. The other transmission option is a six-speed automatic. The Soul can be found with either a 1.6-liter engine or a beefier 2.0-liter version.

While the handling is definitely sporty, as is the ride — the marketing of the Soul is about personalizing your “ride.” In addition to the two engines, there are three trim levels — the basic “Soul.” Next up is the “+” and the top of the line is the “!” The + and ! have the 2.0 engine; the ! is automatic transmission only.

Fuel economy varies little between the versions. The 1.6-liter attains EPA city/highway ratings of 27/35 for both transmissions, while the 2.0-liter gets 26/34 with either transmission. An ECO option for a start/stop feature that shuts down the engine at stops and restarts again when you want to go, yields for the 1.6-liter 29/36 and the 2.0-liter is 27/35. As with most new small cars, 40 mpg on the highway can be had with gentle driving.

All the options are about interior trim and electronics. The “infotainment” packages are increasingly more important to the consumer — so all the manufacturers have responded with awesome sound systems (the Soul even has loudspeakers in the doors that pulsate light rings with the music) and navigation and backup view cameras. Soul has this stuff, too. Each option level has slightly larger wheel rims and wider tires — all part of the coolness factor. Speaking of cool, even the base Soul has standard air-conditioning. I found the interior very comfortable and particularly liked the clear analog instrumentation.

Six airbags and computerized stability control earn the Soul the highest safety ratings. A great 10-year/100,000-mile power-train warranty takes some worry out of ownership. Prices are $13,900 for the base Soul with manual transmission to $19,600 for an “!” before options. Cute color names, too — like “Alien” (green) and “Molten” (red). Now, try to find one — they’re hot.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Fast Lane, Mr. Green Car | 2 Comments »

Amerock building owner says new tenant likely

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Richard S. Gubbe
Contributing Writer

A spokesman for the Rockford Development Group LP told The Rock River Times (TRRT) that part of the Amerock building in the 4400 block of Auburn Street may be occupied again.

The building has been vacant of a tenant doing business since renovation specialist Denovo Rockford/Bellwood began cleaning up the distressed property. Denovo purchased the Amerock facility in December 2009 from Newell Operating Company.

The former hardware plant was purchased by Rockford Development Group in November 2010. Cleanup and renovation activity in and around the building has been constant for nearly a year with salvage work being conducted on site.

“We’ve got someone who is interested in taking a lot of that space,” a Rockford Development Group spokesman told TRRT. “We’re in negotiations right now. It will be a good thing for Rockford. That’s really all I really want to tell you. But it will be a really good thing for Rockford.”

An announcement about the future of the building, the spokesman said, will take place “hopefully shortly.”

As for allegations by a former Amerock employee that toxic waste barrels were cemented into the walls in the late 1970s, the spokesman said: “Buried inside the walls? No, no. There’s no toxic chemicals in there. The company we bought it from was an environmental company who went through the entire building.”

Fire erupted on the roof of the former Amerock factory May 17 after employees of a salvage company reportedly started a tank with fiberglass ablaze.

The fire started atop the former hardware factory and quickly spread out of control. Rockford Fire Chief Derek Bergsten said the salvage company was using a cutting torch when materials accidentally caught fire. He said employees tried to extinguish the blaze, but then had to call the fire department. The fire was brought under control by the Rockford Fire Department, and no one was reported injured.

Rockford Fire Department investigator Mike Rotello concurred the blaze was set by workers for Nationwide Industrial Salvage out of Michigan.

“That’s what we determined it to be — accidental,” Rotello said. “They’re removing tanks to make it more appealing to business coming in.”

Damage was estimated at only a couple thousand dollars, Rotello said.

“Damage was minimal in an overhead bay,” Rotello said. “They were cutting on some metal empty tanks. They unloaded a few fire extinguishers on it and made a good attempt to stop it.”

Amerock, which was opened in 1956, was one of the leading producers of home hardware for more than a half century.

Rockford Development Group is a limited partnership company. The limited partnership is listed in the Winnebago County Recorder’s office as being in Milwaukee at 1818 Farwell Ave. Rockford Development Group bought the property from Denovo for $1.9 million.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Amerock & Water Contamination Series, Local News, News | No Comments »

Rockford East girls’ track star attracting Division I interest

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Rockford East High School senior-to-be Logan Rae Tillmon holds five state outdoor track medals and owns the NIC-10 indoor conference record in the 200-meter hurdles with a time of 30.91 seconds. (Photo by Doug Halberstadt)

By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

In just a few days, thousands of northern Illinois high school students will be done with classes for the year as summer break begins. Some will be getting ready for college, others will start jobs, and for the rest, a myriad of summertime activities awaits.

One local athlete, Logan Rae Tillmon, will concentrate on a particular seven of those activities. “The Realness” (a nickname given to her by her father, Reggie Tillmon) will spend a large part of her summer focused on competing in the heptathlon for the Golden Eagles Summer Track Club. The 200-meter dash, 100-meter hurdles, high jump, shot put, long jump, javelin throw and the 800-meter run make up one of track and field’s most demanding events.

Tillmon, who turns 17 in June, started participating in track and field about eight years ago when she first started running for Coach William Cossey Jr. through a Rockford Park District program. Her love of the sport has grown from there.

The Rockford East High School senior-to-be possesses five state outdoor track medals and holds the NIC-10 indoor conference record in the 200-meter hurdles with a time of 30.91 seconds. She is also the East High School 100-meter hurdles recordholder with a time of 14.90 seconds.

Her versatility and speed have already attracted the attention of several Division I track programs across the country. Even though college coaches can’t officially start recruiting “The Realness” until July 1, she has already received multiple letters of interest from different schools. “As soon as July gets here, we fully expect our phone to be ringing off the hook,” her dad said.

Tillmon hopes to parlay her 3.95 grade point average and her love of sports into becoming an athletic trainer. She has made unofficial visits to Tennessee State University (the alma mater of track legend Wilma Rudolph) and also to Northern Illinois University to look at their track programs and their academic offerings. She anticipates more college visits to come this summer.

She’s going to have to find a way to work them in around those other seven things she’s got going on!

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Sports, Sports News | No Comments »

Auburn students named National Merit Scholars

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Five Rockford Auburn High School seniors — Matthew Eighmy, Samantha George, Abid Haseeb, Andrew Hudson and Lloyd Sy — have been offered National Merit Scholarships, a prestigious honor given to the country’s top students.

The students completed a rigorous application process and are among the 8,300 students who will receive a share of the $35 million that will be awarded as part of the 57th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

The field of potential scholars began with 1.5 million juniors who took the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Only 16,000 students, including six from Auburn, went on to become semifinalists. (That group represented less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors and included the highest-scoring students from each state.)

Judges selected scholarship winners based on a number of factors, including academic records, recommendation letters, student essays, performance on college entrance exams, and extracurricular activities and leadership.

Eighmy and Sy were honored as two of 2,500 students who received the National Merit $2,500 Scholarship. Eighmy plans to study international relations and business at the University of Southern California. Sy will study medicine at Brown University.

George received the National Merit University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Scholarship. She plans to study medicine in the fall. Hudson received a National Merit Scholarship from the University of Southern California, where he will study mathematics. Haseeb was offered a National Merit Scholarship from the University of Illinois. He has decided to attend Brown University.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Community News and Notes, People In Our Times | No Comments »

Former RVC president remains at center of investigation at L.A. tech college

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Roland "Chip" Chapdelaine

By Brandon Reid
Assistant Editor

Former Rock Valley College (RVC) President and current L.A. Trade Technical College President Roland “Chip” Chapdelaine remains at the center of an investigation into the finances of the tech college’s foundation.

Results of an audit of the foundation’s finances released May 21 showed $99,676 in checks made out to the head of the college’s foundation may have been forged.

As reported by Abby Sewell in a May 22 Los Angeles Times report: “The auditors had handwriting experts review the checks and other documents. The experts concluded that dozens of checks bearing Trade Tech President Roland ‘Chip’ Chapdelaine’s signature were not actually signed by Chapdelaine, although auditors wrote that they were ‘unable to render an opinion’ as to who signed them. The questionable checks totaled more than $137,000. The bulk of them were payments totaling $99,676 to the foundation’s head, Rhea Chung.”

Chung has been on administrative leave since January after a previous Los Angeles Community College District audit raised concerns about bonuses and perks paid to her. The Los Angeles County district attorney’s office is also investigating the alleged forgeries.

The Los Angeles Times has reported questionable payments to Chung included a $22,000 annual bonus and a $1,500 monthly car allowance not permitted by district policy. Additionally, Chung was paid $2,000 a month to run a youth orchestra funded by the foundation. Her contracted salary is $113,460.

According to the May 22 Los Angeles Times report: “In a written response contained in the final audit, Chung said that Chapdelaine had been aware of all the payments and that she had personally witnessed him sign some of the contested checks.”

Chung’s attorney, Mark Geragos, said in the Los Angeles Times report that the alleged forgeries were not forgeries because Chapdelaine had authorized others to sign for him in his absence.

The Los Angeles Times report also said: “The handwriting experts who reviewed the contested checks concluded there were ‘no indications to suggest’ they were signed by any of the four college employees Chapdelaine had authorized to sign checks for him.”

In a follow-up report May 22 on the Los Angeles Times’ website, Chapdelaine said in an e-mail to the paper that other employees were not authorized to sign checks for him. He said only three individuals could sign foundation checks — himself, Chung and the chairman of the foundation board.

“[The other employees] were authorized to sign only such college documents as travel vouchers, reimbursement forms, grant applications, various reports, etc.,” Chapdelaine said in the e-mail published on the Los Angeles Times’ website. “When such documents were signed in my absence they would sign using their name with a notation that they were signing for me or signed my name with a notation using their name or initials indicating they were signing for me.”

L.A. Trade Technical College’s Academic Senate voted 17-1, with six abstaining, in asking for Chapdelaine’s resignation April 25. According to an April 26 report by Sewell in the Los Angeles Times, the no-confidence vote in Chapdelaine was the first in the college’s history.

Chapdelaine, who has been at L.A. Trade Technical College for five years, announced in April he plans to retire in June 2013.

Chapdelaine was hired as president of RVC in 1997 and served until he was terminated in a 7-0 vote by the RVC Board of Trustees Jan. 13, 2003.

Chapdelaine’s termination at RVC came after a series of articles by former RVC physical science laboratory manager and Rock River Times reporter Jeff Havens brought to light the mismanagement at the college. The articles drew an unsuccessful libel lawsuit by former RVC Trustee Donald B. Johannes and also earned Havens an Illinois Press Association award for the state’s best investigative news series.

After leaving RVC, Chapdelaine served for about a year as president of Cuyahoga Community College’s East Campus in Cleveland. Prior to his tenure at RVC, Chapdelaine served as president of Cumberland County College in Vineland, N.J.; vice president of Mohave Community College in Kingman, Ariz.; and associate professor of biology, cluster and division chairman, acting dean of students, acting director of staff development and dean of instruction and academic affairs at Howard Community College in Columbia, Md.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Local News, News | No Comments »

Left Justified: Memorial Day Parade: Where are the Afghan/Iraq vets?

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Stanley Campbell

By Stanley Campbell

I, like many Rockfordians, enjoyed this year’s annual Memorial Day Parade, since it begins right outside my apartment window on Seventh Street.

I was impressed with the participants. World War II and Korean veterans rode, and my fellow Vietnam vets were still marching (although some looked like they needed to walk more — come on, guys, let’s stay alive!).

There was a large contingent of future soldiers: Rockford Auburn High ROTC. I hope we refrain from sending these fine kids into any stupid foreign engagements.

But where were Iraq and Afghanistan veterans? I did not see them marching as a unit, nor with the American Legions. I know they’re out there. I receive phone calls from them, usually asking for advice on finding jobs or medical help.

I don’t do veterans counseling. There’s better paid and qualified, usually ex-soldier, counselors. I have a good Rolodex, though, and make referrals.

And one of the most needed referrals that I hate to make is to the GI Hotline, 877-447-4487. This is not a government service, but a nonprofit group supported by religious and peace groups. It’s for servicemen and women who need alternative advice.

As a civilian network serving active-duty GIs, here’s what they said:

“Eighteen veterans kill themselves daily. An average of one active-duty GI commits suicide every two days. More GIs that were deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan will die from suicide than from combat.

“Despite the epidemic, there are few interventions to reduce suicide. Concerns exist about Department of Veteran Affairs funding, the substantial role played by people working for the military or other branches of government, and the lack of explicit attention to possible conflicts of interest.

“We are not optimistic about improved military policies regarding mental illness and suicidality. Despite the Hippocratic requirement to address the client’s needs first, military professionals must maintain combat forces. This double duty leads to breaches in confidentiality, belittlement of distress, and distrust.

“Harassment continues to occur when GIs seek help for mental health problems, including suicidality. Our clients report stigmatization, marginalization, and other adverse reactions from commanding officers. ‘Suicide watch’ isolates GIs from their units and subjects them to humiliation.

“Outsourcing and privatization exacerbate such problems. Barriers to neuropsychiatric and other specialty consultations result from the reluctance of managed care organizations (MCOs) contracting with TRICARE (the health care program for active-duty personnel and their families) to pay for these referrals. Such contracts have become so lucrative that the executive who benefited most from the Iraq war was one who headed an MCO rather than a military-industrial corporation like Halliburton.

“Civilian programs (like GI Hotline) can counteract double agency, harassment, and distrust and offer services, usually on a voluntary basis. Veterans’ organizations opposed to the wars have initiated coffee shops and other outreach programs near military bases and have done some good.”

This is from Dr. Howard Waitzkin, University of New Mexico, and the Civilian Medical Resources Network, a nonprofit help group. He needs professionals who can volunteer as little as four hours a month. Others can help with donations of time and money.

Todd Dennis, Wisconsin state coordinator of Iraq Veterans Against the War, said about the need for helping the Iraq veteran: “A tragic consequence of service backlogs occurred when ex-Marine and Iraq war veteran Jonathan Shulze committed suicide after being turned away by a V.A. hospital in St. Cloud, Minn. His family claims that he more than once told intake workers he was suicidal but was told there was no space, and he was No. 26 in line for a bed.”

I hope you had a happy Memorial Day. Let’s see that veterans also enjoy the day, if not the rest of their lives.

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

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Commentary, Left Justified | No Comments »

Kortman Gallery brings art to new District Bar & Grill, opening June 1

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Jerry Kortman (left) and Doc Slafkosky of Kortman Gallery installed a small exhibit of Rockford art at the new downtown bar and restaurant District Bar & Grill, which opens Friday, June 1. District is at 205 W. State St. (Photo provided)

Staff Report

Kortman Gallery will install a small exhibit of Rockford art at the new downtown bar and restaurant District Bar & Grill, which opens Friday, June 1.

Doc Slafkosky, Kortman Gallery director, said: “We really appreciate the opportunity to expand the visual arts in downtown Rockford. The urban art selected for District is a great fit for this exciting new venue. District owners Andy Roiniotis and Denny Trakas are reaching out to the neighborhood and feeling the downtown vibe.”

The exhibit includes paintings, prints, mixed media and photography. The art has an urban theme featuring works by Corey Hagberg, Mario Martinez, Joseph Stanley Goral, Manny Tang (china cat), Jesus Correa, Frank DiGiovanni and Ryan Davis.

District is at 205 W. State St., in the former Paragon location.

Roiniotis and Trakas are owners of District, RBI and Onyx bar and grills. They have said the new name, District, is a nod to the rebirth of a downtown zone for locals and a destination for music, drinks and sports watching.

“We are looking to provide good food and good catering for every person and event downtown,” Trakas said. “With our menu and great prices, we think we’ll have a great lunch crowd, too. We will also work to become known as an entertainment venue, with a variety of local music and surprises for our customers. Come on in. I’d like to meet you.”

The restaurant’s menu will include more than 80 items, vegetarian-friendly dishes and appetizers, specialty salads and lunch selections, in addition to dishes found at RBI and Onyx.

At approximately 8,000 square feet, the establishment will bring 60 positions to downtown Rockford.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

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

Prep Baseball: Indians shut down Titans to win regional crown

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Matt Nestor
Prep Sports Reporter

The Rockton Hononegah Indians didn’t hit the ball hard very often in their IHSA Class 4A regional championship game against the Rockord Boylan Catholic Titans. But when they did, they made sure they counted.

Some timely hitting, along with three Boylan errors, helped the Indians knock off the Titans 5-3 to move them along to the McHenry Sectional.

Two Boylan errors, as well as a passed ball on a strike three, helped Hononegah get off to a good start and take a 2-0 lead after one inning.

Adonis Brown tried to keep Boylan close, getting a couple of hits and scoring a couple of runs that had Boylan close at 3-2 after four innings. The Titans could have potentially tied the game in the fourth, but they decided not to send runners from second and third on a deep fly ball, and only came up with one run in the inning.

From there, sophomore pitcher Donovin Sims went to work on the best lineup in the NIC-10. Sims and Riley Pawelski combined to hold the top three hitters in the Boylan lineup to one hit over seven innings, which made the difference in the game.

Sims only gave up four hits in his six innings pitched.

The final blow came came in the top of the sixth when Max Frost, who had six RBIs in a wild 13-11 win over Machesney Park Harlem in the semifinals, came up with a two-out single to drive in two runs to make it 5-2.

After Boylan scratched out a run in the sixth, they left two runners on in the bottom of the seventh as Pawelski struck out the final two hitters to wrap up the win.

The win gave Hononegah their fifth regional title in six years.

The Indians will now face South Elgin at 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 30, in the semifinals of the McHenry Sectional.

Around the area

• The Hononegah girls’ softball team came up with a regional title of their own, topping Harlem 9-4 to win the championship. They will face Algonquin Jacobs at 4:30 p.m., Thursday May 31.

• Belvidere North had a great showing at the IHSA 3A State Track Finals, placing three individuals in the finals of their events and finishing 16th out of 73 teams.

Tyler Yunk came in fifth in the 3,200-meter run for North, while Will Crocker finished fourth in the 800-meter run, and Garrett Lee finished fifth in the 1,600-meter run.

Corey Jefferson came in ninth in the long jump representing Rockford Auburn. Jefferson was also 10th in the triple jump. Joe Ward of Rockford Jefferson finished in 10th place in the pole vault.

• At the 2A finals, Boylan placed three competitors in the finals of their events, with Mark Bortoli finishing 12th in the shot put, Nick Arnold 11th in the discus and Dan Arnold ninth in the 110-meter hurdles.

Rockford Christian’s Coleman Nelson also came in seventh in the discus.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Sports, Sports News | No Comments »

Composting Science and Strategies at U of I

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

PECATONICA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension invites horse owners, livestock producers, market gardeners and landscapers to attend Composting Science and Strategies from 3 to 6 p.m., Thursday, May 31, at U.S. Bank, 430 Main St., Pecatonica.

This workshop is geared toward small to mid-scale livestock operations that are looking for a way to turn organic waste into a valuable product, as well as toward market gardeners, crop producers and landscapers looking for a consistent and reliable source of high-quality compost.

Jay Solomon, Energy and Environmental Stewardship educator, and Ellen Phillips, Local Foods and Small Farms educator, offer participants an in-depth introduction to best management practices regarding the science behind organic waste composting, composting techniques and strategies, Illinois rules and regulations regarding manure storage and composting, and much more.

“Composting provides horse and livestock operations an excellent option for manure management and returns important nutrients to the soil for reuse by plants. In addition, large vegetable growers and landscapers that install composting systems have greater control over compost quality, availability and cost,” said Solomon. “Creating good compost takes more than just putting organic material into piles. It requires some knowledge and management. Composting is part nature, part science and part art. We can help you with the first two; the art is learned through experience.”

Program fee is your choice of $15 for the workshop only, or $35 for the workshop plus a copy of the On-Farm Composting Handbook (a $25 value). More information can be found at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw or by calling U of I Extension at (815) 986-4357.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Living, Outdoors | No Comments »

Registration under way for Park District’s aquatics lessons, programs

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

Registration is under way for Rockford Park District Learn to Swim classes for children ages 6 months to 17 years (age as of June 1), and adults ages 18 and older.

Two-week weekday sessions begin June 11, June 25, July 16 and July 30, and meet for eight 45-minute classes (30-minute classes for tots ages 5 and younger), offered Monday-Thursday mornings and afternoons at Sand Park Pool, and mornings, afternoons and evenings at Alpine Pool.

A Saturday morning session is offered for youth (only) at Alpine and Sand Park pools, and meets once a week from June 16 through Aug. 11 (no class July 7).

At Harkins Aquatic Center, free group swimming lessons will be available to anyone present at Open Swim time from 2:15 to 3 p.m., Monday-Thursday, June 11-Aug. 9.

Each child registered for Bubble Club, Tiny Tots, or Learn to Swim receives a swim pass good for five free public swimming session admissions, plus one free Magic Waters day admission. (Limit one set of passes per person per summer.)

Rockford Park District also offers Junior Lifeguard basic and advanced training sessions for youth ages 10-15, beginning the same dates as Learn to Swim, and competitive swim training weekdays June 11-July 31 for ages 11-22.

A complete schedule of aquatics lessons and programs, including fees and class descriptions, is included in the Park District’s Spring/Summer 2012 Program Guide online at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/programbrochures, and at Park District facilities and Customer Service locations (downtown Rockford or at Carlson Ice Arena, Loves Park). Fee assistance may be available to eligible residents.

Register online at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org (click Register Now), by mail, fax (with credit card), or at Park District Customer Service locations in downtown Rockford or Carlson Ice Arena, Riverside and Perryville, Loves Park.

For more information, including information about support for participants with disabilities, call Customer Service at (815) 987-8800.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Health & Fitness, Living | No Comments »

Jobs and Opportunities: Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

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.-

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Drivers

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Sales

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Seeking Employment

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i need work female, office or cleaning or small loan $100 779/500-4518. 6/13

I NEED WORK mowing & yard work. Rockford only. 8am-6pm M-Sat, Call 815/977-4494. 6/13

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Classifieds, Jobs | No Comments »

YWCA’s Kieper selected for U of I Edgar Fellows

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

YWCA of Rockford CEO Kris Kieper has been chosen to participate in the University of Illinois’ inaugural class of Edgar Fellows.

Of 200 individuals nominated, Kieper is among 40 selected for an intense four-day executive leadership training program, led by former Gov. Jim Edgar, public leaders, researchers and scholars.

Of his nomination of Kieper, State Rep. Dave Winters, R-Rockford, said: “Kris is very involved. She will gain, and this is a great opportunity for Rockford to gain from her networking and involvement in the statewide program.”

The Edgar Fellows program is built from Jim Edgar’s successes as Illinois’ 38th governor. It is limited to 40 emerging leaders throughout the state, annually. Edgar’s program “… is designed to influence attitudes and foster mutual understanding,” and, “holds the promise of facilitating bipartisan and cross-regional cooperation as participants — diverse in race, gender, political persuasion and geography — assume more influential roles.”

Since 1891, the YWCA of Rockford has remained dedicated to its mission, “eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.” YWCA of Rockford provides programming and advocacies for more than 6,500 women, children and families each month, seeking economic self-sufficiency through child care subsidy, job skills, and computer training. Programming also includes community racial justice work that promotes a clear commitment to equality.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Community News and Notes, People In Our Times | No Comments »

Auto News: Marengo dealership first in Illinois to carry Zero’s electric motorcycle line

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

The 2012 Zero DS Electric Motorcycle cruising. (Photo courtesy of zeromotorcycles.com)

Staff Report

MARENGO, Ill. — Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in electric motorcycle technology, has appointed Randy’s Cycle as the exclusive motorcycle dealership in Marengo, Ill., to carry Zero’s 2012 product line.

The all-new 2012 model line features a revolutionary new powertrain that allows models to exceed 100 miles on a single charge and reach top speeds of up to 88 mph.

Randy’s Cycle will now be able to offer local demo rides on a regularly scheduled basis, and interested buyers can purchase a Zero Motorcycle on-site at their dealership in Marengo.

John Lloyd, vice president of global sales for Zero Motorcycles, said: “Randy’s Cycle is a well-respected motorcycle dealer in Illinois, and we are looking forward to building a long-standing relationship with them. With our recent strides in electric motorcycle technology, the people of Illinois can now purchase a fun, efficient, high-performance electric motorcycle for less than a comparable gas model. It benefits everyone in Illinois, from motorcycle enthusiasts to future generations who will depend less on petroleum and more on building a cleaner environment for all.”

With Zero’s new Z-Force power pack, brushless motor and regenerative braking, the all-new 2012 Zero Motorcycles product line is a great alternative choice to its gas-powered counterpart. With less than $.01 per mile to operate, Zero Motorcycles offers owners a true motorcycle experience while saving on costly gas and virtually all routine powertrain maintenance.

Manufacturer incentives are available as well as current financing options with no down payment and 0 percent interest for 12 months, plus 4.99 percent financing options, both with approved credit.

Zero Motorcycles invites interested motorcyclists to become acquainted with the all-new 2012 product line at Randy’s Cycle, 18307 Beck Road, Marengo, Ill.

For more information, visit Randy’s Cycle or call the dealership directly at (815) 923-0500.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Automotive News, Fast Lane | No Comments »

Gambling revenue promises are rarely met

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Gambling revenue promises are rarely met. Gambling interests are pushing for a vote on a massive expansion bill during the final weeks of the legislative session. S.B. 1849 legalizes 11 more casinos, including a city-owned casino in Chicago and six racetrack casinos.

During the past 21 years, legislators legalized riverboat gambling, Off-Track Betting, dock-side gambling, Advanced Deposit Wagering, Internet Lottery and video gambling. With all that gambling revenue coming in, why does the state have such a large backlog of unpaid bills?

There would be little concern about how much gambling we have in Illinois if it were not for the social problems and costs that gambling creates. Casinos do not just shift crime from neighboring regions, but create crime, according to a study by Professors Grinols and Mustard. For every $1 of revenue gambling interests indicate is being contributed in taxes, it costs taxpayers $3 or more in social welfare, criminal justice and regulatory costs. The average cost to society per pathological gambler per year is $13,586.

One purpose of the bill is to keep and attract Illinois residents to gamble! The presence of a gambling facility within 50 miles roughly doubles the prevalence of problem and pathological gambling, according to the National Gambling Impact Study Commission. The rate of pathological gambling is significantly higher among minorities and low-income individuals.

Gov. Pat Quinn, who has continually opposed slot machines at racetracks, has said the state cannot gamble its way to prosperity. Call your legislators, (217-782-2000) and the governor (800-642-3112) and ask them to vote NO on S.B. 1849.

Anita Bedell, Executive Director
Illinois Church Action on Alcohol & Addiction Problems
Springfield, Ill.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Letters to the Editor | No Comments »

Autos, boats, motorcycles and RVs: Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

AUTOS

Autos

1994 F150 PICKUP Excellent mechanical condition, body has some rust. $1200 OBO 815/312-9076. 6/6

Auto Parts & Accessories

4 TIRES on rims, fits mid-size GM’s 15/60/15 like new, $120 815/980-7863. TFN

TRAILER SALE! 20′ – 14,000 lb. Aluminum Electric Speed Loader (skid loader) Trailer, 83″ x 14′ 14,000 lb. Dump Trailers, 500 Gallon Tank Trailers, 16′ Carhaulers $1999.00, Used 7′ x 12′ Aluma Cargo Ramp Door, 6′ x12′ V-Nose Ramp Door $2536.00. Motorcycle Trailers! 515-972-4554 www.fortdodgetrailerworld.com (MCN)

Boats

OLD BOAT complete, $350 OBO. 815/520-3915. 6/6

***THE BOAT DOCK*** We Buy & Consign Used Boats! Springfield, IL 217-793-7300 (ICAN)

Motorcycles

WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE KAWASAKI 1967-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, ZIR, KZ1000MKII, W1-650, H1-500, H2-750, S1-250, S2-350, S3-400 Suzuki GS400, GT380, CB750 CASH PAID. FREE NATIONAL PICKUP. 1-800-772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.com N-5/30

Recreational Vehicles

MANY NEW RV ITEMS: odorless withholding tank solution, sewer hose, hand pump kit, more 815/397-5124. 5/30

TRAILER FOR SALE with addition on Lake Wisconsin 815/222-5660. 5/30

COLMAN’S COUNTRY CAMPERS We Buy/Consign Used Campers and RV’s! 217-787-8653 (ICAN)

US ADVENTURE RV Midwest’s Largest Showroom Rentals – Sales – Service – Body O% on 5th WLS (wac) Airstream – Winnebago – Starcraft Holiday Rambler – Fleetwood usadventurerv.com Davenport, IA 563-468-4678 Joliet, IL 815-726-1900 (ICAN)

Autos Wanted

DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3-Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 888-757-6941 (MCN)

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CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330 N-5/30

DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND of AMERICA and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible. Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. 7 Days 1-800-469-8593 N-5/30

CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 N-5/30

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Cars, Classifieds | No Comments »

Guest Column: District 205: Exposing the bullies among us

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

By Jane Hayes

Bullies! The very word strikes a chord of fear in young and old, especially if you have been bullied in the past.

As teachers, we are told to recognize signs of bullying in our schools so we can prevent this dangerous form of abuse. As adults, we think maturity makes us more invincible from this practice of terrorism, but often memories are fresh because of intense emotional scars.

Thankfully, the media have called attention to cyber-bullying, excessive rites of initiation, sports baiting and bashing, and abuses done to children, women and those who risk being different.

Both my son and daughter left their college fraternity and sorority because of their personal stance against hazing.

Finally, public consciousness is being raised to recognize the ultimate cost of this unacceptable and demeaning practice. Now, there are even some legal repercussions for bullies, punishing them for their dangerous acts against humanity.

However, what if the bully is your boss and you need your job? What recourse do you have for righting the wrongs done in the workplace? What if the legal department in your school district amplifies their bullying tactic by exiling you from your classroom, school building and school events? What recourse do staff members, who have been disgraced by this inhumane practice, have to be reinstated and to clear their names and reputations?

Putting a professional on administrative leave without warning and being walked from your classroom to your car can be a humiliating experience that scars you forever. Being denied due process and the right to know your offenses are dangerous practices that District 205’s legal department has done way too often over the past few years.

What recourse is there for those who have been assumed guilty even before knowing the charges? Why are we so quick to presume guilt rather than innocence? Instead of an outcry from colleagues when they witness this ignominy and public disgrace, their objections are silenced by fear of knowing their careers and dignity might be next. Such an atmosphere of fear and reckoning must be exposed so public attention recognizes bullying tactics in the workforce.

Since when has a whistleblower been denied his right to challenge his accusers and tell his/her side? When do we take charge and demand an evaluation of such repressive litigious counsel?

Of course, we realize such tactics are not just rampant in our district. Think back to the political upheaval for state senatorial candidates whose petitions were challenged. Think currently of the bullying tactics used in political campaign ads and against protesters. Think about the decay of our future society because of irresponsible and unethical practices of the powerful 1 percent over the silent or meek 99 percent majority. It is our responsibility, as citizens, to recognize and refute abuses, even at the cost of our jobs. Our good names and dignity matter far more.

Time to fight back! Address the bullies in our midst, regardless of their subversive power, intimidating tactics and might. Might does not make right! Legal tactics do not absolve the powerful from ethical and humane treatment. Remember the words of Edmund Burke, Irish statesman, “The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse.”

Jane Hayes is a Roosevelt Alternative High School teacher and a member of Watchdogs for Ethics in Education.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Commentary, Guest Column | 9 Comments »

‘Undefeated’ leaves you feeling triumphant, successful

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

The documentary “Undefeated,” co-directed by former Rockford resident Daniel Lindsay with instrumental music by Rockford musicians Miles Nielsen and Daniel McMahon, was awarded an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature Feb. 26. (Photo by Doug Halberstadt)

By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

“Undefeated” is a word that conjures images of success, triumph, greatness and perfection.

It is also the title of the Academy Award-winning film for Best Documentary Feature. The movie is directed by Rockford native Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin. The soundtrack is composed by two other Rockfordians, Miles Nielsen and Daniel McMahon.

The Oscar-winning film tells the story of three high school football players and their coach battling everything evil that life has to offer. The three of them are from North Memphis and live in the inner city among crime, poverty, drugs and broken homes. Their coach is from the other side of town, a world away to these kids.

They play for the Manassas High School Tigers, a team that is woefully bad and hasn’t won a playoff game in its 110-year history. They are coached by volunteer businessman Bill Courtney. He has accepted the challenge of helping turn this team and, more importantly, these young men around.

Courtney took over the program in 2004, and things soon began to improve. He brought with him a set of values that he tried to instill in his players. The movie centers on the 2009 football season. The year looks as if it’s going to be the best season in Tigers football history. Expectations of making the playoffs and breaking the 110-year-old jinx are high.

After losing their first game of the year, the team begins to come together under Courtney and the leadership of the three main characters. The star player is O.C., a senior who is big, powerful and amazingly quick for such a big guy. He’s got the on-field skills to obtain a college scholarship, but his struggles come in the classroom. He’s trying to balance improving his ACT scores with the demands of his team.

Also playing his last season is an undersized offensive lineman Montrail, known to all as “Money.” He’s focused on obtaining an academic scholarship to help him achieve more out of life.

Chavis is the third side of the triangle that makes up the nucleus of this team. He is a hot-headed junior who has just returned from 15 months in a juvenile detention center. He presents Coach Courtney with an entirely new set of issues to deal with.

This documentary provides an in-depth look at what having character and being a part of something bigger than oneself is all about. I strongly urge everyone to see the film Undefeated. You’ll walk away feeling triumph, success, greatness and perfection.

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

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Sports, Sports News | No Comments »

Caroline’s Spine, Desolation Row at Logan’s in Freeport

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

FREEPORT, Ill. — National touring band Caroline’s Spine will be joined by local band Desolation Row for a Friday, June 1, show at Logan’s Bar & Grill, 1805 S. West Ave., Freeport, Ill. Show starts at 9 p.m. and admission is $7.

Caroline’s Spine is an alternative rock band from Phoenix. They have released several studio albums and shared the bill with such bands as Aerosmith, KISS and Queensrÿche. Their biggest hit single, “Sullivan,” is featured on the 1997 album Monsoon. Visit www.carolinesspineofficial.com for more about the band.

Desolation Row — composed of Alex Spors, Jarrett Finley, Jared Hoey and Jacob Hoey, all of Winnebago and Stillman Valley — have been playing locally for three years and were winners of Hope and Anchor’s Battle of the Bands. They play ’80s and ’90s music and will be playing shows at Logan’s, Hope and Anchor in Loves Park, Sycamore Battle of the Bands and Stillman Valley Fall Festival.

For more about the June 1 show, contact Logan’s at (815) 232-4592.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

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

Protesters to confront Bilderberg Group meeting in Virginia

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Staff Report

CHANTILLY, Va. — A secret meeting of approximately 100-150 elite politicians, financiers and industrialists known as the Bilderberg Group is taking place in Chantilly, Va., May 31-June 3 at the Marriot Washington Dulles Hotel.

The group has met at luxury resorts around the world annually since 1954, taking its name after the Bilderberg Hotel in Oosterbeek, Holland, where they first met to “hatch their plan for world domination,” according to their detractors.

Popular conspiracy author and activist Mark Dice will be leading a protest in front of the hotel for four straight days, along with hundreds of others who will be joining him to raise awareness of this little-known meeting. Dice is calling the protest “Bilderbergfest.”

For decades, the American mainstream media have largely ignored the conference, but in recent years, the blackout is lifting, largely because of pressure from Dice and his supporters “flooding newsrooms with tips” about the organization, urging news outlets to cover it.

The Bilderberg Group, once written off as the figment of the imagination of conspiracy theorists, is a real meeting, although little media attention has been given to the organization. Bilderbergers claim their meeting is nothing more than a private discussion group, while others see them as secretly dividing up the world and coordinating global policy, something that should be done by Congress out in the open for public scrutiny.

“Each year when the G20 and G8 forums take place, it’s top news around the world,” Dice said. “But every single year, the Bilderberg Group meets, and there is barely a mention. Obviously, there is an agreement between the Bilderberg Group and the mainstream media in America to maintain a near-complete blackout.”

Last year, the Drudge Report posted several links to European newspapers covering the event when it took place in Saint Moritz, Switzerland, but coverage on the mainstream television networks, newspapers and newsmagazines in the United States has been astonishingly nonexistent.

“When you look at the independent journalists and bloggers who have photographed and videotaped the attendees at the Bilderberg Group, it’s quite shocking that the major news networks have never even touched the issue,” Dice said.

“How could this not be news?” Dice continued. “How is it that, year after year, 120 of the world’s most powerful men meet in secret for three days, and yet there isn’t a word of it mentioned in the American media?”

Dice recently obtained some of the group’s tax records, which include lists of donors who help fund the meetings and pay for the hotel and security. They operate under the business entity “American Friends of Bilderberg” as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt foundation.

Documents show that in 2008, they received $645,000 in contributions, with money coming from Goldman Sachs, The Washington Post, Microsoft, Henry Kissinger, David Rockefeller and others. Dice has published the records from 2007 to 2010 on his website, www.markdice.com.

Dice is a conservative libertarian and the author of several books about conspiracies and secret societies, including The Illuminati: Facts and Fiction, which analyzes the various conspiracy theories surrounding elite secret societies and private organizations such as the Bilderberg Group, the Federal Reserve and Bohemian Grove. He has been featured in various conspiracy television shows, documentary films and is a frequent guest on conspiracy talk radio shows.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Nation & World, News | 6 Comments »

NIU awards scholarship to local resident

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Marissa Devlieger, from Pecatonica (Pecatonica High School), has been named a scholarship recipient at Northern Illinois University (NIU). The undecided major has received the prestigious University Scholars Award full tuition, fees, on-campus room and board in the brand-new residence hall for four years. Estimated value is $23,500 per year.

Devlieger will begin classes in August and said: “I am very excited to attend NIU this fall. While searching for the right college, I found Northern to be the best choice for me. It is close to home, but will still allow me to have the independence that accompanies college life.”

NIU is committed to making the university a top choice for high-performing students who desire an engaged learning experience. As a priority of its Vision 2020 Initiative, NIU set a goal to double its spending on merit-based scholarships to attract top students from across the state and beyond.

NIU President John Peters said: “Nearly 1,700 new students enrolled this past fall with an NIU merit-based scholarship. That’s an increase of 35 percent over the year before. We congratulate Marissa and the rest of this year’s scholarship recipients and look forward to providing you with a world-class, enriched learning experience.”

Devlieger added: “I am anxious to live on campus and to begin studying speech pathology. I am looking forward to being involved in campus activities. It has been an honor and a blessing to have received this award.”

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Community News and Notes, People In Our Times | No Comments »

Comparison of two governors

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Let’s compare, shall we, the governors of Illinois and Wisconsin, one a failure, the other a success story. In Illinois, Gov. Pat Quinn has raised taxes on every single person and business in the state, while Gov. Scott Walker in Wisconsin hasn’t raised taxes on anyone; in fact, many Wisconsin residents have seen their property taxes decrease. Where Gov. Quinn has laid off state workers and closed state facilities, Gov. Walker has not.

In January 2011, Illinois had massive budgetary problems including $8 billion in unpaid bills and $80 billion in unfunded pension liabilities, while Wisconsin had itself a $3 billion budget deficit. A year-and-a-half later, under Gov. Quinn, Illinois’ problems have only grown worse, like now having $9 billion in unpaid bills, while Wisconsin has seen its deficit turn into a projected $154.5 million surplus thanks to Gov. Walker’s leadership.

One can only imagine in how much better shape Illinois would be in if someone like Scott Walker was our governor, instead of the abject failure of a chief executive that is Pat Quinn.

Ulysses S. Arn
Ashton, Ill.

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Letters to the Editor | 5 Comments »

PETA article was not accurate

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Your publication states that “any inaccuracies in any of our stories” should be reported to your editors. Please consider this e-mail such a notice. Your reprint of a PETA article from their 2011 Annual really challenges editorial integrity. To make sweeping, all-inclusive statements about an entire industry is irresponsible and sensational. I quote: “owners turn their backs when horses don’t make the grade.” Really?

I happen to be an owner of Thoroughbred horses, and I can assure you that, like thousands of other owners, I have never turned my back on any of these magnificent animals. Our industry is full of compassionate, concerned, and philanthropic individuals who go to great lengths to provide for “after care” for their retired race horses. For PETA to use such a “broad brush” in attempting to tarnish our industry is indicative of their radical and irresponsible leadership. For The Rock River Times allowing them access to your readers without verification of their vilification, is also irresponsible.

John Loven
Rockford

Copy Editor Susan Johnson replies: “It’s wonderful that there are many caring, concerned horse owners out there. They are to be commended. Unfortunately, such consideration is not always the case. Both The New York Times and BloodHorse.com reported in July 2003 that 1986 Kentucky Derby winner Ferdinand was sold to a Japanese slaughterhouse in 2002, and most likely ended up as pet food.”

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Letters to the Editor | 1 Comment »

Photos: Memorial Day: Honoring our fallen soldiers

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

Rockford observed Memorial Day Monday, May 28. Pictured above, members of the Phantom Regiment drum and bugle corps march in the Memorial Day Parade. Memorial Day is observed the last Monday of May and pays tribute to the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The holiday was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the Civil War to commemorate Union soldiers who died during the war. By the 20th century, the holiday was extended to honor all Americans who died in war. Memorial Day was declared the official name of the holiday by federal law in 1967. (Photo by Jon McGinty)

Marine Corps League members participate in the parade. (Photo by Jon McGinty)

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Local News, News | No Comments »

Apartments and Real Estate: Week of May 30-June 5, 2012

Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

REAL ESTATE

FOR RENT

Apartments

ON THE RIVER – Studio apartment, between Byron & Rockford. Utilities furnished, lease & deposit required. No pets. $350 815/967-0822. TFN

6846 HARRISON AVE. 2-bedroom duplex $525, 815/226-8644. 6/6

2-BEDROOM APT. – 1227 So. Sixth St. Stove, refrigerator. Newly remodeled. Section 8 OK. $550. 815/566-2480- Tom. 6/6

2-1/2 BEDROOM, 510 Market Street., 1 bath, downtown Rockford, off street parking, rent $695, 815-316-8864. TFN

2 BEDROOM, 1623 Parmele St. Unit 2, 1 bath, off-street parking, rent $495, 815-316-8864. TFN

1-1/2 bedroom apartment, 1625 Parmele St., 1 bath, off-street parking, washer/dryer hook-ups. $525/month. 815-316-8864. TFN

3-BEDROOM APARTMENT, 512 Market Street, downtown, 1-bath, spacious rooms, beautiful hardwood flooring throughout, off-street parking. $695 rent, 815/316-8864. TFN

Houses

1716 12TH AVE. 1-bedroom house for rent, clean $500. 815/226-8644. 6/6

2-BEDROOM $550, 1428 Mulberry, 2-bedroom $560, 504 Lexington, 3-bedroom $750, 1120 S. Central, 4-bedroom $765, 834 Montague 815/235-2260. 6/6

4-Bedroom house, 1820 Sandy Hollow Road, 1 bath, 2-car garage, fenced in yard, rent $1,295, 815-316-8864. TFN

3-bedroom home, 4169 Stage Coach Trail, 1.25 bath, 2-car garage, large den, finished basement, access to Tullocks Wood pool and tennis court. $1,195/month. 815-316-8864. TFN

3-Bedroom house, 812 18th Ave. 2 baths, 2-car garage, rent $795, 815-316-8864. TFN

4-Bedroom house, 1622 Greenwood St. 3.5 baths, 2-car garage, rent $1,100, 815-316-8864. TFN

4-Bedroom house, 522 Rome Ave. 2 baths, 2-car garage, fenced-in yard, rent $895, 815-316-8864. TFN

3-Bedroom house, 1029 Sterling Dr. 2 baths, 2-car garage, rent $895, 815-316-8864. TFN

3-bedroom home, 2114 W. Jefferson St, 1 bath, hardwood floors, 1-car garage, large back yard. Section 8 OK. $650/ month. Call Nic 815-505-6502. TFN

Large 4-bedroom home, 1819 Hancock St. in the Edgewater neighborhood, 2-baths, basement, 2-car garage, fenced-in back yard. A lot of room in a great neighborhood. $995/month. Call Nic 815-505-6502. TFN

3-BEDROOM HOME, 1826 Cumberland Ave. in the Edgewater neighborhood, 2 baths, hardwood floors, semi-finished basement, 2-car garage, gazebo, fenced yard, many many upgrades. Must see to believe. $1,100/month. Call Nic 815-505-6502. TFN

3-bedroom house, 420 Napoleon St., 1 bath, $695 rent, 815-316-8864. TFN

2-Bedroom house, 1628 Greenwood Ave., 1 bath, 2-car garage, rent $850, 815-316-886. TFN

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

ROOMMATE WANTED to share house, Rockford Plaza area. Must like dogs. $400/month. Contact Greg, 815/742-1264. TFN

Homes For Sale

608 WOODLAND DR. Rockford, 3-bedroom, brick, 2-car attached garage, family room, screened porch, new roof, furnace & A/C. $89,900 815/633-9003. 6/13

2-YR-OLD HOME on approx. ½-acre. 2-bedroom, 2-bath, 2-car garage. Well-established subdivision near Jefferson HS. Contract available. Mid-100s. 815/398-3762. TFN

OWNER WILL FINANCE. Bank or seller won’t finance? We help! No qualifying. No credit! Low Down. Call Today. 1-800-563-2734, kanthony@cigrealty.com (MCN)

Condos for Sale

NAPLES FLORIDA AREA! Bank Acquired Luxury Condos Only $169,900. Same unit sold for $428,895. Own your brand new condo for pennies on the dollar. Granite counters, tile floors, stainless appliances, more. Enjoy pool, clubhouse, fitness center. Walk to over 20 restaurants/ 100 shops! Must see. Hurry – 90% sold out! Call 1-866-959-2825, x 432 (ICAN)

Mobile Homes

14’x66’ MOBILE HOME- 3BR, full bath. Newer windows &furnace. $13,500. 815/871-3801. TFN

Lots For Sale

CANDLEWICK LOTS FOR SALE $6,600. Terms available. With ownership come amenities including fishing, boating, golf, swimming & family activities. Please call 815/398-3762. TFN

LENDER-ORDERED LAKE LIQUIDATION SALE! 2 acres with FREE boat slips only $29,900. Was $69,900. Boat, ski, fish on 160,000 acre Kentucky Lake. All infrastructure completed. Own for pennies on the dollar. Excellent financing. Call now 1-800-704-3154, x 3767 (ICAN)

From the May 30-June 5, 2012, issue

Posted in Classifieds, Homes | No Comments »