A member of the SWAT Unit stands ready at a police standoff at 2404 Yonge St., Rockford. (Photo by Thom Kuss, assistant editor)

Online Staff Report

At 4:22 a.m., Tuesday, June 18, Rockford police responded to 2404 Yonge St. regarding a 911 call from a 10-year-old boy stating “Rashad was there hurting his mom.”

While officers were en route to the home, the victim called 911 stating she and her three children — ages 3-10 — had fled from 2404 Yonge St. Officers met with the victim and her children, and were advised that Rashad Pelzer, 32, had battered the victim and Pelzer was at their home at 2404 Yonge St. and he was armed with a handgun.

Officers learned Pelzer was wanted on two outstanding warrants for his arrest.

Officers arrived at 2404 Yonge St. moments later and encountered Pelzer outside the residence. Pelzer fled inside the home, secured the doors, and turned off the interior lights of the residence. Officers were able to make phone contact with Pelzer advising him to surrender. Pelzer stated he was not going to surrender peacefully.

The Rockford Police Crisis Negotiation Team and SWAT Unit were activated, and negotiators attempted to make contact with Pelzer using several means.

At approximately 10:30 a.m., Pelzer made contact with the negotiators and, through conversations with negotiators and Pelzer’s family, he agreed to surrender.

Rashad Pelzer

At 1:25 p.m. Pelzer came out of the home and surrendered to police peacefully. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation, and then taken to the Public Safety Building.

The victim received minor injuries and declined medical treatment. The three children were not injured.

A small caliber handgun was recovered from the residence.

The victim and children were all interviewed by detectives. Detectives consulted with the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the following charges were authorized against Pelzer, who has residences listed at 322 N. Central Ave. and 2404 Yonge St.:

Outstanding warrants:

• Probation violation — Aggravated battery from 2010, bond $50,000;

• Possession of cannabis and manufacture/delivery of cannabis from 2012, bond $3,000;

• Armed Habitual Criminal and aggravated assault from March 2013, bond $200,000; and

Charges from the June 18 incident (bonds pending):

• Three counts of domestic battery;

• Interference with the reporting of domestic violence;

• Aggravated assault; and

• Armed habitual criminal.

Posted June 18, 2013

The city has hired a new economic development manager who will start July 8. Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (I) announced at the June 17 city council meeting that Mark Williams will now head that department. He has more than 23 years of experience in economic development, community development and regional planning.

Williams spent 11 years as the head of Growth Dimensions for Belvidere-Boone County, and has replaced two community planners: Reid Montgomery, director of community and economic development, and Rob Lamb, industrial development manager. Both retired this spring.

He said of his new position that he sees a lot of investment opportunities given the city’s historic tax credits, river-edge zones and enterprise zones.

In other council news, Ald. Ann Thompson-Kelly (D-7) announced she would no longer be attending meetings of the Planning and Development Committee because of reservations she has about working with Edeen (Economic Development, Education & Entrepreneurship Network). Edeen is discussed in the committee meetings.

Edeen began in 2012 as a conglomerate of approximately 20 business associations and neighborhood groups from across Rockford that are financially supported by the city. The intention of the group was to streamline dispersion of city finances and commercial/neighborhood objectives.

Thompson-Kelly said she does not agree with the way Edeen operates and her perception of the exclusion of the southwest area of Rockford from Edeen planning and discussions.

Another issue that arose at the council meeting was the Homebuyer Advantage Program. The program gives assistance to low-income residents to be able to put down payments on homes. Up to $3,000 in assistance is granted for homes throughout the city, and up to $7,500 is granted to take over ownership of abandoned, vacant properties. $170,000 was being discussed for the program. Approximately 50-75 homes are purchased each year through this program.

The council vetoed the program based on concern about whether homeowners could afford to make needed renovations to the properties once they obtained ownership, the homeowner’s obligation to pay back the amount given to them within five years and the financial stringency used to approve applicants.

Creig Day from Heartland Community Church informed the council of the opportunity for the community to participate in Rockford Sharefest. Since 2007, Rockford Sharefest has done major makeovers in Rockford public schools. This year, they will be focusing on Rockford Jefferson High School.

Physical renovations such as taping, painting, scraping, cleaning, landscaping, sweeping and dusting will be undertaken. Administrative tasks, food preparation and a hospitality team are also part of the day. To become involved, go to www.rockfordsharefest.com.

Posted June 18, 2013

In recognition of National Men’s Health Month and to spotlight local health promotion and prevention services for men, the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) Black Male Health Community Action Team presents the 10th Annual Community Celebration with a luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, June 25, at Klehm Arboretum, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford.

This year’s keynote speaker is the director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), LaMar Hasbrouck, M.D., MPH.

As the 17th director of the IDPH, Dr. Hasbrouck has launched several new health initiatives, including the Colorectal Cancer Initiative, Stepping into Fitness, and Fuel up to Play 60.

Dr. Hasbrouck’s leadership style led to the development of IDPH’s Five-Year Strategic Plan, where his priorities are enhanced stakeholder engagement, improved data quality and dissemination, broadening agency marketing, communication and branding, improving regulatory compliance, and reducing health disparities.

This a community event, sponsored by the WCHD. Tickets for the luncheon are $20 per person, or a reserved table for eight is $160. To make a reservation, contact WCHD Black Male Health Coordinator Mark Hunter at (815) 720-4268. Reservations will be accepted until Wednesday, June 19.

“Monies raised at the luncheon will help underwrite future health screening events, which will provide individuals with access to important health information and services,” Hunter said.

The WCHD created the Black Male Health program in 2001 to address the vast health disparities that exists between African-American males and the general population in Winnebago County.

Hunter added: “The Black Male Health Community Action Team is a community-based advisory committee of the WCHD’s Black Male Health program. Through the efforts of these dedicated community members, it has delivered substantial preventative health services to the African-American community and the community at large.”

Posted June 19, 2013

Rockford Park District provides the community an opportunity to learn more about swimming safely by participating in the World’s Largest Swim Lesson, which takes place at 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 18, at two locations: Alpine Pool, 4310 Newburg Road, Rockford, and Sand Park Pool, 1041 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., and the lesson will last for 45 minutes.

The event is hosted by Rockford Park District Learn to Swim instructors, lifeguards and aquatics managers. Staff members will be signaling the beginning and end of the class to make the time official for the world record.

This is a free event for anyone age 5 or older. Donations will be accepted for the Harkins Foundation (either monetary donations or a donation of a child’s swim suit). All donations fund programs at Harkins Pool (Learn to Swim, Harkins Olympics, Jr. Lifeguard/Leadership programs, open swim, etc.). Participants will receive a free day pass to Alpine Pool or Sand Park Pool.

The World’s Largest Swim Lesson is sponsored by the World Waterpark Association, and the event will take place simultaneously at waterparks, community pools and aquatic facilities across the country and around the globe in an attempt to break last year’s Guinness World Record.

For more information about the event or about Rockford Park District’s aquatics facilities and/or swimming lessons and other aquatic programs, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org or call (815) 987-8800, where information about disability support and programs for swimmers with disabilities is also available.

Posted June 17, 2013

The Winnebago County Coroner’s Office has determined the driver of a participant in the Blackhawk Vintage Classic at Blackhawk Farms Raceway in South Beloit, Ill., died as a result of blunt-force trauma following a wreck near the end of a race there Sunday, June 16.

Robert Hanneman, 70, of Burnsville, Minn., was the driver of a vehicle involved in the race. With four laps remaining in the race, Hanneman lost control on turn seven and crashed. He was flown by helicopter to Rockford Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:35 a.m., Sunday, June 16.

Posted June 17, 2013

Jake Gille, of Machesney Park, Ill., showed the packed house at Rockford Speedway he could race with the best of them as he posted a strong finish to win the main event for the NASCAR Stanley Steemer 30-lap Late Model feature. (Photo by Jim Ambruoso, courtesy of Rockford Speedway)

By Eric Huenefeld

LOVES PARK, Ill. – It was champion vs. challenger. Uncle vs. nephew. Jerry Gille vs. Jake Gille.

When the dust settled in Saturday night’s (June 15) Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Model feature on Kar Korner Night at the Rockford Speedway, it was Jake Gille topping the field, notching his first feature win of the 2013 season.

Gille had the best seat in the house for 30-lap main event, starting the race from the pole position. Gille would outrun Steve Rubeck for the lead and was able to put a small buffer between he and the rest of the pack. Behind Jake, uncle Jerry was close behind, moving to second spot by lap three. The two would race hard, inches apart, sometimes swapping paint for the top spot. But despite his best efforts, Jerry was never able to snag the lead from the 25-year-old Machesney Park resident.

Behind the top two, the fight for third place was intense as well. It was there where second-place starter Rubeck would tussle with points leader Alex Papini. The two drivers would shadow one another for most of the race, with Papini eventually winning the battle. Rubeck, a feature winner two weeks prior, settled for fourth. Last week’s feature winner, Jon Reynolds Jr., rounded out the top five.

Five-time track champion George Sparkman was able to put his early season demons behind him and return to victory lane Saturday night. Sparkman muscled past Keith Pierce en route to the win in the 25-lap main event for the Miller Lite American Short Tracker division. Sparkman made the winning pass just prior to the race’s halfway point and shortly after an early yellow flag for an incident involving Brad Henrey and Dave Lee.

Opening-night feature winner Kyle Lapier seemed to be the one driver primed to overtake Sparkman for the top spot, yet Lapier was never able to find the right time and place to make a winning move. Lapier would settle for second. Points leader Nick Cina Jr. made another hard charge through the field en route to a third-place finish. Last week’s winner, Jason Bragg, finished a solid fourth, with early leader Pierce rounding out the top five.

Johnny Robinson II finally got a little good luck to fall his way, capitalizing on a front-row starting spot while taking his first win of the year in the Bargain Hunter Sportsman division. Robinson jumped to the head of the pack and was never seriously challenged in the 25-lap feature race. The battling behind Robinson, though, was hot and heavy, including close-quarters racing and a few near misses. Points leader Matt Lundberg was able to climb above the chaos and finish in the runner-up spot, with defending track champion Doug Bennett rounding out the top three.

Action was fast and furious during the Original Trailer Race of Destruction. (Photo by Jim Ambruoso, courtesy of Rockford Speedway)

Rockstar Energy Drink Roadrunner points leader Terrance Robinson has been consistent all year. Yet, despite the strong finishes, a win on Saturday night had eluded Robinson early in 2013. That would change on this given Saturday, as Robinson was strong all night, winning the evening’s Fast Dash and capturing the division’s 20-lap feature race. Robinson got to the lead early and held off the persistent challenges from three-time feature-winner Arlyn Roush en route to the win. Roush would finish the race in second, with Adam Cartwright finishing in third and Austin Fowler in fourth. Cartwright would also win the “Escape from I-90” Sam’s Drive In Roadrunner Challenge earlier in the evening.

The final event of the evening was Kar Korner’s Original Trailer Race of Destruction, featuring 25 entrants who created carnage and had the large crowd on its feet throughout the “rolling demolition derby.” When the dust cleared, Chris “Caterpillar” Miller would be declared the winner over Steve “The Shark” Quenett.

NASCAR All American Sportsmen

A-Main 01 — 1. Johnny Robinson, II, Beloit, Wis; 2. Matt Lundberg, Rockford; 3. Doug Bennett, Brodhead, Wis; 4. Daryl Gerke, Whitelaw, Wis; 5. Brett McCoy, Belvidere; 6. Patrick Featherston II, Byron; 7. Howie Ware, South Beloit; 8. Bobby Frisch, Beloit, Wis; 9. Brian Mayer (r), Machesney Park; 10. Joshua Lundy, Loves Park; 11. John Dietrich, Carol Steam; 12. Deanna Chandler (r), Machesney Park; 13. Justin Sellers, Carol Stream.

Heat 01 — 1. Patrick Featherston II, Byron; 2. Brian Mayer (r), Machesney Park; 3. Howie Ware, South Beloit; 4. Bobby Frisch, Beloit, Wis; 5. Joshua Lundy, Loves Park; 6. John Dietrich, Carol Steam; 7. Deanna Chandler (r), Machesney Park.

Heat 02 — 1. Brett McCoy, Belvidere; 2. Doug Bennett, Brodhead, Wis; 3. Matt Lundberg, Rockford; 4. Johnny Robinson, II, Beloit, Wis; 5. Justin Sellers, Carol Stream; 6. Daryl Gerke, Whitelaw, Wis.

Time Trial — 1. Matt Lundberg, Rockford; 2. Brett McCoy, Belvidere; 3. Johnny Robinson, II, Beloit, Wis; 4. Doug Bennett, Brodhead, Wis; 5. Daryl Gerke, Whitelaw, Wis; 6. Justin Sellers, Carol Stream; 7. Patrick Featherston II, Byron; 8. Brian Mayer (r), Machesney Park; 9. Bobby Frisch, Beloit, Wis; 10. Joshua Lundy, Loves Park; 11. Howie Ware, South Beloit; 12. John Dietrich, Carol Steam; 13. Deanna Chandler (r), Machesney Park.

Trophy Dash 01 — 1. Johnny Robinson, II, Beloit, Wis; 2. Matt Lundberg, Rockford; 3. Brett McCoy, Belvidere; 4. Doug Bennett, Brodhead, Wis; 5. Daryl Gerke, Whitelaw, Wis; 6. Justin Sellers, Carol Stream.

NASCAR American Short Trackers

A-Main 01 — 1. George Sparkman, Loves Park; 2. Kyle Lapier, Belvidere; 3. Nick Cina Jr., Belvidere; 4. Jason Bragg, Machesney Park; 5. Keith Pierce, Machesney Park; 6. Scott Hoeft, Watertown, Wis; 7. Rachel Sparkman, Belvidere; 8. Nick Letsinger, Rockford; 9. Michael Coleman, Rockford; 10. Leo Bujak, III, Spring Grove; 11. Jack Atchison, Stillman Valley; 12. David Russell Jr., Rockford; 13. Zach Rodriguez, Rockton; 14. Brad Henrey, Rockford; 15. Dave Lee, Rockford.

Heat 01 — 1. Scott Hoeft, Watertown, Wis; 2. Brad Henrey, Rockford; 3. Michael Coleman, Rockford; 4. Leo Bujak, III, Spring Grove; 5. Artt Higbee, Rockford; 6. Jack Atchison, Stillman Valley; 7. David Russell, Jr, Rockford.

Heat 02 — 1. George Sparkman, Loves Park; 2. Kyle Lapier, Belvidere; 3. Nick Cina, Jr, Belvidere; 4. Jason Bragg, Machesney Park; 5. Zach Rodriguez, Rockton; 6. Nick Letsinger, Rockford; 7. Keith Pierce, Machesney Park; 8. Rachel Sparkman, Belvidere.

Time Trial — 1. Nick Cina, Jr, Belvidere; 2. George Sparkman, Loves Park; 3. Jason Bragg, Machesney Park; 4. Kyle Lapier, Belvidere; 5. Zach Rodriguez, Rockton; 6. Nick Letsinger, Rockford; 7. Keith Pierce, Machesney Park; 8. Rachel Sparkman, Belvidere; 9. Michael Coleman, Rockford; 10. Brad Henrey, Rockford; 11. Scott Hoeft, Watertown, Wis; 12. Leo Bujak, III, Spring Grove; 13. Artt Higbee, Rockford; 14. Jack Atchison, Stillman Valley; 15. David Russell, Jr, Rockford; 16. Dave Lee, Rockford.

Trophy Dash 01 — 1. Jason Bragg, Machesney Park; 2. Kyle Lapier, Belvidere; 3. Zach Rodriguez, Rockton; 4. Nick Cina, Jr, Belvidere; 5. George Sparkman, Loves Park; 6. Nick Letsinger, Rockford.

NASCAR Late Models

A-Main 01 — 1. Jacob Gille, Machesney Park; 2. Jerry Gille, Roscoe; 3. Alex Papini, Machesney Park; 4. Steve Rubeck, Rockford; 5. Jon Reynolds Jr., Rockford; 6. Tom Gille, Winnebago; 7. Ryan Carlson, Loves Park; 8. Mitchell Garfield, Gilberts; 9. Jeremy Miller, Rockton; 10. Austin Nason, Roscoe; 11. Mark Hartline, Gilberts; 12. Joel Clossey (r), Beloit, Wis; 13. Rich Hinerichsen, Machesney Park.

Heat 01 — 1. Austin Nason, Roscoe; 2. Ryan Carlson, Loves Park; 3. Joel Clossey (r), Beloit, Wis; 4. Mitchell Garfield, Gilberts; 5. Mark Hartline, Gilberts; 6. Rich Hinerichsen, Machesney Park; 7. Chris McKay (r), Hanover Park.

Heat 02 — 1. Alex Papini, Machesney Park; 2. Jon Reynolds Jr., Rockford; 3. Jerry Gille, Roscoe; 4. Steve Rubeck, Rockford; 5. Jacob Gille, Machesney Park; 6. Tom Gille, Winnebago; 7. Jeremy Miller, Rockton.

Time Trial — 1. Jerry Gille, Roscoe; 2. Jon Reynolds Jr., Rockford; 3. Alex Papini, Machesney Park; 4. Tom Gille, Winnebago; 5. Steve Rubeck, Rockford; 6. Jacob Gille, Machesney Park; 7. Jeremy Miller, Rockton; 8. Joel Clossey (r), Beloit, Wis; 9. Austin Nason, Roscoe; 10. Ryan Carlson, Loves Park; 11. Mitchell Garfield, Gilberts; 12. Mark Hartline, Gilberts; 13. Chris McKay (r), Hanover Park; 14. Rich Hinerichsen, Machesney Park.

Trophy Dash 01 — 1. Tom Gille, Winnebago; 2. Jerry Gille, Roscoe; 3. Jon Reynolds Jr., Rockford; 4. Steve Rubeck, Rockford; 5. Alex Papini, Machesney Park; 6. Jacob Gille, Machesney Park.

NASCAR Road Runners

A-Main 01 — 1. Terrance Robinson, Beloit, Wis; 2. Arlyn Roush, Woodstock; 3. Adam Cartwright, Belvidere; 4. Austin Fowler, Loves Park; 5. Trevor Robinson, South Beloit; 6. Dennis Smith Jr., South Beloit; 7. Robert Myher, South Beloit; 8. James Gregory, Winnebago; 9. Joey Thomas, Rockford; 10. Raymond Hardesty, McHenry; 11. Rick Rickelman, Machesney Park; 12. Steven Dover, Rockford; 13. Daniel Opsahl, Rockford; 14. Ryan Ostenson, Beloit, Wis; 15. Kevin Memoli, Geneva; 16. Shawn Rickelman, Rockton; 17. Jeff Allendorf, Belvidere; 18. Jason Van Hise, Loves Park; 19. Curt Nighswonger, Rockford; 20. Jeff Watson, Jr, Machesney Park; 21. Linnea Lundy, Loves Park; 22. Jonathan Stoltz, Freeport.

Heat 01 — 1. Ryan Ostenson, Beloit, Wis; 2. Jonathan Stoltz, Freeport; 3. Kevin Memoli, Geneva; 4. Curt Nighswonger, Rockford; 5. Daniel Opsahl, Rockford; 6. Steven Dover, Rockford; 7. Jeff Watson Jr., Machesney Park.

Heat 02 — 1. Jason Van Hise, Loves Park; 2. James Gregory, Winnebago; 3. Raymond Hardesty, McHenry; 4. Jeff Allendorf, Belvidere; 5. Austin Fowler, Loves Park; 6. Rick Rickelman, Machesney Park; 7. Linnea Lundy, Loves Park; 8. Trevor Robinson, South Beloit.

Heat 03 — 1. Robert Myher, South Beloit; 2. Terrance Robinson, Beloit, Wis; 3. Dennis Smith, Jr, South Beloit; 4. Arlyn Roush, Woodstock; 5. Adam Cartwright, Belvidere; 6. Joey Thomas, Rockford.

Challenge 01 — 1. Adam Cartwright, Belvidere; 2. Jason Van Hise, Loves Park; 3. Joey Thomas, Rockford; 4. Arlyn Roush, Woodstock; 5. Jonathan Stoltz, Freeport; 6. Daniel Opsahl, Rockford; 7. James Gregory, Winnebago; 8. Raymond Hardesty, McHenry; 9. Steven Dover, Rockford; 10. Jeff Allendorf, Belvidere; 11. Trevor Robinson, South Beloit.

Trophy Dash 01 — 1. Terrance Robinson, Beloit, Wis; 2. Adam Cartwright, Belvidere; 3. Arlyn Roush, Woodstock; 4. Dennis Smith, Jr, South Beloit; 5. Robert Myher, South Beloit; 6. Joey Thomas, Rockford.

Posted June 17, 2013

Rockford Public Schools has received an award for excellence in financial reporting for the third consecutive year.

The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) recognized the district for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal year 2012. The organization notified the district last week it had received the award, the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.

“Taxpayers can take confidence RPS 205 is disciplined, accountable and transparent in its financial practices,” Chief Financial Officer Cedric Lewis said. “I am very proud of this award — not only for how it reflects the hard work of our staff, but the important message it sends to our public.”

The Certificate of Excellence can help strengthen a district’s presentation for bond issuance statements. It also promotes a high level of financial reporting. The award is sponsored by VALIC, which manages long-term investment programs for nearly 25,000 not-for-profit and for-profit education, health care and public-sector organizations across the country. The school business officials organization represents more than 5,000 members worldwide and promotes the highest standards of school business management practices.

For more about the certificate of excellence award, visit ASBO’s website, www.asbointl.org/COE.

For the district’s budgets since 2008, visit the Rockford Public Schools website at http://www2.rps205.com/District/Pages/FinancialReports.aspx.

Posted June 17, 2013

The Council of Rockford Gardeners will host its 2013 Garden Walk from noon to 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 19.

Titled “Visions of Nature’s Beauty: Rockford: Growing Gardens — Growing Greater Gardeners,” the free tour of area gardens will be held rain or shine. About 800 attended last year’s event.

The event features self-guided tours of many unique gardens. Maps are available at Pepper Creek, 7295 Harrison Ave., Rockford; Poska, 2213 E. State St., Rockford; Town and Country Feed and Garden Center, 9515 N. Second St., Roscoe, Ill.; Didier Greenhouse, 4601 W. State Road, Rockford; Village Green, 2640 N. Main St., Rockford, and 61010 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford; and Gensler Gardens (north), 102 Orth Road, Loves Park, Ill.

Contact Joan Pfeifer at (815) 226-0340 or joanmaria@comcast.net or Jo Ann Betts at (815) 399-7085 or wjb1988@msn.com for more details.

Posted June 17, 2013

Online Staff Report

At 1:10 p.m., Saturday, June 15, Rockford police were dispatched to a burglary in progress at 3804 Tennessee. When officers arrived, information was provided by neighbors that suspects had forced entry into the rear of the residence and the subjects were still inside.

Officers surrounded the residence, and suspects were arrested without incident.

The two subjects — Stephon G. Hambrick, 18, and Marcus M. Williams, 18, both of Rockford — were subsequently charged with residential burglary.

Posted June 17, 2013

Beverly A. Avery (from left), April N. Miller, Jerry A. Johnson and Al L. Johnson

Online Staff Report

Members of the Rockford Police Department M3 Street Team conducted a prostitution operation in Rockford June 5. The operation targeted areas of the city from where complaints of prostitution and street crime have been received. During the course of the operation, undercover officers targeted individuals involved in street-level sex crimes.

The operation resulted in the arrest of the following four individuals:

Beverly A. Avery, 42, charged with felony prostitution and possession of drug paraphernalia;

April N. Miller, 33, felony prostitution and battery;

Jerry A. Johnson, 35, prostitution and resisting arrest; and

Al L. Johnson 43, prostitution.

Posted June 17, 2013

The Rockford Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 2930 Collins St. at 11:44 p.m., Saturday, June 15. First arriving crews found a single-story house with fire showing at the rear of the home. Firefighters forced entry, searched the house and found it was unoccupied at the time of the fire. The fire was brought under control within 18 minutes of the arrival of fire crews.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and has not been determined. Damage is estimated at $20,000 to the building and an additional $3,000 to its contents. There were no injuries to either civilians or firefighters.

Fire units remained on the scene for approximately two hours, completing overhaul and clean-up operations.

Posted June 17, 2013

The Harlem Veterans Project is looking for World War II and Korean War veterans to share their stories for posterity.

The group is setting up appointments for interviews June 25 and 26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Machesney Park Harlem High School.

The desire is to capture and preserve the stories of as many veterans as possible to share their stories with future generations.

Students at the high school will conduct the interviews with additional support from Rock Valley College. They will then create a short 20- to 30-minute documentary from the interview footage to give back to the veteran and their family.

Contact Kyra Newnam, (815) 871-6053, or Nicholas Stange at (815) 482-5175.

Posted June 14, 2013

Esther Bullis, 92, a resident of Crimson Pointe Senior Living facility in east Rockford, enjoys the Flag Day dedication service held at the facility in honor of all veterans Friday, June 14. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Clarence “Rocky” Suhr, an Illinois native who served in World War II, holds his pictures and medals as he remembers his service to his country. Suhr was only 22 when he joined the military and served in five campaigns. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Clarence “Rocky” Suhr’s pictures and medals. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Andy Balafas, veterans community liaison for Vitas Innovative Hospice Care, pauses to speak to one of the residents of Crimson Pointe Senior Living facility in Rockford at their Flag Day celebration event June 14. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Belvidere resident Alicia Smith belts out a patriotic tune on the trumpet in honor of Flag Day. She is a member of Bulges Across America, an international group that honors American veterans at events and funerals. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Members of the VFW1461 in Belvidere did a gun salute and trumpet call in honor of Flag Day. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Rockford resident Rex Golden, 90, served 14 years in the Air Force and completed six campaigns in World War II. He was a radio operator and tech sergeant. He served in D Day as well as several other conflicts. (Photo by Audrey Carpenter)

Posted June 14, 2013

Jammie Poole Jr. has verbally accepted the Rockford Auburn High School principal position; his appointment is pending board approval. Poole plans to start in Rockford July 1, and would earn a $125,000 base salary.

A Memphis, Tenn., native and former English teacher, Poole was principal at Christian Fenger High School in 2007 before taking the principal job at Orr Academy. During his time at Orr, The New York Times described the school as a national model for turnaround schools. Orr, on the Chicago’s west side, is one of several schools overhauled by now-U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan.

Auburn staff members were surveyed about what they wanted to see in their next leader. Primarily, they wanted someone who is a focused, experienced leader with strong communications skills.Chief Human Resources Officer Angel Contreras said Poole fits that bill.

Assistant Superintendent Matt Vosberg said Poole is a solid addition to the RPS leadership team. “He has demonstrated his ability to collaborate with teachers, students and the community to get positive results for students,” Vosberg said.

Poole describes himself as a change agent who’s ready to hit the ground running at Auburn.

“My motivation is engaging the teachers and staff with parents and community around a common goal — tackling the new civil rights movement of providing a quality education for every child,” he said.

Poole worked at Orr from 2007-11 before taking on the top job at Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields. The Rich Township district is considering a transformation to high school academies, an overhaul already under way in Rockford Public Schools. Poole is looking forward to the redesign at Auburn.

Auburn High School is home to the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program, the high school gifted program, ROTC and several successful athletic teams.

Poole was featured in a 2009 New York Times article about turnaround schools, “U.S. Effort to reshape schools faces challenges.” See http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/02/education/02educ.html.

Posted June 14, 2013

Kenneth L. Gilgan III (left) and Tyler J. Reich

Online Staff Report

At 3:58 a.m., Wednesday, June 12, two Rockford Police M3 Street Team officers observed two subjects standing in an alley in the 1300 block of Broadway. As the officers approached the two subjects, both of them fled on foot.

The officers pursued both subjects, one of whom dropped a backpack. Both subjects were captured after a brief foot chase.

Officers noticed both subjects had fresh paint on their hands and the discarded duffel bag contained spray paint cans. A search of the area where the officers first saw the subjects revealed wet spray paint on the walls of the Baltic Lodge at 1524 Ninth St. The color of the paint on the walls matched the color of the spray paint cans located in the duffel bag.

Arrested were Kenneth L. Gilgan III, 23, of Rockford, charged with criminal defacement of property and resisting a police officer; and Tyler J. Reich, 19, of Rockford, charged with criminal defacement of property and resisting a police officer. Both are being held at Winnebago County Jail.

Posted June 14, 2013

Bradley Carlson

Online Staff Report

At 9:22 p.m., Thursday, June 13, Rockford police officers responded to a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle at North Perryville Road and Weaver Road. On scene, officers learned a minivan turning west from Perryville Road onto Weaver Road collided with a motorcycle traveling south on Perryville Road.

The driver of the motorcycle, George E. Foster III, 25, of Machesney Park, Ill., was transported to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

The driver of the Chrysler minivan, Bradley Carlson, of Rockford, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Posted June 14, 2013

LOVES PARK, Ill. — The time has come for that often imitated, never duplicated, rolling demo derby known as the Kar Korner “Original Trailer Race of Destruction” at Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park, Ill. Spectator gates open at 5 p.m., time trials are at 5:55 p.m., racing starts at 7:07 p.m., Saturday, June 15.

A tradition nearly 30 years strong, Rockford Speedway trailer races are an event unlike any other. The event is composed of cars, trucks and vans pulling boats, campers and travel trailers. Destruction is the name of the game, and the trailer race won’t end until “the last trailer trails.”

The event has been witnessed by hundreds of thousands of fans in person, and has been featured on national television. Tickets are still available. Order seats in advance to avoid the long lines on race night. Reserve tickets by calling the Speedway Box Office at (815) 633-1500 or by ordering online at www.rockfordspeedway.com.

The return of the ‘Saturday Night Super Show’

This Saturday night also includes another “Saturday Night Super Show,” featuring all four of Rockford Speedway’s premier divisions.

Featured are the Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models, where last week, “Driver X,” Jon Reynolds Jr., captured his first feature win of the season, besting points leader Alex Papini in a caution-free, 30-lap main event.

After a week off, the Bargain Hunter Sportsman division is back. Brett McCoy and Matt Lundberg have won two features each in the division, and are separated by just 1 point at the top of the standings.

The Miller Lite American Short Trackers are back after a week off as well, and so is Nick Cina Jr. Not only has Cina been fast qualifier every night he’s raced, he has also captured three feature wins.

And of course, the Rockstar Energy Drink Roadrunners will be in action Saturday night. Woodstock’s Arlyn Roush will be looking for a fourth Roadrunner feature win this Saturday, but current points leader Terrance Robinson and two-time feature winner Dennis Smith Jr. will be looking to get past Roush and get back into victory lane.

Wild Wednesday opener … take two

With the severe weather our area endured June 12, speedway officials were forced to cancel what was to be the first “Wild Wednesday” of 2013. That means the opening Wednesday night of the season will be this June 19.

This “Wild Wednesday” Night is “Special Needs Night,” and of course will feature all sorts of action on track. The racing lineup includes the Roadrunner Super Summer Series, Bandits, Misfits and Winged Women on Wheels. Also, new to the Wednesday lineup this season are the Super Cup cars.

Wednesday night staples like the Wild and Crazy Figure 8 race and One-on-One Spectacular Drags also return.

Spectator gates open at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday nights, with the first green flag at 7:07 p.m. Adult admission is $9 on Wild Wednesdays, and each Wednesday night is also a Dollar Beer Night.

Upcoming events

Saturday, June 15, 7:07 p.m. — Kar Korner presents The World Famous Trailer Race of Destruction

Wednesday, June 19, 7:07 p.m. — Wild Wednesday Special Needs Night

Saturday, June 22, 7:07 p.m. — Cintas Scout Night, Tough Truck Tug of War

Wednesday, June 26, 1 p.m. — Kids’ Day Camp Afternoon Sparktacular

Wednesday, June 26, 7:07 p.m. — Wild Wednesday Faith Night, Fastor Pastor Races

Saturday, June 29, 7:07 p.m. — Stan Burdick Night, Star Spangled 76 for NASCAR Late Models, Mid-Season Championships

Wednesday, July 3, 7:07 p.m. — Independence Eve FIREWORKS Party, Wild Wednesday

Thursday, July 4, 7:07 p.m. — Bryden Motors 10,000-watt Fireworks Extravaganza & RR Midnight Ride of Paul Revere

Posted June 14, 2013

CHICAGO — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (D) and Winnebago County State’s Attorney Joseph Bruscato (D) announced June 13 a court order will keep a Winnebago County chemical manufacturing company damaged by an explosive fire closed until the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) determines it is safe to re-start operations at the Seward, Ill., plant.

The joint filing against Nova-Kem, LLC, is in response to the explosion that set off a fire June 2 at the plant on South Sixth Street. The plant manufactures hexachlorodislane (HCDS) and other chemicals used for high-tech applications. HCDS is highly corrosive if it is inhaled, ingested or comes in contact with the skin or eyes.

According to the joint complaint, smoke emitted from the plant may have contained particulate matter, chemical burn products and other hazardous substances, including chlorine and hydrogen chloride. Authorities evacuated a 2-mile area surrounding the facility, including the entire town of Seward, after multiple fire departments and Rockford’s hazardous materials team responded to the fire.

“This incident created a significant threat to the public’s safety and the surrounding environment,” Madigan said. “We’re taking this legal action to ensure the area is secured and the site is cleaned up before the facility can resume operations.”

Winnebago County Deputy State’s Attorney David Kurlinkus, who is representing the State’s Attorney’s office in the case, added: “State’s Attorney Bruscato’s primary concern is the safety of the citizens in the area near the site of the fire. To that end, we will provide any local support and assistance required by the Attorney General as this case proceeds.”

The immediate injunction requires Nova-Kem, LLC, to secure the facility and restrict public access. The order also requires the company to immediately hire a structural engineer to ascertain the accessibility of the buildings, and if accessible, to identify any flammable or explosive materials at the site.

Further, Nova-Kem must provide copies of any air, water and soil sampling; identify the quantity of the chemicals and other materials that were emitted into the area surrounding the facility; submit cleanup and corrective action work plans for approval by the IEPA and the Attorney General’s office.

The attorney general and state’s attorney are continuing to work to require the company to engage in additional investigation and cleanup efforts to address any offsite contamination.

The complaint filed by Madigan and Bruscato’s offices seeks civil penalties of $50,000 for each violation of the state’s environmental laws and an additional $10,000 for each day of each violation.

The IEPA referred the case to Madigan’s office. Assistant Attorneys General Thomas Shepherd and Jennifer Van Wie are handling the case for Madigan’s Environmental Bureau.

Posted June 13, 2013

Pictured with Stan Burdick (center) is John Fisher (left) and Paul McKann (right) from Stanly Steemer. It was McKann’s idea to honor Burdick, long-time employee of the Rockford Speedway. (Photo by Jim Ambruoso, courtesy of Rockford Speedway)

By Eric Huenefeld

LOVES PARK, Ill. — Saturday night, June 29, will truly be “Stanley’s Night” at Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park, Ill.

Paul McCann, owner of Stanley Steemer in Machesney Park, Ill., and long-time Rockford Speedway supporter, has announced Saturday night, June 29, will be “Stan Burdick Night” at Rockford Speedway.

Burdick, who has been a fixture at the speedway for every one of its 66 years in operation, will be honored as the center of attention June 29.

The public is invited to attend a reception to honor Burdick during the afternoon of the 29th that will be held under the Party Pavilion on the speedway grounds. The reception is slated to start at 3 p.m., allowing drivers, crews and officials alike to attend well in advance of the Saturday night racing program.

Visitors will be allowed to meet and greet with Burdick, and there will be many special guests at the reception. The party will carry over to the track, and the night of racing will include Round II of the “Gilley’s Cool 5” and the “Star Spangled 76” for the Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models.

Burdick’s face has been a familiar one to every fan who has ever visited Rockford Speedway. During his tenure at Rockford Speedway, Burdick has served as a race official and infield marshal. For several years, Burdick was the one to light the aerial bomb that started every race program, and he was also in charge of the Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza at the track for several years.

Known for his pleasant personality and his blue-and-white 1955 Chevrolet pickup, Burdick has been easily one of the most recognizable personalities in the history of Rockford Speedway.

Posted June 13, 2013

Local trucking companies that employ truck drivers, current truck drivers with one to two years of experience, current Truck Driver Training students, and anyone who might be interested in learning more about a career as a truck driver will want to attend Rock Valley College’s (RVC) Truck Driver Training Safety Seminar & Job Fair. The event will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, June 19, in the Woodward Technology Center (WTC) on RVC’s main campus, 3301 N. Mulford Road.

The event’s theme is truck driver safety and will feature numerous guest speakers throughout the day. Speakers schedule is as follows:

9 a.m. — Terry Montalbano, Illinois Secretary of State’s office;

10 a.m. — Tom Weise, Illinois Department of Transportation;

11 a.m. — Jim Solomon, National Safety Council;

1 p.m. — Trooper Timothy Roush, Illinois State Police;

2 p.m. — Robert Meyer, Federal Railroad Administration; and

3 p.m. — Illinois Department of Transportation, CSA Rules & Regulations.

A number of local trucking companies will be at the job fair recruiting drivers, including: Swift, Star, Schneider, Tmc, Maverick, Roehl, Werner, U.S. Xpress, Tra Nsam, Falc On and Averitt. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet trucking vendors such as Maggio Towing, PeterBuilt and Lawrence National Lease.

There will also be door prizes throughout the day. Truck parking will be available.

For more information, call (815) 921-2076.

Posted June 13, 2013

CHICAGO — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has called on smart phone manufacturers to develop a so-called “kill switch” to render the devices inoperable if they are stolen. This move by the manufacturers would make stolen smart phones worthless on the secondary market, and deter thefts, or “apple picking,” as the crime is commonly known.

Madigan’s office was to join New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón and a number of other state attorneys general, district attorneys, major city police chiefs, state and city comptrollers, public safety activists and consumer advocates from around the country at a summit June 13 with four major smart phone manufacturers: Apple, Google/Motorola, Microsoft and Samsung.

Madigan noted that smart phone thefts have increased in recent years, in some cases turning extremely violent and deadly. According to the Federal Communications Commission, cell phone thefts comprise between 30 and 40 percent of all robberies nationwide. In 2012, 1.6 million Americans were victimized in incidents related to cell phone thefts, including 23-year-old Megan Boken, a Wheaton, Ill., native, who was shot and killed in St. Louis by two men attempting a robbery.

In Chicago in recent years, there has been a rise of more than 30 percent in mobile phone thefts at public transit locations. In fact, just last month, Chicago police arrested a man who was responsible for at least four smart phone thefts on the Chicago Transit Authority lines, in some cases at gunpoint. Tragically, in 2011, a 17-year-old boy stole a smart phone at the Fullerton el station in Chicago and, upon fleeing the station, pushed 68-year-old Sally Katona-King down the stairs. Katona-King later died from the injuries sustained in the fall. The perpetrator recently was sentenced to 32 years in prison for murder and robbery.

“The growing number of violent crimes and senseless deaths connected to smart phone thefts demonstrate just how serious a problem this is in our communities,” Madigan said. “We must stop these crimes, and it is imperative that manufacturers and wireless carriers are part of the solution.”

The national coalition of law enforcement agencies, public safety and consumer advocates will analyze patterns, causes and trends behind the growing crimes and work with device manufacturers to urge them to develop a “kill switch” as a standard feature of their products. That feature would allow a manufacturer to remotely disable a phone if it is stolen, so the device cannot be reactivated.

Madigan also offered the following tips for smart phone users to consider in keeping their devices and personal information secure:

• Consider adding password protection to your phone;

• Choose an app to place on your phone to remove your personal information if your phone is lost or stolen so thieves don’t have access to your pictures, contact information, e-mail messages and other personal information;

• Keep your smart phone close to you and be aware of your surroundings in public places such as public transportation, stores and sidewalks;

• If you have information on your phone that you would not want to lose if it is stolen, such as pictures, back the information up by saving it to a computer, memory card or cloud service; and

• Store your smart phone in a secure place when you aren’t using it.

Posted June 13, 2013

Rockford’s own Miles Nielsen & the Rusted Hearts will appear at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden’s Wood Song concert Sunday, June 16. Gates open at 4 p.m., with concert starting at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 per person, $5 members and free for ages 12 and younger.

Sit back and relax with a glass of wine as you enjoy an open-air concert in Klehm’s magnificent Fountain Garden. Bring a chair, pillow or blanket, and a picnic dinner. Free guest shuttle service to and from the parking lot is provided at no charge.

All concerts are outdoors and are held rain or shine.

Nielsen stirs up his own pop rock brand of Beatles-esque Cosmic Americana. Pop rock arrangements and sunny melodies tucked between a long-lost country folk steel guitar floating through speakers around crashing drums, bouncing bass lines and smooth-as-butter keys. See Milesnielsen.com for more details.

Klehm is at 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, and can be reached at (815) 965-8146. Visit klehm.org.

Posted June 13, 2013

The Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) announced June 13 that plans for a re-scheduled Labor Day weekend Rockford AirFest have not developed, and therefore, the event is being canceled.

The cancellation is primarily because of the impact of the federal government sequestration budget cuts on Department of Defense and corresponding support of air shows.

In March, the undersecretary of defense issued a memorandum stating: All aerial demonstrations, including flyovers, jump team demonstrations, and participation in civilian air shows and military open houses will cease as of April 1, 2013.

“After our initial reschedule, the board and staff evaluated the possibility of putting on a show over Labor Day weekend, and the decision was made that without the military support, a show could not be put on to the standard that our audience expected,” said Mike Dunn, executive director at RFD.

“The board and staff at the airport would like to thank the community, volunteers, sponsors and vendors for their continued support in this unfortunate situation,” Dunn added. “We are hopeful that the government can come to a resolution that will allow us to once again highlight the United States military’s finest at our air show in 2014.”

For individuals seeking ticket refunds, RFD released the following information:

• Tickets purchased through the Airport or Culver’s will be reimbursed with cash at the Greater Rockford Airport Authority (GRAA) Administration Office (60 Airport Drive). All tickets must be presented for refund by Oct. 1 to receive reimbursement.

• Tickets purchased at Culver’s, the Airport Main Terminal, or GRAA administration office can be returned for refund to the RFD Main Terminal at a special time Friday, June 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. After Friday, tickets can be refunded at the GRAA Administration Office, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. For questions, call (815) 969-4000.

• Tickets purchased through BMO Harris Bank outlets will be refunded at the point of purchase.

• All tickets purchased through Ticketmaster online should have been refunded via chargeback to the credit or debit card used in the original transaction. Contact Ticketmaster at 800-653-8000 for any questions about transactions made with Ticketmaster online or via phone.

Posted June 13, 2013

United Methodist Bishop Sally Dyck blesses animals. (Photo provided)

Online Staff Report

United Methodist Bishop Sally Dyck will keynote Rockford Urban Ministries’ (RUM) 51st Annual Dinner Saturday, June 22. Dinner begins at 6 p.m., and program begins at 7 p.m. at Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court St., Rockford.

Suggested donation is $25 or $40+ from “angels.” RSVP by sending reservations to “RUM Dinner” c/o Leigh Lakey, 324 Dawson Ave., Rockford, IL 61107, or call RUM at (815) 964-7111. While donations are accepted, the 7 p.m. program is free and open to the public, and a free-will offering will be taken for the work of RUM.

Bishop Dyck of the Northern Illinois Conference United Methodist Church has her office in Chicago. She was born in Ritzville, Wash., into a Mennonite family, and joined the United Methodist Church as a young adult.

Dyck graduated magna cum laude from Boston University College of Liberal Arts with a bachelor of arts degree in political science. She graduated magna cum laude from Boston University School of Theology. She received a certificate from the Ecumenical Institute, which is a joint program of the World Council of Churches and the University of Geneva, Switzerland. She was ordained in the East Ohio Annual Conference. She also received a doctor of ministry from United Theological School, Dayton, Ohio, in Black Church Studies as a Bishop James S. Thomas fellow.

Sally’s personal mission statement is taken from the communion liturgy: “… one in Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to the world.” Throughout her ministry in and near the Cleveland area, she reached out to people who, for various reasons, did not see themselves as “belonging” to Christ, a worshiping community, or having a witness or ministry of their own. She served the communities and the churches of Faith (1978-1984), Church of the Redeemer (1984-1997) and Garfield Memorial (2003-2004). She also served as a district superintendent (1997-2003) in the Wooster area.

Dyck served as a director of the Board of Global Ministries (1999-2004), serving as chairman of the Personnel Committee. She was a jurisdictional delegate six times and a General Conference delegate four times. In February 2006, she was elected to the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches.

Throughout her service in the wider church, her mission has been to direct and empower the church to transform the world through its calling and witness. In addition, the spiritual disciplines of the Christian tradition are a vital grounding to her faith.

Sally was elected to the United Methodist episcopacy in Davenport, Iowa, in 2004 and assigned to the Minnesota Annual Conference. After serving eight years in the Minnesota area, she was assigned to the Northern Illinois Conference in July 2012.

She seeks to be the bishop to the nones (those who check “none” when asked their religious preference). She begins her day with prayer, Bible study, and a 3- to 6-mile run through the cathedral of nature.

Dyck met Ken Ehrman in Boston and were married May 15, 1976.

RUM is the social justice outreach of 23 area congregations. This will be RUM’s 51st annual dinner.

Founded in 1962, RUM has initiated many local mission programs (JustGoods, Harm Reduction, Rockford New Hope, among many others). The latest is Rockford Work Camps, which invites church volunteers from across the country to help Rockford’s low-income families repair their homes.

RUM also espouses social justice issues, i.e., against war, guns and increased gambling, and for peace and helping the poor. This summer, 14 volunteer groups will work with RUM’s work camp program and Jeremiah Development on 10 homes.

Posted June 13, 2013

LOVES PARK, Ill. — Sportscore II, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., will host the first Rock River Cup, a national boys’ lacrosse tournament organized by NXTsports, Saturday and Sunday, June 15-16.

The tournament features youth and high school divisions, and is expected to draw more than 3,000 players, coaches and fans to the region.

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau announced the region’s first lacrosse tournament last fall. The new sport tournament helps strengthen the Rockford region’s position as a leading sports destination. Visitors will fill an estimated 3,250 hotel room nights and spend an estimated $585,000 during their stay.

“We were thrilled to be selected as the host city for this tournament because it shows the diversity in our facilities’ capabilities,” said RACVB President/CEO John Groh. “RACVB is fortunate to have great partners in the Rockford Park District’s Sportscore II and our local hotels that enable us to attract events like the Rock River Cup.”

Bringing the Rock River Cup to Rockford has been nearly two years in the making. The RACVB sales team first connected with NXTsports at the TEAMS sports tradeshow in the fall of 2011. Staff invited event organizers to tour the region’s sports venues in April 2012.

“At NXTsports, we pride ourselves on hosting events that exceed expectations, and a big part of that expectation is choosing elite venues,” said Andy Hayes, president and CEO of NXTsports. “After a site visit to the Sportscore Two complex, it was apparent that this venue fit our criteria. In addition to award-winning facilities, Rockford itself offers a unique and accessible location, as well as a myriad of activities for visiting teams and families to experience over the weekend.”

Tournament information

The Rock River Cup Lacrosse Tournament will take place at Sportscore II Saturday and Sunday, June 15-16. Saturday games take place at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Sunday, games take place at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.iamnxt.com.

Posted June 13, 2013

If you are looking for something to do after you visit Rockford City Market on Fridays, take a short walk up the hill on Market Street to 317 Studio & Gallery. Tom Littrell will be hosting his Artists at Work Project each Friday between 4 and 8 p.m., through the end of the market season, Oct. 11. Admission is free.

Following is the June line-up of artists who will be available to talk with you while you watch them create new pieces at the studio:

June 14 — Barb St. Clair, painter

June 21 — Laura Sjoquist, mixed media

June 28 — Wanie Reeverts, watercolor

June 14, there will also be music. Mosaic Minds, a collaborative group formed by Evan Watts, Ian and Jim Zarembski, will strum their acoustical guitars to melodies of Ed Sheeran, Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz, John Mayer and more. Also, make sure you tour the gallery, where you can view and purchase work done by other local artists

“My passion is to give these outstanding artists a continuing venue to represent and market their work,” said Tom Littrell, owner of 317 Studio & Gallery.

Pam Schallhorn, project manager for Shop Downtown, added: “Tom has done some fabulous events in the past, and this event is no exception. I’m happy to work with such an avid supporter of Shop Downtown Rockford, and look forward to these events each Friday.”

317 Studio & Gallery is at 317 Market St., downtown Rockford. Visit http://www.317studiogallery.com/ for more details.

Rockford City Market runs from 3 to 8 p.m. every Friday prior to Labor Day and 3-7 p.m. every Friday after Labor Day through Oct. 11. The market is held on Water Street between East State and Jefferson streets. Admission is free. See rockfordcitymarket.com for more details.

Posted June 13, 2013

Local artist Kari McDonald will display her 365-collage project at Rockford Art Deli, 402 E. State St., beginning with an opening-night reception from 6 to 10 p.m., Friday, June 14.

The project, which started as a daily creative experiment, concluded after more than two years with intriguing, high-detailed and unique pieces.

All 365 pieces will be displayed on one giant wall. Each will be for sale. The works will remain on display through July 10.

Also featured at the June 14 opening reception will be musical guests Jesse Fox, Emily Hurd and Starlite Radio.

The event is free and open to the public. Those attending will have the chance to win their favorite collage.

RSVP on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/157194397795897.

McDonald runs The Paper Button Studios, where she works on recycled vintage button jewelry, collages, prints and other art pieces. Visit www.ThePaperButton.com.

Posted June 13, 2013

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White (D) with hockey Hall of Famer and Blackhawks ambassador Stan Makita. (Photo provided)

Online Staff Report

The Chicago Blackhawks are one game closer to their fifth Stanley Cup title in franchise history after defeating the Boston Bruins 4-3 in triple overtime in game one of the Stanley Cup Finals June 12. Game two will be at 7 p.m., Saturday, June 15, at the United Center in Chicago.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White (D) has applauded the Chicago Blackhawks’ historic season, and is encouraging Blackhawks fans to show support for the team by purchasing Illinois Blackhawks license plates.

In addition to showing Blackhawks team spirit, the purchase of these license plates also supports public education across the state.

“The Hawks have enjoyed a special and record-breaking season this year, from opening the campaign with 24-straight games without a regulation loss, to overcoming a three-games-to-one deficit in the second round against Detroit, to dispatching last year’s champions in the Western Conference Finals,” White said. “What better way to celebrate the Blackhawks’ accomplishments as a fan than by purchasing Chicago Blackhawks license plates while at the same time supporting public education in Illinois.”

In fewer than three years, more than 25,000 sports series license plates have been sold to automobile owners and motorcyclists, generating more than $1.3 million in revenue for public schools.

A $25 special plate fee from the sale of each set of license plates will support the Professional Sports Teams Education Fund with proceeds going to the Common School Fund, which supports public schools throughout the state of Illinois.

The public can order these license plates by visiting www.cyberdriveillinois.com. Fans can order random-number, personalized or vanity plates.

The cost to purchase a random-number plate for a currently titled vehicle with valid Illinois registration is $69. In this same scenario, the cost is $66 for a motorcycle license plate. Pricing varies for vanity and personalized license plates.

Currently, in addition to the Chicago Blackhawks, sports series license plates available to the motoring public include the Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox.

Public Act 095-0331, enacted in 2002, allows for Illinois sports teams to have license plates designated as Professional Sports Teams license plates. Public Act 097-0914 expanded the series to include motorcycle license plates.

Posted June 13, 2013

City officials met Wednesday, June 12, to prepare for the potential of severe weather in the Rockford area during the early evening hours. Members of the city’s Fire, Police and Public Works Department coordinated services and resources to ensure teams will be ready to respond to the heavy rains and strong winds that have been predicted.

Heavy winds, torrential downpours and funnel clouds were reported in the Rockford area from around 4 to 4:30 p.m., June 12, with reports of a tornado touching down in German Valley, Ill. The Rock River Times has not received any reports of any severe damage or injuries as of this report. A tornado watch remains in effect for the Rockford area through 9 p.m., June 12.

Public safety leaders within the City of Rockford remind citizens to monitor the storm’s progress closely and to use extreme caution if traveling tonight.

Operations Chief Joe Corl of the Rockford Fire Department urged residents to plan for the event of a severe storm or tornado, and to seek shelter in a basement or storm shelter, if needed, or to stay with family members or friends, if needed.

Rockford Police encourages travelers to stay close to shelter during the storm or to use extreme caution if they are traveling. If the storm is significant, traffic lights may not function or limbs or electrical lines may be in the roadway. Motorists are asked to stay away from downed lines and to approach intersections with extreme caution. In approaching an intersection where a traffic light is not functioning, you are reminded to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

In the event of an emergency, such as fire or injury, citizens should call 911. For general information, citizens are urged to call 211.

Additional storm safety planning and tips can be found at Illinois Emergency Management Agency website, http://www.state.il.us/iema/disaster/pdf/severeweatherpreparedness.pdf.

Posted June 12, 2013

Standfield Beach, inside Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford, is open for the season.

Standfield Beach is a Rockford Park District facility operated in partnership with BeachWatch LLC. Activities include swimming, sand volleyball, paddleboat rentals and concessions.

As a precaution, the Rockford Park District closed Standfield Beach temporarily Friday, June 7, through Monday, June 10, after an anhydrous ammonia leak at Conserve FS. Further testing done by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) confirmed none of the water from a nearby contaminated pond moved downstream into waterways such as Levings Lake.

BeachWatch LLC also tests the water regularly throughout the summer.

Standfield Beach is open through Sept. 3. Hours are noon to 7 p.m., daily (closed during school days). Admission is $2 and $1 for children under 48 inches and veterans. Call (815) 978-5560 or visit www.beachwatch.net.

Posted June 12, 2013

Men in Black 3 is the Friday Night Flix feature film for Friday, June 14. Gates will open to patrons at 7 p.m., and the movie will begin at sundown on the north lawn of Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St.

For added convenience, Rockford Mass Transit District will provide free trolley service between the Museum Campus, Rockford City Market and Davis Park from 3:30 to 11:30 p.m., with additional stops at block 5 (State and Second streets), the Coronado and State and Main streets.

Moviegoers can bring lawn chairs and blankets to the park and purchase food, soda, beer and wine from on-site vendors at the park beginning at 7 p.m. This year, attendees will receive a ticket for free popcorn when they enter the park to help minimize lines and wait time for food. Also, to ensure all attendees have a view of the screen, there will be blanket-only and chair-only segments designated in the park. In case of rain or inclement weather, a determination will be made by 4 p.m. as to whether the movie can go on as scheduled, as the BMO Harris Bank Center arena floor will be set for the following night’s Chicago Rush indoor football game.

In Men in Black 3, Agent J travels in time to M.I.B.’s early days in 1969 to stop an alien from assassinating his friend, Agent K, and changing history.

Friday Night Flix is part of Weekends in the Park, which includes a concert series and a new Academy Award-winning and nominated movie series on select Saturdays throughout the summer.

The Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority is the board that oversees the downtown arena and Davis Park, with the mission of revitalizing downtown entertainment. The board was appointed by Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (I) and Winnebago County Board Chairman Scott Christiansen (R) in March 2010.

Posted June 12, 2013

At its Tuesday, June 11, meeting, the Rockford Board of Education awarded work for the next projects tied to the district’s $139 million bond referendum and school upgrades.

Construction and renovation work at McIntosh, Spring Creek and Froberg elementary schools will begin as early as next week.

Bids were opened last week, and were awarded as follows:

• Spring Creek Elementary School: $2.7 million to Rockford Structures Construction Company. Other bidders were Stenstrom General Contractor; Fridh Construction Services; Schmeling Construction Co.; and Sjostrom & Sons, Inc. Construction work includes a new front entry vestibule to better secure the building and direct visitors to the main office, a cafeteria and full kitchen addition, and a new boiler room. Work also includes new pavement for the school’s parking lot. The front entry addition and paving work are expected to be complete before the start of the 2013-14 school year in August. The other renovations and additions are expected to be complete in December. Total cost is $2,742,460.

• McIntosh Elementary School: $1.8 million to Fridh Construction Services. Other bidders were Stenstrom General Contractor; Rockford Structures Construction Company; Larson & Larson Builders, Inc.; Schmeling Construction Co. Construction work includes new cafeteria and kitchen space, two new classrooms for art and music classes, plus additional storage space. The existing art and music classrooms will be converted into school resource rooms for reading, small group learning and tutoring. Work is expected to be complete in December. Total cost is $1,844,000.

• Froberg Elemengary School: $3.1 million to Stenstrom General Contractor. Other bidders were Fridh Construction Services and Rockford Structures Construction Company. Construction work includes adding a new gymnasium and converting the existing gymnasium into cafeteria and storage space. Four new classrooms will be added; the portable trailer used in the 2012-13 school year will be removed. Work also includes new pavement and an additional parking lot. Pavement work is expected to be complete around the start of the school year in August. The additions — classrooms and gymnasium space — are expected to be complete in December. Total cost is $3,120,600.

Posted June 12, 2013

June 12, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Marilyn Tavenner announced Illinois will receive resources made available by the Affordable Care Act to help seniors and people with disabilities live in their communities. These resources will help ensure Illinois residents can choose to receive care at home, rather than in a nursing home or other facility.

The Illinois award, projected at approximately $90 million, is a vital component of a broad state-based approach to support community-based care provided by the Affordable Care Act’s Balancing Incentive Program.

“The Affordable Care Act gives many seniors and people with disabilities the freedom to continue to live in their homes and communities,” said CMS Administrator Tavenner. “CMS is excited to partner with Illinois to expand community-based services and supports for Illinoisians.”

The announcement makes Illinois the 16th state to participate in the Balancing Incentive Program. Illinois joins Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and Texas in taking steps to provide community-based services to beneficiaries in their states.

Medicaid coverage for home- or community-based services is optional. While all states have opted to provide such coverage, consumer demand frequently exceeds the state’s available resources. The Affordable Care Act offers states additional resources through an increase in their federal Medicaid matching rates for home- and community-based services, when a state commits to increasing access to these services. Participation in the program is voluntary for states.

States are eligible for the Balancing Incentive Program if fewer than 50 percent of their total long-term care spending goes toward home and community-based services. The enhanced Medicaid payments will be spent on increasing the availability of home- and community-based services for Medicaid beneficiaries with long-term care needs. Illinois, in partnership with community organizations throughout the state, plans to further develop the systems of community-based care that serve seniors and individuals with behavioral health needs, physical disabilities and intellectual disabilities.

For more about the Balancing Incentive Program, visit http://www.medicaid.gov/Medicaid-CHIP-Program-Information/By-Topics/Long-Term-Services-and-Support/Balancing/Balancing-Incentive-Program.html.

Posted June 12, 2013

CHICAGO — June 11, a coalition of grassroots organizations led by Americans Against Fracking, Food & Water Watch, Moveon.org, 350.org, Breast Cancer Action, Center for Biological Diversity, Environmental Action, Frack Action and Progressive Democrats of America rallied at the Wrigley View Rooftop to tell Democratic governors, including Illiniois Gov. Pat Quinn (D), not to play ball with the oil and gas industry.

The event took place as Quinn is expected to sign into law a bill that would give the oil and gas industry the regulatory certainty it needs to pursue hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in Illinois. It was the second in a series taking place across the United States this summer to urge Democratic governors such as Martin O’Malley (Md.), Andrew Cuomo (N.Y.), John Hickenlooper (Colo.) and Jerry Brown (Calif.), all of whom are facing critical decisions regarding fracking in their states, to reject the increasingly controversial energy practice.

“Merely regulating fracking will not protect us against its harmful effects, and that’s what makes the new fracking bill in Illinois so dangerous,” said Food & Water Watch Midwest Regional Director Emily Carroll. “Fracking is inherently unsafe and must be banned. That’s why we’re calling on Gov. Quinn to do right by millions of Illinoisans and veto any bill that allows fracking in Illinois.”

Last week, the Illinois General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1715, which lays the legal groundwork for fracking to take place in the state. The bill endangers public health by establishing weak standards of operation for the oil and gas industry. It also fails to require full disclosure of the chemicals used in fracking, and would allow fracking operations to set up 500 feet from water wells, homes, churches, schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

S.B. 1715 would allow the process to take place 300 feet from rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and ponds, and would endanger water supplies by only sampling and testing water near drilling sites up to 30 months after drilling and fracking, despite the fact that the risk of underground contamination associated with these activities can persist for years.

“We can’t let our nation’s mad rush to drill compromise the vitality and health of our communities, as fracking and drilling for oil and gas has done time after time,” said Gasland II director and Americans Against Fracking Advisory Committee member Josh Fox. “Rather than cutting back-room deals that only serve to benefit the oil and gas industry, Gov. Quinn should be standing up for the people of Illinois by banning this toxic, reckless process.”

Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley has attracted criticism from public-interest groups for his failure to use science to guide his decision on opening up the state to fracking. Last April, the O’Malley-appointed Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission issued a draft report warning that fracking could have significant negative impacts in Maryland. Still, O’Malley and other Maryland leaders are pushing forward with drilling as if it is inevitable and establishing best management practices for the industry using guidelines developed by the Center for Sustainable Shale Development (CSSD), an industry group led by representatives from CONSOL Energy, Shell, Chevron, EQT Corporation and the Environmental Defense Fund.

“From poisoned water and agriculture to poisoned economies, the people of Illinois are doubtful that a regulatory bill will protect them and their resources from the myriad toxic effects of fracking,” said Mara Cohen, a MoveOn member from Illinois. “Until there is incontrovertible evidence that fracking does not hurt public health, the environment or local economies, we urge Gov. Quinn to pursue a moratorium on the practice.”

Through the event, protestors hoped to tell Democratic leaders they are accountable to the public and their concerns about the dangers associated with fracking in their states. Communities in many states, including Pennsylvania, Colorado and Wyoming, have already experienced devastating public health and environmental problems associated with this polluting and controversial form of energy extraction. To date, more than 350 communities in the United States have passed resolutions against fracking.

Jesse Bacon, former Chicago resident and field organizer for Environmental Action, said: “Chicago would not be Chicago without Lake Michigan, a stunningly beautiful natural treasure that provides drinking water to millions. Moreover, the state that’s home to the ‘Windy City’ obviously has renewable resources aplenty without polluting its own air and water through the dangerous and dirty drilling method known as fracking. The Democratic governors gathered there today need to take home the message that there’s no safe way, and no actual need, to play ball with fracking.”

Americans Against Fracking is composed of the following groups: http://www.americansagainstfracking.org/members/. For more about Americans Against Fracking, visit www.AmericansAgainstFracking.org.

Posted June 12, 2013

From the Rockford Police Department

Report Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/12/2013

BRAY, QUINTRELL Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/12/2013 12:05:00AM Case Number: 13-066829

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Failing to signal/Improper signal

No drivers license

S Chicago AVE

GILGAN III, KENNETH Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/12/2013 3:58:00AM Case Number: 13-066884

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Defacement

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

15TH AVE

REICH, TYLER Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/12/2013 3:58:00AM Case Number: 13-066884

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Defacement

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

N 1ST ST

6/11/2013

ARMSTRONG, DAVID Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 12:30:00AM Case Number: 13-066305

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rkfd, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

John ST

BEASLEY, LOUIS Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 11:00:00PM Case Number: 13-066790

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

SUN VALLEY TER

BURDEN, MCKINLEY Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 9:00:00PM Case Number: 13-066728

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

CHESTNUT ST

CHANCE, PERCY Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 12:15:00AM Case Number: 13-066293

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Furman St

CHAVES, SAMANTHA Age: 20 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 9:28:00PM Case Number: 13-066752

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Cherry Valley, IL 61016

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Sultana CT

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 1 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/11/2013

CONRAD, ROBERT Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 11:45:00PM Case Number: 13-066818

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic speeding

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

ABINGTON DR

DEVOL, BRYCE Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 3:18:00AM Case Number: 13-066348

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rkfd,Il/Loves Park,Il

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

CROSBY/2323 DEVON CT

FOSTER, STEPHANIE Age: 22 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 9:40:00AM Case Number: 13-049411

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Mob action and related offenses

Windridge CT

JONES, ALFRED Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 6:00:00PM Case Number: 13-042969

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

N Rockton AVE

LITTLETON, HOWARD Age: 66 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 1:45:00PM Case Number: 13-066519

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

N ROCKTON

LYONS, KANISHA Age: 24 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 12:15:00PM Case Number: 13-066235

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Fleeing to elude police officer

Other traffic offenses

Reckless driving

Warrant Check

EAGLE DR

PRENOT, DIANE Age: 69 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 11:00:00AM Case Number: 13-065671

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Hit and Run

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Oak Grove AVE

ROSE, MICHAEL Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 3:15:00AM Case Number: 13-066338

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Poplar Grove, IL 61065

VALHALLA DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 2 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/11/2013

Charges:

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

ROYSTER, SALLY Age: 40 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 12:30:00AM Case Number: 13-066305

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other traffic offenses

Cerasus DR

SORENSON, BRENT Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 7:13:00PM Case Number: 13-066674

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

S 6TH ST

VANBUSKIRK, DONALD Age: 57 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 2:36:00PM Case Number: 07-157807

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

9th ST

WALKER, DONIVANT Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 2:01:00AM Case Number: 13-066331

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

City Ordinance Impound – Sound Amplification 17-27

Illegal Transportation or Possession of Alcohol

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

JOHN ST

WHITE, WESLEY Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/11/2013 12:30:00AM Case Number: 13-066286

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(under $300)

Domestic Battery

Interfering with the Reporting of Domestic Violence

BILDAHL ST

6/10/2013

AZARIA, DIANA Age: 68 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 6:17:00PM Case Number: 13-066098

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Byron, IL 61010

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

BLANCHARD CT

BAILEY, JOSEPH Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 8:10:00AM Case Number: 13-044249

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Unlawful Sale Of Alcohohlic Liquor To A Minor

UNKNOWN

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 3 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/10/2013

BARMORE, PAUL Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 11:20:00PM Case Number: 13-066263

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61114

Charges:

Light violation

No drivers license

MARTINA DR

BARNES, PAUL Age: 45 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:20:00PM Case Number: 12-132361

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Domestic Battery -Great Bodily Harm

HOMELESS

BARNES, PAUL Age: 45 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:20:00PM Case Number: 13-066083

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

HOMELESS

BASTIAN, JEFFREY Age: 40 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 10:45:00AM Case Number: 13-065911

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department South Beloit, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

BLACKHAWK BLVD

BOLANOS, ISABEL Age: 44 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 10:00:00AM Case Number: 13-065903

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other traffic offenses

N CENTRAL

BUAZARD, TABITHA Age: 26 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 8:10:00PM Case Number: 13-066160

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Assault – Other Weapon

GRANT AVE

BURNELL, JUSTIN Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 12:33:00PM Case Number: 13-065947

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Domestic Battery

HOMESLESS

COOK, ADAM Age: 37 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 6:45:00PM Case Number: 13-066125

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

ELVA LN

DAVIS, CORVELL Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 3:33:00AM Case Number: 13-065854

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Battery – Handgun

LEXINGTON AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 4 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/10/2013

DAWN, DEMARCUS Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 6:20:00PM Case Number: 13-066119

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Registration/Title violation

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Auburn ST

DAWSON, DARIUS Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 7:17:00PM Case Number: 13-066148

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Ashland AVE

GODSEY, JEREMIAH Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 8:39:00PM Case Number: 13-066192

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

No registration

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

N Rockton Ave.

GRAY, SANDRA Age: 48 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 3:25:00PM Case Number: 13-066028

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

N MAIN ST

JACOBS, JEFFREY Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 8:10:00PM Case Number: 13-066160

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

GRANT AVE

LARKS, RICKEY Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 8:36:00PM Case Number: 13-066190

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Registration/Title violation

Suspended/revoked drivers license

S. PROSPECT

MAYS, TERAH Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:55:00PM Case Number: 12-031749

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61103

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Probation violation or revocation

TAY ST

MAYS, TERAH Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:55:00PM Case Number: 12-153039

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61103

Charges:

Domestic Battery

TAY ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 5 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/10/2013

MINOR, ALEXANDRIA Age: 18 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:47:00PM Case Number: 13-066093

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Land

SEARLES

MULLINS, AMY Age: 34 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 12:01:00AM Case Number: 13-065765

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

CORBIN ST

PRESTON, TYSERAY Age: 30 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 10:35:00PM Case Number: 13-066239

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

Dafred Dr.

SAMS, GREGORY Age: 34 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 12:30:00AM Case Number: 13-065835

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

W STATE ST

SEAMAN, GLENDENE Age: 49 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 2:40:00PM Case Number: 08-069274

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Middlebury Ave.

SIMPSON, ANGEL Age: 50 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 10:40:00AM Case Number: 13-065914

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

Homeless

SPURLOCK, CLAYTON Age: 55 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 10:00:00AM Case Number: 13-065903

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

5th AVE

STRUM, OSCAR Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 1:11:00PM Case Number: 13-065973

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Middlebury Ave.

VACCARO, CANDICE Age: 30 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 5:30:00PM Case Number: 12-037535

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Unlawful Use Of A Credit Card

Creekview Rd

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 6 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/10/2013

WEBB, DOUGLAS Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/10/2013 11:07:00PM Case Number: 13-064342

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Unlawful Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

13TH AVE

6/9/2013

ALFARO, MICHELLE Age: 33 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 1:02:00PM Case Number: 13-065595

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

No drivers license

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

12th AVE

AMATANGELO, SALENA Age: 24 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 7:30:00PM Case Number: 13-023816

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Ranger ST

BELMONTES, ALBERTO Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 4:39:00AM Case Number: 13-065492

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(under $300)

Domestic Battery

LINCOLN AVE

BREWER, CALVIN Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 9:00:00PM Case Number: 13-065728

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

COLLINS ST

DAINTY, KEITH Age: 46 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 2:30:00PM Case Number: 13-065602

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Retail Theft (More Than $300 – Standard)

OAKWOOD/2120 SHELLEY DR

EGGLESTON, LISA Age: 35 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 6:40:00PM Case Number: 13-036594

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

15TH AVE

HITE, HELEN Age: 59 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 12:34:00AM Case Number: 13-065402

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property

N ROCKTON AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 7 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/9/2013

JACKSON, COREY Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 4:50:00PM Case Number: 13-065654

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

Wesleyan

KILMAN, TONY Age: 49 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 2:15:00PM Case Number: 13-025977

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

N CHURCH

PETERSON, DUSTIN Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 10:20:00AM Case Number: 13-065548

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61111

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

SAGE DR

PIXLER, ASHLEY Age: 23 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 3:15:00PM Case Number: 13-065630

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

Buckbee

RUCKER, GIVONNA Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 4:04:00PM Case Number: 13-065638

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

GREEN ST

RUTHE, JEFFREY Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 3:05:00PM Case Number: 13-065621

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Other criminal offenses

S. 1st ST

SCHELM, CHRISTOPHER Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 4:45:00PM Case Number: 12-097592

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Blood alcohol content over .08

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Light violation

No registration

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

Suspended/revoked drivers license

School ST

WALTER, SCOTT Age: 37 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 5:15:00PM Case Number: 13-065655

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Interfering with the Reporting of Domestic Violence

Crescent DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 8 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/9/2013

WILDER, RANDY Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 6:00:00PM Case Number: 13-065685

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinances Public Drinking

HOMELESS

WILLIAMS, FRANK Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 6:29:00PM Case Number: 13-065697

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Sale or Possession of Hypodermic Syringes or Needles

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

PAULINE AVE

YOUNG, DONTE Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/9/2013 1:05:00AM Case Number: 13-065473

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

Elm ST

6/8/2013

CLINKENBEARD, BRIAN Age: 51 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:13:00AM Case Number: 13-064971

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61114

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

LASALLE AVE

COBY, CHRISTOPHER Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:03:00AM Case Number: 13-064962

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to State Supported Property

N AVE

CONFORTI, ANTHONY Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 7:59:00PM Case Number: 13-065279

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

PARADISE BLVD

COYLE, RODNEY Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:46:00PM Case Number: 13-065141

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

Suspended/revoked drivers license

W State ST

CURRY-MCDOUGAL, JACOLA Age: 32 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 5:08:00PM Case Number: 13-050890

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Aggravated Domestic Battery -Great Bodily Harm

S Johnston AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 9 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/8/2013

DISMUKE, DEBRA Age: 54 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 12:50:00PM Case Number: 13-065112

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Ohio PKWY

EMERSON, CHRISTOPHER Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 2:30:00AM Case Number: 13-065001

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

City Ordinance Offensive Uses of Property

RIDGE AVE

GAMBOA, MICHAEL Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:44:00PM Case Number: 13-065136

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

ASHLAND AVE

HIGAR, BRANDON Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:59:00AM Case Number: 13-064987

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Littering

N HINKLEY

HOLLIMAN, CALVIN Age: 46 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 10:15:00PM Case Number: 13-065356

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Aggressive Panhandling

City Ordinances Loitering / Vagrancy

HOWARD AVE

JONES, DOUGLAS Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 5:50:00PM Case Number: 13-065228

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Aggressive Panhandling

IRIS

JONES, DOUGLAS Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 8:20:00PM Case Number: 13-065293

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Iris AVE

LAYMAN, STERLING Age: 72 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 2:30:00PM Case Number: 13-065153

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

Searles AVE

LOPEZ, JIMY Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 2:40:00PM Case Number: 13-065148

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

18th AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 10 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/8/2013

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

MCCOY, CHARLES Age: 63 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 7:40:00PM Case Number: 13-065272

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Violating the Nuisance Noises Ordinance

ANDREWS ST

MCDOUGAL, JIMMY Age: 52 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 5:08:00PM Case Number: 13-050890

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Unlawful Use of Weapon

S JOHNSTON AVE

RAMIREZ, MARISOL Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 11:40:00PM Case Number: 13-065393

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

No drivers license

Waveland

SAKINIS, NICOLE Age: 30 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 2:15:00AM Case Number: 13-064991

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Unlawful Use Of Weapons (Unlawfully carried or possessed in a vehicle)

Violation Of The Firearm Owner’s Identification Card Act (No FOID)

7TH ST

URIBE, JUAN Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 11:40:00PM Case Number: 13-065393

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

No drivers license

Traffic signal violation

WAVELAND

WHITE, NICOLE Age: 29 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 11:13:00PM Case Number: 13-065389

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

ANDREWS ST

WRIGHT, LAKEISHA Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/8/2013 1:03:00AM Case Number: 13-064962

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to State Supported Property

UNK

6/7/2013

BAILEY-BURKS, SPECIAL Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 10:10:00PM Case Number: 12-153068

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

CANARY DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 11 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/7/2013

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

BROWN, ALEKSANDRA Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 10:30:00AM Case Number: 13-064612

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Disorderly Conduct

City VW

CHIQUITO, ABDIAS Age: 54 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 6:10:00PM Case Number: 13-064783

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

City Ordinances Public Drinking

7TH ST

CLEVENGER, MATTHEW Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 1:40:00AM Case Number: 13-064516

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Hit and Run

HUFFMAN BLVD

CORTES, JOSE Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 1:13:00AM Case Number: 13-064528

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

LOOMIS

DALTON, JONATHAN Age: 22 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 9:50:00AM Case Number: 11-156543

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Dixon, IL

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

E Chamberlain ST

DATA, CODY Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 10:15:00PM Case Number: 13-064889

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Warren, IL 61087

Charges:

Heroin Possession (not more than 15 grams)

Sale or Delivery of Drug Paraphernalia

Sale or Possession of Hypodermic Syringes or Needles

E MAONEY RD

FOREMAN, JUSTIN Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 3:50:00AM Case Number: 13-064543

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Burglary – Forced Entry (Non-Residence)

Burglary: within Motor Vehicle ( No Theft Occurred)

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

Sherman AVE

HUCKABEE, ROBERT Age: 59 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 5:30:00PM Case Number: 13-064123

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Homeless

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 12 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/7/2013

Charges:

Unlawful Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

JONES, MICHELLE Age: 45 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 12:15:00AM Case Number: 13-064488

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic signal violation

McLain AVE

KELLER, EDDIE Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 8:05:00PM Case Number: 13-064816

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Cocaine Possession (less than 15)

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

Clifton AVE

LEE, EUGENE Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 3:29:00PM Case Number: 13-064733

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinances Public Drinking

HOMELESS

LOCKHART, MARTEZ Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 12:30:00PM Case Number: 13-064660

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Woodlawn AVE

MAYS, JERMAINE Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 3:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064719

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

MCDANIELS, MARQUETA Age: 32 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 11:10:00AM Case Number: 13-064630

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

GREEN ST WAVE

MOORE, EZEKIEL Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 10:10:00AM Case Number: 13-004901

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

TRILLING AVE

NORDRUM, TYLER Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 5:24:00PM Case Number: 13-064777

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61103

LATHAM ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 13 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/7/2013

Charges:

No drivers license

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

RARRICK, AMBER Age: 25 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 3:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064719

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Other traffic offenses

17th AVE

ROACH, JENNIFER Age: 24 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 11:40:00PM Case Number: 12-038320

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Retail Theft (less Than $150-Standard)

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

19th ST

RUX, URIAH Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 8:14:00AM Case Number: 13-064582

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

Dresden AVE

SHIVERS, JOHNNY Age: 52 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 11:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064905

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

Homeless

WHITE, MARGARET Age: 29 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 6:10:00PM Case Number: 13-064786

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

GRANT AVE

WILLIAMS, SIMON Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 2:42:00PM Case Number: 13-040428

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

N HENRIETTA

WILLIAMS, SIMON Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/7/2013 2:45:00PM Case Number: 13-064713

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

N HENRIETTA AVE

6/6/2013

BIN, LEE Age: 34 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 7:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064373

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Bar/Liquor Establishment Check

23rd ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 14 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/6/2013

CARTWRIGHT, JAMIE Age: 27 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 5:10:00AM Case Number: 13-064085

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

FENWICK PL

CHIQUITO, ABDIAS Age: 54 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 5:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064283

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

City Ordinances Public Drinking

4th AVE

CHRISTOPHER, TRAVOND Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 2:50:00AM Case Number: 13-064064

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

Obstructing Identification

EASTMORELAND AVE

FULLER, KIMBERLY Age: 42 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 11:55:00PM Case Number: 13-064493

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

15TH ST

GORSKI, RICHARD Age: 35 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 5:00:00PM Case Number: 13-064283

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

City Ordinances Public Drinking

Homeless

GORSKI, RICHARD Age: 35 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 7:37:00PM Case Number: 13-064388

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

City Ordinances Public Drinking

HOMELESS

HERAS, JONATHAN Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 10:50:00AM Case Number: 13-064161

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Greenwood Ave

HOLLOWAY, DOMINQUE Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 10:30:00AM Case Number: 13-064147

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61114

LORI DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 15 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/6/2013

Charges:

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

JARED, TAUNYA Age: 41 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 10:10:00AM Case Number: 13-064136

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

11TH ST-TOWN N COUNTRY INN

JOHNSON, AL Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 1:31:00AM Case Number: 13-064058

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Prostitution

11th AVE

JOHNSON, JERRY Age: 35 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 12:56:00AM Case Number: 13-064054

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Prostitution

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

Crosby St.

LASTER, LOREN Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 2:53:00AM Case Number: 13-064074

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

AUBURN ST

MOSSETTE, JULIUS Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 2:30:00PM Case Number: 11-011934

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Failure to register as a sex offender

Probation violation or revocation

8th Ave

NEFF, DESTINY Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 10:05:00PM Case Number: 13-064453

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Warrant Service – Other Agency (List Type in Note Field)

W STATE ST

SALSBURY, JAY Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 1:45:00PM Case Number: 13-061258

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

OLD CHAPEL RD

SCOTT, RYAN Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 8:30:00PM Case Number: 13-064403

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

NEWPORT AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 16 of 17

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 6/12/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

6/6/2013

SINCLAIRE-JOHNSON, FAITH Age: 22 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 5:15:00AM Case Number: 12-146315

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford Illinois,

Charges:

Contempt of Court (City FTA – Failure to Appear Warrant)

N. CHURCH ST

SLAUGHTER, ALEX Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 7:40:00AM Case Number: 12-054348

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Domestic Battery

7TH ST

VASQUEZ, JOSE Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 10:30:00PM Case Number: 13-064463

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Light violation

No drivers license

S WINNEBAGO ST

WESTENDORF, JOSEPH Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 6/6/2013 4:37:00PM Case Number: 13-064300

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

City Ordinances Public Drinking

Broadway

Posted June 12, 2013

Community choice aggregation permits governmental units to purchase bulk power and distribute the energy across existing power lines to their customers. Its appeal is the opportunity to lower the consumers’ cost of electricity. It also presents participants with an opportunity to purchase electricity from renewable energy sources. But the actual electricity being used is unlikely to have been produced from renewable sources.

In Evanston, Ill., community aggregation will assist the city in meeting the carbon reduction goal of its climate action plan. A 100 percent renewable energy mix will be based on the purchase of renewable energy credits. These credits help fund the installation of more renewable energy. Evanston is considering including in next year’s third-party energy purchase agreement the cost of installing 100 kilowatts of solar electricity, equivalent to roughly the consumption of 30 homes. Also under consideration for next year’s contract is an energy efficiency program for residential and commercial customers.

In San Francisco, Paul Fenn, the creator of the community choice aggregation concept, has far more ambitious plans. Under contract, he developed a plan to facilitate energy independence and clean power from future local installations. It relied heavily on reducing consumption and the installation of hundreds of small and mid-sized solar electric installations throughout the city. Phase I of the plan covered a 10-year period, created 12,000 local installation jobs, performed 12,000 energy efficiency retrofits and included an expected $650 million savings for customers compared to projected PG&E rates. It was an aggressive plan intent on meeting the city’s renewable energy and carbon reduction goals and called for a $1.4 billion bond issue to support it.

Instead of Fenn’s plan, Clean Power SF signed a five-year $19.5 million contract with Shell Energy serving a third-party role. The city is expected to begin purchasing up to 30 megawatts of 100 percent renewable power, roughly 5 percent of residential use in the city. The electricity will come from distant sources and will neither provide additional jobs for the city nor supply the city with a revenue stream. Only a limited amount of renewable energy and efficiency will be installed in the city.

In Illinois, more than 40 communities successfully operate electrical generating facilities, and many of them offer their customers efficiency programs and renewable energy options. In 2008, Hinsdale, Ill., began taking steps to buy the electrical service system provided by ComEd, as their outage rate far exceeded the average. Communities such as Batavia, Ill., and St. Charles, Ill., which operate municipal electric systems, had their electrical service restored far faster than Hinsdale did following outages. Eventually, an agreement was reached in which ComEd upgraded a substation and replaced power lines, ending Hinsdale’s quest to purchase the system. Although not part of their plan to establish a municipal power agency, Hinsdale would have been in a position to create a major renewable energy and efficiency program.

The establishment of community choice aggregation provides a means to establish a renewable energy and efficiency program, but does not guarantee that controlling officials will implement it.

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 June 12-18, 2013, issue

Photo provided

Tyler Berens, Caitlyn Carlson and Jillian Yoakum (from left in photo) of the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford put the finishing touches on an antique carousel horse for the Santa’s Village Azoosment Park Carousel for a Cause initiative. After being displayed in the park for the 2013 season, this horse will be given back to the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford to use as an auction item or for display.

In East Dundee, Ill., the Santa’s Village Azoosment Park Carousel for a Cause initiative was developed to commemorate the work of resident artist Dutch Akers of Crystal Lake, Ill., who restored the Park’s carousel for the new season. As a part of the initiative, Santa’s Village Azoosment Park reached out to six different nonprofit organizations to design their own masterpiece for display at the Park. A Carousel for a Cause celebration will be held at the park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, June 13.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

Artists’ Ensemble presents “The 39 Steps” June 4-30 in Cheek Theatre at Rockford College. (Photo by John Cobb)

Staff Report

Hitchcock meets hilarity in the spy thriller served with a heaping helping of vintage Monty Python.

This fast-paced comedy thriller is great fun for ages 9 to 90.

Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps opens at Artists’ Ensemble (AE) Theater Friday, June 14, and runs through June 30 in the Cheek Theatre at Rockford College.

In classic Hitchcock style, an innocent man is caught up in a plot by a foreign agent to steal military defense secrets. Soon, he finds himself on the run from both the police and the bad guys — handcuffs, missing fingers, a chase atop a moving train, spies, murder, suspense, good old-fashioned romance and — oh yes, laughter.

This Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs and more than 150 characters — played by a talented cast of four.

Playing our hero, Richard Hannay, is Aaron Christensen, a Chicago actor who has appeared at the Steppenwolf, Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare, Timeline and many other theaters.

Playing the three women in his life is Erin Koroll, an Ensemble member who was last seen in AE’s production of The Underpants.

The two actors who play everyone else are Michael Herold and David A Gingerich. David, an Ensemble member, may best be remembered as the straight-laced little league coach in Rounding Third. Michael is a member of the Forward Theater company in Madison, Wis., and was last seen at AE as the befuddled Abbot in AE’s production of Incorruptible.

Performances are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Thursday tickets are $19. All other performances are $28, $26 for seniors, and $10 for students.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.artistsensemble.org or by calling (815) 394-5004.

AE is an Equity professional theater performing in residence at Rockford College.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

Some of us who remember say, “1983. That’s when the plywood started to come off the windows of downtown’s storefronts.”

Yes, youngsters, the 1980s recession was in full swing. The City of Rockford under Mayor John MacNamara removed the parking meters from downtown streets in 1983.

As soon as that happened, despite heavy ticketing for one- and two-hour parking areas (jokingly called “city coupons”), shoppers and businesses started to return to downtown. But more help was needed.

1984. The MetroCentre provides $1 million to remove the West State Street section of the 1975 downtown mall, and traffic and new businesses begin to substantially step up.

2009. Tearing out the remaining Main Street section of the downtown mall begins to cap off the success of revival in the rest of downtown, particularly Block 5.

When I say “the success of revival,” I am echoing a statement made many times by Mike Leifheit, owner of the Irish Rose, 519 E. State St.

“Downtown is already a success. We just need to realize it and say it more often,” Mike frequently says to those who say, “We need this or that for downtown to be a success.”

Comparing today’s thriving downtown to the boarded-up windows of the 1980s, Leifheit is very correct. He also points out we have fewer vacant storefronts than most malls.

You don’t pay for parking at a mall; although it is rightly pointed out by city officials, someone (mall investors, retailers and customers) pays for the resurfacing and snow plowing.

City officials, most recently Ald. Venita Hervey (D-5) at the June 5 hearing on public parking downtown, assert Chicago charges for public parking in their parking decks, surface lots and retail area streets.

As I strongly asserted at that meeting, “Rockford is not Chicago!”

Downtown Rockford, in particular, does not have anywhere near the retail or residential density or income of downtown Chicago. To compare the two is like comparing an apple to Lake Michigan.

If someone can’t park in front of my business at 128 N. Church St., they frequently complain about having to walk a block or two and the two-legged “seagulls” from Chicago crying at them for spare change as they wait for the “Hilton of Homeless Shelters” to open for dinner.

We get plenty of Chicago’s homeless, public housing residents and parolees, and now we are going to get their parking practices and rates, too?

Even though this is one more “generous” offer, I hope all downtown businesses rise up and raise holy hell, as opposed to unholy hell, and oppose parking fees for public streets and surface parking lots downtown. Free parking is an “apple of our eyes,” despite the continuing heavy dispensing of “city coupons.”

Our apples are growing just fine right now — they are quite delicious, as one can confirm in the many new and established restaurants on both sides of the river. By the way, how in the hell is a waitperson making minimum wage and relying on tips going to pay for parking at work all day or night? That would add up to more than a week’s wages or more over a year!

Despite their heavenly and dutiful approach to business, we do not need more tax/fee-hungry, snake-oil salesmen to worm up our good fruit by promising this revenue will solve all the problems of downtown parking! We already have one of the highest tax rates in the entire country — do not worm us to death by another fee here, another fee there.

Everyone expects to pay for parking in a parking deck. We’ll compromise and give that freebie up. But take away our free parking in surface lots and on our business streets, and some officials will be looking for a new job come next election time. Businesses will suffer.

I do not want to return to the 1980s! We’ve come a long way, baby, but don’t get greedy just as downtown is really getting rolling.

Why did the malls succeed? Free parking was part of it, but public perception that malls were the place to be was a big part of it.

As Chris Wachowiak points out in his column this week (see “Chrisisms,” page A14), Rockford City Market and Friday Night Flix have broken all attendance records this year. Many, many of those people would not attend if they had to pay for parking. Don’t ruin the perception.

We don’t need anything to break the momentum building to make downtown an even greater success that might someday justify a comparison to downtown Chicago.

For those who are considering a plywood box for the future of their political careers, a return to the stupid parking practices of the 1980s is like bobbing for apples in Lake Michigan. We’re smarter than that, aren’t we?

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

Denise Guzzardo

By Denise Guzzardo

Week of June 12-18, 2013

This Week: Venus’ opposition to Pluto early this week has the ability to create some real ugly temper tantrums and jealousy, bringing out the worst in us. Venus and Pluto are all about the truth, moving through it, sorting out our own feelings and owning them. Pay attention to what you may be accusing another of at this time, because you may be mirroring your own inner feelings and misdirecting them toward an innocent bystander. Then, when Venus squares Uranus on the 12th-13th, the flight mode feelings will be in full force. These feelings of wanting to run away from something instead of facing it will be very strong, but sit tight. By the end of the week, Venus trine with Chiron, allowing us to move out of our own dilemmas and to focus on helping others. You may find your dreams are very vivid during this time and even notice old wounds resurface in dream state — issues you thought were resolved long ago. Try not to let this disturb you too much. This is the mind, body and spirit’s way of clearing new paths for us.

Aries (March 21 to April 19) — If you’re willing to pay attention, the universe is sending you all kinds of signs and information during this time. A fabulous career opportunity is about to align during this lunar cycle. Keep your finger on the pulse of this activity, and don’t be afraid to throw your hat in the ring. You are perfectly capable to handle this element. By week’s end, you need to wake up your romantic sector. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)­ — Unexpected news from afar may leave your heart heavy midweek. This may call for a connection with a friend who can align you with a spiritual course. There also appears to be some humor that falls into place as a result of this alignment. By week’s end, you can see the light at the end of the tunnel — and it’s not a train.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20) — Romance is first and foremost on your list of priorities this week. You need to take some time away to focus on your relationship sector, or lack thereof. Hiding your head in the sand or playing the avoidance game will not accomplish anything. Addressing these issues head-on will allow room for growth and further development.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22) — This is an action-packed week ahead as new opportunities for business arrive. Get plenty of rest and proper nutrition to keep your physical body aligned. You may be vulnerable to low energy otherwise. Unusual news arrives midweek from afar, creating an unexpected emotional response. Gather all of the information first before you respond.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22) — The past new moon June 8 could have left you a bit emotional and confused about a decision you made in the previous weeks or months. Slow down, and go within now. Try not to backslide; stick to your convictions and be cautious of what you’re bring voice to at this time. Harsh tones provide you with a one-way ticket to nowhere. By week’s end, you will know you are on the right path.

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22) — Keep a lid on your temper because those around you may be testing you to the limits. Some of them may not even know they are getting on your last nerve. Try to find peaceful activities that allow your mind to wander into a Zen energy space. Before you know it, this turbulent energy will move in an entirely different direction, and all will be back on track again. The weekend is filled with love and humor.

Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22) — Pressure over finances will begin to lift this month. Unexpected sources of income arrive, as well as emotional support. As you begin to catch up, it’s good to remember your previous predicaments and not allow yourself to fall back into that trap again. The second half of this year will complete this struggle of financial inconsistency, once and for all. Until then, you have nowhere to go but up.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21) — This week may start out on a heavy note with emotional or physical loss at hand. This element makes you look within yourself and your own longevity, as well as the welfare of others. Sensitive situations touch your heart deeply. By week’s end, an unexpected gathering will bring a tremendous amount of humor to your personal space.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21) — You are past last week’s emotional “drama,” and all you want to do is move on now. As a result of this, you also find inner peace with how your life has progressed to this point. This weekend provides you with passion and humor. Use this energy to your full advantage now. You’re a magnet for prosperity. Be cautious during travel.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19) — Because of your overwhelming work schedule, you may have neglected many personal relationships or responsibilities over the past month. Now, it is becoming evident you can’t rely on others to help you in your time of need. You will need to take action and make sure these situations are dealt with properly. Changes with children or pets may be emotional, but they are necessary for their own well-being. Finances are still a huge driving force this week.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) — Finances can be stressful this week, but this is only a temporary vibration. The universe is taking you into an entirely different direction, allowing you to prosper now. Allow these changes to sink in. They will become more evident as time rolls on this month. Your personal relationships begin the flourish.

Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20) — Addictive personality traits will be affecting you this lunar cycle. If this is something you struggle with, then you will see the walls closing in on you, and you need to take steps to heal your life. If you are on the receiving end of this behavior, take a giant step back from whoever is serving this up to you. You can’t go down with the Titanic.

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

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

In many ways, the public transportation infrastructure should be utilized by public transportation. A public transportation system is intended to provide a more efficient way to get people to work, to health care, to education and to shopping. These are all components of commerce, and when provided to a larger number of people in a single system, can reduce energy consumption, reduce wear and tear on the roads, and provide a cost-effective and consistent means for people to be productive participants in the economy. Presently, I am seeing the growing definition of a need for such a system here in Rockford to support our future. The present system in Rockford is a good start, but it is locked within the city boundaries.

A more comprehensive system will better match workers with jobs. We have companies that are looking for workers, and a barrier to getting good employees has been the lack of transportation. We have been working with potential new companies looking to relocate, and one of the first questions they ask is what type of public transportation system we have. If a company is going to bring 800 to 4,000 jobs to our community, they want to know that these workers can get to and from work every day. We have also noticed that the cost of transportation is getting much more expensive, especially with fuel prices. The cost of transportation is taking more and more of the paycheck and is putting pressure on both employer and employee.

It is not hard to see that some families have to make tough choices between buying gas or other family necessities. A comprehensive start to an efficient public transportation program here in our region of Illinois is a vital component to moving the economy forward. Programs are available to fund such a system without any local tax or cost. The design of such a system is based on an eye toward the future and not the habit pattern of the past. Without it, our local economy will not become stronger like it should.

By having the bus run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you could put 20,000 people to work in Rockford. This will help lower your unemployment rate, homeless rate, poverty rate and crime rate, and help raise more revenue for Rockford. By doing this alone, you could bring into Rockford $20,465,315.08 a year.

Prophet Yusef
Rockford

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. — The Epilepsy Foundation is hosting Jeff’s Bike Ride for Epilepsy Saturday, June 22, starting at Harlem High School, 1 Huskie Circle, Machesney Park, Ill.

Riders have a choice between three routes, including 100k, 50k,and a 10k family ride. The 10k ride is kid-friendly. The two longer rides will begin at Harlem High School at 7:30 a.m. and cost $30. The 10k family ride will begin at 9 a.m. and costs $10. All proceeds will benefit the Epilepsy Foundation. Prices increase by $5 for riders registering the day of the event. The event will also include a light breakfast for the riders, and lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m.

The Epilepsy Foundation North Central Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska focuses on helping to ensure people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and prevent control and cure epilepsy through services, education, advocacy and research. For more about Jeff’s Ride or the Epilepsy Foundation, visit www.epilepsyheartland.org.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

By Audrey Carpenter
Staff Writer

Rockford City Council passed a number of routine expenditures at their regular meeting Monday evening, June 10, but among the most notable was approval in the amount of $40,000 for a case involving city police officers using excessive force.

At last week’s council meeting (June 3), Rockford resident Brandi Brown got up at the beginning of the meeting and in a 3-minute speech urged council members to request the U.S. Department of Justice begin an investigation into police misconduct and excessive force in Rockford.

She reminded council members that three African-American men were shot and killed by police in 2012.

The $40,000 approved by the city council June 10 concerns a case from 2007. In that case, plaintiff Eric Scott suffered a facial fracture, broken nose, broken jaw and facial abrasions after five Rockford police officers attempted to subdue him in a routine traffic stop. The plaintiff alleged he suffered these injuries while he was handcuffed and not struggling.

The police officers stated they saw the driver flashing “gang signs” with his hands at the intersection of State Street and Alpine Road after he had just exited a nearby bar and was driving away. When one of the officers, who was not in regular uniform at the time, approached the plaintiff’s car, the plaintiff drove through a red light to a secondary location, where he ultimately stopped and was arrested. He stated he did not know who was approaching his car and felt threatened, so he drove through the traffic light.

The plaintiff was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and resisting arrest, and he was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

The officers involved in the case were Rosemary Matthews, Daniel Basile, Joshua Grover, Paul Gallagher and Juan Tapia.

City Legal Director Patrick Hayes stated in an e-mail June 11: “On May 25, 2007, Rockford Police officers investigated traffic violations committed by the Plaintiff, Eric Scott. Police arrested the plaintiff for DUI and several minor traffic violations. Scott attempted to resist arrest, and police officers used force to subdue and handcuff him. During the course of the arrest, plaintiff sustained several facial injuries. Plaintiff claimed the force used was excessive under the circumstances. While the City of Rockford denies the officers used excessive force, the parties reached a settlement in the amount of $41,000.”

Under new business at the June 10 city council meeting, $759,485.39 was approved for city-wide street repairs to the low bidder, Stenstrom Excavation of Rockford. The funding source was sales tax.

The council also approved an award for $15,341 to Street Smart Rental of Lino Lakes, Minn., for the purchase of two changeable electronic traffic messaging boards to direct traffic. The total contract price for the purchase is $30,682, and the funding source is the Traffic Division/Capital Lease funds. These are brand-new messaging boards intended to replace old, worn-out equipment currently in use.

Lastly, the council approved $101,500 for design engineering services in conjunction with North Main Street lighting improvements. The award recipient was Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. This project is part of the reconstruction project taking place currently. The funding source is sales tax.

In other news, the council denied a liquor license to Richard Buckley and Gary Weeks doing business as Molly’s Deli in a limited commercial zoning district at 5811 and 5839 Forest Hills Road.

In other council news, Ald. Timothy Durkee, R-1, mentioned in last week’s meeting the opportunity to visit the new Regional Design Center, a meeting facility and public works gallery dedicated to community engagement. It is at 315 N. Main St., and held its first open house last Friday, June 7.

The Design Center meeting facility offers free Wi-Fi, sound system, projector, screens, whiteboard and presentation board, display areas, tables and chairs and a catering kitchen. They eventually plan to have a kiosk with beverages and baked goods from local vendors as well as a glass-enclosed seating area. The phone number to the center is (815) 967-6757.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

By Dr. Philip Schalow

Dizziness, also called vertigo, is considered a mismatch in the senses that can involve any of the 27 elements of the balance mechanism. These elements can be categorized into the following five areas:

1. Inner ear elements that include the semicircular canals;

2. Nerves and nerve pathways in the brain stem;

3. Nerve centers (nuclei) in the brainstem;

4. Muscles of the eyes and how they hold position; and

5. Signals coming from the joints and muscles of the neck (in particular) that tell you where you are in space.

Sometimes the problem starts with the inner ear, when material on the inside breaks loose and moves into areas where it shouldn’t be. There are clever procedures with body movements or head movements that help to correct that.

An infection can produce swelling in the related areas that interfere with normal signals. Interrupted blood flow can reduce the ability of the brainstem nerves to process signals correctly.

Subluxation can cause all of these events to occur; yes, even affecting the muscles of the eyes! The chiropractic definition of subluxation involves bone segments out of proper relationship causing interference with nerve conduction.

Several things happen with the subluxation — blood flow decreases, body tissues begin to decay, normal drainage functions decrease, joint surfaces of the spine don’t match up like they should, and muscles go into spasm. All these events cause wrong signals to go into the head and create conditions that decrease the brain’s ability to process those wrong signals.

With chiropractic, we are able to set up conditions favorable for the body to heal on its own by precisely correcting the subluxation. Once the spine and head are balanced again, body tissues can drain, blood flow improves, blocked nerves “wake up,” and the mismatch in the senses goes away.

Some conditions creating dizziness are not easily reversible; particularly, damage to the brain or spinal cord from alcohol use or trauma. In those cases, the healing process requires lots of work from many types of practitioners, including the patient.

In every case we have managed, the “1st Step” is to restore normal communication and balance between the brain and body.

Dr. Philip Schalow is a NUCCA practitioner in Rockford. He owns 1st Step Chiropractic, S.C., 4519 Highcrest Road, Rockford. Call (815) 398-4500 for details or visit www.MyRockfordChiropractor.com.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

The Chicago Blackhawks begin their quest at earning another spot on Lord Stanley’s Cup tonight (Wednesday, June 12) at the United Center when they face off against the Boston Bruins. The two teams begin a best-of-seven-game series at 7 p.m. to determine who will get their names engraved on the most prestigious trophy in all of sports.

After surviving a series that went all seven games with their long-time rival, the Detroit Red Wings, the Chicago Blackhawks dispatched the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Los Angeles Kings, in five games. Both of those series ended with Chicago game-winning goals coming in overtime periods.

Brian Seabrook ended the Red Wings’ season when he hit the back of the net 3:35 into the overtime period in game seven of the Western Conference Semifinal series. Patrick Kane scored his third goal of the night 11:40 into the second overtime period of game five, sending the Kings back to L.A. waiting for next year. Kane’s hat trick secured the Western Conference championship for Chicago.

Kane’s heroics were reminiscent of his game six overtime winner against the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2010 finals, the last time Chicago won the Stanley Cup. “Right now, it feels like the best,” Kane said when asked to rank his performance. “I think June 10 or June 9 a few years ago was also a good night. But right now, I think it’s almost like I’m in a different zone, like in the Twilight Zone or something. I’m kind of out of it. It’s definitely a good feeling, though.”

This is the first time since 1979 that two of the original six NHL teams will face one another in the finals. The last time, the Montreal Canadiens beat the New York Rangers. This will be the first time in league history that the Blackhawks and the Bruins have faced one another in the finals.

Here’s the full schedule for the 2013 Stanley Cup Final (all times Central):

Game 1: Wednesday, June 12, at Chicago, 7 p.m.

Game 2: Saturday, June 15, at Chicago, 7 p.m.

Game 3: Monday, June 17, at Boston, 7 p.m.

Game 4: Wednesday, June 19, at Boston, 7 p.m.

Game 5: Saturday, June 22, at Chicago, 7 p.m.

Game 6: Monday, June 24, at Boston, 7 p.m.

Game 7: Wednesday, June 26, at Chicago, 7 p.m.

(Note: Games 5-7 if necessary)

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

LOVES PARK, Ill. — Windsor Lake Activity Center, 7212 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park, Ill., has opened for its second season.

Owned for the past 30 years by the Carlson family, the lake was leased to the Rockford Park District to begin operating in 2012.

“Thanks to their generosity, our community will be able to enjoy another season of great fishing and paddling opportunities,” said Jessica Steinberg, senior manager of operations at the activity center.

Windsor Lake will be open daily from sunrise to sunset. The public is welcome to enjoy catch-and-release fishing (except for pan fish), along with various paddling opportunities such as kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. A daily fee of $2 per hour will be charged for anyone wishing to use a muscle-powered watercraft on the lake. A reservation can be made online at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/windsorlake. Fishing (Illinois fishing license required) is free.

The Rockford Park District has partnered with area fishermen, paddlers and residents of the neighborhood to create the Windsor Lake Watch Group. This group will be the “eyes and ears” of Windsor Lake to help operate and enforce rules and policies. If you are interested in volunteering for the Windsor Lake Watch Group, contact Steinberg at (815) 289-0748 or jessicasteinberg@rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Another new partnership is with Advance Medical Rehabilitation Center (AMR), 1820 Windsor Road, Loves Park, Ill., allowing the installation of a new boat launch area just north of the AMR parking lot.

Rules and policies of the lake are as follow: No motors allowed on the lake; Illinois fishing license required; free shoreline fishing from designated fishing areas only ; catch-and-release only, except for pan fish; no minnows; personal flotation devices (inner tubes, rafts) prohibited; protect this property and dispose of litter properly; be considerate of others; dogs must be on leash and land at all times; smoking and alcohol prohibited; swimming/wading prohibited; and campfires and open flames prohibited.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

Like almost every other single consumer item, the cost of sporting goods has gotten significantly more expensive over the last few years. New materials and new technology are part of the blame. There’s no doubt the products have greatly improved for the serious athlete.

The problem is, not all of us need the latest poly-carbon, super strong, extra heavy-duty tennis racket or baseball bat. This is especially true when it comes to children just getting started in a new sport. The cost of brand-new equipment can be overwhelming for parents.

Whether it’s hockey skates and pads, a new bowling ball, fishing tackle or a baseball glove and bat, it’s not uncommon for the equipment to cost hundreds of dollars if starting from scratch. And if your child is anything at all like most other kids on this planet, a month from now they could decide they no longer want to take tennis lessons, karate is now their sport of choice, and that brand-new racket transforms into an expensive garage decoration.

I have a simple solution, and this is the perfect time of year for it: Garage sales. They can be a great, inexpensive resource for slightly-used sporting equipment. Why spend big bucks on a brand-new catcher’s mitt to find out a week later the coach has decided your son has the best arm on the team and wants him to play center field? If you have the patience to search a few garage sales, you could probably find a used catcher’s mitt and a fielder’s glove for less than half of what one of those gloves would have cost new.

The same holds true for most other types of sporting goods. Garage sales are full of used golf clubs, fishing tackle, roller blades, hockey and football helmets, and almost every single one I’ve ever stopped at has a basketball, soccer ball or football for less than $2.

They’re not a panacea, but garage sales can be an inexpensive alternative to buying everything brand new, and they are a good way to let your child find out whether they really are going to become the next Patrick Kane or Monica Seles without it costing you the equivalent of a week’s worth of groceries for a family of five.

So, before you go out to the local sporting goods store and drop a few hundred bucks on a brand-new motocross bike, helmet and pads, investigate a garage sale or two. Chances are pretty good you’ll find some other kid had that same desire last summer and has now moved on to horseback riding or scuba lessons … or go carting, or archery, or …

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

POPLAR GROVE, Ill. — The 16th Annual Boone County Farm Bureau Foundation Dairy Breakfast will be from 6:30 to 11 a.m., Saturday, June 15, at Johnson Family Dairy Farm, 6431 Stateline Road, Poplar Grove, Ill.

Activities include a craft show featuring some of the area’s most talented crafters and vendors; horse-drawn wagon rides provided by local team drivers; children’s games; a petting zoo; Cow Pie Bingo; antique tractor; and Model T car displays.

All proceeds of the breakfast and the Cow Pie Bingo will go to the Boone County Farm Bureau Foundation. The foundation was established for the purpose of providing scholarships and increasing agriculture awareness through educational means, such as Winnebago-Boone Agriculture In The Classroom and Summer Ag Institute.

The menu consists of all-you-can-eat pancakes, whole-hog sausage, applesauce, ice cream, milk and coffee. Prices are $6 for adults, $3 children ages 6-10, and children younger than 5 are free.

For more information, call the Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau office at (815) 962-0653.

Posted June 12, 2013

By Bill Beard
Theater Critic

I’ve seen A Chorus Line probably 10 times since it opened on Broadway in 1975. I’ve reviewed it on four previous occasions, once even a high school production (which, by the way, was excellent!).

I’ve always felt it was a completely different type of show; one based on the lives of real people, struggling dancers trying just to get a chance to be on “the line,” the dance chorus of a Broadway musical.

It was conceived and created by the brilliant dancer-choreographer-director Michael Bennett. He based it directly on real-life interviews conducted with dancers struggling for a chance to “live their dream,” to be a successful “gypsy” chorus dancer in a Broadway show. Their honest personal stories cover the full spectrum of a performer’s life experiences, from hilarious to devastating, from mundane to bizarre. But they also ring true, believable and real.

There are wonderful songs by the late, great Marvin Hamlisch, again ranging from upbeat comedy to poignant ballads; and with big chorus numbers with gorgeous harmonies and, of course, great dancing. But the foundation of the whole production lies in the fundamental honesty of the individual personal stories.

The artistic director of Timber Lake Playhouse, James Beaudry, has once again put together a talented company for Guest Director Will Taylor to work with. (Taylor directed last year’s Guys and Dolls.) And the superb quality of the cast is immediately evident in the exciting opening number, “I Hope I Get It!”, with the entire cast being drilled in an exciting and demanding dance routine for the upcoming audition. It is obvious that this cast has been carefully chosen.

Then, the story begins. The “Director,” Zack, who is heard speaking primarily from the rear of the theater, explains that part of the audition will be just to talk about themselves, simply and honestly, no gimmicks, no stand-up routines. The show he is putting together will include some acting, but he wants to get to know them by just having them share something about their lives.

The first one called on is Mike, who tells of learning to dance at age 8, when he took over his sister’s place in a dance class. Mike is played by Joe Capstick, and his number, “I Can Do That!”, is the early highlight of the evening. He not only sings well, his dancing sets a standard for the rest of the show. Terrific start!

And that is followed by a beautiful trio, “At The Ballet,” which features the gorgeous Lexie Plath as the jaded Sheila, Danielle Davila as Bebe and Erica Stephan as Maggie. Ms. Stephan, by the way, is one of the most natural talents on stage, strong but subtle, one of those performers who never draws focus, but to whom one’s gaze always returns. “At The Ballet” develops into an impressive full-company number, with some lovely ballet and marvelous ensemble harmonies.

Other notable numbers include the mildly exhibitionistic “Dance: 10; Looks: 3” (sometimes referred to as “T and A!”). significantly displayed by the stunning Genna-Paige Kanago, from Florida by way of Baldwin Wallace University; and the wonderfully arousing company number, “Goodbye Twelve,” with some great moves by Gilbert Domally as Richie.

Two highlight numbers in the show, assigned to the character of Diana (here played by Tayloir Pace, from Flower Mound, Texas) are “Nothing,” usually a sort of showstopper story-song, and the beautiful soul-searching “What I Did For Love,” which grows into the impressive ensemble finale. Ms. Pace handled both rather well, but never quite reached their full potential.

The cast includes two Equity professionals, Kaolin Bass from New York, who plays Zack, and Pilar Millhollen from Chicago, who plays Cassie, the role originally played by the fabulous Donna McKecknie. I saw Ms. Millhollen in the Marriott Theatre’s production of A Chorus Line, in the role of Diana, and in checking back to my review of that show, I found that I raved about her then. I will do so again now. Cassie is a former “featured” dancer on Broadway who went to L.A. to try for the Big Time, and who failed and now realizes she doesn’t need the star status. She simply loves to dance and is perfectly willing to be just one of the “gypsies on the line.” Ms. Millhollen is right on target. She plays the whole first act in a subtle, understated style; but at the beginning of Act II, she turns on the power and makes the fabulous “The Music and The Mirror” number into the absolutely powerful showstopper it is meant to be. She owns the song, the role and the whole darned stage! Bravo.

Unfortunately, her partner is not as successful. Vocally, he delivers the lines from the rear of the audience perfectly appropriately; sounds good. But when he takes stage for a couple of important individual scenes (one in the touching confessional scene with Paul, played skillfully by Tim Wessel with a believable poignant honesty), Mr. Bass does not appear like the commanding Broadway director we’ve been listening to; he comes across more like the tech director or lighting designer.

Kudos also to Musical Director Kyle Branzel and to Assistant Choreographer Geena Quintos (who also plays the role of Connie Wong, and comes directly from New York).

Now … if you happen never to have seen a production of A Chorus Line, please don’t miss this chance. Timber Lake Playhouse is a gem. Hidden deep in the woods of Illinois, perfect for a “summer evening of theater,” it’s an easy drive to Mt. Carroll, and the theater is pleasant, air conditioned, inexpensive and there’s not a bad seat in the house. You’ll enjoy this show.

Call for information: (815) 244-2035.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue

Owner Zhian Rezazadeh, who opened the shop Oct. 23, 2012, said he wants to provide a stress-free environment where people can enjoy the pleasure of reading a book, listening to music or watching a film. In this environment, individuals are provided with the opportunity of engaging in intellectual conversations with each other. The owner also plans on enhancing this environment by organizing regular events such as Poet’s Corner, the Author’s Corner and the Fiddlers’ Corner to stimulate intellectual curiousity.

Rezazadeh’s goal is to provide an enviroment in which customers can “come back to the real thing” in which they engage in such activities as reading a real book or listening to music not provided on the Internet. Call (815) 226-7003 for more details.

From the June 12-18, 2013, issue