FOR SALE

Appliances

ROPER WASHER, large load capacity and Roper dryer, heavy-duty super-capacity, $150 each. Kinetico brand water softener $100 815/978-7610. TFN

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

Cemetery Plots

SCANDINAVIAN CEMETERY 2 side-by-side lots, nice location, $600 each, firm. 815/877-1961. 11/28

1 SPACE SUNSET MEMORIAL GARDENS Hymns section, $900, or make offer, seller pays all fees 779/774-5238. 11/28

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

1 SPACE IN SUNSET MEMORIAL GARDENS (Lutheran section). $1,000 + fees. 941/893-5283. janey0403@hotmail.com. TFN

RIVER VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS Dundee, IL. 4 spaces, Catholic section by the shrine. Valued at $5,000 – Make offer. 815/558-1478. TFN

Clothing

CARHART flannel-lined overalls, 50 waist, 28 length 815/633-2049. 12/5

REDWING HIKING/WORK SHOES, new in box, tags on, purchase price $160, will sell $60, men’s size 8 779/774-5238. 12/5

MEN’S MEMBERS ONLY JACKETS 4 colors, white, green, black & tan, size large, jeans, waist 36, length 32 815/877-4498. 11/21

MEN’S WINTER HOLIDAY DRESS TIES, 14 total, non-smoking home $25 for all 815/623-2781. 11/21

Electronics

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

BEH RINGER SUBWOOFER 18″ 600 watts, Wharfedale Pro 15″ 300 watts speakers, excellent condition 757/288-1130. 11/28

Equipment

METAL LAWN TRACTOR TRAILER 30wX45lX14d, with tilt, new tubes $75 815/980-7863. TFN

FOR SALE ERSKINE model 781RP tractor-mounted snow blower, this is a pull-through model $3700 815/985-0102. 11/28

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

RITCHIE BROS. UNRESERVED AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT AUCTIONS Kansas City (Dec 7), Chicago (Dec 12), Minneapolis (Dec 14), St Louis (Dec 20). Featuring a large selection of late model farm equipment. Inspect in person or online. Call 855-331-5732 or visit rbauction.com. (ICAN)

Firewood

PLATINUM FIREWOOD all seasoned hardwood, please call 815/484-3456. 11/28

DON’S SEASONED OAK, cherry, & elm firewood in 16” lengths 815/239-2392. 11/21

Food

HOMEMADE HOLIDAY PEANUT BRITTLE fundraiser for Beverly Park General Baptist Church, 2105 N. Central Ave. If interested 815/961-0811. 12/31

WRAP UP YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING with 100 percent guaranteed, delivered–to- the-door Omaha Steaks! SAVE 68 percent PLUS 2 FREE GIFTS – 26 Gourmet Favorites ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1- 866-414-8037 use code 45102AMD or www.OmahaSteaks.com/hgc96 (MCN)

Furniture

CORNER CABINET for large snake, iguana, rabbits or small exotic animals, nice piece of furniture. $500 OBO 815/969-8803. 12/5

TWIN BOXSPRING mattress $50, 2721 Ellen Ave, Rockford. 11/28

TV ENTERTAINMENT CENTER with mirror, glass doors & shelves, Beautiful masterpiece, originally $1000, will sell $150, 815/621-5406. 11/28

OVAL DINING ROOM TABLE with 6 cane back chairs & china cabinet $175 815/871-7511. 11/28

ROUND 45″ OAK TABLE 2 leaves $200 815/397-3265. 11/28

SOFA SLEEPER, rich brown leather, new looking $600 OBO, won’t last long! 815/282-1711 anytime. 11/28

FURNITURE FOR SALE moving to Italy, must sell! All living room, dining room, office furnishings and many other items including new, small tools 815/621-5406. 11/21

DINING ROOM TRUSSEL TABLE with 6 chairs $135, 1950’s chrome dinette set $75 815/871-7511 after 5pm. 11/21

VINTAGE ADJUSTABLE PIANO STOOL, claw-foot glass ball $100 Call 815/979-2619. 11/21

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

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

Garage Sale

RETIREMENT SALE complete woodworking shop, complete line of tools, power tools and hand tools, shopsmith Mark V, rough sawed seasoned wood, oak, cedar & walnut, Nov. 30-Dec. 2, 9-5pm, 2609 S. Pecatonica Rd, Pecatonica, IL 815/247-9101. 11/28

MOVING SALE – SOFA SLEEPER like new, oak entertainment center, new Greico baby swing, air conditioner 6000 BTUs 815/608-4095. 12/5

LADIES MUST SEE lots of yarn, crochet & knitting books & magazines 7950 S. Main, Rkfd., IL toward Byron, Fri & Sat, Nov. 23&24, 8-5pm. 11/21

ESTATE SALE: household items, new & very nice, furniture, dishes, crystal, Precious Moments, jewelry, books, 7950 S. Main, Rkfd., IL toward Byron, Fri & Sat, Nov. 23&24, 8-5pm. 11/21

Misc. Items For Sale

FOR SALE baby bassinet, two beds, deep freezer, pigeons/cage, two Chicago bears blankets, slippers, crochett 779/200-1296. 12/5

27” TV $100 OBO, twin size mattress set, pillow top $128 OBO 815/847-8584. 12/5

MISCELLANEOUS TOOLS for sale, Dave 815/441-3636. 12/5

17-FOOT COSCO 5-way aluminum ladder $70 815/633-9307. 12/5

WHITE WICKER TABLE 4ft long, 3ft high, Greico baby swing – new in box, stereo 815/394-9281. 12/5

KOHLER WHITE CAST IRON double bowl kitchen sink $100 OBO 815/873-1333. 11/28

GOING OUT OF BUSINESS Nintendo 64S, SEGA, Genesis, 16 BIT SEGAS, Playstations, game cube & 50 games, unit & parts $99 815/963-5603 or 815/985-8283. 11/28

CROCKPOT $20, bath scale $10, folding walker $20, travel iron $10, all new items 815/965-3320. 11/28

RARE VINYL RECORD collection, oldies, all kinds, complete $100 815/636-1546. 11/28

COMBINATION STORM DOOR all hardware, 32×80, left hinge $75 815/282-2023. 11/28

TOOL BOX $250, (Craftsman), Hitachi, Ramset, hammer drill $100, snap-on AC leak detector $40 815/494-5325. 11/21

ISLAND $150, dresser with mirror $20, wall entertainment center $150, oak baby changing table $20 779/348-4835. 11/21

COMPUTER DESK $15, Yamaha Piano $20, commercial pizza oven $30, pipe wrenches $7 each, 815/499-1908. 11/21

4 OAK CHAIRS $80, washer $100, Kenmore dryer $75, Frigidaire dorm refrigerator $80 815/633-2726. 11/21

TWO WOODEN OVERHEAD garage doors 8ft & 12ft 815/621-4469. 11/21

CHILD’S STEP 2 PLAY COTTAGE ages 1-5, new $100 OBO 815/968-9781. 11/21

25FT TOW CABLE locking hook, microscope & telescope, see craters on the Moon, leaf blower 815/962-5376. 11/21

OAKLAND RAIDERS nfl large collector helmet mug, excellent condition $10 779/774-5238. 11/28

white pedestals for front-load washer & dryer 29×29x12 $70 each 815/398-9648.11/21

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

HIGHSPEED INTERNET EVERYWHERE By Satellite! Speeds up to 12mbps! (200x faster than dial-up.) Starting at $49.95/mo. CALL NOW & GO FAST! 1-877-789-9086 (MCN)

BUNDLE & SAVE on your CABLE, INTERNET PHONE, AND MORE. High Speed Internet starting at less than $20/mo. CALL NOW! 800-291-4159 N-11/21

*LOWER THAT CABLE BILL! Get Satellite TV today! FREE System, installation and HD/DVR upgrade. Programming starting at $19.99. Call NOW 1-800-935-8195 N-11/21

$90 LAPTOPS, $30 TV’s, $8.50 Smart Phones, $4.50 Jeans, $1 DVD’s. Brand Name Electronics, Apparel, Furniture, Toys, Cosmetics from over 200 leading liquidators. Visit CloseoutsOnline.com N-11/21

Sporting Goods

SCHWINN EXERCYCLE stationary bike, excellent condition $25 815/494-3627. 12/5

Thrift Store

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

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

Crusader Thrift Shop,310 7th Street - Open Mon.-Sat. from 11am to 3pm. Winter purses ½ price, Christmas cards, scarves, mittens & gloves, most winter & Christmas sweaters $1 & $1.50, vintage records, canes, crutches & walkers. New specials everyday. We put out new supplies every day. TFN

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

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

Toys

STUFFED BEAR COLLECTION like new, also other animals, toys and games 815/877-4498. 11/28

SERVICES

Adoption

Loving married couple wishes to adopt a child, newborn to 24 months. Stable home. Michelene & Richard 877-507-5471. hope2adopt@comcast.net. Provider ID #012998 TFN

Child Care

HOME DAYCARE PROVIDER since 1995. Full & Part-time openings. Hours 5:30am-5:30pm (with flexibility). Call Rachel 815/558-9372. 12/5

Education

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

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

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

AIRLINE CAREERS begin here Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA-approved training. Financial aid if qualified Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM (888) 686-1704 N-11/21

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com N-11/21

MEDICAL CAREERS begin here Online training for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com N-11/21

WORK ON JET ENGINES Train for hands-on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA-approved program. Financial aid if qualified Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 854-6156. N-11/21

Financial

BUSINESSES ARE YOU TRIED OF PAYING HIGH RATE FOR PROCESSING FEE, For visa, master card, discover well come see my website at www.edwardson.yourmerchant
plus.com In which we offer Process fee of 1% on your sales. We also offer new and used card readers, terminals Guarantee checks machines and ATM machines. In Addition, for Internet business we offer software of Credit and checks which put money directly into your accounts. So see us Frank’s Merchant’s services at www.edwardson.yourmerchantplus.com or Call 1-800 354-0274 ext. 9339 thank you. 12/5

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

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

Handyman

HEARTLAND HANDYMAN Roof repair, gutter cleanout & repair, plumbing, electric, flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, etc. Free estimate 779/770-0160. 11/21

Hauling

CHAD’S HAULING & GENERAL LABOR 10-year solid reputation. Garage, basement & estate clean-outs. Yard waste removal, gutter cleaning, tree trimming, etc. FREE Estimates. 15% Senior Discount. www.chadshauling.com 815/979-7593. 12/26

Health & Medical

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

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

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

VIAGRA 100MG AND CIALIS 20MG! 40 Pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Save $500! Buy The Blue Pill! Now 1-888-796-8870 N-11/21

Landscaping

PROMAX LANDSCAPING general landscaping maintenance, residential & commercial, snow plowing & fall clean-up, free estimates. Ask for Jesus 815/378-3059 or 815/977-4085. 1/30/13

Legal Services

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

Massage Therapy

Creative Touch therapy: Alleviate stress, muscle tension, improve circulation, encourage overall well-being. Techniques meet your needs. Contact Glenn LMT 815/965-1787. iamhealedme@live.com 3/13/13

Misc. Services

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

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

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

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

START WITH ROTARY and good things happen! Locate the nearest club at www.rotary.org. This message provided by PaperChain and your local community free paper. (MCN)

REACH OVER 17 MILLION HOMES nationwide with one easy buy! Only $1,995 per week for a 20 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com N-11/21

Santa Claus

A CHRISTMAS TRADITION shared by thousands for 30 years, singing carols & creating memories. A visit from Santa. Sleigh cell 815/742-6258. 12/19

Senior Assistance

HELPING HANDS HUMANITARIAN Food assistance, prescription assistance, housing assistance Tonya 779/770-3412 or Bernard 773/203-2541 or 708/522-9744. 11/21

Snow Plowing

SNOW PLOWING Commercial and Residential 815/378-0671. 11/28

Tree Removal

Tree removal and trimming Bucket truck service, stump grinding/removal, skid-loader work. Fully insured. References available. 815/378-0671. 11/28

MUSIC
EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL blues drummer seeking blues band or guitarist, Gary 847/710-8002. 11/21

MUSIC LESSONS FOR ALL AGES! Find a music teacher! TakeLessons offers affordable, safe, guaranteed music lessons with teachers in your area. Our prescreened teachers specialize in singing, guitar, piano, drums, violin and more. Call 1- 888-687-0049! (MCN)

NEW ORIGINAL CHRISTMAS SONGS by Alexander Ceruzzi. Preview and Purchase the “Christmas Holiday” CD by going to MelodyManMusic.com. A Great gift for everyone on your Christmas list. (MCN)

PERSONALS

HANDSOME SWM 48 seeking generous females for dating fun. Call 815/312-9076. 12/5

53 SWM 180 SEEKS love, romance, sharing, sex, willing to hold, own my house 779/771-0573. 12/5

WHITE TALL GUY 31 would like to meet a single white lady 30-45 for romance and LTR, Rockford area. Call or leave message 779/770-7194. 11/28

BISEXUAL MALE age 40, for males. Preferred younger only for adult fun. Rochelle area. 779/537-1129. 11/28

SWM 48 SEEKS a female friend for dating fun, for details call 815/312-9076. 11/28

SWM LOOKING for someone to date between 20-40, serious inquires only. Will not answer private or restricted calls 815/319-9318. 11/28

THIS BISEXUAL MALE is seeking other guys for dating and possible roommate options. For more details call 815/315-7491 Billy. TFN

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

MEET SINGLES NOW! No paid operators, just people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages, connect live. FREE trial. Call 1-877-737-9447 N-11/21

Public Announcement

HOMEMADE HOLIDAY PEANUT BRITTLE fundraiser for Beverly Park General Baptist Church, 2105 N. Central Ave. If interested 815/961-0811. 12/31

HEART HEALTHY-HEART WISE Free health series, Nov. 6, 1-2pm or Nov. 20, 6-7pm, Swedish American 1st Flr conference Room 815/490-5863. TFN

COME WORSHIP WITH US at Kishwaukee Church of Christ. TFN

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

CLASSES STARTING wED. jULY 11 1-3pm, Math tutoring Booker Washington, Every Wednesday & Friday. TFN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FARM NEWS IS HOSTING our 11th anniversary of the Farm News Ag Show on Wed. Dec. 5 from 9am-5pm and on Thur. Dec 6 from 7:30am-3pm at Fort Dodge, Iowa in the Career Education Building at the Iowa Central campus. Drawing prizes, speakers, lunches and a FREE Pancake breakfast on Thursday from 7:30-9am. Free Parking & admisssion (MCN)

Organ, Blood, & Tissue Donation

Single young mother with 2 children desperately needs kidney donor. Blood type O positive/negative. 779/200-5885. TFN

www.LinksForLifeCampaign.com Read the stories, see the faces of those desperately in need of a lifesaving organ transplant, or set up your own link for free. TFN

The Rock River Times is now offering a special classifieds section reserved for individuals
or families seeking organ donations. This is a totally free service for those who are in need. Please feel free to call: (815)964-9767, fax: (815)964-9825, or e-mail: contact@rockrivertimes.com your FREE 15-word ad for this special section. For more information on organ & tissue donation, visit www.giftofhope.org To contribute to The Angela Rushford Children’s Organ Donation Fund, visit the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Web site: www.cfnil.org .

PETS

For Sale

DIAMOND DOVE BABIES Easy to tame! Don’t bite, coo softly. $10 each 815/505-8549. 12/5

FEMALE KITTEN black & tan, very lovable $15 815/608-4095. 12/5

RING-NECK DOVES tan or white. Easy to tame! Don’t bite. $15 each or 2/$25 815/505-8549. 11/28

RED-NOSE PITBULL PUPPIES $175 815/670-3841. 12/5

Rescue/Foster

RESCUED KITTIES are looking for loving & caring foster parents to take care & love them until they are adopted into their forever, indoor homes. Please call 815/980-7863 if you can help. Thank you & God bless. TFN

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

WANTED

WANTED: New Milford resident needs someone to plow this winter 815/713-8135. 12/5

SINGLE LADY ON DISABILITY with kids needs deep freezer 815/315-1912. 12/5

SENIOR LADY NEEDS VAN for church, doctor appointments, outings, etc. Help make this Christmas gift happen, Judy 815/566-1566. 11/28

WANTED Inuit art or artifacts 815/636-8121. 11/28

WANTED: Coffin wood or metal, new or used 815/962-5376. 11/28

WANTED: Straw Call 815/319-1068. 11/21

WANTED: Original Disney Pinocchio and/or Snow White, Cinderella DVD’s 815/968-9781. 11/21

WANTED: autobody mechanic, call 815/312-9076. 11/21

WANTED: Woman with MS would like free wheelchair and guitar, also will buy Legos cheap 779/770-2477. 11/21

I BUY BMX BIKES from 1970’s, 1980’s. Redline, DG, Hutch, Kuwahara, Skyway, Mongoose, SE 815/985-2575. 11/28

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

PAYING CASH! Diabetic Test STRIPS WANTED. Will pay up to $27 per box. Quick & local. Call Nancy. 815/519-9966. TFN

**OLD GUITARS WANTED! ** Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker. Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg, and Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1920’s thru 1980’s. TOP CASH PAID! 800-401-0440 N-11/21

DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Wanted Check us out online! All Major Brands Bought Dtsbuyers.com 1 866 446 3009 N-11/21

CA$H PAID-UP TO $27/BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1-DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. SE HABLA ESPANOL. Emma 1-888-776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com N-11/21

From the Nov. 21-27, 2012, issue

Editor’s note: Click here to read this report in pdf format.

From the Rockford Police Department

Report Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/21/2012

JACKSON, TALIB Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/21/2012 12:37:00AM Case Number: 12-148938

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Other equipment violations (non-specific)

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Morgan St.

11/20/2012

BARTSCHER, RYAN Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 12:50:00AM Case Number: 12-148524

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Byron, IL 61010

Charges:

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Registration/Title violation

BRECKENRIDGE

BEARDIN, MELISSA Age: 35 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 10:45:00AM Case Number: 12-029369

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

Foster AVE

CARPENTER, AMESHIA Age: 33 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 7:10:00AM Case Number: 12-148562

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Seat belt violations

Suspended/revoked drivers license

SCHALCK DR

DANDRIDGE, LAMAR Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 1:51:00PM Case Number: 12-148750

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

FAIRVIEW AVE

DOWTHARD, LEO Age: 63 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 8:45:00PM Case Number: 12-148886

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

S Independence AVE

GRIJALVA, MATTHEW Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 5:43:00PM Case Number: 12-148819

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

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

REXFORD DR

GUENTHER, ADAM Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 11:30:00AM Case Number: 12-148659

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Bildahl St

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 1 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/20/2012

MENDOZA, ARACELI Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 12:25:00PM Case Number: 12-148692

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic speeding

ISLAND AVE

MILBURN, MARK Age: 52 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 10:32:00AM Case Number: 12-148619

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

EMERSON

STAFFORD IV, JAMES Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 12:30:00AM Case Number: 12-148523

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic signal violation

LINCOLN AVE

THREADGILL, JOSEPH Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 3:00:00AM Case Number: 12-148548

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

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

N INDEPENDENCE AVE

TOMLINSON, JAMES Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 1:23:00AM Case Number: 12-148536

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

No drivers license

Other equipment violations (non-specific)

8th St.

TRUSS, CATHRYN Age: 44 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 12:45:00AM Case Number: 12-148501

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Loves Park, IL

Charges:

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

KISSANE DR

WALKER, DAVID Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/20/2012 10:37:00PM Case Number: 12-148915

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Belvidere, IL 61008

Charges:

Retail Theft (less Than $150-Standard)

1/2 S. STATE ST

11/19/2012

ALBRIGHT, KELLY Age: 31 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 9:05:00AM Case Number: 12-148203

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

Suspended/revoked drivers license

20TH ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 2 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/19/2012

ANDERSON, HEATHER Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 10:44:00PM Case Number: 12-148497

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Disorderly Conduct

HOMELESS

BARRON, XAVIER Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 9:50:00PM Case Number: 12-148489

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Service to other agency- Sheriffs dept

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Score ST

BENSON, JOTHANY Age: 35 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 8:59:00PM Case Number: 12-148458

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

Suspended/revoked drivers license

18TH ST

CARPENTER, JANICE Age: 53 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 11:33:00AM Case Number: 12-144401

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Other traffic offenses

11TH AVE

DIEGO, MATIAS Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 3:41:00AM Case Number: 12-148150

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Blood alcohol content over .08

Improper turning

No drivers license

Obstructing Identification

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Greenwood AVE

GRAHAM, TRAVANTI Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 10:16:00PM Case Number: 12-023813

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

25th ST

GREEN, JHARICA Age: 20 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 8:57:00PM Case Number: 12-148477

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

South Beloit, IL 61080

Charges:

Domestic Battery

BLACKHAWK BLVD

HALL, LACOLLIS Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 1:28:00PM Case Number: 12-148306

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (less Than $150-Standard)

DARTHMOUTH DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 3 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/19/2012

HAYES, JEREMY Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 9:45:00PM Case Number: 12-148478

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

S Main ST LOT 93

HEMPHILL, ALICIA Age: 41 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 7:30:00PM Case Number: 12-148447

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Machesney Park, IL 61115

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic signal violation

Evans AVE

MAIORCA, DANIEL Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 3:39:00AM Case Number: 12-148148

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

License plate violation

Other Driver License Offenses

Holiday Dr

MATSEY, VERONICA Age: 49 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 11:50:00PM Case Number: 12-148512

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other criminal offenses

Pioneer DR

MILLER, CYRENA Age: 38 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 2:50:00PM Case Number: 12-148332

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Battery (Peace Officer, Correctional Officer, Fireman)

17TH AVE

RENTERIA, MARGARITO Age: 58 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 3:50:00PM Case Number: 12-148370

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Cherry Valley, IL 61016

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

CABOT LN

ROBERTS, AUSTIN Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 3:30:00PM Case Number: 12-148361

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (less Than $150-Standard)

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

FAIRVIEW BLVD/HOMELESS

SCANIFFE, MICHELLE Age: 31 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 9:45:00PM Case Number: 12-148478

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

S Main St

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 4 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/19/2012

SHORTER, MICHAEL Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 8:50:00AM Case Number: 12-148193

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Burglary – Forced Entry-Residence

Criminal Damage to Property

Theft (Possession of Stolen Property under $300)

HOMELESS

TORRES, ALFREDO Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/19/2012 11:30:00PM Case Number: 12-148514

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

BROOKE RD

11/18/2012

ANDERSON, ROBERT Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 10:11:00PM Case Number: 12-148100

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic speeding

Carrollton CT

COCHRAN, CARISSA Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 3:44:00PM Case Number: 12-147971

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Violation Of An Order Of Protection

CONKLIN DR

COLE JR, STEVIE Age: 40 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 11:41:00PM Case Number: 10-046523

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Machesney Park, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

Drexel BLVD

DICKENS, DARIUS Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 4:00:00AM Case Number: 12-147860

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

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

Obstructing Identification

IRVING AVE

GARAY, CHRISTIAN Age: 27 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 6:14:00PM Case Number: 12-148024

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

Suspended/revoked drivers license

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

PRAIRIE AVE

GARY, DASHAWN Age: 22 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 1:15:00PM Case Number: 12-119987

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Loves Park, IL

Charges:

Theft (less than $300- Unauthorized Control)

Frances Ave.

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 5 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/18/2012

GREER, CLARENCE Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 10:01:00PM Case Number: 12-148093

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Loves Park, IL 61111

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Parkway

HOLMGREN, LIEF Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 1:55:00AM Case Number: 12-147826

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Possession of 30 grams of less

Driving Under Influence Liquor

LUNDVALL AVE / UNK ON REMINGTON

LYON, LARRY Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 11:30:00PM Case Number: 12-148121

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Cocaine Possession With Intent to Deliver (more than 1 gram less than 15)

Violation of the Cannabis Control Act (more than 30 less than 500)

GARRISON ST

MACIAS, ERICK Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 8:49:00AM Case Number: 12-147878

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Hit and Run

Reckless driving

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Balboa

PENIX, BIANCA Age: 31 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 12:13:00AM Case Number: 12-147796

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic speeding

Brookhaven Dr.

RUPERT, GLORIA Age: 22 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 11:05:00PM Case Number: 12-148110

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Aggravated Battery – Knife/Cutting Instrument

Other criminal offenses

N JOHNSTON AVE

SAUCEDO, CARLOS Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 7:50:00PM Case Number: 12-148058

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Obstructing Identification

Other traffic offenses

Traffic speeding

Unlawful use of driver’s license

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

MORGAN ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 6 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/18/2012

SEATON, FREDERICK Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 9:00:00PM Case Number: 12-148087

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

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

BRUCE ST

THOMPSON, SHANNON Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 4:30:00AM Case Number: 12-057474

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Roscoe, IL 61073

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

Edgemere TRL

WHEELER, MICHAEL Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/18/2012 9:00:00PM Case Number: 12-105956

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Aggravated Assault (Person 60 Years of Age or Older)

S 6th ST LOWR

11/17/2012

ATMORE, JERMIAH Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:17:00AM Case Number: 12-147436

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

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

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

11TH ST

BLAKE, DAMIEN Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:30:00AM Case Number: 12-147452

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Offensive Uses of Property

OVERDENE AVE

BROOKS, JERRELL Age: 27 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147740

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other criminal offenses

Unlawful Use Of Weapons By A Felon

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

SITKA LN

BROOKS, MARCELL Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147740

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other criminal offenses

Unlawful Use Of Weapons By A Felon

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

SITKA LN

CASTROGIOVANNI, JOSEPH Age: 47 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:17:00AM Case Number: 12-147436

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Possession of drug equipment

Sale or Possession of Hypodermic Syringes or Needles

GARRETT LN

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 7 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/17/2012

CLAUSE, ROBERT Age: 47 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 6:20:00AM Case Number: 12-147081

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Aggravated Battery – Other Weapon

Genoa RD

CURTISS, BRANDON Age: 22 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 1:03:00AM Case Number: 12-147458

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Loves Park,Il

Charges:

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Registration/Title violation

GLN ABBEY DR

DRYE, ALEATHA Age: 28 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 7:15:00PM Case Number: 12-147698

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

MIDWAY DR

ECKLUND, GARY Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 2:00:00AM Case Number: 12-118532

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property

Domestic Battery

Interfering with the Reporting of Domestic Violence

BERKLEY ST

ECKLUND, GARY Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 2:00:00AM Case Number: 12-147473

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

BERKLEY ST

FARR, SHAWN Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:00:00PM Case Number: 10-011443

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Searles AVE

GULLEY, TEARANEY Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:30:00AM Case Number: 12-147452

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Aggravated Battery (Peace Officer, Correctional Officer, Fireman)

Battery (Simple)

1/2 SCHALCH DR

HACKLER, NIKITA Age: 20 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:02:00AM Case Number: 12-147441

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Martha AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 8 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/17/2012

JURAZ-DURAN, XAVIER Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 10:23:00AM Case Number: 12-147544

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

N LONDON AVE

LOVELACE, MICHAEL Age: 38 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:19:00PM Case Number: 12-147567

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il 61104

Charges:

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

8th Ave

LUSTER, JAMAR Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 8:30:00PM Case Number: 11-148526

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Sherman

PETER, ROBERT Age: 69 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:00:00PM Case Number: 12-147729

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Failing to signal/Improper signal

SKOKIE DR

PITTMAN, MYCA Age: 29 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 1:50:00AM Case Number: 12-147466

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Disorderly Conduct

Parkside AVE

PURIFOY JR., JAMES Age: 37 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 5:50:00AM Case Number: 12-147494

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Assault (Peace Officer or Fireman)

DENWOOD DR

PURIFOY, DONYELL Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 4:31:00AM Case Number: 12-147490

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(under $300)

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

Chestnut ST

ROBERTS, SHERMAN Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 2:48:00AM Case Number: 12-147456

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

Sablewood DR

ROSS, CHRISTOPHER Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:40:00PM Case Number: 12-147743

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

20th AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 9 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/17/2012

Charges:

Burglary – Forced Entry-Residence

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Obstructing Identification

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

SLEDGE, EDDIE Age: 66 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 3:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147631

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Lexington AVE

SMITH, FRANK Age: 56 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 6:30:00AM Case Number: 12-147502

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Theft of Services

N. Main St.

SOCKWELL, LAMAR Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 9:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147740

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Other criminal offenses

Other traffic offenses

Unlawful Use Of Weapons By A Felon

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

Foster AVE

STOVALL, MARQUAN Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 11:10:00PM Case Number: 12-147771

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

BUCKBEE

VIVIAN, TAYLOR Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 5:43:00AM Case Number: 12-147500

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Improper lane usage

No registration

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Holiday DR

WESTENDORFPEAK, CHRISTOPHER Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 3:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147628

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property

Domestic Battery

41ST ST

WHITE, BILLY Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/17/2012 12:17:00AM Case Number: 12-147436

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

LEXINGTON ST

11/16/2012

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 10 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/16/2012

BURGOS, EDWIN Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 6:39:00PM Case Number: 12-147304

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

MIDWAY DR

BURMEISTER, JOSHUA Age: 29 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 6:10:00PM Case Number: 12-147318

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Polo, IL

Charges:

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

W Mason ST

COLE, DEMARIO Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 6:03:00PM Case Number: 12-147322

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

HARTFORD/911 W ST

CRAIG, MARIO Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 4:30:00PM Case Number: 12-147273

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Violation of the Cannabis Control Act (more than 2.5 less than 10)

Revell

FLORES, ANTONIA Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 4:00:00PM Case Number: 10-043872

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

S 6th ST LOWR

HALE, CHRISTOPHER Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 4:00:00PM Case Number: 12-147270

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct

S 4th ST

HARSHBARGER, SHANNA Age: 21 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 2:40:00AM Case Number: 12-147060

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

Domestic Battery

Other criminal offenses

Eastmoreland

HOWELL, GEORGIA Age: 80 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 3:50:00PM Case Number: 12-147224

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Theft of lost or mislaid property

7TH ST

MCCLINTON, JAZZNIQUE Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 12:10:00AM Case Number: 12-147043

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

OAKWOOD

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 11 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/16/2012

Charges:

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

MCQUEENY, CASSANDRA Age: 20 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 2:35:00PM Case Number: 12-146671

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

Hit and Run

Improper lane usage

PHYLISS RD

MCREA, JASON Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 2:20:00AM Case Number: 12-147058

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61103

Charges:

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Improper lane usage

Operating vehicle suspended reg.-no insurance

PIERCE AVE

MOSSHOLDER, DEREK Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 8:10:00PM Case Number: 12-147346

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Dixon, IL 61021

Charges:

Retail Theft (less Than $150-Standard)

MARY CT

PEDERSEN, LILIANA Age: 25 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 12:44:00PM Case Number: 12-147189

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

No Child Restraint (Vehicle)

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic signal violation

California RD

SILLANPAA, MATTHEW Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 8:15:00PM Case Number: 12-147381

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Hartford, WI 53027

Charges:

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

E WISCONSIN ST

STEELE, DENEISHA Age: 23 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 12:49:00PM Case Number: 12-147191

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Hit and Run

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Other traffic offenses

Suspended/revoked drivers license

BIBURY RD

WOODRUFF, ANTONIO Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/16/2012 12:40:00PM Case Number: 12-147192

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Belvidere, IL

Charges:

Service to other agency- Sheriffs dept

COLUMBIA AVE

11/15/2012

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 12 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/15/2012

CHAMBERS, ANTWON Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 4:50:00PM Case Number: 11-148832

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

Oakley AVE

COLQUETT, CORY Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 12:50:00AM Case Number: 12-146657

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

S MAIN ST

FRY, SHERRI Age: 45 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 6:11:00PM Case Number: 12-146932

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Burglary – No Forced Entry (Non-Residence)

N Winnebago

GATTONE, ROBERT Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 10:00:00AM Case Number: 12-082859

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Algonquin, IL 60102

Charges:

Retail Theft (More than $150- Standard)

WINDING CANYON WAY

GATTONE, ROBERT Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 10:00:00AM Case Number: 12-082957

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Algonquin, IL 60102

Charges:

Retail Theft (More than $150- Standard)

WINDING CANYON WAY

HINES, MICHAEL Age: 32 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 11:30:00AM Case Number: 12-138335

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Chicago, IL

Charges:

Violation Of An Order Of Protection

S LOWE

JONES, LEONARD Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 7:48:00PM Case Number: 12-146527

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

FOREST AVE

JONES, LEONARD Age: 48 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 7:48:00PM Case Number: 12-146936

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

Unlawful Restraint (includes aggravated)

FOREST AVE

MARZETTE, STEFFOND Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 7:25:00PM Case Number: 12-136665

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Battery – Handgun

SAUBER AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 13 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/15/2012

MELCHERT, CHAD Age: 22 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 8:01:00PM Case Number: 12-146959

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Violation Of An Order Of Protection

HOMELESS/811 ILLINOIS

OSTROWSKI, MICHAEL Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 2:30:00PM Case Number: 12-127766

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Loves Park, IL 61111

Charges:

Theft (less than $300- Unauthorized Control)

RENROSE AVE

SALGADO, ALEX Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 12:00:00PM Case Number: 12-145001

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

False police report

Reckless Discharge Of A Firearm

Unlawful Use Of Weapons By A Felon

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

S. Greenview Ave.

SPEARS, RUSSELL Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 2:45:00PM Case Number: 12-021868

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il 61101

Charges:

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

Foster AVE

STEVENSON, DELESIA Age: 52 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 6:50:00PM Case Number: 12-146903

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (More than $150- Standard)

7TH ST

THOMAS, TEELA Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 12:33:00AM Case Number: 12-146654

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Poss Cocaine Intent to Del (more than 1g less than 15g within Church)

Possession of drug equipment

Illegal Transportation or Possession of Alcohol

Montrose AVE

TUCKER, GREGORY Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 7:25:00PM Case Number: 12-130106

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Rockford,Il

Charges:

Domestic Battery

ALLIANCE AVE

TYLER, CHRISTINA Age: 49 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 6:11:00PM Case Number: 12-146932

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Beloit, WI

Charges:

Retail Theft (More than $150- Standard)

Shirland AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 14 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 11/21/2012 8:35:03AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

11/15/2012

YANCY, DREW Age: 32 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 11/15/2012 12:33:00AM Case Number: 12-146654

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department

Chicago, IL 60644

Charges:

Poss Cocaine Intent to Del (more than 1g less than 15g within Church)

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

Illegal Transportation or Possession of Alcohol

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

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

W. Quincy ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 15 of 15

until proven guilty in a court of law

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

The City of Rockford Legal Department has announced they have settled the matter of City of Rockford v. San Jose Cultural Center located at 3780 E. State St., Rockford.

The complaint addressed a Nov. 4 incident that began as a confrontation inside San Jose Cultural Center and spilled out of the business. Subsequently, multiple gunshots were fired in the parking lot of the business as well as other locations as vehicles fled the scene. At least two businesses and one residence were struck by bullets.

As a result of the Nov. 4 events, the city immediately suspended the Cultural Center’s liquor license for seven days. In the course of the investigation by the Liquor Commission, it was determined that the terms and conditions of approval of the liquor license issued to San Jose were violated, and the significant level of violence that subsequently erupted on and about the licensed premises was a direct result of the violation.

In addition to the immediate relinquishment of the liquor license issued to San Jose Cultural Center, the parties also agreed to the following terms:

• Liquor License No. ZR-504 issued to the respondent for the premises located at 3780 E. State St. shall be immediately relinquished and become void.

• No alcoholic beverages shall be consumed or sold at the property until such time as a new, valid liquor permit is issued for consumption on the property.

• The respondent shall pay the costs of the court reporter in attendance at the liquor hearing Wednesday, Nov. 14. Said costs shall be no greater than $130 and shall be due within 45 days from the date of entry of the final agreed order.

• The respondent shall pay a fine of $500 within 45 days from the date of entry of the final agreed order.

• No action shall be taken against liquor license Nos. ZR-440 issued for the property located at 3035 N. Rockton Ave. and ZR-375 issued for the property located at 3725 E. State St. as a result of the underlying incident on Nov. 4 at 3780 E. State St. However, nothing in the final agreed order shall be interpreted to waive the complainant’s right to pursue future action against liquor license Nos. ZR-440 and ZR-375 in the event that illegal or disorderly activity occurs on said licensed premises in the future.

The owners of the San Jose Cultural Club have worked cooperatively with the City of Rockford to settle this matter. The Liquor Commission hearing scheduled for 11:30 a.m., Nov. 21, has been canceled.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

Dr. Joseph Peterson will deliver a 70th Anniversary of Burpee Museum Lecture Series lecture at 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 25, at Burpee Museum of Natural History, 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

Topic of Dr. Peterson’s presentation will be “Dinosores — Injury and Behavior in Cretaceous Dinosaurs.”

With the bones of dinosaurs prepped and displayed, the question becomes what life was like for these beasts. With their giant teeth and enormous femurs, was their behavior as giant?

Over the last few years, Dr. Peterson has studied various injuries in Cretaceous dinosaurs such as the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex, the horned Triceratops and the thick-headed Pachycephalosaurus. These injuries or “paleopathologies” provide insight into the paleobiology and behaviors of dinosaurs.

Dr. Peterson has his Ph.D. from Northern Illinois University and teaches in the Geology Department at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. The Pecatonica High School graduate volunteered at Burpee Museum for a number of years, working on exhibits and in the prep lab. He participated in Burpee’s digs in Montana from 2001 to 2005, including participating in the team that dug up Jane.

The Nov. 25 lecture is free to members, free with paid admission to Burpee Museum or $5 for the lecture only.

For more information, contact Burpee at (815) 965-3433 or visit burpee.org.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

MONROE, Wis. — Relax this holiday season and do your shopping at the Monroe (Wis.) Arts Center’s (MAC) 2012 Holiday Silent Auction.

From Friday, Nov. 23, through Friday, Dec. 14, this annual holiday shopping tradition provides a variety of unique gifts on display at MAC’s Wesley Hall, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis.

This important annual fund-raiser for MAC features more than 200 items donated by individuals and businesses from Monroe, southern Wisconsin, and northern Illinois.

The auction opening night is scheduled for 6-8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 23. Holiday music and refreshments will add to the opening night’s festive shopping experience.

For the convenience of shoppers, the items are displayed and arranged by category. An auction booklet listing the items is provided. Categories are Original and Limited Editions; Handcrafted and Floral Designs; Especially For You; For Your Home and Garden; Theater, Sports and Leisure; Restaurant and Specialty Dinners; and Baked Goods and Specialty Foods.

Auction items include handcrafted seasonal centerpieces; art objects; jewelry; golf package; tickets to “Chicago on Broadway’s” Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby; Milwaukee Brewers baseball tickets; traditional Swiss dinner for four; gift certificates for clothing, food and jewelry; autographed Green Bay Packers LeRoy Butler photograph; oak roll-top desk; the ever-popular selection of delicious homemade candies, breads, cookies, cakes, pies, jams and jellies; and a Pony Party donated by M & M Pony Ranch of Monroe.

Final bids will be accepted until 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 14, prior to the beginning of the MAC Holiday Concert. This free holiday concert, emceed by Ron Spielman, will feature vocalist Tracy Bristow, with piano accompaniment by Christina Parkinson. Bristow’s program will include both traditional and popular Christmas music.

Auction items may be viewed during MAC regular business hours, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. For extended viewing hours and information, contact the MAC at (608) 325-5700 or 888-596-1249, or online at www.monroeartscenter.com. Bids are accepted in person or by phone.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

The Northwest Illinois Theater Coalition (NITC) presents it final show of the season with its presentation of The Ghost of Christmas Presents, by Pat Cook. A perfect way to kick off the holiday season, this delightful and warm-hearted holiday yarn will open the weekend after Thanksgiving and play through Dec. 2^.

Opening on the stage of Mighty Richland Players Dessert Theater, 203 W. High St., Orangeville, at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 23, performances continue through the weekend Saturday evening, Nov. 24, and Sunday, Nov. 25, for a matinee performance at 2 p.m. Ticket cost is $20. Reservations can be made for the performances at Mighty Richland Players by calling Monroe Arts Center toll-free at 888-596-1249 or (608) 325-5700. Visa or MasterCard only.

Next up is the annual dessert theater hosted at the home of Back Street Players at the Hanover Township Hall, 111 Monroe St., at 7:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday, Nov. 29-30. Because of limited seating, reservations are required and may be reserved and purchased for $12 at Village Hall, 207 Jefferson St., or by calling (815) 591-3800.

The show closes in Stockton at Plum River Playhouse, Christ Lutheran Church, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1, and a 2 p.m., Sunday matinee, Dec. 2. Plum River Playhouse tickets may be purchased at Stockton Banking Center by calling (815) 947-2000. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door.

The story opens a week before Christmas, and returns are already piling up for a disgruntled employee (Melanie Frederick, Mt. Carroll) in the exchange department at Wallace and Sons’ Department Store. Unfortunately, Taylor’s sour demeanor is matched by the frazzled, frustrated customers in line to get their money back. The store’s manager, Mr. Carlisle (Reynold Nolan, Hanover), figures Taylor needs something to help remind him of the Christmas spirit. Just then, a mysterious stranger (Mary Jo Frederick, Mt. Carroll) enters the scene. She proceeds to put into effect the store policy of having “happy customers” by initiating a series of almost miraculous events.

Completing the cast are Kathryn Lincicum and Peter Woodruff of Elizabeth; Sue Wichman, Glenda Adams, Deb Ketzel and Lynn Epping of Orangeville; Carl and Joan Sanford of Freeport; Sandy Sweitzer of Pear City; and Terrie Miller of Mt. Carroll.

Directed by Peter Woodruff, with musical direction and accompanied by Ben Randecker of Lena, this show is sure to have audiences smiling and singing as they leave the theater.

The NITC is composed of Back Street Players of Hanover, Mighty Richland Players Dessert Theater of Orangeville and Plum River Playhouse of Stockton.

For further information, e-mail nwitc2012@gmail.com.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

MONROE, Wis. — The sights, sounds and smells of an Old World holiday tradition will fill the Grand Hall of the Turner Hall of Monroe, Wis., Friday and Saturday, Nov. 23-24.

Part of Turner Hall’s 2012 Swiss Heritage Series, the annual holiday market known as Christkindlmarkt will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the two days following Thanksgiving.

Originating in Germany, the first Christkindlmarkts — or Christ Child Markets — date back to 1434, with the market in Nuremburg being one of the oldest and most famous. The aroma of Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Glüwein (hot spiced wine), mingled with the scent of fresh pine, filled the outdoor market spaces that featured holiday foods and unique wares crafted by artisans.

Although Turner Hall’s Christkindlmarkt is held indoors, the Emmental-style chalet, rich in the alpine heritage of Switzerland, provides the perfect ambiance for this traditional market, including the same sensory delights as the European markets.

Shoppers will find the work of more than 30 select artisans and crafters, with unique, affordable and quality gifts such as specifically European folk art items like Scherenschnitte (scissor cuttings), Kerbschnitte (chip-carving in wood) and Holzschnitte (wood-carvings), as well as fabric arts, handmade soaps and lotions, floral arrangements, jewelry, knit items, Christmas décor, and much more.

Also part of the market, a European-style café, including homemade Swiss-baked goods, soups and hot spiced wine, will offer Christkindlmarkt shoppers a chance to relax and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

The lower level Ratskeller Restaurant will also be open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days, as well as for evening dinner starting at 4:30 p.m.

Turner Hall’s Samichlaus (the Swiss version of Santa Claus) and his gloomy sidekick, Schmutzli, will be on hand to visit with children of all ages. There will also be a restored horse sleigh on display for picture-taking.

Saturday, shoppers are also invited to visit the Monroe Middle School across the street from the Turner Hall, where the Green County Relay for Life (American Cancer Society) will be offering a “Shop for a Cure,” featuring home party products.

Turner Hall of Monroe, Inc., is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has a mission of preserving and nurturing Swiss heritage and culture. At 1217 17th Ave., one block south of Monroe’s downtown Square, the current Turner Hall was built in 1938 following the destruction by fire of the original structure built in 1868.

The authentic Swiss Emmental-style chalet, designed by German architect Max Hanisch, is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places and is believed to be the only Turner Hall of Swiss origin left in the United States.

The facility is handicapped accessible. More information about the Christkindlmarkt, including a complete listing of vendors, is available at www.TurnerHallofMonroe.org/christkindlmarkt.html.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

Wisdom And You (WAY) Enterprises will hold another “It’s ALL In Me!” inspirational workshop retreat for women from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, at the Freeport Public Library, 100 W. Douglas St., Freeport.

WAY founder and CEO Ms. Dianna Cole will present the message, “Thank About It! (The Benefits of an Attitude of Gratitude).” Workshop attendees will be given a chance to participate. Testimonies of gratitude will be given. Also, since this is the last workshop of the year, with no meeting in December, some giveaways will be part of the program.

Light refreshments will be served. Suggested donation is $10. For more information, contact Dianna Cole at (815) 914-1487 or MsCSOGN@aol.com or www.WAY4U.net.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Online Staff Report

OREGON, Ill. — In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Batwing flex-wing rotary cutter, Woods Equipment Company is commissioning a work of art that captures the role this invention has played in changing the landscape of American agriculture.

The Call for Artists began Aug. 1, with submission due by Nov. 30, and the contest is open to artists of all ages, working in all media.

A judging panel will collectively select the winning entry based on creativity, quality and the works’ ability to capture the role the Batwing has played in changing the landscape of American agriculture.

The winner will be chosen on or about Dec. 15, and will be notified by e-mail.

The artist whose work is selected by the judging panel will receive $1,000 and the work will be displayed in the lobby of Woods Equipment Company. In addition, the work will be featured on the Woods website and other publications, and announced in a national press release.

Official rules and the online entry process are available at www.woodsequipment.com/batwingcontest. All entries must be submitted online and require completion of a simple form and a digital photograph of the original work of art.

For more about this contest, contact Sandra Carlson at (815) 732-9561. For more about Woods products or to find a dealer, call customer service at (815) 319-6637 or visit www.woodsequipment.com.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Todd C. Smith

Online Staff Report

Katrina A. Smith’s husband, Todd C. Smith, 45, has been charged with her murder almost one month to the day after she was reported missing.

Todd Smith faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicide, punishable by 20 to 100 years in prison. He was arrested at around 2:45 p.m., Nov. 21, and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail on a $4 million bond. He is to appear in court Saturday, Nov. 24.

Katrina Smith’s body was found around 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 9, in the Rock River near the intersection of Route 2 and Townline Road, south of Byron, Ill. The Ogle County Coroner’s Office identified the body as Katrina Smith’s via dental records Nov. 10. Results of an autopsy showed Katrina Smith suffered blunt force trauma.

Memorial services were Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 16-17.

According to reports, Katrina Smith, 30, was last seen by her husband at about 9 p.m., Monday, Oct. 22, at their Machesney Park residence at 8239 Tetterhall Lane.

Katrina Smith’s vehicle was found abandoned at Obispo and Ventura in Machesney Park at approximately 7:50 p.m., Oct. 23. Neighbors reported seeing the vehicle parked at that location earlier in the day, unoccupied.

Katrina Smith’s purse was recovered Wednesday, Oct. 24, a short distance from where the vehicle was located.

During a search conducted by family and friends Oct. 26, paper towels were recovered with a substance believed to be blood on them. These items were recovered in a field between Obispo and Ralston Road. Her cell phone was recovered in the 700 block of Ralston Thursday, Oct. 25.

Katrina A. Smith

Also Thursday, Oct. 25, Katrina Smith’s wallet was turned over to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department. The wallet had been recovered by a citizen in the roadway of a Rockford street and turned in to a business as found property.

Tuesday, Oct. 30, police obtained a search warrant and searched the Smith residence on Tetterhall Lane.

According to court documents, Todd Smith, who used to go by Todd Raprager, was convicted of arson in 1985 at the age of 17 after attempting to set his family’s home on fire with his parents and brother inside. The home was destroyed, but no one was hurt in the incident. Smith served 30 months of probation and was required to get a drug evaluation.

Also, according to a State of Illinois Secretary of State Securities Department file, Smith was accused in October 2011 of allegedly bilking elderly people out of millions of dollars.

Katrina Smith worked in the Human Resources Department at Camryn Company in Belvidere, Ill. Although the Smiths’ residence is in Machesney Park, Katrina Smith had recently been staying in Roscoe, Ill. The couple has no children.

Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Todd C. Smith

Staff Report

Katrina A. Smith’s husband, Todd C. Smith, 45, was charged with her murder almost one month to the day after she was reported missing.

Todd Smith faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicide, punishable by 20 to 100 years in prison. He was arrested at around 2:45 p.m., Nov. 21, and is being held in the Winnebago County Jail on a $4 million bond.

Katrina Smith’s body was found around 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 9, in the Rock River near the intersection of Route 2 and Townline Road, south of Byron, Ill. The Ogle County Coroner’s Office identified the body as Katrina Smith’s via dental records Nov. 10. Results of an autopsy showed Katrina Smith suffered blunt force trauma.

Memorial services were Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 16-17.

According to reports, Katrina Smith, 30, was last seen by her husband at about 9 p.m., Monday, Oct. 22, at their Machesney Park residence at 8239 Tetterhall Lane.

Katrina Smith’s vehicle was found abandoned at Obispo and Ventura in Machesney Park at approximately 7:50 p.m., Oct. 23. Neighbors reported seeing the vehicle parked at that location earlier in the day, unoccupied.

Katrina Smith’s purse was recovered Wednesday, Oct. 24, a short distance from where the vehicle was located.

During a search conducted by family and friends Oct. 26, paper towels were recovered with a substance believed to be blood on them. These items were recovered in a field between Obispo and Ralston Road. Her cell phone was recovered in the 700 block of Ralston Thursday, Oct. 25.

Also Thursday, Oct. 25, Katrina Smith’s wallet was turned over to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department. The wallet had been recovered by a citizen in the roadway of a Rockford street and turned in to a business as found property.

Tuesday, Oct. 30, police obtained a search warrant and searched the Smith residence on Tetterhall Lane.

According to court documents, Todd Smith, who used to go by Todd Raprager, was convicted of arson in 1985 at the age of 17 after attempting to set his family’s home on fire with his parents and brother inside. The home was destroyed, but no one was hurt in the incident. Smith served 30 months of probation and was required to get a drug evaluation.

Also, according to a State of Illinois Secretary of State Securities Department file, Smith was accused in October 2011 of allegedly bilking elderly people out of millions of dollars.

Katrina Smith worked in the Human Resources Department at Camryn Company in Belvidere, Ill. Although the Smiths’ residence is in Machesney Park, Katrina Smith had recently been staying in Roscoe, Ill. The couple had no children.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

The Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art in Helsinki, Finland. “I would like to emphasize that in Europe, dance — as well as all art forms — is a far more regarded and respected profession than in the United States and, therefore, much more prosperous.” — Suzee Belles (Photo by Suzee Belles)

Editor’s note: Following is part one of a two-part series.

By Suzee Belles
Contributing Writer

Imagine a city. A city with red-tiled rooftops, cobblestone roads that are filled with speeding bicycles. Every so often, the road must end because of the many canals. The sea bordering the city is dotted with numerous large, white, power-generating windmills. The streets lined with an array of old buildings, palaces, but also some of the most contemporary buildings in the world. This is a shred of an idea of what Copenhagen, Denmark, is like.

Having grown up as a Swedish-American in Rockford, I learned to appreciate the Scandinavian culture from a young age and have always felt drawn there. But it wasn’t my love for the culture that brought me there, it was my art: ballet.

This fall, I had the opportunity to travel to Copenhagen, Denmark, as an exchange student on behalf of my school, Ballet Chicago. I traveled there with my two classmates, Molly Brown and Emma Berry. We stayed there for six weeks to study with the Royal Danish Ballet.

The Royal Danish Ballet (RDB )is the third-oldest ballet company in the world. They also have a reputation of being one of the best companies in the world, with an especially remarkable corps de ballet.

In Denmark, as with much of Europe, dance is a much respected art form, as well as profession. This was greatly reflected in the operation and facility of the Royal Danish Theater. This single building is where the ballet company rehearses, performs and operates, and where the students of the school live.

More than 80 dancers are in the company. All of the dancers get a dressing room in the theater that they share with one other dancer. Much like any other larger company, the dancers receive pointe shoes, ribbons, elastics and even pointe shoe glue and toe tape.

Inside the theater is a gym and sauna for the dancers’ use, as well as a massage therapist and two physical therapists who are there daily.

The costume shop at RDB looked to me like a tutu factory, and I never saw fewer than 10 seamstresses working at a time. I would like to emphasize that in Europe, dance — as well as all art forms — is a far more regarded and respected profession than in the United States and, therefore, much more prosperous. However, I suppose it doesn’t hurt having the royal family as your sponsor, either!

While we were there, we usually took class with the six apprentices of the Royal Danish Ballet, making a class size of nine, unless we had a girls’ class, which made it a class of five.

A couple times a week, we got to take class with the company girls, and at least once a week, took class with the entire company. One day when we had class with the whole company, Nikolaj Hubbe, the artistic director of the company, taught class. During that class, he gave me three corrections. Getting a correction means you have been noticed, so it was pretty exciting to have that happen. And you better know that I’ll be working hard on those things until I return!

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

Contributed by Katie’s Cup

We would like to update you on Katie’s Cup!

Over five years ago, Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries joined ZION Development Corporation in visioning a gathering place that would promote the building of community, centered around timely conversations of faith and life. The dream started to take shape when ZION Development offered to develop such a space as part of the revitalization of Seventh Street in Midtown Rockford. As planning became reality, the coffeebar took shape.

Katie’s Cup opened almost four years ago and is an outstanding architectural space that has become a prime gathering spot for many community groups. Contributing to the renewal of the neighborhood, Katie’s Cup, at 502 Seventh St., provides an alternative place for folks to gather for “coffee, conversation, and community.”

On July 2, 2012, a newly created not-for-profit organization, Seventh Street Coffee, Inc., with the continued support of Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries, purchased the Katie’s Cup business from ZION Development and began leasing the commercial space from them. The founding group formed a board of directors this past summer, and developed committees to work with operations, fund development, programming, marketing and governance.

Exciting steps forward have taken place at Katie’s Cup since then, including: expanding the hours of operations; celebrating a Grand Re-Opening on Oct. 5; adding new pastries, soups and more sandwiches to the menu; and resuming the “Katie’s Cup Conversations” over the lunch hour.

The presence of Katie’s Cup on Seventh Street has made an incredible difference in the neighborhood. Almost overnight, following its opening, the crime rate fell in the blocks surrounding the coffeebar, becoming one of the lowest in the city. The School District felt comfortable enough to move their offices across the street. And the Rockford Police Department is considering a nearby buuilding for one of its three command centers. Church groups and community leaders have sought Katie’s Cup as a place to gather and talk, especially about how they can improve their neighborhoods and the lives of those with whom they share their work and play.

Thank you for your support of Katie’s Cup as a customer and through your support of ZION Development. We are grateful to those of you who encouraged ZDC’s vision to make Katie’s Cup a stand-alone mission. It now is just that! The Seventh Street Coffee group’s goal is to become an economically-sustainable operation. In order to fully accomplish this goal, we are seeking additional investor-donors.

We are asking that you pray for Katie’s Cup — for its mission and for its finances – and that you pray about and consider what kind of contribution you might make. Please especially consider a three-year pledge that will help forward our goal to ultimately purchase the storefronts Katie’s Cup occupies.

We hope you will also let us know if you would like to be kept abreast of the great things happening at Katie’s Cup, and that you might even want to become one of Katie’s special volunteers!

Your contribution is tax deductible. Checks can be made out to Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries (put Katie’s Cup on the memo line) and mailed to Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St., Rockford, IL 61104. We thank you for your prayers and your gifts.

In Christian Service, Mariel Heinke, Board President, Seventh Street Coffee, Inc. — Members of the Board of Directors: Mariel Heinke, President; Lori Mueller, Vice President; Cindy Loken, Secretary; Mark Ticknor, Treasurer; Pam Bitner; Pastor Bill Dahlberg; Pastor Jane McChesney; Pastor Jay Quinn; Cathy Szewczyk; Pastor Mike Thomas; Pastor Janet Wold. More than 40 couples and individuals are among our founding donors, to date. Thank you!

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

• Yep, It’s Rocket Science! by Bob Windt and Sarah Ford

By Susan Johnson
Copy Editor

A local man who makes science fun and his volunteer helper have teamed up on a book project they hope will take off for new horizons — Yep, It’s Rocket Science! by Bob Windt and Sarah Ford. The launching pad for this new endeavor is a computer funding site called Kickstarter. If their goal is reached within a certain time limit, all systems are go! Otherwise, the project goes nowhere, and it’s back to the drawing board.

The Rock River Times spoke with both authors about their project. Here’s what they told us.

TRRT: What age group is this Rocket Science book designed for?

Bob Windt: “Generally, I work with kids from third grade up — 7-year-olds through high school. My primary group is probably third through eighth grade.”

TRRT: How long did it take to get collaboration for this project?

BW: “I’ve been doing this for many years, but I met this lady [Sarah Ford] who writes, and she was going to redo the book. She has connections with publishers. I am a retired aeronautics engineer. I like aeronautics, rockets, airplanes … I like to teach kids to use their minds and imaginations.”

TRRT: Have any schools or science clubs expressed an interest in getting the book for their group?

BW: “I haven’t had any express interest because they didn’t know anything was going to be available. I haven’t talked about it much yet because I wasn’t sure we were going to meet our goal. Any school that calls me, I will go and do a science project with them. Kids build their own science toys out of simple household stuff.”

TRRT: Could you tell us about the Kickstarter project?

BW: “The Kickstarter program is a program on the Internet through which people fund different things that they think would be a benefit for society. My thing is in the book with science toys and projects. We only have another 20 days or so to fund it. If it isn’t funded completely, we don’t get it. People donate with a credit card, and if we don’t reach the goal, then everything goes back to the people who donated to it.”

TRRT: How did this project come about?

BW: “I’ve been involved with schools and Boy Scouts for about 15 years. I’ve also been involved with Rockford AirFest; I do the paper rockets there. I do a lot of schools, also museums. Often, different Scout groups will call me and ask if I can do a project on rockets or boats or airplanes or cars — anything scientific. I have all these little science toys — vehicles that kids can build from cheap household items like Styrofoam plates, paper and school glue.”

Sarah Ford told us the story from her perspective.

TRRT: How did you get involved in this project?

Sarah Ford: “Bob and I have been friends for about six years. I met Bob through my son, Isaiah. He’s been amazing with him and helps with learning. He has the kids come over to his workshops. He’s a retired aeronautical engineer, and he has this passion for reaching kids and getting them engaged. He has hovercraft and model planes, but mostly he encourages kids to make things themselves. … It was just getting to know him as a very kind and giving person. … He goes to schools and festivals, so I volunteered, and I have seen him in action, and the kids just love him. He really inspires kids. It’s so cool to see how he makes that connection with them.”

TRRT: How did you get into this Kickstarter project?

SF: “Bob has told me that his dream was to reach as many kids as possible with this love of science. He wants to share his love of science with kids, so he asked me, ‘How do we reach more kids?’ I have responded to a few Kickstarter projects. I’ve been aware of it through social media. I love the concept of people from all over contributing to each other’s ideas. So, I thought if we could get votes and funding for Bob’s project and reach other networks … I put the project together and proposed it to Bob.

“The thing about Kickstarter is all or nothing as a crowd-funding site. You either have to raise the amount you set, or don’t get any money. … As of last night (Monday), we have $4,500, plus some personal donations. Everyone has a credit card; some people write checks. We’ll make sure they get their rewards. We are about halfway done — 12 days left to go.”

To donate or make pledges, go to Kickstarter.com and enter the amount you wish to donate.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

Staff Report

FREEPORT, Ill. — The Rev. Jesse Jackson will return to Freeport, Ill., Wednesday, Nov. 28, to meet with workers at Freeport’s Sensata Technologies plant about their efforts to gain a full severance from the company. He will also be in town to appear along with 13 other arrestees at a court date relating to their Oct. 24 arrest.

The 14 were arrested Oct. 24 after attempting to march onto company property against the company’s wishes.

Jackson’s Nov. 28 meeting will be at 12:30 p.m. at the Stephenson County Courthouse, 15 N. Galena Ave., Freeport, Ill.

Bain Capital-owned Sensata plans to close the Freeport plant in December and outsource the plant’s 170 jobs to China. Workers at the plant have been training their Chinese replacements, who have been flown to Illinois by the company. Sensata develops, manufactures, and sells sensors and controls for major auto manufacturers such as Ford and General Motors.

Sensata employees who have been at the plant for 20, 30 and even 40-plus years are getting 26 weeks of pay as a severance from Sensata, even after training their Chinese replacements.

The workers’ severance package was cut just a few months before Bain-owned Sensata took over the plant — signaling that the company wanted to avoid paying full severance to its employees when it shipped their jobs to China.

Sensata emerged as a flashpoint in the controversy over Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s ties to China this past fall. Sensata workers pleaded publicly with Romney to help save their jobs from being outsourced to China, including presenting his campaign with a 35,000-signature petition and attending the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., in August. Romney never responded to their calls for help.

Two unfair labor practice charges were filed against Sensata with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Oct. 24 after the company threatened to shut its Freeport plant down immediately if its employees continued to organize to stop the outsourcing of their jobs. The first charge was for “increasing security and announcing a new policy, or a previously unenforced policy, prohibiting off-duty employees from entering work areas at non-work times, in response to and in retaliation for employees engaging in protected concerted activity,” while the second charge was for threatening to shut the plant down.

For 59 days, Sept. 12-Nov. 9, the movement rallied around an encampment called “Bainport” at Stephenson County Fairgrounds. The Bainport encampment and the efforts of Sensata workers gained national attention this fall, as MSNBC’s The Ed Show broadcast live from the location and The New York Times, the Huffington Post and the New York Daily News all provided coverage of the movement.

Bainport also welcomed many national figures to the fairgrounds, including the Rev. Jesse Jackson, United Steelworkers President Leo Gerard, former NAACP Chairman Julian Bond, the Rev. Al Sharpton, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., United Auto Workers President Bob King, Service Employees International Union President Mary Kay Henry and Bain workers from France.

Twenty-three individuals have been arrested since the protests began. Among those arrested were the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Bishop Tavis Grant and former Rockford Ald. Victory Bell.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

By Paula Hendrickson
Contributing Writer

Ever notice how many repeats air throughout the month of December? With the November ratings sweeps period behind them, and the holidays fast approaching, it’s as if the major broadcast networks have given up on programming entirely.

Programming executives probably assume people don’t watch much TV in December, assuming we’re all on vacation, spending all day Christmas shopping or attending glamorous holiday parties. Maybe that’s what they do, but for most of us, December is pretty much a business-as-usual month up until about Dec. 23. For a lot of people, December is a time of year when families gather and might want to spend an evening curled up watching TV and sipping cocoa.

Dig a bit deeper, and it seems the main reason people stop tuning into network programming is because their favorite shows are all on hiatus. Several cable channels earn their highest ratings of the year by airing original holiday-themed made-for-TV movies, so somebody’s watching TV in December.

Taking a couple weeks off is one thing, but some series are taking fairly lengthy breaks. (Thankfully, none will be as long as Breaking Bad’s final “mid-season” break, which began in September; the few remaining new episodes won’t return until summer 2013.)

The mid-season finale of AMC’s The Walking Dead airs Sunday, Dec. 2, and who isn’t looking forward to the inevitable clash between Rick (Andrew Lincoln) and The Governor (David Morrissey) and the (possibly violent) reunion of the Dixon brothers, Darryl (Norman Reedus) and Merle (Michael Rooker)? Waiting until February to learn how things turn out will agonize fans.

But fans of NBC’s (only) new hit, Revolution, will have an even longer wait. Its fall finale aired Monday, Nov. 26, but new episodes won’t return until March. That’s a really long time for viewers to maintain interest in the fates of Miles (Billy Burke), Charlie (Tracy Spiridakos) and the rest. It is hoped NBC will repeat most — or better yet, all — of the initial 10 episodes next spring to help prime the audience for its return.

Taking lengthy breaks is risky, especially for serialized dramas like The Walking Dead and Revolution. While The Walking Dead has had a couple seasons to build a loyal audience, Revolution has only aired 10 episodes. While it’s more than held its own against its 9 p.m. (Central) competitors, Castle and Hawaii 5-0, will it be able to maintain the same momentum after such a long hiatus?

Castle and Hawaii 5-0 have season-wide story arcs, but are actually episodic shows. You can miss an episode or two and pick right back up. That’s not so easy with Revolution. It’s a good show, so I hope viewers don’t forget it during its absence.

December might be a good time to plan a mini-marathon or two, either watching old episodes of favorite shows you’ve recorded or by catching up by watching them On Demand.

Paula Hendrickson is a regular contributor to Emmy magazine and Variety, and has been published in numerous national publications, including American Bungalow, Television Week and TVGuide. Follow her on Twitter at P_Hendrickson and send your suggestions to tubetalking-paula@yahoo.com.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

Editor’s note: The following retrospective article is reprinted from the Dec. 31, 2008-Jan. 6, 2009, issue of The Rock River Times. Watch for a report on the intervening five years in next week’s issue.

By Frank Schier
Editor & Publisher

New Year’s is a natural time of reflection on the past and wonder about the future.

The year 2009. Sounds strange. This past year marked the 20th year of this paper, and 15 years of publishing and editing The Rock River Times. Actually, that’s 17 years of newspapering for me, when the two years of just writing and selling for the paper are counted. In comparison, the now of the future seems surreal at times.

Seeing the future and a need for another voice in Rockford’s community of journalism, John Gile started publishing The Rock River Times’ predecessor, The North End Times, in November 1987. He mainly covered northwest Rockford, with wonderful stories about local history and businesses in the area.

As John told us for our 20th anniversary issue, “My writing career changed and forced me to relinquish publishing The North End Times in the fall of 1989, when a book I wrote, The First Forest became a best seller and led to speaking engagements across America and abroad. I sold the paper to Owen Phelps and the Phelps family in 1990, and they, in turn, sold the paper to Publisher Frank Schier.”

That sale was in December of 1992, and the first edition was published in January of 1993. I hope I have done justice to John and the Phelps’ endeavors.

Newspaper veteran Owen Phelps and his parents, Owen Charles Phelps Sr., and Joan Justen Phelps, had formed a corporation called Ventures North to take over the paper from John Gile and to start other projects. I cannot thank all the Phelps family enough for their mentorship and patience with a “know-it-all” novice. Some would say I haven’t changed much.

When Owen met this fellow, I was looking to publish stories and photos about a trip down the Rock River from its source in Wisconsin. Sometime, if you ask me, I’ll tell you quite a story that starts, “Once upon a time, a college professor, Joan Surrey at Rockford College…. But that story is for another time in print. Because of Joan Surrey’s efforts, Owen commissioned me for my account of canoeing down the Rock River. His parents accepted it for publication; Phelps edited it and saw that it was featured in several consecutive issues of the paper. I also came to work for The Observer while working on a graduate degree in English at NIU at that time.

The North End Times’ major contributor at the time was Joe Baker, who was appointed editor by Phelps; and after I purchased the paper, he worked hard and with great quality as our senior editor. Baker loves the North End and the internet and did fine work gathering and writing news and features. I cannot thank him enough for continuing his vast experience as a radio, television and daily newspaper reporter in our weekly pages.

As I began my career in then-monthly newspapering, I began to do more for The North End Times and went out to Durand and the offices of The Volunteer (Phelps’ other paper) to learn how to paste up (the manual method before complete computer construction). Also as a North Ender, I saw opportunity in owning the paper, especially if it could become a weekly. Phelps’ parents didn’t want to take on that sort of expansion because they were nearing retirement.

So, in 1992, they were happy to turn over the paper to an interested person from the neighborhood (they lived a block away), and I ran the paper out of my house for the first three years.

Besides the Phelps, Bob Stone, the former editor and publisher of The Rockford Journal, was another of my early mentors. Stone also created the first versions of “People in Our Times,” and wrote front-page editorials. It was quite a coup at the time to bring him and his many years of experience to our pages.

Important dates for TRRT

Our first weekly edition was Dec. 2, 1993.

We moved into the storefront office downtown in October 1995.

Our 500th issue was Jan. 14-20, 2004.

The 20th Anniversary Issue of the paper was our Oct. 22-28 issue of this year. In the last 15 of those years, the paper has grown from an eight-page monthly, with 100 drops mainly in northwest Rockford and an 8,000 monthly circulation, to an average of 48 pages weekly, distributed from Beloit, Wis., to Dixon and Belvidere to Freeport with more than 2,050 drops and circulation of 22,000 weekly, plus 1,500 to 2,000 individual visitors to our Website each week.

Some notable stories

With a great affection for literature and music, I envisioned the paper as primarily an arts paper. Many people had told me stories of begging for coverage from the daily, and I thought real opportunity lay ahead. I made a deal with my friend Gary Wilmer, publisher of RAM Magazine, that he would still own the rock ‘n’ roll scene, and I’d cover the fine arts.

Then, came the proposal to tear down the YMCA residence hall on the river. It was the only public example of the Prairie style of architecture. Doc Slafkosky and Jerry Kortman talked me into filing a legal protest. Considering the people on the YMCA board, that put me on the “not-so-favorite-people” list of the powers-that-be for the first time. This paper continued supporting our historical architecture by backing the renovation of our crown jewel, the Coronado Theatre.

Then, we did the Rockford Blacktop snow plowing story, where we compared Madison’s out-sourced plowing costs with Rockford’s. Rockford lost, and I won the never-ending affection of Chuck Howard.

Then, came the Gary Kaeding case: a man unjustly imprisoned in a domestic civil case. On Nov. 6, 1996, State’s Attorney Paul Logli set the outrageous amount of $1 million bond for Kaeding, charged with intimidation and contempt. Kaeding attempted to file a monster lawsuit that covered the school deseg case as fraud, satanism by public officials, siphoning of public funds, murder by abortion, molestation of children by judges, etc., etc. I told him he might have some basic points, but they had to be separate cases. He didn’t listen, and served public officials personally. They thought he was part of the militant group, Posse Comitatus, because he acted as his own lawyer and based all of his pleadings on old English Common Law. While he was odd, and brilliant, he wasn’t crazy. A few months later, Kaeding was sent to Chester Mental Health Facility, Chester, Ill. While imprisoned there, Kaeding was drugged and beaten, and we put a spotlight on the abuse. If not for the constant monitoring of the case and calls to the governor’s office by this newspaper, Kaeding might have been killed. Despite local news blackouts, the Inspector General investigated the treatment of Kaeding, and he was moved to Elgin. Kaeding was eventually freed. We saved a life, and he lives the quiet life today.

Our coverage has also pointed out other flaws in our political system. With the help of now-Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn (D), in October 1999, a national figure came to Rockford. “Granny D” (Doris Haddock), a tireless crusader for campaign finance reform, came to town as she walked across the United States.

Our coverage of the school desegregation lawsuit was extensive, on which we took the position against tyranny by the court and taxation without representation. While Federal Magistrate P. Michael Mahoney was eventually overturned, our community has really never recovered from the damage to our school system and the economic flight from our city.

We were also instrumental in the removal of a tax. Specifically, the downtown property tax, or TIF, which funded an organization that did not do much for the area. We replaced that with the River District Association.

We tried to aid the Tom Ditzler family in their fight against eminent domain by Winnebago County. In 2000, the county wanted to seize about a third of their land for the Springfield-Harrison extension. We documented that there were Native American burial mounds and artifacts on the property, which the county disputed. Although Gov. George Ryan eventually ruled in their favor, Winnebago County, acting independently, seized the land anyway under a form of eminent domain called quick-take. Early on the morning of Aug. 30, 2000, bulldozers moved in and began destroying a natural wetland, resulting in the construction of a road that has kept sinking and needs constant repair, as we predicted.

Our Super Fund coverage advocated for the small business owners who were being saddled with the bill for years of pollution by larger businesses. While the matter was eventually poorly settled in court, we have been saddled with new taxes for a new water system.

One of our stories that reached national prominence was about little Angela Rushford and how the Organ & Tissue Donation section began in January 2003. In one of our classified ads, the plea of a desperate family who were running out of options resulted in a special Christmas present from a live donor. Angela was on a six-month waiting list for a cadaver kidney. David and Shelah Harper of Mt. Morris picked up the paper, saw the classified ad, and called the number. David was a perfect match! This event resulted in the addition of a new “Organ & Tissue Donation” classified section. A story about our classified ad and Angela was published in the Dixon Telegraph. When the story was picked up by the AP Wire Service, we were featured with the Rushfords on the Today show and the CBS Evening News.

In February 2002, Jeff Havens, a chemistry lab manager and instructor at Rock Valley College, was fired by college president Roland Chapdelaine, supposedly because Havens was voicing his political opinions with undue influence on students. Actually, Havens had written several articles urging Rock Valley to become involved with renewable energy and questioning Chapdelaine’s fiscal policies and management. In March, I hired Havens as a reporter for TRRT. Previously, Havens had also written for us questioning the need for a mega-jail downtown, brought on by the Chatmon jail-overcrowding lawsuit. Later, in April, Havens began a series of investigative articles about the financial problems of RVC, attributed to Chapdelaine’s policies. Those articles eventually resulted in the firing of Chapdelaine after a “no confidence” vote of the college’s faculty. The termination of Chapdelaine was front-page news in our 500th issue. The paper, myself and Havens were later sued for defamation by Rock Valley College Board Trustee Don Johannes for libel as to his relations with the college, but the headline in our July 21-27, 2004, issue told the outcome: “Court dismisses case against TRRT.” Circuit Judge Janet Holmgren dismissed the case with prejudice, and the public’s right to know was upheld.

Havens also became known for his writing on organized crime in Rockford. His articles were quite sensational — only because the electronic media in the local daily had not done any major stories on the Rockford Mafia since 1984.

Tough testing

Over the years, the tough side of the paper has been tested in other ways. Our storefront windows were kicked out; my car has been shot with paint guns in the passenger door; gasoline was poured on my back porch; the porch screens and a kitchen window of my home had bricks thrown through them.

Police have been called on the 911 system — with the person calling saying she was my girlfriend, and I was suicidal and had a gun. The police were at my door, at first with their hands on their guns, seven times over two weeks. No one has ever been charged in those cases.

Employees and columnists with interesting agendas have come and gone.

Myself and my employees were repeatedly called to jury duty, until we filed a Freedom of Information request of the records,which was never fulfilled, but I didn’t have the money or time to sue.

Jon Bystrom (who helped me start this paper as the first assistant editor/Spanish writer and translator, and still does excellent work every week) was screwed and lost a massive part of his personal assets in a terrible partnership dissolution, which had elements of this paper involved in the case.

Major advertising accounts have disappeared because of political pressure on the business owners.

The IRS tried to close this paper under the Clinton administration, and U.S. Rep. Don Manzullo told me he could only say it was politically motivated.

Many a mysterious street person has followed me, stalked me, threatened me and been arrested. I can file those charges.

At 15 flat tires, I stopped counting. Many other employees also have had “mysterious” vandalisms to their vehicles and properties too numerous to mention in this editorial.

At times, my personal life has been one of terrible pain and great joy, compounded by the challenges of trust, perseverance and understanding people’s motivations and character, especially my own. Sadly or amazingly, however you wish to see life, I have grown. I have the scars and many people’s love to prove it. For them, I will continue to endeavor to do the right thing and tell the truth.

In eastern Europe, there’s a saying, “Tell the truth and RUN!” Aren’t we glad we live in America, and Rockford, Ill. Now, looking worse than New Jersey because of the scandals surrounding our governor, and all of our other jailed governors, Illinois is absolutely a corrupt state.

Rockford, of course, is no exception, and Patrick Fitzgerald could have a real heyday here if he ever showed up. But Rockford is given the “hands off” treatment by our state and federal investigative arms somehow, as shown by the unresolved “poker game” investigation, which reportedly involved major community players.

That’s the challenge for small, independent newspapers like this one — we have a big job the powers-that-be don’t want done. A sophisticated fear rules many a heart that could be courageous in this town, but those hearts too often fail to find their strength.

At the 10th Annual River District Association meeting, Mayor Larry Morrissey told the story of the founding of the River District and noted a conversation with me. I had told him about a saying I saw on a poster in Owen Phelps’ (then the editor of The Observer) office. It said, “Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.” Larry and the audience laughingly agreed.

Our job, more than lonely and sanity stretching at times, is to have courage for those who cannot muster up the courage. Your encouragement and good company makes our strength possible. Besides standing up to the idiots who line their pockets and ruin their souls at the public’s expense, this paper (with the strength of your subscriptions and advertising) has been able to do some really good things over the years. We think. Let’s look at the years.

Community achievements

1990 — When I was just a reporter for The North End Times, along with Gary S. Wilmer, publisher of RAM Magazine and concert producer Bruce Hammond, we founded the Rockford Area Music Industry awards (RAMIs), which won the Mayor’s Arts Award in 1999 for creative cultural event. Hope to see you at the 2009 RAMI Youth Charity Jam Audition and performance, Feb. 28 and April 3, respectively; the RAMIs Benefit, March 21; and 19th Annual RAMIs ceremony, March 30. The RAMIs have put $60,000 in our endowment, and awarded more than $35,000 to graduating high school seniors for their music education since Gary Wilmer’s death in 1994.

1998 — The Rock River Times promulgated the founding of the River District Association by facilitating the joining of west-side businesses with the River East Association.

1998 to 2005 — The Rock River Times published Larry Morrissey’s first articles and acted as major advocates in his election as the mayor of Rockford.

2004 — We organized the sponsorship and construction of our only downtown public boat docks behind the library and Morrissey building.

The Rock River Times became a member of the Illinois Press Association in 2003. We won awards for two years for editorials and for advertising in one year. Then, I became tired of entering that type of contest. This year, we were accepted as members of the Midwest Free Community Papers and American Free Community Papers associations.

New old directions in ink

As an old boy scout and owner of this paper canoe, together with many great writers, The Rock River Times was “green” before it became a fashion statement and a politically correct and easier opportunity for many. The Rock River is this paper’s namesake. Articles and poetry about canoeing down the beauty of the Rock are what brought me and this paper to you. We have also published articles on E.coli pollution and Mary Ann “Bambi” Aiello’s efforts to save the deer from bow hunters at Rock Cut State Park. We have published Rock Cut State Park’s yearly guide. We have been strong opponents of Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s insipid closure of our other state parks. We also were the first to do stories about Bovine Growth Hormones in milk, which promptly got us kicked out of all the grocery stores. So, we just put our energy into distributing in outlets around them.

This paper has consistently promoted renewable energy since 1992, with noted contributors such as Drs. Robert & Sonia Vogl, Jeff Havens, Hans Detweiler, Mark Burger and others. We are proud sponsors of the Annual Illinois Renewable Energy Fair (Aug. 8 and 9, 2009 at the Ogle County Fairgrounds), the Winnebago County Green Business awards (May 21, 2009 at the Rockford Park District’s Webbs Norman Center) and YouthBuild’s Green Building training and program. Please contribute to all of them — you can be doubly “Green” with your greenbacks!

As an extension into the future of our commitment to sustainability and our commitment to the environment since this paper was started, we have developed a section of the paper called “Vitality,” which features holistic health articles, features on organics, sports and a focus on the outdoors, with great and regular contributions from our parks community, such as board members and personnel of the Rockford Park District, the Winnebago County Forest Preserve, and particularly Severson Dells. This paper was a major champion of the successful referendum to begin the separation of our forest preserves from politics. Our editorial position is that our natural areas are our greatest resource and our future for our children. Urban sprawl must come to an end, not only for the common sense of renewable energy, but also for the potential of eco-tourism and the attractiveness of our community to retain our brightest youth and new businesses. Too many bright lights leave our community or never arrive. Let’s look at some who stayed and left and still make a brighter weekly possible.

Great writers and staff

Besides those talents already noted, special thanks go to our outstanding contributors, many friends: Joe Baker, Tom Bauschke and his journeys, the late Chris Bowman, Melanie Bradley, Stanley Campbell, Michael Cannariato, George Anne Duckett, Dr. Thomas Fleming, John Gile, Doug Halberstadt, the late Dr. Robert Hedeen, Jonathan Hicks, Jamie B. Johannsen, Dr. L.P. Johnson, Lisa Ferris Rubin, Dan Klefstad, Brian Leaf, Drew Leifheit, Mike Leifheit, Peter MacKay, Edith McCauley, Don Miller, Diane Joy Moca, Mayor Lawrence J. Morrissey, the late Rod Myers, Anne O’Keefe, Phil Pash, Allen Penticoff, Eileen Peterson, Reggie Roberson, Dr. Philip Schalow, Ken Staaf, Dr. Peter J. Stanlis, the late Robert “Bob” Stone, Christine Swanberg and Penny Wiegert. Special mention goes to Mary Stiles, Rebecca Huber and Denise Guzzardo, our horoscope writers and the good friends and gifts they are — first off, so many people have turned to their page, I always say with a semi-serious laugh, I am going to put them on the front page.

The following people are my daily gifts, and yours, too. They make The Rock River Times: Jeffrey Best, Jon Bystrom, Stephanie Castillo, Jim Hagerty, Jeff Helberg, Susan Johnson, Angela Jones, Marilyn Lamar (my right hand), Kristina Leftwich, Brian Livingston, Jody Marshall, Joe McGehee, Susan Petty, Brandon Reid (my left hand), Rick Rowland, Jeanne Schaeffer and Stuart R. Wahlin.

Finally, all of us at The Rock River Times have you, our treasured advertisers and readers. Thank you! Thank you! We truly strive to be “The Voice of the Community.” If you have something to say, send it in — today — this is the start of a new 20 years.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

REAL ESTATE

FOR RENT

Apartments

STUDIO APARTMENT, 117 N. Longwood St., $425. 815-316-8864. TFN

2+ BEDROOM APARTMENT 1200 sq. ft., formal dining room, hardwood floors, updated kitchen & bath, tons of character, attached garage with opener, laundry hookups, no pets, security deposit $675/month 815/222-5686. 12/12

1-BEDROOM APTS AVAILABLE se side, new flooring, lots of amenities, $380/$480 – deposit same as rent 815/222-5676. 12/12

2-BEDROOM LOWER 1613 12th Avenue, high efficiency furnace and windows $500 815/226-8644. 12/12

1-BEDROOM APARTMENT heat furnished, 1306 12th Street, $475 815/226-8644. 12/12

DUPLEX 3-BEDROOM upper and lower, 518, 520 N. Horsman $625/month 815/275-9127. 12/12

2-Bedroom Apartment, 1611 12th St., 1 Bath, upper unit, hardwood floors, front sun room, great closet space, off-street parking, on bus route, close to city park, $525, plus deposit. 815-964-0102. TFN

Heat Included 1 Bed Apts Numerous Locations $450-595 815-964-6270. 12/5

$100 Deposit Special 1116 Irving Ave Completely Remodeled 1 Bed $495, 2 Bed $550 815-964-6270. 12/5

BEAUTIFUL 2-BEDROOM upper unit, washer/dryer, new appliances, fenced backyard, great location 1209 21st Pl. $575 815/540-6757. 12/5

NICE 3-BEDROOM, lg. kitchen, lg bathroom, new appliances, washer/dryer in unit, upper unit, $585, 1404 7th Ave. 815/540-6757. 12/5

2-BEDROOM APT. $570, large apartment with beautiful hardwood floors, new energy efficient windows, fresh paint, neutral colors, deposit $570 M.R.A.A. 815/621-1097. 11/28

1 & 2-BEDROOM apartments for rent in Monroe Center, $550 a month 815/980-9484. 11/28

2-BEDROOM APT. 2208 8TH STREET spacious 1-bath secured building free heat, laundry room, $525, deposit $500 No pets, garages available 815/404-7491. 1/23/13

Studio apartment, 1010 24th St., all utilities are included, $425, 815/877-8500. TFN

1-Bedroom, 1-Bath Apartment. One car garage. Shared basement. 2012 Douglas St, Rockford. $425 a month. 815-877-8500. TFN

1-Bedroom, 1 Bath APARTMENT, 1623 Parmele St., offstreet parking, sunroom off living room, back deck $450, 815-964-0102. TFN

2-Bedroom, 1-Bath Townhouse private basement w/laundry hookup. 5415 East Drive #3, Loves Park. $695 a month. 815-877-8500. TFN

2-Bedroom, 1-Bath Townhouse private basement w/laundry hookup. 207 River Lane #1, Loves Park. $695 a month. Tovar Realtors 815-877-8500. TFN

Studio Apartment, includes all utilities, 1010 24th St, Rockford. $425 a month. 815-877-8500. TFN

2-Bedroom, 1-Bath Townhouse private basement w/laundry hookup. 207 River Lane #2, Loves Park. $695 a month. Tovar Realtors 815-877-8500. TFN

Houses

3-BEDROOM, 1 BATH HOUSE, 2114 W. Jefferson St., $695, 815-316-8864. TFN

3-BEDROOM HOUSE new windows, 1½-baths $675 815/226-8644. 12/12

SMALL 2-BEDROOM nice and clean, 404 Lincoln Ave, $525/month 815/275-9127. 12/12

Homes For Rent 2-3 Bedrooms $595-$950 815-964-6270. 12/5

3-Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 1240 5th Ave., $650, 815-505-0685. TFN

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath house with 2-car garage, 1911 Elm St. $675, 815/963-3250. TFN

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 3035 S. 4th St., $650, 815/877-8500. TFN

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 4169 Stage Coach Trail, $1,200 815/963-3250. TFN

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 1713 Lyran Ave., $695. 815/963-3250. TFN

3-BEDROOM, 1-BATH, single family home. Come and see this one. 710 N. Central $695/mo. 815/505-0685 TFN

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 318 Logan St., $795. 815/963-3250. TFN

4 Bedroom, 1 bath house on 1 acre with fenced yard, 1820 Sandy Hollow Rd., $1,200, 815/963-3250. TFN

3-Bedroom, 1-bath commercial/residential home available for rent in Loves Park. Must run business out of home, can live there as well. Lots of exposure on Riverside Blvd. and lots of storage. 2-car garage and 1-car garage along with more storage space and side yard. Parking in front and back. 120 E. Riverside Blvd. Loves Park. Purchase at $64,900 or Rent $625 a month. Creative Financing Available. Call Tovar Realtors 815-877-8500. TFN

2-Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 3416 Oak Grove, garage, $800, 815/963-3250. TFN

3-Bedroom, 1 Bath house, 712 Whitman St. $625 House, 3 bedrm, 1 bath, garage, 815/516-7396. TFN

3-Bedroom, 1 Bath Farm house, living, Halley Road, $1,100, 815/877-8500. TFN

3 Bedroom, 2 bath, home at 1220 Sherman Ave. for rent. $650/mo. Call 815-505-0685. TFN

4-BEDROOM, 1-BATH HOUSE, 943 Grant Ave., $850/mo., 815-316-8864. TFN

4-BEDROOM, 2 BATH HOUSE, 968 N. Church St., $850/mo., 815-316-8864. TFN

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath, single family home. Carpet, 1-car garage. 323 N. Pierpont Ave., Rockford. $550/month. Call 815-505-0685. TFN

2-Bedroom, 1-Bath Home, neutral decor clean and fresh. 2641 Marshall St, Rockford. $595 a month. 815-877-8500. TFN

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, single family home. Hardwood floors, full basement. 1220 Sherman Ave. Rockford. $650/mo. Call 815-505-0685. TFN

3-Bedroom, 1-Bath Home, hardwood florring plus HUGE fenced yard. 3035 4th St, Rockford. $650 a month. 815-877-8500. TFN

Storage

hEATED STORAGE with electric, great location, 2314 Charles, rear. $350 815/540-6757. 12/5

Townhouse

3-BEDROOM with garage, desirable location, spacious, new exterior, no pets $800 815/654-3261. 11/28

Commercial Rental

Commercial radio tower space available on 350-foot tower on Clikeman Road. 815-316-8864. TFN

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

115 7th Street. Commercial Office Space Starting at $200 and up. 815/877-8500. TFN

Room for Rent

NEAR HIGHCREST & ALPINE, private room & utilities, must be clean, no drugs. $400/month 815/397-7624. 12/5

FOR SALE

Homes For Sale

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath manufactured home, 5622 Rockport, Loves Park. Creative financing available. Offered at $37,400. Tovar Realtors, 815-877-8500. TFN

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

Mobile Homes

OPEN HOUSE Sat. & Sun. 1-4pm, Modular home in Forest Hills Village. 3-bedroom, 2-bath, eat-in kitchen, all appliances stay, 2-car garage, deck, 3 ceilling fans, central air, water softener. Priced to settle estate at $36,000. 1 Block off Perryville at 5645 Shale Drive. Call 779/348-2810 for more info. 12/5

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

Lots For Sale

BUILDER SPECIAL Residential lot, Crosby/Hilton, Multiple unit lot, Zenith Pkwy 815/398-3762. TFN

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

20 ACRES FREE! Own 60 acres for 40 acre price/payment. $0-Down, $168/mo. Money Back Guarantee, NO CREDIT CHECKS! West Texas. 1-800-843-7537 www.SunsetRanches.com N-11/28

Real Estate Services

TROUBLE COLLECTING PAYMENTS? Let me help! Local investor buys seller financed mortgages & trust deeds, call 815/298-2677. 12/12

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Alec Richards makes one of his 16 saves against the Peoria Rivermen Wednesday, Nov. 21. Richards came in for relief of Carter Hutton after the first period, and started both games in Lake Erie, where he stopped 66 of 71 shots, winning both contests. (Photo by Todd Reicher)

By Todd Reicher
Sports Columnist

After a short losing streak in parts of weeks five and six, Rockford came back in week seven to win three straight.

Rockford’s first game in week seven took place Wednesday, Nov. 21, at home against the Peoria Rivermen. Prior to Wednesday’s game, Rockford was 0-2 this season against Peoria, falling by one goal in both games. Wednesday’s game would also turn into another one-goal affair, although this time it was Rockford scoring the win.

Fifty-six seconds into the contest, Adam Clendening tallied his third goal of the season to put Rockford up early. Clendening received the puck from Ben Smith and blasted a shot from the close blue line. The shot hit Peoria goaltender Jake Allen square in the glove, but the puck found its way out and into the back of the net for the score.

While Rockford was shorthanded for the second time in the game, Brandon Saad made a great defensive play and broke away for a shorthanded goal to put Rockford up 2-0. Saad was playing close to the blue line and reached out to break up a crossing pass by Peoria. Saad quickly gathered the puck and raced in on Allen. As Saad approached the net, he pulled the puck right, and then back to his left at the last minute. Allen committed to the puck on the right, and left Saad an open net on the left side for the goal.

However, Peoria would rattle off three unanswered goals in a span of 6 minutes to give them a 3-2 lead heading into the second period. Phil McRae scored first for Peoria at 13:17, followed by Ian Cole at 15:04 and Jaden Schwartz in the waning minute with 45 seconds left in the first. Cody Beach, brother of Rockford’s Kyle Beach, assisted on the second and third goals for Peoria.

Starting goaltender Carter Hutton was pulled for Rockford after giving up three goals on nine shots in the first, and Alec Richards came in to try to help spark a rally.

It took some time, but Rockford answered Peoria’s three-goal frenzy with two of their own starting a 17:32 into the middle frame. Jimmy Hayes put a quick shot on goal, which hit Allen on his shoulder and fell to the feet of Martin St. Pierre, who was stationed in front of the net. St. Pierre quickly found the puck and shoved it in the net before Allen could locate it, tying the score at 3-3.

Seconds after the goal, we had our first fight of the evening with Brandon Bollig squaring off against Rivermen captain Scott Ford. After Bollig pulled Ford’s jersey over his head, the linesmen stepped up to break up the fight as the fans cheered for Bollig.

Ten seconds down after the fight, and Peoria was in the box for a slashing call, putting Rockford on their third power-play of the game. It only took Rockford 12 seconds to net the go-ahead goal, courtesy of Jeremy Morin. A shot by Clendening was blocked away by Allen and came out to Morin on the right side of the net, who quickly put it past Allen.

Morin would strike again shy of the midway point in the third to give Rockford a two-goal lead. With 25 seconds left on their fifth power play, Marcus Kruger held the puck behind the net as Morin streaked in from the left wing. Kruger made a perfect pass out front to Morin, who sniped it past Allen for Rockford’s second power-play tally of the evening.

With time winding down, Peoria pulled Allen for an extra attacker, and finally managed to get a puck past Richards with 15 seconds left in the game. The IceHogs held Peoria off the board for the remaining 15 seconds, holding on to a 5-4 win.

Rockford would head to Cleveland for a two-game weekend series against the Lake Erie Monsters. The IceHogs were swept by the Monsters in the four games they played last season, and this season Rockford beat Lake Erie 6-3, rattling off four third-period goals for the win.

In their last meeting, both teams were involved in a heated series at the end of the second period, which led to suspensions for Andrew Shaw, Dylan Olsen and Bollig. At the end of the scrum, Bollig taunted Monsters forward Patrick Bordeleau, letting him know he was keeping an eye on him.

It only took 3 seconds before the two would get to settle the score with one another, and Bordeleau would handle Bollig, landing three shots before wrangling Bollig to the ground.

The fight may have riled up the crowd of 9,480 fans and the rest of the Monsters, but Rockford would take the wind out of their sails 64 seconds after the fisticuffs. Lake Erie’s Mitchell Heard received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty 30 seconds after the fight, putting Rockford on an early power play. Thirty-four seconds later, Nick Leddy blasted a shot from the left blue line that sailed past the glove of Monsters netminder Sami Aittokallio for the early 1-0 lead.

Both teams played back and forth for the remainder of the first period and into the second period before another goal was scored. After being denied on his previous rush up ice, Beach netted his sixth goal of the season. On his second time up ice, Beach got in behind the defense and moved from left to right in front of the Lake Erie net. Aittokallio came out to challenge Beach, who pulled the puck back away from the net and skated past the crease to the right side of the net and slipped it home to increase Rockford’s lead to 2-0.

Lake Erie finally got on the board just after the midway point of the second with a power-play goal by Luke Walker. Nice puck movement by Lake Erie spread out the defense, and a quick backdoor pass to Walker was shelved up high, beating Richards to pull Lake Erie to within one.

An early third-period power-play goal tied the score at 2-2. More solid passing by Lake Erie led to Tyson Barrie’s fifth goal of the season, knotting the score with a majority of the final frame remaining.

But Rockford’s Saad would score his second goal in as many games with a nice snipe shot from the left side, putting Rockford back up by one. Clendening found Saad on the left wing, and he used his speed to get past the Lake Erie defense. As Saad was halfway into the offensive zone, he fired a shot past the glove of Aittokallio on the top shelf to put Rockford ahead.

An empty-net goal by Shaw with 10 seconds left in the game sealed the win for Rockford, 4-2.

The following night, both teams met once again for the second game of their weekend series. Richards would get the start again for Rockford, and carried the team on his back, especially during the second period, where Lake Erie fired off an astonishing 24 shots on net.

For the third game in a row, Rockford would strike first. Rob Flick would net his first goal of the season 5:06 into the contest. Flick fought for the puck behind the Lake Erie net and came away with and carried it around the back to the opposite side of the net for a wrap-around attempt. The attempt was fought off by Monsters goaltender Calvin Pickard, and kicked out to the left side of net. Flick gathered in his own rebound and fired it up high, where it sailed past traffic in front of the net, and past Pickard for the 1-0 lead.

Brad Malone pulled Lake Erie to a tie early in the second, but Rockford responded quickly with Shaw tallying a marker just more than 3 minutes later to reclaim the lead.

Despite being outshot 30-25 after two periods, Rockford, with the help of stellar goaltending from Richards, would head into the third period with a 2-1 lead.

Smith would add to the ’Hogs lead with his sixth goal of the season at 13:01 of the third period. After getting the puck behind the net from Hayes, Smith skated toward the left corner of the net to draw Pickard in. Pickard bit, and Smith skated past him to the other side of the net and lifted the puck up and in, giving Rockford a 3-1 lead.

Undisciplined play would hurt Rockford late in the third, and Lake Erie would capitalize, scoring two power-play goals in fewer than 4 minutes to knot the game at 3-3. Mike Sgarbossa scored his seventh and eighth goals of the season to send the game into overtime.

Neither team registered a goal in overtime, even though Rockford had some good chances and 2 minutes of power-play time, and the contest would go to a shootout.

Saad, who scored on a breakaway goal the previous night, was the first shooter in the shootout. Similar to the previous night, Saad made a great right-to-left move and buried the shot for a 1-0 shootout lead.

Sgarbossa, who was 3-for-4 on the season in the shootout, would be denied by Richards, putting Rockford up 1-0 after the first round. Neither team would score in the next two rounds of the shootout, which consisted of shooters Brandon Pirri and St. Pierre for Rockford and Bryan Lerg and Mark Olver for the Monsters. Lerg and Olver were a combined 6-for-7 in the shootout this season, and Richards stopped both of them to hang on to a 1-0 lead after three rounds.

Barrie finally scored for the Monsters in the fourth round to even things up at 1-1.

Defenseman Nick Leddy scored in the fifth, as did Bill Thomas for Lake Erie, to send it into the sixth round. Morin scored on his attempt, which left Malone to continue the shootout to the seventh round. Malone, who was 1-for-1 on the year, was stopped trying to go low on Richards, and Rockford would sneak away with a 4-3 shootout win, their third win in a row.

Keys for the week

1. Scoring first — Throughout most of this season, Rockford was falling behind early, leaving the team to fight back. In all three games this week, Rockford tallied first, giving them an obvious advantage.

2. Winning one-goal games — Previous to this week, Rockford was 4-4-0-1 in one-goal games. Two of Rockford’s three wins this week were one-goal games, and the one two-goal game had an empty-net goal with 10 seconds left, or Rockford would have won three one-goal games.

Looking forward

In week eight, Rockford plays four games, with each being a back-to-back affair. The first game of the week will take place Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m. (results not available at press time) against the Texas Stars for Rockford’s only home game of the week. The following night, Wednesday, Nov. 28, Rockford travels to the Allstate Arena for an important divisional matchup against the Chicago Wolves. The ’Hogs then head down to Charlotte, N.C., for a two-game series against the Charlotte Checkers. Rockford split their home-opening series against the Checkers and look to go 3-1-0-0 on the season against the South Division leaders.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue

Staff Report

WARREN, Ill. — Nov. 15, the Illinois Pollution Control Board (IPCB) announced a proposed settlement agreement between the Illinois Attorney General’s Office and Traditions megadairy owner/investor, A.J. Bos of Bakersfield, Calif.

According to the terms of the settlement, Bos will abandon the site in Jo Daviess County, where the Traditions facility was being constructed.

Workers are already land-applying the remaining liquids contained in the partially-constructed manure ponds and digester pit to prepare the land for sale.

Danielle Diamond, attorney for the Illinois Citizens for Clean Air & Water and executive director of the Socially Responsible Agriculture Project, said: “Stopping this dangerous project would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of HOMES and their supporters. Never before in my work in Illinois and across the country have I witnessed a community succeeding in halting the construction of an industrial livestock production facility after groundbreaking.”

This unprecedented achievement effectively ends a five-year, multi-million dollar battle between Bos and Jo Daviess County family farmers and residents, who were determined to evict the gigantic animal factory to protect their clean drinking water, clean air and way of life. The megadairy operation was sited atop fragile karst bedrock, which could allow countless tons of waste and liquid manure to contaminate groundwater.

Lured to Illinois with the promise of quick administrative approval by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) of his two industrial-sized 5,500-head facilities, Bos soon discovered the assurances of a “done deal” that were made to him by livestock development groups, dairy agri-business leaders, the engineers that designed the facility and politicians were not true.

Feb. 11, 2008, the Jo Daviess County Board voted 11-5 to deny a permit to both facilities. They based their decision on the testimony of experts, including the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), who warned of the likelihood of groundwater contamination as a result of the 200 million gallons of manure that would be generated annually and stored onsite in waste ponds lined with nothing more than 2 feet of compacted soil.

Even though the local county board voted against the project, Bos was assured by supporters that his industrial megadairy facilities would be allowed by the IDOA. Despite the objections of the elected representatives of Jo Daviess County citizens, Bos proceeded with the $9 million deal to acquire the land.

The IDOA permitted one of the facilities against the recommendation issued by the county board, which was based on warnings by many experts who testified to the water contamination risks and the other negative impacts the project would inevitably have on the area. The IDOA issued a construction permit for the Traditions South site May 30, 2008.

Four days later, the environmental group HOMES, composed of farmers and other land owners living near the proposed facility sites, filed a lawsuit to stop construction. At the start of the trial to determine if a temporary injunction would be issued, the presiding judge warned Bos that any construction would be done at his own risk. Despite this warning, Bos proceeded with construction from June through Oct. 20, 2008, when the temporary injunction was granted.

In September of 2008, despite the ongoing trial and lack of multiple permits, including one from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) that was required before Traditions could finish construction, Bos piled up 26,000 tons of corn silage, worth an estimated $1.2 million, on a slab at the megadairy.

Earlier that year, residents living around the facility began monitoring streams coming off the megadairy site. Before construction began, all of the streams ran clear. But once Bos broke ground, his construction crews started to fill the streams with silt in blatant violation of state regulations. The public filed multiple complaints with the Illinois EPA and the U.S. EPA.

In November of 2008, citizens urged the U.S. EPA to formally investigate the facility to determine if it needed a permit to discharge its livestock wastes into nearby state waters. A few months later, the U.S. EPA responded by taking action against the facility, demanding detailed site and waste management information.

In February 2009, the megadairy began illegally discharging acidic leachate generated by its tons of fermenting silage. Residents submitted photographs and lab results, thoroughly documenting this discharge and several subsequent discharges, to regulatory authorities.

In early 2010, the community demonstrated its unrelenting commitment to the environment by submitting nearly 100 letters to the Illinois EPA protesting the issuance of a permit that would have allowed one of the facility’s two 14-acre waste containment ponds to be built on top of a spring-fed tributary to the pristine Apple River.

After more than a year of receiving incomplete answers from Traditions’ lawyers, the U.S. EPA, backed by the U.S. Department of Justice, made its final demand on Traditions to conduct a hydrogeology study to determine if the facility would contaminate surface waters by discharging from its waste ponds into the sensitive underlying karst aquifer.

Oct. 1, 2010, the largest documented discharge occurred when a tributary to the Apple River turned bright purple because of over-application of silage leachate. This final environmental offense led the Illinois Attorney General to file charges against the megadairy that resulted in the negotiated settlement announced by the IPCB Nov. 15, 2012.

In the end, the megadairy never even completed the dye-tracing tests ordered by the U.S. EPA and the U.S. Department of Justice, to determine the sensitivity of the aquifer at the site. Nor did the megadairy ever receive the required permit from the Illinois EPA to build one of its two 14-acre waste ponds over a stream. The facility discharged at least four times and was prosecuted by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office — all before a single cow was even brought onsite.

Bos’s agreement to abandon the site after investing millions of dollars in legal fees and construction costs is the culmination of a five-year battle by concerned land owners fighting to protect their precious water resources and the quality of life of neighboring family farmers and residents.

The people of Jo Daviess County and HOMES have expressed great gratitude to the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. EPA, the ISGS, the Illinois EPA, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn (D), and all of its supporters in Illinois and beyond.

Local citizens plan to continue to closely monitor the site to ensure the proper closure of the waste ponds, and have pledged to continue to advocate for sound environmental farming practices and sustainable agriculture in Jo Daviess County.

For more about HOMES, visit StopTheMegaDairy.org.

From the Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2012, issue