Online Staff Report

An armed robbery took place at 533 Liberty Blvd. in Machesney Park, Ill., at approximately 2:15 p.m., Monday, April 22.

A 28-year-old male had advertised a computer for sale on Craig’s List. Two males showed up at the residence to look at the computer, and robbed the victim at gunpoint and battered him.

Winnebago County Sheriff’s detectives reviewed the investigation conducted with the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office and a warrant was obtained for Quinton L. Horton, 23. The warrant was for armed robbery.

At approximately 6:30 a.m., Wednesday April 24, sheriff’s detectives went to 1807 S. Alpine Road in an attempt to locate Horton. Horton was observed in the residence and refused to open the door. The door was forced open, and Horton was taken into custody. He is being held at the Winnebago County Jail pending bond.

The investigation concerning the second suspect is ongoing. Anyone with information about this suspect is asked to call the Sheriff’s Department at (815) 319-6400 or Crime Stoppers at (815) 963-7867.

Posted April 24, 2013

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

From the Rockford Police Department

Report Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/24/2013

ELIZZAR, ANGELO Age: 52 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/24/2013 3:24:00AM Case Number: 13-044577

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Criminal Trespass To Residence

JONES, TAMARA Age: 35 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/24/2013 2:40:00AM Case Number: 13-044570

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Domestic Battery

N Longwood ST

4/23/2013

ERICKSON, MEGAN Age: 31 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/23/2013 6:28:00PM Case Number: 13-044455

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Prestwick PKWY

ERICKSON, MEGAN Age: 31 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/23/2013 7:15:00PM Case Number: 13-044472

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Hit and Run

Prestwick PKWY

GAMBOA, JEANETTE Age: 19 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/23/2013 5:30:00PM Case Number: 13-044416

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Endangering the Life or Health of a Child

KENT ST

HENDERSON, CATHY Age: 43 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/23/2013 9:50:00PM Case Number: 13-044511

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

9TH ST

SHIVERS, DEDRA Age: 41 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/23/2013 7:31:00AM Case Number: 11-042820

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Bayliss AVE

4/22/2013

BELL, TYRES Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 12:04:00PM Case Number: 13-043867

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61101

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Under Rang Merchandise)

MULBERRY ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 1 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/22/2013

GRAY, LC Age: 51 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 7:35:00PM Case Number: 13-031264

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Theft (Possession of Stolen Property Under $500)

19TH AVE

HEYLMANN, TODD Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 3:15:00AM Case Number: 13-043760

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Seat belt violations

Seward AVE

JACKSON, MARCIDES Age: 20 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 7:35:00PM Case Number: 13-031264

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Unlawful Use Of A Credit Card

CranDLE AVE

JENKINS, LASHAUNDA Age: 29 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 6:30:00AM Case Number: 13-026608

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Domestic Battery

HARTFORD

KING, REGINALD Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 10:25:00PM Case Number: 13-044151

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

Ashland AVE

KOCH, SAMANTHA Age: 18 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 10:25:00AM Case Number: 13-043829

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

WAUKEGAN DR

LEWIS, TYRONE Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 3:21:00PM Case Number: 13-043953

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Burglary – No Forced Entry-Residence

N Court ST

LOPEZ, ANDRES Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 11:45:00PM Case Number: 13-044190

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

2nd AVE

MITCHELL, SAMANTHA Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 7:50:00PM Case Number: 13-044068

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

7TH AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 2 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/22/2013

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Endangering the Life or Health of a Child

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Seat belt violations

MOSS, DESHAWN Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 12:45:00AM Case Number: 13-043747

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

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

WOODRUFF AVE

MURPHY, TRISTAN Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 11:30:00AM Case Number: 13-038309

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Fleeing to elude police officer

No drivers license

S 6TH ST

PULLIAM, YVONNE Age: 27 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 9:21:00PM Case Number: 13-044153

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Service to other agency- Sheriffs dept

9th ST

RYAN, CHRISTOPHER Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 11:00:00AM Case Number: 13-003564

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child

BLACKSTONE AVE

THOMPSON, JONTAE Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 4:38:00PM Case Number: 13-043987

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Unlawful Use of Weapon (vehicle)

Stolen Property – Buy/Receive/Possess

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

SOPER

WHELAN, DEWAYNE Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 3:30:00PM Case Number: 13-040168

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Aggravated Fleeing to elude police officer

Obstructing Identification

1/2 S Main ST

WHELAN, DEWAYNE Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 3:30:00PM Case Number: 13-043291

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Obstructing Identification

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

1/2 S Main ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 3 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/22/2013

WIMS, SIDNEY Age: 27 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 1:42:00PM Case Number: 13-043909

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

N COURT ST

WRIGHT, LORENZO Age: 46 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/22/2013 2:21:00PM Case Number: 13-043933

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

IS Ave.

4/21/2013

BOOMER, DANIEL Age: 27 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 12:31:00AM Case Number: 13-043395

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

WELTY AVE

BURGESS, ANTHONY Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 10:30:00PM Case Number: 11-004337

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61108

Charges:

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

Creekview

HARVEY, LAMARIO Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 10:30:00PM Case Number: 13-043689

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

9TH AVE

HERNANDEZ, GERARDO Age: 37 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 8:36:00AM Case Number: 13-043462

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

No drivers license

Seat belt violations

Broadway

KIMBROUGH, TYRAN Age: 22 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 8:54:00PM Case Number: 13-043677

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rkfd, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass To State-Supported Land

18TH ST

KOLFF, HEIDI Age: 48 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 7:55:00PM Case Number: 13-042987

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Cocaine Possession (less than 15)

Possession of Cannabis With Intent to Deliver (more than 500 less than 2000)

Possession of drug equipment

Unlawful Use Of Weapons (carried or possessed)

9th ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 4 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/21/2013

KOLFF, TERRY Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 7:55:00PM Case Number: 13-042987

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Cocaine Possession (less than 15)

Possession of Cannabis With Intent to Deliver (more than 500 less than 2000)

Possession of drug equipment

Unlawful Use Of Weapons (carried or possessed)

9th ST

PHILLIPS, CHRISTOPHER Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 12:35:00AM Case Number: 13-043365

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(under $300)

Domestic Battery

BLAISDELL ST

PORCHIA, SAMUEL Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 10:14:00PM Case Number: 13-043683

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

GARFIELD AVE

RUCKS, CHRISTOPHER Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 6:20:00PM Case Number: 13-043604

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Additional Authorized Charges (See Note Field)

Aggravated Assault – Knife/Cutting Instrument

9th ST

TELLEZ, MONICA Age: 42 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 8:36:00AM Case Number: 13-043462

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Broadway

VARGAS, HILARIO Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/21/2013 1:55:00PM Case Number: 13-043531

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Other traffic offenses

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Rudeen Cl.

4/20/2013

BANNISTER, SYVEL Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 9:29:00AM Case Number: 13-043066

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Failing to signal/Improper signal

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

17th AVE

BOX, RANDY Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 1:09:00AM Case Number: 13-004173

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

EAGLE DR

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 5 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/20/2013

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Domestic Battery

BREEDLOVE, MERCEDES Age: 30 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 6:27:00PM Case Number: 13-043248

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

FOSTER AVE

BURFIELD, STEVEN Age: 49 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 12:30:00PM Case Number: 13-042578

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Possession of drug equipment

Sale or Possession of Hypodermic Syringes or Needles

15th AVE

FALZONE, NICHOLAS Age: 50 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 9:45:00PM Case Number: 13-043250

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Machesney Park, IL 61115

Charges:

Driving Under Influence Drugs

E GREENVIEW AVE

GOETZ, BRYAN Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 4:45:00PM Case Number: 13-036152

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Loves Park, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Vehicle

N ALPINE RD

HOLT, RIDGE Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 12:06:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Hampden CT

INUSTROZA-LEON, MARIA Age: 26 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 10:30:00AM Case Number: 13-043075

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Loves Park, IL 61111

Charges:

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

No drivers license

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

GRANITE ST

JONES, AIRASTEDE Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 6:45:00PM Case Number: 13-043161

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Loves Park, IL 61111

Charges:

Retail Theft (More Than $300 – Standard)

ADAMS ST

JONES, AIRASTEDE Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 2:19:00PM Case Number: 13-043189

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

Adams ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 6 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/20/2013

KELLER, EDDIE Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 3:35:00PM Case Number: 13-043179

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

City Ordinance Public Urination or Defecation

W STATE ST

MAGEE, WAYNE Age: 47 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 5:30:00AM Case Number: 13-043035

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61101

Charges:

Domestic Battery

N CENTRAL AVE

MINTER, DORELLE Age: 34 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 6:30:00PM Case Number: 13-043245

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

GARFIELD

OLHAM, JENNIFER Age: 34 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 12:06:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Sign violation

Hampden CT

RING, MICHAEL Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 12:06:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Possessing a controlled substance

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Probation violation or revocation

Hampden CT

SMITH, TAMKETA Age: 34 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 11:57:00PM Case Number: 13-043375

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

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

16TH ST

TRUJILLO, ADRIAN Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 12:09:00AM Case Number: 13-042973

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Suspended/revoked drivers license

N CENTRAL

WHELAN, DEWAYNE Age: 44 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/20/2013 8:58:00PM Case Number: 13-043291

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Obstructing Identification

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (No Physical Contact)

1/2 S Main ST

4/19/2013

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 7 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/19/2013

BLEDSOE, STOKLEY Age: 46 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 9:59:00PM Case Number: 13-042901

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Unlawful Restraint (includes aggravated)

GREEN ST

BUTITTA, JACOB Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 12:00:00PM Case Number: 13-032403

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

Retail Theft (More than $150- Standard)

OTTOWA RD

CACCIAPAGLIA-BRUNO, ARIELLE Age: 22 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 10:00:00AM Case Number: 13-042575

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Creekview Rd

CATLETT, ALBERT Age: 47 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:40:00AM Case Number: 13-042603

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

Failure to register as a sex offender

COLLINS AVE

CHRISTOPHER, TRAVOND Age: 19 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:48:00PM Case Number: 13-042872

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61108

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Eastmoreland AVE

DIVAN, TROY Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:35:00PM Case Number: 13-038170

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Robbery – Strong arm

N INDEPEDENCE

DIVAN, TROY Age: 41 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:35:00PM Case Number: 13-042868

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Possession of drug equipment

Obstructing Identification

N Church ST

DUFOE, TAMMY Age: 35 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 1:16:00AM Case Number: 12-110726

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

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

10TH ST

ELDRIDGE, GARY Age: 43 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 6:26:00PM Case Number: 13-042696

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

N Church ST

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 8 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/19/2013

Charges:

Aggravated Assault – Handgun

Other criminal offenses

GOULD, GREGORY Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 3:20:00PM Case Number: 13-042121

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

Other moving violations (non-specific)

Praire RD

HOLT, RIDGE Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 12:19:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Hampden CT

NICHOLS, ROBIN Age: 46 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 9:48:00AM Case Number: 13-042629

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Machesney Park, IL

Charges:

No registration

Operating uninsured motor vehicle

Reckless driving

DANICA DR

NIFFENEGGER, JORDEN Age: 24 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 3:58:00AM Case Number: 13-042568

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Possession of Cannabis With Intent to Deliver (more than 30 less than 500)

CHESTERFIELD AVE

OLHAM, JENNIFER Age: 34 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 12:19:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61107

Charges:

Sign violation

Hampden CT

PENIX, DENNIS Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 9:40:00PM Case Number: 13-042906

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

OGILBY RD

RING, MICHAEL Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 12:19:00AM Case Number: 12-030201

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Possessing a controlled substance

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

Probation violation or revocation

Hampden CT

RIVERA, NANCY Age: 32 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 12:12:00PM Case Number: 13-042687

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109-3196

GRANT AVE

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 9 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/19/2013

Charges:

Obstructing Justice

Sign violation

Suspended/revoked drivers license

SHAW, ALAWNA Age: 28 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:30:00PM Case Number: 13-042852

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(under $300)

Unlawful Use of Weapon

AVONDALE

SKAUG, MARCUS Age: 21 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 9:30:00AM Case Number: 13-042620

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Domestic Battery

CREEKVIEW RD

SMITH, SORAYA Age: 28 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 5:14:00PM Case Number: 13-042794

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Contributing to the Delinquency of a Child

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

BROWN AVE

STEWART, TIANA Age: 26 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 2:15:00PM Case Number: 13-042742

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61102

Charges:

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

Cameron Ave

WILLIAMS, DEMARCUS Age: 23 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 11:21:00PM Case Number: 13-042907

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Land

LINCOLN AVE

WILLIAMS, TYRENCE Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/19/2013 7:35:00PM Case Number: 13-042868

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Machesney Park, IL 61117

Charges:

Violation of the Cannabis Control Act (less than 2.5)

Bauer Dr.

4/18/2013

ANDERSON, LEROY Age: 20 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 9:00:00AM Case Number: 13-042159

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

ROYAL AVE

ANDRES, PAUL Age: 32 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 2:37:00AM Case Number: 13-042115

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Driving Under Influence Liquor

N HORACE AVE

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until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/18/2013

CATLIN, JOHN Age: 46 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 4:05:00PM Case Number: 13-042306

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

CHESTNUT ST

CATLIN, TONY Age: 18 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 10:50:00AM Case Number: 13-042213

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61104

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to State Supported Property

Obstructing Identification

S. 4th St.

FAIR, ALAN Age: 66 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 10:35:00PM Case Number: 13-042459

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Disorderly Conduct (False Call to Police)

MULBERRY ST

GARAFOLO, FRANK Age: 35 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 9:35:00AM Case Number: 13-042178

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

18TH AVE

GREGOR, RICHARD Age: 39 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 12:30:00AM Case Number: 13-042097

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Burglary: From within Motor Vehicle

N CHURCH

GRISBY, MARIO Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 4:00:00PM Case Number: 13-005780

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

GARRETT LN

GRISBY, MARIO Age: 25 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 4:00:00PM Case Number: 13-039953

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61109

Charges:

Probation violation or revocation

GARRETT LN

HOLLIMAN, CEASER Age: 36 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 7:45:00PM Case Number: 13-042451

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property

Robbery – Strong arm

N Winnebago ST

KING, CLINTON Age: 45 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 9:35:00AM Case Number: 13-042178

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,

Charges:

City Ordinance Possession of an Alcoholic Beverage with a Broken Seal

18TH AVE

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until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/18/2013

LABOY, WILLIAM Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 12:38:00PM Case Number: 13-042228

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Damage to Property(over $300)

Domestic Battery

Home Invasion

Resisting/Obstructing an Officer (Physical Confrontation)

GREGORY ST

MCCOY, DREAMAS Age: 40 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 11:15:00PM Case Number: 13-042463

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61103

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to State Supported Property

CAMBRIDGE

PENIX, DENNIS Age: 42 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 4:47:00PM Case Number: 13-042354

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Battery (Simple)

Retail Theft (Less Than $300 – Standard)

OGILBY RD

RANDALL, DORLINDA Age: 39 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 11:30:00PM Case Number: 13-042505

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Driving Under Influence Liquor

Blood alcohol content over .08

Light violation

Suspended/revoked drivers license

RONCEVALLES AVE

SANCHEZ, BENIGNO Age: 35 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 8:30:00AM Case Number: 13-042152

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61102

Charges:

Other equipment violations (non-specific)

Suspended/revoked drivers license

Traffic speeding

Ferguson ST

SCHLEICHER, MICHAEL Age: 38 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 10:35:00PM Case Number: 13-042505

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

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

Scottswood RD

SHEROD, THURSTON Age: 33 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 5:45:00PM Case Number: 12-156885

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il 61104

Charges:

Domestic Battery

Crosby St

SPENCE, BOOKER Age: 34 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 10:05:00AM Case Number: 10-155746

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

N Court St

All subjects are presumed innocent Page 12 of 13

until proven guilty in a court of lawReport Updated 4/24/2013 7:35:01AM

City of Rockford Police Department

Last 7 Days of Arrests

4/18/2013

Charges:

Burglary – Forced Entry (Non-Residence)

STEVENSON, DEVIN Age: 28 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 10:05:00AM Case Number: 13-027110

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford,Il

Charges:

Aggravated Fleeing to elude police officer

FLORIDA DR

VEGA, TITO Age: 31 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 8:23:00PM Case Number: 13-042430

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Loves Park, IL

Charges:

Suspended/revoked drivers license

GRAND BLVD

WATTS, TIMOTHY Age: 53 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 9:35:00PM Case Number: 13-042469

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Rockford, IL

Charges:

Criminal Trespass to Real Property (Standard)

2ND AVE

WELLS, EDWARD Age: 26 Sex: M Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 12:10:00AM Case Number: 13-042090

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Chicago, IL

Charges:

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

S BAKER

WIERSON, LORIE Age: 48 Sex: F Arrest Date/Time: 4/18/2013 2:53:00AM Case Number: 13-042117

Arrest Location: Rockford, IL

Arresting Agency: Rockford Police Department Ockford, IL 61101

Charges:

Blood alcohol content over .08

Driving Under Influence Liquor

Failure to reduce speed/ Too fast for conditions

Improper lane usage

ARLINE AVE

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until proven guilty in a court of law

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

Illinois House Republican lawmakers have unveiled a package of legislation designed to reduce fraud and misuse of the state’s welfare system.

House Republican Leader Tom Cross joined State Reps. John Cabello, R-Machesney Park, and Joe Sosnowski, R-Belvidere, in Rockford April 24 to introduce their legislation.

The welfare reform package focuses on reducing the fraudulent use of LINK cards (food stamps), the misuse of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (cash) benefits, and preventing criminals from receiving welfare benefits. The goal of the legislation is to save taxpayer dollars and preserve benefits for those most in need.

“These programs were designed to assist families during difficult times. Unfortunately, there are those that abuse this system,” said Cabello. “Welfare costs in Illinois continue to skyrocket, while our state faces a serious fiscal crisis. The General Assembly must work to put a stop to the waste, fraud and abuse of the welfare program so that the benefits are there when people truly need them.”

House Bill 133 ensures that a person using a LINK card is the authorized user. The proposal would require all LINK cards to display a photo of the cardholder to ensure the person presenting it at the checkout counter is the same person who is entitled to use it. The names of all secondary users will also be placed on the card. Secondary users will be required to show a valid photo id before they can use the card.

“The goal for placing a picture on the LINK/SNAP card is to hopefully stop fraud at the register,” Sosnowski explained. “This extra layer of protection would make anyone trying to abuse the system think twice because their actual picture is not on the card. These benefits are vital for struggling families, and putting photographs on the LINK cards is one way we can ensure the help goes to the intended recipients.”

House Bill 2784 guarantees that cash assistance benefits are used for the basic needs they are intended for. TANF benefits are intended to provide financial assistance to help pay for basic needs such as food, shelter, utilities and other necessary expenses. However, under current law, a person is free to spend this cash however they feel. The legislation would prevent TANF benefits from being used to purchase alcohol, lottery tickets, firearms, and other specified goods and services.

State Rep. Tom Demmer, R-Dixon, added: “We need effective checkpoints for financial assistance. Too often, we hear stories of fraud and misuse in public assistance programs. These programs are designed to be a safety-net for people in need. Every dollar spent inappropriately is a dollar taken away from those who truly need it.”

House Bill 3174 and House Bill 2490 would prevent criminals from receiving aid. These bills would suspend public aid and benefits to inmates at state correctional facilities and recipients with outstanding warrants.

“Taxpayer dollars already pay for incarcerated persons to be clothed, fed and sheltered,” Cabello said. “They are imprisoned as a punishment for wrongdoing, and it’s not fair to reward them by allowing them to collect further taxpayer-funded aid benefits.”

Cross said: “These are common-sense proposals that need to be considered in Springfield during this spring session. We need to make sure that our system is not being abused so that the people who need these services most have access.”

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

The Federal Reserve Board announced April 24 that the redesigned $100 note will begin circulating Oct. 8.

This note, which incorporates new security features such as a blue, 3-D security ribbon, will be easier for the public to authenticate, but more difficult for counterfeiters to replicate.

The new design for the $100 note was unveiled in 2010, but its introduction was postponed following an unexpected production delay. To ensure a smooth transition to the redesigned note when it begins circulating in October, the U.S. Currency Education Program is reaching out to businesses and consumers around the world to raise awareness about the new design and inform them about how to use its security features.

More about the new $100 note, as well as training and educational materials, can be found at www.newmoney.gov.

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

SYCAMORE, Ill. — An afternoon and evening complete with silent auction, raffle items, 50-50, door prizes and a DJ to help raise money for a local resident burdened with medical bills will be from 2 to 10 p.m., Saturday, April 27, at Cabana Charley’s, 1470 S. Peace Road, Sycamore, Ill. All proceeds will go to pay these bills.

Local wife and mother of two, Jessica Lankford, recently spent eight days in Kishwaukee Hospital receiving treatments related to multiple sclerosis complications. As a result of her condition, she is no longer able to continue working full-time.

The medical bills are immense, and her family appreciates the outpouring of support shown by local businesses who generously contributed to this event in an effort to help offset the costs of her bills.

Stop by Cabana Charley’s and bid on any of the raffle and silent auction items. Included items range from Chicago sports teams tickets, to restaurant and hotel accommodations, to pampering packages, and even packages the kids will love. Additionally, 10 percent of all food purchases at Cabana Charley’s during those hours will be given to the Lankford family.

Posted April 24, 2013

Mark Kroos

Online Staff Report

Mark Kroos, winner of Guitar Player magazine’s 2011 International Guitar Superstar competition, will perform at Rockford’s Court Street United Methodist Church at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, April 28.

From Williamsburg, Va., Kroos is one of the only touring double-neck guitarists in the world. His almost-strictly instrumental performances are characterized by open harmonies, polyphonic textures, and incredible tapping technique, and are as entertaining to watch as it is to listen to.

Drawing influence from folk, Celtic, Indie and even punk rock artists as well as other great acoustic guitarist such as Michael Hedges, Andy Mckee and Justin King, Kroos has developed his own edge to the acoustic guitar.

The free-will donation performance will be in the church sanctuary, which is in downtown Rockford at 215 N. Court St. All are welcome to attend.

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White (D) and the Rock River Valley Life Goes On committee are hosting a ceremony to dedicate a tree and plaque in memory of Vikki Tulcus and others who have died waiting for a matching organ donor.

Vikki worked for the Illinois Secretary of State’s Organ Donor Program, but sadly lost her own life waiting for a kidney. She was featured in several TV and radio campaigns. Her colleagues and former boss, White, are honoring her at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, April 25, at the Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford.

A reception hosted by the Ethnic Heritage Museum’s Polish Gallery honoring Vikki’s heritage will immediately follow the ceremony.

To see more about Vikki’s story, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5tGBWPaKSI.

April is National Donate Life Month. Organizations will be working together to promote organ and tissue donor awareness throughout the state. More than 5 million people are registered to become organ/tissue donors in Illinois, however, more than 300 people die each year waiting for an organ transplant.

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Ill., announced April 24 a $188,822 grant for domestic violence prevention in Winnebago County. The grants are awarded through the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women.

“This investment is crucial in helping to protect women and children in Winnebago County,” said Bustos. “Fighting for the people of Illinois’ 17th Congressional District is my top priority, and that includes making sure our communities are safe places to raise families.”

The grant money is allocated for the Domestic Violence Homicide Reduction (DVHR) Demonstrative Initiative to implement domestic violence homicide reduction and prevention models and evaluate how well they work in different communities. Winnebago County is one of 12 sites that has been chosen to participate as a Phase I DVHR Demonstration site.

Posted April 24, 2013

Online Staff Report

The Rockford Public Works Department Forestry Division will host the annual Arbor Day Tree Planting Celebration at 10 a.m., Friday, April 26, at City of Rockford Water Department well-house 10 on Newburg Road behind Colonial Village.

Street Superintendent Mark Stockman will address attendees regarding the importance of reforestation and the consequences of ignoring the need to maintain the tree canopy. City Forester Brandon Larson will highlight the 2013 city tree-planting program emphasizing the need for diversity as a means to mitigate any future catastrophic loss of trees as a result of pests or blight. Others will also speak, and then a ceremonial tree-planting ceremony will be held.

National Arbor Day is an annual event celebrated throughout the United States emphasizing the need to promote reforestation within urban settings. Trees are vital to our quality of life and have become an integral part of urban planning within our city and nationwide. Trees provide aesthetic value, convert greenhouse gases into oxygen, mitigate storm-water runoff and reduce utility costs.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

Saturday, April 27, the YMCA of Rock River Valley is celebrating YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day with a free community event that encourages kids in the Rock River Valley to get moving and learning, and families living healthier.

Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative to improve families’ health and well-being, takes place at 1,900 Ys and kick-starts healthier behaviors now and throughout the summer, a critical out-of-school time for children’s health.

Many U.S. children do not get the daily recommended hours of physical activity and reading, and daily amounts of healthy foods. According to the latest findings of the YMCA’s Family Health Snapshot — a survey of parents that gauges their children’s activity levels during the school year — only 19 percent of children get 60 minutes of physical activity, only 17 percent read books for fun, and only 12 percent eat at least eight fruits and vegetables daily.

Jason Walters, vice president of operations, Youth Achievement YMCA, said: “At the YMCA of Rock River Valley, we know parents struggle to keep their kids physically and intellectually active every day. We want to help ensure fewer kids are at risk of childhood obesity and more kids excel in school. YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day will get kids moving and learning while also helping families get a jump on creating a healthier summer, and ultimately a healthier future.”

Research shows that without access to out-of-school physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically and gain weight twice as fast during summer than the school year. April 27, YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day will help parents begin thinking early about what their kids need to grow and achieve all summer long.

The YMCA of Rock River Valley’s Healthy Kids Day will take place at three branch locations: I.D. Pennock Family YMCA from 1 to 4 p.m.; Northeast Family YMCA from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Camp Winnebago YMCA from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. All locations will feature fun, active play and educational activities.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

LOVES PARK, Ill. — The local ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) chapter of the Rock River Valley will host “LABORfest: Learning About Birth Options in Rockford” from 1 to 5 p.m., Sunday, April 28, at Casey’s Pub, 7307 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park, Ill.

The event is open to all ages and is being held to raise awareness about available birth options and maternal care in the local area.

Tables will be set up where people can meet local care providers and vendors, including midwives, a massage therapist, talented artisans and more.

Try a zero-gravity chair and bio mat, have your partner get massage tips, learn about midwives and doulas, check out cloth diapers, and see beautiful birth art quilts.

Admission to LABORfest is $10 (kids 3 and younger are free) and includes all-you-can-eat pizza and pasta. All money raised will be used to support the nonprofit ICAN organization.

Bid on favorite items in a silent auction, including a breast pump, $80 of Rockford Park District passes, baby clothing and blankets, cloth diapers, hair bows, art quilt, pregnancy books and more. A $270 Joovy playard will be given away as a door prize.

Registration for this event is requested at http://laborfest.eventzilla.net, or tickets can be purchased at the door.

Following is a list of local vendors and sponsors: Local midwives; Green Lil’ Bums cloth diapers; Birth Art Quilts: Karen Bachman Kells; Lillian Emi Designs: Tiffany Messenger; Pregatory author Terri Milner Tarquini; Anna Dylan Kids: Stephanie Grimm; Shabby Little Sparrow: Victoria Allen; Joovy ($270 playard); rd Artistry; Baby Goodies: Erin Gray; Rockford Park District; Thirty-One: Angie Sakolari; Shaklee: Amberle Simon; Drea’s Designs: Ondrea Crosser; Pink Tree: Sarah Jakymiw; A Beautiful Touch: Del Sanchez; The Essential Connection: Heidi Jost; and Imagine cloth diapers: Kellie Black.

To learn more about LABORfest, contact Emily Dickey at (815) 871-3376 or erdickey@gmail.com or Christine Woodard at (630) 842-7055 or rrvican@yahoo.com. Visit http://facebook.com/LABORRockford.

ICAN is a nonprofit organization with more than 30 years of experience. Its mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery and promoting vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

The Rockford Rescue Mission recently made an appeal to the public for toilet paper donations to accommodate the 200-plus people who stay there overnight. Malcolm Eaton Enterprises, a local developmental training center in Freeport, Ill., responded by promising to donate and deliver 32 cases, more than 3,000 rolls, of toilet paper to the Rescue Mission. The paper will be delivered to the Rockford Rescue Mission between 10 and 10:30 a.m., April 29.

Malcolm Eaton Enterprises is a nonprofit developmental training site in Freeport that provides vocational training and other supports to adults with developmental delays, including a large number from the Rockford area. Malcolm Eaton is also the home of Spirit Brand bathroom tissue.

Each year, Spirit brand tissue manufactures and distributes toilet paper for commercial and retail customers throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and beyond. All sales of Spirit bathroom tissue help provide support to the adults enrolled in services at Malcolm Eaton Enterprises.

To learn more about Malcolm Eaton Enterprises or Spirit Paper, visit their websites at www.malcolmeaton.org or www.spiritpaper.com.

The Rockford Rescue Mission still has a large number of needs. For a full list of items still needed, visit their website at www.rockfordrescuemission.org.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

River District Association (RDA), in cooperation with Rock River Development Partnership, will present its first Storefront Workshop for 2013, “Cross-Marketing the Downtown Experience,” from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 30. The workshop will be at the new Design Center, 315 N. Main St., Rockford.

Workshop is open to all advocates of downtown Rockford, and admission is free.

The workshop will also feature a sneak preview of the Urban Fashion Photography Exhibit, Downtown Rockford — 510 Style. Local models, fashion from Minglewood and Plush, and one photographer have come together to create Downtown Rockford — 510 Style.

Workshop presentation will include an animated PowerPoint of the downtown Rockford shopping experience. The goal of the workshop is to enlist everyone in the downtown and in the region to help cross-market this unique shopping experience.

Stacy Bernardi, the new director of sales and marketing for economic development for Winnebago County has a strong background in retailing and will discuss the economic benefits of developing a unique shopping experience in downtown Rockford and the need for cross-marketing the downtown experience in the region.

Pam Schallhorn, project manager for the River District Association, will discuss the Shop Downtown Rockford project, which began last fall, and the plan for moving the project forward in 2013. Included will be an update on street vendors and the possibility of busking (street performers) in downtown this summer.

Cathy McDermott, manager of Rockford City Market and administrator for Rock River Development Partnership, will also be on hand to give an update about the 2013 Rockford City Market.

In 2012, the RDA conducted a survey of the downtown consumer and collected 1,147 responses. Retailing ranked at the bottom of the list out of 11 things that respondents ranked in regard to the downtown — even below safety.

After reviewing more than 1,000 write-in comments, it became clear to the group that many of the retail shops the respondents wished were downtown were actually already there, but few knew they were there. After holding a Storefront Workshop for retailers, the RDA decided in September of 2012 to invest tax-increment financing (TIF) funding from the City of Rockford into a project to identify and promote existing retailers in the downtown.

Schallhorn worked with more than 20 downtown shop and gallery owners to create a shopping experience that could be promoted to the region. The Shop Downtown Project was born. Brochures were designed that included all shops open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., since many of the respondents in the survey were looking for consistent hours, and the group also knew parking was less of an issue on Saturdays. The project was an immediate success. Both foot traffic and sales increased during the holiday period.

The focus of the April 30 workshop was developed in 2012 when Schallhorn visited Fairfield, Ohio, on a shopping tour. Although the buildings in Fairfield’s downtown were at best a “3,” (compared to the beautiful architecture in Rockford, though in need of some repair — a “6” at least) the downtown was booming. What appeared to make the biggest difference was that the shop owners were cross-marketing each other.

Shop owners and other business people in the downtown, including bankers, insurance agents and lawyers, took the time to talk with customers and suggest they visit other shops while in the downtown. The cross-marketing technique worked to expand the shopping experience for the consumer and, ultimately, increased sales for everyone.

The RDA created the Storefront Workshop Series in 2011 to encourage and support entrepreneurship in downtown Rockford, and to fulfill its mission of promoting a growing, thriving and prosperous business and residential community in Rockford’s downtown neighborhood. Visit www.riverdistrict.com.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

PECATONICA, Ill. — Illinois State Police (ISP), District 16, will conduct a Roadside Safety Check (RSC) in Winnebago County this weekend (April 27-28), according to Captain Jeff Bain. Troopers will work in cooperation with officers from the Rockford Police Department.

The ISP has zero tolerance for impaired driving in Illinois. Officers working this detail will be watchful for drivers who are operating vehicles in an unsafe manner, driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license, transporting open alcoholic beverages, or driving under the influence (DUI).

Alcohol and drug impairment is a significant factor in nearly 40 percent of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in Illinois. Road safety checks are designed to keep roads safe by taking dangerous DUI offenders off the road.

This project is funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is anticipated to start construction activities Monday, May 6, on the U.S. Business 20 — West State Street, Sunset Avenue to West of Bridge over Kent Creek, Roadway Reconstruction.

Thursday, May 9, West State Street from Kilburn Avenue to Stewart Avenue and Mulberry Street from Kilburn Avenue to Avon Street will be closed. West State Street and Mulberry Street will remain closed until mid-November 2013. A detour will be in place.

Central Avenue will be open to north and southbound traffic only.

The reconstruction project consists of the complete reconstruction and widening of Business Route 20 and the realignment of Jefferson Street. This includes pavement removal, excavation, PCC pavement, HMA pavement, curb and gutter, median, multi-use path and sidewalk construction, storm sewer installation, retaining wall construction, landscaping, street lighting, traffic signal modernization and interconnection, pavement markings, erosion control, maintenance of traffic and all other necessary to complete the improvements.

IDOT will be coordinating with all applicable governmental agencies throughout the project.

Questions regarding this project should be directed to Jamie Rott in the Rockford Public Works Department at (815) 967-6742.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

Local estate planning attorney Oliver Nelson has launched The Eldercare Channel for Northern Illinois, a video-guided web directory and online magazine highlighting local senior care.

The Northern Illinois Eldercare Channel (http://www.eldercarechannel.com/channels/rockford-il/) offers an interactive and multimedia platform to connect seniors who are seeking care for themselves or adult children seeking care for their aging parents in northern Illinois with local senior care resources.

Nelson, an estate planning attorney with the Northern Illinois Center for ElderCare, puts his senior care expertise and the expertise of his firm to use as the video host for the Northern Illinois Eldercare Channel.

Nelson provides introductions and detailed information about 13 separate categories of senior care services with videos that guide and direct consumers through the complexities of making the best possible senior care decisions.

“Our goal for the Northern Illinois Eldercare Channel is to create the finest area resource for making senior care as transparent and easy-to-understand as possible,” Nelson said. “So much of the information provided on our channel is an attempt to answer the questions clients pose to us on a regular basis. We wanted to have all the information in one place and use the most advanced technological tools available to create the best possible user experience.”

Local senior care companies, agencies, and organizations may participate at no charge and enjoy a free interactive display with room for up to six pages, each with the ability to feature unlimited videos, photos and text, not to mention direct links to their websites.

The team at the Northern Illinois Center for ElderCare, P.C., is expert in estate planning and care coordination.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

Plans for three fund-raisers and a declaration to include the fallen flight crew of Rockford Memorial Hospital’s REACT helicopter crew on the memorial wall will be unveiled at an 11 a.m., Tuesday, May 14 , press conference at Winnebago County Justice Center, 650 W. State St., Rockford.

The press conference will be in the first-floor lobby of the Justice Center in front of the police officer memorial display. Firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and agency leaders from the Winnebago County area are asked to attend this special press conference. Family members and representatives from Rockford Health System and REACT will also be invited.

REACT helicopter flight nurse Jim Dillow, 40, REACT flight nurse Karen Hollis, 48, and REACT pilot Andy Olesen, 65, all lost their lives Dec. 10, 2012. The crew had been called to Mendota Community Hospital at around 7:30 p.m. to pick up a critically ill patient. However, the crew reportedly encountered unspecified bad weather and had planned to turn back when the helicopter crashed in a field near Compton, Ill., at around 8:30 p.m. No patients were on board when the helicopter crashed.

At the press conference, Board President and Committee Chairman Will Pederson will make announcements that will draw major attention to the three public fund-raising events that are scheduled for 2013. All events are dedicated to the memory of those responders who have died in the line of duty from Winnebago County and from the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. This will lead into the declaration to have the three flight crew members from the REACT helicopter to be included with the names on the memorial wall.

For more details, contact Pederson at willpederson@gmail.com or visit www.win911.org.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

CHICAGO — President Barack Obama’s proposed increase in the federal cigarette tax from $1.05 to $1.95 on each pack of cigarettes will severely impact low- and moderate-income smokers and is a payoff to teachers’ unions, according to Jim Tobin, president of the Taxpayer Education Foundation, with headquarters in Chicago.

“President Obama already has broken his promise not to raise taxes on low- and moderate-income taxpayers,” said Tobin. “Now, according to the Wall Street Journal, his proposed cigarette tax hike, which would raise taxes $78 billion over 10 years, would be used to expand the ineffectual and wasteful preschool education programs. This is a blatant payoff to teachers’ unions, who were among the biggest contributors to his campaigns, and who are a solid voting bloc for him and other Democrats.

“Low- and moderate-income taxpayers are more likely to smoke than high-income taxpayers, so this proposed tax increase would hit them especially hard,” Tobin added.

“Raising the federal cigarette tax would induce even more smokers to buy their cigarettes in areas that have the lowest total taxes, driving additional sellers out of business,” Tobin said. “Additionally, this tax hike would further encourage the growth of the black market in cigarettes, filling the coffers of the crime syndicates.

“Taxpayers have had it with higher taxes,” Tobin said. “Despite his promise to the contrary, President Obama has raised taxes on the very groups he swears to ‘strengthen.’ The payroll tax increased by 44 percent for 100 percent of earnings for middle and low earners, while the high-income earners are capped at $113,700. The economy is still in the tank, unemployment remains high, and it’s time to rescue taxpayers with tax cuts. Tax increases are the last thing they need at this time.”

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

The 49th Annual Illinois State Twins Convention will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, April 28, at Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. All twins are invited.

Formed by and for the twins and multiples in Illinois, the purpose of this fraternal organization is to promote the spiritual, intellectual and social welfare of twins and multiples throughout the state.

The convention includes a social hour, lunch, the organization’s business meeting and a silent auction. A contest for the most alike and unalike twins in different age categories will also be held.

Twins Convention organizers have worked with the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (RACVB) staff to develop an itinerary that encourages conference attendees to visit local sites and attractions. Named “Monkey around Rockford” after Rockford’s famous sock monkey, the itinerary begins with a paranormal tour at Tinker Swiss Cottage Friday evening, April 26. Saturday, April 27, the day begins with breakfast at Stockholm Inn, and includes affordable family-fun specials at Anderson Japanese Gardens, Lockwood Park, Burpee Museum of Natural History, Discovery Center Museum, Midway Village, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens and Rockford Art Museum. The day ends with pizza and bowling at Don Carter Lanes. Reduced hotel rates for attendees are also available.

RACVB President/CEO John Groh said: “We are thankful our partners are willing to showcase their sites and attractions at a discounted rate. We love when we have the opportunity to work with groups like the Illinois Twins Convention that have never been to Rockford before. Our team continues to think outside the box when it comes to bringing new visitors to Rockford, and groups like this are proof positive that our strategy is working.”

The 2013 Illinois Twins Convention is estimated to bring approximately 250 people to Rockford, with a projected economic impact of $26,200.

Registration is open to the public. Registration forms can be found at gorockford.com under the Calendar of Events.

Posted April 25, 2013

Online Staff Report

FAIRFAX, Va. — U.S. Rep. Matt Salmon, R-Ariz., introduced an amendment to the U.S. Constitution April 25 that would limit the number of terms a member of Congress may serve to three in the House of Representatives and two in the Senate.

Term limits for members of Congress have been spotlighted in recent weeks as former senator and vice presidential nominee Joe Lieberman announced that after reflection on his 24 years in office, he now supports term limits.

The Lieberman statement was followed by a poll conducted by the Gallup organization that showed the American people would vote for congressional term limits by a 75 percent to 21 percent margin.

Phil Blumel, president of U.S. Term Limits, the nation’s largest term limits advocacy group, called on Congress to send the Constitutional Amendment to the states for them to decide, saying: “The public clearly wants term limits, and it is the ultimate conflict of interest for federal elected officials to prevent the states from making the decision on whether their own terms should be limited.”

Salmon is introducing the amendment on a tide of public dissatisfaction with Congress, and Blumel believes this public outcry may break the log jam that has prevented consideration, stating: “Many members of Congress are hearing from their constituents that they want the tough issues in D.C. to be acted upon rather than a continual kicking of the can down the road. In this context, they are realizing that a constitutional amendment limiting terms for members of Congress may be the only way to make our political system work again.

“Now, Congress faces a crisis,” Salmon said. “The people hold the legislative branch of our federal government in such low regard largely because they believe that they are no longer represented by fellow citizens, but instead by professional politicians. It is time to change this. It is time to put citizens back in charge. It is time to pass congressional term limits.”

U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-La., has introduced the same congressional term limits amendment in the U.S. Senate.

To become part of the U.S. Constitution, the amendment requires a two-thirds vote in each house of Congress and ratification by three quarters — or 38 out of 50 — states.

Posted April 25, 2013