Winnebago County News

As part of Rockford crime news coverage at Winnebago County News we have links to many local police and fire departments. We also have a link to RockfordCrimeStoppers.com   at  http://www.winnebagocountynews.org/p/police-fire.html .  Rockford Crime Stoppers offers up to $1000 for information leading to the arrest of a wanted fugitive (contact the local Crime Stoppers office for details). However, DO NOT attempt to confront or apprehend any wanted fugitive. Report any suspected fugitive to RockfordCrimeStoppers.com or your local  police.

You may now find links to Rockford crime news on Winnebago County News at   http://www.winnebagocountynews.org/p/police-fire.html .  Some of the links will be to local television and newspaper sources, others to  RockfordScanner.com .   You will also find links to local police and fire department websites under the "911" graphic on the right-hand side every page of Winnebago County News.  (You may also click on the the "Rockford Crime News" tab at WinnebagoCountyNews.org to get to the Rockford Crime News story scroll.)

The Occupy Wall Street movement spreads to Rockford. Protesters will gather at Beattie Park during the noon hour today and will march to City Hall. Local attorney... READ THE STORY AT:  http://www.wnta.com/Channels/LocalNews/story.aspx?ID=1553264

You may now find maps of reported crimes in Rockford and nearby areas by visiting Winnebago County News at http://www.winnebagocountynews.org/p/police-fire.html . These maps are available via CrimeMapping.com.  You may customize the maps to target specific neighborhoods and specific crime types. CrimeMapping.com also offers basic trending analyses of crime data, grouping like crimes together in a pie chart to illustrate the number of each crime type. Please note this map list reported crimes, many simply being police calls for domestic disturbances. (You may also click on the the "Rockford Crime News" tab at WinnebagoCountyNews.org to get to the Crimemapping.com data for Rockford.)

Rockford - One of the suspects in the robbery at Marie's Pizza has been released from the hospital... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=287077

Rockford - Police investigate an attack early this morning at 208 Oakley Avenue Investigators say a man threw a molotov cocktail at the home setting the porch and siding on fire... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=287087

Washington, D.C. - A new report shows Americans are struggling more than ever. Sentier Research found the average yearly household income for families is now ... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=287097

Some say they're now scared to let their children play outside and worried their neighborhood took a turn for the worse... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=287117

Eight people were shot this weekend in the Stateline and it has many families worried about their safety more than usual. Living near crime can affect us psychologically... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Reacting_to_Crime_and_Violence_The_Psychological_Toll_131483748.html

Staffing levels in the Rockford Police Department are expected to drop by at least 18 officers and as many as 49 under the 2012 budget... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Special_Report_Putting_Our_Safety_in_Jeopardy_131478798.html

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Youths interested in defensive skills can learn from the professionals this month.  The Rockford RiverHawks' next free youth clinic at Wallbangers Academy is scheduled for Oct. 23. RiverHawks manager Rich Austin, hitting coach Pat O'Sullivan and Jr. RiverHawks 15U head coach Justin Small will run the clinic, which will cover fielding and defense. The RiverHawks and Wallbangers have clinics scheduled through May. Each clinic will be broken up into two groups based on age. Kids ages 7 through 12 will go from noon-1 p.m., and children 13 and older will go from 1-2 p.m. After October, there will be one clinic per month that covers all areas of baseball, including hitting, fielding and defense. The clinic dates are November 6, December 4, January 8, February 5, March 4, April 1 and May 6. Each date is a Sunday. Up to 25 kids can sign up for the clinics, and spots will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. To reserve a spot, call the RiverHawks front of...

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Parents of students in the Rockford school district can keep track of their kids from the comfort of their home computer with a new web-based Parent Portal... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15656365/rockford-public-schools-launches-parent-portal

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- The two suspects who robbed Spaced Out Clothing in Rockford are still on the loose... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_Clothing_Store_Robbed_131433593.html

RICHARDS, OFFENSE PACE ICEHOGS OVER RIVERMEN Hogs puckstopper makes 35 saves in the win Peoria, Ill.- Two games are in the books for the Rockford IceHogs and for the first time in the club’s AHL era, the team is 2-0-0-0. Alec Richards made 35 saves while Brandon Segal and Rob Klinkhammer scored a pair of goals to lead Rockford over the Peoria Rivermen at Carver Arena on Sunday. Peoria jumped out front on Sunday 1:52 into the contest. In transition, Adam Cracknell picked up a drop pass from T.J. Hensick at 1:52 and ripped his first goal of the year past Richards. The goal was also assisted by Brett Sterling. Rockford got the goal back at 10:48 of the opening frame. Brian Connelly’s slap shot from the left point was redirected past Ben Bishop and in by Segal for his second tally of the season. Klinkhammer got the secondary assist after starting the rush in transition. The game remained tied until the 13:57 mark when Hensick would finish off a Peoria rush in the Rockford zon...

A "severe" motorcycle accident is being reported at 10:11 PM, Sunday, October 9th outside the Two Wheel Inn.  Police and emergency personnel have been dispatched. Location map:  http://local.yahoo.com/info-17480890-two-wheel-inn-rockford;_ylt=A0SO8lBHY5JO1KYANw2KNcIF;_ylv=3?viewtype=map Follow the radio calls at:  http://www.winnebagocountynews.org/p/police-fire.html

DEKALB, Ill. -- The Northern Illinois defense allowed just 70 yards and recorded seven sacks as the Huskies defeated Kent State, 40-10, on Saturday afternoon at Huskie Stadium... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15649240/dominate-defense-leads-niu-to-40-10-win

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Lakeland College defeated Rockford College 32-0 on Saturday at Sam Greeley Field. The loss extends the Regents losing streak to 15 games... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15649128/lakeland-drops-rockford-college-32-0

Rockford, Ill. – Rockford IceHogs fans couldn't have asked for a better start to the new season as the IceHogs take a 3-2 win over the Grand Rapids Griffins on Saturday, giving new head coach Ted Dent his first win... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15650171/icehogs-christen-b

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- October is usually a bit cooler outside; perfect for making and eating chili, but today's warm temperatures didn't stop this year's Chili Shoot-Out... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Chili_Shootout_Hits_Davis_Park_131397183.html

Families looking to take an animal home got their chance Saturday.. SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Pet-A-Palooza_Kicks_Off_in_Rockford_for_Adopt_a_Shelter_Dog_Month_131397053.html

As Jesse Russell reports President Obama understands why working people are supporting the Occupy Wall Street movement. When President Barack Obama was asked about the Occupy Wall Street movement during a press conference on Thursday he said he wasn't surprised it was happening... READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1551827

By Richard S. Gubbe, Contributing Writer On a Sunday in the late 1970s, Mike Molander was performing his assigned duties as a pollution control technician at the Amerock Corporation when he said he witnessed the suspicious pouring of highly toxic materials into an old farmer's well located at the facility... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/10/05/dumping-storing-of-highly-toxic-chemicals-alleged-inside-amerock/

GRANITE CITY IS THE ICEHOGS NEW HOME FOR HOG TALK Hogs broadcasting network intact again for 2011-12 Rockford, Ill.-The Rockford IceHogs announced on Thursday that Granite City Food and Brewery is the new home for Bud Light Hog Talk. The IceHogs also announced that 1330 AM WNTA will once again serve as the team’s flagship radio station for the IceHogs Broadcasting Network. Bud Light Hog Talk begins on Monday, Oct. 10 with the 2011-12 season debut at Granite City. Granite City is located at 7140 Harrison Ave., next to CherryVale Mall. The show runs from 6-7 p.m. and will be hosted by Mike Peck and Stephen Nelson on a rotating basis. Bud Light Hog Talk will feature a member of the IceHogs coaching staff and two players each week. Guests on Monday include IceHogs Head Coach Ted Dent along with forwards Brandon Segal and Peter LeBlanc. Fans attending the show can take advantage of food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it to Granite City, the show will be aired on 1330 ...

ICEHOGS TO BATTLE FOR THE ILLINOIS LOTTERY CUP IN 2011-12 - From Press Release Hogs team up with in-state rivals Chicago and Peoria Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs, in conjunction with the Illinois Lottery, announced that they will battle the Chicago Wolves and Peoria Rivermen for the Illinois Lottery Cup during the upcoming 2011-12 American Hockey League regular season. With the IceHogs slated to battle Chicago and Peoria 12 times each and Peoria and Chicago facing off 10 times head-to-head, the team with the best winning percentage against their in-state rivals at the conclusion of the 2011-12 regular season will claim the Illinois Lottery Cup. The Illinois Lottery Cup will be on display throughout the season at select IceHogs home games at the BMO Harris Bank Center. The Illinois Lottery Cup will make its first visit to Rockford at Tuesday’s exclusive season ticket holder “Meet The Team” event at the Radisson Hotel. The Illinois Lottery has partnered with the Ice...

ICEHOGS TRIM TRAINING CAMP ROSTER TO 24 - From Press Release Morin sent from Chicago to Rockford Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Tuesday that the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs have trimmed their training camp roster by five players. Defenseman Simon Danis-Pepin and forward David Gilbert have been reassigned by the Chicago Blackhawks to the Toledo Walleye (ECHL). Forward Paul Zanette and goaltender Carter Hutton have been assigned from Rockford to Toledo. Forward Brandon Svendsen has been released from his try-out and will report to training camp with the Kalamazoo Wings (ECHL). In addition, forward Jeremy Morin has been assigned by Chicago to Rockford. Morin, 20, is entering his second season with the IceHogs. Last season, Morin made his professional debut in Rockford on Oct. 9 against the Manitoba Moose. He notched 12 points (8g, 4a) in 22 games for the IceHogs. Morin made his NHL debut w...

BLACKHAWKS ASSIGN SALAK TO ROCKFORD Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to terms with goaltender Ray Emery on a one-year contract and assigned goaltender Alexander Salak to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs. Rockford’s training camp roster now stands at 28 players, including 17 forwards, eight defensemen and three goaltenders. “We’re in the fortunate position to have to make a difficult decision on two netminders that impressed throughout our entire training camp,” said Vice President/General Manager Stan Bowman. “Having both Ray Emery and Alexander Salak as a part of the Chicago Blackhawks organization makes us stronger in both the short-term and long-term.” Emery, 29, is a veteran of 173 career regular-season games over parts of seven NHL seasons with the Ottawa Senators (2002-08), Philadelphia Flyers (2009-10) and Anaheim Ducks (2010-11). The Cayuga, Ontario, native has also posted 20 wins in 36 career appearances in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, which...

Hello, I have a friend looking for a web site designer to work on a small business web site. Designer must be available for regular updates and postings.  Designer or firm must have previous experience. A politically agnostic designer preferred, no lefty liberals or tea partiers need apply. (I can't do it because I'm a lefty liberal or a tea partier, depending on the issue.) Send me your name, telephone number and email address and I will simply forward it on, no filtering of applicants. Thanks, Paul Gorski editor@winnebagocountynews.org

Some U.S. Senators are trying to end discrimination against the nation's unemployed. Jesse Russell reports: One job search site made waves last week when it announced it would no longer accept job listings that discriminate against the unemployed... READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1536615

Loves Park -A building at the Harlem Community Center goes up in flames... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15446456/fire-destroys-maintenance-building-at-harlem-community-center

ROCKFORD (WREX) -The City of Rockford Finance and Personnel Committee learns more about which city bridges and roadways will go under construction in the next five years... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15446325/rockfords-capital-improvement-plan

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Rockford Aldermen approve leasing four vehicles to help the Rockford Fire Department save lives... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15446474/rockford-city-council-will-lease-fire-vehicles

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Two Rockford schools were put on lockdown for a short period of time Monday, but everything is back to normal now at both schools... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15443742/two-rockford-schools-put-on-lockdown-for-short-time

In part three of the interview with Mike Peck, IceHogs vice president of communications and "Voice of the IceHogs," we talk about, among other topics, the IceHogs' potential new roster... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/07/tales-from-the-trough-mike-peck-interview-part-three/

Rockford - The Great Home Giveaway is getting closer. WTVO's Steve Stadelman was joined live by the Executive Director of the Arc, Jacki Neil Boss, to talk about the early bird drawing coming up Thursday, as well as how the Arc is coping with state budget cuts, and how you can buy tickets... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=278747

The Rockford Area Arts Council's Community Arts Access Grants are available for individual artists, arts organizations, and non-profit organizations wishing to apply for grant funding for projects in 2012... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_Area_Arts_Council_2012_Community_Arts_Access_Grants__and_Grantseekers_Workshop__129404848.html

The Rockford Park District wants to hear more people say, "I am proud to be a volunteer for the Rockford Park District." There are many volunteer opportunities throughout the Rockford Park District and some new options involving its newest project, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, set to open in late October 2011. This is a chance to give your time to a very distinguished organization whose mission is to help people enjoy life... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/07/park-district-holds-volunteer-open-house-sept-8/

Her name is Nicole Smith. If you follow high school basketball, you'd better get used to hearing her name. She's 6 feet, 4 inches tall, wears No. 45 and plays center for the Lady Indians at Rockton Hononegah. Later this fall, she'll be hitting the hardwood for her senior year. Smith was hampered with knee injuries last season and only appeared in 23 of the Indians' 32 games. She intends for her senior year to be entirely different... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/07/prep-basketball-lady-indians-senior-signs-letter-of-intent-with-iowa/

Former and current residents and Amerock employees recall toxic waste dumping in area west of Central Avenue, north of Auburn Street... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/07/area-near-former-amerock-plant-a-toxic-wasteland/

The Center For American Progress says GOP Presidential candidate Mitt Romney's jobs plan has a fatal flaw – not enough action to stimulate demand. Jesse Russell reports... READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1533611

Low income seniors still looking for help with their heating bills can try again this week to get an appointment... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Sept_6_LIHEAP__129336078.html

Do you get cravings for grandma's meatloaf and pot pies? A new restaurant has opened up to satisfy you pallet... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276957

MACHESNEY PARK (WREX) - Machesney Park is closer to extended alcohol selling hours on Sundays... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15406096/machesney-park-may-allow-longer-liquor-sales-hours

Crime Stoppers wanted fugitive alerts.. READ THE ALERTS: http://www.rockfordcrimestoppers.com/fugitives.cfm

ROCKFORD -It won't be long before people who work at District 205 headquarters will start moving into their new building... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15406070/move-to-new-district-205-headquarters-to-start-next-month

The streets of Belvidere are expected to be quite crowded tonight as the controversy over a church expansion leaves the pews for a march to city hall... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Belvidere_Church_Looks_to_Expand_Community_Divided_129339523.html

It was an exceptionally good opening weekend for area college football fans. It didn't matter if you were cheering for Illinois, Wisconsin, Northern Illinois, or Iowa; they were all winners in their first games out in the 2011 season... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/06/area-college-football-teams-off-to-good-start/

Just before 4 PM today, the Rockford Police Department were being dispatched to the 3000 block of W State st for an armed robbery to a business.. READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=2870

DeKALB, Ill. – After passing for a career-best five touchdowns and rushing for another in leading Northern Illinois to its first season opening win since 2003, Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish was named the Mid-American Conference West Division Offensive Player of the Week Monday by the league office... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15397593/nius-harnish-named-player-of-the-week

STATELINE (WIFR) -- A trio of construction projects could start causing headaches in the Stateline this week. The Whitman Street Bridge Interchange is getting some minor repairs. Workers will remove debris, patch potholes, and repave on and off ramps. One ramp will be closed each day. That means traffic patterns will be changing. The project is supposed to be done by early November... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Construction_Projects_Start_Along_the_Stateline_129271393.html

For the first time in Boylan soccer history the Titans have won the prestigious Barrington Soccer Tournament.   This year's event featured three former State Championship teams... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276657

Winnebago County will host a meeting to discuss growth at the Chicago-Rockford International Airport from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 7, at Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3501 Kishwaukee St... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/05/sept-7-meeting-to-address-growth-at-chicago-rockford-international-airport/

Rockford, Illinois-Byron native Sean Considine is looking for a job again.  The Carolina Panthers cut him early Monday morning... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276647

NATIONWIDE (WIFR) -- Honda has announced a major recall on its Fit vehicles. Honda Motor Company said this morning it would recall about 960,000 Fit subcompacts and other models worldwide to repair defects including malfunctioning power window switches... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Honda_Issues_Million_Car_Recall_129259488.html

CHICAGO (AP) -- The Chicago Bears added to their secondary, agreeing to a one-year deal with two-time Pro Bowl safety Brandon Meriweather. The Bears announced the move on Sunday, a day after Meriweather was released by New England... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15394733/bears-add-former-pro-bowler

POPLAR GROVE, Ill. — Leonard Ihrke has been many things in his 90 years of life: student, soldier, husband and mechanic. But no title meant quite as much to him as that of pilot... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/05/90-year-old-world-war-ii-air-force-veteran-to-fly-one-last-time-sept-7/

Rockford - Fire breaks out on the city's east side. Crews from Belvidere, New Milford, Blackhawk, and Cherry Valley are on the scene of a vacant house fire near Spring Brook and Lyford Road... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276597

The festival has been in Rockford for 28 years and during that time it has now raised just over ten million dollars for local non-profits. Organizers say hundreds of groups have relied on the festival to generate operating funds... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276577

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- An apartment fire sends two people to the hospital early Saturday morning... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Two_People_Injured_in_Rockford_Apartment_Fire_129245298.html

WINNEBAGO COUNTY (WREX) -Police search for two men they believed robbed three gas stations Sunday morning and tied up a clerk at one of them... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15394815/police-search-for-men-who-ar

We got a small taste of fall this morning thanks to our temperatures dropping into the mid and upper 40s along with a few scattered 50s.  With clearing skies and north winds around 10 mph, our atmosphere cooled down gradually through the overnight hours... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://addins.wrex.com/blogs/weather/?p=18357

DEKALB, Ill. (AP) -- Chandler Harnish threw a career-high five touchdown passes and rushed for another to give Northern Illinois coach Dave Doeren a 49-26 victory over Army in his head coaching debut on Saturday... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15392179/huskies-blow-by-army-in-season-opener

How bad is it out there for American workers? A new Center For Law and Social Policy report says there are five job seekers for every single available job opening... READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1531752

Freeport, Ill. — Aquin's defense battled not only against Orangeville's Wing-T offense but also against the heat. The Bulldogs shut out the Broncos 40-0 and had some help off the bench... READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1413010629/Bulldogs-beat-heat

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Some of the brightest students in the Rockford Area receive some recognition at On The Waterfront. A... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15392298/8th-grade-honor-students-recognized-at-otw

CHICAGO (AP) -- The Chicago Bears are letting running back Chester Taylor go, after all... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Agent_Bears_Let_Taylor_Go_129200123.html

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Neighbors say it looked something from an action movie when a down power line lit a gas line in a Rockford neighborhood this afternoon... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15392286/gas-leak-shuts-down-busy-rockford-street

Here are the results from Friday's IHSA football games... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Feldco_Football_Frenzy_Friday_Roundup_129117133.html

BELVIDERE, Ill. — State Sen. Christine J. Johnson, R-Shabbona, and the Illinois Attorney's General Office will co-host a scam and identity-theft prevention program Thursday, Sept. 8... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/02/scam-and-identity-theft-prevention-program-sept-8-at-boone-county-council-on-aging/

A second armed robbery to a business has occurred, in the last 30 minutes. The suspects first robbed the Phillip 66 on N. Perryville.. READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=2820

FREEPORT (WREX) -Several departments are called in to battle a blaze at a Freeport Business.  Flames broke out at Mechanical Incorporated at 2279 E. Yellow Creek Road... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15388042/fire-tears-through-freeport-business

U.S. Marine Corporal Anthony Dewitz finished up his first deployment to Afghanistan last month, and the welcome awaiting him back home was one he'll never forget... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/DeKalb_Marine_Gets_a_Heros_Welcome_129171938.html

FREEPORT, Ill. — From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 4, the Freeport Park District and the Freeport Art Museum will present Art in the Park at Freeport's Krape Park... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/08/31/art-in-the-park-at-freeport 's-krape-park-sept-4/

CHICAGO — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Aug. 23 that the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) is setting aside approximately $6 million for federal agencies to sign up unemployed workers to implement restoration projects in federally-protected areas, on tribal lands and in Areas of Concern in the Great Lakes basin. EPA will fund individual projects up to $1 million. To qualify for funding, each proposed project must provide jobs for at least 20 unemployed people... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/02/epa-dedicates-6-million-to-restore-great-lakes-create-jobs/

A number of restrictions will be in place on the Rock River over the Labor Day weekend, Winnebago County Sheriff Richard Meyers announced... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/02/restrictions-in-place-on-rock-river-over-labor-day-weekend/

The Rockford Police announced plans for the 2011 Labor Day "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" Impaired Driving Crackdown, the intensified enforcement against the overwhelming number of late-night impaired drivers and safety belt violators... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/08/31/rockford-police-to-crack-down-on-late-night-enforcement/

ROCKFORD (WREX) – Senior Dontrel Chance racked up four touchdowns in Guilford's week one win over Freeport last Friday night... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15371701/athlete-of-the-week-guilfords-dontrel-chance

Rosecrance President/CEO Philip W. Eaton announced Sept. 2 that the downtown Janet Wattles Center building will be renamed the "Rosecrance Ware Center" to honor the agency's longtime director, Frank Ware, who died unexpectedly in February... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/02/rosecrance-renames-downtown-building-to-honor-the-late-frank-ware-merger-between-rosecrance-and-janet-wattles-complete/

FORRESTON, IL (WREX) - Forreston had a Senior night to remember knocking off Dakota 32-7 in our Game of the Week... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15388184/forrest

Report: The Loves Park Police and Metro Ambulance and the Emergency Helicopter, were all being dispatched to Harlem rd at the I-90 bridge, for a motorcycle accident... READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=2801

Accident ~ Forest Hills and Pepper Dr Report: Just after 1pm today, the Rockford Police and Fire Departments were responding to a motor vehicle accident with injuries at Forest Hills and Pepper dr in Rockford... READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=2796

A heated topic in Roscoe comes to the plate tonight as the fate youth baseball and softball games is brought in front of the village board. Youth baseball and softball have been going strong in roscoe for half a century but the relationship between the village and the organization that oversees the sports are at odds. .. SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=276007

DEKALB   (WNIJ)  -  Rockford's "On the Waterfront" festival returns this weekend. This year's headliners on the Left Bank Stage include a veteran blues performer. .. HEAR THE STORY: http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wnij/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1847369

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- With most of the Super Bowl champions' marquee players on the sideline, outside linebacker Vic So'oto likely sealed up his roster spot... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15381213/packers-beat-chiefs-in-final-preseason-game

CHICAGO (AP) -- Johnny Knox came through with a touchdown catch, and if he keeps it up, he just might regain his spot as the Chicago Bears' starting receiver... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15381226/knox-hanie-look-sharp-as-bears-beat-browns-24-14

PECATONICA, Ill. — Illinois State Police (ISP) are reminding motorists to make safety their No. 1 priority while driving during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest for motorists, and thousands of drivers are expected to travel roadways and interstates nationwide... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/01/state-police-to-crack-down-on-speeding-dui-seat-belt-violations-and-distracted-drivers-over-labor-day-weekend/

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 6, the Whitman Street Bridge Interchange will be under construction. This project will provide various repairs to all City of Rockford-owned... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/01/construction-on-whitman-street-bridge-interchange-begins-sept-6/

Aug. 13, 2008, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published its final regulation mandating sprinklers in all existing nursing homes by Aug. 13, 2013. In May 2010, River Bluff completed Phase I of the sprinkler project by installing sprinklers in the main dining room... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/08/31/river-bluff-aims-to-have-sprinklers-in-place-by-2013/

UNDATED (WREX) - A few schools have decided to dismiss early due to Friday's forecasted heat... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/story/15382672/schools-dismissing-early-because-of-the-heat

Craft beer lovers will have the chance to try some fresh brews when a new festival kicks off this fall. The Screw City Beer Festival hits the streets in the heart of Rockford featuring craft beer from local, regional and national breweries... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/09/01/more-than-100-beers-featured-at-sept-10-screw-city-beer-festival-in-downtown-rockford/

The Rockford Foresters announced that Spark Energy will be sponsoring a guarantee win night at the Rockford Foresters this season for the game on Saturday, June 25.  In addition to the guarantee win night, the 25-person party deck at historic Marinelli Field will be called the Spark Energy Party Deck. The guarantee win promotion for the Rockford Foresters' game on Saturday, June 25 guarantees all fans in attendance that the Rockford Foresters will win.  If the Rockford Foresters don't win, everyone in attendance at the game will walk away with a free ticket for a Rockford Foresters game between July 5 and July 10. Everyone is a winner right now anyway though.  Spark Energy offers a fixed-rate for 12 months at a rate of 6.98 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), a rate that is 16 percent lower than ComEd's electricity supply rate for residential consumers and 13 percent lower for small business customers.  To learn more or to switch, visit  www.S...

The Rockford Foresters announced today that historic Marinelli Field will play host to USA Baseball's Great Lakes region of the National Team Identification Series (NTIS) on June 21 & June 22.  The two-day event will be one of six different locations being held across the Midwest and will serve as the first location.  The selection tryout at historic Marinelli Field is a way for kid's to be named to the Great Lakes 13U, 15U and 17U teams.  The three teams will then ultimately compete in their respective age groups against 12 other regions from across the country in the NTIS, September 9-11, 2011, at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, N.C.  All of this is a path to become one of 32 players to be invite to future 14U, 16U and 18U National Team Trials with the ultimate goal of being selected to represent our country as part of Team USA... READ THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=110

Rockford, Illinois - Sports Director Scott Leber recaps Sunday's thrilling Indy 500... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255097

On June 7th hundreds of registered nurses will gather at the White House and picket the U.S. Chamber of Commerce calling for a new "Main Street Contract For The American People". Joined by labor and community allies, the nurses will propose a program for rebuilding America's Main Street communities with jobs, healthcare reforms, education and other urgent needs. The rally is sponsored by National Nurses United, the country's biggest nurses union... READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1425597

ROCKFORD - The Operating Board of Alignment Rockford announced that its second Invitation to Participate™ (ITP™) comes from the Grades 9-12 Pathways Committee and requests organizations to identify individuals who can participate in a career mentoring/math tutoring pilot program with 9th grade students at East High School... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Alignment_Rockford_Looking_to_Mentor__122809174.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR)- More than five million people are attacked by dogs annually including employees who are forced to work outside year-round. We followed a local mail carrier who was attacked by a dog several times. She has more on why our animals may be more vicious than we think... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Mail_Carriers__Beward_of_Dogs__122809179.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- More than a month after two young children and their mother are murdered on Rockford's west side, family members band together to keep their memory alive. Family members of 30-year-old Natasha Cleary and her sons 12-year-old Marquwon Owens and 2-year-old Katarion Friar want to make sure no one forgets them, especially since the crime remains unsolved... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Family_to_Keep_Canterbury_Lane_Homicide_Victims_Memory_Alive_122809009.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Members from a local church group spend their Memorial Day weekend trying to help young children in Haiti... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_Church_Group_Helping_Haiti_Orphanage_122808924.html

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Matt Zoltak combined with the Rockford bullpen on a five-hitter Sunday as the RiverHawks beat the Traverse City Beach Bums, 5-4. Zoltak (1-0) struck out six, walked one and held the Bums to two runs, one earned, on four hits over seven innings for the win. Brett Durand got the last four outs for his third save... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748184

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Boylan took the rubbermatch of their season series with Hononegah and captured the regional championship in the process... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745714

LOVES PARK, Ill. (Saturday, May 28th, 2011) -- Jerry Gille didn't have his engine, didn't have the fastest car, and didn't have much of a lead with five laps remaining Saturday at the Rockford Speedway. And yet, none of that really mattered because in the end, the former two-time Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models champion did what he often does, fending off a hard charging Jon Reynolds Jr. to find his way back to victory lane for the first time in 2011... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748178

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Dan Wheldon ended up second in the previous two Indianapolis 500s and was seconds away from another runner-up finish today before taking the checkered flag on the 100th anniversary of the race... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748166

Rockford, Illinois- The Boylan Titans clinch a Regional Championship after beating Hononegah 7-6... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255007

Rockford, Illinios- Belvidere North beat Freeport 4-3 to take home regional crown... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255017

Around 10:15pm Sundayt,  a vehicle was of fire next to a barn at 16203 Jackson in Pecatonica, Illinois.  The vehicle is supposed to be fully engulfed and next to the barn. The barn has flammables, people were evacuating from the scene... READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=1411

Report: Around 3:30am Sunday, Rockford Police and Fire were dispatched to a very serious accident at Loomis & Corbin in Rockford.  There is at least one confirmed fatality, and possibly another fatality as well. But at the time of writing this, 1 is confirmed.  .. READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=1402

Visit the link below to see the photos... READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/467

Report: Shortly after 1am Sunday, 2 males went into the Papa John's restaurant and robbed the business at gunpoint. The two male suspects left on foot, eastbound from the scene. At the time of writing this, no injuries were reported and the suspects were still at large... READ THE STORY: http://rockfordscanner.com/?p=1399

A new book titled "Get Up, Stand Up: Uniting Populists, Energizing the Defeated, and Battling the Corporate Elite" looks at what author Bruce Levine calls "political passivity." Levine says that while the majority of Americans disagree with Wall Street bailouts and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, they remain passive due to years of US institutions creating a sense of helplessness. Levine said what's unfolding in Wisconsin shows that collective self respect can change the passive trend. .. READ THE STORY: http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1425600

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Hundreds of veterans are remembered for their service in the civil war. 502 vets are currently buried at the Greenwood Cemetery near North Main and Auburn Street. Tonight, around a dozen from our community are lighting the sky with make-shift lights in their honor. Participants say it's important to remember these vets because of their sacrifice to the united states... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Civil_War_Vets_Honored_Tonight_at_Greenwood_Cemetary_122809869.html

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Motorcycle riders hop on their hogs in Rockford for a rally that draws 1,000 people from across the state. Road Captains for the Illinois Hog Rally took off from the Clock Tower Resort for a practice run. The event chair says it familiarizes them the route that goes along the Rock River and around the Byron Nuclear Power Plant... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745933

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Outdoor sports are in full swing but the indoor competition is heating up as well. World class table tennis players are in Rockford for America's Team Championships. People from all around the globe came to play at the Forest City Tennis Center... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745947

Rockford's Discovery Center puts a spin on science. The museum just opened its new traveling exhibit, Spin: The Science of Rotation. It's made up of 15 unique areas that explore objects that rotate. Guests get the chance to create a mini laser show and race various spinning objects... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745963

(Rockford, Illinois) Rockford Airfest lovers got some bad news Friday, when the Blue Angels, the main attraction of the air show, cancelled. The Navy jet team cancelled their appearance after a safety concern during a show last weekend... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255037

ROCKFORD-(WREX) - The city of Rockford has allowed Com-Ed workers to remove nearly 550 street lights since the beginning of the year to save money. Some residents, however feel that safety is just as important as savings... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745968

Loves Park (WIFR) -- Despite the weather's cooler temperatures crowds still came out to Loves Park's Annual Young at Heart Festival. This is the 40th annual Memorial Day Festival in Loves Park... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Crowds__122780449.html

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Two people died and three were injured in a crash at Corbin and Loomis Street early Sunday morning... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14746309

The village extended an ordinance that allows people to burn tree limbs and debris from the storm that caused extensive damage in some areas... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255027

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Lee and southwest DeKalb counties until 12:15pm.  These are for the line of storms currently moving through Whiteside counties... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://firstwarnweatherteam.blogspot.com/2011/05/fog-and-storms-this-morning.html

Congressman Don Manzullo's district would look a lot different under a proposed redistricting plan. Illinoisdemocrats have released their new congressional map. A new one is drawn every ten years following a census... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=254997

It's been a cold, wet spring in the stateline. And now it's causing problems for outdoor businesses. Rockton's shimmering city pool waits for its first lazy day of summer. But a good turnout depends on the weather... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=254977

Video shows the safety scare which led the "Blue Angels" to cancel a number of shows including Rockford's Airfest. Here you see them performing a maneuver at a lower altitude than normal at a show inVirginia last weekend... SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=254967