Winnebago County News

COMMENTARY (FROM HTTP://KEEPBOB.BLOGSPOT.COM ) - I left Rockford four years ago, but after living there 32 years I try to keep up on events that are going on. It was always with great pleasure how I read the continued accomplishments Bob O’Brien continued to bring Rockford time and time again. When he came to Rockford he put together a great staff. With that staff, experience and entrepreneur skills he achieved substantial and multiple infrastructure improvements, an international status airport and improved passenger & cargo service. In the interim he provided a long list of other accomplishments that made the people of Rockford and Winnebago County very proud and were shared by the adjoining community. It is my belief the entire community will suffer greatly by Bob O’Brien’s departure. I can only hope the community will hold the responsible people accountable. The seven person Board of Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor of Rockford, the Winnebago County Board Chairman, the ...

FROM PRESS RELEASE  (NATURAL LAND INSTITUTE) - Pasque Flower Walk at Pecatonica Ridge Prairie Friday, April 1st Please join us for a Pasque Flower Walk at Pecatonica Ridge Prairie at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2011. Enjoy an easy walk at one of the best spots in northern Illinois to see this earliest of spring-blooming flowers. From Rockford, drive west on U.S. 20, turn north on Conger Road. At the point where Conger curves west into Berglund Road, keep going north on the gravel entrance. Please call the Natural Land Institute at 815/964-6666 with any questions.

Village of Roscoe Trustee Sharon Atkins is running for the village's top job as President/Mayor. Visit http://sharonatkins.net/  for more information on her campaign.

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Nicor Gas crews will begin work next week on a major gas main replacement project... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14356760

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Rockford Public Library Board of Directors voted Monday, Feb. 28, to adjust the hours of operation for the Rockford Public Library locations. The new hours will be effective as of Sunday, April 3, 2011... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/30/rockford-public-library-adjusts-hours-beginning-april-3/

ROCKFORD (WREX)- Jeanne Westholder tries to hang on to the Rockford Board of Education Subdistrict B Seat she's held for the past four years but attorney, Tim Rollins, wants it too... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14354589

ROCKFORD - A few hours after the announcement that Bob O'Brien has stepped down as executive director of the Chicago Rockford International Airport, sources told The Rock River Times officials have named his replacement... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/30/airport-obrien-rumor-mill-stars/

ROCKFORD - A website has been created with the hope of encouraging Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) Executive Director Bob O'Brien to stay at the airport. The site,  http://keepbob.blogspot.com , was created less than a day after The Rock River Times first reported O'Brien, along with Airport Authority Board Chairman Brian Boyer, resigned during a closed session board of commissioners meeting. Read about the resignations here... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/30/website-aims-to-keep-bob-o%e2%80%99brien-at-airport/

ROCKFORD - Bob O'Brien's resignation as executive director of Chicago Rockford Airport is effective tomorrow, Thursday, March 31... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/30/o%e2%80%99brien%e2%80%99s-last-day-at-airport-tomorrow-march-31/

ROCKFORD (WREX) - A round of Rockford teacher RIFs puts 29 tenured staff members out of a job... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14345735

ROCKFORD (WREX) - After months of discussion, District 205 Administrators made public the elementary, middle, and high school zones voted in by the Board of Education earlier in the school year... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14345565

ROCKFORD (WNTA) - Long time Rockford Airport Director Bob O'Brien is leaving his post... READ THE STORY: http://www.wnta.com/Channels/LocalNews/story.aspx?ID=1393339

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- A local church that fell victim to the foreclosure crisis in 2008. Is now looking to sell some of its assets, which could allow them to finish a big construction project... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Faith_Center_Trying_to_Repay_Debit_118892679.html

WNIJ NEWS (WNIJ) - The case of William Curl was back in court Monday morning. Curl is the DeKalb man suspected of killing a Northern Illinois University student last fall... READ AND LISTEN TO THE REPORT AT: http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wnij/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1781131

Rockford - With the warmer weather on the way and prom and wedding season right around the corner, why spend a lot of money on a special occasion dress that you'll probably only wear once or twice? MORE... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=241126

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  Rockford area farmers learn more about potential risks to their business... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14338326

ROCKFORD (WREX) - A "Save Our Schools" rally is being planned for a few hours before the doors open to the public on a special Rockford School Board meeting that could result in tenured teacher cuts... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14334246

Rockford - A local man is being investigated after crashing his car into a fence at Rockford's airport.  Police say the 20 year old driver was headed south on Kishwaukee around 2:30 this morning... SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=241146

ROCK RIVER TIMES PROFILE OF LOCAL LEADERS - Vitals: H. Dennis Smith has served as president and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB) since August 1998. He will be retiring March 31... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/this-week-in-the-times-h-dennis-hill/

ROCKFORD (WREX) - As the weather begins to turn, the orange cones will be going up. The City of Rockford will officially launch its road construction season with a news conference this afternoon to detail some of its bigger projects this summer... SEE THE STORY:  http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14332999

GUEST COLUMN (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Amid the controversy and turmoil of district budget deficits and the closing of schools, something is not being talked about nearly enough: the dismantling and privatization of our public schools. Taxpayers need to understand this agenda fully before decisions are made that will impact our school district and our community for many years to come. READ THE COLUMN AND COMMENTS AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/02/guest-column-charter-schools-101/comment-page-1/#comment-2324

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Tuesday is your last day to take advantage of the voter registration grace period for the April 5th election... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14333793

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Hundreds of teachers are slated to be let go from District 205 to savemoney on next year's budget... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Teacher_Jobs_on_the_Line_118745774.html

WIFR - The Cursaders got to the Final Four of the Lutheran Basketball Association of America's Tournament... SEE THE STORY:   http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/8th_Grade_Lutheran_Boys_Win_2nd_In_National_Tournament__118750454.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Parents, teachers and students are rallying behind a local principal who's losing his job at the end of this school year... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Petition_Going_Strong_to_Save_Auburn_High_School_Principal_118745494.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Police are on the lookout for a hit and run suspect after a teenage boy was struck Sunday afternoon... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Police_Looking_for_Hit-and_Run_Suspect_118749989.html

ROCKFORD ( MYSTATELINE.COM ) - Three local residents are in the hospital, after a fire ripped through their Rockford home early Sunday morning.  It happened around 6 am at 707 South Pierpont... SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240716

WINNEBAGO COUNTY (WREX)- A case related to a shooting that left Rockford man, Mark Barmore, dead returns to the Winnebago County Court. State's Attorney Joe Bruscato... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14328945

ROCKFORD (WREX)- A local non-profit organization tries to inspire African American students to continue their education... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14328980

CHERRY VALLEY - People from the Stateline walked all around Cherryvale Mall Saturday to help raise awareness for those with epilepsy.... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240596

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Some local officers are turning in their badges for aprons. Members of the Rockford Police Department, Winnebago County Sheriff's Department and Rockford Park District Police were at Red Robin restaurant in Rockford today (Saturday) for their annual torch run, 'Tip-A-Cop fundraiser... Read the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Tip-A-Cop_to_Benefit_Special_Olympics_118720074.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- (ORGINALLY RELEASED SATURDAY NIGHT) - Friends of Beyer Field, home of the Rockford Peaches, will host a bowling fundraiser Sunday to continue restoration to the stadium... READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Fundraiser_Tomorrow_for_Home_of_the_Rockford_Peaches__118721084.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- A Bloomington-based trucking company with a local office is shutting its doors after nearly 90 years in business... http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Brandt_Truck_Line_Closing_in_Rockford__118688479.html

ROCKFORD - Contract negotiations between two Hamilton Sundstrand unions and the company have started and will continue over the next 8 weeks. The current contract for U.A.W. local 592 and region 4 of the United Auto Workers expires on May 22nd... READ THE STORY:  http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240506

LOVES PARK (WIFR) -- There's plenty of opportunity to purchase an RV at an affordable price this weekend, and without the high gas prices... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/RV_Show_Returns_To_ISC_118691534.html

(WREX)- Bill Neblock wants another run on the Rockford Board of Education. He served in the late 1990s and wants to end wasteful spending... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14325686 DISCLAIMER: The editor of Winnebago County News, Paul Gorski, lives in District G and is strongly endorsing Laura Powers in this race.

ROCKFORD - At just 12 years old Johnie Faren made his national television debut on "Ted Mack and the Original Amateur Hour. Over the years he has performed at countless Jazz festivals and concerts in Rockford and around the world. In December he got an invitation he just couldn't pass up... SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240526

ROCKORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Houston-based Allied Hospitality, Inc., has been named the new owner of Rockford's Best Western Clock Tower Resort and Conference Center... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/25/houston-company-new-owner-of-rockford%e2%80%99s-clock-tower-resort/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - About 200 people gathered at Heartland Community Church Thursday (March 24) as nine candidates for the Rockford Board of Education gave a host of statements about the changes they would make if voters elect them April 5... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/25/school-board-race-candidates-preach-transparency-sheffields-days-could-be-numbered/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - A premier lineup of performers will be at the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) for the 2011 Rockford AirFest, officials announced... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/25/video-2011-rockford-airfest-lineup-announced/

BELOIT (WREX) - Rockton-based internet company FatWallet is moving its operations to Beloit to avoid a new internet tax law in Illinois... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14321403

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Rockford Urban Ministries is hosting its first Used Book Sale at 201 Seventh St., Rockford, in the JustGoods Gallery... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/urban-ministries-hosts-used-book-sale-march-29-april-2/

WASHINGTON DC (ROCK RIVER TIMES) U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) has joined forces with state early childhood education officials to fight against cuts proposed  by the U.S. House... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/24/education-funding-sen-dick-durbin-fights-head-start-cuts/

MACHESNEY PARK (WREX) - Students and staff at Marquette Elementary have been busy raising money for victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14320313

MYSTATELINE.COM - All the candidates wanting to be on the next Rockford School Board hammered out their positions on the issues tonight... SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=240326

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - A group of citizens is circulating an online petition to urge officials to retain Auburn High School Principal Dr. Kye Gaffey... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/24/schools-citizens-petition-to-retain-auburn-principal/

WORTH A LISTEN IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... WNIJ NEWS (WNIJ) - Tenants will soon begin moving into Rockford's new federal courthouse, which is almost complete. The building comes with more space than the existing facility, along with security enhancements. WNIJ's Mike Moen reports, the new structure will also include eco-friendly elements... LISTEN TO THE NEWS: http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wnij/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1777003

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Whatever happened to the phrase "United We Stand, Divided We Fall"? Also, liberty and justice for all—along with government by the people and for the people... READ THE COMMENTARY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/to-the-editor-working-american-middle-class-are-sold-down-river/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Charlotte's Web will present "Calypso, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian—world rhythms" featuring Panoramic with Liam Teague at 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 25, at Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and concert begins at 7:30... READ THE ARTICLE: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/24/panoramic-with-liam-teague-performs-march-25-at-mendelssohn/

WINNEBAGO COUNTY - We're one month away from the Great American Clean-Up. And volunteers are still needed to help meet Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful's goals. SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=239906

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Last week the Congress passed a new Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the federal government through April 8th... READ THE GUEST COLUMN: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/guest-column-help-youthbuild/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - The hand grenade a Windsor Elementary student brought into the building Thursday morning was ... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/24/report-grenade-found-at-windsor-elementary-inactive-war-relic/

ROCKFORD ( MYSTATELINE.COM ) - Rockford's school board voted to layoff 60 administrators Tuesday, including principals at Beyer, Marsh, Haskell, Riverdahl, Kishwaukee and Auburn.  It's part of a plan to fill the district's $50 Million budget... See the story: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=239566

ROCKFORD (By Edith McCauley, Theater Critic) -  As Jackie, Casiena Raether, states, "Mauritius, a small island in the Indian Ocean, became one of the first countries to publish stamps." Their original value, only a few cents, has increased to millions, and it is that value that centers the action of Artists' Ensemble's Mauritius... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/theater-review-artists%e2%80%99-ensemble-stages-another-fine-production/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Rockford Symphony Orchestra (RSO) will take the audience to "Baroque & Beyond" beginning at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 26, at the Coronado Performing Arts Center... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/23/symphony-offers-%e2%80%98baroque-beyond%e2%80%99-march-26/

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Commissioners have approved upgrades and an addition to the attractions at Magic Waters... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14303116

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  The results of a climate survey of parents, Teachers and faculty in District 205 have been released... SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14302415

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Rockford businesses might soon be able to sell alcohol longer on weekends... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14295009

ROCKFORD (WREX) - The Rockford School District could save some money thanks to a meeting tonight... See the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14295040

WINNEBAGO COUNTY (WREX) - The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office is adding officers to its drug enforcement unit... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14296368

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) COMMENTARY - An Auburn High School special education teacher was placed on administrative leave Thursday, March 17, after being escorted off the campus, the teacher confirmed this afternoon... READ THE RESPONSES AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/18/auburn-teacher-escorted-off-campus-placed-on-leave/comment-page-1/#comment-2271

ROCKFORD (AP)-The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) releases details on its investigation into a deadly train derailment two years ago... See the video: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14287802

Poplar Grove (WIFR) -- A local boy, whose illness prevents him from getting around his own house, can now make it upstairs for the first time in nearly a decade... See the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Make-A-Wish_Helps_Local_Boy_Get_To_His_Room_118343104.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- We could find out whether Sunday bar hours could be extended. The change would allow liquor sales five more hours of business on Sundays... See the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Decision_On_Extending_Liquor_Sales_Comes_Monday_118342489.html

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Rockford Public School District 205 was awarded a $50,000 grant to improve West Middle School's auditorium... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/20/school-district-gets-50k-for-west-middle-school-improvements/

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Fire sparks inside a second floor apartment in Rockford Sunday afternoon... Read the story, see video: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14286853

CHICAGO—In third and fourth grades, children make an important transition in their education—from learning to read to reading to learn. But in Illinois, reading scores at these grade levels have barely improved, and wide disparities among student groups remain; challenges are particularly great among the 45 percent of public school students who come from low-income families... READ THE ARTICLE: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/state-faces-disparities-in-children%e2%80%99s-reading-achievement/

ROCKFORD ( MYSTATELINE.COM ) - It's a tradition that goes back centuries, and today a Rockford church is keeping an Italian heritage alive by helping the poor... SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=238766

ROCKTON — Ann Reynolds handed out the class assignment to her health class at Hononegah High School Friday, as the students displayed a higher degree of excitement than normal... READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/03/19/news/local_news/news1902.txt

MACHESNEY PARK (WIFR) -- Machesney Park leaders are taking an indepth look into the city's budget... Read the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Machesney_Park_Leaders_Hold_Budget_Retreat_118303844.html

ROCKFORD - The best of local gospel singers belted it out at the Coronado Theatre Saturday... SEE THE VIDEO: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=238666

Friends of the Cherry Valley Public Library District present: March Madness 2011 - Library Book Sale Friday, March 18 12n - 3pm (preview day, $5 fee) Saturday, March 19 9am - 5pm Sunday, March 20 1pm - 5pm March 21-25 library open hours Saturday, March 26 Half Price Day (9am-5pm) Sunday, March 27 Bag of Books for a Buck (1pm-5pm) Thousands of carefully sorted hardcover fiction and non-fiction for adults, teens and children, paperbacks, videos, music CDs, and audiobooks, plus vintage items, await your consideration. With low prices and high quality, you�re sure to find something for everyone. All proceeds benefit the library for expanded programs, equipment, and materials. Tell all your friends, too. Thanks. P.S. If your library card has expired, why not stop by after the book sale to renew the card that enhances your life? Cherry Valley Public Library District 755 E. State Street Cherry Valley, IL 61016 (815) 332-5161 www.cherryvalley.lib.il.us

WINNEBAGO COUNTY - Terrance D. Coad, 37, pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter March 17 in relation to a February 2010 physical altercation that left one man dead... http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/18/man-pleads-guilty-to-involuntary-manslaughter-in-relation-to-february-2010-altercation/

ROCKFORD/BELVIDERE (WREX) - Call it the best kept secret in Rockford area education - 5 teachers honored for their dedication in and out of the classroom... http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14278631

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  As budget cuts hit Rockford schools, the superintendent says she actually wants to expand one program... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14281124

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Rockford Police say a couple beat a 3 year-old little girl to death. The girl's mom and the woman's boyfriend are under arrest facing first degree murder charges... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14282061

The new edition of Pecatonica Tales is now available at: http://www.webspawner.com/users/rabinningyahoocom/ .

Dane County Judge Maryann Sumi on Friday issued a temporary restraining order blocking implementation of the bill gutting collective bargaining for public workers in Wisconsin... Read the story at:  http://www.laborradio.org/Channels/story.aspx?ID=1387607

Goodbye to the Rockford Register Star. I try to buy local, and if a company outsources... READ THE OPINION: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/company-outsourcing-does-not-promote-buy-local/

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  While meeting with the North End Square Neighborhood Association, Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. LaVonne Sheffield did not mince words... READ THE ARTICLE: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14274840

BELVIDERE (WREX) -  Belvidere Firefighters plan to blanket several neighborhoods to talk with people about proposed cuts to the department... READ THE NEWS: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14274692

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's (D) office is launching an inquiry into at least seven Open Meetings Act (OMA) Requests for Review in relation to the Rockford Board of Education. READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/17/district-205-faces-attorney-general-inquiry-regarding-open-meetings-act/

WINNEBAGO COUNTY - Phillip Merritt, 58, was found guilty of the Sept. 26, 2009, armed robbery and aggravated robbery of the Title Cash Store at 1728 Riverside Blvd., Loves Park... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/17/man-found-guilty-of-september-2009-robbery-of-loves-park-title-cash-store/

A long winter without books can drive you stir crazy! Rescue your mind and spirit with the ever-fun, ever-surprising used book and media offerings at the March MADness Book Sale beginning March 18 at the Cherry Valley Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/march-madness-book-sale-at-cherry-valley-library/

ROCKFORD - Watchdogs for Ethics in Education (WEE) brought independent education researcher Noel Hammatt back to Rockford Wednesday, March 16... READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/17/education-researcher-encourages-public-to-be-%e2%80%98cautious%e2%80%99-of-school-reform-do-homework-on-charter-schools/

CHICAGO—In third and fourth grades, children make an important transition in their education—from learning to read to reading to learn. But in Illinois, reading scores at these grade levels have barely improved, and wide disparities among student groups remain; challenges are particularly great among the 45 percent of public school students who come from low-income families... READ THE ARTICLE: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/state-faces-disparities-in-children%e2%80%99s-reading-achievement/

International touring performer, songwriter and entertainer Joe Jencks and acclaimed folk singer Reggie Harris will perform in concert at 7 p.m., Friday, March 18, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford... SEE THE DETAILS AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/joe-jencks-reggie-harris-perform-at-emmanuel-lutheran/

La Voz Latina's Board of Directors announced that Executive Director Patricia Gomez will retire from full-time duty in June... Read the story at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/la-voz-latina-executive-director-to-retire-in-june/

Who will steal the 2012 election, and how will they accomplish it? Learn how to prevent it by hearing Bev Harris in a special engagement in Rockford. Read the article: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/black-box-voting-founder-to-speak-march-24/

ROCKFORD - The Katie's Choice Book Club selection for March is Harvard Yard by William Martin. Hosted by Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries and Katie's Cup coffeebar, the book discussion will be at Katie's Cup at 7 p.m., Monday, March 21... GET THE DETAILS AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/katie%e2%80%99s-choice-book-club-to-discuss-harvard-yard/

Jackie is way overdue for a little luck by the time she gets her hands on a couple of old stamps that just might be worth a fortune in the suspense thriller Mauritius, at Artists' Ensemble (AE)... Read about it at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/artists%e2%80%99-ensemble-opens-mauritius-march-18/

The State of the City address Thursday, March 10, by Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (I) was a disappointment to those who applauded his fleeting moment of courage at the Board of Education meeting Tuesday, March 8, and who expected something more from him after many months of silence. Read the commentary at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/16/guest-column-mayor-morrissey-serves-the-kool-aid-dances-with-sheffield-and-bows-to-scott-walker%e2%80%99s-vision/

ROCKFORD (WIFR)-- Storefronts may start looking a little different in Rockford's MidtownDistrict. In about two weeks the city's Codes and Regulations Committee will meet to discuss the topic... Read the article: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Security_Bars__118036499.html

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Doing a little spring cleaning could add up to some extra cash. A Rockford company takes what would might normally get tossed in the trash... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14257406

From press release Winnebago County State's Attorney Joe Bruscato announced that the Judge John Truitt sentenced Alondra Luna, 31, and Carlos Luna, 23, and Sharon Nunez, 51, and Michael Luna, 34, to serve 180 days in the Winnebago County Jail and 30 months probation and to pay $27,000 in restitution. Read the article at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/15/former-health-and-human-services-employee-three-others-sentenced-in-benefits-fraud-case/

ROCKFORD ( MYSTATELINE.COM ) - Rockford is one step closer to having bars open earlier... and close later on Sundays. The measure will help keep the city competitive... READ THE STORY AND SEE VIDEO: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=237206

WINNEBAGO ( MYSTATELINE.COM ) - The Winnebago School Board begins laying off teachers tonight. The district is in a financial pinch because Illinois is behind on payments... READ THE STORY AND SEE VIDEO: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=237216

WINNEBAGO COUNTY (WIFR) -- Winnebago County residents could soon see an increase on their monthly water bill. "It's our pocketbooks that are paying for all this stuff." READ THE STORY AT: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Winnebago_County_Residents_Could_See_Water_Increase_117982884.html

ROCKFORD (WREX)- A grass roots citizens group sees a potentially promising future for a falling apart Rockford landmark... Read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14251653

PRESS RELEASE - A “Defend the Dream” rally, organized by local MoveOn.org members, is set for 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 15, at the corner of State Street and Mill Road in Rockford. Read the story at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/14/local-moveon-members-plan-march-15-%E2%80%98defend-the-dream%E2%80%99-rally/

WNIJ NEWS (WNIJ) - Metro police forces have been around for a while in the U.S. A northern Illinois county is now considering the idea. WNIJ's, Mike Moen, has more... Listen to the story at: http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wnij/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1774990

WORTH REPEATING... WASHINGTON, D.C.—The American Red Cross stands ready and willing to assist following a magnitude 8.9 earthquake in Japan and the resulting tsunami that affected other countries in the Pacific region... SEE: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/11/red-cross-responds-to-japan-earthquake-pacific-tsunami-donate-locally-or-give-10-by-texting-%e2%80%98redcross%e2%80%99-to-90999/

ROCKFORD (WNTA) -  The Rock River Water Reclamation District is hosting a public hearing tonight to discuss its $188 million dollar capital improvement plan and corresponding rate increase. GET THE DETAILS AT:  http://www.wnta.com/Channels/LocalNews/story.aspx?ID=1379415

A massive high pressure ridge extends form Quebec southwest across Wisconsin and Iowa into the Texas panhandle... READ THE ARTICLE: http://firstwarnweatherteam.blogspot.com/2011/03/last-week-of-winter-sure-looks-like.html

ROCKFORD - It's a tradition that goes back centuries and Sunday a Rockford church is keeping their Italian heritage alive by helping the poor. Saint Anthony of Padua parish celebrated St. Joseph's day with an altar full of Sicilian meals for the community... SEE THE VIDEO: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236876

DIXON (WIFR) -- These days it's rare to see any business expanding in the Stateline, but a medical facility opens its door for the first time this morning... Read the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Newly_Expanded_Cancer_Center_Reopens_Doors_117914644.html

ROCKFORD (WREX)- The deadline for the "Rock the Air" scholarship fund is just days away and still more than $100,000 from its goal... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14242995

MADISON - The largest crowd yet has descended on Wisconsin's Capitol to protest cuts to public worker collective bargaining rights day after Gov. Scott Walker signed the measure into law... READ THE STORY AND SEE THE VIDEO: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Largest_Protest_Crowd_Yet_Hits_WI_Capitol_117864584.html

ROCKTON (WREX)-Rockton and Roscoe Area businesses showcase their companies at the 16th Annual RoRo Expo. Everything from non-profits to health organizations set up booths that filled the Hononegah Dome... READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14241485

ROCKFORD - Members from Rockford United Labor Union were on the picket lines in Madison Saturday, when the 14 milling democratic stste senators returned. About 200 people from the Stateline road buses up to Wisconsin's capitol.... READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=236796

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Dogs have always been considered man's best friend, and one local hospital enjoys that same canine companionship... Read the story at: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Local_Hospital_Introduces_New_Four-Legged_Volunteers_117838428.html

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Rock and country are set to collide at the Rockford Speedway when 2 local radio stations team up for a weekend of music... Read the story: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14238346

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- A potential bright spot in the economic downturn, high school dropouts heading back to school to get their GED's... Read the story: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Demand_For_GEDs_Growing_in_the_Stateline_117835113.html

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Bidding for the 7th street structure ended Wednesday. An FDIC spokesperson says they did not receive a single bid on the property, and will now attempt to sell it the old fashioned way, through a broker... Read the full story at: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Auction_of_Former_Amcore_Headquarters_Fails_to_Attract_Bidders_117834758.html

FREEPORT (WREX) - A Freeport family waits for word their relatives are safe in Japan. Katelyn Nesheim's sister, Lindsay Jewell, just had a baby four days ago... Read the story at: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14238316

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The American Red Cross stands ready and willing to assist following a magnitude 8.9 earthquake in Japan and the resulting tsunami that affected other countries in the Pacific region... Get the details at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/11/red-cross-responds-to-japan-earthquake-pacific-tsunami-donate-locally-or-give-10-by-texting-%e2%80%98redcross%e2%80%99-to-90999/

Come out for the Mendelssohn Chamber Orchestra's "A Handel Celebration"  on March 18, 2011 at  7:30 PM. The orchestra, directed by Stephen Squires, will perform with members of the Mendelssohn Chorale, organist Bill Stein, and baritone Jonathan Beyer, winner of the 2010 Amelia Guthrie Promising Singer of Merit Award. Performance will be at Court Street United Methodist Church, Rockford. Tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for students. Groups of 10 or more adults receive $5 off per ticket. Call the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center at (815) 964-9713 or visit www.mendelssohnpac.org to purchase concert tickets or for more information.

RSO Star: Who Will It Be? March 12, 2011, 7:30 PM, Coronado Theatre. Rockford. After 22,500 online votes, the field of competitors in the RSO Star competition has been narrowed to nine... For tickets or more information visit: http://www.rockfordsymphony.com/concerts/031211.asp

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  The Rockford area hopes to make some money when wrestlers invade the MetroCentre this weekend... READ THE STORY AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14229958

CHICAGO (ROCK RIVER TIMES) —Asian carp were allowed into this country under a law governing animal imports that was passed in 1900, and which has remained unchanged, despite a drastically different global trade reality. As two species of Asian carp, the bighead and silver carp, knock at the door of the Great Lakes, conservation and fishing groups are calling on federal officials to finally update import screening laws before the next invader gets here... Read the article at: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/09/animal-import-legislation-one-root-cause-of-asian-carp-crisis/

ROCKFORD (ROCK RIVER TIMES) - I rarely write reviews about high school, college or community theater productions. But once in a while, I see something I feel the community should know about. Such was my feeling when I came out of Keith School's current musical, I Remember Mama... READ THE REVIEW AT: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/03/09/theater-review-keith%e2%80%99s-i-remember-mama-memorable/