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Articles by Joe Benson
Illinois Auction To Include Famous Hollywood Movie Vehicles
If your dream car is something you saw in a movie, then you might want to check out this upcoming auction in Illinois. I would love to own a "movie car." My wish list includes General Lee, KITT, Batmobile, and Family Truckster. All I have to do is win the lottery to afford one. There's also another problem. Where can I actually buy one? How about at an auto auction right here in Illinois? Specifically, in Volo which is about an hour from Rockford. That's where you will find the Volo Auto Museum.
Mystery Tornado Monday, This One Wasn't a Mystery (Video)
Monday a tornado touched down at Rock Cut, and it caught us all by surprise.Clint Spencer, Think StockSocial media was "spinning out of control" when a tornado touched down at Rock Cut. How was there no warning, how did the t.v. people not tell us, how did the weather people not see this coming?Back on May 22, 2011 WREX was tracking and watching the storms on live t.v. "Must see t.v." indeed. What happened next, was better than any reality show I've ever seen.
KFC Offers $11K to Name Baby After Colonel
Do you know someone due September 9th that really, really loves KFC? KFC is looking to start someone's little drumstick off on the right path with a donation of $11,000 to their college fund. The only catch is you must name your new addition after the Colonel. The contest is in honor of the Colonel's 128th and an attempt to make his name popular again. Thankfully you wouldn't have to name your little nugget Colonel, but Harland. Since his full name was Harland David Sanders.
Metallica Tease '...And Justice for All' Box Set
Having already released expanded reissues of Kill 'Em All , Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets in the past few years, Metallica are moving on to their fourth album. Yesterday, they tweeted out a video that suggests that a box set for 1988's ...And Justice for All is on the way.
New AC/DC Album to Be Built Around Malcolm Young's Guitar
There still has yet to be any official word that AC/DC are working on a new album, however a curious piece of information is leaking out. A new report is saying that the songs were written by Angus and Malcolm Young years ago, and that the recordings feature Malcolm, who passed away in 2017, playing rhythm guitar on every song.
Guided Video Tour of Singer Mental Health Center
September is here, which means Halloween is right around the creepy corner.The Singer Mental Health Center in Rockford has been shut down for quite a while now. Photo's have surfaced, news has reported on vandalism, now an exclusive video tour.In this YouTube video clip, security allows video into the abandoned Singer Mental Health Center.
Rockford City Market Needs Help Through End of 2018 Season
We still have 4 weeks left to drink, eat, and shop up our favorite local treasures at Rockford City Market, but if you like to make some cash there for once instead of spending it, here's your opportunity... I'm thinking working in the fun atmosphere of the Rockford City Market is the perfect way to earn some extra cash for the holidays. For more information, hit up their Facebook , or go to rockfordcitymarket.com .
DISH Network Removes Rockford TV Station WREX From All Packages
DISH Network is no stranger to blackouts and disputes with local television and now it's effecting Rockford-area viewers. In a lengthy explanation, Quincy Media owned WREX is being 100% transparent in an on-going dispute with DISH Network Corporation over fair compensation from pay-TV programming. In short, DISH Network may be treating Rockford's NBC affiliate unfairly when it comes to a contractual agreement. Our station is asking for fair and reasonable terms and compensation from DISH.
Rockford PD Is Looking For Elderly Woman's Purse Snatcher
A cowardly woman was caught stealing an elderly woman's purse on security surveillance and police are trying to identify her.On July 30, 2018 police were dispatched to Golden Corral in Rockford in regards to a purse being stolen.
Is Motley Crue Getting Back Together (Video)
This episode of Classic Rock Smackdown is getting the band back together.Frederick M. Brown, Getty ImagesIs Motley Crue getting back together? Can Eddie and Alex get along with Micheal Anthony for a final show? Can't we all just get along?Let's reunite our favorite bands for one more show.
5 Reasons Guys Should go to The Pink Party
October 12th at The Tebala Event Center, The Pink Party is back! This year will be my fourth Pink Party, and will no doubt be my favorite one. I have to admit, that when I went to my first Pink Party I really had no idea what to expect. There's a bunch a firefighters dancing around in bras, oh boy... This years marks the 7th Pink Party benefiting Pink Heals of Winnebago County, and I couldn't be more excited.
Chicago’s ‘Secret Streets’ Are About To Be Accessible To All
Well, maybe not secret streets, but getting around downtown will be a lot easier for those unfamiliar with the area. Not everyone knows about the labyrinth of underground streets that crisscross under the loop in downtown Chicago. And even for those who know about the subterranean roadways, they can be a little frightening if you don't know exactly what you're doing.
Anthony Rizzo Makes DeKalb Boy’s Dream Come True
Some days you find stories that make you feel all warm and fuzzy. This is one of those stories and one of those days. Lyle Hinsch is a 4-year-old boy who lives in DeKalb and has been battling cancer ever since he was a year old and diagnosed with a brain tumor. Shortly after that diagnosis, Lyle was undergoing chemo treatments at Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago where he first met Anthony Rizzo of the Chicago Cubs.
Strange Rockford 'Demon Coin' Mystery Remains Unsolved
A mysterious "Demon Coin" found at a campground just outside of Rockford has the internet confused. Pictures of the strange coin were posted to Reddit , asking for help. This "coin" was found around 2002 in a campground in the middle of nowhere in Northern Illinois. About an hour outside of Rockford, IL. I've tried to find out it's origins for years with no avail. Looks almost homemade. Anyone have any idea what this thing is? I've been keeping it as a curiosity for a long time.
A Huge New Tax For Illinois Motorists Proposed
Drivers in Illinois already face a 34 cent per gallon tax when they fill up at the pump. Now comes word of a new tax that will cost Illinois drivers dearly. Here's how it would work. All vehicle owners would be charged taxes on fuel based on how many miles an individual drives, instead of how much gas he or she burns. The problem is that individuals who have to drive more miles would pay more taxes.
Rockford Mom Pens Concerning 'Bus Stop Mishap' Letter
A Rockford woman is distraught and angry after her five-year-old daughter was dropped off at the wrong bus stop twice in one week. Amanda McCallister's five-year-old daughter, Victoria was dropped off at the wrong bus stop last Monday. Thankfully, "A stranger found her crying in the street and was able to get word to McCallister that her daughter was safe." according to the Rockford Register Star . An apparent software glitch caused little Victoria to be dropped off at the wrong stop.
You Can Ride a Unicorn This Weekend
You can ride a unicorn this weekend.I'm being serious too! It's a for real thing.Ok. You have to admit that will surely make a memorable Labor Day holiday.Summerfield Zoo is offering unicorn rides this weekend. Aww... How cool.This would be so fun to take the kiddos to.Plus no matter what the weather is like Saturday or Sunday, you can ride cute Cupcake and her friends rain or shine.To find out more about Summerfield Zoo click here.
Wisconsin Police Looking For the VHS Tape Dumper
Police are looking for the guilty individual who dumped a whole bunch of VHS tapes along the side of the road. Police in Antigo, Wisconsin discovered that someone had dumped several VHS tapes along side the road from their car window on Western Avenue in their small town. Police took to social media to ask why in a hilarious posting.
Freeport Schools Add New Security Measures at Football Games
It's an understatement to say that the shots that rang out near Auburn High School last Friday night have students and football fans all over the Stateline a little worried. Although Rockford Police have determined the gunfire was not directed, nor had anything to do with, the football game that was in progress at the time, local districts are amping up security at football games just to be safe.
Six Flags Great America Is Stepping It Up With A New Ride In 2019
If you loved the Mardi Gras Hangover at Six Flags Great America this year, then get ready for thenew ride coming in 2019. The park is stepping it up with in the thrill department for sure. Oh wow! that looks so scary but so fun at the same time. If you're wondering where they put this ride or what they took down to add Maxx Force to force of coaster fun, it starts where the former Pictorium was near the front of the park by the Whizzer roller coaster.
I Did The Weather on TV With Bob Zany (Video)
This morning I was a weatherman, or something.With comedian Bob Zany in town for Burning Bacon, we got up early and did some TV.One thing that I have always wanted to do, is the T.V. weather. Thank you to Fox 39, and Bob Zany.This was what I was sent right after my weather debut:
Rye the Lightning: Metallica Using Their Music to Make Whiskey
Ever since Metallica announced their entry into the whiskey-making business , we've been wondering exactly what they'd do to make their Blackened brand stand out in the increasingly crowded field of musician-curated spirits. Turns out the answer is better than we could have ever imagined. They're going to be blasting each batch of whiskey with a specially designed playlist of Metalllica music.
Rockford Area Residents Band Together To Save Drowning Woman
A nearly month old video has just been released by the Illinois State Police showing a group of Rockford area people and others helping to save a drowning woman. Police tell MyStateline.com , "on August 3rd around 3:18 p.m., a Libertyville woman was traveling on I-90 when she lost control of her vehicle on the Route 47 exit ramp and became submerged in a retention pond." That's when a group of people pulled their vehicles over and sprang into action.
2018 Fall Foliage Peak Times In Illinois and Wisconsin
With September just about upon us, the signs of fall will soon be evident with the changing colors of the outdoors here in the Stateline. So, exactly when will see the best fall colors this fall? The 2018 fall foliage forecast predictions are out, so you can plan ahead as to when to venture out to check of fall's natural beauty. The big news is that the fall colors will arrive about two weeks later this fall, compared to Fall of 2017 .
Rockford Area Crime Stoppers Wanted Fugitives 8-29-18
The following people are wanted fugitives. If you know anything about their whereabouts please contact Crime Stoppers at 888-963-STOP(7867). Rockford Area CRIME STOPPERS was founded in 1981, as a cooperative effort by Winnebago County citizens, civic leaders, the media and law enforcement officials to help reduce crime.
Weird Boxes Found Outside Rockford's Veterans Memorial Hall
I don't want to say that we're getting a tad too paranoid in Rockford but...someone called the police about two boxes chained to a tree outside of Veterans Memorial Hall on Tuesday night and what was found inside them was anything but scary. According to the Rockford Register Star ; Here comes the part that literally made me laugh out loud. When the bomb squad removed the packages, and used extreme caution to open them, they found monitors that detect vibrations. Seriously.
Watch This Video Of An Old Bridge Over Illinois River Being Imploded
Check out the video of an old bridge that is over the Illinois River get imploded.Have you ever seen anything get imploded?If you answered no, here's your chance.If you answered yes, then you know it's pretty cool to see.Here's the video from The State Journal-Register Facebook page."The old bridge, built in 1936 to carry Illinois 104 over the Illinois River at Meredosia, is imploded. A new arched span opened this summer."That was awesome.I hope you enjoyed it.
China Introduces Hot Wing And Wasabi Oreo's
I like Oreo flavored Oreo's, call me boring. We'e seen and tasted a variety of Oreo flavors. Some good (Red Velvet) some not (Cherry Cola) but these are insane. Obviously tastes are a little different in China, but I have a feeling these would catch on around here.
Rockford Could Be Getting A Solar Farm
Rockford could be getting a solar farm. That is if the City Council approves. The Rockford Register Star shares that the City Council will be reviewing a measure to approve the installment of a solar farm in the 11th Street - Samuelson Road area of Rockford that's "zoned for light industrial use". The "Denver, Colorado-based Stella Solar is seeking a special use permit to operate a 1.2-megawatt solar farm" on the open 5.7 acre field of 5454 11th Street.
Rockford Priest Rescued in Charles Street Flood
Another round of heavy storms, another round of flooding in Rockford. Rockford made national news last time we had epic rain and flooding because of what happened on Charles Street and it seems last night a similar situation occurred. At the corner of Charles Street and 9th, a Rockford priest, Ricard Hernandez was stuck in his white Mini Cooper, when a man showed up and pushed him out of the flood.
Flashback to 1989 With Radio Shack'a $799 Cell Phone (video)
Here's a throwback that had us saying, "wow" back in 1989. I came across this 1989 T.V. commercial and I couldn't stop laughing. Radio Shack had their "go where you want to go" portable bag phone, or cell phone for the low price of $799. I can remember the first time I saw one of these bag phones, it was my Pee Wee Little League Coach. He was some sort of a traveling salesman and had one in his car. I though that was the coolest thing, ever. So let's go back to the year 1989, with Radio Shack.
Rye the Lightning: Metallica Using Their Music to Make Whiskey
Ever since Metallica announced their entry into the whiskey-making business , we've been wondering exactly what they'd do to make their Blackened brand stand out in the increasingly crowded field of musician-curated spirits. Turns out the answer is better than we could have ever imagined. They're going to be blasting each batch of whiskey with a specially designed playlist of Metalllica music.
A Complete Guide
Those of us who love to wear our love of rock 'n' roll on our sleeves can do so literally with watches inspired by some of our favorite bands. In the below gallery, you'll see officially licensed and often limited-edition timepieces from bands like AC/DC , the Rolling Stones , the Beatles and Motorhead . The watches range in price from less than $100 for the models by Vannen to more than $1,000 for luxury designs from brands like Raymond Weil and Zenith .
Swearing While On Vacation In Myrtle beach Could Cost You
If you're planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, make sure you don't swear while you are there because it could cost you money. I've been to Myrtle Beach for vacation three times. It's a fun place. The last time I went there, I actually flew out of Rockford on Hooter's Air. Since a lot of state line residents like to travel there, especially golfers, I thought I better share this information.
Wanting To Smoke Marijuana Could Be Genetic
The desire to smoke pot might actually come from your genes. Do you feel like you could smoke weed all the time? It might not be your fault. Your genes could be causing your desire for marijuana. "If you smoke marijuana, your genes could be partially to blame. That’s because a new study, published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, found that there are actually 35 different genes that make a person more likely to take a puff of a joint or munch on some pot edibles." In the study they found...
A Complete Guide
Those of us who love to wear our love of rock 'n' roll on our sleeves can do so literally with watches inspired by some of our favorite bands. In the below gallery, you'll see officially licensed and often limited-edition timepieces from bands like AC/DC , the Rolling Stones , the Beatles and Motorhead . The watches range in price from less than $100 for the models by Vannen to more than $1,000 for luxury designs from brands like Raymond Weil and Zenith .
KNIB Fall Clothing Drive
I didn't know that 85% of unwanted clothing ends up in landfills. And since most clothing is made of organic material, it should be biodegradable. But that's not the case. Most landfills lack the oxygen needed to break down the organic material, most clothing then decomposes through anaerobic digestion. Which then causes the emission of dangerous greenhouse gases.
Chicago Area Town Votes to Repeal Ban On Saggy Pants
Saggy Pants are now allowed in this Chicago suburb after previously being banned. A few years ago, a new fashion trend started for young people that made adults angry. It was saggy pants that exposed a person's boxer shorts. Some towns were so against it, they made laws to banned them. If you were caught wearing them, you could receive a fine. Hillside, a suburb of Chicago, has changed their mind on the pants rule.
Video Of Fight At Chicago Area Children’s Restaurant
Check out this video of a fight that started in a children's themed restaurant in the Chicago suburbs. I remember taking my daughter to "kid-type" places when she was little. Sometimes I would feel a little overwhelmed by all the children running all over the place, but I never got angry. Especially, not pissed off enough to get into a fight. Apparently, there are some parents that can't control their temper. "A wild brawl broke out this weekend at a suburban restaurant that’s geared towards kids.
The 9 Most Annoying Things to Put in an Email
Is this you? Do you type this stuff and push send? Justin Sullivan/Getty ImagesSlideshare has done some leg work to figure out the mist annoying things people put in their emails. and I couldn't agree more.Here are The 9 Most Annoying Things to Write in an Email: Not Sure If You Saw My Last Email Per My Last Email Per Our Conversation Any Update of This? Sorry About The Double Email Please Advise As Previously Stated As Discussed Re-Attaching For Convenience
Deep Dish Dreams Come True. Lou Malnati's is Coming to Rockford
You no longer have to drive to Schaumburg to get your hands on some Lou Malnati's. 'Oh. My. Frickin'. God,' was the exact phrase I just uttered when I read the news that Lou Malnati's is setting up shop in Rockford. As a Chicago suburban child, I am no stranger to Lou's. In fact, I can walk to the one in Schaumburg from my parents' house, I've thrown two baby showers there and my oldest brother's rehearsal dinner was at the Elk Grove location. Now your fam can get their Lou's on too.
Cubs Release Great Video Of Javy ‘Tagging’ Javy
The Chicago Cubs social media department has outdone themselves. Ever since I've seen this video I've had no less than 20 internal monologues on what would happen. I think I've settled on the fact that Javy could actually tag out Javy, meaning I disagree with the video. My reason is as follows. Yes, Javy has some great rope-a-dope moves while sliding into bases, but he's not the only guy that has tried to do this. It's been around for a while.
U of I Is Offering Free Tuition To Qualifying Students Next Year
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign made a pretty huge announcement on Monday; starting in the Fall of 2019 qualifying in-state students can get 4 years of tuition at U of I for FREE. For real. I wish I could have qualified for this when I was a senior. According to U of I's website ; Starting with our 2019 incoming class, we'll cover tuition and fees for up to four years for all qualified in-state students. That's our mission as a land-grant institution. That's Illinois Commitment.
Visit Restored World War II Ship This Weekend In The Quad Cities
You will want to make plans to head to the Quad Cities this weekend to check out a restored World War II Landing Ship. My rule is if I get the chance to experience something legendary, I need to do it. One of those situations has come up for this weekend. "Living history will be docking in the Quad Cities for a few days this summer.
Help Raise Funds for Stage IV Cancer
Unfortunately, cancer is one of those things that seems to affect us all. It could be you, a loved one or friend. One local woman is taking her own battle one step further and turning her birthday into a fundraiser. Over the past year, she has been very open about her journey through treatment with the hopes it would help her process her cancer treatments and help someone else through their own cancer journey.
Your Local Comic-Con May Not Be Called That Too Much Longer
San Diego Comic-Con wasn’t the first comic book convention; supposedly that was held in New York City in 1964. San Diego didn’t get started until 1970.
University of Illinois Chancellor Releases Welcome Back Video For Students
Robert J. Jones, the Chancellor for the University of Illinois, has created a video to welcome the students back to campus for the school year. I couldn't tell you who was the Chancellor of Illinois State University when I went to school there. I'm sure I saw his name on some official paperwork or on the side of a building. Nothing against him, but he didn't quite make an impact on my education. Things are different now the help of technology, the internet, and Social Media.
Chicago Minor League Manager Has Another Epic Meltdown
It's been three weeks since Butch Hobson had a freak out and it's just as funny this time. I brought you the story of Butch Hobson, the manager of the Chicago Dogs, enjoying their first season in the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. In that incident ol' Butch had a disagreement with the umpires and proceeded to literally steal third base. You can read all about and watch it here. This tirade is a little less impressive in my humble opinion.
McHenry VFW Is Raffling Off Over $4 Million On Tuesday
The Queen of Hearts Raffle at the McHenry VFW had no winner last week. That means the $4 million jackpot will grow and roll over to this Tuesday. If you'd like a shot at the money it's pretty simple. Head out to McHenry either today, Sunday, August 26th between 9 am and 10 pm, or get out there Tuesday between 9 am and the 8 pm drawing. The VFW is closed on Mondays. Make sure you bring some cash with you. Once there you can buy 6 tickets for $5. You don't need to be present for the 8pm drawing to win.
What's Inside This Bath Toy Might Be Your Nightmare
Bath time may forever be ruined when you see what I just saw. And, yes, there's video.I don't recall ever seeing this in a baby book but it should be because this is disgusting. In fact, it should be on page 2. Throw away any and all bath toys that allow air. Here's why...Look at all that mold. This might be my nightmare and now my 4-year-old no longer has three-quarters of her bath toys.
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