Afternoon News Update: February 17

Snow continues to pound the Stateline with a Winter Storm Warning remaining in effect until 6pm. We could see up to 8 inches with a possible 10 inches in some isolated areas. You can get full details from the Eyewitness News First Warn Weather Center.
With today being President’s Day, a lot of businesses and schools already had the day off. For a full list of closings and delays for the ones that didn’t have off, go to 1440wrok.com and click on closings and delays.
Many communities have declared snow emergencies including Rockford, Beloit, and Cherry Valley. A city wide accident plan is also in effect due to the number of accidents which have occurred. Officials are urging motorists to stay home if possible and to give yourself plenty of time if you must venture out.
A robber has held up a Rockford Mobil Gas Station. It happened Sunday Evening in the 2600 block of Broadway. Police say the man implied he had a weapon and then fled the scene on foot with the cash and is still at large. No one was injured.
The Cook County medical examiner says the cause of death for a University of Chicago student found in his dorm room is inconclusive and pending toxicology tests. Authorities say 20-year-old Nicholas Barnes was found Saturday afternoon and it appeared he'd been dead for some time. University officials say there was no evidence of foul play.
Election officials say there's still time to register to vote for the March 18 primary, with the deadline being Tuesday. It's the first time that 17-year-old Illinoisans will be able to vote. However, they have to be 18 by the November 4 General Election to qualify. Voters will have a chance to vote for their party's nomination for governor, among other statewide elected offices.
A furniture and electronics store with a location in East Rockford is closing all of its doors for good. American TV and Appliance employs a total of 989 workers throughout 11 locations, whom will all lose their jobs. American will be filing a Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 128 Receivership for the protection of its creditors. Gift cards will still be honored and refunds will be provided for customers who don’t wish to use them. Those with open orders waiting on delivery will either receive it or get a refund. A going out of business sale will begin on Thursday.
The Rockford Air Show is back on the schedule for 2014. Rockford Airfest 2014 will be June 7-8 at the Chicago Rockford International Airport. The show will feature the U.S. Air Force's Thunderbirds and the Army's Golden Knights parachute team. Organizers say the 2012 version of the Rockford air show drew 100,000 people. Last year's event was canceled due to federal budget cuts.

Categories: News