Afternoon News Update: February 19

Rockford crews are out in full force trying to clear snow and ice from the city’s storm drains with Thursday’s predicted rain. Due to the high number of storm drains throughout the city, residents are also encouraged to clear ones near their home. If flooding begins in your area, you can call the city’s street division at 815-987-5763 and a crew will be dispatched as quickly as possible.
A Beloit man is in custody after allegedly stabbing two people. 23-year-old Luis Munoz has been charged with attempted first degree intentional homicide. The stabbings occurred in Beloit Tuesday evening in the 300 block of Short Street. Police say Munoz stabbed 72-year-old Bobbie Wilson multiple times and also stabbed 42-year-old Vicky Wilson once in the hand. Both victims are expected to make full recoveries.
A utility tax will remain in effect for Machesney Park after last night’s board meeting. Mayor Jerry Bolin says they decided to keep the 5% utility tax, which is a fee on gas and electric use for residents. It’s meant to help raise funds towards road improvements and public safety.
Officials are holding a second day of hearings on a bid by Northwestern University football players to create the nation's first college athletes' union. Union attorneys continue to present their case Wednesday in federal court in Chicago. Northwestern quarterback Kain Colter testified at Tuesday's hearing.
Former US Representative Mel Reynolds has pleaded not guilty to porn charges in a Zimbabwe Court. Reynolds will be in court again tomorrow for his bail hearing and to enter a plea on a separate charge of breaking Zimbabwe’s immigration laws. The 62-year-old lost his seat representing Illinois almost 20 years ago after being convicted of statutory rape, obstruction of justice and solicitation of child pornography.
Wisconsin officials are set to consider permanent rules prohibiting hunters from firing their weapons across trails in state parks. The board adopted emergency rules barring hunters from firing guns, air-guns, bows and crossbows from or across trails. They also require trappers to use dog-proof traps for the 2014 hunting and trapping seasons. The board is set to take up a permanent version of the rules at its February 26th meeting.
Beginning today, the city of Rockford will be closing Vinton Avenue, between Williams Avenue and Penn Road, for sewer repair work. Traffic control measure will be enforced and motorists are urged to use caution while driving near the work zone. The work is expected be completed by February 26, weather permitting.
Beginning today, the city of Rockford will be closing Broadway between 8^th Street and 9^th Street, due to water service repairs. Proper traffic controls will be in place and motorists are urged to use caution while driving near the work zone. The work is expected

Categories: News