Victor Yehling

• Traveler with rash holds airliner
• Lead paint problem gets a new focus
• Rep. Johnson doesn't want ex-staffers to run
• Manufacturers applaud Senate action
• Area vet wins Tillman scholarship help
• Troopers "ramping up" safety concerns
• The Cash Dash is coming!

Unemployment in the Rockford metro area dropped from 13.4 percent in March 2011 to 11.7 percent in March 2012 -- the largest decline in any Illinois metropolitan area – according to a government report released Thursday. Statewide unemployment dropped to 9.0 percent.

Unemployment in the city of Rockford also dropped 1.7 points, but it stands at 12.8 percent this year compared to 14.5 percent in March 2011.

The Rockford metro unemployment rate is the highest in the state. The lowest rate is in the Bloomington-Normal metro area at 6.7%. The DeKalb County rate fell 0.6 point to 8.4%

• What happens to the Illinois 'Amazon Tax' now?
• A 'surreal' interview with Dixon's mayor
• How's our neighbor doing on jobs?
• Chrysler comeback gets an airing
• Will crime victim rights be strengthened?

• More high school math supported
• Poll sees gaming as a good bet
• A test for chlorine safety in Rockford
• Church installs solar panels
• Did owners keep workers' health, retirement funds?