New President For McHenry County College

Vicky Smith, Ed.D. signs her three-year contract as president for McHenry County College. She will officially begin her new position Monday, August 16.

This took place at a very short special board meeting held Thursday afternoon. MCC Board Chair Mary Miller signed the contract confirming Smith's agreement to serve as McHenry County College's next president. Dr. Vicky Smith, currently President of Neosha County Community College in eastern Kansas, was chosen from the three finalists presented to the Board and the public by Issacson, Miller, a professional search firm with offices in Massachusetts, Washington, DC and California.

She was asked her opinion of the campus as it is laid out physically and what she thought should happen to it. "I think that the college as an institution is an excellent college," says Dr. Smith. "I think we need to poll the board to set a direction for the future and then we can make internal decisions. We need an academic education plan and I really think we need a good facility management plan because it is bursting at the seams and we really need to physically rethink how the campus looks. That is just from a preliminary look at it."

After an eight-month presidential search process, the Board selected Smith as the College’s new president due to her extensive leadership experience, her can-do attitude and her ability to move higher education institutions forward.

Newly Formed Valley Hi Operations Board Meets First Time

The operation of Valley Hi Nursing Home, the McHenry County-owned nursing home is slightly changing. The first meeting of the newly-formed Valley Hi Operations Board was held Thursday. The Board consists of five citizens selected by the County Board on the advice of the Valley Hi Committee. The new board includes Dallas Larson, Peter Michling, Victor Narusis, Lynn Ryan, and Joanne Hanrahan. This group will meet again to select officers and set meeting dates along with any other necessary business.

The idea to form an Operations Board began many months ago when the contract with Revere Health Care was coming to an end. This company had been retained to put Valley Hi operations on a more professional footing. The nursing home, which had its beginning over 100 years ago as a "poor farm" which allowed citizens to have a place to be taken care of when they reached an age of being unable to farm and care for themselves.

At the beginning of the farm operation, those who could do some chores did so but they also had a place to live. That practice still remains in place, except there is no more farming. In 2002 McHenry County voters approved a referendum to build a new more efficient nursing home. Several months ago a new administrator, Tom Annarella, was hired to oversee the facility. Valley Hi Nursing Home is now in the nursing home market and this is what the Operations Board will be working with. The idea of an operations board came from DeKalb County which initiated this idea for a county owned nursing home.

New MCC President To Sign Contract Friday

McHenry County College Board of Trustees is scheduled to ratify and sign a new President's contract during a 4:15 pm Friday meeting. Dr. Vicky Smith will be welcomed by the Board members at this event taking place in the Board Room of the College, 8900 US Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

Dr. Smith is currently President of two-campus Neosha County Community College, in eastern Kansas. She is originally from Decatur, Illinois and obtained her education in Illinois.

Pet Day Care Receives Approval Recommendation

Charlies Dog House, a dog daycare facility is seeking to open a business at 140 W. Terra Cotta Avenue. The services will provide care for animals dropped off or boarded for a short period of time. A small portion of the building is also used by Union Pacific Railroad. The petitioner is requesting a variation in order to use the vacant building.

Nearby neighbors expressed concern that the passing trains may cause the dogs to make noise which could be disturbing to the residents. The petitioner explained that the dogs would not be out of doors all the time and the noise inside the building is not audible on the exterior.

The Planning and Zoning Commission is recommending the requested rezoning for the dog care facility. The final decision is up to the City Council.

Tuesday Night At Crystal Lake City Council

Economics 101
Current day economic conditions have an effect on development plans as evidenced by requests for extension of permits for construction projects. Two of those were approved by Crystal Lake City Council at its last night's meeting. These include Staybridge Suites, a four-story 84-suite extended stay hotel planned for 400 Tag Way. This is located west of Pingree Road and north of Tracy Trail.

Another extension of a Final PUD and final Plat of Subdivision was approved for Preston Pines Subdivision, Units 3 through 6. Plans are for 275 single-family lots and 184 townhomes. Due to market conditions and extension was approved until July 17, 2011.

Another extension was granted for the planned Pine Tree Mall property located on the southwest corner of Routes 176 and 14. This includes plans for a shopping center. The developer's annexation agreement is valid through 2014 for a PUD. The extension of the PUD is approved until October 4, 2010.

Outdoor Mass and Church Picnic
Lake Street between Washington Street and the eastern portion of the St. Thomas the Apostle Church property will be closed Sunday, July 25 from 10:30 am to 5:30 p.m. for an outdoor mass and picnic. This is similar to the approval given for such a project last year.

County Right-of-Way Holds Up Annexation
Requirements regarding a county right-of-way dedication are holding up the annexation plans for a 3.25 acre parcel at 8307 Ridgefield Road. The property is located just south of Tartan Drive, the entrance of McHenry County College. Currently the property contains a two-story residence and a number of accessory structures as well as in in-ground swimming pool.

County Residents Join City
John and Margaret Lecuyer, 490 W. Terra Cotta Avenue, are now city residents following the annexation Tuesday by the City Council of their nearly one-acre property into the City. They sought annexation as their septic system is failing and they desire to connect to the city sewer.

Delivery Truck Considered Signage
Verlo Mattress, 5150 Northwest Highway, was granted approval to park an operable delivery truck in a designated parking stall closest to the building. Both the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council expressed the desire that such trucks not be parked closest to the building. The concern is that the truck, containing considerable signage, is more of a sign than just a delivery truck. Concerns were also expressed that businesses in this area do have limited outdoor storage.

From Furniture to Auto Repairs
A new business is coming to Crystal Lake, Pep Boys Auto. They will be locating in the former La-Z Boy Furniture store in the Twin Ponds Marketplace. Considerable discussion was held regarding signage on one side of the building facing Sands Road. There is a residential area across Sands Road from the property. Other concerns were that the business has enough exposure to Route 14 by way of signage and also illumination from the interior of the facility.

New Look For Nursing Home
Fair Oaks Nursing Home, 471 Terra Cotta Avenue, is being updated. The facility was constructed in the early 1970's. Some expansion is planned along with an updating to the appearance. The plan is to create a more-homelike appearance while offering exercise and restorative therapy area. This expansion also allows the facility to revert back to the plans for single occupancy rooms.

The greatest concerns were the necessary removal of about 100 trees to accomplish the expansion. The city ordinance would require 66 trees to replace the approximately 100 that would be removed. Those to be removed include Oak, Shagbark Hickory, Green Ash, Black Cherry, American Elm, Norway Maple, Boxelder, Mulberry, Crabapple, and Black Walnut. Instead of like replacement it was decided that the plan for replacing with smaller and ornamental species would be allowed. A city ordinance requires the like size to be used. The petitioner desires to use other landscaping species to make a friendlier atmosphere for the residents. The Council discussed this and decided to allow the petitioner work this out with the Planning staff considering the cost, aesthetics and size of the site.

Fencing On North Shore
A six-foot fence is planned for a residence at 779 North Shore Drive. The concerns for this location are the 40-foot wide lot with an existing house and garage. The owners desire to install a six-foot high cedar fence. The planned fence encroaches into the required front and rear yard setback, the property having a street at both the front and rear yards. The Council agreed with the recommendation of the Planning Commission that the six-foot fence be permitted along the front of the house, but not the rear which is Oak Court. That was reduced to a three-foot high fence.

Cooperation With Neighbors
An intergovernmental Agreement with the Village of Lake in the Hills will allow the storage of 1,000 tons of road salt in Lake in the Hill facilities. The situation arose after the delay of road salt delivery in the past season due to shortage of the commodity. The City's salt storage facility is completely full due to that delay. Therefore there was no place to put a prior committed delivery of another 1,000 tons of road salt.

A $48,500 Donation to State of Illinois
This is in the form of National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, needed for the operation and discharges of the City's wastewater and storm water systems. The permit is required under the Clean Water Act and is issued by the IEPA. Operation of wastewater and storm water facilities in violation of the permit requirements results in the city being subject to civil and criminal prosecution.

These fees are justified by the Governor and the Legislature to fund the IEPA and its oversight of NPDES holders' operations. Prior to 2003 the system operated without this funding. In 2003 the State needed to overcome a large budget deficit and permit fees were instituted. Therefore, the City, like others, has been paying the annual NPDES fees for the last seven years, under protest, for a total of $340,500. This year's fee is $48,500.

Contestants Ready for FOCUS Talent Show Finale on July 24

Since the inception of Raue Center For The Arts we have always had the desire to host a show that highlights the talents of our youth. The inaugural FOCUS talent show ran last year and was an overwhelming success. With the hard work and dedication of the FOCUS Educational Committee and staff, we have been able to further bring this idea to fruition and turn it into an annual event.

This year, Raue Center is delighted to present FOCUS 2010. A multifaceted, multi-month talent show open to all youth 18 and under, this event strives to promote emotional, intellectual and intuitive development in each child through the encouragement of artistic expression. The event’s theme, “A community of change. What does this mean to you?” will permeate all four unique showcases in this year’s event: fashion design, vocal ensemble, visual arts and performing arts.

With the finale showcase only a couple weeks away the finalists have been named for all four showcases. They will perform/present before the judging panel and the winners will be announced on July 24, 2010.
Performing Arts Showcase Finalists
Elementary Division: Jayden and Carsen Forte, Esha Gourikrishna and Daniel Souvigny
Junior High Division: Lena Burke and Ryan Lammers, Rachel Cottrell and Kushal Gourikrishna
High School Division: Maroon Man Group, Lane Parsons and Benjamin Valle

Fashion Design Showcase Finalists
Senior Division: Haley Beyer, Ashley Margaret Bolda, Shelby Difiore, Anna Goldberg, Sara Hinkle, Johnny Laman, Sarah Magnuson, Audrey Pangallo, Alyssa Phillips, Hillary Ruhlin, Nikki Schweber and Amy Sticha
Junior Division: Veronica Buchweitz, Emma Downing, Taya Freese, Annie Kamps, Emmerson Meurett, Mary Plazak and Elise Rockwell

Visual Arts Showcase Finalists
Elementary Division: Mary Clare Schofield, Erik Stiegman and Lauren Rickgauer
Junior High Division: Dylan Manke and Kathy Swerbenski
High School Division: Connor Jacobsen, Terrill Freese and Henry Hillstrom

FOCUS 2010 is brought to you by Burnhill Union Records with additional support from Centegra Health System, Georgio’s Chicago Pizzeria and Pub, Rotary Club of Crystal Lake Dawnbreakers, Exemplar Financial Network, Northwest Herald, Aesthetics, Donna L. Vestal Fund and the McGown Gin Rosica Family Foundation.
For more information, call Christin Kruse, Director of Development, at 815-356-9010 or visit

Protection Against Heat Related Illness

Heat stroke and dehydration can strike with little warning. With high temperatures expecting to continue, McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) urges residents to take preventive steps to avoid heat-related illness, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Patrick J. McNulty, MCDH’s Public Health Administrator, states “It’s very important for people to recognize the signs of heat-related illness to prevent being sick. High heat and humidity can lead to serious health problems.” Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, weakness, headaches or cramps, nausea and fainting. Warning signs for heat stroke are rapid pulse, high body temperature and skin that is red and dry.

Although any one can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk. During prolonged periods of hot, humid weather, extra caution should be taken by the elderly, small children and chronically ill persons. If there is no air conditioning in the home, residents should find relief in public facilities. Simple steps such as drinking more fluids, wearing light-weight clothing, wearing a hat and avoiding being outdoors during the hottest part of the day (10am-3pm) can reduce your risk. If you must be outside, take regular breaks and rest in a shady or cool area.

For more heat-related safety tips, visit Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Crystal Lake Park District Finance Committee Meeting Thursday Morning

The Crystal Lake Park District Finance Committee will meet Thursday (July 8) at 10:00 am to consider several matters including Banking Proposals, Bond Sale and any other related matters that need consideration.

That meeting is taking place in the Park District Administrative Building, One East Crystal Lake, Avenue, Crystal Lake.

MCC Student Trustee Receives Award

McHenry County College student Cody Sheriff of McHenry was awarded the Gigi Campbell Student Trustee Excellence Award from the Illinois Community College Board.
The MCC Board of Trustees appointed Cody as the student trustee last summer. He recently was elected by his peers to serve a second term. Sheriff is a member of nine student organizations, including Student Senate and attends many events sponsored by other clubs, attends college athletic events and acts as the College mascot. He was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.
“It’s a very big honor. To be recognized for things I’ve done all year and that I love doing is fantastic,” he said.
To be eligible for the award, Sheriff submitted an essay about “How MCC Changed My Life.” He said that the College changed him not only academically, but personally as well.
“I was shy and wasn’t sure of myself, but I applied myself and got involved,” he said. “I try to meet with every single student organization at least once a semester. Plus, I lost 103 pounds by working out in the MCC Fitness Center,” adding that he works out five or six days a week for about an hour. He also received an award last month for his contributions to the student club Latinos Unidos.
He graduated from McHenry West High School in 2008 and worked one semester before enrolling at MCC in spring 2009. He plans to graduate in spring 2011 with an associate in science degree in computer engineering and enroll in the officer’s program for the U.S. Air Force.
“My brother is a marine who will be coming home in July. “He’s been a big inspiration for me,” Sheriff said.
“I am amazed at the depth and breadth of the talent that Cody has shown as a student trustee, and I have been impressed by his involvement in everything MCC,” said George Lowe, MCC Board of Trustees chairperson

Name Change For Business Course At MCC

McHenry County College announces that the Academy for High Performance has changed its name to Fast Track, a program offering professional certificates and accelerated degree programs for adults.
Fast Track is the only program in McHenry County that provides professional certificates and degree programs for adults ages 24 and older who are looking to enhance their skill sets or career in a convenient, team-based setting. Students can earn a certificate in two years or less and an Associate in Applied Science degree in three or four years, depending on the program, by attending classes one night per week.
For the past 15 years, the Fast Track program has partnered with more than 150 local businesses to offer workers an opportunity to continue their education by taking night classes. More than 90 percent of Fast Track students have earned a certificate and/or an Associate in Applied Science degree. The majority of the students have received one or more promotions since starting the program.
According to Melissa Stutz, director of Fast Track, the renaming took place because it was time to take a fresh look at the program’s overall role.
“With the current economy changing how businesses operate in our community, it’s necessary for us to review how we, too, are operating and to make adjustments to better serve the students and our community,” Stutz said. “With input from students, we changed the name to Fast Track to better represent the program’s philosophy and direction.”
In a traditional setting, if a student took one class, one night a week per semester, he or she would finish an associate’s degree in approximately 10 years, Stutz explained, but with the Fast Track program, a student would finish in three to four years.
“Students who are enrolled in the program say they enjoy the cohort format, integrated courses that relate to their everyday life, and the flexible scheduling,” she said.
In addition to participating in the uniquely integrated courses that combine general education with leadership and/or technical courses, Fast Track students develop performance skills such as communication, critical thinking, flexibility, organization, problem solving, and team building. Many students look to advance into managerial positions.
Three major program areas are available, including Business Management, Construction Management and Manufacturing Management. Online courses are available in Business Management.
To register or for more information on the Fast Track program, visit www.mchenry.edu/fasttrack or contact Melissa Stutz at (815) 455-8611 or mstutz@mhenry.edu.

County And Crystal Lake Meetings

McHenry County Board Meeting This Morning
McHenry County Board meets this morning beginning at 9:00 am in the County Board Room of the Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Among the matters on which the Board is expected to be taking action is the appointment of members to the newly formed Valley Hi Operating Board. Expected to be appointed are Dallas K. Larson, Peter D. Michling and Lynn M Ryan for terms to expire June 30, 2013. Also proposed for appointment are Victor J. Narusis and Joanne F. Hanrahan for terms to expire June 30, 2012. Two Board members are also to be included as representatives.
This board will be in place of the Valley Hi Committee of the County Board. The Nursing Home is still under the control of McHenry County.

Crystal Lake City Council This Evening
Crystal Lake City Council meets this evening beginning at 7:30.
Approval is being requested for placement of a sign along the City rights-of-way recognizing Crystal Lake Central High School student Rosalie Albright and Megan Huberty for placing first in Write It, Do It at the State Science Olympiad Tournament held at University of Illinois Urbana Campus.

An award for a Lightning Prediction System for Three Oaks Recreation Area is expected to be approved along with a discussion regarding area concessions.

Crystal Lake Parade Today, Fun At The Beach, Fireworks Tonight

The 2010 Independence Day Parade will be held on Monday, July 5, 2010 with a kick-off time of 1 pm. The parade route will start at the Municipal Building at the corner of Woodstock Street and Walkup Avenue. turn south on Dole Avenue, and end at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park. The fireworks will also be on Monday, at dusk, over the lake. Voices in Harmony choir will also be singing at the fireworks concert at the Main Beach Band Shell. 
Rain Date, Sunday, July 11.

July 5 Main Beach Admission Information:

Until 3:00 PM, all residents may present their annual beach pass for admission or pay the normal $1 daily admission fee without beach pass.

Non-residents will pay the normal non-resident fee of $10 for adults—over 16 years of age--$5 after 4:00 pm. Seniors (over 62 years of age) fee is $6.00--$3 after 4:00 pm. For youth 4-15 years, the fee is the same as for Seniors. Children under 4 years of age are admitted free.
Parking is $5 -- $3 after 4:00 pm.
People visiting the beach will receive a wristband to stay for the fireworks.

After the conclusion of the parade, all (with and without beach tag) resident and non-residents will be charged $2 for admission and receive a wristband for the fireworks

Crystal Lake Beaches are reported open.

Classics of the '20 and Latest Hits of Today Featured in Tuesday Concert

    Concerts in the Park are held every summer Tuesday evening in the Crystal Lake Park District's band shell, located at the Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Drive.
    The 70 to 90 minute concerts begin at 7:00 pm. Admission is free as the result of generous sponsors, Raue Center For The Arts, McHenry County Living Magazine, Home State Bank, and Judson College.
    The featured presentation for Tuesday July 6 is Probable Cause –(Featuring 20's classics to latest hits of today.) In case of rain or other inclement weather, the concert will take place in Park Place, 406 West Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake.
    Call the Park Weather Hotline at 815-459-PARK (7275) after 3 pm to confirm if there is inclement weather.