McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) is offering a cardiovascular screening on Saturday, August 28, from 7:30am-11:30am, at its Crystal Lake office, 100 N. Virginia Street. The screening requires a 12-hour fast and includes total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure, cardiovascular education and heart age assessment. Appointments are required. The cost is $35.00. Call 815-334-4536 for appointment.
Heart disease and stroke are the first and third leading causes of death, respectively, in Illinois – killing 5 people every hour, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Age, gender and family history are risk factors beyond our control. But what we can change is high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, lack of exercise and poor nutrition. The more risk factors a person has, the greater the chances of developing cardiovascular disease.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Health Department Posts Beach Sampling Results
McHenry County Departmetnof Health conducted beach water samplings at licensed beaches on Thursday, August 19 and results were within acceptable standards.
One beach, however, has closed for th season -- West Beach, 2400 Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
All licensed beaches on the 13 lakes in McHenryCounty are tested every two weeks for E.coli throughout the summer to determine wate quality. Additional and more frequent sampling is done when elevated bacterial levels are found. MCDH recommends refraining from swimming at least 2-3 days after heavy rainfall.
Water sampling results are reported to the appropriate beach authorities. Beahes that require an advisory or closing are posted with signs by MCDH. All beach water results and locations are readily available at the Department's webpage at or by phone 815-334-4585 or email
One beach, however, has closed for th season -- West Beach, 2400 Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
All licensed beaches on the 13 lakes in McHenryCounty are tested every two weeks for E.coli throughout the summer to determine wate quality. Additional and more frequent sampling is done when elevated bacterial levels are found. MCDH recommends refraining from swimming at least 2-3 days after heavy rainfall.
Water sampling results are reported to the appropriate beach authorities. Beahes that require an advisory or closing are posted with signs by MCDH. All beach water results and locations are readily available at the Department's webpage at or by phone 815-334-4585 or email
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Dredging Planned For West End Of The Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake Park District Board learned at Thursday evening;s Board meeting that a dredging plan for the west end of the Crystal Lake will be developed by Hey and Associates, Inc. This is to alleviate the problem boaters from that area have in navigating to the main part of the lake. One task accomplished was "mowing" the weeds in that part of the lake. The lake vegetation has increased since the arrival of the zebra mussels which clean the lake. The result is the vegetation also grows better. Hey and Associates will examine the situation in order to make a determination of the process needed and estimate the costs.
The geese and other water fowl are causing the closing of beaches. There was concern expressed because the e coli count has been extremely high this summer and beaches have been closed more frequently that is usual. Investigation into where the contamination originates has shown it comes from geese and other water fowl which appreciate the Crystal Lake as much as do the residents of the Crystal Lake Park District.
On another matter, a rather unique partnership with a medical facility for a "wellness" center was presented by Emily M. Portugal, Business Development and Michael W. Behm, AIA, Vice President of Leopardo, a firm which handles construction, design, build and development projects. They mentioned the interest of Advocate Good Shepherd to possibly consider partnering with the Park District for a wellness facility. No decisions were made regarding this possibility, but considerable discussion was held. Also present was Eric Anderson, of BMO Capital Markets, Palatine, with explanation regarding financing such a project without going to referendum.
The geese and other water fowl are causing the closing of beaches. There was concern expressed because the e coli count has been extremely high this summer and beaches have been closed more frequently that is usual. Investigation into where the contamination originates has shown it comes from geese and other water fowl which appreciate the Crystal Lake as much as do the residents of the Crystal Lake Park District.
On another matter, a rather unique partnership with a medical facility for a "wellness" center was presented by Emily M. Portugal, Business Development and Michael W. Behm, AIA, Vice President of Leopardo, a firm which handles construction, design, build and development projects. They mentioned the interest of Advocate Good Shepherd to possibly consider partnering with the Park District for a wellness facility. No decisions were made regarding this possibility, but considerable discussion was held. Also present was Eric Anderson, of BMO Capital Markets, Palatine, with explanation regarding financing such a project without going to referendum.
OSHA Course In General Industry Offered By MCC
The Shah Center of McHenry County College is accepting registrations for the OSHA 30-hour course in General Industry that will meet from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 7, 9, 14 and 16 at the Shah Center, 4100 W. Shamrock Lane in McHenry.
The course is facilitated by OSHA-certified Accident Prevention Corporation and will provide detailed coverage of OSHA’s general industry standards, requirements and employer’s responsibility to provide employees a safe and healthful workplace. This course is suited to safety and health personnel, supervisors and those with safety and health responsibilities. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a course certificate and an OSHA general industry 30-hour course completion card from the Department of Labor.
According to osha.gov, every year, nearly five million workers experience an occupational injury or illness on the job. More than half of these injuries and illnesses are severe enough to cause the worker to spend time away from work. OSHA, along with safety and health professionals around the nation, is working with employers and employees to move toward zero injuries and illnesses in U.S. workplaces.
Cost is $379, which includes materials. Participants can register using course ID: NTE S68 001. The OSHA 30-hour course meets grant assistance qualifications for eligible companies.
To register, call (815) 455-8588. For more information, contact the center at (815) 455-8593 or shahcenter@mchenry.edu
The course is facilitated by OSHA-certified Accident Prevention Corporation and will provide detailed coverage of OSHA’s general industry standards, requirements and employer’s responsibility to provide employees a safe and healthful workplace. This course is suited to safety and health personnel, supervisors and those with safety and health responsibilities. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a course certificate and an OSHA general industry 30-hour course completion card from the Department of Labor.
According to osha.gov, every year, nearly five million workers experience an occupational injury or illness on the job. More than half of these injuries and illnesses are severe enough to cause the worker to spend time away from work. OSHA, along with safety and health professionals around the nation, is working with employers and employees to move toward zero injuries and illnesses in U.S. workplaces.
Cost is $379, which includes materials. Participants can register using course ID: NTE S68 001. The OSHA 30-hour course meets grant assistance qualifications for eligible companies.
To register, call (815) 455-8588. For more information, contact the center at (815) 455-8593 or shahcenter@mchenry.edu
McHenry County College's New President Welcomed
Dr. Vicky Smith was welcomed to her home state by a sizeable crowd of business and chambers of commerce members gathering for the occasion in the McHenry County College's Shah Center, McHenry.
Dr. Smith, who was raised on a farm near Decatur, told those in attendance that she is excited to serve in the role of head of McHenry County College. She noted she was getting a real good flavor of what being president of McHenry County College will be like. As she explained, in Neosho, Kansas, where she served as President of the Neosho County Community College, there was a large contingent of manufacturers who had skilled work forces to meet the trying economic times they faced in the past few years. Dr. Smith explained, "It is important to work with these people as a strong work force is important."
Answering a question of what does a president of the college do, Dr. Smith says "Basically provide leadership, knowing what people need, and making sure that the college is providing those needs."
Dr. Smith, who was raised on a farm near Decatur, told those in attendance that she is excited to serve in the role of head of McHenry County College. She noted she was getting a real good flavor of what being president of McHenry County College will be like. As she explained, in Neosho, Kansas, where she served as President of the Neosho County Community College, there was a large contingent of manufacturers who had skilled work forces to meet the trying economic times they faced in the past few years. Dr. Smith explained, "It is important to work with these people as a strong work force is important."
Answering a question of what does a president of the college do, Dr. Smith says "Basically provide leadership, knowing what people need, and making sure that the college is providing those needs."
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Watching Government
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 18, 2010
8:15 A.M. --McHenry County Transportation Committee
Meeting is cancelled
5:00 to 7:00 P.M.—Business and Chamber of Commerce reception for newly appointed McHenry County College President, Dr. Vicky Smith
Shah Center, 4100 W. Shamrock Lane, McHenry.
7:00 P.M.--Agricultural Conservation Committee of McHenry County Board
Meeting is cancelled
7:30--Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission
Meeting is cancelled.
THURSDAY AUGUST 19, 2010
8:30 A.M. – Planning and Development Committee of McHenry County Board
Conference Room A – McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Discussion is scheduled regarding county subdivision policy as well as discussion on wind turbine moratorium.
5:00 P.M.–McHenry County Conservation District Finance Committee
Brookdale Administration Offices, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock
The agenda indicates the consideration and approval of bill payments, treasurer's report. Also various change orders and contract amendments regarding professional service agreements.
Also, for consideration, budget planning for Fiscal year 2012 and the Tax Levy.
6:00 P.M. MCCD Executive Session
An executive session is scheduled at 6:00 pm. but the board will reconvene in open session for the 7:00 pm regular meeting.
7:00 P.M. MCCD Regular Meeting
The agenda for this meeting indicates a presentation by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission Representatives with recommendations for Nature Preserve Dedications.
Other matters to be considered by the board include the appointment of various committees, and representatives for various other related organizations. Also for consideration are approvals for various contracts concerning projects in the district.
7:30 P.M.--Crystal Lake Park District Board
Park District Offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake
Linda Luehring, Executive Director of SECOM, the centralized emergency dispatch center that handles calls for the southeastern part of McHenry County is to be introduced. The Park District Police Department is part of this dispatch system.
A revised dredging plan for the west end of the Crystal Lake is scheduled for presentation by Hey and Associates.
Also for consideration is the Racket Club parking lot seal coating. Also for consideration is the retention of Chapman and Cutler for Bond Counsel for the district.
FRIDAY AUGUST 20, 2010
8:00 A.M. McHenry County Senior Services Grant Commission
Conference Room A-McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Review of Grant Proposals for the 2011 Senior Services Grant Program year.
9:30 A.M.—Crystal Lake Public Library Board Facilities Committee
Meets in the Library Director's Office of the Crystal Lake Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.
8:15 A.M. --McHenry County Transportation Committee
Meeting is cancelled
5:00 to 7:00 P.M.—Business and Chamber of Commerce reception for newly appointed McHenry County College President, Dr. Vicky Smith
Shah Center, 4100 W. Shamrock Lane, McHenry.
7:00 P.M.--Agricultural Conservation Committee of McHenry County Board
Meeting is cancelled
7:30--Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission
Meeting is cancelled.
THURSDAY AUGUST 19, 2010
8:30 A.M. – Planning and Development Committee of McHenry County Board
Conference Room A – McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Discussion is scheduled regarding county subdivision policy as well as discussion on wind turbine moratorium.
5:00 P.M.–McHenry County Conservation District Finance Committee
Brookdale Administration Offices, 18410 US Highway 14, Woodstock
The agenda indicates the consideration and approval of bill payments, treasurer's report. Also various change orders and contract amendments regarding professional service agreements.
Also, for consideration, budget planning for Fiscal year 2012 and the Tax Levy.
6:00 P.M. MCCD Executive Session
An executive session is scheduled at 6:00 pm. but the board will reconvene in open session for the 7:00 pm regular meeting.
7:00 P.M. MCCD Regular Meeting
The agenda for this meeting indicates a presentation by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission Representatives with recommendations for Nature Preserve Dedications.
Other matters to be considered by the board include the appointment of various committees, and representatives for various other related organizations. Also for consideration are approvals for various contracts concerning projects in the district.
7:30 P.M.--Crystal Lake Park District Board
Park District Offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake
Linda Luehring, Executive Director of SECOM, the centralized emergency dispatch center that handles calls for the southeastern part of McHenry County is to be introduced. The Park District Police Department is part of this dispatch system.
A revised dredging plan for the west end of the Crystal Lake is scheduled for presentation by Hey and Associates.
Also for consideration is the Racket Club parking lot seal coating. Also for consideration is the retention of Chapman and Cutler for Bond Counsel for the district.
FRIDAY AUGUST 20, 2010
8:00 A.M. McHenry County Senior Services Grant Commission
Conference Room A-McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Review of Grant Proposals for the 2011 Senior Services Grant Program year.
9:30 A.M.—Crystal Lake Public Library Board Facilities Committee
Meets in the Library Director's Office of the Crystal Lake Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Watching Government on Tuesday
Tuesday, August 17
8:30 A.M. McHenry County Housing Commission
Meets in the Conference Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock.
Included on the agenda is HUD analysis of impediments as well as any other matters necessary to be discussed.
10:00 A.M. - Executive Committee of McHenry County Housing Commission. Also meeting in the Conference Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock.
The Committee is to consider a work plan for the Committee.
6:30 P.M. -District 155 Board Community Relations Committee
Meets in Center for Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake
The Committee is to consider an update and discussion of strategic communications and alumni relations
7:00 P.M.- McHenry County Board
Meets in the County Board Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock
Several zoning petitions are to be considered including for Riley Township, Dahlman Trust; a request to reclassify A1 to A2. Approval is recommended.
--In McHenry Township, Roger Sommer is requesting a reclassification of R1 to R1 variation with a recommended approval
--In Hebron Township, Lloyd and Linda Laufer are requesting A1 to A1 with variance. Approval is also recommended.
--Two sizeable road contracts are going before the County Board for approval. One is for additional engineering work for Randall Road in the amount of $614,895.82, raising the contract to $1,549,604.38.
The second added contract is for Rakow Road engineering work with Patrick Engineering for an amount of $190,569.99 added bringing the total contract to $1,789,217.99.
--Two ordinances are being presented to the board for consideration. One is for implementing a wetland restoration fund. The second is to implement a fund to collect and disperse funds for wetland restoration work.
--One other ordinance is to be considered for adoption. This is to establish a groundwater monitoring and protection ordinance at earth materials extraction sites.
7:30 P.M. - District 155 Board
Meets in Center for Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake
A tentative budget for 2010-2011; a report by Superintendent Dr. Jill Hawk on the enrollment and boundaries of the district.
7:30 P.M. – Crystal Lake City Council
Meeting in the City Council Chambers, 100 Woodstock Street.
In addition to the routine matters handled by the Council, is approval for an online auction of surplus equipment including city vehicles, equipment and miscellaneous items.
Authorization to reimburse Algonquin Township for the City's share of road work on State Street and Colonial Avenue.
Additional work on Three Oaks Recreation Area (formerly Vulcan Lakes) is being presented to the Council for approval. If approved, there remains $331,919 of the $1,249,793 contingency.
8:30 A.M. McHenry County Housing Commission
Meets in the Conference Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock.
Included on the agenda is HUD analysis of impediments as well as any other matters necessary to be discussed.
10:00 A.M. - Executive Committee of McHenry County Housing Commission. Also meeting in the Conference Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock.
The Committee is to consider a work plan for the Committee.
6:30 P.M. -District 155 Board Community Relations Committee
Meets in Center for Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake
The Committee is to consider an update and discussion of strategic communications and alumni relations
7:00 P.M.- McHenry County Board
Meets in the County Board Room, County Administration Building, Woodstock
Several zoning petitions are to be considered including for Riley Township, Dahlman Trust; a request to reclassify A1 to A2. Approval is recommended.
--In McHenry Township, Roger Sommer is requesting a reclassification of R1 to R1 variation with a recommended approval
--In Hebron Township, Lloyd and Linda Laufer are requesting A1 to A1 with variance. Approval is also recommended.
--Two sizeable road contracts are going before the County Board for approval. One is for additional engineering work for Randall Road in the amount of $614,895.82, raising the contract to $1,549,604.38.
The second added contract is for Rakow Road engineering work with Patrick Engineering for an amount of $190,569.99 added bringing the total contract to $1,789,217.99.
--Two ordinances are being presented to the board for consideration. One is for implementing a wetland restoration fund. The second is to implement a fund to collect and disperse funds for wetland restoration work.
--One other ordinance is to be considered for adoption. This is to establish a groundwater monitoring and protection ordinance at earth materials extraction sites.
7:30 P.M. - District 155 Board
Meets in Center for Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake
A tentative budget for 2010-2011; a report by Superintendent Dr. Jill Hawk on the enrollment and boundaries of the district.
7:30 P.M. – Crystal Lake City Council
Meeting in the City Council Chambers, 100 Woodstock Street.
In addition to the routine matters handled by the Council, is approval for an online auction of surplus equipment including city vehicles, equipment and miscellaneous items.
Authorization to reimburse Algonquin Township for the City's share of road work on State Street and Colonial Avenue.
Additional work on Three Oaks Recreation Area (formerly Vulcan Lakes) is being presented to the Council for approval. If approved, there remains $331,919 of the $1,249,793 contingency.
Transferable Special Education Associates of Arts Teaching Degree
McHenry County College announces a new degree for anyone interested in becoming a special education teacher. The Special Education Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) degree begins this fall semester and transfers as a complete package toward completing a bachelor’s degree at Northern Illinois University, Eastern Illinois University and Western Illinois University.
MCC’s Special Education Associate of Arts in Teaching degree is a two-year transfer degree that prepares students for careers in teaching special education and introduces students to the teaching professions, the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards (IPTS), and the role of teachers in American public schools today.
Some unique elements of this degree require students to earn a 2.75 grade point average upon degree completion, receive approval of a specific portfolio, undergo a criminal background check, and receive a passing score on Illinois Test of Basic Skills (ITBS).
This AAT program is designed for students to earn a general special education degree at MCC and when they get to a four year university, they specify what area to specialize in. This program is ideal for traditional and returning students, as well as teacher aides and paraprofessionals who are interested in becoming special education teachers.
“I’m excited about this new opportunity for students,” said Lisha Linder, early childhood education instructor at MCC. “The big difference compared to transferring with a two-year education degree in the past is that this is a package. It’s easier for the students because they don’t have to worry about whether their classes will transfer,” she said. “Students will have done their basic skills test and background check before they get to the four-year university.”
For more information, contact Lisha Linder at (815) 459-8947.
MCC’s Special Education Associate of Arts in Teaching degree is a two-year transfer degree that prepares students for careers in teaching special education and introduces students to the teaching professions, the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards (IPTS), and the role of teachers in American public schools today.
Some unique elements of this degree require students to earn a 2.75 grade point average upon degree completion, receive approval of a specific portfolio, undergo a criminal background check, and receive a passing score on Illinois Test of Basic Skills (ITBS).
This AAT program is designed for students to earn a general special education degree at MCC and when they get to a four year university, they specify what area to specialize in. This program is ideal for traditional and returning students, as well as teacher aides and paraprofessionals who are interested in becoming special education teachers.
“I’m excited about this new opportunity for students,” said Lisha Linder, early childhood education instructor at MCC. “The big difference compared to transferring with a two-year education degree in the past is that this is a package. It’s easier for the students because they don’t have to worry about whether their classes will transfer,” she said. “Students will have done their basic skills test and background check before they get to the four-year university.”
For more information, contact Lisha Linder at (815) 459-8947.
Watching Government
Monday Evening
Crystal Lake School District 47 Board of Education
7:00 pm—C.O.R.E Center, 300 Commerce Drive, Crystal Lake.
In addition to the necessary items such as approval of bill payments, Superintendent Mendoza will discuss an enrollment study and school reports.
The McHenry County Mental Health Board
7:00 pm --620 Dakota Street, Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake School District 47 Board of Education
7:00 pm—C.O.R.E Center, 300 Commerce Drive, Crystal Lake.
In addition to the necessary items such as approval of bill payments, Superintendent Mendoza will discuss an enrollment study and school reports.
The McHenry County Mental Health Board
7:00 pm --620 Dakota Street, Crystal Lake
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Watching Government Monday Mornng
Monday, August 16
8:30 am -Law and Justice Committee of McHenry County Board
Meeting in Conference Room of County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The agenda includes consideration of budget reviews for the fiscal year 2010-2011 year for Sheriff, State's Attorney, Circuit Court, Emergency Management Agency, and E-911.
Also being considered is a Memorandum of Understanding between the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago and McHenry County so assistance and support services are available for victims of major emergencies or disasters.
10:00 am-- Finance Committee of Crystal Lake Park Board
Meeting in the Park District Administrative Office, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. Bond Counsel is meeting with the committee regarding bond sales. Also included on the agenda is Lexington Homes TIF.
8:30 am -Law and Justice Committee of McHenry County Board
Meeting in Conference Room of County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The agenda includes consideration of budget reviews for the fiscal year 2010-2011 year for Sheriff, State's Attorney, Circuit Court, Emergency Management Agency, and E-911.
Also being considered is a Memorandum of Understanding between the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago and McHenry County so assistance and support services are available for victims of major emergencies or disasters.
10:00 am-- Finance Committee of Crystal Lake Park Board
Meeting in the Park District Administrative Office, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. Bond Counsel is meeting with the committee regarding bond sales. Also included on the agenda is Lexington Homes TIF.
Dr. Vicky Smith Begins Duties As MCC Seventh President
Recently appointed McHenry County College President Dr. Vicky Smith will begin her duties as the seventh president of MCC tomorrow—Monday, August 16.
Dr. Smith is returning home, not in this particular area, but not too far away. She was raised on a farm near Decatur and received her Educational Specialist and Bachelor in Education from Eastern Illinois University; her Master in Science from the University of Illinois and her Doctorate in Education from Northern Illinois University.
For the past seven and one-half years, Dr. Smith has served as President of a two-campus community college in Eastern, Kansas, Neosho County Community College.
McHenry County College will hold two open houses to welcome the new President. On Wednesday, August 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm the Shah Center, 4100 Shamrock Lane, McHenry is the location for business and chamber of commerce members to share with Dr. Smith their ideas and insights regarding the College as well as MCC's role in the business community.
On Monday August 23 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm the reception and Open House for the general community will take place on the main campus. This is an opportunity for the community to meet the new President and share their ideas regarding MCC.
The hors d'oeuvres and pastries for both events are being prepared and served by MCC's culinary management department.
Dr. Smith is returning home, not in this particular area, but not too far away. She was raised on a farm near Decatur and received her Educational Specialist and Bachelor in Education from Eastern Illinois University; her Master in Science from the University of Illinois and her Doctorate in Education from Northern Illinois University.
For the past seven and one-half years, Dr. Smith has served as President of a two-campus community college in Eastern, Kansas, Neosho County Community College.
McHenry County College will hold two open houses to welcome the new President. On Wednesday, August 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm the Shah Center, 4100 Shamrock Lane, McHenry is the location for business and chamber of commerce members to share with Dr. Smith their ideas and insights regarding the College as well as MCC's role in the business community.
On Monday August 23 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm the reception and Open House for the general community will take place on the main campus. This is an opportunity for the community to meet the new President and share their ideas regarding MCC.
The hors d'oeuvres and pastries for both events are being prepared and served by MCC's culinary management department.
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