Saturday, August 28, 2010
Crystal Lake Library Closed Morning of September 3
The Crystal Lake Public Library will be closed from 9:00 a.m. until noon, Friday, September 3, for Staff training. The Library will open to the public at 12:00 noon.
Shooting Pet Dog While Under The Influence Results In 60 Days Jail Time Plus Probation
Woodstock resident, Kirk Locher is spending 60 days in the McHenry County Jail and faces 18 months of probation for shooting his dog while under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred May 31 of 2008 and Locher was found guilty by a jury on June 30, 2010. In addition of the jail time, Locker was also ordered to obtain a psychological evaluation and that he comply with all recommendations given. He was also ordered to own no firearms or animals while on probation. His Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card will be revoked.
Evidence during the trial revealed that he had been drinking alcohol outside during a power outage on May 30. Later in the early morning hours he woke his wife complaining that the family dog bit him. His wife arose and sat at the kitchen table. This is when Locher leaned over the kitchen table and shot the dog in the head with a revolver he brought from the bedroom.
Woodstock investigating officers, Officer Harmon and Detective Spitzer, and Sgt. Amati testified at the trial that Locher was under the influence of alcohol when the incident occurred. Assistant State's Attorneys Sharyl Eisenstein and Ryan Blackney prosecuted the case.
Evidence during the trial revealed that he had been drinking alcohol outside during a power outage on May 30. Later in the early morning hours he woke his wife complaining that the family dog bit him. His wife arose and sat at the kitchen table. This is when Locher leaned over the kitchen table and shot the dog in the head with a revolver he brought from the bedroom.
Woodstock investigating officers, Officer Harmon and Detective Spitzer, and Sgt. Amati testified at the trial that Locher was under the influence of alcohol when the incident occurred. Assistant State's Attorneys Sharyl Eisenstein and Ryan Blackney prosecuted the case.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Illinois Libertarians Score One Victory
It's time to celebrate, but not for long. There are only 2 months left until the election, but llinois Libertarians are celebrating one victory--
The Illinois State Board of Elections certified, by unanimous vote, the state-wide Libertarian candidates for the ballot in the November election.
The candidates are:
Governor – Lex Green
Lt. Governor – Ed Rutledge
Attorney General – Bill Malan
Comptroller – Julie Fox
Secretary of State – Josh Hanson
Treasurer – James Pauly
US Senate – Mike Labno
The Illinois State Board of Elections certified, by unanimous vote, the state-wide Libertarian candidates for the ballot in the November election.
The candidates are:
Governor – Lex Green
Lt. Governor – Ed Rutledge
Attorney General – Bill Malan
Comptroller – Julie Fox
Secretary of State – Josh Hanson
Treasurer – James Pauly
US Senate – Mike Labno
First Board of Trustee Meeting for New MCC President
Dr. Vicky Smith, the first woman President for McHenry County College, conducted her first Board of Trustees meeting Thursday evening. In fact, as is the usual procedure for this time of the school year, there were three separate meetings.
First was the Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, which involved approval of prior COW minutes, and a review of the Board Packet for the Regular Board meeting. Also, a Chairman for the Finance and Audit Committee was chosen, since the prior Chair, Mary Miller, was elected as Chair of the Board during a rather surprised reorganization of the Board, at last month's meeting. She could not continue as Chair of a committee under the Board of Trustee Rules. Instead Don DeWitt is now Chair of the Finance Committee.
Also briefly discussed was the matter of broadcasting MCC Trustee meetings by way of the MCC website. This would provide access to a pre-recorded version of the meeting. Trustee Donna Kurtz has been urging providing this information for the public, noting that the City of Crystal Lake has public air access to Council Meetings. It should be noted that this is because the meetings are broadcast over Public Access Television Channel 17.
No further action was taken on the matter at this time. Following further discussion concerning the building and possible future space needs that portion of the Trustees meeting was adjourned.
Next was a Budget Hearing on the 2010-2011 budget. No members of the public present desired to comment and the Budget Hearing was adjourned.
Following are the basic figures for the 2011 budget compared with prior year's budget:
Total Operating Funds 2010 2011
Fund Balance-beginning of Year (est.) $16,983,805 $17,175,782
Revenue $41,324,025 $41,637,190
Expenditures ($43,282,048) ($42,537,326)
Transfer Out ($ 2,250,000) $ 3,210,000)
Fund Balance – End of Year $12,775,782 $13,065,646
Following the adoption of the $13,065,646 budget for the coming year, the Board held a regular meeting with a report from Dr. Smith that opening day went smoothly. She noted that a more parking spaces were created from a grassy bank areas.
First was the Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, which involved approval of prior COW minutes, and a review of the Board Packet for the Regular Board meeting. Also, a Chairman for the Finance and Audit Committee was chosen, since the prior Chair, Mary Miller, was elected as Chair of the Board during a rather surprised reorganization of the Board, at last month's meeting. She could not continue as Chair of a committee under the Board of Trustee Rules. Instead Don DeWitt is now Chair of the Finance Committee.
Also briefly discussed was the matter of broadcasting MCC Trustee meetings by way of the MCC website. This would provide access to a pre-recorded version of the meeting. Trustee Donna Kurtz has been urging providing this information for the public, noting that the City of Crystal Lake has public air access to Council Meetings. It should be noted that this is because the meetings are broadcast over Public Access Television Channel 17.
No further action was taken on the matter at this time. Following further discussion concerning the building and possible future space needs that portion of the Trustees meeting was adjourned.
Next was a Budget Hearing on the 2010-2011 budget. No members of the public present desired to comment and the Budget Hearing was adjourned.
Following are the basic figures for the 2011 budget compared with prior year's budget:
Total Operating Funds 2010 2011
Fund Balance-beginning of Year (est.) $16,983,805 $17,175,782
Revenue $41,324,025 $41,637,190
Expenditures ($43,282,048) ($42,537,326)
Transfer Out ($ 2,250,000) $ 3,210,000)
Fund Balance – End of Year $12,775,782 $13,065,646
Following the adoption of the $13,065,646 budget for the coming year, the Board held a regular meeting with a report from Dr. Smith that opening day went smoothly. She noted that a more parking spaces were created from a grassy bank areas.
McCullom Lake Wells May Be Tested At Expense of Rohm and Haas
McCullom Lake residents are being given the opportunity to have their wells tested and paid for by Rohm and Haas, Ringwood, one of the companies being sued for allegedly causing brain tumors for the area residents. A letter from the company was presented to the McHenry County Board Public Health and Human Services Committee this week stating the company would provide financial assistance to the County for the additional independent testing. The offer includes three components:
1. To fund the County's additional well testing for Village of McCullom Lake homeowners who request it, Rohm and Haas will commit up to $125 for each well tested for the presence of vinyl chloride (up to $50,000 if all village wells were tested). To ensure that the results are both independent and credible, the County and/or Illinois EPA will select EPA-certified firms to conduct the testing and related laboratory analysis.
2. Rohm and Haas will commit up to $5,000 to test outdoor Village air for vinyl chloride and that McHenry County and/or the Illinois EPA will select EPA-certified firms to conduct the testing and the laboratory analysis to assure independent and credible results.
3. Finally, Rohm and Haas is prepared to commit up to $50,000 to support an independent comprehensive expert assessment of the various theories of vinyl chloride exposure in the Village through the Illinois EPA and the Illinois Water Survey.
"This is a good opportunity for the residents of McCullom Lake to get peace of mind that their water supply is safe and good corporate stewardship y Rohm and Haas to propose these components," says McHenry County board Chairman Ken Koehler, commenting on the letter.
Koehler and the Public Health and Human Services Committee agree that McHenry County should assist in the efforts to bring testing of the McCullom Lake water supply through independent and EPA-certified firms.
1. To fund the County's additional well testing for Village of McCullom Lake homeowners who request it, Rohm and Haas will commit up to $125 for each well tested for the presence of vinyl chloride (up to $50,000 if all village wells were tested). To ensure that the results are both independent and credible, the County and/or Illinois EPA will select EPA-certified firms to conduct the testing and related laboratory analysis.
2. Rohm and Haas will commit up to $5,000 to test outdoor Village air for vinyl chloride and that McHenry County and/or the Illinois EPA will select EPA-certified firms to conduct the testing and the laboratory analysis to assure independent and credible results.
3. Finally, Rohm and Haas is prepared to commit up to $50,000 to support an independent comprehensive expert assessment of the various theories of vinyl chloride exposure in the Village through the Illinois EPA and the Illinois Water Survey.
"This is a good opportunity for the residents of McCullom Lake to get peace of mind that their water supply is safe and good corporate stewardship y Rohm and Haas to propose these components," says McHenry County board Chairman Ken Koehler, commenting on the letter.
Koehler and the Public Health and Human Services Committee agree that McHenry County should assist in the efforts to bring testing of the McCullom Lake water supply through independent and EPA-certified firms.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Bat Sightings On Rise In McHenry County
Two residents from Woodstock have begun receiving treatment for rabies exposure after they awoke to find a bat in their bedroom; it later tested positive for rabies. This is the 17th rabid bat reported this year, according to the McHenry County Department of Health, matching the total recorded in all of 2009. Bats are unusually active this time of year as they’re in the middle of their breeding season. The most recent data from the State Health Department’s website (8-13-10) shows 68 rabid bats reported state-wide. The County saw the highest number of rabid bats in 2008 with 23. Last year, rabid bats were reported locally as late as November.
You can’t tell by looking at a bat if it’s rabid. However, a bat that is active by day, found in a place where bats are not usually seen (such as in your home, in a swimming pool or on the lawn) or is unable to fly is likely rabid. If you find a bat, don’t release it; keep it contained in a room, under a bucket or blanket and call McHenry County Animal Control (815-459-6222). Bats must be in good condition in order to test it for rabies – either alive or recently deceased. Specimens that are in good condition and test negative for rabies eliminates the need for rabies treatment.
Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals; it can only be confirmed in a laboratory. The best way to avoid rabies is to avoid exposure. Pet owners are reminded to keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date. Teach children to never approach or handle wild animals to reduce their risk of exposure.
To learn more about rabies prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/. Questions about exposure should be directed to MCDH’s Communicable Disease Program at 815-334-4500.
You can’t tell by looking at a bat if it’s rabid. However, a bat that is active by day, found in a place where bats are not usually seen (such as in your home, in a swimming pool or on the lawn) or is unable to fly is likely rabid. If you find a bat, don’t release it; keep it contained in a room, under a bucket or blanket and call McHenry County Animal Control (815-459-6222). Bats must be in good condition in order to test it for rabies – either alive or recently deceased. Specimens that are in good condition and test negative for rabies eliminates the need for rabies treatment.
Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals; it can only be confirmed in a laboratory. The best way to avoid rabies is to avoid exposure. Pet owners are reminded to keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date. Teach children to never approach or handle wild animals to reduce their risk of exposure.
To learn more about rabies prevention, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/. Questions about exposure should be directed to MCDH’s Communicable Disease Program at 815-334-4500.
"Drones on Trial" - First-hand Account from Afghanistan and Pakistan
Drones on Trial", a presentation featuring a first-hand account from Afghanistan and Pakistan by Kathy Kelly, a three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, will be presented at 7:00 p.m. September 1 at McHenry County College, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake. The Student Peace Action Network (SPAN) at McHenry County College will host the presentation.
Kelly, co-founder of Voices for Creative Nonviolence in Chicago and three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, will speak about her recent visit to Pakistan and Afghanistan where she met with victims of U.S. drone (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) attacks. On Sept. 14, she will stand trial in Las Vegas with 13 other peace activists for trespassing at Creech Air Force Base in Nevada. Their nonviolent act of civil disobedience followed a 10-day peace vigil outside the gates. Creech AFB is headquarters for the U.S. Air Force drone warfare program and includes training and the actual control for drones used in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq that do surveillance and shoot “Hellfire” missiles that challenge the international rule of law.
The event is part of the Current American Issues Series and is also a fundraiser for the “Creech 14” trial, which will emphasize the injustice of the military’s use of drones that attack civilian homes and have killed so many innocent families while increasing the hatred and violence of war.
“Human interaction, negotiations, diplomacy and dialogue, not surveillance and bombing by robots, will ensure a more peaceful future at home and abroad,” Kelly said.
A question and answer session will follow. The lecture will take place on campus at 8900 U.S. Highway 14 in Crystal Lake.
The seminar is sponsored by MCC Student Peace Action Network, which is made up of students promoting peace nationally and locally through action and education.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Refreshments will be served. For more information, email lib4paz@comcast.net or call the MCC Student Life Office at (815) 455-8772.
Kelly, co-founder of Voices for Creative Nonviolence in Chicago and three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, will speak about her recent visit to Pakistan and Afghanistan where she met with victims of U.S. drone (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) attacks. On Sept. 14, she will stand trial in Las Vegas with 13 other peace activists for trespassing at Creech Air Force Base in Nevada. Their nonviolent act of civil disobedience followed a 10-day peace vigil outside the gates. Creech AFB is headquarters for the U.S. Air Force drone warfare program and includes training and the actual control for drones used in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq that do surveillance and shoot “Hellfire” missiles that challenge the international rule of law.
The event is part of the Current American Issues Series and is also a fundraiser for the “Creech 14” trial, which will emphasize the injustice of the military’s use of drones that attack civilian homes and have killed so many innocent families while increasing the hatred and violence of war.
“Human interaction, negotiations, diplomacy and dialogue, not surveillance and bombing by robots, will ensure a more peaceful future at home and abroad,” Kelly said.
A question and answer session will follow. The lecture will take place on campus at 8900 U.S. Highway 14 in Crystal Lake.
The seminar is sponsored by MCC Student Peace Action Network, which is made up of students promoting peace nationally and locally through action and education.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Refreshments will be served. For more information, email lib4paz@comcast.net or call the MCC Student Life Office at (815) 455-8772.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
McHenry County College Has A New President
The seventh president for McHenry County College met with members of the media Wednesday morning. Dr. Vicky Smith, the first female president for the college in its 43 year history, explained why she accepted the position stating, "McHenry County College has a strong framework and committed employees. It holds great opportunity for growth and collaboration, as well as the potential for new programs based on the needs in this district."
She also noted that she would not work anywhere else but at a community college because she is passionate about the students served by such an institution. "I want to serve the students who need the most help for further education as they face financial challenges and have full time jobs and family to handle while pursuing an education," explained Dr. Smith.
She comes to McHenry County College from Neosho County Community College, a two campus college in eastern Kansas. In some respects she is returning to her home state. Dr. Smith grew up on a grain farm near Decatur, Illinois. She received her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from Northern Illinois University, her Educational specialist (Ed.Spec.) and Bachelor in Education (BS. in Ed) degrees from Eastern Illinois University. Her Master in Science (MS) was from the University of Illinois.
She says the focus for McHenry County College will be in five key areas. These include:
• Planning and the implementation of plans
• Student Learning and Student Success
• Development of our people to meet the next phase of the College
• Economic, Workforce and Community Development
• Systems and Processes Improvement
Dr. Smith explains that the areas of focus are centered on ensuring that we meet our mission, which at the core is that "MCC values learning, and puts the interest of our students and community first..."
Dr. Smith also informed her audience she likes community colleges because they are nimble and really do try to respond and meet the needs of individuals. A community college many times is the only opportunity for higher education as travel time to a four-year institution is too great for many students.
She told her audience she spent her first week here on a daily schedule from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm but met a lot of the community and the people she met had nothing but good things to say about the county college and what it holds for them.
While at Neosho County College Dr. Smith initiated new academic programs in health care, "green" construction, computer science, and sustainable energy, as well as developing collaborative partnerships with K-12, business and industry, four-year colleges and universities, and other community colleges. Under her leadership, NCCC had been the fastest growing community college in Kansas for the last seven years, rising from 18th out of 19th in size to 12th in size through increasing student retention, expanding on-line education, and implementing successful student support services and programs.
Dr. Smith served as a Vice-president for Academic Services at Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY, before working at Neosho County Community College. She also was the president of a small community college in the Minnesota State College and University System—Austin Community College.
The new MCC President will hold her first Trustees Meeting Thursday evening. In fact there are three separate meetings. A Committee of the Whole will meet at 5:30 p.m. That agenda indicates the selection of a Chair for the Finance and Audit Committee and a review of the Board Packet for the Regular Board meeting which will be conducted beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Prior to that meeting, a Budget Hearing is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.
Dr. Smith is shown signing her contract at an earlier visit to the College.
Kids And College Program
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Preparing For 2011 Elections
Preparations are underway for the 2011 Municipal Elections. It may be questioned why so soon since we have not yet completed the 2010 election cycle.
The Consolidated Primary Election is scheduled to take place Tuesday, February 22, 2011. In Crystal Lake one four-year position for Mayor and three four-year Councilman At-Large positions are to be considered. Voters will have the opportunity to vote on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 in a Consolidated Primary Election if more than four candidates file for the Mayoral position and if more than eight candidates file for the positions of Councilman-At-Large.
Candidates for municipal offices may circulate nominating petitions beginning August 24 with the filing period being Monday November 15, 2010 through Monday November 22, 2010, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding weekend days/holidays.
Election packets for the 2011 Crystal Lake Municipal Election are now available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the City of Crystal Lake Municipal Complex, 100 West Woodstock Street.
The Consolidated Election will take place Tuesday, April 5, 2011 with the successful candidates taking office at the latter of either the first regular or special meeting after receipt of the official election results or at the first regular or special meeting in the month following the election.
Filing requirements require municipal candidates to file the following documents with the City Clerk:
1. Petitions for Nomination –numbered and bound.
2. A Statement of Candidacy.
3. A Loyalty Oath (optional)
4. Statement of Economic Interest Receipt (Filed with the County Clerk's Office).
At the time of filing, candidates will be provided with a D-5 Notice of Obligation, a copy of the Code of Fair Campaign Practices Act and a Receipt for Filing which will include the exact date and time of filing. In the case of simultaneous filings, a lottery will be conducted to determine ballot placement following any lotteries conducted, objections of Ballot will be forwarded to the McHenry County Clerk's office n later than December 1, 2010. A Certificate of Ballot will be forwarded to the McHenry County Clerk's office for the Consolidated Primary Election.
An Election Calendar and Candidate's Guide will be available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
The Office of the City Clerk as the Local Election Official recommends that all prospective candidates consult with competent legal counsel when preparing nominating papers to run for office.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk at 815.459.2020 ex. 4084 or the State Board of Elections in Springfield at 217.782.4141.
The Consolidated Primary Election is scheduled to take place Tuesday, February 22, 2011. In Crystal Lake one four-year position for Mayor and three four-year Councilman At-Large positions are to be considered. Voters will have the opportunity to vote on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 in a Consolidated Primary Election if more than four candidates file for the Mayoral position and if more than eight candidates file for the positions of Councilman-At-Large.
Candidates for municipal offices may circulate nominating petitions beginning August 24 with the filing period being Monday November 15, 2010 through Monday November 22, 2010, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding weekend days/holidays.
Election packets for the 2011 Crystal Lake Municipal Election are now available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the City of Crystal Lake Municipal Complex, 100 West Woodstock Street.
The Consolidated Election will take place Tuesday, April 5, 2011 with the successful candidates taking office at the latter of either the first regular or special meeting after receipt of the official election results or at the first regular or special meeting in the month following the election.
Filing requirements require municipal candidates to file the following documents with the City Clerk:
1. Petitions for Nomination –numbered and bound.
2. A Statement of Candidacy.
3. A Loyalty Oath (optional)
4. Statement of Economic Interest Receipt (Filed with the County Clerk's Office).
At the time of filing, candidates will be provided with a D-5 Notice of Obligation, a copy of the Code of Fair Campaign Practices Act and a Receipt for Filing which will include the exact date and time of filing. In the case of simultaneous filings, a lottery will be conducted to determine ballot placement following any lotteries conducted, objections of Ballot will be forwarded to the McHenry County Clerk's office n later than December 1, 2010. A Certificate of Ballot will be forwarded to the McHenry County Clerk's office for the Consolidated Primary Election.
An Election Calendar and Candidate's Guide will be available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
The Office of the City Clerk as the Local Election Official recommends that all prospective candidates consult with competent legal counsel when preparing nominating papers to run for office.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk at 815.459.2020 ex. 4084 or the State Board of Elections in Springfield at 217.782.4141.
Watching Government
Wednesday, August 25
8:15 A.M. – McHenry County Community Development Block Grant Commission meets in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Discussion is slated for CDBG Service Cap and Projects as well as CDBG Applications and funding practices.
Also scheduled at this time is a public hearing on the CDBG Action Plan amendments for 2009 and 2010.
8:15 A.M. – Public Health and Human Services Committee of the McHenry County Board is scheduled to meet in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.,
The agenda calls for a resolution authorizing a Budget Line Item Transfer in the Workforce Network Fiscal Year Budget.
Also to be reviewed are the budgets for the Health Department, Regional Superintendent of Schools, McHenry County Workforce Network/WIB and Veterans Assistance.
9:00 to 9:30 AM – Dr. Vicky Smith, the new McHenry County College President will hold her first press conference to discuss her first days on the job as well as initial plans she has for the directions of the College.
Thursday, August 26
1:00 P.M. – Crystal Lake Park District Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet at the District offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
A number of construction projects are underway and an update is scheduled for Veteran Acres Restroom Building, and the Playground replacement.
The Fetzner Park Playground replacement and the Lippold Park Batting Cage Canopy are also being considered.
Several Planning Projects are being updated and include Woodscreek Playground and Splash Park, Lippold/Area 2 Drainage Study and the Route 176 and Walkup Avenue improvements.
A couple items regarding the Crystal Lake management program will be considered, including a dredging study and a five-year lake management plan.
Also included is a discussion on a future project at West Beach.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27
10:00 A.M. – Building Projects Committee of the McHenry County Board is meeting in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Two presentations are scheduled to be made to the committee and include an update on the Archive Storage Facility Project, as presented by Tonyan Construction.
Also, in connection with this project, an update on the budget for this project will be provided.
8:15 A.M. – McHenry County Community Development Block Grant Commission meets in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Discussion is slated for CDBG Service Cap and Projects as well as CDBG Applications and funding practices.
Also scheduled at this time is a public hearing on the CDBG Action Plan amendments for 2009 and 2010.
8:15 A.M. – Public Health and Human Services Committee of the McHenry County Board is scheduled to meet in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.,
The agenda calls for a resolution authorizing a Budget Line Item Transfer in the Workforce Network Fiscal Year Budget.
Also to be reviewed are the budgets for the Health Department, Regional Superintendent of Schools, McHenry County Workforce Network/WIB and Veterans Assistance.
9:00 to 9:30 AM – Dr. Vicky Smith, the new McHenry County College President will hold her first press conference to discuss her first days on the job as well as initial plans she has for the directions of the College.
Thursday, August 26
1:00 P.M. – Crystal Lake Park District Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet at the District offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
A number of construction projects are underway and an update is scheduled for Veteran Acres Restroom Building, and the Playground replacement.
The Fetzner Park Playground replacement and the Lippold Park Batting Cage Canopy are also being considered.
Several Planning Projects are being updated and include Woodscreek Playground and Splash Park, Lippold/Area 2 Drainage Study and the Route 176 and Walkup Avenue improvements.
A couple items regarding the Crystal Lake management program will be considered, including a dredging study and a five-year lake management plan.
Also included is a discussion on a future project at West Beach.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27
10:00 A.M. – Building Projects Committee of the McHenry County Board is meeting in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Two presentations are scheduled to be made to the committee and include an update on the Archive Storage Facility Project, as presented by Tonyan Construction.
Also, in connection with this project, an update on the budget for this project will be provided.
Want To Quit Smoking?
The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) will offer the American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking” program, a 7-week quit smoking class for adults. The program begins on Tuesday, September 7, from 6pm-7:30pm at McHenry County College, 8900 Northwest Highway (Route 14), in Crystal Lake. The $25 enrollment fee is refundable if all sessions are attended. To register, call MCDH at 815-334-4525.
Classes give participants the assistance and tools needed to stop smoking in a supportive group setting. The program will discuss your readiness to quit, nicotine replacement therapy, behavior modification, copies strategies, stress and weight management, and how to stay smoke-free for good. For more information, visit www.mcdh.info. To speak with a counselor immediately, call the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at 1-866-QUIT-YES.
Classes give participants the assistance and tools needed to stop smoking in a supportive group setting. The program will discuss your readiness to quit, nicotine replacement therapy, behavior modification, copies strategies, stress and weight management, and how to stay smoke-free for good. For more information, visit www.mcdh.info. To speak with a counselor immediately, call the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at 1-866-QUIT-YES.
McHenry County Residents Participating In MRC Deployment Training
Two McHenry County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers have received scholarships to participate in the “2010 Introduction to MRC Deployment” training to be held in Washington DC, August 23-27, 2010. Nancy Maruyama RN, Crystal Lake, and Jennifer McMillan RN, Oakwood Hills, have been MRC volunteers with the McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) since October 2009 and July 2004, respectively. Their emergency response efforts include the 2009 H1N1 vaccination campaign, community cardiovascular screenings, immunization clinics and cleanup efforts following hurricane Katrina.
Keri Zaleski, MCDH’s Emergency Response Coordinator, states, “The application process was very competitive – only 30 openings were available. We are pleased that both Nancy and Jennifer have been recognized nationally and are fortunate to count them amongst our Medical Reserve Corps volunteers.”
Liz Hackett, the Department’s MRC Liaison, indicated training will be conducted by the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response from the Office of Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps and subject matter experts from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
Activities will include hands-on experience with communication equipment, a mass casualty triage exercise, instruction on MRC disaster response roles as well as legal protections and liability, prevention and control measures associated with various types of disasters, and a tour of the Secretary of U.S. Health & Human Services’ Operations Center.
For more information about McHenry County’s MRC, call 815-334-4932.
Keri Zaleski, MCDH’s Emergency Response Coordinator, states, “The application process was very competitive – only 30 openings were available. We are pleased that both Nancy and Jennifer have been recognized nationally and are fortunate to count them amongst our Medical Reserve Corps volunteers.”
Liz Hackett, the Department’s MRC Liaison, indicated training will be conducted by the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response from the Office of Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps and subject matter experts from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
Activities will include hands-on experience with communication equipment, a mass casualty triage exercise, instruction on MRC disaster response roles as well as legal protections and liability, prevention and control measures associated with various types of disasters, and a tour of the Secretary of U.S. Health & Human Services’ Operations Center.
For more information about McHenry County’s MRC, call 815-334-4932.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Government Watching
MONDAY AUGUST 23
8:15 AM – Human Resources Committee of the McHenry County Board, meets in the Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Budget reviews for those areas related to the HR Department will be reviewed. These include Employee Benefit Fund, Social Security Fund, and IMRF fund.
5:00 to 7:00 pm—The public of McHenry County College District is invited to welcome the new president, Dr. Vicky Smith at an open house. The location is the College's Atrium Building (Building A). The public is encouraged to share their thoughts about the college with the newly appointed president. This is also an opportunity to taste the culinary expertise of McHenry County College's Culinary Management Department.
7:00 p.m.—The McHenry County Board of Health meeting for this time has been cancelled.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24
8:30 a.m.—Management Services Committee of the McHenry County Board, meets in the County Board room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
A discussion is expected to be held on audio streaming services relative to the County Board meeting. In addition to an update on public McHenry County public information, budget reviews will also be conducted for county administration, county board and risk management.
9:30 a.m.—Finance and Audit Committee of the McHenry County Board meets in the conference room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock. The committee is proposing approval for a request from Equity One Development Corporation for an extension of time to December 31, 2010 in order secure financing and added Volume Cap for a planned professional baseball stadium in Woodstock.
Another resolution before the committee for approval is to extend the closing date for bonds for the McHenry County Sportsplex to December 31 from September 30.
Also to be considered is a request by the Illinois Railway Museum for the County to act as local government sponsor for applying for funds available under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program to apply for funding for enhancements at the museum.
Budget reviews will also be taking place for the budgets of the Assessor, County Clerk, Treasurer, and the non-departmental revolving loan fund.
7:00 p.m.—Lakewood Village Board, Redtail Golf Club, 7900 Redtail Drive—In addition to the necessary consideration of paying bills and approval of financial statements, discussion is slated on the replacement design, of Water Tower One and Well House.
Actions are also expected regarding the bicycle trail on Huntley Road with approval for $40,000 for Phase Two Design work. Also for the same project approval is needed for a local match on the project through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
An Ordinance is also being considered to amending the potable water rates for the Village and also to amend the Class C Liquor License fee.
8:15 AM – Human Resources Committee of the McHenry County Board, meets in the Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Budget reviews for those areas related to the HR Department will be reviewed. These include Employee Benefit Fund, Social Security Fund, and IMRF fund.
5:00 to 7:00 pm—The public of McHenry County College District is invited to welcome the new president, Dr. Vicky Smith at an open house. The location is the College's Atrium Building (Building A). The public is encouraged to share their thoughts about the college with the newly appointed president. This is also an opportunity to taste the culinary expertise of McHenry County College's Culinary Management Department.
7:00 p.m.—The McHenry County Board of Health meeting for this time has been cancelled.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24
8:30 a.m.—Management Services Committee of the McHenry County Board, meets in the County Board room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
A discussion is expected to be held on audio streaming services relative to the County Board meeting. In addition to an update on public McHenry County public information, budget reviews will also be conducted for county administration, county board and risk management.
9:30 a.m.—Finance and Audit Committee of the McHenry County Board meets in the conference room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock. The committee is proposing approval for a request from Equity One Development Corporation for an extension of time to December 31, 2010 in order secure financing and added Volume Cap for a planned professional baseball stadium in Woodstock.
Another resolution before the committee for approval is to extend the closing date for bonds for the McHenry County Sportsplex to December 31 from September 30.
Also to be considered is a request by the Illinois Railway Museum for the County to act as local government sponsor for applying for funds available under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program to apply for funding for enhancements at the museum.
Budget reviews will also be taking place for the budgets of the Assessor, County Clerk, Treasurer, and the non-departmental revolving loan fund.
7:00 p.m.—Lakewood Village Board, Redtail Golf Club, 7900 Redtail Drive—In addition to the necessary consideration of paying bills and approval of financial statements, discussion is slated on the replacement design, of Water Tower One and Well House.
Actions are also expected regarding the bicycle trail on Huntley Road with approval for $40,000 for Phase Two Design work. Also for the same project approval is needed for a local match on the project through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
An Ordinance is also being considered to amending the potable water rates for the Village and also to amend the Class C Liquor License fee.
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