Congressman Manzullo Urges Manufacturers To Seek Out Contracts From Railcar Producer Monday

More than 130 northern Illinois manufacturers have registered to participate in a meeting Monday co-hosted by Congressman Don Manzullo to help them expand and create jobs by doing more business with international railcar manufacturer Nippon Sharyo USA.

The meeting will run from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, March 7, at Northern Illinois University’s Rockford Education Center, located at 8500 E. State Street in Rockford (2/3 of a mile east of I-90). The media is invited to attend and cover the event.

Nippon Sharyo is establishing a $35-40 million railcar production facility in the city of Rochelle, IL and will be increasing its “local content” from the region.  The free event is a great opportunity to learn how to be a supplier to this major passenger railcar manufacturer. 

The program will focus on four elements: a general introduction of Nippon Sharyo, plans for the Rochelle Production Facility, opportunities for plant equipment and services, and opportunities for material/parts supply for rail vehicles.

Driving While Drunk Results In Demise Of Passenger-Sentencing Of Driver April 15

Louis A. Bianchi, McHenry County State’s Attorney, announces today that Uri C. Herrera-Garcia, 24, of Crystal Lake, entered a plea of guilty to one count of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Causing Death (Class 2 Felony). 

In the late evening hours of October 25, 2009, Uri Herrera-Garcia drove a vehicle on Rte. 120 at Tijuana Drive in Lakemoor, Illinois.  He lost control of his vehicle that drove off the roadway and collided with a tree off of the roadway.  A passenger in the vehicle, Leonardo Elias (dob: 2/18/91), perished as a result of the injuries he received during this accident.  Mr. Herrera-Garcia was found at the scene of the crash and had blood on his face.  Later hospital toxicology testing, as well as police testing, revealed a blood alcohol level in Mr. Herrera-Garcia that was greater than 0.08.

Mr. Herrera-Garcia, after being arrested on a warrant, admitted to Crystal Lake Police Officers to driving the motor vehicle involved in this case.  The DNA on the air bag of the vehicle matched the DNA belonging to Mr. Herrera-Garcia. 

Mr. Herrera-Garcia will be sentenced on April 15, 2011.  This offense is probationable, and if prison is imposed, there is a range of 3 to 14 years in prison.  Mr. Herrera-Garcia would be required to serve 85% of any prison sentence before being eligible for parole. 

Pneumonia Vaccination Clinic March 18 In Crystal Lake

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) is offering a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination clinic on Friday March 18, 8:30am-10:30am, at its Crystal Lake office, 100 N Virginia Street.  Residents aged 19 and older who have never received the vaccine, have a chronic illness (such as asthma) or who smoke should call 815-334-4931 to make an appointment.  The vaccine is free for those with Medicare Part B or Medicaid; for others, the cost is $45.00.  Cash, check and credit card are accepted.  Appointments are limited. 

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause mild to severe illness in people of all ages. Signs of pneumonia can include coughing, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing or shortness of breath, chills, or chest pain. Certain people are more likely to become ill with pneumonia. This includes adults 65 years of age or older and children less than 5 years of age. People up through 64 years of age who have underlying medical conditions (like diabetes or HIV/AIDS) and people 19 through 64 who smoke cigarettes or have asthma are also at increased risk for getting pneumonia.

The vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women and people with Guilliam Barre Syndrome.  Adults should consult with a physician prior to receiving the pneumonia vaccine. 

Visit the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention to learn more about pneumococcal disease (http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Pneumonia/).

State Legislation To Help Student Athletes

State Representative Tom Cross today advanced legislation in the General Assembly to help protect student athletes from sports-related head injuries.  Cross (R-Oswego) won unanimous House approval of House Bill 200, requiring more concussion education for parents, coaches and student athletes in Illinois.   

“Repeated concussions can have serious, immediate and long-term consequences for young athletes,” Cross said “With this legislation we are simply ensuring students, their parents, coaches and others involved in school sports activities are aware of the warning signs of concussions and how to respond.”

House Bill 200 would require all school boards in the state to work with the Illinois High School Association to develop guidelines to educate coaches, student athletes and their parents, including:

Requiring all school boards to adopt a policy regarding student athlete concussions and head injuries, and ensuring that policy be a part of any agreement, contract, code, or other written instrument a student athlete and his or her parents or guardians must sign to participate in school sporting activities.

Requiring the IHSA to make available to all school districts education materials, such as visual presentations and other written materials that describe the nature and risk of concussions and head injuries.

Requiring each school district to use IHSA education materials to educate coaches, student athletes, parents and guardians of student athletes.

 “This legislation is the direct result of concerns and ideas brought to me by parents and school officials in my district. Our children’s safety depends upon everyone involved in school sports understanding how to spot a potential head injury and how to prevent the most serious consequences.” Cross said. 

Cross’s legislation now heads to the Illinois Senate where he plans to work with Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago) who is the sponsor of the bill, in cooperation with Northwestern Hospital, the IHSA, The NFL, the Chicago Bears as well as other interested groups.

Recall Of Stainless Steel Flasks By U.S. Food and Drug Administration

McHenry County Department of Health has received a recall notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for stainless steel flasks due to possible lead risk. Laboratory results revealed that brandy stored in the flask under certain conditions may show elevated levels of lead.  This voluntary recall only involves stainless steel flasks manufactured by E&J Brandy and sold in gift sets in 2006-2010.  Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of lead may have negative health effects.  This recall does not pertain to any bottles of E&J Brandy.

The affected flasks are silver, rectangular in shape, and have “E&J VSOP” etched on the front.  Gift sets were sold throughout the United States in a variety of retail stores as recently as this past season.  Some flasks in leather cases were also given away as a promotional item in 2007.  Officials at E&J Brandy recommend consumers call 1-866-959-8477 at any time for instructions on how to return this product for a full refund.  The brandy contained in the gift set is unaffected and may be safety consumer but any brandy or other liquid in the flask should not be consumed.  Photos of the product can be found at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm245055.htm. 

Recalls are posted on MCDH’s webpage at www.mcdh.info.  For more information on recalls, contact MCDH’s Environmental Health Division at 815-334-4585.

MCC Spring Speakers Series Event-Tuesday, March 15

The next event in the McHenry County College Spring 2011 Speakers Series is Tuesday, March 15 and features a Panel discussion with MCC faculty, followed by a special screening of "Earth Days."

Faculty panelists include: Ted Erski, earth science instructor; Ann Esarco, accounting instructor; Bob Mihelich, applied technology instructor; and Bruce Spangenberg, horticulture instructor. This event is free.

Government At Work Thursday, March 3

8:30 a.m. – Planning and Development Committee of McHenry County Board

Meets in Conference Room B, County Administrative Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

 The McHenry County Planning and Development 2010 Annual Report, in draft format, is being presented to the Committee. It provides information of the activities during 2010 along with the 2011 goals.

A Zoning Ordinance amendment is being presented for consideration. This amendment relates to equine shows and events which are becoming more and more prolific in the county. In the past the horse and equine events were regulated by issuing a Temporary Use Permit. It is observed that the newer equine activities involve more than strictly agricultural activity. This has resulted in neighboring residents of an event to suffer invasion of peaceful use of property, sometimes on a weekly basis. As a result the Temporary Use Permit may no longer be an adequate way to regulate horse and equine activities.

The proposed amendment will limit Animal Sporting Events to one permit per property per year. However, an exemption is provided for the McHenry County Fairgrounds. This change has resulted from property owners conducting numerous animal sporting events causing disturbance for the surrounding neighbors. This apparently is the result of McHenry County growth.

3:00 p.m.—McHenry County Public Buildings Commission

Meeting in Room 210 of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

This Commission meets usually on a quarterly basis on the first Thursday of the month.

This month the agenda calls for consideration of the Minutes of the Regular December 2, 2010 meeting, project Manager's Reports and related Project matters, Treasurer's Report, including a monthly report, an authorization for the  Treasurer to file Audit Report as and for the statement of Commission receipts and disbursements, Determination of bills to be paid and authorization to pay.

Under Old Business, the matter of Records Retention is listed.

Under new business, the Consideration of Resolution to permit Executive (Closed) Sessions; and Election of Officers.

There are never any minutes posted on the County website for this agency as is the usual procedure for other county groups.

Crystal Lake Park District Board

This Board usually meets the first and third Thursdays of the month. The Board has decided it is not necessary to meet twice a month on a regular basis. Therefore, the first Thursday of the month meeting is being cancelled. The regular meeting of the Board is scheduled to take place on the Third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Park District offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue.

Congressman Manzullo Urges Obama Administration To Demand Strong Intellectual Property Protections

Congressman Don Manzullo (R-IL) today urged Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and others in the Obama Administration to demand strong intellectual property protections in the multilateral trade agreement the United States is negotiating with several Asia-Pacific nations.

Manzullo, who led a Congressional delegation to New Zealand and Australia last week to help negotiate the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) fair trade agreement, shared his concerns today with Secretary Clinton, who was testifying before a House Foreign Affairs Committee about State Department priorities this morning.

During talks last week, Manzullo and his colleagues expressed serious concerns with proposals by some negotiating partners to eliminate the patentability of software and weaken trademark protection for certain products, as well as the absence of robust investor-state dispute settlement mechanisms to protect American investors. Secretary Clinton told Manzullo today that she shared his concerns and would work with him to ensure these topics are addressed in future negotiations. Click here to see a video of the exchange between Clinton and Manzullo, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.

“I call on the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to uphold the core values that make America the most innovative and entrepreneurial country in the world. Protection of intellectual property rights is a fundamental requirement for any trade negotiation,” Manzullo said. “The TPP must be a high quality agreement that protects American interests and creates jobs. Any agreement that is sent to Congress that does not fulfill these basic requirements will not be met favorably.”

The TPP is a nine country trade agreement that seeks to eliminate tariffs, boost exports, and reduce barriers to international business.  The TPP is comprised of Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Chile, Brunei, Peru, and the United States. President Obama is expected to finalize negotiations with the other TPP countries by the end of 2011 before sending the agreement to Congress for ratification.

Wednesday, March 2 Meetings

8:15 a.m.—McHenry County Board Transportation Committee

Meets at the Division of Transportation Main Conference Room, 16111 Nelson Road, Woodstock.

The meeting is beginning with a couple presentations, one on pavement preservation and one on Fleming Road Scenic Route Designation.

Other matters to be handled by the Committee include approving an intergovernmental agreement with the Village of Johnsburg for the necessary work and fund appropriation regarding construction and maintenance of enhancements along Johnsburg Road.

A couple resolutions are being presented to the committee regarding approval of wetland credit agreements for the Blivin Street Bridge and the Graf Road Township Bridge projects.

The committee is also adopting a proclamation recognizing Robert Cornelison for 32 years of services with the McHenry County Division of Transportation. During this time Cornelison has worked in all areas of roadway maintenance, especially as lead mower, fleet technician and a snowplow operator.

7:00 p.m.—McHenry County Department of Health-Animal Control Advisory Committee

Meeting in the Health Department Facility at 100 N. Virginia Street, Crystal Lake.

The agenda calls for the presentation of Annual statistics for 2010, marketing plans for cats in 2011, outside adoption events for 2011, surgical equipment/surgical capacity, signage.

 

7:30 p.m.—Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission

Several projects are before the Commission.

Leaps and Bounds, 764 Tek Drive, is seeking a variation in order to locate a daycare facility in a manufacturing zone district. The property was used as office space. The Daycare facility would lease a portion of the building allowing the reaming area to be used for office space.

 Gas Station at 230 North Route 31 The gas station is being joined with Circle K which will operate a convenience store and car wash.  A Special Use Permit amendment is requested in order to add signage for the store and car wash.

7910 Route 14- The former PNC Bank located on approximately 4.16 acres is currently located in the unincorporated McHenry County area. The petitioner desires to annex to the City, with intent to locate a gas station and convenience store at this location.

The property is located in the Crystal Lake Watershed and would be required to be developed as a Planned Unit Development. With the adoption of the City's Unified Development Ordinance an overlay district may provide additional uses through the application of a Watershed PUD.

At this point the petitioners are seeking comments from the Commission to understand what is needed to develop the plans.

Political Advice

This piece is from the Libertarian National Committee Executive Director:

In the Middle East, it's time to cut and run like Ronald Reagan did in 1984.

In 1982, President Reagan ordered American Marines into Lebanon as part of a "multinational peacekeeping force." In 1983, there were several bombings targeting Americans in Lebanon, including the well-known Marine barracks bombing that killed 241 U.S. Marines.

At first, Reagan insisted that the U.S. would keep military forces in Lebanon. But in February 1984, he changed course and ordered a complete troop withdrawal.

The following is from Reagan's autobiography:

"Perhaps we didn't appreciate fully enough the depth of the hatred and the complexity of the problems that made the Middle East such a jungle. Perhaps the idea of a suicide car bomber committing mass murder to gain instant entry to Paradise was so foreign to our own values and consciousness that it did not create in us the concern for the marines' safety that it should have.

In the weeks immediately after the bombing, I believed the last thing that we should do was turn tail and leave. Yet the irrationality of Middle Eastern politics forced us to rethink our policy there. If there would be some rethinking of policy before our men die, we would be a lot better off. If that policy had changed towards more of a neutral position and neutrality, those 241 marines would be alive today."

I think our government would be well-advised to think about that quote before they stick their nose into Egypt, Libya, and other Middle Eastern countries in turmoil right now.

I applaud Reagan's decision to withdraw from Lebanon, and I call on President Obama to follow his example by withdrawing U.S. forces from Iraq, Afghanistan, and the rest of the greater Middle East.

Even though many Arabs hated the American intervention in Lebanon, it's important to remember that Reagan's withdrawal did not result in terrorist attacks in America. It did not result in a spreading takeover of Middle Eastern governments by terrorist groups. What it did was stop further American casualties, and allow for a reduction in military spending.

It was foolish and wrong for Reagan to send American troops into Lebanon, but it was good that Reagan was able to recognize his mistake and withdraw those troops.

In Iraq and Afghanistan, President George W. Bush's pride and stubbornness prevented him from following Reagan's example. Unfortunately, President Obama has shown that same pride and stubbornness so far.

A withdrawal might cause President Obama to lose face, but it would save many American lives, and it would help save our economy as well.

Many people say "cut and run" as if it were cowardly or idiotic, but that may not be accurate. Apparently the term comes from navigation, when in dire circumstances a ship's captain might quickly cut the anchor line, raise sail, and "run" before the wind. You lose the anchor, but you save the ship.

I am so frustrated. Sometimes I think we're spending a trillion dollars and wasting thousands of lives in the Middle East just because politicians are scared of the words "cut and run."

But I say that's exactly what we should do: cut and run.

Sincerely,

Wes Benedict
Executive Director
Libertarian National Committee

NOTICE - MEETING CANCELLATION

The McHenry County Board of Health meeting scheduled for 7:00 this evening is cancelled.

Discussion and Debate About The Drive For Green

Join McHenry County College faculty, staff and administration for a thought-provoking discussion and debate about one of the hottest issues today—the drive for green. More events coming through April 30, the College presents the Spring 2011 Speaker Series focusing on the theme “Is the Drive for Green Destroying the American Dream?”

Public events will explore the definition of green, as well as address multiple perspectives on how to “green” homes and businesses. Consider attending one or all of the sessions.

Tuesday, March 15

6 p.m. MCC Conference Center

Special screening of the film “Earth Days.” Free.

For information on the Speaker Series, visit www.mchenry.edu/green or contact Christina Haggerty at (815) 455-8727 or email her at chaggerty@mchenry.edu.

How To Find Lost Pets

Our Dog is Lost.

What Do You Do?

You may think it will never happen to you, but it can. So be aware and prepared!

 Find out what can be done if the situation arises.

A  FREE presentation on "Missing Animal Response" and "How to Generate Sightings" is being provided by Lost Dogs Illinois on Saturday March 12, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

The location is: Gander Mountain, 3068 McFarland Rd, Rockford, IL

Email lostdogsil@gmail.com with any questions.

This presentation is provided by Lost Dogs Illinois, a free lost pet posting service and resource center dedicated to helping reunite lost pets with their owners.

Find them on Facebook at Lost Dogs Illinois.

One mission of this group is to make sure dogs do not end up at Animal Control facilities - the outcome is not always good when that happens.

Besides the fewer dogs - and cats - that end up at Animal Control, the better it is for our county financially.

This particular seminar is being held at Gander Mountain in Rockford on Saturday March 12th.  They hope to have one in McHenry County soon, if enough people express interest.

Tuesday Meetings

Tuesday, March 1

8:15 a.m.-McHenry County Board Committee of The Whole

The McHenry County Board will meet as a committee to discuss the proposed County Board Rules. These are being presented to the Board at the 9:00 a.m. meeting for adoption.

9:00 a.m.—McHenry County Board

In what is expected to be the last regular morning meeting of the full County Board, the second of two proposed hospitals is receiving the McHenry County Commendation. The original request from Mercy Hospital, as well as the request from Centegra Hospital, which was considered at the previous County Board meeting, was to vote "support" for the facilities. This is the language the institutions desired for presentation to the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board.

The Board debated that verbiage at the last County Board meeting as that language had been removed when it was considered in committee. It was decided that what the County Board really wanted to back was the economic development aspect of the facilities, not that one hospital was considered over the other. The County Board did vote to commend the Centegra Hospital proposal.

The same consideration is expected to be provided for Mercy Hospital.

Revised County Board Rules

Also to be considered is a resolution adopting an amendment to the McHenry County Board Rules. A number of proposed changes are recommended such as the County Board Chairman and Vice Chairman terms are to be limited to no more that three consecutive terms. These officers are still being elected biennially on the first Monday of December of each even numbered year.

A slight alteration is being made in the meeting times. Previously, the first Tuesday of each month the County Board met at 9:00 a.m. and the third Tuesday of the month meeting was held at 7:00 p.m. Under the proposed change, all county board meetings are to begin at 7:00 p.m. So far, there are no changes in the times for the various committee meetings which are usually held in the mornings.  

The verbiage regarding people wishing to address the Board allots not more than three minutes for each person. The total time allotted for public comment is 30 minutes, unless that is extended by Board action.

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7:30 p.m.—Crystal Lake City Council

 An annual adoption of the Zoning Map is to be handled by the Council. This map reflects the current zoning and amendments within the City that were approved prior to December 31. Only two parcels are involved, one at 490 W. Terra Cotta Avenue and one at 8307 Ridgefield Road, for a total of 4.2 acres. The Terra Cotta Avenue property is being changed from R-1 to W and the Ridgefield Road property is changing from A-1 to W.

Rakow Road Improvements

This is one of the largest projects undertaken by McHenry County Division of Transportation. This is to expand Rakow Road to four lanes between Illinois Route 31 and Pyott Road.  Construction is expected to begin as of Tuesday.

McHenry County Department of Transportation is to make a presentation of the project to the City Council, including information how the project is to be staged and potential disruptions for Crystal Lake motorists.

A Change From Bank To Gas Station

 

A 4.26 acre parcel located at 7910 Route 14 (the former PNC Bank) is being planned for use as a gasoline station along with a convenience store and car wash. The property is located in the Crystal Lake watershed and will have to be developed as a Planned Unit Development.

The requested planning is to go before the Planning and Zoning Commission on April 20 with consideration by the City Council on May 3.

The Metra Ridgefield Station Annexation Public Hearing is being continued again to March 15 for an Annexation Public Hearing.

 East Crystal Lake Avenue Improvement

Segment I of Phase III improvement is planned for East Crystal Lake Avenue, which includes the widening and resurfacing of the road between East Street and Erick Street, along with water main replacement, storm sewer and sidewalk installation. The City has obtained $883,423 in Federal Surface Transportation Program funds for a portion of the work. The balance will be funded with City Motor Fuel Tax funds.

The Council is being asked to approve the proposal for the Engineering consultant, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. in the amount of $118,178.48. This firm is considered to be the most qualified responsible, responsive proposer for the work.

The City Council is also being asked to adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the local agency Agreement for Federal Participation with IDOT in order to obtain the $883,423 STP funding.

Another matter connected with the project is the Council approval of a resolution appropriating $375,684 in MFT funds for easement acquisition, construction and engineering services for the project.

Payment from Com-Ed

The Council is being asked to adopt a resolution authorizing execution of an agreement with Commonwealth Edison for the guaranteed load drop program. It involves the City taking its larger facilities off the grid and power them with on-site generators. Com-Ed pays the City for these reductions based on the kilowatt-hours of electrical loads the City reduces.

In 2006, at Com-Ed's request, the City ran WWTP#2 and WTP#3 for five hours and received payments and credits totaling $4,819 which is much more than it cost to run the generators.

In subsequent years, 2008-2010, the City was not called upon to operate off grid but only prove that it had capacity to do so. Those payments to the city included $33,390.83 for 2008, $29,404.49 for 2009 and $89,007.79 for 2010. Since that time the City has added Water Treatment Plant #4 and Wastewater Treatment Plant #3. This will possibly add to the amount received from Com-Ed. If the City is unable to switch power to the generators, they will be penalized in form of deductions from the guaranteed payout.

There are no more than ten events during the period the City is required to take the facilities off line. Also, they will last no more than eight hours between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. For that effort, Com-Ed is expected to pay the city up to $42,228.48.

Hotel/Motel Tax Funding Allocation

It is the time of year for the Hotel/Motel Tax Funding Allocations. This year the City has received 10 applications from local organizations totaling $373,600. The allocations are to be handled at the March 1 Council meeting.

Last year's awards totaled $299,100. Two categories funded last year are not being considered for this year. These included City of Crystal Lake Independence Day Fireworks Display for $15,000 and Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce Independence Day Parade for $10,000. These amounts are to come from the General Fund this year. 

Other Funding Requests Include:

• Berkshire Ballet Theatre is a new request this year for $4,500.
• Crystal Lake Babe Ruth League is seeking $2,000, same as last year.
• Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce,-Shopping, Dining and Recreation Guides, $6,000, same as last year.
• Crystal Lake Rowing Club $2,500 requested; same as last year.
• Historic Downtown District of Crystal Lake, requesting $35,000, same as last year.
• Lakeside Legacy Foundation, $80,000; received $25,000 last year.
• McHenry County Convention and Visitors Bureau, requesting $15,000, received nothing last year.
• McHenry County Music Center, requesting $3,600, same as received last year.
• McHenry Count Youth Sports Association, requesting $75,000, received $50,000 last year.
• Raue Center for the Arts-Programming and Marketing requesting $150,000, same as received last year.

Two Crystal Lake Library Board Committees Meeting Tuesday

A joint meeting of the Planning and Public Relations Committees of the Crystal Lake Public Library Board of Trustees will be held Tuesday, March 1 at 7:00 p.m. in the Library Directors Office of the Crystal Lake Public Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.

Nominations Sought For "Spirit of Public Health Award"

In celebration of National Public Health Week (April 4-11), McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) would like to acknowledge individuals who have made an impact in our community in service to public health.  Examples of public health topics include animal welfare, environmental issues, injury prevention, chronic illnesses, and health care (mental, dental and medical).  Nominations of individuals or groups for the “Spirit of Public Health Award” will be accepted for the following categories –

Students – those who have demonstrated a commitment through volunteering, fundraising, mentoring or increasing awareness of a health or environmental concern.

Volunteers who have shown dedication to improve the safety and health of our community.

Professionals who have “gone above and beyond” to advance the public’s health and safety through a community initiative, environmental project or teacher/leadership role. 

A description of the Spirit Award and the nomination form can be viewed on the Department’s webpage www.mcdh.info along with winners from previous years.  The deadline to file nominations is Friday, April 1.  Please be specific when discussing the person or group being nominated.  Selected candidates will be notified.  Awards will be presented at a special event in April celebrating Public Health Week.  MCDH employees are not eligible to receive this award.

Questions should be directed to Debra Quackenbush at 815-334-4456

Expo In Alden Benefits Animal Welfare

If you missed the recent McHenry Expo, maybe you made it and enjoyed the experience so much you’d like to do it again.

You don’t have to wait until next year. Sunday, March 6, Alden’s Kennels, 6810 Barnard Mill Road, Ringwood, is offering another opportunity for area small businesses to showcase their wares and services. And the best part – you’ll have an opportunity to help homeless cats and dogs.

Alden’s Kennels is donating the use of its more than 5,000-square-foot facility to the McHenry County Animal Welfare Coalition for the event. Small businesses are invited to setup booths at the event, which will also include demonstrations, speakers and an adoption parade of cats and dogs.

Among the participants already are Dorothy Vetrovec, with Natures Feed, who will do a 10-minute presentation on healthy eating for pets; Attorney Karen Lavin, with a presentation on preparing Pet Trusts; and Betsy Wells, of Spring Grove Wellness Counseling and Consulting who will talk about coping with the grief of losing a pet.

Criss Handley, of CFY Healthy Living, will demonstrate chemical-free products to use everyday around pets and people. Alden’s Kennels own Master Trainer Carlos D. Agurrie will give a dog training exhibition and will work with newly adopted rescue dogs to provide tips to owners.

Among other exhibitors are Fran Lambert of Impressive Images, Frank Hosticka with Pre-Paid Legal Services, Fur the Love of Dogs from Spring Grove, Linda Lipinsky with Shopping Genie, Pat and Paul Letizia of Financial Dynamics and Riverside Animal Clinic.

The invitations are not merely for businesses that service pets and their owners. Any company looking for a little exposure and a chance to help homeless animals is welcome. All attending businesses will receive a 30-second infomercial we will upload on Youtube and give them the link for their web page or face book. They can give a 3 minute elevator speech to promote their business.

Member agencies of the McHenry County Animal Welfare Coalition include: McHenry County Animal Control, On Angels Wings, Pets in Need and Helping Paws. Members of the Coalition will introduce potential adoptees and will each give a three-minute mission statement for their organization.

For information about setting up a booth for your business, call Janet at 815-728-0559. You can learn more about Alden’s Kennels by visiting

Crystal Lake Area Meetings On Monday

12:30 p.m.-Crystal Lake Public Library Board Facilities Committee

The Facilities Committee of the Crystal Lake Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting Monday at 12:30 p.m. in the Library Directors Offices of the Crystal Lake Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.

5:30 p.m.—Community High School District 155 Board

Community High School District 155 Board is meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday in the Center for Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake.

A proposed calendar for the 2011-2012 School Year is to be presented to the Board.

Also Collective negotiating matters between the School District and employees or representatives along with the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of employee will be considered in Executive Session. The agenda indicates that there may be possible action on these matters.

7:00 p.m.—Crystal Lake Public Library Board Finance Committee

A meeting of the Finance Committee of the Crystal Lake Public Library Board is scheduled to take place at 7:00 p.m. in the Library Director's Office, Crystal Lake Public Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.

Free Tax Assistance Available At MCC

McHenry County College will host free tax assistance for those who qualify now through April 16 (excluding March 27-April 3 spring break week).  Hours are 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays in Room A106 at the college, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Clinic prepares tax returns for individuals with incomes of less than $25,000 and families (i.e., more than one person in the home) with incomes less than $50,000.

All tax forms will be provided. Participants should bring the following: valid photo ID for main taxpayer on tax return, Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) letters for those reported on the tax return, all 2010 W2s and other income/expense documents, copy of last year’s tax return, if available, and bank account information for direct deposits.

Additional Services include opening checking and savings accounts in order to get the direct deposit refund in 10 days; prepaid debit cards, and financial aid assistance. Trained staff will help individuals complete the FAFSA form with the completion of the tax return.

A Spanish-speaking translator will be available on Wednesday nights.

Reminder From Congressman Manzullo To Area Manufacturers

Congressman Don Manzullo, R-16^th, is urging companies to attend a March 7 meeting with international railcar manufacturer Nippon Sharyo USA.

The meeting, co-hosted by Manzullo, will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, March 7 at Northern Illinois University's Rockford Education Center, located at 8500 E. State Street, Rockford (two-third of a mile east of I-90)

Nippon Sharyo is establishing a $35-40 million railcar production facility in the city of Rochelle, IL and will be increasing its “local content” from the region. The free event is a great opportunity to learn how to be a supplier to this major passenger railcar manufacturer.

The program will focus on four elements: a general introduction of Nippon Sharyo, plans for the Rochelle Production Facility, opportunities for plant equipment and services, and opportunities for material/parts supply for rail vehicles.

Those who plan to attend must RSVP to Bryan Davis at Congressman Manzullo’s office at bryan.davis@mail.house.gov by Friday, March 4. If you have any questions, please call (815) 394-1231.

Old Valley Hi Nursing Home, Hospitals, Animal Control Are Topics For Consideration at Monday Meetings

Monday, February 28

8:30 a.m.—Management Services Committee

The demolition of the old Valley Hi Nursing Home building is to be discussed Monday morning when the McHenry County Board Management Services Committee meets at 8:30 a.m. The location of the meeting is the County Board Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.

The building has not been used for a nursing home since a new facility was completed on County-owned property in the same area, Nelson and Hartland Roads, Woodstock. Valley Hi residents were moved into the new facility January 7, 2007. McHenry County residents passed a referendum in 2002 for the construction the facility. The County has owned the property for many years as the location of what was known in years past as the "poor farm". It was a place where older residents could reside when they could no longer farm their own land.

Since that time the old nursing home building has been used for a storage and archive facility. A new archive facility is now in use.

Also to be discussed by the Management Services Committee are revised County Board Rules which have been in the process of being updated. Some of the suggested changes include verbiage regarding the length of the County Board Chairman's term. It is suggested that the "The Chairman shall hold said position for a term of two years. It is recommended that the Chairman not serve more than three (3) consecutive terms."  The latter sentence is suggested for additional verbiage to the Rules.

The same information is also suggested for addition for the term of the County Board Vice Chairman.

The proposed rules also set the time allotted for people wishing to address the Board on any question. Each presenter is to be provided not more than three minutes of the 30 minites alloted for public participation. The total time allotted for this participation may also be extended by Board action

6:00 p.m. McHenry County Mental Health Board

Meets at 6:00 p.m. in the Mental Health Board facility, 620 Dakota Street, Crystal Lake.

The Agenda calls for handling the necessary matters such as approval of minutes of prior meeting, as well as reports from the President, Director and Treasurer.

The consent agenda lists items to be considered for action:

·       Financial reports for period ending January 31, 2011;

·       Approve Appointment of 3 members to the Behavioral Health Foundation;

·       Approve a memorandum of Understanding between the Mental Health Board and the Behavioral Health   Foundation;

·       Approve applying for SAMHSA Drug Free Communities;

·       Provision of Office Space Support for Veterans Project.

Under new business, action is sought for Consolidation and Managed Service Level Agreement of Information Technologies Services.

Old Business includes the Building Budget to be considered.

Other business includes Family CARE Progress Report and Environmental Review

7:00 p.m.—McHenry County Board of Health.

The Board of Health is meeting Monday evening in the McHenry County Department of Health Crystal Lake facility located at 100 North Virginia Street. This is also the location of the Animal Shelter.

The meeting is being held in this location because the highlight of the program for the board is the Animal Control.

Two Hospital Seeking Support for New Facilities

Both Centegra Hospital and Mercy Hospital have resolutions for support before the Board. Centegra is planning a128-bed acute care facility on Haligus Road between Algonquin and Reed Roads in Huntley. The estimated cost is $233,160.352. The hearing before the Illinois Department of Public Health for the facility was held February 16.

Mercy Alliance, Inc. is planning to construct a 129-bed acute care facility on the southeast corner of Route 31 and Three Oaks Road, Crystal Lake. The estimated cost for this is $200,525,891. Both institutions have been seeking votes of support from various organizationas. The hearing for Mercy is slated for 10:00 a.m. March 18 in the Crystal Lake City Council Chambers, Crystal Lake City Hall, 100 West Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake.

Centegra's hearing was held February 16 in Huntley. Both requests are expected to be considered by the State Board at its May 10 meeting.