"He who is permitted by law to have no property of his own, can with difficulty conceive that property is founded in anything but force."
--Thomas Jefferson, to Bancroft, 1788
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Friday, September 2, 2011
ALERT-REGARDING LUDWIG DAIRY PRODUCTS
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) has been advised by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) that a routine inspection at Ludwig Dairy Products, Inc., in Dixon, Illinois, found pasteurizing equipment operating improperly, potentially allowing raw milk to be mixed with pasteurized milk and sold in dairy products. Inspectors found a system controlled pump, designed to stop the production process if raw milk pressure exceeded pasteurized pressure, was bypassed and replaced with a pump not wired into the controls. No illnesses have been reported in connection with Ludwig (Dixon, IL) products.
Ludwig is currently taking its name brand products off store shelves, which are sold mostly in northern Illinois counties, including McHenry County, but also in Indiana, New Jersey and New York. A drinkable yogurt product is also sold under the Nuestro Queso brand. People who have purchased Ludwig (Dixon, IL) products should throw them out. IDPH states that Ludwig is working to determine the extent of the improper pasteurization. It is recommended that residents not consume any Ludwig (Dixon, IL) products until the pasteurizing equipment is operating correctly and been inspected by IDPH.
Pasteurization is the process of heating raw milk to a high enough temperature for a long enough time to kill illness-causing bacteria contained in the milk. Raw milk and products made from it (such as cheeses and yogurts made with raw milk) can be contaminated with bacteria that can cause serious illness, hospitalization or death. Illness can include days of diarrhea, stomach cramping and vomiting. Less common and more serious illness can include kidney failure, paralysis and chronic disorders. For more information, call MCDH’s Environmental Health Division at 815-334-4585.
Two Beaches Closed Following Water Testing
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) conducted beach water sampling at 36 licensed beaches on Thursday, September 1. Two beaches are closed – Veterans Park (332 W. State Road, Island Lake) and Morrison Park Beach (100 Lakeshore, Lily Lake) due to high bacteria levels. Re-sampling will be done today, with results posted on Saturday, September 3.
The sampling is conducted every two weeks throughout the summer for E. coli at all licensed beaches on the 13 lakes in McHenry County. This is done to prevent illness associated with swimming.
Additional and more frequent sampling is done when elevated bacterial levels are found. The Department recommends refraining from swimming at least 2-3 days after heavy rainfall.
Water sampling results are reported to the appropriate beach authorities. Beaches that require an advisory or closing are posted with signs by the Department. All beach water results and locations are readily available at the MCDH webpage at www.mcdh.info or by calling (815) 334-4585.
The sampling is conducted every two weeks throughout the summer for E. coli at all licensed beaches on the 13 lakes in McHenry County. This is done to prevent illness associated with swimming.
Additional and more frequent sampling is done when elevated bacterial levels are found. The Department recommends refraining from swimming at least 2-3 days after heavy rainfall.
Water sampling results are reported to the appropriate beach authorities. Beaches that require an advisory or closing are posted with signs by the Department. All beach water results and locations are readily available at the MCDH webpage at www.mcdh.info or by calling (815) 334-4585.
Words of Wisdom
"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."
--Thomas Paine, The American Crises, No. 1, 1776
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Illinois Prairie Path Partial Closure
It will be necessary to continue the closure of a short segment of the Illinois Prairie Path just south of the Rakow/Pyott Road intersection. The path will be re-opened at some point Friday, September 2nd and will remain open for the holiday weekend. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause and appreciate your patience.
Congressman Walsh Town Hall Meeting Tonight
A Reminder—
Congressman Joe Walsh is holding a Town Hall Meeting this evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Woodstock VFW Hall, 240 Throop Street, Woodstock.
Walsh says all issues brought by the public will be discussed.
Produce A Supply of Honey
Join McHenry County College for a three-part series on beekeeping presented by three experts, who will present extensive insight into the science and art of beekeeping. The series takes place from 7-9 p.m. on Friday evenings, Sept. 9, Nov. 4 and Dec. 9 in the MCC Conference Center. The college is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake.
The series explores the condition of the ancient honeybee in the challenging present day environment. Three world-renowned speakers and authors will discuss their research, practical beekeeping, and take a philosophical look at the man-nature interaction. The three-evening series is intended for beekeepers, naturalists, and those who support nature
The three-part series features the following topics:
The series explores the condition of the ancient honeybee in the challenging present day environment. Three world-renowned speakers and authors will discuss their research, practical beekeeping, and take a philosophical look at the man-nature interaction. The three-evening series is intended for beekeepers, naturalists, and those who support nature
The three-part series features the following topics:
September 9: Queen Breeding and the Logic of Nature
The latest advances in biology and genetics regarding strategies for queen breeding and production will be discussed. The new scientific findings call into question many assumptions and strategies for bee breeding. Guest speaker Randy Oliver brings his 40 years of practical beekeeping experience to suggest the most effective ways to breed for varroa resistant bees. Oliver owns and operates a small commercial beekeeping enterprise in the foothills of Grass Valley in Northern California. He manages about 700 colonies for migratory pollination and produces queens, nucs, and honey. He earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in biological sciences. Oliver researches, analyzes, and digests beekeeping information from all over the world to not only broaden his own depth of understanding and knowledge, but to develop practical solutions to many of today’s beekeeping problems.
November 4: The Bee Informed Partnership
Bees are dying in droves. What’s a beekeeper to do? Leading apiarist Dennis VanEngelsdorp explains how the bee informed partnership (beeinformed.org) proposes to help. Using epidemiological methods developed to investigate human epidemics, he will present the most current findings based on this year’s management practices survey. Find out which management practices work and which ones don’t.
Guest Speaker: Dennis VanEngelsdorp is senior extension associate for the Department of Entomology at Penn State University. He has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Science degree in environmental biology from the University of Guelph in Ontario, and a Ph.D. from Penn State. He has written numerous articles on Colony Collapse Disorder and has contributed to a segment on Good Morning America and in magazines such as Discover, Fortune and The New Yorker.
The latest advances in biology and genetics regarding strategies for queen breeding and production will be discussed. The new scientific findings call into question many assumptions and strategies for bee breeding. Guest speaker Randy Oliver brings his 40 years of practical beekeeping experience to suggest the most effective ways to breed for varroa resistant bees. Oliver owns and operates a small commercial beekeeping enterprise in the foothills of Grass Valley in Northern California. He manages about 700 colonies for migratory pollination and produces queens, nucs, and honey. He earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in biological sciences. Oliver researches, analyzes, and digests beekeeping information from all over the world to not only broaden his own depth of understanding and knowledge, but to develop practical solutions to many of today’s beekeeping problems.
November 4: The Bee Informed Partnership
Bees are dying in droves. What’s a beekeeper to do? Leading apiarist Dennis VanEngelsdorp explains how the bee informed partnership (beeinformed.org) proposes to help. Using epidemiological methods developed to investigate human epidemics, he will present the most current findings based on this year’s management practices survey. Find out which management practices work and which ones don’t.
Guest Speaker: Dennis VanEngelsdorp is senior extension associate for the Department of Entomology at Penn State University. He has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Science degree in environmental biology from the University of Guelph in Ontario, and a Ph.D. from Penn State. He has written numerous articles on Colony Collapse Disorder and has contributed to a segment on Good Morning America and in magazines such as Discover, Fortune and The New Yorker.
December 9, 2011 - Natural Beekeeping
Beekeepers face new challenges in keeping bees alive and healthy, but, until now there’s been no holistic orientation on beekeeping. Natural Beekeeping offers an alternative to chemical practices and delivers a program of natural hive management to produce long-term solutions to today’s beekeeping challenges: naturally resistant, healthier hives. Both novices and neo-pros receive tips on everything from genetics and breeding to pests and harvesting.
Guest Speaker: Ross Conrad learned his craft from the late Charles Mraz, world-renowned beekeeper and promoter of apitherapy. Conrad is a former president of the Vermont Beekeeper’s Association, a regular contributor to “Bee Culture - The Magazine of American Beekeeping,” and author of “Natural Beekeeping: Organic Approaches To Modern Apiculture” published by Chelsea Green. Ross has given bee related presentations and led organic beekeeping workshops and classes throughout North America for many years.
Beekeepers face new challenges in keeping bees alive and healthy, but, until now there’s been no holistic orientation on beekeeping. Natural Beekeeping offers an alternative to chemical practices and delivers a program of natural hive management to produce long-term solutions to today’s beekeeping challenges: naturally resistant, healthier hives. Both novices and neo-pros receive tips on everything from genetics and breeding to pests and harvesting.
Guest Speaker: Ross Conrad learned his craft from the late Charles Mraz, world-renowned beekeeper and promoter of apitherapy. Conrad is a former president of the Vermont Beekeeper’s Association, a regular contributor to “Bee Culture - The Magazine of American Beekeeping,” and author of “Natural Beekeeping: Organic Approaches To Modern Apiculture” published by Chelsea Green. Ross has given bee related presentations and led organic beekeeping workshops and classes throughout North America for many years.
Cost is $25 for each session or $60 for all three. To register, please use course IDs:
NCC S70 001: Queen Breeding and the Logic of Nature with Randy Oliver; NCC S71 001: The Bee Informed Partnership with Dennis VanEngelsdorp; NCC S72 001: Natural Beekeeping with Ross Conrad; and NCC S73 001: entire three-speaker series.
To register, call the MCC Registration Office at (815) 455-8588. For more information, call Amy Carzoli at (815) 455-8764 or Kristine Emrich at (815) 479-7570.
Friday Meetings
8:15 a.m. – Public Health and Human Services Committee of McHenry County Board -- meeting in the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
A presentation is slated by the Lake-McHenry County Veterans and Family Program. Other matters include the FY 11-12 Budget Reviews for Health Department, Mental Health Board, McHenry County Workforce Network/WIA, and Valley Hi Nursing Home.
Words of Wisdom
Words of Wisdom
"The citizens of the United States of America have the right to applaud themselves for having given to mankind examples of an enlarged and liberal policy worthy of imitation. All possess alike liberty of conscience and immunities of citizenship. It is now no more that toleration is spoken of as if it were by the indulgence of one class of citizens that another enjoyed the exercise of their inherent natural rights, for happily the Government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens in giving it on all occasions their effectual support."
--George Washington, letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, Rhode Island, 1790
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Thursday Meetings
8:30 a.m. – Planning and Development Committee of McHenry County Board –
Meeting in the Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
A UDO Technical Review Memo is to be reviewed by the Committee. It also is to be reviewed b the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Otherwise, any applicable reports will also be considered.
3:00 p.m. --McHenry County Public Buildings Commission
Meeting in Room 210, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The agenda calls for project Manager's reports and related project matters along with a Treasurer's Report and Determination of bills to be paid and authorization to pay.
This is a County Committee that handles matters concerning the County Buildings. The group is not
very open with what they do in their meetings as there are never any minutes posted on the County website calendar as there are for other committees. Does one assume that all matters are handled in executive sessions?
7:00 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Board of Commissioners –
Meeting in the Administration Offices, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
In addition to the routine matters such as committee reports and matters from the public, the Board is to hear presentations from two firms, AECOM and Ballard King.
New Member of State's Attorney's Office
Louis A. Bianchi, McHenry County State’s Attorney, announces that Rita M. Gara has joined the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office as an Assistant State’s Attorney assigned to the Criminal Division.
Rita received her Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University College of Law and her B.A. degree in Psychology from Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. Most recently, she has been working as an Associate Attorney for the Law Offices of Thomas W. Schmitt & Jay K. Filler Jr. in Marengo, Illinois focusing on ordinance violations, traffic/petty offenses, foreclosures, small claims and family law matters. Rita’s experience also includes estate planning, landlord/tenant issues and contractual agreements.
Rita received her Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University College of Law and her B.A. degree in Psychology from Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. Most recently, she has been working as an Associate Attorney for the Law Offices of Thomas W. Schmitt & Jay K. Filler Jr. in Marengo, Illinois focusing on ordinance violations, traffic/petty offenses, foreclosures, small claims and family law matters. Rita’s experience also includes estate planning, landlord/tenant issues and contractual agreements.
Weekend Get Away To Make A Difference
Woods, prairie and wetlands, the makeup of the 3,300 acre Glacial Park in Ringwood is the perfect backdrop for a weekend away from the daily grind.
McHenry County Conservation District is sponsoring a Weekend of Restoration, September 23-25 at Glacial Park, Ringwood where participants can experience the beauty of the site and take part in protecting the natural habitat.
McHenry County Conservation District is sponsoring a Weekend of Restoration, September 23-25 at Glacial Park, Ringwood where participants can experience the beauty of the site and take part in protecting the natural habitat.
Two hundred years ago, a small, shallow wetland pool sat in the center of what is now Glacial Park in northeastern Illinois. Green frogs, herons, and other wildlife regularly visited the wetland, wildflowers and oak trees that surrounded it. Eventually farmers transformed the wildflowers and trees into a cornfield, and runoff from the cornfield slowly entombed the wetland under layer of sediment. This fall you can be part of the team that helps bring this wetland flourishing back to life.
This is also a unique learning experience. Participants will learn about the plants and animals that inhabit Illinois wetlands, our wetland heritage, and how open space agencies are trying to save and restore these critical habitats. But, it’s not just about learning! Participants will actually become part of the restoration effort.
“Unlike other weekends away, the Weekend of Restoration allows participants to become part of the restoration effort by protecting the site from erosion, planting wetland plants and scattering seeds of native plants,” says Ecologist Tom Simpson. “It will be an enriching and exciting experience of both learning and doing something to make the world a better place.”
Fee for the weekend course is $60 (includes meals on Saturday and breakfast Sunday; lodging is on your own). For more information or to register call Tom Simpson at (815) 678-4532, Ext. 8218 or email - tsimpson@mccdistrict.org.
This is also a unique learning experience. Participants will learn about the plants and animals that inhabit Illinois wetlands, our wetland heritage, and how open space agencies are trying to save and restore these critical habitats. But, it’s not just about learning! Participants will actually become part of the restoration effort.
“Unlike other weekends away, the Weekend of Restoration allows participants to become part of the restoration effort by protecting the site from erosion, planting wetland plants and scattering seeds of native plants,” says Ecologist Tom Simpson. “It will be an enriching and exciting experience of both learning and doing something to make the world a better place.”
Fee for the weekend course is $60 (includes meals on Saturday and breakfast Sunday; lodging is on your own). For more information or to register call Tom Simpson at (815) 678-4532, Ext. 8218 or email - tsimpson@mccdistrict.org.
September 23-25 7:00 p.m. Friday to Noon Sunday
Glacial Park, Ringwood
Cost $60 Register by September 13
Words of Wisdom
Words of Wisdom "The aim of every political constitution is, or ought to be, first to obtain for rulers men who possess most wisdom to discern, and most virtue to pursue, the common good of the society; and in the next place, to take the most effectual precautions for keeping them virtuous whilst they continue to hold their public trust."
--James Madison, Federalist No. 57, 1788
--James Madison, Federalist No. 57, 1788
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Hearing Date For Mercy Crystal Lake Hospital
Mercy Crystal Lake Hospital and Medical Center has been given a date of October 7 for a public hearing on an application for permit for a proposed construction and/or modification of a hospital and medical center. This is a revision of the request for a permit made in June, which was turned down by the Illinois Health Facilities Review Board. The planned location is on the southeast corner of Route 31 and Three Oaks Road, as previously planned.
The hearing is slated to begin at 10:00 a.m. in the Crystal Lake Municipal Building, 100 Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake, This is the same location of the first hearing held in March.
When the State Board met in June to consider this request along with one from Centegra for a new hospital in Huntley, they voted an intent to deny both petitions.
The revised proposal for Mercy is smaller and somewhat less costly.
Wednesday Events
Wednesday, August 31--
9:30 a.m. – McHenry County Township Assessors meeting with the Board of Review in the McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
7:00 p.m.— Fox Valley Libertarians are meeting Wednesday evening at Diamond Jim’s Gas Grill, 325 Meier Ave. (corner of Meier & Barrington Avenues), East Dundee. Socializing begins at 7:00 p.m. with the an 8:00 p.m. meeting time.
The program includes the 45 minute documentary, Busted, in which Retired ACLU Director, Ira Glasser explains how to exercise your rights when handling the pressure and confusion of a police encounter in this 45-minute film.
7:00 p.m.— Fox Valley Libertarians are meeting Wednesday evening at Diamond Jim’s Gas Grill, 325 Meier Ave. (corner of Meier & Barrington Avenues), East Dundee. Socializing begins at 7:00 p.m. with the an 8:00 p.m. meeting time.
The program includes the 45 minute documentary, Busted, in which Retired ACLU Director, Ira Glasser explains how to exercise your rights when handling the pressure and confusion of a police encounter in this 45-minute film.
Second Batch Of Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus
After reporting a mosquito batch tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) just one week ago, a second batch of mosquitoes has tested positive – this time in Fox River Grove. Since that time, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has also seen an increase in reported human cases (from 2 to 4), in counties (from 12 to 15) and mosquito batches (from 313 to 335). McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) has tested 119 mosquito pools as of August 29; all other pools tested negative for WNV. Last year, McHenry County reported a single human case of WNV.
MCDH will continue to collect and test mosquito pools through the remainder of the season, typically mid-October. The Department of Health will accept a limited number of birds for testing. It is important to remember that the risk of WNV remains until the first hard frost. Residents should continue to use insect repellent when going out of doors in the evening, with long sleeved shirts and long pants for extra protection. Other tips include emptying standing water from containers around the house and making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.
Illness from West Nile virus is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches but serious illnesses, such as encephalitis and meningitis and death, are possible. Persons 50 and older have the highest risk of severe disease. For more information on WNV, visit www.mcdh.info (Environmental Health) or call 815-334-4585.
MCDH will continue to collect and test mosquito pools through the remainder of the season, typically mid-October. The Department of Health will accept a limited number of birds for testing. It is important to remember that the risk of WNV remains until the first hard frost. Residents should continue to use insect repellent when going out of doors in the evening, with long sleeved shirts and long pants for extra protection. Other tips include emptying standing water from containers around the house and making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.
Illness from West Nile virus is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches but serious illnesses, such as encephalitis and meningitis and death, are possible. Persons 50 and older have the highest risk of severe disease. For more information on WNV, visit www.mcdh.info (Environmental Health) or call 815-334-4585.
Please Support Rakow Road Businesses
A plea on behalf of the businesses located on Rakow Road where extensive road renovation is taking place
While construction along the Rakow Road corridor is making good progress, it is a difficult time for many of the Rakow Road businesses. These businesses are part of the community and are in need of support at this time. All of these businesses are easily accessible and open for your business. Please help support these businesses!
While construction along the Rakow Road corridor is making good progress, it is a difficult time for many of the Rakow Road businesses. These businesses are part of the community and are in need of support at this time. All of these businesses are easily accessible and open for your business. Please help support these businesses!
Words of Wisdom
"No morn ever dawned more favorable than ours did; and no day was ever more clouded than the present! Wisdom, and good examples are necessary at this time to rescue the political machine from the impending storm."
--George Washington, letter to James Madison, 1786
Monday, August 29, 2011
Scouts Motto -- Be Prepared
The 8th annual National Preparedness Month will kick-off in September with the slogan, “A Time to Remember – A Time to Prepare”. The campaign seeks to transform awareness into action by encouraging all Americans to take the necessary steps to ensure that their homes, workplaces and communities are prepared for disasters and emergencies of all kinds. Next month also marks the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate states, “By doing what we can to ensure our communities and our nation are prepared to respond and recover from all types of disasters and hazards, we honor the memory of those who were lost that day.”
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reminds residents that disasters can happen at any time and any place – each event is unique. This weekend’s torrential storm along the East Coast caused by Hurricane Irene is a good example of how planning ahead can minimize the risk of injury. Locally, the area has seen a number of storms, extreme temperatures, lengthy power outages and flooding. Did your family have a 3-day supply kit? Having an emergency plan in place can mean the difference between a small inconvenience and a catastrophe. Keri Zaleski, MCDH Emergency Response Coordinator says, “If residents prepare now, the County will be better prepared when it faces the next disaster.”
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reminds residents that disasters can happen at any time and any place – each event is unique. This weekend’s torrential storm along the East Coast caused by Hurricane Irene is a good example of how planning ahead can minimize the risk of injury. Locally, the area has seen a number of storms, extreme temperatures, lengthy power outages and flooding. Did your family have a 3-day supply kit? Having an emergency plan in place can mean the difference between a small inconvenience and a catastrophe. Keri Zaleski, MCDH Emergency Response Coordinator says, “If residents prepare now, the County will be better prepared when it faces the next disaster.”
Basic emergency supply kit instructions can be found at http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html. David Christensen, McHenry County’s EMA Director, also recommends purchasing an all-hazard alert radio with a battery backup, a tone-alert feature and Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) technology which would alert you when a Watch or Warning is issued in your area. MCDH has established social media websites for the community to receive emergency messages (www.twitter.com/mchenrycohealth and www.facebook.com). For more information on local emergency preparedness, visit www.mcdhprepare.info or call 815-334-4510.
Words of Wisdom
Words of Wisdom
The aim of every political constitution is, or ought to be, first to obtain for rulers men who possess most wisdom to discern, and most virtue to pursue, the common good of the society; and in the next place, to take the most effectual precautions for keeping them virtuous whilst they continue to hold their public trust."
--James Madison, Federalist No. 57, 1788
Miss Illinois Visits Grafton Township Senior Bingo Tuesday
Miss Illinois, Hannah Smith, of Huntley, will speak at the Grafton Township Senior Bingo tomorrow. The location is 11712 Coral Street, Huntley. She will be available for photo and autograph opportunities following her presentation to the seniors about her experience in the competition for Miss Illinois and providing a short dance performance. Miss Smith won her crown last month.
Government At Work
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30 --
8:00 a.m. – McHenry County Board Transportation Committee --
meeting in the McHenry County Division of Transportation Main Conference Room, 16111 Nelson Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is to interview four firms for the position of consultant for Walkup Road work.
8:00 a.m. – McHenry County Board Transportation Committee --
meeting in the McHenry County Division of Transportation Main Conference Room, 16111 Nelson Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is to interview four firms for the position of consultant for Walkup Road work.
8:30 a.m.--Housing Commission of McHenry County –
Meeting in Room 207F, McHenry County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, 1111 Woodstock.
In addition to handling routine matters of approval of minutes from July 19 and considering committee reports and staff reports, the Commission is also to consider calendar dates for HOME program and make committee appointments. Also for discussion is a Fair Housing Community Education Event. Discussion and action on an analysis of impediments proposal is included on the agenda.
In addition to handling routine matters of approval of minutes from July 19 and considering committee reports and staff reports, the Commission is also to consider calendar dates for HOME program and make committee appointments. Also for discussion is a Fair Housing Community Education Event. Discussion and action on an analysis of impediments proposal is included on the agenda.
Work Continues On Rakow Road
In order to remove existing pavement, grade and place new stone, it will be necessary to temporarily close the bicycle path on the south side at Rakow. Full access can remain from Rakow north as well as about 100’ south of Rakow south. The work is scheduled to begin Tuesday, August 30th and should be complete by the end of the day on Thursday, September 1st.
Every effort will be made to minimize the disruption.
“A Thank You" for your understanding” from the contractors involved.
RTA Reminder
September 1 is near with a deadline for RTA Senior Circuit Ride Free/Reduced Fare Programs. Only new Senior Circuit Ride Free permits will be accepted on CTA, Metra or Pace buses or trains. New permits were sent to all who previously registered with the program. If a new permit has not been received, RTA asks that a visit be made to www.cbrx.il.gov or call 800-624-2459.
If an application has not previously been made, Seniors are encouraged to apply online as the application process in this manner is much faster.
Income levels are $27,610 or less for an individual; $36,635 for a two-person household to $45,657 for a household of three or more people. Seniors should only apply for the Circuit Breaker program if they meet age, income and other eligibility criteria.
All other seniors qualify to ride at a reduced fare which in most cases is approximately half fare. Costello reiterated that seniors do not need to re-apply to the Circuit Breaker program or for the new Circuit Ride Free permit if they already have a Seniors Ride Free permit because the RTA will automatically mail the appropriate permits in August.
As a result of the new legislation, the RTA will now have two programs: the Seniors Circuit Ride Free program and the Seniors Reduced Fare program. In early April, the RTA began sending correspondence to all seniors who are currently enrolled in the current Seniors Ride Free program advising them about the program changes. Extensive communications and outreach efforts are ongoing.
Words of Wisdom
"A constitution founded on these principles introduces knowledge among the people, and inspires them with a conscious dignity becoming freemen; a general emulation takes place, which causes good humor, sociability, good manners, and good morals to be general. That elevation of sentiment inspired by such a government, makes the common people brave and enterprising. That ambition which is inspired by it makes them sober, industrious, and frugal."
--John Adams, Thoughts on Government, 1776
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Time For The Next Green Drinks Gathering
Join the next Green Drinks gathering at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main Street in Crystal Lake, on September 7th from 5:00-7:00 pm to learn more about how community members in southeastern McHenry County have been working together to help protect water quality in lakes, streams, and wetlands, and protect both the quality and quantity of groundwater resources needed for drinking water supply. This collaboration is part of an initiative to develop a watershed action plan for the Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds.
A watershed is an area of land that drains water into a common place, like a stream. Watershed planning is a collaborative, community supported approach to protecting water quality and watershed health. Lynn Rotunno, Watershed Coordinator for the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, will discuss how this planning effort is providing an opportunity for community members from multiple jurisdictions to share information and work together to address common water resource challenges in ways that more closely match the flow of water.
“Over 120 community members from across the watersheds are participating in this planning effort to help develop a watershed plan with strong community input,” said Defenders’ Watershed Coordinator Lynn Rotunno.
In addition to protecting water quality and quantity, watershed planning can identify ways to help restore aquatic habitat and other natural resources, prevent flooding in communities, and address other water resource-related concerns important to communities. The watershed action plan will include planning goals and specific project recommendations to protect water quality and watershed health. Projects identified in the plan can become eligible for state and federal funding to help local groups and individuals implement those projects.
Communities within the watersheds include Oakwood Hills, Prairie Grove, and portions of Bull Valley, Cary, Crystal Lake, McHenry, and nearby areas of unincorporated McHenry County. The Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds are home to significant resources, including five dedicated Illinois Nature Preserves, rich farmland, several parks and preserves, and lakes enjoyed by community members as a source of recreation. Both the Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds drain to the Fox River. Working to protect these watersheds will support local communities and help restore Fox River water quality and wildlife habitat.
Planning meetings are being held in the watersheds through December of 2011 and are coordinated by The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. All meetings are open to the public.
For more information, visit http://foxriverecosystem.org/planning.htm, send an e-mail to watershedinfo@mcdefenders.net, or call the Defenders office at 815-338-0393.
A watershed is an area of land that drains water into a common place, like a stream. Watershed planning is a collaborative, community supported approach to protecting water quality and watershed health. Lynn Rotunno, Watershed Coordinator for the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, will discuss how this planning effort is providing an opportunity for community members from multiple jurisdictions to share information and work together to address common water resource challenges in ways that more closely match the flow of water.
“Over 120 community members from across the watersheds are participating in this planning effort to help develop a watershed plan with strong community input,” said Defenders’ Watershed Coordinator Lynn Rotunno.
In addition to protecting water quality and quantity, watershed planning can identify ways to help restore aquatic habitat and other natural resources, prevent flooding in communities, and address other water resource-related concerns important to communities. The watershed action plan will include planning goals and specific project recommendations to protect water quality and watershed health. Projects identified in the plan can become eligible for state and federal funding to help local groups and individuals implement those projects.
Communities within the watersheds include Oakwood Hills, Prairie Grove, and portions of Bull Valley, Cary, Crystal Lake, McHenry, and nearby areas of unincorporated McHenry County. The Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds are home to significant resources, including five dedicated Illinois Nature Preserves, rich farmland, several parks and preserves, and lakes enjoyed by community members as a source of recreation. Both the Silver Creek and Sleepy Hollow Creek watersheds drain to the Fox River. Working to protect these watersheds will support local communities and help restore Fox River water quality and wildlife habitat.
Planning meetings are being held in the watersheds through December of 2011 and are coordinated by The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. All meetings are open to the public.
For more information, visit http://foxriverecosystem.org/planning.htm, send an e-mail to watershedinfo@mcdefenders.net, or call the Defenders office at 815-338-0393.
These planning projects are funded by Section 604(b) of the Clean Water Act by way of a grant from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Water, to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP). Watershed planning oversight is the responsibility of CMAP. Planning Partners include the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, Fox River Ecosystem Partnership, and the Fox River Study Group.
To be added to our email list, send a note to: GreenDrinks@mcdefenders.net or friend us on FaceBook
Call For Interested Performers
The Black Box Theatre at McHenry County College is holding auditions for the fall production of Eric Bogosian’s “SubUrbia,” directed by Annie Rezac.
Roles are available for five men and four women. Two roles call for actors with Middle Eastern descent. Auditions will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 30 and 31 in the Black Box Theatre, Room D-167.
Auditions are open to all students, staff and community members. Actors will be reading from the script for the general auditions. No experience is necessary.
Callbacks are from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3-5, 10-12, 17-19. Scripts are on reserve in the MCC Library. The college is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake
Roles are available for five men and four women. Two roles call for actors with Middle Eastern descent. Auditions will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 30 and 31 in the Black Box Theatre, Room D-167.
Auditions are open to all students, staff and community members. Actors will be reading from the script for the general auditions. No experience is necessary.
Callbacks are from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3-5, 10-12, 17-19. Scripts are on reserve in the MCC Library. The college is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake
Words From Another Party
Libertarians want more jobs, less government
As unemployment in the United States remains stuck above 9 percent, Libertarian Party Executive Director Wes Benedict released the following statement:
"Every time politicians say they're going to create jobs, they end up destroying more jobs than they create.
"Here's the Libertarian approach to unemployment: cut taxes and spending, and let the free market work.
"Government intervention in the free market is what causes unemployment. There are many examples of this, well known to many economists. Minimum wage laws cause unemployment. Government-mandated unemployment insurance causes unemployment. Welfare and food stamps cause unemployment. Occupational licensing laws cause unemployment.
"One especially destructive factor is government prohibition of at-will employment. Because the government won't let employers hire, maintain, and fire employees on a truly at-will basis, it makes employment much riskier. Employers are scared to hire people because it can be so difficult to fire them if they don't work out, and employers are sometimes even scared to interview people because they might be forced to hire them. The result? More unemployment.
"What about all the 'stimulus spending' we've seen during the last two administrations?
"Stimulus spending doesn't create jobs, it destroys them. The government spends money by extracting it out of the productive private sector, which causes a net loss of jobs.
"Stimulus spending makes our future less secure, without doing any good in the present. It destroys jobs today, as well as down the road.
"Back in 2009, the Obama administration was worried that unemployment might reach 8 percent. So they pushed through a massive stimulus program, and employment went up even higher, to 10 percent. The stimulus program made our problems worse.
"And in 2008, George W. Bush championed a counterproductive plan to send $300-$600 stimulus checks to millions of people.
"Republicans and Democrats in the federal and state governments need to stop trying to help, because they're only making things worse. Instead, they need to get out of the way and let us free Americans solve the problem ourselves," say Libertarians.
The third-largest political party in the United States, was founded in 1971. The Libertarian Party stands for free markets, civil liberties, and peace. You can find more information on the Libertarian Party at our website.
As unemployment in the United States remains stuck above 9 percent, Libertarian Party Executive Director Wes Benedict released the following statement:
"Every time politicians say they're going to create jobs, they end up destroying more jobs than they create.
"Here's the Libertarian approach to unemployment: cut taxes and spending, and let the free market work.
"Government intervention in the free market is what causes unemployment. There are many examples of this, well known to many economists. Minimum wage laws cause unemployment. Government-mandated unemployment insurance causes unemployment. Welfare and food stamps cause unemployment. Occupational licensing laws cause unemployment.
"One especially destructive factor is government prohibition of at-will employment. Because the government won't let employers hire, maintain, and fire employees on a truly at-will basis, it makes employment much riskier. Employers are scared to hire people because it can be so difficult to fire them if they don't work out, and employers are sometimes even scared to interview people because they might be forced to hire them. The result? More unemployment.
"What about all the 'stimulus spending' we've seen during the last two administrations?
"Stimulus spending doesn't create jobs, it destroys them. The government spends money by extracting it out of the productive private sector, which causes a net loss of jobs.
"Stimulus spending makes our future less secure, without doing any good in the present. It destroys jobs today, as well as down the road.
"Back in 2009, the Obama administration was worried that unemployment might reach 8 percent. So they pushed through a massive stimulus program, and employment went up even higher, to 10 percent. The stimulus program made our problems worse.
"And in 2008, George W. Bush championed a counterproductive plan to send $300-$600 stimulus checks to millions of people.
"Republicans and Democrats in the federal and state governments need to stop trying to help, because they're only making things worse. Instead, they need to get out of the way and let us free Americans solve the problem ourselves," say Libertarians.
The third-largest political party in the United States, was founded in 1971. The Libertarian Party stands for free markets, civil liberties, and peace. You can find more information on the Libertarian Party at our website.
Valley Hi Cemetery Board Meets
3:00 p.m. – Valley Hi Cemetery Board—
Meeting Monday afternoon in the McHenry County Administration Building, Room 210, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock. This semi-annual meeting handles reports on the burials since the prior meeting and any problems that arise.
Words of Wisdom
"But with respect to future debt; would it not be wise and just for that nation to declare in the constitution they are forming that neither the legislature, nor the nation itself can validly contract more debt, than they may pay within their own age, or within the term of 19 years."
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to James Madison, 1789
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