"[T]he right to freedom being the gift of
God Almighty, it is not in the power of Man to alienate this gift, and
voluntarily become a slave."
--John Adams
Saturday, October 6, 2012
The Other Side Of The Debate
By Michael Snyder
theintelhub.com
October 5, 2012
theintelhub.com
October 5, 2012
Contributed by the Economic Collapse Blog
Did you watch the presidential debate on Wednesday
night? It is absolutely amazing how they can have an hour and a half
debate about the economy and say so little.
It seemed like both candidates were falling all over each other wanting to talk about how much they value education, but will more education really solve our problems?
After all, 53 percent of all Americans with a bachelor’s degree under the age of 25 were either unemployed or underemployed in 2011. So perhaps they should just both agree that education is a good thing and start talking about how to create more jobs for all of us.
If you want to grade the debate from a technical standpoint, clearly Romney was the winner of the debate. Romney was full of energy and was generally sharp with his answers. Obama looked like he had just popped a couple of antidepressants and was ready for nap time.
As a result, this might have been the worst blowout in the history of presidential debates. A CNN/ORC International poll that was taken right after the debate found that 67 percent of all Americans that had watched the debate thought that Romney was the winner.
Never before had any presidential candidate crossed the 60 percent mark in the history of their post-debate polling. So Romney definitely had a big night. But the reality is that both candidates were telling the American people what they want to hear.
If either Obama or Romney told the truth about what we are facing they would lose votes, and in a race this tight both of them really want to avoid doing that.
Obama and Romney both desperately want to win this election, and the words that are coming out of their mouths have been carefully crafted to appeal to the “undecided voters” in the swing states.
If you actually believe that they can deliver on everything that they are promising, then you must not have been paying much attention to U.S. politics over the past several decades.
Perhaps the biggest failure on Wednesday night was debate moderator Jim Lehrer of PBS. His questions were about as far from “hard hitting” as you could get.
The hour and a half debate was almost entirely about the economy, and yet almost all of the critical economic issues were ignored.
Yes, Obama and Romney have slight differences when it comes to tax rates and regulations, but those small differences are not going to do much to change the direction of this country one way or another.
Meanwhile, there were some really huge issues about the economy that were not addressed at all last night….
1 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the Federal Reserve was not mentioned a single time.
2 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, Ben Bernanke was not mentioned a single time.
3 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, quantitative easing was not mentioned a single time.
4 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the term “derivatives” was not used a single time. Considering the fact that derivatives could bring down our financial system at any moment, this is an issue that should be talked about.
5 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of the millions of jobs that have been shipped out of the country. Considering the fact that both Obama and Romney have played a role in this, it is probably a topic they both want to avoid. Overall, the United States has lost more than 56,000 manufacturing facilities since 2001.
6 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate mentioned that the velocity of money has plunged to a post-World War II low.
7 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the fact that the rest of the world is beginning to reject the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency was not mentioned a single time, but this has enormous implications for our economy in the years ahead.
8 – The fact that the Social Security system is headed for massive trouble was only briefly touched on during the debate. At the moment, there are approximately 56 million Americans that are collecting Social Security benefits. By 2035, that number is projected to grow to an astounding 91 million. Overall, the Social Security system is facing a 134 trillion dollar shortfall over the next 75 years. When are our politicians going to honestly address this massive problem?
9 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the nightmarish drought the country is experiencing right now was not mentioned a single time.
10 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the financial meltdown in Europe was basically totally ignored. But considering the fact that Europe has a larger economy and a much larger banking system than we do, perhaps someone should have asked Obama and Romney what they plan to do when the financial system of Europe implodes.
11 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the student loan debt bubble was only briefly mentioned.
It seemed like both candidates were falling all over each other wanting to talk about how much they value education, but will more education really solve our problems?
After all, 53 percent of all Americans with a bachelor’s degree under the age of 25 were either unemployed or underemployed in 2011. So perhaps they should just both agree that education is a good thing and start talking about how to create more jobs for all of us.
If you want to grade the debate from a technical standpoint, clearly Romney was the winner of the debate. Romney was full of energy and was generally sharp with his answers. Obama looked like he had just popped a couple of antidepressants and was ready for nap time.
As a result, this might have been the worst blowout in the history of presidential debates. A CNN/ORC International poll that was taken right after the debate found that 67 percent of all Americans that had watched the debate thought that Romney was the winner.
Never before had any presidential candidate crossed the 60 percent mark in the history of their post-debate polling. So Romney definitely had a big night. But the reality is that both candidates were telling the American people what they want to hear.
If either Obama or Romney told the truth about what we are facing they would lose votes, and in a race this tight both of them really want to avoid doing that.
Obama and Romney both desperately want to win this election, and the words that are coming out of their mouths have been carefully crafted to appeal to the “undecided voters” in the swing states.
If you actually believe that they can deliver on everything that they are promising, then you must not have been paying much attention to U.S. politics over the past several decades.
Perhaps the biggest failure on Wednesday night was debate moderator Jim Lehrer of PBS. His questions were about as far from “hard hitting” as you could get.
The hour and a half debate was almost entirely about the economy, and yet almost all of the critical economic issues were ignored.
Yes, Obama and Romney have slight differences when it comes to tax rates and regulations, but those small differences are not going to do much to change the direction of this country one way or another.
Meanwhile, there were some really huge issues about the economy that were not addressed at all last night….
1 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the Federal Reserve was not mentioned a single time.
2 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, Ben Bernanke was not mentioned a single time.
3 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, quantitative easing was not mentioned a single time.
4 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the term “derivatives” was not used a single time. Considering the fact that derivatives could bring down our financial system at any moment, this is an issue that should be talked about.
5 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of the millions of jobs that have been shipped out of the country. Considering the fact that both Obama and Romney have played a role in this, it is probably a topic they both want to avoid. Overall, the United States has lost more than 56,000 manufacturing facilities since 2001.
6 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate mentioned that the velocity of money has plunged to a post-World War II low.
7 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the fact that the rest of the world is beginning to reject the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency was not mentioned a single time, but this has enormous implications for our economy in the years ahead.
8 – The fact that the Social Security system is headed for massive trouble was only briefly touched on during the debate. At the moment, there are approximately 56 million Americans that are collecting Social Security benefits. By 2035, that number is projected to grow to an astounding 91 million. Overall, the Social Security system is facing a 134 trillion dollar shortfall over the next 75 years. When are our politicians going to honestly address this massive problem?
9 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the nightmarish drought the country is experiencing right now was not mentioned a single time.
10 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the financial meltdown in Europe was basically totally ignored. But considering the fact that Europe has a larger economy and a much larger banking system than we do, perhaps someone should have asked Obama and Romney what they plan to do when the financial system of Europe implodes.
11 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, the student loan debt bubble was only briefly mentioned.
12 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy,
there was not a single word about the fact that the gap
between the wealthy and the poor is now larger than it has been at any
point since the Great Depression.
13 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of TARP (which they both supported at the time). Would they both bail out the big banks if another financial crisis erupted?
14 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of the economic stimulus packages (which they both supported at the time). Would they both want more “economic stimulus” if we entered another recession?
15 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate talked about the fact that most of the jobs our economy is producing now are low income jobs. In fact, since the end of the last recession, 58 percent of the jobs that have been created are low paying jobs.
16 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate mentioned that more than 100 million Americans are enrolled in at least one welfare program run by the federal government or that more than half of all Americans are now at least partially financially dependent on the government. I can’t blame Romney for avoiding this point though – he probably wanted to avoid
Is this really the best that America can do?
Tens of millions of Americans tuned in hoping to become more informed about the candidates, and instead what they got was an hour and a half of tap dancing as Obama and Romney constantly tossed out buzzwords such as “education”, “energy independent” and “middle class”.
I honestly don’t know how you can possibly have a debate about the economy without talking about the Federal Reserve, quantitative easing, the trade deficit, Europe or the decline of the U.S. dollar.
But it just happened right in front of our eyes.
I don’t think that I can ever remember another presidential debate that lacked substance as much as this one did.
13 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of TARP (which they both supported at the time). Would they both bail out the big banks if another financial crisis erupted?
14 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, there was no mention of the economic stimulus packages (which they both supported at the time). Would they both want more “economic stimulus” if we entered another recession?
15 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate talked about the fact that most of the jobs our economy is producing now are low income jobs. In fact, since the end of the last recession, 58 percent of the jobs that have been created are low paying jobs.
16 – In an hour and a half debate about the economy, neither candidate mentioned that more than 100 million Americans are enrolled in at least one welfare program run by the federal government or that more than half of all Americans are now at least partially financially dependent on the government. I can’t blame Romney for avoiding this point though – he probably wanted to avoid
Is this really the best that America can do?
Tens of millions of Americans tuned in hoping to become more informed about the candidates, and instead what they got was an hour and a half of tap dancing as Obama and Romney constantly tossed out buzzwords such as “education”, “energy independent” and “middle class”.
I honestly don’t know how you can possibly have a debate about the economy without talking about the Federal Reserve, quantitative easing, the trade deficit, Europe or the decline of the U.S. dollar.
But it just happened right in front of our eyes.
I don’t think that I can ever remember another presidential debate that lacked substance as much as this one did.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Learning While In McHenry County Jail
Fourteen inmates at the McHenry County jail are
learning more than English and grammar by attending English as a Second
Language (ESL) class twice a week.
They’re also learning how to improve themselves and, more importantly, help each other work toward a better life in the future.
McHenry County College ESL instructor Lisa McCord reports, this summer’s ESL class ended with six inmates receiving certificates of completion; several inmates either got transferred to other facilities or were discharged before completing the program.
The partnership between the McHenry County College and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office continues this fall with a 16-week ESL class, again with 14 inmates, some who are returning students, plus three on a waiting list. Students attend three hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
MCC has been offering GED classes at the jail on Saturdays for many years and began offering ESL classes after inmates requested the training, according to Sherry May, Adult Education coordinator for instruction at MCC.
“We ran the ESL class last summer for eight weeks and it was very successful,” May said. “The inmates set the bar high. They are studious, highly motivated and they ask for homework. One student even moved up one level.”
The jail’s fall ESL class costs $2,142 and is funded by the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act grant.
“Anytime you have an educational program, especially if we can help teach English language for people who will leave a secure detention facility, it benefits them and it benefits the community,” said McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren. “It’s a good program; it’s practical. The student body is highly motivated because they see a direct pay-off,” he said.
McHenry County sheriff’s Lt. Rebecca Sylvester agreed. “The inmates want to better equip themselves to help their families,” she said
One inmate said the class has definitely helped him improve his language skills. “I can help my daughters with school and help my wife with her work,” he said. “Before, I felt bad not understanding this language. I like it when my teacher starts conversations with students and how she explains things and how she all the time says ‘you can do it!’”
The same inmate said the class has boosted his confidence in speaking and writing English so much that when he leaves prison, he plans to start his own residential and commercial cleaning company.
The prison setting is not new to ELS instructor McCord. She previously worked at Dwight Women’s Prison, where she conducted recreational programming. An MCC ESL instructor for 14 years, she teaches language, grammar and reading comprehension in her classes using games and conversation exercises.
For the McHenry County inmates, she said she tries to create an environment where students feel at ease to ask questions; the result has been inmates who are engaged in learning.
“No one is allowed to laugh or make fun of someone else,” she said. They feel much safer. I teach not as a classroom, but as a community. They learn to help each other.
“They are very interested in learning the language,” she added. “We talk about the opportunity to better themselves and make some changes. They have an opportunity to ask questions about different things.”
McCord recalled a discussion after students read a story about a man with cancer whose 50 friends shaved their heads to show support for him.
“It turned out to be a conversation about friendship and who are your real friends. They learn life lessons they didn’t know before,” she said. “I like that they all come to class and take it very seriously. They ask a lot of really good questions and respect each other. They take the information learned in class and have conversations in English with people who they meet at the jail. I tell them they’ve got to make the best of their situation.
“They really inspire me. I love it,” she said.
They’re also learning how to improve themselves and, more importantly, help each other work toward a better life in the future.
McHenry County College ESL instructor Lisa McCord reports, this summer’s ESL class ended with six inmates receiving certificates of completion; several inmates either got transferred to other facilities or were discharged before completing the program.
The partnership between the McHenry County College and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office continues this fall with a 16-week ESL class, again with 14 inmates, some who are returning students, plus three on a waiting list. Students attend three hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
MCC has been offering GED classes at the jail on Saturdays for many years and began offering ESL classes after inmates requested the training, according to Sherry May, Adult Education coordinator for instruction at MCC.
“We ran the ESL class last summer for eight weeks and it was very successful,” May said. “The inmates set the bar high. They are studious, highly motivated and they ask for homework. One student even moved up one level.”
The jail’s fall ESL class costs $2,142 and is funded by the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act grant.
“Anytime you have an educational program, especially if we can help teach English language for people who will leave a secure detention facility, it benefits them and it benefits the community,” said McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren. “It’s a good program; it’s practical. The student body is highly motivated because they see a direct pay-off,” he said.
McHenry County sheriff’s Lt. Rebecca Sylvester agreed. “The inmates want to better equip themselves to help their families,” she said
One inmate said the class has definitely helped him improve his language skills. “I can help my daughters with school and help my wife with her work,” he said. “Before, I felt bad not understanding this language. I like it when my teacher starts conversations with students and how she explains things and how she all the time says ‘you can do it!’”
The same inmate said the class has boosted his confidence in speaking and writing English so much that when he leaves prison, he plans to start his own residential and commercial cleaning company.
The prison setting is not new to ELS instructor McCord. She previously worked at Dwight Women’s Prison, where she conducted recreational programming. An MCC ESL instructor for 14 years, she teaches language, grammar and reading comprehension in her classes using games and conversation exercises.
For the McHenry County inmates, she said she tries to create an environment where students feel at ease to ask questions; the result has been inmates who are engaged in learning.
“No one is allowed to laugh or make fun of someone else,” she said. They feel much safer. I teach not as a classroom, but as a community. They learn to help each other.
“They are very interested in learning the language,” she added. “We talk about the opportunity to better themselves and make some changes. They have an opportunity to ask questions about different things.”
McCord recalled a discussion after students read a story about a man with cancer whose 50 friends shaved their heads to show support for him.
“It turned out to be a conversation about friendship and who are your real friends. They learn life lessons they didn’t know before,” she said. “I like that they all come to class and take it very seriously. They ask a lot of really good questions and respect each other. They take the information learned in class and have conversations in English with people who they meet at the jail. I tell them they’ve got to make the best of their situation.
“They really inspire me. I love it,” she said.
For more information on ESL classes or other adult
literacy programs offered at McHenry County College, call (815) 455-8752.
Words Of Wisdom
"With hearts fortified with these animating
reflections, we most solemnly, before God and the world, declare, that,
exerting the utmost energy of those powers, which our beneficent Creator hath
graciously bestowed upon us, the arms we have compelled by our enemies to
assume, we will, in defiance of every hazard, with unabating firmness and
perseverance employ for the preservation of our liberties; being with one mind
resolved to die freemen rather than to live as slaves."
--John Dickinson and Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of
the Cause and Necessity of Taking up Arms, 1775
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Walkup Avenue Work Continues
North Section:
Concrete curb will be placed Friday 10/5 in the southbound direction from north of Coach Light Road to Anvil Road.
Also, asphalt placement will begin northbound on Friday 10/5 from north of Coach Light Road to Patriot Estates (Cunat Drive) and will continue into Monday 10/8.
Intermittent lane closures are necessary for this work, so using alternate routes if possible is recommended.
South Section:
Storm sewer installation continues along IL 176. The excavation along IL 176 west of Walkup Road is complete and crews will begin forming the retaining wall.
Grading and stone placement will follow the completion of this work in the next couple of weeks.
The retaining wall adjacent to Veteran Acres remains under construction. The soldier piles being drilled should be completed by mid-next week. The concrete facing will then start to be formed and poured. Asphalt placement from Talismon Drive to Burning Bush Trail should start late next week.
Concrete curb will be placed Friday 10/5 in the southbound direction from north of Coach Light Road to Anvil Road.
Also, asphalt placement will begin northbound on Friday 10/5 from north of Coach Light Road to Patriot Estates (Cunat Drive) and will continue into Monday 10/8.
Intermittent lane closures are necessary for this work, so using alternate routes if possible is recommended.
South Section:
Storm sewer installation continues along IL 176. The excavation along IL 176 west of Walkup Road is complete and crews will begin forming the retaining wall.
Grading and stone placement will follow the completion of this work in the next couple of weeks.
The retaining wall adjacent to Veteran Acres remains under construction. The soldier piles being drilled should be completed by mid-next week. The concrete facing will then start to be formed and poured. Asphalt placement from Talismon Drive to Burning Bush Trail should start late next week.
Government At Work - Thursday Evening
THURSDAY,
OCTOBER 4
6:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Finance
Committee –
Meeting in the Park District Administration Building,
One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
The Committee is to consider the 2013-2014 Tax Levy as well as a Capital Asset Policy and Acorn Alley Splash Pad Hook-Up Fee
The Committee is to consider the 2013-2014 Tax Levy as well as a Capital Asset Policy and Acorn Alley Splash Pad Hook-Up Fee
7:00 p.m. Crystal Lake Public Library Board Finance Committee –
Meeting in the Library Directors Office, Crystal Lake
Library, 126 Paddock Street, Crystal Lake.
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Board –
Meeting in the Park District Administration Building, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
This is the annual Lake meeting. This is the annual meeting where Park District Lake Manager, Hey and Associates, Inc. provides an annual report on the state of the lake.
The public is invited to provide their input regarding the lake.
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Board –
Meeting in the Park District Administration Building, One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
This is the annual Lake meeting. This is the annual meeting where Park District Lake Manager, Hey and Associates, Inc. provides an annual report on the state of the lake.
The public is invited to provide their input regarding the lake.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Government At Work
THURSDAY,
OCTOBER 4 –
1:00 p.m. – McHenry County Zoning Board of Appeals
and McHenry County Board Planning and Development Committee –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County
Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Continued review of the Draft Unified Development
Ordinance.
7:30 p.m. – Historic Preservation Commission, City of Crystal Lake –
7:30 p.m. – Historic Preservation Commission, City of Crystal Lake –
Meeting in the Municipal Complex, 100 West Woodstock
Street.
Consideration is to be given to the following:
Consideration is to be given to the following:
50 Caroline Street – Façade Grant
Centennial History Committee
Trolley Tour Work Plan
Historic District update
OMA Training
Member Inquiries and Reports
Sentence - 21 Years - Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault Of A Child
Following a
two-hour jury deliberation, 56-year old Robert Lucht, formerly of
Lake-in-the-Hills, was found guilty of three counts of the offense of Predatory
Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child and one count of the offense of Aggravated
Criminal Sexual Abuse.
McHenry County State’s Attorney Louis A. Bianchi, in announcing the jury verdict reports that the victim of the offense of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child was an 11-year old girl who was admitted to a hospital for suicidal intentions and for harming herself.
She then reported that she had been sexually assaulted by the defendant multiple times between the ages of seven and nine. When the defendant was confronted with the allegations by the police he gave a written confession admitting he had assaulted the child. The defendant will be sentenced on November 20 at 1:30 pm and faces a minimum sentence of 21 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The case was prosecuted by Sharyl Eisenstein and Michael Combs, Chief of the Criminal Division of the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.
McHenry County State’s Attorney Louis A. Bianchi, in announcing the jury verdict reports that the victim of the offense of Predatory Criminal Sexual Assault of a Child was an 11-year old girl who was admitted to a hospital for suicidal intentions and for harming herself.
She then reported that she had been sexually assaulted by the defendant multiple times between the ages of seven and nine. When the defendant was confronted with the allegations by the police he gave a written confession admitting he had assaulted the child. The defendant will be sentenced on November 20 at 1:30 pm and faces a minimum sentence of 21 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The case was prosecuted by Sharyl Eisenstein and Michael Combs, Chief of the Criminal Division of the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Pingree Road Re-opens Friday
The City of Crystal Lake is on schedule to officially
re-open Pingree Road Friday, October 5. The estimated time is around mid-day.
The City appreciates the patience and cooperation of our residents and area business owners during the road closure, which was completed ahead of schedule.
This construction project provides a permanent, modernized traffic signal at the intersection, and drivers will be able to travel more efficiently and safely with the additional lanes.
Pedestrians are also able to enjoy new sidewalks along the west side of Pingree across the railroad tracks, connecting existing paths between Route 14 and the residential neighborhoods to the north.
This project was the result of a partnership between Metra and the City of Crystal Lake.
The City appreciates the patience and cooperation of our residents and area business owners during the road closure, which was completed ahead of schedule.
This construction project provides a permanent, modernized traffic signal at the intersection, and drivers will be able to travel more efficiently and safely with the additional lanes.
Pedestrians are also able to enjoy new sidewalks along the west side of Pingree across the railroad tracks, connecting existing paths between Route 14 and the residential neighborhoods to the north.
This project was the result of a partnership between Metra and the City of Crystal Lake.
Oh Deer!
“A couple in Austin, Texas, was puzzled when the
Barack Obama re-election sign in their front yard was destroyed while none of
the other political signs on their street had been touched.
"The sign had holes poked in it like somebody had stuck a knife through it," said the homeowner. "At first I thought it was somebody who didn't like Obama."
“That's a stretch -- everybody likes Obama, right? Imagine their surprise when the culprit caught on camera was a deer. It could be that the buck simply didn't like the sign sullying his grazing area and he registered his vote by assailing it with his antlers. We like to think the deer was fed up with Obama's blame game and decided to remind him that the buck stops here.”
"The sign had holes poked in it like somebody had stuck a knife through it," said the homeowner. "At first I thought it was somebody who didn't like Obama."
“That's a stretch -- everybody likes Obama, right? Imagine their surprise when the culprit caught on camera was a deer. It could be that the buck simply didn't like the sign sullying his grazing area and he registered his vote by assailing it with his antlers. We like to think the deer was fed up with Obama's blame game and decided to remind him that the buck stops here.”
We found this on the internet.
Do Utility Rates Ever Go Down?
Government At Work
WEDNESDAY EVENING,
OCTOBER 3—
6:00 p.m. –High School District 155 Board Curriculum, Staff Development, Technology & Student Services Committee –
Meeting in the District Center for Education, One
South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake.
Two matters are to be considered, Course Curriculum Update and Student Achievement Update.
Two matters are to be considered, Course Curriculum Update and Student Achievement Update.
6:30 p.m. – McHenry County Historic Preservation
Commission—
Committee reports including survey, with a reminder
that the September meeting is cancelled and the next meeting is October 12.
Other reports include Status of Trout Valley Landmark Plaque and Status of Landmark Photo additions to the wall display.
Action items include dues payment expenditure for membership in the National Trust for Historic Preservation, with an indication of $20, $30 or other.
Also for consideration is a listing of review and possible approval of the CLG Grant Application
Under new business, topics listed include Discussion of Landmark Nomination ratings and Proposed Venue for December Meeting with a notation that Pirro’s is closed.
7:00 p.m. –Valley Hi Operating Board --
Meeting at the Valley Hi Nursing Home, 2406 Hartland Road, Woodstock
The Board is to consider a resolution regarding the reclassification of a Full Time Activity Assistant into a Par Time Activity Assistant and Part Time Business Office Associate.
In addition to any old business, reports to the committee, future topics may also be considered.
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission—
Other reports include Status of Trout Valley Landmark Plaque and Status of Landmark Photo additions to the wall display.
Action items include dues payment expenditure for membership in the National Trust for Historic Preservation, with an indication of $20, $30 or other.
Also for consideration is a listing of review and possible approval of the CLG Grant Application
Under new business, topics listed include Discussion of Landmark Nomination ratings and Proposed Venue for December Meeting with a notation that Pirro’s is closed.
7:00 p.m. –Valley Hi Operating Board --
Meeting at the Valley Hi Nursing Home, 2406 Hartland Road, Woodstock
The Board is to consider a resolution regarding the reclassification of a Full Time Activity Assistant into a Par Time Activity Assistant and Part Time Business Office Associate.
In addition to any old business, reports to the committee, future topics may also be considered.
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Planning and Zoning Commission—
Meeting in the Crystal Lake City Hall, 100 West
Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake.
Two matters are before the Commission for consideration.
Tittle, 235 Crystal ridge Drive – Project Review for Planning and Zoning Commission
This property is seeking a Special Use Permit for a detached accessory structure greater than 600 square feet to allow a pool and deck.
The property owners are requesting a special use permit for a detached accessory structure greater than 600 square feet, to allow a pool and deck totaling 1,161 square feet.
If the Commission recommends approval of the request, several conditions are also recommended and include no structure or attachment shall be constructed between the deck or pool and the principal residence.
Also the petitioner shall comply with all of the requirements of the Engineering and Building and Planning and Economic Development Departments.
Two matters are before the Commission for consideration.
Tittle, 235 Crystal ridge Drive – Project Review for Planning and Zoning Commission
This property is seeking a Special Use Permit for a detached accessory structure greater than 600 square feet to allow a pool and deck.
The property owners are requesting a special use permit for a detached accessory structure greater than 600 square feet, to allow a pool and deck totaling 1,161 square feet.
If the Commission recommends approval of the request, several conditions are also recommended and include no structure or attachment shall be constructed between the deck or pool and the principal residence.
Also the petitioner shall comply with all of the requirements of the Engineering and Building and Planning and Economic Development Departments.
Sea Level Diving,
296 Liberty Drive.
Several variations are requested including:
Several variations are requested including:
A variation from the requirement to defer the
installation of the sidewalk until an area wide program is established.
A variation is requested from the requirement to install curb around the perimeter of the parking lot and landscape island.
A variation from the requirement to have a landscape island at the end of the parking row and every ten spaces, a variation of two landscape islands.
A variation is requested from the requirement to install curb around the perimeter of the parking lot and landscape island.
A variation from the requirement to have a landscape island at the end of the parking row and every ten spaces, a variation of two landscape islands.
Accessibility Code Seminar At MCC
McHenry County College (MCC) will offer a one-day
Illinois Accessibility Code seminar from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 17
in the Luecht Conference Center at MCC, located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal
Lake.
This one-day seminar is intended for engineers, designers, project managers and those who work in the commercial or industrial building trades. The featured speaker is Doug Gamble, senior technical specialist from the Capital Development Board, who will explain the history of Illinois Accessibility Law and how it relates to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. He will focus on how the code is being interpreted, enforced and implemented by different governing bodies. As a member of the committee that is revising the Illinois Accessibility Code, he will outline changes made to the code that will affect the future access to Illinois’ built environment.
Cost is $59 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. For more information or for a company-sponsored form, contact Ruth Kormanak at (815) 479-7879 or rkormanak@mchenry.edu. To register for this course, call (815) 455-8588 and use course ID: USV U41-001.
This one-day seminar is intended for engineers, designers, project managers and those who work in the commercial or industrial building trades. The featured speaker is Doug Gamble, senior technical specialist from the Capital Development Board, who will explain the history of Illinois Accessibility Law and how it relates to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. He will focus on how the code is being interpreted, enforced and implemented by different governing bodies. As a member of the committee that is revising the Illinois Accessibility Code, he will outline changes made to the code that will affect the future access to Illinois’ built environment.
Cost is $59 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. For more information or for a company-sponsored form, contact Ruth Kormanak at (815) 479-7879 or rkormanak@mchenry.edu. To register for this course, call (815) 455-8588 and use course ID: USV U41-001.
Annual Lake Meeting Thursday
The Crystal Lake Park
District is hosting the 8th Annual Lake Planning & Management Meeting for
all interested residents on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 7:30 PM at the Crystal
Lake Park District Administrative Office.
The Administrative Office is located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
The purpose of the meeting is to share information, answer questions and concerns regarding the Crystal Lake, offer an explanation of the Lake Management process, and provide an overview of what is planned for the future. Contact Jason Herbster, (815) 459-0680, ext. 203 for details.
The Administrative Office is located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
The purpose of the meeting is to share information, answer questions and concerns regarding the Crystal Lake, offer an explanation of the Lake Management process, and provide an overview of what is planned for the future. Contact Jason Herbster, (815) 459-0680, ext. 203 for details.
Words Of Wisdom
"Unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner,
we shall be able I hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom
& harmony."
--Thomas Jefferson
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Government At Work-Crystal Lake City Council
TUESDAY,
OCTOBER 2
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake City Council –
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake City Council –
Meeting in the Crystal Lake City Council Chambers,
100 West Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake.
Two proclamations are being presented for Council
approval. One is designating Friday, October 19 as Senior Services Associates,
Inc. Day.
A second proclamation is for the proclamation of October 12 and 13 as Lions Club Candy Days.
A temporary liquor license is being sought by the Knights of Columbus for October 20 from 6 to 11 p.m. when the organization is holding the Parish Dinner for Married Couples .
A second liquor license is being sought by the Knights of Columbus for October 13 for the annual Oktoberrfest.
A temporary liquor license is also being requested by the Justin Schroeder Memorial Foundation for a license to sell beer and wine on October 20 during the 8 th annual fundraiser to be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Community Center.
Kumi Sushi Final PUD Amendment
A second proclamation is for the proclamation of October 12 and 13 as Lions Club Candy Days.
A temporary liquor license is being sought by the Knights of Columbus for October 20 from 6 to 11 p.m. when the organization is holding the Parish Dinner for Married Couples .
A second liquor license is being sought by the Knights of Columbus for October 13 for the annual Oktoberrfest.
A temporary liquor license is also being requested by the Justin Schroeder Memorial Foundation for a license to sell beer and wine on October 20 during the 8 th annual fundraiser to be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Community Center.
Kumi Sushi Final PUD Amendment
A request for a final PUD amendment for wall signage
is being recommended for denial by the Planning & Zoning Commission. The
Commission expressed the concern that altering the criteria for one tenant
opened the door for other similar requests.
If the Council decides to approve the petitioners request, a super majority or five votes is required.
A request is also being presented by the Kumi Sushi Restaurant for a Class 2 Liquor License.
Daniel Nagel, 215 Union Street
If the Council decides to approve the petitioners request, a super majority or five votes is required.
A request is also being presented by the Kumi Sushi Restaurant for a Class 2 Liquor License.
Daniel Nagel, 215 Union Street
A simplified residential variation from the Zoning
Ordinance is being requested in order to encroach into the required front
setback and be as close as 10 feet from the front property line instead of the
required 35.5 feet.
The Planning and Zoning Commission is recommending denial of the request. The Planning and Zoning Commission, following a hearing on the matter, expressed the concern that the request did not meet all the findings of fact for a variation and voted t deny the request.
A super majority vote of the Council is required if the Council decides to overturn the Planning Commission’s recommended denial.
Crossfit
This physical fitness facility offering strength development is requesting a use variation on property located at 110 W. Woodstock Street. If the Council decides to approve the request, a number of conditions are recommended by the Commission. These deal with parking requirements dealing with fire and safety measures.
The Planning and Zoning Commission is recommending denial of the request. The Planning and Zoning Commission, following a hearing on the matter, expressed the concern that the request did not meet all the findings of fact for a variation and voted t deny the request.
A super majority vote of the Council is required if the Council decides to overturn the Planning Commission’s recommended denial.
Crossfit
This physical fitness facility offering strength development is requesting a use variation on property located at 110 W. Woodstock Street. If the Council decides to approve the request, a number of conditions are recommended by the Commission. These deal with parking requirements dealing with fire and safety measures.
Wickenkamp- 141 Ellsworth Street
A request to permit a front port addition to the
property to encroach 10.8 feet into the required front yard setback. When the
house was constructed, it met the front yard setback.
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 4-2 to deny
the request. If the Council decides to approve the petitioner’s request, a
super majority vote of five council members is required.
Harkens – 73 Lincoln Parkway
A request is being made to construct a garage with a
full basement and second floor attic space. The Commission voted 7-2 to deny
the request. If the Council prefers to approve the request a number of requirements
are being recommended. These deal with the fact that a Special Use is required.
Also, it is recommended that the garage shall not be utilized for living
quarters.
New Peking Restaurant
New Peking Restaurant
A request is being made for a $5,000 matching Grant
available under an Existing Retailer Job Creation and Investment Matching
grant. The restaurant is located at 40 West Terra Cotta and has been serving
carry-out Mandarin, Szechuan, and Cantonese cuisine at this location since
2004.
Lixia Liang, the restaurant owner, is seeking to expand her business into the adjacent vacant tenant space by building a dining room for customers to enjoy sit-down service. The Council is to consider approval of the requested grant.
Southeast Emergency Communication (SEECOM)
Lixia Liang, the restaurant owner, is seeking to expand her business into the adjacent vacant tenant space by building a dining room for customers to enjoy sit-down service. The Council is to consider approval of the requested grant.
Southeast Emergency Communication (SEECOM)
The Council is being requested to authorize the
execution of a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and SEECOM for City
personnel to perform maintenance responsibilities on an as-needed basis in
exchange for payment to the City.
62 Railroad Street Building
62 Railroad Street Building
The Council to consider awarding a bid for demolition
of the building at 62 Railroad Street. The property is owned by the City and is
planned to be used for a future parking lot in 2013.
Sidewalk for Congress Parkway and Exchange Drive
Sidewalk for Congress Parkway and Exchange Drive
The Council is requested to approve awarding a
contract to Landmark Contractors, Inc. for $77,568 to construct new sidewalk
along Congress Parkway and Exchange Drive.
Illinois Route 176 Access Road
Illinois Route 176 Access Road
Berger Excavating Contractors, Inc. Wauconda, was the
lowest responsive and responsible bidder for the project. This project is
considered an assist to the redevelopment of the northeast quadrant of US Route
14 and Illinois Route 176. This roadway leads to Terra Cotta Avenue. The
reconstructed access road will be a public street and will be named Dearborn
Court. The improvement includes curb, gutter, storm sewer, private lift station
and force main relocation, new water main, and cul-de-sac. The bid was in the amount of $481,314.89.
Motor Fuel Tax funds are being appropriated for the project and the Council is being requested to approve a resolution appropriating $529,447 for this purpose.
Three Oaks Recreation Paving
Miscellaneous paving improvements at the Three Oaks
Recreation Area are planned. The Council is requested to approve awarding a
contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, Chicagoland Paving.
The amount for the work is $19,496.
North Shore Drive Drainage Improvement
Adopt Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute
a temporary construction easement granted by the Crystal Lake Park District for
the North Shore Drive Drainage improvement.
The Park District owns a vacant parcel at the southwest corner of East Street and North Shore Drive. This is considered an ideal location for a staging area during the construction of the improvement.
The City and the Park District negotiated a temporary easement so the contractor will have the right to use the parcel to store equipment and material related to the project.
The Park District owns a vacant parcel at the southwest corner of East Street and North Shore Drive. This is considered an ideal location for a staging area during the construction of the improvement.
The City and the Park District negotiated a temporary easement so the contractor will have the right to use the parcel to store equipment and material related to the project.
Words Of Wisdom
"But what do we mean by the American Revolution?
Do we mean the American war? The Revolution was effected before the war
commenced. The Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the people; a change
in their religious sentiments, of their duties and obligations... This radical
change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and affections of the people
was the real American Revolution."
--John Adams,
letter to H. Niles, 1818
Monday, October 1, 2012
Government At Work
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 –
9:00 a.m. –
McHenry County Board—
Meeting in the County Board Room, County
Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Several appointments are to be made by the Board,
including Elna A Hamilton to the McHenry County Housing Authority for a term to
expire June 30, 2013;
Stephen R. Polep and Catherin L. Nash to the Senior
Services Grant Commission for terms to expire October 1, 2014.
A resolution is to be adopted authorizing the construction of an environmentally controlled space in the Evidence Facility with a contract for the construction services with Carmichael Construction.
Along with this action, a resolution is t be adopted authorizing budget line item transfers in the Sheriff’s fiscal year 2012 budget to fund the needed improvement.
A resolution is to be adopted authorizing the construction of an environmentally controlled space in the Evidence Facility with a contract for the construction services with Carmichael Construction.
Along with this action, a resolution is t be adopted authorizing budget line item transfers in the Sheriff’s fiscal year 2012 budget to fund the needed improvement.
West
Entrance of the Courthouse modification.
An additional public entrance to the building is
planned due to the added number of public and employees entering and has caused
delayed admittance. To resolve this, an additional entrance is being
constructed to prevent those entering the building from having to wait in the
outside elements of the weather. The cost is not expected to exceed $50,000.
Increased Daily Room Rates At Valley Hi Nursing Home
Increased Daily Room Rates At Valley Hi Nursing Home
The Board is to consider a Resolution to increase the
room rates at Valley Hi Nursing Home. This is being done following a rate study
which showed that the Valley Hi rate were below market in the surrounding area.
Rates are to be set as follows:
Rates are to be set as follows:
Intermediate Care $210
per day
Skilled I Care $220
per day
Skilled II Care $230
per day
Also for Valley Hi, the Board is being requested to authorize the reclassification of a full time food service assistant into two part time positions at Valley Hi.
Workforce Grants for Dislocated Workers
The Board is to approve the receipt of $37,537 in
Workforce Grants which is used to assist for costs associated with services
provided to the Dislocated Workers from Trade Programs.
Grant For Health Department
Grant For Health Department
A $25,198 grant is provided by the Illinois Department
of Public Health for the development of mitigation strategies to address the
top three hazards t the Public Health and Healthcare system. Part of the fund
will support a regional consultant to develop the mitigation strategies.
County Emergency Operations Plan
County Emergency Operations Plan
The County Board is to approve the 2012 McHenry
County EOP and a copy of it is to be forwarded to the Illinois Emergency
Management Agency as required by state law.
County Board Meeting Dates for 2013.
These are generally the first and third Tuesdays of the month. There is an exception in January when the first Tuesday New Years Day, therefore, the meeting date is moved to Thursday, January 3.
Adopt-A-Highway
County Board Meeting Dates for 2013.
These are generally the first and third Tuesdays of the month. There is an exception in January when the first Tuesday New Years Day, therefore, the meeting date is moved to Thursday, January 3.
Adopt-A-Highway
This program allows volunteer groups to adopt various
sections of county highways for the purpose to clean up litter. Three groups
are being presented for approval including The Eky’s Giving Back, Greenworld
Systems and Vibrance Chiropractic. This program is handled through the McHenry
County Department of Highways.
New Bridge For Charles J. Miller Road
New Bridge For Charles J. Miller Road
The lowest responsible bid is being presented to the
County Board for approval to demolish structures at 405 Emerald Drive, McHenry
Township. These were acquired for the location of a new bridge to be
constructed north of the existing bridge to add capacity over the Fox River.
Bridge Inspection
Bridge Inspection
The Federal Government requires that all bridge
structures including culverts, which have an opening of 20 feet or greater be
inspected at two-year and or four-year intervals. There are 136 structures that
required inspection under the federal law. An engineering service agreement
with Willett Hoffmann & Associates, Inc. for $197,383.54 is to be approved
by the County Board for this inspection work.
Hill Road Township Bridge Project
Board approval is requested for a $96,978.64 added contract to replace a bridge structure on Hill Road in Richmond Township. The contract with Strand Associates, Inc. will now total $247,709.10.
Hill Road Township Bridge Project
Board approval is requested for a $96,978.64 added contract to replace a bridge structure on Hill Road in Richmond Township. The contract with Strand Associates, Inc. will now total $247,709.10.
Words of Wisdom
Words Of Wisdom
"But what do we mean by the American Revolution?
Do we mean the American war? The Revolution was effected before the war
commenced. The Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the people; a change
in their religious sentiments, of their duties and obligations... This radical
change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and affections of the people
was the real American Revolution."
--John Adams,
letter to H. Niles, 1818
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Important Reminder For Upcoming Election
Only properly registered electors may vote at the
November 6 General Election.
Registered voters who have moved from one address to another within the precinct of their residence, MUST NOTIFY the County Clerk, in writing, by signing an application for change of residence or by returning their present voter’s card to the County Clerk’s Office specifying the new address, on or before Tuesday, October 9, 2012.
Registered voters who have moved from one address to another within the precinct of their residence, MUST NOTIFY the County Clerk, in writing, by signing an application for change of residence or by returning their present voter’s card to the County Clerk’s Office specifying the new address, on or before Tuesday, October 9, 2012.
Government And More Government
The State of Oregon has declared war on sustainable
living and self-reliance by criminalizing rainwater collection.
A man who owns 170 acres of land is now being sent to jail and fined over $1500 for the "crime" of "stealing water from the state" by collecting rainwater on his own land!
This is not a joke. It's yet another example of runaway collectivism that is fast spreading across America.
Importantly, if Oregon can claim ownership of the rainwater that falls on your land, the state could also outlaw solar panels by claiming "sunlight photons" are the property of the state, too!
A man who owns 170 acres of land is now being sent to jail and fined over $1500 for the "crime" of "stealing water from the state" by collecting rainwater on his own land!
This is not a joke. It's yet another example of runaway collectivism that is fast spreading across America.
Importantly, if Oregon can claim ownership of the rainwater that falls on your land, the state could also outlaw solar panels by claiming "sunlight photons" are the property of the state, too!
Government At Work
Government At Work—
Monday, October 1 –
8:15 a.m. –McHenry County Board Law and Justice
Committee –
Meeting in the Conference Room, County Administration
Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is expected to discuss a presentation regarding the 22 nd Judicial Court fees.
Two appointments are to be considered for ETSB including John Birk from the McHenry Police Department and Ken Caudle from the Huntley Fire Protection District.
A resolution requesting a Letter of Agreement between McHenry County and the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency for conducting an integrated emergency management course.
A resolution authorizing acceptance elf the 2012 McHenry County Emergency Operations Plan is being presented for approval
The Committee is expected to discuss a presentation regarding the 22 nd Judicial Court fees.
Two appointments are to be considered for ETSB including John Birk from the McHenry Police Department and Ken Caudle from the Huntley Fire Protection District.
A resolution requesting a Letter of Agreement between McHenry County and the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency for conducting an integrated emergency management course.
A resolution authorizing acceptance elf the 2012 McHenry County Emergency Operations Plan is being presented for approval
A resolution authorizing a modification to the West Entrance of the Courthouse and the purchase of additional security equipment for the project is being presented for approval.
A resolution authorizing the construction of an environmentally controlled space in the evidence facility and a contract with Carmichael Construction to provide construction services.
A resolution authorizing a budget line item transfer in the Sheriffs fiscal year 2012 budget to fund the fund the evidence facility improvements.
A resolution authorizing entering into a contract with Correct Care Solutions to provide healthcare for the correctional facility.
A resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation and budget line item transfers in the Coroner’s fiscal year 2012 Special Fund Budget.
A resolution authorizing budget line item transfers between the non-departmental and Coroner’s general fund fiscal year 2012 budgets.
Old business matters include an update on Starcom for the Sheriff’s department; Fox Waterway Agency and Public Safety Fee Legislation and New Dawn Project updates and invoices.
6:00 p.m. – Crystal Lake Ad Hoc Clean Air Counts Advisory Committee -
The Committee was to consider the status of 2012 goals and conduct any necessary discussions However, the meeting has been cancelled.
Mystery Presented At The Colonel Palmer House, Crystal Lake
The Crystal Lake Historical
Society will present Dearly Departed: The Mystery of the Body in the Lake at
the Colonel Palmer House on October 19 and 20. Tickets must be purchased
in advance by phoning (815) 455-1151 or online at www.cl-hs.org.
Colonel Palmer House is located at 660 East Terra Cotta Avenue (Route 176) in
Crystal Lake.
The
script was written by Sandy Price and is based on factual newspaper accounts
detailing a major mystery in the 1920's that gave the local townspeople plenty
to speculate about. A body was found floating in Crystal Lake!! How
did it get there? Who was the victim? Was a crime committed? It was during
this time of prohibition that the underworld, corruption, and sale of bootleg
alcohol became part of our residents' lives--even in McHenry County. Become
part of the story as you move through the historic home and meet with early
20th century residents as they reveal the facts of the matter.
Diana Kenny, President of
the Crystal Lake Historical Society states, “We are encouraging people to
purchase their tickets immediately. This popular event has sold out the
last two years!”
The performances are
scheduled to start every 15 minutes from 6PM-8PM both evenings. Each
performances lasts about 45 minutes. Tickets are $8 for adults and
$5 for seniors (65+) and children under 12.
Preparing For The First 2013 Election
On April 9, 2013 there will be a Consolidated
Election for Crystal Lake Park District Commissioners. Five seats will be up
for election. The length of term is four years (4 seats) and two years (1
seat).
Petition packets can be picked up at the Park District Administrative Office, located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. The filing period is December 17-24, 2012. Candidates must be a resident of the Crystal Lake Park District and have resided in the District for at least one year.
For further information contact Jason Herbster, Executive Director, at 815-459-0680, ext. 203.
Petition packets can be picked up at the Park District Administrative Office, located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. The filing period is December 17-24, 2012. Candidates must be a resident of the Crystal Lake Park District and have resided in the District for at least one year.
For further information contact Jason Herbster, Executive Director, at 815-459-0680, ext. 203.
Words Of Wisdom
"What is to be the consequence, in case the
Congress shall misconstrue this part [the necessary and proper clause] of the
Constitution and exercise powers not warranted by its true meaning, I answer
the same as if they should misconstrue or enlarge any other power vested in
them ... the success of the usurpation will depend on the executive and
judiciary departments, which are to expound and give effect to the legislative
acts; and in a last resort a remedy must be obtained from the people, who can
by the elections of more faithful representatives, annul the acts of the
usurpers."
--James Madison, Federalist No. 44, 1788
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