"[T]here is a degree of depravity in mankind
which requires a certain degree of circumspection and distrust."
--James Madison
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Friday, November 16, 2012
MCC Concert Band And Chorus Presentation Sunday
The second in a series of
Sunday concerts will take place at McHenry County College on Sunday in the
Luecht Conference Cener, at MCC, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake.
The MCC Concert Band and Chorus will present their Fall Concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, These continuously-growing student ensembles will present a variety of music. Video clips from past concerts can be found at www.youtube.com/musicmchenry
The MCC Concert Band and Chorus will present their Fall Concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, These continuously-growing student ensembles will present a variety of music. Video clips from past concerts can be found at www.youtube.com/musicmchenry
Walkup Road Construction Update
North Leg:
Curb installation has been completed
and backfilling has started. Asphalt widening placement will start next
week, followed by pavement profile grinding to level the surface in
anticipation of binder placement across the entire roadway shortly after Thanksgiving.
Landscape restoration will follow the asphalt work.
South Leg:
Storm sewer work continues on IL Rte
176 and Walkup at the Northwest corner. Fine grading and stone base placement
from Burning Bush Trail to Talismon Drive has started. Curb placement is
scheduled for next week. Curb placement will be followed by asphalt
placement. The wall along Veteran Acres is proceeding w/ the concrete
facing being placed.
Please be alert and watch for workers and equipment
Time To Prepare For Spring Baseball
Spring is in the air -- at least for the McHenry
Youth Sports Association.
It’s time to prepare for the next season.
A meeting is taking place at 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 19 at the Crystal Lake Park District office , One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. (South east corner of Crystal Lake Avenue and Walkup Avenue)
The meeting is expected to begin at 7:00 p.m. sharp and last no longer than to 8:30 p.m.
This meeting is for organization board presidents and members, as well as anyone interested in the organization which provides activities for youth 11 through 15 years of age.
Matters to be covered include the Nations Baseball affiliation, pre-tournament activities, tournament format, host organization responsibilities, timelines/deadlines, volunteer requirements and other items.
This is an important meeting and imperative that organization presidents and age group managers be present. All others are also welcome to attend.
It’s time to prepare for the next season.
A meeting is taking place at 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 19 at the Crystal Lake Park District office , One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake. (South east corner of Crystal Lake Avenue and Walkup Avenue)
The meeting is expected to begin at 7:00 p.m. sharp and last no longer than to 8:30 p.m.
This meeting is for organization board presidents and members, as well as anyone interested in the organization which provides activities for youth 11 through 15 years of age.
Matters to be covered include the Nations Baseball affiliation, pre-tournament activities, tournament format, host organization responsibilities, timelines/deadlines, volunteer requirements and other items.
This is an important meeting and imperative that organization presidents and age group managers be present. All others are also welcome to attend.
Words Of Wisdom
"I am commonly opposed to those who modestly
assume the rank of champions of liberty, and make a very patriotic noise about
the people. It is the stale artifice which has duped the world a thousand
times, and yet, though detected, it is still successful. I love liberty as well
as anybody. I am proud of it, as the true title of our people to distinction
above others; but...I would guard it by making the laws strong enough to
protect it."
--Fisher Ames, letter to George Richard Minot, 1789
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Rakow Road Update
The new traffic signals at IL 31 will be turned on
Friday, November 16th.
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area! Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary to permanent ones.
Please be alert and look for the new signals! As a reminder, the work zone speed limit will remain at 35 mph through Friday, November 16th as work continues along the project!
Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area! Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary to permanent ones.
Please be alert and look for the new signals! As a reminder, the work zone speed limit will remain at 35 mph through Friday, November 16th as work continues along the project!
Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
Government At Work -- Friday
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 –
8:15 a.m. – McHenry County Board Public
Health and Human Services Committee—
Meeting in the County Board
Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Committee will be considering a resolution to designate Groot Industries as the Exclusive Collector of Solid Waste, Recyclables and Yard Waste in certain areas of Unincorporated McHenry County (Wonder Lake and Pistakee Highlands)
The Committee will be considering a resolution to designate Groot Industries as the Exclusive Collector of Solid Waste, Recyclables and Yard Waste in certain areas of Unincorporated McHenry County (Wonder Lake and Pistakee Highlands)
A second resolution
for consideration concerns a proposition to the voters in the spring elections
to levy and tax for providing facilities for the Developmentally Disabled .This
would be included on the April 9, 2013
Consolidated Election Ballot.
The proposed Resolution for the County Board’s approval lists a not to exceed .1% tax rate for the proposed tax.
Other matters the Committee is expected to consider include a discussing on the NACo Rx Drug Card Program Communication Strategy and the 2012 McHenry County Labor Report.
The proposed Resolution for the County Board’s approval lists a not to exceed .1% tax rate for the proposed tax.
Other matters the Committee is expected to consider include a discussing on the NACo Rx Drug Card Program Communication Strategy and the 2012 McHenry County Labor Report.
9:00 a.m. – Hearings
Before McHenry County Zoning Hearing Officer
Meeting in the County Board Conference
Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
Scarpinato - McHenry Twp - R1-R1V
Scarpinato - McHenry Twp - R1-R1V
Variation to allow a shed to be located in the front yard, and to
allow a side-yard setback of eight feet instead of the required ten-foot
setback along the south property line, and to allow a front yard setback of
eleven feet instead of the required thirty-foot setback along the west property
line.
Komisaruk - Algonquin Twp - R1-R1V
Variation to allow a front yard setback of 18.47 feet instead of
the required 30-foot setback; and to allow a two-foot, seven-inch (2'7")
separation distance between the detached garage and the residence, instead of
the required five-foot minimum separation distance.
Improvements Begin For Charles J. Miller Road
The McHenry County Division of Transportation is
announcing the start of construction on Phase 1 of the Charles J. Miller Road
Improvement Project.
\The Charles J. Miller Road project generally consists of widening Miller Road from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane roadway with dedicated turn lanes from Illinois Route 31 east to River Road and construction of an additional bridge north of the existing bridge over the Fox River. Due to the complexity of the project and overall readiness, the project has been split into separate phases for construction.
Phase 1 of the Miller Road project will begin near the entrance to the City of McHenry’s Water Treatment Plant approximately 1300’ east of Green Street and continue east to River Road. A new 2-lane bridge will be constructed over the Fox River to supplement the existing bridge so that 2 traffic lanes in each direction are provided over the river. Also as part of Phase 1, a pedestrian/bikepath will be built along the south side of Miller Road providing a connection to the Moraine Hills State Park. Improvements to River Road will also extend approximately a ½ mile north and south of Miller Road improving the operation of that intersection. New modern traffic signals will be installed at the River Road intersection with Miller Road. Phase 1 of the Miller Road project is anticipated to be completed by October 15, 2013. The cost for this first phase is approximately $12 million.
Phase 2 of the Miller Road project starts at the west end of Phase I and extends west through Illinois Route 31. The project will also include improvements to the Miller Road/Bull Valley Road intersection with Illinois Route 31. Just as with Miller Road, Illinois Route 31 will also be widened to provide two lanes of traffic in each direction with dual left turn and right turn lanes on all legs of the intersection. Phase 2 will extend approximately a 1/3 mile north and south of Miller Road along Illinois Route 31. Phase 2 of the Miller Road widening project is anticipated to begin in 2014/2015 pending project readiness.
To learn more about the project, ask questions, and follow the progress of the project, visit the project website at www.charlesmillerroad.com where you can sign up for email updates. You can also connect with us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charles-Miller-Road-Improvement-Project/247800808679001 or follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/CharlesMillerRo.
\The Charles J. Miller Road project generally consists of widening Miller Road from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane roadway with dedicated turn lanes from Illinois Route 31 east to River Road and construction of an additional bridge north of the existing bridge over the Fox River. Due to the complexity of the project and overall readiness, the project has been split into separate phases for construction.
Phase 1 of the Miller Road project will begin near the entrance to the City of McHenry’s Water Treatment Plant approximately 1300’ east of Green Street and continue east to River Road. A new 2-lane bridge will be constructed over the Fox River to supplement the existing bridge so that 2 traffic lanes in each direction are provided over the river. Also as part of Phase 1, a pedestrian/bikepath will be built along the south side of Miller Road providing a connection to the Moraine Hills State Park. Improvements to River Road will also extend approximately a ½ mile north and south of Miller Road improving the operation of that intersection. New modern traffic signals will be installed at the River Road intersection with Miller Road. Phase 1 of the Miller Road project is anticipated to be completed by October 15, 2013. The cost for this first phase is approximately $12 million.
Phase 2 of the Miller Road project starts at the west end of Phase I and extends west through Illinois Route 31. The project will also include improvements to the Miller Road/Bull Valley Road intersection with Illinois Route 31. Just as with Miller Road, Illinois Route 31 will also be widened to provide two lanes of traffic in each direction with dual left turn and right turn lanes on all legs of the intersection. Phase 2 will extend approximately a 1/3 mile north and south of Miller Road along Illinois Route 31. Phase 2 of the Miller Road widening project is anticipated to begin in 2014/2015 pending project readiness.
To learn more about the project, ask questions, and follow the progress of the project, visit the project website at www.charlesmillerroad.com where you can sign up for email updates. You can also connect with us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charles-Miller-Road-Improvement-Project/247800808679001 or follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/CharlesMillerRo.
Words Of Wisdom
"Honor, justice, and humanity, forbid us tamely
to surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors, and
which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We cannot endure
the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that wretchedness
which inevitably awaits them if we basely entail hereditary bondage on
them."
--Thomas Jefferson (Declaration of Causes and
Necessity of Taking up Arms, July 6, 1775)
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Government At Work
THURSDAY,
NOVEMBER 15 –
8:30
a.m. – McHenry County Board Planning and Development Committee -
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is to consider authorizing additional Community Development Block Grant Funding Allocations for several projects.
Also for consideration by the Committee is a r esolution adopting a sub-area plan for Waterfront Neighborhoods Titled: "A Zoning Approach for McHenry County's Unincorporated Waterfront Neighborhoods”.
1:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board Planning and Development Committee and the Zoning Board of Appeals –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is to consider authorizing additional Community Development Block Grant Funding Allocations for several projects.
Also for consideration by the Committee is a r esolution adopting a sub-area plan for Waterfront Neighborhoods Titled: "A Zoning Approach for McHenry County's Unincorporated Waterfront Neighborhoods”.
1:00 p.m. – McHenry County Board Planning and Development Committee and the Zoning Board of Appeals –
Meeting
in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware
Road, Woodstock.
Both groups are meeting to review Article 19 of the Draft Unified Development Ordinance.
6:00 p.m. McHenry County Board Solid Waste Advisory Committee & Environmental Health Advisory Committee—
Both groups are meeting to review Article 19 of the Draft Unified Development Ordinance.
6:00 p.m. McHenry County Board Solid Waste Advisory Committee & Environmental Health Advisory Committee—
Meeting
in the County Board Conference Room, County Administration Building, 667 Ware
Road, Woodstock.
The Committees are to consider the solid waste survey results as well as the status of solid waste management planning process.
New Business to be considered includes group discussion as well as specific goals and objectives along with strategies and potential funding sources for meeting goals.
The Committees are to consider the solid waste survey results as well as the status of solid waste management planning process.
New Business to be considered includes group discussion as well as specific goals and objectives along with strategies and potential funding sources for meeting goals.
7:30 p.m. – Crystal Lake Park District Board of
Commissioners—
Meeting in the Park District Administrative Offices,
One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake.
In addition to the routine matters handled by the board regarding payment of bills, approving facilities use requests by groups, the Board will be considering $7,019,085,000 in funds for the tax levy as well as additional engineering services for Veteran Acres parking lot and emergency driveway project.
In addition to the routine matters handled by the board regarding payment of bills, approving facilities use requests by groups, the Board will be considering $7,019,085,000 in funds for the tax levy as well as additional engineering services for Veteran Acres parking lot and emergency driveway project.
Peace Activist Speaks At MCC Tomorrow
Join us tomorrow evening to welcome Kathy Kelly at
MCC.
Student Peace Action Network presents:
“The Cost of War, the Price of Peace” with guest speaker Peace Activist Kathy Kelly.
Thursday November 15th 2012, 7:00 p.m. McHenry County College Luecht Conference center.
Peace activist Kathy Kelly is returning from her 9th visit to Afghanistan. Kathy and her companions have also lived in Baghdad throughout the 2003 “Shock and Awe” bombing and alongside people during warfare in Gaza, Lebanon, Bosnia and Nicaragua. Join us as Kathy tells of her experiences in war torn countries and brings her message of peace to us.
Also learn about the duvet project. All donations go to women making duvets and they in turn give to families in refugee camps who need them to warm against the winter cold that killed 100 children last year in Afghanistan.
Student Peace Action Network presents:
“The Cost of War, the Price of Peace” with guest speaker Peace Activist Kathy Kelly.
Thursday November 15th 2012, 7:00 p.m. McHenry County College Luecht Conference center.
Peace activist Kathy Kelly is returning from her 9th visit to Afghanistan. Kathy and her companions have also lived in Baghdad throughout the 2003 “Shock and Awe” bombing and alongside people during warfare in Gaza, Lebanon, Bosnia and Nicaragua. Join us as Kathy tells of her experiences in war torn countries and brings her message of peace to us.
Also learn about the duvet project. All donations go to women making duvets and they in turn give to families in refugee camps who need them to warm against the winter cold that killed 100 children last year in Afghanistan.
New Traffic Signals For Pyott, Virginia And Pingree Intersections
The new traffic
signals at the Pyott, Virginia and Pingree intersections will be turned on
Thursday, November 15th.
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area!
Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary to permanent ones. Please be alert and look for the new signals!
As a reminder, the work zone speed limit will remain at 35 mph through Friday, November 16th as work continues along the project!
Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area!
Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary to permanent ones. Please be alert and look for the new signals!
As a reminder, the work zone speed limit will remain at 35 mph through Friday, November 16th as work continues along the project!
Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
It's In The Mail--Opportunities For Fun And Recreation
Crystal Lake residents should look for the
winter/spring 2012-2013 Crystal Lake Park District program brochure in the mail
beginning the week of November 19.
Registration for park district residents will begin immediately upon receipt of the brochure and registration for non-residents will begin on November 26.
Registration is accepted at the Park District Administrative Office located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, during regular business hours, by mail, by fax, or online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Please call the Crystal Lake Park District at (815) 459-0680, ext. 212, if you are a Crystal Lake resident and do not receive your brochure in the mail. All Crystal Lake residents residing in the 60014 and 60012 zip codes should receive a brochure in this mailing.
In addition to the Administrative Office at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, brochures are available at Grand Oaks Recreation Center, the Crystal Lake Public Library and the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.
the winter/spring brochure will also be available on November 19 as an interactive PDF online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Registration for park district residents will begin immediately upon receipt of the brochure and registration for non-residents will begin on November 26.
Registration is accepted at the Park District Administrative Office located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, during regular business hours, by mail, by fax, or online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Please call the Crystal Lake Park District at (815) 459-0680, ext. 212, if you are a Crystal Lake resident and do not receive your brochure in the mail. All Crystal Lake residents residing in the 60014 and 60012 zip codes should receive a brochure in this mailing.
In addition to the Administrative Office at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, brochures are available at Grand Oaks Recreation Center, the Crystal Lake Public Library and the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.
the winter/spring brochure will also be available on November 19 as an interactive PDF online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Words Of Wisdom
"They define a republic to be a government of
laws, and not of men." –
-John Adams, Novanglus No. 7, 1775
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Calling All Prospective College Students Including Adults
McHenry County College invites all prospective adult
students, as well as high school juniors, seniors and their parents to attend
the College’s annual open house event, called MCC Night. The two-hour event
will take place on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on the main
campus in Building B and the Gym/Multi-purpose Room.
MCC Night 2012 is the community’s opportunity to learn more about what McHenry County College has to offer in financial aid support, student life and athletics, and career counseling, as well as meet instructors and collect information about more than 40 college programs and degree opportunities.
Featured programs include culinary management, nursing, graphic arts, robotics and a variety of transfer degree programs, along with cooking, automotive, art and science demonstrations.. In addition, current high school students can hear about MCC’s High School Plus program for earning college credit while still in high school.
“MCC students do as well as or better than non-transfer students at Illinois state universities,” said Kellie Carper, supervisor of New Student Transitions. “Come check out what MCC has to offer, and get to know your community college.”
Adults who are interested in returning to college to earn a new degree or enhance their current skills, and those who wish to take personal enrichment and community education classes, are also highly encouraged to attend MCC Night.
MCC Night is free and open to the public. No registration is required. During this event only, the application fee will be waived for all high school seniors and prospective adult students who apply to MCC onsite for the Fall 2013 semester.
Refreshments and entertainment will also be provided. The College is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake. For more information, visit www.mchenry.edu/mccnight, or contact Kellie Carper at (815) 455-8670
MCC Night 2012 is the community’s opportunity to learn more about what McHenry County College has to offer in financial aid support, student life and athletics, and career counseling, as well as meet instructors and collect information about more than 40 college programs and degree opportunities.
Featured programs include culinary management, nursing, graphic arts, robotics and a variety of transfer degree programs, along with cooking, automotive, art and science demonstrations.. In addition, current high school students can hear about MCC’s High School Plus program for earning college credit while still in high school.
“MCC students do as well as or better than non-transfer students at Illinois state universities,” said Kellie Carper, supervisor of New Student Transitions. “Come check out what MCC has to offer, and get to know your community college.”
Adults who are interested in returning to college to earn a new degree or enhance their current skills, and those who wish to take personal enrichment and community education classes, are also highly encouraged to attend MCC Night.
MCC Night is free and open to the public. No registration is required. During this event only, the application fee will be waived for all high school seniors and prospective adult students who apply to MCC onsite for the Fall 2013 semester.
Refreshments and entertainment will also be provided. The College is located at 8900 U.S. Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake. For more information, visit www.mchenry.edu/mccnight, or contact Kellie Carper at (815) 455-8670
Government At Work
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14—
8:30 a.m. – McHenry County Board Natural
and Environmental Resources Committee –
Meeting in the County Board
Conference Room, County administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock.
The Committee is to consider an ordinance designating the exclusive collector of solid waste, recyclables and yard waste in certain areas of unincorporated McHenry County.
Also for consideration is a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental Agreement between the County and the McHenry-Lake County Soil and Water Consideration District for obtaining wetland services
A Committee letter to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) regarding proposed post development stormwater runoff standards is to be considered.
The topic of McCOG Water/Drought Workshop is also to be discussed.
6:00 p.m. – High School District 155 Board Finance Committee--
Meeting in the Center For Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake,.
The Committee is to consider an ordinance designating the exclusive collector of solid waste, recyclables and yard waste in certain areas of unincorporated McHenry County.
Also for consideration is a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental Agreement between the County and the McHenry-Lake County Soil and Water Consideration District for obtaining wetland services
A Committee letter to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) regarding proposed post development stormwater runoff standards is to be considered.
The topic of McCOG Water/Drought Workshop is also to be discussed.
6:00 p.m. – High School District 155 Board Finance Committee--
Meeting in the Center For Education, One South Virginia Road, Crystal Lake,.
New Traffic Signals Operating Tomorrow At Ackman and McHenry
The new traffic signals at
the Ackman and McHenry intersection will be turned on Wednesday, November
14th.
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area! Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary ones to the permanent ones.
Please be alert and look for the new signals! Other intersections to the east will follow shortly. Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
Once operational, the barrels and barricades will be removed from the pavement to allow the roadway to be fully opened to traffic in this area! Expect some delays as this work is done and the signals are transitioned from the temporary ones to the permanent ones.
Please be alert and look for the new signals! Other intersections to the east will follow shortly. Thanks for your continued patience as we near the completion of this important project!
Crystal Lake Park District Winter-Spring Brochures Coming
Crystal Lake residents should look for the
winter/spring 2012-2013 Crystal Lake Park District program brochure in the mail
beginning the week of November 19.
Registration for park district residents will begin immediately upon receipt of the brochure and registration for non-residents will begin on November 26. Registration is accepted at the Park District Administrative Office located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, during regular business hours, by mail, by fax, or online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Registration for park district residents will begin immediately upon receipt of the brochure and registration for non-residents will begin on November 26. Registration is accepted at the Park District Administrative Office located at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake, during regular business hours, by mail, by fax, or online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Please call the Crystal Lake Park District at (815)
459-0680, ext. 212, if you are a Crystal Lake resident and do not receive your
brochure in the mail. All Crystal Lake residents residing in the 60014
and 60012 zip codes should receive a brochure in this mailing.
In addition to the Administrative Office at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, brochures are available at Grand Oaks Recreation Center, the Crystal Lake Public Library and the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.
The winter/spring brochure will also be available on November 19 as an interactive PDF online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
In addition to the Administrative Office at One East Crystal Lake Avenue, brochures are available at Grand Oaks Recreation Center, the Crystal Lake Public Library and the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.
The winter/spring brochure will also be available on November 19 as an interactive PDF online at www.crystallakeparks.org.
Take A Little Trip To Chicago For Christmas Musical
Avoid the hassle of ordering tickets and travelling
to downtown Chicago to us!
The Crystal Lake Park District has a special opportunity for a small group to travel to the Cadillac Palace Theater in Chicago for 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas-The Musical'. Limited space is available and all ages are welcome!
Wednesday, December 5, 10 am-6 pm, $55 per person
Transportation by Park District Shuttle from Park Place (406 W. Woodstock St, Crystal Lake)
Register online http://www.crystallakeparks.org/ for program code #5207-0.
For further information please contact Recreation Supervisor, Jenni Silka at (815) 459-0680 ext. 219, or via email at jsilka@crystallakeparks.org
The Crystal Lake Park District has a special opportunity for a small group to travel to the Cadillac Palace Theater in Chicago for 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas-The Musical'. Limited space is available and all ages are welcome!
Wednesday, December 5, 10 am-6 pm, $55 per person
Transportation by Park District Shuttle from Park Place (406 W. Woodstock St, Crystal Lake)
Register online http://www.crystallakeparks.org/ for program code #5207-0.
For further information please contact Recreation Supervisor, Jenni Silka at (815) 459-0680 ext. 219, or via email at jsilka@crystallakeparks.org
Words Of Wisdom
"I have sworn upon the altar of God, eternal
hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man."
--Thomas Jefferson
Successful Fundraiser For The Arts
On Saturday, November 3, Mayor Aaron Shepley,
Senator Pamela Althoff, Representative Michael Tryon and McHenry County State’s
Attorney Louis Bianchi joined on stage for Raue Center For The Arts’ Stargazers
Ball 2012.
The theatre’s largest annual fundraising gala raised an impressive $40,000 to support to help reduce Raue Center’s current long-term needs – like their $1.8 million dollar mortgage – that directly impact operational needs for programs like Mission Imagination and Williams Street Repertory.
The arts were alive and thriving as the night kicked off with a live auction hosted by special guest auctioneer Mayor Aaron Shepley. Williams Street Repertory also performed a lively medley pulled from past shows’ work. The 150 guests later enjoyed signature cocktails and gourmet food from local restaurateurs 1776, Le Petit Marche and Two Tails, and danced until 1:00 am to sweet sounds of the WS Rep House Band featuring Dave Radford.
Raue Center would like to thank the Honorary Committee, the Stargazers Committee led by Patricia Petrouski and the Board of Directors who worked tirelessly putting together this spectacular event.
A BIG thank you is also due to the lead event sponsor BMO Harris Bank for their support, as well as the other event sponsors Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Countryside Flower Shop and Garden Center, Dalzell Jewelers, EISENMANN, Market Financial Group, Northwest Herald and Sage Products, Inc., without whom this event would not have been possible!
The Stargazers Honorary Committee members are Senator Pamela Althoff, Dee Beaubien, Steve and Sandra Pierce, Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley and his wife Regan, Steve and Leann Slack and Representative Michael Tryon and his wife Kathy.
The theatre’s largest annual fundraising gala raised an impressive $40,000 to support to help reduce Raue Center’s current long-term needs – like their $1.8 million dollar mortgage – that directly impact operational needs for programs like Mission Imagination and Williams Street Repertory.
The arts were alive and thriving as the night kicked off with a live auction hosted by special guest auctioneer Mayor Aaron Shepley. Williams Street Repertory also performed a lively medley pulled from past shows’ work. The 150 guests later enjoyed signature cocktails and gourmet food from local restaurateurs 1776, Le Petit Marche and Two Tails, and danced until 1:00 am to sweet sounds of the WS Rep House Band featuring Dave Radford.
Raue Center would like to thank the Honorary Committee, the Stargazers Committee led by Patricia Petrouski and the Board of Directors who worked tirelessly putting together this spectacular event.
A BIG thank you is also due to the lead event sponsor BMO Harris Bank for their support, as well as the other event sponsors Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Countryside Flower Shop and Garden Center, Dalzell Jewelers, EISENMANN, Market Financial Group, Northwest Herald and Sage Products, Inc., without whom this event would not have been possible!
The Stargazers Honorary Committee members are Senator Pamela Althoff, Dee Beaubien, Steve and Sandra Pierce, Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley and his wife Regan, Steve and Leann Slack and Representative Michael Tryon and his wife Kathy.
A Helping Hand From Law Enforcement
This story was found on some of the “alternative media” I scope
By Madison Ruppert
A family in Beach Park, Illinois underwent a strange
series of events after a mysterious package, allegedly containing marijuana,
was delivered to their home.
A mere 10 minutes after the package, which was not actually addressed to anyone in the family, was delivered, police broke down the front door and confronted the family with guns drawn.
Unfortunately, police raiding the wrong home is far from rare although I guess we can be grateful that no one was killed in the botched drug raid which actually never turned up anything illicit.
The Lake County News-Sun reported that Paul Brown, a 58-year-old architect, was in the basement of his home when a “huge noise” drew him upstairs where he was swiftly met with a gun in his face.
According to Brown, he was handcuffed and placed on a chair with a gun still pointed at his face. “They wouldn’t tell us why they were there,” he said, referring to the police.
Only after the fact was Brown able to piece together what actually happened. “A package was delivered, it was about 18 inches by 18 inches 22 to 24 inches tall, by a postal inspector and was accepted outside the open garage by Brown’s son-in-law, Wilmer Aries, 28, who is married to his daughter Ericka, 23, who also live in the home,” the News-Sun reported.
Brown said that Aries then brought the package inside the house, placing it in the foyer. Brown never actually saw the package but Aries said it was addressed to a completely different house.
To make matters even worse, the search warrant address listed Brown’s house as in Waukegan when in reality it is in Beach Park. Brown also said he thought the package was addressed to someone name Oscar with a different last name.
Only 10 minutes after the package was accepted, police officers from the Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG) “smashed in the front door and began ransacking the house, even pulling out insulation in the basement,” according to the News-Sun.
“They crashed things, they smashed things,” Brown recalled. “You couldn’t walk into a room because everything from the drawers was thrown around and emptied onto the floor.”
According to Brown, it was completely unnecessary for the police to break down his door in the first place.
“The garage door was open. They could have just walked in,” he said. Brown said that the search turned up no drugs whatsoever and the police took the box – allegedly containing marijuana – with them.
It is not all that surprising to learn that the calls placed by the News-Sun to the Metropolitan Enforcement Group were never returned. It is also not shocking, but still troubling to learn that the Metropolitan Enforcement Group hasn’t returned Brown’s calls either.
Brown was clearly disturbed by the incident beyond just wondering who is going to pay for his door valued at $3,000 12 years ago along with the $130 lock set.
“It’s pretty shadowy and pretty bizarre for us,” Brown said, referring to the incident which lasted a whopping two hours starting around 4 p.m. “I was terrified. My chest was hurting and I am a diabetic and prone to heart attacks.”
To add insult to injury, Brown said that the officers were high-fiving and fist-bumping each other as they were tracking the shattered glass from his front door around the house.
Brown also said that his 77-year-old mother-in-law was in the kitchen when the raid happened and the police opted to give her the search warrant to read instead of actually giving it to Brown. “I was basically held hostage,” said Brown, while adding that his family is “not hard to investigate.”
“They were upset they didn’t find anything. When I asked them who was going to pay for the door they basically said, ‘Not us’,” said Brown.
I hate to say it but I really wouldn’t be all that surprised if Brown never was reimbursed and never even received an apology from the police. After all, they didn’t kill any pets or family members so he should be grateful, right?
Note from End the Lie: Please support our work and help us start to pay contributors by doing your shopping through our Amazon link or check out some must-have products at our store.
A mere 10 minutes after the package, which was not actually addressed to anyone in the family, was delivered, police broke down the front door and confronted the family with guns drawn.
Unfortunately, police raiding the wrong home is far from rare although I guess we can be grateful that no one was killed in the botched drug raid which actually never turned up anything illicit.
The Lake County News-Sun reported that Paul Brown, a 58-year-old architect, was in the basement of his home when a “huge noise” drew him upstairs where he was swiftly met with a gun in his face.
According to Brown, he was handcuffed and placed on a chair with a gun still pointed at his face. “They wouldn’t tell us why they were there,” he said, referring to the police.
Only after the fact was Brown able to piece together what actually happened. “A package was delivered, it was about 18 inches by 18 inches 22 to 24 inches tall, by a postal inspector and was accepted outside the open garage by Brown’s son-in-law, Wilmer Aries, 28, who is married to his daughter Ericka, 23, who also live in the home,” the News-Sun reported.
Brown said that Aries then brought the package inside the house, placing it in the foyer. Brown never actually saw the package but Aries said it was addressed to a completely different house.
To make matters even worse, the search warrant address listed Brown’s house as in Waukegan when in reality it is in Beach Park. Brown also said he thought the package was addressed to someone name Oscar with a different last name.
Only 10 minutes after the package was accepted, police officers from the Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG) “smashed in the front door and began ransacking the house, even pulling out insulation in the basement,” according to the News-Sun.
“They crashed things, they smashed things,” Brown recalled. “You couldn’t walk into a room because everything from the drawers was thrown around and emptied onto the floor.”
According to Brown, it was completely unnecessary for the police to break down his door in the first place.
“The garage door was open. They could have just walked in,” he said. Brown said that the search turned up no drugs whatsoever and the police took the box – allegedly containing marijuana – with them.
It is not all that surprising to learn that the calls placed by the News-Sun to the Metropolitan Enforcement Group were never returned. It is also not shocking, but still troubling to learn that the Metropolitan Enforcement Group hasn’t returned Brown’s calls either.
Brown was clearly disturbed by the incident beyond just wondering who is going to pay for his door valued at $3,000 12 years ago along with the $130 lock set.
“It’s pretty shadowy and pretty bizarre for us,” Brown said, referring to the incident which lasted a whopping two hours starting around 4 p.m. “I was terrified. My chest was hurting and I am a diabetic and prone to heart attacks.”
To add insult to injury, Brown said that the officers were high-fiving and fist-bumping each other as they were tracking the shattered glass from his front door around the house.
Brown also said that his 77-year-old mother-in-law was in the kitchen when the raid happened and the police opted to give her the search warrant to read instead of actually giving it to Brown. “I was basically held hostage,” said Brown, while adding that his family is “not hard to investigate.”
“They were upset they didn’t find anything. When I asked them who was going to pay for the door they basically said, ‘Not us’,” said Brown.
I hate to say it but I really wouldn’t be all that surprised if Brown never was reimbursed and never even received an apology from the police. After all, they didn’t kill any pets or family members so he should be grateful, right?
Note from End the Lie: Please support our work and help us start to pay contributors by doing your shopping through our Amazon link or check out some must-have products at our store.
Government At Work
TUESDAY,
NOVEMBER 13 –
8:30A.M. –McHenry County Board Human Resources
Committee –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County
Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock
The Committee is to consider several resolutions including one authorizing an adjustment to the job classification structure in the County’s Job Evaluation/Classification System.
A second resolution is regarding a contract agreement between the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150, Facilities Management Department and the County of McHenry.
A third resolution is authorizing a new full-time veterans service officer position in the Veterans Assistance Commission Departmental Roster and an adjustment to the Veterans Assistance Fiscal Year 2013 Draft Budget.
9:30 A.M. –McHenry County Board Finance and Audit Committee –
The Committee is to consider several resolutions including one authorizing an adjustment to the job classification structure in the County’s Job Evaluation/Classification System.
A second resolution is regarding a contract agreement between the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 150, Facilities Management Department and the County of McHenry.
A third resolution is authorizing a new full-time veterans service officer position in the Veterans Assistance Commission Departmental Roster and an adjustment to the Veterans Assistance Fiscal Year 2013 Draft Budget.
9:30 A.M. –McHenry County Board Finance and Audit Committee –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County
Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock
The Committee is to consider 12 Resolutions for approval including the three being considered by the Human Resources Committee. Additional resolutions for consideration by the Finance and Audit Committee deal with the agreement between the municipalities of Crystal Lake, McHenry and Woodstock and the County regarding Dial-A-Ride service.
Other resolutions to be considered include:
The Committee is to consider 12 Resolutions for approval including the three being considered by the Human Resources Committee. Additional resolutions for consideration by the Finance and Audit Committee deal with the agreement between the municipalities of Crystal Lake, McHenry and Woodstock and the County regarding Dial-A-Ride service.
Other resolutions to be considered include:
- Resolution for Engineering Services Agreement for Contract 1 of the Charles J. Miller Road Construction project;
- Resolution related to engineering services agreement amendment for Illinois Route 31 Western Algonquin Bypass Project;
- Resolution Allocating Funding for MCRide Transit Services in 2013
- Resolution Approving an Engineering Services Agreement Supplement and Appropriating Funds for the Johnsburg Road Project
- Resolution to Accept the HIV Grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health and to Make an Adjustment to the Health Department's Fiscal Year 2013 Proposed Budget
- Resolution Accepting the Dental Needs Assessment Grant from the Illinois Children's Healthcare Foundation and Authorizing an Adjustment to the Dental Care Clinic's Fiscal Year 2013 Proposed Budget
- Resolution Authorizing The Acceptance of the 2012 State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP) Award And An Adjustment To The Sheriff's Fiscal Year 2013 Proposed Budget
- Request for a modification of an existing Revolving Loan from Heartland Computers, Inc.
- Resolution
Authorizing A New Full Time Veterans Service Officer Position in the
Veterans Assistance Commission Departmental Roster and an Adjustment to
the Veterans Assistance Fiscal Year 2013 Draft Budget
Consideration of FY2012 Budget Adjustments
Also to be considered by the Committee is the Annual Budget and
Appropriations Ordinance for the County of McHenry Illinois, for the Fiscal Year
December 1, A.D., 2012 through November 30, A.D., 2013.
11:00 A.M. – McHenry County Board Liquor and License Committee –
Meeting in the County Board Conference Room, County
Administration Building, 667 Ware Road, Woodstock
The Committee is to consider a raffle permit request for Pets in Need as well as any other matters to be brought before the Committee.
The Committee is to consider a raffle permit request for Pets in Need as well as any other matters to be brought before the Committee.
7:00 p.m. – Lakewood Village Board—
Meeting in the RedTail Golf Club, 7900 RedTail Drive,
Lakewood.
In addition to the regular matters to be handled by the
Board including payment of bills the agenda calls for approval by the Board of
an agreement with Draper and Kramer, Inc. to conduct an analysis to determine
the feasibility of a New Municipal Complex. The cost is to be not less than
$30,000 nor more than $50,000.
The board is also to approve a resolution stating the estimated Tax Levy for 2012.
The board is also to approve a resolution stating the estimated Tax Levy for 2012.
The Board is also to consider approval of an ordinance
approving a budget amendment for fiscal year 2012-2013.
Other matters for consideration by the Board includes
the payment of bills for the Village as well as for RedTail Golf Club
Monday, November 12, 2012
McHenry County Budget On Display
The McHenry County Board Fiscal Year 2013 (FY13), will begin on
December 1, 2012. The budget is anticipated to be adopted at the County Board’s
evening meeting on Tuesday, November 20. Highlights of the proposed FY13 Budget
are noted below.
· In
developing the FY13 Budget, McHenry County maintained the professional, conservative
approach to budgeting that earned an Aaa bond rating from Moody’s Investor
Services. McHenry County is one of only
three counties in Illinois (also Lake & DuPage) to have earned in this
distinction.
·
The
McHenry County Board directed staff not to capture the allowable inflationary
growth in the property tax extension.
The County is collecting $2.3 million less than is allowable under tax
cap law.
·
The
proposed FY13 Budget is $252,079,699. This
compares to the current FY12 Budget which was approved at $256,714,170.
·
In developing the FY13 Budget, the County is
responding to a revenue environment that continues to be challenging with a
corresponding control on expenses.
o
There
are no dramatic cuts to services, but as in recent years, there are adjustments
and reductions in almost all areas of County Government.
o
The
proposed FY13 Budget maintains compensation parity between union and non-union
employees.
o
Through
an active management of the employee roster, there are 83 positions that have
now been eliminated since 2009 and 19 positions have been added to the roster
through consolidation and rethinking responsibilities. The result is 64 fewer positions than three
years ago.
A copy of the proposed McHenry County FY13 Budget can be found in
the County Clerk’s Office or on the County website at www.co.mchenry.il.us under “Quick Links”. For
more information, please contact John Labaj at 815-334-4924 or jwlabaj@co.mchenry.il.us.
Cholesterol Screening Wednesday In Harvard
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) will offer
a cholesterol screening on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 from 9:30am-11:30am at
the Harvard Diggins Library, 900 E McKinley Street, Harvard.
The screening requires a 12-hour fast and includes total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure and cardiovascular education. Call the library’s Circulation Desk for an appointment at 815-943-4671. The cost is $35.00.
High cholesterol usually has no signs or symptoms but can be treated. By quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, you can keep blood cholesterols down. For more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/what_you_can_do.htm.
Get the latest news from MCDH at www.mcdh.info, on Facebook and Twitter www.twitter.com/mchenrycohealth.
The screening requires a 12-hour fast and includes total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure and cardiovascular education. Call the library’s Circulation Desk for an appointment at 815-943-4671. The cost is $35.00.
High cholesterol usually has no signs or symptoms but can be treated. By quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, you can keep blood cholesterols down. For more information on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/what_you_can_do.htm.
Get the latest news from MCDH at www.mcdh.info, on Facebook and Twitter www.twitter.com/mchenrycohealth.
Department Of Health Design Contest
McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) has
announced its annual Anti-Tobacco Media Design Contest for McHenry County high
school and college students. Since 2004, the contest has sought to
highlight local talent while educating the community of the ill health effects
of smoking and secondhand smoke. Students can work as individuals or as
partners. The theme this year is “the cost of smoking”. Contest
rules and entry forms are available on the MCDH website (www.mcdh.info). Entry deadline is Friday,
November 30th.
Entries are judged on originality, peer appeal, and
simple, colorful design. Making the final selection are teens from
Anti-Tobacco Advocacy groups and MCDH’s Health Promotion staff. Winning
entries will have the student’s name, design and school name displayed on
billboards and community posters throughout McHenry County. Past winners
have included students from the following schools – Woodstock High School,
Johnsburg High School, Marengo Community High School, Crystal Lake Central High
School, Woodstock North High School, Cary Grove High School, McHenry County
College and Crystal Lake South High School.
This project was made possible by funds received from
the Illinois Department of Public Health. For more information
about the contest, call MCDH 815-334-4525.
Walkup Avenue Construction Update
North Leg:-- Curb installation started 11/9/2012 and will continue until
mid-week. Aggregate placement should be completed early this week.
After curb placement, fine grading of the stone base will occur in preparation
for asphalt placement late week. Daily lane closures continue.
South Leg : Storm sewer work continues-- Burning Bush heading south, now that pavement removal is complete. Traffic has been shifted onto the new pavement on Walkup Road just North of IL Rte. 176 and a westbound IL 176 to Northbound Walkup right turn lane has been installed.
Reconstruction of the Walkup/IL Rte 176 intersection has started with pavement removal occurring at the northwest corner of Walkup/IL Rte. 176. Work continues on the retaining wall on Walkup adjacent to the park. Please be alert and watch for equipment and workers.
The retaining wall along IL Route 176 is complete and is backfilled to allow remaining storm sewer installation and completion of roadway construction on IL Route 176.
South Leg : Storm sewer work continues-- Burning Bush heading south, now that pavement removal is complete. Traffic has been shifted onto the new pavement on Walkup Road just North of IL Rte. 176 and a westbound IL 176 to Northbound Walkup right turn lane has been installed.
Reconstruction of the Walkup/IL Rte 176 intersection has started with pavement removal occurring at the northwest corner of Walkup/IL Rte. 176. Work continues on the retaining wall on Walkup adjacent to the park. Please be alert and watch for equipment and workers.
The retaining wall along IL Route 176 is complete and is backfilled to allow remaining storm sewer installation and completion of roadway construction on IL Route 176.
Words Of Wisdom
"[T]he States can best govern our home concerns
and the general government our foreign ones. I wish, therefore ... never to see
all offices transferred to Washington, where, further withdrawn from the eyes
of the people, they may more secretly be bought and sold at market."
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Judge William Johnson,
1823
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Federal Returns
FOR PRESIDENT AND
VICE PRESIDENT OF US
GREEN
STEIN
HAWKINS 732 0.55%
REPUBLICAN
ROMNEY
RYAN 71,488 53.34%
DEMOCRATIC
OBAMA
BIDEN 59,691 44.54%
LIBERTARIAN
JOHNSON
GRAY 1,678
1.25%
CONGRESSIONAL
FOR REPRESENTATIVE
IN CONGRESS
SIXTH CONGRESSINAL
DISTRICT
PETER J. ROSKAN – REPUBLICAN 21.162 55.80%
LESLIE COOLIDGE – DEMOCRATIC 16,765 44.20%
FOURTEENTH
CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
RANDY M. HULTGREN – REPUBLICAN 52,061 57.74%
DENNIS ANDERSON – DEMOCRATIC 38,051 42.25%
Words Of Wisdom
"[T]he States can best govern our home concerns
and the general government our foreign ones. I wish, therefore ... never to see
all offices transferred to Washington, where, further withdrawn from the eyes
of the people, they may more secretly be bought and sold at market."
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Judge
William Johnson, 1823
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