This has been a year of ups and downs – from the severe impact of the drought, upheaval caused by a controversial presidential election and the disappointing collapse of the Chicago Bulls.
I anticipated the Bulls would be a serious grand champion contender. This was true until Derrick Rose was sidelined with a serious injury. One bit of good news today: Rose had major medical care and is now working out in anticipation of joining the floundering Bulls in early 2013.
The drought and its impact on crop production is a development concerning 2013 farming plans. The cost to prepare and plant a crop moved higher because of unfavorable planting and harvesting conditions.
In McHenry County, a major change in county board leadership is affected by the addition of nine first-time members on the 24-member governing body. Tina Hill of Woodstock was elected chairwoman of the board, replacing Ken Koehler, who served as chairman for eight years. Jim Heisler of Crystal Lake was elected vice chairman.
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B & K Power Equipment of Marengo is holding its area food pantry drive. Donations will go to the Grafton Food Pantry, M.O.R.E. Center and the Hampshire-Burlington Food Pantry. B & K will make cash donations equal to 5 percent of parts department sales during the drive, which is 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Sautrday. For information, call 815-923-4547.
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Adult and Child Therapy Services’ annual brunch Sunday featured recognition of volunteers.
Keith Hogan received Board Member of the Year award. Hogan is president of the ACTS board of directors. He served as president for two terms during many changes and challenges at ACTS.
Kathi Etten was honored as Volunteer of the Year. John Buckley, director of ACTS, said, “Volunteers are critical in our ability to fulfill our mission – to meet the needs of our friends and neighbors in the community.” Etten has been involved in the golf outing since 2001, an important fundraising activity.
Dave Barber received the 20th annual Chester Gould award. Gould and his family became supporters of the Adult and Child Therapy Services soon after their move to McHenry County. Barber, an active board member, was a longtime head of United Way in McHenry County. As a board member, he has served on several committees.
Buckley recognized past recipients of the Chester Gould award, expressing appreciation for their years of service. Several recipients were present, including Margaret Kistler, Bud Oughton and Phil Abraham, president of the McHenry County Independent Riders.
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Don’t miss enjoying the 30 Christmas trees in the Opera House community room and library on display until Jan. 6. Each tree is decorated by a civic group or organization.
• Don Peasley has been an editor, columnist and historian in McHenry County since October 1947. He began his association with Shaw Publications in 1950. He can be reached at 815-338-1533.
