2014 Apr-Jun EarthConnect - Environmental Defenders of McHenry

EarthC
NNECT
The quarterly newsletter of The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
In every walk with nature one receives more than he seeks.
Spring 2014, Volume 8, Issue 2
The Untethered
Marshmallow
By Sue Jensen & Kenneth Santowski
Pre serve
Prot ect
Educate
JOHN MUIR
Earth Day
2014
Join The Environmental Defenders
and
Contrary to common belief, Styrofoam
The McHenry County Conservation District
(#6 expanded polystyrene or EPS) does
not get recycled, even if you place it in
Saturday, April 26, 11 AM to 4 PM
your curbside recycling bin. Almost all
Prairieview Education Center
curbside waste haulers will simply bring
2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake
Styrofoam to the landfill when they receive it,
See page 6 for details.
because they simply do not have facilities to sort
and process it. The haulers find it problematic
due to its large volume in relation to its weight
Partnering with the Environmental Defenders,
and because of high contamination rates. Ken has invested in the equipment necessary for
However, the problem with it going into landfills “densifying” EPS at his own Chicago Logistic
is two-fold: it takes up too much space and it Services (CLS) facility in Elgin. The way the
does not biodegrade. The Styrofoam cup you machine operates, since Styrofoam is mostly air, is
may have used today for your morning coffee by breaking the foam apart into small pieces,
will still be sitting around 500 years from now, condensing it, and then extruding the compacted
virtually intact. Do we want to leave this as our material out in long blocks of densified polystyrene.
legacy to our children?
Manufacturers can then use this to make new
Kenneth Santowski has been thinking about products, such as plastic utensils, picture frames and
this problem for many years. Even before building materials, like plastic moldings.
recycling was sexy, as he likes to put it, he has
If you are interested in participating in this
been diverting expanded polystyrene from the project and diverting your used Styrofoam from the
waste stream. Working in the field of trucking landfill to be repurposed, we encourage you to drop
and then in his own logistic business, he it off at one of several locations in McHenry
encountered a lot of Styrofoam waste. This County. It is regularly collected at our monthly
troubled him to the point of seeking out an recycling events held alternately in the towns of
alternative. He began to divert this product from McHenry and Woodstock on the second Saturday of
the waste stream on his own and then find every month. There are public bins available for
companies that would recycle it. Over the course drop-offs in the towns of Lakewood (at the public
of many years, he transported trailer loads of works building on Haligus Road as well as at the
Styrofoam to outside companies in Indiana and police station on Lake Avenue) and in Algonquin (at
then Aurora. Now, with increased interest from the public works facility on Meyer Road). If
outside parties, he has opened up this endeavor to traveling through Elgin, you could even drop off
others who want to do the right thing.
Continued page 3
With over 100 members and guests in
attendance, a wonderful list of awardees,
and a highly regarded keynote speaker,
Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Don Wuebbler (seen
here with Nancy and Randy Schietzelt), the
Annual Meeting was a great success. See
page 8 and 9 for full story.
About EarthCONNECT
Members of The Environmental Defenders
of McHenry County receive the newsletter
as a membership benefit.
Basic memberships start at $50.
For information, questions, comments on
membership or address changes, please
contact our office at
(815) 338-0393 or e-mail us at
[email protected].
EarthCONNECT is published quarterly by
The Environmental Defenders
of McHenry County
110 S. Johnson Street, Suite 106
Woodstock, IL 60098
www.mcdef.org
ISSN 1938-9795
Staff
Environmental Defenders
of McHenry County
Mission Statement
The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
is a citizen organization dedicated to the
preservation and improvement of the environment.
We are committed to building sound ecological
relationships between people and the natural world
that supports all life.
To achieve the aim of environmental preservation and improvement, we provide
the community with educational programs and volunteer action on pollution
prevention, sustainable land use and energy and natural resource conservation.
We advocate policies that protect drinking water supplies and conserve land for
open space and agriculture. We demonstrate waste reduction through recycling
drives and reuse centers. We encourage natural resource protection through
native landscaping and stream protection programs.
Christy Matsuoka
Administrative Coordinator
Officers & Directors
Nancy Schietzelt, President
Mary Forni, First Vice President
Alice Lumsden, Secretary
James Wigman, Treasurer
Dwight Dalton
Jim Donato
Ed Ellinghausen
Kim Hankins
Sue Jensen
Lori McConville
Nicky Obenauf
Rico Rotta
Joe Starzynski
Newsletter Editors
Cynthia W. Kanner
Barb Day
Editorial Policy
Opinions expressed in EarthCONNECT do not
necessarily reflect the position and/or policy of
the Environmental Defenders of McHenry
County. However, EARTHConnect will not
directly advocate positions in opposition to
those of The Defenders. We reserve the right
to condense or revise articles and illustrations
for space, clarity or libel. Knowledgeable local
environmentalists may be consulted to check
facts. Letters to the Editor can be sent to:
[email protected]. Letters will be
published based on space and Board review.
Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect
the position and/or policy of The Defenders.
Letters can also be mailed to: 110 S. Johnson
Street, Suite 106, Woodstock, IL 60098.
RESALE STORE
GENTLY USED BOOKS AND GREEN GIFTS.
Hours
Tuesday-Friday 11 AM - 4 PM
Saturday 11 AM - 3 PM
110 S. Johnson Street
Woodstock Square Mall, Woodstock
IN THIS ISSUE
Articles
The Untethered Marshmallow,
By Sue Jensen & Kenneth Santowski
News & Announcements
Check it Out at Defenders’ Library
Education & Advocacy Efforts update
Coal Tar Sealants
Earth Day, Defenders’ Scholarship & More
Upcoming events
Past events
Electronics for sale!
Calendar of Events & Activities
cover
4
5
5
6
6, 7
8, 9
10
Back page
Cover border photo by Greg Rajsky, True Nature Consulting.
Plant is Cypripedium candidum, white lady’s slipper orchid.
2
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
any quantity of white or colored, clean Styrofoam in the bins outside the front
door of Chicago Logistic Service’s Warehouse, at 501 Davis Road.
Of course, the very best we can do is to greatly reduce or completely
eliminate the use of this harmful material. For instance, please get in the habit of
bringing your own take-out box or jar to restaurants for leftovers and bring a
reusable, insulated mug for your morning coffee. Also, if buying coffee, avoid
establishments that serve hot beverages in mixed Styrofoam containers
(Styrofoam wrapped in paper) because those cannot be fed into the machine for
recycling. Finally, choose less packaged alternatives when shopping (vote with
your pocketbook). But, if you do end up with Styrofoam, choose the right thing
and don’t throw it in the garbage. Tether that marshmallowy waste.
For more information and to find out more about helping out with this effort
or to view a short video showing the densifying machine in action, please visit
mcdef.org.
Photo at top, Kenneth Santowski at one of his many
Styrofoam pick-ups.
Recycling Quiz
(reprint from annual meeting)
Match the item to the number of pounds recycled through The Defenders last year:
For answers, please
check The Defenders’
Web site:
WWW.MCDEF.ORG
beginning May 1 or stop
by the office Monday
through Thursday.
781 lbs
4,904
6,159
7,628
8,530
8,611
8,662
15,000
44,620
televisions
computer monitors
printers
microwaves
computers
vacuums
household electronics
household batteries
styrofoam
Update on Solid Waste
Sue Jensen and Dwight Dalton were members of the McHenry County Solid Waste Advisory Committee helping to revise the 2012 –
2016 Plan. Members of the committee represented varied interests from such as Waste Management, Groot Industries, League of
Women Voters, and several municipalities. McHenry County adopted its first Solid Waste Management Plan in 1992 and has since
adopted the required five-year updates in 1997, 2002, and 2007. The Defenders assisted in writing the original plan, while Delta
Institute was a consultant in writing the update. The plan worked its way out of committee through the Environmental Health
Department, through the Natural & Environmental Resources Committee and finally was approved by the County Board. The entire
plan can be viewed at https://www.co.mchenry.il.us/home/showdocument?id=24811/.
Kristy Hecke is the County Solid Waste Coordinator and was presented with the Government Award at The Defenders’ Annual
Meeting for her efforts and resulting Update Plan. She is responsible for establishing “franchising areas for waste hauling,” allowing
residents in an area to join together and work with one waste hauler. Recycling rates in these areas have increased considerably.
Kristy also reports an increase in recycling in our County but more importantly realizes that a reduction in tonnage going to landfills
is an important statistic. Efforts are underway to make reporting by waste haulers and recyclers much easier through computer
electronic access.
A Solid Waste Advisory Committee has been formed and met to look over possible goals for the next year. Target goals are to
increase the recycling rate from 35% to 45% by December 31, 2017 and to reduce the solid waste disposal rate from 4.07 pounds per
capita per day to 3.57 pounds per capita per day in McHenry County. Dwight Dalton will represent The Defenders on that committee.
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
3
“Check It Out” at the
Margaret Marchi Memorial Library
Margaret Marchi, known for her spunk and spirit, served as librarian and environmentalist
in McHenry County communities. She established The Defenders’ library, compiling the
card catalog with reused library cards from the Woodstock Public Library.
The collection now includes approximately 1,600 books, CDs, DVDs, and videos. It
can be accessed through The Defenders’ Web site, www.mcdef.org, from a computer in the
office, or by browsing the shelves. Items may be borrowed for one month by coming to the
office between 10AM and 4:30PM, Monday through Thursday. Check-out is easy. The file
cabinet near the stacks directs you to a clipboard for basic information about the material
you’d like to borrow. You return materials to the same drawer. Here are some materials that
you might want to consider:
Beyond the Growth Dilemma: Toward an Ecologically Integrated Economy came to
us by way of Barb Day, longtime Defenders member and editorial team member for this
2012 publication from the Quaker Institute for the Future series. It offers a fresh look at such
topics as prosperity without economic growth, meaningful jobs, responsible production, and
the way forward. (305.6 QUA)
Keepers of the Earth: Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for
Children is found on the children’s shelf. It will help children tie our past to our future.
(J398.1 CAD)
The authors of Plenty: One Man, One Woman, and a Raucous Year of Eating Locally
decided to eat only locally grown and produced food. Their 100-mile diet led them to
consider global warming, collapsing fish stocks, the loss of family farms, and food safety.
What a perfect time to read this book as you plan your vegetable garden or await the opening
of the spring farmers’ markets. (641.5 SMI)
Or take a look at the 2005 book Saving Our Environment from Washington: How
Congress Grabs Power, Shirks Responsibility, and Shortchanges the People. It’s easy to
tell what this book is about, and environmental issues are often a casualty. (333.72 SCH)
Queen of the Sun: What Are the Bees Telling Us? is a film from the director of The
Real Dirt on Farmer John. Released in 2011, it is an alternative look at the global bee crisis.
You’ll hear conversations with beekeepers, scientists, and philosophers from around the
world as they share in this dramatic story. (DVD 594 CEF)
Chasing Ice, acclaimed Environmental Photographer, James Balog’s film about the
changing Arctic, provides a way to “see” climate changes in progress. Years are compressed
into seconds as ancient mountains of ice disappear at a breathtaking rate. 551.1 BAL. And,
here are some of the newest additions to the Defenders’ library that will be of high interest
to members:
Nature’s Fortune: How Business and Society Thrive by Investing in Nature – This
2013 book by Mark Tercek and Jonathon Adams answers the question “What is nature
worth?” The authors argue that nature is not only the foundation of human well-being, but
also the smartest commercial investment any business or government can make. They offer
an essential guide to the world’s economic and environmental well-being. A timely topic!
Groundwater Simulation Modeling and Potentiometric Surface Mapping, McHenry
County, Illinois – In this report, scientists from the Illinois State Water Survey share their
results of two studies to support water resources planning in McHenry County. Defenders
members helped with the data collection from wells in the county for this study.
County Land, County Food: McHenry County Local Food Assessment Technical
Report and Recommendations and Executive Summary – This report is aimed at
supporting the viability of the local food system and farmland protection in McHenry
County to generate benefits to the local community, such as a more robust agricultural
economy, environmentally sustainable land use, and greater access to fresh food. Led by
Openlands, The Defenders were part of the taskforce that conducted the assessment and
prepared this report.
The Library Committee welcomes donations of current or classic environmental titles.
Stop by and browse the collection! You may find just what you’re looking for.
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Recycling NEWS
Defenders’ Recycling Drives
What:
Fluorescent tubes, rechargeable
batteries, car batteries, button
batteries, and block white styrofoam.
Packing peanuts and re-useable bubble
wrap may be dropped off for no
charge. We will also be accepting
certain electronics, such as computers,
phones, printers, toys, TVs and
computer monitors for a donation to
the Defenders. T/C metals in Crystal
Lake has been friendly and helpful as
can be when we bring aluminum or
non- ferrous metals to them. With
metal prices up, this has been a steady
source of income. Many folks have
used the McHenry drive and donated
their aluminum cans.
When:
Second Saturday of every Month.
Where:
Woodstock:
The
Woodstock
collection takes place on the second
Saturday of each EVEN numbered
month and is held in front of the Farm
Bureau, 1102 McConnell Road in
Woodstock, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
McHenry: The McHenry collection
takes place on the second Saturday of
ODD numbered months at the Metra
Station Parking lot, 4005 Main Street
in McHenry, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Styrofoam Drop-Off
Village of Algonquin: Public Works,
110 Meyer Drive.
Village of Lakewood: Lakewood
Village Hall, 2500 Lake Avenue,
Lakewood Public Works garage, 6570
Haligus Road, Redtail Golf Course,
7900 Redtail Drive.
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
Advocacy & EDUCATION
Green Spot Going Plastic Bag Free
As an integral part of the The Defenders’ new campaign to reduce the use of
plastic bags in our county, its own Green Spot Used Book Store will be the
first store in the county to declare itself completely PLASTIC BAG FREE.
The Defenders’ book sales also will no longer use plastic bags. So, when you
shop The Green Spot or sales, don’t forget to bring your reusable bags! Help
protect the beauty of McHenry County, site of the newly established
Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, by saying
“No” to plastic bags each and every day!
~BYOBag Committee
Coal Tar Sealants
Colleen Smith, Clean Water Organizer, Illinois Sierra Club
As you pull into your driveway and step out of your car, you walk with ease
to your door. But what would you do if you knew that as your tires and feet
move across the pavement they are actually releasing dangerous carcinogens
that you track into your own home?
Coal tar sealant is a common product sprayed over asphalt pavement,
and within the past ten years has become known as an environmental and
human health threat. Despite the use of alternative asphalt-based sealant in
the Western U.S., we continue to use coal-tar sealant across roads, parking
lots and driveways, with over 85 million gallons of coal tar-based sealcoat
used in the United States annually.
Coal tar is a byproduct of coal combustion and contains a group of
carcinogenic compounds called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—or more
commonly PAHs. Benzo[a]pyrene is among several other PAHs linked to
reproductive issues, tumors, genetic defects, and several types of cancer!
Studies have shown that living with a driveway paved in coal-tar sealant
increases your risk of cancer by 38 times more than standard exposure levels.
Why would anyone knowingly track in dusts that could endanger their
children and families?
Not only are PAHs a serious public health threat, but they also pose a
danger to aquatic species and the health of our waterways. Water running off
from pavement sealed with coal tar introduces these toxins into our streams,
rivers and lakes, worsening water quality, increasing detention basin clean-up
costs, and threatening the life of fish and other species.
The good news is that we can stop contributing to these problems
unnecessarily by halting the use of coal tar sealcoat. This legislative session
Representative Laura Fine and Senator Tom Cullerton are introducing a bill
to ban the sale and use of coal tar sealant (HB4599, SB 3431). This bill will
help protect public health, the environment, and needed taxpayer dollars.
Numerous counties throughout the U.S., and the states of Washington
and Minnesota, have already enacted bans on coal tar sealant. McHenry
County’s Water Resources Action Plan, which the County Board adopted in
2011, calls for municipalities, townships and the county itself to restrict the
sale and use of coal tar sealant; however, finding that the county and many
communities did not have the authority to pass such a ban, the initiative came
to an impasse. Now, we need McHenry County residents to continue to
advocate for public health and the environment and support HB4599 and
SB3431 to ensure that all citizens of Illinois are protected from the dangers
of coal tar sealant.
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
Winter Education and
Advocacy Efforts
By Nancy Schietzelt
The Defenders carried out the following educational
and advocacy efforts during Winter 2014, in
addition to other activities that are covered in more
detail in this issue. Many thanks to all the volunteers
who help make these efforts possible!
• Met with Illinois Department of Transportation
representatives to provide information about
protection of Sleepy Hollow Creek and oaks
along the portion of Hwy. 31 north of Crystal
Lake that will be widened.
• Gave a presentation to the McHenry County
Jewish Congregation about environmental
activities in the county.
• Gathered representatives from watershed groups
and environmental groups in the county to
present comments to the County Planning &
Development Committee and the ZBA (Zoning
Board of Appeals) related to watershed and green
infrastructure protection in the County’s Unified
Development Ordinance (UDO).
• Took part in the County Health Department’s
Environmental Health Survey.
• Helped with the rollout of the County’s Local
Food Assessment.
• Met with representatives of District 155 to
discuss restoration work on school property to
protect and improve Sleepy Hollow Creek.
• Continued to facilitate Green Drinks events at
Duke’s on the first Wednesday of each month.
• Continued to facilitate meetings of the Silver and
Sleepy Hollow Creeks Watershed Coalition and
to provide support for grants for projects in the
watersheds.
• Met with representatives of the McHenry County
Fair Board to begin planning a comprehensive
recycling program at the County Fair.
• Education Committee met with Seth Johnson
from the Environmental Law and Policy Center
to discuss environmental issues and actions
affecting our region.
• Distributed environmental information at the
WPPC’s Natural Landscaping Seminar.
• Co-sponsored showing of “Food for Change”
documentary with McHenry County Food
Cooperative.
5
Membership & COMMUNITY
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Big Thank You to Our
Cold-Weather Volunteers!
Hearty recycling volunteers at work this winter. From left: Tom
Ellinghausen, Graham Ellinghausen, Jim Kanter, Joey
Gonsiorek, Marty Fox, and Gary Johnson. THANK YOU!
Welcome New Members!
Teagen Andrews, McHenry
Carol Faure, Lake in the Hills
Victoria Floress, Algonquin
Scott Gessert, Woodstock
Beth & Ryan Goodrich, Woodstock
Helen Hawthorne, Harvard
Sarah Michehl, Crystal Lake
Robert & Denise Mueller, Lakemoor
Debra Muscarello & Maxwell Robey, Woodstock
Helen & Stephen Noskowicz, Wonder Lake
Mary O'Leary & Kathleen O'Leary, Crystal Lake
Gail Peterson, Fox Lake
Kathy Reiland & Margaret Reiland, McHenry
Kathy Slover & Michael Sedola, Algonquin
Christian Smith, Lake in the Hills
Joshua Smith, Lake in the Hills
Janet Trafelet, Woodstock
Linda Williams, McHenry
Thank you for your support!
6
Defenders’ Scholarship
The Defenders’ Education Committee is pleased to announce
that a $1,000 scholarship will again be offered to a deserving
high school senior intent on pursuing a degree in an
environmental field. Applicant must be a McHenry County
resident who should complete an application and forward
appropriate transcripts and letters of recommendation for
consideration. Completed applications and documentation can
be mailed or dropped off at The Defenders’ office no later than
Friday, April 25. Application forms can be downloaded from
our Web site, www.mcdef.org, or picked up at the office.
Past Defenders’ staff member,
Lynn Rotunno, recently started a
new position as Director of
Communications and Marketing
at Orange County Coastkeeper in
Costa Mesa, CA. Orange County
Coastkeeper is a nonprofit
environmental
organization
dedicated to protecting and
preserving local watersheds and
marine habitats. Lynn will
manage the organization’s
communications needs, public
events and volunteer program.
Congratulations, Lynn!
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
UPCOMING EVENTS
Tuesday, April 24—Documentary Film
The Price of Sand
7PM
After a short hiatus, documentary screenings are back! The Price of Sand presents an aspect of the fracking process not typically
examined: frac sand. Almost as controversial as the fracking process itself, frac sand mining has tripled between 2009 and 2012, with
impact on air, water, and health quality. Join The Defenders on Thursday, April 24th at 7:00 p.m. at the McHenry County College
Luecht Conference Center. Event is hosted by MCC’s Sustainability Center.
Sunday, April 27—Human Race
Sunday, April 27—Beer Fest
The Human Race
“Heroes of the Human Race”
9AM race start
Eco Friendly Food & Beer Fest
3-5 PM
Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen
110 N. Main Street, Crystal Lake
Help The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County on the
morning of Sunday, April 27 by participating in The Human Race,
a unique 5K walk/run. The race supports charities serving
McHenry County. Each race participant designates what
organization will receive the proceeds of their race fee. The event
includes post-race refreshments and music. The first 1,000
participants are guaranteed a race t-shirt. Registration is $35 after
April 1 or $40 for raceday
registration. Please go to:
www.mchumanrace.org for
more information!
Planned by Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, The Defenders are the
beneficiary of an evening where Duke’s brings in several
alcoholic beverage vendors who highlight spirits that are paired
with delicious cuisine from Duke’s kitchen. The majority of the
foods are from local vendors as are some of the beverages. The
event is limited to 70 people. Tickets will be available online from
www.thedukeabides.com and through The Defenders for $35. A
portion of each ticket sale goes directly to The Defenders. A few
raffle items provided by the vendors will be raffled off throughout
the afternoon as well. This is an adults only event!
May 15-17—Spring Garage Sale
Sat., May 31—Breakfast at the Prairie
Spring Garage Sale
Pancake Breakfast
The spring garage sale will be held May 15-17, 8AM to 4PM. The
sale is located at the Algonquin Township Road District complex,
3702 U.S. Highway 14, between Crystal Lake & Cary (next to the
Hollows). Drive back to the big beige garage on the right. We
always have a great assortment of things like housewares, small
appliances, dishes, glassware, books, DVDs/CDs, furniture, tools,
bicycles, toys, electronics, etc. Donations for the garage sale can
be dropped off Saturday, May 10, from 9AM-4PM and Monday
through Wednesday, May 12-13, from 10AM until 3PM. Spring
clean and donate your items to The Defenders for the sale!!
The annual breakfast, with a prairie view, will once again feature
Walt Dembos flipping delicious pancakes for all members.
Activities will begin with a hike to see the birds and other critters
at 7:30. Breakfast will be served at 9AM. We will gather at the
Soil and Water Building (plenty of parking and restroom
facilities). In addition to the pancakes with hot coffee and
sausage, members are encouraged to bring something to share
(orange juice, fruit, coffee cake, etc.), and as usual, nondisposable plates and silverware are suggested and encouraged.
This is a wonderful family activity.
June 6-14—Book Sale
Sun., June 22—Wine & Cheese Event
June Book Sale at Woodstock Square Mall
Main floor Hallway next to The Defenders’ office
and Green Spot bookstore.
Wine and Cheese on the Prairie
June 22 6:30 pm
Dates:
Friday, June 6 through Saturday, June 14th.
Hours:
Friday, June 6 - 11AM to 4PM
Saturday June 7 - 11AM to 3PM
Tues., June 10 through Fri., June 13 - 11AM to 4PM
Saturday, June 14 - 11AM to 3PM
(Sale closed on Sunday and Monday, June 8 & 9.)
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
Join the Defenders for an evening of wine (or beer or other
beverage of your choice), cheese, snacks and a chance to view the
sunset from our lovely Dean Street property in Woodstock.
Bring your favorite red, white or sparkling wine or perhaps a
brew. Enjoy a chance to relax and enjoy nature with fellow
members. There will be picnic tables near the oak plantings, but
bring your own lawn chair if you prefer. (Long pants are
suggested as there tends to be a healthy tick population.)
7
PAST EVENTS
XCountry Ski Outing
By Greg Rajsky
The Bald Eagle soared above the Fox River, heading upstream at treetop level, black and white
against a pristine blue sky; it veered east, crossing directly overhead as we gazed in deep
appreciation of the eagle’s silent northbound flight.
Such was one of the memorable moments shared during The Defender’s cross-country ski
outing Sunday, February 16. The day was clear and, while some might have called it brisk, it
seemed quite mild given the cold winter of 2014. An inch of new-fallen snow had been received
the prior evening, so the trail conditions were good. Four Defenders’ members accepted Cynthia
Kanner’s invitation to ski that day (Barb Day, Avis and Jeff Fisher, and myself)—all of us were
glad we did!
Our trail took us south along the east bank of the Fox River into Kane County. Along the
way, we practiced our winter tree-identification skills, examined animal tracks in the snow,
watched and listened to birds, and breathed deeply
The group of five, heading south on the
the crystal air of winter. In the open water at the base Prairie Trail toward Otto engineering in
of a dam, we were treated to a view of more than a Carpentersville.
dozen Common Goldeneye; above the dam, another
diving duck, the Redhead, was spotted. The trees held Red-bellied Woodpeckers,
Chickadees, Cardinals, and early Robins. There was a second Eagle sighting, as well.
Our encounters on the trail included more than birds: we also paused to share stories
with skiers and dog-walkers. As Barb remarked, it is nice to gather with friends and get out
in nature for a social outing—something other than work for a change. Yes, it was an
agreeable assembly of kindred spirits and one we’d like to repeat, so watch The Defenders’
calendar of events for announcements of another cross-country ski outing next winter! It’s
From left, Greg Rajsky, Barb Day, Jeff Fisher
a
great way to build community while celebrating nature.
and Cynthia Kanner. Photo by Avis Fisher.
44th Annual Meeting of
The Environmental Defenders
By Alice Lumsden
On Sunday March 9th, members of The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
gathered at The Loyola Retreat and Ecology Campus in Woodstock for our 44th Annual
Meeting. This year the event started at 10:30 a.m. with social time, followed by a catered
buffet brunch. Silent Auction items were on display and members enjoyed the view
outdoors while visiting with friends. More members joined us for the meeting and program.
Throughout the day, 130 people attended the event.
After brunch our Board President, Nancy Schietzelt, called the meeting to order.
Board members and staff were introduced. The business portion of the Annual Meeting
included reappointment of some Board Members and Awards presentation. In a “State of
the Organization” message, Nancy highlighted the many projects, advocacy efforts,
accomplishments and collaborative efforts The Defenders have been involved in over the
past year. Nancy also recognized and thanked all the volunteers on behalf of the Solid Waste Manager, Kristy Hecke, accepts
organization. Next was the presentation of Awards for 2013 as follows: Young Defenders the Government Award from Defenders’ Board
Award to Peter Hankins with the inscription: “For his high energy, strong muscles, and Member, Dwight Dalton.
enthusiastic efforts while volunteering at our monthly recycling drives and local parades to further the mission of the Environmental
Defenders to conserve our natural resources, the Defenders are proud to honor Peter Hankins with the 2013 Young Defenders Award.”
The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Pam Johnson. The award said: “For her many hours of volunteer efforts with our Green
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EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
Spot Used Book Store and used book sales to further the mission of and increase
fundraising for the Environmental Defenders, the Defenders are proud to honor Pam
Johnson with the 2013 Volunteer of the Year Award.” The Government Award was
presented to the Environmental Health Division of McHenry County Health
Department “For their efforts to help increase recycling and reduce air pollution in
the County by providing comprehensive solid waste removal and recycling services
for residents in designated unincorporated areas of McHenry County; The Defenders
are proud to honor the McHenry County Health Department, Division of
Environmental Health, with our 2013 Government Award.” Kristy Hecke, Solid
Waste Manager, accepted the award for her department. As a finale to the award
ceremony, long-time Defenders’ Member, Bill Howenstine, proudly presented the
Theta Award to The Land Conservancy of McHenry County. The award said: “For
their efforts resulting in the protection of over 2,000 acres of open space in McHenry
County and their collaboration with MCCD to establish a Community Research
Forest, the Environmental Defenders are proud to honor The Land Conservancy of McHenry County with our 2013 Theta Award.”
Our guest speaker was Dr. Don Wuebbles, professor at the University of Illinois and a Nobel Laureate for his work on the 2007
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Don began by complimenting The Defenders on all that we do for our community and
the environment. Don’s program was “Climate Change is Happening Now and It’s Affecting Us Now.” With the use of slides, Don
presented the current understanding of severe weather in relation to the science of climate change. He also spoke about issues that will
affect the U.S. and the world in coming years due to global warming. Some of his material will be made available on our Web site at
a later date.
Thank you to all the donors who contributed items to a very successful silent auction and raffle, and to every volunteer who
planned and worked to make our Annual Meeting a tremendous success!
At left, Pam Johnson and Alice Lumsden; Right, Ken
Santowski and Peter Hankins; Center photo is of The Land
Conservancy representatives, led by director, Lisa Haderlein.
Flowers donated by Trader
Joe’s.
Above, cup raffle items at front and silent auction items
on display at back. Center photo is the climate change
cake donated by the Thorntons. At right is one of many
beautiful flower centerpieces arranged by Adele
Petersen.
EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
9
Electronics For Sale!
In the spirit of one of our founding principles, that of REUSE, The
Defenders have been collecting potentially usable electronics at our
once a month Saturday collections in Woodstock and McHenry.
Electronics collected at the drives are normally sent to recycling
centers where they are shredded and reduced to their mineral content for
capture and reuse. We have diverted from the “shredding stream”
considerable equipment that our team has found to be fully functional
with a lot of useful life yet to offer. For example, we currently have
dozens of flat screen LCD color computer monitors that are fully
functional and would make a fine replacement for anyone still using a
big bulky energy wasting CRT monitor. We also have a number of CD
and VHS/DVD players, as well as some nice audio equipment.
As time permits we have evaluated the functionality of the
equipment, making repairs and adjustments where necessary, and
offered the items for sale at our Green Spot, or on Craig's list, and we
have been able to find new homes for some of the equipment.
Looking forward however, the climate is changing such that we
may not be able to continue this effort. In the last few months several
local municipalities and townships have started offering “pods” for drop
off of electronics and we have recently seen a big drop in the quantity
of electronics coming to our Saturday drives. This situation is
reminiscent of many years ago when The Defenders ran the only
recycling facility for paper and glass in the county. As our efforts to get
curbside recycling established throughout the county took hold, the
quantity of material coming to our own facility diminished to where we
were not recovering our costs, and we closed the facility.
We are making an effort to sell the equipment we have, and in the
near future will determine what to do going forward.
4 color monitors (HP, Dell & Samsung) for $10 each
1 powered speaker system 4.1 for $15 (reduced from $20)
1 Logitech powered speaker system 2.1 for $10
1 Denon 6-disc stereo system with speakers for $15
1 laptop case for $5
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EarthCONNECT
Spring 2014
The Environmental Defenders
of McHenry County
Green Business/Civic Members
Adele Petersen, Realtor®
Crystal Lake
Advanced Eyecare Clinic
Lake In The Hills
Algonquin/LITH
Chamber of Commerce
!
Illinois State Senator Pam Althoff
Billy Goat Lawn Care, Inc.
Johnsburg
!
Copy Express, Inc.
Crystal Lake Park District
Crystal Lake
Falcon Waste & Recycling, Inc.
Woodstock
Hyperstitch, Inc.
Marengo
Marvin’s Toy Store
Name #1
Napoli’s Pizza
Name #2
McHenry
Roxy’s Books
Woodstock
USAgain
West Chicago
!
!
!!!!!"#$%&'($)!*+,'-+'!./01!!
Additional donation: $___________
Total contribution: $___________
Woodstock
Pioneer Tree Farm
!
Levels of Membership
McHenry Co. Dept. of
Water Resources
Protect
!
Supporting – $250............................................
Patron – $100...................................................
Organization – $50...........................................
Family/Basic – $50............................................
Senior – $25.....................................................
Student – $10...................................................
Other – Amount affordable to you at this time.........
Crystal Lake
Woodstock
!
Membership Form
Crystal Lake
Preserve
!
Photo of the! Quarter: “Waste.” Illustration credit Alex Johnson and
The Journal, University of Illinois. First place winner, Editorial
Cartoon, 31st annual Illinois College Press Association Conference.
Computer Recycling Center, LLC
Woodstock
!
!!
Address
City
State
Zip
Township
E-mail #1
E-mail #2
Phone
Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
Woodstock Farmers Market
Educate
EarthCONNECT
Environmental Defenders
of McHenry County
110 S. Johnson Street, Suite 106
Woodstock, IL 60098
(815) 338-0393
[email protected]
Please visit us at:
www.mcdef.org
Like us on Facebook!
Spring 2014
Year moved to McHenry County:
Number of individuals residing in household:
My check is enclosed.
Please return completed form to:
Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
110 S. Johnson Street, Suite 106
Woodstock, IL 60098 OR
Join on-line at www.mcdef.org
Questions? Call 815-338-0393
Code: nwsltrspring2014
11
Events & ACTIVITIES
CALENDAR
APRIL
Wednesday, April 2
Saturday, April 26
Sunday, April 27
Sunday, April 27
“Green Wednesdays” Talk & Reception – Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, Crystal Lake. 5-7 PM
Earth Day – MCCD’s Prairieview Education Center. See page 6 for details.
The Human Race, 5K Walk or Run. See page 7 for details.
Annual Beer Fest at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen. See page 7 for details.
MAY
Wednesday, May 7
TH-Sun., May 15-18
Saturday, May 31
“Green Wednesdays” Talk & Reception – Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, Crystal Lake. 5-7 PM
Spring Garage Sale. See page 7 for details.
Pancakes on the Prairie – Soil and Water Building, 7:30 AM hike, 9 AM breakfast. See page 7 for details.
JUNE
Wednesday, June 4
June 6 to June 14
Sunday, June 8
Sunday, June 22
ES:
SAVE
T
DAT
HE
“Green Wednesdays” Talk & Reception – Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, Crystal Lake. 5-7 PM
Used Book Sale. Woodstock Square Mall, main floor next to Defenders’ office and Green Spot bookstore
Boone Creek Clean-up. Call Defenders’ office for details.
Wine & Cheese on the Prairie – Defenders’ property on Dean Street. 6:30 PM. See page 7 for details.
JULY: July 4,5-Nippersink Music & Art Festival; July 6-Crystal Lake Parade; July 13-21-summer garage
sale; July 24-Tour of Pleasant Valley
JULY 30-AUGUST 3-McHenry County Fair!! Defenders’ volunteers will be needed. Mark your calendars!
AUGUST: August 17-Annual Corn Roast; August 17-18-Wasted Plains Festival
Support The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County through workplace giving!
For more information on how you can contribute to
The Defenders call us at 815-338-0393!!
Non Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 43
Woodstock, IL
60098
Change Service Requested
110 S. Johnson Street, Suite 106
Woodstock, IL 60098
www.mcdef.org

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