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Avoiding home repair fraud easy as 1-2-3

Now that the brutal winter has passed and a soggy spring is in full effect, authorities are urging residents to beware home improvement scams.

The McHenry County Sheriff's department has warned homeowners - and especially seniors - to be on guard and to follow a 1-2-3 guideline if someone approaches about doing home improvement or repair projects.

According to authorities, if someone wants to do work, wait one day to speak to family members about it. Wait a second day to talk about it with friends and neighbors. And wait a third day to see if the person comes back to push to get the work done.

During the waiting period, contact a local company for a price comparison. If something seems fishy, call police or the sheriff.

Authorities say that, in general, it's best not to have unsolicited work done on your residence.

"Early notification to law enforcement may prevent others (from becoming) victims," said McHenry County Undersheriff Andrew Zinke.

Laugh, help Kane programs: The Kane County Bar Foundation will host its annual "Friday Night Live" comedy and music show Friday at EvenFlow Music and Spirits, 302 W. State St., Geneva.

"Proceeds from 'Friday Night Live' benefit the many programs sponsored by the foundation, including the Turning Point Juvenile Diversion Program, mock trials, grants for other nonprofit organizations that provide legal services for the needy, and scholarships for law students," said Jan Wade, bar foundation executive director. "The Kane County Bar Foundation is excited about 'Friday Night Live' and hope that it's well attended."

Tickets are $25 per person if preregistered by Monday or $30 per person at the door. The event is open to the public and admission includes appetizers and the show.

Doors will open to the Pub, located in the lower level, at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:15 p.m. Afterward, the Chicago group "Hip Pocket," will perform R&B/Soul, Motown and horn-infused rock.

The event is sponsored by the law offices of Foote, Mielke, Chavez & O'Neil, LLC, and the offices of Robert A. Chapski, Ltd.

Man faces prison for child porn: A 26-year-old Aurora man faces up to seven years in prison after his conviction last week on nine counts of aggravated child pornography possession.

Oscar Mendez, of the 700 block of Hermes Avenue, was arrested in July 2010 after authorities seized a computer from his bedroom that contained a collection of videos of children younger than 13.

Mendez' bond was revoked and Judge James Hallock will sentence him June 5. Mendez also must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

hhitzeman@dailyherald.com

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