Briefs: Driver hospitalized after crash
A Lake in the Hills man was hospitalized in stable condition Thursday, recovering from injuries suffered in a two-vehicle crash Wednesday near Island Lake. Dennis Lee Wilkins, 62, suffered a head injury in the crash which, McHenry County Sheriff's police said, occurred when his 1998 Jeep pulled into the path of an oncoming car at 4:36 p.m. at River and Dowell roads. Wilkins was taken via helicopter to Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. The two people in the other car, Island Lake residents Newton C. Parkhurst, 73, and Carleen Blunt, 81, were treated and released Wednesday. Sheriff's Sgt. Karen Groves said Wilkins would be issued a ticket for failing to yield at a stop sign. There is no evidence alcohol was a factor in the crash, she said.
Flooding cancels festival
Due to potential flooding along the Des Plaines River, the Gurnee Park District has canceled all events this weekend at Viking Park. This includes the "Make It a 'Habit-At' FamilyFest" on Saturday. Those interested in making a donation to Habitat for Humanity Lake County can call (847) 623-1020 for information.
Sandbag volunteers
Fox Lake Emergency Services Disaster Agency director Ed Lescher said Thursday volunteers are still needed to help fill sandbags that are being distributed to residents in low-lying areas. He added anyone who needs sandbags should contact the Fox Lake Street Department at (847) 587-8570, or the Fox Lake Fire Department at (847) 587-3312 Volunteers to fill sandbags also are needed in Gurnee. Those who wish to help in Gurnee should call a volunteer hotline at (847) 599-7010 for the latest instructions. Gurnee residents needing filled sandbags should go to Heroes of Freedom Memorial Park at 4850 Old Grand Ave. or the village's public works facility at 1151 N. Kilbourne Road.
Wauconda summer bash
The Wauconda Park District hosts its end of summer beach bash, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Beach Park. Get ready for wacky games, prizes, raffles, entertainment by a DJ and more. All participants will be entered into a drawing for a 2008 beach pass. Food and beverages will be available to buy. Cost is $6 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. Beach pass holders pay $1. For information, call (847) 526-3610.
D68 seeks board member
Oak Grove District 68 in Green Oaks is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the school board. Lisa Broderick, who was elected two years ago, is moving out of state. A replacement would fill the remainder of her term, which is up for re-election in spring 2009. Interested candidates should send a letter and resume to the board of education, 1700 S. O'Plaine Road, Green Oaks, 60048. Deadline for applications is Sept. 10.