Briefs: Caputo opens in Algonquin
Joe Caputo & Sons Fruit Market opened its doors Wednesday in Algonquin at Randall and Algonquin roads. The 67,000 square-foot store sits at the former site of Cub Foods and Eagle Country Food Market. Owner Nat Caputo, son of founder Joe, has said the chain prides itself on its fresh produce that "comes straight from the field to our store." In addition to huge displays of produce, the store will also offer fresh baked goods daily. The company opened its first store in Des Plaines in 1989.
MCC sports complex OK'd
McHenry County College has received state approval to proceed with plans for a $26 million health, wellness and athletic complex on campus, college officials said. The Illinois Community College Board this month agreed to the construction plans and purchase of 57 acres adjacent to the campus. Plans for the new sports complex include gyms, volleyball courts, sports fields, a fitness center, classrooms and a minor league baseball stadium. McHenry County College officials say they are scheduled to meet Wednesday with members of Crystal Lake's planning and zoning commission next week -- the next step in obtaining final approval from the city.
Cops hunt DUI drivers
Area police say they'll be cracking down on drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs through the Labor Day weekend. Police will conduct roadside safety checks as part of the You Drink and Drive, You Lose crackdown on impaired driving. The enforcement efforts are funded by federal traffic safety funds through the Illinois Department of Transportation's Division of Traffic Safety.
Emergency facility pending
A new state law aimed at bringing needed emergency medical services to north and western areas of Lake County was signed today by Gov. Rod Blagojevich. The legislation would allow the Grayslake Outpatient & Acute Care Center, located at 1475 E. Belvidere Road, to upgrade to a freestanding emergency center. Once upgrades are completed, the facility would operate 24 hours a day with enhanced emergency services and include ambulance bays and a helicopter pad. Pending approval by the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board and the Federal Aviation Administration, the Grayslake Freestanding Emergency Center will be operational in 2008.
Rangers ride today
The Kane County Mounted Rangers will ride in the Maple Park parade at 6 tonight.. The rangers are a volunteer group with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. They patrol preserves, assist with parking during special events and represent the district in parades. To join, you must be at least 21, be an experienced rider with access to a horse or mule and transportation and pay a nonrefundable $25 membership fee. For more information, call volunteer coordinator Julia Bourque at (630) 762-2741.