Briefs: Two deputies at fire station

The Huntley Fire Protection District now has two deputy chiefs. Keith Mallegni, who was serving as deputy chief, will oversee operations. Ken Caudle, who has been instrumental in the district's training efforts, has been promoted from captain to the new deputy chief post that will supervise administration. Scott Ravagnie was promoted from lieutenant to captain, and John Levendoski was promoted to lieutenant. The district also has hired two new firefighters, Rob Gonia and Josh Koelper.

McHenry touts tourism

The McHenry County Convention and Visitors Bureau will join the big leagues July 1 when it formally becomes Illinois' 41st certified convention and visitors bureau. The certification, announced recently by the Illinois Council of Convention and Visitors Bureaus, has been among the agency's goals since it formed in August 2005 with a goal of attracting more tourists and tourist dollars to the county. With the certification, the bureau becomes eligible for additional grant funding from the state's Local Tourism Convention Bureau program. Already the agency is expecting about $135,000 from the program once Illinois legislators pass the state budget.

Park dedication planned

Elgin's Parks and Recreation Department and Westpoint Gardens subdivision have invited people to "Day at the Gardens" from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 8. West Point Gardens at Route 20 and Nesler Road opened in May of 2006 and more 50 homes are built. The event is free, and will include the grand opening of 11-acre Meier Park as well as a sampling of Elgin's community groups, civic organizations and local businesses.

Troop support marathon on

The fourth annual Support Our Troops Marathon takes place June 13 and 14, starting with a 4 p.m. reception to honor Hanover Township Honor Roll veterans. The marathon is designed to encourage people to come out to township grounds and donate items for care packages to be delivered to troops serving in combat areas. The marathon will also feature a Classic Car Show with DJ Tony Adelfio from 5 to 10 p.m. June 13 and family-friendly activities from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 14, including face-painting, a moonwalk, touch-a-truck and free car wash. There also will be raffle tickets and refreshments for sale. All events take place at the township grounds at 250 S. Route 59 in Bartlett. For information, to volunteer or to enter a vehicle in the car show, contact the Hanover Township clerk's office at (630) 837-0301.