Lake County briefs

Bond officially running for Congress:

Democratic state Sen. Michael Bond of Grayslake has formally announced he'll run in the February 2010 primary for a 10th Congressional District seat. Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk of Highland Park holds the post, but he may not seek re-election next year. Kirk is considering a run for Democrat Roland Burris' U.S. Senate seat. The Republican Party issued a statement criticizing Bond for not living in the 10th Congressional District. However, there is no law requiring candidates to live in the district they want to represent. Democratic state Sen. Susan Garrett is also a potential 10th Congressional District candidate, but she has yet to make a formal announcement.

Vernon students win big:

The Vernon Hills High School music department has been awarded its third consecutive Illinois High School Association state championship. The prize is based on competitions in March and April. Additionally, the school's Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering team took first place a state competition in April. Both teams will be honored at a May 15 school assembly.

Prayer walk in Lake Zurich:

The second annual Lake Zurich Community Prayer Walk is set for May 7, as part of the National Day of Prayer. The nondenominational walk will be hosted by several area churches. The stroll starts at Paulus Park at 6 p.m. There will be a stop at the halfway point, Breezewald Park, for prayer and the walk will continue back to Paulus Park. All residents are invited to join the walk around the lake while praying for the community, schools, leaders and residents. For more information, call Alpine Chapel's business office at (847) 540-8280.