Lake County briefs

Libertyville rewards:

Libertyville officials are pursuing a rewards program good at local businesses in a continuing effort to increase sales. Details are to be determined but the idea is an extension of ongoing programs that include a $100 voucher for those who buy new cars to be spent at other Libertyville businesses. About 150 of the 650 vouchers distributed to car dealers have been redeemed since the program began June 15. With sales tax revenue dropping, the village is investigating ways to market the community and its merchants. Determining the viability and details of a rewards program, which would require participation of business owners, was directed to the village board's special projects committee.

Band to play in Mundelein:

The Grand Avenue Big Band will perform Sunday, Aug. 2 at Kracklauer Park in Mundelein. The show will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the park, which is on Seymour Avenue near Division Street. Admission is free. People should bring their own food, chairs or blankets.

Antioch Lions 51st barbecue is Sunday:

The 51st annual Lion's Club Chicken BBQ and Rescue Squad Auction is set for Aug. 2, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Williams Park, behind the Antioch Public Library off Main Street. The auction starts at 1 p.m. Dinner tickets can be purchased in advance at the Piggly Wiggly in Antioch or the UPS store in Antioch for $8. Tickets at the door are $10. Free swimming will be offered at the Antioch Aqua Center from noon to 8 p.m. For details call (847) 826-8313.

Developer accused of fraud in court:

Forrest David Laidley, 65, of Libertyville, pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges of mail, bank and wire fraud that resulted from what federal authorities say was a $10 million real-estate investment scam he operated from 1999 to 2004. Laidley entered his plea before U.S. District Judge Blanche Manning in Chicago. Investors who thought they were backing retail and office projects in Glenview, Round Lake and Lincolnshire were bilked out of at least $10 million by Laidley, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. Prosecutors contend Laidley used the money for his benefit and to repay delinquent loans, and for unrelated real-estate developments. Laidley is a lawyer who owned Forrest Properties Inc., which became known for building the Village Green plaza in Lincolnshire. Laidley was charged in a 14-count indictment last week. If convicted, he would face a maximum of 30 years in prison on each count and a $1 million fine. His next federal court date is Aug. 20.

Home invasion suspects sought:

Round Lake Acting Police Chief Francis Foy announced Thursday investigators are seeking two men suspected of a home invasion and aggravated battery. Foy said the break-in happened about 11 p.m. Wednesday in the 300 block of Hillendale Drive. He said a 72-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman were battered by the men after they forced their way into the couple's house. Foy said the suspects were described as white or Hispanic in their late teens or early 20s. The men were wearing dark clothing and knit caps. Foy said the suspects fled as one of the victims called 911. Both victims were taken by ambulance to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, where they were treated for injuries to the head and body. Foy said Round Lake authorities are working with the Lake County Major Crime Task Force in trying to establish a motive for the attack.