Fox Valley briefs

Mitten donations wanted

The Dundee Township Public Library is now accepting donations of new infant, children's and adult mittens and outerwear accessories for its annual Mitten Tree. All items will be donated to the FISH Pantry and the Elgin Crisis Center. Drop off items to the library's children's desk during regular business hours. The library is located at 555 Barrington Ave. in East Dundee. For details, call (847) 428-3661 or go to dundeelibrary.info.

People in Need forum scheduled

McHenry County's 2010 People in Need forum has been scheduled Jan. 30 at McHenry County College. The event brings together volunteers, faith-based organizations, social service agencies and civic groups to discuss issues related to providing care and assistance to those who need it, including how to obtain resources in today's difficult economic climate. For more information, visit peopleinneedforum.org or contact Bev Thomas at (815) 479-7792.

Free violence counseling

The Community Crisis Center in Elgin provides domestic violence counseling services for northwestern Kane County. A licensed counselor and is available to adult and adolescent females, and services are free. For information or an appointment, call (847) 697-2380.

Winter parking restrictions in effect

From now through April 15, it is illegal to park on any public street in Algonquin between 2 and 5 a.m. It's also against the law to park on the street if there is more than two inches of snow on the ground, because it impedes snow removal. Violators will receive tickets. Meanwhile, people with special parking concerns should notify the police department by calling (847) 658-4531.