Every vote does count -- at least at the local level

The race for an Elgin Township trustee seat has finally been decided.

The Kane County Clerk's office has declared Democrat Carol Rauschenberger the official winner in the April 7 election, besting GOP candidate Steve Thoren by two votes.

On Election Day, Rauschenberger's lead over Thoren stood at just one vote.

Afterward, Thoren and his attorney examined absentee and provisional ballots and Rauschenberger picked up another vote.

Thoren said last week he could have challenged some of the ballots in court, but that would have been expensive and he only would have gained one more vote.

In other words, Rauschenberger still would have won.

Thoren has wished her well, but in his mind believes he lost by one vote although the final tally was 3,185 to 3,183.

Just goes to show that every vote counts.

Calling all anglers: The South Elgin Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the FUNdation, will host its 14th annual Tuna Kahuna fishing contest Saturday, June 13 at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., in South Elgin.

The event started 15 years ago, but was canceled in 2008 because of high water levels and dangerous currents on the Fox River.

The event is for children 15 years and younger.

Kids will get a taste of fishing while at the same time have the chance to become the big "Kahuna" and win a half-day guided fishing excursion on Lake Michigan.

The winner is the person who catches the longest fish.

But the event is more than just fishing.

A disc jockey will be on site, prizes will be awarded for each participant, and food and soft drinks will be available for purchase at the food tent. The day begins with registration at 8 a.m. and the event runs from 9 to 11 a.m.

The parks department volunteer staff will help the young anglers land their fish.

Each child who catches a fish receives a "Catch and Release" certificate. All participants must be accompanied by an adult and need to bring their own fishing equipment and bait.

For more information, call (847) 622-0003 or visit www.southelgin.com.

Eat breakfast, help others: The South Elgin Leos Club will host an all you can eat pancake breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, June 14 at 500 Fulton St., South Elgin, to benefit the Children's Miracle Network.

The cost is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors over 60, $3 for children ages 6 to 11 and free for children 5 and under. The meal includes pancakes, bagels, rolls and beverages.

For details, call Angie De Leon at (847) 888-9575.