Briefs: Anti-gang task force

With more than 3,000 gang members living north of Lake-Cook Road, Lake County's largest city is getting proactive in its fight to end gang violence. The Waukegan Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms launched an anti-gang taskforce this week, made possible by a $850,000 federal grant. The local-federal partnership allows law enforcement to pursue federal prosecution and longer sentencing.

Water test offered

The Lake County Health Department is offering incentives to users of private wells to have their water tested. From March 10 to 15, the fee for bacteria and nitrate testing will be reduced to $10 from $15. Sterile test bottles to be filled and returned for analysis are available at health department offices at 3010 Grand Ave., Waukegan, (847) 377-8020; 118 S. Main St., Wauconda, (847) 984-5000; and 121 E. Grand Ave., Lake Villa, (847) 377-7780. The health department also will collect the samples for a $48 fee. Other tests are available for lead, fluoride, hardness, iron and total dissolved solids.

Firefighter honored

The Vernon Hills village board honored Capt. Michael J. Hodges, who recently retired after serving the Countryside Fire Protection District for 36 years. Hodges was hired as a full-time firefighter and paramedic in August 1976. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1982 and to captain in 1993. Hodges was recognized for his work leading the vehicle and maintenance department.

Blood drive Feb. 29

St. Martin de Porres High School will team with LifeSource for a blood drive Feb. 29. The event will run from noon to 7 p.m. in the second-floor assembly hall at 515 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Waukegan. To schedule an appointment, call LifeSource at (847) 803-7943. Walk-ins are welcome.

Food fest applicants sought

The Wauconda Fest Committee is looking for food vendors for Wauconda Fest 2008 to be held June 26 to 29. Applications may be picked up at the Wauconda Park District, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda. Application deadline is March 14. For more information, call Nancy Burton at (847) 526.3610.