From Fox to Hudson: Locally made plane part saved lives
The US Airways flight that successfully landed in the Hudson River last month has a connection to the Fox River, at least in a loose way.
The Airbus A320 that lost power after an apparent bird strike took out both of the plane's engines was fitted with a component made by Otto Engineering, located on the Fox River in Carpentersville.
The P6 switch made by Otto Engineering deployed the plane's Ram Air Turbine, which provides power to the plane's hydraulic system when engine power is lost. That backup let pilot Chesley B. Sullenberger maneuver the plane into position for a water landing.
In a company newsletter, Otto Engineering President Tom Roeser wrote, "The mechanical energy of the two engines is the primary source of routine electrical power and hydraulic pressure for the aircraft flight control systems. A ram air turbine (RAT), a type of wind turbine that can be deployed into the airstream to provide backup hydraulic pressure and electrical power at certain speeds. Because our P6 successfully deployed the RAT, lives were saved."
It's an amazing story that has a local connection few people are aware of.
Avoid foreclosure: For those struggling to make ends meet during this tough economic time, Dundee Township, in collaboration with Kane County, will hold a free workshop for home foreclosure prevention from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the Dundee Township Senior Center, 665 Barrington Ave, Carpentersville.
Space is limited and those interested are asked to call (847) 695-0399 to reserve a seat.
Fry 'em up: The best fish fry is still in West Dundee, despite rumor and hearsay to the contrary. I have been asked to let everyone know that the West Dundee VFW Post 2298 is not closing and that its Friday Fish Fry is still going strong. With Lent right around the corner, it's a good time to go and try it out for yourself.
The VFW holds its fish fry from 5 to 9 p.m. every Friday at 117 S. First St, West Dundee, across from the Ace Hardware. The phone number for carryout is (847) 428-9006.
For those who don't like seafood, the menu has a little something for everyone, from hot dogs to hamburgers and chicken fingers.
Dedicated service: Congratulations to Carpentersville employees John Muir and Rosemary McMurchie for their continued service to the village. Muir has spent 30 years with the fire department and currently holds the position of fire lieutenant. Fire Chief John Schuldt said Muir is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week if the department needs mechanical work on any of its engines. Even on his day off, Schuldt said the department is always calling him up for help and Muir is always ready to help.
Meanwhile, McMurchie has spent two decades with the village's finance department. Village Finance Director Lisa Happ said McMurchie can answer just about any question that is asked at the finance department desk. If she doesn't know the answer, McMurchie can direct you to the person who does have the answer.