Many thanks to a hardworking snow crew
You don't have to tell Larry Braasch and his crew that we've had a lot of snow.
They've been in the middle of it.
"We do call Mother Nature some words," the Dundee Township road commissioner said, managing a chuckle even as his tired crew readied for the latest blast.
So far they've been able to handle all the whims of winter thrown our way. And that's drawn high praise from a reader who nominated them to be among our hidden heroes, the folks who work hard behind the scenes to make a difference for the rest of us.
Many of us know to take certain roads when we want to make sure we can get where we're headed. I can vouch for Dundee Township's work in the worst of it during last week's monster storm. Clear sailing. And, given the shortage of salt, that's saying something.
"We all do our best," Larry said of the hidden hero praise.
Full-timers Mitch Snow (really), Anthony Meo, both of Carpentersville, and Tom Vierke of Hampshire and part-timers John Teichmann of Carpentersville and Bob Sheneman of Lake Marian pull together no matter what the task, Larry said.
It's more challenging right now since Tom, who plays a vital role to help keep the equipment running, is out with some serious health issues. As the close-knit staff pulls for him to heal quickly, they're also pulling together to get the job done.
"We all work as a team here ... that's the only way," Larry said, acknowledging this has been a difficult winter. "We're hoping Mother Nature gives us a break here."
"We do get worn out after a snowstorm," Larry added. "But we all do our best."
And we thank you for that.
Bipartisan … not
One of the pitfalls of life in the political world is that players are often grist for the rumor mill and the grenade-throwers. With or without fact. One creative soul claims McHenry County GOP Chairman Bill LeFew is so unhappy with his party's candidate for state's attorney, incumbent Lou Bianchi, that LeFew has been conspiring with Democratic Party Chairman Tom Cynor to back a Democrat in November.
No way, LeFew says. Although he acknowledges he's had issues with Bianchi, the staunch Republican says he and Bianchi agree it's time for their party to come together. LeFew also says he's never had any conversation with his Democratic counterpart.
Democrats, by the way, have until April 7 to caucus in a candidate. Stay tuned.
Mimis!
Not that I have to tell you because I'm pretty sure all of you already know it -- but, in case you aren't among the dozens who've already eagerly checked out Algonquin's newest restaurant, Mimis is officially open. That's the spot along Randall Road, next to Wickes. They quietly opened Thursday and have been packed ever since. My crew loved our Saturday night visit and will definitely be going back. They boast of their "comfort food," and I do believe they've got that right. If you go, do be prepared for a bit of a wait. It's worth it.
Behind the scenes
I hear some of you like a chilly treat on a frigid day and thoroughly enjoyed Sunday's ice cream social and Huntley District 158 Community Showcase. Sun City resident Barbara Schuler was among those who've told me it was a great show. And, yes, she liked the ice cream despite the subzero temps outside. Organizer Kim Skaja says it was great to gather all ages on and off stage, and they're already talking about the next show.
Tuning up
If you like music, consider attending "Music Changes Lives," hosted by the Dundee-Crown High School Parents of Music Performers.
The fundraiser includes lunch, a silent auction and a raffle as well as plenty of music from 1 to 4 p.m. March 9 at the Boulder Ridge Country Club in Lake in the Hills. You'll hear the Dundee-Crown chamber orchestra, chorale, jazz band and honors choir. Tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for students and include lunch. Call Becky Gillam at (847) 836-6792.