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X-WR-CALNAME:Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20220208T200838Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T225443Z
UID:4124-1787475600-1787482800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Sterne’s Fen Restoration Workday
DESCRIPTION:THE GROUP\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe meet once a month at Sterne’s outdoor pavilion\, 5617 Hillside Dr. from 9-11AM.  Volunteers have a chance to learn about restoration ecology and what makes Sterne’s Fen special.  Please bring a water bottle and a pair of work gloves.  The park district will supply loppers and bow saws.  Invasives like honeysuckle and buckthorn are crowding out the native fen species.  The brush also prevents the use of controlled burns on the fen. Email Brice Alt\, volunteer site steward\, to receive a monthly workday reminder: bricemaieralt@hotmail.com. \n \nTHE PARK \nSterne’s Woods & Fen became an Illinois State Nature Preserve in 1994 to preserve and protect its unique ecology.  A fen is a rare type of wetland in which cold groundwater that is high in calcium and magnesium seeps to the surface.  The unique water chemistry supports plants that grow nowhere else.  Sterne’s Fen is home to at least 10 rare or endangered plant species.  The surrounding parkland acts as a buffer to the fen and includes prairie\, oak savanna\, and flatwood ecosystems.  Every one of those ecosystems can benefit from the efforts of volunteers.  Join us once a month and learn about them! \n \nTHANK YOU \nMuch thanks to the local groups who have volunteered with us at Sterne’s:  the MUDD trail running club\, the Silver and Sleepy Hollow Creeks Watershed Coalition\, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County\, the BREAK\, Jacobs High School Interact\, Crystal Lake South Elementary\, Girl Scout Troop 888\, Cub Scout Pack 156\, and Boy Scout Troops 158 and 368.  We can accommodate community groups!  Just give us a heads-up of how many volunteers to expect. \nNEWS \nA video about Sterne’s Fen: https://youtu.be/DMVPl80PDQ0 \nPark district updates:  https://www.crystallakeparks.org/project-updates#SternesFen\nWho was Ted Sterne?  The Crystal Lake Historical Society article: https://www.dropbox.com/s/h61unofnnnx06kg/Ted%20Sterne%20.pdf?dl=0\nECOLOGIC RESTORATION \nBy volunteering at a Sterne’s workday you’re helping with the ecologic restoration of an exceedingly rare type of habitat. \nTo learn more about restoration ecology\, here’s a quick video: https://youtu.be/VNwQ6cRMTKI \nSterne’s Fen has a management plan: https://www.dropbox.com/s/9ekp2nfniddn1d6/1989%20management%20plan.pdf?dl=0
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/sternes-fen-restoration-workday/2026-08-23/
LOCATION:Sternes Woods Park\, 5617 Hillside Rd\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
CATEGORIES:Work Days and Clean-ups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Group-Garlic-Mustard-Pull_1x1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260816T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260816T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260807T180405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260807T180452Z
UID:6573-1786883400-1786896000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Monarch Family Fun Fair
DESCRIPTION:Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge and The Monarch Coalition invite you to … \nThe 11th Annual MONARCH FAMILY FUN FAIR! Migrate to the beach and get in FREE for a family afternoon and learn all about Monarchs. A Monarch extravaganza with butterfly and pollinator plants information\, monarch art show\, science table activities\, art activities\, a big monarch migration route map and information on how Mexico\, Canada and USA are collaborating! We also will have pollinator plants available to purchase from our participating nurseries. A Community Band Showcase will also be providing music at the band shell starting at 1pm. \nSpecial Thanks to Crystal Lake Culvers Restaurant for once again providing \nFREE Ice Cream chips to fair goers who complete our Monarch Quiz!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/monarch-family-fun-fair-2/
LOCATION:Crystal Lake Park District
CATEGORIES:Conservation,Education,Outdoor Events,Promotions,Public Events,Water and Natural Resource Protection,Young Advocates
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Revised-Monarch-English-flyer-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T170000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260724T211303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T211303Z
UID:6553-1786795200-1786813200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Save the Bees Flash Sale Tattoo Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for another Save the Bees tattoo Flash Sale put on by our wonderful business members Moss and Marrow Tattoo in Crystal Lake! 50% of all proceeds will be donated to the Defenders! We’ll see you out there!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/save-the-bees-flash-sale-tattoo-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Moss and Marrow Tattoo Studio
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/FlashSaleFundraiser.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T103000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260722T193426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T181632Z
UID:6534-1786784400-1786789800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Food Forest Tour - CANCELED
DESCRIPTION:CANCELED\nFood Forest Tour\nAugust 15th at 9am in McHenry \nJoin the Environmental Defenders and Stephanie Tesmer\, Environmental Scientist\, who will be guiding a tour around her residential Food Forest. Learn about integrating trees\, perennial plants\, and annual beds into urban landscapes to enhance food security\, boost biodiversity\, and improve urban microclimates. We will discuss how transforming basic lawns\, into productive green spaces can create local food resilience and boost community well-being. \nThere are a total of 15 spots available. First come\, first served. Please contact envirodefmc@gmail.com if spots fill up and you’re interested in a tour. \nRSVP
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/food-forest-tour/
LOCATION:IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Food-Forest-Tour-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T203000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260724T204928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T205302Z
UID:6548-1786042800-1786048200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:The Green Readers
DESCRIPTION:The Green Readers meet every 2nd Thursday of the month at The Green Read. To learn more about the upcoming book selections and be added to our mailing list\, please email thegreenreadbookstore@gmail.com.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/the-green-readers-2/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Green Read\, 61 N. Williams\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, 60014
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Green-Readers-Book-Club.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T190000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260727T152535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T152628Z
UID:6475-1785949200-1785956400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - August
DESCRIPTION:The Food System We Built – and the One We Need\n\n\nHow did our food system become so dependent on distant corporations\, petroleum\, long supply chains\, and highly processed foods? More importantly\, what can communities do to build something better?\n\n\n \n\n\nJoin Scott Brix\, co-founder and Board President of the Food Shed Co-op\, for an engaging conversation exploring how local food movements and community-owned cooperatives can help create a healthier\, more resilient\, and environmentally sustainable food system.\n\n\n \n\n\nDrawing on decades of experience in food science\, engineering\, and biotechnology\, Scott offers a unique perspective shaped by both the corporate food industry and the grassroots movement to rebuild local food economies\, and the natural environment – and why strengthening local farmers\, local businesses\, and community ownership may be one of the most important investments we can make in our future.\n\n\n \n\n\nAlso\, Chef Zak Dolezal will provide information about his new initiative that he is launching called LocalSource. As an advocate for regional food systems\, Zak has spent years navigating the logistical gap between incredible local producers and the commercial kitchens and sonsumers who want to buy from them. Now\, he’s launching the solution. Enter LocalSource – a digital platform designed to completely revolutionize how we source food. By providing independent farmers with 100% free inventory management tools while streamlining B2B ordering for restaurants and D2C deliveries for traditional consumers\, LocalSource removes the friction from the local supply chain. In this brief\, 5-minute talk\, Zak will pull back the curtain on LocalSource’s upcoming pilot launch in McHenry County\, revealing how data-driven smart routing and a community-backed financial model are building a scalable\, resilient digital highway to take the local food movement national.\n\n\nWatch on Zoom
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-august/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Green-Drinks-4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260804
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260810
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260610T185842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T185947Z
UID:6441-1785801600-1786319999@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:McHenry County Fair 2026
DESCRIPTION:Come volunteer with us! At the County Fair\, the volunteers will talk to visitors and hand out resources to guests. \nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/6441/
LOCATION:McHenry County Fairgrounds\, 12015 Country Club Rd\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/EDMC_Events_CountyFair_2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260730T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260730T140000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260522T164410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T164410Z
UID:6412-1785402000-1785420000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Styrofoam Recycling
DESCRIPTION:Tuesdays & Thursdays\n9am – 2pm\nAlgonquin Township Road District\n3702 US-14\, Crystal Lake \n\n\nThe Environmental Defenders’ Styrofoam Recycling Program is back! Starting in June\, we will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-2pm at the Algonquin Township Road District. We still need your support. We are looking for volunteers to help with our program. If you’re able to volunteer with us\, please sign up for a a volunteer position this summer! \n\nLearn More
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/styrofoam-recycling/2026-07-30/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Untitled-design-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260728T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260728T203000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260724T202928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T203046Z
UID:6544-1785265200-1785270600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Nature Nerds Book Club
DESCRIPTION:Email thegreenreadbookstore@gmail.com to learn about the upcoming book selections and be added to our list.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/nature-nerds-book-club-4/2026-07-28/
LOCATION:114 S Jefferson St\, Woodstock\, IL 60098
CATEGORIES:Bookstore Events,Community Outreach,Member Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Screenshot-2026-07-24-at-3.21.43-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260718T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260718T120000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260508T194348Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T181343Z
UID:6294-1784365200-1784376000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Recycling Drive
DESCRIPTION:The McHenry County Department of Health is hosting their county-wide recycling drive on Saturday\, July 18th from 9am-12pm.\n\n\n\nThe Environmental Defenders will be there to collect Styrofoam\, textiles\, batteries ($1/lb)\, and Fluorescent Light Bulbs ($.50/4ft bulbs\, $1/8ft bulbs\, $.50/compact bulbs used in light fixtures).\n\n\n\nPlease note that the Defenders will be collecting Styrofoam at this event. The next Styrofoam collection in Woodstock will be September 19th so please plan accordingly. Styrofoam must be clean and without tape/labels. Learn more about what we can and cannot accept: https://mcdef.org/styrofoam/\n\n\n\nDocument shredding will be available with Paper Tiger Document Solutions and will be shredding onsite. 4 box maximum per vehicle.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/recycling-drive-5/
LOCATION:McHenry County Administration Building\, 667 Ware Road\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
CATEGORIES:Public Events,Recycling
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/RecyclingDrive_July18.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260701T170031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T170031Z
UID:6448-1783760400-1783774800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Paddle the Kish Outing - Rescheduled
DESCRIPTION:Join the Environmental Defenders in a kayak on the Kishwaukee River on Saturday\, July 11th at 9am. \nWe will meet at Siems Memorial Park at 9am on Saturday\, July 11. We anticipate we will be in our kayaks paddling by 9:30 and reach our destination at 12:00/12:30. End time depends on speed of river and your paddling. All attendees are invited to join us for lunch at Niko’s Pointers Saloon\, 106 S. State Street\, Marengo\, IL. \nStart: Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Rd\, Union\, IL 60180 \nEnd: Marengo Waste Water Treatment\, 1350 IL-23\, Marengo\, IL 60152 \nInstructions: The group will drop off any equipment at Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Road\, Union IL. Then proceed to the end of the trip at Hwy 23\, Marengo Waste Water Treatment in Marengo\, just south of the Kishwaukee River. Park in the grass left of the driveway\, or on 8th Ave just to the south. Parking on any bridge is illegal. Our outfitter Paddle On! will shuttle us back to Siems Memorial Park to start our journey. \nPrices:\nRental of single kayak\, paddles\, safety vest – $55*\nRental of double kayak\, paddles\, safety vest – $75*\nShuttle Ticket – $13 \nhttps://www.paddleonoutfitters.com/current-events \nKayak Owners may drop off equipment at Siems Memorial Park\, drive to our end destination and find a buddy to drive back for free. For any questions\, email Paddle the Kish director Pat Lawlor at patlawlor117@gmail.com \n*$10 of each rental goes back to the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County to support our mission. \nRSVP: email Pat Lawlor at patlawlor117@gmail.com
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/paddle-the-kish-outing-rescheduled/
LOCATION:Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Rd\, Union\, 60180\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260701T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260701T190000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260701T165538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260702T203218Z
UID:6445-1782925200-1782932400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - July
DESCRIPTION:Why Sustainable Fashion Matters \nJoin Mollie Dunn\, ex sustainable fashion industry professional and founder of Fulfilled (a curated vintage store on the Woodstock Square) for an engaging talk on fashion waste. \nShe will take us from fashion’s global impact\, to what we can do about it as individuals. Prepare to leave feeling inspired! \nWe encourage all attendees to wear something vintage\, thrifted\, sustainable\, timeless and/or upcycled for fun! \n\nView Recording on YouTube
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-july-2026/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Green-Drinks-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260627T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260627T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260519T200648Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T200648Z
UID:6329-1782552600-1782558000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Highway Cleanup
DESCRIPTION:Join our Highway Cleanup with our Waste Reduction Action Team! \nSaturday\, June 27 at 9:30am \nCary Algonquin Road from Fox Trails Drive to Main Street (next to Fox Bluff Conservation Area) \n\nMeet our Waste Reduction Team + other Defenders\nChildren ages 10+ are welcome with adult present\nPlease bring gloves\nDress for the weather\nNormally takes around 90 minutes\n\nEmail alange090@gmail.com for more details and to let us know you’re coming!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/highway-cleanup/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EDMC_WR_HighwayCleanup_2026_Summer-Social.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260626T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260626T150000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260604T184313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T184313Z
UID:6422-1782478800-1782486000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:BMP: Talk and Tour - Natural Landscaping for Commercial Properties
DESCRIPTION:Join the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County and McHenry County Department of Planning and Development for Our First BMP Talk and Tour of 2026\nNatural Landscaping for Commercial Properties \nFriday\, June 26\, 1-3 pm \nWoodstock Public Library \nSarah Voska\, Sales Manager at Bluestem Ecological Services and Jen Czaja\, Landscape Architect at Sebert Landscaping\, will present “Natural Landscaping for Commercial Properties.” Woodstock Library is completing their Prairie Roots garden renovation project this Spring\, and the new gardens will serve as the case study of how the underused library grounds have been transformed into a community-focused outdoor space rooted in sustainability and connection. \nThe presentation will talk about the planning process\, plant selection\, and interpretive signage. These steps may also be replicated at commercial sites to create sustainable outdoor spaces. \nFollowing the presentation\, attendees may join the presenters for a guided walk around the Woodstock Library\, to observe the BMPs implemented. \nSign Up
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/natural-landscaping-for-commercial-properties/
LOCATION:Woodstock Public Library\, 414 W Judd St\, Woodstock\, IL\, 60098\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Conservation,Education,Water and Natural Resource Protection
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Temporary-BMP-image-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260622T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260622T170000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260520T210124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T210231Z
UID:6349-1782144000-1782147600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:The Blueberry Awards - Pollinator Week Kick-off Event
DESCRIPTION:Blueberry Awards Celebrate Books That Connect Children to Nature \nWhen:  4-5 pm\, Monday\, June 22\nWhere: Cary Public Library\, 1606 Three Oaks Rd\, Cary (map)\nHow: Please register here so we can send you a reminder email on June 22. \nThis is a free event\, kicking off the celebration of Pollinator Week (June 22-28) See tinyurl.com/PollinatorWk for activities throughout McHenry County  \nOur guest is Martha Meyer\, from the Evanston Public Library. Her presentation will focus on the Blueberry Awards\, which have been featured in Horn Book Magazine\, American Libraries Magazine and at the upcoming ALA Conference. She’ll share fast paced book talks of some of the winners of the 2025 Blueberry Awards\, as well as her award criteria including critical anti-climate anxiety criteria you can put to use right away in book selection\, and share some sneak peaks of the 2026 Blueberry Award contenders! \nThe Evanston Public Library created the Blueberry Awards\, which showcase books for kids 3 –10+\, in 2021. The Blueberry Awards also include two children’s choice awards\, the Blueberry Votes program for school children in K – 2nd grades and the Preschool Blueberry Votes program for 3 – 5 year olds\, programs you are welcomed to launch with your local school districts. \nMartha will also share how nature exposure can profoundly influence children’s physical and intellectual development\, how to become a Nature Smart library\, and the great explosion of great BIPOC authors and illustrators creating nature books! She’ll include lots of ways to use the Blueberry lists to collaborate with parks departments\, local nature centers\, day cares\, and more. \nFor more information about the Blueberry Awards\, including the 2025 Board\, Adult and Educator booklists\, past winners\, submission criteria\, etc.\, please go to epl.org/blueberry-award/.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/blueberryawards/
LOCATION:Cary Public Library\, 1606 Three Oaks Rd\, Cary\, IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EDMC_WNRP_PollinatorWeek_Social-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260622
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260629
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260521T151421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T155514Z
UID:6369-1782086400-1782691199@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Pollinator Week
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/pollinator-week-2/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Community Outreach,Education,Water and Natural Resource Protection
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EDMC_WNRP_PollinatorWeek_Social2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T181553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T181553Z
UID:6290-1781341200-1781366400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-10/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T130000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260608T190156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T190515Z
UID:6424-1781341200-1781355600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Paddle the Kish Outing
DESCRIPTION:Join the Environmental Defenders in a kayak on the Kishwaukee River on Saturday\, June 13th at 9am. \nWe will meet at Siems Memorial Park at 9am on Saturday\, June 13. We anticipate we will be in our kayaks paddling by 9:30 and reach our destination at 12:00/12:30. End time depends on speed of river and your paddling. All attendees are invited to join us for lunch at Niko’s Pointers Saloon\, 106 S. State Street\, Marengo\, IL. \nStart: Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Rd\, Union\, IL 60180 \nEnd: Marengo Waste Water Treatment\, 1350 IL-23\, Marengo\, IL 60152 \nInstructions: The group will drop off any equipment at Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Road\, Union IL. Then proceed to the end of the trip at Hwy 23\, Marengo Waste Water Treatment in Marengo\, just south of the Kishwaukee River. Park in the grass left of the driveway\, or on 8th Ave just to the south. Parking on any bridge is illegal. Our outfitter Paddle On! will shuttle us back to Siems Memorial Park to start our journey. \nPrices:\nRental of single kayak\, paddles\, safety vest – $55*\nRental of double kayak\, paddles\, safety vest – $75*\nShuttle Ticket – $13 \nhttps://www.paddleonoutfitters.com/current-events \nKayak Owners may drop off equipment at Siems Memorial Park\, drive to our end destination and find a buddy to drive back for free. For any questions\, email Paddle the Kish director Pat Lawlor at patlawlor117@gmail.com \n*$10 of each rental goes back to the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County to support our mission. \nRSVP: email Pat Lawlor at patlawlor117@gmail.com
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/paddle-the-kish-outing/
LOCATION:Siems Memorial Park\, 16711 Highbridge Rd\, Union\, 60180\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PTK-Outing-copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260612T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260612T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T181356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T181356Z
UID:6288-1781254800-1781280000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-9/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260611T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260611T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T181328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T181328Z
UID:6286-1781168400-1781193600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-8/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260607T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260607T180000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260520T173916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T174750Z
UID:6335-1780830000-1780855200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Crystal Lake Pride
DESCRIPTION:In keeping with our mission to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment in our downtown\, we are very happy to announce the 2026 Downtown Crystal Lake Pride Walk & Social. LGBTQ+ community members and allies are all welcome! Meet at Williams St. & Crystal Lake Ave. at 11 am in your most colorful apparel (Pride flags welcome!) to join the walk from Williams St.\, to Woodstock St.\, to Grant St.\, and we’ll end at the Brink Street Market! Then\, stay at the park to eat and socialize\, shop the craft fair supporting LGBTQ+ owned businesses and makers\, and connect with non-profits and community resources. \nThe Environmental Defenders will be partnering with WasteNot to provide food scrap composting at the event so lookout for our compost bins!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/crystal-lake-pride-2026/
LOCATION:IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EDMC_WR_CLPride_2026_Social.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T180555Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180555Z
UID:6284-1780736400-1780761600@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-7/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260605T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260605T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T180526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180526Z
UID:6282-1780650000-1780675200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-6/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260604T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T180435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180435Z
UID:6280-1780563600-1780588800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale
DESCRIPTION:Garage Sale \nJune 4-6 | 9am – 4pm\nJune 11-13 | 9am – 4pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-donation/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T190000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260527T183102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260527T183246Z
UID:6416-1780506000-1780513200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Green Drinks - June
DESCRIPTION:Attend on Zoom\nWe increasingly hear about new hyperscale data centers being proposed throughout the region. The incredibly confusing and contradictory information about data centers water used forced Scott Kuykendall\, McHenry County Water Resources Specialist\, to spend much of the past year intensely studying how these systems actually work. Scott will explain where drinking water in Illinois comes from\, discuss the opportunities and constraints of these water resources\, and share what he has learned about the rapidly evolving data center industries use of water. \nScott Kuykendall is the Water Resources Specialist for McHenry County. He oversees the County’s scientific studies on groundwater\, helps develop water resources policy\, maintains the County’s environmental compliance\, and provides education and outreach. Prior to joining the County\, Scott had over 20 years of experience as an environmental scientist for firms specializing in environmental engineering\, and ecology. Scott is a member of many organizations dedicated to water resources management\, natural areas restoration\, and sustainability. Scott earned a bachelor’s degree in Geography from Southern Illinois University and a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management and Sustainability from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/green-drinks-june/
LOCATION:Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen\, 110 N Main St\, Crystal Lake\, Illinois\, 60014\, United States
CATEGORIES:Green Drinks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Green-Drinks-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T150000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T180210Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180210Z
UID:6278-1780480800-1780498800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale (Donation Drop-Off)
DESCRIPTION:Donation Drop-Off\nSUN May 31 | 2pm – 4pm\nMON June 1- WED June 3 | 10am – 3pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-donation-drop-off-4/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T150000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T180142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180142Z
UID:6276-1780394400-1780412400@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale (Donation Drop-Off)
DESCRIPTION:Donation Drop-Off\nSUN May 31 | 2pm – 4pm\nMON June 1- WED June 3 | 10am – 3pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-donation-drop-off-3/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260601T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260601T150000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T175855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180006Z
UID:6272-1780308000-1780326000@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale (Donation Drop-Off)
DESCRIPTION:Donation Drop-Off\nSUN May 31 | 2pm – 4pm\nMON June 1- WED June 3 | 10am – 3pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-donation-drop-off-2/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260507T175457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T180048Z
UID:6268-1780236000-1780243200@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Use-It-Again Garage Sale (Donation Drop-Off)
DESCRIPTION:Donation Drop-Off\nSUN May 31 | 2pm – 4pm\nMON June 1- WED June 3 | 10am – 3pm \nAll items must be CLEAN and in working order with all of their parts (cords\, battery packs\, etc). \nPreferred Items: \n\nToys & games\nKitchen items (utensils\, plates & bowls\, pots & pans)\nSturdy\, non-upholstered furniture & yard furniture\nAnything for the yard/garden\n\nWe CANNOT Accept: \n\nClothing\nStuffed animals\nUpholstered furniture\nLarge appliances\nNon-working or unclean small appliances or toy\nTVs\, monitors\, computers\nLarge exercise equipment\n\nVolunteer
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/use-it-again-garage-sale-donation-drop-off/
LOCATION:Algonquin Township Road District\, 3702 Route 14\, Crystal Lake\, IL\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraising,Member Events,Public Events,Waste Reduction
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/UIA-Garage-Sale_1x1-1080-x-1080-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T160000
DTSTAMP:20260825T194537
CREATED:20260519T200955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T201427Z
UID:6332-1780135200-1780156800@mcdef.org
SUMMARY:Pedalpalooza 2026
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an exhilarating cycling event that not only promises an unforgettable weekend but also makes a significant impact on the health and well-being of our community! Pedalpalooza is a fundraising initiative dedicated to supporting Family Health Partnership Clinic\, a lifeline for the uninsured residents in our area. \nPump up those tires\, dust off your helmets and embark on a scavenger hunt type journey throughout the county at your pace\, start and finish wherever and whenever you like making sure to stop in as many participating establishments along the way! Pedalpalooza is a community-driven event focused on raising funds to ensure that everyone in our community has access to essential heart disease screenings\, preventive care\, education and chronic disease management. But also partners with local small businesses to give special discounts\, raffles or offers to our Pedalpalooza-ers.  Check out some of your favorite places and maybe find a few new ones to patronize!  You will receive access to the Goosechase App\, Directory of locations\, official wristband and Tshirt.  You can bike\, walk\, run\, drive- whatever works for you- there is no wrong way to Pedalpalooza. \nWhy Pedalpalooza? The funds raised during this event will directly contribute to heart health initiatives\, enabling the clinic to provide heart disease screenings\, preventative care\, education and chronic disease management to uninsured individuals in our community. Together\, we can make a tangible difference in preventing heart-related issues and promoting overall well-being!
URL:https://mcdef.org/event/pedalpalooza-2026/
LOCATION:IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mcdef.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Pedalpalooza_logo.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR