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Five years ago, when Philip Baggio told a customer that he or she needed a new transmission, the response was easy to predict.

With higher education becoming more important – and more expensive – McHenry County’s colleges are adapting to the changing needs of students and the marketplace.

A little preparation can pay off big at tax time, and not only in terms of a refund.

In late 2009, Beth Armstrong began to teach Bootcamp exercise classes in her home to four local moms. Her students liked the cardio and strength training program and referred friends.

When Norman Rockwell fantasy collides with the reality of the American economy, circa 2011, the business year’s least productive month can grind to a halt.