You’d sure like to head out to a good party this week, wouldn’t you? How about Shop With A Cop 5 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 15, at McHenry VFW, 3002 W. Route 120? What’s that? You don’t dare leave the new puppy home alone?

Still, the temptation to go out for the evening is gnawing at you, isn’t it? You know what will happen. The puppy will chew on the furniture, mess, piddle and howl while you’re away enjoying food, drink, games and music. You’ll even have opportunities to bid on some of the live and silent auction items.

Yes, that is a great way to fill some of the holes on your holiday shopping list. But, what’s the point if the puppy simultaneously makes holes in your socks that he drags out of the laundry basket?

You could lock the puppy up or try to puppy proof the house. Of course, you don’t have a crate and puppy proofing sounds like a lot of work. Another option is to take the puppy to Aldens Kennels, 6810 Barnard Mill Road, Ringwood, for a night of puppy favorite boarding.

Not only will you not have to worry about the puppy home alone, when the evening is over, you can top the night off with well deserved relaxation on your return home. Well deserved?

You bet you earned it. Because of efforts such as yours, McHenry County Police Charities will be able to take area children, those whose families are having a rough time with the economy, for a little holiday shopping.

It really puts a ray of sunshine in a child’s heart when they are partnered with an area police officer for some holiday shopping at Walmart in Johnsburg. Each child receives $150 to spend as they please. They also receive a winter coat, hat, gloves and boots.

The biggest problem the police officers have with these children is reminding them to buy something for themselves, not just gifts for their families.

This is the sixth time MC3, a McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce business connections group, will host the party. Last year, they raised $18,000. This year, they’re hoping to raise more. And next year … ?

By next year, you’ll have brought that puppy to Aldens for their world-class dog training, right? No problem leaving the puppy alone then. And the lessons won’t take that long. At  Aldens, they believe that, if the dogs have fun in obedience class, they learn faster and retain more.

For more information about Aldens Kennels, call 815-278-0559 or visit http://www.aldenskennels.com. In the meantime, see you at Shop With A Cop.