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1 • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

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THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2020

No water rate increase for the next fiscal year DuPage Water Commission approves budget for FY 2020-21

On Thursday evening, the DuPage Water Commission Board approved its Fiscal Year 2020-2021 budget which will maintain the current water rate at $4.97 per thousand gallons.

On May 1, 2020, the commission’s customers, which includes most of the municipalities and private water agencies in DuPage county, will not see their water rates increase.

“I am proud of what the commission has been able to accomplish over the last six years,” said com-

mission Chairman Jim Zay. “Board members and staff remain committed to the goal of maintaining our water rates as low as possible and operating the water commission as a best-inclass self-sustaining utility.”

Since January of 2015, the commission has done an outstanding job at minimizing water rate increase to its customers. During this time frame, the commission has only raised its total water rate by two cents per thousand gallons.

“Since January of 2015, if you look at household affordability, an average family of four in DuPage using approximately 10,000 gallons per month, have seen their water bills

increase by only 20 cents per month due to the commission’s water rate changes,” Zay said. “That is less than one penny per day.”

The commission has been able to maintain and minimize its water rates going back to 2015, even considering the following: • Water rate increases from the City of Chicago, our supplier, which

total $0.27 per thousand gallons, • Loss of approximately $35 million in annual revenue with the sunsetting of the sales tax each year since 2016, • Decrease in the commission’s overall water sales of approximately 3%, • A much larger Capital Improvement Plan

In October of last year, the DuPage Water Commission was one of the only two agencies in the nation awarded the 2019 Gold Award for Exceptional Utility Performance from the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies.

The commission was recognized for its overall responsible financial performance.

COVID-19 updates for DuPage County As of 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 19, there were 1,693 total cases among DuPage County residents, including 87 deaths. Of those 345 were outbreak-associated, while 1,348 were not. Since Saturday, there were 32 new cases and four deaths reported.

(Outbreak-associated cases are linked to a congregate setting, e.g., long-term care facilities, workplaces, schools, or large gathering, e.g., convention, concert.)

Regarding the 345 outbreak-associated cases (including 53 deaths) among DuPage County residents: • 43 cases (including 10 deaths) are attributed to the Willowbrook longterm care facility (LTCF), • 253 cases (including 43 deaths) are attributed to 32 additional LTCFs, and • 49 cases are attributed to 21 outbreaks in other congregate settings and large gatherings.

DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) announces four additional deaths of persons with COVID-19 infection reported since Saturday: • Male resident of a Lisle long-term care facility in his 80s with underlying conditions, • Male resident of a Lisle long-term care facility in his 90s with underlying conditions, • Female resident of a Naperville long-term care facility in her 80s with underlying conditions, and • Male resident of a Westmont longterm care facility in his 60s with underlying conditions.

Number of cases by town At press time, these area communities reported the number of COVID-19 cases as follows: Addison 115, Bensenville 113, Elmhurst 84, Lombard 89, Oak Brook Terrace 9, Villa Park 64, Wood Dale 20.

Lessons via Google Docs

Addison Trail science teacher Andrea Grossart used Google Docs to engage her Horticulture and Biology Honors students. At this time of year, Horticulture students would normally be busy in the school’s greenhouse. To emulate that experience, Grossart had her pupils practice cutting techniques on their house plants, as well as plant seeds in their yards (pictured, at right). Her Biology Honors students completed a lab that shows how soap works to fight pathogens (pictured, at left).

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Inside:

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

“ALSO HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS IS KINDNESS, PATIENCE, LOVE, ENTHUSIASM AND A POSITIVE ATTITUDE”

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2 • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

OHSEM helps County collect 165,000 PPE items DuPage County has collected more than 165,000 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) varying from N95 masks, gloves, gowns, face shields, and other critical items since March 26.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM) has championed the coordinated donation efforts specifically for Personal Protective Equipment for front line first responders and medical professionals in DuP-

age County. OHSEM has received a total of 15 pallets of PPE from private businesses, community groups, schools, universities, faith-based organizations, and private citizens and families. Materials have been distributed to local police, fire, and medical agencies.

“These donations represent the core values of how a community rallies us together in our most challenging fight against the COVID-19,” said County Board

Chairman Dan Cronin. “We are ing, visit protectdupage.org and the donation process, please send proud of our active communities complete the PPE Donations Offer an email to: eoc.logistics@dupagewho are willing to donate much Form. If you have questions about co.org. needed supplies to help and protect all of us against this deadly outbreak not only across DuPage County, but for the safety of our nation.”

DuPage County is still accepting donations and has a greater need for N95 masks, surgical gowns, goggles, and face shields. To donate unused PPE, which must be in the original manufacturer’s packag-

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Pictured is the PPE collection site at the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM). The OHSEM has coordinated donation efforts specifically for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for front line first responders and medical professionals throughout DuPage County.

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 • 3

U.S. Department of Transportation awards grants to airports

County, SCARCE to host virtual sustainable design challenge DuPage County and SCARCE have transitioned their 14th annual Sustainable Design Challenge, previously scheduled in-person for April 21, to a virtual format. The Sustainable Design Challenge encourages students to construct building and landscape models using environmental and water-friendly design practices. Students will have until the end of the month to electronically submit designs.

“During these difficult times, we’ve been forced to cancel or postpone several events to ensure the safety of our DuPage County community,” said DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee chairman Jim Zay. “However, in speaking with our partners at SCARCE, as well as participating teachers, we have decided to move the Challenge to a virtual format. Many students have been working on their designs for quite some time, and we at the County want to recognize those efforts, as well as encourage new participation.”

Students may submit their building designs, project write-ups and presentations electronically. Teams are advised to collaborate remotely via online communication tools. Like previous years, a panel of industry experts will judge the projects, and the DuPage County Board will award the top projects.

“We’re confident – given all the advances in telecommunications – that this transition to a virtual format will be seamless for students,” said SCARCE founder and executive director Kay McKeen. “In fact, this technological component makes it a well-rounded STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) event.”

All DuPage County high schools are encouraged to participate. Registration will be open through April 24 with submissions due on April 30. For information on participating in this year’s virtual challenge, visit scarce. org/event/virtual-sustainable-design-challenge/.

Winners will be announced in midMay. Following that, an online gallery of the building designs will be posted for public viewing.

No more matching funds needed, Feds take over all grants The CARES Act also provides funds to increase the Federal share to 100 percent for grants awarded under the fiscal year 2020 appropriations for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and Supplemental Discretionary grants. Under normal circumstances, AIP grant recipients contribute a matching percentage of the project costs.

Providing this additional funding and eliminating the local share will allow critical safety and capacity projects to continue as planned regardless of airport sponsors’ current financial circumstances.

Airports and their respective allotments:

O’Hare International $294,441,928 Midway International $82,301,882 DuPage Airport $157,000 Aurora Municipal $157,000 Chicago Executive (Palwaukee) $157,000

Gary/Chicago International $157,000 Lewis University Regional $69,000 Joliet Regional $30,000 Schaumburg Regional $30,000

Conroy’s Community Resource Corner The YWCA Metropolitan Chicago’s services have continued and in most cases expanded despite social distancing and stay-at-home measures. Services include: the DuPage and Kane County Child Care Resource and Referral, Sexual Violence and Support Services, Economic Empowerment and Small Business support and virtual home visits through a variety of programs to ensure families basic needs are being met. YWCA Metropolitan Chicago continues to work with the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development, Illinois Department of Human Services and the Department of Children and Family Services to support child care partners who are willing to help essential workers.

Essential workers may apply for child care supports by contacting our office at emergencychildcare@ ywcachicago. org or phone 800-781-7247. The YWCA will work to link essential workers to child care providers in the area.

The YWCA is working to promote the importance of the CENSUS 2020 across the entire Metropolitan Chicagoland area. During this pandemic we see families struggling for vital resources, we urge everyone to complete their 2020 Census at https://my2020census.gov/. For information on all programs and resources including a DuPage Kane County COVID 19 guide, visit us at https://ywcachicago.org/

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U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao announced on Tuesday, April 14 that the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will award $446,739,181 in airport aid to 78 airports in Illinois to help respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency. This historic grant funding is part of the Trump Administration’s newly created Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Airport Grant Program, an effort to provide unprecedented and immediate relief

to American families, workers, and businesses.

“This $10 billion in emergency resources will help fund the continued operations of our nation’s airports during this crisis and save workers’ jobs,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

This funding will support continuing operations and replace lost revenue resulting from the sharp decline in passenger traffic and other airport business due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The funds are available for airport capital expenditures, airport operating expenses including payroll and utilities, and airport debt payments.

The FAA encourages airport sponsors to spend the grant funds immediately to help minimize any adverse impact from the current public health emergency.

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4A • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

The IndependenT Your Hometown Newspaper 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126 Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900

District 88 recalls former Board of Education member Timothy Gillen passes away on April 13

The Independent is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

Display Advertising: 630.834-8355 Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244 News: 630.834-8244 General Information: 630.834-8244

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Subscriptions: The Independent is mailed to the 60101, 60106 and 60181 zip code areas for $15.95 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

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With great sadness, last week District 88 announced the news that former District 88 Board of Education member Timothy F. Gillen Sr. passed away on April 13.

Gillen was part of the District 88 Board of Education from 2011 to 2018 and served on the following committees: Behavioral Interventions, Citizens Advisory Councils, Curriculum Council, District 88 Art Scholarship, District Finance and Employee Recognition. His two sons are alumni of District 88’s Willowbrook High School – Tim Jr. in 1983 and Russell in 1984. Gillen also served in the United States Marines.

District 88 administrators and Board of Education members share their thoughts and memories of Gillen below: “Tim will be remembered as a dedicated school board member, attending school functions to support the students and staff, and being active in the community. He always had a smile on his face and kind words for others. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Mary, and their family.”

— Donna Craft Cain, District 88 Board of Education President “Tim was not only a Board member; he was a friend. He had a strong passion that all District 88 students had what they needed to be able to grow as students and as members of our community. Tim will be missed.”

— Blanca Jessen, District 88 Board of Education Secretary “Tim was a tremendous asset to our Board of Education and school

Addison Public Library seeks public input The Addison Public Library has commissioned the Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University to conduct a survey of residents.

The survey includes questions about the Addison Public Library’s importance to the community, satisfaction with library services and programs and potential strategic priorities and objectives. Survey results will help the library plan for the future.

The library would like to hear from everyone in Addison – library users and non-users alike.

Responses will be confidential. All information provided will be reported in summary form only, so answers will be added to the responses of others and will not be shared individually.

The survey can be completed online at research.net/r/AddisonPublicLibrarySurvey.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

[left photo]: Pictured is former District 88 Board of Education member Timothy F. Gillen Sr., who passed away on April 13. [right photo]: Gillen (center) is pictured with his wife, Mary (left), and District 88 Board of Education President Donna Craft Cain during the Board of Education meeting on Aug. 13, 2018, when he was recognized and honored for his years of service on the Board.

community. His support of our students was invaluable, and he and his wife, Mary, were always familiar faces at athletic events and school activities. He truly believed in our mission of working for the continuous improvement of student achievement, and his efforts will be reflected in the successes of our students for years to come.”

— Dr. Scott Helton, District 88 Superintendent

“Mr. Gillen was so excited and proud to be elected to the District 88 Board of Education. He read the Board material with diligence and a commitment to participate in the decision-making process. He would say, ‘What we do for the students is most important. The community is counting on the district to help students be successful future citizens.’

Mr. Gillen attended every event his schedule would allow, which were

countless. He cared about the staff members and their goals for achievement. He was a gentleman and an enthusiastic Board member, with a kind sense of humor. He always talked about his family, his work and the time he spent traveling. Mr. Gillen was a valued team member, who will be missed. His spirit and goodness will live on.”

— Dr. Steve Humphrey, former District 88 Superintendent

Addison Trail names March recipient of 88’s Best recognition Teagan Whitaker has been named as Addison Trail’s March recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding work in the performing arts/electives.

Whitaker, a senior, was recognized during the April 13 District 88 Board of Education meeting.

Whitaker began her journey with music in fifth grade – she remembers being introduced to band and which instruments she could play, and the only one she could make noise on was the flute! So, she picked that instrument and stuck with it. As the music courses became more advanced, she was drawn to it even more. Whitaker plays flute and piccolo in Addison Trail’s Wind Ensemble, sings in Concert Choir and was the drum major for Marching Band this year.

“Whitaker is a genuine person, who is always looking for ways to improve the performance of herself and the ensemble,” said Mark Corey, Music Department Head. “I have seen her develop a passion for making music and doing what she needs to do to improve her personal skills. As the drum major for the band, she consistently seeks out ways to improve the ensemble’s performance on and off the field by working with inexperienced marchers or working behind the scenes to help keep the band organized.

In Theatre, I have witnessed her growth from an extra on stage to the lead in this year’s musical. What sets Whitaker apart is the combination of being an expressive and well-prepared performer, along with her commitment to doing whatever it takes to ensure the success of the ensemble.”

Whitaker has always loved theatre – she remembers going to theatre camps as a young child, and she always enjoyed the productions she saw as a student.

Whitaker had to make a tough decision in high school – she was a competitive gymnast, but really felt passion for theatre. She decided to take a leap and join Addison Trail’s Theatre program her junior year, and she quickly realized her love for it had been inside all

along. Whitaker is drawn to all facets of theatre – the production, the staging, the acting, the singing – and she truly loves being a part of all of it. She has had leads in Addison Trail’s last two musicals, “Newsies” and “Rock of Ages (High School Edition).”

“First of all, Whitaker is such SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing a joy and resilient Pictured is Addison Trail seforce in our nior Teagan Whitaker, who has Theatre program,” been named as the school’s said Anna March recipient of 88’s Best in McSweeney, recognition of her outstanding Theatre Director work in the performing arts/ and English electives. teacher. “She came to us later than most, joining junior year; however, she has become one of our most dependable leaders. One of the amazing ways Whitaker shows her Blazer Pride is through her desire to gain as much knowledge and experience as she can. She is happy to just learn, regardless of her role in theatre. She is a model theatre student, who has consistently shown her humility and positive nature. She is encouraging and extremely responsible. I cannot speak highly enough about Whitaker.”

See RECOGNITION, Page 5

Ally De La Rosa, an Information Technology Specialist for the U.S. Army, was the proud recipient of one of the Operation Superhero care packages put together by the Addison Trail Key Club. The packages included Addison Trail T-shirts, games, books, snacks, toiletries and letters from AT staff and students.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 • 5A

Addison Trail alumnae thank the school’s Key Club for care packages The Addison Trail Key Club recently put together care packages for members of the U.S. military serving overseas as part of its “Operation Superhero” service project.

Fifteen packages were sent, and each contained soap, deodorant, foot powder, baby wipes, Advil/ Tylenol, lip balm, Q-tips, games, books, snacks, Addison Trail T-shirts and handwritten letters from Addison Trail staff and stu-

• Recognition

in South Korea.

Another recipient was Addison Trail alumna Sam (Fallon) Allen, class of 2009. She is an Intelligence Specialist First Class with the U.S. Navy, serving in Guam with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (an aircraft carrier). The naval warship had nearly 5,000 crew aboard, many of whom have tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Another recipient was Addison Trail alumna Sam (Fallon) Allen, class of 2009, pictured here, wearing an Addison Trail T-shirt she received in her care package from the school’s Key Club. The Key Club sent out 15 packages through its project, Operation Superhero.

Cantigny plans virtual V-E event for 75th anniversary The COVID-19 pandemic isn’t stopping the First Division Museum at Cantigny Park from marking the 75th anniversary of V-E Day, the joyous end of World War II in Europe. A full day of celebratory activities had been planned at the park. Now the party is going digital and all are invited to join in honoring and thanking our WWII veterans.

In particular, the museum is asking the public to record 10-second videos with smart phones and upload them to the FDMuseum.org by Tuesday, May 5. The segments will be used in a “Cheer for Victory”

dents. The items were collected through donations and a community fundraising event. Five of the care packages were sent to Addison Trail alumni and a family member of a retired Addison Trail faculty member.

One of the recipients was Addison Trail alumna Ally De La Rosa, class of 2018. De La Rosa is an Information Technology Specialist for the U.S. Army and is stationed

video available for viewing on May 8, exactly 75 years after Victory in Europe Day in 1945.

Honor Flight Chicago is helping promote the video’s creation and plans to share the final product with as many WWII veterans as possible.

Video content ideas include sharing photos of family members who served; swing dancing; 1940s fashion and songs; homemade confetti tossing; and banging on pots and pans. More suggestions and video tips are posted on the First Division Museum website.

For more information, visit FDMuseum.org.

(Continued from page 4) Orchesis Sponsor, Musical family of hard workers and go-getters.

Choreographer and social studies When I met Whitaker, the reputation teacher LeVonne Cescolini-Boyer that preceded her did not disappoint! said Whitaker is determined to do her Whitaker was always doing her best best inside the classroom and beyond. to advance in her studies, and she “Whitaker is just an amazingly excelled in everything she did. She talented student,” Cescolini-Boyer also had a maturity about her I seldom said. “I had the pleasure of working see in ninth-graders. In addition, she with her on ‘Newsies’ and ‘Rock of usually had a smile on her face that Ages (High School Edition).’ I found would be so contagious and was that not only is she a gifted performer, much appreciated.” but an outstanding student in the Along with her commitment to classroom. Whether it be on the stage the performing arts, Whitaker also is or in the classroom, Whitaker was president of Tri-M (Modern Music dedicated to her work, enthusiastic Masters) Honor Society; is a member for any challenge she took on and of Key Club and National Honor a true leader for all of her fellow Society; and serves as Recording classmates. As a performer on the Secretary on the Thespian Board, a Addison Trail stage, or a student in Band Officer and Sports Editor for my AP U.S. Government classroom, ATtribute (Addison Trail’s yearbook).

Whitaker worked hard to be the “Whitaker is an amazing person,” best performer she could be, learned said Jessica Clark, Yearbook Advisor the AP curriculum by questioning and English teacher. “This year, she the content and pushing herself has been thriving in Yearbook by to embrace politics in the world producing some very creative pages. today and constantly exceeded my She goes above and beyond for me expectations on a daily basis.” and her classmates, all while being During her four years at Addison extremely positive. Whitaker is witty, Trail, Whitaker has taken 10 compassionate and incredibly hard Advanced Placement (AP)/college- working.” level courses and 10 honors courses, Whitaker’s plans for the future and she is in the top 4 percent of her include attending Illinois State class.

University, where she looks to major “I taught Whitaker in Honors in journalism and education. She Biology her freshman year,” said plans to join the university’s Gamma Aileen Sullivan, science teacher. Phi Circus and hopes to include “Having taught several of her older theatre and music in her schedule as siblings, I was aware she came from a well.

Maintaining mental health amid COVID-19 pandemic

By Ben Orner

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

State lawmakers put mental health on center stage during a recent virtual town hall in which medical professionals offered advice to Illinoisans struggling with the mental and emotional pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hosted by Chicago Democrats Rep. Ann Williams, Rep. Yoni Pizer and Sen. Sara Feigenholtz, the town hall laid out the mental health challenges related to COVID-19’s social and economic disruptions and offered therapies and solutions to people affected.

“I don’t think any of us is immune to the challenges we’re facing. Many of us feel anxious, fearful, sad, and we’re experiencing a range of emotions, a lot of ups and downs,” Williams said.

The three lawmakers presented questions to three Chicago-area medical professionals on the videoconference. The experts included the president of the Illinois Psychiatric Society, Dr. Hossam Mahmoud, psychologist Dr. Carri Hill and licensed clinic social worker Alexa James.

James, who is executive director of the Chicago affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), said people are dealing with four main mental health challenges during COVID-19—having fulfilling connections with other people; the ability to adapt to change; the ability to handle trauma; and maintaining productive activity.

“In an instant, much of that was diminished for us. Much of it was complicated or disrupted,” she said, as people’s work lives, personal lives and daily routines were changed by social distancing and Gov. JB Pritzker’s stayat-home order.

An American Psychiatric Association survey last month found 36 percent of Americans said the coronavirus pandemic is having a serious impact on their mental health, while 59 percent said it is seriously impacting their daily lives.

James said unsettled routines have especially disrupted people’s sense of purpose, which is why people stuck at home should not suddenly expect themselves to be more productive.

“Be compassionate with yourself.

Be kind to yourself,” she said. “Our expectations, we get married to them, and then when we don’t do them we get really disappointed. And I don’t think we have any room for that right now.”

James suggested people try something positive every day in the name of self-care, whether it is “one creative thing,” “one connective thing,” “one

productive thing” or “one self-care thing.”

James said she told her sister, who lives in “the middle-of-nowhere, Michigan,” to do simple things like wash her hair and put on mascara, because they “may just make you feel more human.”

Mahmoud said it is important to process what is happening by using what he calls “radical acceptance.”

“We’re going to go through tough times, but there is an end to this. And at some point, it will be over,” he said.

Impact on families Hill, a psychologist with Jewish Family and Children’s Services in Chicago, pointed out that the major routines of school and family life have been upended, as many parents have to juggle working from home, running their households and helping their kids with remote learning.

She said that parents should lower the academic expectations they have for their children because we are in “survival mode” during this crisis.

“Our two primary goals right now are, one: to make sure everybody’s healthy; and two, to maintain positive relationships,” Hill said. “And then outside of those, a lot of our other expectations may need to be adjusted in order to achieve those goals.”

For kids having trouble coping, Hill suggested that parents impose some structure, like having dinner at a normal time, setting a regular bedtime and making kids finish their school work before talking with friends.

Most importantly, Hill said, parents should talk openly and honestly to their children about COVID-19.

“Trying to protect them by not sharing things with them actually just makes them more anxious,” she said.

Along with age-appropriate information about COVID-19 and its impacts, Hill said children need emotional support when they may be acting out or seem down because of underlying stress and anxiety.

“What they need is additional support and love from everyone, so more hugs, more cuddles, that type of stuff,” she said.

Staying connected Mahmoud, the psychiatrist, said that telehealth services have increased in the past four or five weeks as therapy sessions have moved online. He said psychologists, psychiatrists and social workers have quickly learned videoconferencing so they can stay connected with patients.

Gov. Pritzker issued an executive order in March that requires health insurance companies to cover telehealth services.

Mahmoud also suggested ways that people can stay connected as this period of social distancing is merely just physical distancing.

“Maintain interactions with your social network as much as possible,” he said, adding that video chatting and phone calls offer a more personal experience than just texting, especially when staying in touch with loved ones at nursing homes.

Feigenholtz said she experienced a hidden upside to videoconferencing this month when she held Passover Seder with her family over Zoom— calling it a “Zeder.”

“I was able to have my East Coast and Midwest family in a Seder, which would have never happened,” she said.

And although she was reluctant at first, “it was such a positive experience.”

Feigenholtz also predicts that expanded telehealth access will continue past the pandemic, especially because of its benefits for rural and underserved communities.

“I don’t think you’re going to see the genie go back in the bottle. I think that having telehealth access is going to be the new normal,” she said.

Mental health is one of a handful of issues that state lawmakers are focusing on in anticipation for a return to the Capitol, as both chambers have divided their members into “working groups.” The Illinois House of Representatives has a working group of seven members dedicated to “mental health and addiction.”

While no plans to return to Springfield have been announced, lawmakers are currently “on call” to return at any time.

They were last in session on March 5. The 2020 session is scheduled to run through May 31.

Resources The state launched a mental health hotline called “Call4Calm.” When someone texts “talk” to 552020, they will receive a free call from a counselor at a local community health center.

Spanish speakers can text “hablar” to the same number.

People can also text “unemployment,” “food” or “shelter” for assistance with those things.

James added that if feelings worsen, people can call the National Suicide Hotline (1-800-273-8255), their local or personal health care provider or, in the most extreme cases, 9-1-1.

6 • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

Police Reports Area police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.

week’s issue.

Villa Park April 10 A 35-year-old Villa Park man was charged with domestic battery-making physical contact, domestic battery, which causes bodily harm and violation of bail bond for a Class A misdemeanor in the 200 block of E. Oak at around 11:29 a.m.

Theft of lost or mislaid property was reported at a local store at 7:30 Addison p.m. Police said an unknown suspect Editor’s note: There were no po- took a wallet that was left at the store. lice reports from Addison for this The wallet contained an Illinois driv-

County provides COVID-19 relief funds to P.A.D.S., Catholic Charities

The DuPage County Board on Tuesday, April 14 approved two resolutions that would provide funding to two local homeless shelters in response to their COVID-19 efforts.

The Board voted to provide $50,000 to DuPage Pads and $35,000 to the Hope House of the Catholic Charities Diocese of Joliet. The threat of COVID-19 caused DuPage Pads and Hope House to close their congregate sites for homeless clients and provide them with hotel rooms and food, resulting in additional expenses.

“Part of our mission is to promote a high quality of life for all DuPage County residents,” said County Board Chairman Dan Cronin.

“We remain dedicated to protecting our County’s most vulnerable residents and take pride in being able to help these two distinguished organizations.”

Funding for these projects was already included in the County’s FY2020 budget, which included $1 million for the Human Services Grant Fund. DuPage County created this fund to partner with local agencies to provide human service programs to County residents.

er’s license, a conceal-and-carry li- and parked in a parking lot sometime tried removing the weather stripping cense, two credit cards and a Medi- between 10 a.m. April 6 and 8 a.m. on the driver’s side and passenger’s side doors of a vehicle that was secare card.

April 7. cured, unoccupied and parked on the street sometime between 10 a.m.

April 8 April 6 Police said an unknown suspect(s) Retail theft was reported at a lo- April 5 and 7:47 a.m. April 6. in the 400-500 block of W. Division cal store at 5:44 p.m. Police said spray-painted the back of a stop sign unknown suspects removed several April 5 Theft of lost or mislaid propusing black spray paint. bottles of alcoholic beverages from the display shelves and left the store erty was reported at a local store at 9 a.m. Police said an unknown April 6-April 7 without paying for the items. suspect took a wallet that was inCriminal damage to a vehicle advertently left behind at a Redbox was reported in the 1600 block of S. April 5-April 6 Michigan. Police said an unknown Criminal damage to a vehicle was kiosk. The wallet contained an Ilsuspect broke the windshield of a reported in the 300 block of S. Mich- linois driver’s license and multiple vehicle that was secured, unoccupied igan. Police said an unknown suspect credit cards.

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: MOTHER’S DAY ACROSS 1. “Ali Baba and the Forty ____,” sing.

6. Eureka!

9. Schools of thought 13. Sound of artillery 14. Car nut 15. Without illumination 16. Nosey one 17. Kind of trip?

18. Lasso loop

19. *Little Women’s mom 21. *Tracee Ellis Ross on TV 23. ____ o’ shanter 24. Quitter’s word 25. Like a fiddle?

28. Like Charles Dickens’ Tim 30. Quarantine state 35. *Egyptian goddess of fertility 37. Insane, in Spain 39. Mother or daughter, in Italy 40. *Biblical Rebecca’s son

41. Online reviews 43. Research facil.

44. Fisherman’s decoys 46. Daytime entertainment 47. Furniture wood 48. End of the road, pl.

50. Blatant promotion 52. Swedish shag rug 53. Yours and mine 55. Little squirt 57. *Mother’s mom 61. *She fought for Mother’s Day, then against it 64. In advance 65. *Bambi’s mom 67. Fancy tie 69. Less than fernier 70. I have 71. “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” host 72. Fairies 73. Galley equipment 74. Feed the fire DOWN 1. Kitchen meas.

2. Stay out of its way!

3. Pelvic parts 4. Tennis great Chris ____ 5. Particular arrangement 6. Away from wind 7. *Mother’s favorite gift?

8. Ancient marketplace 9. Part of a scheme 10. No neatnik 11. Sushi restaurant soup 12. One-pot meal 15. Like the States 20. *One of the Gilmore girls 22. Hill dweller 24. One-eyed giants 25. *She played Forrest Gump’s mother 26. May edition, e.g.

27. *Worn atop the Queen Mother 29. Denials 31. Nike’s “Just ____ ____” 32. Private 33. “Take it back!”

34. *Mother in KrakÛw 36. Lard cousin 38. October birthstone 42. Plural of sputum 45. Rundown 49. Bottom line 51. Kind of ungulate, pl.

54. Where you’ll find AM 56. Living room centerpiece?

57. Gamecock’s spur 58. *Greek goddess of fertility 59. Bald eagle’s nest 60. *Mums’ mums 61. Opposite of cheer 62. International Civil Aviation Org. 63. Puppet precursor, possibly 66. *Female gametes 68. CafÈ alternative

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 • 7

Slices of life

How are you doing?

By

JILL PERTLER Contributor

Helton, District 88 salute Administrative Professionals Day On April 22, District 88 will celebrate Administrative Professionals Day to recognize and thank our clerical and technology staff members.

“Their work helps our students succeed inside the classroom and beyond and allows us to accomplish our mission of working for the continuous improvement of student achievement,” noted Superintendent Scott Helton in his weekly message.

“I would like to thank the following individuals for their endless passion and dedication.”

Addison Trail Coleen Brechin, Alex Cadena, Veronica Casimiro, Karla Cosio, Lisa Crotty, Santa DeAngelo, Laura DiNatale, Judy Garcia, Mark Garlitz, Karen Grady, Laura Grunschel, Sonia Hernandez, Kelly Hickey, Lori Irvin, Lynda Jrab, Greg Karis, Mariel Lopez, Lee Obrzut, Maria Oplawski,

Erika Roman, Caryn Scimeca, Licel Tornabene, Alma Villegas Willowbrook Ambar Aguirre, Isela Aquino, Maria Bazaldua, Sue Bower, Earl Buckley, Hank Chanez, Erika Delgado, Charlie Hoehn, Marcia Ivancevic, Velma Johnson, Shelly Kanara, Joe Konney, Sonia Mendez, Gina Mucha, Zulema Neel, Donna O’Neill, Patti Reher, Maria Vanessa Rocha, Angela Ruiz, Shilpa Shah, Kathleen Smith, Trudy Sulita, Diane Vegter, Yusuf Yusuf

that one off the bucket list.

As the days morph into weeks and the weeks possibly into months, I wonder: How are you doing? What are you doing to pass the time? How are you staying safe? Are you lonely or scared? Is your family wearing on you or are you finding you enjoy them more than you thought you would? For me it’s the latter.

Sometimes, though, the days get long. There is only so much cleaning, cooking and TV binging anyone can do. Some days, despite my best intentions, I can’t seem to get anything done. It’s as though I’ve lost my oomph.

Some of us have sewn masks.

Others are wearing them. When we do have to venture out for milk or eggs we are furtive, dodging oncoming customers in the toilet paper aisle. Trying not to breathe the same air – just in case. We carry

hand sanitizer in our pocket and use it immediately upon leaving the grocery store. We try not to rub our eyes or touch our face.

People who are considered essential employees go out each day into the unknown. They come home and peel their clothes off and hop into the shower. And then get up the next day to do it all over again.

Thank you.

Many of us have had to skip large family gatherings. We have cancelled birthday parties, spring break trips, Easter dinners, Sunday fun days and even postponed weddings and funerals.

Our daughter and her family live about half a mile from us.

We haven’t seen them in nearly a month. Visitors aren’t allowed at my dad’s assisted living facility, and he doesn’t understand why. We all have similar stories to tell.

Students are now experienced distance learners. My senior in high school has actually been doing quite a bit of school work and he’s much more communicative about it than when he was in the regular classroom. We’ve discussed economics, how to arrange food in the refrigerator, local government and “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Those discussions have been a plus.

Another plus – I don’t have to wonder who will be home for dinner. We’re all here every night, and we sit around the table together for our meal. It hasn’t been this way since they were in elementary school.

I thought I’d thoroughly stocked up on food, but things are thinning out. Over the last three weeks we’ve gone through 10 dozen eggs.

See SLICES, Page 10 371338

First we all measured this situation by days and then by weeks and now the days string together and I’m not always sure if it is Tuesday or Wednesday. By now, we are seasoned pandemic participants. We know how to kill a month by staying inside and following the rules. Cross

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411 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst

411 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst

Custom built Modern Georgian in sought after Cherry Farm.

Set on a beautifully landscaped 70 x 170 lot. Recently remodeled by Normandy Builders - kitchen, mudroom with butler prep area and dog bath, master bathroom, and partially

COMING SOON!

Custom built Modern Georgian in sought after Cherry Farm. Set on a beautifully landscaped 70 x 170 lot. Recently remodeled by Normandy Builders - kitchen, mudroom with butler prep area and dog bath, master bathroom, and partially finished basement with full bath and bedroom. Separate formal living and dining rooms, open kitchen with island, eating area, and sliding doors from family room to backyard. 2 fireplaces - LR and FR. 4 beds up with bonus loft/office/nursery. 2.5 car detached garages with fenced yard.

Meticulously maintained, freshly painted, and professionally staged.

Turn-key Bungalow!

Turn-key Bungalow!

4 Bed, 3 Bath completely move in ready home w/ a walk to Jefferson School, Smalley Pool/Park & Skate Park,Farmers Market/Vallette Business District & Prairie Path location!

Walking into your cozy sunroom this home offers TONS of $499,900 FIRST OFFERING!

Walk to Town

Walk to Town

2004 custom built two-story on a beautifully landscaped 60 x 184 lot, walk to town, Hawthorne/Sandburg schools, 4,316 SF plus an unfinished basement ready for your ideas, oversized rooms, home office, bump out eating area, family room

2004 custom built two-story on a beautifully landscaped 60 x 184 lot, walk to town, Hawthorne/Sandburg schools, 4,316 SF plus an unfinished basement ready for your ideas, oversized rooms, home office, bump out eating area, family room fireplace, 4 beds up + an office and loft area on 2nd floor. Brick and stone exterior with front porch, freshly painted interior, back paver patio, and 3 car garage. $925,000

Updated Macdougall Ranch

Updated Macdougall Ranch

This 3 Bedroom/2.5 Bathroom Macdougall Ranch has updates from top to bottom! Updates include dark stained hardwood floors on Main Level (2016), Painted (2016), Kitchen Floor Tile and Backsplash (2019), High End Kitchen Custom Cabinets

$925,000 NEW PRICE!

Large 2-Story in S. Elmhurst

Close proximity to Jefferson/Bryan Schools. Private Alley access to garage off of York Road. New Siding, Newer Windows! Spacious Formal DR, SS appliances in Kitchen w/ Granite Countertops, Cozy Family Room, Large deck and 3 $439,900

$399,900 NEW PRICE!

Large 2-Story in S. Elmhurst Close proximity to Jefferson/Bryan Schools. Private Alley access to garage off of York Road. New Siding, Newer Windows! Spacious Formal DR, SS appliances in Kitchen w/ Granite Countertops, Cozy Family Room, Large deck and 3 Seasons Bonus Room off the back of the house. Big Master Bedroom with Master Bath/Double Vanity/Jucuzzi step up tub! New Carpet Upstairs. Fully Fenced Backyard! Steps away from Pool, Parks, and more! $439,900

4 Bed, 3 Bath completely move in ready home w/ a walk to Jefferson School, Smalley Pool/Park & Skate Park,Farmers Market/Vallette Business District & Prairie Path location! Walking into your cozy sunroom this home offers TONS of natural light and the charm and amenities buyers want for an affordable price! High End Kitchen with White Shaker Cabinets, Viking & Bosch Appliances, and great cabinet/counter space. Lovely Family Room with a cozy fireplace, formal oversized Dining Room & Full Bathroom and 2 BR’s, PLUS mudroom round out 1st Floor. 2nd Floor offers Master Suite & 4th BR, lots of closet space & storage. $499,900

ace err kT roo b k Oa

This 3 Bedroom/2.5 Bathroom Macdougall Ranch has updates from top to bottom!

Updates include dark stained hardwood floors on Main Level (2016), Painted (2016), Kitchen Floor Tile and Backsplash (2019), High End Kitchen Custom Cabinets recently Painted (2019), SS Appliances (2019), New easy-care floating gravity grip flooring in Basement (2017), Newer Washer/Dryer (2016), New Landscaping, Tons of storage behind wall in basement, Stamped Concrete Driveway all the way to a spacious 2.5 Car Garage! Owners are relocating and hate to leave! $399,900

Large 2 Bedroom Condo

Large 2 Bedroom Condo

Enjoy carefree living in rarely available spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath recently updated condo. Entry opens to enormous living room w/ brick fireplace shared w/ open family room/kitchen leading to Florida room & balcony. Completely renovated $295,900

Enjoy carefree living in rarely available spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath recently updated condo. Entry opens to enormous living room w/ brick fireplace shared w/ open family room/kitchen leading to Florida room & balcony. Completely renovated chef’s kitchen w/ breakfast bar eating area, all stainless appliances. Large formal dining room, Master suite w/ walk-in closet, new bath featuring walk-in shower w/ seat and adjustable hand spray, & quartz vanity top. Large in-unit storage room & separate laundry room w/ front-load washer/dryer. Elevator, heated garage parking space/storage cage. Indoor pool, exercise room, & party room are included amenities. $295,900

Let’s Focus on Summer!

Wash your worries away in this incredible resort like private backyard oasis! Featuring the most luxurious, heated in ground pool with a slide, a foam layer for toddlers and multiple fountains, all situated on your 262 foot deep lot! A covered $1,350,000

Let’s Focus on Summer!

Wash your worries away in this incredible resort like private backyard oasis! Featuring the most luxurious, heated in ground pool with a slide, a foam layer for toddlers and multiple fountains, all situated on your 262 foot deep lot! A covered entertainment/dining area is great for BBQ’s and a lounge area with an outdoor fireplace to make Smores! In addition to the amazing pool, there is an all year round hot tub, surrounded by a Trex deck, plus an infrared sauna. This will give you the perfect place to decompress & entertain ALL summer! The home is equally as stunning with nearly 7,000 sqft of comfort and luxury: 5 Bedrooms & 5 Bathrooms, a Home Theatre, Sunroom, Custom Bar and Arcade Area. It’s a MUST see in one of the most exclusive locations in Elmhurst! $1,350,000 CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: http://prairiepathrealtors.com/

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 • 9

Build to Suit

Build to Suit

Amazing opportunity to work with one of Elmhurst’s top custom home builders. Steps from award winning Jefferson Elementary and the IL Prairie Path, in one of Elmhurst’s hottest neighborhoods. This generous plan offers ceiling detail

Amazing opportunity to work with one of Elmhurst’s top custom home builders. Steps from award winning Jefferson Elementary and the IL Prairie Path, in one of Elmhurst’s hottest neighborhoods. This generous plan offers ceiling detail throughout, exquisite millwork, a large mudroom, 1st floor office, huge kitchen with 2-tier island for prep sink/area and separate eating space. Open family room with gas fireplace overlooks 160’ deep yard. Superb from the curb with covered front porch and patio in the rear. Too many other details to list! Builder is also willing to build to suit at different price points. $1,175,000

Classic Red Brick Bungalow

Classic Red Brick Bungalow

Steps to Lincoln School, York HS & Prairie Path and Spring Road Business’, Features include: intricate moldings, arched doorways, gorgeous HW floors, Newer Maple Kitchen w/ Granite CT’s, NEW SS appliances. Awesome Addition w/

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Steps to Lincoln School, York HS & Prairie Path and Spring Road Business’, Features include: intricate moldings, arched doorways, gorgeous HW floors, Newer Maple Kitchen w/ Granite CT’s, NEW SS appliances. Awesome Addition w/ multiuse/over-sized/custom ISLAND that will be the HUB of the Home all of which is surrounded by the view of your incredibly private backyard. 1st floor offers an in-law/ arrangement w/ Full Bath & Bedroom. Functional Office & Formal Dining and Living Rooms round out the 1st floor. 2nd Floor has 4 spacious Bedrooms w/ a Full Bathroom.

Basement has HUGE Rec Room w/lots of storage! $537,000

Like New < $1M

Show-stopper newer construction in the heart of Jefferson/ Visitation school country - walkable to both. 5 bed up plan with 3 full baths. The owners have kept things current with custom built-ins, modern light fixtures and paint selections. Huge $975,000

Like New < $1M Show-stopper newer construction in the heart of Jefferson/Visitation school country - walkable to both. 5 bed up plan with 3 full baths. The owners have kept things current with custom built-ins, modern light fixtures and paint selections. Huge kitchen with peninsula island and separate eating area, all open to the family room. Newly finished basement with 6th bedroom + full bath, kids and adult area and storage room. Last but not least, great outdoor lounging and entertaining space in front and pack with stone patio space, fireplace with TV hookup, playset and “ninja warrior” course! Fully fenced backyard and oversized 2 car garage with epoxy flooring. Immaculate condition and move-in ready. $975,000

Spacious All Brick Home

MUST SEE enormous custom designed home! Unparalleled full brick and stone custom designed home in central Elmhurst has mammoth spaces & luxury features. Unique, elegant atmosphere w/ over 6000 sq. ft. finished living space on $1,075,000

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10 • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

• Slices

(Continued from page 7) because no one can go out. We used One son eats four every day for breakfast, so he’s guilty for twoto watch more news. We’ve pared thirds of the overall consumption. it down to about half an hour a day We ran out of peanut butter more – just to stay informed. More than than a week ago. So far so good on that gets depressing. During the the toilet paper situation. (Phew!) day I like shows that make us laugh We watch TV together at night out loud. “Impractical Jokers”

and “The Carbonaro Effect” are two favorites. At night I’m up for something creepier like “The Outsider” or “The Man in the High Castle.” We just started watching “Ozark” last night.

Every evening we test our lung

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capacity by timing how long we can hold our breaths. When we exhale, we watch for coughing.

So far we are all good and holding in excess of a minute. One night I made it past two minutes. I’ve always wanted to be an over-

achiever.

We sleep in later and stay up later than pre-pandemic. Our schedule has slowed. We wait for word that we can return to normal, although I’m not sure that will ever truly happen. Like 9/11 COVID-19 has changed us forever. I do believe we will have a new normal, someday – hopefully soon.

Each of us is dealing with the pandemic and stay-at-home directive in our own way. I’m sure you’re doing the best you can with what you have. I think we all are. In the meantime, know that I’m thinking about you and am wondering how you are doing. Take care.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

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Public Notices

Notice to Bid Addison School District 4 will be receiving sealed bids for Spin Bikes until 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 14, 2020, at which time the bids will be opened and read aloud at the Addison School District #4 Office, 222 N. Kennedy Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 23, 2020) 372009

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Illinois joins regional states to coordinate reopening economies CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker announced April 16 that he and five other Midwestern governors have agreed to coordinate with one another as they make plans for reopening their economies after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides.

Pritzker, a Democrat, joined Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D), Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R), Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D), Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) in announcing the regional effort.

“Our number one priority when analyzing when best to reopen our economy is the health and safety of our citizens. We will make decisions based on facts, science, and recommendations from experts in health care, business, labor, and education,” the governors said in a joint statement.

The governors said they will consider at least four factors in determining when best to reopen their economies: sustained control of the rate of new infections and hospitalizations; enhanced ability to test for the disease and trace the routes of its spread; sufficient health care capacity to handle a resurgence; and best practices for social distancing in the workplace.

The governors stressed that not all parts of the economy, and not all re-

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Testing and PPE purchases ramp up Also April 16, Pritzker announced that the state has significantly increased its capacity to perform COVID-19 screening tests and its ability to supply hospitals and health care centers with personal protective equipment, or PPE. One of the biggest obstacles to expanding the state’s testing capacity, the governor’s office said in a news release, has been the lack of testing equipment, and specifically the swabs and “viral transport media,” or VTM. Pritzker announced April 16 that it had secured commitments from state universities and outside vendors to supply the state with “an abundance” of those materials to stock state laboratories and other labs throughout the state.

In addition, the administration announced that the equipment manufacturer Thermo Fisher Scientific has addressed problems previously identified with its COVID-19 testing machines, and the five machines it provided to the state are now operational, and Thermo Fisher has prioritized Illinois as a customer of its equipment and testing procedures.

“Those five machines that we had concerns about are now up and running with reliable results, so reliable that as we ramp up over the next week, we’re estimating additional capacity of thousands more tests per day at our state labs alone,” Pritzker said.

Illinois’ recommended testing cri371993

By Peter Hancock

gions, will reopen at the same time.

“Phasing in sectors of our economy will be most effective when we work together as a region,” the governors said. “This doesn’t mean our economy will reopen all at once, or that every state will take the same steps at the same time. But close coordination will ensure we get this right. Over time, people will go back to work, restaurants will reopen, and things will go back to normal. We look forward to working together as one region to tackle this challenge together.”

The six-state Midwest agreement is the third such regional compact to be announced so far. Earlier, California, Oregon and Washington said they would coordinate their reopening. Also, New York announced earlier last week that it will coordinate with six other northeastern states.

During his daily media briefing in Chicago, Pritzker gave little by way of response to questions about why the states of Missouri and Iowa were not included in the group.

“We would love to have as many states as want to join as a part of it.

Iowa chose not to be part of this,” he said. “I know they don’t have a stayat-home rule, you know, yet in place.

They’ve made a lot of different decisions than we have.”

The Midwest compact was announced on the same day the U.S. Department of Labor reported another 5.25 million Americans filed firsttime unemployment claims during the week that ended April 4, including 141,049 in Illinois.

Savings 371742

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teria will now include “all those who are experiencing COVID-like symptoms,” according to the governor’s office. The new guidance will apply to state-run drive-thru testing centers and will be offered to medical providers across Illinois, although those with mild symptoms are still encouraged to call a medical provider before seeking a COVID-19 test.

Finally, Pritzker said the state has also managed to purchase enough personal protective equipment to keep hospitals and first responders in supply for at least the next few weeks.

Pritzker said the administration has 28 million N95 and KN95 masks, which protect workers from inhaling the virus, along with nearly 30 million surgical and disposable masks, gowns and coveralls, 27 million gloves and 7.6 million face shields.

Currently, the statewide 10-day “burn rate” for those items—the number used in an average 10-day period—is roughly 1.5 million N95 masks, 25 million gloves, 4.4 million gowns and 700,000 surgical masks for hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Another 141,000 file initial unemployment claims, pushing 4-week total past 630,000 in Illinois

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

In the week ending April 11, another 141,049 Illinoisans filed initial unemployment claims, bringing the total number during the latest four weeks of the novel coronavirus pandemic to more than 634,000 in the state.

About 60,000 fewer initial claims were made last week than were made the week prior, bringing the fourweek moving average to 158,656.

Since March 1, the state processed 12 times the number of claims it did in the same span last year and 5 times more than it did during the first six weeks of the Great Recession of 2008-2009.

Nationally, 5.25 million people made initial unemployment claims last week. That was a decrease of about 1.37 million from the week prior, but it upped the four-week moving average to about 5.5 million claims.

“The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 8.2 percent for the week ending April 4, an increase of 3.1 percentage points from the previous week’s unrevised rate,” according to the U.S. Department of Labor. “This marks the highest level of the seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate in the history of the seasonally adjusted series.”

The previous high was 7 percent in May 1975.

The numbers were released one day after Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration predicted the state will see a $2.7-billion revenue shortfall this fiscal year, which ends June 30, compared to previous estimates, and a more-than $6-billion budget shortfall next fiscal year, which begins July 1.

“You don’t have to be an epidemiologist to see that the virus is going to hit our budget hard,” Pritzker said at his daily COVID-19 briefing in Chicago April 15.

Also of note, Illinois does not yet have a system in place for independent contractors or those who are self-employed to file for unemployment claims despite a new federal law, which allows for such claims.

Pritzker said April 13 the state is contracting with the private firm Deloitte to get such services up and running, but the program is not anticipated to be “fully implemented”

“

You don’t have to be an epidemiologist to see that the virus is going to hit our budget hard.”

– Gov. JB Pritzker

until the week of May 11.

State systems nationally have been unable to handle the unprecedented number of claims, and Pritzker admitted this week the Illinois Department of Employment Security’s filing systems “simply haven’t kept pace” with the increase.

House Republicans criticized the governor’s handling of unemployment claims earlier last week and said his administration did not act quickly enough to strengthen the system in anticipation of the increase that would result from his stay-athome order.

The administration, however, said it overhauled the IDES website infrastructure, expanded web and call center capacity, worked with third-party vendors to enhance filing capabilities, and hired back recently retired employees.

Pritzker also said this week the IDES call center operates with a staff of 173 employees and that it recently updated its phone system to handle more calls. He also said the agency is establishing an outside call center with an additional 200 agents to field calls.

While Congress passed a $2 trillion stimulus plan three weeks ago to provide relief to businesses through the U.S. Small Business Administration, the more than $350 billion dedicated to that purpose had already run dry by April 16.

That means a halt to the paycheck protection program, which is designed to avert layoffs during the pandemic by granting loans which can be forgiven if businesses maintain their payrolls.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 • 13

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Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777.

The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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14 • Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Rock Valley Publishing

IHSA makes final decision on spring sports this week With schools closed for the rest of the school year, athletes and coaches prepare for seasons to be canceled STAFF REPORT

The hope of salvaging 2020 high school spring sports seasons in Illinois diminished with last week’s announcement from Gov. JB Pritzker that all K-12 schools in the state will be closed to on-site instruction for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA), which oversees high school athletics in the state, issued its own announcement after Pritzker extended the closure of school buildings through the rest of the school year.

“The IHSA Board of Directors is scheduled to meet via video conference on Tuesday, April 21, 2020,”

began the statement. “At that meeting, the Board will make a final determination on the IHSA’s spring sport state tournaments based on the Governor’s announcement on April 17 that Illinois high schools will not return to in-person learning this school year.”

The video conference, which took place after press time, likely resulted in the IHSA’s cancellation of all of its spring state tournaments.

“As we previously indicated, the cessation of in-person learning will make it difficult for the IHSA to conduct spring state tournaments this year,” stated the IHSA at the conclusion of its April 17 announcement.

On April 1, shortly after Pritzker extended the school closures through April 30, the IHSA announced that it was exploring the possibility of truncated spring seasons and extending state tournaments into late June. The IHSA noted at the time of that statement that if school buildings didn’t open for the remainder of the school year, all spring sports seasons were

likely to be canceled.

None of the area’s high school spring teams are participating in any practices or competitions while school buildings are closed. The Illinois State Superintendent of Schools stated last month that no IHSA member school should organize any spring sports practices or games while the state’s high schools are closed.

The IHSA’s spring sports tournaments were scheduled to take place from mid-May through mid-June.

The IHSA two-day state tournaments in badminton and boys gymnastics were both supposed to take place on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16.

The two-day Class 3A and Class 4A state tournaments in both baseball and softball, which include semifinal contests, state championship games and third-place competitions, were originally scheduled for Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13.

The area’s high school buildings have been closed since the end of classes on March 13. On that day,

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” - Helen Keller

The Elmhurst Heritage Foundation gratefully acknowledges the contributions of our past sponsors for the Elmhurst Craft Beef Fest fundraiser benefiting the Elmhurst History Museum and Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse. At times like this, we are reminded of the important role that our local businesses play in the life of our community. We encourage all of you to support our local businesses.

Plan to join us on the grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum on September 19th for music, craft beer and good cheer.

Together, let us raise a glass to a bright future.

Saturday, September 19, 2020

Pritzker ordered all K-12 public and private schools in Illinois to close through March 30. Pritzker subsequently extended the statewide school closure through April 7, and through April 30. He announced on Friday, April 17, that the closure would last through the rest of the school year.

Most area spring sports teams held their last practices on March 12.

On March 13, school buildings were vacated at the end of the school day, and all after-school activities, including athletics, were canceled.

High school spring teams had begun practicing for their respective seasons before their school buildings closed on March 13. Only a few spring sports, including boys gymnastics and boys and girls water polo, had engaged in any competitions before the school closures. The competitive seasons in several spring sports, including badminton, girls soccer, softball and baseball, were supposed to begin during the week of March 16.

“It’s devastating,” said Willowbrook girls soccer coach Julio Del Real, speaking on Saturday about the likelihood that there would not be a spring season. His team was supposed to play its first match of the season on March 17. “I’ve been coaching for over 30 years. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine going through something like this.”

Del Real, who is also Willowbrook’s director of deans, said that he is especially disappointed for the seniors on his team.

“That’s what really hurts the most; our seniors have a lot of potential. We were really looking forward to the season. Now it looks like it’s not happening. It’s unbelievable.”

Del Real added that his team’s players and coaches have been missing a lot more than matches and

practices. They have missed spending time together.

“It’s not necessarily about the game itself,” said Del Real of the void he and others are facing. “It’s about the whole experience we go through. We get to learn from each other. It’s sad we can’t go through something like that.”

Willowbrook baseball coach Vic Wisner also spoke about missing the camaraderie and spending time with his players. The Warriors were a few days away from playing their season opener when Pritzker issued his initial order to close schools.

“Selfishly, I just miss being around them,” said Wisner of his team’s players. A 1985 Willowbrook graduate, Wisner noted that he’s missing the connections with his players more than he’s missing the actual games.

“It’s not so much the games that you will remember,” said Wisner on Saturday. “It’s the bus rides, laughing with friends, the funny moments in practice. You get to know people and learn about each other. Those are the things I really miss.”

If school buildings had opened in early May, and practices could have resumed, there would have been a chance of putting together shortened seasons, followed by state tournaments. But now that schools will be closed for the rest of the school year, there doesn’t seem to be a viable path to starting up spring sports in late May at the earliest and playing some kind of shortened seasons that include a state tournament by the end of June.

“Friday [April 17] was tough,” said Wisner, referring to Pritzker’s announcement that schools would be closed through the end of the school year. “In my mind I thought we had a chance to play. Our guys really wanted to get out there and do it.”

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CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

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Willowbrook High School’s empty baseball field is pictured on Saturday, April 18. Baseball and all other high school spring sports in Illinois have been suspended since the middle of March, when Gov. JB Pritzker ordered all K-12 schools in the state closed to onsite instruction. All athletic practices and competitions have been suspended at the state’s high schools since the closure. Last week, Pritzker announced that all schools buildings in the state would be closed for the rest of the 2019-20 school year. The Illinois High School Association (IHSA), which oversees high school sports in the state, made a final determination on its spring sports tournaments earlier this week (after press time). It was expected that the IHSA would cancel all of its spring tournaments. An April 17 update from the IHSA noted the impracticality of holding its spring tournaments if schools did not return to regular classes during the current school year. “As we previously indicated, the cessation of in-person learning will make it difficult for the IHSA to conduct spring state tournaments this year,” stated the update. Like many other high school spring teams, the Willowbrook baseball team was days away from playing its season opener when the governor initially ordered all Illinois schools to close.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, April 23, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ 15

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