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1 • Thursday, January 19, 2017 - The Independent

TAKE ONE

Bensenville

Independent

WITHOUT THE HAL L

We are bringing thi s fun and special night to your hous e this year!

Patrons will receiv e a dinner to go wh ich will include cheese piz za, salad, and fruit.

Plus a sweet box of goodies and gam es.

February 13 | $35 per family

also serving Wood Dale

VOL. 17 • NO. 35

Madigan suspends speaker campaign: ‘This is not a withdrawal’

WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

388230

THURSDAY, JAN. 14, 2021

Kathleen Willis drops out of the race for speaker

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

House Speaker Michael Madigan announced he would suspend his campaign for House Speaker of the 102nd General Assembly on Monday, but his statement made clear he was not withdrawing from the race.

“This is not a withdrawal. I have suspended my campaign for speaker,” Madigan said in a statement released by his office Monday morning. “As I have said many times in the past, I have always put the best interest of the House Democratic Caucus and our members first. The House Democratic Caucus can work to find someone, other than me, to get 60 votes for speaker.”

The last sentence of the brief statement is indicative of the uphill battle Madigan’s challengers will have to climb—they will need 60 votes, or 42 more than any challenger appeared to have Sunday night.

The House speaker is chosen by House members, and can receive both Republican and Democratic votes. There are 73 Democrats and 45 Republicans who will be seated in the 102nd General Assembly.

Traditionally, however, a majority party speaker receives votes from members of their own party.

In the first closed-door unofficial ballot conducted between Democrats in a private room at the Bank of

See CAMPAIGN, Page 4

Fenton thanks donor, Wood Dale police

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent

The City of Wood Dale Police Department received an anonymous donation of $800 from a person who wanted to help other local families. This donation was split among four families at $200 each and the City of Wood Dale contacted Fenton High School to collaborate on identifying families in need. Fenton is grateful for the opportunity to further support our students and families. Fenton thanks the anonymous donor, the Wood Dale police and all others involved.

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2 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

It all starts with a smile.

Is your smile not as vibrant as it once was? Does your smile need re-vitalizing? Then say hello to Dr. Daniel J. Fornatto.

Our office is located in Elmhurst, near York and Butterfield streets.

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 3

First-time Democratic candidates seek York Township seats Grassroots organizing leads to York for Progress slate transparency and accessibility, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and stewardship. Putting this energy and these bright minds to work in York Township will benefit all of our residents by efficient and thoughtful management of resources and better access to needed programs.”

NOTE: All candidates are residents of Lombard.

For Supervisor: Melissa Gonzalez - Lombard Allies for Racial Justice (LARJ) co-founder, doula and Lamaze teacher, professional communicator.

For Clerk: Andrela Hill - community volunteer and business management pro-

News from Congressman Raja Rioters breaching the U.S. Capitol building “I would like to begin by expressing the outrage I have felt this past week, along with so many Americans, as rioters stormed the Capitol Building, breached the Capitol Complex, and laid siege to the Capitol for many hours in an attempt to prevent the certification of the Electoral College vote in the presidential election. This insurrection left at least 5 people dead and numerous people injured, not to mention creating horrendous property destruction. During this chaos, I was forced to evacuate my office along with colleagues from both parties but was thankfully able to shelter in place in another section of the Capitol until the police and National Guard had secured the Capitol grounds. That same night, once the Capitol was secured, my colleagues and I finished the business of certifying the Electoral College vote around 4 A.M. in the morning in a determined show of democracy triumphing over mob rule.

“I am determined and resolute in holding those who perpetrated this assault on our democracy accountable. We must never let this happen again as we will never give in to violence, mob rule, or sedition. I intend to work with people on both sides of the aisle to come together to move our country forward, and I will always fight for and defend the Constitution and democracy at all costs.

The rioters will never prevail.”

Swearing-In of the 117th Congress After Wednesday’s chaos, it’s hard to believe that just on Sunday I was honored to be sworn in as a member of the 117th Congress. This Congress is the most diverse in history and reflects the strength our country has to offer, regardless of party, as we combat the challenges of this pandemic.

I take great pride in my role as your representative and vow to continue my work to improve the lives of everyone in our community.

Update on COVID-19 case rates and vaccine distribution In Illinois, the COVID-19 case positivity rate has increased by 1.2% over the last week to reach an aver-

age of 8.6% this week. While our positivity rate was trending downward in late December, it has unfortunately increased which makes the effective distribution of coronavirus vaccines all the more important. As that process continues, we must continue to follow public health measures and expert guidance, including mask-wearing and practicing social distancing.

So far, the Chicago area has administered more than 34,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. The first group to receive the vaccine are healthcare workers and long-term care facility residents. I am concerned by the lack of federal coordination and communication regarding the distribution of the vaccine, especially given reports that many Chicago-area health systems don’t know when to expect more vaccine shipments. That’s why I’m already working in Congress to ensure that this process is executed carefully and efficiently to accelerate inoculation rates while ensuring vaccine doses don’t expire or go to waste.

Photography Contest for the 8th District I’d like to invite you to participate in my district-wide landscape photography competition. We are lucky to be surrounded by so much beauty and nature in the 8th District of Illinois. I want to see what landscape images our local photographers can capture. To participate, please email your landscape photos of our district

by Sunday, Jan. 31 to KrishnamoorthiPhotoContest@ gmail.com with the photographer’s name, zip code, and the Illinois’ 8th District location of the photograph.

Please submit photos in their highest resolution and be advised that my office may use it. The winning photo will be announced via social media in early February. For more information visit krishnamoorthi.house.gov.

Good luck to all our photographers in the district!

U. S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Representing the 8th District of Illinois

fessional.

For Highway Commissioner: Martin Dunne - President, Chicago Area Rugby Referee Society, Special Olympics volunteer, educator.

For Trustees: Ilse Messner - community leader, dedicated volunteer, finance profes-

sional; Kathy Nash - Prairie Food Co-op co-founder and President, DuPage for Progress co-founder, software engineer, environmental activist; Tomas Novickas - community leader, environmental advocate, infrastructure professional;

Beth Peluse - community and environmental advocate, marketing and communications professional.

For more information visit yorkforprogress.com. Be sure to vote early by mail or in person on Tuesday, April 6, 2021. For more information, visit dupageco.org/election

Health Department COVID-19 vaccine weekly update Since COVID-19 vaccine began arriving in DuPage County, more than 18,000 healthcare workers who live or work in DuPage County have been vaccinated, as of Jan. 4, 2021.

This indicates the County is on track to complete the Phase 1a priority group, including an estimated 43,000 healthcare personnel (HCP), within the projected eight-week timeline. This also reflects that of the doses received, nearly 70% have been administered in DuPage County. Additionally, local hospitals are preparing to administer the second dose of vaccines starting this week.

DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) continues to coordinate the receipt and distribution of COVID-19 vaccine throughout DuPage County. As of Jan. 4, 2021, more than 27,000 doses of Pfizer and Moderna vaccine have been received and distributed in DuPage

County. As vaccine supply increases and local capacity to administer vaccine expands, the Health Department expects the rate of vaccination will increase.

“Despite the challenges created by the Christmas and New Year’s holidays coinciding with the first several weeks of vaccine distribution, we are very pleased with the number of vaccines administered to healthcare workers over the past three weeks,” said executive director of DuPage County Health Department.

The DCHD COVID-19 vaccine clinics continue offering about 1,500 appointments per week for EMS and other healthcare personnel (e.g., dentists, physical therapists, hospice workers, home health care) who are not affiliated with hospitals. Any personnel in this category should register for the COVID-19 Vaccine

Weekly Update. This allows the Health Department to share weekly updates and contact individuals and organizations with opportunities to schedule an appointment as additional vaccine becomes available and in anticipation of a statewide registration system being rolled out.

DCHD is prioritizing administration of vaccine for HCP currently providing direct patient care services who live, work, or attend school in DuPage County. All healthcare personnel who schedule an appointment with DCHD will be required to present verification of their healthcare personnel status, i.e., employee ID badge, check stub, state licensure, or certificate at the time of their appointment. Healthcare personnel who are affiliated with a health system are advised to contact their health system to coordinate vaccination.

Former teacher gets four years for criminal sexual assault with student On Friday, Jan. 8, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that on Wednesday, Jan. 6, Judge Alex McGimpsey sentenced a former Joliet Central High School physics teacher to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for sexually assaulting a female student at the high school.

Thomas Connelly, 34, of Chicago, entered an agreed plea of guilty Wednesday to one count of Criminal Sexual Assault – Victim 13-17 and Defendant Held Position of Trust or Authority, a Class 1 Felony. On June 27, 2019, a $50,000 with 10% to apply arrest warrant was issued for Connelly. On July 8, 2019, Connelly turned himself in to authorities, posted the necessary 10%, or $5,000, and was released. Following Wednesday’s guilty plea, Connelly was immediately taken into custody to begin serving his sentence.

Connelly’s sentence is the result of allegations that he, according to the indictment, “held, as a former teacher, a position of trust, authority, or supervision in relation to” the victim and engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with the victim. The inappropriate sexual behavior came to light after school staff overheard students talking about a student having a sexual relationship with a teacher. An investigation led by the Lemont Police Department revealed that Connelly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with his victim in May, 2017 at a Naperville hotel.

“By pleading guilty, Mr. Connelly

admitted that he used his position of trust and authority to engage in sexual activity with a female student,” Berlin said. “The four-year sentence he received for such behavior is certainly well-deserved, but in addition, the requirement that he must register as a sex offender for life upon his release from prison will ensure that he will never again be able to take advantage of young, innocent students again.”

Connelly will be required to serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

“

By pleading guilty, Mr. Connelly admitted that he used his position of trust and authority to engage in sexual activity with a female student.”

– Robert Berlin

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A qualified slate of first-time candidates is running for York Township Board in the Consolidated Election to be held on April 6, 2021.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, the slate was nominated at the York Township Democratic Caucus held outdoors at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park in Villa Park.

“I am thrilled we have put together such a strong team running for York Township leadership positions,” said Melissa Gonzalez, Candidate for York Township Supervisor. “Within our group we have experts on finance, communications, organizing, collaborating, and management, and all of us share common values of

4B • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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

E-mail: Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com News Department: Independent@rvpublishing.com Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration: Dee Longfellow News Coordinator Debra Hamilton Advertising Director Pete Cruger Publisher

A message from the superintendent of Fenton High School District 100 I would like to wish each one of you a Happy New Year. I hope everyone had a restful and joyous holiday season.

Let me start by saying that I’m saddened by what happened in Our Nation’s Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6 and pray for peace and calm.

We are a noble, honorable, and loving people. With that said, the violent acts that occurred yesterday are unacceptable in our society. As a school district, we will continue to respect, collaborate, and support each other while living The Bison Way. Our staff members are always available to support students in difficult times, such as what occurred yesterday.

Our return back to school remotely went smoothly. Our priorities will continue for the remainder of the year: • Safety and Wellness • Learning • Communication I want to remind everyone of the following informational items: 1. Meal Distribution: We continue to provide meals to all of our students. Families can pick-up meals for the week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

2. Supervised Remote Learning at Fenton: Starts Tuesday, January 12th 3. Tutoring and Support Systems After School: Starts Monday, January 11th 4. Athletic events are on “pause” until further notice. We are waiting for information from the State and

IHSA. 5. Clubs and Sport Teams continue to meet with their coaches virtually. This is evident by our incredible holiday music concert and winter play, which were posted on our website and emailed to all Fenton families. You can still view everything on the web site. Numerous clubs are still accepting new members. Check the web site under Extracurricular Activities.

6. Vaccination: We are working with the DuPage Public Health Department and DuPage Regional Office of Education regarding vaccination for our staff. Nothing concrete has been established at

this moment.

Success at Fenton continues.

Right before break we learned that Bartlomiej Sporna earned a spot on the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) All State Honors Chorus and Anna Micor earned a spot in the ILMEA All-State Band for piccolo. Let’s give a huge Bison congratulations to Anna and Bartlomiej!

I also want to congratulate our freshmen Class of 2024 for making this very unusual transition into high school. Keep up the good work and never hesitate to ask questions. Our Bison Link Crew has free t-shirts for all freshmen. If

you haven’t picked yours up, stop

by Door 1 anytime between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

I’ll end with our Bison Way. Let’s live it together: Students and adults at Fenton High School create a safe, caring, empathetic environment where we believe in each other, respect diversity, communicate openly, grow together and hold each other to high expectations to become the leaders and innovators of the future.

Let’s continue to live the 3 W’s: Wear a mask, Watch our distance, and Wash our hands.

—James Ongtengco, Superintendent

Auditions for ‘STUNT’ virtual talent show The Students United (STUNT) club at Fenton High School is planning a Virtual Talent Show in March.

Interested students should contact Club Sponsor Mrs. Annette Valente (valente@fenton100.org) for a GoogleForm and submit the requested information

by Friday, Jan. 22. Video auditions will be submitted through Google Drive and are due by Friday, Jan. 29.

Processing will take place the following week and STUNT will let student performers know by Monday, Feb. 8 if they have made it into the show.

• Campaign

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

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.

Reprints: Content appearing in the Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor.

Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: THE INDEPENDENT 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

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(Continued from front page) Springfield Center on Sunday night, Madigan received 51 votes, according to several reports confirmed by Capitol News Illinois.

The speaker also has the endorsement of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus and Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus—two key voting blocs that make up the majority of his support, although some individual members of those caucuses have said they would not vote for Madigan.

The second leading vote-getter in the closed-door meeting was Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, who had just 18 votes. Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, had three votes.

Rep. Kathleen Willis, D-Addison, dropped out of the race before the vote, giving her support to Williams.

The official vote was not scheduled to happen until Wednesday, when the 102nd General Assembly is scheduled to convene, seating new and reelected members.

Until then, lawmakers are set to consider a flurry of transformative legislation backed by the Black Caucus during the final two days of the 101st General Assembly—measures that have also received Madigan’s blessing.

Over the first three days of session, the discussions of who will be the next speaker have punctuated long days of policy-oriented discussion.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Fenton Junior Joan Hitt accepts her first place trophy from 2020 Fenton graduate Isayah Willis at this year’s 2020 talent show, produced by the Students United (STUNT) Club. Hitt won with her vocal solo “Glitter in the Air.” This year’s 2021 talent show will be virtual. Contact Mrs. Valente for more information.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 5A

DuPage County Health Department reports 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths since March Latest update indicates 200 deaths related to the coronavirus during December

STAFF REPORT

The DuPage County Health Department’s daily COVID-19 update of Jan. 10 reported there have been 1,024 deaths related to the coronavirus in county residents since March 2020. The update from the same day reported 63,194 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county.

The DuPage County Health Department’s latest COVID-19 information is posted on its website at dupagehealth.org.

The county’s first death related to the coronavirus was reported on March 19, 2020.

According to the county health department’s update on Jan. 10, there were 200 COVID-19 related deaths in DuPage

County during the previous month— December 2020. The department’s update from one week earlier—Jan. 3—stated there had been 164 county deaths related to the coronavirus in December. The health department notes that its figures are provisional and subject to change.

The department’s latest report indicated there were 165 COVID-19 related deaths in DuPage County in November 2020, following 47 in October.

The Jan. 10 update from the DuPage County Health Department reported that 532 (about 52 percent) of the 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths in the county involved males, while 492 (48 percent) involved females.

As of Jan. 10, about 58 percent (597) of the county’s 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths involved residents age 80 and older. Another 240 deaths involved residents in their 70s, while 121 deaths involved the 60-69 age group. About 93.5 percent of the county’s 1,024 deaths related to the coronavirus involved residents 60 and older.

One of the county’s 1,024 deaths related to COVID-19 has involved a resident in the 20-29 age group, according to the DuPage County Health Department’s Jan. 10 update.

The department has not reported any COVID-19 related deaths in residents 19 and under.

The Illinois Department of Public Health

Free breakfast, lunch available two times a week

Midwifery & Women’s Health of Elmhurst Clinic welcomes Julie Brown Julie Brown, CNM, MSN, APRN, a certified nurse midwife, has joined Midwifery & Women’s Health of Elmhurst Clinic.

Brown is acJulie Brown cepting new patients at Elmhurst Clinic’s offices at 1200 S. York St., Suite 4120, in Elmhurst, and at 130 S. Main St. in Lombard. To schedule an appointment online, visit EEHealth.org/find-a-doctor or call (331) 221-9009.

Brown earned her Master of Nursing in Midwifery from the University of Illinois, Chicago. She is a member of the American College of Nurse Midwives. Her clinical interests include adolescent and teen medicine, childbirth, contraception, gynecology, holistic medicine, menstrual problems, obstetrics, sexually transmitted disease, trauma informed gynecologic and reproductive healthcare, perinatal mental health and women’s health.

The midwives at Elmhurst Clinic practice evidence-based and holistic care using a model of shared decision-making and informed consent.

They support personal choices in birth so patients can take control of their birthing experience, instead of letting the experience happen to them.

Elmhurst Clinic is a multi-specialty medical group with more than 100 physicians who practice in more than 20 specialties at 12 locations in Elmhurst, Addison, Bloomingdale, Lombard, Oak Park, Hinsdale and Westchester.

For more information, visit EEHealth.org/ElmhurstClinic.

(IDPH) update of Jan. 10 reported 1,028,750 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state, with 17,574 deaths related to the coronavirus. The IDPH report from Jan. 10 noted more than 14.1 million total tests for COVID-19 had been performed in Illinois. The state’s total population is approximately 12.67 million.

According to the IDPH, as of Jan. 8, about half (8,670) of the state’s COVID-19 related deaths involved residents and staff of long-term care facilities. While residents and staff of those facilities have accounted for nearly half of the state’s coronavirus-related deaths, they’ve made up about 6.5 percent (67,407) of the state’s COVID-19 cases.

Fenton is distributing free meal bundles on Tuesdays and Thursdays to anyone age 18 and younger (or their parents). The food is free of charge and can be picked up using Fenton’s bus lane at any time between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on either

day. Tuesdays will consist of three breakfasts and three lunches. Thursdays will consist of four breakfasts and four lunches. For those who cannot make it during the daytime hours, there will also be a 4 to 6 p.m. distribution on Tuesdays only.

ECU holds singer auditions

Singers, start 2021 with a resolution you’ll enjoy—get back to singing, in a totally new experience.

Singers interested in challenging their vocal skills are invited to audition for Elmhurst Choral Union.

Membership is open to singers with previous choral experience or the ability to read music.

For information and assistance in submitting a video audition, use the contact page at elmhurstchoralunion.

org.

Audition video submission deadline is January 26. Rehearsals begin virtually on Tuesday evening, February 2. Rehearsals will be virtual until in-person group singing is possible.

Elmhurst Choral Union is an outstanding volunteer chorus, performing classical masterworks and great choral music of all eras, usually with professional orchestra and soloists.

Health Department reminds residents wear masks, keep distance

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Fenton teacher buys ‘cars’

Just before winter break, Fenton teacher Lee Cassidy sent his driver’s education students congratulatory cards, each with a toy Hot Wheels car. The cards read, “I am so proud of you, I thought I would buy you your first car!!!

-- Mr. Cassidy.” He said the gifts were meant to celebrate the milestone of getting a driver’s license, a rite-of-passage sometimes overshadowed by the pandemic.

Lee Cassidy Fenton driver’s ed instructor

As of Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, Governor Pritzker’s emergency COVID-19 rule to continue statewide mask and gathering size requirements in Illinois went into effect for the next 150 days. COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms and do not know that they are infected. That is why it is important for everyone to practice physical distancing (staying at least 6 feet away from other people) and wearing masks in public settings. DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) reminds residents to continue fol-

lowing these public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.

“Many of us are filled with hope as the vaccine rollout moves forward and people are vaccinated,” said Karen Ayala, executive director of DuPage County Health Department.

“However, it is still important that we continue to follow these mitigations to keep us headed in the right direction while we work to ensure the next priority groups, and ultimately all DuPage County residents are vaccinated.”

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6 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - 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.

A 29-year-old Addison woman was charged with domestic battery in the 100 block of S. Villa at around 5:52 a.m. Police said the suspect punched a victim in the eye, causing it to bleed.

Dec. 18 Patrick R. James, 30, of Addison, was issued a village ordinance for discharge of a firearm in the 700 block of Addison N. 10th at around 3:52 p.m. Police said Jan. 7 James shot a firearm into the ground Police said Scott J. Kafka, 34, of several times.

Addison, had an original warrant out of the Addison Police Department for Villa Park aggravated DUI in the 700 block of 9th Jan. 4 Avenue at around 9:11 p.m.

Marcus Jones, 28, of Wheaton, was charged with unlawful possession of Jan. 4 cannabis by the driver, driving while A 42-year-old Addison man was license suspended and improper use of charged with domestic battery in the registration near Roosevelt and West100 block of N. Church at around 2:09 more at around 1:31 a.m. a.m. Police said the suspect grabbed a victim by the hair, pulled her into the Jan. 3 bedroom and struck the victim on the Donald Fisk, 37, of Melrose Park, face and head with a closed fist mul- was charged with violation of an order tiple times. of protection, failure to secure a child under the age of 8 and no insurance Jan. 2 near Roosevelt and Route 83 at around Malik M. Webster, 23, of Elgin, 3:47 p.m. was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle in the 500 block of W. Lake Jan. 1 at around 10 a.m. Police said Webster Tatiana Angarkhaeva, 35, of Oakremained in a vehicle after being asked brook Terrace, was charged with retail to remove himself several times. theft at a local store at around 9:17 p.m.

Theft of lost or mislaid property was Jan. 1 reported at a local store at around 8:45 Pablo Hernandez, 22, of Hanover p.m. Police said an unknown suspect Park, was charged with disorderly con- took a wallet that was left behind. The duct and criminal damage to property wallet contained multiple credit cards, in the 2100 block of Adobe Drive at a debit card, nine Apple gift cards and around 1:48 a.m. Police said officers $188 in cash.

responded to a call of a man outside a residence banging on the front door and screaming. The front door was found damaged and the resident was alarmed and disturbed by the incident, according to police.

Dec. 31 Retail theft was reported at a local store at around 1:16 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect failed to pay at the self-checkout and left the store without

paying for the items.

Dec. 29 Michael Fischer, 23, of Plainfield, was charged with retail theft at a local store at around 5:13 p.m.

Eric Schwolow, 26, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI and no insurance near Riordan and Villa at around 1:41 a.m.

Theft was reported in the 200 block of W. Park at around 5:03 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect took a package from the porch of a house. The package contained children’s books.

Criminal damage to a vehicle was reported in the 300 block of W. Division at around 6:22 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect(s) threw rocks from the railroad and broke a rear windshield of a vehicle that was unoccupied and parked in the lot.

Bensenville The Bensenville Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy. 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.

Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Jan. 6, 3:08 p.m. in the 1200 block of N. Ellis St., a complainant reported that an unknown suspect cashed a check without complainant’s authorization. This case is under investigation.

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Jan. 2, 12:03 a.m. in the 500 block of W. Grand Ave., Alaster R. Ford, 28, of Chicago, was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, no valid driver’s license and other traffic violations. BEPC2100002.

Jan. 2, 10:11 p.m. in the 1100 block of David Drive, David G. Kucera, 44, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

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Jan. 1, 2:14 a.m. in the 1100 block of David Drive, Aristeo Cervantes, 42, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

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Dec. 31, 5:47 a.m. in the 1000 block of N. Route 83, Tiffany Ann McGinnis, 33, of Indianapolis, was arrested for an out of jurisdiction warrant.

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Dec. 23 Retail theft was reported at a local store at around 12:48 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect under-rang items to purchase while at the self-checkout.

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CLUES ACROSS 1. Big tech firm 4. Picked 10. Type of whale 11. A woman of refinement 12. New England state 14. Common gibbon 15. Tall coniferous tree 16. State capital 18. Making a liquid muddy 22. Vinegary 23. Peninsula 24. Thee 26. Atomic #55 27. Used in units of measurement 28. Welsh female name 30. Arab ruler title 31. One’s mother 34. Trap 36. Soviet Socialist Republic 37. Assn. of oil-producing countries 39. Holy fire 40. Emit coherent radiation 41. Atomic #81 42. Orthodox Jewish college 48. Herbs 50. Ran after 51. Begin again 52. Named 53. Barbary sheep 54. Unwell 55. Postscript 56. Drivers 58. One point east (clockwise) of due north

59. Prim 60. A facility equipped for sports or physical training CLUES DOWN 1. Small islands 2. Skullcap 3. Unexplained events 4. One hundredth of a meter 5. Beloved baseball announcer 6. Repulsive 7. Northern European languages 8. Match or surpass 9. Northeast 12. Chew the fat 13. Innovative industry 17. Land to put down to grass 19. Products 20. Nostril 21. Surprise Icelandic politician 25. Conclusive acts 29. Inform on 31. Grinding tooth 32. Keep up 33. Tablelands 35. Raising 38. Mythical creature 41. Hums 43. Mountain in Antarctica 44. Neighborhood in Manhattan 45. Distinctive practice 46. Vice president 47. Contributes to 49. Small bones 56. Oil company 57. Empire State

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 7

Dr. Antonios Papadopoulos is closing his practice at 240 E. Lake St., Suite 102 Addison, IL 60101 Dr. Papadopoulos has practiced medicine in his private office and will be retiring effective January 16, 2021.

He has sold his practice to Doctor M. Vaseemuddin.

SUDOKU

If a patient would like to obtain copies of his/hers medical records please contact the office at 630-782-9780 and copies will be provided.

Fun by the Numbers

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Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku sav v y to the test ! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle !

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8 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

All Brick McDougall Ranch This 3 bed/2 bath home sits on a 60 x 168 lot across the street from Visitation Grade School. Hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor, new kitchen floor tiling, Stainless Steel Appliances, Newer Countertops, Breakfast nook picnic table, well kept Living Room Fireplace perfect for the Winter months, Finished basement with an additional 4th Bedroom w/ large walk in closet, All Brick 2.5 Car Garage, large spacious deck for Summer months and deep back yard. Low taxes! Close to Oak Brook Mall, Expressways, and More! $385,000

All Brick McDougall Ranch

This 3 bed/2 bath home sits on a 60 x 168 lot across the street from Visitation Grade School. Hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor, new kitchen floor tiling, Stainless Steel Appliances, Newer Countertops, Breakfast nook picnic table,

Build New or Rehab

Build New or Rehab

Attention Builders or Rehabbers. Great potential for building your Dream House located in awesome neighborhood. The home is situated on a 50 x 167. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, stainless steel appliances, full unfinished basement. Tiny Tot

$385,000 NEW PRICE!

$309,900 NEW PRICE!

Wise Builders 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. $1,250,000

Wise Builders

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

Attention Savvy Investors!

Attention Savvy Investors!

Well-maintained 3 bed / 2.1 bath townhome in sought after Lancaster Square. Open floor plan w/ hardwood floors & spacious living area. Large eat-in kitchen w/ island, stainless appliances & great storage leads to balcony space. On the

$1,250,000 WISE INVESTMENT BUILDERS

$269,900

What a View!

What a View!

Open and airy 2 bed / 2 bath Condo featuring 11 foot floor to ceiling windows. Beautiful and spacious kitchen with granite tops, stainless appliances and backsplash & ample storage.

Master bedroom with large walk-in-closet, en-suite with double $419,000

Attention Builders or Rehabbers. Great potential for building your Dream House located in awesome neighborhood. The home is situated on a 50 x 167. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, stainless steel appliances, full unfinished basement.

Tiny Tot Park located just 3 homes away. Close to downtown Elmhurst amenities, great expressway access.

Home needs TLC or build new! $309,900

Open and airy 2 bed / 2 bath Condo featuring 11 foot floor to ceiling windows. Beautiful and spacious kitchen with granite tops, stainless appliances and backsplash & ample storage.

Master bedroom with large walk-in-closet, ensuite with double vanity sink and large soaking tub. In-unit laundry. Steps to everything in this vibrant Fulton Market / West Loop localeRestaurants, Bars, Mariano’s, Whole Foods, Jewel, CTA, Metra, easy highway access & much more. Well-managed building with Doorman, Fitness Center, Dog Run & Bike Storage. Indoor heated garage is included. Unwind on your private balcony with picturesque Skyline views. $419,000

Well-maintained 3 bed / 2.1 bath townhome in sought after Lancaster Square. Open floor plan w/ hardwood floors & spacious living area. Large eat-in kitchen w/ island, stainless appliances & great storage leads to balcony space. On the 2nd level you will find the primary bedroom en-suite w/ walk-in-closet, two additional bedrooms / home office, full bathroom & conveniently located laundry. Cozy lower level family room w/ gas fireplace & attached 2 car garage. Ideal location is easily accessible to downtown Lombard, Yorktown & Oak Brook malls, shopping, restaurants, schools, IL Prairie Path, train & major transportation routes. $269,900

Best Value in Town!

Best Value in Town!

This Charming 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom Home has plenty of room to grow, 2,466 sf with an additional 1,502 sf of finished living space in the basement, including a wet bar. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout the 1st floor. The 2 bedrooms on $598,000

This Charming 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom Home has plenty of room to grow, 2,466 sf with an additional 1,502 sf of finished living space in the basement, including a wet bar.

Beautiful hardwood floors throughout the 1st floor. The 2 bedrooms on the main level offer flexibility for a home office, art studio, or an in-law arrangement. The 2nd floor addition features large master bedroom with en suite. Highly efficient dual zoned heating and air conditioning. The oversized lot (63 x 221) has plenty of privacy, yardspace, and a patio space for entertaining. Large 2.5 car garage with walk-up loft. $598,000

Rarest of Opportunities

Rare 1st floor master suite on a 3,500sf main level footprint.

Set on a 75x190 meticulously landscaped lot on one of the center of town’s quietest and best streets. Lots of prep for the market - tear off roof (2020), new carpet, fresh paint, $1,299,900

Center of Town with 1st Floor Master Rarest of Opportunities

388231

Rare 1st floor master suite on a 3,500sf main level footprint. Set on a 75x190 meticulously landscaped lot on one of the center of town’s quietest and best streets. Lots of prep for the market - tear off roof (2020), new carpet, fresh paint, refinished hardwood floors, and new windows. 4 beds, 4 baths, & heated 3 car garage w/ internal staircase to the basement. Chef’s kitchen w/ large prep/entertaining island, large separate eating area, high end SS appliances, w/ vaulted ceilings. And MUCH MORE! $1,299,900

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: http://PrairiePathRealtors.com/

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 9

Interest rates under 3% and low inventory levels make this a perfect time to sell your home! Call 630-279-9500 for a FREE MARKET ANALYSIS on your home.

Premier Location!

Premier Location!

Check out the new and refreshed look complete with NEW ROOF, NEW 96% High-efficiency Lennox furnace with transferrable warranty, & freshly painted interior! Enjoy the quiet tree-lined prestigious single block of S Lawndale from $559,000

Check out the new and refreshed look complete with NEW ROOF, NEW 96% Highefficiency Lennox furnace with transferrable warranty, & freshly painted interior! Enjoy the quiet tree-lined prestigious single block of S Lawndale from your front porch of this updated and expanded Georgian, yet close to all Elmhurst has to offer in this center of town location - shops, restaurants, train, & expressway access. This light-filled 3 bed / 2.1 bath home boasts flexible living conducive to work from home or e-learning needs and great entertainment options with a floor plan perfect for today’s owner. $559,000

Double Wide Lot For Sale

Double Wide Lot For Sale

Endless possibilities and potential to build your dream home on this oversized 100x125 lot close to City Centre, restaurants and Metra. Convenient access to all major transportation routes. Top-rated Field Elementary school. Well built 2 bed / 2

Endless possibilities and potential to build your dream home on this oversized 100x125 lot close to City Centre, restaurants and Metra.

Convenient access to all major transportation routes. Top-rated Field Elementary school. Well built 2 bed / 2 bath / 1765 sq ft brick and stone Ranch home is currently on property. Flexicore basement ceiling. Rehab, add on, or build new. As-Is Sale. Value in the land. $279,000

$279,000

Chic, Modern Farmhouse

2016 built modern farmhouse in sought after Jefferson school district. Covered, bluestone front porch welcomes you to 4 impressive levels of finished living space. Open 1st floor with white custom kitchen with large island, large family room with 1,099,900

Chic, Modern Farmhouse 2016 built modern farmhouse in sought after Jefferson school district. Covered, bluestone front porch welcomes you to 4 impressive levels of finished living space. Open 1st floor with white custom kitchen with large island, large family room with gas fireplace flanked by built-ins, 1st floor office/e-learning, mudroom with built-in, powder room, formal dining room, and parlor room. The 2nd level offers 4 beds & 3 full baths, with impressive primary suite with walk-in closets and gorgeous bathroom. All bedrooms have bathroom access and large walk-in closets. The 3rd level is a finished yoga/zen/workout space with full bathroom.

Fully finished basement with full bath, bedroom, play area, and rec room with fireplace. Fenced yard with large playset and dog run on side yard. Freshly painted interior, custom window treatments and backup generator. Walk to Butterfield Park, Jefferson/Visitation schools, the Prairie Path, and great highway access. Nothing to do but unpack! 1,099,900

Center of Town

Set for delivery in Spring 2021, this new Center of Town luxury home’s location puts you within walking distance to everything! Being built by a well respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick 1,295,000

388232

Center of Town Set for delivery in Spring 2021, this new Center of Town luxury home’s location puts you within walking distance to everything! Being built by a well respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick out all of your finishes & fixtures. Offering over 4,800 sf of finished living space with its fully finished basement - exercise room, rec room, custom bar and wine room! Gracious 10 ft first floor ceilings welcome you to this impressive home with HWF’s & extensive trim & ceiling detail throughout, 5 beds, 4.5 baths, a 2.5 car garage, custom kitchen w/ huge island, high-end SS appliances (Wolf & Sub-Zero) & eating area open to family rm w/ fireplace, master suite w/ spa bath, designer plumbing/lighting fixtures, surround sound + more! Equipped with all the bells and whistles - backup generator, central vac, security system, and irrigation system. All this within walking distance to Field GS (rebuild in 2023), the Metra station and Elmhurst’s City Centre. 1,295,000

10 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

E VE RYW H E R E E L S E I T ’ S H E A LT H C A R E

HERE, IT’S PERSONAL KEITH NGUYEN, P HARM D - CLINICAL PHARMACIST At Edward-Elmhurst Health, our care doesn’t stop when our shift ends. And pharmacist Keith Nguyen lives that attitude every day. For him, healthcare is a calling, and a 24/7 commitment, where putting others before himself is routine. His greatest reward is knowing he’s had a positive impact on his patients. That’s how it is for all of us here at Edward-Elmhurst Health.

Because for us, THIS IS PERSONAL. ThisIsPersonalEEH.org

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Villa Park Chamber says thank you Thank you from the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Villa Park for helping to make this COVID Christmas in Villa Park as creative and joyful as it could be.

The Peppermint Prairie Path was a perfect landing strip for Santa to visit the children in Villa Park from afar but near enough to spread cheer throughout our community.

So many of you enjoyed and submitted your selfie with an elfie, wrote letters to Santa, filled the candy basket when it was empty, enjoyed the decorations, music and the sneak peek into Santa’s workshop.

We can’t thank the community and especially our sponsors enough for making the best Joyful Traditions Ever in Villa Park! I am so proud and thankful to live in a community that cares about their neighbors, their friends, strangers, the less fortunate, and give back in so many ways.

A special and heartfelt joyful thanks to our sponsors who made this happen so we could bring Villa Park happiness! Here’s hoping 2021 will allow us to gather together again as one united community!

NIKRO Industries J.W Reedy Realtors Chicago Wealth Management (Matt Schmit) Mikes Meat Market Atomic Transmissions Porte Brown Dominick’s Pizza and Pasta The Wreck Room Columbia Care First Midwest Bank BMO Harris Bank Boulevard Coins Robust Promotions Odeum Expo Center Positive Impressions Chris Aiello Attorney G.M. Smith & Sons Realtors Miracle Method Bessette Chiropractic AAA Overhead Door Villa Park Office Equipment Montgomery Insurers Sooper Lube Terrace Floor Dan Verr Ridgeway Precision Mechanical B & B Tile Ace Hardware Donn Craft Cain attorney Cherokee Rose Embroidery Bob Goldin State Farm Agency Steuerle Funeral Home J & R Cycle Representative Deb Conroy Tri Town YMCA Charley’s Auto Service Alesia Bailey Executive Director Villa Park Chamber of Commerce

Under my father’s fedora

The last time this happened… a visit back to 1856

So much has been said about the events in Washington, D.C. last week and it’s turned the world topsy-turvy.

We like to have our newspaper feature local news almost exclusively and yet, it’s hard not to acknowledge last week when a crowd of miscreants stormed into the U.S. Capitol and turned it into a battleground rather than a center of democracy.

Instead of rehashing last week, let’s go back 164+ years to the LAST time there was an attack – an actual physical attack – on the floor of the U.S. Senate. It takes us back to the days of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow*(see below).

Sen. Charles Sumner of Massachusetts was one my Uncle Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s best friends. Both were staunch abolitionists. Uncle Henry wrote a series he called his “Slave Poems” that spoke to the plight of “the man who is not free.”

In 1856, the U.S. was still developing west and welcoming new territories to the union. Laws or agreements governed that process and, well, some were better than others. One of the most contentious was the Kansas-Nebraska Act. As Kansas and Nebraska become territories, Washington legislators made the decision that, once settled, the residents could vote and decide for themselves whether to be a free state or a slave state. That led to a rush of people – on both sides of the argument – moving out to those territories so they

blood to pour over his head and into his eyes, rendering Sumner blind.

By “I no longer saw my assailant, DEE nor any other person or object in the LONGFELLOW room,” Sumner recalled later. “What I did afterwards was done almost EDITOR unconsciously, acting under the instincts of self-defense.”

When he was finally able to free could vote for their respective side. himself, Sumner staggered up the On May 19, 1856, Sen. Charles aisle, arms outstretched, vainly Sumner gave a speech fiercely critattempting to defend himself. But icizing the Kansas-Nebraska Act Brooks continued to beat him across and all slaveholders, including some the head, face and shoulders. Even related to then-U.S. Representative when the cane broke, Brooks did not Preston Brooks, a pro-slavery Demlet up, continuing to strike Sumner ocrat from South Carolina. Brooks with the piece that had the gold and others were outraged by the knob. speech.

Finally, Sumner stumbled and Two days later on May 22, toward collapsed unconscious on the floor. the end of the day, U. S. RepresentaSeveral other Senators and Repretive Brooks with two senators at his sentatives attempted to help Sumner, side entered the Senate floor. They but were blocked by Brooks and his waited for the galleries to clear, asown supporters, including Laurence suring that there were no ladies presM. Keitt, the other representative ent to witness what Brooks intended from South Carolina. Senator John to do. He approached Sumner’s desk, J. Crittenden, a Republican from stood before him and spoke in a low Kentucky, pleaded with Brooks not voice. to kill Sumner and he eventually re “Mr. Sumner, I have read your lented. speech twice over carefully. It is a On May 24, 1856, Uncle Henry libel on South Carolina.” wrote the following to his friend: Sumner tried to stand up but be“Sumner: fore he could get to his feet, Brooks “I have no words to write you struck him severely on the head, usabout this savage atrocity, only ing a thick walking cane with a gold enough to express our sorrow and knob on top. Sumner was knocked to sympathy for yourself. I have been the floor and was trapped under his in great distress here. Yesterday heavy desk, which was bolted to the morning [John] Owen came to tell floor. The force of the blows caused me of this great feat of arms of the

Southern Chivalry; he was absolutely sobbing and crying. …

“A brave and noble speech you made; never to die out of the memories of men!

“Yours, HWL” Then on May 28, he wrote the following: “I have just been reading again your speech. It is the greatest voice, on the greatest subject, that has been uttered since we became a nation.

No matter for insults, -- we feel them with you; no matter for wounds, -we also bleed in them! You have torn the mask off the faces of traitors; and at last, the spirit of the North is aroused.” *Crash course for newcomers: I really am an heir, HWL was an uncle a few generations back and there are papers in my lockbox to prove it. I have studied him extensively and own books not only of poetry but also his letters, journals and diaries. Yes, Henry was an uncle; we are direct descendants of his brother Stephen, who died at the age of 45 of alcoholism!

Here’s something cool…

When researching the details for this column, there was a YouTube video called “The Caning of Charles Sumner explained,” on the channel Mr. Beat. If you watch the montage of photos, at minute 6:01, Sumner is seated across a table from another man – and it’s HWL! You may recognize his big bushy beard. How cool is that?

Worship Services Directory

Be a part of the Worship Services

Lift your eyes! Hope is here.

Find our hope-filled community on Facebook @ImmanuelElmhurst and at www.ImmanuelElmhurst.org 142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL

immanuelelmhurst.org 630-832-1649

387636

Letter to the editor

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 11

Directory for as low as $15 per week Call...Brenda at 630-834-4450 301805

387742

12A • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Small business grant program ends, paying out more than $275 million With 50,000 total applicants, less than 20 percent received money

By Sarah Mansur CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The grant program for small businesses owners in Illinois who suffered losses during the pandemic has run out of money.

Illinois’ Business Interruption Grant program was the largest state program of its kind, but only about 20 percent, or 8,974 applicants, received a grant.

The Illinois General Assembly created the program using federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, money. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity helped administer the program, and awarded more than $275 million since the first round of grants were issued in August.

DCEO Director Erin Guthrie said this particular set of federal dollars has been exhausted, but the department

continues to look for ways to help businesses statewide.

“We know that businesses are hurting and we wish that Congress would provide more relief,” Guthrie said in an interview Jan. 8. “This virus has shut down so much of our economy, and that is a struggle for every person and business across our state. The other thing I would say is, we’re constantly working with our federal counterparts, with other sources in ways that we can creatively provide relief to those businesses.”

She said government money is still available for business owners through the second round of the federal Paycheck Protection Program, which awards forgivable loans, as well as existing state loan programs dedicated to small businesses, such as Advantage Illinois.

More than a third of BIG funds went to businesses downstate, 40 percent of grants were made to minority-owned businesses statewide, and more than 80 percent were made to businesses with $1 million or less in annual revenues, according a DCEO press release. “(Gov. JB Pritzker’s) decision to respond quickly to the virus, and also support, economically, our workers and our businesses has been key in getting this all done. That’s the big picture. It’s really coming down from the top. It’s really coming from his vision and carrying it out in an equitable way,” Guthrie said.

Although the supply of funds could not match the demand, Guthrie said the agency continued to solicit for new applications because “we knew that we would continue to get those smallest, very smallest businesses to apply who

Edward-Elmhurst Health Q & A: Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

More than 300,000 Americans and more than 1.6 million people worldwide have lost their lives to COVID-19. There is finally a way to end to this pandemic: vaccination.

COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emergency use authorization (EUA) in the U.S. Because the vaccine is current-

ly in limited supply, those at highest risk are receiving it first, starting with frontline healthcare workers and nursing home residents. As supplies increase, vaccination will expand to essential frontline workers, first responders, those with chronic medical conditions, adults over 65, and finally, the general public.

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine can help protect the recipient and everyone around them from getting sick from COVID-19. But is it safe? How effective is it? Are there any side effects?

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO BIDDERS THE VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE, DuPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, will receive sealed bids for the 2021 RESIDENTIAL STREET LIGHTING PROJECT until Eleven A.M. (11:00 A.M.) (prevailing time), January 28, 2021 at the office of the Municipal Clerk in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, in the Village of Bensenville, Illinois, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

Due to COVID-19, any person entering the Village Hall will be required to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth.

NOTICE: FEDERAL LABOR STANDARDS, PREVAILING WAGE RATES AND SECTION 3 REGULATIONS WILL APPLY TO THIS PROJECT MINORITIES OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (MBE), WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (WBE), AND SECTION 3 CONTRACTORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT BIDS ON THIS PROJECT The contract documents, including plans and specifications, are on file at the office of the Engineer, James J. Benes and Associates, Inc., 1011 Warrenville Road, Suite 420, Lisle, Illinois 60532, (630) 7197570.

Copies of the documents may be obtained from James J. Benes & Associates, Inc. at no cost. A copy of the Contractor’s “Certificate of Eligibility” issued by the Illinois Department of Transportation must be pro-

vided to James J. Benes & Associates, Inc. prior to obtaining the documents.

A bid bond, certified check, bank draft or irrevocable letter of credit on a solvent bank, payable to the Village of Bensenville, or cash in an amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the bid shall be submitted with each bid.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a satisfactory performance bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract sum as a security for the faithful performance of the Contract and also a Payment Bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Sum as a security for the payment of all persons performing labor on the Project under the Contract and furnishing materials in connection of the Contract. The successful bidder shall also furnish a Certificate of Insurance. No bid shall be withdrawn after opening of bids without the consent of said Municipality for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of opening bids.

The Village of Bensenville reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in bidding and to accept the bid deemed most advantageous to it, all in accordance with the standard specifications.

Execution of this Contract shall be contingent upon the execution of an agreement between the Village and DuPage County related to Community Development Block Grant funding.

(Published in the Addison Independent & Bensenville Independent Jan. 14, 2021) 388460

How does the COVID-19 vaccine work?

Vaccines work with the immune system so the body will be ready to fight the virus if exposed. The COVID-19 vaccine helps the body develop proteins called antibodies that make people less susceptible to the disease.

The Pfizer-BioNtech and Moderna mRNA 1273 are mRNA vaccines.

They contain the portion of mRNA that encodes the spike protein, the button on the surface of the SARSCoV2 virus. It is not a live virus, cannot replicate itself and is quickly destroyed in the cell shortly after translation. Once the spike protein is translated by the mRNA, an immune response is elicited, resulting in production of antibodies against the spike protein. When the SARS-CoV2 spike protein is bound up by antibodies, it cannot attach to and infect human cells.

Is the vaccine safe?

COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. are authorized after meeting rigorous scientific standards for safety. The first authorized COVID-19 vaccine, manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech, was studied in more than 40,000 people, and 30,000 people were studied in the Moderna vaccine, to ensure they meet safety standards. The FDA will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of authorized vaccines through ongoing clinical trials and vaccination data. The CDC developed an additional layer of safety monitoring called V-safe, an after-vaccination health checker for COVID-19 vaccine recipients to rapidly detect any safety issues.

were in the hardest hit industries, and that’s exactly what happened.”

The average grant size was $30,000, and grants ranged from $5,000 to $150,000.

Robert Gomez, owner of Subterranean music venue in Chicago, received funding through the BIG Grant program in mid-November after shuttering his doors in March.

Gomez said Subterranean was in a dire situation before it received a $30,000 program grant, as he weighed the possibilities of refinancing his home, or tapping into his kids’ college funds.

Subterranean, which is in its 27th year, received federal PPP money but Gomez said he hasn’t touched the funds because his workers are not on his payroll, which is a required for loan forgiveness eligibility.

“We’ve had to rely on donations from individuals, and a gift certificate program that we put in place where people can redeem it later,” he said.

“It’s like, no, we can’t go down like this. You work so hard to build something for almost 30 years, and then get wiped out because of the pandemic.

It’s so hard to wrap my mind around that. But our only alternative, my only alternative, was to fight, to get creative, to push,” Gomez said.

Having spent his BIG funds, Gomez said he plans to apply for grant money that was allocated for venue operators in the second round of federal COVID-19 stimulus funding, which was passed by Congress in December.

Nearly half of all BIG funds, or more than $133 million dollars, went to restaurants and bars, according to the DCEO release.

issued EUAs for two COVID-19 vaccines, manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. EUA is an authorization process used by the FDA if there is an emergency and enough evidence that the vaccine will be safe and helpful. Vaccines authorized for EUA still need to meet the FDA’s rigorous standards for safety, effectiveness and quality.

toms are typical reactions to most vaccines and are a sign that the immune system is doing exactly what it is supposed to do — building up protection to the disease.

How effective is the vaccine?

Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were found to have a 94-95% efficacy to prevent COVID-19 symptomatic infection. Accumulating data show virtual complete protection against severe infection (hospitalization, need for a ventilator or death).

Ongoing studies will tell us the durability of this protection. It is not known how well the vaccines protect against asymptomatic infection and transmission.

Will the vaccine give me the virus?

No. The vaccines contain a portion of mRNA, but not live virus. After the spike protein is produced, the mRNA is degraded. A normal immune response can lead to low grade fever or achiness, but this is not harmful. The full benefit of immunity won’t occur until a couple weeks after the second dose (booster dose). The risk of getting infected from someone who is infectious won’t diminish right away after vaccination.

Will the vaccine cause side effects?

As with other vaccines, it is normal to experience some pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, or How was the vaccine low-grade fever following the vacapproved so quickly? cination, which should go away on The FDA is responsible for ap- their own in a day or two. This does proving drugs and vaccines in the not mean that the vaccine has given U.S. In December 2020, the FDA someone COVID-19. These symp-

Is the vaccine safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

Before the vaccine can be safely given to pregnant women, it had to be proven safe for the general population. So pregnant women are not included in phase 3 clinical trials.

Data collection on pregnant women will be ongoing as this vaccine is offered. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) endorses offering mRNA vaccine during pregnancy if there is a discussion with the healthcare provider. The mRNA vaccines are not considered live virus vaccines and are not thought to cause a risk to the infant. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should ask their doctor about the vaccine.

Could the COVID-19 vaccine cause an allergic reaction?

Allergic reactions to vaccines, in general, are rare. Some people have reported severe allergic reactions to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, but these appear to be rare. People who have experienced severe reactions to prior vaccines or injectable drugs may still be able to get the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 but should discuss the risks with their doctor and be monitored for 30 minutes afterward.

Will the vaccine alter my DNA? Receiving an mRNA vaccine will not alter DNA. The mRNA from a COVID-19 vaccine never enter the nucleus of the cell, which is where DNA (genetic material) is kept. This means the mRNA does not affect or interact with DNA in any way. Once the mRNA triggers the immune response, it breaks down.

of 18 living with parents or legal Retail-or Office Use Rock Valley Publishing Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 13 custodians, pregnant women (630) 833-3500 ext 207 and people securing custody of woodmechanical.net Charlie children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

OfficE (630) 627-7010 Elmhurst OfficE (630) 834-8244 Our readers are hereby informed all lassifiEds at advertisedliOmbard nin -Print and OnlnE at www.lOmbardian.infO in-Print and OnlnE at www.thEindEPEndEntnEwsPaPErs.cOm that all dwellings this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

To PERSONALS MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS & SERVICE FOR SALE complain of discrimination call JK MAINTENANCE CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS HANDYMAN BILL HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. cannot be credited or refunded MIRACULOUS PRAYER Never Known to Fail The toll-free tele phone THE number PAINTING Household & MORE Reliable Handyman Gutters Building Repair/ Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. after the ad has been placed.

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Plus any other antiques and train the right person. informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are Call: Proudly serving DuPage County for 10 years! collectibles.

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Our Services Include: available on an equal opportunity Please call 630-530-4808. basis. To complain of discrimina• Mulch and Decorative Stones • Retaining Walls tion call HUD toll-free at 1-900• Weekly Mowing • Planting-Flowers, Bushes, Trees The toll-free tele phone 669-9777. number for the hearing impaired • Spring and Fall Cleanups • Snow Plowing 1-800-927-9275.

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One way we can help each other get through these challenging times is to keep our dollars local. Here are three good reasons.

Reason #1: Shopping locally saves you gas and wear and tear on your vehicle.

Reason #2: When you spend your money locally, you support the businesses whose property taxes pay for our municipal services.

Reason #3: Many of our youth programs are supported and sponsored by local businesses and if we don’t support them, they can’t support our kids.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

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14 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

With high school sports still on hold, IHSA admits that some seasons are in jeopardy IHSA, IDPH don’t agree on safety standards; winter seasons were supposed to start in November the association’s board of directors planned to do everything in its power to provide a season for every IHSA sport during the current school year.

Anderson added last month that there had been no cancellations of any sports, and no discussions of canceling any sports.

Last week’s update from the IHSA, however, noted the reality of the narrow timeline for holding 2020-21 seasons in multiple sports— including winter sports—which were supposed to begin with the first practices in mid-November 2020 (the first games/competitive events were supposed to start on Nov. 30) and continue until Feb. 13, 2021.

In the summer of 2020, the IHSA announced its schedules for truncat-

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ed sports seasons during the 2020-21 school year. The school year included a newly created summer season for several sports, including baseball, softball, girls soccer and boys volleyball. Athletes in those four sports— typically held in the spring—had their entire 2020 seasons canceled because of the pandemic. The summer season is supposed to allow practices to start on April 19; games can begin on May 3, with the season running through June 26.

Three sports usually held during the fall—football, boys soccer and girls volleyball—have been moved to the spring season during the current school year. Practices for those seasons are scheduled to begin in about one month—on Feb. 15—with 388305

STAFF REPORT It’s been 10 months since the area’s high school boys and girls basketball teams have played competitive games on the court. The 202021 high school seasons for boys and girls basketball were supposed to have started in November, but all high school winter sports in Illinois have been sidelined since that time because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA), which oversees high school sports in the state, admitted last week that the window is closing on the opportunity for some sports, including basketball, to conduct a season during the current school year.

On Dec. 14, IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson stated that

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games starting on March 5, and the season continuing through May 1.

Given that the winter seasons haven’t even started, it’s difficult to foresee how and when they would begin, how long they would run, and how they could affect the start of the spring seasons.

Additionally, several of the winter, spring and summer sports, including boys and girls basketball, football and wrestling (which has been moved from the winter to the spring for the current school year), have been deemed as high-risk sports by the IDPH. The IHSA issued an update last week stating it believes it can safely conduct high school sports. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), however, did not agree with that assessment as of last week. As the IHSA noted in its update of Jan. 7, all IHSA sports remain on pause.

Low-risk sports may not begin until the state returns to Phase 4 in the All Sports Policy.

On Wednesday, Jan. 6, Anderson joined members of the IHSA staff and representatives of the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) to meet virtually with IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Deputy Gov. Jesse Ruiz and IDPH Chief of Staff Justin DeWitt.

“We appreciate the dialogue with state leadership and believe it is crucial that it continue moving forward,” stated Anderson after the meeting. “We understand that the state faces shifting priorities as it continues to fight the pandemic, while also beginning the distribution of the vaccine. There was no expectation that a single meeting would resolve all our questions. However, we believe that collaboration with state officials is vital for the IHSA to be able to develop an informed plan for the 300,000-plus student-athletes and over 800 high schools that encompass the association.”

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by the IHSA, the leadership from the IHSA and IESA used the meeting to reintroduce recommended mitigations from the IHSA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC), as well as to seek understanding on any preliminary insight the IDPH may have regarding the return of interscholastic sports. The IHSA also asked IDPH leaders to review the risk levels of all remaining sports, with consideration for lowering some sports from their current risk levels.

“We believe that there is both data and science that validates the idea that we can safely conduct sports,” said Anderson. “We have seen it work in other states and believe it can in Illinois if we utilize the mitigations provided by IDPH and the IHSA SMAC. Students are already leaving or participating out-of-state on weekends. We believe that competing for their high school remains the safest venue for participation.”

Anderson concluded his Jan. 7 update by noting the narrow timeline for conducting sports seasons in several sports during the remainder of the 2020-21 school year. Anderson’s statement appeared to criticize the IDPH for not providing any detailed parameters for athletes returning to competition.

“Our board of directors is going to have difficult decisions to make regarding the seasons’ for mediumand high-risk sports very soon,” said Anderson. “With no specific IDPH timeline or statistical benchmarks established for the return of sports and the calendar shrinking, putting together a puzzle that allows for all sports to be played becomes increasingly improbable. We continue to urge all residents of our state to be diligent in their efforts to adhere to safety guidelines, as a lower positivity rate remains the key to athletics returning.”

The IHSA Board of Directors held another meeting earlier this week, on Jan. 13.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 15

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16 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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