VPR22521

Villa Park

60¢

Review

Shredding will be $5 per banker box, Residents will receiv e their first box for Check our website free. for a list of accepted electronic items.

also serving Oakbrook Terrace

VOL. 17 • NO. 10

WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

389993

THURSDAY, FEB. 25, 2021

Keep them clear The Villa Park Fire Department and Villa Park Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 2392 of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) are asking residents for their help in keeping the village’s fire hydrants clear of snow. In the event of an emergency, when every second counts, clear hydrants allow firefighters to quickly spot and secure a connection. Residents are asked to remove any snow

and ice from the hydrant in their neighborhood. Additionally, clear a wide enough perimeter (about 3 feet) to be able to walk around the hydrant, and clear a path from the hydrant to the street. One photo shows the message board outside of Villa Park Fire Station 81 at 1440 S. Ardmore Ave. The other photos show village hydrants located near the station.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review 390271

Inside:

Police Reports...........6 Sports.....................17 Viewpoint.................8 Classifieds..............16

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2 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Former state senator, Republican AG candidate Schimpf to run for governor

By Jerry Nowicki

er education working group that produced legislative changes such Former state Sen. Paul Schimpf, as AIM High grants, which aim to who spent four years representing the provide Illinois’ highest performing 58th District and was the Republican students with the means to remain in Party’s candidate for attorney generIllinois for college. al in 2014, has announced he will run He is an of counsel attorney with for governor in 2022. the law firm of Stumpf & Gutknecht Schimpf made the announcement P.C. in Columbia, meaning he is not via videoconference during the an equity partner in the firm. morning of Feb. 16, beginning a day “More important than all those of traveling the state with planned experiences, however, is the perstops in Algonquin, Rock Island and spective that I will bring to the govMorris Monday and Decatur, Morris ernor’s office,” he said. “For far too long, we have had literally governors who were either career politicians or wealthy corporate executives who couldn’t understand or empathize with the struggles that the people of Illinois face.”

He touched on a number of issues that have been lynchpins of Republican legislative dissent in recent years and weeks, noting a governor should “give clear unambiguous support to for every 10 years, the Decennial now stands only 126,000 above the the law enforcement community.”

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE INDEPENDENT Census provides the federal govern- threshold for losing another Repre“Together, we ensured the Census ment with population data used to sentative. had the most up-to-date address file, appropriate some $700 billion annuThe 12-state Midwest Region— delivered paper questionnaires to ru- ally in state, county and local fund- which includes the five-state East ral areas, recruited workers during ing for public education, transpor- North Central Division of Illinois, one of the lowest periods of unem- tation infrastructure and healthcare Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan and ployment, took on a global pandemic programs, valuable to all residents Ohio—reported the highest self-rethrough unique virtual engagement, in DuPage County and the state of sponse rate of all four Regions at and engaged communities through Illinois.

69.8 percent, exceeding the National Got Out The Count (GOTC) efforts In addition, the number of seats Self-Response Rate of 67 percent.

DuPage County Health Departthat bought Census staff to historical- proportioned to Illinois’ delegation As of the Oct. 15 self-response ment (DCHD) has learned the numly undercounted neighborhoods.” to the U.S. House of Representatives deadline, 80.8 percent of households ber of COVID-19 vaccines allocated This was a statement issued by is dependent on these census figures. across DuPage County and 71.4 per- to DuPage County in the next three Marilyn A. Sanders, Chicago ReWith a population of approximate- cent statewide responded. weeks for first doses will be very gional Director, U.S. Census Bureau ly 12.63 million (200,000 less than The Census Bureau reported a 99.9 limited. This week, DCHD expects in a letter to census partners. in 2010), Illinois will be forfeiting percent completion of households to receive only 2,450 vaccines for Mandated by the U.S. Constitution one of 18 Congressional seats and that required physical enumeration. first doses for distribution to vaccine providers in DuPage County which is much lower than the recent average of 14,000 new vaccine doses previously received each week.

This lower allocation of new first doses means DCHD’s Community Vaccination Clinic and other local providers will be primarily focused on administering second doses and very limited appointments for new first doses will be available. The County said it fully expects the vaccine supply will catch up over the next few weeks and additional new first dose appointments will become more accessible in early to midMarch.

Until vaccine supply increases, DuPage County will not be expanding to the Phase 1b Part II group an“There is nothing more comforting than knowing that my dad is in the absolute nounced by the Governor last week that includes individuals ages 16–64 best hands in Memory Care at Clarendale of Addison. The staff is very years with co-morbidities and uncompassionate, attentive and they treat him as if he is their own family member.” derlying conditions, as well as in—Dina K., Daughter of Memory Care Resident dividuals with disabilities. Per Centers for Disease Control and PrevenCall 630-345-8702 to learn more and chat with our residents. tion (CDC) recommendations for transitioning between phases, the County looks to move into the Phase 1b Part II group when supplies inIndependent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care crease significantly through more web ClarendaleOfAddison.com doses available of current vaccines or new vaccine authorized, when 1651 West Lake Street | Addison, IL 60101 most persons within current phase are vaccinated or when demand in 12-20 the current phase is less than vacci388028 nation available.

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

and his hometown of Waterloo.

In his announcement, Schimpf sought to distance himself from Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker on both issues of policy and life experience.

“My vision for Illinois involves a return to responsible government, safe communities and economic growth in a free market,” he said.

“We need a governor who welcomes and insists upon legislative oversight of his administration.”

A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine Corps veteran, Schimpf

was an outspoken advocate for veterans in the Senate, serving as minority party spokesperson on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. In 2005, Schimpf served as the chief American advisor in the trial of Saddam Hussein in Iraq.

He rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps.

He was elected to the state Senate in 2017, retiring in January ahead of his run for governor. He said his proudest accomplishment as state senator was his work with a high-

U.S. Census Bureau boasts good response in Illinois

Illinois will be forfeiting one of 18 Congressional seats

He also addressed Illinois’ tax burden, quoting Ronald Reagan and stating Illinois needs a governor who “understands those day-to-day challenges that we all face” and who will “stand up to the entrenched special interest groups that have done so much damage to our state.”

“I know what it feels like to wake up in the middle of the night wondering how my wife and I are going to pay for our kids’ education, or what the next property tax increase is going to do to our family budget,” he said.

Illinois Democrats quickly sought to tie Schimpf to a less popular, more recent Republican elected official— ex-Gov. Bruce Rauner, who presided over a two-year budget impasse which saw the state’s backlog of unpaid bills balloon to over $16 billion.

Mary Morrissey, executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois, referred to Schimpf as a “Rauner/Trump acolyte” in a statement.

County announces first report of local COVID-19 case caused by B.1.1.7 variant

The Word is Out

Clarendale Residents Say It Best.

Currently, the Health Department and vaccine providers in DuPage County are focused on vaccinating the 270,000 people in DuPage County previously eligible in Phase 1b and assuring that all healthcare workers who meet Phase 1a have also had the opportunity to be vaccinated. All individuals who live and work in DuPage County are welcome to register for vaccine on our website at dupagehealth.org/covid19vaccine. It is important to note that appointment notifications will continue to be sent to any remaining Phase 1a and 1b individuals who have registered until more vaccination of these groups has been completed.

First case of COVID-19 variant Also of concern, DCHD has received confirmation of the first case of the COVID-19 variant B.1.1.7, the same variant discovered in the United Kingdom (U.K.), in a DuPage County resident. Although this is the first case of this new variant reported in DuPage County, there have been 25 cases reported throughout Illinois to date.

This variant spreads more easily and quickly than other variants. In January 2021, experts in the U.K. reported that this variant may be associated with an increased risk of death compared to other variant viruses, but more studies are needed to confirm this finding. It has since been detected in many countries around the world. This variant was first detected in the U.S. at the end of December 2020. More in-

See VARIANT, Page 3

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 3

Elmhurst Hospital earns national recognition for bariatric surgery program Several medical insurance provid- gery program at Elmhurst Hospital Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois ers have awarded Endeavor Health® distinctions based on clinical quality has designated Elmhurst Hospital as Weight Management’s Bariatric Sur- and cost efficiency. a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery, based on meeting nationally established criteria by demonstrating expertise in delivering quality care, safely and effectively.

Cigna has designated Elmhurst HosSession 1 will be held Wednesdays pital as a Bariatric Center of ExcelOver the past year, many people have struggled with grief associated in two time slots, from 9:30 to 11 lence, based on the hospital’s quality with losing someone to COVID-19. a.m. (Group A) or from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and affordability measures. Elmhurst Hospital earned the highest award of Beginning the week of March 1, (Group B), March 3 – April 7.

Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH) will To join one of these groups, email six stars.

United Health Care has designated offer a complimentary grief sup- covidsupportgroup@eehealth.org or port group for adults who have ex- call (331) 221-0879 with the follow- Elmhurst Hospital as a Bariatric Center of Excellence based on clinical perienced the loss of a loved one to ing information: quality and cost effectiveness.

COVID-19.

• Your name These designations are a testament The group sessions will be facili• Your relationship to the deceased to the quality of care provided every tated by members of EEH’s Spiritual • Your email Care Services team and will be held • Your home address virtually using Zoom. To participate, • Your phone number access to an electronic device with • Preference of participation in audio and video capability is required. group A or B The 90-minute sessions will be For more information about spiriheld once per week for six weeks. tual care at Edward-Elmhurst Health, Each group will have a minimum of visit EEHealth.org/patients-visitors/ STAFF REPORT five people and a maximum of ten. guide/spiritual-care.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) daily COVID-19 update of Feb. 21 related that about 4.55 (Continued from page 2) percent of DuPage County’s populaformation on COVID-19 variants is of vaccine since Dec. 17. Further- tion has been fully vaccinated for the available at www.dph.illinois.gov/ more, DuPage County continues to coronavirus. covid19/variants. lead the collar counties with 3.88%, According to the IDPH, as of Feb. “Given these emerging variants or 36,059 residents now fully vac- 21, 42,250 DuPage County residents alongside ongoing vaccination ef- cinated with two doses. Approxi- (out of the county’s total reported forts, supply remains the single mately 33,285 vaccine doses have population of 928,589) had been fully greatest challenge in not being able been administered in the past week. vaccinated for COVID-19. The IDPH to swiftly vaccinate more people in These accomplishments have been report from the same day stated that a DuPage County,” said Karen Ayala, a result of the thousands of vac- total of 153,851 doses of COVID-19 executive director of DuPage Coun- cines administered through DuPage vaccines had been administered to ty Health Department. “We, too, are County partner vaccination sites, county residents. frustrated with the insufficient and including health systems, hospitals, The IDPH report from one week unpredictable supply our County healthcare providers, pharmacies, earlier—Feb. 14—stated that about is receiving. Particularly, since we and the DCHD Community Vacci- 3.64 percent (33,780) of DuPage have established a strong network nation Clinic.

County’s residents had been fully vacof community partners with the caDuPage County has 109 regis- cinated for the coronavirus. pacity to currently vaccinate at least tered healthcare partners who are The IDPH reports that the first 50,000 people per week, yet we are ready to begin administering vac- COVID-19 vaccinations in DuPage receiving 5% of this capacity next cine once it arrives.

County were administered on Dec. 16, week.

This scalable, community-based “We are hopeful that more vac- strategy leverages existing public cine will be available in the next and private partnerships to deliver several weeks, so we will continue the COVID-19 vaccine safely and to expand our network and be pre- efficiently. This week, 53 vaccinapared to get the vaccine into peo- tion partners indicated their ability ple’s arms as quickly as possible to administer more than 53,000 dosonce it is available.” es of vaccine.

Despite the vaccine supply chalWhen vaccine is available, the lenges, DCHD and vaccine admin- County is immediately ready to inistration partners in the county have crease the number of doses adminisadministered nearly 138,000 doses tered each week.

Edward-Elmhurst Health launches support group for COVID-19 loss

day and may give patients access to many weight loss services previously unavailable at Elmhurst Hospital, including surgery. At Elmhurst Hospital, board-certified bariatric surgeons Mark Choh, MD; Ryan Headley, MD and Wayne Yang, MD work with patients to determine whether surgery is the right option and, if so, which procedure ensures the least risk and most success.

The surgeries performed by Endeavor Health® Weight Management’s Bariatric Surgery program include: • Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: The stomach is separated into two sections with a special stapling device, creating a small pouch on top. This pouch holds 1-2 ounces of food and becomes

the new stomach.

• Vertical sleeve gastrectomy: During this procedure, the surgeon removes about 80 percent of the stomach so that it takes the shape of a tube or sleeve, limiting the amount of food that can be eaten.

• Adjustable gastric band (LapBand): A saline-filled, adjustable band is placed around the stomach, dividing the stomach into a small pouch on top, which restricts food intake.

For more information about Endeavor Health® Weight Management’s Bariatric Surgery program, visit eehealth.org/services/ endeavor-health-weight-management/ bariatric-weight-loss.

More than 42,000 DuPage County residents have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19

• Variant

2020.

According to the IDPH, as of Feb. 21, about 4.29 percent of Illinois residents (546,824 out of the state’s total reported population of 12.741,080) had been fully vaccinated for the coronavirus. More than 2.1 million total doses had been administered in the state, noted the IDPH report from Feb. 21.

The IDPH reports more than 1.1 million total cases of COVID-19 in the state, with 20,269 deaths in Illinois related to the coronavirus.

More than 17.6 million tests for COVID-19 have been performed in the state.

The DuPage County Health Department’s daily COVID-19 update of Feb. 21 reported there have been 1,183 deaths related to the coronavirus in the county since March 2020. About 57 percent (680) of those 1,183 deaths have involved residents 80 and older.

About 93 percent (1,102) of the 1,183

deaths have involved residents 60 or older.

None of DuPage County’s 1,183 deaths related to COVID-19 have involved a resident under the age of 20.

There have been 18 deaths related to COVID-19 in Villa Park residents.

Lombard has reported 53 deaths related to the coronavirus.

The IDPH reported that the COVID-19 test positivity seven-day rolling average in Region 8 (DuPage and Kane counties) remained at 4.3 percent for six consecutive days during the period from Feb. 13-18. The region’s daily COVID-19 test positivity rate on Feb. 18 was reported at 3.4 percent, with 231 positive tests out of 6,748 total tests.

According to the IDPH, Region 8’s seven-day rolling average of hospitalized COVID-19 patients stood at 177 on Feb. 20. That same seven-day rolling average stood at 233 on Feb. 11.

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4VP • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Villa Park Police Department assists Chicago officers in arrest of two suspects at Motel 6

Villa Park reView Your Hometown Newspaper 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Male and female were reportedly involved in armed carjackings

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900

On Friday, Feb. 19, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Villa Park Police officers responded to the Motel 6, 10 W. Roosevelt Road, to assist Chicago Police in an investigation of armed carjackings that occurred in Chicago earlier in the day.

According to information provided by the Villa Park Police Department, Chicago Police tracked the suspects to the Motel 6 in Villa Park.

After locating a vehicle related to their investigation in the motel’s parking lot, Chicago Police attempted to locate two possible suspects who were staying at the motel.

One female adult suspect was taken into custody without incident.

A second suspect, an adult male, reportedly refused to exit his motel room. The male suspect reportedly made threatening statements, claiming he would harm others, as well as himself.

While Villa Park Police detectives worked with Chicago Police to obtain a search warrant for the motel room, the DuPage County Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigation Team (MERIT) Swat Team was activated and responded to the scene.

At about 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20, the male suspect exited the

The Villa Park Review 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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motel room and surrendered to authorities. According to the Villa Park Police Department, investigators recovered a large amount of cannabis and two firearms from the suspect’s motel room.

Chicago Police officers took the two suspects into custody and transported them to Chicago for further investigation and pending charges.

In its statement about the incident, the Villa Park Police Department thanked the Chicago Police investigators and the members of the MERIT Swat Team for helping to bring a peaceful resolution to a tense situation.

Obituary

James T. Hooper, 91 James T. Hooper, of Villa Park, passed away on January 25, 2021, at the age of 91. Loving husband of Connie Hooper, nee Fetrow; loving father of Madeline Hooper and JoAnn Hooper; fond brother of the late Betty Mack and the late Bill Hooper; he will be greatly missed by his furry child Frankie. Services and Interment private. Arrangements provided by Knollcrest Funeral Home. For more information: 630-932-1500 or visit knollcrest.net.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Resident turns 100

Villa Park resident Adabella Roberts recently celebrated her 100th birthday, and State Rep. Deb Conroy paid a visit to her residence. Conroy presented Roberts with a resolution celebrating her milestone birthday.

Conroy appointed to new Women’s Caucus leadership role in 102nd General Assembly As the 102nd General Assembly was set to resume legislative session in Springfield this month, state Rep. Deb Conroy, D-Villa Park, has been appointed to a new Illinois House leadership post serving as Women’s Caucus Whip.

Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising:

“I am honored to have been chosen to serve as Women’s Caucus Whip in the House,” said Conroy. “The cornerstone of much of my professional career has been devoted not only to championing the efforts of women and girls, but also serving the best interests of DuPage County families.

I am proud of my record which has consistently delivered on key proposals that empower women from all walks of life, while also prioritizing the needs of the DuPage County community as a whole.”

“

Brenda Garcia Marguerite Micken

I am honored to have been chosen to serve as Women’s Caucus Whip in the House.”

Subscriptions: The Villa Park Review is mailed to the 60181 zip code areas for $45.00 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $50.00 yearly.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

–Rep. Deb Conroy

Reprints: Content appearing in the Villa Park Review 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 VILLA PARK REVIEW 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126 SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Office Hours:

Chamber welcomes new business to Villa Park

352518

Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

The Villa Park Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon cutting to welcome I Love Frys to the village. The business, which serves a variety of french fries, is located at 54 S. Villa Ave. Alesia Bailey (far left), the chamber’s executive director, joined chamber members and members of the Villa Park Village Board at the ribbon cutting. The husband-and-wife duo of Milan and Sonja Jajic own the business.

Conroy was tapped on to serve as Women’s Caucus Whip by newly elected House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillsdale, as he announced his leadership team of Democratic House members serving in the recently sworn-in 102nd General Assembly.

As a longtime advocate for women’s issues, Conroy co-founded and served as the first Chair of the House Democratic Women’s Caucus.

“I look forward to serving in this new role as someone who recognizes firsthand the critical need for women to have a strong voice at tables where important decisions surrounding the rights of women are made,” said Conroy.

“I am truly humbled to have the opportunity to take on the reins and serve as that person, and I remain committed to upholding the highest possible standards for the future of DuPage County.”

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 5

CORONA VIRUS UPDATE 2021 We hope this email finds you and your family in good health. The previous year brought a lot of change, but one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety and well being.

As always, we are following the latest infection control recommendations made by OSHA, CDC and the ADA to ensure we are in accordance with their guidance at all times. If you haven’t been to our office in the last 9 months, you may be wondering what additional precautions have been taken to ensure your safety • A deep disinfecting of treatment rooms between patient appointments and increased sanitizing of doorknobs, counters and waiting room areas.

• Everyone entering our facility will be screened for symptoms of COVID-19 one to two days prior to arrival and temperatures will be taken when entering the office.

• All patients will wear a mask to prevent the spread of infection to others. A mask will be provided, if needed.

• Dentist and staff members will be wearing additional personal protective equipment as an added layer of security for you and them.

• We are continuing safe distancing measures and fewer appointment times are offered to space out patient arrivals and departures.

• Magazines and other high touch items in the waiting room have been removed to limit the spread of germs.

Amid the pandemic, taking care of your health is more important than ever. Maintaining good oral health goes hand in hand with total body health. If you’d like to schedule an appointment or further discuss our measures to ensure your continued safety, please call us at 630-833-8088.

Sincerely,

390511

Dr. Daniel J. Fornatto, D.D.S.

6 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 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.

Addison Feb. 18 Thomas E. Herling, 36, of Chicago, was charged with DUI near Lake and Grand at around 10:52 p.m.

Police said Kristofor W. Prendergast, 37, of Addison, had a failure to appear warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for DUI. Prendergast also was charged with forgery in the 1400 block of Holtz at around 8:30 a.m.

Villa Park, had an original warrant out of the Addison Police Department for driving while license revoked in the 100 block of W. Terrace, Villa Park, at around 4:18 p.m.

Feb. 13 Zachary R. Arellano, 29, of Ashland City, Tenn., was charged with DUI, driving on the wrong side of the road and no insurance near Lake St. and Friendship Dr. at around 2:03 a.m. Police said an officer saw the

with DUI-first or second offense and transportation or possession of open alcohol by the driver in the 400 block of W. Division at around 4:47 a.m.

A 37-year-old Wood Dale man and a 51-year-old Villa Park woman were charged with domestic battery-making physical contact and domestic battery which caused bodily harm in the 300 block of N. Illinois at around 7:08 p.m.

A 41-year-old Villa Park man was charged with domestic battery-making physical contact and domestic battery which caused bodily harm in the 400 block of N. Harvard at around 4:21 p.m.

driver of a pick-up truck, Arellano, lose control and strike the curb with the front end of his vehicle; then back up and strike another curb with his rear tires; then the driver drove over the median where the Feb. 12 truck was facing eastbound in the Darian A. Kirchoff, 22, of Westwestbound lanes, according to po- mont, was charged with battery causlice. ing bodily harm and battery-making

A 45-year-old Villa Park man was charged with domestic battery-making physical contact and domestic battery which caused bodily harm in the 400 block of W. Division Jan. 1. The original complaint and arrest warrant were issued Feb. 12.

Abdul M. Abraham, 45, of Villa Park, was charged with obstructing identification at a local restaurant at around 8:13 p.m.

Theft was reported at a local tobacco store at around 11:51 a.m. Police said an unknown suspect stole a mask and left the store without paying for it.

Feb. 11 Aaron J. Tyler, 27, of Villa Park, was charged with obstructing identification in the 400 block of W. Division Sept. 18, 2020. The original physical contact of an insulting or complaint and arrest warrant were Villa Park provoking nature in the 1-100 block issued Feb. 11.

Feb. 13 of W. Adams Nov. 16, 2020. The Abundio Lopez-Gonzalez, 32, original complaint and arrest warrant Feb. 10 Feb. 16 Police said Jociel Patino, 21, of of Oakbrook Terrace, was charged were issued Feb. 12.

Gregory S. Hemphill, 48, of Lombard, was charged with DUI-first or second offense, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and driving too fast for conditions near Central and Euclid at around 6:34 p.m.

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Feb. 8 Renee M. Kaine, 56, of Oak Brook, was charged with DUI-first or second offense, three counts of resisting or obstructing a police officer and making an improper U-turn on a roadway near Summit and 14th at around 1:13 a.m.

Feb. 7 Angel H. Perez, 33, of Roselle, was charged with two counts of DUI and improper lane usage-crossing a land boundary unsafely near Route 83 and W. North at around 12:42 a.m.

Theft was reported at a local fitness center. Police said an unknown suspect cut the lock off a locker and stole cash from a wallet sometime between 3:15 and 4:30 p.m. The wallet was left behind.

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.

Feb. 18, 12:28 a.m. near W. Washington Ave. and S. Barron St., Armando Moreno, 24, was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis.

BEP21001577.

Feb. 18, 1:16 a.m. near N. York

Road and Supreme Drive, Amaurion L. Maltbia, 18, of Bellwood, was arrested for reckless driving and other traffic violations. BEPC2100120.

Feb. 18, 6:21 a.m. in the 300 block of Marshall Road, a complainant reported that his unattended car with keys in the ignition was found to be missing. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100121.

Feb. 17, 1:18 p.m. in the 600 block of N. Route 83, a complainant reported that a known suspect took the company’s tractor and trailer without authorization. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100118.

Feb. 17, 3:06 p.m. in the 300 block of E. Washington St., a complainant reported that a resident was pushed by a known staff member.

This case is under investigation.

BEPC2100119.

Feb. 16, 10:54 a.m. in the 1100 block of N. Ellis St., a complainant reported that the company’s trailer with loads of pallets was taken by two unknown suspects. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100115.

Feb. 16, 6:03 p.m. in the 500 block of S. York, a complainant reported that he found his front license plate to be missing. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100117.

Feb. 16, 8:40 p.m. near E. Jefferson St. and York Road, Marco A. Velasquez, 22, was arrested for reckless driving and other traffic violations.

BEPC2100116.

Feb. 15, 2:17 p.m. near N. Church Road and W. Irving Park Road, Apple Costa, 33, of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, and Debbie Kamara Sugawara, 55, of Chicago, was arrested for driving without ever being issued a driver’s license.

BEPC2100111.

Feb. 15, 3:21 p.m. in the 900 block of W. Irving Park Road, a complainant reported that an unknown suspect used the complainant’s information and open a Paypal account and made several transactions.

This case is under investigation.

BEPC2100112.

Feb. 15, 3:47 p.m. in the 100 block of Bridget Court, a complainant reported criminal damage to complainant’s door jamb, by an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100113.

Feb. 14, 12:10 a.m. in the 100 block of E. George St., Richard C. Baker, 26, was issued a village ordinance for disorderly conduct—noise.

BEP21001425.

Feb. 14, 1:31 p.m. in the 800 block of S. York Road, police said William Fabian Lopez, 22, had two failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County. Lopez was subsequently transported and released to DuPage County authorities. BEPC2100110.

Bison Chess Team takes 12th at State Fenton Chess placed 12th in the 3A division of the 2021 IHSA State Tournament last weekend. Outstanding performances by Drew Salski and Sara Schaefer. Sara won 5.5 points at Board 5 and Drew went undefeated and won 6 points at Board 2. The team competed in virtual chess matches from Fenton’s spacious study hall room (to allow social distancing). The team issued a “huge shout-out to our amazing coaches Ms. Downen and Ms. Bibel.”

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 7VP

show trial.

I am waiting for School Districts #44, #45, #87 and #88 to follow Naperville and other districts across the country to rebate taxes back to the residents. The obvious reductions in school costs should be passed on to the people who paid them. And how many district employees lost any wages during the height of the pandemic?

Instead, teacher unions held us all hostage. Can’t wait to see how this plays out. *** Wow, it seems nothing shuts up a right wing “news” station like seeing billion-dollar lawsuits getting thrown at people over stuff they have no defense for. “Greg, Sean, shh, shh! Ixnay on the Audfray.” *** I understand why some people think Speak Out has become too polarized.

But I enjoy reading comments from different points of view. It makes sense that the people who are going to bother to make comments are the ones who are passionate in their opinions.

I wonder if some of the people who complain about Speak Out are upset because they don’t like reading oppos-

ing viewpoints.

*** I’m reading about some committee in Chicago that’s reviewing whether to take down statues of Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. You would think other issues facing Chicago are more pressing, such as murders, carjackings, last summer’s riots and lootings and reviving a once-vibrant business community that’s now a shell of itself thanks to Lightfoot’s ongoing lockdowns. Nope, let’s get rid of these statues. If Abe Lincoln is now a pariah to social justice warriors, what’s next?

Will we all have to get rid of our license plates since they have a picture of Abe and say Land of Lincoln? *** I was under the impression that members of the Senate are supposed to be jurors in an impeachment trial.

Aren’t jurors supposed to be impartial until all the evidence is presented from both sides? Yet we already knew each Democratic senator was going to vote to convict Trump even before this latest impeachment began. I’m glad I didn’t waste any time watching this

Villa Park Library events Friday, Feb. 26 Library celebrates 25th anniversary of Pokémon Join the Villa Park Public Library in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Pokémon. In honor of this special date, children ages 8 and older can participate in the celebration with activities, crafts, and games. 25 Years of Pokémon will be presented online via Zoom from 3:30-4:15 p.m. Registration and a valid email address are required. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Tuesday, March 2 Read Across America Day at the Library The Villa Park Public Library will celebrate Read Across America Day at 6 p.m. Children of all ages are invited to join them and celebrate the joy of reading across America with a storytime and craft. This program will be held online, and registration is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Wednesday, March 3 Library hosting online resume writing workshop The Villa Park Public Library will host Résumé Writing for Results virtually from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Attendees will learn how to write résumés that

lead to interviews. This program will be held online via Zoom, and registration and a valid email address are required. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Saturday, March 6 Library offers free practice SAT test The Villa Park Public Library will offer free Practice SAT Tests via Zoom for high school students from 9:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., proctored by Huntington Learning Center of Elmhurst.

Participants must live in or attend a high school in Villa Park or Oakbrook Terrace. Students will need a calculator, two pencils, a quiet space, and the ability to download an answer sheet.

The test session begins promptly at 9:15 a.m. All registrants will be automatically signed up a SAT Results Follow-Up Session is on March 11 from 6:30-7 p.m., also held via Zoom.

At this session, students will have practice test results and will hear a clear explanation of test answers and will be able to ask questions. Huntington Learning Center of Elmhurst will explain categories of questions and the structure of the SAT and will suggest test-taking strategies. Registration and a valid email address are required. Zoom meeting details will be sent along with the email confirmation. For more information, visit

*** It’s nice to see that the NASA Perseverance rover successfully landed on Mars. Too bad they couldn’t have shipped several politicians on both sides of the aisle to Mars with the rover! How’s that for bipartisanship! *** During the current month of February, the fourth coldest average recorded temperatures since 1875, I have not heard the politicians talking about “global warming.” I think the jury is still out on whether this is normal history and weather during the past several million years, or whether there is a climate emergency? *** I think Republicans should extend the same level of respect to Biden that Democrats gave to Trump. *** I was totally disgusted to hear some of the comments made after the death of Rush Limbaugh. Whether you liked him or not, he was someone’s loved one who will be missed, and to hear that vitriol just goes to show how far those on the left have sunk into a chasm of hate. Compare that to the recent death of pornography emperor Larry Flynt: CNN described him as an outspoken advocate for the First Amendment. What is this world coming to? *** I would suggest everyone take the time to read the article published by Time magazine: The Secret History of the Shadow campaign that saved the 2020 Election. If you don’t think you were manipulated, you’d better wake up. Now they are taking a step further by placing senior people from social media companies in this new administration. Hate Trump all you like but you’d better be careful what you wished for. What the entitled are doing

may not be able to be undone. *** Villa Park and Lombard. I would love to see people reach out to create a network for senior citizens to get volunteer or reduced-rate help with snow shoveling, cleaning of roofs, plumbing, electrical, etc., and mowing and yardwork in the summer. I know the townships can only do so much, but maybe through churches working together and tapping into the expertise of some of their congregation, to help us older folks who don’t have a lot of money. Just a thought. *** It’s pretty obvious that Big Tech/Social Media banned Trump to prevent him from criticizing Biden’s failures.

Leftists are all for free speech, as long as you agree with them. *** Cancelling the Keystone pipeline not only eliminated thousands of jobs, it is the equivalent to putting 500,000 cars on the road. Feeling played yet? *** I see where somebody unfortunately got killed in a gender-reveal explosion.

Now, the U.S. House voted to do away with all reference to the sexes. I guess that instead of being a man or woman, boy or girl, he or she, everybody is now an “it.” So, if they were Democrats, shame on them for blindly following the lead of their so-called leaders and labeling their child without first consulting said child.

*** For all those who are collecting unemployment and all the extra benefits the government is providing you.

Please remember you owe taxes on that as income. Don’t get stuck. There are a lot of jobs out there. *** The COVID-19 virus had risen and fallen in a same path around the country, regardless of each state’s policies.

Anyone who claims Illinois’ various lockdown rules have reduced the virus isn’t being honest. Also, where are the pious “follow the science” charlatans on the issue of opening schools? Even Biden’s science advisor says schools should be open. Democrats who claim to be following the science seem more interested in following orders from teachers’ unions. *** The so-called experts and the media told us there would be widespread uprisings at state capitols on Jan. 20, 2021. Wrong. The experts and the media also told us there was no way a COVID-19 vaccine would be manufactured by the end of 2020. Wrong again. The experts and the media told us Biden had significant leads in Ohio and Florida, and that Democrats would gain seats in the House in the election of 2020. Not even close.

The experts and the media also tell us there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the election. Do you believe them?

the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Tuesday, March 9 Library offers cheese and wine workshops The Villa Park Public Library will present Cheese and Wine Pairing virtually from 6:30-8 p.m., presented by Meredith Meder, ACS CCP. Attendees will learn the basics of wine and cheese tasting.

Registrants will also get a suggested shopping list so they can taste along with the group. This program will be held online via Zoom, and registration and a valid email address are required. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Wednesday, March 10 Library presents Retro Culinary Program The Villa Park Public Library will present Retro Culinary Program virtually from 7 to 8:30 p.m. At this program, Chef Susan Maddox will rekindle some fun food picks from the past.

While revisiting these recipes, she will be putting a new twist on some retro favorites. This program will be held online via Zoom, and registration and a valid email address are required.

For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Scout from Villa Park lends helping hand

One of the foundations of the Scouting program is community service. Recently, the Village of Villa Park and the Villa Park Fire Department posted to social media a request that residents clear snow from around fire hydrants. By doing so, it saves fire fighters precious minutes in hooking up water hoses. Pictured is Shea Downer, a Villa Park resident and a student at Jackson Middle School. A scout with Troop 117G based in Elmhurst, Shea helped clear snow from two hydrants located in a Villa Park neighborhood. Troop 117G is an all-girl girl troop affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America Troop 117. Troop 117B is for boys 11-17 years old; Troop 117G is for girls 11-17 years old; and Venture Crew 711 is for young men and women 14-20 years old. These units share equipment and an adult committee.

8 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Rock Valley Publishing

Viewpoint

Feb. 25, 2021 • 8

What Kinzinger vs.

Trump tells us about the Illinois GOP

By Jim Nowlan Kinzinger, Trump, Big Money, the GO —a lot to handle in one column.

But I can do it because each is a different-colored thread in a single piece of cloth.

North-central Illinois GOP Congressman Adam Kinzinger has been sharply dismissive of former President Trump, which has caused furious blowback from his constituents.

“Our district offices can barely function,” said one staffer, “as the circuits have been overloaded with irate calls from former supporters.”

In a recent vote of LaSalle County GOP precinct committeemen, 88 percent supported censure of the five-term, 43-year-old congressman.

“Adam went to Washington,” said a friend of mine from his district, “and never came back.”

Indeed, during the 2020 election cycle, when I was on the hustings, I had a beer after the speechifyin’ with LaSalle County GOP Chair Larry Smith. He grumbled then that Kinzinger “hasn’t been in LaSalle County in six years!”

So, Adam has become the darling of suburban Dems and maybe 1520 percent of GOP voters who, like me, agree with his criticism of Trump. Not a recipe for success in a statewide primary for U.S. Senate or governor, unless he stirs up several opponents, and can then win with 30

percent or so of the vote.

Trump loyalists in my rural area appear to be sticking with the expresident. They believe he speaks their blunt language to the powers that be and represents them more effectively than anyone ever has or ever will.

Their loyalty to him is fierce; to the GOP, their faithfulness is secondary, if at all.

For the near term, Trump needs a big objective, and that has to be the presidency in 2024. He will seek to become the first non-successive, two-term president since Grover Cleveland.

But the Trump Party, postinsurrection, will always be a minority in America, probably 35 percent or so of voters. GOP officials are desperate to make their party more than the Trump Party, but Trump will make that nigh impossible.

Trump is a cult figure, not a party leader. If you’re not for him 100 percent, you’re against him, to his mind. GOP candidates will have to pass the Trump loyalty litmus test, or face his wrath and that of his base.

In downstate Illinois, Trump loyalty from candidates will come easy, and be mostly sincere. It will certainly be required to avoid a primary challenge next spring. I think the loyalty test will be trickier in the vote-rich suburbs. I expect many district-level GOP primary contests between pro- and anti-

See GOP, Page 9

Proposed budget ‘a good start,’ says Cullerton State Sen. Tom Cullerton (D- Villa Park) says Gov. JB Pritzker’s proposed budget is a good start to providing relief for Illinois families amid the ongoing pandemic and looks forward to further discussions during the budget negotiations process. He issued the following statement: “I have been concerned with the struggles the Illinois Department of Employment Security has been facing while dealing with an unprecedented number of unemployment cases this last year. I’m hoping utilizing additional funding will alleviate that stress and help those struggling

in the 23rd District.

“I will continue to work hard to make sure that we prioritize funding for human service programs and we provide our local businesses the resources to prosper. These programs are more vital than ever to keeping the people I represent safe, stable and successful.

“I look forward to continuing discussions with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass a budget that prioritizes the values and needs of DuPage County residents.”

Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Sen. Tom Cullerton.

Slices of life

Membership in this club isn’t by choice I woke up this morning to a message no one ever wants to receive.

It was from a dear friend, roommate from college and bridesmaid at my wedding.

Her husband was in a car accident yesterday and died. I cry writing this because it is so close right now.

She wrote looking for help.

Looking for advice. Looking for something, anything to make sense out of something that makes no sense.

She asked, “How did you do it? How did you get through it?”

I didn’t have the heart to tell her that I didn’t do anything. Still haven’t gotten through it. I’m not sure anyone ever does.

I had tears — lots and lots of tears for her — but no clear-cut advice.

There is none.

I’m glad she sought me out. I did the same thing. Unfortunately I have

By

JILL PERTLER Contributor

a few friends who have walked this path before me and I turned to them for help, answers, advice, an ear — whatever they could give me.

They were more than gracious; I think because they knew.

I was now a member of their club. It’s a club no one ever wants to join. Membership is the opposite of coveted, yet some of us find ourselves here, with the label we never, ever thought possible. Members of this elite, prestigious, inane, stupid club.

Widow. Widower.

Alone. Filled with sorrow. Heart

literally aching. Chest pounding. Not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

Afraid to move forward. Terrified to look back.

But we are in this together, whether it’s been five days, five weeks or five years; we all know.

Quite honestly it’s a horrible reality that no one should ever know. There are countless other horrible realities out there. I get it. But I’m a member of this particular special club. And it sucks.

It’s a club like the Hotel California: You can check out anytime you like, you just can’t ever leave.

Those of us in this special club can’t leave. Not ever. But we can move forward, on a new path that we probably never considered before our membership was thrust upon us.

See SLICES OF LIFE, Page 9

Willis: Governor’s budget address a first step in moving state forward State Rep. Kathleen Willis, D-Northlake, issued the following statement after Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget address on Wednesday, Feb. 17: “In his budget address today, Gov. Pritzker laid the groundwork for a budget which recognizes the unprecedented challenges we face. As members of the General Assembly, we are tasked with taking the administration’s

budget proposal as a starting point in the process of crafting a balanced budget – particularly one that controls spending, lives within our means and meets our most pressing needs.

“I stand ready and willing to work with Gov. Pritzker and our federal partners to ensure immediate federal assistance is provided to those hit hardest by COVID. It is critically important that we prioritize widespread

vaccine distribution and availability, introduce safe school reopening plans, and continue to provide access to testing and treatment.

“The need for Congress to act swiftly to help us meet these existing and persistent challenges is more important now than ever. I am committed to getting to work to deliver a carefully crafted budget that recognizes the moment we are in.”

• GOP

(Continued from page 8) Trump candidates.

Also, here in Illinois, Big Money appears to have replaced party organizations as the critical element in election contests. Gov. JB Pritzker and billionaire investor Ken Griffin each put more than $50 million into the single contest over whether to tax the rich more than others, which Pritzker favored and lost. Without Griffin’s money to blanket the airwaves with trenchant advertising attacks on increased taxation, Priztker would likely have won.

Pritzker is vulnerable to defeat in a 2022 re-election bid. But who will credibly take on him and his money? (The governor spent

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 9

$171 million of his own money in his election win in 2018.) The answer is only someone who can find a Daddy Warbucks funder of the Ken Griffin class.

Not to be cast aside entirely, the Illinois GOP recently narrowly defeated a Trump conservative, and elected as state chair a calm, mainstream Republican lawyer from the remarkably successful Tracy family of western Illinois. Tracy siblings operate and wholly own the 6,000-employee DOT Foods enterprise of tiny Mount Sterling in equally miniscule Brown County.

Don Tracy may not himself be in the Griffin billionaire class (I don’t know), but he sure

has the stature to get his phone calls returned from traditional, major GOP donors.

At present, the Illinois GOP holds no state offices and but one-third of legislative and congressional seats. It has no money, and an uncomfortable, at best, relationship with the Trump base; after all, the Tracy forces worked hard to eke out a narrow win over a Trump candidate for party chair.

Illinois needs a competitive two-party political system. I commend Don Tracy for taking on a thankless role, but I worry that the GOP, both nationally and in Illinois, is in for a

• Slices

(Continued from page 8) It’s hard as heck, though. It’s like a neverending, scary ride that just keeps running around the track over and over and over even though you are screaming to get off.

I’m not sure any of us will make it. But we’ll try. I know I’m going to try. I am trying.

Although some days it doesn’t feel that way.

Some days it feels as though I’m stepping backwards instead of forward. Some days it doesn’t feel like anything at all. Some days the feelings are so intense I can hardly breathe.

Some days I wake up to a memory that tightens in my chest and takes my breath away and I have to get up and just walk and breathe slow and steady. People tell you to think of happy memories, but sometimes (often times) even the happy memories feel sad and you feel your chest tightening.

Some days thoughts of my own mortality creep in and I lose my breath again. Some days I think it’s all too hard, but then I think of my kids and know I have to find a way — some way — for them and for me. Some days I wake up calm and I roll over and give thanks for comfy pillows and a warm bed.

Some days I feel a small hint of normal again.

People have lots of kind advice about getting

rough ride until we get past the Trump era.

Trump backer and suburban businessman Gary Rabine has already announced his candidacy for governor in the 2022 GOP primary. Expect more. Will Kinzinger join the fray? Stay tuned.

For many years, Jim Nowlan was a senior fellow and political science professor at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign.

He was a state representative, worked for three governors and publishes a weekly newspaper in central Illinois.

through and over grief. About the healing process I don’t think I’ll ever be healed; there is no healing this grief. At best, I think, there is learning to live in tandem with it. Learning to laugh again, despite the loss. Learning to be OK with laughing again, despite the sadness.

Learning to be OK with feeling sort of normal again without collapsing in a pool of anxiety because how can you feel normal when your world has collapsed from within? How do you orchestrate such a feat?

I’m not sure. Not sure I ever will be sure. But I am trying. I am trying to reconcile these two worlds in which I now live, and I hope and pray that the people I come across will understand and allow me the grace I am aching for.

The exact same sentiment goes out to my dear friend who is experiencing her own grief, which is even more recent than mine. This is for you, Paula. Hugs and love.

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

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10 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is situated on an oversized (75 x 150) lot on a quiet street. Close to train, shopping, and expressways. The enclosed 3 season front porch leads you to the living room with tons of natural light.

This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is situated on an oversized (75 x 150) lot on a quiet street. Close to train, shopping, and expressways. The enclosed 3 season front porch leads you to the living room with tons of natural light. 3rd bedroom/office on main level next to full bathroom.

Updated island kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Newer HWH and Washer/Dryer. $269,900

College View Ranch!

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Looking for a ranch in the heart of Elmhurst that’s both affordable and updated? This 3 bed, 2 bath home w/ hardwood floors throughout the main level offers a renovated kitchen, a recently finished basement, and a newly fenced-in

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Wise Investment Builders

Proposed Modern Farmhouse by one of Elmhurst’s most reputable builders – Wise Investment Builders. Set on an oversized 64’ wide lot on one of Lincoln school’s best streets.

Over 5,300 sf of finished living space with 3 car heated $1,499,900

Lincoln Luxury New Construction Wise Investment Builders Proposed Modern Farmhouse by one of Elmhurst’s most reputable builders – Wise Investment Builders. Set on an oversized 64’ wide lot on one of Lincoln school’s best streets. Over 5,300 sf of finished living space with 3 car heated garage. Open and airy 1st floor with 2-story foyer, 10 ft ceilings, hardwood floors throughout, private 1st floor study or in-law suite, custom kitchen with large island & prep sink, high end SS appliance package, breakfast nook & family room open to backyard, walk-in pantry + butler pantry with wine fridge, mudroom, and full bath. 4 large upstairs bedrooms with hardwood floors, volume ceilings, laundry, and super luxurious primary suite with spa bath & large walk-in closet. Fully finished lower level with garden window, media room, 5th bedroom, full bath, wet bar, and storage. Smart home wired for all of today’s technology - alarm, whole home backup generator, Ring, internet, and surround sound. $1,499,900

Beautiful Modern Craftsman

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 11

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.

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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 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

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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

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

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

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12 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 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 JOHN CAHILL, MD - CARDIOLOGY Dr. John Cahill puts in long days. But that’s okay. He believes in spending as much time with his patients as possible, because that’s what it takes to make them comfortable—to alleviate their fears and concerns. Elmhurst is his hometown and for him, it’s a privilege to care for his people. That’s why he’s helped build a nationally recognized health system right here, in his own community. For all of us at Edward-Elmhurst Health, THIS IS PERSONAL. ThisIsPersonalEEH.org

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 13

From birth to career, Illinois students deserve an equitable and adequate education system Beyond this, a well-educated citizenry and workforce is vital for Illinois’ economy, now more than ever.

Illinois has made significant strides in recent years in funding education. In K-12, the EvidenceBased Funding for Student Success Act (EBF) has made Illinois a national leader. The new formula equitably distributes new state dollars each year, prioritizing the state’s most underfunded school COVID-19 has upended the districts. In early childhood lives and education of children and education and care, Gov. JB young people throughout Illinois.

Pritzker’s Early Childhood We will need new ways of thinking Funding Commission is poised and working to ensure our state’s to release recommendations that education system emerges from the promise to illuminate a path to a pandemic able to serve kids better more coordinated and equitable and more equitably. system of funding and governance.

As a first step, state funding In higher education, the Illinois and policies must extend beyond Board of Higher Education and traditional silos— reschool, K-12 advocates are using data to expose and higher education—and instead barriers to college access and address our educational system as a affordability for Illinois students single, interconnected journey that and are committed to redesigning provides equitably and adequately and implementing an equitable, for our students at every step. adequate funding structure going All children and youth in Illinois forward. deserve a high-quality education While these gains are regardless of their race/ethnicity, encouraging, they depend, in turn, ZIP code or family income. We on the state growing its investment know quality experiences, from in early childhood, public schools birth through college, make a and higher education. Our dramatic difference in one’s educational investments benefit, success in school, career and life. in turn, on making access to stable

housing, health care and nutrition a priority.

The state’s push for equity is critical because the hard truth is Illinois’ programs and schools do not provide equal access and quality for all children.

Opportunity gaps start early and persist among students by race/ ethnicity, income, home language and geography.

Fewer than one in three kindergarteners enters school “ready to learn,” and only 35 percent of fourth-graders are proficient in reading.

While 85 percent of students graduate high school, only 53 percent of students go on to college. Despite the fact that the majority of employers need employees with more than a high school diploma, just over half of Illinois residents hold a college degree or postsecondary credential.

Facing lean state budgets in recent years, funding for child care and early education programs along with higher education has remained far from the levels needed, and in some cases has been repeatedly cut or deprioritized.

Chronic underfunding threatens child development and stands in the way of young adults’ college and career success. Worse, these

actions disproportionately affect our low-income communities and communities of color.

Even before COVID-19, in early childhood, young children across the state lacked access to highquality and affordable services.

Many pockets of the state had and continue to have “child care deserts,” and the industry struggles to recruit and retain a workforce that earns near poverty level wages. Illinois’ higher education sector has been underfunded for a decade, leaving institutions no choice but to shut down programs, raise tuition and rely on out-ofstate students’ tuition.

These practices have priced many Illinois students out of the market or decreased the number of opportunities available.

By no means left unscathed, prior to the passage of EBF in 2017, the K-12 public education system weathered years of deep cuts, as the practice of acrossthe-board reductions known as “proration” resulted in the largest losses of state funding for the state’s highest-need school districts. While EBF has significantly bolstered K-12 funding, and done so with a strong equity focus, we still have a long way to go.

While the federal government

has provided important shortterm funding as a stopgap to help weather the current storm, the state has a critical role to play to ensure children and youth have equitable and adequate funding moving forward.

That responsibility will be complicated by serious and ongoing fiscal challenges that have been exacerbated by a devastating health crisis.

As we plan for recovery and work to build a strong and healthy educational ecosystem, we hope and expect that the state will avoid supporting one part of the education continuum by slashing budgets in another part. This practice is misguided on its face, as students cannot develop and thrive without a strong overall system that will see them through from birth to career.

We see a future where all children and young adults have access to high-quality opportunities that will propel them through life.

To achieve this, children from birth through college need policy makers and education partners to stand together for comprehensive and fair solutions so they can reach their full potential.

The brighter their futures, the stronger our families and economy will be.

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Editor’s note: This op-ed was signed by Robin Steans, president of Advance Illinois; April Janney, acting president and CEO of Illinois Action for Children; Mimi Rodman, executive director of Stand for Children Illinois; Kyle Westbrook, executive director of Partnership for College Completion; and Diana Mendley Rauner, Ph.D, president of Start Early.

14 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Warriors pick up first win of the season by edging Addison Trail Sophomore Noah Campbell provides a team-leading 18 points in the win

STAFF REPORT

The Willowbrook boys basketball team earned its first victory of the season when it defeated Addison Trail 65-59 on Friday night in Villa Park. The Warriors, who trailed the Blazers 40-39 through three quarters, made 11 field goals, including one 3-point shot, during the fourth period.

Willowbrook improved to 1-2 with Friday’s win over Addison Trail.

The Warriors dropped to 1-3 following Saturday afternoon’s 58-47 loss at Proviso West.

In its first game of last week, Willowbrook dropped a 68-34 decision at Glenbard West on Feb. 16. The talented Hilltoppers held a 19-9 lead after one quarter. The lead grew to 31-12 by halftime. Glenbard West held a 50-25 advantage at the end of the third quarter.

Senior Amaris Hughes scored a team-leading 11 points for the Warriors in the loss at Glenbard West.

Junior Marquel Saleek scored seven points, while juniors Ryan Pegler and Alexander Simmons provided six and five points, respectively.

Willowbrook sophomore Noah Campbell scored a team-high 18 points in Friday’s win over the Blazers. Campbell scored eight points in the third quarter and added six more points during the final period.

“We were up early, then we fell

behind,” said Willowbrook coach Ryan Tyszkiewicz, speaking moments after the victory over the Blazers—his first win as the Warriors’ coach. “We kept fighting. We turned up the energy on defense and made a few steals.”

Simmons scored 11 points during Friday’s win. He tallied nine of those points during the fourth quarter, when he drained three baskets and made three of five free-throw attempts.

Hughes and senior Haven Pryor each contributed four points in the decisive fourth quarter. Saleek, who finished the game with nine points, connected on a 3-point shot in the final period.

Hughes and junior Evan Stubblefield both scored eight points in Friday’s win over Addison Trail. Stubblefield netted a pair of 3-point shots

during the first quarter.

The Warriors had more than one reason to celebrate Friday’s exciting win over the Blazers. In addition to giving Tyszkiewicz his first win, the result marked a triumph for this season’s new-look team, which doesn’t include any starters from last season’s squad.

While it’s fun to win, the Warriors, along with most other high school basketball teams in Illinois, are simply happy to be playing.

“To be honest, I wasn’t even expecting to have a season,” said Tyszkiewicz in noting that a few weeks ago, it appeared the COVID-19 pandemic might wipe out the entire 2020-21 high school basketball season throughout the state. “Being back together in the gym has been awesome for our guys.”

Willowbrook fell to an early deficit in Saturday’s battle at Proviso West. The Panthers held a 13-2 lead at the end of the first quarter. The lead grew to 28-9 during the second period, but the Warriors cut Proviso West’s lead to 28-16 by halftime. The Panthers’ lead stood at 42-30 at the end of the third quarter.

Hughes made four baskets and sank all four of his shots from the foul line to provide 12 points for the Warriors in Saturday’s game. He also snared a team-leading nine rebounds.

Campbell, who made five of eight shots from the field, including two of four attempts from 3-point territory, also scored 12 points. Saleek contributed nine points and eight rebounds.

The Warriors’ schedule this week features games against Proviso East, Leyden and Downers Grove North.

Warriors roll to three straight decisive victories Freshman Calli Kenny averages 13 points per game during winning streak

three straight home wins last week. over Glenbard West on Feb. 16.

The Warriors opened their suc- Three nights later, Willowbrook cessful week with a 56-27 victory defeated Addison Trail 57-33. The

Warriors followed Friday night’s win against the Blazers with a 67-38 victory over Proviso West on Saturday afternoon.

“Everyone is kind of getting used to each other,” said Willowbrook STAFF REPORT coach Terry Harrell after Saturday’s The Willowbrook girls basketwin. “The group is working as a unit. ball team rebounded from its seaWe haven’t played a complete game son-opening loss at York by posting yet. Hopefully we can get to where we play four full quarters.”

The Warriors led Glenbard West 15-11 after one quarter and 28-19 at halftime. Willowbrook buried the Hilltoppers in the third quarter, outscoring the visitors 26-5 to take a 5424 lead by the end of the period. The lead of at least 30 points triggered a running clock throughout the fourth quarter.

Freshman Calli Kenny made all six of her attempts from the field, including a pair of 3-point shots, to tally 14 points for the Warriors in their win over Glenbard West. Kenny also grabbed 10 rebounds in the contest, which marked her second varsity game.

Senior Gracie Tumilty scored 14 points and pulled down eight rebounds for the Warriors in the Feb. 16 win. Freshman Elle Bruschuk provided 10 points and seven rebounds.

Senior Stephanie Dasbach grabbed 10 rebounds and scored three points.

Senior Taris Thornton and junior Sophie Sullivan scored eight and seven points, respectively.

The Warriors needed a little time to get rolling in Friday’s game against Addison Trail. Willowbrook held an 11-10 lead at the end of the first quarter. Sullivan and Thornton accounted for all 11 of the team’s first-quarter points—Sullivan provided six points with a pair of 3-point shots, while Thornton made one 3-point shot along with a 2-point field goal. Willowbrook extended its lead to 31-16 by halftime. Sullivan scored eight CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing points during the second quarter.

Willowbrook’s girls basketball team won three straight home games last week to improve its record Kenny made three baskets, including to 3-1. The Warriors earned their victories over Glenbard West, Addison Trail and Proviso West. Fresh- a 3-point shot, during the period. man Calli Kenny (above right - No. 35) scored 14 points in the victory over Glenbard West on Feb. 16.

Willowbrook outscored Addison She connected on all six of her attempts from the field; those six attempts included a pair of 3-point Trail 22-8 in the third quarter to exshots. Kenny scored nine points in Friday’s win over Addison Trail and provided 16 points in Saturday’s tend its lead to 53-24. win over Proviso West. Kenny and another freshman—Elle Bruschuk (above left - No. 33)—are already Sullivan, who made four 3-point major contributors to the varsity lineup. Bruschuk scored 10 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the shots against the Blazers, led the Warriors’ win over Glenbard West. “They are both playing heavy minutes,” said Willowbrook coach Terry Warriors’ scoring attack with 22 Harrell of the two freshmen. “The future is extremely bright for both of them.” points. Kenny finished with nine

“

The group is working as a unit.

We haven’t played a complete game yet.

Hopefully we can get to where we play four full quarters.”

– Terry Harrell, Willowbrook coach

points, while Thornton scored seven points. Tumilty scored all six of her points during the third period.

The Warriors outscored Proviso West 24-4 during the third quarter of Saturday’s game. Willowbrook led the Panthers 20-10 after one quarter and 38-22 at halftime. The third-quarter surge gave the Warriors a 62-26 lead and produced a running clock for the entire fourth quarter.

Three Warriors—Sullivan, Thornton and Kenny—shared the team’s high-scoring honors in Saturday’s win, which pushed Willowbrook’s record to 3-1. Each player scored 16 points. Sullivan made one 3-point shot and sank three of four attempts from the foul line. Kenny, who also drained one 3-point shot, scored 14 of her points during the first half. She scored seven points in each of the first two quarters.

Sullivan and Thornton both recorded nine rebounds. Dasbach provided eight points and eight rebounds.

The Warriors’ schedule this week includes games against Proviso East, Lyons Township and Leyden. Willowbrook and the 13 other teams in the West Suburban Conference are playing exclusively against conference opponents during the current abbreviated winter season, which ends on March 13—two weeks from this Saturday. Harrell said the conference’s 14 teams are planning to conclude the season with a tournament.

“We’re looking forward to that,” said Harrell of the upcoming conference event. “The girls have something to play for.”

From Edward-Elmhurst Health:

Should pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine?

• The side effects that some may experience after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine aren’t expected to be any different for pregnant people.

• All vaccine recipients, including pregnant people, should talk with their doctor if they have a history of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other vaccine or injectable therapy.

• COVID-19 vaccines should not be administered within 14 days of receipt of another vaccine (such as Tdap and influenza).

• Pregnant people who decide to get vaccinated should continue to follow the current guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 after they are vaccinated, including wearing a mask, staying at least 6 feet away from others, washing hands often and avoiding crowds.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women need to weigh the potential benefits of vaccination (including preventing COVID-19 illness) against the potential risks regarding vaccination.

Guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and CDC advocate for making COVID-19 vaccines available to pregnant and lactating women in consultation with their doctor.

For more information, visit eehealth.org/coronavirus.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Volcanic crater 5. Long times 10. Swedish rock group 14. Having the means to do something 15. Rods or spindles 16. La __ Tar Pits, Hollywood 17. Missing soldiers 18. Measuring instrument 19. All of the components considered individually 20. Play “__ Irish Rose” 22. Gene 23. Barrels 24. London-based soccer team 27. Feline 30. Breed of sheep 31. Body part 32. Doctors’ group 35. One who follows the rules 37. Cigarette residue 38. Ancient Greek sophist 39. Polish yeast cakes 40. Promotional materials 41. Pancakes made from buckwheat flour 42. Completed perfectly 43. Photo 44. A peninsula in SW Asia 45. The common gibbon 46. Disfigure 47. Ribonucleic acid 48. Japanese honorific 49. Pieces of music 52. Expressed pleasure 55. Having ten 56. Type of sword 60. Humble request for help 61. Eating houses 63. Italian Seaport 64. Cain and __ 65. Measure the depth 66. U. of Miami’s mascot 67. Political outsiders 68. Greek sorceress 69. Body part CLUES DOWN 1. Mother 2. Jewish calendar month 3. Jai __, sport

4. Establish again 5. Swiss river 6. Racetrack wager 7. __ but goodie 8. Closeness 9. Soviet Socialist Republic 10. At right angles to a ship’s length 11. Women’s undergarments 12. Mountain stream 13. Expresses pleasure 21. Painful places on the body 23. Automobile 25. Scandinavian god of battle 26. Expresses surprise 27. Secret political clique 28. Yields manila hemp 29. River in central Italy 32. Brain injury science acronym 33. Mental illness 34. A person from Asia

36. Father 37. General’s assistant (abbr.)

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53. Actress Jessica 54. Pay attention to 57. Beloved big screen pig 58. __ Clapton, musician 59. Take a chance 61. Cost per mille 62. Helps little firms

Answers on page 18

Worship Services Directory

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Vaccinations during pregnancy are important and common. There are vaccines that are typically recommended during pregnancy to prevent influenza (flu shot) and pertussis (Tdap vaccine).

Pregnant people may be deciding whether they should get the COVID-19 vaccine. This is a personal choice that people should make after talking with their doctor, their first point of contact to help them make an informed decision.

What is known about the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy? The two currently available COVID-19 vaccines consist of messenger RNA (mRNA) and use the body’s own cells to generate the coronavirus spike protein, which stimulates immune cells to create antibodies against COVID-19.

While mRNA vaccines are distinct from influenza and Tdap vaccines currently used during pregnancy, mRNA technology has been in development for the last decade.

The mRNA vaccines can’t give someone COVID-19, as they do not contain the live virus that causes the coronavirus. Also, the mRNA does not enter the cell’s nucleus and does not alter human DNA, so the mRNA vaccines cannot cause any genetic changes, and the body’s cells break down the mRNA quickly.

While the current COVID-19 mRNA vaccines haven’t been studied in pregnant or lactating women, based on how mRNA vaccines work, experts believe they are unlikely to pose a specific risk for people who are pregnant, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Likewise, mRNA vaccines are not thought to be a risk to the breastfeeding infant.

While safety data on the use of the current COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in pregnancy are not currently available, there are also no data to indicate that the vaccines should be contraindicated (not used), and the safety for pregnant people is expected to be similar to non-pregnant people.

While there are still many unknowns, experts know that: • Women who are trying to become pregnant do not need to avoid pregnancy after receiving an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

• Given the mechanism of action and the safety profile of the vaccine in non-pregnant individuals, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are not thought to cause an increased risk of infertility.

• If an individual becomes pregnant after the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine series, the second dose should be administered as indicated.

• Pregnant people are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Pregnant people with comorbidities, such as obesity and diabetes, may be at an even higher risk of severe illness.

• Pregnant people with severe COVID-19 may be at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and pregnancy loss.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 15

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 17

Rock Valley Publishing

Sports

Feb. 25, 2021 • 17

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Blazers vs. Warriors

(Above): Addison Trail senior Mia Johnson (No. 9, left) and Willowbrook senior Stephanie Dasbach (right) battle for a rebound during Friday’s girls basketball game in Villa Park. The Warriors defeated the visiting Blazers 57-33. Johnson scored a team-leading 10 points for Addison Trail. Dasbach grabbed a team-high 10 rebounds and scored four points for Willowbrook. Another photo from the game (right) shows Addison Trail junior Gia Napoli (No. 2), who scored seven points, and Willowbrook sophomore Angie Lizasuain (No. 22), who scored three points.

Winning Warriors

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

The Willowbrook badminton team, which lost its first two dual meets of the season, earned its first win during last week’s home meet against Leyden.

The Warriors earned a 6-1 victory in the Feb. 17 dual meet against the Eagles in Villa Park. One photo (left) shows Willowbrook senior Katy Abbott during her 21-7, 21-12 win in the No. 1 singles match. Another photo (right) shows junior Becca Lopez Egan, who earned a 21-17, 21-12 victory in the No. 2 singles contest. Abbott and Lopez Egan teamed up to capture a 21-13, 21-12 win in the meet’s No. 1 doubles match. Freshman Lily Caron earned a 21-12, 2116 victory at No. 3 singles.

The Warriors’ other winners in the dual meet included junior Annabelle Romero, who battled to a 22-20, 21-15 victory in the No. 5 singles match.

18 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Pritzker outlines $41.6 billion budget with flat spending

By Jerry Nowicki and Peter Hancock

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker outlined a $41.6 billion budget proposal last week that would hold most state agencies at flat funding levels but which relies heavily on changes to the state’s corporate tax structure that lawmakers have not yet approved.

The budget proposal, which is only the governor’s request for lawmakers in the General Assembly, does not call for income tax increases. Over the next four months, lawmakers will work on an operating budget of their own to send to the governor which may or may not address all of his requests.

It also does not rely on any federal funding increases that have not yet been passed into law, although a federal Medicaid reimbursement rate increase that is already in place does account for a $638 million reduction to the state’s expenditures.

It was Pritzker’s third budget message since taking office in 2019. And unlike others that were delivered from

LEGAL NOTICES

Notice of Intention of School District Number 4, DuPage County, Illinois to Issue $500,000 Working Cash Fund Bonds Public Notice is hereby given that on the 24th day of February, 2021, the Board of Education (the “Board”) of School District Number 4, DuPage County, Illinois (the “District”), adopted a resolution declaring its intention and determination to issue bonds in the aggregate amount of $500,000 for the purpose of increasing the Working Cash Fund of the District, and it is the intention of the Board to avail of the provisions of Article 20 of the School Code of the State of Illinois, and all laws amendatory thereof and supplementary thereto, and to issue said bonds for the purpose of increasing said Working Cash Fund. Said Working Cash Fund is to be maintained in accordance with the provisions of said Article and shall be used for the purpose of enabling the District to have in its treasury at all time sufficient money to meet demands thereon for expenditures for corporate purposes.

A petition may be filed with the Secretary of the Board (the “Secretary”) within thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice, signed by not less than 2,045 voters of the District, said number of voters being equal to ten percent (10%) of the registered voters of the District, requesting that the proposition to issue said bonds as authorized by the provisions of said Article 20 be submitted to the voters of the District. If such petition is filed with the Secretary within thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice, an election on the proposition to issue said bonds shall be held on the 15th day of March, 2022. The Circuit Court may declare that an emergency referendum should be held prior to said election date pursuant to the provisions of Section 2A-1.4 of the Election Code of the State of Illinois, as amended. If no such petition is filed within said thirty (30) day period, then the District shall thereafter be authorized to issue said bonds for the purpose hereinabove provided.

By order of the Board of Education of School District Number 4, DuPage County, Illinois.

Dated this 24th day of February, 2021.

Serge Ruffolo Secretary, Board of Education, School District Number 4, DuPage County, Illinois Dave Williams President, Board of Education, School District Number 4, DuPage County, Illinois (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Feb. 25, 2021) 390616

the House chamber in the Capitol, this year’s message was delivered remotely through a prerecorded video due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The address was recorded at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, which now serves as a COVID-19 vaccination site.

In his speech, Pritzker had harsh rhetoric for “far right” Republicans at all levels of government, describing them as “carnival barkers,” for lobbying against federal relief to states and for defying health guidelines. He also once again made note of the two-year budget impasse presided over by Republican former Gov. Bruce Rauner, calling it a “self-inflicted” period of suffering which saw the state’s backlog of unpaid bills balloon to over $16 billion.

He said in the past 20 years, as pension payments have become an increasing burden on state finances, Illinois’ number of government employees has shrunk by 30 percent, the Illinois State Police force has shrunk by 40 percent, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency work force shrunk by 60 percent, he said.

“If there is anything the last year should have taught us, it is that we need a reliably well-funded government,” he said. “Many on the far right have made their name in politics by touting cuts to unemployment programs and health insurance coverage. They called anyone who sought unemployment benefits ‘takers.’ They demonize state employees. And they fought unrelentingly to eliminate any state or federal funds designed to make health care more accessible, equitable and fair.”

The budget proposed for fiscal year 2022 relies on more than $900 million in corporate tax changes that will require action from the General Assembly. Those include a reversal of previous General Assembly action to repeal the corporate franchise tax, a cap on net operating losses for the fiscal year that would allow for $314 million in savings and a cap on a retailer’s discount to $1,000 per month, and other changes.

governor’s plan will have a long-term negative impact on job creation and tax revenues for the state as it produces an unfair increase on taxpayers after they resoundingly defeated the graduated income tax,” Maisch said in an email statement. “This not only will expand what will get taxed, but will also reduce key tax credits for vital sectors of the economy.”

Toll of pandemic on state finances Much of Pritzker’s speech was dedicated to demonstrating the toll of the pandemic both on society and state finances.

“I had bolder plans for our state budget than what I am going to present to you today. It would be a lie to suggest otherwise,” Pritzker said. “But as all our families have had to make hard choices over the last year, so too does state government.”

Senior budget officials, in a briefing before the address was streamed, noted the governor will still seek to decouple the state tax code from changes allowed in the federal Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act. That change would keep revenues flat from a year ago by providing that the CARES Act cuts passed last year would not automatically reduce Illinois state tax burdens for businesses.

The measure failed in the lame duck session as Republicans blasted it as a more than $500 million tax increase on businesses, but Democrats at the time said it was a way to prevent revenue loss by maintaining the status quo.

GOP, Illinois Chamber criticize proposed budget But Republicans and business groups lambasted the governor’s plan as a tax increase on businesses and a betrayal of a bipartisan compromise budget which members of both parties celebrated in Pritzker’s first year.

Republican House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, accused the governor of seeking “payback” in his effort to repeal some corporate tax incentives passed by lawmakers in 2019, alleging that it was in response to the November failure of the graduated income tax.

Answers Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, called PUZZLE 1 the budget an attempt to “move money around” and raise corporate taxes.

While the governor characterized his corporate tax changes of closing “corporate loopholes,” Republicans characterized it as an elimination of important incentives aimed at keeping job creators in the state.

Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch characterized the tax changes as “a massive tax increase.”

“We understand that the state has fiscal problems to address, however, the

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

District 88 hosts vaccinations

District 88, which includes two schools—Willowbrook High School and Addison Trail High School—secured partnerships with Jewel-Osco and Genoa Healthcare to provide about 4,600 doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. Inoculations were administered recently (on Feb. 17, 18, 20 and 21) at Addison Trail to staff members from school districts 4, 45, 48 and 88, as well as to staff members from local parochial schools, preschools and Technology Center of DuPage. Some senior citizens (65 and older) from Addison, Lombard, Villa Park, Oakbrook Terrace and surrounding communities were also included in last week’s inoculations at Addison Trail.

Visit www.dupage88.net/ReturntoSchoolPlan for more information about District 88’s Return to School Plan.

PUZZLE 2

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 • 19

20 • Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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