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Graduation day Play at the plate at Willowbrook

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enon to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2021 2021 THURSDAY, SEPT. 2, THURSDAY, MAY 27, THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s loss to post an 11-2 win in Saturday’s game at Hinsdale Central. The Warriors bashed three home runs in the second inning of SatCHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Conference.

Senior Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that beganAnnemarie at 9 a.m. The others participated in the ceremony started Kayleigh the home Dennison (No. 5) is pictured in the at 11 a.m. Dennison The photoprovided shows members of runs. the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing background of the above photo. more aboutsee thePage Warriors, during the day’s first service.

ForFor more photos, 4. see page 14.

Arbor Day in Villa Park

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TANYA BOUTIN CHRIS FOX PHOTO PHOTO Villa Villa Park Park Review Review SUBMITTED PHOTO Villa Park 390271 Review

Memorial Day in Villa Park KATE KATE DRURY DRURY

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, April 30. Pictured (left to right) at the tree planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns CommisThe Margaret Villa ParkSchiefer—a Village Board recently to Park allowEnvironmental the Villa Park Community Pride Commission to sion, member of voted the Villa Concerns Commission, Villa Park change its nameCheryl to the Villa Park Community F.U.N. (Focus Albert on Unifying Neighbors) Commission.

On SatVillage Trustee Tucker, Villa Park Village President Bulthuis, Villa Park Village Trustee (and Contact me for will a hold its annual Paws and Claws in the Park animal adoption event at urday, Sept.

25, the commission Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone and Leslie Allison-Seei—chair of the Villa Park Community Pride 630-514-9961 Lions Park, located at 320 E. Wildwood Ave. commission is to break Guinness World Record Villa complementary Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 of held itstrying Memorial Day aservice onDay Monday mornCommission.

Arbor Day is observed theThe last Friday each April.

The National Arbor Foundation 630-514-9961 for the largest dog wedding ceremony at the upcoming event, which will also feature live music, training at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim Blankshain is pictured bowing his head as kdrury@atproperties.com has recognized Villaanalysis Park with Tree City USA designation for 36 straight years. To receive that recognimarket ing demonstrations and ahave pet food A or 2007 function Colorado reportedly Willowbrook High School students Lily Hendrickson andina Anna Seelbach soundestablished at the the endrecord ofcomthe kdrury@atproperties.com tion, a community must a treedrive. board department, tree-care ordinance, ataps comprehensive ofThe your home!! in the light-hearted category with 178Day canine couples.

The wedding “puptials” ceremony pandemic. in Villa Park is ceremony. post’s 2020and Memorial event was canceled because of the COVID-19 This munity forestry program an Arbor Day observance. scheduled to beginincluded at 10 a.m.

To register your dog for the Post event, visitmembers www.pawsandclawsvp.com.

For year’s observance a reading of the names of the 2801 who have recently died. more information, to volunteer for Paws and Claws the Park, pride@invillapark.com.

Pictured That list included or World War II veteran Charles “Sid”in Bergh, whoemail served as the master of ceremonies I towould toCommunity help! (left right) are VillaMemorial Park F.U.N. members Kathy Halloran (with Bergh Duke Dunkin of the post’s annual Day service forCommission several years.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, died in O’Halloran), Eliza (withold.

“The Brack Man”), Mary Hintze and Leslie Allison-Seei (with Boo).

October 2020.

He Diederich was 94 years Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

Federal judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom Cullerton--Page 4

2 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH) is mandating the COVID-19 vaccine for all employees, physicians on We believe that our the Medical Staff, advance practice patients have a right to practitioners, volunteers, vendors, contractors, students and instructors. expect healthcare workers Vaccinations must be completed by to have taken all steps to Oct. 25. Exemptions will be granted for approved medical and religious minimize the risk of infection, reasons. EEH has 8,500 employees, including vaccination.” including 1,900 nurses, 2,000 – Mary Lou Mastro, physicians on its Medical Staff, plus 1,200 volunteers.

System CEO, EEH’s decision is based Edward-Elmhurst Health on evidence that is clear and straightforward – those who receive the COVID-19 vaccination are less likely to suffer from severe disease, persistent health consequences of infection and even death.

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More than 163 million people in the United States have been vaccinated, more than two billion vaccinations have been given worldwide and the vaccine has proven to be effective in preventing the devastating effects of a COVID-19 infection.

“We believe that our patients have a right to expect healthcare workers to have taken all steps to minimize the risk of infection, including vaccination,” says Mary Lou Mastro, System CEO, Edward-Elmhurst Health. “Hospitals have a unique role in the fight against COVID-19, as evidenced by the fact that healthcare workers were the first to be vaccinated. Quite simply, healthcare workers are at risk for COVID-19, especially when unvaccinated, and our teams are in contact with vulnerable patients every day, many who are elderly, sick or immunocompromised.

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 3

Woman stands accused of aggravated DUI in fatal crash in Elmhurst Berlin praises work of Chief Ruth, Police Department On Tuesday, Aug. 24, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael Ruth announced that bond had been set for a Cicero Alibet woman accused Mendoza of crashing her car in a construction zone in a residential area causing the death of her fiancé, 33-year-old Andrew Lewis.

Alibet Mendoza, 33, of the 1500 block of S. Austin in Cicero, appeared before Judge Margaret O’Connell, who set bond at $500,000 with 10% to apply.

Mendoza is charged with four counts of Aggravated DUI – Accident Causing Death (Class 2 Felony), one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class 4 Felo-

ny) and several Misdemeanor traffic offenses.

On Saturday, Aug. 21, at approximately 1:53 a.m., Elmhurst police officers were dispatched to a single vehicle crash in the area of Van Auken and North End Sts. Upon arrival officers observed a damaged 2016 Chevrolet Traverse that had struck a tree.

The front seat passenger, later identified as Lewis, was found in the vehicle unconscious and was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash.

It is alleged that Mendoza was driving the vehicle when she crashed into a gravel pit, struck a dumpster and then rolled down the gravel pit ultimately striking the tree where the vehicle was found. It is further alleged that Mendoza’s blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the crash was .176 (legal limit is .08) and

Cullerton delivers funds for local library upgrades funds are the Addison Public Library, which will receive $54,489, and the Villa Park Public Library, which is slated to be given $32,308.

Other libraries in the district Cullerton represents to receive funds include: Bartlett Public Library District - $55,394; Bloomingdale Public Library - $32,477; Carol Stream Public Library - $58,574; Glenside Public Library District - $53,482; Itasca Community Library - $12,757; Roselle Public Library District $33,617; Wood Dale Public Library District - $19,420.

“It’s exciting to see what these libraries will do with this new funding to give back to our communities,” Cullerton said. “From story times with children to seminars to help people access assistance, I encourage everyone to see what their local library has to offer.”

For more information on the grants, visit ilsos.gov.

ple idea and that is what makes cases such as this so frustrating. The tragic death of Andrew Lewis and so many other DUI victims did not have to happen. With a variety of ride-sharing services available, people have to think of the potential consequences of getting behind the wheel and not think they are all right to drive.

“I would like to thank the Elm-

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hurst Police Department for their efforts in this case.”

Mendoza’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 20, for arraignment in front of Judge O’Connell.

Members of the public are reminded that these complaints contain only charges and are not proof of the defendant’s guilt.

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Eight local libraries will receive funds totaling more than $350,000 to upgrade programs and help patrons get the resources they need, State Senator Tom Cullerton (D- Villa Park) announced Wednesday, Aug. 25.

“This funding will allow libraries to expand the help they give,” Cullerton said. “Whether it be allowing people to access the internet to apply to jobs or providing programming to help kids retain their education over the summer, libraries are a valuable asset to our communities.”

The funds received by the eight local libraries is part of $18.1 million in grants awarded to 638 public libraries across the state. Libraries will use these funds to implement and expand services and products like audiobooks and eBooks, dual language materials, adult programming and more.

Among the libraries to receive

that Mendoza had illegal narcotics in her system including benzodiazepines, cocaine, cannabis and opiates.

“Like all alleged DUI cases, the case against Ms. Mendoza was 100% avoidable,” Berlin said. “As I have said many times before, if you have been drinking or for any other reason are not able to safely operate a motor vehicle, do not drive. It is a very sim-

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4VP • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

State’s attorney finds Villa Park officer justified in deadly shooting

Villa Park reView

Officer fired four shots after responding to subject’s 9-1-1 call in May; subject who placed call had reportedly discussed ‘suicide by cop’

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

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that a Villa Park Police officer was justified in shooting a subject during an incident earlier this year.

The officer, Sgt. Jose Pagan, reportedly shot Haven Bailey, 25, after responding to a 9-1-1 call in the 200 block of East Kenilworth Avenue shortly after 2 a.m. on May 24. Bailey, who reportedly made the 9-1-1 call to report “somebody walking around with a gun,” was transported to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital and pronounced dead at 4:29 a.m.

“Every case involving the use of deadly force by a police officer must be carefully and thoroughly investigated,” said Berlin in a statement his office issued last week.

“Such scrutiny is required to ensure the protection of the civil rights of those involved and to maintain the public’s confidence in law enforcement.”

Berlin’s statement included de-

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900 The Villa Park Review is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

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walking around with a gun. Bailey reportedly described the gun as a pistol. Bailey then left the conversation but did not hang up.

Pagan and another officer were reportedly the first officers to arrive at the scene.

“As the other officer started to walk toward the house, he heard what he believed was a fence or door swing open near the front of the residence and observed a person, later determined to be Haven Bailey, standing to the east side of the front of the residence,” noted last week’s statement from Berlin.

“Both Sergeant Pagan and the other officer observed a black handgun, later determined to be a CO2 pellet-style gun, in Bailey’s right hand.

Both Sergeant Pagan and the other officer gave loud and clear commands to Bailey to put the gun down including ‘“drop the gun,”’ ‘“please put the gun down, please put the gun down,”’ and ‘“drop the gun please.”’ Despite their commands, Bailey did not drop the gun.”

According to Berlin’s statement, Pagan attempted to de-escalate the situation, but Bailey approached Pagan with gun in hand. Pagan then fired his gun four times. report feeling lonely, and nearly oneWhile processing the scene, aufourth of adults aged 65 and older thorities recovered a black CO2 are considered to be socially isolat- pellet-style gun with “Sig Sauer ed. COVID-19 has only exacerbated 1911” written on it. According to these statistics.

Berlin’s statement, a DNA sample The measure would require long- taken from the CO2 pellet-style gun term care facilities to make every matched Bailey’s DNA profile. reasonable effort to facilitate at least “It is important to remember that one phone or video call between a police officers are often forced to resident and a family member each make split-second decisions about day during a disaster declared by the the appropriate amount of force governor. It also requires hospitals to develop a policy to encourage patients to engage with family members during a public health emergency.

House Bill 3147 goes into effect immediately. tails about Bailey’s 9-1-1 call and subsequent comments to a DuComm operator. Multiple Villa Park police units, including Sgt. Pagan, responded to the call.

“After a thorough and extensive investigation surrounding the shooting of Haven Bailey by a Villa Park police officer, it is my determination that the officer, Sergeant Jose Pagan, who discharged his weapon four times, striking Haven Bailey four times, once in the right chest and three times in the abdomen, was legally justified in his actions and that no criminal charges will be filed against Sergeant Pagan,” stated Berlin. The investigation of the incident included reviews of Bailey’s 9-1-1 call, cellular phone data, squad car videos, photographs, witness accounts and physical evidence.

According to last week’s announcement from Berlin, a person, later determined to be Bailey, called 9-1-1 and reported somebody

Cullerton supports bill to help loved ones stay connected

State Sen. Tom Cullerton (D- Villa Park) spearheaded a measure that was signed on Monday, Aug. 16, to help connect residents of long-term care facilities to loved ones during disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ve learned from this pandemic how social isolation can have such a negative effect on mental health, especially for older adults in our state,” Cullerton said. “It’s so important that if anything like this pandemic happens again, long-term care facilities have a plan of action to make sure their residents have the opportunity to call their loved ones frequently.”

According to a report from the National Academies of Sciences, EnEditor’s note: This was submitted gineering, and Medicine, more than by the office of State Sen. Tom Culone-third of adults aged 45 and older lerton.

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Villa Park Police will conduct increased traffic safety patrols during Labor Day weekend Safety campaign began on Aug. 20, and runs through the morning of Sept. 7 The Villa Park Police Department is conducting a traffic safety campaign through Labor Day weekend.

The campaign, which began on Aug. 20, is focusing on impaired driving and other dangerous behavior, such as distracted driving and the failure to buckle up.

The current Labor Day “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” safety campaign, which features increased traffic patrols in Villa Park, is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

The Villa Park Police Department is partnering with the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies around the state to conduct increased patrols during the cam-

paign, which continues through the early morning hours of Tuesday, Sept. 7.

“We need our community to understand that it’s up to each of us to make the smart decision to drive sober on Labor Day and every day,” said Villa Park Police Sgt. James Cihak. “Motorists in Villa Park should expect stepped-up impaired driving patrols and seat-belt enforcement, particularly at night, when seat-belt usage rates are at their lowest.”

The Villa Park Police Department urges residents to remember to designate a sober driver this Labor Day weekend. Don’t let friends or family drive while drunk or impaired by drugs. Even a small amount of alcohol or another drug can impair judgment and reaction times, making driving unsafe.

necessary to bring a tense, uncertain and rapidly evolving situation under control,” noted Berlin, whose statement referred to an investigation of the shooting conducted by the DuPage Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigation Team (MERIT).

Berlin’s statement included quotes from Pagan, who said that Bailey walked straight toward him while holding the gun.

“If I had not fired my weapon at that point, I thought I was going to get shot,” Pagan stated.

After the shooting, Pagan attended to the subject and asked why Bailey didn’t drop the gun. Bailey reportedly responded, “I wanna die.”

The investigation also revealed text messages Bailey sent three minutes before the 9-1-1 call. One message read, in part, “I’m sorry in advance.”

The investigation of the shooting indicated that about one month before the incident, Bailey had conversations with a trusted family member. During that conversation, Bailey reportedly talked about “suicide by cop.”

“It is indeed heartbreaking when a loved one meets an untimely death,” said Berlin at the end of his statement. “The sad truth in the tragic death of Haven Bailey however, is that Haven saw suicide as the only way to find true peace.

On behalf of the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, I offer our sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of Haven Bailey as they grieve the loss of a loved one.”

Warriors kick off season with a loss

Willowbrook fails to score in a 10-0 setback at Providence Catholic

The Willowbrook football team opened its season with Friday night’s 10-0 loss to Providence Catholic in New Lenox.

The Celtics scored all 10 of their points during the second quarter of the non-conference contest.

Willowbrook’s season continues with this Friday’s game at Downers Grove North (1-0) of the West Suburban Silver Conference.

The Trojans opened their season with a 17-13 win over Hoffman Estates.

The Warriors will play their first home game of the season on Sept. 10, when they will meet Proviso East in a West Suburban Gold Conference battle.

All seven West Suburban Gold Conference teams opened the season with losses on Friday evening.

Willowbrook senior Josh Brown fielded the opening kickoff of Friday’s game against the Celtics and delivered a 42-yard return to the Warriors’ 45-yard line. Willowbrook’s opening offensive drive advanced the ball to Providence Catholic’s 5-yard line.

A 10-yard loss pushed the Warriors back to their own 15-yard line.

Willowbrook turned the ball over on a fumble on the following play.

The Celtics recovered the ball at their own 16-yard line.

Providence Catholic scored its only touchdown of the night on a 5-yard run in the second quarter. The Celtics increased their lead to 10-0 by kicking a 32-yard field goal on the final play of the first half.

Senior Nick Mabutas provided a defensive highlight for the Warriors when he intercepted a tipped pass in the end zone to stop a Providence Catholic scoring drive in the third quarter.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 5

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Police Reports

Aug. 12 Angel J. Gomez, 24, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of DUI, improper lane usage and an equipment violation in the 1200 block of W. Lake at 10:47 p.m.

Aug. 11 Joel M. Villegas, 50, of Elmhurst, was charged with two counts of DUI near 6th Avenue and Country Club Drive at 3:53 a.m.

Villa Park Aug. 21 A complainant at a bar in the 300 block of E. Kenilworth reported at 2:21 a.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance and refusing to leave the bar.

The subject struck the complainant in the face.

Aug. 16 The complainant did not want to Javier Hernandez, 27, of Addi- press charges but wanted the subson, was charged with resisting a ject served with a no-trespass nopolice officer and mob action at tice.

10:13 a.m.

The subject was so served.

Addison Aug. 17 A 22-year-old Chicago man was charged with domestic battery/ bodily harm and domestic battery/ physical contact in the 900 block of E. Lake at 9:51 p.m.

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Aug. 20 Retail theft was reported at a gas station in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at 8:16 a.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect removed two cartons of cigarettes from the counter and left the store.

The suspect also pushed the complainant while exiting the station.

Burglary to a vehicle was reported at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 at 7:50 p.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect entered their unsecured vehicle and stole their wallet and several other items.

Aug. 19 Theft was reported in the 400 block of N. Ardmore at 10:15 a.m.

A complainant reported that an unknown suspect cut off the catalytic converter from a vehicle that was parked in a parking lot.

Aug. 18 A complainant in the 300 block 402829

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.

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Aug. 17 A complainant at a motorcycle shop in the 200 block of W. North reported at 9:10 a.m. that a subject had put up a security camera system with audio without the knowledge of the complainant and their employees.

Theft was reported at a grocery store in the 1600 block of S. Ardmore at 3:49 p.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect stole their wallet from their purse.

The complainant also advised that the suspect was able to withdraw money from the complainant’s account.

A complainant in the 1-100 block of N. 2nd Ave. reported at 7:02 p.m. that a subject threw a can of food at their home.

Aug. 16 Fraud was reported in the 1000 block of W. North at 6:31 p.m. A complainant reported that they lost their debit card somewhere in Chicago and an unknown suspect used it to make several purchases.

Aug. 15 A complainant at a bar in the 300 block of E. Kenilworth reported at 1:48 a.m. that they were jumped by the bouncers in the bar. Officers spoke with bar employees and they reported the complainant was causing a disturbance in the bar and they had to escort the complainant out of the bar. Bar employees also wanted the complainant served with a no-trespass order, and the complainant was served with such.

A complainant near N. Westmore and Union Pacific reported a vehicle that was on fire at 3:28 a.m. When officers arrived on the scene, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames.

Theft was reported at a pawn shop in the 100 block of W. North at 12:52 p.m. A complainant reported that a subject was trying to get cash for gold chains. The subject was given money for the purchase of the real gold chains but the complainant claims the subject must have switched the real gold chains with fake ones.

A complainant at a restaurant in the 1-100 block of W. North told police at 5:55 p.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance and wanted the subject to be reminded they were trespassing. An officer spoke with the subject and they were advised they had been served with a no-trespass order to stay away from the restaurant.

Retail theft was reported at a pharmacy in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at 7:21 p.m. A complainant reported that a subject removed several over-the-counter medications from display shelves and left without paying for the items.

A complainant in the 400 block of W. Division advised at 7:31 p.m. that they received their vehicle back from a subject but there were multiple items missing from the vehicle.

Unemployment benefits identity theft According to information provided last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported two incidents of identity theft with the intention of using a victim’s personal information to fraudulently apply for unemployment benefits through the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 7

COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide protection even as cases increase in DuPage County vaccine, I am hopeful that those who have delayed scheduling their COVID-19 vaccination feel more confident in the safety and efficacy of these vaccines and will get vaccinated,” said Karen Ayala, executive director of DuPage County Health Department. “With the continued rise of COVID-19 cases and hospitalization across the country, and here in DuPage County, it is more important than ever for all eligible people to get vaccinated to help protect themselves, their loved ones, and their community.”

The DCHD continues to monitor the situation regarding COVID-19 boosters for fully vaccinated people eight months after an individual’s second dose. Although booster shots are expected to begin this fall, the FDA must first authorize a third dose of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines and the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) must issue booster dose recommendations based on the evidence presented.

The DCHD is preparing for the likely approval of booster shots and will share updates and additional information in the coming weeks. Currently, individuals with moderately to severely compromised immune systems are recommended for a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This includes people currently receiving treatment for cancer, people taking medications that weaken the immune systems, organ or stem cell transplant recipients, individuals with advanced or untreated HIV infection, and other conditions. A full list of conditions can be found on the CDC’s website. Individuals who believe they are eligible for a third vaccine dose should talk to their healthcare pro-

Get moving this fall with the Healthy Driven Take a Hike! Challenge Hospital, local organizations sponsor effort to get people walking for health

This fall, Edward-Elmhurst Health is joining a group of local organizations to invite community residents to get outside and stay healthy with the Second Annual Healthy Driven Take a Hike! Challenge.

As participants discovered during last fall’s inaugural Challenge, hiking is a great way for people of all ages to spend time outdoors and stay active. This year’s Take a Hike!

Challenge co-sponsors include The Conservation Foundation, Elmhurst Park District, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise and Naperville Park District.

The challenge, which runs from Sept. 1 to Oct. 27, provides hiking insights, special programs and tips to improve and get the most out of each hike.

“Staying active and spending time in nature is more important than

ever, and we’re thrilled to have our community organizations hiking with us this year,” said Mary Lou Mastro, CEO, Edward-Elmhurst Health. “Physical activity like hiking has been proven to have a multitude of health benefits, including lower stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, lower body fat, improved bone density and closer relationships with family and friends.”

When six hikes are finished and tracked during the Challenge period, participants will earn the Take a Hike! Trail Blaze Award (either a commemorative pin or a walking stick with a commemorative medallion). Start a collection this fall— there will be a new design every year.

To sign up for weekly emails about special events, see an interactive hiking map and more, visit the Take a Hike! Challenge website at www.

EEHealth.org/TakeAHike.

vider about their medical condition, whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for them, and the appropriate timing of vaccination.

Third-dose vaccinations are available through local pharmacies or healthcare providers and can be given 28 days after receiving the second dose.

DuPage County remains at a “high” level of COVID-19 community transmission per CDC county-level data.

Since last week, the 7-day rolling average of new cases reported in DuPage County decreased 12 percent from 179 new cases per day to 157 new cases per day. As of Aug. 25, there are 106 individuals hospitalized, and 20 individuals receiving intensive healthcare services.

Notably, over 97 percent of hospitalized and deceased COVID-19 cases since mid-December 2020 in DuP-

age County have been in persons not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

As DuPage County residents return to work, school, sports, and activities, it is important to continue self-monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms.

If someone is exposed to COVID-19 or begins to show symptoms, testing is a critical step to protect themselves and their family.

The DCHD encourages individuals, regardless of vaccination status, who have taken part in activities that put them at higher risk for COVID-19 including travel, attending large social gatherings, or being in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings to get tested.

To find testing locations in DuPage County, visit www.dupagehealth.org/covid19testing.

In addition, to help interrupt and prevent community spread, persons

with COVID-19 infection need to self-isolate (e.g., stay home except for medical care) and their close contacts need to self-quarantine and get tested unless they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 infection within three months of exposure.

According to the latest CDC COVID-19 vaccination data, 86 percent of eligible residents 12 years and older in DuPage County have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and 68 percent are fully vaccinated.

Of residents 65 years and older, 99.9 percent have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and 84 percent are fully vaccinated. However, among 12 to 17-year-olds in DuPage County, 75 percent have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and only 55 percent are fully vaccinated.

Attn: Village of Bensenville 12 Center St. Bensenville, IL 60106

Re: Time to Consider others in our actions including our children

Zoning and Planning Educational Advancement

August 5, 2021 To the Village of Bensenville, I have an offer that I believe the Village of Bensenville would be interested in pursuing. I would like to offer to pay for two of the Village planners to take two courses on the basics of city planning to help advance their educational development in the field of zoning and planning.

It became clear to me that this would be something that the Village and Village planners would be interested in because good planning would not permit the construction of a car wash next to apartment homes when you have 300,000 square feet of land available to put it elsewhere. I believe some classes on the basics would make it apparent that one should not place a car wash so intrusively close into the lives of working people. Grand Subaru wants to put their car wash operation away from their sales operation and the village allowed them to put it 40 feet away from our tenant’s, including children’s, bedrooms. Permitting commercial construction close to a residential environment is disruptive and unsuitable planning.

If the Village wishes to pursue this offer, I would be happy to discuss zoning and planning schools that could help instruct the Village planners on the fundamentals of effective city planning. Grand Subaru should be a good neighbor and move its car wash west on its lot and let the residents of Brook Forest Apartments get a good night’s sleep.

Sincerely, Matt Pauga Brook Forest LP (847) 713-2901

402608

As of Aug. 25, 86 percent of eligible DuPage County residents have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, and 68 percent are fully vaccinated based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Despite the relatively high rate of vaccination, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to increase and are primarily occurring in those not fully vaccinated.

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) urges those who have not made the decision to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or who have postponed getting this life-saving vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The COVID-19 vaccines are xtremely effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death—even from the Delta variant.

Last week, the U.S. Food and rug Administration (FDA) fully approved the Pfizer-BioNTech OVID-19 vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 disease in individuals 16 years of age and older. FDA’s full approval of the first COVID-19 vaccine is an important milestone that should reassure anyone who has concerns about getting vaccinated.

The vaccine continues to be available under emergency use authorization (EUA) for those 12 through 15 years old and for a third dose in certain immunocompromised individuals. In addition to the rigorous testing and trials that went into EUA of the Pfizer vaccine, the FDA approval requires a rigorous and structured review process, and it means that a vaccine or drug has cleared every level of review.

“Now that the FDA has fully approved the Pfizer COVID-19

8 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Rock Valley Publishing

Viewpoint

Sept. 2, 2021 • 8

Obama gilds the lily, maybe for a good cause

By Jim Nowlan Barack Obama recently purchased a $12 million summer place on Martha’s Vineyard and planned to host 600 “swells” there for his 60th birthday, until the resurgent pandemic shrunk his party numbers.

I thought to myself: Come on, Barack, do you really need an over-the-top mansion on an island playground for the rich and famous, strictly separated from the hoi polloi who put you in the White House?

And 600 at a party, from George Clooney to Oprah! I can’t imagine there could be any memorable conversations, as guests jostled for wine and canapes. The sole purpose of the gathering was obviously to see and be seen, to validate one’s social standing.

Let me stipulate that, politics aside, Barack is a good man who wants to do right by his country.

After all, as a newbie president in 2009, he and his administration took strong action that prevented a national, probably global, economic collapse. (Unfortunately, after the fact he failed to prosecute the criminals on Wall Street who knowingly sold toxic mortgages to unsuspecting investors.)

My acquaintanceship with Obama goes back to the late 1990s, when he was thinking about Illinois politics, and I was still an expert of sorts on Illinois budgeting and taxation.

Barack would attend sessions at which I was on the panelists’ dais, holding forth. We came to chat after these sessions. A quick learner, Barack was soon himself among the panelists.

Later, when I was teaching American politics at the University of Illinois and Barack was a state senator, I would take my students to Mr. Lincoln’s hometown for a day at the Capitol. Barack would always give my students more of his time than we deserved. In his charming, intelligent, witty way (I’m a Kenyan from Kansas, he would introduce himself), he explained how things worked. My students adored him.

I still recall standing with Barack at a street corner outside the Union League Club in Chicago, after one of our panel discussions. “Should I

run for the U.S. Senate, Jim?” I am sure he was planning to do so, and that he was just stroking me, yet the memory allows me to reflect.

Success in life is often a confluence of talent, drive—and good fortune.

In the run up to the 2004 Senate race, rather unexpectedly, both wide-open primary and general election races presented themselves.

Then, come the Democratic primary, the megabucks front-runner was accused of battering his wife, and his campaign collapsed. Barack moved to the head of the line, and won the nomination.

In the general election campaign, the highly attractive GOP nominee saw his divorce settlement exposed, rich with sexual misadventures, which forced him to withdraw. His replacement was an out-of-state Black man, a kind of minstrel in reverse, who became a joke. Voila.

Barack enters the U.S. Senate.

I belabor the above a bit simply to make the point that lady luck played possibly key roles in Obama’s success. Who knows? Without that, Barack might today be but a foundation president, not even on the invite list for parties of the highand-mighty at Martha’s Vineyard.

But then, I realized that buying the summer place on the island made good sense.

First, the property probably appreciated in value the day he inked the purchase. After all, there are today billionaires for whom eight-figure trophy homes are but trifles. This investment of his will prove valuable to his daughters’ inheritance.

Second, Barack tells us he needs to raise hundreds of millions for his presidential library and museum in Chicago. (Why it takes hundreds of millions, I know not.) So, and I’m serious, his palatial summer place becomes a perfect place to host his fellow nouveau riche overnight.

They would become easy marks for seven-figure, tax deductible donations to the Obama museum.

(I am sure “old money” folks would sniff at Barack’s raising money for a monument to himself as but an example of newcomer tackiness. But, hey, the old money types inherited their wealth, so why should they be so uppity?)

See OBAMA, Page 9

Slices of life

Embrace trust and you’ll never go it alone

A few weeks ago I started a series on seven words that can possibly help us make sense of — and master — the crazy, unpredictable world in which we live.

I got two words completed — kindness and compassion. I wrote about the next two, and before I had the chance to send the columns to editors for publication, my laptop experienced an unfortunate run-in with a glass of water and those newly written columns were gone (at least for the time being, stay tuned on that.)

So much for trying to predict a solution in a world that is unpredictable.

As life often demands, I took a detour. Plan B and maybe even Plan C or Plan D. (You know the drill.)

I’m hoping to recover those columns, but it hasn’t happened yet. So I’ve decided to do the only thing any of us can do when life throws us a curve ball; I’ve decided to trust in the future.

For me that means writing something new. I trust the message I’m about to deliver is the one you most need to hear.

And in that I come to one of the seven words (or ideas) I’d originally planned to focus on: trust and/or faith.

I’ve paired trust and faith because they go hand-in-hand

By

JILL PERTLER Columnist

and I’m using them generically.

The concept of faith (or trust) is broad. It can be what you make of it. It can involve a higher power, or it can stem from simply and miraculously you. Either works for me as long as it works for the truth inside you.

I’m not here to tell you how to find your faith and trust. I’m here to tell you that you need it, however it comes to you.

And however you discover or find it, faith, when found, lives deep inside you. At the same time, it is a trust in something bigger than you. It is both within and without. It is a trust in the universe. It is a trust in yourself.

And whom can you trust, if not yourself?

Trust is powerful. It gives us strength like nothing else. Trust battles the biggest enemy we all have — fear. Think about it: If you truly trust, if you truly have faith — in the now and in the future — fear is lessened. It is annihilated.

It has no stronghold. Fear is not compatible with trust. It can no

longer control you because the trust within you is so much bigger and stronger and powerful than fear.

Fear is unknowing. It is isolation and discord. Trust is also unknowing, but instead of isolation, it breeds connectedness and a sense of inner peace. There is a vast difference between the two. Trust is the we versus the me. It grounds itself in calmness, equanimity and in knowing all is well no matter what. Trust is still waters in the midst of a tempestuous storm at sea.

Trust allows you to believe that everything truly can be all right.

Because it will be.

Trust is knowing that the good outweighs the bad. That love conquers hate. Trust assures you that you are not alone in the battle.

You are supported. Even on the worst days, trust allows you to put one foot in front of the other and step forward. It allows you to find your path and stay there.

In a world of unpredictability, trust is predictable. It is unwavering and sure.

Trust is freedom to be you. No apologies needed. Trust me. Trust yourself. Trust in life.

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

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 9

A message from the DuPage County Health Department

This is the time of year when bats are most active, and the DuPage County Health Department is warning residents to never touch or try to catch a bat or wild animal, especially in your home.

Several potential human exposures to rabies have been reported already in 2021, and preventive treatment has been recommended for 55 potentially exposed persons.

Five bats have tested positive for rabies in DuPage County in 2021 to date.

Bats are the primary carriers of rabies in Illinois. You cannot tell by looking at a bat if it is rabid. The animal does not have to be aggressive or exhibit other symptoms to have rabies. Any wild mammal, such as a raccoon, skunk, fox, coyote, or bat, can have rabies and transmit it to humans.

Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. Humans can get rabies after being bitten by an infected animal. Rabies can also be contracted when saliva from a rabid animal gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound. Without preventive treatment, rabies is typically fatal.

A bat that is active during the day, found on the ground and unable to fly, is more likely to be rabid. Such bats should never be touched or handled.

If you have been bitten or exposed to a bat, seek immediate medical attention. Bat bites may not be felt while sleeping so special consideration needs to be taken when a person awakens to a bat or if a bat is found in the room of a previously unattended child, mentally disabled person, or intoxicat-

• Obama

(Continued from page 8) I come back to my point that Barack is a good man. So, I am hoping he will make his new museum a testament, not only to himself, but also to an America where a fellow from the wrong side of the tracks can still make it to the top.

As for the $12 million summer place and his 600 closest friends: I was more comfortable in America, in my lifetime, when Harry Truman drove Bess in the family car from the White House back to Independence, Missouri, after his service to his country (by the way, stopping overnight at a motel on the outskirts of downstate Decatur).

Those days are, I fear, gone, forever.

A former president of the Taxpayers’ Federation of Illinois, Jim Nowlan has taught American politics at the University of Illinois and as a “foreign expert” with the School of International Affairs and Public Administration at Fudan University in Shanghai.

ed person. Preventive treatment with rabies immune globulin and a vaccine series must begin immediately.

The following tips can help prevent the spread: • Keep vaccinations up-to-date for all pets.

• Seek immediate veterinary assistance if your pet is bitten by a wild animal or exposed to a bat.

• Call your local police department or your local animal control agency to remove stray animals from your neighborhood.

• Do not touch, feed, or attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.

• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick animals to health.

Call animal control or an animal rescue agency for assistance.

• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. “Love your own, leave others alone” is a good principle for children to learn to reduce the risk of exposures to rabid animals.

• Maintain homes and other buildings so bats cannot gain entry.

• If a bat is in your home, do not kill or release the bat outdoors without speaking with animal control and public health officials to help determine if you could have been exposed to rabies and need preventive treatment. If you are able to do so without putting yourself at risk for physical contact or being bitten,

try to cover the bat with a large can or bucket, and close the door to the room.

If the bat is available for testing and test results are negative, pre-

ventive treatment is not needed.

All animal bites to humans that occur in DuPage County must be reported to DuPage County Animal Services at (630) 407-2800. All

potential human rabies exposures must be reported to the DuPage County Health Department at (630) 221-7553, or after hours at (630) 682-7400.

Immaculate Conception, Mary Queen of Heaven and St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Churches are happy to announce an additional Sunday Mass for our Catholic Communities!

Starting September 12th, there will be a Mass at 7pm in the IC Church located at 132 Arthur St, Elmhurst.

The three churches are excited to work together to bring you this Mass. All donation envelopes will go to your home church.

There will be no music. All are invited to participate, including all Elmhurst University students!

402781

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

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Be safe, never touch a bat

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

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10 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Ambulance carveout is latest Medicaid managed care battleground Pritzker has ‘serious concerns for patient safety and cost’ of unanimously-passed bill becomes law

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Stakeholders are calling on Gov. JB Pritzker to sign a bill that passed the General Assembly unanimously and would remove non-emergency ambulance services from the state’s Medicaid managed care program in favor of a fee-for-service model.

While an association group representing ambulance services says House Bill 684 is needed to counter

arbitrary denials of claims by private insurers, the governor’s office and the state agency that oversees Medicaid expressed “serious concerns for patient safety and cost” as Pritzker continues to review the bill.

While the bill is a targeted carveout of ambulance services from the state’s Medicaid managed care program, or the privatization of Medicaid, it marks the latest catalyst for debate over the effectiveness of that

program which was greatly expanded in 2017 under former Gov. Bruce Rauner.

Chris Vandenberg, president of the Illinois State Ambulance Association, said in a phone call Monday the bill was in response to the “arbitrary” denial of ambulance claims

by Medicaid managed care organizations, or MCOs. MCOs are private insurance companies that contract with the state

Excellent mix of Stores and Serv ices to accommodate al l of your needs

4

H&R BLOCK

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S Celebrations

6

Chiki’s Unisex

Men & Boys Hairstyling

62

Angel Quinceaneras

8

Professional Translation Services

68

Beyond Beauty Day Spa

10&12

Barbaras Polish Deli

14

J’s Cleaners

70

Famous Beverages

16

Century 21 Lullo

74

Subdragon 111 Thai

22

Pink Noise DJ

28 Ste. #2

Professional Center:

78

Penny’s Bistro

30

Pioneer Laundromat

90-91

St. Vincent de Paul Society

Income Tax Preparation

Full Service Real Estate Office

Dr. Scigacz, MD

Coin Laundry Drop Off Laundry Service

Skin Care & Laser Hair Removal Beer Liquor Wine Now Open!

Dine-in or Carry-out or Delivery Thai Food Video Gaming

Anytime Fitness

Pizza Hut

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C&K Electronics

Electronic Repairs & Sales

102-108 Kim’s Martial Arts School

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O’Reilly Auto Parts

114

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E.Y. Mobile

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Smiletown Dental

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Diva Spa Nails Manicures, Pedicures

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Flavor Frenzy Ice Cream NOW OPEN!

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Tobacco Store

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Top Fashions

Contemporary & Pro-team fashions

Now Open 100

Portillo’s Beef & Hot Dogs Lou Malnati’s Pizza Now Open

128 130

See AMBULANCE, Page 26

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE FOR THE BENSENVILLE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT NO.1 A Public Hearing to approve a proposed property Tax levy increase for the Bensenville Fire Protection District No. 1 for 2021 will be held on September 15, 2021 at 6:45 p.m. at the Bensenville Park District 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville, Illinois. Any person desiring to appear at the Public Hearing and present testimony to the District may contact Jeff Agonath, Treasurer, P.O. Box 225, Bensenville, IL 60106. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended for 2020 were $258,552. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2021 are $391,724. This represents 51.5% increase over the previous year. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2020 were $0 (Zero). The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2021 are $0 (Zero). This represents no change over the previous year. The total taxes for 2020 were $258,552. The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2021 are $391,724.

Published by Order of the Board of Trustees of Said District. (Published in the Bensenville Independent)

Dance Lessons

32

Carry-out Available or Delivery

“because it has the potential to negatively affect the quality of service, create longer wait times for medical transports and payment delays for providers, and could create confusion for customers and providers.”

Munks also pointed to about $3 million of potential lost revenue due to the state’s tax on MCOs which generates greater federal reimbursement resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue annually.

She also noted unspecified “administrative costs” in switching ambulances back to fee-for-service.

If Pritzker doesn’t act on the bill by the end of the week, it would become law even without his signature.

If he vetoes it, lawmakers would be able to override the action with a three-fifths majority when they meet for the veto session this fall.

Pritzker spokesperson Jordan Abudayyeh said in a statement the governor “will take the appropriate action” before this weekend’s deadline, but, “The administration is concerned that this legislation has the potential to disrupt care and reduce the quality of provided services to some of the most vulnerable Illinoisans.”

Specifically, the governor’s office said a Medicaid enrollee needing a

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Resale shop 96

to manage the care of individuals enrolled in Medicaid. Among other things, that involves working with patients to make sure they receive routine exams and preventive care, and coordinating services provided by their primary physicians and other specialists.

But Vandenberg charged that leads to MCOs padding profits through denial of claims.

“Since managed care began in Illinois, it’s been a struggle,” Vandenberg said. “So, we have EMTs and paramedics that are working, trying to transport patients, and really, we’re not able to get any of this reimbursement. … And so it’s really impacted the ability to attract and retain EMTs and paramedics, and really it’s causing a serious impact to Medicaid beneficiaries in that they’re not able to find transport as easily as they used to.”

Putting ambulances back in the fee-for-service system would allow providers to submit claims directly to the state Department of Healthcare and Family Services, which Vandenberg said would provide predictability and certainty to the billing process.

But Jamie Munks, a spokesperson for HFS, said in a statement the department “remains strongly opposed” to the ambulance carveout,

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Week after week there is banter on Speak Out from both Democrat and Republican supporters. From wearing a mask or not, to vaccinate or not, to how real COVID-19 is or not, to whether the 2020 election was legit or not the endless arguments are printed on here week after week. This solves nothing. Yes, we all have a right to speak our minds, but posting on here will not change people’s minds nor will it end these debates. Your vote is your strongest voice in all this now both locally and nationally. How about attending village meetings, contributing to local issues, and making a real difference in our town? Villa Park is a small town in a huge nation. Make your best actions count by being a voice in your village. Realize that we are all Villa Park residents, and we are all Americans. *** JB Pritzker issuing his indoor mask mandate, even for children as young as 2 years old (which is ab-

surd), doesn’t surprise me at all. He has no checks and balances. The House and Senate are full of Democratic lemmings. They let Pritzker, Dr. Ezike and the Illinois Department of Public Health run this state by fiat.

And the courts are packed with liberal judges who rule in his favor. I’m not aware of any petitions to recall Pritzker. If there are, I’d sign them in a heartbeat. *** How’s the secure border doing since January? How’s the price of gas? Any inflation? How’s the crime rate? How’s our foreign policy and activity in Afghanistan? At least there are no mean tweets from Trump. For the people bashing Trump, how’s your savior President Biden handling things? President Biden has shown his incompetence, lack of gravitas and ignorance to what he is supposed to be doing. To ignore the American people and the media and refuse to talk about issues is unbelievable.

Biden is accountable to all citizens,

Villa Park man gets COVID booster shot … and a party for his 100th birthday A Villa Park man got a booster shot and a birthday party at the Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH) Center in Downers Grove on Wednesday, Aug. 25.

John Mellon received a third dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to help increase his immunity against COVID-19, following his first two shots in February.

Before receiving the third dose, the EEH COVID vaccination team presented Mellon with a card and cake, and sang “Happy Birthday” in celebration of his 100th birthday which was Sunday.

EEH is administering third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna

COVID-19 vaccines at the Downers Grove location to certain individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised.

First and second doses of the Pfizer vaccine are available for ages 12 and older, and second doses of the Moderna vaccine are available for ages 18 and older at EEH’s Downers Grove location.

The single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available via walk-in visit to those who are 18 and older at the Edward-Elmhurst Health Center and Immediate Care—Lombard, 130 S. Main St. For more information, visit eehealth.org/coronavirus/vaccine/scheduling.

whether you voted for him or not. If any American is left stranded in Afghanistan, then Biden should resign or be impeached. This is unacceptable behavior for a president. *** You didn’t hear much about OPEC when Trump was in office. Our country became energy independent, and OPEC didn’t hold much leverage over us. Now that Biden is supposedly in charge, guess what? OPEC is in the news. Biden just begged OPEC to increase production. Biden is a disaster, just as a lot of us predicted.

Hopefully more people are waking up. *** I heard a political pundit speaking on the radio, and he made an interesting observation related to the politics of late: “The future is constant but the past is always changing.” That couldn’t be more true. One example: Schools seem to want to change the way our country’s history will be taught in schools. The focus on gender, color, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation of an individual has become more important than the person’s accomplishment and place in history. The focus should be that this person did (blank) and happens to be (fill in the blank), rather than this person is (fill in the blank) and happens to have done (blank). That is

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 11VP

not to say the individual in question should not serve as an inspiration— as well they should. Hurdles overcome and barriers broken are very relevant to the lessons we learn from history, no doubt, but shouldn’t it be the person’s contribution to history that is primary? *** There are some who would dispute laying all the blame for Afghanistan at Biden’s feet, and would instead blame former President Trump for the pullout. Trump did, after all, also want out of Afghanistan. The problem with this line of thought is that Trump was not the president during the pullout. Joe Biden is not beholden to Trump; he can pursue whatever policy he likes, as he has demonstrably shown. Trump also has no power to implement what were his plans.

Biden changed how the retreat was supposed to proceed, and as such, is responsible for it and its implementation. *** Who gets to decide if someone is considered an expert? A lot of the socalled “experts” in COVID-19 and Afghanistan have been way off the mark. *** Have you noticed that the media makes a huge deal of COVID-19 cases in Florida, but ignores massive

rises in COVID-19 cases in Democrat-run states like Oregon, California and Hawaii? Does it take a genius to figure out that the media is trying to tear down Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis because they see him as a threat to win the presidency someday? *** To the Speak Out caller who criticized New York Gov. Cuomo and the Democrats, as well as Hollywood, and who claims they award alleged predators. While I agree that what Cuomo did was disgusting and he has resigned, may I remind that caller it appears now that Cuomo qualifies to run for president of this country. Just like two previous presidents—that being Clinton and his Oval Office liaison, and even more disgusting, the numerous allegations involving women lodged against Mr. Trump over the years, including rape. *** I heard King Pritzker bloviating on the news after issuing his indoor mask mandate that “masks work.

Period.” I would like to see someone conduct a scientific study of just how effective these cheap masks anyone can buy at Target, Walmart or wherever really are against COVID-19.

Something tells me they’re not anywhere near as effective as His Highness thinks they are.

Glowiak Hilton supports bill to offer relief to businesses As businesses get creative to find ways to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, a law sponsored by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) will offer a solution to help ease financial burdens.

“Local governments are capable of deciding what is best for the local business community’s financial future,” Glowiak Hilton said. “To provide support where it’s needed most, this law allows units of local government to determine where waiving fees would be beneficial to a struggling business.”

The law creates an option for counties and municipalities to waive licensing, permitting or registration fees for local businesses and services. To

qualify, businesses must demonstrate financial need from the pandemic.

Counties and municipalities regulate businesses in a multitude of industries that may qualify, including bars, restaurants, construction, insurance, transportation, tourism and entertainment.

“Numerous industries have faced unique challenges over the last year and a half,” Glowiak Hilton said.

“This proposal allows governments to offer relief to any local business that demonstrates financial loss.”

House Bill 2454 is effective immediately.

Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

John Mellon of Villa Park (back row, second from left) celebrated his 100th birthday (which was Sunday) with the COVID vaccination team at the Edward-Elmhurst Health Center—Downers Grove on Aug. 25. Mellon was there to receive a third dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine which is given to certain individuals whose immune systems are compromised.

12 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Saturday, September 18, 2021 7:30pm MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES & MORE Overture to West Side Story Selections from My Fair Lady Music from La La Land Music of the Night from Phantom of the Opera Variations on “I’ve Got Rhythm” Star Wars Suite Stars and Stripes Forever Sat. Nov. 13 7:00pm

Sun. Jan. 23 3:00pm

Sat. Mar. 13 7:00pm

Sat. May 7 7:00pm

Music of de Falla, Ravel, Tchaikovsky & Respighi

Music of Handel, Bach, Vivaldi & Telemann

Bach's Passion According to St. John

Music of Shostakovich, Higdon & Rachmaninoff

3, 4 or 5 Concert Subscriptions Available Now!

Individual concert tickets available online 9/1/2021.

Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Check the ESO website VISIT US tab for detailed information on attendance, ticketing and safety. elmhurstsymphony.org 630.941.0202 FREE parking Concerts performed at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church Elmhurst, IL

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 13

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T All Brick RSMacdougall Ranch U MH L E

Knock your socks off Red Brick McDougall Ranch with a rare walk out basement. The fully finished lower level includes a huge family room, WFH space, 2nd kitchen, and 2nd en suite perfect for multigenerational living. Sliding glass door leads $574,900

FIRST OFFERING! All Brick Macdougall Ranch Knock your socks off Red Brick McDougall Ranch with a rare walk out basement. The fully finished lower level includes a huge family room, WFH space, 2nd kitchen, and 2nd en suite perfect for multigenerational living. Sliding glass door leads you to your fully fenced backyard with stamped concrete patio & deck. First floor upgrades include new all white trim and door package, remodeled kitchen with high end JennAir appliance package, and easy access to main composite deck. Beautifully landscaped 66 x 145 lot creates curb appeal galore! 2 car attached garage convenient for winter months. Just a few blocks from Blue Ribbon Jefferson Elementary. $574,900

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 $1,599,900

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. $1,599,900 Move-in Ready Split Level

Move-in Ready Split Level

This large stunning spilt level with a sub basement has an open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. Great neighborhood, close to grocery shopping, restaurants, and walk to Butterfield park. Award winning Elmhurst schools. Beautifully updated

401696

$575,000 FIRST OFFERING!

This large stunning spilt level with a sub basement has an open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. Great neighborhood, close to grocery shopping, restaurants, and walk to Butterfield park. Award winning Elmhurst schools. Beautifully updated kitchen with newer backsplash and SS appliances - 2017. Gleaming refinished hardwood Floors - 2017. Sharp first floor bath was completely remodeled - 2018. The family room was also remodeled in 2018 with new drywall, crown molding, hardwood floors added, large pantry/storage closet added, and recessed lighting added. Enjoy the gas fireplace (could be wood burning also) and French doors that lead to the nice sized patio and nicely landscaped fenced

4bed/3bath Tuxedo Park Home!

4bed/3bath Tuxedo Park Home!

Sharp 4 bed / 3 bath Home situated in coveted Tuxedo Park, just blocks from Jefferson Elementary & Prairie Path. The spacious & flexible floor plan has 2 beds on the main level & 2 beds up w/ a bathroom on each level of the Home. Large $424,900 NEW PRICE!

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

Sharp 4 bed / 3 bath Home situated in coveted Tuxedo Park, just blocks from Jefferson Elementary & Prairie Path. The spacious & flexible floor plan has 2 beds on the main level & 2 beds up w/ a bathroom on each level of the Home. Large living room w/ adjoining sun room each w/ their own gas fireplace. Separate formal Dining Room. Brand new SS refrigerator & new electric range top. Almost 2,000 square feet of living space on the 1st & 2nd floors plus an additional 1,264 sf in the fin basement. Classic knotty pine basement w/ kitchenette, service bar, full updated bathroom & laundry hook up.

Enclosed front porch w/ two guest closets. $424,900

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 15

Build Your Dream Home!

Build your dream house. House is a tear down. Home is being sold for land only. Lot size is 9500 square feet.

Located in great location close to restaurants, shopping, expressways $269,900

Charming 4 Bed / 2 Bath Home

Charming 4 Bed / 2 Bath Home

A warm and inviting living room with large bay window greets you upon entry to this 4 bedroom / 2 bath home. Spacious and updated all white kitchen/dining room combo with granite tops, new lighting, large center island with Bosch dishwasher,

Build your dream house. House is a tear down.

Home is being sold for land only. Lot size is 9500 square feet. Located in great location close to restaurants, shopping, expressways $269,900 NEW PRICE!

$419,900

Center of Town

Center of Town

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, 1,350,000

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! .

1,350,000

Walk to School/Path

Walk to School/Path

Originally built as builder’s own home, this home spares no detail or upgrade. Four finished floors with nearly 6,000sf of finished living space, exquisite millwork, 2-story foyer, open floor plan, coffered ceilings, chef’s kitchen with elevated $999,800

Walk to Town Rental

Walk to Town Rental

Each flat has 8 and 9 foot ceilings, hardwood floors, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms w/ gas forced air and central air. The finishes are exquisite featuring large living space, fireplace, ready flush mount intert for TV, formal dining room, custom $2,800/mo

A warm and inviting living room with large bay window greets you upon entry to this 4 bedroom / 2 bath home. Spacious and updated all white kitchen/dining room combo with granite tops, new lighting, large center island with Bosch dishwasher, double pantries for storage and new lighting. Main level bedroom/office space and updated full bathroom with heated floor. The upstairs features 3 additional bedrooms with hardwood floors and 2nd updated bathroom.

Cozy lower level family room. Lots of storage available with custom built-ins and crawl space. $419,900

Each flat has 8 and 9 foot ceilings, hardwood floors, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms w/ gas forced air and central air. The finishes are exquisite featuring large living space, fireplace, ready flush mount intert for TV, formal dining room, custom kitchen w/ granite counters, SS appliances, all new custom lighting, private laundry aea w/ high end washer/dryer. 3 car garage with assigned parking per unit, concrete drive w/ additional one car parking outside for each unit. There is also a finished covered patio with grilling area for common usage. $2,800/mo

Wise Investment Builders

Work with this fresh new plan or build to suit. Covered outdoor space off family room and kitchen eating area, very open, 1st floor study, 2.5 car heated garage, 4 large beds up with luxurious master suite with dual WIC’s and spa bath, and $1,375,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Originally built as builder’s own home, this home spares no detail or upgrade. Four finished floors with nearly 6,000sf of finished living space, exquisite millwork, 2-story foyer, open floor plan, coffered ceilings, chef’s kitchen with elevated seating island, beautiful hardwood flooring, walk-in food pantry, 1st floor office and 3 car heated garage. Upstairs offers a huge master suite with luxurious master spa bath with steam shower and custom-built walk-in changing room, 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, laundry, and a finished 3rd level with skylights (playroom, golf simulator, yoga study). $999,800

One of a Kind!

One of a Kind!

3 Bed/2 Bath Split Level in Brynhaven with Rare 2 Car Attached Garage. Main Level and Upper Level were COMPLETELY updated recently. Updates include: New Kitchen Cabinets, Quartz Countertops, Appliances, Hardwood $525,000

3 Bed/2 Bath Split Level in Brynhaven with Rare 2 Car Attached Garage. Main Level and Upper Level were COMPLETELY updated recently.

Updates include: New Kitchen Cabinets, Quartz Countertops, Appliances, Hardwood flooring, Top to Bottom Trim Package, Lighting, Paint. Other updates include: Newly painted Brick. HVAC less than 2 years old. Electrical, Natural Gas Heater in Garage/Garage Door and Back Door/Front Door/ Fully Fenced Composite Backyard, Large concrete Patio, Sodding and much more! Located on a low traffic/quiet Street. Walk to Downtown, Restaurants, Metra and all that Elmhurst has to offer! $525,000

Wise Investment Builders Work with this fresh new plan or build to suit. Covered outdoor space off family room and kitchen eating area, very open, 1st floor study, 2.5 car heated garage, 4 large beds up with luxurious master suite with dual WIC’s and spa bath, and finished basement with guest suite with full bath, rec room, wet bar and flex room. Walk to new Lincoln school, the IL Prairie Path, Pioneer & Ben Allison Parks, and the hip Spring Road Business District. Rare opportunity to work with this quality of a builder from Day 1 and make it your own! $1,375,000

401734

Build Your Dream Home!

16 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Be

Your Possibilities are Endless!

a Blazer

100% Girls =

100% Opportunity

100%

College Acceptance

$39.5 Million awarded in merit based college scholarships to the class of 2021

27 Years as an International Baccalaureate

World School Admissions Events and Opportunities!

•

SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR Go to www.trinityhs.org/tour to schedule a private, safe tour of Trinity High School with a member of Trinity’s admissions team.

Advanced Placement

International: emphasis on global perspectives

Mostly U.S.: more academic than philosophical.

From the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) Mission: Through challenging programs of international education and assessment, IBO seeks to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people, who will become compassionate citizens seeking a better and more peaceful world.

The College Board Mission: To be a great educational organization dedicated to preparing, inspiring, and connecting students to college success and opportunity, with a commitment to excellence and equity.

Holistic or Total Program: The Diploma Program is a course of study, encompassing six areas: literature and language arts, history, world language, science, math and the arts.

Single Strength or Cafeteria Style: students choose AP courses that fit their strengths and that are independent of one another.

No additional requirements.

#BEABLAZER - TRINITY ENTRANCE EXAM

Students also take a class called Theory of Knowledge, write a senior research paper called the Extended Essay, and complete 150 CAS (Creativity, Activity, and Service) hours.

Saturday, December 4, 2021 8 a.m.

More divergent: asks why more than what.

More convergent: asks what more than why.

Graded world-wide with global standards.

Graded in U.S. with American standards.

Many factors, such as papers, orals, and projects, in addition to the written exam, determine the final score (1-7).

Score (1-5) hinges on a single written exam.

Emphasizes process and integration of content across six disciplines.

Content driven.

IB student may also sit for AP exams.

AP students may not sit for IB exams.

Spend the day as a Trinity Blazer!

Go to www.trinityhs.orgg/shadow to schedule a Shadow Visit.

•

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 17, 2021, 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, November 9, 2021, 6:30 p.m.

•

The IB experience is not just a way to learn, it’s a way of life and, for more than 1,250,000 students each year, the way to a better, more peaceful world.

International Baccalaureate

•

•

What’s the Difference Between IB and AP?

REGISTER FOR TRINITY’S ENTRANCE EXAM Registration begins online November 19. www.trinityhs.org/registration

Scan the QR code to the left for updated information on these and other admission events.

7574 Division, River Forest 708.453.8343 www.trinityhs.org/beablazer

402847

LEARN MORE ABOUT TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

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Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 17

18VP • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Sports

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Warriors vs. Rams

The Willowbrook girls tennis team faced Glenbard East in last week’s non-conference dual meet in Lombard. Glenbard East edged the Warriors 4-3 in the Aug. 26 clash, which featured three singles matches and four doubles contests. Willowbrook senior Penelope DelValle (left) earned a 6-2, 7-6 win in the No. 1 singles match. Sophomore Lauren Carson (above) provided the Warriors with a 6-4, 6-0 triumph at No. 3 singles. Willowbrook’s senior duo of Brooke Vandergrift (right) and Mackenzie Parente (far right) rolled to a 6-0, 6-0 victory in the No. 1 doubles match. The Warriors opened their season with a 7-0 dual-meet win at Elmwood Park on Aug. 23. Willowbrook will begin its West Suburban Gold Conference season with a home meet against Hinsdale South on Sept. 7.

Warriors start 2021 season with a victory at Bartlett

Willowbrook will host an invitational this Friday and Saturday

The Willowbrook girls volleyball team opened its season with a 25-19, 25-13 win at Bartlett on Aug. 23.

Sophomore Calli Kenny provided nine kills, eight digs and three aces in the non-conference victory over the Hawks. Senior Elizabeth Bruschuk contributed 13 digs, four assists and one ace. Senior Kyla Ostrowski supplied three kills and three digs, while senior Katie Linnig handed out eight assists and made four digs.

Freshman Hannah Kenny delivered 12 assists, 10 digs, six kills, two blocks and two aces in her first match as a Warrior. Junior Natalie Cipriano recorded five kills and one dig, while junior Hope Reckamp had two kills, one block and one dig.

The Warriors were supposed to play a home match against East Aurora on Aug. 25, but that contest was canceled. Willowbrook will host an invitational this Friday and Saturday.

The Warriors will open their West Suburban Gold Conference season with a Sept. 7 match at Addison Trail.

A win for the Warriors

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review

The Willowbrook boys golf team opened its West Suburban Gold Conference season with last week’s 151-156 victory over Hinsdale South at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Villa Park. The Warriors improved their overall dual-meet record to 1-1 with the Aug. 26 win at their home venue. Willowbrook junior Nick Chivilo earned medalist honors by shooting a 9-hole score of 34 on the par-32 course. Senior Max Hirsch fired a 36 for the Warriors, while junior Brett Vandergrift provided a 40. Senior Tommy Doyle, senior Dom Faillo and junior Jake Vandergrift each shot a 9-hole score of 41 for Willowbrook. One photo from the meet shows Brett Vandergrift (above right) hitting his tee shot on the par-3 ninth hole. Another photo (above left) shows Faillo (foreground) and Chivilo (background) walking off the ninth green after completing their rounds. Willowbrook’s conference schedule this week includes meets against Proviso East and Leyden.

The Warriors will host an invitational at Sugar Creek Golf Course this Saturday.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 19

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers 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 savvy 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!

Answers on page 26

CLUES ACROSS 1. Numbers cruncher 4. Creator 10. A type of center 11. About spring 12. Equal to 64 U.S. pints (abbr.)

14. Precursor to the EU 15. Something that can be cast 16. Gold-colored alloy 18. A salt or ester of acetic acid 22. A hard coating on a porous surface 23. A type of detachment 24. Filmmakers need them 26. Promotional material 27. __ Blyton, children’s author 28. Short, sharp sound 30. Feeling of intense anger 31. Popular TV network 34. Island entry point 36. Disfigure 37. College army 39. One who’s revered 40. Long, winding ridge 41. Football stat 42. Stealing 48. Hawaiian island 50. More raw 51. In one’s normal state of mind 52. Daniel LaRusso’s sport 53. Tropical American monkey 54. Measures heart currents 55. Midway between south and east 56. Knotted again 58. Born of 59. Value 60. Soviet Socialist Republic

CLUES DOWN 1. Mother tongue 2. Removes potato skins 3. True 4. Early multimedia 5. The making of amends 6. Discovered by investigation 7. Small arm of the sea 8. More seasoned 9. Atomic #81 12. Type of pear 13. Chemical compound 17. One’s mother 19. Vietnam’s former name 20. Snow forest 21. Church officer 25. Hardens 29. Ancient 31. Advertising gimmick 32. Subatomic particle 33. Not fresh 35. Loosens 38. Religious symbols 41. Film 43. Orthodontic devices 44. Grilled beef sandwich 45. Journalist Tarbell 46. Brooklyn hoopsters 47. Japanese social networking service 49. Romantic poet 56. Dorm worker 57. Poor grades

Answers on page 26

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20 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 • 21

Serving Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard & Villa Park

Classifieds

Call Classifieds at

Lombard Office (630) 627-7010 In-Print and Onlne at www.Lombardian.info

BUSINESS & SERVICE

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• Interlocking Flooring •Kitchen/Bathroom Remodeling • Tile Installation & Painting - Guaranteed Workmanship For a fair quote & prompt service call 630-220-8138(cell) or 630-627-7844

FIND YOUR NEXT JOB IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

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CARL WUNSCHEL BLDRS.

630-327-4516

GREG STEBEN CARPENTRY

Gutters

General Carpentry 30 Years Experience

Concrete Handyman

Painting

CONCRETE RESTORATION Overlay - Epoxy - Repair

RESTORE/REPLACE CONCRETE

I BUY OLD TOYS

FRONT DESK STAFF HELP WANTED

American Flyer, Lionel trains, Barbie and other dolls; G.I. Joe, Tonka, Matchbox, Hot Wheels cars & more! Plus any other antiques and collectibles. Call:

630-248-3222

O, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holly Mary, Mother of God queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none which can withstand your power, O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times) Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times) Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank you Mother of God!! CA 402645

REAL ESTATE

Stoop - Steps - Drives Garage Floors & More! * Licensed/Bonded/Insured *

• Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Washing Anything • Wallpapering • Kitchen & Bathroom Floor/Wall Tiles • Tuck Pointing

AMERICAN CONCRETE

Free Estimates ~ Call Anytime @ 630-853-3059 The Home Repair & Improvement Company No job is too small! References available upon request.

ALL TYPES OF CONCRETE WORK * 31 Years Experience *

Thomas-Vil Painting

Licensed, Bonded and Fully Insured

• Interior Painting • Small Exterior • Wallpaper Removal • Drywall Repair

Call Pete @ 630-307-7500

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Residential driveways, patios, walkways.

Stamped and colored concrete.

Call Greg 630-469-6898

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CUSTOM CONCRETE

CALL Elmhurst (630) 834-8244 or Lombard (630) 627-7010 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD!

Landscaping/ Lawn/Garden LAWN & SNOW MANAGEMENT

Available Services • Commercial & Residential Affordable Weekly Mowing • Aeration Spring & Fall clean up • Power Raking Fertilizing and/or Seeding • Sidewalk edging Black dirt/Mulch/Stone • Driveway Bush trimming sealcoating Call for Free Estimate • Villa Park

630-832-9530

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Fully insured; Free estimates

630-941-1893

Plumbing

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Bobby 630.520.5812 Mynor 630.631.3073

Other Real Estate

AL’S DECORATING SERVICE

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mynorconcrete.com

FIND YOUR NEXT JOB IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!

Part Time Help Wanted

Mt. Carmel Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

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Personal Injury Probate Bankruptcy Call or text 224-578-4144 www.thelitigationpro.com

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Call 630-530-0630

Ages 16+ Apply at lombardparks.com/jobs

Wanted

PERSONALS

ATTORNEY

“Specializing in Quality Workmanship and Attention to Detail”

630-495-8077

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Other Services Offered

Small Home Repairs and Remodeling

Before & After School Program, Club Rec Supervisors, Assistant Supervisors and Counselors

to get additional details from Cindy

All types of Masonry Work, Tuckpointing & Chimney Repairs

Electrical

NOW HIRING!

for Lombard Park District’s

is looking to hire PART TIME & FULL TIME PEOPLE TO WORK BEHIND THE COUNTER AT OUR RETAIL BAKERY IN ELMHURST!

Duties include filling customer orders, restocking our shelves and trays, scooping Italian Ice & Gelato, bagging popcorn, dipping cookies and other light kitchen/store duties. We will train, so just bring your smile and exuberant personality!

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ork All Wanteed r Gua

LEZZA SPUMONI & DESSERTS

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

402326

Fahey & Son Asphalt Paving

Help Wanted

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Masks mandated indoors in Illinois; vaccines required for teachers, health care workers State warns of decreasing intensive care bed capacity amid latest surge

By Jerry Nowicki

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The statewide mask mandate indoors is back, and educators and health care professionals will be required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Gov. JB Pritzker announced Aug. 26 amid an ongoing surge in the pandemic that first arrived in Illinois in March 2020.

People will be required to wear masks indoors, Pritzker announced. That mandate began on Monday.

The vaccine requirement, which goes into effect Sept. 5, will apply to “all P-12 teachers and staff, all higher education personnel, all higher education students, and health care workers in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, urgent care facilities and physician’s offices,” Pritzker said at a news conference.

“Effective Sept. 5, individuals working in these settings who are unable or unwilling to receive their first dose of vaccine will be

required to get tested for COVID-19 at least once a week, and IDPH and (the Illinois State Board of Education) may require more frequent testing in certain situations, like in an outbreak,” he said.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said the state is seeing 220 hospital admissions per day, a number on par with a surge in May. Pritzker said 98 percent of cases, 96 percent of hospitalizations and 95 percent of deaths since January have been among unvaccinated people.

While vaccines are the best defense, Ezike said, “wearing a mask continues to be one of the simplest, cheapest ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

Intensive care bed availability in southern Illinois is at 3 percent, he said.

“That’s because the regions with the lowest vaccination rates are the regions where there are fewer hospitals, and lower hospital capacity,” Pritzker said. “And those hospitals are sometimes the least

well equipped to handle cases as they become more acute.”

He added, “We are continuing to rely on experts at the (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and (Illinois Department of Public Health), but you don’t need to be an epidemiologist to understand what’s going on here. This is a pandemic of the unvaccinated.”

The current vaccination rates—nearly 53 percent of the state’s population is vaccinated—“are not enough to blunt the ferocity of the delta variant,” which has led to hospitals “again fighting the battle that we had hoped would be behind us by now.”

Republicans, meanwhile, continue to call on the governor to further involve the General Assembly in his COVID-19 response.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, shared a letter he sent to Pritzker on Aug. 23, noting he got a call from the governor Aug. 25 seeking

input on a potential response amid the new COVID-19 wave.

But, according to the letter which his office shared with members of the media, Durkin said he received a breaking news brief shortly after the phone call which outlined Pritzker’s planned announcement for the Aug. 26 news conference.

“I will reiterate my plea on our call yesterday to please make your experts available to the General Assembly so that we can examine their data and plans, review the results of your many previous mandates and together plot a course of action that will work,” Durkin said in the letter.

“You have the authority to call for a special session of both chambers to address this very critical issue, and I am imploring you to do so immediately.”

Pritzker said he’s “always been available” to GOP leadership and rank-and-file members, and “when the legislature talks to me, I listen.”

Mental health first responder, insurance coverage bills among latest signed by Pritzker

By Jerry Nowicki

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker has been steadily acting on more than 660 bills sent to him by the General Assembly this year ahead of a weekend deadline for bill action.

On Aug. 25 he signed House Bill 2595, which beginning in 2023 requires insurers to provide coverage to all medically necessary mental health care in Illinois, including for mental, emotional, nervous or substance use disorders.

He also signed House Bill 2784 to create a mental health first responder system in coordination with an emergency mental and behavioral health phone system that was created by federal law.

The Division of Mental Health of the state’s Department of Human Services is preparing to coordinate mental and behavioral health services to all Illinoisans as part of the federally mandated adoption of the 988 phone number.

The number is expected to go online by July 2022.

The new law will require 911 call center operators to coordinate with the mobile mental and behavioral health services that are being established through the Division of Mental Health, which is also establishing regional advisory committees in each Emergency Medical Services region.

Pritzker has signed more than 570 bills thus far and vetoed a handful.

The governor has 60 days from when he received the bills from the General Assembly to either sign or

veto them, after which time period the bill becomes law even without his signature.

For the bills that are vetoed, lawmakers will return in the fall to consider overrides or acceptance of the governor’s changes.

Most of the remaining 82 bills were sent to him at the end of June, so the 60-day clock coincides with the end of last week for all but a few of them.

Below are a few of the bills he has acted on in recent days.

Other bill action Sex education: Pritzker signed Senate Bill 818, which creates a new “personal health and safety” curriculum for grades K-5, and a “sexual health education” curriculum for grades 6-12. The bill received resistance from Republican lawmakers and religious groups for its “culturally appropriate” guidelines, including education on gender identities, different types of families, sexual orientation, consent and a woman’s options during pregnancy.

Parents can opt their students out of the coursework without penalty, and each individual school district may determine whether it will teach sex education. If a district offers the subject, the curriculum must use all or part of the curriculum established by the bill.

The actual statewide curriculum would be developed by the Illinois State Board of Education by Aug. 1, 2022.

But many of the guidelines contained in the statute require that

sex ed curricula be aligned with National Sex Education Standards, an initiative by non-government organizations to provide “guidance on essential minimum core content and skills needed for sex education that is age-appropriate.”

The guidelines, for example, require students by the end of second grade be able to define consent, personal boundaries, child sexual abuse and how to report child sexual abuse to a trusted adult.

Sexting education: The governor also signed House Bill 24, requiring classes that teach sex education to include an age-appropriate discussion regarding sexting. That discussion would include information on possible consequences of sharing, possessing or forwarding sexually explicit content, as well as the importance of internet safety. It took effect immediately.

Construction transparency: Pritzker signed House Bill 253, which requires the Illinois Department of Transportation to establish and implement a transportation performance program for state projects. IDOT is also required to develop a statewide highway system asset management plan aimed at preserving and improving roadways while reducing costs. The department is instructed to develop a performance-based process for selecting which projects will be prioritized. The bill passed both the House and Senate with unanimous, bipartisan support. It applies after January 2022.

Underage e-cig sales: Pritzker signed Senate Bills 512 and 555, prohibiting e-cigarette and vaping marketing that targets children and ensuring vape shop compliance with the state’s minimum purchasing age of 21. The law allows underage individuals to test a retailer’s compliance as part of a compliance check in conjunction with law enforcement. They will go into effect January 2022.

dition, including mental health and substance use disorders by requiring private insurance plans to cover postpartum complications up to one year after delivery among other requirements.”

Pollution control: While lawmakers passed House Bill 3190 to limit disposal by “incineration” of certain substances, Pritzker said in a veto message the definition of “incineration” is too broad, creating unforeseen increases to greenVetoes Thus far, the governor has is- house gas emissions. He urged lawsued three vetoes and two amen- makers to pass another bill with the datory vetoes, including one of the same intent but clearer language. budget bill that needed the amenWetland protection: Pritzker datory action because of omitted vetoed Senate Bill 1770, which exeffective dates. empts construction within a 6-mile Maternal health: One Pritz- radius of the Ohio and Mississippi ker amendatory veto aims to fix a Rivers confluence from the provitechnical issue on a bill he noted sions of the Interagency Wetland he supports. The measure, Senate Policy Act of 1989. He said while Bill 967, will expand the current he’s a strong supporter of a port Illinois Medicaid plan “so that in- district project in the area, the bill dividuals who don’t qualify for full “would unnecessarily turn the debenefit Medicaid still have cover- termination of appropriate wetland age for preventive contraceptive mitigation over to the Federal Govcare and associated screenings re- ernment by severely restricting the lated to reproductive well-being,” State of Illinois’ involvement in the according to the governor’s office. process.”

The bill passed unanimously, so Duplicative bill: He also vetoed it shouldn’t be difficult for sponsors to find the votes to accept the House Bill 1966, noting in his veto amendatory veto, which changes message that he already signed Senate Bill 1646, a “similar bill only an effective date.

State Sen. Cristina Castro, with more expansive provisions” D-Elgin, the bill’s Senate sponsor, which extends an application deadnoted in a news release when the line pertaining to members of the bill passed that it also “would pro- Teachers’ Retirement System at a vide support for pregnant and new private school recognized by the mothers for pregnancy-related con- Illinois State Board of Education.

24 • Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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• Ambulance

(Continued from page 10)

non-emergency ambulance ride can currently contact their MCO and be connected with an ambulance transport that’s contractually obligated to respond “in a timely fashion.”

But the administration fears if the governor signs the bill, “a consumer will be forced to use the vendor contracted with by the fee-for-services program—a vendor that is not contractually bound to provide timely services.”

“Consumers would be forced into the uncertain position of not knowing which of their health care services are covered by their MCO, and whether they will be able to secure transport in a timely fashion,” Abudayyeh said in the statement. “During the

COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services received consumer complaints regarding the difficulty of securing transport from their fee-for-service vendors to get to non-emergency health care services like check-ups and dialysis.”

But advocates for the bill, including Rep. Will Davis, D-Homewood, who is one of its chief co-sponsors, argued the current MCO structure is what’s threatening response times.

Davis said private ambulance companies often handle the 911 calls for communities that are underserved medically, such as the cities of Harvey and Markham in Chicago’s south suburbs.

Answers PUZZLE 1

PUZZLE 2

While companies contracting with those municipalities are already on the fee-for-service structure for emergency services due to changes made in April, payment uncertainty for other transportation services those providers render could affect staffing levels, Davis said.

“It’s not just, you know, the providers trying to get paid,” Davis said.

“Their ability to receive resources helps their ability to keep their staffing levels up so they can bring down response times when people call 911.

So there’s the staffing aspect of it, there’s the idea of making sure that they can provide services to underserved communities.”

Representatives of the Ambulance

Association said an early amendment to HB 684 removed non-ambulance medical transports in an effort to address transportation concerns.

The current bill is simply a way to “get paid for the services provided,” which they’ll still be obligated to provide under a fee-for-service system.

Samantha Olds Frey, CEO of the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans, cited concerns similar to Pritzker’s about how the bill “impacts our most vulnerable members that need non-emergency ambulances for routine care such as dialysis treatments, doctor’s appointments, or scheduled hospital trips.”

She noted MCOs can offer higher reimbursement rates than HFS can for such a transportation service, so moving it back to a fee-for-service plan could further jeopardize those Medicaid enrollees.

While MCOs have care coordinators that make follow-up calls to transporters to connect a customer to a service, HFS does not, she added.

“IAMHP met with the industry during the legislative session to try and find a solution that doesn’t jeopardize the care our members receive,” she said. “The ambulance industry refused to come to the table in good faith. However, we are still willing to understand what the systematic issue is and work toward a solution.”

Davis, meanwhile, said concerns over “arbitrary” claim denials from

MCOs are nothing new or unique to the ambulance industry.

That’s why, as part of a health care reform backed by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus earlier this year, lawmakers created a Managed Care Oversight Commission to, according to Davis, “really dive deep into if we’re going to continue to have an MCO structure—which, you know, some really don’t want—that we can have more oversight and input into how they operate versus kind of the autonomy that they enjoy right now.”

While Davis said HFS has “abdicated” its oversight role of MCOs, Munks said for over two years the agency has been “holding frequent meetings with providers and health plans, a forum to bring everyone together to resolve issues.”

She said HFS put in place a “claims clearinghouse” creating greater transparency into claim denials, “allowing the department to have better oversight of certain billing issues.”

She said claim denial rates for non-emergency ambulance services within the fee-for-service program are 40 percent, while MCO denial rates are between 10 and 15 percent, although the Ambulance Association disputed that claim, saying the denials it experiences are through MCOs. As well, while HFS cited a billing complaint portal that has received only four claims in more than 17 months, the Ambulance Association dismissed that portal as “another way to give the providers the runaround.”

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