INSIDE THIS EDITION COMET SPORTS $1.00 Criminal justice bill Comets wrestle well Vol. 63, Issue 2 1 section • 12 pages heads to givernor in dream team duals Not over 75% advertising www.braidwoodjournal.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2021 | A FREE PRESS NEWSPAPER Ex-police chief explains questionable $75,000 check BY BRIAN MURPHY continued. “I believe the Mayor forfeiture money and said he wanted out with a loan of $150,000 for his CORRESPONDENT signed for the loan and with city “I'M HERE TO QUELL ANY to help offset some of the loan. own use. He did not. I'm also here to approval and with a resolution. The “Part of the issue was that the quell any social media or any ques- Former Braidwood police chief mayor at that time was Jim Vehrs. I SPECULATION THAT THE federal seizure account money wasn't tions this board had that the $75,000 Nick Ficarello came before the city have a copy of the check that was PREVIOUS MAYOR MADE OUT coming in like it had been previously was never paid. It was earmarked council to address social media com- written from the federal seizure WITH A LOAN OF $150,000 and my last day I thought I would take ‘building upgrades’ and that's build- ments and Sound-offs in The account my last day of employment care of at least trying to offset the ing upgrades for the police depart- Braidwood Journal about business on April 23, 2019, for the sum of FOR HIS OWN USE. $82,000-plus that was going to be ment,” Ficarello said. dealings during his administration. $75,000. HE DID NOT.” owed by this administration at the Lyons described several expenses Ficarello spoke during the public “That was the last day I worked end, trying to take some responsibili- he inherited and said the funds were comment portion of the Jan. 12 city and the last day of Mayor Vehrs’ ty,” Ficarello said. not used appropriately according to council meeting at city hall. administration. The check was writ- NICK FICARELLO “Social media has since, along federal requirements. “There appears to be some ques- ten because in 2022 the next adminis- FORMER BPD CHIEF with I also believe this board, has had “If he was being responsible, why tion regarding a $75,000 check that tration was going to have to pay a lit- some question what happened to the did he leave us with a $200,000 bill to was written out of the Federal tle over $82,000 for lack of a better money and where the money went. WESCOM? Why do we owe $15,000 term, the balloon of the loan.” After we left, I found out that there for portable radios? Why do we owe Forfeiture Account. Also, a question through all the asset forfeiture stuff, Following the meeting, Police was $75,000 put in the police depart- $10,000 for tasers?” Lyons asked. pertaining to $150,000 loan that was and he said he did it as a favor. It was Chief Todd Lyons responded to ment budget, I believe for the pay- “When they did an audit on the taken out for the remodeling of the never applied to that loan because we Ficarello’s comments. ment for that $150,000 loan. The actu- asset forfeiture, there are rules on police department,” Ficarello said. didn’t realize it was a balloon loan. He “Why would he write that check al check was cashed on the 6th of how you spend that money. If you use “On June 25, 2017, a loan for said it was earmarked but it wasn’t in on his last day? I didn’t even know May, 2019. it for construction, you have to get $150,000 was taken out by the city the books,” Lyons said. that check was written to the city until “I'm here to quell any specula- through a resolution for remodeling Ficarello blamed the lack of asset SEE MONEY, PAG E2 of the police department,” Ficarello we did our own audit and went tion that the previous mayor made

Braidwood Park District provides services throughout pandemic BY MARNEY SIMON Josh Bolatto. “Regulating tem- EDITOR perature underneath the pavil- ion is probably the biggest. In The novel coronavirus the summer months, it helps brought a lot of things to a halt to reduce the temperature as in 2020. But, one thing that prior to the insulation it would folks were encouraged to do get like an oven in there. In the throughout the year was to get winter, it helps makes it a little outside. warmer in there. To that end, the “Also, when it rains, you Braidwood Park District can actually hear yourself played an important role in think under there as the insu- the lives of folks in and around lation helps to absorb some of Braidwood in 2020, providing the sound from the rain on the an outdoor venue even when tin roof,” he continued. “Our other events had to be grounds crews painted it up scrapped. really nice in there which The district was able to helped to brighten it up as check a few items off its proj- well. Our hope is that once ect list in 2020. people start being able to hold In May, foam insulation functions again like parties, was installed on the ceiling celebrations, reunions, etc. it and walls underneath the will be even more attractive for Lions Pavilion, and the inner potential rentals.” walls were finished, which Bolatto said the pavilion marked the final phase of the upgrade project began five district’s original upgrade years ago, broken out into five BAHCC creates long term garden vision plan. phases. “The addition of insula- The first was an electrical BY MARNEY SIMON of produce. That haul was tion and inner walls helps in a EDITOR donated to the Community couple of ways,” explained SEE PARK, PAGE 2 Care Center food pantry in Park Board Commissioner The Braidwood Area Braidwood. Healthy Community Dell’Aquila said that Coalition (BAHCC) hosted its while the coalition will plant inaugural community garden those beds again this year, the in 2020. long term vision is to add up Now, as the coalition to 13 more beds, benches, a preps for the garden to return compost station, a tool shed, City expected to approve in 2021, members are also a potting table, and even a eyeing some long term goals fountain and bird feeders. communication agreement to keep it sustainable as well Dell’Aquila said the BBSA as make it a useable and is already on board to sponsor BY BRAIN MURPHY agreement has been passed by enjoyable space for the com- one bed. CORRESPONDENT numerous other municipali- munity. “We’re adding another ties and fire protection dis- BAHCC project coordi- bed this year so we can The city of Braidwood is tricts in order to utilize this nator Pete Dell’Aquila gave an donate even more to the expected to approve a measure system like Channahon, update on the garden’s long pantry. We’d like to have a later this month that will help Elwood, Shorewood and term vision during the group’s message board and some improve communications for Braidwood Fire Protection monthly meeting, which was trash cans and a little gazebo local first responders. District also passed it.” held via Zoom on Jan. 11. that people can sit under,” he Braidwood Emergency Bolatto said being able to “We’ve been working said. Services and Disaster Agency have access to the system is behind the scenes for the past In addition to a hopeful (ESDA) Coordinator Josh important for ESDA and the couple of months on the gar- future for vegetables and Bolatto addressed members of Braidwood police department. den, planning our communi- herbs, Dell’Aquila said there the City Council during their “It allows that ability for ty garden,” Dell’Aquila said are plans for Reed-Custer regular meeting on Jan. 12, communications which is “We’ve been planning a vision Middle School students to asking them to approve the important because if we go of what we want the garden to sponsor a butterfly garden, measure when it comes up for somewhere on the east side of look like, and then we’ve also and the Reed-Custer High a vote on Jan. 26. the county, if we don't have developed a schedule of School RAD group to eventu- “At the next meeting, it events and kind of a wish list ally add flower gardens. will be on the agenda to SEE COUNCIL, PAGE 2 for the things that we want for “We’ve come really far approve an intergovernmental the garden.” with the garden,” Dell’Aquila agreement with the County of Right now the garden has said. “This first year that we Will for use and access of the just two beds, which were rolled it out, we knew that we countywide radio system,” used last year to plant and SEE GARDEN, PAGE 2 Bolatto explained. “This harvest more than 80 pounds The Braidwood Journal, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 2 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

Park the decision to rely on Money those funds because they are not guaranteed. “He said he was over- upgrade, stopped the ongoing budget because he did not problem of blown out speak- prior approval. You can get money from the asset ers. use it on anything like forfeiture. I have not got- Second was the concrete drug related investiga- ten money from the asset perimeter base for the walls tions, office equipment forfeiture because of along with the outer walls and and it’s pretty broad what COVID, I think it's slowing the metal siding, with spaces you can use it for. But you down our funds, but I'm left open for the roll up win- have to get prior approval still under budget. You dows and doors. before doing a construc- can't plan for it, you don't One year later, the roll up tion project. We got an know when that money is doors and windows were email that money was going to be released, so added. used 'impermissibly,' and you can't count on it. So, About six months after that money was not sup- when you run a police that, all of the lighting fixtures posed to be used for that,” budget you can't count on under the pavilion were Lyons said. getting that money,” Lyons upgraded to LED, which made Lyons also questioned said. a huge difference in bright- ness. In addition to the pavilion project, new asphalt was laid in the parking lot off of Second Street in 2020, replacing all of the gravel located in that area. nance be passed appointing “This had been on our that specific agent. What we're wish list for quite a while but Council we finally got it done,” Bolatto doing is trying to comply with said. “Along with the new the Illinois Municipal asphalt in the parking lot, we that ability to communicate Retirement Fund require- had several sections of the back and forth it pretty much ments. In the past, it has been the City Clerk so what is being asphalt walking path repaved Photos by Marney Simon defeats that ability to help out throughout the park and cre- DESPITE THE PANDEMIC, THE Braidwood Park District was able to finish up a handful of important our neighboring agencies and suggested tonight is that Adam would be appointed as ated a paved a parking area in projects in 2020. The district is looking ahead to 2021, with plans for maintenance and repair projects vice versa, if they come over front of the Goodrich Park on here and they don't have our the authorized agent,” Wellner at all three of its parks, and to possibly issue General Obligation bonds for the park improvement said. Maple Street.” account. platform, it defeats the pur- Other completed projects pose,” he said. All commissioners voted in 2020 included: Bolatto said once local to approve the Resolution to • Semi loads of mulch dispatching switches back to Appoint City Clerk Adam were added to the three play- Wescom, the communication Beaty as the Illinois Municipal ground areas. Bolatto thanked platform will stay inside the Retirement Fund Authorized the grounds crew and about a local radios for use. Agent. dozen student volunteers “There is no fee for use or • During public comment, from the high school, who access to the system so that's a former mayor James Vehrs spread the mulch throughout good thing. It’s a pretty stan- offered his criticism of the cur- the playgrounds in just a few dard agreement but it will be rent administration. days helping to give them a on the agenda for next council “When Mr. Gatto passed fresh look. meeting for approval,” Bolatto away, a police officer, the fire • Another phase of the said. department lowered the flag. security lighting project was In other business before Firefighter Les Heberer just completed. the council on Jan. 12: passed away, lifetime member “We had another light • After his appointment at of the community and his wife pole fall down on us at the the Dec. 28 Special Meeting, Kay sat on this board for a beginning of the year during a City Clerk Adam Beaty said he time. We did not lower our flag storm but were able to get it was ready to face the chal- in front of City Hall, and I replaced during this phase of lenges of his new position and think that was a little disgrace the upgrades,” Bolatto said. announced licenses are avail- to the family and I thought the “Over the past few years, we’ve able at City Hall for businesses city could be as a whole, which been replacing outdated light- that have not received them we are,” Vehrs said. “Another ing fixtures with LED style fix- yet. thing that disturbed me was I tures which are more energy “I’m excited to start my opened up the paper and it efficient, brighter and less role as the clerk. It’s been a looks really good for our town maintenance. We also added a WINTER WONDERLAND! Families came out to enjoy the first major snowfall of the year at Old Smokey whirlwind for me thus far,” when it says, ‘Braidwood new fixture which shines onto Beaty said. “For the area busi- Mayor not jailed yet,’ I mean it City Park in Braidwood on Saturday, Jan. 2. The Braidwood Park District added an LED light at the is what it is, I guess.” the sledding hills located on snowhill to allow for night time sledding. The district was able to accomodate folks who needed to get nesses, business licenses and liquor licenses, if you haven’t City Administrator Tony the north end of the park out and get somefresh air during the pandemic. which helps light up the area picked them up yet but you Altiery said he was confused submitted for them, they are because the flag was lowered after dark so families can ers power the majority of the park play area. we can include in our tax levy enjoy some sledding time in ready for pickup at the drive- for Heberer. entire north end of the park so Bolatto also said the dis- there are only three ways to up window,” he added. • Altiery also noted that, the evenings after the sun goes they’re pretty important.” trict will look into the possibil- get funds put into that down.” • Commissioner Wayne following recent discussions, • Creation of a half-court ity of issuing some new non- account; 1 - By transfer of sur- Saltzman asked City Attorney he is hopeful for some positive A few weeks into 2021, the basketball court at Goodrich referendum General plus funds within our budget district already has a list of Bryan Wellner to provide clari- business-related news in the Park. Bolatto said the asphalt Obligation Park Bonds to help towards the middle or at the ty about the resolution regard- coming months. items they hope to complete. pad for it has already been put bring in some funds for the end of a fiscal year; 2 - From Included on that list is: ing the approval of an IMRF “We had a couple good in, and the hoop and stencil- park improvement account. cash donations made to the agent that was on the agenda. meetings this week on some • Repairing some addi- ing should be installed in “From preliminary review district; 3 - By the issuance of tional areas of asphalt along Wellner said the purpose prospective businesses. spring it looks like we would be in the bonds, whether they be refer- of the resolution was to follow Hopefully in the next couple the walking paths and in front • Expanding the boarder range of $100,000 to endum or non-referendum of the Old Smokey IMRF requirements. months we'll be bringing in of the play area in the Lions $125,000,” Bolatto said. “By based.” “The Illinois Municipal front of the Council for Community Building. Kiddie Park. The district has doing a new bond issue, it Bolatto said like everyone • Repairs to the power Retirement Fund's website approval,” Altiery said. purchased new boarder walls looks like things would be else, the district will also be requires that there be an • The council approved transformers and control and hopes to get them paid off in 2031 or thereabout. anxiously awaiting when the authorized agent that files the the payment of bills in the boxes located between the installed in the spring and By issuing new bonds, this will COVID-19 pandemic finally monthly reports and has amount of $166,034. baseball fields. filled with additional mulch. still allow us to refinance our eases up. access to certain things. For • The council approved “We know this is going to The new border will help existing bonds in the future “Of course, if things with that authorized agent, they payroll in the amount of be a big undertaking, just how expand the area in prepara- while still living within our COVID restrictions ease up at ask that a resolution or ordi- $91,841. big, we’re not exactly certain, tion for new playground means.” some point throughout the but we know that the units are equipment. Bolatto noted that issuing year, hopefully we can start starting to experience some • Repair or replacement non-referendum bonds would hosting the various organiza- issues with stress on the elec- to the small pavilion at the require two meetings — one tions that hold their commu- trical lines so we’ve got to Kiddie Park. with a public hearing and one nity activities on our address that soon,” Bolatto • Reside the Old Smokey to approve a bond ordinance. grounds,” he added. said. “As far as a cost, we’ll community building. “We’ve done this several Information on the CONTACTUSAT probably have to put that • Make repairs to the sur- times in the past to help gen- Braidwood Park District, the project out to bid as I can face at the skate park. erate funds for our park board, and all of its services [email protected] or call 815-476-7966 imagine it’ll probably be well • Possibly add some addi- improvement account,” he can be found online, at WITH YOUR STORY IDEAS over the $20,000 bidding tional small playground said. “Since park improve- www.braidwoodparkdistrict.c threshold. Those transform- equipment in the Goodrich ments is not a line item that om.

it and use it how they want. The garden’s message other $3,500. “We loved what we did board would be utilized to Dell’Aquila added that Garden with the garden production inform the public on activities the coalition is actively seek- wise, but as far as volunteer and programs sponsored by ing out grant funds, because just wanted to kind of test and aesthetic wise, right now the BAHCC. they’d prefer external funding drive and see how it went, so it’s just a sign and two lonely The vision for the garden for cash, and volunteer time we were able to get two beds looking garden beds out would also include long term from the community. there,” Dell’Aquila said. “So, goals of growing gourds, sell- “What we’re really looking up and had a bunch of materi- we think we can get a lot more ing flowers, and ultimately for is donations of money or als donated to us to help start traction if we can beautify the being able to even host time, but preferably time,” he the beds. We raised over 80 area. People drive by there fundraisers connected to the said. pounds of produce from just every single day, kids are walk- garden. Anyone interested in those two small garden beds. ing by every single day, so if we Dell’Aquila said the esti- helping the community gar- So, imagine what we can do if have a place where they can mated cost of the garden, with den grow can contact the we get 15 garden beds going.” stop and rest and literally stop all the items on the long term BAHCC at 815-390-5024. Dell’Aquila said that as and smell the roses, we’d love vision wish list included, the garden grows, not all the to make that more of a traffic would be around $7,000. The produce raised and harvested area. That’s kind of the whole hope would be for the coali- will necessarily be donated. point of this vision is to hope- tion to match money raised The idea is that families would fully get people excited and up to $3,500, which means eventually be able to sponsor see what the potential area the group would look to grant subscription newspapers named The Free Press a bed, and they would tend to could look like.” funding and donations for the Advocate, The Braidwood Journal and The Coal City Courant, and an advertising shopper known as the Prairie Shopper.

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Communications, Inc publishes the weekly Ann Gill, editor WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Braidwood Journal, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 3 The birth of Braidwood, a rough delivery Moving forward investors, that meant believe most of you are well aware of up without respect for law or order, had said, nor did not think there were with life is sometimes incorporation. To that end, the object that has brought us here and instead of parents being able to three in the meeting that did. He (Mr. not easy. Many people a meeting was called tonight; you all know that I do not chastise their children, the children Rankin) proposed to live under don't like change. But among the investors and a profess to be an orator, therefore you will turn round and whip their par- authority of the powers that we now as we all know change town boundary was set. It need not expect an oration from me; ents. Mooney sat down amidst groans live under rather than to be thrown is in evitable. In this seemed cut and dry. we have met here tonight at the call of and hisses.” into the hands of the few land sharks case, the citizens of the It was not a done a few busy bodies who live among us, “Mr. James Kilpatrick said he of Braidwood. (Loud cheers and all unincorporated village deal as the miners saw to give our vote for or against incor- wished to say a few words in his own eyes turned to Mooney and Jack called Braidwood did things differently. poration; hoping that good order and behalf, he owned a house and lot James.) not want to change, Braidwood was made up of harmony will prevail. I declare the within the proposed limits, and as a Mr. R. proceeded to explain that but the forward mostly recent immigrants. meeting now open.” workingman he thought that he had the working men were the largest thinkers pushed back. They were not yet citizens, “It was proposed that the limits more than enough to do with the property holders in the village, and he Set the way back and therefore they could should first be described so that all money he earned from his labor in believed that there was not one man machine to June 5, not vote. They were sure naturalized citizens and resident trying to raise his family and to live in every fifty that was long enough in 1871 to witness the dis- that incorporation meant property holders would be able to honestly, without aiding those who the country to entitle them to a citi- cussion. another layer of bosses to push them give their votes for or against incorpo- wished to burden the people with zenship, and as a natural conse- Let's look at the forward thinkers around, and they could not even vote ration.” taxes; he considered that those who quence, those men are against incor- first. When Braidwood mushroomed them out of office. The matter came “After debate on the boundary had nothing to do but walk about, poration from the fact that their prop- into being, real estate investors real- to a head on June 5, 1871 lines, Bill Mooney, a pro-incorpora- and who appeared to be so very anx- erty would be subject to all the taxes ized that real estate in Braidwood We read in a letter to the editor of tion man stood up to speak. He said ious to have good roads to walk up levied by the said officers of the so would be increasing in value for both the Wilmington Advocate, “The meet- he would take the liberty of address- on, should get to work and make called incorporation, while they residences and businesses that sup- ing was well attended. There could ing those present and instruct them them, and not ask the workingman to would be denied a voice in its council; ported the miners. They invested not have been less than 400 or 500 in the benefits and advantages that do any more than the law called for. he thought it would produce a great heavily. But during the first few tur- workingmen present, besides the they would derive from incorpora- (Applause)” deal of trouble at the present time; he bulent years, selling that land to lackeys and other dead-beats of the tion; he then went on to heap abuse Mr. Dunkin Rankin said he also said he thought it was unreason- potential businesses was a problem. village. The meeting was called to on our present town and county offi- wished to make a few remarks, but it able for a few blood suckers to No one wanted to invest in a town order by John Ward. On motion of Mr. cers, he put them all down as a lot of was impossible to do justice to the enforce incorporation when there where drunkenness ruled the streets, John McGrath, seconded by Mr. land sharks who had no regard for subject in the short time allowed; he was nine-tenths of the population where it was impossible to bring a Daniel Lawlar, Mr. Patrick Creeley their interests or the property of the said he had lived inside of incorpora- against incorporation.” wagon into town due to the mud, was proposed as president of the people; he concluded his little oration tions and outside, and he knew the It was clear that both sides had where sidewalks did not even exist so meeting. The motion for Mr. Patrick by informing those present that benefits and advantages that would their supporters. How did all come that no one walked in town if they Creeley was put and carried unani- unless they would vote for incorpora- flow from it, but he was as well aware out? That is a story for next time. didn't have to. mously with cheers.” tion their children would become of its evils. Mooney had said that we What was needed was organiza- Creeley opened the meeting with gamblers, drunkards and idle are governed by a lot of “land sharks” tion and infrastructure. To the this, “Friends and fellow citizens; I vagabonds, he said they would grow he did not believe all that Mooney Criminal justice reform bill heads to governor that Arnold said carries local ment of problematic officers. Wilmington Chief consequences is a provision “Right now, police officers that would have ended quali- are certified by the state by the says bill is bad fied immunity for officers, training board, but there’s no eliminating their protection real process to decertify them,” news for local law from liability in civil suits if Arnold said. “They’re going to they violated rights guaranteed make it a more step by step enforcement in the Illinois Constitution. process to decertify them, and However, the legislation the Illinois Chiefs are not BY MARNEY SIMON instead creates a yearlong Task opposed to that. EDITOR Force on Constitutional Rights “Certainly there are bad and Remedies, an 18-member police officers who are out A criminal justice body that will investigate and there doing bad things in cer- omnibus bill is headed to the develop procedures to protect tain areas that should have desk of Gov. JB Pritzker, after it constitutional rights and been decertified,” he contin- passed the Illinois Senate and remedies should those rights ued. “Something that happens House last week during the be violated. The task force will often is that if something hap- lame duck session. specifically look at qualified pens and an officer is going to But local law enforcement immunity as enjoyed by law be fired from one department, has taken issue with part of enforcement. they’re able to make a deal that that bill, saying that the legisla- A report with policy rec- allows them to resign instead tion, an initiative of the Illinois ommendations must be sub- of being terminated, then they Legislative Black Caucus, will mitted to the governor’s office go to another police depart- impose restrictions on police and the General Assembly by ment that either doesn’t do a officers and municipalities. May, with the task force being background investigation “I don’t know what legisla- dissolved by the legislation at Courtesy photo properly or don’t care because tor would even want this,” the start of the new year. ILLINOIS STATE LAWMAKERS celebrate the passage of the criminal justice reform bill during the they’re trying to fill open posi- Wilmington Police Chief Phil Arnold said if the abolish- lame duck session last week. Local law enforcement members said the bill, which is headed to the tions with somebody who has Arnold told members of the ment of qualified immunity governor, could do more harm than good. been through the police acade- Police and ESDA committee on were to pass, it would hurt the my and save some money, so ability of departments to Jan. 12, prior to the passage of hibits using force as a punish- Officers are also restricted State Senator Sue Rezin, R- these bad apples are turning recruit and keep officers. the bill. ment or in retaliation when it from using deadly force Morris, who voted against the up over and over in different “The removal of qualified Arnold took issue with the is not authorized; using non- against a person who poses a bill, issued a statement follow- places. immunity would open them portion of the bill that address- lethal projectiles like tasers danger to themselves but does ing its passage, calling the bill “So, trying to weed that all es pretrial detention. Once up and their families up to friv- and rubber bullets on some- not pose an imminent threat to an “extreme proposal” that will out would not be a bad thing,” signed into law, cash bail will olous lawsuits that they would one’s head, groin area or back; the officer or another person. empower criminals while Arnold concluded. be eliminated as of Jan. 1, 2023. have to fight on their own. It’s firing rubber or any type of Arnold also balked at the endangering law enforcement Before this legislation, the All bail bonds and conditions going to be tough to keep peo- round into a crowd; and using way the bill was introduced, efforts. of bail will be replaced by a sys- ple,” he said. Illinois Law Enforcement tear gas and pepper spray arguing that it was pushed “I stand with the men and Training and Standards Board tem of pretrial release to be The bill also requires the without first allowing a crowd through without input from women who take to the streets developed by the Illinois statewide establishment of (ILETSB) could decertify an to disperse after being warned. local law enforcement. day-after-day to serve and pro- officer only if they were con- courts based on a detainee’s use-of-force standards by 2022 “If you’re trying to arrest In a statement issued n tect,” Rezin said. “I am utterly alleged crime, their risk of not while making changes to what victed of a felony or a limited somebody, you can’t touch Jan. 9, the Illinois Association disappointed in both the out- set of misdemeanors such as appearing for their court date, are acceptable and unaccept- them above their shoulders, so of Chiefs of Police broadly con- come of this vote and the offering a bribe, prostitution or and the threat or danger they able uses of force in Illinois you can’t touch their face, their demned the legislation, calling process that it came about. A may pose to the community if statute. head, their neck,” Arnold said. the a “defund the police” bill. bill of this magnitude should criminal sex abuse. released. The bill provides that use “So, it’s basically arms, torso “Supporters of this bill not be rammed through the The criminal justice “It’s going to open up of force is permissible only and legs is all you can touch. must believe that the police are General Assembly in the mid- omnibus bill grants ILETSB crime to a new level I think, when an officer has deter- So, it doesn’t matter where villains and adversaries of the dle of the night of lame duck greater discretion to decertify from everything we can see. mined it is necessary to defend they’re hitting you, it doesn’t 12.5 million Illinoisans they are session. The citizens of Illinois officers based on whether a Taking off cash bonds, basical- either themselves or others matter, you can only touch sworn to protect and serve,” should have been given a Certification Review Board ly whatever you arrest some- from bodily harm when mak- them below the shoulders.” ILACP Executive Director Ed chance to provide their input... determines they violated con- one for, it doesn’t matter, they ing an arrest. When a suspect is Before officers can use Wojcicki posted to the organi- What we just witnessed is no duct guidelines. don’t have to post any bond, attempting to escape, officers deadly force, they must make a zation’s website. “The truth is, way to conduct business.” The legislation also they’re released with a promise would not be permitted to use reasonable effort to identify most of those millions of One provision of the bill requires all law enforcement to come to court,” Arnold said. deadly force to stop them, themselves as law enforce- Illinoisans are largely support- did earn the Wilmington agencies to utilize body cam- The original version of the unless that person cannot be ment and warn that they are ive of their local police and chief’s stamp of approval. eras by 2025, and expands bill abolished cash bail effec- apprehended at a later date about to use deadly force. Law sheriffs’ departments. So it is A police certification pro- rights of people who are taken tive immediately, but that was and is likely to harm others. enforcement can no longer use disappointing to see that any- vision backed by the attorney into custody by police. extended by two years to The law prohibits certain deadly force against someone one would propose legislation general’s office was also added Suspects in custody must be accommodate the transition uses of force. Chokeholds and for committing a property that is so divisive in times to the bill. It gives the state able to make three phone calls and allow for uniform stan- restraints above the shoulders crime, unless that crime is tied when we all need to come more power over who can be a within three hours of being dards to be developed, state that can restrict breathing are to terrorism or to another together for the betterment of member of law enforcement taken into police custody. lawmakers said. banned, unless explicitly used crime or action where deadly our communities and our and makes it easier to decertify Capitol News Illinois con- Another portion of the bill as deadly force. It also pro- force is permitted. state.” and terminate the employ- tributed to this report.

Will County remains under Tier 3 mitigations SEND NEWS AND PICS BY E-MAIL TO STAFF REPORT guidelines were relaxed. includes Grundy County establishment. Will County and Kankakee which is part of Region 2. According to the Illinois [email protected] Nine of the state’s 11 County make up Region 7, one In Tier 3 resurgence miti- Department of Public Health regions saw their resurgence of only two regions in the state gations, bars and restaurants (IDPH), in order for Region 7 to mitigation requirements to that remain in Tier 3 mitiga- continue to be restricted from move to Tier 2, it must experi- offering indoor service. battle the novel coronavirus tions. Region 4, the St. Louis ence less than 12% test positiv- Additional mitigations include ity rate (seven-day rolling aver- rolled back at the beginning of metro east area, also remains capacity limits at grocery this week. in Tier 3. age) for three consecutive stores and pharmacies of 50%, days, and greater than or equal But, Will County was not Regions 1, 2, and 6 are now funerals are limited to 10 to 20% percent available inten- among those areas where in Tier 1 mitigations. This guests, and all other meet- sive care unit (ICU) and med- ings/gatherings, including ical/surgical bed availability weddings and private parties, (seven-day rolling average) for are prohibited. three consecutive days, and a Additionally, health and decline in the number of Hearing for selling of $140,000 fitness centers, personal care COVID-19 patients in the hos- in Braidwood Park District bonds services, malls, and retail pital (seven-day rolling aver- stores outside of grocery stores or pharmacies are limited to age) in seven out of the last 10 PUBLIC NOTICE days. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING THE INTENT OF 25% capacity. THE BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS OF THE BRAIDWOOD PARK DISTRICT, Masks and social distanc- Region 7 has met two of WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS those three metrics. TO SELL $140,000 PARK BONDS ing remain mandatory in all PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Braidwood Park District, Will County, public spaces. The region’s test positivity Illinois (the “District”), will hold a public hearing on the 2nd day of February, 2021, at 7:00 The changes mean that rate is 7.5% as of Jan. 16. The o'clock P.M. The hearing will be held in the Old Smokey Community Building, 245 West region has remained under the First Street, Braidwood, Illinois. The purpose of the hearing will be to receive public com- indoor service at bars and ments on the proposal to sell bonds in the amount of $140,000 for the payment of land restaurants in Grundy County 12% threshold for 31 consecu- condemned or purchased for parks, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting is permitted at 25% capacity, tive days. of the same and the existing land and facilities of the District and for the payment of the Hospital bed availability expenses incident thereto. but is still not allowed in Will By order of the President of the Board of Park Commissioners of the Braidwood County. has been greater or equal to Park District, Will County, Illinois. Although indoor bar serv- 20% for 19 consecutive days. DATED the 13th day of January, 2021. But the region has yet to Josh Bolatto ice is allowed under Tier 1, it Secretary, Board of Park Commissioners, remains suspended unless meet the threshold for a Braidwood Park District, Will County, Illinois food is being served at the decline in hospitalizations. Published in the Braidwood Journal on Jan. 20, 2021. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 4 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

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and will do anything to get it and I mean any- Exposing America thing. They will destroy this country and the WILMINGTON—If Biden does what he American way of life. They have no respect for said he would do, such as take down the border American values, or the patriotic American cit- wall, this will let more illegals in which will izens who have fought for our freedom, the law, result in more drugs pouring into the country or the Constitution! You stupid pin-headed as well as terrorists and MS13 gangs causing brain idiots who voted these deranged, mania- more murder and crime resulting in more cal, cockroaches into power will be responsible sanctuary cities and states. Caravans are now for the downfall of this country. forming at the border. Also, he wants to give them free healthcare, drivers license, food Believer of free speech stamps, and the right to vote in our elections WILMINGTON—In April we will be hold- giving them amnesty and citizenship. He wants ing our city elections in Wilmington and every to forgive college debt which many have paid year around this time I call in my same com- or are paying now. All of this funded by the ment to Sound Off. I am a firm believer of free American taxpayer—YOU! Biden and company speech and I invite all the candidates that are will defund the police, get rid of the border running to feel free to leave a sign in my yard. patrol and abolish ICE. Be careful what you The three candidates that are running for wish for! mayor, you are welcome to leave a sign in my yard. The people that are running for the Antifa? school board, the library board and any other Neither side of the aisle condoned in any offices are more than welcome to put a sign in way the actions of the protesters, or should I my yard because I do believe in free speech. I say the small group of antagonists, planted hope if the candidates do decide to put in my within the protesters. Ninety-nine percent of yard that other people will respect my decision the people who showed up at the Capital on to allow this and not be tearing up the candi- Jan. 6 were there to protest an election process dates’ yard signs, destroying them or throwing that they felt was rigid in favor of Democrats. them away. Whether you support the sign in They have every right to do that. But just as we my yard or you don’t support it, yard signs cost have seen during the past four years, a small a lot of money, I know that first hand. So once group of well organized left-wing radicals again I invite any candidate for city offices to makes you feel good, we’re flattered. favor and if that wasn’t criminal enough, pushed the otherwise peaceful protest into a feel free to put a sign in my yard. Sherri Trump incited his goons to storm Capitol Hill national disgrace. That group was once again Michaels When cities burned where the election was being finalized in Antifa. It has been substantiated that Antifa COAL CITY—Do as I say not as I do, is a Congress. Finally, the My Pillow guy was seen members were present at the protest and Neither did Manson phrase that has been used many times. Now meeting Trump in the West Wing with notes inside the Capital. They were taking advantage WILMINGTON—The Republicans are say- our new congress is stating that the constitu- urging him to declare martial law. With several of the situation to embarrass not only President ing that Trump isn’t responsible for the vio- tion and the rule of law must be honored. But days to go, who knows what Trump will come Trump but the Republican party and did a lence at the Capitol. Well Manson didn’t kill where was this rule of law when the various up with next. Yes, all these are tactics to steal damn good job. So what is going to happen anybody. cities being controlled by Democrat party were the election as Trump tries to put lipstick on a after Biden and Kamala (can’t wait for Biden to being burned during riots and our new vice pig. Gary W. resign) take office on Jan. 20? The liberals have Not surprising president made sure all rioters were bailed out not been able to bring themselves to formally WILMINGTON—Trump says he won’t pay of jail to continue to riot. When there was evi- We will see label Antifa as a terrorist group because Antifa Rudy for legal services. Honestly, Rudy dence of illegal activity involved in the election SHADOW LAKES— Let's see if the main has been doing all the dirty work for the liber- should’ve seen that coming. process, with censorship and the altering of stream media goes after Biden like it did als allowing them to keep their hands clean and The Swamp is back election laws without legislatures approval or Trump? If not, it's not the news that’s taking make everything look like president Trump’s having deceased individuals vote casting their sides and that is by definition is propaganda. fault. But that will all change on Jan. 20. It will SHADOW LAKES—Let us take a look at the news for this year so far. Nancy Pelosi is ballots in the election. They have the nerve to Eddie be interesting to see how the liberals deal with state that they always obey the law. their dirty little secret. I wouldn’t be surprised screaming to impeach our president. The Senseless idea to see Antifa members appointed to positions crowds are yelling, “crucify him.” People asked, USA or California? SHADOW LAKES—Gendered Language: within the Biden/Harris administration. Why “China Joe isn’t it time to forget and forgive?’ On Jan. 20 you can say good-bye to the Has anybody seen the Orwellian push to not. They deserve it after all the work they have Didn’t we see this act played out 2000 years country formally known as the United States of change the words we use, for example, elimi- done for the Democratic party. ago? What was China Joe’s response? “…that is America and welcome to the country now nating “gendered language.” This may seem up to the senate.” He just stated, “it is time to known as California. Let me introduce you to very trivial to you at this time. But will end up Stop the stupidity unify the country.” Vaccine, vaccine, where is your new country. First of all, illegal immi- having a big impact on our society. Nancy P. is WILMINGTON—I want the mayor and the vaccine? The companies state they have grants are not only welcome but encouraged to the pusher of this language to be used in the police department to do their job and enforce shipped over one million doses. But where are wade across the Rio Grande illegally. Once House of Representatives. You will not be able the mask mandate that has been put into place they? They can’t figure out how to distribute here, they are granted more rights, privileges to say, mother, father, son, daughter, cousin, or by the state of Illinois to protect the citizens of them. I know you heard by now in Washington and social programs than legal citizens are etc. Here is how it works, you may say, “am the our town. I shouldn't have to tell people to "get state they are saying workers over 50 that work given. Next, the highest taxes in history. Hey, father of two sons.” If Nancy has her way, here away from me" or to "put a mask on" while out for Amazon should have the vaccine, because socialism is expensive and you don’t think is how it will have to be spoken. “I am the par- getting essentials. Almost 400,000 Americans they are front line workers. Sounds fair to me. wealthy people are going to flip the bill? If you ent of two siblings.” This is to make language are dead because of the stupidity of Donald Maybe you saw the article on the tube about consider yourself middle class right now, wel- non-binary. Do you know any non-binary peo- Trump and his followers and Republican sup- New York’s governor and what he did with the come to poverty. Don’t worry, there will be ple?” The answer is no because there are none. porters in congress! This situation has been vaccine. They can’t dispense a vaccine in a plenty of social programs where you can stand This is just more from the left, and you just handled very poorly and it cost people their timely manner, and these are the people who in line and lose whatever dignity you might keep voting them back in office over and over. lives. It’s overwhelmingly obvious this man is want to run, Medicare for all? My God helps us. have. Socialists frown on people with dignity or Always, Margot Lane deeply out of touch with reality and incompe- Why is it the problems always seem to stem people who are self-sufficient. You need to tent to be the President of The United States. from states run by the Left? I hope you are all learn that the government will take care of all The sore loser Also, I want anyone displaying a Confederate enjoying, what we will lose next, freedom of your needs from here on out. Just sit back and WILMINGTON—What a sore loser, flag be made to take it down! It represents hate speech. How long will it take before your emails swallow whatever pride you have. You won’t President Trump will never admit defeat. He and racism. It belongs in a museum for history are censored? How long will it be before pro- need it in Socialist America. You are not smart has filed bankruptcy five times and refuses to facts only, not displayed in a state that fought trump articles in this paper will be censored? enough to make your own decisions. The pay his lawyers. I wonder why no one wants to against it! The Confederate states lost the war Do think it can not happen! Remember Big bureaucrats will do it for you. Get ready for a defend him. Maybe DH can help pay his legal for a reason. It’s disgusting to see it hanging on Brother is watching, you. No. 4, is one of my whole bunch of homeless people. The state of fees. a house as soon as you drive into the city of personal favorites. De-Fund the police. I don’t California loves homeless people. They have White Terror Wilmington. Take it DOWN!!! It’s really sad to have to explain what this is all about. You see taken over large areas of Los Angeles, San see so many people in this town look and act so just how well this is working in Portland. Now Francisco and other California municipalities. WILMINGTON—These comments will be unintelligently. I studied Micro Biology we have Illinois House Bill 163. Isn’t that great? Do you like to walk down the sidewalk and tip- as popular as a cockroach’s carcass but they (germs/viruses) and I know this virus is very I am sure this is really going to help that one toe around human feces? Then you will feel need to be said. The siege of Capitol Hill is an serious. You can die from it at any age or race. I county, where most of the violence is. They can right at home. Californians love to take a crap example of unjustified white rage rationalized am so angry! It’s embarrassing! Think of all the not control it now! Here is the other side of the on public sidewalks. Forget about that 401k, by white privilege incited by gluttonous desire revenue the city would of made issuing fines to coin, Washington D.C. We must arm the city to the government needs that to support all the for power. The palefaces of America need to get all the idiots not following the mandate. The the teeth, to protect the politicians. I do not social programs that you don’t qualify for over themselves and their expectations of insa- definition of mandate means mandatory. It was condone violence, in any form. Maybe instead because you still have a job. You have to keep tiable dominion. From the nation’s beginning, put into place to keep you safe from a deadly of de-funding the police, maybe we should de- working and hand over all your hard earned white colonists seized this land and all its rich- virus. fund the politicians. After all, what do they real- money to support people who think you’re stu- es from native Americans by cruel trickery ly do for us? Not much! What has China Joe pid for working. Let’s see, what else can you transgressing New Testament Scripture. And Country over Party done for this county in 47 years? Sadly not expect: Skyrocketing property taxes, more reg- now that same venomous serpent raises its BRAIDWOOD—I just wanted to say thank much. As you can see, The Swamp is ulations that will kill the economy, gas prices head once more with a poisonous strike never you to Adam Kinzinger our representative. He back…always Margot Lane will go through the roof, political correctness before so vicious against justice in our beloved chose country over party and we appreciate it. will make a big comeback, freedom of speech land. Are we a Christian nation or not? Doug I just wish more people would, thank you. Wealthy politicians L. ESSEX—Throughout the next two years will be regulated, get ready too turn your guns New flavor the Democrat leadership will impose things over, get used to elections being rigged in favor Four short years WILMINGTON—I heard Ben & Jerry are upon the American citizens whether you are a of liberal democrats, more planes full of cash WILMINGTON—Consider this. Dr. Fauci going to introduce a new flavor. It’s a combina- Democrat or a Republican. They will have sent to Iran to support their terrorist network needs a security bodyguard as does his entire tion of peach ice cream and orange sherbet. every American citizen suffer. The people that and finally liberal politicians going to countries family since the Trump presidency. He has They’re gonna call it Impeachy. wanted the Democrat leadership and financed around the world apologizing for being an worked for five different presidents and has their election are very wealthy people that only American and then giving them planes full of never felt endangered before. But that’s the Silencing Americans want more money for their wallets. And in their cash. Trump effect and Dr. Fauci is not the only one SHADOW LAKES—The big tech compa- opinion, the American citizens want too much Over 42 million suffering from it. Many congressional nies are shutting down certain things on the money for their survival when they can go on Republicans admit that they support Trump internet because they seem to be afraid that BRAIDWOOD— A new report astonishing- welfare and stand in line at a food pantry if they ly shows that nearly 42% of all deaths world- out of fear because otherwise their families’ Americans will see just how much corruption is want to eat and they can live in tents. Because safety is at stake from local thugs. really involved in the communication industry. wide last year were from abortion— more than the wealthy want cheap foreign labor that they 42 million. It was not only the leading cause of Congressional Democrats receive constant They’re going to try to do everything possible to will help take over the American citizens death threats directed at themselves and their silence any person who complains about how death but was almost more than all other caus- employment just to show that they can control es combined. Think about that. children and the Michigan governor’s kidnap- they want control over its citizens’ thought the USA and not the laws of the USA. ping plot is proof of this. Furthermore, Trump’s process. We should remind any person who Bottom line minions promise to carry out Trump’s threats knows about history that these same type of Brainwash Americans COAL CITY—Considering the vicious after Trump is gone from Washington. What do things occurred in Europe which brought SHADOW LAKES—Congress is once again nature of events descending upon us lately, it we do? The entire floor of the Capitol is covered about the USA to enter a conflict that prevent- holding impeachment procedures against might be a relief to ponder a recent humorous by the National Guard but too bad it’s a week ed freedom that had a cost of many lives to Donald Trump so he will never be able to hold news report circulating the country regarding late. Should we station soldiers throughout the bring free choice back to many European a government office again because they do not Princess Ivanka and how lucky we are to finally land indefinitely like third-world countries? nations. History does have a tendency to repeat want any more of their activities to be shown to be rid of her. Apparently the first daughter can’t What does this say about President Trump? itself. It seems to be being pushed into reality the public. Even though the Democrat party bear to have Secret Service agents, who are During the four short years of his presidency, by the people that are trying to control inde- has allowed crime to escalate in various cities poor people of the lower classes, invade her America seems to have become a terrorist pendence and freedom. and no one has been held accountable, they’re beautiful home which the agents are risking state. Irene D. Want complete control also going to try to control every aspect of the their lives to protect. Can’t she spare one of her Thank goodness our lives by pretending that they are looking seven bathrooms for these brave men to relieve WILMINGTON—Well, it looks like the cor- out for us while they use the news and social GARDNER—Thank God we have rupt, hateful, deranged, radical, Socialist themselves? No, taxpayers must foot the bill for media to decide which information is allowed a $3,000-a-month apartment costing a total of grownups back in the White House. No more Democratic party will occupy the White House to be shown to the public. They believe that the lies, bullying, or melodrama. No tweets. No and Congress. This Democratic party is worse more than $100,000 to date essentially for the American citizens are a bunch of dunder heads use of a toilet. And it has nothing to do with more reality TV show - just the hard work of than the "Nazis". They want complete power not capable to understand anything and they getting us out of the huge mess left for us. and control over this country and the people COVID-19 because this has been going on do not care if the American citizen is a since 2017. Of course, Ivanka denies these alle- Sabotaging the new administration at every Democrat or a Republican. gations, but the reality is that she does not let turn thinking it will make you look good. How Since all they want to do is them in for bathroom privileges. Anyway, the stupid you are? No sane person will ever forget brainwash people into believ- bottom line is: Who would be so gullible as to what you've done to this country and what trai- ing that whatever they say is believe a Trump? Kurt K. tors you are. The blood of almost 400,000 peo- gospel and no one better ques- ple and the ones killed on the Jan. 6 are on your tion their authority, even if Lipstick on a pig hands. Anyone who enabled these creatures is they state “trees are not made CUSTER PARK—The election was rigged, responsible for everything they've done. A lot of wood”. say Trump supporters. It certainly was. It was of you will be going to jail, including the trai- harder for blacks to vote because Republican tor/grifter-in-chief. Have fun. Good bye and Gamemanship officials throughout the country did their best good riddance. And to good old Dan, your guy WILMINGTON—I’m not to stop them. Months before the election, has been stealing from the soldiers, vets and being hyperbolic when I claim Trump installed his stooge as postmaster gen- the taxpayers this whole time. He's been a my vocabulary is better then eral to thwart mail-in ballots. After the election, grifter all his life and will be one until the day the Sound Off editor. Trump filed 62 lawsuits although no fraud was he dies. His last grift is the election fraud. The Editor’s note: found and even Supreme Court justices refused only fraud is him and his lie. Once he knew you Congratulates and pat yourself to hear Trump’s case because it was a waste of all would send him money, he kept it going. It's on the back. Didn’t know there their time. Then Trump pressured Georgia’s not going into any fund, it's going in his pock- was a contest. But hey, if that secretary of state to fabricate votes in Trump’s SEE SOUND-OFF PAGE 6 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 5 Commentary Slight relief from our predatory government BY RICHARD PORTER it focuses on raising money to serve the particularly true there because of the people in government instead of focusing state’s financial crisis. Making govern- Among all the bad policy coming out on serving the general public. A predatory ment work for ordinary citizens is a sec- of Springfield, Ill., let’s celebrate the occa- government weighs heaviest on those ondary concern for leaders obsessed with sional glimmer of good sense. who earn the least. Examples of predatory finding money to fund the over-prom- But first, some background: policies include the myriad fees, fines, ised, under-funded public pensions. Illinois’ legislature passed legislation rules and gotchas imposed – and the The folks running our government, on policing and related matters last week absurd penalties applied for minor infrac- who campaign on imposing a $15 mini- in the dead of night. The 764-page tions of this web of rules. mum wage on small businesses, have leg- bill passed the state Senate at 4:49 a.m. A young friend of mine, a high school islated a system of taxes, tolls, fees and after being introduced and distributed to graduate working his way into a skilled fines that lower income residents can’t the members at 3:04 a.m. Only a few leg- trade, would drive to visit his girlfriend. afford. And, as in the case of my friend islative insiders could have possibly He earned about $13 an hour. Sometimes, and others, our government routinely known what was in the bill before voting; he didn’t have money in his pocket for forces people into debt and out of jobs in the rest of the legislature, first seeing the tolls and he didn’t have credit to get the its search for revenue. measure upon its introduction, voted transponder that would cut his toll costs Is “safety” a reason or just a rationale blind. in half. for red light camera tickets? Are high Only after the Democrat majority Let’s pause for a moment: People highway tolls and gas taxes fair to those passed the bill are we learning what’s in it with credit (i.e., those with more money) who make less? These and other petty rev- – and there’s little that’s good. pay lower tolls on the highway than peo- enue collection devices that then require The legislation has been assailed as ple with poor credit (i.e., those with less enforcement hammer the less well-off. A radical and anti-police for good reason. money). Why not charge folks who need bankrupt state that forces its own citizens Consider, for example, this nugget from to stop and pay cash the same amount as into bankruptcy is a predatory state. page 50: Under current law, a complaint the folks who can drive through the toll The good news in this bad bill is that filed against a police officer is required to with transponders? motorists would no longer lose their be supported by a sworn affidavit from Back to my story: My friend did not licenses as a consequence of unpaid red the person filing the complaint and pro- pay about $30 in tolls. Shame on him -- light and speed camera tickets. That’s a vides that anyone filing false information but note that the tolls that are small for small but important win for the people of shall be referred for prosecution. The bill many were more than he could afford on Illinois, but what of the tickets themselves eliminates both the requirement for the a daily basis. His minor infraction, which and the exorbitant penalties and fees that sworn affidavit and referral for prosecu- he ignored because he didn’t have the accompany this policy? Why not abolish tion for false complaints. money anyway, turned into $2,500 in these as well? This and other provisions declare fines, as well as a suspended license — We need a thorough rethinking of all open season on law enforcement. which led to the loss of his job — before I aspects of our government. We need lead- Weakening law enforcement further in a got involved. ers looking for ways to help people rise state already riven by soaring crime rates While the Illinois Tollway authority instead of holding them down or shaking unleashed by lax prosecution of basic has since then significantly reduced some them down. criminal laws will make Illinois a more of its penalties, government for people PS: The young friend of mine I men- dangerous and less attractive place to live. with low to moderate incomes is often tioned above recently moved to Texas. But, one provision in this bill reflects Kafkaesque: a small mistake in dealing Why? He aspires to start his own business an idea that needs to be constantly rein- with government or error in judgment some day and he believes it’s easier to do forced: Government should help its citi- leads to cascading consequences that that in Texas than in Illinois. zens, not hurt them. bear no proportion to the original mis- Richard Porter is a lawyer in Chicago I have argued elsewhere that Illinois take. and Illinois’s national committeeman to government has become predatory – that While not unique to Illinois, this is the Republican National Committee.

Sound-off, continued from page 4 Local students ets for all the lawsuits coming his way. He has rallies. I think the number is a big zero. He said earn honors never been as rich as he said he was and is the virus was a good thing because he didn't always conning his way through deals. The big have to shake those disgusting people's hands at Mizzou deal maker hasn't made a deal in four years. He anymore. Ah, the man for the little guy. You ter- owes other countries millions of dollars, too, so rorists from the Jan. 6 incident want pardons? The University of your money will go for that. The bank he was He's selling them for about $2 million a pop. Missouri has recognized the laundering money through for Putin for years Good luck. academic achievement of five won't work with him anymore, so I don't know area students by naming them how Putin will feel about that. I'm sure they'll Highway speeding to the fall 2020 dean’s list. work out something, though. Not only is Trump WILMINGTON—When is something going Local students earning a the leading cause of death in this country, but to get done to slow down the vehicles coming grade point average of 3.25 or higher during the fall semester he's also the biggest national security threat. in from the west? You have semis coming in at were included. He'll give away our secrets for a happy meal. He over 50 mph, not to mention people in the Earning the academic just can't help being a crook. That's all he morning who are running late for work and run honor were Joshua J. knows. So if you're OK with that and every the red light at First Street. What’s it going to Michalak, a freshman arts and other disgusting thing he's done to this coun- take? Someone getting killed before something science major, from Diamond. try, shame on you. You've believed all his lies no gets done? Wilmington residents matter how unbelievable or just plain stupid Weren’t from Harvard Rhianna Ellen Kay Brown, a they were. You're OK with it because you all COAL CITY—During the recent riot at the freshman journalism major, hate the same people. You are no patriot, sir. Capitol you may have noticed a new symbol of and Lillian Solt, a junior Trump said he wondered how Jim Jones got his the Republican party. Gone is the stodgy old majoring in health profes- people to drink the Kool Aid, but said he finally elephant that has symbolized our country’s sions. figured it out. Divide and keep spewing lies to faithful conservatives for more than a century. Maggie Christina Meyr, of vulnerable people until they believe it. It's The new face of the party is a bare-chested mis- Essex, who is majoring in worked since the days of Hitler. We will never fit with tattoos and a painted face who is wear- health professions and be a dictatorship. If you want one, go live in ing coyote skins and a bison horn on his head. Madyson Nicole Schuck, a Russia or China, or any of the other countries This 32-year-old goon was kicked out of the sophomore journalism major, that are run that way for awhile and see how Navy and lives with his mother in Arizona. He from Braceville. you like it. Watch what you wish for, though. and the rest of the mob are the culmination of Also, see how many of you will be able to have years of lies spread by Fox News and other your guns there. This is a democracy and we propaganda outlets. They are the result of those will fight to keep it that way. The Republican who enable the Trump Circus and didn’t have party is now the party of white nationalists, the guts to stand up to his craziness. Trump militias, racists, proud boys, boogaloo boys, demonized those who opposed him, encour- and any other murderous creatures that have aged violence, promoted racism and glorified crawled out from under the rocks these past stupidity with his dumb comments on climate four years. You must be so proud. There used to change and the deadly virus. If you look closely be some good ones. I miss John McCain. Of at the Trump Storm Troopers who attacked the course, Captain Bone Spurs said he's not a capital you saw that most of them did not look hero. Such garbage spewed from white trash. like graduate students from Harvard. Rather, The stench he came with will never leave him they were a scruffy gang who looked like they or his enablers. God bless this country and God spent the last week in a cave. These brain bless our troops. washed terrorists now control the Republican Party and are out to destroy our country. If you 850 smiles think I’m wrong I hope you heard the remarks GARDNER—I Just wanted to thank the of the Illinois Republican Congresswoman who Coal City second grade class for helping us out told the crowd about the things Hitler got right. with our Christmas Card Project at Sacred Our tax dollars should not be spent repairing or Heart Church in Kinsman. Between them, the guarding the capitol. Send the bill to the Trump parishioners, the Sacred Heart CCD class, the campaign. kids at MVK, and my granddaughter we had over 850 cards. We were able to deliver them to Going against God the LaSalle, Quincy, and Manteno Veterans' SHADOW LAKES—The Bible states that Homes, Park Pointe Assisted Living, The homosexuality is not to be tolerated, but yet Memory Gardens and The Regency in Morris, Democrats wish to tolerate it. They are not and both homes in Dwight. It was awesome. Christians in my book. Anyone who tolerates Such a great project. Couldn't have done it homosexuals goes against God. God does not without everybody's help. Can't wait to do it tolerate homosexuals. It is written in the Bible. again and hoping we can have the kids deliver Dan Hill them in person next time. Donna Gabehart Correction A big zero This is another sound-off correction. I said GARDNER—How many of Trump's (com- Trump lost the popular vote twice but due to an mon man) supporters do you think he would arcane holdover of slavery called the electoral let into his private golf resorts or at Mar-A- college he still won the 2016 election, the point Lago? Probably about the same number he being he never had the support of the majority would shake hands with at his super spreader of Americans. Penny Lane The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 6 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Lame duck session was a failure by Pritzker administration "The legislature is going to House could "hold Wednesday were heavily distracted by be a check on the executive up some of these morning. Nine their election of a new Speaker branch," newly-elected House funds, even federal Black Caucus and some white northern sub- Speaker Chris Welch flatly dollars," to IDES if members did not urban Democrats were pre- declared to me during an members don't vote for the bill. pared to go "on strike" if the interview the other day. start getting Most either cannabis bill was passed with- Welch was responding to answers to their voted "Present" or out allowing their dispensaries a question I posed to him questions. Crespo took a walk, but to move to better locations, about his Jan. 13th inaugural was instrumental Rep. Debbie address, when he asked not- in corralling votes Meyers-Martin which was a deal-killer for the so-rhetorically, "Why is it diffi- for Welch and has (D-Olympia Black Caucus. cult to ensure that families' been the chair of Fields) voted In the end, . Yes, there unemployment checks contin- the House General "No." Black were tons of extenuating cir- ue unabated and arrive on Services Caucus members cumstances. But they knew time so struggling families can Appropriations are usually reli- ever since veto session was feed their children? Why is that Committee. "It's able votes for rev- canceled in November that a hard to grasp?" not a threat, I think it's more, I enue increases. Not that day. lame duck session was a dis- Welch's predecessor, think it's an education," Welch himself didn't vote tinct probability. They had two Speaker Michael Madigan, Crespo told the outlet. on the decoupling bill, either. months to prepare and now stayed completely mum about "They're new and make sure He explained early Wednesday have precious little to show for Gov. JB Pritzker's handling of they understand the process." morning that he was "distract- it except for the Black Caucus the COVID-19 crisis and "I'm going to have an ed" (even though the roll call agenda that they weren't in resulting mass unemploy- open and ongoing relationship was held open for quite a long charge of. ment, even though Pritzker with the governor to express while) and would vote for it occasionally took verbal shots what I'm hearing from our again when the time came, but Pritzker's huge legislative at Madigan and called on him members," Welch told me. He that time never came. success in 2019 was an aberra- to resign if he refused to didn't come right out and say The Senate played games tion. It was a legislative expres- answer questions about the it, but what he's hearing from with the governor's must-have sion of joy and relief at having ComEd investigation. his members about the gover- cannabis cleanup bill, waiting a governor who wanted to Not a single House com- nor ain't all that great these until almost 2 o'clock work with them to get big mittee hearing has been held days, as Rep. Crespo could Wednesday morning to pass it things done after 12 years of about the backlog at the attest. pretty much as the governor gubernatorial ineptitude and Illinois Department of The Pritzker administra- wanted. But, by then, it was outright hostility toward the Employment Security, or, for tion appears to have gotten a too late for the House to act. General Assembly. But if they that matter, all the other taste of what may come later The Senate seemed to don't address whatever issues migraine headaches that legis- this year during the just-con- many to be deliberately slow- there are with Harmon, woo cluded lame duck session walking important bills for the lators have been dealing with the new Speaker and start as desperate constituents have when both of the governor's governor and for others during tending to member egos, turned to them for assistance top priorities failed to pass. the last couple days of session. when they couldn't get A bill to decouple the state "I'm pretty sure this bill that they're in for a very rough through to a state agency. That from federal business tax we're debating right now was spring. could very well change. breaks (depending whom you sent to us about six hours ago Rep. Fred Crespo (D- talk to) worth between $400 from the House," grumbled Rich Miller also publishes Hoffman Estates) warned the million to $1 billion to state one Senator at 5:37 Wednesday Capitol Fax, a daily political governor via the Center Square coffers received just 50 votes in morning. newsletter, and CapitolFax. publication last week that the the wee hours of last The House Democrats com.

Welter starts third term in Illinois House SPRINGFIELD—State Whether they choose to pur- Rep. David Allen Welter, R- sue a college education, attend Morris, was sworn in to his a trade school or start a career, third full term on Jan. 13 with a we have to make Illinois a focus on emerging from the place where everyone can pur- pandemic and economic sue their goals and succeed.” opportunity for families and The Illinois House of students. Representatives is comprised Welter joined all 118 of 73 Democrats and 45 members of the Illinois House Republicans for the 2021-2023 of Representatives for the term. Following the swearing inauguration of the 102nd in, Rep. Chris Welch (D) of General Assembly held at the Hillside was elected Speaker of Bank of Springfield Center. the House and Representative Welter has represented Illinois’ Jim Durkin (R) of Western 75th District since July 2016. Springs was re-elected “Democrats and Minority Leader. Republicans need to work Prior to his appointment together to position Illinois to effectively distribute COVID- to the Illinois General 19 vaccines and assist our Assembly, Welter served as economy to bounce back from chairman of the Grundy the ravaging effects of the pan- County Board, to which he was demic,” Welter said. “We need first elected in 2010. His pri- to make policy changes that vate sector experience will create jobs, strengthen Courtesy photo includes work as the human schools and enact meaningful STATE REPRESENTATIVE DAVID Welter, R-Morris, was sworn in for resources manager for Illinois and lasting property tax relief. his third full term serving the 75th District in the Illinois House Truck & Equipment. Welter is Illinois presently ranks second also currently a licensed real in the nation for people leav- estate agent practicing in ing for lower taxes and better by making Illinois more com- brightest students leave Morris. opportunities elsewhere. Our petitive for job creators and Illinois after graduation. We The 75th District is com- priority in 2021, in tandem more affordable for families need to work together to give prised of portions of Grundy, with overcoming the pandem- and seniors. recent graduates more reasons Will, Kankakee and LaSalle ic, must be to reverse this trend “Too many of our best and and opportunities to stay here. counties.

Cairns named Opposition to potential Illinois to dean’s list The University of Utah income tax hike mounting has named Luke Cairns, of Coal City to its fall 2020 dean’s BY KEVIN BESSLER will be forced to consider rais- income tax hike only if list. He was among 9,700 stu- THE CENTER SQUARE ing income taxes for all Illinois Republicans were on board. dents who achieved a grade residents by at least 20 per- "It has to be bipartisan point average of 3.5 or higher With Illinois facing a near- cent,” Stratton said. because we have to make sure in at least 12 graded credit ly $4 billion budget shortfall Brian Costin, state direc- that we are fair about the taxes hours in the term. this year, some are fearful of a tor of Americans for and have input from Cairns, the son of possible state income tax Prosperity, said now is a terri- Republicans as well as ble time to raise taxes. Shannon and Ben Baer of Coal increase in the near future, Democrats as it relates to possibly while lawmakers con- “Tax hikes are not work- City and John Cairns of spending of the revenue," Ford Wilmington, is majoring in duct business in Springfield ing. It is not turning around said. pre-computer science with an this week. the economy of Illinois, it is emphasis on game design. He The support for raising making it worse,” Costin said. Pritzker’s office has asked is a 2020 Coal City High School the state income tax comes “People are making huge sac- state agencies to prepare for graduate enrolled in the uni- after voters rejected the gradu- rifices during the COVID-19 the possibility of budget cuts versity’s honors program. ated income tax amendment pandemic. They shouldn’t be reaching up to 10 percent by in November’s election. Gov. asking for more money from fiscal year 2022. He has already J.B. Pritzker said the change in the taxpayers during this very announced over $711 million tax code would have raised an difficult time.” in cuts for this fiscal year, but estimated $3 billion a year in The last tax hike was just details of those cuts remain revenue, so now what? over 3 years ago. On July 6, unclear. Last September, Illinois 2017, the Illinois General Costin is keeping an eye Assembly voted to override Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton on the proceedings in warned of a 20 percent across- then-Gov. Bruce Rauner’s veto the-board income tax hike if of a record-setting income tax Springfield during the General voters didn’t approve the pro- hike. Personal income tax Assembly session. gressive tax amendment in rates rose 32% to 4.95%, while “It is quite clear that the November. corporate income taxes rose legislature is not willing to “To adequately address 33% to 7%. reform government spending, the budget crisis under our Democratic Rep. Lashawn so we are very fearful that they current tax system, lawmakers Ford would support an will try to raise taxes,” he said. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 7 Take yourself back to the beach with a Diamond Head Gas prices go up as demand shows renewed signs of recovery The calendar has turned scene since before up with something the addition of fresh pineapple to a new year, and more than Hawaii became our “Hawaiian” and juice to the Diamond Head, or Gasoline prices in Illinois lower than a year ago. likely plenty of friends, co- 50th state. naming it after a any other pineapple cocktail have risen 3.8 cents per gallon “Gas prices have jumped workers, and marketing emails Following 30 years local landmark. will take the drink to another in the past week, averaging to yet another multi-month have already wished you a as head bartender The Diamond level. $2.46/g Monday, according to high as crude oil price rise happy New Year! If nobody has at the Hilton Head cocktail is If you prefer to go the GasBuddy's daily survey of amidst perceived improve- wished you a happy Wave Hawaiian Village, gin-based, with the canned pineapple route, reach 4,378 stations in Illinois. This ment in the COVID-19 pan- Season yet, let me be the first he taught bartend- pleasant fruit notes for Dole unsweetened pineap- compares with the national demic, which continues to to do so. ing in and around of apricot brandy. ple juice. Keep the 6 oz. cans in average that has increased 4.2 pump prices up as demand What, and when is Wave Honolulu. Harry Harry created the your home bar and you will cents per gallon versus last shows renewed signs of recov- Season? Wave Season starts was born in 1918, occasional rum always have pineapple juice. week to $2.38/g, according to ery,” said Patrick DeHaan, right about now and runs which means that THE SUNDAY drink, but was not a Preparation of the GasBuddy. head of petroleum analysis for through early March, think of it he is one of the few COCKTAIL fan of rum. Harry Diamond Head cocktail is sim- Average gasoline prices GasBuddy. as a “Black Friday” for the people on planet Brian Rung preferred cognac, ple, fast, and straightforward. on January 18 in Illinois have “In addition, with rumors cruise industry. In a “normal” earth that has lived perhaps he still It had to be. Harry and his staff ranged widely over the last five swirling that President-elect year, this is the time of year during both the does. had to build them five or ten at years:$2.51/g in 2020, $2.10/g Biden plans to cancel approval when the best deals on cruise Spanish Flu pan- The gin behind a time and serve them quickly. in 2019, $2.55/g in 2018, of the Keystone XL pipeline, packages to top destinations demic and COVID-19. Harry's bar around the time Fill a glass with crushed ice, $2.40/g in 2017 and $1.85/g in which would cut off reliable can be found online. Harry is an innovator, with that the Diamond Head cock- add ingredients listed below, 2016. Canadian oil to the U.S., oil You see, the cruise indus- several iconic drinks to his tail was created would have stir and serve. Don't let this Including the change prices may see additional try knows that you are over credit. He could literally come been a standard London dry one sit too long as the crushed locally during the past week, pressure in the coming days. shoveling snow and adding up with new drinks on the gin, something like the current ice will melt and cause the prices yesterday were 5.3 cents For now, the upward trend in layers of clothing to stay warm spot, in part because he had to. Beefeater or Gordon's offer- drink to dilute quickly. per gallon lower than a year gas prices may slow from the once the Holidays are over. Think about the early years of ings. Gin serves as an excellent The thought of a beach ago and are 20.8 cents per gal- sharp rise in the last week, but They take advantage of cabin statehood for Hawaii. The base for tropical drinks as the vacation seems like a dream lon higher than a month ago. motorists shouldn't expect fever by showing you pics and islands hosted maybe 100,000 right gin is light and refreshing under the current circum- The national average has much of a break from rising videos of tropical destinations visitors annually in the 1950s, with complex floral notes and stances, but with any luck we'll increased 15.6 cents per gallon gas prices, which now stand until you finally book your growing into the nearly botanicals. turn a corner soon. I imagine during the last month and less than twenty cents from dream vacation. This year, 7,000,000 annual visitors of Once upon a time apricot that the travel and hospitality stands 17.4 cents per gallon their year-ago levels.” during a global pandemic, I recent years. Tourists would brandy was a mainstay of industries miss you as much as have no idea what cruising, or come to Hawaii, sit down at mixology, especially in the you miss them, make it a point vacationing in general looks Harry's bar, and order a time between the end of prohi- to support them when you are like. I did not take a vacation “Hawaiian” drink. There was a bition and the late 1970s. safely able to do so. SIU-Carbondale dean’s list last year, here's hoping that I problem: there were no Apricot brandy remains a pop- The Diamond Head cock- can take one late this year. Hawaiian drinks. They simply ular ingredient behind tiki and tail is built and served in a Southern Illinois University’s Carbondale campus recently Many would be travelers didn't exist. tropical bars, but has become small vase-like glass, filled with announced its dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester, and more use Wave Season as an oppor- Harry had to invent the less common behind other crushed ice. than one dozen area students have achieved academic honors. tunity to pour their first tropi- drinks, and think of names for commercial bars. Fill glass with crushed ice, Recognized by the university were Hannah Schwier, a sen- cal drink of the year. For this them, often on the fly. A few Your local spirits retailer then add: ior from Coal City and fellow seniors Joseph R. Horn, Stephen year's Wave Season, I chose the iconic drinks credited to Harry may have only one or two apri- 1 oz. gin Lapinsky and Troy W. Mumma, of Wilmington. Diamond Head cocktail for Yee are the Blue Hawaii, cot brandy options, reach for 1/2 oz. apricot brandy Zachary Ridgley, a senior from Custer Park; Hallie J. Jeffries, two reasons. First, it is named Hawaiian Eye, Tropical Itch, Bol's if that is one of the 2 oz. pineapple juice a sophomore from Braidwood; Koby T. Smith, a senior from after a popular tropical tourist The Chimp in Orbit, and the options. Stir, garnish with fresh Braceville, and Gardner residents Marlana J. Ferrari, a senior, destination. Second, the drink Banana Daiquiri. He is also Since most of us are pineapple and sophomore Jack P. James. was created by Hawaiian bar- attributed with being the first imbibing at home these days, Until next week, enjoy Mumma achieved straight A’s for the semester, as did tending legend Harry Yee who bartender to use those little seems like the perfect oppor- responsibly. Morris residents Hannah M. Brath, a freshman; Caitlin E. at the time of printing is 102 umbrellas in tropical drinks. tunity to go the extra mile for Mikula, a junior, and seniors Eli J. Gile, Matthew Jurak, Megan years young. On to the cocktail, in this fresh fruit juice. Yes, juicing a Jurak and Nicholas A. Wright. That's right, Harry has case, Diamond Head. This is pineapple is labor intensive. been a fixture on Waikiki's bar another case of Harry coming Your efforts will be rewarded as

How seniors can make their bathrooms safer Dear Savvy Senior, bathing safer, pur- also have a built- one, so turn her hot water What tips can you recom- chase a rubber in seat, handrails heater down to 120 degrees. mend for making a bathroom suction-grip mat, and a slip resist- Doorway: If your mom senior-friendly? My 78-year-old or put down adhe- ant bottom, and needs a wider bathroom mother has mobility problems sive nonskid tape some have thera- entrance to accommodate a and fell getting out of the bath- on the tub/shower peutic features walker or wheelchair, an inex- tub last month. I’d like to mod- floor. And have a like whirlpool pensive solution is to install ify her bathroom with some carpenter install water jets and/or some swing clear offset hinges safety features that can help grab bars in and bubble massage on the door which will expand keep her safe. around the air jets. the doorway an additional two Concerned Daughter tub/shower for Curb-less inches. support. showers and Emergency assistance: As Dear Concerned, If your mom SAVVY SENIOR walk-in-tubs run a safety precaution, you should Great question! Because uses a shower cur- anywhere more accidents and injuries tain, install a screw Jim Miller between $2,500 also consider purchasing a happen in the bathroom than or bolt-mounted and $10,000 voice-enabled medical alert any other room in the house, curtain rod, versus a tension- installed. system like Get Safe this is a very important room mounted rod, so that if she Toilet: Most standard toi- (GetSafe.com) for her bath- to modify, especially for sen- loses her balance and grabs the lets are around 15 inches high room. This device would let iors with mobility or balance shower curtain the rod won’t and can be an issue for taller her call for help by simple problems. spring loose. seniors with arthritis, back, hip voice command, or by pushing Depending on your mom’s For easier access and safer or knee problems. If your mom a button or pulling a cord. needs and budget, here are bathing, consider getting your has trouble getting on or off You can find all of these some simple tips and product mom a shower or bathtub the toilet, a simple solution is suggested products at either recommendations that can chair so she can bathe from a to purchase a raised toilet seat medical supply stores, phar- make her bathroom safer and seated position. In addition, that clamps to the toilet bowl, macies, big-box stores, home easier to use. you should also have a hand- and/or purchase toilet safety improvement stores, hardware Floor: To avoid slipping, a held, adjustable-height show- rails that sit on each side of the and plumbing supply stores, as simple fix is to get non-skid erhead installed that makes seat for support. Or, you can well as online. bath rugs for the floors. Or if chair bathing easier. install a new ADA compliant Send your senior questions you want to put in a new floor If your mom has the budg- “comfort height” toilet that is to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, get slip-resistant tiles, rubber et for it, another good option is 16-to-19 inches high. Norman, OK 73070, or visit or vinyl flooring, or install wall- to install a curb-less shower or Faucets: If your mom has SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a to-wall carpeting. a walk-in-bathtub. Curb-less twist handles on the sink, contributor to the NBC Today Lights: Good lighting is showers have no threshold to bathtub or shower faucets, show and author of “The Savvy also very important, so install step over, and come with a consider replacing them with Senior” book. the highest wattage bulbs built-in seat, grab bars, slip lever handle faucets, or with a allowed for your mom’s bath- resistant floors and an touch, motion or digital smart room fixtures and get a plug-in adjustable handheld shower- faucet. They’re easier to oper- nightlight that automatically head. While walk-in tubs have ate, especially if she has hand turns on when the room gets a door in front that provides a arthritis or gripping problems. dark. much lower threshold to step Also note that it only takes 130- Bathtub/shower: To make over than a standard tub. They degree water to scald some- The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 8 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sonja Hicks Amell Shirley Medlin KEMPTON— Sonja Hicks Amell, 48, ents, step-mother, Amy Nelson; son, James WILMINGTON—Shirley Ann Medlin, (Steve) Miliotti, of Rainbow City, AL; of Kempton and formerly of Sanders and one brother, Curtis Nelson. 84, of Wilmington, passed away Friday, Frankie (Paula) Medlin, Mike (Brenda) Wilmington, passed away unexpected- A private family service was held Jan. 15, 2021 at Riverside Medical Medlin and Karen (Jeff) Crisp, all of ly on Jan. 11, 2021. Monday, Jan. 18, 2021 at Baskerville Center in Kankakee. Wilmington and John (Lynette) Born Dec. 30, 1972 in Joliet, Sonja Funeral Home, 700 E. Kahler Rd. in Born June 15, 1936 in Paducah, Medlin, of Elwood; 11 grandchildren Renee was a daughter of Laverne and Wilmington with Pastor Jeff Urban KY, Shirley was a daughter of T.J. and and 23 great-grandchildren; one sis- Shirley (Rogers) Nelson. She was officiating. Annie (Thweatt) Whitby. She was ter, Carlyn (Carl) Medlin, of Kentucky raised and educated in Braidwood Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery, raised and educated in Heath, KY, and and several nieces and nephews. before moving to Iowa. An avid Wilmington, where Sonja was laid to graduated from Heath High School. On Shirley was preceded in death by Steelers fan, Sonja enjoyed attending rest with her son, James. May 16, 1953, Shirley married Frankie D. her parents, her husband, Frankie, on concerts, and took pleasure in traveling, In lieu of flowers, the family requests Medlin in Corinth, MS. Sept. 14, 2020; two grandsons, William especially to Tennessee. contributions be made to support the Shirley and her husband founded the and Samuel Medlin; and her brothers and Survivors include her husband, Don Amell; funeral fund, which has been established on Prince of Peace Church in Joliet, where they sisters: Donnie Gene Allcock, Bill John (Ellen) three children: Destiny Hicks, of Kempton; Sonja’s memorial page. served their community for 45 years. She was a Allcock, Aubrey Allcock, Linda Moss, Flo Devin Hicks, of Wilmington and Madison Family and friends are encouraged to sign musician at heart, and shared her gift not only (Herbert) Hymarsh and Ruby (Scottie) Hale. Amell, of Kempton; two sisters, Sheila Hicks, of the guest book, upload photographs and share with the members of Prince of Peace Church, Private family services will be held and Tennessee and Tina Persinger, of Ohio; one Sonja’s memorial page online through social but instilled a love of music and singing in her Shirley will be laid to rest with her husband at brother, Bruce (Gail) Nelson, of Louisiana; her media by logging onto: www.Baskerville children, grandchildren and great-grandchil- Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in mother-in-law, Kathy (the late Tom) Tulley, of Funeral.com/obituary/Sonja-HicksAmell dren. Shirley had a lovely singing voice and Elwood. Florida; sisters-in-law: Linda Nelson, of Funeral services and arrangements were always had a song for any little task or chore she Family and friends are encouraged to sign Minnesota; Lorie (Gerald) Urban, of Gardner made under the direction and care of was working on. She was a wonderful baker the online guest book, upload photographs and and Lisa (Ben) Vlkojan, of Florida, and numer- Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. who loved to make pies, but her children agree share Shirley’s memorial page on social media ous nieces and nephews. that every dessert was her specialty. Ultimately, by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com Sonja was preceded in death by her par- Shirley was a devoted wife, mother and grand- Funeral services and arrangements have mother whose legacy is defined by the love and been made under the direction and care of care she had for all who knew her. Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. Survivors include her five children: Sharon Hugh Earl Cooper TEXAS—Hugh Earl Cooper, which allowed him to touch many peo- 91, of McKinney, TX, peaceful- ple’s lives. Hugh’s quick wit and humor- ly passed on Dec. 30, 2020. ous personality provided happy mem- Marilyn J. Mollan Hugh influenced scores ories for all. of people in his life, many more than Hugh was the beloved husband WILMINGTON— Marilyn J. Mollan, Scarlett, Adriana, Alexis, Cody, Katy, he could imagine. From his early sup- of Ruth Ann (Haaser) for 68 years and 95, of Wilmington, passed away Amanda, McKinleigh and Ashley, as port of his country in the military, to is survived by his children: Linda Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021. well as numerous nieces and nephews. his long career as a fair and trusted Weaver (Jeff), of Texas; Pam Brunk Born Nov. 11, 1925 in Joliet, Marilyn was preceded in death by operations executive at Canal Barge; (Jamie), of Texas; Tina Nelson (Steve), Marilyn Jayne was a daughter of Andy her parents, husband, James and one his compassion and trust brought out of Wilmington; Brian Cooper (Annie), Guy and Ruth Glen (Hocking) Burt. granddaughter, Riley; three sisters: the best in people. of Michigan; Randy Cooper (Lisa), of She was raised and educated in Joliet; Dollie (Al) Lindstrom, Dorothy (Bob) Raised in Hugo, OK, Hugh enrolled Georgia; 12 grandchildren: Jessica, Jill, graduated from Joliet Township High Stahl and Joyce (Ray) Zierman, and early in the Army to support his country and Jaclyn, Tim, Oliva, Ryan, Aaron, Josh, Kelsey, School, and went on to marry James one brother, Bud Hocking. was stationed in California. Returning to Logan, Andrea, Kiefer and 6 great-grandchil- Mollan on May 4, 1944 in the Cremation rites have been accord- Oklahoma after duty he received his high dren: Cooper, Maggie, Annabelle, Ryanne, Universalist Unitarian Church in Joliet. ed, and Marilyn will be laid to rest with school degree and subsequently attended col- Taylee, Ella. Marilyn was a member of the First her late husband Jim in Abraham Lincoln lege at Murray State College in Tishomingo, OK. The family asks donations to be made to Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, belonged National Cemetery in Elwood. In 1952 he married his true love, Ruth assist those impacted by the current pandemic to the Wilmington Garden Club, and was a for- Preferred memorials may be made as gifts Haaser, and they raised five children who all hardships. mer resident of Stough Circle. Marilyn worked in Marilyn’s memory to The Wilmington Garden have been successful in their own lives. His pro- To convey condolences or to sign an online for Johnson & Johnson Personal Products for Club. fessional career provided the opportunity to registry, visit TJMfuneral.com. several years and she and her husband Jim were Family and friends are encouraged to sign live in many areas throughout the country partners in the Joliet Yacht Club. In her free the guest book, upload photographs and share time, Marilyn enjoyed reading and sewing, and Marilyn’s memorial page online through social will be remembered for her artistry. media by logging onto: www.Baskerville Survivors include her children, William Funeral.com/obituary/Marilyn-Mollan Mollan, of Joliet and Dawn (Curtis) Fox and Cremation services and memorial arrange- Maura Dunn Jeffery Mollan (Kim Teague), both of ments have been made under the direction and Wilmington; grandchildren: Chad (Stacy) Fox, care of Baskerville Funeral Home in WILMINGTON—Maura Dumont Fox, Patrick and Blaise Doerfler, and Kevin (Carly) Fox, Jeffrey Mollan and Jennifer Wilmington. Dunn, “Peg,” 87, of Wilmington, passed great-grandchildren: Ben and Theo Mollan, and great-grandchildren: Tyler, Teagan, away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 12, Kunze, Jordan and Christian Sieger Lincoln, Parker, Birdie, Caitlyn, Brianna, Ryan, 2021 at Sunny Hill Nursing Home in and Charlie Russell, Cole Hedrick, Joliet. Ben and Lucy Hedrick, Patrick and Born March 29, 1933 in Roberts, Blaise Doerfler, Noah Bagdon, and IL, Maura Jean was a daughter of Cecil Melody and Hadley Collett. R. and Laura J. (Campbell) Bryant. She Peg was preceded in death by her Judith A. Plese worked for the Joliet Army parents, first husband, Raymond Ammunition Plant, and later gained Dumont; son, Tom Dumont; one WILMINGTON—Judith A. Plese, 82, ment life of lovingly restoring and then employment with Johnson & Johnson brother, Bud (Ruth) and one sister, Mary of Wilmington, passed away at her home maintaining her family's home, travel- Personal Products. Peg was a member of St. Jo. early on the morning of Jan. 12, 2021. ing the U.S. and abroad, and most Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington, and in Private family services were held at Born in Kankakee on Aug. 13, 1938 especially visiting her children and addition to reading; playing bingo and scrab- Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington on to James and Ellen Benson, Judy lived grandchildren, all of whom she ble, she also enjoyed playing cards and pressing Friday, Jan. 15, 2021 with Deacon Jay Plese from first in Ashkum before moving to adored. her luck with the lottery. Peg took pleasure in St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington presid- Wilmington in the mid 1940's. Judy was a woman of so many writing poetry, often referencing her greatest ing. Possessing a sharp mind and an unfail- talents but she will be remembered hobby, which was family. Throughout the years, Burial was in Mount Olivet Catholic ing memory, Judy was a natural student most for her grace, abundance of she cherished attending her grandchildren’s Cemetery in Wilmington. who attended the Brookside School, St. kindness and the unwavering love and activities. Preferred memorials may be made as gifts Rose School and Booth Central before support she gave to her husband, her Survivors include her children: Terry L. in Peg’s memory to Kuzma Care Cottage, 635 S. graduating in 1956 from Wilmington High children and to her extended family and (Larry) Kunze, of Joliet; Dean M. Dumont, of Main St., Wilmington, IL 60481. School. Judy then went on to attend the friends. Judy was a genuinely kind, nurturing, Cambodia; Kathy (Steve) Hedrick, of Custer Family and friends are encouraged to sign University of Illinois for one year before begin- loving, patient soul, she was truly an angel Park; Bonnie (Tim) Fox, of Joliet; Patrick J. the guest book, upload photographs and share ning work at the Joliet Arsenal as a secretary. among us. Without her beautiful light, the (Barb) Dumont, of Elwood and Mary Ellen Peg’s memorial page online through social On New Year's Eve 1957, fate stepped in world is truly a little darker and colder. Her fam- (John) Hedrick, of Custer Park; grandchildren: media by logging onto: www. Baskerville and Judy attended a party where she would ily's consolation is that she is once again reunit- Aaron (Morgan) Kunze, Missy Kunze, Rebecca Funeral.com/obituary/MauraPeg-Dunn meet her future husband, Dean E. Plese. That ed with her husband and son, both of whom (Evan) Russell, Erica (Nick) Doerfler, Josh Funeral services and arrangements were evening, Judy and Dean began a love affair last- she deeply mourned. Hedrick, Jason Collett, Seth (Kyla) Hedrick, made under the direction and care of ing more than 60 years. They married in She is survived by her children: Dean Brett (Phillipe Osorio) Hedrick, Brian Hedrick Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. Wilmington on Sept. 5, 1959. They raised their (Stacy), of Wilmington; David (Angela), of (fiance Jackie Flint), Maura Fox and Stephanie family first in Wilmington and later in Upstate Knoxville, TN; Martin (Maureen), of New York when Dean's job moved the family Wilmington; Maria, of Vineyard Haven, MA and there in 1984. Eric (Christine), of Poughkeepsie, NY; her son- During their long and successful marriage, in-law, Gabriel Rodriguez; her brothers, Joseph Dean was the breadwinner while Judy ran the (the late Melanie) and Jim (Sue), her beloved Wilfred Hall house and primarily devoted herself to raising grandchildren, her in-laws, as well as many their six children. She was the ultimate sup- nieces, nephews, and cousins all of whom she BRAIWOOD—Wilfred Neil Hall, Douglas (Tammie) Hall and Vicky portive mother. Judy could almost always be loved. “Neil,” 84, of Braidwood, passed away (Kenneth) Keith, both of Braidwood; found in the kitchen -- her "office" -- but she Judy was predeceased by her husband of 60 peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 at daughter-in-law, Eva Hall, of Seneca; somehow always found the time to attend her years, Dean E. Plese, in June 2020 and her son, his home. seven grandchildren: Amanda (Dale) children's school and sporting events and later Anthony in October 2020. Born Nov. 15, 1936 in Carbon Hill, Davidson, of Coal City; Matthew her grandchildren's. She volunteered in sup- A private family Mass of Christian Burial Neil was the son of Erned and Katie (Tricia) Hall, of Coal City; Neil (Kelsie) port of St. Rose School, the parish as a whole was held on Monday, Jan. 18, 2021 at St. Rose (Starks) Hall. He was raised in Carbon Hall, of Seneca; Ashley (Brian) Oest, of and the Kuzma Care Cottage in addition to sup- Catholic Church in Wilmington. Hill and Braceville, until his family Rockford; Mackenzie (Ryan) Gregoire, porting almost anything involving her chil- Interment was private at Abraham Lincoln moved to Braidwood where he would of Springfield; Delanie (TJ) Giffin, of dren's interests. She was never too busy for her National Cemetery in Elwood immediately fol- graduate from Reed-Custer High Boone, IA and Cameron Keith (Koltin family and she gave of herself unconditionally lowing the funeral. School with the class of 1954. On June 21, Powell), of Coal City; 17 great-grandchil- from the time she said "I do" on her wedding In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you 1958 Neil married Adeline Josephine Baber dren: Kilen and Cambree Davidson, Caleb day. please tell your loved ones what they mean to at the Custer Park Baptist Church. He worked and Emersyn Hall, Grady, Atley, Waveland and When their children grew older, Judy began you. Donations in Judy's memory may be made on the family farm, and later owned and oper- Maxwell Hall; Bryson and Romi Oest, Brooks working in a series of administrative roles that to Kuzma Care Cottage at 635 S. Main St., ated Hall Plumbing and Heating for over 20 and Beckham Gregoire, Ryker, Bennett, included working for various legal offices, the Wilmington, IL 60481, an organization that Judy years. Neil then gained employment with the Maddux and Remi Giffin, and Vivianne Keith- U.S. Post Office as well as running the advertis- dearly loved and supported. Reed-Custer School District on the mainte- Powell and sister-in-law, Lois Hall. ing department of a marketing firm in New Funeral services and arrangements were nance staff, and worked there until his retire- Neil was preceded in death by his parents, York. Upon returning to Wilmington for good in made under the direction and care of ment in 2000. his son, Gregory Dean Hall, as well as Patrick 1999, Judy and Dean settled into a post-retire- Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington He was a member of the Braidwood Clark, who was like a son to Neil, and his sib- Recreation Club where he served as a board lings: Ellwyn Duain Hall, Ronald Dean member, and loved to camp there and other (Frances) Hall, Gordon Stephen Hall and Edna sites when his family would go on vacations. Ernadine (Dominic) Zandi. Neil also served as a school board member, and A private family service was held Sunday, in his spare time loved to spend time in Jan. 17, 2021 at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 David F.Sears Sr. “Grandpa’s Work Shop” woodworking. He had a E. Kahler Rd., in Wilmington with Pastor Nick WILMINGTON— David F. and brother-in-law, Phillip Schwartz. talent for solving problems and figuring out Sandeno officiating. Sears Sr., 77, of Wilmington, Per David’s wishes, cremation rites how things work, or the ability to make what he Following the services, cremation rites will passed away peacefully Jan. have been accorded. needed to complete a project. Neil maintained be accorded and Neil will be laid to rest at 12, 2021 at his home sur- The family will receive friends for a meticulous lawn and was always willing to Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. rounded by family. a COVID observant memorial visita- help someone keep their yard looking neat. He Preferred memorials may be made as gifts Born May 31, 1943 in Albany, NY, tion at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 N. was a proud owner of a 1989 Chevrolet in Neil’s memory to: Uplifted Care, 482 Main St. David Franklin was a son of David Broadway, one block north of IL Silverado that was his baby, and he kept it in NW, Bourbonnais, IL 60914. Franklin and Margaret Julia (Pierce) Route 113 in Coal City on Wednesday, near-mint condition. Family and friends are encouraged to sign Sears. He honorably served in the Jan. 20, 2021 from 3 until 6 p.m. A Neil was a devoted family man who lived the online guest book, upload photographs, United States Navy, and on June 13, 1970 memorial service will follow. for spending time with his family. He was a lov- and share Neil’s memorial page by logging onto: went on to marry MaryAnne Kelly. Those wishing to participate in the ing husband, father, and grandfather, and www.BaskervilleFuneral.com One who enjoyed sports, David fol- memorial service virtually are welcome to leaves behind a legacy of dedication to those Funeral services and cremation arrange- lowed the Chicago Bears, as well as Notre Dame join the live stream on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021 whom he loved. ments have been made under the direction and and the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed nature, had beginning at 6 p.m. A link for the event will be Survivors include his wife of 62 years, care of Baskerville Funeral Home in nautical interests and just enjoyed being out- available on David’s memorial page. Adeline Hall, of Braidwood; two children, Wilmington. doors. Family and friends are encouraged to sign Survivors include his wife, Mary A. Sears; the guest book, upload photographs and share son, David Franklin Sears Jr. (Jennie); daughter, David’s memorial page online through social Christine Anne Sears-Williams (Clifton); grand- media by logging onto: www. Reeves daughter, Madison Alayjah Williams; grand- Funeral.com/obituary/David-SearsSr Mayo Post to observe 75th anniversary sons: Kordell Elijah Williams and Quintyn David Cremation services and memorial arrange- Williams; one sister, Connie Schwartz and ments have been made under the direction and Malcolm J. Mayo VFW There will be food served giveaways throughout the day. numerous nieces and nephews. care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Coal City. Post 5422 in Wilmington is from 1 - 5 p.m. for members The VFW is located at 557 W. David was preceded in death by his par- observing its 75th anniversary and the public with entertain- ents, son, John Brian Sears; brother, Jack Sears with a party on Saturday, Jan. ment from 8-11 p.m. Baltimore St., Wilmington and 23. There will be prizes and is open to the public. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 9 COVID-19's positive Edward Wilkins ESSEX—Edward Eugene Wilkins, 67, M. (Jeanine) Wilkins, of Frankfort, IL; of Essex, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 12, Patrick R. (Nicole) Wilkins, of Wheaton, impact on the flu 2021 at Edwards Hospital in Naperville, IL and Clint (Elizabeth) Wilkins, of IL. Braidwood; eight grandchildren: cies.” testing might increase almost Born July 31, 1953 in Richland Eddie, Dakota, Skylar, Amber, Joshua, Low flu numbers That’s not all. While more proportionate to COVID test- Center, WI, he was a son of Edward Elijah, Magdalyn and Nolan; three due to safety people are vigilant about get- ing, but the number of positive Earl and Jean Marie (nee Himes) siblings: Robert (Gwen) Wilkins, of ting the flu vaccine this season, cases come back for flu are Wilkins. Edward graduated from Joliet Zellwood, FL; Debra (Paul) Merzlock, precautions people are also washing their unprecedentedly low. Have I West High School with the class of of Joliet and Kirk (Sheila) Wilkins, of As COVID-19 exploded hands, social distancing, wear- seen flu cases in my office, yes? 1971. He retired from the Braidwood Braidwood and numerous nieces, ing masks and traveling less Would I say weekly, no? Nuclear Generating Station after 30 years nephews, and their families. last year, the seasonal flu did an about face, dropping off sig- due to COVID-19 – all impor- Perhaps on average once a of employment. Edward was a former elder Funeral services were held at the R.W. tant factors in the drop in flu month at least in one small at the Shepherd of Peace Lutheran Church in Patterson Funeral Home and Crematory, nificantly compared to past years. cases. Another contributing office like mine.” Braidwood and a current member of the River Braidwood on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021. Cremation factor is children learning from Moving forward, Dr. Zaidi of Life Lutheran Church- Missouri-Synod in rites were accorded following services. The numbers are telling. For example, in the third week home rather than the class- hopes the steps people are tak- Channahon, IL. Memorial donations in his name to the room. Flu typically starts with ing this flu season is a sign of of December 2019, the Centers He was an avid fisherman, duck hunter, River of Life Lutheran Church or the American children. things to come. for Disease Control and and overall was a great outdoors man. After Cancer Society would be appreciated. “Typically immunization “When we start to value Prevention (CDC) network of retirement he enjoyed working at the South For more information and to visit his rates increase around our health day to day and we Wilmington Sportsman Club and volunteering online guestbook, log on to www.rwpatterson- clinical labs reported 16.2% of November to December and start to worry about our vul- at the youth hunts and many other activities funeralhomes.com. almost 30,000 samples tested that’s been the case this year as nerable whether it’s our chil- they offered. R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory, positive for influenza A. well," said Zaidi. "However we dren or our parents, we tend to Surviving are his beloved wife of 48 years, 401 E. Main St., Braidwood was in charge of During the same period in see flu cases rise post-holiday make more sound, knowledge- Barbara Leah (nee Rudd) Wilkins, of Essex, who arrangements. 2020, only .3% tested positive. season. Right when people are able decisions and part of that he married July 15, 1972 at the St. Peters In another example, dur- getting back from the holiday, decision is making sure your Lutheran Church in Joliet; three sons: Edward ing the last week of December family gatherings – January, preventative care is met and 2019, the Winnebago County February is when we’re usually that includes vaccinations.” Health Department in harder hit.” Dr. Zaidi adds that this is Rockford, IL, reported 198 Flu is a contagious respi- no time to let our guard down. cases in Winnebago County. ratory illness caused by “Flu season continues and Dora Wilson During that same time period influenza viruses that infect we will see pattern of peak in 2020, there was one case of the nose, throat, and some- after the holiday season. It’s BRAIDWOOD—Dora (Heck) Wilson, dren, two brothers, Arthur (Carol) Heck, influenza. times the lungs. It can cause the utmost importance that we 80, of Braidwood, and formerly of of Lafayette, IN and Larry Heck, of One of the major reasons mild to severe illness, and pos- continue to vaccinate and get Wilmington, passed away Friday, Jan. 8, Wilmington; three sisters: Mary Ruth is the number of flu vaccines sibly death. The best way to your flu shot, typically the vul- 2021 at her home. (the late Charles “Bud”) Bullock and being distributed. According to prevent flu is by getting a nerable – the younger and the Born Jan. 19, 1940 in Wilmington, Betty Marlene (the late Herbert) the CDC, 192.3 million doses flu vaccine. elderly – and we all hope and Dora Ellen was a daughter of Arthur J. Akins, both of Wilmington and of flu vaccine have been dis- “Typically, fevers, cough, pray that we will continue to and Alpha (Sitter) Heck. She was raised Joanna (Glen) Schwartz, of Hiawatha, tributed as of Dec. 25. That’s colds, runny nose, are on our be safe from whatever ails us and educated in Wilmington and IA and sister-in-law, Sandy Heck, of the highest number of flu radar all the time now," said as a society.” attended the Wilmington schools. Dora Joliet, as well as numerous nieces and doses distributed in the U.S. Zaidi. "I think the number of worked for many years as a school bus nephews. during a single influenza sea- driver for the Gardner South Wilmington Dora was preceded in death by her son. School District. She was a member of parents, son, Orman Heafner; sister, Anna “Flu cases have been sig- Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Heck and brother, John Heck. nificantly down this year. We Braidwood and enjoyed quilting and crochet- Cremation rites have been accorded and anticipated that, but we pre- ing. In her free time, Dora took pleasure in Dora will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet pared for the worst," said Dr. 209-U lunch menu tending to her vegetable garden, canning and Catholic Cemetery in Wilmington with her par- Syed Zaidi, of OSF HealthCare. fishing. ents. "The important message of Mon., Jan. 25: sweet & choice of milk Survivors include her husband, Daniel Family and friends are encouraged to sign getting your vaccination for sour chicken, veggie rice, Thurs., Jan. 28: cheese Wilson, of Braidwood; four children: Tina the guest book, upload photographs and share the flu was high priority in cookie, pineapple and choice tortellini, green beans, garlic Hendrex, of Coal City; Terry (the late Gerald) Dora’s memorial page online through social communities. The numbers of milk toast, applesauce and choice Champion, of Paducah, KY; Duane Hendrex, of media by logging onto: www.Baskerville that have been down have Tues., Jan. 26: hot dog on of milk Braidwood and Bryan (Lori) Hendrex, of Funeral.com/obituary/Dora-Wilson been largely due to the num- bun, nacho & cheese, baby Fri., Jan. 29: popcorn Morris; seven grandchildren: Lee Heafner, Stacy Green flameless cremation services and ber of vaccinations through carrots, mandarin oranges in shrimp, corn, biscuit, pineap- Burt, Michael Esparza, Jeremy Esparza, Nathan memorial arrangements have been made community healthcare sys- jell-o and choice of milk ple and choice of milk Esparza, Renae Champion Mariner and under the direction and care of Baskerville tems and community pharma- Wed., Jan. 27: 2 tacos, Daily milk choices are fat Brandon Hendrex; numerous great-grandchil- Funeral Home in Wilmington. refried beans, salsa, pears and free milk and 1% white milk. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 10 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM What winter sport athletes are doing to adapt Dear EarthTalk: Given the exis- cover in these regions since the winter sports annually, gener- pillars of Olympic Agenda tential threat to their industry, 1970s. ating $20.3 billion dollars in 2020. what are ski resorts, gear mak- “Warmer winter tempera- the winter sports tourism Last but not least, Protect ers and professional skiers and tures also affect the character- industry. This industry sup- snowboarders doing to fight istics of accumulated snow on ports over 191,000 jobs. Our Winters (POW) has been a global warming? So, what's the industry huge player in pushing for cli- -- J. Simms, Rutland, VT doing to address these mate action. “We find things in changes? deep winter or at high altitude It's undeniable that cli- The National Ski Areas mate change has been affect- Association (NSAA) has taken elevations that we don't find ing and continues to threaten on global warming via its anywhere else, that speak very the winter sports and tourism Climate Challenge program. directly to our connection to industries. Colder regions Promoting education around nature and to the human around the world are experi- global climate change, creat- soul...” POW' executive direc- encing a steady decline in ing more sustainable slopes, snowfall and snowy months. and furthering outdoor busi- tor, Mario Molina, tells Yale In the classic tale of ness climate partnerships. Climate Connections. POW Frosty the Snowman, Frosty Winter sports athletes rallies athletes, scientists, busi- promises to come back next the ground, including snow have also been advocating for ness leaders and others to winter when the cold returns. depth, how long the snow stays climate action. Before the 2014 But as global average tempera- on the ground, and snow Winter Olympics, 75 decorated advocate for policies that pro- tures continue to climb, will 'slushiness,'” reports the group Olympic skiing and snow- tect climate and has resources Frosty keep coming back? Protecting Our Winters (POW) boarding medalists wrote to for advocacy, education, The SNOTEL network has in a report produced in con- President Obama calling for donating and volunteering. kept detailed records of snow junction with gear retailer more ambitious action on cli- EarthTalk® is a 501(c)3 at high elevations since the Recreational Equipment, Inc. mate change; they continue to 1960s. Based on their data, sci- (REI). Of course, more slushi- advocate for climate action to nonprofit EarthTalk. See more entists have determined a 10- ness and less powder are not this day. Additionally, “sustain- at https://emagazine.com.Send SKIERS MIGHT NOT have any snow left to ski on if we can't get 20 percent average loss in the ideal for winter sports enthusi- ability” was recently questions to: question@earth- global warming under control right quick. annual maximum snow water asts. announced as one of the three talk.org. equivalent (the amount of Whether it's skiing, snow- water stored in snow packs) boarding or just rolling around during that time because of in the snow, there are many of global warming. They have activities that rely on the cold. also recorded a one-to-two- One study found that 20 mil- week loss in days with snow lion Americans participate in Joliet Junior College flips switch on new campus solar system Joliet Junior College has able to realize cost-savings officially elevated its sustain- from day one without any ability footprint with the acti- upfront capital needed to pay vation of its 1.3 megawatt for the system, and showcase (MW) onsite solar system at to its student body what good Main Campus. environmental stewardship The solar array, which looks like,” said Liz consists of 3,542 solar panels, Reddington, director of project was installed by national solar development at Pivot Energy. developer Pivot Energy and Pundaleeka hopes the will save the college more than solar array will inspire future $1.6 million in electricity generations to pursue careers expenses over 25 years. in clean energy and convey the Over the life of the solar importance of sustainability to system, it is estimated to pro- all campus visitors. duce 61,836,250 kWh of clean “It is phenomenal to see and reliable electricity, enough this project completed. This energy to power more than gives a very distinct and pro- 5,000 Illinois homes. JJC is gressive look to the campus,” expected to offset its total Pundaleeka said. “JJC will be in energy consumption by 22.5%, sound economic state without making the campus one of the SOAKING UP THE SUN The more than 3,500 solar panels activat- the escalating energy costs.” greenest in the state. ed at Joliet Junior College are located just east of Main Campus. Since 2000, JJC has com- The panels were provided The solar array could power more than 5,000 homes. pleted over 50 sustainability by retired Joliet oncologist Dr. projects, including opening Sarode Pundaleeka with multiple LEED certified build- Sunlarge Industries. Over the tices since our first college values, but we are ready to take ings. In addition to the solar SUDOKU - Here’s how it works: first 10 years, JJC will pay a campus was completed in the this to the next level, support- project, a pollinator habitat Soduko puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a reduced rate for the energy early 1970s," Dr. Judy Mitchell, ing renewable energy and mixture will be planted around 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 generated by the panels, after JJC's president, said. "Not only building academic and train- the panels using native grasses numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more which they will be donated to are we grateful for Dr. ing opportunities around it." and forbs, which will support numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle. the college. Pundeleeka's investment in “Thanks to the gracious bee and butterfly habitats and "JJC has consistently our institution and sustainable Dr. Pundaleeka, the college is aid in drought and stormwater invested in sustainable prac- mitigation. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, page 11

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Coalers start practices Monday but Wildcats, Comets will have to wait BY SHAWN LONG days for spring and summer “We usually practice 5-6 even stay motivated. I really a schedule at a time when what sports they play and why SPORTS WRITER sports can also begin. days a week under normal cir- feel for my athletes and all IHSA schools are unable to sports are important to them. “What that means for us is cumstances so this has been other athletes that just want to conduct any sports,” com- A Reed-Custer High The good news for Coal the basketball and cheer teams tough,” added Bejlovec. “Prior be able to compete and play mented executive director School mom Stacy Clement, City High School is that their will get to have priority.” to that week, we had been the sports they love.” Craig Anderson. “...February who has three student-ath- cheerleading, boys and girls The spring sports now practicing a couple days per Both coaches will be seems like a realistic timeline letes, was encouraging all high basketball teams can start includes football, volleyball week since summer and enjoy- tuned in on Wednesday, Jan. to have sports resume school athletes to make videos. practicing on Monday. and boys soccer. The seasons ing some fun games, activities 27th for the board meeting statewide. We expect that the Reed-Custer sophomore Halie The bad news is will run from February 15 to and contests to keep up the when the Illinois High School events of the next two weeks LaGrange and senior Maddie Wilmington and Reed-Custer May 1. team spirit and unity.” Association will hopefully will go a long way toward McPherson among other ath- still have to wait. The summer sports con- Bejlovec says the girls have devise a schedule for the rest of informing our opinion on letes, have been spreading the On Monday, Region 2 sisting of baseball, softball, been working hard and just the school year. which scheduling option we word in tweets on Twitter. which includes Grundy track & field, girls soccer and want a chance to showcase That will hopefully also decide to proceed with. We rec- “I genuinely hope our gov- County, dropped to Tier 1 miti- boys tennis (CC only) will be their skills. clear a path for Wilmington ognize that if no sports have ernor realizes how much he gations while Reed-Custer and held from April 19 to June 26. “The girls attended tum- and Reed-Custer basketball resumed by February, season has taken away from the stu- Wilmington, in Region 7, “The main thing for us is bling classes in the fall as well,” teams, who are itching to get lengths could be impacted in dents of Illinois,” said remain under tier 3 restric- we get to open up our weight commented Bejlovec. “They back on the court. certain sports, and that we McPherson in tweet. “The sen- tions. room again with the capacity learned a ton of game material Right now, basketball may need to take a longer look iors have waited all these years According to CCHS of 25 after school and before to be ready whenever those teams within Tier 3 mitigations at the likelihood of true sea- to enjoy our last year of high Athletic Director Dan school. So we’ll get our kids seasons take place.” are not allowed to compete or sons being conducted in high- school but we have to be more Hutchings and Principal Chris back in there to give them the As for Reed-Custer cheer- practice. risk sports this year. focused on keeping our masks Spencer, they’ll be moving for- acclimation of getting back leading coach Lexi Stewart, it’s Once the Wildcats and “Our overall goal remains above our nose rather than ward on Monday. into shape for their sports.” same story, different tune. Comets move to Tier 2, they unchanged, as we hope to con- planning a bright future.” “Competitive cheer and Since Reed-Custer and “We have been able to will be able to practice team duct all IHSA sports during the A Facebook group ‘Illinois competitive dance are allowed Wilmington remain at Tier 3, meet with an individual athlete training drills with no contact. remainder of the school year High School Sports Central’ to start practicing immediate- nothing will begin. for about 20-30 minutes at a Then, once they reach Tier 1 calendar. Please know that we that was started by Kevin ly,” said Hutchings. “Same Wilmington cheer coach time,” said Stewart. “We’ve where Coal City is, they’ll be see and read many of the com- Dennis, will be holding a thing for boys and girls basket- Jeannine Bejlovec says her girls done some conditioning, allowed to practice and scrim- ments and messages from stu- peaceful Let Us Play march in ball which is a higher risk have been doing what they’ve stretching, jumps and tum- mages. There will still be no dent-athletes, coaches, and Springfield, IL on Saturday, sport. With parental consent been allowed to do and that bling. It’s hard to do anything contests or scrimmages parents, and that we are doing Jan. 30 at 1:30 p.m. they actually can go to close hasn’t been much. cheer related since we aren’t against other schools. everything we can to try and Stacy tweeted about the guarding and intrasquad “Since Nov. 20th, we have able to practice as a team.” Time is ticking for sports bring IHSA sports back within rally this past Saturday inviting scrimmaging but no competi- had a few virtual workouts The frustration is setting in Illinois. If the IHSA doesn’t the current parameters we are others: “Students, athletes, tion as of yet. The dance and prior to winter break,” said in and she just wants Reed- make a decision for a schedule working in.” parents, fans & coaches, join us cheer teams can compete but Bejlovec. “And it’s been one day Custer to get back to some type next Wednesday, the chance A hashtag campaign on Jan. 30, 8 a.m. in Top Fuel park- the issue is Region 5 in south- per week with athletes coming of normalcy. All this change is for basketball might be unlike- Twitter,ing lot at 275 S. Hickory St. to ern Illinois is the only other in to tumble for 10 minutes killing spirit. ly. ‘#HearOurVoiceIllinois’ allows drive down to the rally in region in Tier 1 so no competi- each.” “This season has been just “We realize there is a student-athletes the chance to Springfield. Everyone is wel- tions locally. Still, we’re allowed Bejlovec says that is a big so up and down with the rules desire for finality on a sports make their voices heard by come #HearOurVoiceIllinois.” to practice so we’ll get our kids change as the girls would nor- and regulations,” commented schedule for 2020-21, however, sending videos to the governor involved that way.” mally be in practicing almost Stewart. “It has been so hard to we did not believe it would be and other state officials, telling Starting Monday contact every day. keep up and some times to prudent to lock ourselves into them what school their from,

Comets would put up a good fight during dream team wrestling matches BY SHAWN LONG on Joey Rivera (43-4). Lyons Drew Vickers (35-11) from Coal SPORTS WRITER was a state champion at Reed- City, who placed fourth in Custer and a runner-up for 2004. Based on accomplish- If a wrestling match of Wilmington in 2012. Rivera ments, Conley (37-3) would dream team opponents was was a state champion as well win. held between Coal City, Reed- so the match would come The next matchup is two- Custer and Wilmington, it down to the wire with Lyons time state champion Billy would need to be held in a big- the victor. Chancey, who went 151-17 at ger venue than the RCHS gym. At 120, Comet Steve Reed-Custer, against 1981 third Simply, there’d be a over- Rosenberg (35-7), who placed place medalist Rob Murphy Sr. whelming number of fans who third at state, would fall to two- (coach at Wilmington High would show up from all three time state champion Cody School). Numbers thought schools. Minnick (48-1). Chancey would win pretty But in this case the stage Jake Sinkular, who quali- handily, winning two titles in for a dream team wrestling fied for state in 1999, is next to high school. Murphy Sr. ( is match is hypothetical as this take the mat for the Comets at good but only managed third week we’re pairing many of the 126. Opposing him is three- in high school. best wrestlers from all three time state placer and state At 182, the Comets sent schools on paper. champion Corey Jurzak from out two-time state qualifier Reed-Custer Middle Coal City. Jurzak would win Noah Curl against two-time School wrestling coach Yale this match being a state cham- state champion Daniel Jezik Davis helped with drafting a pion. from Coal City. Based on wrestling lineup. The rest is At 132, Ron Housman (34- accomplishments, Jezik (57-1) based on actual achievements 7), who placed fourth in 1997 would win handily. because there's no way some- at 119 pounds, wrestled up to When asked, Curl was very one could subjectively call a face the four-time state place excited about the hypothetical winner unless the two had winner and 2019 state champi- match and thinks it would be a faced each other in the past. on Alex Friddle (53-0) in a best little bit closer than the num- With some of these matchups, on best match. Friddle has the bers show. wrestlers weren't even born edge being a state champion “I think it'd be a good when others became champi- and a four-time state placer. match for sure,” said Curl. ons. With two wins in the first “Daniel is a really strong guy Reed-Custer started with a four, the Comets turn to 1996 but I think if we took it the first of two dual team runner-up at 135, Don Hall whole match, I'd be close for matchups against Coal City. (37-6), squaring off against sure. He'd probably go for a File Photo The Comet vs. Coaler dream two-time state champion Mike quick double or a sweep but REED-CUSTER’S Billy Chancey would go 2-0 in two wrestling dream team matches against team match heavily favored Friddle (33-2-1) at 138. I'm confident I'd be able to get Coal City but Reed-Custer Numbers suggest Friddle out in the event I got on bot- Wilmington and Coal City’s 170-pound wrestlers. would have a chance in a cou- would win over Hall in a close tom. I feel like my cardio ple weight classes. loss. throughout the match would Starting at 106, it would be At 145, Reed-Custer sent be my advantage for sure.” sidering I'm still wrestling,” champion Trent Lyons at 113. 2007 state champion Josh Coal City Middle School out the three-time state quali- He was actually entertain- said Jezik. “But I know him per- There's no way to call this one Peters. Based on their records, wrestling coach Branden fier and 1993 state runner-up ing the fact of making it hap- sonally and he's quite the hard as they were both talented Wilmington has this one with Petersen against former Coal Donovan Marschner (37-3) pen. With Jezik in Oklahoma at worker and if it did happen, wrestlers. The only way would Peters state championship but City two-time state champion against Coal City's two-time Oklahoma State University and he'd definitely do everything be Lyons has a state champi- Spiker was no pushover. It'd be Todd Combes. And based on state champ John Odeen (35- Curl in Texas finishing up his he could to even out the slate. onship and Jones doesn't. a strength on strength battle their accomplishments alone, 0).With the two state titles basic training for the Air Force, But back in our prime years of At 120, Steve Rosenberg, with Peters edging him out. Combes would win. The two under his belt, numbers sug- it's possible they could have a high school, I think it would who was a third place medalist The next match is going to battled each other in 1997 dur- gest John Odeen would win. match. probably be a little more inter- in 2011, was the chosen be Reed-Custer's first-ever esting because I wasn't in very wrestler. Murph countered state champion, Conley ing the 113-pound state cham- At 152, Coal City has “I'd love it,” commented good shape and I know he Rosenberg with three-time against Rob Murphy Jr., who pionship. Combes won it with Chase Odeen (39-1), a state Curl. “...let's make it happen.” was.” state placer Jack Narine. won the state title in 2005. This an 11-2 major decision so champion, step out onto to the Jezik agrees he'd like to see Next up for the Comets According to accomplish- match was 50/50 but in the that's a small sample size but mat to face 2000 runner-up it happen but thinks it might was 2011 fourth place medalist ments, Rosenberg has the edge end, Murphy Jr. was the only based on that statistic, Combes Joey Spiker (37-4). Chase go differently now. It might Zach Boyer at 195 pounds. He in this match. Narine is still a Wildcat to capture nine state would win. would win but Spiker would have been a closer match in bumped up two classes to very tough wrestler who won't medals while Conley had his Next up is Reed-Custer's make it close. high school. match up with state champion go down without a fight. state title so Murphy (38- 2011 state champion Trent Reed-Custer's first-ever “Well, if it were to happen Riley Kauzlaric. State champi- Next up at 126, Reed- 1)would win in a brawl. Lyons (38-4) at 113 against state champion Jay Conley right now, I'd like to think I'd on Kauzlaric would have the Custer has state qualifier The next matchup is two- Coal City's 2016 state champi- would oppose super tough win by a decent margin con- edge here. Sinkular to face-off against time state champion Chancey At 220, Comet Billy two-time state champion and against Wilmington's first ever Waliczek, who didn't make it to four-time state placer Johnny state champion Chris Nugent state because he had a tough Van Duyne. Van Duyne would (34-5) at 170. It'd be a win for class of wrestlers, won the win big based on his overall Chancey, who won it twice and regional at 215 in 1994. He was record and state success. Van placed second his sophomore set to oppose 2019 fourth place Duyne was 170-10 in high year. medalist Gage Leake. Leake school. Reed-Custer would send (41-8) would be declared the At 132, Reed-Custer would out Matt Kuchar who made it winner based on his accom- sending out 1997 fourth place to state at 171 pounds. plishments. They are both finisher Ron Housman against Wilmington's Steve Liaromatis good wrestlers but Waliczek 1990 130-pound state champi- would be his opponent and never made it to state. on Stormy Tidmore. In the end, have the edge based on their At 275, Matt Mathena, Tidmore wins. records. who placed third at the heavy- Next onto the mat at 138 At 220, Waliczek against weight division in 1999, would pounds was Reed-Custer's 2005 undefeated state champi- face a familiar foe in Jack 1996 runner-up Don Hall on Tony Vercelli, who would Leffler. Mathena (34-4) was against Wilmington's 2007 have Waliczek's number from good but Leffler (38-0) was bet- state champion Vince Vercelli. the get-go. ter. Numbers suggest Leffler Numbers suggest Vercelli Based on both their would wear down Mathena. He would handily beat Hall based accomplishments, 1999 third was just too good being a on his state championship tro- place medalist Matt Mathena three-time state placer and phy to Hall's runner-up but and 2013 third place medalist 1998 state champion. like a lot of these matches, it for Wilmington Derrick Coal City's dream team wouldn't be a blowout. Romano, would have a match was tough and Wilmington's The next match was going down to the wire. doesn't get any easier even to be Reed-Custer's 1998 state Unfortunately, that match is though Reed-Custer could win runner-up Donovan too close to call. a couple different weight class- Marschner against While it's fun to make es. Wilmington's 2008 state cham- decisions based on hypotheti- In the first match, Wildcat pion Jake Murphy at 145 cal matches, it'd be even more Steve Marshall, the 1978 state pounds. Even though fun to see the real thing. As of champion at 105, would face Marschner was a very talented now, high school wrestling has Reed-Custer’s Petersen. wrestler in his own right, been moved to the summer Marshall (38-3) would win but Murphy was a state champion season which starts April 19 for that doesn't mean it wouldn't who captured the title winning practices. What’s unknown is if be close. knocking off a two-time state it will be considered a high risk After that, two-time run- champ that year. sport and be delay or canceled ner-up Alex Jones (34-5) from At 152 pounds, Reed- due to the pandemic mitiga- Wilmington would meet for- Custer would have 2002 run- tion. mer teammate 2010 state ner-up Joey Spiker to oppose