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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2021 | A FREE PRESS NEWSPAPER Unit 1 stakeholders outline traits sought in next superintendent
BY ANN GILL as provided open feedback. dates. and instructional program conducive “IT’S NOT A SCIENTIFIC EDITOR “We actually got a very good What the survey found is that com- to student learning and staff profes- SURVEY AS I HAD response given it was the holiday munity and staff members are on the sional growth. Someone who insures INDICATED RIGHT UP Over 400 individuals completed an beak,” said Alan Molby, who has been same page when it comes to the char- the management of the organization, on-line survey seeking community assigned by the IASB to work with the acteristics they seek in a school leader. operation and resources for a safe effi- FRONT, BUT IT BASICALLY input to aid the Unit 1 Board of district. The survey presented 15 charac- cient learning environment. A person GIVES STAKEHOLDERS A “It’s not a scientific survey as I had teristics and respondents were asked to who collaborates with faculty and com- Education in its search for a new super- CHANCE FOR SOME INPUT intendent. indicated right up front, but it basically select their top five, and those five were munity members, responds to diverse The Illinois Association of School gives stakeholders a chance for some the traits/skills both groups say the community interest and need, and INTO THE PROCESS AT THE Boards [IASB] administrated the survey input into the process at the beginning next superintendent should have. mobilizes community resources. BEGINNING AND IT GIVES and it gives you as a board a kind of Molby reported the majority of And, what is likely the most impor- that provided the Board of Education YOU AS A BOARD A KIND with a community and staff perspective reading of what stakeholders are think- respondents say the educational lead- tant trait, an educational leader who of the qualities they want to see in the ing,” Molby said in presenting the sur- ers should be one who, “promotes the acts with integrity, fairness and in an OF READING OF WHAT district’s next leader. vey results at the board’s Jan. 6 meeting. success of every student by facilitating ethical manner. STAKEHOLDERS ARE He added, people like being asked the development, articulation, and “I have to tell you that fifth one is The survey was open for about THINKING.” three weeks in the month of December, for some input into this process. implementation and stewardship of a usually one of the top, because that is and 414 individuals—320 community The feedback, Molby said, can be vision of learning that is shared by all our expectation. You want someone members, 92 district staffers and two helpful when it comes to developing a stakeholders.” who acts with integrity, fairness and in ALAN MOLBY board members—submitted on-line candidate profile and drafting ques- As well as one, who advocates, ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION responses to various questions, as well tions to be posed to potential candi- nurtures and sustains a school culture SEE SUPERINTENDENT, PAGE 2 OF SCHOOL BOARDS Coal City signs on to new crime fighting unit
BY ANN GILL EDITOR
In just under six weeks, Grundy County will implement its Pro Act Unit, a group focused on combating crime throughout the county. The Pro Act Unit, led by the Grundy County Sheriff’s Department, will comprise six police units from across Grundy County with assistance from the state’s attorney’s office. The unit was conceived by Sheriff Ken Briley to combat the multi-jurisdictional trafficking of illegal narcotics, con- trolled substances, dangerous drugs, guns, illegal street gang activity and other crimes. It was in response to crimes that crossed jurisdictional boundaries—burglaries, robberies and drug crimes—that brought the sheriff to develop the unit, according to Coal City Police Sgt. Chris Harseim. The purpose of the unit, Harseim reports, will be to coor- dinate the enforcement of drug, gun and gang related laws without regard to jurisdictional boundaries within Grundy County and to cooperate with local, state, and federal enforce- ment agencies in cooperation with the Metropolitan Area THE UNIT 1 School District is preparing a plan to address a return to full day instruction. Since the start of the 2020-2021 school Narcotics Squad [MANS]. year, the district has been operating a hybrid learning model that provides families with the option for in-person or remote learn- Harseim said the unit will perform law enforcement oper- ing with students in class four hours per day with everyone engaged in one hour of remote learning in the afternoon. It’s unclear ations on a county-wide level to combat crime, and assist when the district will transition from the current half day schedule to full day instruction, so until then students like seventh grad- member agencies on major crimes, routine assistance and er Hunter Gill will continue to learn both at school and home. special duties as assigned. The unit will focus on investigating drug-related offenses and undercover work. Members of the Pro Act Unit could handle the execution of warrants and surveillance as necessary. Unit 1 making a plan for full day instruction Coal City has signed onto the new crime fighting unit along with Morris, Minooka, Seneca and Channahon police departments. BY ANN GILL “EVENTUALLY WE ARE COMING As the superintendent has said on EDITOR multiple occasions, the time will come The team will be commanded by the sheriff’s department BACK TO SCHOOL FULL DAY, THAT’S with the chief deputy administering the Pro Act Unit with when students and staff will be required advice from the group’s Board of Directors. A representative By the end of the month, the Unit 1 COMING. WE ARE NOT IN THIS to resume a normal school schedule. from each participating agency will be on the board. School District will have a plan in place SCHEDULE FOREVER.” “We don’t know when that is going A sergeant from the sheriff’s office will conduct and coor- for the return to full day instruction. But to happen, so we are not just going to sit dinate investigations and assign duties to officers with man- the exact date as to when the district will DR. KENT BUGG back and wait, we are going to be ready,” Bugg said. power to the unit. transition from the current half day UNIT 1 SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT Harseim and Police Chief Tom Best first approached the schedule to full is still unknown. Just as schools were forced to hasti- Village Board in November 2020 with a request for the depart- The transition is being developed ly move to remote learning last spring, ment to participate. for inclusion in the district’s Return to the superintendent has said the transi- The mayor and trustees addressed several topics includ- School Plan and will outline the steps tion to a full school day could come just necessary to move back to full day would provide school staff with a as quickly. ing liability, performance indicators, scheduling and contri- smooth transition to a full class day. butions and benefits provided by non-police communities. instruction when the time comes. Bugg and the Board of Education “Just as with the full remote aspect Bugg reports the building level tran- want to be ready for a smooth transition Any funds from items seized and forfeited under the Drug sition teams are expected to finalize and Asset Forfeiture Act will be distributed equally among the of the plan, implementation of the tran- when the time comes. sition to a full day instructional model submit their reports to building princi- Currently, students attening in-per- member agencies. pals this week. Officers assigned to work within the unit will use their will be based on local data and or the son or remotely, are in class four hours direction of public health profession- Building level principals will then per day with everyone engaged in one department-issued equipment when participating in an forward the reports to the superintend- investigation. als,” said Superintendent Dr. Kent Bugg. hour of remote learning in the after- District officials previously intend- ent for review and submission to the noon. In December, with the questions answered, the Village district level transitions committees— Board was among the first to agree to participate. ed to revise the Return to School Plan to The hybrid learning model the dis- include an extended school day. teaching and learning, health and well- trict is currently operating under allows, Best told town trustees the unit is something that has ness and facilities and operations—that been needed for a long time and he fully supports its estab- The plan currently in development by permission of the state, students to will likely look at several options that will meet to consider the comments and lishment. recommendations. SEE PLAN, PAGE 2 Harseim said the unit will begin operations March 1. Unit 1 seats new board member STAFF REPORT At a special meeting on tiple years of service as a law Planning Citizens Advisory Dec. 16, board members inter- enforcement officer and serves Committee. Dan Engelhardt has been viewed—during open ses- on the school district’s School The board had 60 days to appointed as the newest mem- sion—Steve Rogers, Adam Safety Committee. These expe- fill the seat. Engelhardt will ber of the Unit 1 Board of Brncich and Engelhardt. riences made him a logical serve until the election in Education. “The Board appreciated choice to fulfill Mr. Emerson's April. Engelhardt, of Diamond, the passion and commitment role on the school district's His name will appear on was seated by the board on all three candidates displayed Discipline Committee,” Bugg the ballot along with those of Jan. 6 to fill the the vacancy left during the interviews,” stated a said. Rogers, Brncich and incum- by long-term member Jeff release issued by the Board. Engelhardt has also been bent members Shawn Emerson, who resigned It was after significant dis- involved in community youth Hamilton, vice president and November 2020. cussion in two closed door athletics and has a son board secretary Mary Gill. Emerson recommended talks that the Board chose involved in high school athlet- Three individuals will be that his replacement be select- Engelhardt. ics, which the board indicated elected to the board this spring ed from those seeking a posi- Superintendent Dr. Kent made him a natural fit to and seated in May for a four- THE OATH OF office was administered to Dan Engelhardt [seated] tion in the April 6 election. Bugg pointed out it was during assume the post Emerson had year term. during the Jan. 6 meeting of the Unit 1 Board of Education. Board On the advice of Emerson, those discussions, the Board as the Board’s representative president Ken P. Miller administered the oath moments after the the Board extended an invita- expressed a desire to seat the on the District's Athletic board selected Engelhardt to fill the seat vacated in November tion to each person who had candidate who best filled the Committee. He has also 2020 by long-term member Jeff Emerson. Engelhardt will serve obtained a candidate petition role Emerson served for the recently served as a communi- to be interviewed for the Board. ty representative on the through the consolidated election in April. appointment. “Mr. Engelhardt has mul- school district's COVID The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 2 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Region 2 on target for reduced mitigations
STAFF REPORT Region that includes Grundy Locally, Grundy County’s seven- tivity and tests performed—for the maintain distance and frequent hand County—and Region 7 comprised of day rolling test positivity rate as of week of Dec. 27-Jan. 2. washing. After nearly two months of Will and Kankakee counties are on Jan. 8 was at 12.6%. Grundy remains in phase 1A of Testing is available through local enhanced COVID-19 mitigations, any track to meet the requirements to The Illinois Department of vaccination administration and that hospital systems based on available region meeting the state’s require- make the transition to Tier 2. Public Health [IDPH] reported on includes healthcare personnel and resources. Mobile testing units organ- ments can begin moving out of Tier 3 Under Tier 2, the region’s restau- Monday the state’s current case count long-term care facilities. Pruim said ized by IDPH are also available to res- restrictions this week. rants and bars would still be prohibit- had reached 1,033,536 with 17,637 it’s unknown how long the county will idents regardless of symptoms and at Gov. JB Pritzker announced last ed from indoor service. Occupancy COVID-19 related deaths. remain in the first phase as it depends no cost. week that as of Jan. 15, regions will for meetings and social events such In Grundy County, the case on quantity of vaccines received each Mobile testing is available each proceed to Tier 2 upon meeting the as weddings, funerals and potlucks is count had reached 4,184 as of Jan. 11 week. day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mission requirements. limited to 10, while organized group with 33,740 total COVID tests admin- The health department learns Boulevard Soccer Complex, 640 “I’m cautiously optimistic as activities are limited to 25 persons or istered since the start of the pandem- from IDPH the maximum number of Mission Blvd, Joliet and Kankakee there are some early signs indicating 25% of overall capacity. And, casino ic. vaccines allocated for the county. County Health Department, 2390 W. that some regions have made real and gaming facilities could reopen at The county’s death total reached Pruim said the county has requested Station St., Kankakee. progress and won’t reverse that 25% capacity and a closing time of 11 50 this week. Five deaths were report- the maximum number of doses and Also at Plainfield South High progress this week or next,” Pritzker p.m. ed in the past week—two females in all have been administered within School, 7800 Caton Farm Rd., said. The entire state has been under their 70s, one male in this 70s and one that week. Plainfield from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on In order to transition from Tier 3 Tier 3 mitigations since Nov. 20 in an male and one female in their 80s. A vaccine interest survey is now Saturday, Jan. 16 and Sunday, Jan. 17 to Tier 2, a region must experience a effort to combat a potential surge in Grundy County public health available for persons that would qual- at Plainfield East High School, 12001 positivity rate below 12% for three cases around the holidays. administrator Michelle Pruim reports ify for the vaccine in phases 1A and Naperville Rd., Plainfield and Lewis consecutive days. It must also have As of Monday, Region 2 had seen the health department is currently 1B which includes residents age 65 University, One University Parkway, greater than 20% available intensive 11 consecutive days with a positivity following 288 people who had recent- years and older and essential work- Romeoville from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. care unit and hospital bed availability rate under 12% [9.1% as of Jan. 8], 11 ly tested positive and are in isolation. ers. The survey can be accessed on Results of IDPH testing is avail- and declining COVID hospitaliza- consecutive days with ICU and hospi- The county remains on the state’s the health department website at able 4-7 days after specimen collec- tions for 7 of the 10 days. tal bed availability over 20% and nine COVID-19 warning list as it reached www.grundyhealth.com. tion. Region 2—the North Central days of COVID patient hospitaliza- warning level in three of eight met- Health officials encourage resi- Capitol News Illinois contributed tion decreases. rics—number of new cases, test posi- dents to continue to wear a mask, to this report. Unit 1 intervenes in tax objections
STAFF REPORT cation aide Lisa Hootselle, seventh grade year 2021. language arts teacher Michelle Sobieck, • Renewed membership in the Three The Unit 1 Board of Education has special education teacher Jordan Alberico, Rivers Education Partnership was directed the school district attorney to high school math teacher Cathy Lyons, approved with an annual dues payment of intervene on its behalf in a series of prop- and pre-kindergarten teacher Britt $650. The organization provides the dis- erty tax objection cases. Harseim. trict with programs that address critical Superintendent Dr. Kent Bugg report- • At the recommendation of high issues facing education. ed that the district received word from the school principal Chris Spencer, the board • A $6,000 donation from the Thomas Grundy County Assessor’s Office of three approved Colin Keppner and Elise P. Jeschke Memorial was accepted by the property tax objections filed with the Hackett as assistant speech coaches. board. The funds will be used to purchase county’s Board of Review, each seeking a • The board held a second reading on equipment for the early childhood center reduction in assessment of $100,000 or 39 revised board policies including facility physical education program. more. management, the school calendar, cur- • Board members approved a Whitt Law will intervene in the objec- riculum development and student $3,760.73 school site donation from tions seeking a fair and accurate assess- records. The board is slated to have its Grundy County. ment of the properties. third and final reading on the policies, • It was announced the annual According to Bugg the objections with approval, during the February meet- Grundy County summer internship pro- were filed by the owners of a commercial ing. gram will provide 22 positions within 14 property and two apartment complexes. • In preparation for the 2021-2022 local companies. The internships are ALAN MOLBY, of the Illinois Association of School Boards, The Board of Review is currently school year, it was announced the super- open to high school students/graduates addressed the Unit 1 Board of Education last week to pass along reviewing the 2020 assessment com- intendent has been in conversations with in a variety of fields such as human the results of a community survey that sought public input on the plaints. the Grundy Area Vocational Center resources, marketing and engineering search for a new school superintendent. In other matters from the board’s Jan. [GAVC] and union officials on a proposed among others. 6 meeting: calendar for consideration by the board. “Considering the COVID issue right • Employee transfers were approved, • Prior to February 1 of each year, the now we are very, very pleased that these moving temporary custodian Donna district is required to post a certified businesses are coming through with Superintendent Guinn from the intermediate school to employee and educational support staff opportunities,” Bugg said. the early childhood center and temporary seniority list. The list indicated the length “It’s a great way to get our kids out an ethical manner,” Molby said custodian Jeremy Wolles from the early of employment in the district as of June of and get them into businesses. It’s great for Respondents indicated they are also seeking an individual childhood center to the intermediate that year, and the areas those educators the kids,” board president Ken P. Miller with a willingness to innovate and encourage others to work on school. are certified to teach. The list has been said. long and short terms goals, and maximize financial and human • Leave requests were approved for posted for review. The next meeting of the board is resources. kindergarten special education teacher • Jason Smith, the district chief school scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 3, with a “I think a lot of those strengths are based on current leader- Aimee Wren, eighth grade language arts business official, was once again appoint- study session slated for Jan. 27. Both ship. The survey tells us, whether that’s staff or community, they teacher Melanie Urquiza, special educa- ed as the district’s Freedom of meetings will begin at 6 p.m. in the dis- are looking for somebody with a lot of the same strengths that tion teacher Angela Phillips, special edu- Information Act [FOIA] and Open trict’s administration center. our current superintendent has,” said board vice president Meetings Act [OMA] officer for calendar Shawn Hamilton. It was further noted, that only about 1/3 of the respondents were looking for an individual with prior superintendent experi- ence, but 2/3 want the school’s leaders to live within the dis- Representative Haas to trict’s boundaries. Coal City Library host “Someone in the comment section said it perfectly, ‘when I get hit by a tornado, I want the superintendent to get by a tor- host new bill roundtable nado as well. We experienced that in our community and that’s winter reading program an outstanding representation of how we’re all in this together,” State Representative Jackie Haas [R—Kankakee] invites Winter Reading Challenge for all ages from Jan. 1 thru Hamilton said. constituents to participate in a roundtable forum before the Feb. 28. Youth Babies-Pre-K Grade Winter Reading Molby added the comment is a good explanation what General Assembly convenes for the spring session. Challenge. Calling our "Stay at Homies" (Babies-Preschool), stakeholders what to see and that’s someone who is going to go “As a new representative, it is important to me that the peo- Mad Sanitizers (K-5th grade) and Quaran-Teens (6th-12th through the good and bad along with them. ple of the 79th District have a voice in their state capitol. The grade) to "Quarantine & Chill" with us this winter. Log your He further noted the survey responses, “were very support- bills I draft should be relevant to the interests and well-being of reading and complete activities thru the Beanstack app to ive of you as a board and the process ahead, and they were very my constituents,” Haas stated. “I am looking forward to hearing earn tickets towards the prize basket raffles. supportive of Dr. Bugg and the challenge you have as far as the their suggestions.” Adult Winter Reading Challenge. Calling all Adult superintendent process and financial ramification that you The roundtable will be Wednesday, Jan. 20 starting at 4:30 CCPLD library cardholders to "Quarantine and Chill" with might be dealing with.” p.m. at Haas’ District Office, 370 E. Court St. in Kankakee and us this winter. From Jan. 1 through Feb. 28 log your reading Now that the survey has been completed and the results will be by appointment only. Constituents can make appoint- and complete activities through the Beanstack app and you tabulated, Molby said the board needs to determine its next ments at RepHaas.com. will automatically be entered into the grand prize drawing. steps. Haas will be available to listen to constituent ideas to intro- Prize basket includes Quarantine Essentials and a $25 gift Superintendent Dr. Kent Bugg is set to retire in 17 months, duce new legislation benefiting the 79th District and Illinois for card to a local business of your choice. Complete the pro- his departure from the district set for the close of the 2021-2022 the spring legislative session. There will be an online suggestion gram by earning 4 badges to receive a CCPLD Roll-up school year. box open to constituents who cannot attend the event. Blanket. Earn more chances for a grand prize by earning The IASB’s process is take the information obtained The 79th District includes portions of Coal City and more badges. through the survey and board member input to develop a appli- Diamond, along with Braceville, Gardner and South cant brochure. The document developed in a way to provide Wilmington. potential candidates with an overview of the district and com- munity, as well as the expectations of a new school leader. The brochure would further outline the documents necessary for required to attend in-person, went to full remote learning School document by Feb. 1. submitting a application, such as resume, letters of recommen- Plan and that will result in changes last March. Whether the deci- The district has also dation and licensing documents. to the daily operations of the sion to return to full day addressed the possibility of Molby left the meeting with some questions that were to be attend remotely. However, district. instruction is made locally, at adding instructional time to addressed by the board during a closed session discussion at the Bugg expected that once the “Eventually we are com- the county level, or statewide, the plan, but stopped short of end of the public meeting. The board did enter into closed ses- state moves to Phase 5 of the ing back to school full day, our responsibility to our stu- moving forward with its plan sion, but did not take any action upon its return. Restore Illinois Plan the state that’s coming. We are not in dents and their families is to when a resurgence of the At this point, it is unclear when the board will move forward will no longer recognize this schedule forever,” the make sure we are ready,” Bugg COVID-19 virus hit in the fall. to formally announce the pending vacancy, accept applications remote learning and the superintendent said. said. “What we have to consid- and select Bugg successor. option will no longer be avail- Again, it is unclear when a With that in mind, at its er locally is prior to Phase 5, able to families. transition will be made back meeting last week, the Board does our [COVID] data get us Thus, all students will be to full-day instruction. of Education authorized the to a point were we can think “Right now, we do not superintendent to offer about getting our kids back for have a date set for a return to employment contracts as nec- a longer period of time,” Bugg Coal Bin to dispose Hometown Storage to full day instruction, and there essary for a transition to a full said, noting when the time of property dispose of property Hometown Storage to is a chance that we won't even day model. comes the district will be dispose of property get a chance to set our own The goal is to have the ready. PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE date as it could be set by the transition plan ready to be LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Lien state, just like it was when we included within the Return to Notice is hereby given, that pursuant Hometown Storage, 2920 E. LEGAL NOTICE to Section 40 of the Self-Storage Facility Division St., Diamond, IL 60416, 815-634- Notice of Lien Act, State of Illinois, a sale or other dispo- 3333 hereby is asserting a Possessory Hometown Storage, 2920 E. Division St., Diamond, IL 60416, 815-634- sition of property COAL BIN STORAGE, Lien in pursuant to your contract and the INC. will be held online at 3333 hereby is asserting a Possessory State of Illinois Self-Service Facility Act. weekly subscription newspapers named The Free www.BID13.com, auction ending on Lien in pursuant to your contract and the Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal and The January 27, 2021, 1 p.m. to sell or dispose Tenant: Alyssa Boyer, 450 W. State of Illinois Self-Service Facility Act. of the personal property of the following Anndon Dr., Braidwood, IL 60408., Unit Tenant: J Crawford, 408 S. East St., Coal City Courant, and an advertising shopper person, KAREN MONTOYA, 8060 E. 316. Gardner, IL 60424., Unit G-47. known as the Prairie Shopper. Reed Rd., Coal City, IL 60416, Unit F14, to If unpaid rental charges, late fees If unpaid rental charges, late fees enforce a lien for storage pursuant to the and associated charges are not paid for in and associated charges are not paid for in Advertising and Business Offices: self-storage facility act, in the amount of full by Jan. 30, 2021 the property will be full by Jan. 30, 2021 the property will be • 111 South Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 $239.85, plus attorney fees and costs. sold to satisfy the lien. sold to satisfy the lien. Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant (815) 476-7966; Fax: (815) 476-7002 on Jan. 13 and 20, 2021. on Jan. 13 and 20, 2021. on Jan. 13 and 20, 2021. • 271 South Broadway, Coal City, IL 60416 (815) 634-0315; Fax: (815) 476-7002
Deadlines for the Prairie Shopper Coal Bin to dispose Top Notch Construction Heidi’s Happy Dog Treats The Coal City Courant Display Advertising: Thursday, 2 p.m. of property files as new business files as new business USPS No. 120-060 Classified & Public Notices: Thursday 5 p.m. Published weekly, 52 times a year, on Wednesdays by Deadline for The Free Press Advocate, PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE G-W COMMUNICATIONS, INC., Braidwood Journal and Coal City Courant LEGAL NOTICE Assumed Name Assumed Name News and Advertising: Monday, noon Notice is hereby given, that pursuant Publication Notice Publication Notice 271 S. Broadway St., P.O. Box 215 Coal City, IL 60416 to Section 40 of the Self-Storage Facility Public Notice is hereby given that on Public Notice is hereby given that E-mail: News & News Photos: [email protected] Act, State of Illinois, a sale or other dispo- December 29th, A.D. 2020, a certificate on January 5th, A.D. 2021, a certificate Periodicals postage paid at Coal City, Illinois sition of property COAL BIN STORAGE, was filed in the Office of the County Clerk was filed in the Office of the County Clerk Ads & Artwork: [email protected] INC. will be held online at of Grundy County, Illinois, setting forth of Grundy County, Illinois, setting forth Postmaster: Send address changes to: www.BID13.com, auction ending on names and post-office addresses of all of names and post-office addresses of all of ©2019 All news, photographs and advertising mate- January 27, 2021, 1 p.m. to sell or dispose the persons owning, conducting and trans- the persons owning, conducting and Free Press Newspapers; P.O. Box 327; rial used in this publication are the property of G.W. of the personal property of the following acting the business known as Top Notch transacting the business known as Heidi’s Wilmington, IL 60481 Communications, Inc. Use of the material without the con- person, DAVID SEARS, 207 Daniels St., Construction, located at 180 E. Big Timber Happy Dog Treats, located at 701 Hill sent of G.W. Communications, Inc. is strictly prohibited. Street, PO Box 109, Mazon, IL 60444. Wilmington, IL 60481, Unit G6 to enforce a Drive, Coal City, IL 60416. Dated this 5th Subscription rates: $40 Grundy & Will coun- Violators of this property right are subject to legal action. lien for storage pursuant to the self-storage Dated this 29th day of December, day of January, A.D. 2021. ties; $48 other Illinois counties and $54 out of state facility act, in the amount of $330.00 plus A.D. 2020. Kay T Olson, Grundy County Clerk attorney fees and costs. Kay T Olson, Grundy County Clerk Published in the Coal City Courant Eric D. Fisher, publisher Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant on Jan. 6, 13 and 20, 2021. G.W. Communications, Inc publishes the Ann Gill, editor on Jan. 13 and 20, 2021. on Dec. 30, 2020 and Jan. 6 and 13, 2021. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 3
Unit 1 Students of the Week LOGAN HOUSMAN MADISON MCGRATH JJ RIVERA MORGAN SCHNUCKEL JAKE MUNSTERMAN AUDRINA NUGENT EMMA D’ORAZIO Middle School Middle School Middle School Intermediate School Intermediate School Intermediate School Intermediate School
TRENT RUSSELL REAGAN JESCHKE KENNEDY MURPHEY CHARLES EDEN CAROLINE CHAPMAN BRAYDEN BRNCICH GRACE FERENZI EMMA NADING Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School
TUCKER NOWICKI LAYNE MOTZNY LILA MALLOY KENNEDY LOUGHRAN Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Majority of students are back in class
STAFF REPORT dents and staff quarantined but not having test- ed positive for the virus. Courtesy photos by Bill Bomba Unit 1 School District students began the In the 14 days prior to the winter break— Dec. 10-23—the district had four reported stu- ST. JUVIN POST 1336 junior vice commander Jim Richards presented Berkot’s Super Foods customer second semester with in-person learning last service manager Elizabeth Lovell with their fifth Buddy Poppy Partner Award. Lovell organizes and week with over 80% in attendance. dent cases and three [certified] staff cases. In In his weekly COVID-19 report to parents the 14-day period between Dec. 26 and Jan. 8 oversees the Coal City store’s Buddy Poppy events on Memorial Day and Veteran's Day. On hand for and guardians issued Jan. 8, Unit 1 the district reported four student cases—one the presentation were [back, from left]: post commander James “Hoppy” Phillips, adjutant/quarter- Superintendent Dr. Kent Bugg reported a each at the elementary and high schools and master Keith Roseland, and life member Jack Micetich. majority of student had returned to the class- two at the middle school—and two [support] room following the two-week winter break. staff cases both at the early childhood center. “Prior to the winter break, we experienced As for those quarantined the two days prior VFW honors Buddy Poppy partners a rapid increase in the number of students reg- to the break the daily average was 102.5 stu- istered for full remote learning. But when we dents and six staff members across the district. Last week, the student average was 47.4 and Members of St. Juvin Post 1336 Veterans of Democracy offered in Coal City's middle and started school again this week, we saw those Foreign Wars of Coal City, conducted the annu- high schools would not be possible. numbers decrease rapidly,” Bugg said. staff was four. “Our local data continues to show that the al Veteran's Day poppy event on Nov. 14 in Donations from the poppy events can only Of the 2,132 students enrolled in the dis- cooperation with their Buddy Poppy partners— be used for direct services to veterans or patri- trict, 14.49% have selected full remote learning. implemented COVID mitigation strategies in our Return to School Plan have proven effec- MinitMarts, Whitmore Ace Hardware and new otic programs. The other 1,823 students are attending in-per- partner Coal City Pharmacy, along with Casey's St. Juvin utilizes the funds it collects for its son. tive. Although the COVID data across the coun- ty is improving, our school district data consis- and Dollar General in Diamond. premiere program—Blankets for Vets. The pro- “Although we respect and understand the Berkot's Super Foods conducts Buddy gram provides personalized, service logo tapes- individual situations of the families, we are tently shows a much lower percentage of posi- tive cases among our students and staff,” Bugg Poppy events Memorial Day week and Veteran's try throws to local veterans. The program start- always excited to have our students learning in Day week where poppies are offered to cus- ed in 2013 and Post 1336 has distributed nearly front of their teachers,” Bugg said. said. The superintendent noted the district con- tomers in store. 500 of these symbols of the veteran's service to At of the start of the semester, the early Without the cooperation of local business- a grateful nation representing about $27,500 childhood center’s enrollment was 402 with tinues to ask for parent assistance in symptom checking their children each day before school es, fundraising for veterans services and pro- raised from the generous donation from the 86.8% attending in-person and 13.2% partici- grams such as Patriot's Pen and Voice of community. pating remotely. and keeping them home if they experience any Among the elementary school’s 281 stu- COVID-19 related symptoms. dents, 89.3% are in-person learners and 10.7% “Your diligence in symptom checks is vital remote, and 85.4% of the intermediate school’s to our ability to continue offering valuable in- 323 students are in-person with the remaining person instruction for our students,” Bugg stat- 14.6% engaging remotely. ed in the correspondence, adding, “As be we The middle and high schools have the begin the second semester, please keep rein- largest number of remote learners at 16.6% and forcing to your children the importance of face- 15.4%, respectively. At the middle school 83.4% masks outside of school, washing their hands, or 396 of the 475 enrolled are attending class in- and social distancing. By reinforcing proper person and of the 651 high schoolers, 551 are mitigation strategies outside of school, we in-person learners. enhance our ability to continue offering the The information was included in the report face-to-face instructional opportunities that we that provides weekly data on the number of believe are invaluable to the academic and COVID-19 cases, including the number of stu- social/emotional health of our students.”
Attorney Schmidt Borgstrom named to dean’s list files Greenway estate claim notice Daniel Borgstrom, of Morris, has been named to the dean's list at the University of Evansville for the fall 2020 semester. PUBLIC NOTICE Borgstrom is majoring in logistics and supply chain manage- IN THE CIRCUIT COURT ment at the Indiana university. FOR THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT To merit the honor of being placed on the dean's list each GRUNDY COUNTY, ILLINOIS semester, a student must have carried a full academic load of 12 2020-P-123 hours or more and have earned a grade point average of 3.5 or In the Matter of the Estate of Gerald T. Greenway, above. Deceased CLAIM NOTICE NOTICE is given to creditors of the death of Gerald T. Greenway. Letters of office were issued on December 29, 2020 to Debra Packley as independent executor, Attorney Black files Attorney Black files whose attorney of record is Charles L. Martin estate claim notice Craig estate claim notice Schmidt, 117 W. Washington St., Morris, Illinois 60450. IN RECOGNITION OF support for the Buddy Poppy program, an award was presented to Dollar Claims against the estate may be PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE General by St. Juvin Post 1336 life member Jack Micetich to store lead manager Abby Hess. filed within six months from the date of first IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN THE CIRCUIT COURT publication. Any claim not filed within six OF THE THIRTEENTH OF THE THIRTEENTH months from the date of first publication or JUDICIAL CIRCUIT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT claims not filed within three months from GRUNDY COUNTY - IN PROBATE GRUNDY COUNTY - IN PROBATE the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to No. 2021P1 No. 2021 P 3 Creditor, whichever is later, shall be In the Matter of the Estate of In the Matter of the Estate of barred. Claims may be filed in the Office of William V. Martin, Samuel F. Craig, Virtual the Circuit Clerk, Grundy County Deceased Deceased Courthouse, PO Box 707, 111 E. CLAIM NOTICE CLAIM NOTICE storytime with Washington Street, Morris, IL 60450, or NOTICE is given to creditors of the NOTICE is given to creditors of the with the representative through her attor- death of William V. Martin. Letters of office death of Samuel F. Craig. Letters of office ney, or both. Copies of claims filed with the as Independent Executor were issued to as Independent Executor were issued to Chicago Wolves clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Mary O’Connor, 1715 Little Willow, Morris, Stephen Craig, 13579 Howison, DeKalb, representative within 10 days after it has Illinois 60450, whose attorney is FRANK J. Illinois 60115, whose attorney is DONALD mascot, Skates been filed. BLACK, BLACK & BLACK, 201 Liberty F. BLACK, BLACK & BLACK, 201 Liberty E-filing is now mandatory for docu- Street, Suite 211, Morris, Illinois 60450. Street, Suite 211, Morris, Illinois 60450. ments in civil cases with limited exemp- Claims against the estate may be Claims against the estate may be Skates, the Chicago tions. To efile, you must first create an filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Court filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Court Wolves mascot and a repre- account with an e-filing service provider. at Grundy County Courthouse, 111 E. at Grundy County Courthouse, 111 E. sentative of the hockey organ- Visit https://efile.illinoiscourts.gov/service- Washington St., Morris, IL 60450, with the Washington St., Morris, IL 60450, with the providers.htm to learn more and to select a representative, or both, within six months representative, or both, within six months ization will be reading the service provider. If you need additional from the date of the first publication of this from the date of the first publication of this book “The Magic Hockey help or have trouble e-filing, visit notice or, if mailing or delivery of a notice is notice or, if mailing or delivery of a notice is Stick” with the Coal City http://www.illinoiscourts.gov/FAQ/geth- required by Section 5/18-3 of the Probate required by Section 5/18-3 of the Probate elp.asp, or talk with your local circuit clerk’s Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Public Library on Tuesday, office. Any claim not filed on or before that date is Any claim not filed on or before that date is Feb. 2 at 2:30 p.m. via Zoom. Charles L. Schmidt barred. Copies of a claim filed with the barred. Copies of a claim filed with the There will be a question and Law Office of Charles L. Schmidt, Ltd. clerk must be mailed or delivered to the clerk must be mailed or delivered to the 117 West Washington Street representative and to the attorney within 10 representative and to the attorney within 10 answer session afterwards Morris, IL 60450 days after it has been filed. days after it has been filed. with Skates. (815) 942-0701 MARY O’CONNOR STEPHEN CRAIG Registration through the [email protected] INDEPENDENT EXECUTOR INDEPENDENT EXECUTOR Published in the Coal City Courant Frank J. Black Donald F. Black Coal City Public Library on Jan. 6, 13 and 20, 2021. Black & Black Lawyers Black & Black Lawyers District is required to receive 201 Liberty Street 201 Liberty Street the Zoom link. Go to the web- Suite 211 Suite 211 P.O. Box 148 P.O. Box 148 site at ccpld.org and register UNFORGETTABLE Morris, IL 60450 Morris, IL 60450 through events or stop in or 815-942-0594 815-942-0594 call the library at 815-634- freepressnewspapers.com Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant on Jan. 13, 20 and 27, 2021. on Jan. 13, 20 and 27, 2021.. 4552. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 4 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM
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turned our democracy into chaotic autocracy, Vaccine will flow inciting riots that killed at least 4 people at SHADOW LAKES— Vaccine, Capitol Hill. Trumpism is the total humiliation Vaccine…where is the vaccine! Not to worry, on of our nation. Irene D. Jan. 20, China Joe will step out on the portico of the White House, and if he knows where he is; Lame duck losers raise his arm, and announce to the people of WILMINGTON—It is the morning of Jan. this county, “Let the vaccine flow!” and the vac- 7, and I am flipping around the various news cine will flow. Always, Margot Lane channels and C-Span watching how the events at the Capitol are being covered. The right is Signs of TDS equating this terrorist attack with Black Lives SHADOW LAKES— Nice rant Guy Jones Matter protests. Let’s be clear the BLM protests but you forgot that Trump shot JFK, faked the were about the murder of unarmed black peo- moon landing and was behind 9 11. I now ple by police and racism. This assault on our understand Trump Derangement Syndrome. Capitol was a tantrum rooted on white privi- Eddie lege and fomented by the lame duck loser in Rescuing the arts the white house. These people chant about tak- ing their country back but that is a false con- COAL CITY—Read for many hard-hit arts struct. Trump has never gotten near 50 percent institutions, 2020 ended on a hopeful note approval ratings so the majority of this country when Congress passed a $900 billion stimulus can claim ownership, not these terrorist that bill that included $15 billion in aid for theaters, don’t understand the constitution or how movie houses, live music venues and muse- democracy works. The right are also blaming ums. Hundreds of venues have closed for good Antifa but not the Proud Boys. Antifa is short and caused $33 billion decline in live music for anti fascist so I guess that makes me Antifa industry alone. Both Republicans and though I don’t have a membership card. This Democrats in Congress responded by authoriz- attack on Congress was planned in advance so ing the largest government rescue of the arts in when Trump told the Proud Boys to stand by U.S. history. Our tax dollars at work. they started getting ready for insurrection. And Time to move on with no sense of irony they flew hundreds of SHADOW LAKES—Jan. 6, 2021 will go American flags. Willful ignorance and stupidity election integrity did not start with President first elected to public office at age 27. He’s spent down in history as one of the saddest days in are dangerous to our Democracy. Penny Lane Trump. After Trump’s victory in 2016, all but four of the last 48 years on the public our country. In my lifetime, this is the closest l Democrats spent four years loudly claiming payroll. He has already told us he will undo all Bunch of nonsense Russian President Putin had installed a puppet the changes the Trump administration has have ever seen this country come to a coup, COAL CITY—The Democrats have passed something that only happens in countries run (Trump) in the oval office. Then there were made to US immigration policy and cease a new law to have gender neutral language in three years of attempting to impeach our pres- building the border wall on day one. He’ll be by dictatorships. Our constitution has legal Congress. This type of waist of taxpayer funds avenues that allows to legally challenge the ident. Unending warfare in Washington, D.C. taking in 125,000 refugees a year and changing shows that the Democrat control finds that cor- finally erupted into a real terror when Congress the asylum process. His plan is to please the left results of an election. Trump had and took recting someone’s speech is more important advantage of every possible way to challenge sought to certify the presidential Biden win. wing base of the Democrat Party, the Elizabeth than using the finances to help the homeless Both Republicans and Democrats, as well as Warrens, Bernie Sanders, Rep. Acasio Cortez. the results of the election, even the Supreme and people who have lost their businesses and Court, where six out of the nine judges are the national media, were ranting for months He will rejoin Paris climate change accord, homes because of the lock downs by the about the election results. Why should anyone rejoin World Health organization, end the Republicans (three appointed by Trump) Democrat politicians. You are no longer rejected Trump’s claims of fraud. I’m sorry to be surprised or shocked about what went on in Keystone XL pipeline which would send allowed to say: Husband or wife, but spouse; Washington, D.C.? Welcome to the new normal, Canadian oil from Alberta to Texas. He promis- say to Trump supporters that the election is Mother in law and father in law, but parent in over and that it’s time to move on. 74 million of us supported President Trump es a new ban on assault weapons and high law; and you can’t say brother or sister, rather and still do. capacity magazines as well as stiff federal tax Domestic terrorism sibling. The list goes on. Someone please on guns and ammunition and on and on. CUSTER PARK—The terrorists committing explain why these people in congress do not Thugs Happy New Year. deadly insurrection at the Capitol were han- have to have psychological examinations since WILMINGTON—The bloody shock of dled with kid gloves. They would have been they would rather prefer to discuss stupidity insurrection is as severe as 9/11 because the More than one blown away instantly if they were black or rather than to perform their duties as public deadly white enemy from within is more despi- WILMINGTON—Apparently we are going brown. Let’s call what happened in Washington servants that work for the American citizens. cable than the foreign brown enemy from with- to need more than one basket for the for what it is, deadly white domestic terrorism. Why do they get paid for this type of nonsense? out which struck our nation on that infamous deplorables. Gary W. day in 2001. The white offenders live down the No TVs looted street, within our families and among our Starts with censorship Prosecute each one SHADOW LAKES—Watching these friends but nevertheless are not to be tolerated. BRAIDWOOD—I thought Adolph Hitler SHADOW LAKES—I’m watching on TV the protests in Washington D.C., I find it very inter- These are thugs who are willing to shed blood was dead, but from what I can see, he’s not. insurgents marching into our U.S. Capitol esting that they’re reporting violent protests by for the sake of a pathological liar with no moral Conservatives are now banned from Twitter breaking down doors and windows, desecrat- Trump supporters. But yet when Antifa and compass who, by some freak of politics, hap- and Facebook. President Trump is banned ing the most important symbol of democracy BLM protested, the news reporters with burn- pens to be our president. They are members of from both as well. They do not want any in our country. Even though they were enticed ing buildings standing in the background the cult of hatred and ignorance that values Conservatives to have any rights. And now by a Republican president, I refuse to believe reported this as peaceful protests. At least the race and privilege alone. Every rider on the Pelosi wants to impeach Trump so he can never that those people represent the Republican Trump supporters weren’t seen stealing TVs, Trump bus accepts the deception from their come back again? I’ll tell you, this is exactly like Party. I refuse to believe that Republicans are gym shoes, clothing and anything else they craven leader, a sick and dangerous man, a Nazi Germany started. Believe me, I have okay with that. Every American should be could get their hands on like BLM and Antifa. I coward who cares only about power, who is watched and read the history. You people better demanding that every one of those partici- would have to say that the media is by all incapable of absorbing knowledge, who has be careful because I never thought I would see pants are found, arrested and prosecuted. means very biased. And with BLM and Antifa blood on his hands and who cares only about this in my lifetime. But I knew it was coming more than one person died and the police were his own precious hide. Revolutionary? Trump’s and unfortunately it’s here. What really matters ordered to stand down. This time the police empty head offers nothing, his greedy heart Reading deeper COAL CITY—2020 was a bad year but not were there. Is this a little hypocritical? Dan devours his followers. Brad F. the worst. It’s not even a contender. 1919 after Hill COAL CITY—This is regarding textualism World War I killed 20 million and devastated An extra week and originalism. Why do people have to read Europe. When the death toll of the Spanish flu Goon squad BRAIDWOOD—Could someone at city hall deeper than what the Constitution of the epidemic reached 50 million or 1968 when COAL CITY—It’s no surprise that President give an update as to when Ultimate Rides will United States of America and the Bill of Rights Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy Trump incited his supporters to riot, promising have their building in place? The finance com- read? Why do they try to confuse it? It reminds were gunned down. A losing war in Vietnam them he was leading the march to Capitol Hill missioner was crucified when he asked to have me of a police officer that stopped a man and divided our nation. The Hong Kong flu killed a only to disappear like the coward that he is. The an extra week to look into the finances of this the officer walked up to the car, asked for the million. Or any year of the Civil War or the next day Trump further betrayed his followers company before voting yes on this matter. He man’s license and the man asked “what did I deadliest months of the Holocaust. When it by announcing a lame apology written by his specifically said that he thought bringing this do?” The officer told him he didn’t stop for the comes down to suffering over the ages we staff showing that the only thing more befud- business to town was a good idea. But he stop sign. So the officer asked the man to step haven’t seen nothing! Maybe we’re learning to dled than Trump are his loony-tune followers requested a week to get some things straight- out of the car and the man said “well, I almost value what really matters. who are plug-ugly punks. Watching footage of ened out and everyone threw a fit. The busi- came to a complete stop.” So the officer took Trump’s Neanderthals storming through the ness owner said he needed to know immedi- out his Billy club an started beating on the Total embarrassment Capitol exposes Trump for the thug that he is as ately because his building was coming and he man. When the man was on the ground he WILMINGTON—The riot in D.C. on Jan. 6 leader of a goon squad. Give Trump enough already had his loan and he needed to get started yelling stop, stop, stop and the officer is an embarrassment to our country. This was rope, he hangs himself every time. One week everything done as soon as possible. Well, here said “shall I stop or just slow down?” What is the not instigated by George Soros but by our self- remains of Trump’s presidency and that is a we are in 2021 and still no building. Looks like problem with people not understanding the ish president. All he cares about is himself and week too long. the finance commissioner should have been English language? his golf game. President Bush and President Kurt K. given the extra week he asked for. So, could the Send him your check Obama are saints compared to him. city give us an update? The world laughs WILMINGTON—Hey Dan, you can send Honoring his oath BRAIDWOOD—After viewing the vicious, Six months your check to the Trump legal defense fund. SHADOW LAKES—Adam Kinzinger stated grunting marauders that pillaged our nation’s WILMINGTON—President Donald Trump Made millions that he was a Republican Congressman and a Capitol, I feel nothing but disgust for the is by far the most popular, as well as the most Air Force officer. But he does not appear to be depraved blackguards, perverse miscreants, unpopular, political leader in the country and WILMINGTON—Trump supporters brag honoring any oath he took either as an officer murderous villains and degenerate scoundrels the only one for whom many thousands would that he didn’t take a salary but ignore the mil- or a Congressman. The oath he took in both who committed acts of insurrection against stand for hours in the cold and rain for an lions he made violating the emoluments places were clear but his memory seems to be our nation. My question is, how do white peo- opportunity to hear him in person. Give it six clause. conveniently lost since all he does is go along ple have the unmitigated gall to criticize the months of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and with everything the Democrat party wants to Black Lives Matter movement when white After four years working class America will wish Donald Trump WILMINGTON—After four years of Trump do with this country. He will still collect his supremacist groups have persistently planned was back. salary like all public servants. Maybe we should acts of violence such as the kidnapping of the pitting Americans against each other the put him into the Democrat party in the same Michigan governor and now followed through Never admit it Republicans want the Dems and Biden to get category as a General that wanted to turn over with desecration of the sacred house of the WILMINGTON—Some minions have over it and unite the country. To quote the Dixie West Point into England during the American people? Black people have been brought to this learned their lessons well from their fearless Chicks, “I’m not ready to make nice.” Revolution. So what should we call these peo- country against their will shortly after the first leader. Never admit mistakes, shift blame and Trump blew it colonists arrived and labored to build this ple with no scruples, and are more willing to take no responsibility for your crimes. Part of BRAIDWOOD—I would like to throw my country only to suffer exploitation, degrada- destroy American citizens’ lives by rejecting being a conservative is hypocrisy and Bizarro two cents in about our illustrious president. tion and disenfranchisement from that day to the very oath that they took to protect the sov- spoken. Bizarro was an enemy of Superman Let me just say Trump should have a new this at the hands of the white establishment. ereignty of this nation so they can fill their wal- who spoke in opposites. An example would be name, Tritler, a combination of Trump/Hitler. But Trump and his sycophants are living in the lets at the taxpayers’ expense? when they claimed to love America they would He knew about the pandemic but yet sat on it. past as this practice has long been universally hate more than half of us. Remember, Trump Want to know why? Because he wanted to A deathly toll rejected. The rest of the world is way ahead of may have won the popular vote twice but the swoop in on his white horse and save the day to COAL CITY—Read 90,000 Americans died us and laughing their heads off. liberals are playing the victim card but turn clinch his re-election, but guess what? It blew of drug overdoses between, June 2019 and May Renee K. around and blame the media, Hollywood, the up in his face. Any good that he did do has 2020, the highest 12- month total in history. universities and now Big Tech for their failure Isolation, stress and depression caused by the Still closed to public come unraveled at the seam. Case in point, to win hearts and minds. First, Fox News claims what happened at the Capital fiasco where pandemic have hit those with substance use BRAIDWOOD—I’d like to know the reason they are number one in news, Rush Limbaugh disorder very hard. According to the CDC why the lobby at city hall has been closed since people died needlessly. The man is the Anti- is number one in Talk Radio. In fact the top 10 Christ. He is a malignant, narcissistic tumor on director, our state legalized marijuana use. March of last year. We can go to big box stores, radio talkers are conservatives except for Tom “SAD” watch those numbers go up. we can go to the gym, we can go to grocery this country and he needs to be removed. Hartman at number 10. He’s a progressive but GBA Feeling older stores, we can go to church and we can even can be heard locally on WCPT out of Chicago. attend city council meetings. I see no good rea- Other than the New York Times and the SHADOW LAKES—Next time you go into a Show some pride son why we cannot go into our own city hall Washington Post, most media is conservative. I bar the sign over the bar will say you must be WILMINGTON—Hey Proud Boys, quit during regular business hours to not only con- canceled the Kankakee Journal years ago over born in 2000 or earlier to drink here. That make blaming Black Lives Matter and Antifa for your duct business, but to also look at the table of their editorial policies in columnists like you feel old? Eddie handiwork. Show some pride boys. useful information that, in the past, has been Michelle Malkin and others. Same with the Mob rule available there. It’s not like there are 50 people Joliet Herald. They hate universities because Washington frenzy a day that filter through there. When things are young people are exposed to new ideas and WILMINGTON—There is a false equiva- WILMINGTON—What is Trumpism? It’s put on display for the public to view like con- mob rule patterned after dictatorships tend to conflict with old beliefs and as a rule lency being promoted on Fox News and other tracts, budgets and the levy, we have to go to conservatives resist change. Their ideas and conservative media comparing the Black Lives throughout the world. It’s property damage to the window and ask to see them and hope that the house of the people and it’s death wrought policies are like religion to them never to be Matter protests to the Right Wing terrorism last someone doesn’t pull up behind you before questioned or replaced. As far as Hollywood week. Yes, there was rioting and looting that by Trump’s minions. Sound-off writers who you’re done looking. My guess is that the city complained last summer about property dam- goes, whatever that means, why don’t rich con- happened but Black Lives Matter was protest- administrator likes it this way so that he does- servatives create their own movies and TV ing being murdered by police. Trumps edition age from protesters of George Floyd’s horrific n’t have to deal with the public. And while we’re death must now eat their words. Sound-off shows and let the market decide? No, it’s easier and insurrection mob was attempting to mur- at it, why hasn’t he or the mayor resumed the and cheaper to scream censorship and all that der. If you think that is not true explain that guy writers who falsely accuse others of being com- Pace Bus service? I understand that when they munists and socialists must wear the label of applies to Big Tech too so they continue to in the Capitol with a belt full of zip ties. Explain shut down the service everything was on lock- claim people are out to silence them instead of the Molotov cocktails, pipe bombs and guns. fascists and anarchists. When Trump insulted down and there was nowhere to go, but that third-world countries as ‘blankety-blank’, we admitting they have been heard and rejected. They set up a gallow and screamed hang Mike certainly isn’t the case anymore. Again, another And the song says Go eat some worms. Pence. Trump, Trump Jr. and Rudy worked this didn’t realize our country itself would soon amenity that they would rather not deal with. earn the ‘blankety-blank’ title thanks to Penny Lane angry mob into a frenzy and turned them loose Trump’s acts of sedition. Trump considers him- The build up on the capitol. They killed a cop. Putin must be Undo America so proud boys. So much for the law and order self above the law and through insurrection WILMINGTON—The undermining of WILMINGTON—President Joe Biden was president. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 5 Madigan suspends speaker campaign The House speaker is chosen by Williams. Durkin, R-Western Springs, said. “His She added the news “came as a Challenges opponents to House members, and can receive The official vote does not happen latest statement about suspending shock to a lot of the caucus,” noting find 60 votes to lead both Republican and Democratic until Wednesday, when the 102nd his bid for speaker, but not withdraw- she expects the race “will change dra- votes. There are 73 Democrats and 45 General Assembly is scheduled to ing, is typical of his style and appears matically as a result,” but she stopped Dems in 102nd General Republicans who will be seated in the convene, seating new and reelected to be another ploy or a head fake. For short of announcing a candidacy of Assembly 102nd General Assembly. members. the sake of the institution, his caucus her own. Traditionally, however, a majority Until then, lawmakers are set to must demand that he be direct and “This is a time to hear what all of party speaker receives votes from consider a flurry of transformative honest about his intentions – in or our colleagues have to say about their BY JERRY NOWICKI members of their own party. legislation backed by the Black out.” CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS visions for a new leadership team. I In the first closed-door unofficial Caucus during the final two days of Madigan’s announcement could have nothing to announce right now, ballot conducted between Democrats the 101st General Assembly – meas- also pave the way for more SPRINGFIELD – House Speaker but will keep everyone apprised if in a private room at the Bank of ures that have also received Democratic members to announce that should change,” Cassidy said. Michael Madigan announced Springfield Center on Sunday night, Madigan’s blessing. their bids for the speakership. Monday he would suspend his cam- Gov. JB Pritzker addressed Madigan received 51 votes, according Over the first three days of ses- Representative Kelly Cassidy, a Madigan’s statement during an unre- paign for House Speaker of the 102nd to several reports confirmed by sion, the discussions of who will be Chicago Democrat who voted present General Assembly, but his statement lated news conference Monday after- Capitol News Illinois. the next speaker have punctuated in the first round of voting and has noon in his office at the Capitol. made clear he was not withdrawing The speaker also has the long days of policy-oriented discus- pledged not to support Madigan, “As I have said many times, I will from the race. endorsement of the Illinois sion. issued a statement Monday as well. “This is not a withdrawal. I have Legislative Black Caucus and Illinois Capitol News Illinois was await- “This is truly a historic moment work with whoever the members of suspended my campaign for speak- Legislative Latino Caucus – two key ing callbacks from several lawmakers for our caucus and our state. Speaker the House of Representatives elect as er,” Madigan said in a statement. “As voting blocs that make up the majori- Monday afternoon to discuss the Madigan’s decision to suspend his their speaker,” he said. “Choosing the I have said many times in the past, I ty of his support, although some indi- impact of Madigan’s announcement, campaign is an opportunity for us to speaker is the sole responsibility of have always put the best interest of vidual members of those caucuses but committee hearings were ongo- come together as Democrats and those representatives, and it is clear the House Democratic Caucus and have said they would not vote for ing at the Bank of Springfield Center carve a new path forward,” Cassidy that the members are taking their our members first. The House Madigan. which is hosting the House session said. “Our caucus’ growing diversity is choices seriously.” Democratic Caucus can work to find The second leading vote-getter in amid the pandemic. our strength, and we need to respect He said the last time he spoke to someone, other than me, to get 60 the closed-door meeting was A House source said there would that as we decide what our leadership Madigan was “a couple days ago,” dis- votes for Speaker.” Representative Ann Williams, D- likely be another vote for speaker team looks like going forward. I antic- cussing a measure to decouple the The last sentence of the brief Chicago, who had just 18 votes. Monday evening. ipate that this debate will be robust state’s tax code from federal tax code statement is indicative of the uphill Representative Stephanie Kifowit, D- “With 36 hours left before the and impassioned, but in the end, we in regard to a measure passed in a battle Madigan’s challengers will have Oswego, had three votes. swearing-in of a new General are all Democrats, and we will come federal COVID-19 response bill. to climb – they will need 60 votes, or Representative Kathleen Willis, D- Assembly, Michael Madigan contin- together to turn the page and fight for “He is still the speaker now, we're 42 more than any challenger Addison, dropped out of the race ues to create uncertainty and misdi- new solutions for the people of trying to get the decoupling done appeared to have Sunday night. before the vote, giving her support to rection,” House Minority Leader Jim Illinois.” during this lame duck,” Pritzker said.
Masonic Lodge installs new officers He treats customers with respect
WILMINGTON LODGE No. 208, A. F. & A. M., held its annual installation ceremony Saturday, Jan. 2. Officers installed (from left, front) Michael Salato, Senior Steward; Jeff Cromer, Secretary; Richard Leach II, Senior Deacon; RWB William Swope, Installing Officer; RWB David Lynch, Installing Officer; Frank Kiper, Marshal; Anthony Milton, Junior Deacon; and Marvin Dew, Tiler. In the back row are: Michael Towe, Senior Warden; George Roesel, Worshipful Master; and James Strong, Junior Warden. Not present for the picture were: Allen Pflibsen, Chaplain; David Carino, Treasurer; and Luke Gehris, Junior Steward.
Forest Preserve holds ‘Sculpting WILD’ art contest Now is the time to channel your inner Michelangelo by submitting photos of your 3D nature-themed artwork to the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s “Sculpting WILD” juried art show. Photo submissions are THE WILMINGTON CHAMBER recently presented the Employee of the Month trophy to Richie Mroz being accepted online through (right) who works at CVS pharmacy. Presenting the trophy is chamber ambassador Stefany Gumm, Jan. 29. All kinds of sculpting branch manager at Grundy Bank. Mroz started working at Doc’s Drugs in 2015 as a delivery driver and mediums can be used includ- has advanced to cashier/photo department since it became CVS in 2017. “All the customers love him ing wood, ceramics, rock, and he treats them all with respect and good manners,” said Mike Bess of CVS. “We are very glad to metal and upcycled materials, have him here and we will be sad when he graduates from college and has to move onto his career to name a few. Artists could path.” Mroz said it is the best first job he could have asked for. “I have been fortunate to be able to build habitats, carve wild ani- work here all through high school and college with a great group of people. It is truly a family here mals or mold beautiful wild- flowers. and I am glad I had the opportunity,” Mroz commented. For contest rules and a submission link, visit What caregivers should know about medicare Dear Savvy Senior, you can find and periods of respite app in either the App Store or I am the caregiver for my compare doctors, care at a hospice Google Play. 81-year-old mother, who hospitals, home facility, hospital or Financial Assistance recently fell and broke her hip, health agencies, nursing home to If your mom lives on a and have a lot of questions dialysis facilities, give the patient’s limited income, you should about how original Medicare inpatient rehab caregivers an check whether she qualifies works and what it covers. facilities, long-term occasional rest. for help with prescription drug Where can I get some help care hospitals and Besides costs or with other Medicare- understanding this program? nursing homes in long-term nursing related premiums, deductibles Overwhelmed Caregiver your mom’s area. home stays, origi- and co-payments. nal Medicare typi- What Medicare SAVVY SENIOR For help with drug costs, Dear Caregiver, Covers cally doesn’t cover visit SSA.gov/prescriptionhelp Excellent question! Medicare can Jim Miller regular dental care or contact Social Security at Having a working knowledge reduce many out- or dentures, regu- 800-772-1213 and ask about of Medicare can help you take of-pocket medical expenses lar eye exams or the “Extra Help Program.” For full advantage of the coverage your mom incurs, but it does- eyeglasses, and hearing exams help with other Medicare and services it provides to n’t cover everything. and hearing aids. Likewise, it costs, go to Medicare.gov or ensure your mom receives the Understanding what Medicare won’t pay for nonemergency call 800-633-4227 and ask best care possible. Here’s what does and doesn’t cover can ambulance trips unless a doc- about the “Medicare Savings you should know. save you time and spare you tor certifies they’re medically Programs.” Medicare Assistance frustration when navigating necessary. Send your senior ques- A good starting point to the caregiving maze. To find out what Medicare tions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box get familiar with Medicare is Here are some key points covers, visit Medicare.gov/cov- 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or the official “Medicare & You” for caregivers: Besides basic erage and type in the test, item visit SavvySenior.org. Jim or service you have questions handbook that overviews the hospital and physician servic- Miller is a contributor to the about, or download the program. It’s mailed to all ben- es (which includes telehealth NBC Today show and author of Medicare “What’s covered” eficiaries every fall and pro- services) and optional pre- “The Savvy Senior” book. vides an up-to-date descrip- scription drug benefits, tion of all services and bene- Medicare covers home health fits. You can also see it online care too. To qualify, your mom at Medicare.gov/medicare- must be homebound, under a and-you. physician’s care and in need of If you have a particular part-time skilled nursing care question, you can call and visit or rehabilitative services like with a Medicare customer physical therapy. service representative at 800- Medicare also helps pay 633-4227. Medicare also works for oxygen, catheters and closely with State Health other medical supplies that a Insurance Assistance doctor prescribes for home use. The same is true for med- Programs (SHIP) to provide ically necessary equipment free health insurance counsel- like oxygen machines, wheel- ing. To find a SHIP counselor chairs and walkers. in your area visit In addition, Medicare ShiptaCenter.org or call 877- covers skilled care in a nursing 839-2675. home for limited periods ‹ up Caregivers also find to 100 days ‹ following hospi- Medicare’s secure website ‹ tal stays. But it doesn’t cover MyMedicare.gov ‹ especially long-term stays. Patients who useful. After setting up a per- need custodial care (room and sonal account for your mom, board) must pay out of pocket you can view the details of her unless they’re eligible for coverage, track recent health Medicaid or have private care claims and keep up to long-term care insurance. date on the preventive services Medicare pays for hos- she qualifies for. pice care too, for someone Compare Tools with a terminal illness whose Medicare can also help doctor expects to live six you locate the right health care months or less. The hospice providers for your mother. At benefit also includes brief Medicare.gov/care-compare WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 7 Get a taste of 80’s with a Madras cocktail Rezin launches Valentine’s Once upon a time, the Decades earlier the Madras is the vodka/cranberry family are for seniors program Madras was “must know” drink during the Great mostly mix. Vodka excellent party drinks that are To help uplift the spirits of long-term care facility residents, that was taught in every bar- Depression, madras has a way of tak- as approachable as they are State Senator Sue Rezin [R-Morris] is collecting Valentine’s Day tending school. The drink is clothing was literally ing on the flavor easy to prepare. cards for her newly introduced Valentine’s For Seniors Program. still taught, but thanks to the a status symbol. The or flavors of what- Madras preparation is “This past year has been an extremely difficult time for resurgence of pre-prohibition only way to obtain ever ingredients straightforward, no special everyone, but it has been especially difficult for those who live cocktails it is not a drink that is madras clothing in happen to be in tools or mixology know how in our local senior homes,” Rezin said. “For their own safety, the widely ordered. The peak for the 1930s was to take the drink, this is required. If you have never residents of these homes have had very little contact with their Madras popularity was the an exotic vacation, no exception. mixed a drink before, you can families and friends which has unfortunately left many of them 1980s into the early 1990sm typically to On that note, do this. Fill glass with ice, add feeling isolated and alone.” this week we re-live the magic! Caribbean destina- avoid the tempta- ingredients, stir, and serve. THE SUNDAY Rezin is encouraging churches, schools and community The Madras is one of the tions. Not many tion to use a Speaking of easy to make members of the 38th Senate District to write Valentine’s Day many spinoffs in the Americans were tak- COCKTAIL “cheap” vodka. vodka drinks, substitute grape- cards that can be dropped off or mailed to her district offices. vodka/cranberry family, and ing lavish vacations Most vodka is fruit juice for the orange juice Brian Rung Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to one of the most influential as during the cheap compared and you will have a Sea Breeze. the various long-term care facilities that make up the district. this is the drink that is regard- Depression, but if to other quality Substitute pineapple for the “Delivering these cards to the residents of these facilities is ed as the predecessor to the you were able to spirits, but spend orange juice and you will have the least that we can do considering everything that they have iconic Cosmopolitan. The land a madras plaid shirt dur- a few extra bucks and at least a Bay Breeze. had to go through because of COVID-19,” said Rezin. “I just vodka/cranberry, also known ing your travels it was seen as a pick up a quality vodka. Do you have a vintage want to ensure that they know that people care and are thinking as the Cape Codder originated sign of affluence when worn. Smirnoff is a great all around madras shirt in your closet? If about them, and that they are not alone.” in the Northeast around 1945 Fast forward to the late vodka, as is Tito's, and Ketel so, wash separately as the early The collection of Valentine’s Day cards will run through and has been the launching 1960s or 1970s, and the Madras One. If you want a higher qual- garments were notoriously not Wednesday, Feb. 10. Those wishing to participate will have the pad for countless spinoff cocktail was named. I have to ity (usually one that has been colorfast and bled easily when option to either mail their card or drop it off. For those choosing recipes, a few of which we will believe that orange juice has distilled more than three washed. At some point the in-person deliver, please remember to maintain social distanc- discuss below. been added to Cape Codders times), reach for Grey Goose, issues were resolved and the ing and to wear a mask when entering the office. We know what the drink is, since the 1940s, but the con- Absolut, or Belvedere. madras plaid shirts have come Mail-in or drop-off at her Peru office, 350 5th St., Ste. 264, a little about where it came trast in the brightly colored Other than pouring a in and out style a few times Peru, IL 61354, or mail [only] to the senator’s Morris office, 1802 from, but what is a “madras”, ingredients gave the drink the quality vodka, you will need since their heyday in the 1960s. N. Division St., Ste. 314, Morris, IL 60450 anyway? name. Every iconic cocktail quality mixers to round out The Madras is built and For more information or to arrange a separate drop-off time For those two young to needs a name, and perhaps the your Madras. Ocean Spray served in an ice-filled Highball call 815-220-8720. remember, “madras” was a red cranberry and bright cranberry can be found behind glass. lightweight cotton fabric from orange juice made someone nearly every commercial bar Fill glass with ice, then India used in lightweight sum- think of the plaid cotton shorts on the planet, it remains the add: mer clothing. Madras clothing worn in the summer of '65. gold standard among cranber- 1 1/2 oz. vodka Bill would allow liquor to was most often plaid, and This is a light, refreshing ry mixers. If you have a 4 oz. orange juice these plaid pattern cotton gar- drink. The tart of cranberry favorite orange juice, use your 1 1/2 oz. cranberry juice ments became popular in the paired with the sweetness of favorite, but if you are going Stir, garnish with orange be delivered to your door 1960s with the “preppy” baby orange, held together by shopping reach for Tropicana slice BY CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS boomers of the post-World vodka. It is a Highball, and as is as it mixes well. Until next week, enjoy War II generation. the case with most Highballs The Madras, and others in responsibly. SPRINGFIELD—In a committee hearing Friday, Jan. 8, on the Bank of Springfield Center floor, Illinois lawmakers advanced Senate Bill 54, which allows for the home delivery of liquor throughout the state. The bill allows retailers to use third-party groups via phone Pritzker says widespread availability of COVID-19 vaccine, applications or internet service while removing liability for retailers if those services violate age verification laws. treatments needed before state can lift restrictions In what came as a surprise to some members, the commit- tee allowed testimony through videoconference—a first for the BY GREG BISHOP restaurants allowed, but even in the capi- Morrisonville, said since the goalposts Illinois House. No one aside from lawmakers or staff is other- THE CENTER SQUARE tal city, officials are allowing for 25 per- moved, and no clear indication of if wise allowed on the BOS Center’s floor to testify. cent capacity. things will change, it’s beyond time for The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild testified to ask for an Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s plan to Starting Jan. 15, regions of the state lawmakers to get involved. amendment to allow for small brewers and distillers to deliver reopen Illinois with no restrictions, or the governor unilaterally drew can begin “You can kind of expect to see that their own products, which the bill does not allow for, despite Phase 5, is having a vaccine or therapeutic phasing to fewer restrictions if the regions the governor might change his opinion,” wineries having those abilities. for COVID-19 “widely available.” The gov- meet certain metrics. Bourne said. “So that’s why it should be a ernor still can’t say exactly when that’ll be. As for therapeutics for COVID-19, legislative action as we’ve discussed so we A 12-member state legislative panel Illinois Department of Public Health know exactly what these parameters are Tuesday could take up a new emergency Director Ngozi Ezike said things like and we can count on them being fol- rule in place until June requiring masks Remdesivir or monoclonal antibodies are lowed.” and social distancing, but some want the available. It’s not just downstate that’s frustrat- “In some cases, they may be helpful, ed, state Rep. LaShawn Ford, D-Chicago, entire 176-member state legislature to be in some cases they may be not,” Ezike said it’s beyond time for the legislature to more involved in managing the COVID-19 said Monday. “I think if you look at the get involved. He faults legislative leaders pandemic’s impact on the economy. World Health Organization, they’re not for being hands-off. Outside of the Joint Committee on giving it a veritable thumbs up.” “I don’t like it,” Ford said of the gover- Administrative Rules process with only a Even with the vaccine going out, nor’s unilateral actions. “I’ve always been fraction of state lawmakers involved, Pritzker still couldn't say exactly when to ready to come back and deal with the Pritzker’s administration has largely man- consider it “widely available” as the state pandemic, and the impact that the pan- aged the pandemic by itself. works through phases of distribution for demic is having on poor impoverished After more than two months of stay- certain populations over others. communities and businesses.” home orders last Spring, Pritzker revealed “You can do your own math to deter- It’s been nearly a year since the first his five-phased plan to reopen the state. mine when we’ll get to a number that case of COVID-19 was discovered in Phase 5 he said would come about people can really be safe,” Pritzker said. Illinois. with vaccines or therapeutics. Illinois is The governor didn’t say what that Pritzker says widespread availability currently in Phase 3, Tier 3 restrictions number would be to enter Phase 5. of COVID-19 vaccine, treatments needed with no indoor service for bars and State Rep. Avery Bourne, R- before state can lift restrictions. Deadline nears to apply for housing, student loans The Illinois Department of “At this unprecedented that consumers take action • HUD foreclosure mora- Financial and Professional time of financial hardship, it is quickly. torium ends 2/28/21. Regulation wants Illinois con- essential that consumers know Mortgage deadlines Student Loan Deadlines sumers to be aware of COVID- and understand their options. • FHFA forbearance must 19 relief options that are avail- Through our agency’s out- be requested by 1/31/21. • Relief has been extended able to them. reach, we hope to ensure that The IDFPR released an every Illinois resident takes • HUD loan forbearance until 1/31/21. This includes educational outline for con- advantage of the relief they has been extended to 2/28/21. interest being waived on all • FHFA foreclosure mora- sumers to learn about federal qualify for,” said IDFPR loans, collections on defaulted relief options when it comes to Secretary Deborah Hagan. torium ends 1/31/21. evictions, mortgages and stu- Federal deadlines are fast • VA foreclosure moratori- loans is halted, and loan pay- dent loans. approaching. It is imperative um ends 2/28/21. ments are suspended. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 8 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Mary Bonnivier Eugene F.Housman BRACEVILLE—Mary L. Bonnivier, 73, Murphysboro, TN and her former hus- BRAIDWOOD— Eugene Francis Engel; three great-grandchildren: Bently White, of Braceville passed away Jan. 8, 2021 at band, Edward S. Bonnivier, of Coal City. Housman, 78, of Braidwood, passed Sophia and Wil Engel; and one brother, Gerald Heritage Health Center in Dwight. She was preceded in death by her away Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 at (Sue) Housman in Joliet. She was born Jan. 7, 1948 in parents. Franciscan Health Hospital in Dyer, He is preceded in death by his mother, McLeansboro, IL, the daughter of Prayers will be said for Mary at IN. He was born July 22, 1942 in Braceville. Dorthea Housman. George Lewis and Minnie (Good) First Baptist Church, Pontiac and a Eugene was a Veteran of the United States Cremation rites will be accorded and pri- Millenbine. Mary was a graduate of memorial gathering will be held at Navy. He enjoyed yard work and had a knack for vate services will be held at a later date. For Coal City High School and earned her Lake Sara in Effingham, IL later this gardening. He also loved to study history, more information and to visit his online guest- associate degree in nursing at Joliet summer. Cremation rites will be specifically religious history. book, please log on to www.rwpattersonfuner- Junior College. Mary had been a nurse accorded. Surviving are two children, Jesse (Kristi) alhomes.com for several area hospitals. She was an ani- Memorials can be made to the Housman, of Essex, and Barbara Housman R.W. Patterson Funeral Home and mal lover, greatly enjoying her dogs and cats. Grundy County Animal Shelter, 310 E. Cline Engel Galarza, of Bloomington, IL; four Crematory, 401 E. Main St., Braidwood is in She enjoyed boating and camping with her fam- DuPont Rd., Morris, IL 60450. grandchildren: Madison Christensen, Olivia charge of arrangements. ily. Online condolences may be made to the Housman, Dennis Engel, and Michael (Melissa) Mary is survived by her children, Rheta family at calvertmemorial.com. Bredesen, of Chicago and Edward A. Bonnivier, Hager Memorial Home in Pontiac is in of Braceville; grandchildren: Allysha Bredesen, charge of arrangements. Corrina Bredesen and Olivia Bonnivier; sisters, Mary Micetich Nancy Rader, of Braceville and Ruth Hagen, of MORRIS—Mary Teresa Micetich, 79, (Dawn) Micetich, of Morris; grandsons, of Morris, passed away Wednesday, Jan. Grant Sisson and Troy Sisson; one sister, 6, 2021 at Park Pointe Healthcare and JoAnn (Henry) Rosemont, of Rehabilitation Center in Morris. Jamestown, RI and numerous cousins. Carol Higgins Born May 28, 1941 in Morris, Mary was preceded in death by Mary Teresa was a daughter of James her parents, and one sister, Noreen GODLEY—Carol Ann Higgins, 71, of well as numerous nieces and nephews. William and Marie Gloria (Papach) Barr. Godley, passed away peacefully on Carol was preceded in death by her Barr. She was raised in Morris, attend- Family graveside services were Saturday, Jan. 9, 2021, surrounded by parents, two sons, Joey Martingello ed St. Angela Academy until its clos- held on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021 in Mount family. and Eugene Higgins; sister, Nancy ing, and graduated from Morris Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Morris. Born Aug. 29, 1949 in Chicago, Godell and brother, Johnny Higgins. Community High School with the Class Honorary pallbearers were Grant Sisson Carol Ann was a daughter of Eugene Per Carol’s wishes, cremation 1959. Mary then went on to attend both and Troy Sisson. and Dorothy Marie (Peine) Higgins, rites have been accorded, and a cele- Joliet Junior College, as well as Saint Xavier A celebration of Mary’s life and Memorial and was raised and educated in the bration of her life will be planned for a University. Mass of Christian Burial will be planned for a Burbank area. Carol worked most her later date. Mary worked in real estate, and was an later date. life in hospitality, which included wait- Family and friends are encouraged agent for Century 21 in Morris from 1978-2001. Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may ressing and bartending throughout the to sign the guest book, upload photo- In addition, she gained employment with be made as gifts in Mary’s memory to the years. She was a mom to all, and absolutely graphs and share Carol’s memorial page Morris Hospital, where she worked as a finan- Morris Fire Protection District, 2301 Ashton cherished her children and grandchildren. online through social media by logging onto: cial counselor and patient representative from Road, Morris, IL 60450 or to a charity of the Survivors include nine daughters: Sherrie, www. ReevesFuneral.com/obituary/Carol- June of 1998 until her retirement. Mary was a donors choosing. Jolene, Candy, Beth, Nikki, Jenny, Krissy, Ashley Higgins member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Family and friends are encouraged to sign and Sarah; many grandchildren and great- Cremation services and arrangements have Church in Morris and the National Realtors the guestbook, upload photographs and share grandchildren; one brother, Bobby (Kelly) been made under the direction and care of Association. Mary’s memorial page online through social Higgins; two sisters, Jeanette (Jim) Finnen and Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Gardner. One who will be remembered as a very media by logging onto: www. Vickie Knapp, and her dear longtime friends: kind and charitable individual, Mary in her free ReevesFuneral.com/obituary/Mary-Micetich Tina Palmer, Lynn Pinson and Alice Tkachik, as time took great pleasure in cooking, baking, Funeral services and arrangements have candy making and reading. been made under the direction and care of Survivors include her children: Dr. Kara Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Morris. Eleanor Jackson Lynn Micetich, of Fort Collins, CO and James MANTENO— Eleanor Jackson, 91, of both of Manteno and Scott (Janet) Manteno, passed away Wednesday, Jan. Jennings, of Boise, ID; great-grandchil- Katy H. Dunn 6, 2021 at Amita St. Mary’s Medical dren: Alex Behme, Ellie Behme, Izzy Center in Kankakee. DePoister, Lincoln Jackson, Thomas WILMINGTON—Katy H. Dunn, 98, Nancy Henley, Ruth Harmon and Grant Born Jan. 31, 1929 in Morris, Jackson, Jayla Nitsche, Blake Nitsche of Wilmington, and formerly of Berwyn, Mitchell. Eleanor was a daughter of John and and Maryanne Jennings; and sisters- passed away Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021 at Katy was preceded in death by her Catherine (Broderick) Bols. She was in-law and brothers-in-law: Ruth Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. parents, husband, William (1991) and raised in Morris; graduated from Bols, of Morris; Eloise (Kenny) Born Oct. 8, 1922 in Clinton, KY, siblings, Mary Louise (Kenneth) Wise Morris High School, and later went on Bertrand, of Manteno and Bobby Katy Helen was a daughter of Johnny and Carl (Jeannie) Jackson. to attend the Gallagher Business College (Janice) Gordon, of Bourbonnais, as Carl and Sally (Hollingsworth) A private family funeral service in Kankakee. Toward the end of World War well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jackson. She was raised in Cairo, IL, will be held at Baskerville Funeral II, Eleanor gained employment with the Eleanor was preceded in death by her where she went on to graduate from Home. Reverend Harriette Cross from Joliet Arsenal before marrying Nobel “Keith” parents; husband, Keith (2004); son-in-law, high school. It was in 1961 that Katy the First United Methodist Church of Jackson. Together Keith and Eleanor in addition Charlie Jennings (2020), and siblings: Frances married William Dunn, and together they Wilmington will officiate to making their home in Rockville Township, (Howard) Clennon, Leonard (Winona) Bols, made their home in Berwyn. Katy worked as Those wishing to participate in the serv- farmed together and raised their family. She Kathleen (Robert) Lawrence and Edwin Bols. a ticket agent for the Chicago Transit Authority ices virtually, are welcome to join the live- worked aside Keith both in the fields and with Cremation rites have been accorded, and for 38 years, until her retirement in 1985. She stream service beginning at 4 p.m. on Saturday, the cattle. Later in years, she held employment Eleanor and Keith will be laid to rest together at wintered in Holmes Beach, FL, and was fortu- Jan. 16, 2021. A link for this event will be avail- at Marshall Field’s in Louis Joliet Mall, where a later date. nate to spend decades as a snowbird making able on Katy’s memorial page. she was a manager and worked for over 30 years Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may countless friends. Burial will follow in Queen of Heaven until her retirement. be made as gifts in Eleanor’s memory to a char- She was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Catholic Cemetery in Hillside, where Katy will Eleanor was a member of St. Rose Catholic ity of the donor’s choosing. Church in Holmes Beach and enjoyed volun- be laid to rest with her late husband. Church in Wilmington, and belonged to the Family and friends are encouraged to sign teering for the Island Players Community A public celebration of Katy’s life will be Wilmington Recreation Club. She served as a 4- the guest book, upload photographs and share Theater on Anna Maria Island. Katy traveled planned for a later date. H Leader for many years, and took great pleas- Eleanor’s memorial page online through social extensively over the years, domestic and Preferred memorials may be made as gifts ure in both flower gardening and vegetable gar- media by logging onto: abroad, as well as at sea. She took pleasure in in Katy’s memory to the Island Players, Inc. dening. www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/obituary/Eleano playing bingo, cards and visiting the casino, and Community Theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Survivors include her children: Judi r-Jackson when at home could be found vegetable and Maria, FL 34216 Jennings, of Foristell, MO and Jerry (Barb) Green flameless cremation services and flower gardening. She will be remembered as a Family and friends are encouraged to sign Jackson, of Wilmington; grandchildren: Stefanie arrangements have been made under the direc- true social butterfly, who just enjoyed being in the guest book, upload photographs and share (Greg) Behme, of Carlinville, IL; Matt Jackson tion and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in the company of others. Katy’s memorial page online through social (Jennifer Doss) and Kathi (Mark) DePoister, Wilmington. Survivors include nieces and nephews: Ken media by logging onto: (Pat) Wise, Michael (Shirley) Jackson, Jay www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/obituary/Katy- (Sharon) Jackson, Sarah (Ed) Armbruster, Dunn Tammy (Brian) Cook, Mary Kasch (fiance’-John Funeral services and arrangements have Patricia Kucera Tahlier), Amy Wise, Taylor Cook, Jarrett Cook been made under the direction and care of and Samantha Armbruster, as well as cousins: Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. FAIRFIELD—Patricia Lynn Kucera, Kucera, of Newark; her boyfriend, Betty Mitchell, Lindy Henley, Virginia Bryant, 32, of Fairfield, formerly of Joliet and Timothy Snyder, of Fairfield; five chil- Dwight, passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, dren: Owen Moreno, of Ohio and 2021 at her home. Ethan, Slater, Sophia and Emmalia Traci Tyler Born Jan. 19, 1988 in Joliet, Snyder, all of Fairfield; three brothers Patricia was a daughter of David and five sisters: Allison (Richard) BRACEVILLE—Traci Lynn Tyler (nee by all. Kucera and Barbara (Edburg) Kucera. Bianchi, Cristopher Kucera, Joshua Winchell), 60, of Braceville, passed away Traci is survived by her husband, She was raised and educated in (Tiana) Kucera, Nicole (Matthew) suddenly, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021 at Dale Tyler; son, Patrick (Megan) Dwight, and graduated from Dwight Gehris, Katie Kucera, Kevin (Alyssa) Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee Winchell and their two daughters, who High School with the class of 2006. As a Kucera, Mallory (Andrew) Davidson with family by her side. were the light of her life, Vanna teen, she had a paper route that she and Emma Kucera (James Gaspard); 26 She was born July 26, 1960 in Winchell and Emme Winchell; son, worked for many years to be able to spoil nieces and nephews, many aunts and Morris and grew up in South Kevin Winchell; sisters, Terri (Jim) her loved ones with gifts around the holidays uncles, and numerous cousins. Wilmington. She was a lifelong resi- Schultz and Tommi (Robert) and their birthdays. Patricia enjoyed spending Patricia was preceded in death by her dent of the South Wilmington, Sorensen; brothers, Joe (Cindy) time outdoors fishing and camping, and looked grandparents. Gardner, Braceville area. Traci married Winchell and Dan (Lynnette) Winchell forward to any opportunity to go for a long walk Private funeral services will be held, and Dale Tyler on Aug. 8, 1998 at the and many special aunts and uncles. Also with friends or her sisters to talk about anything cremation rites will be accorded following the Braceville United Methodist Church. They surviving are brother-in-law, Karl (Karla) and everything. She found great joy in watching services. lived in Gardner for a few years with their two Tyler; sister-in-law, Lynn (Lindy) Hahn; and movies, singing, or going for long car rides. Family and friends are encouraged to sign sons, Patrick Winchell and Kevin Winchell. The numerous nieces and nephews. Patricia never needed an excuse to bake brown- the online guest book, upload photographs, family then moved to Braceville, where they She was preceded in death by her mother, ies and always made sure she got to have some and share Patricia's memorial page by logging lived for the last 15 years. Janis Winchell. of the extra brownie batter for herself. She loved onto: www.baskervillefuneral.com Traci held many jobs through the years, and Visitation was held at the R.W. Patterson spending time with her boyfriend and her chil- Funeral services and cremation arrange- became sort of a jack-of-all-trades. Her pas- Funeral Home on Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021. dren. ments have been made under the direction and sions were poker, where she could hold her own Funeral services were private. Cremation rites Survivors include her parents, Barbara care of Baskerville Funeral Home in at any table, especially Texas Hold-Em, and were accorded following services. Kucera, of Fairfield and David (Kathleen) Wilmington. pool leagues. Many a laugh and wonderful For more information and to visit her times were had with “her girls” on Thursday online guestbook, log on to www.rwpatterson- night BCA and ACS and those of you who knew funeralhomes.com. her will vouch for her heart of gold, and if you R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory, were in need, she would be the first one by your 401 E. Main St., Braidwood was in charge of side. Her infectious laugh will forever be missed arrangements. Dora Wilson BRAIDWOOD—Dora (Heck) Wilson, great-grandchildren, two brothers, 80, of Braidwood, and formerly of Arthur (Carol) Heck, of Lafayette, IN Wilmington, passed away Friday, Jan. and Larry Heck, of Wilmington; three 8, 2021 at her home. sisters: Mary Ruth (the late Charles Born Jan. 19, 1940 in Wilmington, “Bud”) Bullock and Betty Marlene (the Dora Ellen was a daughter of Arthur J. late Herbert) Akins, both of and Alpha (Sitter) Heck. She was Wilmington and Joanna (Glen) raised and educated in Wilmington Schwartz, of Hiawatha, IA and sister- and attended the Wilmington schools. in-law, Sandy Heck, of Joliet, as well as Dora worked for many years as a school numerous nieces and nephews. bus driver for the Gardner South Dora was preceded in death by her Wilmington School District. She was a parents, son, Orman Heafner; sister, Anna member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Heck and brother, John Heck. Church in Braidwood and enjoyed quilting and Cremation rites have been accorded and crocheting. In her free time, Dora took pleasure Dora will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet Catholic in tending to her vegetable garden, canning and Cemetery in Wilmington with her parents. fishing. Family and friends are encouraged to sign Survivors include her husband, Daniel the guest book, upload photographs and share Wilson, of Braidwood; four children: Tina Dora’s memorial page online through social Hendrex, of Coal City; Terry (the late Gerald) media by logging onto: Champion, of Paducah, KY; Duane Hendrex, of www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/obituary/Dora- Braidwood and Bryan (Lori) Hendrex, of Morris; Wilson seven grandchildren: Lee Heafner, Stacy Burt, Green flameless cremation services and Michael Esparza, Jeremy Esparza, Nathan memorial arrangements have been made under Esparza, Renae Champion the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Mariner,and Brandon Hendrex; numerous Home in Wilmington. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 9 Stanley Olewinski Rose Marie Wright BRAIDWOOD—Stanley Wilmington; eight grandchildren, three WARSAW—Rose Marie Wright, 85, of Darrel Pitman, Scot Pitman, Rex Pitman, Olewinski, 84, of Braidwood, great-grandchildren, one sister, Helen Warsaw, formerly of Bourbonnais, went Tina Grell and Jesse Cox. In addition, passed away Saturday, Jan. 9, (the late Robert) Capodice, of Antigo, home to be with her Lord and Savior on she is survived by several grandchil- 2021 at his home. WS and numerous nieces and Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021 surrounded by dren, great-grandchildren and great- Born June 29, 1936 in Chicago, IL, nephews. her family and friends. great-grandchildren. he was a son of Stanley and Josephine Preceding him in death were his Rose was born in Evansville, IN on She was preceded in death by (nee Jakcic) Olewinski. He was a parents and one brother, Walter Aug. 27, 1936 to Jesse and Louise her father and mother, Jesse and Veteran of the United States Army. In (Janice) Olewinski. (Kelly) Barnett. Louise Barnett and four sisters: Ruby 1998, Stan retired from the Sheet Metal Cremation rites have been accorded. She attended church in Hayden, Mary Vencent, Margie Workers' Local #73 Union in Hillside, IL. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, memo- Wilmington where she played the drums Lockyear and Vera Johnson, and three He was the best handyman and was rial services for Stan will be held at later and sang her songs. She was employed at brothers: Herbert Barnett, Clarence known for always tinkering around with date with an inurnment at Abraham Armstrong as the Captain of Security and “Butch” Barnett and Jesse T. Barnett Jr. something. Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. retired in May of 2016. A memorial service will be held on Surviving are his beloved wife of 57 years, For more information and to visit his Rose is survived by her 11 children: Tom Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021 at the Christian Faith LaMora Grace (nee Abney) Olewinski, who he online guestbook, log on to www.rwpatterson- Durham, MaryJean Rowland, Joyce Schleged, Center, 1800 S. Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 married May 4, 1963 in Oaklawn, IL; four chil- funeralhomes.com. Karen Harter, Kenny Durham, Cindy Germano, from 5 to 7 p.m. dren: Mike (Leta) Olewinski, of Morris; Steve R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory, (Laura) Olewinski, of Mesa, AZ; Michele 401 E. Main St., Braidwood is in charge of Salustro, of Worth, IL and Tina (Greg) Seiler, of arrangements. Gayle Graham WILMINGTON—Gayle Marie Gayle, a great conversationalist. Joan A. Bailey Graham, 48, of Wilmington, passed Intelligent, crafty and a big heart she away on Dec. 19, 2020 at Riverside will be truly missed by all. WILMINGTON—Joan A. Bailey, 70, Jude, Marley, Rain, Autumn, Lincoln, Hospital. Gayle was the third of five Gayle is survived by her sons, of Wilmington, formerly of Zayden, Odin, and Harper; one sister, girls born to John and Phyllis (nee Kenneth (Kenny) David Garcia Jr and Bourbonnais, passed away Tuesday, Mary (James) Walcher, of Wilmington; Ariel) Graham. Matthew Allen Tamburich; sisters: Jan. 12, 2021 at Silver Cross Hospital one brother-in-law, Robert (Mary She was born at Mercy Hospital in Angela Graham AhSue, Kathleen in New Lenox. Anne) Bailey, of Orland Park and sev- Chicago on Dec. 5, 1972 and grew up (Keith) Skoryi, Julia Graham, Laura Born Jan. 14, 1950 in Joliet, Joan eral nieces and nephews including in her beloved Bridgeport neighbor- Graham and Victoria Olivia. She is also Arlene was a daughter of George special nieces, Rachel Walcher (fiancé hood. She graduated from Gordon S. survived by many nieces and nephews, Austin and Arlene (Richmond) Bryen Zimmerman) and Jessica Hubbard High School and continued on aunts and uncles and a bunch of close Puckett. She was raised and educated (Benjamin) Dietz. to receive an Electrical Engineering degree cousins. in Wilmington and graduated from Joan was preceded in death by her par- from Illinois Institute of Technology University. Gayle was preceded in death by her father Wilmington High School with the class ents, husband, one brother in infancy, She was a friend and surrogate mother to and mother, John and Phyllis (nee Ariel) of 1968. While in high school, Joan was Richard Austin, and her father-in-law and all and was always there for those that needed Graham and her brother, John Phillip Graham. proud to be named the 1967 Honored Queen by mother-in-law: Charles and Flossie Bailey. an ear to bend, a place to crash or food to eat. In lieu of a funeral service at this time, the Job’s Daughters. On Oct. 17, 1970, she married A COVID observant and walk through visi- She always made time for everyone else. She family will hold a celebration of life service in the love of her life, Donald Roger Bailey, in tation will be held on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021 at was the keeper of the family stories and history. the summer of 2021. All arrangements were Symerton. Joan worked for CIGNA in Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 E. Kahler Rd., in If you needed to know something just ask handled by Jensen Funeral home of Kankakee. Bourbonnais as a Medical Claims Adjuster and Wilmington from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. A private retired in 2018 after 20 years of service. funeral service will follow the visitation, and Joan was a past member of Bethel Baptist burial will follow at Wesley Cemetery in rural Church in Bourbonnais, and was well known Wilmington. for being an avid reader. She enjoyed books Those wishing to participate in the services immensely and was always looking for the next virtually, are welcome to join the live-streamed one to begin. Joan also loved to do puzzles and services beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. Western IL University dean’s list handcrafting such as knitting and crochet. 16, 2021. A link is available on Joan’s memorial A total of 1,313 under- average on a scale of 4.0, the list are Joseph Svododa, Survivors include two children, Andrew page. graduate students enrolled which equals an A in a mini- of Braceville; Makayla (Theresa) Bailey, of Braidwood and Donna Jo Family and friends may sign the online at Western Illinois University mum of 12 credit hours of Flickinger, of Mazon; Kylie Weigel, of Coal City; seven grandchildren: guest book, upload photographs, and share Austin Weigel, of Coal City; Brandy (Morgan) Joan’s memorial page by logging onto: were named to the fall 2020 graded courses; pass-fail Winsor, of Verona; Kalli Wood, of Bradley; Andria (Jeremiah) Denoyer, www.BaskervilleFuneral.com. dean's list. hours are not counted (e.g., Markle, of Braidwood and of Paxton; Garret Welsh, of Elwood; Gabrielle Funeral services and arrangements have To receive this award, an student teaching, intern- Jacquelyn Damien and Welsh, of San Antonio, TX; Stephanie Frederick, been made under the direction and care of undergraduate student must ships). Carlene Vanduyne, of of Carlinville and Bradley Clark, of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. earn at least a 3.6 grade point Area students named on Wilmington. Bourbonnais; nine great-grandchildren: Xavier, The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 10 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Economic slowdown gives climate change a break Dear EarthTalk: Given the events plagued people around small ways all over the world economic slowdown around the world amid the pandemic. nature has taken this econom- the world due to the coron- In the U.S. alone, Americans ic slowdown as a chance to avirus in 2020, was there a witnessed orange skies cloud- breathe. For example, the positive impact on climate ed with smoke and a number murky waters of Venice's change? of powerful hurricanes com- canals became clearer than M. Stiles, Meriden, CT ing from the Atlantic. they had been in decades-and The coronavirus pan- Globally, there have been sea life even returned to the demic has certainly led to a record high average tempera- city's urban waterways. decrease in industrial activity tures, double the activity of a While global warming has and resulting greenhouse gas normal hurricane season, the not stopped because of the emissions during its reign these reductions “political hottest temperature ever reli- global pandemic, we have over the planet in 2020. measures have to be taken to ably recorded in human histo- learned that Mother Nature A recent study by German ry (54ºC), the most costly dam- directly initiate fundamental responds positively to our researchers calculated that ages from flooding to date in technological changes in the improved behavior (even when global carbon dioxide emis- China, record low Arctic sea energy and transport sectors.” not intended), which gives sions fell by about eight per- Despite the drop in emis- ice, and the strongest tropical cent over the past year. While cyclone to hit land that has environmental advocates hope sions over this past year, 2020 to keep on working. this is no doubt a good result will likely go down in history as ever been recorded (Super from an otherwise bad situa- Typhoon Goni). These abnor- It's now up to every one of the year things started to really us to make significant changes tion, the researchers warn it accelerate with regard to cli- mally extreme weather events STORMS WERE MORE intense than ever in 2020 despite our emis- in our own orbits-perhaps by represents nothing but a small mate change's effects. Recent are all indicators of the accel- sions reductions. keeping up our slower and drop in the bucket compared increases in both the frequen- erating effects of climate more stationary existences to what we still need to accom- cy and intensity of extreme change on our planet. even after we have a grip on climate change. at https://emagazine.com. Send plish-even bigger annual emis- weather events are conse- Even though climate sions drops every year for change continues to worsen, in coronavirus-if we hope to mit- EarthTalk® is a 501(c)3 questions to: question@earth- quences of global climate nonprofit EarthTalk. See more talk.org. decades to come-to avert cata- change. igate and reverse the effects of clysmic climate change. “Global warming can con- According to study co- tribute to the intensity of heat author Ralf Sussmann, we waves… Increasing tempera- would need to achieve zero tures mean a longer wildfire emissions around the world by season,” reports the National IDES responds to criticisms, adding staff, checks on fraud 2055 to limit global warming at Academies of Sciences, 1.5ºC. The declining rate of BY TIM KIRSININKAS an economic crisis and stand up five new, involved in these jobs and positions and Engineering, and Medicine. greenhouse gas emissions dur- CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS complex federal programs while battling would create productivity deficits in the “Global warming also increas- ing the global pandemic would fraudsters who have used stolen identities agencies from which state employees es water vapor in the atmos- not only need to be upheld, it SPRINGFIELD – House Republicans to file for benefits nationwide,” said IDES would be pulled,” Richards said. phere, which can lead to more would need to be amplified to continued to criticize the Pritzker admin- acting director Kristin Richards in a state- Richards said the department has frequent heavy rain and snow- achieve zero emissions. istration last week as the Illinois ment. worked to stabilize its operations in order storms.” This means stronger Sussmann and other study Department of Employment Support Richards said the department was to meet the needs of unemployment sup- hurricanes and flooding. authors stated that to achieve works through ongoing staffing and fraud already short-staffed as a result of years of port applicants in a timely manner. In 2020, extreme weather issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. budget cuts which left IDES ill-equipped “The idea that IDES has dispropor- Since handling a historic number of to handle the unprecedented number of tionate trouble processing new claims or unemployment assistance claims at the claims. The current employee head count paying out claims is misleading,” Richards outset of the pandemic in March, IDES is roughly half of what it was 10 years ago, said. “A claimant who provides all the nec- has added staff, changed processes and she said. essary data and submits their claim will implemented additional measures to pre- Since the pandemic began, the be processed in a timely and efficient vent fraudulent claims. department has contracted over 1,000 manner and will receive benefits if they Some House Republicans are calling employees to assist in handling unem- are deemed eligible and continue to certi- fy.” for additional measures to be implement- ployment claims, and has been approved for an increase in staffing and resources The state has begun paying out ed, such as moving staff from other state for the current fiscal year, which is fiscal Federal Pandemic Unemployment departments to assist with the overload of year 2021. It continues to hire more Compensation, which adds an extra $300 unemployment assistance claims, imple- employees, she said. per month to claims from certain individ- menting more anti-fraud measures and It has also implemented a callback uals collecting unemployment assistance. holding public hearings to discuss issues only system which allows an applicant But the federal rush to expand unem- at the department. with a question to be placed in a queue to ployment assistance amid the pandemic “It is unacceptable how the governor be called back, rather than having to and associated government shutdowns and the department have responded to experience extensive waits. has led to widespread exploitation of this crisis that they themselves have “IDES was given an increased head- unemployment systems across the caused,” Rep. Mike Marron, R-Fithian count for FY21, but adding full-time nation, including in Illinois. In particular, said. “It is my hope that someone at the employees, as all state hiring does, takes a federal Pandemic Unemployment administration cares enough to listen to time,” Richards said. “This is especially Assistance program which allows certain our ideas and to start a dialogue.” true for IDES, whose employees possess a independent contractors to collect bene- IDES officials pushed back on criti- unique and complicated skillset to work fits has been ripe for fraud. cisms offered by the Republicans, stating on issues and deliver services to Richards and the administration have that it is not possible to move employees claimants.” said the fraud is due to a nationwide from other state agencies without sub- Richards said a proposal to move scheme enabled by data breaches of pri- stantial training, and that many of the employees from other state agencies vate companies that have made individu- anti-fraud measures being proposed by would be ineffective in fixing delays. als’ information, such as social security the Republicans are already in use by the “The legislators’ call for moving state numbers, available to scammers. It is not department. employees from one hollowed out agency the result of a breach to state unemploy- “We are working hard to respond to to another ignores the nuance of what is ment systems. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 11 MOBILE HOMES SERVICE & SERVICE & STORAGE FOR RENT REPAIRS REPAIRS Brand new 1, 2 or 3 BR Bradley Pest Control Mike Collins Roofing, mobile homes available Termite/Pest re-shingles and modi- for rent or sale. Rent Specialist. fied rubber and gutter from $709-$909. In- Real estate inspection cleaning, aluminum gut- cludes water, sewer & Rodent Control ter screen, blown-in in- trash removal. Please and Exclusion sulation in attics. call & talk to Eric about Call Phil at INSULATION. Get a financing options. Call 815-405-5020 free estimate for blown 815-237-2290 for more cc42a-42a in insulation for attics information. ch2b-6a from Mike Collins Roof- Gas Fireplace Repair. ing. Keep your house 38 years experience. cooler in summertime PETS Licensed, insured & and warmer in the win- bonded. Call Margo at ter. lic # 104.007296. 708-712-5012 to sched- Ask for Mike at Large Selection of Dog 815-730-1303. cc41b-12a and Cat Food, treats, ule an appointment. APARTMENTS HELP WANTED LOST & FOUND MISCELLANEOUS accessories, health Can repair most FOR RENT aids, clothing, Birthday brands. Weekends Ron’s Drywall, Hang, Experienced legal sec- Have you found a lost Marcy dual functioning treats, wall art, jewelry, available. Thank you. Tape & Paint, 25 years Braidwood, 2 BR, stove retary sought for real pet or lost a pet in Will upper & lower weight gifts, greeting cards cc49b-22a experience. Reason- WANTED and refrigerator, w/d estate and estate County? Please call bench body exercise and Home of Fritters for able rates including dry- hookup, C/A, garbage planning law firm. Will County Animal system. Pull up Critters Pet Treats. Hendron Construction wall repairs, plaster re- included, $850/mo. Candidate must be de- Control. We may have weights, 2 bars, leg New! Brew and Chew Interior Carpentry, pairs, cracks, holes, & plus security, no pets, pendable and moti- your pet. We want to weights, $250; 3 pc. BR Dog Treats. Trinity Cabinet Sales & Instal- patches. Carpenter avail- call 815-458-6208. vated. No phone calls reunite your family, set, 2 dressers & night Barkery 240 W. Balti- lation, Granite & Quartz able by request. 815-549- ca1a-4b please. 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Call information or schedule 815-726-2569 or email 815-258-2911, leave graphs for gun owners’ 815-210-3513. A Thousand free estimate. cc53a-7b SITUATIONS olthompsontransport@ your name and phone cards (FOID) for $10 WANTED msn.com cc2b-6a number. ch1b-5a and help you complete Words Julie’s Remodeling the application online. Siding, soffit, roof re- Illinois State Police Photography Personal Assistant pairs, painting,welding Stories about local peo- HELP WANTED won’t answer the FOID 385 N. Second Ave. needed immediately, repairs, seamless gut- ple, organizations and hotline but you can Coal City well organized, detail ters, fencing, tree re- events. If you know a Applications are being complete your applica- Mandy Eaton oriented, knowledge of moval, lawn care, Com- neighbor with an inter- taken for one, full-time tion with our computer. Microsoft Office. Excel- 815-791-2913 plete Handyman serv- esting hobby, collection (eight hours per day) Call for an appointment lent communication & ice! Bonded and In- or cause, give the edi- Custodial/Maintenance most days (but Tues- time management sured, 20 yrs., call tor a call at 1-815-634- position. days) 9a.m. to 4p.m. skills. Will train the right 815-791-5731. cc28b 0315 or 1-815-476-7966. Please contact Jim Do not wear white or person. Pay will be Habing at very pale colors. Call based on experience. [email protected] or 815-476-7966. The Please send resume to phone 815-926-1725 Free Press office, 111 herman@apexforest. Resumes should be S. Water St., Wilming- com sent to: ton. Please wear a cc2a-5b Mr. Jim Habing mask. Wilmington High School 209U Wildcat Court Wilmington, IL 60481 HOMES FOR RENT Hall Rental - Available Wilmington Community for parties, showers & Unit School District No. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 meetings. Seats 100 209U is in compliance car garage rental prop- people, full kitchen with Section 504 of the erty available February available. If interested Rehabilitation Act of 1st. 145 N. Street in call New Hope Presby- 1973, which states that Coal City. $1,300/mo terian Church in Coal no person in the United rent. 815-768-0681 City, 815-634-8332. ch State shall, on the basis cc53b-3a 27a-tfn of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap- ping condition be ex- cluded from participa- tion in, be denied the benefits of or otherwise be subjected to dis- crimination under any program or activity in which District 209U re- ceives federal assis- tance. ch1b-3a Van Duyne Motel Part-time housekeeper needed 2 or 3 days a week. Part-time mainte- nance person needed 10 plus hours a week. Call 815-476-2801. ca52a-2b The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, page 12 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Results from Coal City, Reed-Custer, Wilmington girls Dream Team track meet Results from Coal City, Reed-Custer, Wilmington Boys Dream Team track meet 3Scoring is 5-3-1 for all events Team scoring 1600 RELAY Scoring is 5-3-1 for all events Team scoring 1600 RELAY 100 METER CC RC W ANDREA SHROBA RC 4:12.93 2015 3 5 1 100 METER CC RC W JIM WEST CC 3:23.96 1998 5 3 1 CATHY SHORKEY RC 12.75 1990 1 5 3 ALYSSA MARRS VANCE TEMPLET CC 10.70 2004 5 1 3 NATHAN DURBIN DARCIE BARR W 12.78 1997 MADDIE CHRISTENSEN DAMIEN ANDERSON W 10.90 1997 BILLY CHAPMAN CORINNE BENSON CC 12.80 2008 MORGAN ZACHARIAS B.J. BAILEY RC 11.05 2015 BOB CHAPMAN 100 HIGH HURDLES 100 HIGH HURDLES MICHELLE OWENS W 15.25 1998 3 1 5 CASSIE ALDRIDGE CC 4:17.50 2012 RICK LUNA RC 14.77 1987 3 5 1 MATT PIVONKA RC 3:30.22 2006 LISA RASMUSSON CC 15.40 1987 EMILY HALLIDAY STEVE NICOLETTI CC 15.01 1984 BLAINE NICHOLS JENNY MANDAC RC 15.45 2002 CHEYENNE JESSEN TRAVIS QUIGLEY W 15.04 2004 TOM DESONIA 200 METER CLAIRE LANDERS 200 METER DRU WALSH DARCIE BARR W 26.17 1997 1 3 5 MIKE ELLER RC 22.03 2008 1 5 3 JERILYN MANDAC RC 26.24 2008 RUNA WEIDLING W 4:33.15 2019 KEVIN BOCK W 22.27 1972 CLARENCE BROCK W 3:36.24 1969 BECKY GERVASE CC 26.60 1978 HALLE HAGA VANCE TEMPLET CC 22.30 2004 BILL WATLING 300 HURDLES ALYSSA OHLUND 300 HURDLES DAVID BITTERMAN LISA RASSMUSSON CC 46.30 1989 5 3 1 CLAIRE RINK JIM WEST CC 39.30 1998 5 3 1 STEVE LOCKWOOD JENNY MANDAC RC 46.33 2001 3200 RELAY DYLAN ROFF RC 39.44 2007 ANNA STRONG W 46.87 2005 JACKIE MARQUARDT RC 10:05.70 2002 3 5 1 TRAVIS QUIGLEY W 39.68 2004 3200 RELAY 400 METER JENNY MANDAC 400 METER JOE CHRISTENSEN CC 8:03.10 1993 5 3 1 MORGAN ZACHARIAS RC 1:01.51 2014 3 5 1 LESLIE MCCUE STEVEN DAVIS RC 49.19 2010 3 5 1 KEITH SMITH SANDY BALDERAS CC 1:01.80 1978 DINA NACEY STEVE NICOLETTI CC 50.00 1984 RYAN MEECE DARTHY BARR W 1:03.22 1996 ROLAND NIGHTENGALE W 51.20 2000 SHAWN HAMILTON 800 METER BEV VARGO CC 10:20.00 1991 800 METER STACIE HALL RC 2:19.33 2012 3 5 1 JOANNA HANLEY CLARENCE BROCK W 1:57.02 1969 3 1 5 CESAR POPOCA RC 8:23.56 2014 MEGAN PETTY CC 2:25.40 2009 STACEY DEPODESTA SHAWN HAMILTON CC 1:57.60 1993 ANDREW MORRISON DIANE LOVE W 2:31.42 1978 TONYA LONGEST JUDAH WESSMAN RC 1:57.85 2008 JORDAN NEU 1600 METER 1600 METER NATHAN COSTELLO RYAN EICHELBERGER RC 5:07.33 2007 3 5 1 MEGAN BERGMAN W 11:19.22 2014 RYAN MEECE CC 4:28.40 1993 5 3 1 CHRIS OLSON CC 5:17.30 1981 TERA SMITH BRAD GRAHAM RC 4:30.60 2002 BOBBY DINKINS W 8:38.00 2004 CHLOE PROFFIT W 5:43.60 2019 LEXI PLESE ED KEMPES W 4:42.35 1973 JOSH CRUTCHFIELD 3200 METER CALIN WOLCOTT 3200 METER ERIC CRUTHFIELD RYAN EICHELBERGER RC 11:03.90 2007 3 5 1 TRIPLE JUMP BRAD GRAHAM RC 9:38.40 2002 3 5 1 CHRIS ANDERSON CHRIS OLSON CC 11:45.60 1983 JADEN CHRISTIAN RC 37’09.5 2018 3 5 1 RUSSELL SANTERELLI CC 9:46.30 1994 KARA BROCK W 12:00.39 2014 NICKI MARCZEWSKI CC 36’01.5 2000 ED KEMPES W 10:02.00 1973 TRIPLE JUMP 400 RELAY AUTUMN SWITZER W 36’00 2019 RAY BURROUGHS CC 43’09 1983 5 3 1 SCHEREE ANDERSON W 49.84 1997 3 1 5 400 RELAY BOBBY HEDENSCHOUG RC 43’04.75 2004 DARTHY BARR LONG JUMP VANCE TEMPLET CC 43.50 2004 5 3 1 JOHN PLESE W 42’05.5 1974 MICHELLE OWENS JADEN CHRISTIAN RC 18’01 2017 1 5 3 NICK SHEPKOWSKI DARCIE BARR KATE MCCANN W 17’00 2019 JOSH LARDI LONG JUMP NICKI MARCZEWSKI CC 16’11.5 2003 DAVID VERONDA MIKE ELLER RC 22’10 2008 1 5 3 NICKI MARCZEWSKI CC 50.52 2003 RON HILLIARD W 22’00 1958 DANA TROTTER POLE VAULT CODY KEMPF RC 43.95 2015 ASA COOPER CC 21’05.5 2019 BETH ZELINKO MORGAN ZACHARIAS RC 13’03 2015 2 5 2 ZACH WEAVER KIM VANDERWALL TERA SMITH W 6’06 2012 DON VERCELOTE POLE VAULT BREANNA WHITTUM CC 6’06 2003 B.J. BAILEY MIKE ELLER RC 15’01 2008 3 5 1 KAY CANNON RC 50.87 1990 SCOTT NORRIS CC 13’03 1993 DIANA BARNHART HIGH JUMP DAMIEN ANDERSON W 44.70 1997 MIKE MATLOCK W 12’00 1970 CATHY SHORKEY JENNY MANDAC RC 5’05 2001 2 5 2 RUDD ALLRED CHRIS MASON EMILY CHRISTIAN RC 5’05 2011 MERGIM KACIJA HIGH JUMP 800 RELAY ERIN RULAND W 5’04 1997 BRADY WILKINS SCOTT BECK RC 6’06.25 1994 3 5 1 SCHEREE ANDERSON W 1:46.32 1998 1 3 5 BECKY GERVASE CC 5’04 1978 800 RELAY BILLY WILLS CC 6’06 1992 DARTHY BARR MATT PIVONKA RC 1:30.51 2007 3 5 1 JUSTIN KULPA W 6’00 2014 MICHELLE OWENS DISCUS STEVEN DAVIS DARCIE BARR TRACY MURPHY CC 127’06 1988 5 3 1 DYLAN ROFF DISCUS LISA SCHEER RC 126’05 1994 MIKE ELLER LARRY READMAN W 176’00 1969 3 1 5 JACKLYN STROUSE RC 1:47.43 2008 SARA GANS W 121’02 2009 CHRIS SHIRKEY CC 154’02 1993 ELLEN VANDERHYDEN SCOTT MCCLUCKIE CC 1:31.80 2008 JASON BAKER RC 153’03 2010 STEPHANIE JAMES SHOT PUT ERIC GRUNAUER JERILYN MANDAC KELSI MCMAHAN RC 38’02 2009 1 5 3 DAN MARTIN SHOT PUT JACKIE RADER W 37’09 1998 JEFF KRAUSE KEEGAN GRANT CC 57’10 2006 5 3 1 BRITTANY HALLIDAY CC 1:48.40 2011 MANDY GALBREATH CC 35’11.5 1996 JASON BAKER RC 57’03 2010 JILL YOUNGQUIST BOB ADAMS W 1:35.74 1973 LARRY READMAN W 56’01.5 1970 BREA LEWIS TEAM SCORES: REED-CUSTER=74, COAL CITY=46; JIM AAGESEN EMILY HALLIDAY WILMINGTON=42 MARK BENGE TEAM SCORES: COAL CITY=66, REED-CUSTER=64; JOHN PLESE WILMINGTON=32 Coalers place near top during ‘Ultimate Track Meet’ BY SHAWN LONG same time in 1997, he’d be the second place in the Atlantic SPORTS WRITER winner. Coastal Conference Indoor Another instance is when Championships (13-03.75). For weeks The Coal City Nick Shepkowski, Josh Lardi Sometimes, records are Courant has been publishing David Veronda and Templet determined by a matter of sec- dream team articles that ran a 43.50 for the Coalers in onds. brought up the question: What the 400 meter relay to place The case is best described if those athletes were pitted first in the Ultimate track meet. with the 300 hurdles. Jim West against one another in compe- They bowed out early in the from Coal City won with the tition? 2004 preliminary rounds. If best time in the Ultimate Track That question became a they had finished in their Meet but it was close. From reality when Wilmington track record time in the finals, they first to second between West coaches Larry Readman and would have earned fourth and Reed-Custer’s Dylan Roff Todd Lockwood came up with place. was called by a little over a the idea of the ‘Ultimate Track Wilmington’s 1997 track tenth of a second. Meet’. 400 meter relay team ran a Wilmington’s Travis Quigley Lockwood, the organizer, 44.70 that year. They didn’t was not far behind either, com- broke the chart down into the place. If they had finished in ing in a tenth of a second 14 different track-and-field 44.70 in 2004, they would have behind Roff. events boys and girls. He then been beaten but if the Coalers That situation was also predicted the winners based had run their record time in shown in the girls 100 high on the school record holder in 1997, they’d be the champions. hurdles where Coal City’s Lisa the event. Incredible records with- Rasmusson was almost two- One thing discovered was stand the test of time. tenths behind Wilmington’s high school athletes from Coal It is best illustrated with Michele Owens in second City, Wilmington and Reed- Ron D. Hilliard’s long jump place while Reed-Custer’s Custer have gotten faster and that stood in the area for the Jenny Mandac was just behind records have become more dif- last 72 years until Mike Eller Rasmusson by five-hundredths ficult to achieve. from Reed-Custer broke the of a second. This was best represented record in 2008. The only per- The Coal City boys were with Coal City’s Vance Templet son to approach that range the champions, tallying 66 and Wilmington’s Damien since Eller set it was Coal City’s points while Reed-Custer was Anderson’s times during the Asa Cooper, who eclipsed the runner-up with 64 points state tournament in their 21’05.5. Cooper has his senior and Wilmington trailed in respective seasons. Templet year to set a new standard if third, accumulating 32. placed third in 2004 state track there is a summer season. The Lady Comet girls had finals while Anderson was Cooper says he’s working a much better meet, capturing eighth overall running over his hard towards breaking Eller’s the title with 74 points. The record time in the 1997 state record. Lady Coalers had 46 points in finals. If he had run right at his “The goal is definitely second while the Lady ‘Cats time of 10.9 seconds, he would around there,” said Cooper. “I trailed four behind them with have been in a deadlock tie for haven’t been out in a while but 42 points in third. the state championship. Times I’ve had a lot of time to get File Photo The Lady Coalers were the change as Templet was in a stronger/faster during this FORMER LADY COALER Megan Petty finished second place in the 800 meter run against Wilmington runner-ups in the Ultimate Track Meet with 46 points similar situation in 2004. break. I can’t wait to get back and Reed-Custer in the ‘Ultimate Track Meet’. The point unfolds as on the track.” while the Lady Comets won it Templet placed third with a On the girls side, Lady with 74 points and the Lady time two-tenths of a second Comet Ryan Eichelberger ‘Cats were just behind Coal 10-seconds is a wide margin. There might also be points and she also went to Louisville, City with 42 points. faster than that of Anderson’s (Pivonka) has held a record That record may never be bro- in history where records a Division 1 school, where she time. The funny thing about since 2008 with a 1600 meter Even though it is fun to ken. Eichelberger not only change hands quite frequently. racked up nine top five finishes compare records in a hypo- that was if Templet had run his run of 5:07.33 that is currently holds the school record but For instance, the pole during her junior year, includ- record time of 10.70 seconds, 10 seconds better than that of thetical meet, here’s to hoping also garnered state considera- vault record first started with ing a first place during the the Coalers, Comets and he’d only have a shot at second Coal City’s Chris Olson in sec- tion too. Mike Matlock at Wilmington, Lenny Lyles/Clark Wood place whereas if he ran that ond place. In a race like that, Wildcats get to host a real who cleared 12’00. Then, there Invitational (13-06.50) and a meeting this summer. was Scott Norris from Coal City that was over 13’00 (13’03). Finally, Eller launched himself over the crossbar at 15’01. That record made three changes in a matter of 50 years. How many more changes will it make? Wilmington and City don’t offer pole vaulting so the only other possiblilty would be the Reed-Custer pole vaulters. And Reed-Custer senior Evan Pickard has been the closest clearing 14-09 during the shortened season so there may be a chance Evan sets the new benchmark if there is a summer season. In girls pole vaulting, this same situation applies. Morgan Zacharias from Reed- Custer is the pole vault cham- pion in the Ultimate track meet with her school record distance where she cleared 13- 03 in 2013. That set her apart from her counterparts Tera Smith and Breanna Whittum at Coal City, who both eclipsed 6- 6. It will be left up to Reed- Custer girls pole vaulters and Shaelin Ruzich was the closest one to it, clearing 8-6 in the 2018 state finals so that’s still a wide gap. Zacharias is fourth on the state list all-time for pole vault