DuPage Opts Out Of Recreational Pot Sales:
Yesterday, the DuPage County Board voted 10-8 to prohibit the establishment of recreational marijuana businesses in unincorporated areas of DuPage. The decision came after many public commenters spoke up against cannabis sales, a stance a number of board members shared. They cited public health concerns and the drug’s illegal status on a federal level. Others on the board supported opting in, saying the drug will be legal in Illinois on January 1 no matter what, and this would allow a safer way for users to access it. The board also voted 12-6 to approve a 3% county sales tax on the sale of marijuana in DuPage County municipalities.
Aurora To Allow Recreational Pot Sales:
In related news, Aurora City Council voted 9-1 yesterday to allow the sale of recreational marijuana. Dispensaries will be permitted only on arterial streets, and must be more than 1 ½ miles apart.
Gun Violence Town Hall:
Teen-led group Our Safety is planning a town hall this Friday on gun violence. This is the second forum of its kind hosted by the group of Waubonsie and Neuqua Valley high schoolers. There will be six panelists, including Justin Karubas from the Indian Prairie School District 204 board, state Representative Barbara Hernandez, and Naperville police officer Sgt. Elena Deuchler. The forum runs from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the 95th Street Library.
Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day:
Yesterday was International Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day. In honor of that, Moser Tower lit up green to show support for a local boy and his family. Joanna Kent’s son Sally has the rare genetic condition, which is caused by deletion or other structural change to the 22nd chromosome. Supporters dressed in green and to Sally’s delight, also brought treats to celebrate the occasion.
Run of the Year:
Edward Hospital’s 2019 EMS Run of the Year honor has been awarded to members of the Naperville and Bolingbrook fire departments. The two came together to aid in a lightning strike and water rescue on September 3, 2018, when a 13-year-old boy and his father found themselves in distress. The award recipients were honored in a ceremony at Edward Hospital’s latest monthly Management Team meeting.
