Local Business Headlines

PHOTO: Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, gives an update on the state’s COVID-19 response Sunday in Chicago. Governor: Peak in cases expected ‘sometime in April’ By REBECCA ANZEL Capitol News Illinois [email protected] SPRINGFIELD — Illinois officials on Sunday announced the largest one-day jump in confirmed novel coronavirus cases and…

A second person, a woman in her 30s, has died in a COVID-19 related case in St. Clair County, St. Clair County Public Health Department reported today. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the latest victim of COVID-19,” County Chairman Mark Kern said in a statement. “This is another tragic loss…

Grocery stores to implement crowd control; Medicaid rules to be eased By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois [email protected] The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Saturday it has confirmed 13 new deaths from the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, including an infant in Cook County who had tested positive. IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said during…

Madison County reports first coronavirus illness related to a long-term care facility resident Madison County Health Department reported two new positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) on Saturday, including the first case connected to a long-term care facility. Director of Madison County Health Department Toni Corona said a Madison County woman in her 70s residing in…

Officials still hopeful the shows will go on this summer at county, state fairgrounds By REBECCA ANZEL Capitol News Illinois [email protected] SPRINGFIELD — The social distancing guidelines that led Illinois county fairs to cancel off-season events on their grounds through the end of April is one part of a financial impact double-whammy, a trade official…

PHOTO: Gov. JB Pritzker on Friday announced the expansion of SNAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, benefits during his daily coronavirus update news conference in Chicago. (Credit: blueroomstream.com) Announces new efforts to enhance SNAP benefits, help homeless find shelter By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois [email protected] SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker announced new measures benefitting…

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE. – As a result of the uncertainty and disruptions caused by COVID-19, Scott Air Force Base officials announced Friday that they have decided to cancel its 2020 Air Show & Open House, which was set for May 30-31, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. “We took our time to carefully consider…

Many blood centers have been canceling blood drives under these circumstances, and these cancellations have affected the supply. State Sen. Robert Martwick, D-Chicago, was among those on Thursday is encouraging all who are healthy and able to donate blood. “Hospitals are already strained treating COVID-19 patients. They don’t need a blood shortage, too,” Martwick said.…

New money announced for COVID-19 fight as number of confirmed cases soar By BEN ORNER Capitol News Illinois [email protected] SPRINGFIELD – New federal and charitable funding will soon be available to Illinoisans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as the state on Thursday saw its largest one-day spike of new cases and deaths during the pandemic.…

Metro Transit is reducing the frequency of bus services in the bi-state region during the COVID-19 pandemic. MetroBus riders are being encouraged to plan ahead for delays and allow more time for their commutes on MetroBus. “MetroBus, MetroLink and Metro Call-A-Ride Operators have been heroic in their efforts to serve the region throughout the COVID-19…