Advice for Restaurants; State Parks; Election Help Needed
State Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Illinois and is assisting in the dissemination of resource information and updates. The Illinois Department of Public Health announced 29 new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) across Illinois, on Sunday, bringing the total to 93 in Illinois. No cases have been announced in the 107th District, as testing progresses, this is likely to change. We should expect this and it is not a reason for panic. The district office for Rep. Wilhour will continue regular office hours at the Effingham location Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist constituents with state issues.
“Small businesses and restaurants in particular are contacting me to find out what they can and should do for their employees and to keep their business open to provide food and services,” commented Rep. Wilhour. “I am suggesting restaurant owners continue to work with the Illinois Restaurant Association who has advice and will be expanding their guidelines for restaurants and bars tomorrow.”
The Illinois Restaurant Association Resources is providing guidance for Addressing COVID-19 at their website HERE. No on-premises dining but customers may still order food for takeout or delivery.
“My staff and I are contacting school districts to see if there is anything they need during this time during the extended spring breaks while students are out,” added Rep. Wilhour. “We are in contact with the Health Departments and hospitals to monitor the situation and needs. We have also contacted the county clerks in the area to see if they need any help with the primary still scheduled in Illinois for tomorrow. As of now, a number of judges of election are not able to serve because they fall into one of the categories of people who need to be extra careful with the spread of the COVID-19 virus: the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. We are aware of the need for extra help in the following counties: Clinton County about 25 judges; Effingham County – 20 to 25 judges; Fayette County – 25 to 30 judges; and Marion County 20 to 25 judges.”
In accordance with the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation issued on March 9, 2020, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced the closure of all state parks, fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas, and historic sites as well as the cancellation of upcoming scheduled events.
All Illinoisans impacted by a cancellation or closure are encouraged to call the IDNR’s Parks Administrative Information Line Monday – Friday at 217-782-6752. For more information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH website at http://www.dph.illinois.gov/. You may also contact the IDPH at DPH.SICK@Illinois.gov or call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-889-3931.
Additional state resources available for Illinois residents include:
COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits:
IDPH COVID-19 Daily Briefings and Documents:
People over 60 and people with a history of heart or lung disease, diabetes or a weak immune system, and pregnant women should avoid close gatherings and avoid proximity to sick people. They should stay home in the short term as we evaluate the situation on the ground.
· Wash your hands often
· Don’t touch your face
· If you are sick, stay home
· Use common sense in your interactions
· This is serious but manageable. Do not panic.
For general questions about COVID-19, call the hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email dph.sick@illinois.gov. ;\lsdpriority4