Briefs: West Nile cases grow
A fourth person has died as a result of West Nile virus, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported Wednesday. The disease, spread by infected mosquitoes, has struck 48 people in Illinois so far and killed four. State officials also announced three people in DuPage County fell ill with the virus recently, including a man and woman in their 40s and a woman in her 30s. Officials warned that colder weather doesn't mean mosquito season is over and advised people to wear bug spray and stay indoors after sunset.
Addison 'Day of Play'
Free family activities will be offered Saturday during Addison Park District's "Worldwide Day of Play." Activities at 1 p.m. include tennis at Centennial Park, 1776 W. Centennial Place and soccer at Highview Park, 100 S. Lincoln. Activities at 2 p.m. include a bean bag tournament for adults and children at Farmwood Park, 900 Sable and a Frisbee toss for children at Byron Park, 100 W. Bryon. Leashed dogs are welcome. For details, visit the Web site at www.addisonparkdistrict.org or call (630) 833-0100.
River Edge Park gets OK
In an 8-3 vote, Aurora city officials this week approved a master plan for a Riverwalk and River Edge Park. The multi-million dollar park has been touted as a potential regional attraction and will be a key part of the city's overall initiative to redevelop downtown. The 30-acre site will include an outdoor music venue, a botanical garden, nature center, public market and a pedestrian bridge linking the east and west river banks. Construction could start in spring 2009. Some aldermen expressed concerns with project funding.
Rush-Copley honored
Aurora's Rush-Copley Medical Center was named to AARP's 2007 50 Best Employers for Workers Over 50 List, officials said this week. The center is one of six Illinois-based companies recognized for outstanding policies and practices for seniors. The medical center is the only community hospital in the state to make the list. "This award demonstrates the medical center's exemplary practices in recruitment, retention and promotion of older workers," said Barry C. Finn, president and CEO of Rush-Copley in a statement.
Bid for Kids seeks helpers
Residents interested in helping plan the 32nd annual Bids for Kids Benefit Auction for Little Friends, Inc., are invited to an informational meeting at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at 140 N. Wright St., Naperville. The auction will be March 8 at the Hilton Lisle-Naperville. Last year's event raised more than $125,000 to benefit children and adults with developmental disabilities. Volunteers are needed to assist with logistics, sponsorships, marketing, decorations, and solicitation of live and silent auction items. For details, contact Cally Edwards at (630) 281-1882 or credwards@lilfriends.com.