DuPage County briefs
Small gains for tourism:
Visitors to DuPage County contributed $2.16 billion to the state's economy in 2008, according to figures released this week by the U.S. Travel Data Center. That marks an increase of slightly less than 1 percent from 2007's $2.14 billion and keeps DuPage second to Cook County for domestic travel spending in Illinois. DuPage also ranked second in tourism industry payrolls, employment figures and state and local tax revenue - although there were dips in some areas. Roughly 22,210 people were employed in the county's hospitality industry, down about 460 from the previous year, according to the data center.
Purchase Metra tickets online:
Metra will begin accepting credit card payment for ticket purchases made online beginning Sept. 9. Using a new Web feature, My Metra, commuters will be able to create an account to more easily manage and order tickets online. The feature also will allow them to view ticket order history, create a customized view of their train schedule and set up personalized e-mail alerts. For more information visit metrarail.com/Service_Advisories/new_site.htm.
BU receives $600,00 grant:
The Evelyn R. Simmers Charitable Trust has donated $600,000 to the Department of Nursing at Lisle's Benedictine University to endow scholarships for students pursuing either a bachelor's or master's degree in nursing. Before their deaths, Evelyn Simmers and her husband, Wallace, owned a small manufacturing company in Chicago and were known for their support of hospital activities and programs. Benedictine's bachelor of science in nursing is offered through a partnership with the College of DuPage, Triton College and Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.
IMSA using solar panels:
The Illinois Math and Science Academy in Aurora has offset 759 pounds of carbon dioxide in 85 days with its newly installed solar panels. The panels are part of the IMSA Energy Center. The largest panel has generated enough energy to run 14 homes, 1,341 regular light bulbs and 443 computers for one day. Other initiatives at the center include small wind energy projects, alternative biofuels and kindergarten through eighth grade energy-related curricula. The projects were made possible through the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education and a $23,500 grant from ComEd.
City seeks commissioners:
Naperville is accepting applications for the eight open positions on the city's Historic Preservation Commission. The application, along with a copy of the individual's resume, can be submitted by mail or in person to the mayor's office at the municipal center, 400 S. Eagle St. or my e-mail to johnsonc@naperville.il.us. The commission meets monthly to review applications for certificates of appropriateness, guide development of historic building guidelines and ongoing training activities and assist in educating residents. The nine members serve staggered three-year terms. For more information visit naperville.il.us/preservation.aspx.