Du Quoin briefs: Businesses apply for funds; lights go on Friday at Van Metre Field

<b>Local businesses apply for funds</b>

As of Monday, 35 to 40 Du Quoin businesses had applied with the city of Du Quoin for the Downstate Small Business Stabilization program, which could give them up $25,000 or two months of working capital.

Jeff Ashauer, Du Quoin's economic development adviser said on Monday they have received paperwork from 10 of those businesses so far, and he and City Clerk Ruth Hale are writing the individual applications. Ashauer said he's even been approached by businesses outside of Du Quoin - including one as far away as Mount Vernon. But the city can process applications only from Du Quoin businesses.

"The money is a bridge to the point where they (businesses) can reopen their doors," Ashauer said, adding that 10 local businesses represent more than 100 employees in Du Quoin.

"It is quite rewarding to help businesses that need help," he added. "I'm enjoying the work."

<b>City will delay license renewals to Nov. 1</b>

The Du Quoin city council intends to extend the expiration date for businesses with liquor and gaming licenses from June 1 to Nov. 1. Normally, those licenses would expire on June 1 and business owners would have to pay to have them renewed.

"Let's give them a chance to get a little cash in their pockets after COVID is over, before they have to pay for their licenses," said Mayor Guy Alongi at Monday's city council meeting. From then on, the licenses will expire on Nov. 1. The measure is currently on public display and is expected to be passed on April 27.

<b>Lights go on tonight at Van Metre Field</b>

At 8:30 p.m. on Friday (20:20 in military time) the lights at Van Metre Field will be lit in honor of the class of 2020, and everyone fighting the coronavirus. The lights will remain on for 20 minutes and 20 seconds, as a tribute to students and staff, the community, first responders, health care professionals and essential workers.

The tribute began last Friday and will continue every Friday night "until we are able to honor the Class of 2020 with their graduation ceremony on Van Metre Field," Mayor Guy Alongi wrote on his Facebook page.

"Class of 2020, you are not forgotten and we will leave our field lit until you return," he added. "Thank you to those fighting on the front lines on a daily basis."