Unique Memorial Day Weekend Squashes Large Gatherings

NORTHBROOK, IL — It promises to be a Memorial Day weekend like no other with the State of Illinois still under Gov. J.B. Pritzker's stay-at-home order due to the coronavirus pandemic. Traditionally, large gatherings at public events like parades and fireworks shows are a big part of the holiday. That will not be the case this year as all are cancelled, but municipalities like Northbrook will still be proactive in making sure people follow the rules and stay safe.

"It's just about education on the governor's and Northbrook Village President [Sandra] Frum's orders regarding the group sizes and the use of the maps," Northbrook Police Chief Roger Adkins told Patch. "We look for voluntary compliance. We do that every day whether we're called upon to a situation or in our tour of duty/patrol."

With the state expected to move into Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan on May 29, some rules with regard to people congregating will be eased. Gatherings of up to 10 people will be allowed with social distancing practices still encouraged.

"In the next phase, really any group of 10 people can do it but again, it's the idea here is to make sure that we have — you know, safety is the uppermost concept in people's minds when they're getting together wear a face covering, keep social distance from one another, you know, and outside is always the best circumstance," Pritzker said Thursday.

Village of Northbrook To Host Virtual Memorial Day Celebration

Adkins stressed how important it is for everyone to comply to the restrictions to ensure the state is able to move forward to the next phase without any setbacks. He encouraged residents to check out the Village's COVID-19 informational page to find out more information if they need to.

"It's important for people to follow the directives and be safe for their health and their families," Adkins said. "Some people need the education and some just need the reminder."

In lieu of an in-person service, the Village of Northbrook will be holding a virtual ceremony streamed at 10:30 a.m. on Memorial Day. The ceremony features American Legion Post 791 Commander Tom Mahoney, Retired Air Force Brigadier General Thomas Kittler, Village President Sandy Frum, and a special "Post Everlasting" ceremony to honor recently deceased members of the American Legion Post 791.