dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Wheaton's Town Square struggles to fill retail vacancies

Not so long ago , Wheaton 's Town Square enjoyed a mix of national chain stores and a full parking lot as an upscale shopping destination on the city 's south side .
Mall ownership changed hands in 2015 when Chicago-based Tucker Development purchased the 203,000-square-foot property for nearly $ 57.3 million in a joint venture with Hutensky Capital Partners .
What a difference five years can make .
Town Square has suffered a retail exodus .
Gap , Banana Republic , Charming Charlie , Express and , most recently , Victoria 's Secret , all have closed .
Starbucks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Square fixtures also moved to nearby shopping centers in Danada .
It 's yet another example of a suburban mall struggling to adapt to the rise of online shopping and the decline of retail stalwarts .
Now , the question is whether Town Square can reinvent itself .
`` That center was the envy of many developers when it was first developed because it was so unique , '' said John Melaniphy , president of Chicago consulting firm Melaniphy & Associates .
Town Square opened in 1992 with a Prairie-style design .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and focused heavily on apparel .
Melaniphy expresses confidence in the owners , their experience and leasing contacts .
Tucker Development also owns a portion of Wheatland Marketplace , a Naperville shopping center where Amazon wants to open a grocery store .
In Chicago , Tucker is redeveloping the site of a former Sears store at Milwaukee Avenue , Cicero Avenue and Irving Park Road .
`` He 's been involved in the industry for many years , '' Melaniphy said of the firm 's CEO .
Tucker Development CEO Richard Tucker , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vice President Brad Miller did not return multiple requests for comment .
Wheaton officials say they 're encouraged by renovations of Town Square .
But officials also have raised concerns about its prospects , according to internal emails obtained by the Daily Herald through a public records request .
The city 's economic development leaders meet periodically with mall ownership .
One such meeting in February 2019 did n't allay staff concerns , emails show .
`` We were VERY discouraged with them , '' Planning and Economic Development Director Jim Kozik wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They are giving themselves three years to re-tenant the center ; they are actively looking for a large restaurant to provide the spark .
They seem to have no urgency . ''
Remaining tenants say high rents also are driving away new business .
Cory Short , one of the owners of Red Mango , a frozen yogurt shop , said her rent payments have doubled since 2016 .
`` I just hope that we can get more business in here for the sake of everybody else so that people do n't lose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Short said .
Historically , Town Square had `` very strong sales productivity , '' Melaniphy said .
High visibility and enviable demographics still give the center an advantage .
The key is attracting more Internet-resistant tenants -- `` food and fashion and fitness and fun '' -- that entice shoppers to spend time at the center , Melaniphy said .
`` We 're seeing this all over the county , '' he said .
`` This is n't anything germane only to Wheaton . ''
Kozik said online speculation that owners want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way for condos is just that : only rumors .
He said the owners continue to make significant investments in the center , arranged in a walkable loop .
A new outdoor fireplace was installed in a redesigned central courtyard , and a new monument sign stands along Naperville Road .
`` It 's a difficult marketplace out there , so I think they 're doing all they can , '' Kozik said .
`` Their interest is in having a vibrant center that 's full of tenants . ''
But an organizer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ petition has reservations .
It 's generated more than 2,000 signatures .
`` They did a nice job with the renovations , '' the Change.org petition states , `` but what is the point with no shops to support or enjoy the center ? ''
The pending arrival of McAlister 's Deli may not provide that `` spark '' for Town Square , but it will fill a 3,300-square-foot space .
The chain recently secured a city permit to convert a former vitamin shop at Naperville Road and Blanchard Circle .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Square Wheaton represents our commitment to create a unique and dynamic destination for visitors to gather together and enjoy a day of shopping , dining and socializing , '' Hutensky 's Miller said in a statement last week .
`` We not only welcome McAlister 's Deli to Town Square Wheaton and anticipate celebrating our newest restaurant 's grand opening later this spring , but look forward to announcing the names of additional new retail brands along with food and beverage tenants in the months to come . ''

Wheaton's Town Square struggles to fill retail vacancies
Not so long ago, Wheaton's Town Square enjoyed a mix of national chain stores and a full parking lot as an upscale shopping destination on the city's south side.
Mall ownership changed hands in 2015 when Chicago-based Tucker Development purchased the 203,000-square-foot property for nearly $57.3 million in a joint venture with Hutensky Capital Partners.
What a difference five years can make.
Town Square has suffered a retail exodus. Gap, Banana Republic, Charming Charlie, Express and, most recently, Victoria's Secret, all have closed. Starbucks, Frank Gironda Salon and other Town Square fixtures also moved to nearby shopping centers in Danada.
It's yet another example of a suburban mall struggling to adapt to the rise of online shopping and the decline of retail stalwarts. Now, the question is whether Town Square can reinvent itself.
"That center was the envy of many developers when it was first developed because it was so unique," said John Melaniphy, president of Chicago consulting firm Melaniphy & Associates.
Town Square opened in 1992 with a Prairie-style design. The open-air center notably lacked an anchor tenant and focused heavily on apparel.
Melaniphy expresses confidence in the owners, their experience and leasing contacts.
Tucker Development also owns a portion of Wheatland Marketplace, a Naperville shopping center where Amazon wants to open a grocery store. In Chicago, Tucker is redeveloping the site of a former Sears store at Milwaukee Avenue, Cicero Avenue and Irving Park Road.
"He's been involved in the industry for many years," Melaniphy said of the firm's CEO.
Tucker Development CEO Richard Tucker, Senior Vice President Teresa Connors and Hutensky Vice President Brad Miller did not return multiple requests for comment.
- Patrick Kunzer | Staff Photographer New owners took over Town Square in 2015. "I think they're trying to attract more dining restaurants as most centers are," said Jim Kozik, Wheaton's planning and economic development director.
Wheaton officials say they're encouraged by renovations of Town Square. But officials also have raised concerns about its prospects, according to internal emails obtained by the Daily Herald through a public records request.
The city's economic development leaders meet periodically with mall ownership. One such meeting in February 2019 didn't allay staff concerns, emails show.
"We were VERY discouraged with them," Planning and Economic Development Director Jim Kozik wrote to a former city clerk. "They are giving themselves three years to re-tenant the center; they are actively looking for a large restaurant to provide the spark. They seem to have no urgency."
Remaining tenants say high rents also are driving away new business.
Cory Short, one of the owners of Red Mango, a frozen yogurt shop, said her rent payments have doubled since 2016.
"I just hope that we can get more business in here for the sake of everybody else so that people don't lose hope and lose their jobs," Short said.
Historically, Town Square had "very strong sales productivity," Melaniphy said. High visibility and enviable demographics still give the center an advantage.
- Patrick Kunzer | Staff Photographer Store vacancies at Town Square have sparked an online petition calling on the property owners to revive the open-air mall.
The key is attracting more Internet-resistant tenants -- "food and fashion and fitness and fun" -- that entice shoppers to spend time at the center, Melaniphy said.
"We're seeing this all over the county," he said. "This isn't anything germane only to Wheaton."
Kozik said online speculation that owners want to tear down the center to make way for condos is just that: only rumors. He said the owners continue to make significant investments in the center, arranged in a walkable loop.
A new outdoor fireplace was installed in a redesigned central courtyard, and a new monument sign stands along Naperville Road.
"It's a difficult marketplace out there, so I think they're doing all they can," Kozik said. "Their interest is in having a vibrant center that's full of tenants."
But an organizer of a "Save Town Square" petition has reservations. It's generated more than 2,000 signatures.
"They did a nice job with the renovations," the Change.org petition states, "but what is the point with no shops to support or enjoy the center?"
- Patrick Kunzer | Staff Photographer The former Gap remains an empty storefront at 301 Town Square in Wheaton.
The pending arrival of McAlister's Deli may not provide that "spark" for Town Square, but it will fill a 3,300-square-foot space. The chain recently secured a city permit to convert a former vitamin shop at Naperville Road and Blanchard Circle.
"The addition of McAlister's Deli at Town Square Wheaton represents our commitment to create a unique and dynamic destination for visitors to gather together and enjoy a day of shopping, dining and socializing," Hutensky's Miller said in a statement last week.
"We not only welcome McAlister's Deli to Town Square Wheaton and anticipate celebrating our newest restaurant's grand opening later this spring, but look forward to announcing the names of additional new retail brands along with food and beverage tenants in the months to come."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Disciplinary board recommends Blagojevich be disbarred

SPRINGFIELD -- A board that oversees the discipline of attorneys in Illinois recommended Tuesday that former Democratic Gov .
Rod Blagojevich be disbarred from the practice of law .
The Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission said in an order that Blagojevich `` has not acknowledged that his conduct was wrongful or expressed any remorse '' and that `` his failure to appear for his disciplinary hearing demonstrates a lack of respect for the disciplinary process and the legal profession . ''
Blagojevich , of Chicago , received his law degree from Pepperdine University in California and was admitted to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A former state lawmaker and member of Congress , he was elected governor in 2002 and again in 2006 .
But he was impeached and removed from office in January 2009 .
He was later convicted in June 2011 on multiple federal charges of crimes committed while in office including attempt to commit extortion , corrupt solicitation , conspiracy to commit extortion , conspiracy to commit corrupt solicitation , and making false statements to the FBI .
Most notable of the charges was the allegation that he attempted to sell an appointment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate seat .
Blagojevich served eight years of a 14-year federal prison sentence .
President Donald Trump commuted his sentence on Feb. 19 .
Blagojevich has consistently maintained he did nothing wrong .
In October 2011 , the Illinois Supreme Court placed Blagojevich on interim suspension from practicing law .
That suspension remains in effect .
In August 2019 , while Blagojevich was still in prison , the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission administrator filed a motion for further disciplinary action .
The commission held a hearing on that motion Feb. 25 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been released from prison .
Blagojevich did not appear at that hearing .
Although he was represented by counsel , the commission noted that he did not file an answer to the motion , comply with requests to produce information or appear for a deposition .
A commission spokesman said in an email that Blagojevich has 21 days to appeal the finding .
If he does , the case would go to a review board .
If he does not appeal , however , the report will be sent to the Illinois Supreme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in whether to revoke his law license .

Disciplinary board recommends Blagojevich be disbarred
SPRINGFIELD -- A board that oversees the discipline of attorneys in Illinois recommended Tuesday that former Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich be disbarred from the practice of law.
The Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission said in an order that Blagojevich "has not acknowledged that his conduct was wrongful or expressed any remorse" and that "his failure to appear for his disciplinary hearing demonstrates a lack of respect for the disciplinary process and the legal profession."
Blagojevich, of Chicago, received his law degree from Pepperdine University in California and was admitted to the practice of law in Illinois in 1984.
A former state lawmaker and member of Congress, he was elected governor in 2002 and again in 2006. But he was impeached and removed from office in January 2009.
He was later convicted in June 2011 on multiple federal charges of crimes committed while in office including attempt to commit extortion, corrupt solicitation, conspiracy to commit extortion, conspiracy to commit corrupt solicitation, and making false statements to the FBI.
Most notable of the charges was the allegation that he attempted to sell an appointment to then-President Barack Obama's former U.S. Senate seat.
Blagojevich served eight years of a 14-year federal prison sentence. President Donald Trump commuted his sentence on Feb. 19. Blagojevich has consistently maintained he did nothing wrong.
In October 2011, the Illinois Supreme Court placed Blagojevich on interim suspension from practicing law. That suspension remains in effect. In August 2019, while Blagojevich was still in prison, the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission administrator filed a motion for further disciplinary action. The commission held a hearing on that motion Feb. 25, less than a week after Blagojevich had been released from prison.
Blagojevich did not appear at that hearing. Although he was represented by counsel, the commission noted that he did not file an answer to the motion, comply with requests to produce information or appear for a deposition.
A commission spokesman said in an email that Blagojevich has 21 days to appeal the finding. If he does, the case would go to a review board. If he does not appeal, however, the report will be sent to the Illinois Supreme Court, which has the final say in whether to revoke his law license.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--High-ranking District 214 administrator resigns for personal reasons

One of the top administrators for Northwest Suburban High School District 214 has abruptly resigned after nearly two decades in the district .
Kurt Laakso , associate superintendent for human resources since 2012 , handed in his resignation last Thursday in a two-sentence letter to Superintendent David Schuler and school board President Dan Petro .
`` It has been my honor to work for District 214 , '' Laakso wrote .
In an email to district staff over the weekend , Schuler wrote that Laakso resigned for personal reasons .
While the district works to find an interim associate superintendent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Laakso 's responsibilities .
`` We wish Kurt the best in his future endeavors , '' Schuler wrote .
Laakso 's resignation is listed under the personnel transaction report school board members are set to vote on Thursday as part of their meeting 's consent agenda .
On his LinkedIn profile , Laakso lists his job status as a self-employed leadership and human capital consultant .
Laakso was the second highest paid employee at District 214 -- only after the superintendent -- earning a base annual salary of $ 201,269 , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits report .
Before he was promoted to the district 's administrative office , Laakso was principal of Prospect High School from 2007 to 2012 .
He joined the district as the English and fine arts division head at Elk Grove High School in 2000 .
As head of human resources , Laakso oversaw recruitment , hiring and contract negotiations for the state 's second largest high school district .

High-ranking District 214 administrator resigns for personal reasons
One of the top administrators for Northwest Suburban High School District 214 has abruptly resigned after nearly two decades in the district.
Kurt Laakso, associate superintendent for human resources since 2012, handed in his resignation last Thursday in a two-sentence letter to Superintendent David Schuler and school board President Dan Petro.
"It has been my honor to work for District 214," Laakso wrote.
In an email to district staff over the weekend, Schuler wrote that Laakso resigned for personal reasons.
Laakso didn't respond to a request for comment Tuesday.
While the district works to find an interim associate superintendent, Schuler said he will be taking over Laakso's responsibilities.
"We wish Kurt the best in his future endeavors," Schuler wrote.
Laakso's resignation is listed under the personnel transaction report school board members are set to vote on Thursday as part of their meeting's consent agenda.
On his LinkedIn profile, Laakso lists his job status as a self-employed leadership and human capital consultant.
Laakso was the second highest paid employee at District 214 -- only after the superintendent -- earning a base annual salary of $201,269, according to the district's 2019 salary and benefits report.
Before he was promoted to the district's administrative office, Laakso was principal of Prospect High School from 2007 to 2012. He joined the district as the English and fine arts division head at Elk Grove High School in 2000.
As head of human resources, Laakso oversaw recruitment, hiring and contract negotiations for the state's second largest high school district.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Aurora man pleads guilty to fourth DUI, gets 5 years prison after crash into squad car

A 48-year-old man who struck a police car in Aurora while authorities were investigating a separate accident on the city 's near-west side has pleaded guilty to a felony DUI charge and was sentenced to five years in prison .
John C. Lundy , of the 900 block of Indian Trail Road , in Aurora , was set for a jury trial in Kane County this week , but he pleaded guilty in late January 2020 to aggravated DUI/4th offense , records show , in exchange for prosecutors dismissing the other , less severe charges .
Lundy was arrested March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with aggravated DUI/5th offense , driving while license revoked , misdemeanor DUI , leaving the scene of an accident , failing to yield to an emergency vehicle and no insurance , according to police and Kane County court records .
Police had closed off part of Lake Street ( Route 31 ) near Plum Street to investigate a hit-and-run that killed 8-year-old Izaiah Lopez and injured his grandfather as they crossed Lake about 7:42 p.m. An Aurora man faces charges in that crash .
About an hour later , Lundy crashed into a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crash scene to block traffic , authorities said .
The driver , later identified as Lundy , got out of his car and ran off but was arrested a few blocks away .
No one was injured in the crash .
The original charge of aggravated DUI/5th offense carried a prison term ranging from four to 15 years with no chance of probation .
The fourth DUI felony charge carries a prison term of three to seven years .
Prosecutors said even with the reduced charge , Lundy was being held accountable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judge David Kliment on Friday .
Lundy can have his prison term cut in half for good behavior .
He also gets credit for 11 months served at the Kane County jail while the case was pending .

Aurora man pleads guilty to fourth DUI, gets 5 years prison after crash into squad car
John C. Lundy was sentenced to five years in prison.
A 48-year-old man who struck a police car in Aurora while authorities were investigating a separate accident on the city's near-west side has pleaded guilty to a felony DUI charge and was sentenced to five years in prison.
John C. Lundy, of the 900 block of Indian Trail Road, in Aurora, was set for a jury trial in Kane County this week, but he pleaded guilty in late January 2020 to aggravated DUI/4th offense, records show, in exchange for prosecutors dismissing the other, less severe charges.
Lundy was arrested March 25, 2019, and originally charged with aggravated DUI/5th offense, driving while license revoked, misdemeanor DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, failing to yield to an emergency vehicle and no insurance, according to police and Kane County court records.
Police had closed off part of Lake Street (Route 31) near Plum Street to investigate a hit-and-run that killed 8-year-old Izaiah Lopez and injured his grandfather as they crossed Lake about 7:42 p.m. An Aurora man faces charges in that crash.
About an hour later, Lundy crashed into a police squad car that was parked near the crash scene to block traffic, authorities said.
The driver, later identified as Lundy, got out of his car and ran off but was arrested a few blocks away.
No one was injured in the crash.
The original charge of aggravated DUI/5th offense carried a prison term ranging from four to 15 years with no chance of probation.
The fourth DUI felony charge carries a prison term of three to seven years. Prosecutors said even with the reduced charge, Lundy was being held accountable under the five-year prison term issued by Judge David Kliment on Friday.
Lundy can have his prison term cut in half for good behavior. He also gets credit for 11 months served at the Kane County jail while the case was pending.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Palatine man charged in New Year's Day crash that killed Buffalo Grove resident

A Palatine man is in jail facing charges stemming from a fatal New Year 's Day car crash in Mundelein @ @ @ @ @ , of the 1700 block of Canterbury .
is charged with five counts of felony @ @ @ @ @ Police say Altamirano was driving a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck that collided with a Lincoln @ @ @ @ @ turn on Route 45 near Route 60 .
The Lincoln 's driver , 56-year-old Richard @ @ @ @ @ was killed .
A warrant was issued for Altamirano 's arrest Feb. 19 , and @ @ @ @ @ to Lake Zurich police , court records indicate .
Altamirano remains in the Lake County @ @ @ @ @ .
He is scheduled to appear in court March 19 .

Palatine man charged in New Year's Day crash that killed Buffalo Grove resident
A Palatine man is in jail facing charges stemming from a fatal New Year's Day car crash in Mundelein.
Armando Altamirano, 31, of the 1700 block of Canterbury. is charged with five counts of felony aggravated DUI causing death.
Police say Altamirano was driving a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck that collided with a Lincoln MKZ sedan making a left turn on Route 45 near Route 60.
The Lincoln's driver, 56-year-old Richard Skloot of Buffalo Grove, was killed.
A warrant was issued for Altamirano's arrest Feb. 19, and he surrendered the next day to Lake Zurich police, court records indicate.
Altamirano remains in the Lake County jail on $750,000 bail. He is scheduled to appear in court March 19.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--'It was a mistake' • Rep. Skillicorn corrects voting, attendance record

Allegations that state Rep. Allen Skillicorn was absent during a legislative session last summer , where he was recorded as present and voting in multiple roll calls , have been `` substantiated '' by the Illinois legislative inspector general .
But an investigation found no evidence of malicious intent or proof Skillicorn authorized anyone to operate his switch in his absence , according to Legislative Inspector General Carol Pope .
He has since submitted a letter with the clerk of the House correcting the voting record .
`` Indeed , there was no malice , '' Skillicorn said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mistake , and we as a legislative body should clearly define what the protocol should be so that the rules are clear and mistakes like this will not be made . ''
The ethics complaint filed in January by 66th House District candidate Carolyn Schofield -- Skillicorn 's opponent in the GOP primary -- accused the incumbent of falsifying his voting and attendance record June 1 , while he was attending the Harvard Milk Days Parade hundreds of miles from Springfield .
In a Feb. 13 note to Chief Clerk John Hollman , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ present at the 12:15 p.m. roll call , but he was not in attendance .
He also was inadvertently listed as having voted on 24 bills during his absence , he said .
Skillicorn said he arrived in session after the House called for a recess at 3 p.m. and before 5:50 p.m .
In a status email sent to Schofield last Friday , Pope said she interviewed 11 people during her investigation , including the clerk 's office personnel , staff members and legislators .
She found it is common for General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff member to vote for them if they need to temporarily step out , for reasons such as to use the bathroom or talk to a constituent .
It 's not appropriate for a lawmaker to ask someone to vote with their switch while they are out of town , she said , nor is it acceptable for a colleague to take it upon themselves to vote for an absent member .
Pope suggests a written protocol be provided to House members and their staff `` so there is no question about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to be absent , '' she said in the email , noting she has closed her investigation .
Skillicorn said he agrees with Pope 's findings and `` strongly supports ( her ) recommendation for a written protocol to ensure that this does not happen again . ''

'It was a mistake' • Rep. Skillicorn corrects voting, attendance record
Allegations that state Rep. Allen Skillicorn was absent during a legislative session last summer, where he was recorded as present and voting in multiple roll calls, have been "substantiated" by the Illinois legislative inspector general.
But an investigation found no evidence of malicious intent or proof the East Dundee Republican authorized anyone to operate his switch in his absence, according to Legislative Inspector General Carol Pope. He has since submitted a letter with the clerk of the House correcting the voting record.
"Indeed, there was no malice," Skillicorn said in a statement Tuesday. "It was a mistake, and we as a legislative body should clearly define what the protocol should be so that the rules are clear and mistakes like this will not be made."
The ethics complaint filed in January by 66th House District candidate Carolyn Schofield -- Skillicorn's opponent in the GOP primary -- accused the incumbent of falsifying his voting and attendance record June 1, while he was attending the Harvard Milk Days Parade hundreds of miles from Springfield.
In a Feb. 13 note to Chief Clerk John Hollman, Skillicorn said he was accidentally listed as present at the 12:15 p.m. roll call, but he was not in attendance. He also was inadvertently listed as having voted on 24 bills or resolutions during his absence, he said.
Skillicorn said he arrived in session after the House called for a recess at 3 p.m. and before 5:50 p.m.
In a status email sent to Schofield last Friday, Pope said she interviewed 11 people during her investigation, including the clerk's office personnel, staff members and legislators.
She found it is common for General Assembly members to ask a seatmate or staff member to vote for them if they need to temporarily step out, for reasons such as to use the bathroom or talk to a constituent. It's not appropriate for a lawmaker to ask someone to vote with their switch while they are out of town, she said, nor is it acceptable for a colleague to take it upon themselves to vote for an absent member.
Pope suggests a written protocol be provided to House members and their staff "so there is no question about the procedures to be followed when a member is going to be absent," she said in the email, noting she has closed her investigation.
Skillicorn said he agrees with Pope's findings and "strongly supports (her) recommendation for a written protocol to ensure that this does not happen again."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--5th Illinois coronavirus patient suspected at Chicago hospital

University of Chicago Medical Center officials are performing tests on a patient they believe is the state 's fifth person to be diagnosed with the COVID-19 coronavirus strain .
`` UChicago Medicine has been preparing for this eventuality since COVID-19 became a global health concern in January , '' hospital officials said in a statement released Tuesday .
`` Senior hospital leadership and leaders from our infectious diseases and infection prevention teams , along with other expert clinicians , are working closely with local , state and federal health officials and continue to apply up to date recommended guidelines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a news conference would be held if the patient tests positive for the virus .
`` We 're following rigorous isolation and infection control protocols to ensure the safety of our staff , patients and our neighbors , '' the statement read .
Meanwhile , two suburban coronavirus patients remain under watch , one at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights and the other quarantined at her home .
The husband and wife in their 70s were the third and fourth patients diagnosed with the disease in the state .
It 's unclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and second patients were treated at a hospital in Hoffman Estates weeks ago and released back to their Chicago home after symptoms subsided .
Health officials said that couple is doing well .
The woman became infected after traveling to China and her husband contracted the virus from her upon her return .
Elsewhere , Arlington Heights Elementary District 25 officials notified parents and staff about two students and two staffers who were staying home of their own volition after coming into contact with a babysitter who 's relative treated a coronavirus patient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has had significant outbreaks in China , Iran and Italy , has been responsible for hundreds of deaths around the world .
So far , U.S. health officials have only confirmed six deaths , all in Washington state , from the virus .
Like most respiratory diseases , this strain of coronavirus affects the elderly , infants and those with compromised immune systems the most .
Health officials are working on a vaccine in an effort to thwart the spread of the disease .

Patient at University of Chicago hospital tests negative for coronavirus
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, announce the state's fourth case of coronavirus during a news conference Monday in Chicago. University of Chicago Medical Center officials said Tuesday night a patient did not turn out to be the state's fifth person to be diagnosed with the COVID-19 coronavirus strain. Illinois.gov
University of Chicago Medical Center officials said Tuesday night that tests on a patient they feared would be the state's fifth person to be diagnosed with the COVID-19 coronavirus strain came out negative.
The patient was admitted Monday night. Doctors released lab results from the Illinois Department of Public Health just before 8:30 p.m.
The medical center didn't say anything more about the patient.
"We remain committed to providing safe and effective care to those in our community who become infected with COVID-19," read an email to hospital staff members, also shared with media. "We will continue to work with federal, state and local health officials as we monitor the situation locally and nationally while also ensuring UChicago Medicine's readiness for the various stages of the epidemic."
Meanwhile, two suburban coronavirus patients remain under watch, one at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights and the other quarantined at her home. The husband and wife in their 70s were the third and fourth patients diagnosed with the disease in the state. It's unclear how they were infected.
The first and second patients were treated at a hospital in Hoffman Estates weeks ago and released back to their Chicago home after symptoms subsided. Health officials said that couple is doing well. The woman became infected after traveling to China and her husband contracted the virus from her upon her return.
Elsewhere, Arlington Heights Elementary District 25 officials notified parents and staff about two students and two staffers who were staying home of their own volition after coming into contact with a babysitter who's relative treated a coronavirus patient at a hospital.
The disease, which has had significant outbreaks in China, Iran and Italy, has been responsible for hundreds of deaths around the world. So far, U.S. health officials have only confirmed six deaths, all in Washington state, from the virus.
Like most respiratory diseases, this strain of coronavirus affects the elderly, infants and those with compromised immune systems the most. Health officials are working on a vaccine in an effort to thwart the spread of the disease.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Watch Super Tuesday results livestream: Biden wins Virginia

The Washington Post is providing live coverage of the Super Tuesday returns .
And former Vice President Joe Biden is @ @ @ @ @ primary in Virginia , one of 14 states holding primaries today , while Bernie Sanders @ @ @ @ @ .
Libby Casey will anchor from The Washington Post newsroom and will be joined by @ @ @ @ @ `` Daily 202 , '' and Dave Weigel , author of `` The Trailer , @ @ @ @ @ Fix political team of Aaron Blake , Amber Phillips , and Eugene Scott .
The @ @ @ @ @ the candidate speeches live , and has reporters traveling with each of the campaigns : @ @ @ @ @ , Hannah Jewell , Joyce Koh , Lee Powell and Jorge Ribas .
Additionally , @ @ @ @ @ and creator of the Post 's popular `` Presidential '' podcast will provide historical context @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .

Biden surges ahead, but Sanders takes California
Voters cast their ballots for the Super Tuesday primary election at a voting center in El Segundo, Calif., Tuesday. Associated Press
WASHINGTON -- A resurgent Joe Biden scored sweeping victories across the country with the backing of a diverse coalition and progressive rival Bernie Sanders seized Super Tuesday's biggest prize with a win in California as the Democratic Party's once-crowded presidential field suddenly transformed into a two-man contest.
The two Democrats, lifelong politicians with starkly different visions for America's future, were battling for delegates as 14 states and one U.S. territory held a series of high-stakes elections that marked the most significant day of voting in the party's 2020 presidential nomination fight. The winner will take on President Donald Trump in the November general election.
The other two high-profile candidates still in the shrinking Democratic field, New York billionaire Mike Bloomberg and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, were teetering on the edge of viability. Warren finished in an embarrassing third place in her home state, and Bloomberg planned to reassess his candidacy on Wednesday after spending more than a half billion dollars to score a single victory -- in American Samoa.
The new contours of a nomination fight pitting Biden against Sanders, each leading coalitions of disparate demographics and political beliefs, were crystallizing by day's end as the former vice president and the three-term senator spoke to each other from dueling victory speeches separated by 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) Tuesday night.
"People are talking about a revolution. We started a movement," Biden charged in Los Angeles, knocking one of Sanders' signature lines.
And without citing his surging rival by name, Sanders swiped at Biden from Burlington, Vermont.
"You cannot beat Trump with the same-old, same-old kind of politics," Sanders declared, ticking down a list of past policy differences with Biden on Social Security, trade and military force. "This will become a contrast in ideas."
The balance of Super Tuesday's battlefield -- with Biden winning at least eight states and Sanders four -- raised questions about whether the Democratic primary contest would stretch all the way to the July convention or be decided much sooner.
Biden's strong finish punctuated a dramatic turnaround in the span of just three days when he leveraged a blowout victory in South Carolina to score sweeping victories on Tuesday that transcended geography, class and race. And lest there be any doubt, he cemented his status as the standard-bearer for the Democrats' establishment wing.
The former vice president showed strength in the Northeast with a win in Massachusetts, won Minnesota in the upper Midwest and finished on top across the South in Virginia, Alabama, North Carolina, Tennessee and Arkansas -- in addition to Oklahoma.
Sanders opened the night as the undisputed Democratic front-runner and was in a position to claim an insurmountable delegate lead. And while he scored the night's biggest delegate-prize in California, he scored just three other decisive victories, winning his home state of Vermont, along with Utah and Colorado.
Still, Sanders proved he could deliver in perhaps the greatest test of his decadeslong political career. His success was built on a base of energized liberals, young people and Latinos. And his conclusive win in California marks a huge reversal in a state he lost four years ago.
Biden racked up his victories despite being dramatically outspent and out-staffed. Moderate rival Bloomberg, for example, poured more than $19 million into television advertising in Virginia, while Biden spent less than $200,000.
A key to Biden's success: black voters. Biden, who served two terms as President Barack Obama's vice president, won 60% of the black vote in Alabama, where African Americans made up more than half the Democratic electorate on Tuesday. Bloomberg earned 25%, and Sanders won about 10% of African American votes, according to AP VoteCast, a wide-ranging survey of the electorate.
The Democratic race has shifted dramatically over the past three days as Biden capitalized on his commanding South Carolina victory to persuade anxious establishment allies to rally behind his campaign. Former rivals Amy Klobuchar and Pete Buttigieg abruptly ended their campaigns in the days leading up to Super Tuesday and endorsed Biden.
In Biden and Sanders, Democrats have a stark choice in what kind of candidate they want to run against Trump.
Sanders is a 78-year-old democratic socialist who relies on an energized coalition of his party's far-left flank that embraces his longtime fight to transform the nation's political and economic systems. Biden is a 77-year-old lifelong leader of his party's Washington establishment who emphasizes a more pragmatic approach to core policy issues like health care and climate change.
Across the Super Tuesday states there were early questions about Sanders' claims that he is growing his support from his failed 2016 presidential bid.
Biden bested him in Oklahoma, though Sanders won the state against Hillary Clinton four years ago. In Virginia, where Democratic turnout this year surpassed 2016's numbers by more than 500,000 votes, Sanders' vote share dropped significantly. And in Tennessee, Democratic turnout was up more than 30% from 2016, but Sanders' raw vote total was only a few hundred votes greater than four years ago.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg was trying to look beyond the primary to the November election against Trump, who racked up easy victories in lightly contested Republican primaries across the country.
"We have the resources to beat Trump in swing states that Democrats lost in 2016," he said Tuesday night while campaigning in Florida.
The billionaire former New York mayor, who threw more than a half a billion dollars into the Super Tuesday states, will reassess his campaign on Wednesday, according to a person close to his operation who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe internal deliberations.
Warren was also fighting to be optimistic.
Facing a roaring crowd in Michigan before news of her disappointing home-state finish was announced, she called on her supporters to ignore the political pundits and predictions as her advisers insist she's willing to go all the way to a contested convention in July even if she doesn't claim an outright victory anywhere.
"Here's my advice: Cast a vote that will make you proud. Cast a vote from your heart," Warren declared. She added: "You don't get what you don't fight for. I am in this fight."
With votes still being counted across the country, The Associated Press has allocated 362 to Biden, 285 delegates to Sanders, 30 to Bloomberg, 20 to Warren and one for Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. The numbers are expected to shift dramatically throughout the night as new states, none bigger than California, report their numbers and as some candidates hover around the 15% vote threshold they must hit to earn delegates.
The ultimate nominee must ultimately claim 1,991 delegates, which is a majority of the 3,979 pledged delegates available this primary season.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Coalition looks to end gas bill surcharge

SPRINGFIELD -- A 2013 state law allowing utilities to tack natural gas surcharges onto consumer bills for the purpose of funding infrastructure improvements is under scrutiny at the Capitol .
At a Statehouse news conference Tuesday , lawmakers and consumer advocates called for ending that state law on Jan. 1 , 2021 , three years earlier than its Dec. 31 , 2023 , statutory sunset date .
They claim allowing the surcharges `` helps major utilities sidestep the regulatory process , automatically raise heating bills , and force many customers into financial crisis to cover billions of dollars in reckless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Chicago Democrat , said his Senate Bill 3497 and its companion House Bill 5247 are aimed at starting `` a conversation centered on the accountability , the safety , and the affordability of utility bill increases that our families are facing in the state of Illinois . ''
He was joined by Rep. Joyce Mason , a Gurnee Democrat who sponsored the House bill , and representatives of AARP Illinois , the Citizens Utility Board , the Illinois Public Interest Research Group and the Environmental Law and Policy Center .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effort .
The coalition criticized a 2013 state law which allowed for Qualified Infrastructure Plant surcharges to be applied to consumer bills .
The measure was written to allow utility companies to replace outdated pipes , including cast iron piping that was an explosion risk .
`` Seven years ago , the Illinois legislature gave gas utilities permission to charge their customers more in order to make urgent repairs , such as replacing old cast iron pipes -- repairs that were needed to keep us all safe , '' Mason said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the necessary safety repairs , the utilities are now spending money on things like installing new meters and replacing perfectly safe pipes and we 're all getting stuck with this bill . ''
The coalition said that `` regulatory shortcut '' allows the utilities to recoup infrastructure spending more quickly by charging ratepayers once the new infrastructure is up and running .
They also said , however , the process does not require the rigorous regulatory investigation that a regular effort to adjust consumer bills does .
`` No one here is suggesting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure .
No one here is suggesting that we need to look at the types of jobs that are being utilized or are being worked on here , '' Villivalam said .
`` We want this work to be done ; how it 's done and at what rates and at what expense of our consumers , that 's the question that we 're trying to address and have a conversation about . ''
Mason said the General Assembly was told in 2013 by Peoples Gas , which serves customers in Chicago , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.14 per month on a consumer bill or about $ 2 billion total .
Currently , she said , that company is charging a fee greater than $ 9 per month and the estimated cost of the program is nearing $ 11 billion .
Peoples Gas representatives , however , said the cost over the next 20 years `` is forecasted to be $ 6.8 billion if completed by 2030 or $ 7.8 billion if completed by 2040 . ''
In a statement , a spokeswoman pointed to a 4 percent rate cap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ utility in a year , and said the `` urgent need for the System Modernization Program has recently been confirmed by an independent engineering study ordered by the Illinois Commerce Commission . ''
`` The study found that over 80 percent of the pipes in the Peoples Gas delivery system -- some more than 100 years old -- have an average remaining life of less than 15 years , and the SMP will increase public and customer safety by significantly reducing risks in Chicago 's natural gas delivery network , '' said Danisha @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the company .
She added the average cost of a consumer bill is 6 percent lower than it was six years ago when the law was passed .
Nicor gas , which serves some of western Illinois and from the Chicago suburbs to as far south as Champaign and Pike counties , has already replaced its cast iron pipes but still plans to spend $ 1.6 billion in the next two years , according to the coalition .
This created $ 260 million in rate hikes the past two years , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While we have made great strides in these modernization efforts -- retiring the last known cast iron in our system in 2018 -- as of 2020 , we still have more than 4,500 miles of natural gas main that is more than 60 years old .
Investing in Illinois , or investments in QIP , allows us to continue to make these investments to ensure every customer 's energy needs are met safely and reliably now and well into the future , '' Nicor Communications Manager Jennifer Golz said in a statement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are typically 16 percent lower than they were in 2010 .
She also questioned the $ 1.6 billion in spending over the next two years , noting that about half that sum would include `` other capital investments such as fleet vehicles , buildings and our Meter Modernization project . ''
The coalition said Ameren Illinois , which serves three quarters of the state down to near its southern border , claimed it would spend $ 330 million on capital projects , but has already topped $ 466 million .
Marcelyn Love , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coalition 's effort was intentionally misleading .
`` By claiming that Ameren Illinois has no clear public safety justification for making system improvements , these groups are willfully ignoring a federal law which requires natural gas utilities to implement pipeline safety upgrades by 2035 , '' she said .
`` This includes upgrades to transmission and distribution lines and improved technology to maintain proper pressurization of the system .
Ameren Illinois will continue to do our part to help strengthen the safety , reliability and integrity of the natural gas distribution system every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us . ''

Coalition looks to end gas bill surcharge
Jerry Nowicki/Capitol News IllinoisRep. Joyce Mason, a Gurnee Democrat, speaks at a news conference Tuesday at the Capitol in Springfield to urge a policy change that she said would lower energy costs.
Jerry Nowicki/Capitol News IllinoisBob Gallo, state director of the senior advocacy group AARP, speaks at a news conference Tuesday in Springfield to argue for ending natural gas surcharges three years early. Also pictured are Rep. Joyce Mason, a Gurnee Democrat, and Abe Scarr, director of the Illinois Public Interest Research Group.
SPRINGFIELD -- A 2013 state law allowing utilities to tack natural gas surcharges onto consumer bills for the purpose of funding infrastructure improvements is under scrutiny at the Capitol.
At a Statehouse news conference Tuesday, lawmakers and consumer advocates called for ending that state law on Jan. 1, 2021, three years earlier than its Dec. 31, 2023, statutory sunset date.
They claim allowing the surcharges "helps major utilities sidestep the regulatory process, automatically raise heating bills, and force many customers into financial crisis to cover billions of dollars in reckless utility spending."
Sen. Ram Villivalam, a Chicago Democrat, said his Senate Bill 3497 and its companion House Bill 5247 are aimed at starting "a conversation centered on the accountability, the safety, and the affordability of utility bill increases that our families are facing in the state of Illinois."
He was joined by Rep. Joyce Mason, a Gurnee Democrat who sponsored the House bill, and representatives of AARP Illinois, the Citizens Utility Board, the Illinois Public Interest Research Group and the Environmental Law and Policy Center. They're among more than 20 groups supporting the effort.
The coalition criticized a 2013 state law which allowed for Qualified Infrastructure Plant surcharges to be applied to consumer bills. The measure was written to allow utility companies to replace outdated pipes, including cast iron piping that was an explosion risk.
"Seven years ago, the Illinois legislature gave gas utilities permission to charge their customers more in order to make urgent repairs, such as replacing old cast iron pipes -- repairs that were needed to keep us all safe," Mason said. "Unfortunately, instead of just making the necessary safety repairs, the utilities are now spending money on things like installing new meters and replacing perfectly safe pipes and we're all getting stuck with this bill."
The coalition said that "regulatory shortcut" allows the utilities to recoup infrastructure spending more quickly by charging ratepayers once the new infrastructure is up and running. They also said, however, the process does not require the rigorous regulatory investigation that a regular effort to adjust consumer bills does.
"No one here is suggesting that we compromise the safety of our infrastructure. No one here is suggesting that we need to look at the types of jobs that are being utilized or are being worked on here," Villivalam said. "We want this work to be done; how it's done and at what rates and at what expense of our consumers, that's the question that we're trying to address and have a conversation about."
Mason said the General Assembly was told in 2013 by Peoples Gas, which serves customers in Chicago, that the program would cost about $1.14 per month on a consumer bill or about $2 billion total. Currently, she said, that company is charging a fee greater than $9 per month and the estimated cost of the program is nearing $11 billion.
Peoples Gas representatives, however, said the cost over the next 20 years "is forecasted to be $6.8 billion if completed by 2030 or $7.8 billion if completed by 2040."
In a statement, a spokeswoman pointed to a 4 percent rate cap on what can be recovered by the utility in a year, and said the "urgent need for the System Modernization Program has recently been confirmed by an independent engineering study ordered by the Illinois Commerce Commission."
"The study found that over 80 percent of the pipes in the Peoples Gas delivery system -- some more than 100 years old -- have an average remaining life of less than 15 years, and the SMP will increase public and customer safety by significantly reducing risks in Chicago's natural gas delivery network," said Danisha Hall, director of corporate communications for the company.
She added the average cost of a consumer bill is 6 percent lower than it was six years ago when the law was passed.
Nicor gas, which serves some of western Illinois and from the Chicago suburbs to as far south as Champaign and Pike counties, has already replaced its cast iron pipes but still plans to spend $1.6 billion in the next two years, according to the coalition. This created $260 million in rate hikes the past two years, according to the coalition's news release.
"While we have made great strides in these modernization efforts -- retiring the last known cast iron in our system in 2018 -- as of 2020, we still have more than 4,500 miles of natural gas main that is more than 60 years old. Investing in Illinois, or investments in QIP, allows us to continue to make these investments to ensure every customer's energy needs are met safely and reliably now and well into the future," Nicor Communications Manager Jennifer Golz said in a statement.
She said gas bills for Nicor customers are typically 16 percent lower than they were in 2010. She also questioned the $1.6 billion in spending over the next two years, noting that about half that sum would include "other capital investments such as fleet vehicles, buildings and our Meter Modernization project."
The coalition said Ameren Illinois, which serves three quarters of the state down to near its southern border, claimed it would spend $330 million on capital projects, but has already topped $466 million.
Marcelyn Love, an Ameren communications executive, said the coalition's effort was intentionally misleading.
"By claiming that Ameren Illinois has no clear public safety justification for making system improvements, these groups are willfully ignoring a federal law which requires natural gas utilities to implement pipeline safety upgrades by 2035," she said. "This includes upgrades to transmission and distribution lines and improved technology to maintain proper pressurization of the system. Ameren Illinois will continue to do our part to help strengthen the safety, reliability and integrity of the natural gas distribution system every day for the customers that rely on us."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--House GOP says property tax reform efforts appear stalled

SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois House Republicans said Tuesday they believe efforts to enact property tax relief have stalled in the General Assembly , and they accused Democrats of using a task force that was formed last year to push for higher income and sales taxes .
`` Illinois ' convoluted and broken property tax system has been driving the high cost of living that 's pushing families and businesses out of our state , '' Rep. Deanne Mazzochi , of Elmhurst , said during a news conference at the Capitol .
`` Despite the fact that homeowners have been crying desperately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to produce any significant action . ''
Many in Illinois have complained for years that the state has among the highest property tax rates in the nation .
That 's largely because school districts rely on local property taxes for the bulk of their funding .
But cities , counties and other local units of government are heavily reliant on property taxes as well .
Last year , as lawmakers were debating Democratic Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's proposed constitutional amendment to overhaul the state 's income tax system , they also passed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Task Force that would meet throughout the fall to study ways to provide property tax relief and deliver a final report by the end of the year .
So far , though , the task force has produced only a draft report that Republicans said was simply a list of topics that had been discussed by various subcommittees of the task force , while none of the recommendations had been considered by the full 80-member group .
Meanwhile , Republicans have said they have introduced numerous bills they believe would provide property tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of public pension benefits , limiting workers ' compensation awards , repealing what Republicans call `` unfunded mandates '' on school districts and expanding property tax exemptions for seniors .
`` We want these bills that we 've proposed , that were suggested at the property tax committee level , but then we 've introduced in bill form , to have their opportunity to be heard in committee and voted on , '' Rep. Joe Sosnowski , of Rockford , said during the news conference .
`` The taxpayers of Illinois deserve this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democratic leadership to let that happen . ''
Rep. Michael Zalewski , a Riverside Democrat who chairs the House Revenue Committee , did not immediately respond to the Republicans ' charges but said through a spokesperson that he would make a statement later in the week after that committee has met .
But other Democrats have said the GOP 's chief proposal , for further pension reform , is off the table .
They note that Illinois passed significant pension reform in 2013 when it established the `` Tier 2 '' system for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost of living increases , higher retirement ages , and limited the amount of salary that was covered by pensions .
Some Republicans have called for even further reforms such as a constitutional amendment that would allow the state to reduce pension benefits that have already been promised .
But in his budget address in February , Pritzker said that idea would not pass federal constitutional muster .
`` The fantasy of a constitutional amendment to cut retirees ' benefits is just that -- a fantasy , '' Pritzker said .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fixed with a single silver bullet ignores the protracted legal battle that will ultimately run headlong into the contracts clause of the U.S .
Constitution . ''

House GOP says property tax reform efforts appear stalled
Peter Hancock/Capitol News IllinoisRepublican Reps. Dan Brady of Bloomington and Deanne Mazzochi of Elmhurst discuss GOP proposals for property tax relief during a Statehouse news conference on Tuesday in Springfield.
SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois House Republicans said Tuesday they believe efforts to enact property tax relief have stalled in the General Assembly, and they accused Democrats of using a task force that was formed last year to push for higher income and sales taxes.
"Illinois' convoluted and broken property tax system has been driving the high cost of living that's pushing families and businesses out of our state," Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, of Elmhurst, said during a news conference at the Capitol. "Despite the fact that homeowners have been crying desperately for relief, Democrats last year failed to produce any significant action."
Many in Illinois have complained for years that the state has among the highest property tax rates in the nation. That's largely because school districts rely on local property taxes for the bulk of their funding. But cities, counties and other local units of government are heavily reliant on property taxes as well.
Last year, as lawmakers were debating Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker's proposed constitutional amendment to overhaul the state's income tax system, they also passed a bill establishing a Property Tax Relief Task Force that would meet throughout the fall to study ways to provide property tax relief and deliver a final report by the end of the year.
So far, though, the task force has produced only a draft report that Republicans said was simply a list of topics that had been discussed by various subcommittees of the task force, while none of the recommendations had been considered by the full 80-member group.
Meanwhile, Republicans have said they have introduced numerous bills they believe would provide property tax relief, including bills calling for overhaul of public pension benefits, limiting workers' compensation awards, repealing what Republicans call "unfunded mandates" on school districts and expanding property tax exemptions for seniors.
"We want these bills that we've proposed, that were suggested at the property tax committee level, but then we've introduced in bill form, to have their opportunity to be heard in committee and voted on," Rep. Joe Sosnowski, of Rockford, said during the news conference. "The taxpayers of Illinois deserve this, and we call on the House Democratic leadership to let that happen."
Rep. Michael Zalewski, a Riverside Democrat who chairs the House Revenue Committee, did not immediately respond to the Republicans' charges but said through a spokesperson that he would make a statement later in the week after that committee has met.
But other Democrats have said the GOP's chief proposal, for further pension reform, is off the table. They note that Illinois passed significant pension reform in 2013 when it established the "Tier 2" system for newly-hired employees. That package included reduced cost of living increases, higher retirement ages, and limited the amount of salary that was covered by pensions.
Some Republicans have called for even further reforms such as a constitutional amendment that would allow the state to reduce pension benefits that have already been promised. But in his budget address in February, Pritzker said that idea would not pass federal constitutional muster.
"The fantasy of a constitutional amendment to cut retirees' benefits is just that -- a fantasy," Pritzker said. "The idea that all of this can be fixed with a single silver bullet ignores the protracted legal battle that will ultimately run headlong into the contracts clause of the U.S. Constitution."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Health officials: Arlington Heights coronavirus patient didn't travel abroad; District 214 halts tri

The man hospitalized at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights with a coronavirus infection had not recently traveled internationally , public health officials say , but they did not know how he might have contracted the illness .
Authorities also are continuing to identify and contact people who might have had close contact with the man and his wife , who also has the illness and is recovering while in isolation at home , Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold said Tuesday .
The couple in their 70s are considered to be in good condition .
Dr. Ngozi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ department , said Monday that home isolation will be the preferred treatment for patients not needing more intensive medical care .
Four employees of ABC 7 Chicago were kept away from work Tuesday out of concern they may have been exposed to the coronavirus after an ABC 7 reporter and photographer interviewed a food service worker Monday at Northwest Community Hospital , officials told Robert Feder .
A second photographer who shook hands with the first one ( during a shift change in the news van ) was told not to come to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ photographer , who also is employed at the station , was offered the opportunity to stay home with their family and chose to do so .
All four employees were awaiting the results of COVID-19 tests on the food service worker before they are expected to come back .
ABC 7 would not confirm the names of the four , citing confidentiality .
Meanwhile , Lake Zurich Unit District 95 school officials on Tuesday told parents that two people in the District 95 community live with a Northwest Community Hospital employee who had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an email to students ' families , Lake Zurich Unit District 95 Superintendent Kelley Gallt said `` we have been informed that some Northwest Community Hospital employees were asked to self-quarantine '' and that two people who live with one of those employees have ties to May Whitney Elementary School in Lake Zurich and North Middle School in Hawthorn Woods .
The Illinois Department of Public Health , Lake County Health Department , Cook County Health Department and the school district 's consulting physician from Northwest Community Hospital all advised the two should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , work or other activities , Gallt wrote .
But District 95 will continue to monitor the situation as health professionals recommend , she added .
A school spokeswoman said the information came from family members of individuals who were in self-quarantine .
Northwest Community Hospital officials did not respond to Daily Herald questions about the information in the letter .
Also Tuesday , Northwest Suburban High School District 214 announced that it is canceling all international trips and tours planned in March , and it asked that students who 've traveled overseas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the district about it .
`` District administrators reached this decision ( about canceling trips abroad ) after thorough deliberation and assessment of the evolving circumstances involving the spread of the coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , '' an emailed letter to parents said .
`` District 214 did not make this decision lightly but believes this course of action is consistent with 214 's ongoing commitment to ensure that the health and safety of students and our staff remains our top priority . ''
The letter said some trips could be rescheduled .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've traveled abroad to now self-quarantine .
`` In addition to those individuals returning from mainland China , students who have travelled to or had stopovers in countries that are considered Level 3 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or higher should self-quarantine for 14 days , '' the letter said .
The Level 3 countries are China , Iran , South Korea and Italy .
Arnold said the protocols regarding who should be tested for coronavirus infection remain the same .
`` People in close contact with a confirmed case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their health care provider before going to the hospital so that the hospital can take steps to reduce the risk of exposure to others , '' she said .
`` After assessment of symptoms , contacts and travel , the clinician will determine if testing is appropriate . ''

Health officials: Arlington Heights coronavirus patient didn't travel abroad; District 214 halts trips
The man hospitalized at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights with a coronavirus infection had not recently traveled internationally, public health officials say, but they did not know how he might have contracted the illness.
Authorities also are continuing to identify and contact people who might have had close contact with the man and his wife, who also has the illness and is recovering while in isolation at home, Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman Melaney Arnold said Tuesday.
The couple in their 70s are considered to be in good condition.
Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the state health department, said Monday that home isolation will be the preferred treatment for patients not needing more intensive medical care.
Four employees of ABC 7 Chicago were kept away from work Tuesday out of concern they may have been exposed to the coronavirus after an ABC 7 reporter and photographer interviewed a food service worker Monday at Northwest Community Hospital, officials told Robert Feder.
A second photographer who shook hands with the first one (during a shift change in the news van) was told not to come to work. The wife of the first photographer, who also is employed at the station, was offered the opportunity to stay home with their family and chose to do so.
All four employees were awaiting the results of COVID-19 tests on the food service worker before they are expected to come back. ABC 7 would not confirm the names of the four, citing confidentiality.
Meanwhile, Lake Zurich Unit District 95 school officials on Tuesday told parents that two people in the District 95 community live with a Northwest Community Hospital employee who had had contact with the patient.
In an email to students' families, Lake Zurich Unit District 95 Superintendent Kelley Gallt said "we have been informed that some Northwest Community Hospital employees were asked to self-quarantine" and that two people who live with one of those employees have ties to May Whitney Elementary School in Lake Zurich and North Middle School in Hawthorn Woods.
The Illinois Department of Public Health, Lake County Health Department, Cook County Health Department and the school district's consulting physician from Northwest Community Hospital all advised the two should have no restrictions in terms of school, work or other activities, Gallt wrote. But District 95 will continue to monitor the situation as health professionals recommend, she added.
A school spokeswoman said the information came from family members of individuals who were in self-quarantine. Northwest Community Hospital officials did not respond to Daily Herald questions about the information in the letter.
Also Tuesday, Northwest Suburban High School District 214 announced that it is canceling all international trips and tours planned in March, and it asked that students who've traveled overseas or are planning to, to tell the district about it.
"District administrators reached this decision (about canceling trips abroad) after thorough deliberation and assessment of the evolving circumstances involving the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19)," an emailed letter to parents said. "District 214 did not make this decision lightly but believes this course of action is consistent with 214's ongoing commitment to ensure that the health and safety of students and our staff remains our top priority."
The letter said some trips could be rescheduled.
It also called for some students who've traveled abroad to now self-quarantine.
"In addition to those individuals returning from mainland China, students who have travelled to or had stopovers in countries that are considered Level 3 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or higher should self-quarantine for 14 days," the letter said.
The Level 3 countries are China, Iran, South Korea and Italy.
Arnold said the protocols regarding who should be tested for coronavirus infection remain the same.
"People in close contact with a confirmed case or recent international travel who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their health care provider before going to the hospital so that the hospital can take steps to reduce the risk of exposure to others," she said. "After assessment of symptoms, contacts and travel, the clinician will determine if testing is appropriate."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-03--Elgin restaurant closes abruptly with weddings, events still booked

Gifford 's Kitchen & Social in Elgin closed abruptly this week , leaving in a lurch customers who booked parties , fundraisers and weddings .
A steady stream of unhappy people stopped by the restaurant at 2300 Bushwood Drive on Tuesday afternoon after news spread on social media .
Among them were Andrew Scholwin and Stephanie Behe of South Elgin , who booked the restaurant about two months ago for their Aug. 28 wedding .
The couple paid a $ 1,500 deposit and on Friday received an email asking for another deposit of $ 3,500 , which they had n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm feeling like I 'm probably not going to get my money back , '' he said .
`` I think I am more angry that they took people 's money knowing that they were going to foreclose . ''
Messages and emails to the restaurant were n't returned Tuesday , and its Facebook and Instagram pages and website were taken down .
Late Tuesday , multiple customers posted screencaps on Facebook of an email they received from Gifford 's saying those who had booked private events would be `` contacted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within 48 hours , who will assist you with arrangements for your event to be relocated at one of their five nearby locations . ''
The email also said customers could contact their credit card company to return any charges incurred by making a deposit at Gifford 's .
Moretti 's did not return a request for comment Tuesday night .
Gifford 's opened in May 2018 when the building was owned by businessman Rich Turasky , who did n't return requests for comment .
Turasky filed a bankruptcy petition for 2300 Bushwood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Court , Northern District of Illinois , records show .
Prescient Capital Partners , the mortgage lender and current property owner , filed a motion to dismiss Turasky 's petition on Feb. 27 , saying Turasky filed in `` bad faith . ''
A hearing is scheduled for March 27 .
Turasky bought the building in 2016 .
Ownership of the property was transferred last year in a deed in lieu of foreclosure to Prescient Capital Partners , from which 2300 Bushwood LLC borrowed $ 4.6 million in 2017 , Kane County records @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment Tuesday .
An overdue tax bill of $ 62,373 for the property was sold in October to Longstreet Capital Funding , LLC , of Chicago , which could take ownership if there is no repayment by Nov. 1 , 2021 , said John Emerson , director of Kane County 's tax extension department .
The news of the Gifford 's closure spread after a Facebook post Tuesday morning by Crystal Lake resident Karli Cervantes , who had booked her April 4 bridal shower there .
Cervantes said she tried to contact the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realized it had closed without notice .
Her bridal shower was booked about two months ago with a $ 500 deposit , she said .
`` They completely vanished , '' she said .
`` We have 70 invites and we have to call people to let them know .
But I felt worse because of all of the people who said their actual weddings were canceled . ''
One of her friends had scheduled a fundraiser for her son 's soccer team on Friday and sold $ 4,000 worth of tickets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a hold of anybody .
It 's crazy . ''
The building was home to the Tilted Kilt restaurant until it closed in 2013 .
When Turasky opened Gifford 's nearly two years ago , he 'd been battling a lawsuit filed by Steve Dattomo , who had wanted to open a different restaurant in the building .
That lawsuit was dismissed in January 2019 .

Elgin restaurant closes abruptly with weddings, events still booked
Gifford's Kitchen & Social in Elgin closed abruptly this week, leaving in the lurch customers who booked parties, fundraisers and weddings.
A steady stream of unhappy people stopped by the restaurant at 2300 Bushwood Drive on Tuesday afternoon after news spread on social media. Among them were Andrew Scholwin and Stephanie Behe of South Elgin, who booked the restaurant about two months ago for their Aug. 28 wedding.
The couple paid a $1,500 deposit and on Friday received an email asking for another deposit of $3,500, which they hadn't paid yet, Scholwin said. "I'm feeling like I'm probably not going to get my money back," he said. "I think I am more angry that they took people's money knowing that they were going to foreclose."
Messages and emails to the restaurant weren't returned Tuesday, and its Facebook and Instagram pages and website were taken down.
Late Tuesday, multiple customers posted screencaps on Facebook of an email they received from Gifford's saying those who had booked private events would be "contacted by a representative from Moretti's Unique Events within 48 hours, who will assist you with arrangements for your event to be relocated at one of their five nearby locations."
The email also said customers could contact their credit card company to return any charges incurred by making a deposit at Gifford's.
Moretti's did not return a request for comment Tuesday night.
Gifford's opened in May 2018 when the building was owned by businessman Rich Turasky, who didn't return requests for comment.
Turasky filed a bankruptcy petition for 2300 Bushwood LLC on Jan. 20 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Illinois, records show. Prescient Capital Partners, the mortgage lender and current property owner, filed a motion to dismiss Turasky's petition on Feb. 27, saying Turasky filed in "bad faith." A hearing is scheduled for March 27.
Turasky bought the building in 2016. Ownership of the property was transferred last year in a deed in lieu of foreclosure to Prescient Capital Partners, from which 2300 Bushwood LLC borrowed $4.6 million in 2017, Kane County records show. A Prescient representative declined to comment Tuesday.
An overdue tax bill of $62,373 for the property was sold in October to Longstreet Capital Funding, LLC, of Chicago, which could take ownership if there is no repayment by Nov. 1, 2021, said John Emerson, director of Kane County's tax extension department.
The news of the Gifford's closure spread after a Facebook post Tuesday morning by Crystal Lake resident Karli Cervantes, who had booked her April 4 bridal shower there.
Cervantes said she tried to contact the restaurant to finalize the menu and quickly realized it had closed without notice. Her bridal shower was booked about two months ago with a $500 deposit, she said.
"They completely vanished," she said. "We have 70 invites and we have to call people to let them know. But I felt worse because of all of the people who said their actual weddings were canceled."
One of her friends had scheduled a fundraiser for her son's soccer team on Friday and sold $4,000 worth of tickets, Cervantes said. "They can't get a hold of anybody. It's crazy."
The building was home to the Tilted Kilt restaurant until it closed in 2013. When Turasky opened Gifford's nearly two years ago, he'd been battling a lawsuit filed by Steve Dattomo, who had wanted to open a different restaurant in the building. That lawsuit was dismissed in January 2019.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-04--DON'T buy face masks unless you have COVID-19! What you should really buy and do

Federal authorities say in preparing for a possible coronavirus outbreak , people should have a two-week supply of food and water -- not corner the market on canned foods and toilet paper .
Authorities suggest storing 14 days of supplies , the length of time you might be stuck at home if you were asked to self-quarantine .
Reports of local cases of COVID-19 illness , which is caused by the coronavirus , have led people to stockpile everything from hand sanitizer to face masks , leading U.S .
Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams to beg Saturday on Twitter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ! ''
`` They are NOT effective in preventing general public from catching # Coronavirus , but if health care providers ca n't get them to care for sick patients , it puts them and our communities at risk ! ''
Adams continued .
The CDC `` does not recommend that people who are well wear a face mask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases , including COVID-19 . ''
Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of face masks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings ( at home or in a health care facility ) , '' the agency said .
Health officials and federal officials advise people to plan ahead by taking these steps : • Check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home .
• Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand , including pain relievers , stomach remedies , cough and cold medicines , fluids with electrolytes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors , hospitals , pharmacies and other sources and store them , for personal reference .
• Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick , or what will be needed to care for them in your home .
• Be prepared if your child 's school or child-care facility is temporarily dismissed • Practice everyday preventive actions now .
Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue , and clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily ( e.g.
, tables , countertops , light switches , doorknobs , and cabinet handles ) using a regular household detergent and water .
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds , especially after going to the bathroom ; before eating ; and after blowing your nose , coughing , or sneezing .

DON'T buy face masks unless you have COVID-19! What you should really buy and do
The U.S. surgeon general implored Americans on Twitter NOT to buy face masks unless you're a health care worker or actually have COVID-19. Associated Press
Federal authorities say in preparing for a possible coronavirus outbreak, people should have a two-week supply of food and water -- not corner the market on canned foods and toilet paper.
Authorities suggest storing 14 days of supplies, the length of time you might be stuck at home if you were asked to self-quarantine.
Reports of local cases of COVID-19 illness, which is caused by the coronavirus, have led people to stockpile everything from hand sanitizer to face masks, leading U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams to beg Saturday on Twitter, "Seriously people -- STOP BUYING MASKS!"
"They are NOT effective in preventing general public from catching #Coronavirus, but if health care providers can't get them to care for sick patients, it puts them and our communities at risk!" Adams continued.
The CDC "does not recommend that people who are well wear a face mask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19."
Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others, the CDC says. "The use of face masks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility)," the agency said.
Health officials and federal officials advise people to plan ahead by taking these steps:
• Check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home.
• Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
• Get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them, for personal reference.
• Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.
• Be prepared if your child's school or child-care facility is temporarily dismissed
• Learn about your employer's emergency operations plan.
• Create an emergency contact list.
• Practice everyday preventive actions now. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles) using a regular household detergent and water.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-04--Suburban churches taking precautions to prevent coronavirus spread

Many suburban churches wo n't offer shared communion wine and are calling off traditional handshakes during services in an effort to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus .
Archdiocese of Chicago officials sent detailed instructions Monday afternoon to churches in Cook and Lake counties addressing concerns about COVID-19 , the illness caused by the latest coronavirus .
Spokeswoman Yasmin Quiroz said the directive for all Chicago archdiocese parishes went into effect immediately and was based on guidance from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops ' committee on divine worship .
All priests , deacons , altar servers and extraordinary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their hands before Mass .
They also must use an alcohol-based antibacterial solution before and after distributing holy communion wafers .
In addition , the Chicago archdiocese asks that there be no physical contact during the sign of peace or use of holy water fonts .
Hand-holding also should not occur during the Lord 's Prayer and , given the frequency of direct contact with saliva in the distribution of communion on the tongue , worshippers who typically prefer that method should consider taking it reverently in open hands for now .
Similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joliet on Feb. 28 .
The Joliet diocese includes churches in Naperville , Glen Ellyn , Carol Stream and other parts of DuPage County .
`` At this time , because of unknown dimensions of this virus and its rapid spreading worldwide , prudence and prayer are called for , '' wrote the Most Rev .
Richard E. Pates , acting bishop and apostolic administrator for the Joliet diocese .
Congregants at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington are now asked to refrain from handshakes when greeting each other , spokeswoman Liz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being reminded to follow federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to prevent the spread of the coronavirus , colds and flu .
Willow Creek does n't use shared cups , opting instead for prepackaged , individual communion elements .
`` Our goal is for all of us -- staff , volunteers , congregants and neighbors -- to try and stay as healthy as possible , '' Schauer said .
Willow Creek is monitoring coronavirus updates and plans to work with local officials , hospitals and school districts `` to determine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Schauer said .
`` We have a staff team working diligently on Willow 's plan to manage and operate during a potential coronavirus outbreak in our area , '' she said .
Diocese of Rockford officials folded the COVID-19 virus into an annual list of recommendations issued on healthy ways to practice the Catholic faith during cold and flu season .
The offering of communion as the bread and wine is up to a pastor 's discretion , as are a handshake or embrace at the sign of peace .
The Rockford diocese @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , St. Charles , Elgin and Aurora .

Suburban churches taking precautions to prevent coronavirus spread
Many suburban churches won't offer shared communion wine or and are calling off traditional handshakes during services in order too prevent the spread of coronavirus. At Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, congregants are asked to refrain from handshakes when greeting each other. Daily Herald File Photo, 2017
Catholic priest the Rev. Joseph Mary Sigfred Arellano, right, places the host on the hands of a woman during a Mass at a church at Manila's Chinatown, Philippines. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines said communions must be placed on the hands instead of putting it in the mouth of churchgoers as a precautionary measure in masses to help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in this predominantly Roman Catholic country. Associated Press
Many suburban churches won't offer shared communion wine and are calling off traditional handshakes during services in an effort to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Archdiocese of Chicago officials sent detailed instructions Monday afternoon to churches in Cook and Lake counties addressing concerns about COVID-19, the illness caused by the latest coronavirus.
Spokeswoman Yasmin Quiroz said the directive for all Chicago archdiocese parishes went into effect immediately and was based on guidance from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' committee on divine worship.
All priests, deacons, altar servers and extraordinary ministers of holy communion now must wash their hands before Mass. They also must use an alcohol-based antibacterial solution before and after distributing holy communion wafers.
In addition, the Chicago archdiocese asks that there be no physical contact during the sign of peace or use of holy water fonts. Hand-holding also should not occur during the Lord's Prayer and, given the frequency of direct contact with saliva in the distribution of communion on the tongue, worshippers who typically prefer that method should consider taking it reverently in open hands for now.
Similar measures were announced by the Diocese of Joliet on Feb. 28. The Joliet diocese includes churches in Naperville, Glen Ellyn, Carol Stream and other parts of DuPage County.
"At this time, because of unknown dimensions of this virus and its rapid spreading worldwide, prudence and prayer are called for," wrote the Most Rev. Richard E. Pates, acting bishop and apostolic administrator for the Joliet diocese.
Congregants at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington are now asked to refrain from handshakes when greeting each other, spokeswoman Liz Schauer said. Willow Creek members also are being reminded to follow federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, colds and flu.
Willow Creek doesn't use shared cups, opting instead for prepackaged, individual communion elements.
"Our goal is for all of us -- staff, volunteers, congregants and neighbors -- to try and stay as healthy as possible," Schauer said.
Willow Creek is monitoring coronavirus updates and plans to work with local officials, hospitals and school districts "to determine what next steps are necessary," Schauer said.
"We have a staff team working diligently on Willow's plan to manage and operate during a potential coronavirus outbreak in our area," she said.
Diocese of Rockford officials folded the COVID-19 virus into an annual list of recommendations issued on healthy ways to practice the Catholic faith during cold and flu season. The offering of communion as the bread and wine is up to a pastor's discretion, as are a handshake or embrace at the sign of peace.
The Rockford diocese includes Catholic churches in Algonquin, Huntley, St. Charles, Elgin and Aurora.