dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Round Lake Beach store among few Family Video locations in suburbs to survive the pandemic

Salena Albert knows her customers ' tastes and what to recommend for movie night , whether they have a penchant for shark movies , horror , action or chick flicks , children 's and family-friendly features , or binge-worthy TV shows .
`` We have a lot of regulars .
We know families by name , '' said Albert , manager of Family Video in Round Lake Beach .
That personal touch , she said , is one reason the store is among the last movie/game rental places left in the suburbs .
The nationwide chain headquartered in Glenview is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suburban Chicago market , due to declining demand and the coronavirus pandemic hurting business .
Its Lisle store was among the first to close amid the pandemic .
Stores in Antioch , Arlington Heights , Bolingbrook , Cary , Downers Grove , Glenview , Grayslake , Mundelein , Plainfield , Schaumburg and Wheeling will close by the end of October .
Stores in Belvidere , Homewood , Loves Park and Zion will remain open for now .
A remnant of a bygone era before online streaming services transformed the movie-rental experience and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open after giants like Blockbuster Video and Hollywood Video folded in 2010 .
Owned by the Hoogland family of Glenview , the chain has operated since 1978 , with many stores a part of those communities for years .
The focus is serving blue-collar customers who `` maybe did n't have tons of money , '' said Ryan Leaf , a Chicago-area district manager .
Stores are strategically placed near schools and community centers rather than strip malls and shopping centers .
Pandemic-related business shutdown hurt foot traffic -- down 40 % to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stores now targeted to close .
Stores in major metropolitan regions were hardest hit , while those in rural areas are hanging on .
`` People could n't come and rent from us so they got their entertainment from somewhere else , '' Leaf said .
`` We operate in 19 states , primarily in the Midwest .
After this closure , we will be down to 300 stores .
This is not a decision that was made lightly . ''
The company will now focus energy on its other brands that are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Video 's parent company , Highland Ventures , operates more than 930 retail sites in the United States and Canada .
Its businesses include Hoogland Foods ( aka Marco 's Pizza ) , Stay Fit 24 , Highland Pure Water and Ice , and Legacy Commercial Properties .
What sets Family Video apart from its now-defunct competitors is patrons do n't need a credit card to open an account since there is no membership requirement , and its customer service -- something Redbox , Netflix or Hulu ca n't provide .
Its stores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family-friendly events , such as free movie/pizza nights and ice cream and root beer float socials .
`` We do grass-roots events where we do things for the community every so often , '' said Albert , of Round Lake Beach .
`` We give away free movies for kids ' grades .
On Christmas and Easter , we give away hams and turkeys .
We do canned food drives ( and ) people who bring in canned foods get free movie rentals .
We did a coat drive last year .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
For a year , the Round Lake Beach store has been selling CBD ( cannabidiol ) products -- oil , bath bombs , water and herbal supplements -- free of THC , the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a high .
Albert said evolving to meet customers ' needs , such as offering older movies and TV shows that online services have stopped streaming , and low rental costs ( $ 2.99 for five nights ) , is what will keep the business alive .
`` As a company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give customers choices and more options , '' Albert said .
`` If you stay stagnant and you do n't ever try to grow , there 's only so much you can do as a company to keep customers coming back .
There 's so many people who come in here that grew up with Family Video and now they bring their kids . ''

Round Lake Beach store among few Family Video locations in suburbs to survive the pandemic
Salena Albert knows her customers' tastes and what to recommend for movie night, whether they have a penchant for shark movies, horror, action or chick flicks, children's and family-friendly features, or binge-worthy TV shows.
"We have a lot of regulars. We know families by name," said Albert, manager of Family Video in Round Lake Beach. That personal touch, she said, is one reason the store is among the last movie/game rental places left in the suburbs.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Salena Albert, manager of the Round Lake Beach Family Video store, returns videos to a rental display Monday. Hers is among a handful of Family Video stores that will remain open in the Chicago area.
The nationwide chain headquartered in Glenview is shuttering 200 stores, including 20 in the suburban Chicago market, due to declining demand and the coronavirus pandemic hurting business. Its Lisle store was among the first to close amid the pandemic. Stores in Antioch, Arlington Heights, Bolingbrook, Cary, Downers Grove, Glenview, Grayslake, Mundelein, Plainfield, Schaumburg and Wheeling will close by the end of October.
Stores in Belvidere, Homewood, Loves Park and Zion will remain open for now.
A remnant of a bygone era before online streaming services transformed the movie-rental experience and viewing landscape, Family Video has stayed open after giants like Blockbuster Video and Hollywood Video folded in 2010.
Owned by the Hoogland family of Glenview, the chain has operated since 1978, with many stores a part of those communities for years. The focus is serving blue-collar customers who "maybe didn't have tons of money," said Ryan Leaf, a Chicago-area district manager.
Stores are strategically placed near schools and community centers rather than strip malls and shopping centers.
Pandemic-related business shutdown hurt foot traffic -- down 40% to 60% from pre-COVID patronage -- at stores now targeted to close. Stores in major metropolitan regions were hardest hit, while those in rural areas are hanging on.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer The Family Video store on Rollins Road in Round Lake Beach is among a handful of suburban movie rental stores to remain open. The Glenview-based chain is closing 200 stores nationwide, including 20 in the Chicago area.
"People couldn't come and rent from us so they got their entertainment from somewhere else," Leaf said. "We operate in 19 states, primarily in the Midwest. After this closure, we will be down to 300 stores. This is not a decision that was made lightly."
The company will now focus energy on its other brands that are doing well, he said.
Family Video's parent company, Highland Ventures, operates more than 930 retail sites in the United States and Canada. Its businesses include Hoogland Foods (aka Marco's Pizza), Stay Fit 24, Highland Pure Water and Ice, and Legacy Commercial Properties.
What sets Family Video apart from its now-defunct competitors is patrons don't need a credit card to open an account since there is no membership requirement, and its customer service -- something Redbox, Netflix or Hulu can't provide. Its stores offer free children's sections and host family-friendly events, such as free movie/pizza nights and ice cream and root beer float socials.
"We do grass-roots events where we do things for the community every so often," said Albert, of Round Lake Beach. "We give away free movies for kids' grades. On Christmas and Easter, we give away hams and turkeys. We do canned food drives (and) people who bring in canned foods get free movie rentals. We did a coat drive last year. We try to be involved in the community."
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer The Family Video store on Rollins Road in Round Lake Beach will remain open as 20 stores in the Chicago area close by the end of October due to loss of business.
For a year, the Round Lake Beach store has been selling CBD (cannabidiol) products -- oil, bath bombs, water and herbal supplements -- free of THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a high.
Albert said evolving to meet customers' needs, such as offering older movies and TV shows that online services have stopped streaming, and low rental costs ($2.99 for five nights), is what will keep the business alive.
"As a company, Family Video has always tried to give customers choices and more options," Albert said. "If you stay stagnant and you don't ever try to grow, there's only so much you can do as a company to keep customers coming back. There's so many people who come in here that grew up with Family Video and now they bring their kids."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery closes after 71 years in Arlington Heights

After more than seven decades , the iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery in Arlington Heights has served its last chocolate chip coffee cake and Campbell Street Special .
The third-generation owners announced Monday that Sunday had been the last day for their mom-and-pop business after 71 years at two locations in the village .
`` This is a happy ending , '' said Paul Gardner , who has run the bakery with his wife Karen for the last 20 years .
`` This is a 71-year-old business that 's just run its course and it 's time to move on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wonderful 71 years .
We just realized it was time . ''
The COVID-19 pandemic no doubt was a factor in the decision to close up shop , Gardner said .
But he and his wife had also been looking for a buyer to take over the bakery for quite some time , with no luck .
And their three daughters , now all grown up , have careers of their own and were n't interested in the bakery business , Gardner said .
Ultimately , the bakery 's five-year lease at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park & Shop center was coming up for renewal and the Gardners decided not to .
They 're planning to auction off their bakery equipment next month .
`` It 's been a really rewarding experience , but it 's a lot of work , '' said Gardner , referring to the long hours and physical labor at their 3,700-square-foot shop , where everything was made from scratch .
`` It 's a vocation .
It really is . ''
Karen Gardner 's grandparents , Walter and Wilma Aronson , opened the bakery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Salsa 17 restaurant on Campbell near Vail Avenue in downtown Arlington Heights .
Walter worked at his father 's bakery in Chicago and brought those Swedish recipes with him to Arlington Heights .
The Aronsons ' daughter Donna took over the business in 1978 and , with her husband Robert Bollmann , moved the bakery 12 blocks west to the Westgate strip center .
The Bollmanns ' daughter is Karen Gardner , who has run the bakery with her husband Paul .
They both grew up in Arlington Heights and are graduates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They thanked their loyal customers , who kept coming back for baked goods and sweet treats .
Especially popular were the coffee cakes , like the one named for Campbell Street , featuring butter cream and custard mixed in with Swedish dough .
`` You put the work in and you make a quality product and the people will show up , '' Paul Gardner said .
`` We had a loyal fan base .
They always showed up .
They were always there for us .
The money was never an issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support was amazing .
( Arlington Heights and the surrounding area ) is a great place to run a business . ''

Iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery closes after 71 years in Arlington Heights
After more than seven decades, the iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery in Arlington Heights has served its last chocolate chip coffee cake and Campbell Street Special.
The third-generation owners announced Monday that Sunday had been the last day for their mom-and-pop business after 71 years at two locations in the village.
"This is a happy ending," said Paul Gardner, who has run the bakery with his wife Karen for the last 20 years. "This is a 71-year-old business that's just run its course and it's time to move on to do something else. It was a wonderful 71 years. We just realized it was time."
Known for its coffee cakes, pastries, breads and other treats, Arlington Cake Box Bakery has served the last of its baked goods after 71 years in business in downtown Arlington Heights. - Courtesy of Arlington Cake Box Bakery
The COVID-19 pandemic no doubt was a factor in the decision to close up shop, Gardner said. But he and his wife had also been looking for a buyer to take over the bakery for quite some time, with no luck. And their three daughters, now all grown up, have careers of their own and weren't interested in the bakery business, Gardner said.
Ultimately, the bakery's five-year lease at 1617 W. Campbell St. in the Westgate Park & Shop center was coming up for renewal and the Gardners decided not to. They're planning to auction off their bakery equipment next month.
"It's been a really rewarding experience, but it's a lot of work," said Gardner, referring to the long hours and physical labor at their 3,700-square-foot shop, where everything was made from scratch. "It's a vocation. It really is."
The famous Campbell Street Special coffee cake at Arlington Cake Box featured butter cream and custard mixed in with Swedish dough. - Courtesy of Arlington Cake Box Bakery
Karen Gardner's grandparents, Walter and Wilma Aronson, opened the bakery in 1949 at the spot now home to Salsa 17 restaurant on Campbell near Vail Avenue in downtown Arlington Heights. Walter worked at his father's bakery in Chicago and brought those Swedish recipes with him to Arlington Heights.
The Aronsons' daughter Donna took over the business in 1978 and, with her husband Robert Bollmann, moved the bakery 12 blocks west to the Westgate strip center.
The Bollmanns' daughter is Karen Gardner, who has run the bakery with her husband Paul. They both grew up in Arlington Heights and are graduates of the former Arlington High School.
They thanked their loyal customers, who kept coming back for baked goods and sweet treats. Especially popular were the coffee cakes, like the one named for Campbell Street, featuring butter cream and custard mixed in with Swedish dough.
"You put the work in and you make a quality product and the people will show up," Paul Gardner said. "We had a loyal fan base. They always showed up. They were always there for us. The money was never an issue. Even during the pandemic, the support was amazing. (Arlington Heights and the surrounding area) is a great place to run a business."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Rozner: Wanting fans at games doesn't make Bears evil

It was once said by a Blackhawks employee that I ought to be careful crossing West Madison Street .
If given a choice , I was told , Bill Wirtz would sooner run me over with his car than collect playoff ticket money .
I would imagine George McCaskey is of a similar philosophy , thinking of me much like a sewer cover , minus the practical advantage of an item that conceals a large hole in the street .
The Bears have been an easy target for decades because , well , they 're the Bears .
Still , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week about them is unfair .
When discussing whether fans would attend games this season at Soldier Field , with `` Mully and Haugh '' on The Score Friday morning , Lightfoot indicated the chances were less than 50 percent , and that Chicago was not `` at a place where we can even realistically talk '' about fans returning .
She then suggested the Bears are the problem , making it seem as if the reason fans ca n't go to games is because the Bears do n't communicate with the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work with the Bears , '' Lightfoot said .
`` But they got to talk with us and be willing to cooperate , and not just say things in the media . ''
But wait .
She said the city is not `` at a place '' to even talk about it .
And then she says the Bears say too much publicly , when in fact they 've said very little .
This is odd because the mayor has the press at her beck and call with the bully pulpit at her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issuing orders like The Boss himself , a modern-day Richard J. Daley , while the McCaskeys spend most of their time in witness protection .
Prior to the season opener , George McCaskey emerged to see his Zoom shadow and discussed the team 's eternal championship aspirations .
He also , in that rare briefing , offered up his hope that the many conversations they 've had with the city , state and health officials might lead -- at some point -- to a portion of the stadium hosting fans .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two weeks ago .
`` We 're talking to the city .
We 've presented a plan , but the city wants to see the number of active ( COVID-19 ) cases in the city come down before we can bring people to Soldier Field .
`` We 're hopeful , but we want to be prudent .
We want to do the right thing and we want to cooperate with the city in their health and safety measures . ''
Sounds very reasonable .
Wait until the city says it 's safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Not the kind of statement that should cause a politician to hammer the local football team .
Given the pandemic and hysterical political climate on both sides of the aisle , the Bears are n't about to rub anyone the wrong way on this .
Besides , they are in control of nothing .
The city owns the stadium .
The mayor and governor declare new rules at the drop of a scepter .
And without the approval of the city and state , there 's no chance of fans returning to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ precisely nothing about this until granted permission .
They would also like to avoid the popular media accusation of wanting to kill a portion of their fan base .
I mean , the weekly quarterback play has done enough damage .
They do n't need blame for a virus outbreak following a home game .
So does anyone really believe , as Lightfoot said , that the Bears are n't talking to the city about getting fans back in the stands ?
In response to Lightfoot 's trash talking , the Bears were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afternoon , painfully careful not to step on any toes .
`` We have had weekly communication with the mayor 's office on a variety of topics relating to the pandemic including fans at Soldier Field , '' the statement read .
`` In mid-August we reviewed a detailed plan with city and public health officials to assess the feasibility of allowing a limited number of fans to attend Bears games .
`` The plan was the result of weeks of collaboration among the Bears , ASM Global , the Chicago Park District @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , state and NFL guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone inside the stadium .
`` After the review , all parties agreed the timing to welcome fans was not right given the current health metrics .
On Aug. 17 , both the Bears and city issued statements referencing the plan , the collaboration and the hope to return fans to Soldier Field , but not until health metrics improved .
`` We continue to work closely with members of the mayor 's staff on monitoring the environment , assessing the plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans back . ''
Someone here is being disingenuous , which is generally a Bears hallmark .
But ask yourself , why would the Bears not be on the phone every 15 minutes , communicating with the city and trying to get this done ?
They ca n't pull a dandelion from the grass without the expressed , written consent of the city and all its grifters , and these days probably ca n't wipe their stadium seats without permission from the state 's top monarchs .
To be clear , I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game and I 'm not trying to kill your grandfather .
I do n't care if you or your grandfather ever go to another game .
I do n't care if you think no one should ever leave home again , or if you want to have a giant pool party .
And I have zero interest in your political ideology .
Both parties are about power and money , making sure they have it and you do n't .
Enjoy that .
Save your screaming Twitter rant for the people who agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you likes and retweets .
That 's a fine use of your time .
No , this is about taking cheap shots at the Bears .
That 's something the mayor need not do .
George McCaskey would tell you that 's my job .

Rozner: Wanting fans at games doesn't make Bears evil
It was once said by a Blackhawks employee that I ought to be careful crossing West Madison Street.
If given a choice, I was told, Bill Wirtz would sooner run me over with his car than collect playoff ticket money.
Point taken.
I would imagine George McCaskey is of a similar philosophy, thinking of me much like a sewer cover, minus the practical advantage of an item that conceals a large hole in the street.
Fair enough.
The Bears have been an easy target for decades because, well, they're the Bears. Still, what Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said last week about them is unfair.
And a stray from reality.
When discussing whether fans would attend games this season at Soldier Field, with "Mully and Haugh" on The Score Friday morning, Lightfoot indicated the chances were less than 50 percent, and that Chicago was not "at a place where we can even realistically talk" about fans returning.
She then suggested the Bears are the problem, making it seem as if the reason fans can't go to games is because the Bears don't communicate with the city.
"We're willing to absolutely work with the Bears," Lightfoot said. "But they got to talk with us and be willing to cooperate, and not just say things in the media."
But wait. She said the city is not "at a place" to even talk about it. And then she says the Bears say too much publicly, when in fact they've said very little.
This is odd because the mayor has the press at her beck and call with the bully pulpit at her daily disposal, on TV every day issuing orders like The Boss himself, a modern-day Richard J. Daley, while the McCaskeys spend most of their time in witness protection.
Prior to the season opener, George McCaskey emerged to see his Zoom shadow and discussed the team's eternal championship aspirations. He also, in that rare briefing, offered up his hope that the many conversations they've had with the city, state and health officials might lead -- at some point -- to a portion of the stadium hosting fans.
"We're very optimistic," McCaskey said two weeks ago. "We're talking to the city. We've presented a plan, but the city wants to see the number of active (COVID-19) cases in the city come down before we can bring people to Soldier Field.
"We're hopeful, but we want to be prudent. We want to do the right thing and we want to cooperate with the city in their health and safety measures."
Sounds very reasonable. Wait until the city says it's safe and then try not to kill anyone.
Good plan.
Not the kind of statement that should cause a politician to hammer the local football team.
Given the pandemic and hysterical political climate on both sides of the aisle, the Bears aren't about to rub anyone the wrong way on this. Besides, they are in control of nothing.
The city owns the stadium. The mayor and governor declare new rules at the drop of a scepter. And without the approval of the city and state, there's no chance of fans returning to the Spaceship.
The Bears can decide precisely nothing about this until granted permission.
Nothing.
They would also like to avoid the popular media accusation of wanting to kill a portion of their fan base. I mean, the weekly quarterback play has done enough damage. They don't need blame for a virus outbreak following a home game.
So does anyone really believe, as Lightfoot said, that the Bears aren't talking to the city about getting fans back in the stands?
This defies logic.
In response to Lightfoot's trash talking, the Bears were forced to issue a polite response Friday afternoon, painfully careful not to step on any toes.
"We have had weekly communication with the mayor's office on a variety of topics relating to the pandemic including fans at Soldier Field," the statement read. "In mid-August we reviewed a detailed plan with city and public health officials to assess the feasibility of allowing a limited number of fans to attend Bears games.
"The plan was the result of weeks of collaboration among the Bears, ASM Global, the Chicago Park District and health experts. It addresses city, state and NFL guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone inside the stadium.
"After the review, all parties agreed the timing to welcome fans was not right given the current health metrics. On Aug. 17, both the Bears and city issued statements referencing the plan, the collaboration and the hope to return fans to Soldier Field, but not until health metrics improved.
"We continue to work closely with members of the mayor's staff on monitoring the environment, assessing the plan and determining the right time to bring fans back."
Someone here is being disingenuous, which is generally a Bears hallmark.
But ask yourself, why would the Bears not be on the phone every 15 minutes, communicating with the city and trying to get this done?
They can't pull a dandelion from the grass without the expressed, written consent of the city and all its grifters, and these days probably can't wipe their stadium seats without permission from the state's top monarchs.
To be clear, I'm not suggesting you should go to a game and I'm not trying to kill your grandfather. I don't care if you or your grandfather ever go to another game. I don't care if you think no one should ever leave home again, or if you want to have a giant pool party.
And I have zero interest in your political ideology. Both parties are about power and money, making sure they have it and you don't. Enjoy that.
Save your screaming Twitter rant for the people who agree with you on every issue, landing you likes and retweets. That's a fine use of your time.
No, this is about taking cheap shots at the Bears. That's something the mayor need not do.
George McCaskey would tell you that's my job.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Bannockburn doctor accused of sexually assaulting co-worker in Oak Brook

A suburban doctor who leads a multiclinic gastroenterology practice has been accused of sexually assaulting a female co-worker in Oak Brook , authorities said .
Dr. Arkan Alrashid , 54 , of the 0-100 block of Broadleys Court in Bannockburn , has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual assault , a Class 1 felony .
He turned himself in to Oak Brook police Sept. 17 and posted $ 5,000 bond .
According to the court documents , Alrashid on Feb. 12 , 2019 , forced himself on a woman .
Assistant State 's Attorney Katherine Rowe said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who also lived in a northern suburb , drove together to a business event and ate at a steakhouse in Oak Brook .
The woman alleges that Alrashid during the drive home pulled over on Commerce Road and forced her to perform a sex act , according to Rowe .
The woman underwent a sexual assault examination at a hospital .
Tests of DNA found on her clothing `` could not exclude '' Alrashid as a contributor , Rowe said .
Rowe also said that several women who have worked for Alrashid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
She asked Judge Alexander McGimpsey to make Alrashid wear a GPS monitor while he awaits trial .
He refused .
Alrashid 's lawyers , Barry and Adam Sheppard , argued it was not necessary , and that such a monitor could interfere with medical equipment he uses during surgery , including MRI machines .
Barry Sheppard said the woman has contacted Alrashid several times , including leaving a voicemail at his business last week after his arrest .
McGimpsey did order Alrashid to surrender his passport .
Rowe had argued Alrashid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial ability to travel .
Barry Sheppard said there is no family in Jordan , but did not object to giving up the passport .
Rowe also said the woman has filed a complaint against Alrashid with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation .
Alrashid is the president of GI Partners of Illinois LLC , which has practices throughout Chicago and the suburbs .
The IDFPR reports Alrashid obtained his physician/surgeon license Oct. 16 , 1997 .
He also had a Wisconsin license from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board in 2003 investigated an allegation that Alrashid he had sexual conduct with a patient while he was working weekends as an emergency department doctor in Portage , Wisconsin .
According to the Wisconsin case disposition report , Alrashid kissed a co-worker at the hospital and made unspecified sexual contact after treating her in July 2000 .
The hospital `` terminated '' Alrashid in October 2000 , according to the Wisconsin record .
Alrashid has denied the allegations and is fully cooperating with the investigation , according to a statement released by GI @ @ @ @ @

Bannockburn doctor accused of sexually assaulting co-worker in Oak Brook
A suburban doctor who leads a multiclinic gastroenterology practice has been accused of sexually assaulting a female co-worker in Oak Brook, authorities said.
Dr. Arkan Alrashid, 54, of the 0-100 block of Broadleys Court in Bannockburn, has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual assault, a Class 1 felony. He turned himself in to Oak Brook police Sept. 17 and posted $5,000 bond.
According to the court documents, Alrashid on Feb. 12, 2019, forced himself on a woman.
Assistant State's Attorney Katherine Rowe said in court Monday that Alrashid and the woman, who also lived in a northern suburb, drove together to a business event and ate at a steakhouse in Oak Brook. The woman alleges that Alrashid during the drive home pulled over on Commerce Road and forced her to perform a sex act, according to Rowe.
The woman underwent a sexual assault examination at a hospital. Tests of DNA found on her clothing "could not exclude" Alrashid as a contributor, Rowe said.
Rowe also said that several women who have worked for Alrashid reported him making unwelcome sexual advances to them.
She asked Judge Alexander McGimpsey to make Alrashid wear a GPS monitor while he awaits trial. He refused.
Alrashid's lawyers, Barry and Adam Sheppard, argued it was not necessary, and that such a monitor could interfere with medical equipment he uses during surgery, including MRI machines. Barry Sheppard said the woman has contacted Alrashid several times, including leaving a voicemail at his business last week after his arrest.
McGimpsey did order Alrashid to surrender his passport. Rowe had argued Alrashid has family in Jordan, and the financial ability to travel. Barry Sheppard said there is no family in Jordan, but did not object to giving up the passport.
Rowe also said the woman has filed a complaint against Alrashid with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Alrashid is the president of GI Partners of Illinois LLC, which has practices throughout Chicago and the suburbs.
The IDFPR reports Alrashid obtained his physician/surgeon license Oct. 16, 1997. He also had a Wisconsin license from 1996 to 2001.
The Wisconsin medical board in 2003 investigated an allegation that Alrashid he had sexual conduct with a patient while he was working weekends as an emergency department doctor in Portage, Wisconsin.
According to the Wisconsin case disposition report, Alrashid kissed a co-worker at the hospital and made unspecified sexual contact after treating her in July 2000.
The hospital "terminated" Alrashid in October 2000, according to the Wisconsin record.
Alrashid has denied the allegations and is fully cooperating with the investigation, according to a statement released by GI Partners of Illinois LLC.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Dist. 214 board member says remote learning vote had 'no bearing' on decision not to run again

A slate consisting of three Northwest Suburban High School District 214 school board members and one newcomer have announced their candidacies for next spring 's election , but nine-year board member Todd Younger , a past member of the slate , wo n't be running again .
Younger , who has been part of the Supporters of District 214 slate , said his recent vote against the district 's plan to start the school year remotely does n't have anything to do with his decision not to seek another term .
`` It 's as much angst as I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board , but that had no bearing on my decision .
I made it clear to the other board members at the start of the school year that I 'm not running , '' said Younger , who was appointed to fill a vacant board seat in 2011 and was subsequently elected to full four-year terms in 2013 and 2017 .
`` It 's not the environment that got me to move along .
It 's really just the fact that I 'd like to give someone else a chance . ''
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Millie Palmer and Lenny Walker , and first-time candidate Andrea Rauch .
While they have announced their candidacies for four spots on the board that will be up for election next April , others could still emerge .
Candidates can start circulating petitions this week and have until Dec. 21 to turn them in .
But whoever decides to challenge Supporters of District 214 could face an uphill battle , since the establishment slate has been undefeated in local elections since forming in 2007 to oust board member Leslie Pinney following a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suburban school districts these days , the `` remote versus in-person '' learning debate has been a contentious one in District 214 .
School board meetings , usually less than an hour in length to approve routine business items , have turned into marathon sessions attracting overflow crowds of parents and students who 've called on officials to reopen school buildings .
Younger was the lone board member to vote against Superintendent David Schuler 's remote learning plan last month , saying he favored the original hybrid plan proposed in July that called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classes .
Still , Younger -- a one-time board president and vice president -- lauded the superintendent as an `` innovator '' who is working to bring students back to their schools .
`` I 100 % support the administration in their decision making .
Where I kind of was slightly different ...
I just thought we could have some in-person learning , '' said Younger , an Arlington Heights resident and fund and investor relations manager for Wingspan Development Group .
`` I was n't disagreeing that the safety of students and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's just I thought there was some compromise that could have been done to get some kids in school , especially kids who are struggling . ''
The three current board members who are seeking reelection are Hineman , a Mount Prospect engineer who has been on the elected panel since 2009 ; Palmer , an Arlington Heights attorney elected in 2017 ; and Walker , a Wheeling senior executive in the floral industry also elected in 2017 .
In a news release , they cited the district 's educational excellence and fiscal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintain .
Taking Younger 's place on the slate is Rauch , a senior advanced research and development engineer at Honeywell UOP in Des Plaines .
If elected , the Arlington Heights mother of a freshman at Buffalo Grove High School would be the only parent of a current student on the board .
Rauch said she wants to do her part to maintain the district 's excellence .
She said the early days of remote learning have been overwhelmingly positive for her student , though she acknowledged other families have had the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remote learning plan , though she believes the district 's metrics for a return to school should be continuously evaluated .
`` All board members want to get all students back as soon as we can , but keeping their health and safety in perspective , '' she said .

Dist. 214 board member says remote learning vote had 'no bearing' on decision not to run again
A slate consisting of three Northwest Suburban High School District 214 school board members and one newcomer have announced their candidacies for next spring's election, but nine-year board member Todd Younger, a past member of the slate, won't be running again.
Younger, who has been part of the Supporters of District 214 slate, said his recent vote against the district's plan to start the school year remotely doesn't have anything to do with his decision not to seek another term.
"It's as much angst as I've felt since I've been on the board, but that had no bearing on my decision. I made it clear to the other board members at the start of the school year that I'm not running," said Younger, who was appointed to fill a vacant board seat in 2011 and was subsequently elected to full four-year terms in 2013 and 2017. "It's not the environment that got me to move along. It's really just the fact that I'd like to give someone else a chance."
Those who are running include incumbents Mark Hineman, Millie Palmer and Lenny Walker, and first-time candidate Andrea Rauch. While they have announced their candidacies for four spots on the board that will be up for election next April, others could still emerge. Candidates can start circulating petitions this week and have until Dec. 21 to turn them in.
But whoever decides to challenge Supporters of District 214 could face an uphill battle, since the establishment slate has been undefeated in local elections since forming in 2007 to oust board member Leslie Pinney following a book banning controversy.
As in most suburban school districts these days, the "remote versus in-person" learning debate has been a contentious one in District 214. School board meetings, usually less than an hour in length to approve routine business items, have turned into marathon sessions attracting overflow crowds of parents and students who've called on officials to reopen school buildings.
Younger was the lone board member to vote against Superintendent David Schuler's remote learning plan last month, saying he favored the original hybrid plan proposed in July that called for a mix of in-person and remote classes.
Still, Younger -- a one-time board president and vice president -- lauded the superintendent as an "innovator" who is working to bring students back to their schools.
"I 100% support the administration in their decision making. Where I kind of was slightly different ... I just thought we could have some in-person learning," said Younger, an Arlington Heights resident and fund and investor relations manager for Wingspan Development Group. "I wasn't disagreeing that the safety of students and staff was the most important. It's just I thought there was some compromise that could have been done to get some kids in school, especially kids who are struggling."
The three current board members who are seeking reelection are Hineman, a Mount Prospect engineer who has been on the elected panel since 2009; Palmer, an Arlington Heights attorney elected in 2017; and Walker, a Wheeling senior executive in the floral industry also elected in 2017.
In a news release, they cited the district's educational excellence and fiscal accountability as things they are running to maintain.
Taking Younger's place on the slate is Rauch, a senior advanced research and development engineer at Honeywell UOP in Des Plaines. If elected, the Arlington Heights mother of a freshman at Buffalo Grove High School would be the only parent of a current student on the board.
Rauch said she wants to do her part to maintain the district's excellence. She said the early days of remote learning have been overwhelmingly positive for her student, though she acknowledged other families have had the opposite outcome.
Rauch said she supports the remote learning plan, though she believes the district's metrics for a return to school should be continuously evaluated.
"All board members want to get all students back as soon as we can, but keeping their health and safety in perspective," she said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--State Rep. Yingling tests positive for COVID-19

State Rep. Sam Yingling tested positive for COVID-19 , a spokeswoman for his office announced Monday morning .
Yingling tested positive last week , according to the statement , and has been quarantined at his home in Grayslake .
Yingling , 40 , experienced significant sinus congestion and drainage , symptoms he thought at first to be related to his allergies , according to the statement .
But those symptoms quickly evolved and he experienced a sore throat , cough , chest congestion , headache , fatigue , and body aches , according to the statement .
Yingling , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'd tested positive , he notified anyone he 'd knowingly been in contact with and encouraged them to get tested .
`` We all have a responsibility to slow and stop the spread of the virus by wearing face coverings , staying 6 feet apart , and getting tested if we have symptoms or have come into contact with someone who has COVID-19 , '' Yingling said in the statement .
`` This is a very real virus that is proliferating in our communities and residents need to remain vigilant by following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Public Heath and the Lake County Health Department . ''
`` This is a highly contagious and opportunistic virus that does not discriminate , '' he said .
Yingling 's legislative district office in Round Lake Beach will remain open remotely as it has been since the beginning of the pandemic .

State Rep. Yingling tests positive for COVID-19
State Rep. Sam Yingling tested positive for COVID-19, a spokeswoman for his office announced Monday morning.
Yingling tested positive last week, according to the statement, and has been quarantined at his home in Grayslake.
Yingling, 40, experienced significant sinus congestion and drainage, symptoms he thought at first to be related to his allergies, according to the statement. But those symptoms quickly evolved and he experienced a sore throat, cough, chest congestion, headache, fatigue, and body aches, according to the statement.
Yingling, a Democrat, said once he learned he'd tested positive, he notified anyone he'd knowingly been in contact with and encouraged them to get tested.
"We all have a responsibility to slow and stop the spread of the virus by wearing face coverings, staying 6 feet apart, and getting tested if we have symptoms or have come into contact with someone who has COVID-19," Yingling said in the statement. "This is a very real virus that is proliferating in our communities and residents need to remain vigilant by following the protocols outlined by the Illinois Department of Public Heath and the Lake County Health Department."
"This is a highly contagious and opportunistic virus that does not discriminate," he said.
Yingling's legislative district office in Round Lake Beach will remain open remotely as it has been since the beginning of the pandemic.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Chicago's Lawry's The Prime Rib to close after 46 years in business

CHICAGO -- A Chicago restaurant that has been serving steaks for nearly 50 years will close at the end of @ @ @ @ @ The Prime Rib is the victim of the coronavirus pandemic , an expiring lease and @ @ @ @ @ Wilson , chief executive of Lawry 's Inc. 'We 've done everything we can to @ @ @ @ @ things continue to - I do n't want to say drag on , but as @ @ @ @ @ longer , we 're playing the long game here , ' Wilson told the Chicago @ @ @ @ @ on Ontario Street , near Michigan Avenue .
Wilson 's grandfather opened the restaurant in @ @ @ @ @ the concept and the warmth of our hospitality has a real place in that dining @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` So that 's why I say pause .
That 's my @ @ @ @ @ the turmoil of today .
'

Chicago's Lawry's The Prime Rib to close after 46 years in business
CHICAGO - A Chicago restaurant that has been serving steaks for nearly 50 years will close at the end of the year.
Lawry's The Prime Rib is the victim of the coronavirus pandemic, an expiring lease and other issues, said Ryan Wilson, chief executive of Lawry's Inc.
"We've done everything we can to hold on, but as things continue to - I don't want to say drag on, but as the pandemic and closures get longer, we're playing the long game here," Wilson told the Chicago Sun-Times.
Lawry's is on Ontario Street, near Michigan Avenue. Wilson's grandfather opened the restaurant in 1974.
Wilson didn't rule out a return to Chicago.
"Lawry's, the concept and the warmth of our hospitality has a real place in that dining culture and community," he said. "So that's why I say pause. That's my optimism shining through even in the turmoil of today."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Feder: WGN America's 'News Nation' lands interview with President Trump

Will an exclusive White House interview with President Donald Trump help jump-start the ratings for `` News Nation '' ?
@ @ @ @ @ a one-on-one interview Tuesday morning with Joe Donlon , news anchor for the national cable @ @ @ @ @ America .
It will be seen on Tuesday night 's `` News Nation , '' @ @ @ @ @ to 10 p.m. Nexstar Media Group , parent company of WGN America , is billing @ @ @ @ @ prime-time sit-down interview since Friday 's passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg .

Feder: WGN America's 'News Nation' lands interview with President Trump
Will an exclusive White House interview with President Donald Trump help jump-start the ratings for "News Nation"?
Trump has agreed to tape a one-on-one interview Tuesday morning with Joe Donlon, news anchor for the national cable news startup on Chicago-based WGN America. It will be seen on Tuesday night's "News Nation," which airs here from 7 to 10 p.m.
Nexstar Media Group, parent company of WGN America, is billing it as Trump's first prime-time sit-down interview since Friday's passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Read more at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Northbrook businessman accused of assisting Pakistani nuclear agency

A Northbrook man who owns computer companies in Chicago and Pakistan is accused of illegally exporting computer equipment to a @ @ @ @ @ Pakistani government .
Federal prosecutors said Obaidullah Syed , 65 , violated the International Emergency @ @ @ @ @ trade regulations by falsely reporting shipments of computer hardware and software were intended for educational @ @ @ @ @ , when instead they wound up at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission .
The U.S. @ @ @ @ @ approve such transactions with foreign governments , prosecutors said .
The Pakistani commission that received @ @ @ @ @ for `` the design , fabrication , and testing of high explosives and nuclear weapons @ @ @ @ @ enrichment , and the development of solid-fueled ballistic missiles , '' according to the federal @ @ @ @ @ exported the materials to Pakistan from 2006 through 2015 , according to the indictment .
@ @ @ @ @ is awaiting a detention hearing .
He remains in federal custody .
If convicted , @ @ @ @ @ years in prison on the most serious charge of violating the federal act .

Northbrook businessman accused of assisting Pakistani nuclear agency
A Northbrook man who owns computer companies in Chicago and Pakistan is accused of illegally exporting computer equipment to a nuclear agency run by the Pakistani government.
Federal prosecutors said Obaidullah Syed, 65, violated the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and foreign trade regulations by falsely reporting shipments of computer hardware and software were intended for educational or personal use in Pakistan, when instead they wound up at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has to approve such transactions with foreign governments, prosecutors said.
The Pakistani commission that received the computer equipment is responsible for "the design, fabrication, and testing of high explosives and nuclear weapons parts, uranium mining and enrichment, and the development of solid-fueled ballistic missiles," according to the federal indictment released Monday.
Syed exported the materials to Pakistan from 2006 through 2015, according to the indictment.
Syed was arrested Wednesday and is awaiting a detention hearing. He remains in federal custody.
If convicted, Syed faces up to 20 years in prison on the most serious charge of violating the federal act.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Need for minority organ donors is acute, says suburban group matching recipients

When Tiffany Zuniga 's husband , Alex Zuniga , died unexpectedly of a brain hemorrhage in 2017 , she wanted to honor his giving spirit by donating his organs .
The couple had talked about the importance of organ donation when they worked together for Elmhurst-based Superior Ambulance , believing it to be a beautiful gift one can give to help others .
The duo signed up to be donors .
`` There were a lot of what-ifs , but he still knew that he wanted to do it , '' said Zuniga , 29 , of Palatine .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It 's very bittersweet .
You carry this pain around with you from losing that loved one , but in the back of your mind , there is still a piece of them being able to live on and you are able to help somebody else .
That is kind of what helps me keep going . ''
Alex Zuniga , 26 , was Latino and a loving father of three .
His liver helped save the life of a man in his 50s .
Zuniga said there are many misconceptions about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for minority donors is acute .
`` If people sign up to be organ donors , it kind of takes the pressure off the family as well , '' said Zuniga , referring to the emotionally difficult decision survivors can face making the decision on what their loved one would have wanted .
Zuniga , who is half Hispanic , half German/Polish , has talked openly about being an organ donor with her three young children and her mother .
`` There are so many people ( waiting for organs ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
There are more than 109,000 people on the national transplant registry .
Racial and ethnic minorities make up nearly 60 % of those waiting for lifesaving organs in the United States , but only make up a third of registered donors , according to Itasca-based Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network , which matched Alex Zuniga 's liver with a recipient .
In Illinois , there are roughly 1,450 African Americans , 800 Hispanic Americans and 240 Asian Americans waiting for organ transplants .
While anyone can donate organs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same race/ethnicity as recipients makes finding a match easier , said Marion Shuck , director of family services and community outreach for Gift of Hope .
`` It can decrease the possibility of organ rejections , '' Shuck said .
`` Obviously , the blood type has to be right . ''
Shuck , who is Black , has a brother on the waiting list for a kidney .
She and her sister are awaiting testing to see if they are a match to be living donors .
Finding a match within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can be problematic for communities of color due to shared lifestyles , propensity for chronic illnesses , such as hypertension , diabetes , high cholesterol and blood pressure , and other health challenges .
`` A friend of mine had nine siblings .
None of the siblings could match , because they all had some predisposed illnesses that would have compromised them if they were living donors , '' Shuck said .
African Americans ' general mistrust of the health care system results in a lot of undiagnosed conditions that could lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Some families have multiple people on dialysis because diabetes is prevalent , '' Shuck said .
Lack of understanding of the organ and tissue donation process is partly the reason why there are n't enough minority donors .
`` Education is definitely needed across this country , '' Shuck said .
`` We have a need for people to register as organ donors and we also have a need for people to consider being living donors . ''
In 2019 , there were a total of 19,267 donors -- 11,870 were deceased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of all donors were Caucasian , 14 % were Black , 12 % were Hispanic and 2 % were Asian .
Minorities comprised 32 % of deceased and living donors and 46 % of organ transplant recipients in 2019 , Shuck said .
States have their own individual registries of organ donors .
There 's also the national registry run by Donate Life America .
Signing up new donors in minority communities has been challenging due to COVID-19 hampering outreach efforts .
Gift of Hope has a team of six community outreach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities about the donation process .
Without live community events , such as parades , church gatherings and school sporting events , to register donors , the team is doing virtual outreach through social media .
`` We invite people to tell their stories , '' Shuck said .
`` People need to see people that look like them ... we need to create a supportive , positive culture for donation .
We plan for a lot of things , but we do n't plan for the one thing that is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is death .
We want everybody to have the conversation . ''

Need for minority organ donors is acute, says suburban group matching recipients
Tiffany and Alex Zuniga knew they wanted to be organ donors. When Alex died unexpectedly of a brain hemorrhage in 2017, Tiffany Zuniga donated his organs. Now, she is an Ambassador of Hope for Gift of Hope urging people from minority communities to become donors. Courtesy of Gift of Hope
Tiffany and Alex Zuniga knew they wanted to be organ donors.When Alex Zuniga died unexpectedly of a brain hemorrhage in 2017, Tiffany Zuniga sought to honor her husband's giving spirit by donating his organs. Now, she is an Ambassador of Hope for Gift of Hope urging people from minority communities to become donors. Courtesy of Gift of Hope
Tiffany Zuniga, of Palatine, stands with her three children by a sign promoting organ donation. When her husband Alex Zuniga died unexpectedly of a brain hemorrhage in 2017, Tiffany honored his giving spirit by donating his organs. Now, she is an Ambassador of Hope for Gift of Hope urging people from minority communities to become donors. Courtesy of Gift of Hope
When Tiffany Zuniga's husband, Alex Zuniga, died unexpectedly of a brain hemorrhage in 2017, she wanted to honor his giving spirit by donating his organs.
The couple had talked about the importance of organ donation when they worked together for Elmhurst-based Superior Ambulance, believing it to be a beautiful gift one can give to help others. The duo signed up to be donors.
"There were a lot of what-ifs, but he still knew that he wanted to do it," said Zuniga, 29, of Palatine. "We went through a really tough time. It's very bittersweet. You carry this pain around with you from losing that loved one, but in the back of your mind, there is still a piece of them being able to live on and you are able to help somebody else. That is kind of what helps me keep going."
Alex Zuniga, 26, was Latino and a loving father of three. His liver helped save the life of a man in his 50s.
Zuniga said there are many misconceptions about organ donation among ethnic communities, but the need for minority donors is acute.
"If people sign up to be organ donors, it kind of takes the pressure off the family as well," said Zuniga, referring to the emotionally difficult decision survivors can face making the decision on what their loved one would have wanted.
Zuniga, who is half Hispanic, half German/Polish, has talked openly about being an organ donor with her three young children and her mother. "There are so many people (waiting for organs), it could change their lives completely."
There are more than 109,000 people on the national transplant registry. Racial and ethnic minorities make up nearly 60% of those waiting for lifesaving organs in the United States, but only make up a third of registered donors, according to Itasca-based Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, which matched Alex Zuniga's liver with a recipient.
In Illinois, there are roughly 1,450 African Americans, 800 Hispanic Americans and 240 Asian Americans waiting for organ transplants.
While anyone can donate organs to anyone else, having donors of the same race/ethnicity as recipients makes finding a match easier, said Marion Shuck, director of family services and community outreach for Gift of Hope.
"It can decrease the possibility of organ rejections," Shuck said. "Obviously, the blood type has to be right."
Shuck, who is Black, has a brother on the waiting list for a kidney. She and her sister are awaiting testing to see if they are a match to be living donors.
Finding a match within family members isn't always a given and can be problematic for communities of color due to shared lifestyles, propensity for chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and blood pressure, and other health challenges.
"A friend of mine had nine siblings. None of the siblings could match, because they all had some predisposed illnesses that would have compromised them if they were living donors," Shuck said.
African Americans' general mistrust of the health care system results in a lot of undiagnosed conditions that could lead to organ failure, she added.
"Some families have multiple people on dialysis because diabetes is prevalent," Shuck said.
Lack of understanding of the organ and tissue donation process is partly the reason why there aren't enough minority donors.
"Education is definitely needed across this country," Shuck said. "We have a need for people to register as organ donors and we also have a need for people to consider being living donors."
In 2019, there were a total of 19,267 donors -- 11,870 were deceased and 7,397 were living -- and 70% of all donors were Caucasian, 14% were Black, 12% were Hispanic and 2% were Asian. Minorities comprised 32% of deceased and living donors and 46% of organ transplant recipients in 2019, Shuck said.
States have their own individual registries of organ donors. There's also the national registry run by Donate Life America.
Signing up new donors in minority communities has been challenging due to COVID-19 hampering outreach efforts.
Gift of Hope has a team of six community outreach specialists focused on educating Black and Latino communities about the donation process. Without live community events, such as parades, church gatherings and school sporting events, to register donors, the team is doing virtual outreach through social media.
"We invite people to tell their stories," Shuck said. "People need to see people that look like them ... we need to create a supportive, positive culture for donation. We plan for a lot of things, but we don't plan for the one thing that is going to happen to all of us, and that is death. We want everybody to have the conversation."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Announcing the Best of the Best local businesses

It 's been a rough year for local businesses , but that did n't stop Daily Herald readers from casting their votes and letting us know the places they love to frequent .
All the top vote-getters were featured in a Readers ' Choice special section in July .
We then took the top three in each category and asked you to vote for the Best of the Best and 60,000 votes later , the winners have been selected .
In a normal year , we 'd fete these businesses -- and business owners -- and let them celebrate their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we are forgoing an event , but we still want to announce the winners .
So , if you want to know who Daily Herald readers picked as the very best place to host a wedding or their favorite suburban parade , go to events.dailyherald.com/bob2020 .
Categories include entertainment , recreation , shopping , food and entertainment and business services .
We even have a category of favorite people , including best financial planner and best bartender .
It 's never been more important to support local businesses and celebrate the ones @ @ @ @ @

Announcing the Best of the Best local businesses
It's been a rough year for local businesses, but that didn't stop Daily Herald readers from casting their votes and letting us know the places they love to frequent.
All the top vote-getters were featured in a Readers' Choice special section in July. We then took the top three in each category and asked you to vote for the Best of the Best and 60,000 votes later, the winners have been selected.
In a normal year, we'd fete these businesses -- and business owners -- and let them celebrate their success. This year, of course, we are forgoing an event, but we still want to announce the winners.
So, if you want to know who Daily Herald readers picked as the very best place to host a wedding or their favorite suburban parade, go to events.dailyherald.com/bob2020.
Categories include entertainment, recreation, shopping, food and entertainment and business services. We even have a category of favorite people, including best financial planner and best bartender.
It's never been more important to support local businesses and celebrate the ones who do it right.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Police: Elgin man faces charges after striking squad cars

An Elgin man faces four counts of aggravated DUI , a Class 4 felony , after he struck multiple East @ @ @ @ @ a.m. Sept. 19. near Route 25 and Albert Drive , according to a news release @ @ @ @ @ 's attorney 's office .
Neither of the two officers involved were injured .
The @ @ @ @ @ to investigate a DUI on Route 25 when 30-year-old Robert C. Peoples struck the two @ @ @ @ @ which had their lights operating at the time of the incident , the release said @ @ @ @ @ were `` heavily damaged '' during the incident .
Peoples remains in custody at the @ @ @ @ @ bail set at $ 30,000 .

Police: Elgin man faces charges after striking squad cars
An Elgin man faces four counts of aggravated DUI, a Class 4 felony, after he struck multiple East Dundee police vehicles around 2 a.m. Sept. 19. near Route 25 and Albert Drive, according to a news release from the Kane County state's attorney's office. Neither of the two officers involved were injured.
The two officers had been dispatched to investigate a DUI on Route 25 when 30-year-old Robert C. Peoples struck the two police vehicles, both of which had their lights operating at the time of the incident, the release said. Both of the vehicles were "heavily damaged" during the incident.
Peoples remains in custody at the Kane County jail with his bail set at $30,000.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-22--Iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery closes after 71 years in Arlington Heights


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-22--Three candidates in 6th Congressional District debate guns, racism and more in online forum

Editor 's note : Ives was referring to state laws , not federal , when she said the U.S. already has universal background checks for gun purchases , a campaign spokeswoman said after the event .
The three candidates for Illinois ' 6th Congressional District seat debated climate change , racism , gun control and more Monday night in their only scheduled joint forum ahead of the Nov. 3 election .
Democratic U.S. Rep. Sean Casten of Downers Grove , Republican challenger Jeanne Ives of Wheaton and Libertarian Bill Redpath of West Dundee participated in the online event , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League of Women Voters .
The contest largely is between Casten , a freshman who formerly ran an energy recycling company , and Ives , a former state representative and onetime gubernatorial candidate .
Redpath , who made several unsuccessful bids for elected office in Virginia before moving to Illinois last year , noted he 's a longshot .
When Casten ran for office in 2018 , climate change was his top issue .
When asked about it Monday , he said `` the science is totally settled '' and insisted dealing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lifetime . ''
He called for investment in a massive research and development program to ease America 's reliance on fossil fuels .
Ives acknowledged that climate changes , but stopped short of saying it 's man-made .
`` It was hotter 20,000 years ago , 4,000 years ago , 1,000 years ago , '' she said .
She opposed the environmental plan dubbed the Green New Deal and opposed subsidizing energy industries `` that have failed time and time again . ''
Redpath acknowledged climate changes and said it probably is man-made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issue is a problem , he said , not a crisis .
`` We can adjust to this , '' Redpath said .
The candidates were asked if they support universal background checks for would-be gun buyers and a new ban on assault weapons .
Redpath opposed such a ban , calling it `` cosmetic . ''
In contrast , he supported creating a law that would ensure criminal background checks for all customers .
Casten voiced support for both proposals .
A vocal advocate of stricter gun laws , Casten said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firearms .
`` We have gone completely gun crazy in this country , '' Casten said .
Ives did n't support either proposal .
`` We 're not actually enforcing the gun laws that we currently have on the books , '' she said .
Ives said the U.S. already has universal background checks .
That 's true in 13 of the 50 states .
In states without such laws , unlicensed sellers who do transactions online , at gun shows or privately do n't have to perform background checks on buyers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. this year , and a question about systemic racism drew disparate responses .
Casten noted he 's marched with protesters in several suburbs and said he 's glad people finally are talking about racism .
Ives said Americans must be treated equally to put an end to systemic racism .
But she pointed to the treatment of people who 've participated in recent rioting and looting as examples of inequality .
Redpath said he does n't believe American society is inherently racist .
`` We are in a far better place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ago , '' he said .
Still , to promote racial equality , Redpath said the U.S. should cease the war on drugs and end qualified immunity policies so police officers will be better held accountable for wrongdoing , among other steps .
A video recording of the forum should be available Tuesday on the Glen Ellyn League of Women Voters ' YouTube channel .
Casten and Ives will appear together in a few other forums before Election Day .
Redpath is n't scheduled to participate in those events .
The 6th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kane , Lake and McHenry counties .

Three candidates in 6th Congressional District debate guns, racism and more in online forum
Sean Casten, left, and Jeanne Ives, right, are candidates for the 6th Congressional District race in the 2020 November general election.
Editor's note: Ives was referring to state laws, not federal, when she said the U.S. already has universal background checks for gun purchases, a campaign spokeswoman said after the event.
The three candidates for Illinois' 6th Congressional District seat debated climate change, racism, gun control and more Monday night in their only scheduled joint forum ahead of the Nov. 3 election.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Sean Casten of Downers Grove, Republican challenger Jeanne Ives of Wheaton and Libertarian Bill Redpath of West Dundee participated in the online event, which was hosted by suburban chapters of the League of Women Voters.
The contest largely is between Casten, a freshman who formerly ran an energy recycling company, and Ives, a former state representative and onetime gubernatorial candidate. Redpath, who made several unsuccessful bids for elected office in Virginia before moving to Illinois last year, noted he's a longshot.
When Casten ran for office in 2018, climate change was his top issue. When asked about it Monday, he said "the science is totally settled" and insisted dealing with it is "the challenge of a lifetime." He called for investment in a massive research and development program to ease America's reliance on fossil fuels.
Ives acknowledged that climate changes, but stopped short of saying it's man-made.
"It was hotter 20,000 years ago, 4,000 years ago, 1,000 years ago," she said.
She opposed the environmental plan dubbed the Green New Deal and opposed subsidizing energy industries "that have failed time and time again."
Redpath acknowledged climate changes and said it probably is man-made "to a certain extent. But the issue is a problem, he said, not a crisis.
"We can adjust to this," Redpath said.
The candidates were asked if they support universal background checks for would-be gun buyers and a new ban on assault weapons.
Redpath opposed such a ban, calling it "cosmetic." In contrast, he supported creating a law that would ensure criminal background checks for all customers.
Casten voiced support for both proposals. A vocal advocate of stricter gun laws, Casten said the U.S. has too many privately owned firearms.
"We have gone completely gun crazy in this country," Casten said.
Ives didn't support either proposal. "We're not actually enforcing the gun laws that we currently have on the books," she said.
Ives said the U.S. already has universal background checks. That's true in 13 of the 50 states. In states without such laws, unlicensed sellers who do transactions online, at gun shows or privately don't have to perform background checks on buyers.
Racism has been a hot topic in the U.S. this year, and a question about systemic racism drew disparate responses.
Casten noted he's marched with protesters in several suburbs and said he's glad people finally are talking about racism.
Ives said Americans must be treated equally to put an end to systemic racism. But she pointed to the treatment of people who've participated in recent rioting and looting as examples of inequality.
Redpath said he doesn't believe American society is inherently racist. "We are in a far better place than we were, say, 60 years ago," he said.
Still, to promote racial equality, Redpath said the U.S. should cease the war on drugs and end qualified immunity policies so police officers will be better held accountable for wrongdoing, among other steps.
A video recording of the forum should be available Tuesday on the Glen Ellyn League of Women Voters' YouTube channel.
Casten and Ives will appear together in a few other forums before Election Day. Redpath isn't scheduled to participate in those events.
The 6th District includes parts of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry counties.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-21--Naperville rally speakers keep pressure on for schools to reopen

Their family circumstances may all be different , and their remote learning experiences have varied .
But the hundreds of community members who congregated Monday night in downtown Naperville shared a common rallying cry : Get students back in the classrooms and on athletic fields .
A group of Naperville-area parents organized the demonstration to urge their local school systems -- Naperville Unit District 203 and the neighboring Indian Prairie Unit District 204 -- to transition from e-learning to an in-person instructional model as quickly as possible .
Word of their efforts spread , drawing like-minded parents , educators , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suburbs .
`` The people who we should be putting the focus on are our children , and they 're getting shoved to the side by people saying , 'We ca n't do it , ' rather than , 'How can we do it ? '
'' District 203 mom and rally organizer Ann Marie Tracy said .
`` We need to change this .
We need to get our schools back open . ''
E-learning started Sept. 1 for District 203 , with District 204 following suit Sept. 3 .
Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now turning their attention toward bringing students back into the buildings safely , starting as early as next month for some groups .
But they stressed the need to practice caution and follow public health protocols as they implement their back-to-school strategies .
Parents , students and other community members asked for more transparency and a greater sense of urgency among school leaders .
Many argued the classroom experience offers social , emotional , academic and mental health benefits that ca n't be replicated in a remote setting .
`` We need stimulation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not dishonesty .
We need community instead of control , '' said District 203 parent Jacklyn Cook , who also helped to organize the demonstration .
The timing of Monday 's rally at Rotary Hill was intended to bleed into the start of a District 203 school board meeting across the street at Naperville Central High School , where several parents voiced frustrations with the e-learning model .
They asked district leaders to reinstate their original plan to give families a choice between some in-person learning and an online-only option for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school .
Districts 203 and 204 were among the many school systems that scaled back their reopening plans this summer due to evolving coronavirus conditions and updated guidance from state health and education officials .
Students with special needs and families with single or working parents are among those that may be particularly vulnerable to the challenges of e-learning , rally participants said .
Kelly Gillenwater , the parent of a Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 senior with epilepsy , said the schools are not adequately serving students who have individualized education plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend of seizure disorders , '' she said .
`` The brain drain of staring and not being able to engage with teachers and classmates is exhausting and makes him very tired , some days so much so that he sleeps during lunch and misses classes and appointments . ''
Some speakers also advocated for allowing students to participate in athletic programs , saying it teaches discipline , time management and leadership skills .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker reiterated during a news conference Monday that high school football and other contact sports are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advice of medical experts and a `` relatively high '' positivity rate of about 3.5 % .
`` We know our own sports , so leave it up to us to determine how risky they are , '' said Ella Woltman , a freshman at St. Laurence Catholic High School in Burbank .
Her school is using a hybrid schedule , where she alternates between learning from home and in the classroom , but her volleyball season has been moved to the spring .
`` It ( reopening school ) can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Your administration should fight for it . ''
In DuPage County , the number of COVID-19 tests that come back positive has been trending higher than the state average , according to the state and county health departments .
From Sept. 6 to 12 , the county averaged a 5.7 % positivity rate and reported 75 infections per 100,000 people , though county health data shows the positivity rate has since been declining .
Some private schools , nearby districts and surrounding states have welcomed students back to their schools and athletic programs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to question why their kids ca n't do the same .
`` We really feel it 's in the best interest of our children to have them back in the classroom , '' she said .
`` We 're not going to just sit by the sidelines anymore .
We 're going to demand a better option . ''

Naperville rally speakers keep pressure on for schools to reopen
Their family circumstances may all be different, and their remote learning experiences have varied. But the hundreds of community members who congregated Monday night in downtown Naperville shared a common rallying cry: Get students back in the classrooms and on athletic fields.
A group of Naperville-area parents organized the demonstration to urge their local school systems -- Naperville Unit District 203 and the neighboring Indian Prairie Unit District 204 -- to transition from e-learning to an in-person instructional model as quickly as possible. Word of their efforts spread, drawing like-minded parents, educators, students and other participants from districts across the suburbs.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer A person dressed as the Grim Reaper carries a sign urging schools to reopen for in-person learning.
"The people who we should be putting the focus on are our children, and they're getting shoved to the side by people saying, 'We can't do it,' rather than, 'How can we do it?'" District 203 mom and rally organizer Ann Marie Tracy said. "We need to change this. We need to get our schools back open."
E-learning started Sept. 1 for District 203, with District 204 following suit Sept. 3. Both districts' superintendents have said they're now turning their attention toward bringing students back into the buildings safely, starting as early as next month for some groups. But they stressed the need to practice caution and follow public health protocols as they implement their back-to-school strategies.
Parents, students and other community members asked for more transparency and a greater sense of urgency among school leaders. Many argued the classroom experience offers social, emotional, academic and mental health benefits that can't be replicated in a remote setting.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer The hundreds of people who gathered Monday at Rotary Hill in downtown Naperville shared a rallying cry: Get students back in school.
"We need stimulation, not isolation. We need data, not dishonesty. We need community instead of control," said District 203 parent Jacklyn Cook, who also helped to organize the demonstration.
The timing of Monday's rally at Rotary Hill was intended to bleed into the start of a District 203 school board meeting across the street at Naperville Central High School, where several parents voiced frustrations with the e-learning model. They asked district leaders to reinstate their original plan to give families a choice between some in-person learning and an online-only option for those who don't feel comfortable returning to school.
Districts 203 and 204 were among the many school systems that scaled back their reopening plans this summer due to evolving coronavirus conditions and updated guidance from state health and education officials.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer Naperville Unit District 203 parent Jacklyn Cook was among the organizers of a rally for sending students back to the classroom for in-person learning. Hundreds of community members gathered Monday in downtown Naperville to show their support.
Students with special needs and families with single or working parents are among those that may be particularly vulnerable to the challenges of e-learning, rally participants said. Kelly Gillenwater, the parent of a Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 senior with epilepsy, said the schools are not adequately serving students who have individualized education plans.
"Screen time is not a friend of seizure disorders," she said. "The brain drain of staring and not being able to engage with teachers and classmates is exhausting and makes him very tired, some days so much so that he sleeps during lunch and misses classes and appointments."
Some speakers also advocated for allowing students to participate in athletic programs, saying it teaches discipline, time management and leadership skills. Gov. J.B. Pritzker reiterated during a news conference Monday that high school football and other contact sports are unlikely to begin this fall, citing the advice of medical experts and a "relatively high" positivity rate of about 3.5%.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer A person dressed as the Grim Reaper walks among the crowd at a rally to support in-person learning at Naperville-area schools Monday.
"We know our own sports, so leave it up to us to determine how risky they are," said Ella Woltman, a freshman at St. Laurence Catholic High School in Burbank. Her school is using a hybrid schedule, where she alternates between learning from home and in the classroom, but her volleyball season has been moved to the spring.
"It (reopening school) can be done," she shouted. "Your administration should fight for it."
In DuPage County, the number of COVID-19 tests that come back positive has been trending higher than the state average, according to the state and county health departments. From Sept. 6 to 12, the county averaged a 5.7% positivity rate and reported 75 infections per 100,000 people, though county health data shows the positivity rate has since been declining.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer A couple holds a "Don't tread on me" flag at a rally to support in-person learning Monday across the street from Naperville Central High School. The flag was originally designed during the American Revolution.
Some private schools, nearby districts and surrounding states have welcomed students back to their schools and athletic programs, Tracy said, causing Naperville-area parents to question why their kids can't do the same.
"We really feel it's in the best interest of our children to have them back in the classroom," she said. "We're not going to just sit by the sidelines anymore. We're going to demand a better option."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-22--Feder: Dan McNeil apologizes for 'harsh' tweet -- and goes fishing

One week after his career crashed and burned over what his bosses called a `` degrading and humiliating '' tweet @ @ @ @ @ the ESPN reporter whose attire he ridiculed , Robert Feder writes .
In his first @ @ @ @ @ by Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM , McNeil tweeted : `` I apologize , @ MariaTaylor @ @ @ @ @ of your outfit on MNF .
Going for a quick laugh , I failed conclusively @ @ @ @ @ you 're terrific .
# GoneFishin . ''
The longtime Chicago radio personality most recently @ @ @ @ @ with Danny Parkins .
No word yet on McNeil 's replacement .
Get the full @ @ @ @ @ media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: Dan McNeil apologizes for 'harsh' tweet -- and goes fishing
One week after his career crashed and burned over what his bosses called a "degrading and humiliating" tweet, Dan McNeil apologized to the ESPN reporter whose attire he ridiculed.
One week after his career crashed and burned over what his bosses called a "degrading and humiliating" tweet, Dan McNeil apologized to the ESPN reporter whose attire he ridiculed, Robert Feder writes.
In his first public comment since being canned by Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM, McNeil tweeted: "I apologize, @MariaTaylor, for the harsh critique of your outfit on MNF. Going for a quick laugh, I failed conclusively. Best of luck -- you're terrific. #GoneFishin."
The longtime Chicago radio personality most recently co-hosted afternoons on The Score with Danny Parkins.
No word yet on McNeil's replacement.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-22--St. Charles City Council approves $5 million incentive for McGrath Honda's relocation

The eastern gateway to St. Charles is about to get a major makeover .
As expected , the St. Charles City Council voted unanimously Monday to approve a $ 5 million incentive that will allow McGrath Honda to relocate from elsewhere in the city into a 12-acre eastern portion of the vacant Pheasant Run Resort property occupied by the shuttered Mega Center .
In addition to approving the McGrath Honda move , the City Council also approved the dividing of the entire 46-acre former Pheasant Run Resort property at the southeast corner of East Main Street and Kautz Road into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be occupied by McGrath Honda .
`` The city is pleased to see redevelopment initiated on the former Pheasant Run Resort site , '' St. Charles City Administrator Mark Koenen said of the resort that closed in March .
`` The relocated McGrath Honda dealership has the opportunity to expand its footprint within the city while other redevelopment opportunities are considered along the East Main Street corridor . ''
McGrath Honda , currently located at 1411 East Main Street , will receive $ 5,256,000 paid over 15 years with more than a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
About $ 4 million will be paid through a sales tax rebate where 75 percent of future sales tax generated by the dealership will be rebated to the dealership and the remaining 25 percent kept by the city .
That agreement remains in place until the $ 4 million amount is reached or the 15-year window closes .
The city 's 25 percent share will go toward the utility improvements .
If the dealership closes or moves , the city will be refunded the remainder of the public utility money that has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The 12 acres slated for McGrath Honda includes room for a possible additional dealership in the future .
The middle lot on the 46-acre property consists of the bulk of the main Pheasant Run Resort buildings .
The third lot is a mostly undeveloped parcel at the intersection of Main Street and Kautz .
The golf course is not part of the proposed subdivision because it 's owned by the DuPage Airport Authority .

St. Charles City Council approves $5 million incentive for McGrath Honda's relocation
The eastern gateway to St. Charles is about to get a major makeover.
As expected, the St. Charles City Council voted unanimously Monday to approve a $5 million incentive that will allow McGrath Honda to relocate from elsewhere in the city into a 12-acre eastern portion of the vacant Pheasant Run Resort property occupied by the shuttered Mega Center.
In addition to approving the McGrath Honda move, the City Council also approved the dividing of the entire 46-acre former Pheasant Run Resort property at the southeast corner of East Main Street and Kautz Road into three parcels, including the one that will be occupied by McGrath Honda.
"The city is pleased to see redevelopment initiated on the former Pheasant Run Resort site," St. Charles City Administrator Mark Koenen said of the resort that closed in March. "The relocated McGrath Honda dealership has the opportunity to expand its footprint within the city while other redevelopment opportunities are considered along the East Main Street corridor."
McGrath Honda, currently located at 1411 East Main Street, will receive $5,256,000 paid over 15 years with more than a million dollars going toward public utility improvements. About $4 million will be paid through a sales tax rebate where 75 percent of future sales tax generated by the dealership will be rebated to the dealership and the remaining 25 percent kept by the city.
That agreement remains in place until the $4 million amount is reached or the 15-year window closes.
The city's 25 percent share will go toward the utility improvements. If the dealership closes or moves, the city will be refunded the remainder of the public utility money that hasn't already been paid to the city.
The 12 acres slated for McGrath Honda includes room for a possible additional dealership in the future. The middle lot on the 46-acre property consists of the bulk of the main Pheasant Run Resort buildings.
The third lot is a mostly undeveloped parcel at the intersection of Main Street and Kautz.
The golf course is not part of the proposed subdivision because it's owned by the DuPage Airport Authority.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-22--'Such a sense of loss': 30 more COVID-19 deaths in Illinois as U.S. toll reaches 200,000

Illinois recorded 1,531 new cases of COVID-19 and 30 additional deaths as the nation hit a heartbreaking milestone Tuesday with 200,000 people dying from the virus -- parents , siblings , friends and Anne Gulotta 's dad , Robert Kanney .
`` The last words he said to me were , 'Bless you , ' '' Gulotta recalled the 91-year-old saying by phone from his hospital bed the afternoon of March 29 .
Kanney was `` the glue that kept us together , '' Gulotta said , but that night , because of COVID-19 restrictions , he died alone at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We could n't be there to say goodbye , '' said Gulotta , of Barrington .
`` There was no closure in the process and I think that 's what lingers the most . ''
So far , Illinois ' total infections stand at 277,266 with 8,486 deaths , the Illinois Department of Public Health announced .
Meanwhile , the Cook County Department of Public Health has added Wisconsin to a list of states from which returning residents are asked to quarantine for 14 days because of a COVID-19 surge .
Kanney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprises the most deaths from COVID-19 in Illinois -- 45 % .
Residents ages 79 to 70 make up 24 % of deaths compared to people ages 69 to 60 with 17.5 % , and those ages 59 to 50 with 8 % .
The remaining 5.5 % of deaths takes in people age 49 and younger .
Men killed by the pandemic outnumber women by a 53.8 % to 46.2 % average , according to IDPH data .
On March 24 , the state was just three days into a stay-at-home order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the virus and a jubilant Kanney had just returned home to Vernon Hills after recovering from pneumonia .
It turned out someone at his nursing home tested positive for COVID-19 and , on March 27 , the retired electrical engineer went to hospital with symptoms .
After his death , just four members of Kanney 's family were able to mourn at a stark , 10-minute graveside service instead of a full Catholic mass with his three daughters , their families , relatives and friends .
Six months later , `` there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Gulotta said .
`` Looking out the window and visualizing my dad in the yard or days when he gardened here ... his gentleness .
He was just happy to be with us . ''
Gulotta has endured blows before  -- her mother passed away in 1993 and her husband died of suicide -- but the harsh realities of the virus are unique and remind her of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1996 .
`` Sometimes , I feel like we are living our own type of Chernobyl , because people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ca n't get near them because it 's contagious and we could die .
It 's like a deep sore that needs time to heal .
My family and I will get there but this will take some time . ''
Gulotta 's sister and brother-in-law , who lived with her father , contracted COVID-19 , were hospitalized and are still dealing with the impact .
She tells people with older parents to `` heed the warnings , because it can happen to any of us and taking precautions can save a life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone gets it , '' Gulotta added .
`` They chose to believe this thing will work itself out .
This is a real thing .
`` I hope if there 's any lessons learned , especially knowing we 've lost over 200,000 lives already , is that we do n't take little things for granted so much , and that we embrace the positive side of life .
Love one another , be kind , and we 'll be able to get through this time a lot easier . ''
Illinois labs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24 hours and Illinois ' seven-day virus positivity rate is 3.5 % .
In the last seven days , the state averaged 1,865 daily virus infections , a 10 % increase from Sept. 9 to 15 when the average tally was 1,694 .
As of Monday night , 1,455 patients were in Illinois hospitals with the disease compared to the seven-day average of 1,483 .
Among the 30 new Illinois deaths are : a DuPage County woman in her 80s , a Lake County woman in her 70s , and a Will County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cook County , fatalities include a woman in her 30s , two men in their 60s , and two women and a man in their 80s .

'Such a sense of loss': 30 more COVID-19 deaths in Illinois as U.S. toll reaches 200,000
Unable to have a traditional memorial service for her father, Robert Kanney of Vernon Hills, Anne Gulotta of Barrington places a white rose on her dad's coffin after a brief graveside service. Courtesy of Anne Gulotta
Healthy and released from a rehab center, 91-year-old Robert Kanney was thrilled to return to his Vernon Hills home. Two days later, he learned someone with him in rehab had tested positive for COVID-19, and three days after that Kanney became another coronavirus death. Courtesy of Anne Gulotta
Illinois labs processed 41,829 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours and the state's positivity rate is 3.5%. Photo courtesy of the University of Illinois
Illinois recorded 1,531 new cases of COVID-19 and 30 additional deaths as the nation hit a heartbreaking milestone Tuesday with 200,000 people dying from the virus -- parents, siblings, friends and Anne Gulotta's dad, Robert Kanney.
"The last words he said to me were, 'Bless you,'" Gulotta recalled the 91-year-old saying by phone from his hospital bed the afternoon of March 29.
Kanney was "the glue that kept us together," Gulotta said, but that night, because of COVID-19 restrictions, he died alone at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville.
"We couldn't be there to say goodbye," said Gulotta, of Barrington. "There was no closure in the process and I think that's what lingers the most."
So far, Illinois' total infections stand at 277,266 with 8,486 deaths, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced.
Meanwhile, the Cook County Department of Public Health has added Wisconsin to a list of states from which returning residents are asked to quarantine for 14 days because of a COVID-19 surge.
Kanney's age bracket of 80 and older comprises the most deaths from COVID-19 in Illinois -- 45%. Residents ages 79 to 70 make up 24% of deaths compared to people ages 69 to 60 with 17.5%, and those ages 59 to 50 with 8%. The remaining 5.5% of deaths takes in people age 49 and younger.
Men killed by the pandemic outnumber women by a 53.8% to 46.2% average, according to IDPH data.
On March 24, the state was just three days into a stay-at-home order, health care workers were still learning about the virus and a jubilant Kanney had just returned home to Vernon Hills after recovering from pneumonia.
It turned out someone at his rehab center tested positive for COVID-19 and, on March 27, the retired electrical engineer went to hospital with symptoms.
After his death, just four members of Kanney's family were able to mourn at a stark, 10-minute graveside service instead of a full Catholic mass with his three daughters, their families, relatives and friends.
Six months later, "there's such a sense of loss," Gulotta said.
"Looking out the window and visualizing my dad in the yard or days when he gardened here ... his gentleness. He was just happy to be with us."
Gulotta has endured blows before  -- her mother passed away in 1993 and her husband died of suicide -- but the harsh realities of the virus are unique and remind her of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1996.
"Sometimes, I feel like we are living our own type of Chernobyl, because people are just dying every day and we can't get near them because it's contagious and we could die. It's like a deep sore that needs time to heal. My family and I will get there but this will take some time."
Gulotta's sister and brother-in-law, who lived with her father, contracted COVID-19, were hospitalized and are still dealing with the impact.
She tells people with older parents to "heed the warnings, because it can happen to any of us and taking precautions can save a life."
"I don't think everyone gets it," Gulotta added. "They chose to believe this thing will work itself out. This is a real thing.
"I hope if there's any lessons learned, especially knowing we've lost over 200,000 lives already, is that we don't take little things for granted so much, and that we embrace the positive side of life. Love one another, be kind, and we'll be able to get through this time a lot easier."
Illinois labs reported 41,829 virus tests in the last 24 hours and Illinois' seven-day virus positivity rate is 3.5%.
In the last seven days, the state averaged 1,865 daily virus infections, a 10% increase from Sept. 9 to 15 when the average tally was 1,694.
As of Monday night, 1,455 patients were in Illinois hospitals with the disease compared to the seven-day average of 1,483.
Among the 30 new Illinois deaths are: a DuPage County woman in her 80s, a Lake County woman in her 70s, and a Will County man in his 70s. Also in Cook County, fatalities include a woman in her 30s, two men in their 60s, and two women and a man in their 80s.
• Daily Herald Staff Writer Burt Constable contributed to this report.