dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Facts Matter: Pneumonia not caused by wearing face mask

A social media post by a man running for congressional seat in Florida falsely claims wearing a face mask can cause an infection .
`` Excessive use of face masks causes fungal and bacterial pneumonia , '' said Jessi Melton , who is running in Florida 's 22nd District .
The post was retweeted more than 16,000 times .
Normal use of a face mask will not cause fungal or bacterial pneumonia , according to experts quoted by the Associated Press .
`` There 's no evidence to back up this claim , '' George Washington University epidemiologist Anne Monroe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that contamination could cause fungal pneumonia is not a valid conclusion . ''
Davidson Hamer , infectious disease specialist and professor at Boston University , told the AP face masks do n't do any harm , beyond a little discomfort .
`` There 's no evidence of masks leading to fungal or bacterial infections of the upper airway or the lower airway as in pneumonia , '' he said .
Hamer said theoretically bacterial growth could occur if someone wore a mask that contained moisture and it became moldy .
`` I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said , adding such a mask should be discarded .
`` It 's so highly unlikely ( an infection would develop ) with normal mask use , '' he said .
`` There 's a real danger at spreading incorrect information like this , especially at a time when we really need to be encouraging more people to wear masks . ''
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden last month said President Donald Trump was trying to defund the U.S .
Postal Service to ensure that mail-in ballots are not delivered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for losing money and the use of mail-in ballots for the November election , but there is no evidence he linked the two issues , according to FactCheck.org .
While speaking during a June 23 virtual fundraiser with former president Barack Obama , Biden said Trump `` wants to cut off money for the post office so they can not deliver mail-in ballots . ''
The Postal Service is losing more money than in previous years because of the coronavirus pandemic , but a spokesman told FactCheck the ability to deliver mail this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Postal Service has reported cumulative net losses of more than $ 83 billion since 2007 , FactCheck said .
Trump has criticized the post office 's finances for years .
But there is no instance of the president saying he wants to inhibit the Postal Service 's ability to handle mail-in ballots , FactCheck said .
Following a news conference last week by presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden , President Donald Trump claimed Biden was given questions from members of the press ahead of the event and was reading the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the claim on Twitter Wednesday and repeated it during an interview on `` America This Week . ''
But Biden did n't know the questions before they were asked nor did he read answers from a teleprompter , according to The Associated Press .
The first question , which was asked by an AP reporter , was not submitted in advance , the AP said .
The president 's allegation is `` laughable , ludicrous , and a lie , '' Biden campaign press secretary TJ Ducklo told the AP .
Biden used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it up to questions , the AP said .
While answering questions , Biden looked at the reporters , not the teleprompter , and , at that time , it appeared the teleprompter was turned off .
Some social media users recently shared artwork showing people wearing face masks to try to claim COVID-19 was planned as part of a world domination scheme .
Photos of the mural claimed the art was displayed in 1994 at the Denver airport and stated , `` PLANDEMIC '' and `` Illuminati artworks on display . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ began , and it was never displayed in the Denver airport , according to PolitiFact.com .
Filipino artist CJ Trinidad in February posted images of the artwork , including photos of the work in progress and shots of him with the piece , on his Facebook page , PolitiFact said .
His signature is on the bottom-right corner of the mural .
Various claims falsely attribute the mural to other artists and other creation dates .
Alex Renteria , spokesman for the Denver airport , told PolitiFact that the artwork was never displayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 1994 for DEN featuring international children wearing traditional clothing and that also features flags is Leo Tanguma 's 'Children of the World Dream of Peace , ' but none are wearing masks , '' he said .
• Bob Oswald is a veteran Chicago-area journalist and former news editor of the Elgin Courier-News .
Contact him at boboswald33 @ gmail.com .

Facts Matter: Pneumonia not caused by wearing face mask
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden speaks Tuesday at Alexis Dupont High School in Wilmington, Del. The former vice president last month asserted without evidence that President Donald Trump is trying to defund the U.S. Postal Service to thwart mail-in voting efforts. Last week, Trump tweeted that Biden was given questions ahead of a press conference and read the answers off a teleprompter; an Associated Press who was there says that's not true. Associated Press photos
A health care worker attends a demonstration to demand improvement of Spain's public health system Monday in Madrid. Wearing a mask won't cause pneumonia, medical experts say.
A social media post by a woman running for congressional seat in Florida falsely claims wearing a face mask can cause an infection.
"Excessive use of face masks causes fungal and bacterial pneumonia," said Jessi Melton, who is running in Florida's 22nd District. The post was retweeted more than 16,000 times.
Normal use of a face mask will not cause fungal or bacterial pneumonia, according to experts quoted by the Associated Press.
"There's no evidence to back up this claim," George Washington University epidemiologist Anne Monroe told the AP. "The idea that contamination could cause fungal pneumonia is not a valid conclusion."
Davidson Hamer, infectious disease specialist and professor at Boston University, told the AP face masks don't do any harm, beyond a little discomfort.
"There's no evidence of masks leading to fungal or bacterial infections of the upper airway or the lower airway as in pneumonia," he said.
Hamer said theoretically bacterial growth could occur if someone wore a mask that contained moisture and it became moldy.
"I don't know why anybody would do that," he said, adding such a mask should be discarded.
"It's so highly unlikely (an infection would develop) with normal mask use," he said. "There's a real danger at spreading incorrect information like this, especially at a time when we really need to be encouraging more people to wear masks."
Post office comment not backed up
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden last month said President Donald Trump was trying to defund the U.S. Postal Service to ensure that mail-in ballots are not delivered.
Trump criticized both the postal service for losing money and the use of mail-in ballots for the November election, but there is no evidence he linked the two issues, according to FactCheck.org.
While speaking during a June 23 virtual fundraiser with former president Barack Obama, Biden said Trump "wants to cut off money for the post office so they cannot deliver mail-in ballots."
The Postal Service is losing more money than in previous years because of the coronavirus pandemic, but a spokesman told FactCheck the ability to deliver mail this year will not be affected.
The Postal Service has reported cumulative net losses of more than $83 billion since 2007, FactCheck said.
Trump has criticized the post office's finances for years. But there is no instance of the president saying he wants to inhibit the Postal Service's ability to handle mail-in ballots, FactCheck said.
Press questions not leaked to Biden
Following a news conference last week by presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden, President Donald Trump claimed Biden was given questions from members of the press ahead of the event and was reading the answers off a teleprompter.
Trump made the claim on Twitter Wednesday and repeated it during an interview on "America This Week."
But Biden didn't know the questions before they were asked nor did he read answers from a teleprompter, according to The Associated Press.
The first question, which was asked by an AP reporter, was not submitted in advance, the AP said.
The president's allegation is "laughable, ludicrous, and a lie," Biden campaign press secretary TJ Ducklo told the AP.
Biden used a teleprompter for prepared remarks before opening it up to questions, the AP said. While answering questions, Biden looked at the reporters, not the teleprompter, and, at that time, it appeared the teleprompter was turned off.
Mural of people wearing masks created this year
Some social media users recently shared artwork showing people wearing face masks to try to claim COVID-19 was planned as part of a world domination scheme.
Photos of the mural claimed the art was displayed in 1994 at the Denver airport and stated, "PLANDEMIC" and "Illuminati artworks on display."
The painting was created after the pandemic began, and it was never displayed in the Denver airport, according to PolitiFact.com.
Filipino artist CJ Trinidad in February posted images of the artwork, including photos of the work in progress and shots of him with the piece, on his Facebook page, PolitiFact said. His signature is on the bottom-right corner of the mural.
Various claims falsely attribute the mural to other artists and other creation dates.
Alex Renteria, spokesman for the Denver airport, told PolitiFact that the artwork was never displayed there.
"The only mural painted in 1994 for DEN featuring international children wearing traditional clothing and that also features flags is Leo Tanguma's 'Children of the World Dream of Peace,' but none are wearing masks," he said.
• Bob Oswald is a veteran Chicago-area journalist and former news editor of the Elgin Courier-News. Contact him at boboswald33@gmail.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Grammar Moses: This column not filmed before a live studio audience

Eleanor Wasielewski has a bone to pick with Lucille Ball .
`` I Love Lucy '' was the first television show to be filmed `` before a live studio audience . ''
Shows such as `` All in the Family , '' `` The Jeffersons '' and `` Cheers '' followed suit , but I ca n't recall which shows of my youth boasted that onetime novelty of creating a stage play for TV with an audience watching and busting a gut in the process .
I just remember hearing the phrase a lot .
It was refreshing , though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people reacting to jokes and pratfalls and the like rather than hearing a programmed guffaw or a titter , even when the writing was garbage , the acting uninspired and the reaction undeserved .
I swore off network sitcoms decades ago because of the dreaded laugh track .
Live studio audiences really can augment the impact of a performance .
Compare `` Last Week Tonight '' with John Oliver pre-pandemic with the show now .
The jokes fall flat .
There is something about laughing with an audience .
But I 'm putting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For many years , I have tried to communicate with every source I can think of in the entertainment industry about what I think is a gross misuse of language , '' Eleanor wrote in an email to me .
`` Almost every episode of a sitcom starts with 'This episode was filmed before a live studio audience . '
What is the option -- a dead studio audience ?
Should n't they be saying 'filmed live before a studio audience ? '
'' She has a good point , though .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the groundbreaking nature of `` I Love Lucy , '' real people laughed along at the high-jinks Lucy and Ethel got themselves involved in .
That show was shot with multiple cameras to allow for a live performance feel for the TV audience .
According to a BBC News story I read on the history of the dreaded laugh track , Bing Crosby would record his radio shows and engineers would add laughter and applause at just the right places .
It became standard .
My guess is stressing the `` live audience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
So it referred not to whether the audience members were alive or dead but whether there was an audience at all .
`` Should n't they be saying 'filmed live before a studio audience ' ? ''
Eleanor asked .
I think we are a little hung up on the word `` live . ''
It would be better to say simply `` filmed before a studio audience . ''
Do n't get me started on whether film is still used in TV production .
Increasingly , programs are digital .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Daily Herald .
Write him at jbaumann @ dailyherald.com .
Put Grammar Moses in the subject line .
You also can friend or follow Jim at facebook.com/baumannjim .

Grammar Moses: This column not filmed before a live studio audience
Eleanor Wasielewski has a bone to pick with Lucille Ball.
Well, Desi Arnaz.
"I Love Lucy" was the first television show to be filmed "before a live studio audience."
Shows such as "All in the Family," "The Jeffersons" and "Cheers" followed suit, but I can't recall which shows of my youth boasted that onetime novelty of creating a stage play for TV with an audience watching and busting a gut in the process. I just remember hearing the phrase a lot.
It was refreshing, though, to hear an audience of real people reacting to jokes and pratfalls and the like rather than hearing a programmed guffaw or a titter, even when the writing was garbage, the acting uninspired and the reaction undeserved.
I swore off network sitcoms decades ago because of the dreaded laugh track.
Live studio audiences really can augment the impact of a performance. Compare "Last Week Tonight" with John Oliver pre-pandemic with the show now. The jokes fall flat. There is something about laughing with an audience.
But I'm putting the cart before the horse.
"For many years, I have tried to communicate with every source I can think of in the entertainment industry about what I think is a gross misuse of language," Eleanor wrote in an email to me. "Almost every episode of a sitcom starts with 'This episode was filmed before a live studio audience.' What is the option -- a dead studio audience? Shouldn't they be saying 'filmed live before a studio audience?'"
Such passion, Eleanor!
She has a good point, though.
I suspect, as was the case with the groundbreaking nature of "I Love Lucy," real people laughed along at the high-jinks Lucy and Ethel got themselves involved in. That show was shot with multiple cameras to allow for a live performance feel for the TV audience.
According to a BBC News story I read on the history of the dreaded laugh track, Bing Crosby would record his radio shows and engineers would add laughter and applause at just the right places. It became standard.
My guess is stressing the "live audience" for Lucy was a response to that. So it referred not to whether the audience members were alive or dead but whether there was an audience at all.
"Shouldn't they be saying 'filmed live before a studio audience'?" Eleanor asked.
I think we are a little hung up on the word "live."
It would be better to say simply "filmed before a studio audience."
Don't get me started on whether film is still used in TV production. Increasingly, programs are digital.
Write carefully!
• Jim Baumann is vice president/managing editor of the Daily Herald. Write him at jbaumann@dailyherald.com. Put Grammar Moses in the subject line. You also can friend or follow Jim at facebook.com/baumannjim.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Batavia VFW Post draws 100 to a social-distancing July 4 mini-parade

Chloe Raykow and her dog Jack readied for the Batavia VFW Post 1197 social-distancing parade Saturday morning , donning patriotic gear and putting an American flag `` tie '' around the canine 's neck .
It was a short parade route -- about a quarter-mile around the post 's 6-acre property and along a small stretch of the Fox River Trail -- but it sure beat sitting inside all day .
`` If it 's outside and we are 6 feet apart , I feel safe , '' said Chloe 's grandmother , Millie Raykow of Batavia .
`` If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would n't go . ''
Added Raykow 's daughter , Dawn Chapman , who was there with her daughter , Adaline Chapman : `` Illinois is doing better .
We 're in Phase 4 ( of reopening ) .
I would n't want to be inside with people . ''
Saturday 's festivities at the post , 645 S. River St. , were among a sprinkle of July 4 events in the suburbs as communities months ago canceled larger parades and shelved fireworks displays .
At least 100 people gathered at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shade among picnic tables , horseshoe pits and lawn bag sets .
Kasey Harnesk , her husband , Mario , and their two kids came out from North Aurora to be in the parade , where a few spectators threw candy .
`` We want to make it feel like a holiday , '' Kasey Harnesk said .
Nelson Casey , an Aurora native , volunteered at the post 's concession stand where bottled water was free , there was a nominal charge for food , and red `` BataviaVeteranStrong '' T-shirts were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acronym `` RED '' on the front for `` Remember Everyone Deployed . ''
`` It 's a great thing , '' Casey said of the post 's mini-parade and festivities .
`` There 's not many parades or festivals going on . ''
Post Commander Jay Davis welcomed everyone , gave a brief overview of the post history and encouraged people to enjoy themselves on a day that defines the American spirit .
`` This day , Independence Day , is the day that tells you , you are free , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an American , you can decide your future . ''

Batavia VFW Post draws 100 to a social-distancing July 4 mini-parade
Chloe Raykow and her dog Jack readied for the Batavia VFW Post 1197 social-distancing parade Saturday morning, donning patriotic gear and putting an American flag "tie" around the canine's neck.
It was a short parade route -- about a quarter-mile around the post's 6-acre property and along a small stretch of the Fox River Trail -- but it sure beat sitting inside all day.
"If it's outside and we are 6 feet apart, I feel safe," said Chloe's grandmother, Millie Raykow of Batavia. "If we were inside and crammed together, I wouldn't go."
Added Raykow's daughter, Dawn Chapman, who was there with her daughter, Adaline Chapman: "Illinois is doing better. We're in Phase 4 (of reopening). I wouldn't want to be inside with people."
Saturday's festivities at the post, 645 S. River St., were among a sprinkle of July 4 events in the suburbs as communities months ago canceled larger parades and shelved fireworks displays.
At least 100 people gathered at the post, keeping their distance in the shade among picnic tables, horseshoe pits and lawn bag sets.
Kasey Harnesk, her husband, Mario, and their two kids came out from North Aurora to be in the parade, where a few spectators threw candy.
"We want to make it feel like a holiday," Kasey Harnesk said.
Nelson Casey, an Aurora native, volunteered at the post's concession stand where bottled water was free, there was a nominal charge for food, and red "BataviaVeteranStrong" T-shirts were for sale. Each shirt had the acronym "RED" on the front for "Remember Everyone Deployed."
"It's a great thing," Casey said of the post's mini-parade and festivities. "There's not many parades or festivals going on."
Post Commander Jay Davis welcomed everyone, gave a brief overview of the post history and encouraged people to enjoy themselves on a day that defines the American spirit.
"This day, Independence Day, is the day that tells you, you are free," he said. "If you're an American, you can decide your future."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Hendricks says Cubs pitchers stayed ready during hiatus

This was the type of low-stress competition usually reserved for spring training .
In the top of the second inning of the Cubs intrasquad scrimmage Saturday , the Blue team loaded the bases with one out , with Anthony Rizzo ready to step in the box .
But someone in the dugout decided Kyle Hendricks had thrown enough pitches and waved off the inning .
Without the noise of fans in the stands , jeers from the Blue team dugout could be heard in the press box .
`` I put up a zero , so that 's what I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Hendricks said with a laugh .
`` I was n't wanting to get off the field there .
I 'm sure he was n't for sure either . ''
So neither side scored in the scrimmage , which consisted of 5 half-innings .
Hendricks tossed 3 innings and gave up 5 hits .
Yu Darvish pitched 2 frames , allowing a hit and a walk .
Player of the game was catcher Victor Caratini , who lashed two singles off Hendricks .
The lone extra-base hit was a line double to left-center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The other singles were from Jason Heyward , Daniel Descalso and Kris Bryant .
`` It was just fun to get back out there , '' said Hendricks , the lone player made available on a post-scrimmage Zoom call with reporters .
`` Obviously we do it for the fans and that 's such a huge part of the game , having them there and the cheers and the roars and all that .
At the end of the day , at least we get to play baseball .
We 're out here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early outing provided an example of how Hendricks was able to stay in pitching shape during the hiatus .
He spent most of the time off in Arizona and visited the Cubs ' training facility as much as he was allowed .
`` We had catchers , a few pitchers , a few hitters -- throughout the whole quarantine , we were going in there , '' Hendricks said .
`` I pretty much kept up on everything throwing-wise , working out , throwing bullpens , a couple of live BP situations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I was good to get 45-50 pitches under my belt today .
`` A lot of guys threw a lot throughout the quarantine .
I feel really good where I 'm at as far as schedule-wise .
For the most part as a group , we 're locked in and ready to go . ''
Another scrimmage is planned for Sunday .
Earlier in the day , manager David Ross talked about the unusual circumstance of waking up on the Fourth of July and heading for a summer camp session instead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ definitely strange , '' Ross said .
`` This is one of those days that scream America 's Pastime .
It 's a different and unique day , but I 'm trying to look at the positives .
We 're going to have our first scrimmage and it 's a nice hot day in Chicago on the Fourth of July . ''
All 17 position players listed on the Cubs ' summer camp roster participated .
So while some teams are reporting a few players testing positive for COVID-19 , the Cubs appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ross speaks carefully when asked to confirm whether everyone is healthy enough to participate in camp .
`` Guys are hungry , what I see out there running around , it 's exciting , '' Ross said .
`` I definitely had a sense of energy ( during Friday 's initial workout ) .
We 've all been cooped up for a while . ''
Before the scrimmage , Heyward was asked if the Cubs have an advantage in the 60-game season since their main nucleus of players has n't changed in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are certain advantages to most of us playing together for a number of years , '' he said .
`` I 've seen us do a lot of great things in short amounts of time when our backs are against the wall .
So I 'm looking forward to that challenge and having fun with this group . ''

Hendricks says Cubs pitchers stayed ready during hiatus
This was the type of low-stress competition usually reserved for spring training.
In the top of the second inning of the Cubs intrasquad scrimmage Saturday, the Blue team loaded the bases with one out, with Anthony Rizzo ready to step in the box. But someone in the dugout decided Kyle Hendricks had thrown enough pitches and waved off the inning.
Without the noise of fans in the stands, jeers from the Blue team dugout could be heard in the press box.
"I put up a zero, so that's what I'm going to take from it," Hendricks said with a laugh. "I wasn't wanting to get off the field there. I'm sure he wasn't for sure either."
So neither side scored in the scrimmage, which consisted of 5 half-innings. Hendricks tossed 3 innings and gave up 5 hits. Yu Darvish pitched 2 frames, allowing a hit and a walk.
Player of the game was catcher Victor Caratini, who lashed two singles off Hendricks. The lone extra-base hit was a line double to left-center field by Javy Baez off Darvish. The other singles were from Jason Heyward, Daniel Descalso and Kris Bryant.
"It was just fun to get back out there," said Hendricks, the lone player made available on a post-scrimmage Zoom call with reporters. "Obviously we do it for the fans and that's such a huge part of the game, having them there and the cheers and the roars and all that. At the end of the day, at least we get to play baseball. We're out here with all our friends."
The early outing provided an example of how Hendricks was able to stay in pitching shape during the hiatus. He spent most of the time off in Arizona and visited the Cubs' training facility as much as he was allowed.
"We had catchers, a few pitchers, a few hitters -- throughout the whole quarantine, we were going in there," Hendricks said. "I pretty much kept up on everything throwing-wise, working out, throwing bullpens, a couple of live BP situations. So I kept my pitch count up and I was good to get 45-50 pitches under my belt today.
"A lot of guys threw a lot throughout the quarantine. I feel really good where I'm at as far as schedule-wise. For the most part as a group, we're locked in and ready to go."
Another scrimmage is planned for Sunday. Earlier in the day, manager David Ross talked about the unusual circumstance of waking up on the Fourth of July and heading for a summer camp session instead of a midseason game.
"It's definitely strange," Ross said. "This is one of those days that scream America's Pastime. It's a different and unique day, but I'm trying to look at the positives. We're going to have our first scrimmage and it's a nice hot day in Chicago on the Fourth of July."
All 17 position players listed on the Cubs' summer camp roster participated. So while some teams are reporting a few players testing positive for COVID-19, the Cubs appear to be at full health, although Ross speaks carefully when asked to confirm whether everyone is healthy enough to participate in camp.
"Guys are hungry, what I see out there running around, it's exciting," Ross said. "I definitely had a sense of energy (during Friday's initial workout). We've all been cooped up for a while."
Before the scrimmage, Heyward was asked if the Cubs have an advantage in the 60-game season since their main nucleus of players hasn't changed in a few years.
"I think there are certain advantages to most of us playing together for a number of years," he said. "I've seen us do a lot of great things in short amounts of time when our backs are against the wall. So I'm looking forward to that challenge and having fun with this group."
• Twitter: @McGrawDHBulls


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Good News Sunday: Palatine teen creates backyard Wrigley Field

This is Good News Sunday , a compilation of some of the more upbeat and inspiring stories published by the Daily Herald during the previous week : While Major League Baseball stumbles toward opening day for a truncated 60-game season , America 's pastime is thriving in a replica Wrigley Field that a Palatine teenager built in the backyard of his family 's house .
D.J .
Dick has created an ultimate Wiffle ball experience that includes a scoreboard , flags , ivy-covered wall and outfield basket similar to what 's at the Friendly Confines .
The Wiffle park regularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2-on-2 or 3-on-3 action from the home 's upper-level deck or outside the fence .
`` I just looked at pictures , did what I could and made it happen , '' said D.J.
, 16 , an incoming junior who plays baseball , basketball and golf at Palatine High School .
`` Because I 've been a Cubs fan all my life and everyone 's dream is to play at Wrigley , I was like , 'Why ca n't I build it in my own backyard ? '
So that 's what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story , click here .
As quickly as he came into the world , he 's won the affection of his attentive mother and their caretakers .
The lanky spitfire likes to canter , sunbathe and nibble on his mom 's fuzzy chin .
His youthful antics are contagious , even to senior horses in the herd at Danada Equestrian Center near Wheaton .
`` He is pretty magnificent to watch move around , '' said Brad Doweidt , equestrian program coordinator at the facility .
`` He 's definitely getting his sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a month old , Duke , the first foal born at Danada in more than a decade , remains the center of attention in a Kentucky-style barn steeped in history .
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is planning a virtual baby shower during August with the goal of raising $ 3,000 for the first year of his veterinary care and training .
For the full story , click here .
It all started with a gift card .
Heather Booton and her co-workers each received a $ 100 card from their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ along to people whose lives were disrupted by the pandemic .
Booton knew she wanted to help domestic violence survivors .
But she 's the kind of person who can turn a selfless moment into a bigger idea .
She 's also someone who believes generosity means giving your time and dedication , not just writing a check .
So she turned to her network of Facebook friends and asked if they could use their giving power to supplement the gift card and provide meals for families finding refuge through the only emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I was just completely overwhelmed by how generous people were and how eager they were to help , '' she said .
For the full story , click here .
Wauconda officials and members of the local American Legion Post 911 are honoring 14 former military personnel from the village by displaying banners bearing their names and photographs .
Soldiers , Marines and pilots who fought in World War II , the Vietnam War and even the Spanish-American War in the late 19th century are depicted .
Seven of the honorees died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wars in which they served .
`` It 's a great field of veterans , '' Mayor Lincoln Knight said .
The banners went up Thursday on light poles on Main Street , north of Route 176 .
The project originated with resident Laurel DeBoer , who saw a similar effort in Pennsylvania last summer and shared the idea with Knight .
`` I know a lot of people who served in the armed forces , and I thought this would be a way to honor them , '' DeBoer said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed forces goes up on a pedestal for me . ''
For the full story , click here .
• Good News Sunday will run each weekend .
Visit dailyherald.com/newsletters to sign up for our Good News Sunday newsletter .

Good News Sunday: Palatine teen creates backyard Wrigley Field
Duke, a new foal at Danada Equestrian Center, looks up from the tall grass when he sees action beyond the fence. Rick West | Staff Photographer
This is Good News Sunday, a compilation of some of the more upbeat and inspiring stories published by the Daily Herald during the previous week:
While Major League Baseball stumbles toward opening day for a truncated 60-game season, America's pastime is thriving in a replica Wrigley Field that a Palatine teenager built in the backyard of his family's house.
D.J. Dick has created an ultimate Wiffle ball experience that includes a scoreboard, flags, ivy-covered wall and outfield basket similar to what's at the Friendly Confines. The Wiffle park regularly draws neighbors to watch the boys in 2-on-2 or 3-on-3 action from the home's upper-level deck or outside the fence.
"I just looked at pictures, did what I could and made it happen," said D.J., 16, an incoming junior who plays baseball, basketball and golf at Palatine High School. "Because I've been a Cubs fan all my life and everyone's dream is to play at Wrigley, I was like, 'Why can't I build it in my own backyard?' So that's what I did."
For the full story, click here.
Foal of charm: Danada welcomes addition
As quickly as he came into the world, he's won the affection of his attentive mother and their caretakers.
The lanky spitfire likes to canter, sunbathe and nibble on his mom's fuzzy chin. His youthful antics are contagious, even to senior horses in the herd at Danada Equestrian Center near Wheaton.
"He is pretty magnificent to watch move around," said Brad Doweidt, equestrian program coordinator at the facility. "He's definitely getting his sea legs underneath him."
More than a month old, Duke, the first foal born at Danada in more than a decade, remains the center of attention in a Kentucky-style barn steeped in history.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is planning a virtual baby shower during August with the goal of raising $3,000 for the first year of his veterinary care and training.
For the full story, click here.
Turning a gift card into support for survivors
It all started with a gift card.
Heather Booton and her co-workers each received a $100 card from their company CEO with instructions to pass it along to people whose lives were disrupted by the pandemic.
Booton knew she wanted to help domestic violence survivors. But she's the kind of person who can turn a selfless moment into a bigger idea. She's also someone who believes generosity means giving your time and dedication, not just writing a check.
So she turned to her network of Facebook friends and asked if they could use their giving power to supplement the gift card and provide meals for families finding refuge through the only emergency domestic violence shelter in DuPage County.
"I was just completely overwhelmed by how generous people were and how eager they were to help," she said.
For the full story, click here.
Wauconda honors vets with downtown banners
Wauconda officials and members of the local American Legion Post 911 are honoring 14 former military personnel from the village by displaying banners bearing their names and photographs.
Soldiers, Marines and pilots who fought in World War II, the Vietnam War and even the Spanish-American War in the late 19th century are depicted.
Seven of the honorees died in combat. The others survived the wars in which they served.
"It's a great field of veterans," Mayor Lincoln Knight said.
The banners went up Thursday on light poles on Main Street, north of Route 176.
The project originated with resident Laurel DeBoer, who saw a similar effort in Pennsylvania last summer and shared the idea with Knight.
"I know a lot of people who served in the armed forces, and I thought this would be a way to honor them," DeBoer said. "Anyone that serves in any of the armed forces goes up on a pedestal for me."
For the full story, click here.
• Good News Sunday will run each weekend. Visit dailyherald.com/newsletters to sign up for our Good News Sunday newsletter.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--Oak Brook physician who came from India laments being ignorant of nation's racist past

Recent events have shocked me into the realization that I have been woefully ignorant of the racist past of my country .
I have lived the cocooned life of a `` privileged minority . ''
There are millions like me .
As an immigrant physician from India , I have been happily pursuing the American dream .
I can not be more grateful to my adopted country for giving me success .
I am immensely proud of how well my family has done .
With rare exceptions , there has n't been a day when I did not shake my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great country . ''
The exceptions were days when I was stung by Islamophobia or was the subject of suspicion at an airport .
I have taken care of every patient regardless of race , color , religion or sexual orientation .
I hope I did this with compassion and professionalism .
I have told myself I am not a racist and that I understood the way African Americans felt .
Now I know I was being disingenuous with myself .
Some of it is the failure to recognize my subconscious racism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racist history .
I had never heard of the Tulsa pogrom of the 1920s till I read about it in a book last year given to me as a birthday gift .
President Trump 's recent campaign event in Tulsa , just a few blocks away from the Greenwood district , did a lot , inadvertently , to shine light on this particularly gruesome page of American history .
I was n't aware how those who were freed from slavery were incarcerated in huge numbers for trivial crimes and remained essentially enslaved .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the bus boycott and the jailing of the protesting schoolchildren in the 1950s and 1960s .
I did not know that President Kennedy would not sign , for political reasons , a second `` Emancipation Proclamation '' that Martin Luther King so wanted on the hundredth anniversary of the first .
I was n't aware of the extent of redlining .
No one had heard of Juneteenth .
That those who went to school here also did not know many of these events is an indictment of the education system .
Ignorance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I carry an additional burden that the benefits that I enjoy are the results of the sacrifices made by others during the civil rights struggle .
I am standing on the shoulders of giants .
I was once sarcastically called an `` honorary white . ''
It stung to hear that , but it was an accurate description .
The essential first step , I understand well , is to deal with personal incipient bias .
As faith plays a large part in fighting racism , I turn to mine .
The Qur'an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me all humanity is one and differences are to be celebrated ; `` O mankind , We have created you male and female , and made you into races and tribes , that you may know one another .
Surely the noblest among you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you . ''
Prophet Muhammad reinforced the notion that the only distinction that counts should be righteous action .
`` No Arab is superior to a non-Arab and non-Arab to an Arab , except by righteous behavior , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give the first call to prayer was not just someone with a great voice , but a former African slave named Bilal .
More difficult is institutional reform needed to change police practices , the criminal justice system and the social and economic ecosystem .
The risk is that the passion of the moment may pass .
The feelings of genuine remorse and the desire to change may fade with time .
The waves of demonstrations seen recently are leaderless .
History tells us that grass-roots movements need leadership to succeed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ life , and cares for its neighbor , has to demand accountability and work toward social , political and economic equity .
This is much harder than changing labels on food products .
Even more difficult is to effect change in a balanced manner , while maintaining a society with law and order .
We are a country with a broken and bruised soul .
When and how it will heal itself is an open question , but heal it must .
If our country is able to change itself , the positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oppressed minorities all over the world might also change .
• Javeed Akhter is a physician and freelance writer from Oak Brook .

Oak Brook physician who came from India laments being ignorant of nation's racist past
Recent events have shocked me into the realization that I have been woefully ignorant of the racist past of my country. I have lived the cocooned life of a "privileged minority." There are millions like me.
As an immigrant physician from India, I have been happily pursuing the American dream. I cannot be more grateful to my adopted country for giving me success. I am immensely proud of how well my family has done. With rare exceptions, there hasn't been a day when I did not shake my head and say, "What a great country." The exceptions were days when I was stung by Islamophobia or was the subject of suspicion at an airport.
I have taken care of every patient regardless of race, color, religion or sexual orientation. I hope I did this with compassion and professionalism. I have told myself I am not a racist and that I understood the way African Americans felt.
Now I know I was being disingenuous with myself. Some of it is the failure to recognize my subconscious racism and some simple ignorance about the country's racist history.
I had never heard of the Tulsa pogrom of the 1920s till I read about it in a book last year given to me as a birthday gift. President Trump's recent campaign event in Tulsa, just a few blocks away from the Greenwood district, did a lot, inadvertently, to shine light on this particularly gruesome page of American history. I wasn't aware how those who were freed from slavery were incarcerated in huge numbers for trivial crimes and remained essentially enslaved. I was ignorant of the brutal suppression of the bus boycott and the jailing of the protesting schoolchildren in the 1950s and 1960s. I did not know that President Kennedy would not sign, for political reasons, a second "Emancipation Proclamation" that Martin Luther King so wanted on the hundredth anniversary of the first. I wasn't aware of the extent of redlining. No one had heard of Juneteenth. That those who went to school here also did not know many of these events is an indictment of the education system. Ignorance is at the root of stereotyping.
I carry an additional burden that the benefits that I enjoy are the results of the sacrifices made by others during the civil rights struggle. I am standing on the shoulders of giants. I was once sarcastically called an "honorary white." It stung to hear that, but it was an accurate description.
The essential first step, I understand well, is to deal with personal incipient bias. As faith plays a large part in fighting racism, I turn to mine. The Qur'an, the scripture I follow, tells me all humanity is one and differences are to be celebrated; "O mankind, We have created you male and female, and made you into races and tribes, that you may know one another. Surely the noblest among you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you." Prophet Muhammad reinforced the notion that the only distinction that counts should be righteous action. "No Arab is superior to a non-Arab and non-Arab to an Arab, except by righteous behavior," he said. The person he selected to give the first call to prayer was not just someone with a great voice, but a former African slave named Bilal.
More difficult is institutional reform needed to change police practices, the criminal justice system and the social and economic ecosystem. The risk is that the passion of the moment may pass. The feelings of genuine remorse and the desire to change may fade with time. The waves of demonstrations seen recently are leaderless. History tells us that grass-roots movements need leadership to succeed.
The thoughtful America that leads a peaceful life, and cares for its neighbor, has to demand accountability and work toward social, political and economic equity. This is much harder than changing labels on food products. Even more difficult is to effect change in a balanced manner, while maintaining a society with law and order.
We are a country with a broken and bruised soul. When and how it will heal itself is an open question, but heal it must. If our country is able to change itself, the positive effect will be worldwide and lives of oppressed minorities all over the world might also change.
• Javeed Akhter is a physician and freelance writer from Oak Brook.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-04--July 4 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code

Interactive mapSuburbs ' portion Since the outbreak began , there have been 74,856 cases in the suburbs , 51 % of the state 's total , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health as of Saturday .
There have been 3,581 deaths in the suburbs , representing 51 % of all deaths in Illinois .
• As of Saturday , suburban Cook County had 36,133 cases and 1,692 deaths , according to the state .
In Chicago : 52,813 cases and 2,526 fatalities .
• Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner 's office : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Plaines , 831 cases and 58 deaths in Wheeling , 719 cases and 18 deaths in Palatine , 687 cases and 20 deaths in Streamwood , 668 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect , 610 cases and 17 deaths in Schaumburg , 562 cases and 48 deaths in Glenview , 567 cases and 31 deaths in Arlington Heights , 518 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park ( Cook County portion ) , 505 cases and 20 deaths in Hoffman Estates , 380 cases and 37 deaths in Elk Grove Village , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meadows , 357 cases and 39 deaths in Northbrook , 275 cases and 7 deaths in Prospect Heights , and 126 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove ( Cook County portion ) .
DuPage County • The county reported 9,276 cases and 471 deaths as of Saturday .
• Top counts : 835 cases and 9 deaths in Addison , 787 cases and 14 deaths in West Chicago , 674 cases and 11 deaths in Glendale Heights , 542 cases and 33 deaths in Naperville ( DuPage County portion ) , 541 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 528 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream , 424 cases and 23 deaths in Lombard , 349 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora ( DuPage County portion ) , 346 cases and 33 deaths in Elmhurst , 284 cases and 21 deaths in Wheaton , 262 cases and 3 deaths in Villa Park , 256 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park ( DuPage County portion ) , 177 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn .
Lake County • The county listed 9,812 cases and 400 deaths on its website as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided until Monday .
• Top counts : 2,690 to 2,694 in Waukegan , 595 to 599 in Round Lake Beach , 380 to 384 in Mundelein , 305 to 309 in Gurnee , 240 to 244 in Round Lake , 185 to 189 in Buffalo Grove ( Lake County portion ) , 165 to 169 in Vernon Hills , 170 to 174 in Wauconda , 170 to 174 in Lake Zurich , 130 to 134 in Libertyville , 95 to 99 in Grayslake .
Kane County • The county confirmed 7,890 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Top counts : 3,412 cases in Aurora ( Kane County portion ) , 1,916 in Elgin ( Kane County portion ) , 762 in Carpentersville , 322 in St. Charles , 303 in South Elgin , 212 in North Aurora , 191 in Geneva , 135 in Batavia , and 52 in Algonquin ( Kane County portion ) .
McHenry County • 2,111 cases and 97 deaths , according to the health department Saturday .
• 6,883 cases and 320 deaths , as of Saturday .
• Cases per town include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and 72 in Aurora ( Will County portion ) .

July 4 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code
This illustration shows the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
Interactive mapSuburbs' portion Since the outbreak began, there have been 74,856 cases in the suburbs, 51% of the state's total, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health as of Saturday. There have been 3,581 deaths in the suburbs, representing 51% of all deaths in Illinois.
Cook County
• As of Saturday, suburban Cook County had 36,133 cases and 1,692 deaths, according to the state. In Chicago: 52,813 cases and 2,526 fatalities.
• Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner's office: 1,778 cases and 98 deaths in Des Plaines, 831 cases and 58 deaths in Wheeling, 719 cases and 18 deaths in Palatine, 687 cases and 20 deaths in Streamwood, 668 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect, 610 cases and 17 deaths in Schaumburg, 562 cases and 48 deaths in Glenview, 567 cases and 31 deaths in Arlington Heights, 518 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park (Cook County portion), 505 cases and 20 deaths in Hoffman Estates, 380 cases and 37 deaths in Elk Grove Village, 351 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows, 357 cases and 39 deaths in Northbrook, 275 cases and 7 deaths in Prospect Heights, and 126 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove (Cook County portion).
DuPage County• The county reported 9,276 cases and 471 deaths as of Saturday.
• Top counts: 835 cases and 9 deaths in Addison, 787 cases and 14 deaths in West Chicago, 674 cases and 11 deaths in Glendale Heights, 542 cases and 33 deaths in Naperville (DuPage County portion), 541 cases and 12 deaths in Bensenville, 528 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream, 424 cases and 23 deaths in Lombard, 349 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora (DuPage County portion), 346 cases and 33 deaths in Elmhurst, 284 cases and 21 deaths in Wheaton, 262 cases and 3 deaths in Villa Park, 256 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park (DuPage County portion), 177 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn.
Lake County • The county listed 9,812 cases and 400 deaths on its website as of Thursday. Updates will not be provided until Monday.
• Top counts: 2,690 to 2,694 in Waukegan, 595 to 599 in Round Lake Beach, 380 to 384 in Mundelein, 305 to 309 in Gurnee, 240 to 244 in Round Lake, 185 to 189 in Buffalo Grove (Lake County portion), 165 to 169 in Vernon Hills, 170 to 174 in Wauconda, 170 to 174 in Lake Zurich, 130 to 134 in Libertyville, 95 to 99 in Grayslake.
Kane County• The county confirmed 7,890 cases with 277 deaths on its website Saturday.
• Top counts: 3,412 cases in Aurora (Kane County portion), 1,916 in Elgin (Kane County portion), 762 in Carpentersville, 322 in St. Charles, 303 in South Elgin, 212 in North Aurora, 191 in Geneva, 135 in Batavia, and 52 in Algonquin (Kane County portion).
McHenry County• 2,111 cases and 97 deaths, according to the health department Saturday.
Will County
• 6,883 cases and 320 deaths, as of Saturday.
• Cases per town include 410 in Naperville (Will County portion) and 72 in Aurora (Will County portion).


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--State reports six additional COVID-19 deaths, smallest daily total since March

State health authorities reported 639 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Sunday , along with six more deaths from the @ @ @ @ @ the state 's total to 147,251 cases since the coronavirus outbreak began , and 7,020 @ @ @ @ @ not unusual for case counts to dip on weekends , the six deaths reported Sunday @ @ @ @ @ since three were reported on March 25 .
The highest total was 191 deaths on @ @ @ @ @ new cases was the fewest reported since June 23 , according to Illinois Department of @ @ @ @ @ the six deaths reported Sunday , five were in Cook County : a woman and @ @ @ @ @ , and two women and a man in their 80s .
The sixth death occurred @ @ @ @ @ the past 24 hours , laboratories have reported 27,235 tests .
The preliminary seven-day statewide @ @ @ @ @ 28 to July 4 is 2.6 % .

State reports six additional COVID-19 deaths, smallest daily total since March
Illinois health authorities reported 639 additional cases of COVID-19 on Sunday and six more deaths. The death toll is the state's lowest since March 25. NIAID-RML via AP, File
State health authorities reported 639 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, along with six more deaths from the virus.
That brings raises the state's total to 147,251 cases since the coronavirus outbreak began, and 7,020 deaths.
Although its it not unusual for case counts to dip on weekends, the six deaths reported Sunday are the fewest in Illinois since three were reported on March 25. The highest total was 191 deaths on May 13.
The 639 new cases was the fewest reported since June 23, according to Illinois Department of Public Health data.
Of the six deaths reported Sunday, five were in Cook County: a woman and a man in their 60s, and two women and a man in their 80s. The sixth death occurred in Champaign County.
Within the past 24 hours, laboratories have reported 27,235 tests. The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases from June 28 to July 4 is 2.6%.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Two White Sox players test positive for coronavirus

On Saturday manager Rick Renteria was hopeful , but realistic , about White Sox players and the coronavirus .
`` We 've talked to our players in terms of being mindful as to what they 're doing away from the ballpark , what they 're exposing themselves to , '' Renteria said .
`` The protocol is to try to mitigate , obviously , infection .
It 'd be truly foolish for me to say that it wo n't happen , but we 're going to try and help it not happen .
That 's all we can do.
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced two players tested positive for COVID-19 during last week 's testing that also included on-field staff and front-office members .
Both players have requested privacy , so the Sox were unable to comment .
They are also asymptomatic and have been isolated in Chicago under monitoring by the White Sox 's medical staff .
It is important to note the two players were tested for the coronavirus during the intake process last week .
They were never at Guaranteed Rate Field for any baseball activity .
In preparation for the upcoming 60-game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ camp at GRF on Friday .
The White Sox on Sunday also said contact tracing was conducted and that the two players will receive follow-up testing in the coming days .
They can return to baseball workouts once they have recorded consecutive negative tests and passed appropriate COVID-19 protocols .
`` The health of our players and staff is our top priority , and the White Sox are adhering to all MLB health and safety protocols , '' the team said in a statement Sunday morning .
On a Zoom call after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he was unaware of the two positive tests .
`` I do n't know who they are , '' Abreu said through team translator Billy Russo .
`` I just wish for both of those guys a good and fast recovery .
We 're going to be here waiting for them .
We support them . ''
The Nationals and Pirates also announced two players tested positive Sunday .
They did not request privacy .
Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton was given the green light to say pitcher Blake Cederlind and outfielder Socrates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much appreciated , '' Shelton told reporters on a Zoom call .
`` I very much respect the other people that we have who do n't feel that it 's necessary to talk about but I think it is ( important ) for people to realize that it is real in the game . ''
St. Louis said third baseman Elehuris Montero tested positive for the coronavirus Sunday , a day after announcing the same news of pitchers Ricardo Sanchez and Genesis Cabrera .
Big-name players like the Dodgers ' David Price , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mariners ' Felix Hernandez and the Nationals ' Ryan Zimmerman have opted out of the season , and more are sure to follow .
White Sox left-hander Carlos Rodon , who made 7 starts last year before having Tommy John surgery on May 15 and missing the rest of the season , is back and ready to play .
`` I never considered ( opting out ) , '' Rodon said .
`` Me being a big competitor , the whole time I wanted to play if they gave us the chance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can get through this modified spring training and start up July 24 , I think is the date .
I never once thought about opting out . ''
There is growing doubt the short season will be able to launch later this month , but Abreu remains hopeful .
`` It 's really a very difficult time for all of us with all this happening with the virus , '' said Abreu , who led the American League with 123 RBI last season .
`` I think each one of us have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right decisions in every moment because it is a very difficult time and we do n't know what we 're facing .
`` In God 's hands , everything is going to be good .
That 's what we 're hoping for .
Everything is going to be good and God is going to protect us .
Just do the best that we can in this situation . ''

Two White Sox players test positive for coronavirus
The White Sox on Sunday announced two players tested positive for COVID-19. Both are asymptomatic and isolating in Chicago. Associated Press
On Saturday manager Rick Renteria was hopeful, but realistic, about White Sox players and the coronavirus.
"We've talked to our players in terms of being mindful as to what they're doing away from the ballpark, what they're exposing themselves to," Renteria said. "The protocol is to try to mitigate, obviously, infection. It'd be truly foolish for me to say that it won't happen, but we're going to try and help it not happen. That's all we can do. "
A day later, the White Sox announced two players tested positive for COVID-19 during last week's testing that also included on-field staff and front-office members.
Both players have requested privacy, so the Sox were unable to comment.
They are also asymptomatic and have been isolated in Chicago under monitoring by the White Sox's medical staff.
It is important to note the two players were tested for the coronavirus during the intake process last week. They were never at Guaranteed Rate Field for any baseball activity.
In preparation for the upcoming 60-game regular season, the Sox started training camp at GRF on Friday.
The White Sox on Sunday also said contact tracing was conducted and that the two players will receive follow-up testing in the coming days. They can return to baseball workouts once they have recorded consecutive negative tests and passed appropriate COVID-19 protocols.
"The health of our players and staff is our top priority, and the White Sox are adhering to all MLB health and safety protocols," the team said in a statement Sunday morning.
On a Zoom call after the announcement, Sox first baseman Jose Abreu said he was unaware of the two positive tests.
"I don't know who they are," Abreu said through team translator Billy Russo. "I just wish for both of those guys a good and fast recovery. We're going to be here waiting for them. We support them."
The Nationals and Pirates also announced two players tested positive Sunday. They did not request privacy.
Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton was given the green light to say pitcher Blake Cederlind and outfielder Socrates Brito are COVID-19 positive.
"Very much appreciated," Shelton told reporters on a Zoom call. "I very much respect the other people that we have who don't feel that it's necessary to talk about but I think it is (important) for people to realize that it is real in the game."
St. Louis said third baseman Elehuris Montero tested positive for the coronavirus Sunday, a day after announcing the same news of pitchers Ricardo Sanchez and Genesis Cabrera.
Big-name players like the Dodgers' David Price, the Rockies' Ian Desmond, the Mariners' Felix Hernandez and the Nationals' Ryan Zimmerman have opted out of the season, and more are sure to follow.
White Sox left-hander Carlos Rodon, who made 7 starts last year before having Tommy John surgery on May 15 and missing the rest of the season, is back and ready to play.
"I never considered (opting out)," Rodon said. "Me being a big competitor, the whole time I wanted to play if they gave us the chance, which they have. So hopefully we can get through this modified spring training and start up July 24, I think is the date. I never once thought about opting out."
There is growing doubt the short season will be able to launch later this month, but Abreu remains hopeful.
"It's really a very difficult time for all of us with all this happening with the virus," said Abreu, who led the American League with 123 RBI last season. "I think each one of us have to make conscious decisions and try to make the right decisions in every moment because it is a very difficult time and we don't know what we're facing.
"In God's hands, everything is going to be good. That's what we're hoping for. Everything is going to be good and God is going to protect us. Just do the best that we can in this situation."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Duckworth emerges as contender for VP nod

WASHINGTON -- As Joe Biden pushes ahead with his search for a running mate , Sen. Tammy Duckworth , a Hoffman Estates Democrat , has quietly emerged as a serious contender , according to three people with knowledge of the selection process , one of several developing dynamics as the search enters its final weeks .
Duckworth is a Purple Heart recipient and veteran of the Iraq War , the only finalist with military combat experience -- and as a woman of Thai and Chinese descent , one of several candidates of color under consideration .
While she has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is being taken seriously by Biden 's team , according to the people with knowledge of the search , one of whom said she has lately received strong consideration .
Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid , who has been in direct contact with the Biden campaign about its search , said in a recent interview that there was a `` lot of attention '' lately on Duckworth , whom he called `` a highly decorated woman . ''
Reid suggested Duckworth 's qualifications are getting more attention .
`` You had all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was as if she did n't exist , '' Reid said .
`` And suddenly people began to look at her -- this highly decorated woman , member of Congress , senator . ''
Two others with knowledge of the search said Duckworth has been attracting notable interest from the campaign , including one who said Duckworth had left a strong impression on at least part of the Biden team .
They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations .
The Biden campaign declined to comment .
Duckworth 's emergence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Chris Dodd of Connecticut , a close friend of Biden 's , is taking a primary role in the search process .
It is also unfolding as Republicans prepare to launch fierce attacks on whoever is chosen as running mate , believing that person might present an easier target than Biden himself .
As the vetting continues , the people with knowledge of the search say that it remains fluid and that it 's far from clear whom Biden will select , with Sen. Kamala Harris of California still seen by many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prospects very much in the mix .
Some Biden allies said privately that while Duckworth is an appealing candidate , they do n't think she will ultimately be chosen .
Beyond Duckworth 's relative inexperience on the national stage , her selection would frustrate those who are pushing Biden to choose an African American , saying the issues raised by protesters in recent weeks highlight the need for someone who understands the Black experience in America .
In an interview Sunday on CNN 's State of the Union , Duckworth said Black female @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victory for Democrats . ''
But she added that the Biden campaign has its `` own process that they are going through , and I 'm sure Vice President Biden will pick the right person to be next to him as he digs this country out of the mess that Donald Trump has put us in . ''
Duckworth recently moved to block promotions for 1,123 senior members of the military as a way to extract assurances from Defense Secretary Mark Esper that he would not retaliate against an Army officer , Lt. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the impeachment of President Donald Trump .
Biden , who has said his running mate will be a woman , is considering a diverse list of candidates .
Those who have received close consideration include Florida Rep. Val Demings , Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren , former U.N .
Ambassador Susan Rice and New Mexico Gov .
Michelle Lujan Grisham , according to people with knowledge of the situation , who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private talks .
Rep. Karen Bass of California has also been vetted by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have adopted the traditional posture of not promoting themselves publicly for the job , others , like Rice , have been more open about touting their credentials .
With Biden 's commitment to choose a woman and the public debate about whether she should be African American , this has been an unusually open search process .
`` Joe Biden needs to make the decision as to who he thinks will be his best running mate , and I will do my utmost , drawing on my experience of years in government , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Rice said Sunday on NBC 's `` Meet The Press .
She added : `` I 've worked on multiple campaigns , presidential campaigns .
I 've been on the campaign trail as a surrogate and I 'm going to do everything I can to help get Joe Biden elected and to help him succeed as president , whether I 'm his running mate or I 'm a door knocker . ''
Biden initially said he planned to name his running mate by Aug. 1 , but recently suggested that deadline could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scrutinized , Dodd has cemented his position as a central figure in the process , according to the people briefed on the situation .
Dodd , 76 , is one of four co-chairs of the selection committee , but `` it 's obvious that Dodd is the chair of the group , '' said Reid , who has spoken directly to Dodd .
Some groups have raised concerns about Biden 's decision to name Dodd to the selection committee .
In the 1980s , Dodd allegedly behaved inappropriately with a waitress at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GQ article that described an alleged encounter involving former senator Edward Kennedy physically forcing himself on a waitress .
Dodd did not respond to a request for comment Sunday .
Republicans are watching the Biden team 's actions , with Trump allies preparing to unleash a barrage of attacks on whoever emerges as the running mate , according to people familiar with the plans .
Biden himself has proved largely impervious to Trump 's attacks so far , and Trump aides hope the vice presidential nominee - a woman who could be more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will prove more vulnerable to criticism .
The attacks could be bolstered by Biden 's age , 77 , and the possibility that he would only serve one term , making his running mate something of a president-in-waiting .
`` Republicans are more likely than ever to hammer the Democratic vice presidential nominee , '' said Dan Eberhart , an oil industry executive and Trump donor .
`` Biden is boxed in by the progressives in the party - he has to pick a woman and someone who is relatively far to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to provide natural openings for the campaign to draw contrasts . ''
America Rising , a conservative organization , has been filing Freedom of Information Act requests to get background on the prospects , according to a person familiar with the group 's activities .
Those close to Biden 's process say his campaign is anticipating the GOP attacks and factoring them into the search , and they argue that Republican attacks could backfire .
One person with knowledge of the system recently said that more in-depth interviews by Biden and his staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at some point .
Some Democrats do not expect Biden to name his pick until shortly before the Democratic National Convention , which is slated to begin on Aug. 17 .
That would be a more traditional time to name a selection , and it would avoid giving Trump a target in the intervening weeks .
`` My only admonition is : Do n't rush into this , '' Reid said .
`` Because things change significantly . ''

Duckworth emerges as contender for VP nod
Then-Vice President Joe Biden shakes hands with Sen. Tammy Duckworth during a mock swearing in ceremony Jan. 3, 2017, in Washington. The presumptive Democratic presidential nominee is strongly considering Illinois' junior senator to be his running mate, sources close to the campaign say. Associated Press File photo
WASHINGTON -- As Joe Biden pushes ahead with his search for a running mate, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, a Hoffman Estates Democrat, has quietly emerged as a serious contender, according to three people with knowledge of the selection process, one of several developing dynamics as the search enters its final weeks.
Duckworth is a Purple Heart recipient and veteran of the Iraq War, the only finalist with military combat experience -- and as a woman of Thai and Chinese descent, one of several candidates of color under consideration. While she has a lower profile than some rivals, she is being taken seriously by Biden's team, according to the people with knowledge of the search, one of whom said she has lately received strong consideration.
Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who has been in direct contact with the Biden campaign about its search, said in a recent interview that there was a "lot of attention" lately on Duckworth, whom he called "a highly decorated woman."
Reid suggested Duckworth's qualifications are getting more attention. "You had all the other names there, and it was as if she didn't exist," Reid said. "And suddenly people began to look at her -- this highly decorated woman, member of Congress, senator."
Two others with knowledge of the search said Duckworth has been attracting notable interest from the campaign, including one who said Duckworth had left a strong impression on at least part of the Biden team. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations.
The Biden campaign declined to comment.
Duckworth's emergence comes as some Biden allies say former Sen. Chris Dodd of Connecticut, a close friend of Biden's, is taking a primary role in the search process. It is also unfolding as Republicans prepare to launch fierce attacks on whoever is chosen as running mate, believing that person might present an easier target than Biden himself.
As the vetting continues, the people with knowledge of the search say that it remains fluid and that it's far from clear whom Biden will select, with Sen. Kamala Harris of California still seen by many Biden allies as a favorite and other prospects very much in the mix. Some Biden allies said privately that while Duckworth is an appealing candidate, they don't think she will ultimately be chosen.
Biden has pledged to choose a woman.
Beyond Duckworth's relative inexperience on the national stage, her selection would frustrate those who are pushing Biden to choose an African American, saying the issues raised by protesters in recent weeks highlight the need for someone who understands the Black experience in America.
In an interview Sunday on CNN's State of the Union, Duckworth said Black female voters "are a key to the victory for Democrats."
But she added that the Biden campaign has its "own process that they are going through, and I'm sure Vice President Biden will pick the right person to be next to him as he digs this country out of the mess that Donald Trump has put us in."
Duckworth recently moved to block promotions for 1,123 senior members of the military as a way to extract assurances from Defense Secretary Mark Esper that he would not retaliate against an Army officer, Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, for his role in the impeachment of President Donald Trump.
Biden, who has said his running mate will be a woman, is considering a diverse list of candidates. Those who have received close consideration include Florida Rep. Val Demings, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, former U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice and New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, according to people with knowledge of the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private talks. Rep. Karen Bass of California has also been vetted by the campaign.
While some of the candidates have adopted the traditional posture of not promoting themselves publicly for the job, others, like Rice, have been more open about touting their credentials. With Biden's commitment to choose a woman and the public debate about whether she should be African American, this has been an unusually open search process.
"Joe Biden needs to make the decision as to who he thinks will be his best running mate, and I will do my utmost, drawing on my experience of years in government, years of making the bureaucracy work," Rice said Sunday on NBC's "Meet The Press.
She added: "I've worked on multiple campaigns, presidential campaigns. I've been on the campaign trail as a surrogate and I'm going to do everything I can to help get Joe Biden elected and to help him succeed as president, whether I'm his running mate or I'm a door knocker."
Biden initially said he planned to name his running mate by Aug. 1, but recently suggested that deadline could slip. As the prospects have been scrutinized, Dodd has cemented his position as a central figure in the process, according to the people briefed on the situation.
Dodd, 76, is one of four co-chairs of the selection committee, but "it's obvious that Dodd is the chair of the group," said Reid, who has spoken directly to Dodd.
Some groups have raised concerns about Biden's decision to name Dodd to the selection committee. In the 1980s, Dodd allegedly behaved inappropriately with a waitress at a restaurant in Washington, according to a GQ article that described an alleged encounter involving former senator Edward Kennedy physically forcing himself on a waitress.
Dodd did not respond to a request for comment Sunday.
Republicans are watching the Biden team's actions, with Trump allies preparing to unleash a barrage of attacks on whoever emerges as the running mate, according to people familiar with the plans.
Biden himself has proved largely impervious to Trump's attacks so far, and Trump aides hope the vice presidential nominee - a woman who could be more liberal and less familiar than Biden - will prove more vulnerable to criticism.
The attacks could be bolstered by Biden's age, 77, and the possibility that he would only serve one term, making his running mate something of a president-in-waiting.
"Republicans are more likely than ever to hammer the Democratic vice presidential nominee," said Dan Eberhart, an oil industry executive and Trump donor. "Biden is boxed in by the progressives in the party - he has to pick a woman and someone who is relatively far to the left of himself. That's going to provide natural openings for the campaign to draw contrasts."
America Rising, a conservative organization, has been filing Freedom of Information Act requests to get background on the prospects, according to a person familiar with the group's activities.
Those close to Biden's process say his campaign is anticipating the GOP attacks and factoring them into the search, and they argue that Republican attacks could backfire.
One person with knowledge of the system recently said that more in-depth interviews by Biden and his staff are expected to be arranged and conducted at some point.
Some Democrats do not expect Biden to name his pick until shortly before the Democratic National Convention, which is slated to begin on Aug. 17. That would be a more traditional time to name a selection, and it would avoid giving Trump a target in the intervening weeks.
"My only admonition is: Don't rush into this," Reid said. "Because things change significantly."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Three injured in shooting on Aurora's east side

Aurora police are investigating a shooting Sunday that injured three people on the city 's east side , authorities said @ @ @ @ @ found shot in the 100 block of Trask Street , police said in a Facebook @ @ @ @ @ three victims are being treated for their injuries at area hospitals , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ to call the police department 's investigations division at ( 630 ) 256-5500 .
Check @ @ @ @ @ details as they become available .

Three injured in shooting on Aurora's east side
Aurora police are investigating a shooting Sunday that injured three people on the city's east side, authorities said.
The three people were found shot in the 100 block of Trask Street, police said in a Facebook post Sunday morning. All three victims are being treated for their injuries at area hospitals, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call the police department's investigations division at (630) 256-5500.
Check back to dailyherald.com for additional details as they become available.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Vernon Hills teen gets escort from police and fire departments to Marine induction

A Vernon Hills teenager got a patriotic escort for part of his journey to his induction in the U.S. Marine Corps Sunday .
Four Vernon Hills police cars and a Countryside Fire Protection District engine accompanied Steven Hart and his family out of their neighborhood and toward the Marine recruiting center in Waukegan .
They were led to the end of the Harts ' block by a color guard from American Legion Post 1247 bearing the U.S. flag and flags honoring the American Legion , the Marines and troops taken prisoner during wartime or missing in action .
About 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the COVID-19 pandemic , gathered outside the house to wish Hart well .
Hart , 18 , a new Vernon Hills High School graduate , has wanted to be a Marine since he was 12 .
He said he 's been training rigorously for military service for years .
`` Everything I 've done has led up to this point , '' Hart said .
`` I 'm excited and I 'm nervous . ''
Hart 's mom , Jenn , said she was feeling proud `` but very emotional '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I admire his commitment and his strength , '' she said .
After induction , Hart expected to spend Sunday night at a hotel in Chicago with other recruits before flying to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in San Diego for boot camp .
The police cars and fire engine took the Harts out of the neighborhood with their lights flashing and sirens blaring .
The escort surprised Hart .
`` This is crazy , '' he said , surveying the waiting vehicles and crowd .
`` It 's such a huge moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Warner , himself a veteran of both the Marines and the U.S. Air Force .
`` We just want to let him know he 's not alone . ''
Hart was given a commemorative American Legion challenge coin before climbing into the family 's Jeep for the ride to Waukegan .
He said he is n't worried about possibly being assigned to a combat role in the war on terror or in a different conflict .
`` That 's what I 'm signing up for , '' he said .

Vernon Hills teen gets escort from police and fire departments to Marine induction
A Vernon Hills teenager got a patriotic escort for part of his journey to his induction in the U.S. Marine Corps Sunday.
Four Vernon Hills police cars and a Countryside Fire Protection District engine accompanied Steven Hart and his family out of their neighborhood and toward the Marine recruiting center in Waukegan.
They were led to the end of the Harts' block by a color guard from American Legion Post 1247 bearing the U.S. flag and flags honoring the American Legion, the Marines and troops taken prisoner during wartime or missing in action.
About 20 relatives and neighbors, most wearing masks because of the COVID-19 pandemic, gathered outside the house to wish Hart well.
Hart, 18, a new Vernon Hills High School graduate, has wanted to be a Marine since he was 12. He said he's been training rigorously for military service for years.
"Everything I've done has led up to this point," Hart said. "I'm excited and I'm nervous."
Hart's mom, Jenn, said she was feeling proud "but very emotional" as they prepared to leave.
"I admire his commitment and his strength," she said.
After induction, Hart expected to spend Sunday night at a hotel in Chicago with other recruits before flying to San Diego for boot camp.
The police cars and fire engine took the Harts out of the neighborhood with their lights flashing and sirens blaring. The escort surprised Hart.
"This is crazy," he said, surveying the waiting vehicles and crowd.
American Legion Post 1247 adjutant Craig Warner helped arrange the send-off.
"It's such a huge moment in this kid's life," said Warner, himself a veteran of both the Marines and the U.S. Air Force. "We just want to let him know he's not alone."
Hart was given a commemorative American Legion challenge coin before climbing into the family's Jeep for the ride to Waukegan. He said he isn't worried about possibly being assigned to a combat role in the war on terror or in a different conflict.
"That's what I'm signing up for," he said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--No injuries reported after Metra train strikes car in downtown Palatine

No injuries were reported Sunday after a car was struck by a Metra train in downtown Palatine .
Metra spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ occurred about 10:45 a.m. when outbound train 703 hit the car at the Union Pacific @ @ @ @ @ Palatine Road .
The crash created extensive Metra delays that carried well into the afternoon @ @ @ @ @ officials could not be reached for comment Sunday .

No injuries reported after Metra train strikes car in downtown Palatine
No injuries were reported Sunday after a car was struck by a Metra train in downtown Palatine.
Metra spokeswoman Katie Dahlstrom said the crash occurred about 10:45 a.m. when outbound train 703 hit the car at the Union Pacific Northwest Line's crossing with Palatine Road.
The crash created extensive Metra delays that carried well into the afternoon.
Palatine police and fire officials could not be reached for comment Sunday.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Fireworks blamed for Naperville garage fire

Fireworks tossed into a recycling bin are to blame for a fire that damaged the garage of a Naperville home @ @ @ @ @ .
Naperville firefighters called at 10:39 p.m. to the 300 block of Leeds Court arrived @ @ @ @ @ of the single-family home had used an extinguisher to put out the flames , but @ @ @ @ @ from an interior wall .
Firefighters extinguished fire found behind the garage wall and in @ @ @ @ @ within 30 minutes of arrival .
Extra time was taken to extinguish smoldering materials during @ @ @ @ @ the residence , fire officials said .
No injuries were reported and the house remained @ @ @ @ @ Department was assisted at the scene by the Naperville Police Department .
Fire station coverage @ @ @ @ @ and Plainfield fire agencies , officials said .

Fireworks blamed for Naperville garage fire
Fireworks tossed into a recycling bin are to blame for a fire that damaged the garage of a Naperville home Saturday night, officials said.
Naperville firefighters called at 10:39 p.m. to the 300 block of Leeds Court arrived to learn that a resident of the single-family home had used an extinguisher to put out the flames, but there was still smoke coming from an interior wall.
Firefighters extinguished fire found behind the garage wall and in void spaces above the garage within 30 minutes of arrival. Extra time was taken to extinguish smoldering materials during overhaul and remove smoke from the residence, fire officials said.
No injuries were reported and the house remained habitable.
The Naperville Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Naperville Police Department. Fire station coverage was provided by the Westmont and Plainfield fire agencies, officials said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Next stage in IHSA reopening plan gets state approval

Dennis Piron initially had no words when asked his reaction to the IHSA 's Return To Play guidelines , which finally were announced Friday .
Welcome to our new world of communication .
And for IHSA sports , welcome back .
Period .
`` I 'm excited , '' said Piron , who 's also Batavia 's boys assistant athletic director and a member of the IHSA 's Sports Medicine Advisory Committee .
`` It 's going to allow eventually for 7-on-7s ( for football ) if you want , you can do your summer camps now , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There 's obviously restrictions and guidelines you 've got to follow , like everything else .
But especially for the kids , what a thing .
`` You 're talking about an unprecedented change for young people all over this country .
There are millions of athletes , and they get to work again now , and in our state ( high school ) kids can get back with their coaches . ''
The next stage in the IHSA 's reopening plan was approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health with some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect Sunday .
The IHSA Return to Play plan -- formerly called Stage 2 but now called Phase 4 to align with Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's Restore Illinois Plan -- is the next step toward allowing fall sports during the COVID-19 pandemic .
The plan limits athletes to five hours of participation a day during the summer .
Schools must maintain a daily record for all participating athletes , including body temperature and other possible symptoms of the coronavirus .
It also addresses the circumstances under which games can be played and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others .
Referees will not use whistles .
Groups will be limited to 50 athletes and coaches , up from the current 10 .
The plan also includes how and how often to clean equipment and facilities and how to handle hydration during the hottest July days .
`` I think the guidelines look pretty reasonable , '' said Barrington athletic director Mike Obsuszt .
`` They 're giving us an opportunity to interact with our student-athletes and giving the coaches an opportunity to run drills and maybe put in some offensive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good thing .
`` I think the coaches are going to be really , really cognizant of the social distancing .
I think they 're just going to be glad to be back with their athletes . ''
Antioch football coach Brian Glashagel said the IHSA 's move essentially came in the eleventh hour .
`` I think everyone was sweating it out , '' Glashagel said .
`` I know a lot , a lot of schools were targeting Monday as a start day .
Us included . ''
Glashagel and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their players Monday .
`` It 's going to be so awesome just to get outside with the kids and the coaches , '' Glashagel said , `` and do something . ''
Obsuszt does n't expect any pushback from his coaches regarding the Phase 4 guidelines .
`` Summer camps are all optional , '' Obsuszt said .
`` They 're optional for kids .
They 're optional for coaches .
Obviously , we encourage coaches to host camps , but if any of them felt like they were not comfortable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history or condition where they did n't feel comfortable working in a group , we would work around that . ''
Rolling Meadows boys soccer coach Brett Olson stressed that safety is the No .
1 goal .
But he is hoping for more clarity regarding certain guidelines , including the requirement for coaches to wear face coverings .
`` There 's obviously dining inside without masks , '' Olson said .
`` I think there 's a difference between coaching football , soccer , tennis , cross country and other fall sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or being in a confined gymnasium , especially when there are n't going to be fans much at all .
`` I 'm a coach that talks constantly .
I 'm not trying to argue anything about safety .
But I 'm a math guy ( RMHS math teacher ) , so statistics , facts and logistics are a big thing for me . ''

Next stage in IHSA reopening plan gets state approval
Dennis Piron initially had no words when asked his reaction to the IHSA's Return To Play guidelines, which finally were announced Friday.
Batavia's football coach simply responded with a smiley-face emoji.
Welcome to our new world of communication. And for IHSA sports, welcome back. Period.
"I'm excited," said Piron, who's also Batavia's boys assistant athletic director and a member of the IHSA's Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. "It's going to allow eventually for 7-on-7s (for football) if you want, you can do your summer camps now, and the kids can get back in action. There's obviously restrictions and guidelines you've got to follow, like everything else. But especially for the kids, what a thing.
"You're talking about an unprecedented change for young people all over this country. There are millions of athletes, and they get to work again now, and in our state (high school) kids can get back with their coaches."
The next stage in the IHSA's reopening plan was approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health with some small changes.
The plan goes into effect Sunday.
The IHSA Return to Play plan -- formerly called Stage 2 but now called Phase 4 to align with Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Restore Illinois Plan -- is the next step toward allowing fall sports during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The plan limits athletes to five hours of participation a day during the summer. Schools must maintain a daily record for all participating athletes, including body temperature and other possible symptoms of the coronavirus. It also addresses the circumstances under which games can be played and directs masks be worn by coaches and others. Referees will not use whistles.
Groups will be limited to 50 athletes and coaches, up from the current 10.
The plan also includes how and how often to clean equipment and facilities and how to handle hydration during the hottest July days.
"I think the guidelines look pretty reasonable," said Barrington athletic director Mike Obsuszt. "They're giving us an opportunity to interact with our student-athletes and giving the coaches an opportunity to run drills and maybe put in some offensive and defensive work. I think it's a good thing.
"I think the coaches are going to be really, really cognizant of the social distancing. I think they're just going to be glad to be back with their athletes."
Antioch football coach Brian Glashagel said the IHSA's move essentially came in the eleventh hour.
"I think everyone was sweating it out," Glashagel said. "I know a lot, a lot of schools were targeting Monday as a start day. Us included."
Glashagel and his staff plan to get together with their players Monday.
"It's going to be so awesome just to get outside with the kids and the coaches," Glashagel said, "and do something."
Obsuszt doesn't expect any pushback from his coaches regarding the Phase 4 guidelines.
"Summer camps are all optional," Obsuszt said. "They're optional for kids. They're optional for coaches. Obviously, we encourage coaches to host camps, but if any of them felt like they were not comfortable, or maybe they had a specific medical history or condition where they didn't feel comfortable working in a group, we would work around that."
Rolling Meadows boys soccer coach Brett Olson stressed that safety is the No. 1 goal. But he is hoping for more clarity regarding certain guidelines, including the requirement for coaches to wear face coverings.
"There's obviously dining inside without masks," Olson said. "I think there's a difference between coaching football, soccer, tennis, cross country and other fall sports outside compared to coaching volleyball or basketball, or being in a confined gymnasium, especially when there aren't going to be fans much at all.
"I'm a coach that talks constantly. I'm not trying to argue anything about safety. But I'm a math guy (RMHS math teacher), so statistics, facts and logistics are a big thing for me."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-05--Five mosquito myths (no, they can't transmit COVID-19)

Good news : Mosquitoes do not transmit the COVID-19 virus .
The buzzy biters are busy during these warm summer months , especially in wooded areas or near water , where they have the ideal conditions to breed and grow .
And while public health authorities and entomologists say they do n't pose a coronavirus risk , mosquitoes still can carry the West Nile virus , which can cause moderate to severe illness .
Making efforts to avoid the itchy burn of mosquito bites is still a smart move , say experts like George Balis , Midwest regional manager for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , franchise owner of Mosquito Authority in Northern Illinois .
Here , Bails and Garofolo debunk five mosquito myths to help in the fight against these bloodsucking creatures : Myth : Mosquitoes spend most of their lives in the air .
Reality : It 's actually water where mosquitoes spend the majority of their life span , so to get rid of mosquitoes , get rid of standing water .
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water , where they can rest dormant for four to six years , Balis said .
Once water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50 degrees , Garofolo said , eggs can progress into larval and pupal developmental stages .
The time mosquitoes spend as flying adults is short , especially for males , which do n't bite humans to suck blood .
The average adult mosquito lives roughly a week .
Myth : Water ?
What standing water ?
I do n't have a pond or floodwater in my yard , so there 's nowhere for mosquitoes to breed .
Reality : Check for water in wheelbarrows , clogged gutters , baby pools , bird baths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discs .
These small pools of water give plenty of space for mosquito eggs to grow .
A water bottle cap , for example , gives enough room for 500 mosquito eggs , Garofolo said .
Myth : If I do n't want to use traditional bug spray -- that oily , sticky stuff with DEET -- I 'm out of options .
Reality : DEET is n't the only active ingredient in repellents recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Environmental Protection Agency .
The CDC also recommends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , oil of lemon eucalyptus , para-menthane-diol and 2-undecanone , some of which are organic , Balis said .
The EPA adds catnip oil , citronella and citronella oil to the list and offers a search feature to find products among 630 recommended options .
Myth : Chrysanthemums repel mosquitoes .
Purple martins and bats eat them .
So plants and animals offer all the protection I need .
Reality : `` When I speak to garden clubs , everyone wants to plant something that 's going to get rid of mosquitoes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular option because some types of repellents contain an ingredient derived from chrysanthemum flowers .
`` That does n't necessarily mean a chrysanthemum flower stops mosquitoes , '' Balis said .
`` Its components , when broken down and made into a product , work against mosquitoes .
Just having a plant does n't necessarily kill or repel mosquitoes . ''
And while purple martins and bats do eat mosquitoes in small numbers , these are not reliable ways to reduce mosquito populations , Balis said .
Myth : I downloaded this smartphone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm good .
Reality : Sound-emitting apps , bug zappers , vitamin B12 and garlic , Listerine , clip-on wristband repellents -- often these products , off-label uses , offbeat ideas or home remedies do n't work , Balis and Garofolo say .
Their advice is to follow the old rule : if it sounds too good to be true , it probably is .
Instead , try these steps to decrease mosquito populations and lower the likelihood of bites : Remove standing water ( even the smallest amounts ) ; follow directions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure effectiveness or hire a pest control contractor ; burn a candle or start a fire because smoke deters mosquitoes ; and try turning on a fan -- yes , a fan -- outside , since mosquitoes do n't do well in high winds .
`` Mosquitoes are not the greatest fliers in the world , '' Garofolo said , `` so as you oscillate the air around you , it helps to prevent them from wanting to land on you . ''

Five mosquito myths (no, they can't transmit COVID-19)
Clarke mosquito control employees work to control mosquito populations in communities by decreasing the population of larval mosquitoes before they become flying adults. Courtesy of Clarke
Homeowners looking to rid their yards of mosquitoes should make sure there is no standing water, even in small amounts, such as when rainwater falls into an empty baby pool. Courtesy of Clarke
Wherever water gathers, even in small spaces such as inside an upside-down plastic disc, mosquitoes can groww, bug control experts say. Courtesy of Clarke
Collecting mosquito larvae is part of the work of controlling mosquito populations in communities served by Clarke mosquito services. Courtesy of Clarke
Mosquitoes live most of their lives in water, where their eggs can grow even in small pools or puddles. Courtesy of Clarke
Female mosquitoes are the ones that bite humans to feed on their blood, which they use as fuel to produce and lay eggs. Courtesy of CDC
Good news: Mosquitoes do not transmit the COVID-19 virus.
Bad news: Mosquitoes remain an active annoyance.
The buzzy biters are busy during these warm summer months, especially in wooded areas or near water, where they have the ideal conditions to breed and grow.
And while public health authorities and entomologists say they don't pose a coronavirus risk, mosquitoes still can carry the West Nile virus, which can cause moderate to severe illness.
Making efforts to avoid the itchy burn of mosquito bites is still a smart move, say experts like George Balis, Midwest regional manager for Clarke mosquito control, and Garrett Garofolo, franchise owner of Mosquito Authority in Northern Illinois.
Here, Bails and Garofolo debunk five mosquito myths to help in the fight against these bloodsucking creatures:
Myth: Mosquitoes spend most of their lives in the air.
Reality: It's actually water where mosquitoes spend the majority of their life span, so to get rid of mosquitoes, get rid of standing water.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, where they can rest dormant for four to six years, Balis said. Once water levels rise and temperatures warm to roughly 50 degrees, Garofolo said, eggs can progress into larval and pupal developmental stages.
The time mosquitoes spend as flying adults is short, especially for males, which don't bite humans to suck blood. The average adult mosquito lives roughly a week.
Myth: Water? What standing water? I don't have a pond or floodwater in my yard, so there's nowhere for mosquitoes to breed.
Reality: Check for water in wheelbarrows, clogged gutters, baby pools, bird baths, flower pots, even upside-down plastic discs. These small pools of water give plenty of space for mosquito eggs to grow. A water bottle cap, for example, gives enough room for 500 mosquito eggs, Garofolo said.
Myth: If I don't want to use traditional bug spray -- that oily, sticky stuff with DEET -- I'm out of options.
Reality: DEET isn't the only active ingredient in repellents recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The CDC also recommends use of products containing picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol and 2-undecanone, some of which are organic, Balis said.
The EPA adds catnip oil, citronella and citronella oil to the list and offers a search feature to find products among 630 recommended options.
Myth: Chrysanthemums repel mosquitoes. Purple martins and bats eat them. So plants and animals offer all the protection I need.
Reality: "When I speak to garden clubs, everyone wants to plant something that's going to get rid of mosquitoes," Balis said.
Chrysanthemums are a popular option because some types of repellents contain an ingredient derived from chrysanthemum flowers.
"That doesn't necessarily mean a chrysanthemum flower stops mosquitoes," Balis said. "Its components, when broken down and made into a product, work against mosquitoes. Just having a plant doesn't necessarily kill or repel mosquitoes."
Sorry, green thumbs.
And while purple martins and bats do eat mosquitoes in small numbers, these are not reliable ways to reduce mosquito populations, Balis said.
Myth: I downloaded this smartphone app that repels mosquitoes, so I'm good.
Reality: Sound-emitting apps, bug zappers, vitamin B12 and garlic, Listerine, clip-on wristband repellents -- often these products, off-label uses, offbeat ideas or home remedies don't work, Balis and Garofolo say. Their advice is to follow the old rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Instead, try these steps to decrease mosquito populations and lower the likelihood of bites: Remove standing water (even the smallest amounts); follow directions on any repellents or yard treatments to ensure effectiveness or hire a pest control contractor; burn a candle or start a fire because smoke deters mosquitoes; and try turning on a fan -- yes, a fan -- outside, since mosquitoes don't do well in high winds.
"Mosquitoes are not the greatest fliers in the world," Garofolo said, "so as you oscillate the air around you, it helps to prevent them from wanting to land on you."