dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Feder: How Chuck Goudie scored that golden seat next to Blago

A gaggle of Chicago reporters were on hand at Denver International Airport when Rod Blagojevich boarded a United Airlines plane @ @ @ @ @ from prison .
But only one managed to secure the coach seat next to the @ @ @ @ @ 2½-hour flight home , Robert Feder writes .
Chuck Goudie , veteran investigative reporter for @ @ @ @ @ pulled it off -- to the astonishment and envy of his peers .
That nifty @ @ @ @ @ uninterrupted access to the newly freed felon , who 'd served eight years before President @ @ @ @ @ earlier that day .
Get the full report , and more Chicago media news , @ @ @

Feder: How Chuck Goudie scored that golden seat next to Blago
Courtesy of ABC 7 ChicagoABC 7 reporter Chuck Goudie, right, sat next to former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich on a flight from Denver to Chicago after Blagojevich was released from prison Tuesday.
A gaggle of Chicago reporters were on hand at Denver International Airport when Rod Blagojevich boarded a United Airlines plane Tuesday night after his release from prison.
But only one managed to secure the coach seat next to the former Illinois governor for the 2½-hour flight home, Robert Feder writes.
Chuck Goudie, veteran investigative reporter for ABC-owned WLS-Channel 7, somehow pulled it off -- to the astonishment and envy of his peers.
That nifty arrangement afforded Goudie exclusive and uninterrupted access to the newly freed felon, who'd served eight years before President Donald Trump commuted his sentence earlier that day.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Palatine mayor says plan in works to revitalize Park Place shopping center

The new owner of a shopping center at Rand and Dundee roads is aggressively seeking business tenants to fill vacant space near where a new public school is proposed , Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz said Wednesday in his State of the Village address .
The Park Place shopping center 's future was among the business , road construction and other issues Schwantz touched on during the annual speech sponsored by the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce .
He said the owner is looking to revitalize Park Place , adjacent to a Walmart southeast of Rand and Dundee .
That 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since 2018 have been mulling whether to take over space for a new elementary school with up to 32 classrooms .
District 15 school board members voted in January to seek another 90-day due diligence period before deciding whether to lease 80,000 square feet at Park Place for a school , with an option to buy the space within seven years .
Park Place has received proposals for The Edge Fitness Club and Urban Air Adventure Park to occupy vacant space near a shuttered Whole Foods that would be part of District 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has got to make their decision based on what makes the most sense for them , '' Schwantz said .
`` This center owner is not going to sit and wait , so they 're going to continue to move forward . ''
School board President Lisa Szczupaj , who did n't attend the State of the Village gathering , said district officials are willing to risk losing out on Park Place .
She said there is at least one other property where a school could be built to serve the district 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said a consultant will study District 15 's capacity and potential boundary realignment `` to ensure that any investment in a new facility would not be wasteful , as it appears that Park Place is not the magic bullet that ( former Superintendent Scott ) Thompson ensured would fix all issues . ''
Other possibilities on the perimeter of Park Place include a Wendy 's or a fast-casual eatery moving into a long-closed Famous Dave 's barbecue restaurant off Dundee .
`` It 's good stuff , '' Schwantz said .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind of the theme today .
Keep the momentum going . ''
Beyond the possible Park Place revitalization , Palatine has had some recent major business openings , Schwantz said .
Studio 41 Home Design Showroom on Northwest Highway and a Subaru dealership at Napleton 's Automotive Group on Rand Road are among the latest business additions in the village .
As for commuting , Schwantz said the Illinois Department of Transportation this year plans to begin pavement resurfacing and construction of a barrier median on Dundee from Rand to Route 53 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shopping areas .
He said Palatine worked with state officials to eliminate the original plan for a barrier with just one cut .
In addition , a traffic signal will be installed on Dundee east of Rand near the Walmart and Sonic Drive-In .
`` That light has been proposed for about the last dozen years , '' the mayor said .
`` So , we 're finally going to get that light , which will help with the traffic and it will help with some of the pedestrian crossings there . ''

Palatine mayor says plan in works to revitalize Park Place shopping center
The new owner of a shopping center at Rand and Dundee roads is aggressively seeking business tenants to fill vacant space near where a new public school is proposed, Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz said Wednesday in his State of the Village address.
The Park Place shopping center's future was among the business, road construction and other issues Schwantz touched on during the annual speech sponsored by the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce.
He said the owner is looking to revitalize Park Place, adjacent to a Walmart southeast of Rand and Dundee. That's where Palatine Township Elementary District 15 officials since 2018 have been mulling whether to take over space for a new elementary school with up to 32 classrooms.
District 15 school board members voted in January to seek another 90-day due diligence period before deciding whether to lease 80,000 square feet at Park Place for a school, with an option to buy the space within seven years.
Park Place has received proposals for The Edge Fitness Club and Urban Air Adventure Park to occupy vacant space near a shuttered Whole Foods that would be part of District 15's school proposal.
"District 15 has got to make their decision based on what makes the most sense for them," Schwantz said. "This center owner is not going to sit and wait, so they're going to continue to move forward."
School board President Lisa Szczupaj, who didn't attend the State of the Village gathering, said district officials are willing to risk losing out on Park Place. She said there is at least one other property where a school could be built to serve the district's northeast area if deemed necessary.
Szczupaj said a consultant will study District 15's capacity and potential boundary realignment "to ensure that any investment in a new facility would not be wasteful, as it appears that Park Place is not the magic bullet that (former Superintendent Scott) Thompson ensured would fix all issues."
Other possibilities on the perimeter of Park Place include a Wendy's or a fast-casual eatery moving into a long-closed Famous Dave's barbecue restaurant off Dundee.
"It's good stuff," Schwantz said. "It's momentum, right? It's kind of the theme today. Keep the momentum going."
Beyond the possible Park Place revitalization, Palatine has had some recent major business openings, Schwantz said. Studio 41 Home Design Showroom on Northwest Highway and a Subaru dealership at Napleton's Automotive Group on Rand Road are among the latest business additions in the village.
As for commuting, Schwantz said the Illinois Department of Transportation this year plans to begin pavement resurfacing and construction of a barrier median on Dundee from Rand to Route 53, with three breaks to allow turns into shopping areas. He said Palatine worked with state officials to eliminate the original plan for a barrier with just one cut.
In addition, a traffic signal will be installed on Dundee east of Rand near the Walmart and Sonic Drive-In.
"That light has been proposed for about the last dozen years," the mayor said. "So, we're finally going to get that light, which will help with the traffic and it will help with some of the pedestrian crossings there."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Jim Carrey bringing new book to Downers Grove

Actor , comedian and artist Jim Carrey will be in Downers Grove this spring to promote the release of his @ @ @ @ @ and Misinformation . ''
His appearance , sponsored by Anderson 's Bookshop , is scheduled @ @ @ @ @ May 12 , at the Tivoli Theatre , 5021 Highland Ave .
He 'll be @ @ @ @ @ Dana Vachon .
The novel was inspired by Carrey 's life as an actor and @ @ @ @ @ egos , celebrity and trappings of Hollywood .
The program will include a book talk @ @ @ @ @ question-and-answer session and a moderated conversation .
One of Carrey 's movies -- the title @ @ @ @ @ -- will be shown after the presentation .
Ticket holders will receive copies of the @ @ @ @ @ not a book signing .
Tickets are available at JimCarreyAndersons.brownpapertickets.com .

Jim Carrey bringing new book to Downers Grove
Jim Carrey is coming to Downers Grove this spring to promote his new semi-autobiographical novel, "Memoirs and Misinformation." AP file photo
Actor, comedian and artist Jim Carrey will be in Downers Grove this spring to promote the release of his semi-autobiographical novel, "Memoirs and Misinformation."
His appearance, sponsored by Anderson's Bookshop, is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 12, at the Tivoli Theatre, 5021 Highland Ave. He'll be joined on stage by co-author Dana Vachon.
The novel was inspired by Carrey's life as an actor and artist and looks at the egos, celebrity and trappings of Hollywood.
The program will include a book talk by the authors, a question-and-answer session and a moderated conversation. One of Carrey's movies -- the title is still to be selected -- will be shown after the presentation.
Ticket holders will receive copies of the book, but this is not a book signing. Tickets are available at JimCarreyAndersons.brownpapertickets.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Constable: After cochlear implant, student aims to help others with hearing loss

Deaf since birth , Caroline Yuk of Crystal Lake ca n't remember a time when she could n't hear .
`` I was implanted when I was 2 years old , '' says Yuk , referring to her cochlear implants , devices surgically placed under the skin behind her ears to bypass the normal acoustic hearing process and use electric signals to stimulate the auditory nerves .
Now a neuroscience major at the University of Alabama , Yuk , 21 , recently won a prestigious Graeme Clark scholarship from Cochlear Americas for academics and leadership .
`` I 'm so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Not only have they given me financial support , I feel my efforts have been validated . ''
Yuk 's original cochlear implant required her to cart around her transmitter in a fanny pack or a pouch slung over one shoulder with wires leading to her head .
Subsequent smaller devices attached behind her ear , but they were still visible .
`` Kids did ask a lot of questions and stare , '' remembers Yuk , who did n't shy away , `` I decided to be more confident and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and little gemstones .
In that way , it became more of a fashion statement . ''
Her original implant is on the right side of her head .
She received an implant on her left side as a teenager .
The transmitters now are small wafers that sit on her scalp behind her ears , attached by magnets to the device under the skin .
`` They are like tiny Thin Mints the same color as my hair , '' Yuk says .
`` People never guess I 'm deaf .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With her implants hidden , Yuk gives no hint to her hearing loss through her speech .
She gives credit for that to her parents , and years of working with Lynn A .
Wood , a rehab audiologist and auditory verbal therapist from Wheaton .
`` Once Caroline 's profound hearing loss was diagnosed , her parents were committed to doing whatever it took for her to learn to listen and talk , '' Wood says .
Yuk 's father , Antonio Yuk , is a neurosurgeon , and her mother , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a nurse .
Wood coached the girl and her parents so their practice at home led to natural-sounding speech .
Yuk says she also benefited from years with audiologist Hilary Gazeley of the Medical College of Wisconsin .
As a young kid playing soccer , Yuk wore a headband to cover her device and was known as `` headband girl . ''
She played tennis with her fraternal twin sister , Cate , at Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock .
She always communicated to her peers by talking .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next semester , '' Yuk says .
Her passion for studying hearing loss was fueled at an early age when she 'd examine her transmitter .
`` I used to take it apart and try to put it back together , '' she says .
`` I was really interested in turning off my hearing . ''
At times , she 'd use that to her advantage during squabbles with her twin , who had normal hearing .
`` I had this superpower , '' she says .
`` Every time we got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them off . ''
Fascinated by the science of hearing , Yuk still was n't sure that she wanted to turn that into a career .
`` At first I was n't interested because , in some weird way , it would be making your disability define you , '' Yuk admits .
`` But I really like neuroscience . ''
As a freshman at Alabama , Yuk became involved in the Hear Here Alabama project , collecting data in rural counties from adults who had hearing loss .
She recently got funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preventing hearing loss in fifth-graders .
`` She is a very passionate student who truly desires to improve the lives of others , '' says professor Marcia Hay-McCutcheon , who helps direct the Hear Here Alabama project and says Yuk ranks in the `` top 1-2 % '' of students she 's taught .
`` Her interest and desire to learn more about the association between hearing loss and other physical ailments , and about many other research initiatives , is admirable ...
I have no doubt she will become a successful researcher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worthy of study . ''
Yuk says she sees the value of getting a Ph.D. and doing research , or getting an M.D .
and treating patients , or both .
`` I 'd like to have patients because I think I 'd be really awesome , '' she says , noting that her deafness gives her an insight into patients with hearing loss .
`` I think it has made me more ambitious .
It 's made me strong and have a greater appreciation for what makes other people different . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ own experiences , '' Wood says .
`` She wants other children who are deaf or hard of hearing to also learn to listen and talk , which powers language , literacy , and lifetime success . ''

Constable: After cochlear implant, student aims to help others with hearing loss
Her fanny pack contained the transmitter that allowed Caroline Yuk to hear through the cochlear implant in her head. Her twin sister, Cate, had no hearing issues. Courtesy of Yuk family
Deaf since birth, Caroline Yuk of Crystal Lake can't remember a time when she couldn't hear.
"I was implanted when I was 2 years old," says Yuk, referring to her cochlear implants, devices surgically placed under the skin behind her ears to bypass the normal acoustic hearing process and use electric signals to stimulate the auditory nerves.
Now a neuroscience major at the University of Alabama, Yuk, 21, recently won a prestigious Graeme Clark scholarship from Cochlear Americas for academics and leadership.
"I'm so grateful for it," Yuk says. "Not only have they given me financial support, I feel my efforts have been validated."
Yuk's original cochlear implant required her to cart around her transmitter in a fanny pack or a pouch slung over one shoulder with wires leading to her head. Subsequent smaller devices attached behind her ear, but they were still visible.
"Kids did ask a lot of questions and stare," remembers Yuk, who didn't shy away, "I decided to be more confident and proud of them. I applied stickers and little gemstones. In that way, it became more of a fashion statement."
Her original implant is on the right side of her head. She received an implant on her left side as a teenager. The transmitters now are small wafers that sit on her scalp behind her ears, attached by magnets to the device under the skin.
Caroline Yuk
"They are like tiny Thin Mints the same color as my hair," Yuk says. "People never guess I'm deaf. I think that's so funny."
With her implants hidden, Yuk gives no hint to her hearing loss through her speech. She gives credit for that to her parents, and years of working with Lynn A. Wood, a rehab audiologist and auditory verbal therapist from Wheaton.
"Once Caroline's profound hearing loss was diagnosed, her parents were committed to doing whatever it took for her to learn to listen and talk," Wood says.
Yuk's father, Antonio Yuk, is a neurosurgeon, and her mother, Mary Beth Yuk, had a career as a nurse.
Wood coached the girl and her parents so their practice at home led to natural-sounding speech. Yuk says she also benefited from years with audiologist Hilary Gazeley of the Medical College of Wisconsin.
As a young kid playing soccer, Yuk wore a headband to cover her device and was known as "headband girl." She played tennis with her fraternal twin sister, Cate, at Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock. She always communicated to her peers by talking.
"I'm actually taking a sign-language class next semester," Yuk says.
Her passion for studying hearing loss was fueled at an early age when she'd examine her transmitter.
"I used to take it apart and try to put it back together," she says. "I was really interested in turning off my hearing."
When she first got the cochlear implants that allowed her to hear, Caroline Yuk of Crystal Lake had to carry a bag with her transmitter that sent signals through a wire to her head. Now, her transmitters are tiny and blend in with her hair. - Courtesy of Yuk family
At times, she'd use that to her advantage during squabbles with her twin, who had normal hearing.
"I had this superpower," she says.
"Every time we got in a fight, I'd turn them off."
Fascinated by the science of hearing, Yuk still wasn't sure that she wanted to turn that into a career.
"At first I wasn't interested because, in some weird way, it would be making your disability define you," Yuk admits. "But I really like neuroscience."
As a freshman at Alabama, Yuk became involved in the Hear Here Alabama project, collecting data in rural counties from adults who had hearing loss. She recently got funding to start her own project focusing on preventing hearing loss in fifth-graders.
"She is a very passionate student who truly desires to improve the lives of others," says professor Marcia Hay-McCutcheon, who helps direct the Hear Here Alabama project and says Yuk ranks in the "top 1-2%" of students she's taught.
As a freshman at the University of Alabama, Caroline Yuk, right, became involved with the Hear Here Alabama project to improve care in rural areas. She recently got funding to run another program to prevent hearing loss in fifth-graders. - Courtesy of Caroline Yuk
"Her interest and desire to learn more about the association between hearing loss and other physical ailments, and about many other research initiatives, is admirable ... I have no doubt she will become a successful researcher who will carefully and expertly explore topics worthy of study."
Yuk says she sees the value of getting a Ph.D. and doing research, or getting an M.D. and treating patients, or both.
"I'd like to have patients because I think I'd be really awesome," she says, noting that her deafness gives her an insight into patients with hearing loss.
"I think it has made me more ambitious. It's made me strong and have a greater appreciation for what makes other people different."
Wood sees Yuk inspiring others.
"Caroline's passion lies in her own experiences," Wood says. "She wants other children who are deaf or hard of hearing to also learn to listen and talk, which powers language, literacy, and lifetime success."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Madigan, top allies named in new federal subpoena

House Speaker Michael Madigan and several of his closest political allies are named in a new federal subpoena seeking records @ @ @ @ @ and his consulting work for a tiny South suburb .
A significant focus of the @ @ @ @ @ -- a longtime campaign worker for Madigan 's Southwest Side Democratic organization who became an @ @ @ @ @ the village of Merrionette Park in 2015 , according to records and interviews .
Delivered @ @ @ @ @ dated Friday , the subpoena asks Merrionette Park officials for copies of contracts with Nice @ @ @ @ @ `` and payment records , including but not limited to records that explain the purpose @ @ @ @ @ product for which payment was made , records of wire transfers , copies of checks @ @ @ @ @ and/or records of cash payments . ''

Madigan, top allies named in new federal subpoena
House Speaker Michael Madigan and several of his closest political allies are named in a new federal subpoena seeking records on a former ComEd lobbyist and his consulting work for a tiny South suburb.
A significant focus of the subpoena is Raymond T. Nice -- a longtime campaign worker for Madigan's Southwest Side Democratic organization who became an "independent contractor" for the village of Merrionette Park in 2015, according to records and interviews.
Delivered by an IRS agent and dated Friday, the subpoena asks Merrionette Park officials for copies of contracts with Nice, as well as invoices "and payment records, including but not limited to records that explain the purpose(s) and work product for which payment was made, records of wire transfers, copies of checks (front and back) and/or records of cash payments."
For the full report, visit chicago.suntimes.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Pritzker paints two budget pictures: one with graduated tax, one without

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov .
J.B. Pritzker has tied his second-year state budget proposal to the unfinished marquee policy initiative of his first year -- a constitutional amendment that allows the state to impose higher income tax rates on higher income earners .
If voters approve that graduated income tax initiative in the November general election , Pritzker is asking for a roughly $ 1.6 billion increase in state general revenue fund spending for the upcoming fiscal year , which begins July 1 .
That would bring total state spending in that fund to just over $ 42 billion , helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in K-12 education , a 5-percent increase in higher education operating funds and an increase in contributions to the state 's backlog of unpaid bills and unfunded pension obligations .
If the constitutional amendment fails , overall state spending would increase by about $ 200 million from a year ago in the general fund under the governor 's proposal , equaling roughly $ 40.6 billion .
In that scenario , $ 1.4 billion in spending authority would be held in reserve in a combination of budget cuts and withholding of new spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reserve is so large , it inevitably cuts into some of the things that we all hold most dear : increased funding for K-12 education , universities and community colleges , public safety and other key investments -- but as important as these investments are , we can not responsibly spend for these priorities until we know with certainty what the state 's revenue picture will be , '' Pritzker said in his budget address in the Illinois House chamber Wednesday .
To pass , the graduated tax needs approval from 60 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the majority of those voting in the election in November .
But Republican leaders in the General Assembly argued that the choice between the two budgets is a false one , and Pritzker 's address was nothing more than a sales tactic for the graduated tax .
`` The reserves he 's calling for are a marketing plan to sell his ( graduated tax ) increase , '' Senate Minority Leader Bill Brady , of Bloomington , said .
`` If those resources were n't there , I do n't think this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spending plan and it 's not a way we would approach it . ''
Both House and Senate Republicans called for `` greater efficiencies '' and reduced state spending in certain state agencies .
They also said $ 656 million in increased base revenue projections for the fiscal year mean the level of state investment in programs from a year ago can be maintained without new tax revenues .
House GOP Leader Jim Durkin , of Western Springs , also pointed to a surplus of roughly $ 180 million from the current year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effectiveness of bipartisan budgeting .
`` We have the money to be able to fulfill our obligations in every need for the state of Illinois , '' Durkin said in a news conference .
`` So , to say that you go on two different tracks and say , 'Well , you know , if you do n't pass a constitutional amendment , we 're going to have a world of hurt that 's going to be delivered upon state employees , and also state retirees as well , and health care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's a wrong approach . ''
If the graduated tax passes , the new rates would effectively increase the tax burden on individuals and couples making more than $ 250,000 while keeping it level or lowering it modestly for all others .
The tax increase would go into effect on Jan. 1 , 2021 , meaning half of the budget year , which runs from July 1 to June 30 .
Republicans who oppose the graduated tax say no new revenues are needed and the rates could be changed to raise taxes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While the governor 's office expects annual revenues from the tax to be $ 3.6 billion once it is in effect for a full year , budget officials said Wednesday they can expect only $ 1.4 billion in revenue from payroll withholdings for fiscal year 2021 .
The proposed budget -- with or without graduated tax revenues -- includes the full $ 8.6 billion general revenue fund contribution to the state 's pension fund that is mandated by law .
That would be about 20 percent of all general fund spending , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dedicated for that purpose if the graduated tax passes .
Also with or without the graduated tax , funding for the Department of Children and Family Services would increase by 20 percent , or about $ 147 million , in the governor 's proposal .
`` We will increase ( DCFS ) personnel numbers by nearly 150 new staff -- that 's on top of the 300 workers we added over the last year .
This would represent an 11 percent staffing increase over the past two years , '' Pritzker said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ success is a proposed $ 50 million increase to Monetary Award Program grants that help students with financial need afford college , as well as other added investments in early childhood education and other social service programs .
If the graduated tax fails , a 5-percent increase for public universities and community college operating grants would be withheld , as would $ 40 million in categorical funding for school districts , $ 42 million in Medicaid provider rate increases , $ 40 million in rate increases for the senior-based community care program and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Illinois State Police cadet class .
For K-12 education , a state law passed in 2017 sets a target of $ 350 million of added funding for an evidence-based distribution formula each year .
With graduated tax revenues , that number would be met .
Without , the proposed budget would only include an added $ 200 million in K-12 spending .
Local governments would see funding from sales and income taxes decrease by 5 percent , bringing total proration of that funding program to 10 percent .
A budget without the graduated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in contributions to state employee group health insurance , put off payments of $ 300 million in corporate income tax refunds for the fiscal year and cut $ 30 million in funding for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants .
Another $ 100 million in transit cost expenditures would be shifted from the general revenue fund to the road fund .
Pritzker also noted that the budget included $ 45 million in revenue from the legalization of adult-use marijuana .
That 's about 45 percent of the tax revenue from the program @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programs in communities adversely impacted by the war on drugs as well as mental health and drug conviction expungement programs .
Republican legislative leaders said they would push to separate the budget from any proposed graduated tax revenues , however .
When asked if Republicans in his caucus would support a budget with significant funding in reserves on the contingency of the graduated tax passage , Brady said `` hypothetically , I do n't see that . ''
`` I think my caucus just wants to see a balanced budget , '' Brady @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within our means .
We believe we can do that and still meet educational needs , child safety needs , pension responsibilities and some other needs that are out there . ''
While Pritzker noted in his speech that he included $ 225 million in savings through government efficiencies -- including $ 175 million in health care costs for state employees , $ 25 million in late payment interest savings , $ 25 million in spending reductions at the Department of Corrections and $ 15 million in enhanced revenue collections at the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cuts can be realized if the governor takes a bipartisan approach this year .
`` I 'm prepared to keep an open mind and reach a conclusion at the end of May , '' Durkin said , `` but there are certain parameters that Republicans are going to have to demand .
And that is , we do n't feel that we have to have a budget that is going to be conditioned upon this pixie dust that is spreading through the capital and this constitutional amendment .
It 's just not right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Assembly said they are ready to work with the governor as well .
`` The governor 's budget proposal is an important starting point in a process that will require many tough decisions , '' House Democratic Majority Leader Gregory Harris , of Chicago , said in a statement .
`` We look forward to working with the governor and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass an on-time balanced budget that lives within our means , funds critical services , helps stabilize state finances , and continues to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Don Harmon , of Oak Park , called Pritzker 's budget a `` solid proposal '' that `` starts an important conversation about where our state is going and what kind of state it will be . ''
`` I applaud his emphasis on the need to tackle college affordability and his recognition that early childhood education is the best investment we can make in our future , '' he said .
`` The bottom line is this proposal is a great starting place for the work we 'll do in the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again bring Republicans , Democrats and the governor together in balancing the budget , funding priorities and moving Illinois forward . ''

Pritzker paints two budget pictures: one with graduated tax, one without
House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, criticizes Gov. J.B. Pritzker's budget proposal after the Democratic governor presented it to a joint session of the General Assembly on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2020, in Springfield, Ill.
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. J.B. Pritzker has tied his second-year state budget proposal to the unfinished marquee policy initiative of his first year -- a constitutional amendment that allows the state to impose higher income tax rates on higher income earners.
If voters approve that graduated income tax initiative in the November general election, Pritzker is asking for a roughly $1.6 billion increase in state general revenue fund spending for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1.
That would bring total state spending in that fund to just over $42 billion, helping to pay for a $350 million increase in K-12 education, a 5-percent increase in higher education operating funds and an increase in contributions to the state's backlog of unpaid bills and unfunded pension obligations.
If the constitutional amendment fails, overall state spending would increase by about $200 million from a year ago in the general fund under the governor's proposal, equaling roughly $40.6 billion. In that scenario, $1.4 billion in spending authority would be held in reserve in a combination of budget cuts and withholding of new spending on state programs.
"Because this reserve is so large, it inevitably cuts into some of the things that we all hold most dear: increased funding for K-12 education, universities and community colleges, public safety and other key investments -- but as important as these investments are, we cannot responsibly spend for these priorities until we know with certainty what the state's revenue picture will be," Pritzker said in his budget address in the Illinois House chamber Wednesday.
To pass, the graduated tax needs approval from 60 percent of those voting on the question or the majority of those voting in the election in November.
But Republican leaders in the General Assembly argued that the choice between the two budgets is a false one, and Pritzker's address was nothing more than a sales tactic for the graduated tax.
"The reserves he's calling for are a marketing plan to sell his (graduated tax) increase," Senate Minority Leader Bill Brady, of Bloomington, said. "If those resources weren't there, I don't think this is the way he would have approached the spending plan and it's not a way we would approach it."
Both House and Senate Republicans called for "greater efficiencies" and reduced state spending in certain state agencies. They also said $656 million in increased base revenue projections for the fiscal year mean the level of state investment in programs from a year ago can be maintained without new tax revenues.
House GOP Leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, also pointed to a surplus of roughly $180 million from the current year's operating budget as a sign of the effectiveness of bipartisan budgeting.
"We have the money to be able to fulfill our obligations in every need for the state of Illinois," Durkin said in a news conference. "So, to say that you go on two different tracks and say, 'Well, you know, if you don't pass a constitutional amendment, we're going to have a world of hurt that's going to be delivered upon state employees, and also state retirees as well, and health care providers.' I just felt that that's a wrong approach."
Spending increases
If the graduated tax passes, the new rates would effectively increase the tax burden on individuals and couples making more than $250,000 while keeping it level or lowering it modestly for all others. The tax increase would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2021, meaning half of the budget year, which runs from July 1 to June 30.
Republicans who oppose the graduated tax say no new revenues are needed and the rates could be changed to raise taxes on more Illinoisans in future budget years.
While the governor's office expects annual revenues from the tax to be $3.6 billion once it is in effect for a full year, budget officials said Wednesday they can expect only $1.4 billion in revenue from payroll withholdings for fiscal year 2021.
The proposed budget -- with or without graduated tax revenues -- includes the full $8.6 billion general revenue fund contribution to the state's pension fund that is mandated by law. That would be about 20 percent of all general fund spending, and another $100 million would be dedicated for that purpose if the graduated tax passes.
Also with or without the graduated tax, funding for the Department of Children and Family Services would increase by 20 percent, or about $147 million, in the governor's proposal.
"We will increase (DCFS) personnel numbers by nearly 150 new staff -- that's on top of the 300 workers we added over the last year. This would represent an 11 percent staffing increase over the past two years," Pritzker said.
Also independent of the graduated tax's success is a proposed $50 million increase to Monetary Award Program grants that help students with financial need afford college, as well as other added investments in early childhood education and other social service programs.
If graduated tax is rejected
If the graduated tax fails, a 5-percent increase for public universities and community college operating grants would be withheld, as would $40 million in categorical funding for school districts, $42 million in Medicaid provider rate increases, $40 million in rate increases for the senior-based community care program and $3.5 million in costs for another Illinois State Police cadet class.
For K-12 education, a state law passed in 2017 sets a target of $350 million of added funding for an evidence-based distribution formula each year. With graduated tax revenues, that number would be met. Without, the proposed budget would only include an added $200 million in K-12 spending.
Local governments would see funding from sales and income taxes decrease by 5 percent, bringing total proration of that funding program to 10 percent.
A budget without the graduated tax would also withhold $400 million in contributions to state employee group health insurance, put off payments of $300 million in corporate income tax refunds for the fiscal year and cut $30 million in funding for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants.
Another $100 million in transit cost expenditures would be shifted from the general revenue fund to the road fund.
Other budget hotes
Pritzker also noted that the budget included $45 million in revenue from the legalization of adult-use marijuana. That's about 45 percent of the tax revenue from the program, with the remainder going to reinvestment programs in communities adversely impacted by the war on drugs as well as mental health and drug conviction expungement programs.
Republican legislative leaders said they would push to separate the budget from any proposed graduated tax revenues, however.
When asked if Republicans in his caucus would support a budget with significant funding in reserves on the contingency of the graduated tax passage, Brady said "hypothetically, I don't see that."
"I think my caucus just wants to see a balanced budget," Brady said. "We have to live within our means. We believe we can do that and still meet educational needs, child safety needs, pension responsibilities and some other needs that are out there."
While Pritzker noted in his speech that he included $225 million in savings through government efficiencies -- including $175 million in health care costs for state employees, $25 million in late payment interest savings, $25 million in spending reductions at the Department of Corrections and $15 million in enhanced revenue collections at the Department of Revenue -- Republicans said more budget cuts can be realized if the governor takes a bipartisan approach this year.
"I'm prepared to keep an open mind and reach a conclusion at the end of May," Durkin said, "but there are certain parameters that Republicans are going to have to demand. And that is, we don't feel that we have to have a budget that is going to be conditioned upon this pixie dust that is spreading through the capital and this constitutional amendment. It's just not right."
Democratic leaders from the General Assembly said they are ready to work with the governor as well.
"The governor's budget proposal is an important starting point in a process that will require many tough decisions," House Democratic Majority Leader Gregory Harris, of Chicago, said in a statement. "We look forward to working with the governor and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass an on-time balanced budget that lives within our means, funds critical services, helps stabilize state finances, and continues to build a stronger Illinois."
Senate President Don Harmon, of Oak Park, called Pritzker's budget a "solid proposal" that "starts an important conversation about where our state is going and what kind of state it will be."
"I applaud his emphasis on the need to tackle college affordability and his recognition that early childhood education is the best investment we can make in our future," he said. "The bottom line is this proposal is a great starting place for the work we'll do in the coming weeks, work that I hope will again bring Republicans, Democrats and the governor together in balancing the budget, funding priorities and moving Illinois forward."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Aurora, District 204 approve deal on Route 59 corridor development

Aurora City Council members have approved a deal that will allow the city to offer development incentives in an area that includes Fox Valley Mall while ensuring Indian Prairie Unit District 204 gets the tax revenue it needs to educate students .
The council on Tuesday approved an intergovernmental agreement with District 204 that sets procedures and guidelines for the use of tax increment financing districts in the Route 59 corridor -- an area west of Route 59 and between Montgomery Road and the Burlington Northern railroad tracks .
`` We believe we have a strong agreement that supports the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but also provides the necessary resources to educate our students , '' District 204 Superintendent Karen Sullivan said .
In a tax increment financing district , property tax payments to local governments are frozen at the current level for up to 23 years .
Any extra property tax money collected within the area after it is established goes into a special fund controlled by the city .
The money then can be used to help pay for improvements , such as roads and other infrastructure .
While municipalities use TIF districts to promote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local taxing bodies often oppose them because they ca n't collect the extra property tax money until the TIF district expires .
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin said the city wanted to avoid that .
So municipal and school officials worked together to make sure District 204 `` got every benefit of the development that 's coming to the city of Aurora , '' he said .
`` It was n't an easy lift , '' Irvin said .
`` But we came to a mutual agreement that benefits everybody involved .
This shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difference . ''
As part of the 10-year agreement , the city will limit the use of TIFs in the Route 59 corridor in several ways .
For example , TIF incentives wo n't be used as the first and only source of development incentives .
Also , TIF districts in the corridor will expire in 15 years or less -- not the state limit of 23 years .
If a new residential development within a TIF district produces students , tax revenue generated by the property will be declared surplus .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the taxing districts as if the TIF did n't exist , '' said Martin Lyons , Aurora 's chief financial officer .
Officials said the agreement is the culmination of months of planning and negotiations between the city and the district spurred by redevelopment initiatives in the corridor and increasing interest for future projects .
Early last year , the city approved a redevelopment agreement for Cedarwood , a $ 29 million senior-oriented development in the triangle-shaped area bordered by Ogden Avenue , 75th Street , and a planned extension of Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ included the creation of a TIF district to pay for the Commons Drive extension and stormwater retention expenses to develop the property .
Because of the deal with District 204 , the term of that TIF district soon will be reduced to 15 years .
City officials said other plans for the Route 59 corridor include the Pacifica Square development -- an Asian-themed shopping center at Route 59 and New York Street -- and improvements to the Fox Valley Mall property .

Aurora, District 204 approve deal on Route 59 corridor development
Aurora City Council members have approved a deal that will allow the city to offer development incentives in an area that includes Fox Valley Mall while ensuring Indian Prairie Unit District 204 gets the tax revenue it needs to educate students.
The council on Tuesday approved an intergovernmental agreement with District 204 that sets procedures and guidelines for the use of tax increment financing districts in the Route 59 corridor -- an area west of Route 59 and between Montgomery Road and the Burlington Northern railroad tracks.
District 204's school board approved the pact last week.
"We believe we have a strong agreement that supports the goals of economic development for the city but also provides the necessary resources to educate our students," District 204 Superintendent Karen Sullivan said.
In a tax increment financing district, property tax payments to local governments are frozen at the current level for up to 23 years. Any extra property tax money collected within the area after it is established goes into a special fund controlled by the city. The money then can be used to help pay for improvements, such as roads and other infrastructure.
While municipalities use TIF districts to promote economic development, school districts and other local taxing bodies often oppose them because they can't collect the extra property tax money until the TIF district expires.
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin said the city wanted to avoid that. So municipal and school officials worked together to make sure District 204 "got every benefit of the development that's coming to the city of Aurora," he said.
"It wasn't an easy lift," Irvin said. "But we came to a mutual agreement that benefits everybody involved. This shows that people working together can make a difference."
As part of the 10-year agreement, the city will limit the use of TIFs in the Route 59 corridor in several ways.
For example, TIF incentives won't be used as the first and only source of development incentives. Also, TIF districts in the corridor will expire in 15 years or less -- not the state limit of 23 years.
If a new residential development within a TIF district produces students, tax revenue generated by the property will be declared surplus. "All of that would go out to all the taxing districts as if the TIF didn't exist," said Martin Lyons, Aurora's chief financial officer.
Officials said the agreement is the culmination of months of planning and negotiations between the city and the district spurred by redevelopment initiatives in the corridor and increasing interest for future projects.
Early last year, the city approved a redevelopment agreement for Cedarwood, a $29 million senior-oriented development in the triangle-shaped area bordered by Ogden Avenue, 75th Street, and a planned extension of Commons Drive.
The redevelopment agreement for Cedarwood included the creation of a TIF district to pay for the Commons Drive extension and stormwater retention expenses to develop the property. Because of the deal with District 204, the term of that TIF district soon will be reduced to 15 years.
City officials said other plans for the Route 59 corridor include the Pacifica Square development -- an Asian-themed shopping center at Route 59 and New York Street -- and improvements to the Fox Valley Mall property.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--'He didn't have to do this': Blagojevich praises Trump from Chicago home after release

Former Illinois Democratic Gov .
Rod Blagojevich gushed about Donald Trump after the Republican president commuted his sentence for political corruption , speaking Wednesday at a press event outside his Chicago home .
Blagojevich spoke in front of a large sign hanging off the landing of his home that read `` Thanks Mr .
President . ''
One man in a crowd of more than 100 reporters and well-wishers wore a rubber Blagojevich mask and hoisted the former governor 's 2006 campaign sign .
The governor-turned-convicted felon even added an endorsement of Trump 's bid for a second term .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Blagojevich , flanked by his wife and two daughters .
`` If I had the ability to vote , I would vote for him . ''
During the event in Chicago , the president fired off a tweet about Blagojevich , saying Blagojevich paid `` a big price '' for his convictions .
Trump also alluded to Blagojevich 's convictions for seeking to exchange an appointment to the U.S. Senate seat vacated by then President-elect Barack Obama for campaign contributions .
`` Rod Blagojevich did not sell the Senate seat , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they decided to arrest then-Gov .
Blagojevich at his home on Dec. 9 , 2008 , so that they could thwart his plan to sell the seat .
Outside the same home Wednesday , Blagojevich repeatedly praised the president , describing him as a criminal justice reformer and thanking Trump for setting him free .
`` We want to express our most profound and everlasting gratitude to President Donald Trump , '' Blagojevich said .
`` He did n't have to do this .
...
This is an act of kindness . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a federal prison in Colorado on Tuesday after serving eight years of a 14-year sentence for wide-ranging political corruption , just hours after Trump granted him a commutation .
The former governor also reiterated what he said after his release Tuesday night about being wrongly prosecuted .
He said he hopes to `` fight to help people who have been wrongly incarcerated '' and over-sentenced in what he called a `` broken , '' `` racist '' and `` corrupt '' criminal justice system , the Chicago Sun-Times reported .
`` I saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw it happen to my own , '' Blagojevich said .
He thanked Trump `` for giving my daughters their father back , '' telling Trump , `` The kindest gift they 've ever received in their lives came from you . ''
Blagojevich called his commutation the `` beginning of the process to actually turn an injustice into a justice . ''
He called himself `` a freed political prisoner . ''
Blagojevich , a one-time contestant on Trump 's reality TV show `` Celebrity Apprentice , '' has been radioactive politically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It 's not clear who might be willing to offer him a job or a lead role in organization or movement .
Blagojevich did n't answer direct questions at the public appearance Wednesday .
He continually dabbed a handkerchief on a cut on his chin .
He apologized to reporters , explaining , `` It 's been a long time since I shaved with a normal razor . ''
His convictions included trying to shake down a children 's hospital and lying to the FBI , and he was accused of soliciting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track owner in exchange for legislation benefiting the racing industry , and trying to extort former Edward Hospital CEO Pam Davis .
Trump 's Wednesday tweet echoed comments he has made before , comparing efforts to investigate his own conduct and those who took down Blagojevich .
The tweet described Blagojevich 's case as `` Another Comey and gang deal ! ''
`` It was a prosecution by the same people -- Comey , Fitzpatrick , the same group , '' Trump said earlier in the week .
He was referring to Patrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecuted Blagojevich and now represents former FBI Director James Comey , whom Trump fired from the agency in May 2017 .
Comey was not at the FBI or anywhere in the Department of Justice during the investigation and indictment of Blagojevich .
A handful of Blagojevich 's vocal supporters -- who had hung around the house for most of the nearly 24 hours since news of the commutation leaked -- banded ribbon around a railing to the front door and let out sporadic cheers , the Sun-Times reported .
Among them was unofficial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He got rolled .
I 'm happy for him .
I hope to go to a Cubs game with him , '' Woo Woo said .
The Illinois House in January 2009 voted 114-1 to impeach Blagojevich , and the state Senate voted unanimously to remove him , making him the first Illinois governor in history to be removed by lawmakers .
He entered prison in March 2012 .
Blagojevich 's wife , Patti , went on a media blitz in 2018 to encourage Trump to step in , praising the president and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special prosecutor Robert Mueller 's probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 election -- a probe Trump long characterized as a `` witch hunt . ''

'He didn't have to do this': Blagojevich praises Trump from Chicago home after release
Former Illinois Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich gushed about Donald Trump after the Republican president commuted his sentence for political corruption, speaking Wednesday at a press event outside his Chicago home.
Blagojevich spoke in front of a large sign hanging off the landing of his home that read "Thanks Mr. President." One man in a crowd of more than 100 reporters and well-wishers wore a rubber Blagojevich mask and hoisted the former governor's 2006 campaign sign.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich makes his way through the crowd after his news conference at his Chicago home, one day after having his sentence commuted by President Donald Trump. He is surrounded by his family including his wife, Patti.
The governor-turned-convicted felon even added an endorsement of Trump's bid for a second term.
"I'm a Trumpocrat," said Blagojevich, flanked by his wife and two daughters. "If I had the ability to vote, I would vote for him."
During the event in Chicago, the president fired off a tweet about Blagojevich, saying Blagojevich paid "a big price" for his convictions. Trump also alluded to Blagojevich's convictions for seeking to exchange an appointment to the U.S. Senate seat vacated by then President-elect Barack Obama for campaign contributions.
"Rod Blagojevich did not sell the Senate seat," Trump tweeted.
Prosecutors have said that they decided to arrest then-Gov. Blagojevich at his home on Dec. 9, 2008, so that they could thwart his plan to sell the seat.
Outside the same home Wednesday, Blagojevich repeatedly praised the president, describing him as a criminal justice reformer and thanking Trump for setting him free.
"We want to express our most profound and everlasting gratitude to President Donald Trump," Blagojevich said. "He didn't have to do this. ... This is an act of kindness."
Blagojevich, 63, walked out of a federal prison in Colorado on Tuesday after serving eight years of a 14-year sentence for wide-ranging political corruption, just hours after Trump granted him a commutation.
The former governor also reiterated what he said after his release Tuesday night about being wrongly prosecuted. He said he hopes to "fight to help people who have been wrongly incarcerated" and over-sentenced in what he called a "broken," "racist" and "corrupt" criminal justice system, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.
"I saw what they do to families because I saw it happen to my own," Blagojevich said.
He thanked Trump "for giving my daughters their father back," telling Trump, "The kindest gift they've ever received in their lives came from you."
Blagojevich called his commutation the "beginning of the process to actually turn an injustice into a justice." He called himself "a freed political prisoner."
Blagojevich, a one-time contestant on Trump's reality TV show "Celebrity Apprentice," has been radioactive politically since his arrest as governor in 2008. It's not clear who might be willing to offer him a job or a lead role in organization or movement.
Blagojevich didn't answer direct questions at the public appearance Wednesday. He continually dabbed a handkerchief on a cut on his chin. He apologized to reporters, explaining, "It's been a long time since I shaved with a normal razor."
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich meets the media Wednesday outside his Chicago home.
His convictions included trying to shake down a children's hospital and lying to the FBI, and he was accused of soliciting campaign donations from the Maywood Park horse-racing track owner in exchange for legislation benefiting the racing industry, and trying to extort former Edward Hospital CEO Pam Davis.
Trump's Wednesday tweet echoed comments he has made before, comparing efforts to investigate his own conduct and those who took down Blagojevich. The tweet described Blagojevich's case as "Another Comey and gang deal!"
"It was a prosecution by the same people -- Comey, Fitzpatrick, the same group," Trump said earlier in the week. He was referring to Patrick Fitzgerald, the former U.S. attorney who prosecuted Blagojevich and now represents former FBI Director James Comey, whom Trump fired from the agency in May 2017. Comey was not at the FBI or anywhere in the Department of Justice during the investigation and indictment of Blagojevich.
A handful of Blagojevich's vocal supporters -- who had hung around the house for most of the nearly 24 hours since news of the commutation leaked -- banded ribbon around a railing to the front door and let out sporadic cheers, the Sun-Times reported. Among them was unofficial Cubs cheerleader Ronnie Woo Woo.
"He got rolled. I'm happy for him. I hope to go to a Cubs game with him," Woo Woo said.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Former Gov. Rod Blagojevich talks to his friends Wednesday during a news conference at his Chicago home.
The Illinois House in January 2009 voted 114-1 to impeach Blagojevich, and the state Senate voted unanimously to remove him, making him the first Illinois governor in history to be removed by lawmakers. He entered prison in March 2012.
Blagojevich's wife, Patti, went on a media blitz in 2018 to encourage Trump to step in, praising the president and likening the investigation of her husband to special prosecutor Robert Mueller's probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 election -- a probe Trump long characterized as a "witch hunt."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Vote now for Readers' Choice

Vote now for Readers' Choice

Who does n't like to get recommendations when we 're searching for the best ?
And who does n't love @ @ @ @ @ find something excellent ?
It 's time to start recommending !
Cast your votes for @ @ @ @ @ Readers ' Choice contest .
You can let us know your favorites in a wide @ @ @ @ @ the best hair salons to the best place in the suburbs for a picnic to @ @ @ @ @ We also have a business-to-business section .
So , if you know a great place @ @ @ @ @ a meeting or you would like to recommend a printing services or wealth management firm @ @ @ @ @ to let us know .
Simply go to www.dailyherald.com/readers-choice and vote for your favorites .
@ @ @ @ @ responses , we will publish the top vote-getters in a special edition magazine on Sunday @ @ @ @ @ 's your chance to let the world know about the best of the best in @ @ @ @ @ for voting is Feb. 23 .

Vote now for Readers' Choice
Who doesn't like to get recommendations when we're searching for the best? And who doesn't love to give recommendations when they find something excellent?
It's time to start recommending! Cast your votes for your favorites in the 2020 Readers' Choice contest. You can let us know your favorites in a wide range of categories -- from the best hair salons to the best place in the suburbs for a picnic to the best piano bar.
We also have a business-to-business section. So, if you know a great place to take your clients for a meeting or you would like to recommend a printing services or wealth management firm, now's the time to let us know.
Simply go to www.dailyherald.com/readers-choice and vote for your favorites.
Once we have tabulated your responses, we will publish the top vote-getters in a special edition magazine on Sunday, April 26.
Now's your chance to let the world know about the best of the best in the suburbs. The deadline for voting is Feb. 23.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-19--Shooting triggers chase, crash near Fox Valley Mall

Aurora police are investigating a gang-related shooting Wednesday afternoon that wounded one and resulted in a chase that ended with a crash near the Fox Valley Mall .
Four people were injured in the crash that temporarily closed part of East New York Street .
Police responded at 1:30 p.m. to a call for shots fired on the 600 block of South Broadway Avenue on the city 's near east side and tried to make a traffic stop of a suspect vehicle , according to Paris Lewbel , Aurora police spokesman .
The driver of the vehicle sped off and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ York Street before it crashed into other cars near the mall .
Three people in the suspect vehicle suffered serious injuries and the driver of another vehicle was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries , Lewbel said .
East New York Street was closed between Route 59 and Commons Drive until around 6:30 p.m. while police investigated .
The Kane County Major Crimes Task Force was also called in to help .
Also during the chase , a person with a gunshot wound went to an Aurora hospital , Lewbel said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on South Broadway and that Wednesday 's shooting was gang related .

Shooting triggers chase, crash near Fox Valley Mall
Aurora police are investigating a gang-related shooting Wednesday afternoon that wounded one and resulted in a chase that ended with a crash near the Fox Valley Mall.
Four people were injured in the crash that temporarily closed part of East New York Street.
Police responded at 1:30 p.m. to a call for shots fired on the 600 block of South Broadway Avenue on the city's near east side and tried to make a traffic stop of a suspect vehicle, according to Paris Lewbel, Aurora police spokesman.
The driver of the vehicle sped off and drove into oncoming traffic on East New York Street before it crashed into other cars near the mall. Three people in the suspect vehicle suffered serious injuries and the driver of another vehicle was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries, Lewbel said.
East New York Street was closed between Route 59 and Commons Drive until around 6:30 p.m. while police investigated. The Kane County Major Crimes Task Force was also called in to help.
Also during the chase, a person with a gunshot wound went to an Aurora hospital, Lewbel said. Police believe this person was wounded on South Broadway and that Wednesday's shooting was gang related.
Check back for updates.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Residents say cut-through traffic is a hazard. Can Arlington Heights fix it?

The silver Toyota Camry sped toward the white Ford Explorer parked on South Cleveland Avenue as a red sedan approached from the opposite direction .
When it passed the sedan , the Camry hit the parked Explorer , tilted sideways , then flipped over and skidded to a halt on its roof .
Arlington Heights police say the Camry 's driver was traveling 32 mph in the 25 mph zone when the crash occurred about 2:10 p.m. Dec. 10 .
An hour later and the car could have hit children on their way home from school .
Cleveland Avenue residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presented by cut-through traffic that has long plagued their neighborhood .
A police radar speed sign has done little to deter drivers who use the street to bypass Arlington Heights Road between Central Road and Northwest Highway , they say .
On Wednesday , village officials held a community meeting to hear from residents who say town leaders to date have ignored their concerns .
About 40 residents showed up to air grievances and hash out solutions .
The meeting stretched for three hours , with village officials ultimately pledging to do more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It was the start , '' said Cleveland Avenue resident Ross Trotcky .
`` If this ends soon , I do n't think this accomplished much .
It 's what action comes out of this that 's really important . ''
Village Manager Randy Recklaus said the idea for Wednesday 's meeting grew out of a village board session in January , when about 30 residents asked the village to address what they say is a safety problem on Cleveland , a residential street lined with 93 single-family homes .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the average speed on Cleveland was 25 mph , and speeding at 15 mph or more over the limit happened less than 1 % of the time .
There have been 49 traffic accidents on Cleveland , Central Road or Davis Street since 2010 , and 21 % them were speed-related , officials said .
Residents suggested a range of potential fixes to the problem , including a decoy squad car , speed cameras , a Citizen Assisted Radar program , concrete bump-outs , turn restrictions from 4 to 6 p.m. , more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , traffic circles , yellow or white lines down the road or an additional stop sign .
Civil engineer Michael Hepner said the village relies on federal guidelines when deciding whether to add a stop sign .
If village officials think a two-way stop sign is warranted , they examine crash data and do a traffic study of the area .
For a four-way stop sign , they look at traffic volumes , crash data and a traffic study .
Since 2015 , the village has received about 125 requests for stop signs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signs .
Some residents complained that drivers blow through the one stop sign the street has .
Others questioned the village 's data and how officials analyzed it .
`` I think it 's getting the conversation started , '' George Kraniotis said of Wednesday 's meeting .
`` I do n't know if we got anything resolved .
I have two young girls and just ( worry about ) the safety of them and the other kids in the neighborhood . ''
Multiple neighbors said they 're afraid to let their kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ street .
`` It 's a step in the right direction , '' said John Toliopoulos .
`` There were n't any real solutions put out there for us to have a discussion on .
In my opinion , there needs to be a follow-up meeting as opposed to emails back and forth . ''

Residents say cut-through traffic is a hazard. Can Arlington Heights fix it?
A speeding car hits a parked SUV on Cleveland Avenue in Arlington Heights on Dec. 10. Residents say the crash is symptomatic of an ongoing safety hazard caused by cut-through drivers on the residential street. Video frame grab courtesy of Jay Casaletto
The silver Toyota Camry sped toward the white Ford Explorer parked on South Cleveland Avenue as a red sedan approached from the opposite direction. When it passed the sedan, the Camry hit the parked Explorer, tilted sideways, then flipped over and skidded to a halt on its roof.
Arlington Heights police say the Camry's driver was traveling 32 mph in the 25 mph zone when the crash occurred about 2:10 p.m. Dec. 10. An hour later and the car could have hit children on their way home from school.
Cleveland Avenue residents say it's the type of hazard presented by cut-through traffic that has long plagued their neighborhood. A police radar speed sign has done little to deter drivers who use the street to bypass Arlington Heights Road between Central Road and Northwest Highway, they say.
On Wednesday, village officials held a community meeting to hear from residents who say town leaders to date have ignored their concerns.
About 40 residents showed up to air grievances and hash out solutions. The meeting stretched for three hours, with village officials ultimately pledging to do more research and schedule a follow-up meeting.
"It was the start," said Cleveland Avenue resident Ross Trotcky. "If this ends soon, I don't think this accomplished much. It's what action comes out of this that's really important."
Village Manager Randy Recklaus said the idea for Wednesday's meeting grew out of a village board session in January, when about 30 residents asked the village to address what they say is a safety problem on Cleveland, a residential street lined with 93 single-family homes.
According to Recklaus, a 2019 traffic study found the average speed on Cleveland was 25 mph, and speeding at 15 mph or more over the limit happened less than 1% of the time.
There have been 49 traffic accidents on Cleveland, Central Road or Davis Street since 2010, and 21% them were speed-related, officials said.
Residents suggested a range of potential fixes to the problem, including a decoy squad car, speed cameras, a Citizen Assisted Radar program, concrete bump-outs, turn restrictions from 4 to 6 p.m., more visible speed limit signs, parking regulations, traffic circles, yellow or white lines down the road or an additional stop sign.
Civil engineer Michael Hepner said the village relies on federal guidelines when deciding whether to add a stop sign. If village officials think a two-way stop sign is warranted, they examine crash data and do a traffic study of the area. For a four-way stop sign, they look at traffic volumes, crash data and a traffic study.
Since 2015, the village has received about 125 requests for stop signs. It has installed 24 new stop signs.
Some residents complained that drivers blow through the one stop sign the street has. Others questioned the village's data and how officials analyzed it.
"I think it's getting the conversation started," George Kraniotis said of Wednesday's meeting. "I don't know if we got anything resolved. I have two young girls and just (worry about) the safety of them and the other kids in the neighborhood."
Multiple neighbors said they're afraid to let their kids play in front yards or cross the street.
"It's a step in the right direction," said John Toliopoulos. "There weren't any real solutions put out there for us to have a discussion on. In my opinion, there needs to be a follow-up meeting as opposed to emails back and forth."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Senate candidate backs away from her own claims she brought gun into Hinsdale Central

A Belleville Republican seeking her party 's nomination for U.S. Senate backed away Thursday from statements she made claiming she brought a weapon into Hinsdale Central High School during an appearance Feb. 13 at a student-sponsored candidate forum .
Peggy Hubbard , a former police officer and IRS analyst , twice this week said she brought a gun and two or three ammunition clips into the school during an appearance with the four other GOP candidates .
`` I walked in with a concealed carry and I had a gun and three clips and nobody checked , '' she told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington , Illinois .
In a social media post , she wrote she `` walked in with a my weapon and 2 clips ! ''
But in a phone interview Thursday with the Daily Herald , Hubbard said that while she carried two ammunition magazines in her purse at the Hinsdale Central forum , she left her weapon in a lockbox in her car .
`` I know what I said , and I was trying to get a rise out of people and I misspoke , '' Hubbard said .
`` And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did have two clips on me . ''
Hubbard said she originally claimed she had a gun because `` I wanted people to know ... these kids are not safe in these schools , especially the well-to-do schools in affluent areas .
They have a false sense of security . ''
Hinsdale High School District 86 officials said they have turned the matter over to police .
`` First and foremost , if Mrs. Hubbard brought a firearm into the school as she claims , then she knowingly endangered the safety of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in violation of state and federal law .
As a result , we have officially documented the incident with law enforcement , '' officials said in a statement released through Director of Communications Chris Jasculca .
On Thursday , Hinsdale Police Chief Brian King released a written statement that said his department was made aware of Hubbard 's comments by district administrators .
`` We are unable to corroborate the veracity of statements made through social media as to the type of identification she presented or whether she was in fact in possession @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have since learned that she has since backed away from her earlier claim .
`` I have a very high level of confidence in the security protocols at Hinsdale Central High School .
There is a Hinsdale police officer assigned to the school and the district utilizes the industry 's best practices . ''
If Hubbard was carrying ammunition during the forum , she was not violating any laws as long as she has a valid FOID card , is not a felon and the ammunition was not explosive or armor-piercing , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DuPage County state 's attorney 's office .
Hubbard said she presented her concealed carry permit to a school staff member when she arrived for the event .
But school officials say that after an internal investigation , which included an `` extensive review of security camera footage and interviews with the staff , we were unable to confirm what form of photo identification Mrs. Hubbard 's representatives presented on her behalf when she arrived at the building .
`` What we can confirm , however , is that the type of ID @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fact that possession of a firearm and ammunition on school property by someone who has no authority to do so is illegal , not to mention dangerous and irresponsible . ''
Hubbard told the Daily Herald she handed a school employee her concealed carry card when she arrived `` and she did not ask me one question about whether I had my firearm on me .
... She filled out my information and she did n't ask me any questions other than that . ''
Hubbard said she also raised the issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and neither seemed concerned .
She criticized one of her opponents in the GOP primary , former Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran , who she said tells students they 're safe in their schools .
She said suburban schools are far behind inner-city schools in dealing with possible gun violence because city schools `` have pretty much security that would rival TSA . ''
`` So telling ( suburban ) children ... that they 're safe and do n't have to worry about their schools being shot up and they do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target , that 's the wrong thing to say to a child , '' she said .
`` They 're not safe .
Because if I 'm asking questions and I 'm asking in-depth questions about your policies and I give you a concealed carry card letting you know it 's a likelihood that I have a weapon on me and you do n't question that ... what else could I get inside that school ? ''
In their statement , district officials said they are `` incredibly proud of the steps we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the district .
These steps have included hiring security officers with a combined 233 years of experience in law enforcement , establishing fully equipped command centers at both of our high schools , installing more than 300 new security cameras in our buildings , and training students and staff on the use of ALICE ( Alert , Lockdown , Inform , Counter , Evacuate ) to handle the threat of an active shooter . ''
Officials said they understand the importance of assessing and evaluating security procedures and protocols and continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they hope Hubbard 's remarks do n't overshadow the work of the Student Conservative Organization that sponsored the forum `` or discourage any of our student groups from hosting similar events in the future . ''
Hubbard is in a five-way race for the GOP nomination for Senate that also features Curran , Casey Chlebek , Robert Marshall and Tom Tarter .
The winner will advance to the November general election against incumbent Sen. Dick Durbin .

Senate candidate backs away from her own claims she brought gun into Hinsdale Central
A Belleville Republican seeking her party's nomination for U.S. Senate backed away Thursday from statements she made claiming she brought a weapon into Hinsdale Central High School during an appearance Feb. 13 at a student-sponsored candidate forum.
Peggy Hubbard, a former police officer and IRS analyst, twice this week said she brought a gun and two or three ammunition clips into the school during an appearance with the four other GOP candidates.
"I walked in with a concealed carry and I had a gun and three clips and nobody checked," she told the audience at a forum Tuesday in Washington, Illinois.
In a social media post, she wrote she "walked in with a my weapon and 2 clips!"
But in a phone interview Thursday with the Daily Herald, Hubbard said that while she carried two ammunition magazines in her purse at the Hinsdale Central forum, she left her weapon in a lockbox in her car.
"I know what I said, and I was trying to get a rise out of people and I misspoke," Hubbard said. "And I apologize for that, but I did have two clips on me."
Hubbard said she originally claimed she had a gun because "I wanted people to know ... these kids are not safe in these schools, especially the well-to-do schools in affluent areas. They have a false sense of security."
Hinsdale High School District 86 officials said they have turned the matter over to police.
"First and foremost, if Mrs. Hubbard brought a firearm into the school as she claims, then she knowingly endangered the safety of our students and staff, and did so in violation of state and federal law. As a result, we have officially documented the incident with law enforcement," officials said in a statement released through Director of Communications Chris Jasculca.
On Thursday, Hinsdale Police Chief Brian King released a written statement that said his department was made aware of Hubbard's comments by district administrators.
"We are unable to corroborate the veracity of statements made through social media as to the type of identification she presented or whether she was in fact in possession of a concealed carry weapon. We have since learned that she has since backed away from her earlier claim.
"I have a very high level of confidence in the security protocols at Hinsdale Central High School. There is a Hinsdale police officer assigned to the school and the district utilizes the industry's best practices."
If Hubbard was carrying ammunition during the forum, she was not violating any laws as long as she has a valid FOID card, is not a felon and the ammunition was not explosive or armor-piercing, according to Paul Darrah, spokesman for the DuPage County state's attorney's office.
Hubbard said she presented her concealed carry permit to a school staff member when she arrived for the event.
But school officials say that after an internal investigation, which included an "extensive review of security camera footage and interviews with the staff, we were unable to confirm what form of photo identification Mrs. Hubbard's representatives presented on her behalf when she arrived at the building.
"What we can confirm, however, is that the type of ID that was used has no bearing on the fact that possession of a firearm and ammunition on school property by someone who has no authority to do so is illegal, not to mention dangerous and irresponsible."
Hubbard told the Daily Herald she handed a school employee her concealed carry card when she arrived "and she did not ask me one question about whether I had my firearm on me. ... She filled out my information and she didn't ask me any questions other than that."
Hubbard said she also raised the issue with a teacher and a security guard, and neither seemed concerned.
She criticized one of her opponents in the GOP primary, former Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran, who she said tells students they're safe in their schools.
She said suburban schools are far behind inner-city schools in dealing with possible gun violence because city schools "have pretty much security that would rival TSA."
"So telling (suburban) children ... that they're safe and don't have to worry about their schools being shot up and they don't have to worry about them being a target, that's the wrong thing to say to a child," she said. "They're not safe. Because if I'm asking questions and I'm asking in-depth questions about your policies and I give you a concealed carry card letting you know it's a likelihood that I have a weapon on me and you don't question that ... what else could I get inside that school?"
In their statement, district officials said they are "incredibly proud of the steps we have taken to improve safety and security across the district. These steps have included hiring security officers with a combined 233 years of experience in law enforcement, establishing fully equipped command centers at both of our high schools, installing more than 300 new security cameras in our buildings, and training students and staff on the use of ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) to handle the threat of an active shooter."
Officials said they understand the importance of assessing and evaluating security procedures and protocols and continue to make it a priority.
They also said they hope Hubbard's remarks don't overshadow the work of the Student Conservative Organization that sponsored the forum "or discourage any of our student groups from hosting similar events in the future."
Hubbard is in a five-way race for the GOP nomination for Senate that also features Curran, Casey Chlebek, Robert Marshall and Tom Tarter. The winner will advance to the November general election against incumbent Sen. Dick Durbin.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--Former Blackhawks star Panarin: Trade to Columbus 'still confuse(s) me'

Artemi Panarin minced no words and finally admitted what we all assumed : He was really upset when the Blackhawks traded him to Columbus during the 2017 off-season .
`` When I played here in Chicago I ( thought ) I would play here my whole life , '' Panarin said after scoring his 30th goal of the season during a 6-3 Rangers victory over the Hawks Wednesday at the United Center .
`` And then that happened .
It still confuse ( s ) me . ''
Panarin was one of the greatest free-agent discoveries not only by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the NHL .
He won the Calder Cup as the league 's top rookie in 2015-16 by piling up 30 goals and 47 assists , then followed that up with a 31-goal , 43-assist campaign that saw the Hawks win 50 games .
It was during that second season when Panarin agreed to a modest two-year , $ 12 million contract .
He signed it to give the cap-strapped Hawks flexibility going forward .
`` Chicago 's pressed against the salary cap , '' Panarin told former agent Dan Milstein .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guy .
I want to play on a winning team .
`` Give them the flexibility so they can retain the guys or sign the new guys because it 's not about me .
I 'm young .
I 'm going to make plenty of money in my future . ''
Panarin 's price for that loyalty was a one-way ticket to Columbus in exchange for Brandon Saad and goalie Anton Forsberg .
It was a deal that incensed Patrick Kane , who had become fast friends with the talented , affable and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was not ready for that .
It was a big surprise for me .
I feel bad after trade . ''
Panarin said nobody from the Hawks called him last off-season to see if he wanted to return , but it 's highly unlikely that GM Stan Bowman could have afforded him .
Panarin ended up inking a seven-year , $ 81.5 million deal with the Rangers .
Then again , if Bowman did n't sign Brent Seabrook to an eight-year , $ 55 million contract just before the 2015-16 campaign , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After playing two more seasons in Chicago , it 's quite easy to imagine Panarin signing an eight-year , $ 84 million deal .
That , of course , is the exact same $ 10.5 million cap hit Kane and Jonathan Toews cost the Hawks .
Of course , we 'll never know , and Panarin was n't about to play `` what-ifs '' after Wednesday 's game .
`` I 'm in New York right now and there 's nothing else I can say about it , '' he said .
Before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5-goal third period , Panarin and Kane took part in a ceremonial puck drop with Jack O'Callahan , a defenseman who was part of the 1980 Miracle on Ice team .
O'Callahan got a big laugh out of the superstars by flinging the puck to Kane .
`` Well , I saw a Russian and an American facing off and I was like , 'There 's not a chance I 'm even going to risk this Russian winning that draw , ' `` O'Callahan said with a laugh .
`` So I kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fired it through his legs and he just kind of started to laugh .
`` But I 'm sure he expected it .
Even though we 're generations apart we 're still teammates . ''
Which is likely what Panarin and Kane wish they still were .
Now all Hawks fans can do is offer warm applause upon Panarin 's return once a year .
`` I love Chicago , '' Panarin said when asked if he still misses the city and the fans .
`` Nice every time I come here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ city and thanks ( to ) the fans for a warm welcome .
I appreciate it . ''

'It was a big surprise for me': Panarin still confused about why Blackhawks traded him
New York Rangers center Artemi Panarin said Wednesday he thought he would play for the Blackhawks for his "whole life." He was traded to Columbus in 2017. Associated Press
Artemi Panarin minced no words and finally admitted what we all assumed: He was really upset when the Blackhawks traded him to Columbus during the 2017 off-season.
"When I played here in Chicago I (thought) I would play here my whole life," Panarin said after scoring his 30th goal of the season during a 6-3 Rangers victory over the Hawks Wednesday at the United Center. "And then that happened. It still confuse(s) me."
Panarin was one of the greatest free-agent discoveries not only by the Hawks, but probably in the history of the NHL. He won the Calder Cup as the league's top rookie in 2015-16 by piling up 30 goals and 47 assists, then followed that up with a 31-goal, 43-assist campaign that saw the Hawks win 50 games.
It was during that second season when Panarin agreed to a modest two-year, $12 million contract. He signed it to give the cap-strapped Hawks flexibility going forward.
"Chicago's pressed against the salary cap," Panarin told former agent Dan Milstein. "I don't want to be that guy. I want to play on a winning team.
"Give them the flexibility so they can retain the guys or sign the new guys because it's not about me. I'm young. I'm going to make plenty of money in my future."
Panarin's price for that loyalty was a one-way ticket to Columbus in exchange for Brandon Saad and goalie Anton Forsberg. It was a deal that incensed Patrick Kane, who had become fast friends with the talented, affable and joking Panarin.
Said Panarin: "I was not ready for that. It was a big surprise for me. I feel bad after trade."
Panarin said nobody from the Hawks called him last off-season to see if he wanted to return, but it's highly unlikely that GM Stan Bowman could have afforded him. Panarin ended up inking a seven-year, $81.5 million deal with the Rangers.
Then again, if Bowman didn't sign Brent Seabrook to an eight-year, $55 million contract just before the 2015-16 campaign, things might have worked out differently.
After playing two more seasons in Chicago, it's quite easy to imagine Panarin signing an eight-year, $84 million deal. That, of course, is the exact same $10.5 million cap hit Kane and Jonathan Toews cost the Hawks.
Of course, we'll never know, and Panarin wasn't about to play "what-ifs" after Wednesday's game.
"I'm in New York right now and there's nothing else I can say about it," he said.
Before the Rangers dismantled the Hawks with a 5-goal third period, Panarin and Kane took part in a ceremonial puck drop with Jack O'Callahan, a defenseman who was part of the 1980 Miracle on Ice team. O'Callahan got a big laugh out of the superstars by flinging the puck to Kane.
"Well, I saw a Russian and an American facing off and I was like, 'There's not a chance I'm even going to risk this Russian winning that draw,' " O'Callahan said with a laugh. "So I kind of looked at Kaner and I just fired it through his legs and he just kind of started to laugh.
"But I'm sure he expected it. Even though we're generations apart we're still teammates."
Which is likely what Panarin and Kane wish they still were.
Now all Hawks fans can do is offer warm applause upon Panarin's return once a year.
"I love Chicago," Panarin said when asked if he still misses the city and the fans. "Nice every time I come here. Enjoy it. It's a great city and thanks (to) the fans for a warm welcome. I appreciate it."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-02-20--DuPage legal community mourns retired judge with 'tremendous empathy' for victims of crime

Sometimes on Mother 's Day , she would get a phone call from Michael Wolfe .
More often , Pam Anderson and her husband , Shelly , would meet with the former DuPage County prosecutor and retired judge for lunch or dinner .
Wolfe prosecuted the drunken driver who killed the couple 's teenage daughter , her two best friends and a mother of three children .
He secured the driver 's conviction more than 20 years ago .
`` There 's never closure .
It 's just with us every single day , '' Pam Anderson said .
Wolfe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still showed great concern for the families of the victims and held on to pictures of the three girls -- Jenni Anderson , Allison Matzdorf and Jennifer Roberts -- all Waubonsie Valley High School students .
`` I just think he was a very caring man , '' Jenni 's dad said .
Wolfe , who brought a relentless focus prosecuting some of the most heinous criminals in the county 's history , died Tuesday , roughly a year after retiring from the bench .
He died from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease , DuPage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man was 60 .
A longtime assistant state 's attorney , Wolfe was part of the team that prosecuted convicted killer Brian Dugan for the 1983 abduction , rape and murder of Jeanine Nicarico , a 10-year-old from Naperville .
As criminal prosecutions chief , Wolfe worked 61 straight 12-hour days in 2006 on the case against convicted serial killer Paul Runge .
`` Everything with him was you do your absolute best , and you do whatever it took , '' DuPage Chief Judge Daniel Guerin said .
`` He would teach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's attorneys you go out to the scene of the crimes .
You go out and meet with the police officers at the stations .
You do n't just sit in the office and have everything come to you . ''
Wolfe supervised Guerin in the child abuse and domestic violence unit and as chief of the felony division .
He poured himself into his cases and had tremendous empathy for victims , ensuring they understand the legal process and had arrangements for child care , Guerin said .
`` He had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
In 2008 , Wolfe received the Chicago Crime Commission 's first Mitchell A. Mars award , named after the federal prosecutor who took on organized crime in the Family Secrets mob trial .
Illinois Appellate Justice Joseph Birkett , then DuPage state 's attorney , nominated Wolfe for the honor .
`` He was innovative , smart , compassionate , highly ethical , '' Birkett said .
He and Wolfe wrote legislation doubling the maximum prison sentence -- to 28 from 14 years -- for intoxicated drivers who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1997 deaths of the three Waubonsie students and a fourth victim , Ana Pryor , inspired the legislation .
The driver who caused the crash served less than a third of a 13-year prison term .
For years , Wolfe checked in with the girls ' families , and that 's true of a number of his cases , former DuPage Chief Judge Kathryn Creswell said .
`` When victims or their families would have birthday parties or family get-togethers , he 'd be invited because they 'd thought of him as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In DuPage legal circles , he was `` Wolfey , '' a down-to-earth , loyal friend with self-deprecating humor , and a dog lover who had a Weimaraner named Eva .
`` His neighbors absolutely loved him , '' Birkett said .
`` He was the guy that would be picking up your mail if you were on vacation . ''
Wolfe grew up in a large family in Oak Park and liked practical jokes .
He went to Fenwick High School , played rugby at Marquette University and earned his law degree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He 's the funniest person I 've ever known , '' Creswell said .
`` You talk to anybody that knows him , they have hilarious stories about him , just a dry sense of humor .
One of the skills that he had as a lawyer was his ability to think on his feet , and his wit was so quick . ''
In 2010 , Wolfe was appointed a judge , often presiding over cases involving defendants who represented themselves .
Creswell later moved him from eviction to juvenile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of wondering how it was going to go because he did n't have kids of his own , and I just heard glowing comments from lawyers that appeared in front of him , '' she said .
He also volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and spent years mentoring one boy who eventually joined the military .
`` Mike was so proud of him , and when Mike was installed as an associate judge , his little brother was there in his military uniform , and it was just very touching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really , all three families , really loved him , and we would see him for years afterward , '' her dad said .
Services have not yet been announced .

In 2008, Michael Wolfe was the first recipient of the Chicago Crime Commission's Mitchell A. Mars Prosecutorial Excellence Award. Daily Herald file photo
Sometimes on Mother's Day, she would get a phone call from Michael Wolfe.
More often, Pam Anderson and her husband, Shelly, would meet with the former DuPage County prosecutor and retired judge for lunch or dinner.
Wolfe prosecuted the drunken driver who killed the couple's teenage daughter, her two best friends and a mother of three children. He secured the driver's conviction more than 20 years ago.
"There's never closure. It's just with us every single day," Pam Anderson said.
Wolfe understood that. It's why he still showed great concern for the families of the victims and held on to pictures of the three girls -- Jenni Anderson, Allison Matzdorf and Jennifer Roberts, all Waubonsie Valley High School students.
"I just think he was a very caring man," Jenni's dad said.
Wolfe, who brought a relentless focus prosecuting some of the most heinous criminals in the county's history, died Tuesday, roughly a year after retiring from the bench. He died from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, DuPage Coroner Richard Jorgensen said. The Warrenville man was 60.
A longtime assistant state's attorney, Wolfe was part of the team that prosecuted convicted killer Brian Dugan for the 1983 abduction, rape and murder of Jeanine Nicarico, a 10-year-old from Naperville.
As criminal prosecutions chief, Wolfe worked 61 straight 12-hour days in 2006 on the case against convicted serial killer Paul Runge.
"Everything with him was you do your absolute best, and you do whatever it took," DuPage Chief Judge Daniel Guerin said. "He would teach a lot of the young assistant state's attorneys you go out to the scene of the crimes. You go out and meet with the police officers at the stations. You don't just sit in the office and have everything come to you."
Wolfe supervised Guerin in the child abuse and domestic violence unit and as chief of the felony division. He poured himself into his cases and had tremendous empathy for victims, ensuring they understand the legal process and had arrangements for child care, Guerin said.
"He had a huge heart for people who had suffered," he said.
In 2008, Wolfe received the Chicago Crime Commission's first Mitchell A. Mars award, named after the federal prosecutor who took on organized crime in the Family Secrets mob trial. Illinois Appellate Justice Joseph Birkett, then DuPage state's attorney, nominated Wolfe for the honor.
"He was innovative, smart, compassionate, highly ethical," Birkett said.
He and Wolfe wrote legislation doubling the maximum prison sentence -- to 28 from 14 years -- for intoxicated drivers who kill more than one person.
The 1997 deaths of the three Waubonsie students and a fourth victim, Ana Pryor, inspired the legislation. The driver who caused the crash served less than a third of a 13-year prison term.
For years, Wolfe checked in with the girls' families, and that's true of a number of his cases, former DuPage Chief Judge Kathryn Creswell said.
"When victims or their families would have birthday parties or family get-togethers, he'd be invited because they'd thought of him as a family member," she said.
In DuPage legal circles, he was "Wolfey," a down-to-earth, loyal friend with self-deprecating humor, and a dog lover who had a Weimaraner named Eva.
"His neighbors absolutely loved him," Birkett said. "He was the guy that would be picking up your mail if you were on vacation."
Wolfe grew up in a large family in Oak Park and liked practical jokes. He went to Fenwick High School, played rugby at Marquette University and earned his law degree from John Marshall Law School in Chicago.
"He's the funniest person I've ever known," Creswell said. "You talk to anybody that knows him, they have hilarious stories about him, just a dry sense of humor. One of the skills that he had as a lawyer was his ability to think on his feet, and his wit was so quick."
In 2010, Wolfe was appointed a judge, often presiding over cases involving defendants who represented themselves. Creswell later moved him from eviction to juvenile court.
"I can remember kind of wondering how it was going to go because he didn't have kids of his own, and I just heard glowing comments from lawyers that appeared in front of him," she said.
He also volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and spent years mentoring one boy who eventually joined the military. "Mike was so proud of him, and when Mike was installed as an associate judge, his little brother was there in his military uniform, and it was just very touching," Creswell said.
Also at Wolfe's swearing-in? Jenni Anderson's parents.
"We really, all three families, really loved him, and we would see him for years afterward," her dad said.
A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 46 N. Wolf Rd., Northlake. Burial will be private. Instead of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, 1140 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago.