dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-30--3 things to know about the Colts, who the Bears face Sunday

The Bears have a chance to start a season 4-0 for the first time since 2006 .
They will attempt to do so with Nick Foles as their starting quarterback .
They must also contend with an Indianapolis Colts team that has had back-to-back superb defensive efforts .
Here are three things to know about the Colts heading into Week 4 .
The Colts scored twice on defense last week against the New York Jets .
Yes , the Jets are terrible .
A week before that , the Colts made Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins look silly with three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in fewest points against and fewest total yards against .
The Colts ' 6 interceptions lead the league , and their plus-3 turnover differential is tied for fifth in the NFL .
Teams are converting on third down against the Colts just 32.3 % of the time , third-best in the NFL ( and right behind the Bears defense at 31 % ) .
It 's fair to point out that the Colts ' first three opponents have a combined record of 1-8 , along with offenses ranked in the bottom third of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the season with a torn Achilles , Colts ' rookie running back Jonathan Taylor has taken over the spotlight at the position .
The Colts were a by-committee effort at running back last year , with Mack as the featured back .
Without Mack , Taylor is taking over that role .
Taylor had his first 100-yard game in Week 2 with 101 yards against the Vikings .
With 48 carries , Taylor has commanded more than half the rushing attempts .
3 .
Philip Rivers gets it done While the Colts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , new quarterback Philip Rivers has n't had to be the focus of the offense like he was with the Los Angeles Chargers .
A prolific passer for years with the Chargers , Rivers is simply doing what he needs to do to win games .
The Colts have been even , with 96 pass attempts and 93 rushing attempts .
Rivers has completed 78.3 % of his passes , which is No .
1 in the NFL .
That being said , if the Bears pressure Rivers like they did Matt Ryan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in some more precarious situations .
He simply did n't have to throw much in blowout wins against the Vikings and the Jets .

3 things to know about the Colts, who the Bears face Sunday
The Bears will face a tough test in the Colts defense on Sunday. The Colts lead the NFL in fewest points against and fewest total yards against. The Colts' 6 interceptions lead the league, and their plus-3 turnover differential is tied for fifth in the NFL. Associated Press
The Bears have a chance to start a season 4-0 for the first time since 2006. They will attempt to do so with Nick Foles as their starting quarterback.
They must also contend with an Indianapolis Colts team that has had back-to-back superb defensive efforts.
Here are three things to know about the Colts heading into Week 4.
1. Colts defense will be trouble
The Colts scored twice on defense last week against the New York Jets. Yes, the Jets are terrible. A week before that, the Colts made Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins look silly with three interceptions.
The Colts lead the NFL in fewest points against and fewest total yards against. The Colts' 6 interceptions lead the league, and their plus-3 turnover differential is tied for fifth in the NFL. Teams are converting on third down against the Colts just 32.3% of the time, third-best in the NFL (and right behind the Bears defense at 31%).
It's fair to point out that the Colts' first three opponents have a combined record of 1-8, along with offenses ranked in the bottom third of the league.
2. Jonathan Taylor is No. 1
With Marlon Mack out for the season with a torn Achilles, Colts' rookie running back Jonathan Taylor has taken over the spotlight at the position. The Colts were a by-committee effort at running back last year, with Mack as the featured back. Without Mack, Taylor is taking over that role.
Taylor had his first 100-yard game in Week 2 with 101 yards against the Vikings. With 48 carries, Taylor has commanded more than half the rushing attempts.
3. Philip Rivers gets it done
While the Colts grind out yards in the running game, new quarterback Philip Rivers hasn't had to be the focus of the offense like he was with the Los Angeles Chargers. A prolific passer for years with the Chargers, Rivers is simply doing what he needs to do to win games.
The Colts have been even, with 96 pass attempts and 93 rushing attempts. Rivers has completed 78.3% of his passes, which is No. 1 in the NFL.
That being said, if the Bears pressure Rivers like they did Matt Ryan last week, he could find himself in some more precarious situations. He simply didn't have to throw much in blowout wins against the Vikings and the Jets.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Illinois COVID-19 deaths climb in September, driven by downstate cases

Illinois is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 deaths compared to the tolls in summer months , driven by cases downstate .
With 655 COVID-19 deaths , September saw a 23 % increase compared to August , when 532 people died from COVID-19 , the Illinois Department of Public Health reported .
In July , 574 people died from the virus .
September is one day shorter than each of the previous months .
The deaths in September are fewer by far than what the state experienced in April , May and June , when 2,256 , 3,034 and 1,545 deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downplayed the increase in September , saying that compared to the first three full months of the pandemic , the state 's mortality rate from the virus `` remains flat since July . ''
The state averaged 22 deaths a day from the virus in September , compared to 17 in August and 19 in July , according to IDPH figures .
`` What you saw this summer was the younger group carrying most of the case volume , and while they 're not likely to die from it , they can easily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Landon , head of the University of Chicago 's infectious disease prevention and control program .
`` I do n't think the disease is getting deadlier ; it 's the riskiness of the people getting sick . ''
Landon suggested high-risk individuals are n't being as careful as they once were , referring to it as `` COVID fatigue . ''
Illinois ended the month with 35 coronavirus deaths on Sept. 30 , the highest single-day total since Sept. 1 , when 39 were reported .
Thursday started a new month of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 25 more deaths and 2,166 new cases .
That brings the state 's death toll from COVID-19 to 8,696 and the number of infections to 295,440 since the pandemic began .
The state 's seven-day average rate of positive test results is at 3.5 % .
September 's increase is driven by downstate cases , as deaths are trending down in every suburban county except Will .
Chicago has seen one of the steepest declines in fatalities over the three-month period .
September saw 81 Chicago residents die from the disease , down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July .
Epidemiologists consider death to be a `` lagging indicator '' during the pandemic because it can take weeks for a severely ill patient to die from the virus .
In the state 's seven-county Metro East region adjacent to St. Louis , cases began to spike in late July .
The region was put under a state-mandated mitigation plan in mid-August when the daily average rate of positive test results exceeded 8 % , then climbed above 10 % in early September .
In Madison County , directly across the Mississippi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 deaths were reported by IDPH in September , up from 26 in August and three in July .
`` That 's the pattern I would expect to see for a lot of reasons , because it takes a while to die from COVID , '' Landon said .
`` If you 're seeing a higher mortality rate , it 's because higher-risk individuals are getting COVID .
It 's incredibly unlikely that the younger population would have their own epidemic and not eventually spread it to older people . ''
Directly to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were 22 COVID-19 deaths in September compared to 14 the month before .
Four other counties in the region had more COVID-19 deaths reported in September than in the previous two months .
The area remains under heightened restrictions for businesses and public gatherings .
Williamson County is also experiencing a significant increase in deaths from COVID-19 .
The county , part of the Marion-Carbondale metropolitan statistical area , saw 36 people die from the virus in September .
In August , eight people succumbed to COVID-19 infections , and just one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to IDPH figures .
Meanwhile , in Chicago and the suburban collar counties , the trend is different , according to IDPH fatality figures .
Suburban Cook County reported 79 deaths in September , compared to 84 in August and 132 in July .
There were 21 deaths in Lake County last month , down from 27 in August and 22 in July .
McHenry County had three deaths in September , two in August and 16 in July .
The combined infection rate in those two counties was at its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early September .
Kane County reported 13 deaths in September , 16 in August and 29 in July .
DuPage County saw 29 people die in September , compared to 24 in August and 38 in July .
The combined average infection rate in the region with Kane and DuPage counties had steadily increased from 4.3 % in mid-June until topping out at 6.2 % at the end of August .
It is currently 5.5 % .
Will County was the only suburban county to see deaths increase over the past three months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September , 21 in August and 19 in July .
Will and Kankakee counties were placed under the same mitigation plan as the Metro East region in mid-August for nearly a month when the average infection rate exceeded 8 % and peaked at 8.8 % at the end of August .

Illinois COVID-19 deaths climb in September, driven by downstate cases
Illinois is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 deaths compared to the tolls in summer months, driven by cases downstate.
With 655 COVID-19 deaths, September saw a 23% increase compared to August, when 532 people died from COVID-19, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported.
In July, 574 people died from the virus. September is one day shorter than each of the previous months.
The deaths in September are fewer by far than what the state experienced in April, May and June, when 2,256, 3,034 and 1,545 deaths were recorded, respectively.
IDPH officials downplayed the increase in September, saying that compared to the first three full months of the pandemic, the state's mortality rate from the virus "remains flat since July."
-
The state averaged 22 deaths a day from the virus in September, compared to 17 in August and 19 in July, according to IDPH figures.
"What you saw this summer was the younger group carrying most of the case volume, and while they're not likely to die from it, they can easily spread it," said Dr. Emily Landon, head of the University of Chicago's infectious disease prevention and control program. "I don't think the disease is getting deadlier; it's the riskiness of the people getting sick."
Landon suggested high-risk individuals aren't being as careful as they once were, referring to it as "COVID fatigue."
Illinois ended the month with 35 coronavirus deaths on Sept. 30, the highest single-day total since Sept. 1, when 39 were reported.
Thursday started a new month of the pandemic and with it, IDPH reported 25 more deaths and 2,166 new cases.
That brings the state's death toll from COVID-19 to 8,696 and the number of infections to 295,440 since the pandemic began. The state's seven-day average rate of positive test results is at 3.5%.
September's increase is driven by downstate cases, as deaths are trending down in every suburban county except Will.
Chicago has seen one of the steepest declines in fatalities over the three-month period. September saw 81 Chicago residents die from the disease, down from 93 in August and 175 in July.
Epidemiologists consider death to be a "lagging indicator" during the pandemic because it can take weeks for a severely ill patient to die from the virus.
In the state's seven-county Metro East region adjacent to St. Louis, cases began to spike in late July. The region was put under a state-mandated mitigation plan in mid-August when the daily average rate of positive test results exceeded 8%, then climbed above 10% in early September.
In Madison County, directly across the Mississippi River from downtown St. Louis, 43 COVID-19 deaths were reported by IDPH in September, up from 26 in August and three in July.
"That's the pattern I would expect to see for a lot of reasons, because it takes a while to die from COVID," Landon said. "If you're seeing a higher mortality rate, it's because higher-risk individuals are getting COVID. It's incredibly unlikely that the younger population would have their own epidemic and not eventually spread it to older people."
Directly to the south in St. Clair County, there were 22 COVID-19 deaths in September compared to 14 the month before. Four other counties in the region had more COVID-19 deaths reported in September than in the previous two months.
The area remains under heightened restrictions for businesses and public gatherings.
Williamson County is also experiencing a significant increase in deaths from COVID-19.
The county, part of the Marion-Carbondale metropolitan statistical area, saw 36 people die from the virus in September. In August, eight people succumbed to COVID-19 infections, and just one person from the county died in July, according to IDPH figures.
Meanwhile, in Chicago and the suburban collar counties, the trend is different, according to IDPH fatality figures.
Suburban Cook County reported 79 deaths in September, compared to 84 in August and 132 in July.
There were 21 deaths in Lake County last month, down from 27 in August and 22 in July. McHenry County had three deaths in September, two in August and 16 in July. The combined infection rate in those two counties was at its highest point -- 7% -- in early September.
Kane County reported 13 deaths in September, 16 in August and 29 in July. DuPage County saw 29 people die in September, compared to 24 in August and 38 in July.
The combined average infection rate in the region with Kane and DuPage counties had steadily increased from 4.3% in mid-June until topping out at 6.2% at the end of August. It is currently 5.5%.
Will County was the only suburban county to see deaths increase over the past three months. The county recorded 22 deaths in September, 21 in August and 19 in July.
Will and Kankakee counties were placed under the same mitigation plan as the Metro East region in mid-August for nearly a month when the average infection rate exceeded 8% and peaked at 8.8% at the end of August.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Poignant firefighters memorial ceremony in Palatine

Two Palatine firefighters died 74 years ago , and the annual memorial ceremony held in their honor was as poignant @ @ @ @ @ morning .
The Palatine Fire Department 's ceremony recognized the service and sacrifice of firefighters @ @ @ @ @ Nebel , who were killed Oct. 2 , 1946 , when their fire truck en @ @ @ @ @ into a passenger train .
The ceremony was held at the Palatine Firefighters Memorial in @ @ @ @ @ the Palatine Fire Honor Guard .
a wreath presentation and ringing of the ceremonial fire @ @

Poignant firefighters memorial ceremony in Palatine
Two Palatine firefighters died 74 years ago, and the annual memorial ceremony held in their honor was as poignant and solemn as ever Thursday morning.
The Palatine Fire Department's ceremony recognized the service and sacrifice of firefighters Wesley Comfort Jr. and Leonard Nebel, who were killed Oct. 2, 1946, when their fire truck en route to a fire crashed into a passenger train.
The ceremony was held at the Palatine Firefighters Memorial in downtown Palatine. It included the Palatine Fire Honor Guard. a wreath presentation and ringing of the ceremonial fire bell.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--White Sox out of playoffs after 6-4 loss to A's

In the strangest season in major-league history , the White Sox followed suit with what was likely the most unusual game in their 120-year existence Thursday .
There were ups , downs , massive pitching changes and critical injuries in Game 3 of the opening round of the playoffs .
Heading in , the Sox knew what was at stake .
`` It 's either do or die , '' shortstop Tim Anderson said .
`` Everybody knows that we need a win , we 've got to get a win .
Each and every one of those guys know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go out and try to get a win . ''
The White Sox were following that script after jumping out to a 3-0 lead , but the bullpen was n't able to handle such a heavy workload in a 6-4 loss to the Athletics at Oakland Coliseum .
Dane Dunning got the call to start the deciding game and the rookie right-hander did get two outs .
He also gave up a leadoff single to Tommy La Stella and was lifted after Mark Canha singled with two outs .
Rookie Garrett Crochet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to end the first inning , and Luis Robert hit a 487-foot home run in the second to put the Sox in front .
Crochet struck out Khris Davis to start the second but was immediately lifted with left forearm tightness .
Eloy Jimenz was back in the lineup after missing five games with a sprained right foot , but he was taken out after doubling in the third inning .
With no tomorrow , the White Sox wound up using seven more relief pitchers in the game .
Robert added an RBI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mazara drove in runs with a double in the third and single in the fifth .
Anderson ( 3-for-5 ) became the first player in major-league history to have 9 hits in his first 3 playoff games .

Sox knocked out of playoffs, but say future is bright
The Chicago White Sox couldn't hold a 3-0 lead and fell to the Oakland A's 6-4 in Game 3 Thursday. The Sox are out of the playoffs. Associated Press
In the strangest season in major-league history, the White Sox followed suit with what was likely the most unusual game in their 120-year existence Thursday.
There were ups, downs, historic pitching changes and critical injuries in Game 3 of the opening round of the playoffs.
"I think that today's game was a unique situation," Sox manager Rick Renteria said.
Making their first trip to the postseason since 2008, the White Sox jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the deciding game before the bats went quiet and a parade of relief pitchers buckled under some heavy weight in a 6-4 loss to the Athletics at Oakland Coliseum.
The White Sox are going home after their first winning season in eight years, but their heads aren't bowed.
"It's just the start of something," said shortstop Tim Anderson, who was fantastic (9-for-14) in his playoff debut. "I think it was good for us to get in. Guys got a taste of it and I think it's just going to make them more hungry to get back there. We battled today.
"I couldn't be more happy and proud of the way we fought, and I know that we gave our all. It's a tough one to swallow, but we've got to keep going. It's just the start of something that could be great."
There were 17 pitchers used in the game -- nine by the Sox -- a major-league record for a nine-inning postseason game.
Dane Dunning got the call to start and the rookie right-hander did get two outs. He also gave up a leadoff single to Tommy La Stella and was lifted after Mark Canha singled with two outs.
Rookie Garrett Crochet relieved Dunning and struck out Matt Olson to end the first inning. After the left-hander struck out Khris Davis to start the second, he was immediately lifted with left forearm tightness.
Eloy Jimenez (foot) also left the game in the third inning after getting back into the lineup at designated hitter.
Crochet, the Sox's first-round draft pick in June threw 9 pitches and failed to hit 100-mph or higher like he usually does.
"We looked at the velocities," Renteria said. "We saw there was a dip and I just thought it was a different type of pitch, that's why we walked out there. He wasn't showing any signs. He wasn't doing anything that really indicated anything was amiss. The velocity showed something so we went out and talked to him."
Ideally, Crochet would have pitched the second and third innings and put the White Sox in a better situation.
"That was not to be," Renteria said. "I think the guys came in and tried to put zeros up as much as they possibly can and see if we can score some runs."
Luis Robert hit a 487-foot home run in the second inning and added an RBI single in the third inning. Nomar Mazara drove in runs with a double in the third and single in the fifth.
That was it for the Sox's offense, which went 3-for-14 with runners in scoring position while stranding 12 runners.
"It kind of got quiet," Anderson said. "But we put together some good (at-bats), guys fought in the box. We can live with this one. We gave our all, I know we gave our all. But this is something that I hope gets a lot of guys excited."
With the bullpen in such disarray, the usually effective Matt Foster was called upon in a rough situation. Coming on with the bases loaded and two outs in the fourth inning, Foster walked in two straight runs as the A's took a 4-3 lead.
"That's the way it goes," Renteria said. "I think the guys gave us everything they could. They left everything out there. Every single reliever, every single position player, everybody did what they could to try to keep us in a good place and we just fell a little short."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Kifowit will challenge Madigan for speakership

SPRINGFIELD -- The longest-serving state legislative speaker in U.S. history will have a challenger from his own party in January .
The Thursday announcement that Rep. Stephanie Kifowit , an Oswego Democrat representing the 84th House District , would challenge Chicago Democrat Michael Madigan as Illinois House speaker came just an hour before Republicans called a news conference to lay out their next steps in a noncriminal legislative probe of Madigan .
Kifowit 's challenge to the speaker , who has held the position for all but two years since 1983 , comes months after utility giant ComEd admitted in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and contracts worth $ 1.3 million to close Madigan associates in an effort to curry his favor for legislation that benefitted the company .
After the ComEd news broke in July , Kifowit and a few others in the House Democratic caucus called on the speaker to resign his leadership position in the House .
But Madigan reportedly called caucus members and said the `` candid conversations '' produced `` positive feedback '' that demonstrated `` continued support for me and my leadership roles . ''
At the beginning of each two-year General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A candidate would need a motion and a second to be considered by the body , and the speaker is elected by a majority vote of the 118-member House .
Madigan 's support for the position has been near-unanimous in his party through the years , and when the speaker received a lone present vote in each of the 2017 and 2019 reelection processes , the events made headlines for their rarity .
If House Democrats maintain a supermajority after November elections , Madigan could lose votes from more than 10 Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get reelected .
`` Based on my values , I was compelled on July 30 of this year to write a letter to Speaker Madigan stating that the right thing for him to do is to step down as speaker for compromising the integrity of the office and undermining the public trust , '' Kifowit said in a news release Thursday .
`` The response from Michael Madigan was to double down and has remained .
It is clear to me that he does n't hold the same values that I do and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from an elected official . ''
Kifowit 's comments echoed those of House Republicans who launched a Special Investigating Committee in late August to probe the speaker 's ComEd ties .
While Madigan has not been criminally charged and has denied wrongdoing , the House Republicans are seeking to prove through the committee that the speaker has participated in `` conduct unbecoming to a legislator or which constitutes a breach of public trust . ''
Others in Madigan 's party -- including the three Democrats named by Majority Leader Greg Harris of Chicago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to still support Madigan .
Reps. Emanuel `` Chris '' Welch of Hillside , Elizabeth Hernandez of Cicero and Natalie Manley of Joliet have pushed back on claims that Madigan 's conduct was inappropriate .
Welch also resisted a Republican motion to subpoena various players in the ComEd scandal -- including Madigan -- calling the move premature and `` out of order '' as he had not seen the subpoenas Republicans were requesting .
Madigan has declined to testify before the committee voluntarily , and the first substantive committee hearing heard testimony from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the alleged bribery scheme .
While Welch has said he is taking GOP subpoena requests under advisement , in a virtual news conference Thursday , Republicans on the investigating committee charged that Welch `` seemed intent on raising obstacles to proceeding with subpoenas . ''
The three GOP committee members said they had prepared 10 subpoenas for Welch 's perusal ahead of the next hearing -- for which Welch has not set a date -- citing authority in the Illinois Constitution .
Rep. Tom Demmer , a Dixon Republican who is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minority spokesman on the committee , said the GOP members would also like to see documents referenced in testimony at the previous hearing by ComEd Executive Vice President of Compliance and Audit David Glockner .
Rep. Deanne Mazzochi , a Elmhurst Republican , said the testimony of Glockner showed disparities between Madigan 's accounts of limited involvement in his alleged recommendation of Juan Ochoa to the ComEd board of directors , and what actually occurred according to ComEd .
Glockner testified before the committee that he is `` aware of an email '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district office to former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore with a note saying `` Speaker Madigan asked me to send this to you . ''
`` So right now our committee is looking at a profound disparity between what the speaker has said and what ComEd has testified to under oath , '' Mazzochi said .
`` And there 's many other things that we need to confirm or deny that relates to Speaker Madigan and his knowledge , his authority or lack thereof , and it needs to be done in person , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prammagiore and Ochoa all appear on the Republican subpoena list , along with others indirectly referenced in the ComEd court document .
Asked about Kifowit 's candidacy , the GOP members said she should be applauded for her `` courage '' and `` desire to see Illinois improved , '' but they said they also expect others fed up with Madigan to throw their hat into the ring for the speakership .
Mazzochi said this would be a `` great opportunity '' for Kifowit to show leadership .
`` Get your members together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a force that can join with Republicans to say , all right , we 've got 71 votes , we 're overruling Chris Welch 's decision to not issue subpoenas .
Let 's go .
Let 's bring everything forward so we can get this process moving again , '' she said .
The Republican also said having a new speaker will not mean much if House rules are not amended to give more power to rank-and-file members and less to those in leadership .
`` Unless and until I see from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they are going to actually revise the rules so that we can truly have bipartisan legislation come forward , I have concerns about that because what I do n't want to do is change the figurehead and then not change the underlying political structure , '' Mazzochi said .
Kifowit gave initial support to empowering rank-and-file members in a news conference announcing her candidacy Thursday in Chicago .
`` Members will no longer be marginalized , intimidated , bullied , coerced , subject to microaggressions , gaslighted , you name it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be subject to that , and they wo n't be when I am speaker . ''

Kifowit will challenge Madigan for speakership
House Speaker Michael Madigan has been implicated in the ComEd bribery scandal but has not been criminally charged. He denies any wrongdoing. Capitol News Illinois, 2019
SPRINGFIELD -- The longest-serving state legislative speaker in U.S. history will have a challenger from his own party in January.
The Thursday announcement that Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, an Oswego Democrat representing the 84th House District, would challenge Chicago Democrat Michael Madigan as Illinois House speaker came just an hour before Republicans called a news conference to lay out their next steps in a noncriminal legislative probe of Madigan.
Kifowit's challenge to the speaker, who has held the position for all but two years since 1983, comes months after utility giant ComEd admitted in a court agreement to handing out jobs and contracts worth $1.3 million to close Madigan associates in an effort to curry his favor for legislation that benefitted the company.
After the ComEd news broke in July, Kifowit and a few others in the House Democratic caucus called on the speaker to resign his leadership position in the House. But Madigan reportedly called caucus members and said the "candid conversations" produced "positive feedback" that demonstrated "continued support for me and my leadership roles."
At the beginning of each two-year General Assembly, the House chooses its speaker. A candidate would need a motion and a second to be considered by the body, and the speaker is elected by a majority vote of the 118-member House.
Madigan's support for the position has been near-unanimous in his party through the years, and when the speaker received a lone present vote in each of the 2017 and 2019 reelection processes, the events made headlines for their rarity.
If House Democrats maintain a supermajority after November elections, Madigan could lose votes from more than 10 Democrats and still have the necessary threshold to get reelected.
"Based on my values, I was compelled on July 30 of this year to write a letter to Speaker Madigan stating that the right thing for him to do is to step down as speaker for compromising the integrity of the office and undermining the public trust," Kifowit said in a news release Thursday. "The response from Michael Madigan was to double down and has remained. It is clear to me that he doesn't hold the same values that I do and falls short of what the public expects from an elected official."
Kifowit's comments echoed those of House Republicans who launched a Special Investigating Committee in late August to probe the speaker's ComEd ties. While Madigan has not been criminally charged and has denied wrongdoing, the House Republicans are seeking to prove through the committee that the speaker has participated in "conduct unbecoming to a legislator or which constitutes a breach of public trust."
Others in Madigan's party -- including the three Democrats named by Majority Leader Greg Harris of Chicago to the investigating committee -- have proved to still support Madigan. Reps. Emanuel "Chris" Welch of Hillside, Elizabeth Hernandez of Cicero and Natalie Manley of Joliet have pushed back on claims that Madigan's conduct was inappropriate.
Welch also resisted a Republican motion to subpoena various players in the ComEd scandal -- including Madigan -- calling the move premature and "out of order" as he had not seen the subpoenas Republicans were requesting. Madigan has declined to testify before the committee voluntarily, and the first substantive committee hearing heard testimony from a ComEd official who joined the company after the alleged bribery scheme.
While Welch has said he is taking GOP subpoena requests under advisement, in a virtual news conference Thursday, Republicans on the investigating committee charged that Welch "seemed intent on raising obstacles to proceeding with subpoenas."
The three GOP committee members said they had prepared 10 subpoenas for Welch's perusal ahead of the next hearing -- for which Welch has not set a date -- citing authority in the Illinois Constitution.
Rep. Tom Demmer, a Dixon Republican who is a deputy minority leader in the House and minority spokesman on the committee, said the GOP members would also like to see documents referenced in testimony at the previous hearing by ComEd Executive Vice President of Compliance and Audit David Glockner.
Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, a Elmhurst Republican, said the testimony of Glockner showed disparities between Madigan's accounts of limited involvement in his alleged recommendation of Juan Ochoa to the ComEd board of directors, and what actually occurred according to ComEd. Glockner testified before the committee that he is "aware of an email" from an office manager in Madigan's district office to former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore with a note saying "Speaker Madigan asked me to send this to you."
"So right now our committee is looking at a profound disparity between what the speaker has said and what ComEd has testified to under oath," Mazzochi said. "And there's many other things that we need to confirm or deny that relates to Speaker Madigan and his knowledge, his authority or lack thereof, and it needs to be done in person, and under oath."
Madigan, Prammagiore and Ochoa all appear on the Republican subpoena list, along with others indirectly referenced in the ComEd court document.
Asked about Kifowit's candidacy, the GOP members said she should be applauded for her "courage" and "desire to see Illinois improved," but they said they also expect others fed up with Madigan to throw their hat into the ring for the speakership.
Mazzochi said this would be a "great opportunity" for Kifowit to show leadership.
"Get your members together, show that you actually have enough of a force that can join with Republicans to say, all right, we've got 71 votes, we're overruling Chris Welch's decision to not issue subpoenas. Let's go. Let's bring everything forward so we can get this process moving again," she said.
The Republican also said having a new speaker will not mean much if House rules are not amended to give more power to rank-and-file members and less to those in leadership.
"Unless and until I see from the Democrats a full commitment as well that they are going to actually revise the rules so that we can truly have bipartisan legislation come forward, I have concerns about that because what I don't want to do is change the figurehead and then not change the underlying political structure," Mazzochi said.
Kifowit gave initial support to empowering rank-and-file members in a news conference announcing her candidacy Thursday in Chicago.
"Members will no longer be marginalized, intimidated, bullied, coerced, subject to microaggressions, gaslighted, you name it," she said. "Representatives should not be subject to that, and they won't be when I am speaker."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-30--As COVID-19 concerns linger, drive-through flu shot options grow

Flu shots always are recommended this time of year , but with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic there are more concerns -- and options -- for consumers .
Some businesses , such as retail pharmacies and health care providers , are offering a drive-through alternative to in-house vaccinations this season .
The option comes as some remain cautious about going inside a pharmacy or office setting , making ongoing concerns about COVID-19 a significant factor in preparing for the start of flu season .
Health officials have intensified their message regarding the need for flu vaccines , and everyone 6 months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccinated sooner rather than later .
`` This season more than ever , it is critical that Illinoisans get our flu shots , '' Dr. Ngozi Ezike , director of the Illinois Department of Public Health , said in a release last week .
To meet demand and allay fears , entities such as Jewel-Osco , Advocate Aurora Health and PediaTrust , a network of 19 Northern and Western suburban pediatrician offices , are among those offering drive-through flu vaccines .
Since the end of August , drive-through flu vaccines have been available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said Dr. Susan Sirota , a pediatrician who practices at Pediatric Partners in Highland Park and Vernon Hills .
`` Now more than ever , flu vaccines are critical for children to receive , '' said Sirota , chairwoman of PediaTrust 's board of managers .
Children are major spreaders of the flu virus , she noted .
More than half the 6,000 vaccines given at PediaTrust locations have been at the drive-through , and for the most part , patients do n't get out of their vehicles or undo their seat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive feedback , '' Sirota said .
`` It has been one of the most effective and efficient ways we 're giving care . ''
Advocate Aurora Health is offering more than a dozen drive-through clinics in the Chicago area , as well as additional pediatric drive-throughs in Wilmette , Park Ridge and Chicago 's South Side for children 6 months and older .
The clinics are by appointment only .
Visit www.advocateaurorahealth.org/flu-shot/ .
`` It is so important to get your flu shot , and so we want to offer options for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the care they need , '' said Patty Mahoney , director of physician practice management at Advocate Medical Group .
The city of Aurora announced Wednesday that it is teaming with VNA Health Care to offer drive-through flu shots every Friday in October at Phillips Park , 1000 Ray Moses Drive .
The clinics will be offered to everyone over 4 years old .
No appointments are necessary , and VNA is accepting all insurance with no co-pay or deductible .
Vaccinations will be free for those without insurance .
Morning clinics are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oct. 2 , 16 and 30 , and afternoon clinics are available from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 9 and 23 .
`` As we plan for the flu season amid COVID-19 , it is important we provide our community easy and accessible opportunities to get flu shots , '' Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin said in a news release .
The Jewel-Osco chain began offering drive-through clinics at selected locations Sept. 18 .
Participants should fill out a vaccine consent form in advance , which will be automatically sent to the applicable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , our teams took a service we have historically provided and found a way to update it to better meet our patients ' needs , '' said Chandni Clough , patient care services manager .
The Lake County Health Department also used the drive-through method twice last week in the parking lot of its Waukegan headquarters to deliver flu vaccines to about 300 county employees .
Many people are working remotely during the pandemic , and the drive-through clinics provided a convenient option without employees having to enter a building , health department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another purpose , she said .
`` We have a drive-through vaccination process in our plans for mass vaccination for COVID-19 , when a vaccine arrives , '' Goering said .
`` Our agency wanted to test the process so we can refine our plans before a vaccine is available . ''
Sixty-six percent of those surveyed in July said they definitely or likely will get a flu shot this season compared to 34 % surveyed in January , according to Rhode Island-based CVS Health .
While it does n't offer a drive-through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locations , the chain plans to administer 18 million flu shots this season , nearly double that in 2019 .

As COVID-19 concerns linger, drive-through flu shot options grow
Jerrin DiFronzo, practice manager, center, and two clinical team members from Woodfield Pediatrics in Schaumburg prepare for drive-through flu shots. Courtesy of PediaTrust
The PediaTrust network has offered drive-through flu vaccinations since the end of August. This event was in Wheaton. Courtesy of PediaTrust
Lake County employees receive drive-through flu shots last week, and some major pharmacies and medical groups are offering the drive-through option as a convenience for customers and even as practice for future COVID-19 vaccine delivery. Courtesy of Lake County Health Department
Flu shots always are recommended this time of year, but with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic there are more concerns -- and options -- for consumers.
Some businesses, such as retail pharmacies and health care providers, are offering a drive-through alternative to in-house vaccinations this season.
The option comes as some remain cautious about going inside a pharmacy or office setting, making ongoing concerns about COVID-19 a significant factor in preparing for the start of flu season.
Health officials have intensified their message regarding the need for flu vaccines, and everyone 6 months and older is being urged to be vaccinated sooner rather than later.
"This season more than ever, it is critical that Illinoisans get our flu shots," Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, said in a release last week.
To meet demand and allay fears, entities such as Jewel-Osco, Advocate Aurora Health and PediaTrust, a network of 19 Northern and Western suburban pediatrician offices, are among those offering drive-through flu vaccines.
Since the end of August, drive-through flu vaccines have been available at most offices in the PediaTrust network, said Dr. Susan Sirota, a pediatrician who practices at Pediatric Partners in Highland Park and Vernon Hills.
"Now more than ever, flu vaccines are critical for children to receive," said Sirota, chairwoman of PediaTrust's board of managers. Children are major spreaders of the flu virus, she noted.
More than half the 6,000 vaccines given at PediaTrust locations have been at the drive-through, and for the most part, patients don't get out of their vehicles or undo their seat belts.
"We have had such positive feedback," Sirota said. "It has been one of the most effective and efficient ways we're giving care."
Advocate Aurora Health is offering more than a dozen drive-through clinics in the Chicago area, as well as additional pediatric drive-throughs in Wilmette, Park Ridge and Chicago's South Side for children 6 months and older.
The clinics are by appointment only. Visit www.advocateaurorahealth.org/flu-shot/.
"It is so important to get your flu shot, and so we want to offer options for our patients to ensure they're getting the care they need," said Patty Mahoney, director of physician practice management at Advocate Medical Group.
The city of Aurora announced Wednesday that it is teaming with VNA Health Care to offer drive-through flu shots every Friday in October at Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Drive. The clinics will be offered to everyone over 4 years old.
No appointments are necessary, and VNA is accepting all insurance with no co-pay or deductible. Vaccinations will be free for those without insurance.
Morning clinics are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 2, 16 and 30, and afternoon clinics are available from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 9 and 23.
"As we plan for the flu season amid COVID-19, it is important we provide our community easy and accessible opportunities to get flu shots," Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin said in a news release.
The Jewel-Osco chain began offering drive-through clinics at selected locations Sept. 18. Participants should fill out a vaccine consent form in advance, which will be automatically sent to the applicable pharmacy.
"With the current situation, our teams took a service we have historically provided and found a way to update it to better meet our patients' needs," said Chandni Clough, patient care services manager.
The Lake County Health Department also used the drive-through method twice last week in the parking lot of its Waukegan headquarters to deliver flu vaccines to about 300 county employees.
Many people are working remotely during the pandemic, and the drive-through clinics provided a convenient option without employees having to enter a building, health department spokeswoman Hannah Goering said.
There was another purpose, she said.
"We have a drive-through vaccination process in our plans for mass vaccination for COVID-19, when a vaccine arrives," Goering said. "Our agency wanted to test the process so we can refine our plans before a vaccine is available."
Sixty-six percent of those surveyed in July said they definitely or likely will get a flu shot this season compared to 34% surveyed in January, according to Rhode Island-based CVS Health.
While it doesn't offer a drive-through flu shot option at its 378 Illinois locations, the chain plans to administer 18 million flu shots this season, nearly double that in 2019.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Census workers prompt congressman's inquiry into inefficient process

Census takers in the Schaumburg area say technical glitches are preventing them from doing their jobs and causing an `` operational nightmare , '' U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi contends in a letter to federal officials .
Multiple workers have told the Schaumburg Democrat that the software used by the government distributes cases indiscriminately , `` giving some workers 100 cases per day and some no cases , '' Krishnamoorthi wrote Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham on Wednesday .
`` Ensuring that every American is represented in the 2020 Census is crucial . ''
U.S. Census Bureau Public Information Officer Julie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issues raised by the congressman .
The workers , also called enumerators , follow up with households that have not completed the census .
They told Krishnamoorthi software malfunctions sometimes halt operations for days but senior managers ignored their complaints .
`` Census workers in my district have also reported that the enumerator process was inefficient and 'not a very well-thought-out operation , ' '' Krishnamoorthi told Dillingham .
`` The software would delete assigned cases nightly and redistribute them , so that a new enumerator might knock on a door that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worker a day earlier . ''
Some workers based at the Schaumburg census office wondered if the mishaps could be a `` deliberate attempt '' to undermine the census because senior officials had not responded to their concerns , Krishnamoorthi said .
The 2020 Census has been fraught with political fights over whether to include a citizenship question and over extending the deadline because of the pandemic .
A federal judge recently ruled the process could stretch through Oct. 31 , but U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross announced this week the census will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you not to take further adverse actions to slow the delivery of an accurate 2020 Census , '' Krishnamoorthi wrote Dillingham , asking for a response to the workers ' accusations on Friday .
Census data shows that 99.4 % of Illinois households were counted as of Wednesday compared to the national total of 98.9 % .
Of the state 's total , 71 % of households completed census reports independently so far and 28.4 % required prompting from a census taker .
In the 2010 Census , self-reporting was 70.5 % in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suburbs from the 2010 Census .
In Cook County , 66.8 % of households completed the census without assistance compared to 66.1 % in 2010 .
Similar increases in self-reporting results included : DuPage County -- 80.5 % this year and 77.3 % in 2010 ; Kane County -- 77.2 % this year and 75.2 % in 2010 ; Lake County -- 76.6 % this year and 75.5 % in 2010 ; McHenry County -- 82 % this year and 77.8 % in 2010 ; and Will County -- 78.3 % this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gov .
J.B. Pritzker has said that an undercount of just 1 % in the census could mean losing $ 195 million in federal funds .

Census workers complaints prompt congressman's look into 'operational nightmare'
Census takers in the Schaumburg area have complained of technical problems that are affecting their ability to do their jobs. Associated Press
U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi is seeking answers on concerns from Schaumburg area census takers about operational problems. Daily Herald File Photo
Census takers in the Schaumburg area say technical glitches are preventing them from doing their jobs and causing an "operational nightmare," U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi contends in a letter to federal officials.
Multiple workers have told the Schaumburg Democrat that the software used by the government distributes cases indiscriminately, "giving some workers 100 cases per day and some no cases," Krishnamoorthi wrote Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham on Wednesday. "Ensuring that every American is represented in the 2020 Census is crucial."
U.S. Census Bureau Public Information Officer Julie Iriondo said the agency is looking into the issues raised by the congressman.
The workers, also called enumerators, follow up with households that have not completed the census. They told Krishnamoorthi software malfunctions sometimes halt operations for days but senior managers ignored their complaints.
"Census workers in my district have also reported that the enumerator process was inefficient and 'not a very well-thought-out operation,'" Krishnamoorthi told Dillingham. "The software would delete assigned cases nightly and redistribute them, so that a new enumerator might knock on a door that had already been approached by another census worker a day earlier."
Some workers based at the Schaumburg census office wondered if the mishaps could be a "deliberate attempt" to undermine the census because senior officials had not responded to their concerns, Krishnamoorthi said.
The 2020 Census has been fraught with political fights over whether to include a citizenship question and over extending the deadline because of the pandemic. A federal judge recently ruled the process could stretch through Oct. 31, but U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross announced this week the census will end on Monday.
"I urge you not to take further adverse actions to slow the delivery of an accurate 2020 Census," Krishnamoorthi wrote Dillingham, asking for a response to the workers' accusations on Friday.
Census data shows that 99.4% of Illinois households were counted as of Wednesday compared to the national total of 98.9%.
Of the state's total, 71% of households completed census reports independently so far and 28.4% required prompting from a census taker. In the 2010 Census, self-reporting was 70.5% in Illinois.
Self-reporting by residents increased in the suburbs from the 2010 Census. In Cook County, 66.8% of households completed the census without assistance compared to 66.1% in 2010. Similar increases in self-reporting results included: DuPage County -- 80.5% this year and 77.3% in 2010; Kane County -- 77.2% this year and 75.2% in 2010; Lake County -- 76.6% this year and 75.5% in 2010; McHenry County -- 82% this year and 77.8% in 2010; and Will County -- 78.3% this year and 76.9% in 2010.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has said that an undercount of just 1% in the census could mean losing $195 million in federal funds.
• Daily Herald wire services contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Cubs-Marlins Game 2 postponed to Friday. Lester waits to see if he'll get another start at Wrigley.

Jon Lester is in an uncomfortable situation .
He 'll make maybe his last start at Wrigley Field in a Cubs uniform if his team can force a Game 3 in their wild card series against Miami .
But if the Cubs lose Game 2 , that 's it .
He wo n't get another start at Wrigley this season and maybe not ever .
Today 's Game 2 has been postponed due to weather .
The forecast calls for intermittent showers during the afternoon .
Game 2 is now set for Friday at 1 p.m .
If it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the start time will shift to 6 p.m. A possible Game 3 on Saturday is listed as start time to be determined .
On Thursday , Lester was asked what it 's like to watch playoff games when he 's not on the mound .
`` For me , it 's high anxiety , '' he said .
`` Especially now with all the rule changes on how we can actually watch the game .
I move around a lot , try to keep my mind occupied , going back and forth between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 're pitching .
`` I feel like the anxiety level for myself for the other guys is through the roof on that one because I want them to do well .
Then we get big situations when guys are on base and the anxiety goes up again .
`` I 'd rather pitch than sit here and watch .
I 'd rather be out there in the moment and focused on the game plan and focused on competing and focused on what I 'm trying to do than sit here and watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Cubs is in limbo .
The team holds an option for next season at a $ 25 million salary , which they 're not likely to pick up .
The 36-year-old lefthander has three World Series rings , two in Boston and one with the Cubs in 2016 .
`` If this is it there , this is it .
I have to move on with it , '' Lester said .
`` The organization will definitely move on .
You see it over the years , if somebody leaves or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with another person .
`` I 've definitely appreciated everything that this organization has done for me and I hope it 's not it .
I hope we can figure something out for next year and these conversations are kind of null and void . ''
Lester finished by thanking reporters on the Zoom call , just in case this was the last time .
`` It 's been a great six years here , '' he said .
`` But I wanted to make sure I did get to say thank you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pleasure to play here . ''

Cubs-Marlins Game 2 postponed to Friday. Lester waits to see if he'll get another start at Wrigley.
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester, center, catcher Willson Contreras, left, and third baseman Kris Bryant wait for pitching coach Tommy Hottovy Saturday during the fourth inning against the Chicago White Sox in Chicago. Associated Press
Jon Lester is in an uncomfortable situation. He'll make maybe his last start at Wrigley Field in a Cubs uniform if his team can force a Game 3 in their wild card series against Miami.
But if the Cubs lose Game 2, that's it. He won't get another start at Wrigley this season and maybe not ever.
Today's Game 2 has been postponed due to weather.
The forecast calls for intermittent showers during the afternoon.
Game 2 is now set for Friday at 1 p.m. If it is the only game being played Friday, the start time will shift to 6 p.m.
A possible Game 3 on Saturday is listed as start time to be determined.
On Thursday, Lester was asked what it's like to watch playoff games when he's not on the mound.
"For me, it's high anxiety," he said. "Especially now with all the rule changes on how we can actually watch the game. I move around a lot, try to keep my mind occupied, going back and forth between the dugout and inside, especially when we're pitching.
"I feel like the anxiety level for myself for the other guys is through the roof on that one because I want them to do well. Then we get big situations when guys are on base and the anxiety goes up again.
"I'd rather pitch than sit here and watch. I'd rather be out there in the moment and focused on the game plan and focused on competing and focused on what I'm trying to do than sit here and watch a game."
Lester's future with the Cubs is in limbo. The team holds an option for next season at a $25 million salary, which they're not likely to pick up.
The 36-year-old lefthander has three World Series rings, two in Boston and one with the Cubs in 2016.
"If this is it there, this is it. I have to move on with it," Lester said. "The organization will definitely move on. You see it over the years, if somebody leaves or goes down, you fill it in with another person.
"I've definitely appreciated everything that this organization has done for me and I hope it's not it. I hope we can figure something out for next year and these conversations are kind of null and void."
Lester finished by thanking reporters on the Zoom call, just in case this was the last time.
"It's been a great six years here," he said. "But I wanted to make sure I did get to say thank you to you guys. It's been a pleasure to play here."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Cook County Commissioner Morrison tests positive for COVID-19

Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison has tested positive for COVID-19 and is self-isolating for at least the next two weeks , his office said .
The first-term member of the county board from Mount Prospect said someone close to him began feeling symptoms on Sunday , so Morrison went to get tested first thing Monday .
Despite the results , Morrison said he is feeling well with very few symptoms .
He also said he immediately contacted people that he knowingly came in contact with and encouraged them to be tested .
Morrison said he will be self-isolating for at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Illinois and Cook County public health departments .
His announcement comes a week after he appeared at a public event in South suburban Thornton with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and other county officials to announce the launch of a county COVID-19 small business assistance program .
Nearly a month ago , Morrison and Preckwinkle joined Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes on a tour of the Arlington Heights Historical Museum .
`` All of us at Cook County look forward to having you back and healthy very soon , '' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative test result after appearing at a news conference with Gov .
J.B. Pritzker last week and learning that one of his staff members tested positive for the coronavirus .
Morrison said he will not resume any in-person activities until receiving a confirmed negative COVID-19 test .
`` I encourage everyone to continue following public health guidance and to stay safe , '' he said .
Morrison represents the 15th District , which includes portions of Arlington Heights , Barrington , Elk Grove Village , Hanover Park , Hoffman Estates , Schaumburg and @ @

Cook County Commissioner Morrison tests positive for COVID-19
Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison has tested positive for COVID-19 and is self-isolating for at least the next two weeks, his office said.
The first-term member of the county board from Mount Prospect said someone close to him began feeling symptoms on Sunday, so Morrison went to get tested first thing Monday. Despite the results, Morrison said he is feeling well with very few symptoms.
He also said he immediately contacted people that he knowingly came in contact with and encouraged them to be tested.
Morrison said he will be self-isolating for at least 14 days, per guidance of the Illinois and Cook County public health departments.
His announcement comes a week after he appeared at a public event in South suburban Thornton with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and other county officials to announce the launch of a county COVID-19 small business assistance program.
Nearly a month ago, Morrison and Preckwinkle joined Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes on a tour of the Arlington Heights Historical Museum.
On Twitter, Preckwinkle wished Morrison a speedy recovery.
"All of us at Cook County look forward to having you back and healthy very soon," she wrote.
Preckwinkle already got back a negative test result after appearing at a news conference with Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week and learning that one of his staff members tested positive for the coronavirus.
Morrison said he will not resume any in-person activities until receiving a confirmed negative COVID-19 test.
"I encourage everyone to continue following public health guidance and to stay safe," he said.
Morrison represents the 15th District, which includes portions of Arlington Heights, Barrington, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Streamwood.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--U of I's saliva test did not receive emergency authorization, FDA says

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the saliva-based coronavirus test developed by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign did not receive emergency use authorization , contradicting an announcement Gov .
J.B. Pritzker made in August .
`` The University of Illinois is not authorized under an umbrella emergency use authorization , and they have not had an emergency use authorization , '' an FDA spokesman told the Chicago Tribune .
In August , Pritzker touted the test as potential `` game-changer . ''
University students , faculty and staff on the campus , roughly 55,000 people , are required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spitting into a cup .
`` We 're routinely running 10,000 tests a day , '' Marty Burke , a chemistry professor and lead researcher on the saliva test project , said in September .
`` And you 're getting the results back in hours , not days . ''
The university can continue to administer its saliva-based test but had to change the language it uses regarding FDA regulation , according to the Chicago Tribune report .
The university blamed the situation on confusion over FDA protocols and said it believed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through a study comparing it with a separate FDA-authorized test developed by Yale University researchers , the Chicago Tribune report said .

U of I's saliva test did not receive emergency authorization, FDA says
University of Illinois students, faculty and staff on the Urbana-Champaign campus are required to get tested twice a week for COVID-19 by spitting into a cup. Courtesy of the University of Illinois, August 2020
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the saliva-based coronavirus test developed by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign did not receive emergency use authorization, contradicting an announcement Gov. J.B. Pritzker made in August.
"The University of Illinois is not authorized under an umbrella emergency use authorization, and they have not had an emergency use authorization," an FDA spokesman told the Chicago Tribune.
In August, Pritzker touted the test as potential "game-changer."
University students, faculty and staff on the campus, roughly 55,000 people, are required to get tested twice a week by spitting into a cup.
"We're routinely running 10,000 tests a day," Marty Burke, a chemistry professor and lead researcher on the saliva test project, said in September. "And you're getting the results back in hours, not days."
The university can continue to administer its saliva-based test but had to change the language it uses regarding FDA regulation, according to the Chicago Tribune report.
The university blamed the situation on confusion over FDA protocols and said it believed the saliva-based test had earned emergency use authorization through a study comparing it with a separate FDA-authorized test developed by Yale University researchers, the Chicago Tribune report said.
• Daily Herald staff writer Jake Griffin contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--One Barrington family, two Eagle Scouts

One Barrington family, two Eagle Scouts

A family in Barrington has not one , but two members who are Eagle Scouts , a rank achieved by few in the scouting community .
Blake Garrels , a senior at Barrington High School , became an Eagle Scout during a ceremony Saturday at his family 's home in Barrington .
His father , John Garrels , earned the rank 31 years ago in his native Mt .
Pleasant , Iowa .
To become an Eagle Scout , Boy Scouts must progress through all seven ranks , earn 21 merit badges , serve six months in a position of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service project , among other things .
Only 8 % of Scouts accomplished that last year , according to Boy Scouts of America .
Becoming an Eagle Scout like his dad has been his goal for years , said Blake , who joined Boy Scout Troop 29 in Barrington in the fifth grade .
`` It was challenging .
It 's a lot of learning new skills , '' the 18-year-old said .
`` I think sometime you may want to say , 'Oh , I do n't want to do this ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but , really , it teaches you valuable skills that you 'll need and use later in life . ''
John Garrels said he became an Eagle Scout two months shy of his 17th birthday after joining Cub Scouts in the third grade .
He encouraged his son to join Scouts so he could enjoy camping and outdoor activities , and also grow as a person .
`` It 's a great way to build leadership skills and build confidence in yourself , '' he said .
Blake 's dad served as assistant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four years , which gave the two further chance to bond .
Both said a highlight was a two-week camping trip to New Mexico in 2017 with other troop members .
They hiked 100 miles with their own food , water and gear .
`` This is almost like a rite of passage for Scouts , '' John Garrels said .
For his service project , Blake led a group of more than 15 Scouts , parents and friends to build six wooden benches -- four child-sized and two adult-sized -- for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barrington Area Unit District 220 .
He got $ 600 in donations for materials and researched carpentry .
His father , whose own service project was building flower planters for a nonprofit , also was a resource , Blake said .
The six benches were installed in fall 2019 in two courtyards outside the Early Learning Center .
`` The kids were really happy because they said , 'Oh , these are our size , ' '' said Barbara Romano , Blake 's service project sponsor who retired in June as principal of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Romano said she 's known the Garrels family for years because Blake was a student and his mother was PTO president at the preschool .
`` They 're a great family , '' she said .
`` They are very community-minded . ''
As for Blake , `` he 's just a wonderful young man , '' Romano said .
`` I have done several Eagle Scout projects , and this was probably the easiest in terms of communications .
We would chat , and he would always circle back with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'Is this what you meant ? '
He 's very respectful . ''
Blake also is on the varsity cross country and track teams at Barrington High and works six hours each week on Sundays and Saturdays at Heinen 's Grocery Store in Barrington .
What sets Blake apart is his dedication to helping younger kids , said Eric Johnson of Barrington , who served as Troop 29 's scoutmaster in 2018-19 .
`` They key behind making sure you 're a good leader ( in Boy Scouts ) is making sure you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to the troop and encourage the little ones to ensure they want to be you , '' Johnson said .
`` A lot of the older kids kind of slough off the younger kids .
But Blake encourages them to participate , just like someone encouraged him . ''

One Barrington family, two Eagle Scouts
Blake Garrels, left, earned the rank of Eagle Scout last weekend in a ceremony attended by 1395 Tri-County Leathernecks, Detachment 1395 of the Marine Corps League, whose member Bruce Johnson is to the right. Blake received a letter of achievement signed by David H. Berger, commandant of the United States Marine Corps. Courtesy of Jennifer Garrels
One of six benches for the Early Learning Center in Barrington that was the Eagle Scout service project for Barrington High School senior Blake Garrels. Courtesy of Jennifer Garrels
Blake Garrels, left, earned the rank of Eagle Scout last weekend. His service project was building benches for the Early Learning Center in Barrington, whose former principal Barbara Romano is to the right. Courtesy of Jennifer Garrels
Blake Garrels, left, 18, of Barrington, earned the rank of Eagle Scout last weekend, just like his father John Garrels, right, did 31 years ago. Courtesy of Jennifer Garrels
A family in Barrington has not one, but two members who are Eagle Scouts, a rank achieved by few in the scouting community.
Blake Garrels, a senior at Barrington High School, became an Eagle Scout during a ceremony Saturday at his family's home in Barrington. His father, John Garrels, earned the rank 31 years ago in his native Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.
To become an Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts must progress through all seven ranks, earn 21 merit badges, serve six months in a position of responsibility, and plan and lead a service project, among other things. Only 8% of Scouts accomplished that last year, according to Boy Scouts of America.
Becoming an Eagle Scout like his dad has been his goal for years, said Blake, who joined Boy Scout Troop 29 in Barrington in the fifth grade.
"It was challenging. It's a lot of learning new skills," the 18-year-old said. "I think sometime you may want to say, 'Oh, I don't want to do this' or 'I should quit,' but, really, it teaches you valuable skills that you'll need and use later in life."
John Garrels said he became an Eagle Scout two months shy of his 17th birthday after joining Cub Scouts in the third grade. He encouraged his son to join Scouts so he could enjoy camping and outdoor activities, and also grow as a person.
"It's a great way to build leadership skills and build confidence in yourself," he said.
Blake's dad served as assistant scoutmaster for his son's troop for four years, which gave the two further chance to bond. Both said a highlight was a two-week camping trip to New Mexico in 2017 with other troop members. They hiked 100 miles with their own food, water and gear. "This is almost like a rite of passage for Scouts," John Garrels said.
For his service project, Blake led a group of more than 15 Scouts, parents and friends to build six wooden benches -- four child-sized and two adult-sized -- for the Early Learning Center, a preschool in Barrington Area Unit District 220. He got $600 in donations for materials and researched carpentry.
His father, whose own service project was building flower planters for a nonprofit, also was a resource, Blake said.
The six benches were installed in fall 2019 in two courtyards outside the Early Learning Center. "The kids were really happy because they said, 'Oh, these are our size,'" said Barbara Romano, Blake's service project sponsor who retired in June as principal of the school. "Kids notice that."
Romano said she's known the Garrels family for years because Blake was a student and his mother was PTO president at the preschool. "They're a great family," she said. "They are very community-minded."
As for Blake, "he's just a wonderful young man," Romano said. "I have done several Eagle Scout projects, and this was probably the easiest in terms of communications. We would chat, and he would always circle back with an email or call and say, 'Is this what you meant?' He's very respectful."
Blake also is on the varsity cross country and track teams at Barrington High and works six hours each Saturday and Sunday at Heinen's Grocery Store in Barrington.
What sets Blake apart is his dedication to helping younger kids, said Eric Johnson of Barrington, who served as Troop 29's scoutmaster in 2018-19.
"They key behind making sure you're a good leader (in Boy Scouts) is making sure you're encouraging the young kids who are coming to the troop and encourage the little ones to ensure they want to be you," Johnson said. "A lot of the older kids kind of slough off the younger kids. But Blake encourages them to participate, just like someone encouraged him."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--Joffrey Ballet cancels entire 2020-21 season because of pandemic

The Joffrey Ballet has canceled the rest of its 2020-21 season due to the coronavirus pandemic .
This 25th anniversary season marking the Joffrey 's move from New York to Chicago was also to be the company 's first in its new performance home at the Lyric Opera of Chicago .
`` After once again consulting with health officials on the state of COVID-19 , we have determined that the safest course of action for our artists and audience members is to cancel the remainder of our season , '' Ashley Wheater , Joffrey Ballet artistic director , said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world premiere of Cathy Marston 's `` Of Mice and Men '' ( part of a repertory program set for Feb. 17-28 ) and the Chicago premiere of John Neumeier 's `` The Little Mermaid '' ( April 21-May 2 ) .
The Joffrey previously canceled its 2020 productions of `` Manon '' ( Oct. 14-25 ) and `` The Nutcracker '' ( Dec. 5-27 ) .
To fill the void of live performances , the Joffrey has announced the creation of The Joffrey Studio Series , virtsual programming that invites audiences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for interviews and behind-the-scenes content with artists .
The Joffrey is also planning a yearlong `` 25 for 25 '' series of free performances , programs and partnerships with peer organizations from around the city .
For information on refunds , donations and other projects , visit joffrey.org .

Joffrey Ballet cancels entire 2020-21 season because of pandemic
The Joffrey Ballet has canceled the rest of its 2020-21 season, which included the Chicago premiere of John Neumeier's "The Little Mermaid" from April 21-May 2. Courtesy of Kiran West
The Joffrey Ballet has canceled the rest of its 2020-21 season due to the ongoing coronavirus. Pictured is the company performing George Balanchine's "The Four Temperaments." Courtesy of Cheryl Mann
The Joffrey Ballet has canceled the rest of its 2020-21 season due to the coronavirus pandemic.
This 25th anniversary season marking the Joffrey's move from New York to Chicago was also to be the company's first in its new performance home at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
"After once again consulting with health officials on the state of COVID-19, we have determined that the safest course of action for our artists and audience members is to cancel the remainder of our season," Ashley Wheater, Joffrey Ballet artistic director, said in a statement.
Canceled 2021 productions include the world premiere of Cathy Marston's "Of Mice and Men" (part of a repertory program set for Feb. 17-28) and the Chicago premiere of John Neumeier's "The Little Mermaid" (April 21-May 2). The Joffrey previously canceled its 2020 productions of "Manon" (Oct. 14-25) and "The Nutcracker" (Dec. 5-27).
To fill the void of live performances, the Joffrey has announced the creation of The Joffrey Studio Series, virtsual programming that invites audiences to the Chicago studios at Joffrey Tower for interviews and behind-the-scenes content with artists. The Joffrey is also planning a yearlong "25 for 25" series of free performances, programs and partnerships with peer organizations from around the city.
For information on refunds, donations and other projects, visit joffrey.org.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-30--Patios, pizza, masks and more: Suburban sports bars tweak playbooks for fall sports

Many Americans first began to wake up to the threat of COVID-19 when the NBA indefinitely suspended its season on March 11 after a player tested positive for the virus .
Since then , the pandemic has fundamentally transformed the way we live , work and watch sports .
As October begins , however , sports fans have plenty of pro teams to cheer on .
The delayed basketball season means the playoffs are happening at the same time as MLB 's postseason action as well as football season .
And local sports bars are balancing social distancing requirements with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get out of the house and catch a game .
If you 're not ready for that , they also provide carryout specials so you can have your watch party at home .
We 've put together a look at a few places that are offering specials and other activities to give sports fans a little taste of normalcy .
State restrictions on mask-wearing , group size and capacity remain in effect , so call ahead to ensure that there 's space available before heading out and to find out about outdoor dining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9:30 p.m. at the Streamwood bar , which offers a free halftime buffet and jersey raffles when the Bears play .
They also sell hand sanitizer if you 're still having a hard time finding it in stores and they offer margaritas and mimosas to go if you feel safer celebrating at home .
Shawn Gaynor watches sports while dining on a basketball-themed pizza at Coach 's Corner in Elk Grove Village .
Shawn Gaynor watches sports while dining on a basketball-themed pizza at Coach 's Corner in Elk Grove Village .
Coach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inside or on the covered patio while taking advantage of a Playoff Pizza special offering a 12-inch pie for $ 9.99 plus the cost of added ingredients , a 20 % discount from the regular price .
Daily specials include $ 4 craft drafts on Thursdays , $ 5 Long Island iced teas on Fridays , and $ 6 jumbo Bloody Marys and Mai Tais on the weekend .
Masks are required to enter .
Watch your favorite NFL team inside the bar or on the patio while enjoying $ 5 Bloody Marys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burgers on Sundays and half-price pizzas , $ 4 draft beer and $ 14 domestic buckets on Mondays .
On Monday you can also play free bingo for prizes .
Dine inside or on the bar 's patio while the Bears play and take advantage of gameday specials including a $ 6 platter of six wings and fries , $ 1.50 chicken or beef tacos , $ 4 14-ounce craft drafts , $ 5 Svedka Bloody Marys with a light beer chaser , and $ 10 buckets of four domestic bottles .
White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dining on a baseball-shaped playoff pizza at Coach 's Corner in Elk Grove Village .
White Sox fan John Schlie watches baseball while dining on a baseball-shaped playoff pizza at Coach 's Corner in Elk Grove Village .
Miller 's Ale House The chain is offering a special combo menu throughout football season that includes a cheeseburger , fries and a pint of Miller Lite for $ 10.95 , and 10 wings and a Miller Lite for $ 13.95 .
The Tailgater , a half-rack of ribs , an order of the restaurant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in sauce ) , coleslaw and a choice of side , is available for dine-in or take home on game days for $ 16.95 .
Miller 's has taken a variety of precautions to help keep diners and employees safe including adding service indicator signs that you can put up when you want someone to come to your table so you can ensure you 're masked when servers arrive .
There are no indoor waits -- you 'll get a text message when your table is ready -- and there are marked routes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wo n't be too close to other diners .
The bar is teaming up with the Rolling Meadows Park District for a party in the parking lot from 4:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday , Oct. 8 , when you can watch the Bears take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a jumbotron .
Bring a chair to the socially distanced bash , which kicks off with live music from The Donner Brothers from 5-7 p.m. and includes a half-time raffle , prizes and giveaways .
Pick up a tailgate party pack for carryout Sundays and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a $ 50 package including 40 wings , 15 pretzels , cheese curds , guacamole , and chips and salsa , or a $ 100 combo with 75 wings , 25 pretzels and bruschetta along with the other appetizers .
You can also add a six-pack of beer or a growler for $ 15 .
Preorders are appreciated ; no substitutions are allowed .

Patios, pizza, masks and more: Suburban sports bars tweak playbooks for fall sports
Many Americans first began to wake up to the threat of COVID-19 when the NBA indefinitely suspended its season on March 11 after a player tested positive for the virus. Since then, the pandemic has fundamentally transformed the way we live, work and watch sports.
As October begins, however, sports fans have plenty of pro teams to cheer on.
The delayed basketball season means the playoffs are happening at the same time as MLB's postseason action as well as football season. And local sports bars are balancing social distancing requirements with the desire to welcome customers looking to get out of the house and catch a game. If you're not ready for that, they also provide carryout specials so you can have your watch party at home.
We've put together a look at a few places that are offering specials and other activities to give sports fans a little taste of normalcy. State restrictions on mask-wearing, group size and capacity remain in effect, so call ahead to ensure that there's space available before heading out and to find out about outdoor dining options.
Chicago Loop Sports Bar & Grill
7 W. Streamwood Blvd., Streamwood, (630) 830-2565 or chicago-loop.com
Outdoor dining is open until 9:30 p.m. at the Streamwood bar, which offers a free halftime buffet and jersey raffles when the Bears play. They also sell hand sanitizer if you're still having a hard time finding it in stores and they offer margaritas and mimosas to go if you feel safer celebrating at home.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer Shawn Gaynor watches sports while dining on a basketball-themed pizza at Coach's Corner in Elk Grove Village.
152 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village, (847) 956-1818 or dacoachs.com
Sit inside or on the covered patio while taking advantage of a Playoff Pizza special offering a 12-inch pie for $9.99 plus the cost of added ingredients, a 20% discount from the regular price. Daily specials include $4 craft drafts on Thursdays, $5 Long Island iced teas on Fridays, and $6 jumbo Bloody Marys and Mai Tais on the weekend. Masks are required to enter.
Draft Picks
912 S. Busse Road, Mount Prospect, (847) 290-9000 or draftpicksmtprospect.com
Watch your favorite NFL team inside the bar or on the patio while enjoying $5 Bloody Marys, $4 mimosas and $2 burgers on Sundays and half-price pizzas, $4 draft beer and $14 domestic buckets on Mondays. On Monday you can also play free bingo for prizes.
Finn McCool's Irish Sports Pub
1941 E. Algonquin Road, Schaumburg, (847) 303-5100 or finnmccoolschicago.com/schaumburg
Dine inside or on the bar's patio while the Bears play and take advantage of gameday specials including a $6 platter of six wings and fries, $1.50 chicken or beef tacos, $4 14-ounce craft drafts, $5 Svedka Bloody Marys with a light beer chaser, and $10 buckets of four domestic bottles.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer White Sox fan John Schlie watches baseball while dining on a baseball-shaped playoff pizza at Coach's Corner in Elk Grove Village.
778 N. Route 59, Aurora, (630) 332-8574; 455 Butterfield Road, Lombard, (630) 241-3371; and 1300 N. Meacham Road, Schaumburg, (847) 598-1090; millersalehouse.com
The chain is offering a special combo menu throughout football season that includes a cheeseburger, fries and a pint of Miller Lite for $10.95, and 10 wings and a Miller Lite for $13.95. The Tailgater, a half-rack of ribs, an order of the restaurant's signature Zingers (chicken fingers tossed in sauce), coleslaw and a choice of side, is available for dine-in or take home on game days for $16.95.
Miller's has taken a variety of precautions to help keep diners and employees safe including adding service indicator signs that you can put up when you want someone to come to your table so you can ensure you're masked when servers arrive. There are no indoor waits -- you'll get a text message when your table is ready -- and there are marked routes taking you to the bathrooms so you won't be too close to other diners.
Rep's Place
3200 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows, (224) 347-2916 or repsplace.com
The bar is teaming up with the Rolling Meadows Park District for a party in the parking lot from 4:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, when you can watch the Bears take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a jumbotron. Bring a chair to the socially distanced bash, which kicks off with live music from The Donner Brothers from 5-7 p.m. and includes a half-time raffle, prizes and giveaways.
Tap House Grill
56 W. Wilson St., Palatine, (847) 934-3000, and 3341 W. Main St., St. Charles, (630) 443-1664, taphousegrills.com
Pick up a tailgate party pack for carryout Sundays and Mondays throughout football season, choosing from a $50 package including 40 wings, 15 pretzels, cheese curds, guacamole, and chips and salsa, or a $100 combo with 75 wings, 25 pretzels and bruschetta along with the other appetizers. You can also add a six-pack of beer or a growler for $15. Preorders are appreciated; no substitutions are allowed.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-30--Neighbors turn out to oppose townhouses near Prospect Heights park

A group of neighbors voiced strong opposition Wednesday to a proposal for 69 townhouses on a nearly 10-acre site in Prospect Heights that would include the former Jolly Fun House Academy and a possible land swap with the Prospect Heights Park District at John Muir Park .
City council members gave their first hearing to the Lexington Homes proposal Wednesday night .
But members of the plan/zoning board had previously recommended every aspect of it except a variance that would reduce the required separation of four of the 12 buildings from the northern property line from 50 feet to 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that request as well for 1001 Oak Ave. , showing aldermen a plan to landscape its side of the fence to ensure privacy for residents on both sides .
The city council could grant preliminary approval at its next meeting on Oct. 12 .
But more than 15 neighboring residents and an attorney working with some of them argued that such an approval would be against their wishes .
`` No one has been able to explain any real benefit to this project , '' resident Hilary Feldman said .
`` As a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see open land go . ''
Neighbor Steve Drake was even more to the point .
`` You work for us , and we soundly reject it , '' he told the council of the proposal .
`` If you approve it , we have no choice but to take legal action . ''
The former Jolly Fun House Academy site is 5.23 acres , but the developer 's proposed land swap with the park district would expand it to 9.72 acres , of which 64.2 % would remain dedicated open space .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the board of commissioners has not yet discussed a land swap in great detail but is observing the city 's response to the proposal .
Lexington Homes has an alternate plan , which is n't being actively pursued , for only 61 units on the former Jolly Fun House Academy site alone .
Prospect Heights Director of Building & Development Dan Peterson clarified that the proposal currently before the council is for preliminary approval only .
Final approval , if it became a possibility , would be months away after Lexington Homes completed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the park district .

Neighbors turn out to oppose townhouses near Prospect Heights park
The garages would be in the the back of the townhouse buildings Lexington Homes wants to build on the former site of the Jolly Fun House Academy at 1001 Oak Ave. in Prospect Heights. Courtesy of Prospect Heights
This rendering shows the front of one of the 12 townhouse buildings Lexington Homes is seeking to build on the former site of the Jolly Fun House Academy at 1001 Oak Ave. in Prospect Heights. Courtesy of Prospect Heights
A group of neighbors voiced strong opposition Wednesday to a proposal for 69 townhouses on a nearly 10-acre site in Prospect Heights that would include the former Jolly Fun House Academy and a possible land swap with the Prospect Heights Park District at John Muir Park.
City council members gave their first hearing to the Lexington Homes proposal Wednesday night. But members of the plan/zoning board had previously recommended every aspect of it except a variance that would reduce the required separation of four of the 12 buildings from the northern property line from 50 feet to 25 feet.
Lexington Homes is still pursuing that request as well for 1001 Oak Ave., showing aldermen a plan to landscape its side of the fence to ensure privacy for residents on both sides.
The city council could grant preliminary approval at its next meeting on Oct. 12.
But more than 15 neighboring residents and an attorney working with some of them argued that such an approval would be against their wishes.
"No one has been able to explain any real benefit to this project," resident Hilary Feldman said. "As a nature lover, I always hate to see open land go."
Neighbor Steve Drake was even more to the point.
"You work for us, and we soundly reject it," he told the council of the proposal. "If you approve it, we have no choice but to take legal action."
The former Jolly Fun House Academy site is 5.23 acres, but the developer's proposed land swap with the park district would expand it to 9.72 acres, of which 64.2% would remain dedicated open space.
Park District Executive Director Christina Ferraro said the board of commissioners has not yet discussed a land swap in great detail but is observing the city's response to the proposal.
Lexington Homes has an alternate plan, which isn't being actively pursued, for only 61 units on the former Jolly Fun House Academy site alone.
Prospect Heights Director of Building & Development Dan Peterson clarified that the proposal currently before the council is for preliminary approval only.
Final approval, if it became a possibility, would be months away after Lexington Homes completed further details and the potential land swap with the park district.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-01--In-person school debate sparking interest in District 70 school board election

A vacancy has been created on the Libertyville Elementary District 70 school board , and interest in filling it could serve as a barometer for the April election , when that and four other seats will be on the ballot .
Four candidates running as a slate already have announced their candidacies , with more expected .
The period to file nominating petitions is Dec. 14 to Dec. 29 .
For District 70 , the immediate need is a short-term vacancy .
Linda Lucke , who was elected in 2015 and was serving her second 4-year term , resigned effective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district Learning Center director , Lucke cited a family move outside the district as the reason for leaving .
`` The entire school community benefited from her dedication and teacher perspective , '' said board President Tom Vickers .
`` Linda brought a calm and insightful perspective to every issue . ''
Applicants are being sought to fill the vacancy .
The appointed person would serve until the consolidated election April 6 , when voters will fill the two remaining years on Lucke 's term .
Applicants must be 18 or older , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have lived in District 70 for at least a year .
Applications and letters of interest can be mailed or dropped off at the Education Resource Center , 1381 W. Lake St. , Libertyville ; emailed to rbourgeois @ d70schools.org ; or faxed to the attention of Rose Bourgeois at ( 847 ) 362-3003 .
The deadline for applications and letters of interest is noon Oct. 21 .
A new member is expected to be appointed in time for the Nov. 23 school board meeting .
Interested applicants also are encouraged to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the remaining two years on Lucke 's term or a 4-year term .
At least two of the four incumbents will not be running for reelection .
Vickers said he wo n't seek a fourth term and board member Chris Coughlin said he 'll be running instead for the Libertyville-Vernon Hills Area High School District 128 school board .
Interest in how the district is governed has risen in recent weeks as some parents have questioned the decision to begin the school year with virtual learning .
A Facebook group called Libertyville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 200 attended a Sept. 21 rally in favor of returning students to classrooms .
This past Tuesday four candidates running on a slate called `` Parents Delivering Leadership '' announced plans to run for the school board .
The group includes rally organizer Evan Williamson , a health care data and analytics expert and co-founder of the in-person school group .
His running mates are Lauren Marks , a speech language pathologist ; Travis McGhee , an executive with a global trading firm ; and Callie Johnson , a school nurse in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four felt compelled to run , according to the announcement of their candidacy , to deliver leadership for the current coronavirus crisis and beyond .
The school board has failed `` by not acting quickly , decisively and creatively to get Libertyville kids and teachers safely back into the classrooms , '' Williamson said in the announcement .

In-person school debate sparking interest in District 70 school board election
A vacancy has been created on the Libertyville Elementary District 70 school board, and interest in filling it could serve as a barometer for the April election, when that and four other seats will be on the ballot.
Four candidates running as a slate already have announced their candidacies, with more expected. The period to file nominating petitions is Dec. 14 to Dec. 29.
For District 70, the immediate need is a short-term vacancy.
Linda Lucke, who was elected in 2015 and was serving her second 4-year term, resigned effective Sept. 26. A former teacher and district Learning Center director, Lucke cited a family move outside the district as the reason for leaving.
"The entire school community benefited from her dedication and teacher perspective," said board President Tom Vickers. "Linda brought a calm and insightful perspective to every issue."
Applicants are being sought to fill the vacancy. The appointed person would serve until the consolidated election April 6, when voters will fill the two remaining years on Lucke's term. Applicants must be 18 or older, a registered voter and U.S. citizen, and have lived in District 70 for at least a year.
Applications and letters of interest can be mailed or dropped off at the Education Resource Center, 1381 W. Lake St., Libertyville; emailed to rbourgeois@d70schools.org; or faxed to the attention of Rose Bourgeois at (847) 362-3003.
The deadline for applications and letters of interest is noon Oct. 21. A new member is expected to be appointed in time for the Nov. 23 school board meeting.
Interested applicants also are encouraged to file to be on the April ballot for the remaining two years on Lucke's term or a 4-year term.
At least two of the four incumbents will not be running for reelection. Vickers said he won't seek a fourth term and board member Chris Coughlin said he'll be running instead for the Libertyville-Vernon Hills Area High School District 128 school board.
Interest in how the district is governed has risen in recent weeks as some parents have questioned the decision to begin the school year with virtual learning. A Facebook group called Libertyville for In-Person Schooling has formed, and about 200 attended a Sept. 21 rally in favor of returning students to classrooms.
This past Tuesday four candidates running on a slate called "Parents Delivering Leadership" announced plans to run for the school board. The group includes rally organizer Evan Williamson, a health care data and analytics expert and co-founder of the in-person school group.
His running mates are Lauren Marks, a speech language pathologist; Travis McGhee, an executive with a global trading firm; and Callie Johnson, a school nurse in Oak Grove Elementary District 68.
The four felt compelled to run, according to the announcement of their candidacy, to deliver leadership for the current coronavirus crisis and beyond.
The school board has failed "by not acting quickly, decisively and creatively to get Libertyville kids and teachers safely back into the classrooms," Williamson said in the announcement.