dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Rozner: Can Jordan, Bulls docuseries arrive in time?

On Sunday mornings , I 'm usually up by 5 or 6 o'clock .
Old habits , as it were .
No longer prepping for a radio show , I am allowed the joys of European Tour golf , which generally hits the back nine of the final round as I 'm pouring my first cup .
Sometimes , if lucky , the leaders are just teeing off overseas .
Minus such treats , on a recent Sunday morning as I flipped through hundreds of useless channels -- yeah , the unplugging is coming as soon as I get out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left me on a channel with `` Hogan 's Heroes . ''
It was a solid three minutes before I was conscious again and able to switch to something less painful , though it 's not the worst thing I 've seen .
No , that has to go to ESPN 's `` World Axe Throwing Championship , '' which the four-letter network spells with an `` e '' at the end of `` ax . ''
If our own Grammar Moses has a problem with that , and there 's little doubt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can take it up with them .
As usual , I digress , though it 's not like we do n't have time for it .
To borrow from `` Good Will Hunting '' and the fine words of Morgan while watching a Little League game , `` What are we gon na do that we ca n't spare 15 minutes ? ''
Sort of where we are right now .
I 've been getting out of the house for a run every day , and nearly every day I watch a game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home .
The swans seem to be guarding a net , or nest I suppose , though at times they vacate , perhaps trying to create offense in the final minute .
It 's unclear what team the ducks or geese are on , but since nearly everyone hates geese , I assume they 're facing off against the rest of the paddlers .
It 's uncertain how they keep score , but each day I gain more insight into how the game is played .
And live sports are hard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like I may have gone 'round the bend , I wo n't argue , but I also watched an eight-part series on Netflix called , `` Cricket Fever : Mumbai Indians . ''
It was fascinating .
Really .
And by the end , I was starting to get a handle on how they keep score .
Except not so much .
It was still entertaining , all usual sarcasm aside .
There will be more searching and desperation over the next few weeks , at least until 8 p.m. April 19 when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its Michael Jordan docuseries , `` The Last Dance . ''
Running two shows every Sunday for five weeks , ESPN moved up the release by two months to give fans something to watch .
`` As society navigates this time without live sports , viewers are still looking to the sports world to escape and enjoy a collective experience .
We 've heard the calls from fans asking us to move up the release date for this series , '' ESPN said in a statement released Tuesday .
`` We 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to accelerate the production schedule to do just that .
`` We hope it can serve as a unifying entertainment experience to fill the role that sports often play in our lives , telling a story that will captivate everyone , not just sports fans . ''
Joining fans lobbying for the series have been current and former NBA players wanting the early release of a look at the Bulls ' dynasty , with exclusive footage gained by an NBA Entertainment crew that followed the Bulls throughout the 1997-98 season , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Michael Jordan and the '90s Bulls were n't just sports superstars .
They were a global phenomenon , '' director Jason Hehir said in a statement .
`` Making 'The Last Dance ' was an incredible opportunity to explore the extraordinary impact of one man and one team .
`` For nearly three years , we searched far and wide to present the definitive story of an era-defining dynasty and to present these sports heroes as humans .
I hope viewers enjoy watching our series , as much as we enjoyed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's not cricket , or confusing pond sports .
But it 'll do in a pinch .

Rozner: Can Jordan, Bulls docuseries arrive in time?
Michael Jordan pours champagne on Dennis Rodman in the locker room after the Bulls beat Utah Jazz in Game 6 the 1998 NBA Finals. Daily Herald File Photo
On Sunday mornings, I'm usually up by 5 or 6 o'clock.
Old habits, as it were.
No longer prepping for a radio show, I am allowed the joys of European Tour golf, which generally hits the back nine of the final round as I'm pouring my first cup.
Sometimes, if lucky, the leaders are just teeing off overseas.
Minus such treats, on a recent Sunday morning as I flipped through hundreds of useless channels -- yeah, the unplugging is coming as soon as I get out of contract jail -- the remote somehow left me on a channel with "Hogan's Heroes."
It was a solid three minutes before I was conscious again and able to switch to something less painful, though it's not the worst thing I've seen.
No, that has to go to ESPN's "World Axe Throwing Championship," which the four-letter network spells with an "e" at the end of "ax."
If our own Grammar Moses has a problem with that, and there's little doubt Jim Baumann will be disturbed, he can take it up with them.
As usual, I digress, though it's not like we don't have time for it. To borrow from "Good Will Hunting" and the fine words of Morgan while watching a Little League game, "What are we gonna do that we can't spare 15 minutes?"
Sort of where we are right now.
I've been getting out of the house for a run every day, and nearly every day I watch a game being played on a pond not far from home.
The swans seem to be guarding a net, or nest I suppose, though at times they vacate, perhaps trying to create offense in the final minute. It's unclear what team the ducks or geese are on, but since nearly everyone hates geese, I assume they're facing off against the rest of the paddlers.
It's uncertain how they keep score, but each day I gain more insight into how the game is played. And live sports are hard to find right now.
If it sounds like I may have gone 'round the bend, I won't argue, but I also watched an eight-part series on Netflix called, "Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians."
It was fascinating. Really. And by the end, I was starting to get a handle on how they keep score. Except not so much.
It was still entertaining, all usual sarcasm aside.
There will be more searching and desperation over the next few weeks, at least until 8 p.m. April 19 when ESPN gives us the first two episodes of its Michael Jordan docuseries, "The Last Dance."
Running two shows every Sunday for five weeks, ESPN moved up the release by two months to give fans something to watch.
"As society navigates this time without live sports, viewers are still looking to the sports world to escape and enjoy a collective experience. We've heard the calls from fans asking us to move up the release date for this series," ESPN said in a statement released Tuesday. "We're happy to announce that we've been able to accelerate the production schedule to do just that.
"We hope it can serve as a unifying entertainment experience to fill the role that sports often play in our lives, telling a story that will captivate everyone, not just sports fans."
Joining fans lobbying for the series have been current and former NBA players wanting the early release of a look at the Bulls' dynasty, with exclusive footage gained by an NBA Entertainment crew that followed the Bulls throughout the 1997-98 season, and the last of their six titles.
"Michael Jordan and the '90s Bulls weren't just sports superstars. They were a global phenomenon," director Jason Hehir said in a statement. "Making 'The Last Dance' was an incredible opportunity to explore the extraordinary impact of one man and one team.
"For nearly three years, we searched far and wide to present the definitive story of an era-defining dynasty and to present these sports heroes as humans. I hope viewers enjoy watching our series, as much as we enjoyed the opportunity to make it."
Well, it's not cricket, or confusing pond sports.
But it'll do in a pinch.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Cancer patient serving 4 years for THC chocolates out of prison thanks to governor

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker has commuted the four-year prison sentence of a cancer patient who had nearly 43 pounds of THC-infused chocolates delivered to his house in Montgomery .
Thomas J. Franzen , 37 , was discharged from the minimum-security wing at the Stateville Correctional Center Monday afternoon and is staying with his father in Sugar Grove .
That night , they ate a dinner of New York strip steaks as Franzen tried to comprehend the last 24 hours .
`` I prayed every night and day this day would come .
I figured ( the governor ) was busy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview .
`` It 's definitely surreal . ''
Franzen , who has battled various forms of cancer since he was in high school , was arrested and charged with felony cannabis trafficking in February 2014 after having nearly 43 pounds of THC chocolates mailed to his house .
Franzen had a medical marijuana card at the time , but possessed significantly more than what was allowed and he ordered it from out of state , which was illegal .
He faced a minimum of 12 years in prison to be served at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe charge .
Prosecutors argued Franzen was selling the drugs for profit , but Franzen contended the chocolates were needed to self medicate .
In June 2019 , he pleaded guilty to a reduced felony marijuana charge and was sentenced to the minimum four years in prison that could be cut in half for good behavior .
Defense attorney David Camic argued in October 2019 before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board that Franzen 's sentence should be commuted or Pritzker should issue a pardon .
In the past nine months , Franzen 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical treatment he was promised , his health was declining and they feared he could die while awaiting Pritzker 's decision .
`` The whole family is ecstatic .
They think it saved his life , '' Camic said .
`` It would be easy to look back and say this should have happened sooner .
But everybody 's gratified that he 's out and getting better medical care . ''
Lindsey Hess , spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Corrections , said Franzen 's sentence was commuted Monday to time served and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandatory supervised release , or parole .
Hess said neither the department nor the state 's Prisoner Review Board comments on the reasons the governor grants or denies a request for executive clemency .
A message left with Pritzker 's spokesperson Tuesday was not immediately returned .
Franzen 's father , Michael , said he was grateful his son was home and called the four-year sentence `` harsh from the beginning . ''
`` I was hopeful .
I talked to him at least once a day on the phone .
We were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the elder Franzen said .
`` I 'm still concerned about his health . ''
Thomas Franzen did n't want to talk too much about his criminal case .
He said his next steps were contacting his parole officer and calling his doctors for a CT scan .
Franzen said he was grateful for Pritzker 's decision and happy to be home , even more as the COVID-19 virus spread to the prison .
He hopes he can return to work as a graphic designer for Whole Foods .
`` It still really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be honest , '' he said .
`` It 's surreal at the moment . ''

Cancer patient serving 4 years for THC chocolates out of prison thanks to governor
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has commuted the four-year prison sentence of a cancer patient who had nearly 43 pounds of THC-infused chocolates delivered to his house in Montgomery.
Thomas J. Franzen, 37, was discharged from the minimum-security wing at the Stateville Correctional Center Monday afternoon and is staying with his father in Sugar Grove.
That night, they ate a dinner of New York strip steaks as Franzen tried to comprehend the last 24 hours.
"I prayed every night and day this day would come. I figured (the governor) was busy," Franzen said in a phone interview. "It's definitely surreal."
Franzen, who has battled various forms of cancer since he was in high school, was arrested and charged with felony cannabis trafficking in February 2014 after having nearly 43 pounds of THC chocolates mailed to his house.
Franzen had a medical marijuana card at the time, but possessed significantly more than what was allowed and he ordered it from out of state, which was illegal. He faced a minimum of 12 years in prison to be served at 75% if convicted of the most severe charge.
Prosecutors argued Franzen was selling the drugs for profit, but Franzen contended the chocolates were needed to self medicate.
In June 2019, he pleaded guilty to a reduced felony marijuana charge and was sentenced to the minimum four years in prison that could be cut in half for good behavior.
Defense attorney David Camic argued in October 2019 before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board that Franzen's sentence should be commuted or Pritzker should issue a pardon.
In the past nine months, Franzen's family said he was not getting the medical treatment he was promised, his health was declining and they feared he could die while awaiting Pritzker's decision.
"The whole family is ecstatic. They think it saved his life," Camic said. "It would be easy to look back and say this should have happened sooner. But everybody's gratified that he's out and getting better medical care."
Lindsey Hess, spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Corrections, said Franzen's sentence was commuted Monday to time served and he was to complete two years of mandatory supervised release, or parole.
Hess said neither the department nor the state's Prisoner Review Board comments on the reasons the governor grants or denies a request for executive clemency.
A message left with Pritzker's spokesperson Tuesday was not immediately returned.
Franzen's father, Michael, said he was grateful his son was home and called the four-year sentence "harsh from the beginning."
"I was hopeful. I talked to him at least once a day on the phone. We weren't going to give up," the elder Franzen said. "I'm still concerned about his health."
Thomas Franzen didn't want to talk too much about his criminal case. He said his next steps were contacting his parole officer and calling his doctors for a CT scan.
Franzen said he was grateful for Pritzker's decision and happy to be home, even more as the COVID-19 virus spread to the prison. He hopes he can return to work as a graphic designer for Whole Foods.
"It still really hasn't hit me yet, to be honest," he said. "It's surreal at the moment."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Brewery owner says businesses might work together to create 'Long Grove survival kit'

Some Long Grove businesses might band together for a proposed promotion intended to generate sales during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Buffalo Creek Brewing owner Mike Marr brought up the idea of a `` Long Grove survival kit '' during a business-oriented webinar hosted by the village Monday night .
It would include Buffalo Creek beer and other Long Grove favorites .
Village President Bill Jacob , business owners , members of Long Grove 's advisory economic development commission and a representative from the state 's Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity were among the 35 participants in the session that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It also was an opportunity for Long Grove 's business community to connect and float ideas over the video conference .
Marr said the Long Grove survival kits would allow businesses to go beyond the common customer engagement that 's occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic , such as promotional emails and social media posts .
`` So , we 'll be the host business where we 'll package everything together and just have one price where someone can come in and buy the whole package , '' Marr said .
`` You know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some popcorn , some beer , some menus from all the local restaurants , their hours that they 're doing curbside delivery , things like that so that we can really get that information out there . ''
Long Grove is doing what it can to support the businesses in town , Village Manager David Lothspeich said .
He said one way the village will assist is by not requiring approval for temporary signs , which some businesses have been compelled to install to signal being open .
`` Again , we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Lothspeich told the business operators .
`` We 're not looking for any kind of active enforcement on anything .
But I just ask that everyone remain reasonable in what you 're doing , and if you have any questions to contact us . ''
Village officials had voiced optimism about the downtown business district 's future after the historic bridge over Buffalo Creek was reopened for the winter holidays .
That followed the completion of the Robert Parker Coffin Road improvement project .
Other projects since June 2018 included an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the downtown 's first streetlights .
Crews were out Tuesday working on upgrades for the 114-year-old bridge that has been moved west of the creek and sits on the side of Coffin Road .
After abutment repairs by the water , the one-lane Coffin Road span will be reinstalled and topped with a new timber cover .
Signs off Route 53 near Coffin Road and elsewhere in the area warn drivers the bridge is expected to be closed through July 30 .
It has been shut since March 19 .
Heavy damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oversized box truck plowed into the top of the structure in June 2018 , about two weeks the bridge landed on the National Register of Historic Places .
Constructed in 1906 by the Joliet Bridge and Iron Co. , the structure is a rare surviving example of a pin-connected pony truss bridge built for an urban setting , according to documents submitted by for the national landmark process .
The cover was added in 1972 to help preserve the bridge and limit traffic from trucks and other heavy vehicles .

Brewery owner says businesses might work together to create 'Long Grove survival kit'
Buffalo Creek Brewing owner Mike Marr is proposing a "Long Grove survival kit" to help businesses make it through the COVID-19 pandemic. It would include Buffalo Creek beer and other Long Grove favorites. Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations
Some Long Grove businesses might band together for a proposed promotion intended to generate sales during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Buffalo Creek Brewing owner Mike Marr brought up the idea of a "Long Grove survival kit" during a business-oriented webinar hosted by the village Monday night. It would include Buffalo Creek beer and other Long Grove favorites.
Village President Bill Jacob, business owners, members of Long Grove's advisory economic development commission and a representative from the state's Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity were among the 35 participants in the session that included information about financial assistance programs.
It also was an opportunity for Long Grove's business community to connect and float ideas over the video conference.
Marr said the Long Grove survival kits would allow businesses to go beyond the common customer engagement that's occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as promotional emails and social media posts.
"So, we'll be the host business where we'll package everything together and just have one price where someone can come in and buy the whole package," Marr said. "You know, it will be some chocolates, some popcorn, some beer, some menus from all the local restaurants, their hours that they're doing curbside delivery, things like that so that we can really get that information out there."
Long Grove is doing what it can to support the businesses in town, Village Manager David Lothspeich said. He said one way the village will assist is by not requiring approval for temporary signs, which some businesses have been compelled to install to signal being open.
"Again, we don't want to be in your way," Lothspeich told the business operators. "We're not looking for any kind of active enforcement on anything. But I just ask that everyone remain reasonable in what you're doing, and if you have any questions to contact us."
Village officials had voiced optimism about the downtown business district's future after the historic bridge over Buffalo Creek was reopened for the winter holidays. That followed the completion of the Robert Parker Coffin Road improvement project.
Other projects since June 2018 included an Old McHenry Road renovation, new sidewalks and the downtown's first streetlights.
Crews were out Tuesday working on upgrades for the 114-year-old bridge that has been moved west of the creek and sits on the side of Coffin Road. After abutment repairs by the water, the one-lane Coffin Road span will be reinstalled and topped with a new timber cover.
Signs off Route 53 near Coffin Road and elsewhere in the area warn drivers the bridge is expected to be closed through July 30. It has been shut since March 19.
Heavy damage was caused to the cover when an oversized box truck plowed into the top of the structure in June 2018, about two weeks the bridge landed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Constructed in 1906 by the Joliet Bridge and Iron Co., the structure is a rare surviving example of a pin-connected pony truss bridge built for an urban setting, according to documents submitted by for the national landmark process. The cover was added in 1972 to help preserve the bridge and limit traffic from trucks and other heavy vehicles.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Elgin church becomes daytime shelter for homeless

New Life Covenant Church in Elgin has opened its sanctuary to homeless residents during the state 's stay-at-home order during the COVID-19 pandemic .
The church is open to the homeless from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch at noon .
It provides inspirational and PG-rated movies , plus a recorded service on Sundays .
There is clothing for guests , a mobile shower trailer provided by an anonymous benefactor , and 65 cots provided by local businessman Tim Kellenberger , Pastor Abi Raices said .
The church has a homeless ministry , and the new initiative is about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Raices said .
The daytime shelter will operate for the duration of the order , which Gov .
J.B. Pritzker has extended to April 30 .
`` We are just showing them love , '' Raices said .
`` We have people who are courageous and bold , practicing social distancing of course , and showing them they are not alone in this time . ''
The church partnered with the city , which is providing $ 7,000 through April 7 and more funding through April 30 .
`` Every individual in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessities , especially when public facilities are closed and regular shelters have been forced to adjust their services and availability , '' Mayor David Kaptain said in a statement .
`` I am so grateful for New Life Covenant 's ability and willingness to step in and take on this important role to provide services and refuge to our community during this trying time . ''
The church took over operations in January of an emergency winter shelter open when it 's 15 degrees or colder inside First United Methodist Church in downtown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the emergency shelter , police officers stop by during daytime shelter hours to ensure everything is running smoothly , Raices said .
The fire department assisted with disinfecting , he said .
`` They have been really supportive with us , '' he said .
`` It 's been a real good community effort . ''
Volunteer James Fortes said it 's important to give the homeless a sense of dignity , which can be as simple as engaging in conversation .
The volunteers practice social distancing , and there are hand sanitizer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` Is there are risk ?
Absolutely .
But at the same time , being a church and being a man of faith , I need to participate in what the world is doing and what is happening , and take precautions . ''
Anyone who wants to donate masks , gloves , disinfectant wipes or sprays , liquid soap and water can email Raices at elgin @ mynewlife.org .
Homeless individuals who want to go to the church daytime shelter can be picked up at 9 a.m. and dropped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police Department at 151 Douglas Ave .
If they need assistance , they can call the department 's social services division 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday at ( 847 ) 289-2629 and ( 847 ) 289-2700 at other times .

Elgin church becomes daytime shelter for homeless
New Life Covenant Church in Elgin has opened its sanctuary to homeless residents during the state's stay-at-home order during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The church is open to the homeless from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch at noon. It provides inspirational and PG-rated movies, plus a recorded service on Sundays. There is clothing for guests, a mobile shower trailer provided by an anonymous benefactor, and 65 cots provided by local businessman Tim Kellenberger, Pastor Abi Raices said.
The church has a homeless ministry, and the new initiative is about helping stem the spread of the coronavirus, Raices said. The daytime shelter will operate for the duration of the order, which Gov. J.B. Pritzker has extended to April 30.
"We are just showing them love," Raices said. "We have people who are courageous and bold, practicing social distancing of course, and showing them they are not alone in this time."
The church partnered with the city, which is providing $7,000 through April 7 and more funding through April 30.
"Every individual in Elgin needs to be provided with basic necessities, especially when public facilities are closed and regular shelters have been forced to adjust their services and availability," Mayor David Kaptain said in a statement. "I am so grateful for New Life Covenant's ability and willingness to step in and take on this important role to provide services and refuge to our community during this trying time."
The church took over operations in January of an emergency winter shelter open when it's 15 degrees or colder inside First United Methodist Church in downtown Elgin.
Just like they do for the emergency shelter, police officers stop by during daytime shelter hours to ensure everything is running smoothly, Raices said. The fire department assisted with disinfecting, he said.
"They have been really supportive with us," he said. "It's been a real good community effort."
Volunteer James Fortes said it's important to give the homeless a sense of dignity, which can be as simple as engaging in conversation. The volunteers practice social distancing, and there are hand sanitizer stations and gloves for food preparation, he said.
"Is there are risk? Absolutely. But at the same time, being a church and being a man of faith, I need to participate in what the world is doing and what is happening, and take precautions."
Anyone who wants to donate masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes or sprays, liquid soap and water can email Raices at elgin@mynewlife.org.
Homeless individuals who want to go to the church daytime shelter can be picked up at 9 a.m. and dropped off at 5 p.m. outside the Elgin Police Department at 151 Douglas Ave. If they need assistance, they can call the department's social services division 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday at (847) 289-2629 and (847) 289-2700 at other times.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Elgin's "Light Up the Day" parade cheers up residents, participants

The city of Elgin 's first `` Light Up the Day '' parade to cheer up people during the COVID-19 pandemic 's `` stay at home '' order did just that -- for residents and participants alike .
Vehicles from police , fire and public works , plus local tow truck companies , took part in Tuesday 's 40-minute-or-so `` socially distant '' parade through neighborhoods just east of downtown .
Some people watched through their windows , while others came outside , like Guadalupe Martinez and her husband , Luis Chagolla , along with their daughters , ages 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signs that said `` Thank you , hands down you 're the best . ''
`` I loved it , '' said Martinez , who found out about the parade on the police department 's Facebook page .
`` My daughter enjoyed it .
We made a little sign to make sure they knew we appreciate it . ''
Jessica Berg and her daughter , Simona , 7 , echoed the sentiment .
`` We came out because we wanted to support the firefighters and public works and everybody that 's doing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` It was something fun to get my daughter out of the house and still social-distance . ''
Kori Sabatino watched from her porch with her daughter , Charlee Ash , 6 .
`` It was really nice to have something to look forward to , '' she said .
Elgin Police Cmdr .
Jim Bisceglie said the police department came up with the idea and the others joined in enthusiastically .
`` It went great .
It actually went a lot better than I thought it would , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people .
I think this was uplifting , not only for the community but for the officers involved . ''
The plan is to hold a parade at 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in neighborhoods throughout the city during the stay at home order , which has been extended through April 30 , Bisceglie said .
For more information , visit the police Facebook page at Facebook.com/ElginPolice .

Elgin's "Light Up the Day" parade cheers up residents, participants
The city of Elgin's first "Light Up the Day" parade to cheer up people during the COVID-19 pandemic's "stay at home" order did just that -- for residents and participants alike.
Vehicles from police, fire and public works, plus local tow truck companies, took part in Tuesday's 40-minute-or-so "socially distant" parade through neighborhoods just east of downtown.
Some people watched through their windows, while others came outside, like Guadalupe Martinez and her husband, Luis Chagolla, along with their daughters, ages 3 and 5 months. The family made signs that said "Thank you, hands down you're the best."
"I loved it," said Martinez, who found out about the parade on the police department's Facebook page. "My daughter enjoyed it. We made a little sign to make sure they knew we appreciate it."
Jessica Berg and her daughter, Simona, 7, echoed the sentiment.
"We came out because we wanted to support the firefighters and public works and everybody that's doing a great job right now," Berg said. "It was something fun to get my daughter out of the house and still social-distance."
Kori Sabatino watched from her porch with her daughter, Charlee Ash, 6. "It was really nice to have something to look forward to," she said.
Elgin Police Cmdr. Jim Bisceglie said the police department came up with the idea and the others joined in enthusiastically.
"It went great. It actually went a lot better than I thought it would," he said. "There were tons of people. I think this was uplifting, not only for the community but for the officers involved."
The plan is to hold a parade at 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in neighborhoods throughout the city during the stay at home order, which has been extended through April 30, Bisceglie said. For more information, visit the police Facebook page at Facebook.com/ElginPolice.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--True Value's Cary plant ramping up production of hand sanitizer

True Value Co. is converting part of its paint manufacturing plant in Cary to begin production of hand sanitizer and cleaning products in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
The Cary factory typically churns out several million gallons of paint annually .
Now , the 600,000-square-foot facility will ramp up production of hand sanitizer .
The first several thousand gallons will be donated to True Value hardware stores across the country to protect employees against COVID-19 while they serve customers .
The in-demand product is scheduled to be shipped to stores in early to mid-April .
The chain of independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter drug manufacturer to make hand sanitizer .
True Value plans to increase production to help address shortages as the company sources more raw materials .
The company also is manufacturing cleaning and sanitizing products such as hand soap , all-purpose cleansers with and without bleach and degreasing cleanser .
`` In state after state , hardware stores have been declared 'essential ' and permitted to stay open , '' President and CEO John Hartmann said in a statement .
`` From hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to farm and ranch items , local hardware stores play a critical role in keeping homes and communities up and running .
During these unprecedented times , we 're proud to do our part to help make a difference and get the much-coveted hand sanitizer onto True Value store shelves as quickly as we can . ''

True Value's Cary plant ramping up production of hand sanitizer
The True Value Co. plant in Cary will begin manufacturing hand sanitizer. The first production run will be donated to thousands of True Value hardware stores. Courtesy of True Value Company
True Value Co. is converting part of its paint manufacturing plant in Cary to begin production of hand sanitizer and cleaning products in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Cary factory typically churns out several million gallons of paint annually.
Now, the 600,000-square-foot facility will ramp up production of hand sanitizer.
The first several thousand gallons will be donated to True Value hardware stores across the country to protect employees against COVID-19 while they serve customers.
The in-demand product is scheduled to be shipped to stores in early to mid-April.
The chain of independent retailers announced Tuesday that the company is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter drug manufacturer to make hand sanitizer.
True Value plans to increase production to help address shortages as the company sources more raw materials.
The company also is manufacturing cleaning and sanitizing products such as hand soap, all-purpose cleansers with and without bleach and degreasing cleanser.
"In state after state, hardware stores have been declared 'essential' and permitted to stay open," President and CEO John Hartmann said in a statement. "From hand sanitizer to tools and home maintenance products to farm and ranch items, local hardware stores play a critical role in keeping homes and communities up and running. During these unprecedented times, we're proud to do our part to help make a difference and get the much-coveted hand sanitizer onto True Value store shelves as quickly as we can."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Watch: Fittest Loser contestant gets some help working out from home

Neil Madden is nothing if not determined .
The 58-year-old from Naperville applied 12 times to be a contestant in @ @ @ @ @ competition .
Now an official 2020 participant -- finally !
-- workouts with his trainer @ @ @ @ @ online affairs .
But that 's not stopping him .
With the help of his @ @ @ @ @ a senior at Naperville North , Madden is staying the course .
Well , sort @ @ @ @ @ video above and remember there are a lot of health benefits from exercise -- and @ @

Watch: Fittest Loser contestant gets some help working out from home
Fittest Loser contestant Neil Madden works out with a bit of motivation from his 16-year old son, Kevin, in a video posted on You Tube.
Neil Madden is nothing if not determined.
The 58-year-old from Naperville applied 12 times to be a contestant in the Daily Herald Fittest Loser competition. Now an official 2020 participant -- finally! -- workouts with his trainer at Push Fitness have become online affairs.
But that's not stopping him.
With the help of his 16-year old son Kevin, a senior at Naperville North, Madden is staying the course. Well, sort of.
Enjoy their home video above and remember there are a lot of health benefits from exercise -- and laughter.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--What others are writing about COVID-19

What others are writing about COVID-19

Data collected from the maker of internet-connected thermometers shows a rapid drop in the number of fevers reported in states @ @ @ @ @ this mean states ' stay-at-home orders are working to slow the spread of the virus @ @ @ @ @ has the story .
I just got out of the COVID-19 ICU .
Here 's @ @ @ @ @ .
In this first-person essay published by HuffPost , a Wisconsin-born New Yorker describes what @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 ICU .
A fever is one of the primary symptoms of COVID-19 , and @ @ @ @ @ have been exposed to coronavirus take their temperatures twice daily .
Sounds straightforward , but @ @ @ @ @ you think .
A New York Times reporter offers tips on how to track your @ @ @ @ @ do n't own a thermometer .
How corporations are benefiting from the $ 2 trillion @ @ @ @ @ Post Reports podcast from The Washington Post , reporters look at what 's in the @ @ @ @ @ , including the payout to Boeing .
Listen here .

What others are writing about COVID-19
A Samaritan's Purse crew and medical personnel work on preparing to open a 68 bed emergency field hospital specially equipped with a respiratory unit in New York's Central Park, Tuesday, March 31, 2020, in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
Restrictions are slowing coronavirus infections, new data suggest
Data collected from the maker of internet-connected thermometers shows a rapid drop in the number of fevers reported in states across the country. Does this mean states' stay-at-home orders are working to slow the spread of the virus? The New York Times has the story.
I just got out of the COVID-19 ICU. Here's how I made it through.
In this first-person essay published by HuffPost, a Wisconsin-born New Yorker describes what life is like in the COVID-19 ICU.
Temperature Check: Tracking fever, a key symptom of Coronavirus
A fever is one of the primary symptoms of COVID-19, and the CDC recommends those who have been exposed to coronavirus take their temperatures twice daily. Sounds straightforward, but it can be harder than you think. A New York Times reporter offers tips on how to track your temp, even if you don't own a thermometer.
How corporations are benefiting from the $2 trillion stimulus package
In Monday's Post Reports podcast from The Washington Post, reporters look at what's in the $2T economic stimulus package, including the payout to Boeing. Listen here.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Aurora mayor fighting COVID-19: 'I will beat this'

The mayor of the state 's second-largest city is urging members of the public to do what they can to stop community spread of COVID-19 as he battles the disease .
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin and police Chief Kristen Ziman both tested positive for COVID-19 .
On Tuesday morning , Irvin released a video talking about his experience .
`` I just want to let you know that I will recover , '' said Irvin , who is alone and quarantined .
`` I will beat this . ''
Irvin says in the video that his symptoms included severe headaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body ached , '' he said .
`` I could n't think straight .
I was disoriented . ''
He said he felt dizzy when he stood up , and his eyes and gums seemed to ache .
`` I lost my appetite , '' he said .
`` But it did n't matter because I lost my sense of taste and smell .
This is a full body ache that 's hard to describe . ''
Irvin said he also experienced cold night sweats , tremors and shakes .
`` But it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irvin , who turned 50 on Sunday , says he 's asking the public for a birthday gift .
`` I 'm going to ask that you guys follow the governor 's stay-at-home order -- that we continue to follow the health officials ' advice of social distancing , '' Irvin said .
He said residents should continue to maintain hygiene and wash their hands to prevent the spread of the virus and `` eventually flatten the curve . ''
`` That 's what I would like for my birthday , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I wo n't forget anytime soon . ''
Working together , Irvin says , he knows `` we 're going to be able to beat this virus . ''
`` So I want you to stay safe , my friends , and continue to stay Aurora Strong , '' Irvin said .
The mayor 's last public appearance was March 20 during a media briefing at city hall .
Because of the outbreak and the statewide order to stay at home , the Aurora City Council will hold its first remote meeting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin at 3 p.m. on the Zoom video conferencing platform .
Irvin is planning to lead the online meeting .

Aurora mayor fighting COVID-19: 'I will beat this'
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin and police Chief Kristen Ziman both have tested positive for COVID-19. On Tuesday, the mayor released a video talking about his experience. Daily Herald file photo
Courtesy of City of AuroraAurora Mayor Richard Irvin posted an update on his health via YouTube video. Irvin has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
The mayor of the state's second-largest city is urging members of the public to do what they can to stop community spread of COVID-19 as he battles the disease.
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin and police Chief Kristen Ziman both tested positive for COVID-19. On Tuesday morning, Irvin released a video talking about his experience.
"I just want to let you know that I will recover," said Irvin, who is alone and quarantined. "I will beat this."
Irvin says in the video that his symptoms included severe headaches and high temperatures.
"My whole body ached," he said. "I couldn't think straight. I was disoriented."
He said he felt dizzy when he stood up, and his eyes and gums seemed to ache.
"I lost my appetite," he said. "But it didn't matter because I lost my sense of taste and smell. This is a full body ache that's hard to describe."
Irvin said he also experienced cold night sweats, tremors and shakes.
"But it passed," he said.
Now Irvin, who turned 50 on Sunday, says he's asking the public for a birthday gift.
"I'm going to ask that you guys follow the governor's stay-at-home order -- that we continue to follow the health officials' advice of social distancing," Irvin said.
He said residents should continue to maintain hygiene and wash their hands to prevent the spread of the virus and "eventually flatten the curve."
"That's what I would like for my birthday," he said. "This is one that I won't forget anytime soon."
Working together, Irvin says, he knows "we're going to be able to beat this virus."
"So I want you to stay safe, my friends, and continue to stay Aurora Strong," Irvin said.
The mayor's last public appearance was March 20 during a media briefing at city hall.
Because of the outbreak and the statewide order to stay at home, the Aurora City Council will hold its first remote meeting on Wednesday. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. on the Zoom video conferencing platform. Irvin is planning to lead the online meeting.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--AP source: Browns signing free agent Clayborn to 2-year deal

CLEVELAND -- The Cleveland Browns plan to sign veteran free agent defensive end Adrian Clayborn to a two-year , $ @ @ @ @ @ person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Tuesday .
Clayborn , who @ @ @ @ @ Atlanta Falcons , has agreed to terms on a deal that includes another $ 1 @ @ @ @ @ the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not announced the @ @ @ @ @ the package for Clayborn .
The 31-year-old had four sacks in 15 games last season @ @ @ @ @ has also played for New England and Tampa Bay .
Clayborn had his best season @ @ @ @ @ recording a career-high 9 1/2 sacks .
The 6-foot-3 , 280-pounder gives Cleveland more depth @ @ @ @ @ pass rusher .
He 's the second free agent defensive lineman signed by the Browns @ @ @ @ @ tackle Andrew Billings .

AP source: Browns signing free agent Clayborn to 2-year deal
FILE - In this Oct. 6, 2019, file photo, Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn (99) rushes against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game in Houston. The Cleveland Browns plan to sign veteran free agent Clayborn to a two-year, $6 million contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Tuesday, March 31, 2020. Associated Press
CLEVELAND -- The Cleveland Browns plan to sign veteran free agent defensive end Adrian Clayborn to a two-year, $6 million contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Clayborn, who spent last season with the Atlanta Falcons, has agreed to terms on a deal that includes another $1 million in incentives, said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because he must still pass a physical.
ESPN first reported the package for Clayborn.
The 31-year-old had four sacks in 15 games last season with the Falcons. Clayborn has also played for New England and Tampa Bay. He won a Super Bowl title with the Patriots in 2018.
Clayborn had his best season in 2017 with Atlanta, recording a career-high 9 1/2 sacks.
The 6-foot-3, 280-pounder gives Cleveland more depth up front and a proven pass rusher to go along with ends Myles Garrett, Olivier Vernon and Chad Thomas. He's the second free agent defensive lineman signed by the Browns, who added former Bengals tackle Andrew Billings.
Clayborn has 36 1/2 sacks in 52 starts since he was selected in the first round of the 2011 draft by the Buccaneers.
__
More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Unemployment agency sets up alphabetized schedule due to volume

The state agency tasked with overseeing unemployment benefits is using an alphabetized schedule to handle `` an unprecedented volume '' of claims .
Claims now must be filed online and by phone on days and at times set by the Illinois Department of Employment Security based on the first letter of the filer 's last name .
Similar systems to manage `` increased web traffic '' and `` high call volumes '' were initiated in Colorado and New York as well , according to the department .
Illinoisans whose last names begin with the letters A through M may file @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and speak to someone by phone on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those whose last names begin with the letters N through Z can file their claims at the department 's website on Mondays , Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and call on Mondays and Wednesdays , also from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m .
Anyone unable to register their claims on the designated days can file online on Saturdays or call on Fridays .
`` IDES is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unemployment benefit claims and questions , both online and through the call center , '' according to a news release .
There was an increase in such filings of about 400 percent -- 130,000 claims -- over the first three weeks of March , as compared to the same time last year .
During the week that ended March 21 , employment security personnel received almost 115,000 claims , an increase of 1,400 percent over that same week in 2019 .
In addition to the new alphabetized system , the department updated its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developed a process to track novel coronavirus-related claims , increased personnel working in its call center and extended its call center hours .

Unemployment agency sets up alphabetized schedule due to volume
The state agency tasked with overseeing unemployment benefits is using an alphabetized schedule to handle "an unprecedented volume" of claims.
Claims now must be filed online and by phone on days and at times set by the Illinois Department of Employment Security based on the first letter of the filer's last name. Similar systems to manage "increased web traffic" and "high call volumes" were initiated in Colorado and New York as well, according to the department.
Illinoisans whose last names begin with the letters A through M may file online claims on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and speak to someone by phone on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Those whose last names begin with the letters N through Z can file their claims at the department's website on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and call on Mondays and Wednesdays, also from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Anyone unable to register their claims on the designated days can file online on Saturdays or call on Fridays.
"IDES is currently working through an unparalleled number of unemployment benefit claims and questions, both online and through the call center," according to a news release.
There was an increase in such filings of about 400 percent -- 130,000 claims -- over the first three weeks of March, as compared to the same time last year.
During the week that ended March 21, employment security personnel received almost 115,000 claims, an increase of 1,400 percent over that same week in 2019.
In addition to the new alphabetized system, the department updated its website to handle the increased traffic, developed a process to track novel coronavirus-related claims, increased personnel working in its call center and extended its call center hours.
Visit IDES.Illinois.gov for more information.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Bears finalize trade with Jaguars for quarterback Foles

LAKE FOREST , Ill. -- The Chicago Bears finalized a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars for 2018 Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles on Tuesday .
The Bears are banking on Foles - the backup quarterback who helped Philadelphia win a Super Bowl - to bounce back from an injury-riddled season with Jacksonville and at least give them another option if Mitchell Trubisky struggles again or gets hurt next year .
Chicago sent a 2020 compensatory fourth-round draft pick to Jacksonville in the trade agreed to two weeks ago .
The Jaguars parted with the 31-year-old Foles just over a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 88 million contract that included $ 50.125 million guaranteed .
He broke his left collarbone early in the season opener , missed the next eight games and got benched in his third game back .
Rookie Gardner Minshew played well enough in his absence to make Foles expendable .
Trubisky 's yards ( 3,138 ) , completion rate ( 63.2 % ) , touchdowns ( 17 ) and rating ( 83 ) were all down from the previous year .
The Bears ' offense ranked among the worst in the NFL , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8-8 record after winning the NFC North at 12-4 in 2018 .
The Bears also re-signed safety DeAndre Houston-Carson to a one-year contract on Tuesday .
Houston-Carson has played primarily on special teams since the Bears drafted him out of William & Mary in the sixth round in 2016 .
He appeared in all 16 games last season for the first time .

Bears finalize trade with Jaguars for quarterback Foles
FLE - In this Nov. 24, 2019, file photo, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Nick Foles (7) scrambles against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of an NFL football game in Nashville, Tenn. A person familiar with the trade says the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to send quarterback Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears for a compensatory fourth-round draft pick. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because trades don't become official until the league year begins later Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Associated Press
FILE - In this Dec. 1, 2019, file photo, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Nick Foles (7) scrambles out of the pocket during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in Jacksonville, Fla. A person familiar with the trade says the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to send quarterback Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears for a compensatory fourth-round draft pick. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because trades don't become official until the league year begins later Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Associated Press
FILE - In this Nov. 24, 2019, file photo, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Nick Foles warms up before an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Nashville, Tenn. A person familiar with the trade says the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to send quarterback Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears for a compensatory fourth-round draft pick. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because trades don't become official until the league year begins later Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Associated Press
FILE - In this Dec. 8, 2019, file photo, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Nick Foles walks along the bench area as he looks up at the scoreboard during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, in Jacksonville, Fla. A person familiar with the trade says the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to send quarterback Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears for a compensatory fourth-round draft pick. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because trades don't become official until the league year begins later Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Associated Press
LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- The Chicago Bears finalized a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars for 2018 Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles on Tuesday.
The Bears are banking on Foles - the backup quarterback who helped Philadelphia win a Super Bowl - to bounce back from an injury-riddled season with Jacksonville and at least give them another option if Mitchell Trubisky struggles again or gets hurt next year. Chicago sent a 2020 compensatory fourth-round draft pick to Jacksonville in the trade agreed to two weeks ago.
The Jaguars parted with the 31-year-old Foles just over a year after signing him to a four-year, $88 million contract that included $50.125 million guaranteed. He broke his left collarbone early in the season opener, missed the next eight games and got benched in his third game back.
Rookie Gardner Minshew played well enough in his absence to make Foles expendable.
Trubisky's yards (3,138), completion rate (63.2%), touchdowns (17) and rating (83) were all down from the previous year. The Bears' offense ranked among the worst in the NFL, and Chicago missed the playoffs with an 8-8 record after winning the NFC North at 12-4 in 2018.
The Bears also re-signed safety DeAndre Houston-Carson to a one-year contract on Tuesday.
Houston-Carson has played primarily on special teams since the Bears drafted him out of William & Mary in the sixth round in 2016. He appeared in all 16 games last season for the first time.
___
More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Durant, Young highlight players-only NBA 2K tourney on ESPN

NEW YORK -- Kevin Durant and Trae Young will lead a 16-player field of NBA players in an NBA 2K20 tournament airing on ESPN .
The NBA , the players ' association and 2K announced the NBA 2K Players Tournament on Tuesday .
Play begins Friday , and the winner of the week-long competition will receive a $ 100,000 donation to a coronavirus-related relief effort of their choice .
Player have been seeded according to their NBA 2K player rating -- from Durant 's 96 down to Derrick Jones Jr. 's 78 -- and tenure .
Durant , the Brooklyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season due to injury , will face Jones in the first game Friday night .
Other matches will air on ESPN2 .
The championship is set for April 11 .
Participants will each select a pool of eight teams prior to the tournament and can only play with each club once throughout the tournament .
Rounds one and two will be single elimination , and the semifinals and finals will be best-of-three .
The other matchups include Young vs. Harrison Barnes , Hassan Whiteside vs. Pat Beverley , Donovan Mitchel vs. Rui Hachimura @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Andre Drummond vs. DeMarcus Cousins , Zach LaVine vs. Deandre Ayton and Montrezl Harrell vs. Domantas Sabonis .
The NBA has been shut down since March 11 , the night that Utah center Rudy Gobert became the first player in the league to have a positive diagnosis for the virus revealed .
The league is still discussing scenarios for resuming play once allowed .

Durant, Young highlight players-only NBA 2K tourney on ESPN
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) is covered by New York Knicks guard Frank Ntilikina (11) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, March 11, 2020, in Atlanta. Associated Press
FILE- In this March 10, 2020, file photo, Brooklyn Nets' Kevin Durant watches during the second half of the team's NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers in Los Angeles. Durant is among the four Brooklyn Nets who have tested positive for the new coronavirus. A backlash roiled across social media Wednesday, March 18, as several celebrities and professional athletes revealed that they had been tested for the coronavirus, even when they didn't have a fever or other tell-tale symptoms. Associated Press
NEW YORK -- Kevin Durant and Trae Young will lead a 16-player field of NBA players in an NBA 2K20 tournament airing on ESPN.
The NBA, the players' association and 2K announced the NBA 2K Players Tournament on Tuesday. Play begins Friday, and the winner of the week-long competition will receive a $100,000 donation to a coronavirus-related relief effort of their choice.
Player have been seeded according to their NBA 2K player rating -- from Durant's 96 down to Derrick Jones Jr.'s 78 -- and tenure. Durant, the Brooklyn Nets star who sat out this NBA season due to injury, will face Jones in the first game Friday night. Other matches will air on ESPN2. The championship is set for April 11.
Participants will each select a pool of eight teams prior to the tournament and can only play with each club once throughout the tournament. Rounds one and two will be single elimination, and the semifinals and finals will be best-of-three.
The other matchups include Young vs. Harrison Barnes, Hassan Whiteside vs. Pat Beverley, Donovan Mitchel vs. Rui Hachimura, Devin Booker vs. Michael Porter Jr., Andre Drummond vs. DeMarcus Cousins, Zach LaVine vs. Deandre Ayton and Montrezl Harrell vs. Domantas Sabonis.
The NBA has been shut down since March 11, the night that Utah center Rudy Gobert became the first player in the league to have a positive diagnosis for the virus revealed. The league is still discussing scenarios for resuming play once allowed.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--937 new cases of COVID-19, 26 more deaths as Pritzker extends stay-at-home order through April 30

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker will extend Illinois ' stay-at-home order through April 30 to reduce the spread of COVID-19 , he said Tuesday .
The action coincides with 937 more cases of the respiratory disease confirmed in Illinois and 26 new deaths .
Illinois was rare in requiring residents to hunker down when Pritzker issued the stay-at-home mandate March 20 , but now a majority of states have similar rules .
The move echoes federal recommendations .
The state is recording 5,994 cases of COVID-19 in 54 of the 102 counties and a total of 99 fatalities .
`` My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save as many people 's lives as necessary , '' Pritzker said .
Exceptions are allowed for people with essential jobs such as medical workers and for necessary errands like groceries .
Cook County and Chicago comprise about 75 % of the cases , according to state data .
There are 2,693 cases in Chicago and 22 deaths as of Tuesday ; in Cook there are 1,803 cases and 39 deaths .
In the collar counties , Lake has the most confirmed cases , 389 , and seven deaths .
Elsewhere , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with 10 deaths ; 228 cases in Will with eight deaths ; and 63 cases in McHenry with two deaths , according to state public health officials .
One DuPage death announced Tuesday involves a woman in her 70s with underlying health conditions who lived at the Chateau Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Willowbrook , where an outbreak occurred .
In Kane County , there are 128 cases with eight deaths .
The most recent was a 92-year-old woman from the Aurora area who died Tuesday morning , according to the Kane County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extension will affect thousands of students from kindergarten to grade 12 across the state , who have been out of school since March 17 .
As a result , schools will switch from considering time off as `` act of God days '' to `` remote learning days , '' meaning those days would not need to be made up , Pritzker said .
Pritzker , noting he has two teenage children at home , told students : `` I know it 's not the school year you bargained for .
I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plenty of reason to hope .
`` Once you 're ready , take a look around and take in this incredible , unique moment .
Yes , it 's scary and difficult .
But if you 're looking for a lesson in the fundamental good of people and communities , it 's right there . ''
The original stay-at-home order was to end April 7 .
Currently , 41 % of adult ICU beds are empty and 68 % of ventilators are available at hospitals collectively across Illinois , Pritzker said .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the McCormick Place convention center in Chicago and reopening closed facilities like the old Sherman Hospital in Elgin .
`` Our greatest risk of hitting capacity is n't now but weeks from now , '' Pritzker said .
At the same time , unemployment insurance claims have hit the roof , with layoffs increasing as businesses from department stores to hair salons closed .
`` We need to maintain our course and keep working to flatten the curve , '' Pritzker said .
He noted that Illinois has a ban on evictions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not pay .
The governor also addressed concerns about drinking water .
`` People should know their water supply is safe , '' Pritzker said .
`` The disease can not not travel through pipes and into your homes . ''
A number of counties have begun listing COVID-19 cases by municipality with interactive maps .
For example , the Cook County Department of Public Health reported 44 cases of COVID-19 in Des Plaines , 23 in Buffalo Grove , 22 in Palatine ; 21 cases in Schaumburg , 17 in Wheeling , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arlington Heights and 12 in Hoffman Estates .
The DuPage County Health Department lists 37 cases of COVID-19 in Willowbrook , 28 in Naperville , 20 in Lombard , 18 in Addison , 17 in Elmhurst , 14 each in Carol Stream and Downers Grove , and 13 each in Wheaton and Bensenville .
Lake County Health Department reports 25 to 29 cases in Waukegan , 15 to 19 in Libertyville and Round Lake , 10 to 14 in Gurnee , and five to nine each in Grayslake , Lake Zurich , Mundelein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ village of East Dundee reported its first case Tuesday .
`` The majority of those people that get infected do not suffer severe illness , '' IDPH Director Ngozi Ezike said , but she warned that if people flaunt the stay-at-home order , cases will spiral .

937 new cases of COVID-19, 26 more deaths as Pritzker extends stay-at-home order through April 30
Gov. J.B. Pritzker announces Tuesday that he is extending the stay-at-home order through April 30. Courtesy of ABC 7 Chicago
Gov. J.B. Pritzker will extend Illinois' stay-at-home order through April 30 to reduce the spread of COVID-19, he said Tuesday.
The action coincides with 937 more cases of the respiratory disease confirmed in Illinois and 26 new deaths.
Illinois was rare in requiring residents to hunker down when Pritzker issued the stay-at-home mandate March 20, but now a majority of states have similar rules. The move echoes federal recommendations.
The state is recording 5,994 cases of COVID-19 in 54 of the 102 counties and a total of 99 fatalities.
"My priority has been and continues to be to save as many people's lives as necessary," Pritzker said.
Exceptions are allowed for people with essential jobs such as medical workers and for necessary errands like groceries.
Cook County and Chicago comprise about 75% of the cases, according to state data. There are 2,693 cases in Chicago and 22 deaths as of Tuesday; in Cook there are 1,803 cases and 39 deaths.
In the collar counties, Lake has the most confirmed cases, 389, and seven deaths. Elsewhere, there are: 356 cases in DuPage with 10 deaths; 228 cases in Will with eight deaths; and 63 cases in McHenry with two deaths, according to state public health officials.
One DuPage death announced Tuesday involves a woman in her 70s with underlying health conditions who lived at the Chateau Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Willowbrook, where an outbreak occurred.
In Kane County, there are 128 cases with eight deaths. The most recent was a 92-year-old woman from the Aurora area who died Tuesday morning, according to the Kane County coroner's office.
The April 30 extension will affect thousands of students from kindergarten to grade 12 across the state, who have been out of school since March 17.
As a result, schools will switch from considering time off as "act of God days" to "remote learning days," meaning those days would not need to be made up, Pritzker said.
Pritzker, noting he has two teenage children at home, told students: "I know it's not the school year you bargained for. I'm sorry for that. But there's plenty of reason to hope.
"Once you're ready, take a look around and take in this incredible, unique moment. Yes, it's scary and difficult. But if you're looking for a lesson in the fundamental good of people and communities, it's right there."
The original stay-at-home order was to end April 7.
Currently, 41% of adult ICU beds are empty and 68% of ventilators are available at hospitals collectively across Illinois, Pritzker said. The state is locating a temporary hospital at the McCormick Place convention center in Chicago and reopening closed facilities like the old Sherman Hospital in Elgin.
"Our greatest risk of hitting capacity isn't now but weeks from now," Pritzker said.
At the same time, unemployment insurance claims have hit the roof, with layoffs increasing as businesses from department stores to hair salons closed.
"We need to maintain our course and keep working to flatten the curve," Pritzker said. He noted that Illinois has a ban on evictions and turning off utilities for customers who cannot pay.
The governor also addressed concerns about drinking water. "People should know their water supply is safe," Pritzker said. "The disease cannot not travel through pipes and into your homes."
A number of counties have begun listing COVID-19 cases by municipality with interactive maps.
For example, the Cook County Department of Public Health reported 44 cases of COVID-19 in Des Plaines, 23 in Buffalo Grove, 22 in Palatine; 21 cases in Schaumburg, 17 in Wheeling, 16 in Mount Prospect, 13 in Arlington Heights and 12 in Hoffman Estates.
The DuPage County Health Department lists 37 cases of COVID-19 in Willowbrook, 28 in Naperville, 20 in Lombard, 18 in Addison, 17 in Elmhurst, 14 each in Carol Stream and Downers Grove, and 13 each in Wheaton and Bensenville.
Lake County Health Department reports 25 to 29 cases in Waukegan, 15 to 19 in Libertyville and Round Lake, 10 to 14 in Gurnee, and five to nine each in Grayslake, Lake Zurich, Mundelein and Vernon Hills.
Meanwhile, the village of East Dundee reported its first case Tuesday.
"The majority of those people that get infected do not suffer severe illness," IDPH Director Ngozi Ezike said, but she warned that if people flaunt the stay-at-home order, cases will spiral.
• Daily Herald Staff Writer James Fuller contributed to this story.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Army corps rushing to convert Elgin hospital site into facility for COVID-19 patients

Work to turn the shuttered Sherman Hospital site in Elgin into a facility for non-acute COVID-19 patients will take place as quickly as possible , officials said .
`` We are in a race against time right now to see what we can get done in next three to four weeks as a relief valve for existing hospitals , '' U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Col. Aaron Reisinger said Tuesday .
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District has been assigned to work on the rehabilitation of three hospital sites , including the one in Elgin and MetroSouth Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Elgin site will be an `` alternate care facility , '' just like McCormick Place will be in Chicago , meaning they would receive patients transferred from existing hospitals , Reisinger said .
`` We do n't want people to believe this is a hospital that people that can show up to as an emergency room , '' he said .
Once the construction work is done , the state will supply equipment , staffing and administration of the hospital sites , Reisinger said .
State officials did not return requests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Public Health and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency also are involved in the operation , officials said .
The 13.7-acre campus at 901 Center St. in Elgin includes three vacant buildings totaling 254,000 square feet .
Sherman Hospital , which later became part of Advocate Health , moved in 2009 to Randall Road , and the old hospital building was demolished in 2012 .
The Center Street site held physicians ' offices until December 2018 .
The role of the Corps is to get the facilities in operational condition , Reisinger said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensuring heating , air conditioning and electrical IT systems are working , and implementing COVID-19-specific measures , such as creating `` negative pressure '' in patient rooms so air is pulled out to protect health care workers .
The Corps got the assignment from Federal Emergency Management Agency Region V , which in turn received a request from the state of Illinois , Reisinger said .
The Corps has contracted with Turner Construction to get the job done in Elgin , and the cost estimate should be available in a week or two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will require a lot of work because of its age and how long it has been closed , Reisinger said .

Army corps rushing to convert Elgin hospital site into facility for COVID-19 patients
Work to turn the shuttered Sherman Hospital site in Elgin into a facility for non-acute COVID-19 patients will take place as quickly as possible, officials said.
"We are in a race against time right now to see what we can get done in next three to four weeks as a relief valve for existing hospitals," U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Col. Aaron Reisinger said Tuesday.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District has been assigned to work on the rehabilitation of three hospital sites, including the one in Elgin and MetroSouth Medical Center in Blue Island, Reisinger said.
The Elgin site will be an "alternate care facility," just like McCormick Place will be in Chicago, meaning they would receive patients transferred from existing hospitals, Reisinger said.
"We don't want people to believe this is a hospital that people that can show up to as an emergency room," he said.
Once the construction work is done, the state will supply equipment, staffing and administration of the hospital sites, Reisinger said.
State officials did not return requests for comment.
The Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency also are involved in the operation, officials said.
The 13.7-acre campus at 901 Center St. in Elgin includes three vacant buildings totaling 254,000 square feet.
Sherman Hospital, which later became part of Advocate Health, moved in 2009 to Randall Road, and the old hospital building was demolished in 2012. The Center Street site held physicians' offices until December 2018.
The role of the Corps is to get the facilities in operational condition, Reisinger said. That includes sealing doors and windows, ensuring heating, air conditioning and electrical IT systems are working, and implementing COVID-19-specific measures, such as creating "negative pressure" in patient rooms so air is pulled out to protect health care workers.
The Corps got the assignment from Federal Emergency Management Agency Region V, which in turn received a request from the state of Illinois, Reisinger said.
The Corps has contracted with Turner Construction to get the job done in Elgin, and the cost estimate should be available in a week or two, he said. The building likely will require a lot of work because of its age and how long it has been closed, Reisinger said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-01--First Illinois couple claimed by COVID-19 die hours apart

A married Skokie couple who emigrated from Ukraine more than two decades ago died of the coronavirus only hours apart over the weekend .
Feliks Ogorodnik , 88 , and his wife , Luiza , 84 , died Saturday at Glenbrook Hospital in Glenview , according to the Cook County medical examiner 's office .
Luiza died March 28 at 12:12 p.m. Feliks died at the same hospital at 4:50 p.m .
They both died of pneumonia with COVID-19 and other preexisting conditions as contributing factors , the medical examiner 's office said .
They are the first married couple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ succumbing to the coronavirus .
They `` were very grateful to be here and become U.S. citizens , '' their obituary states .
`` They always strived to improve their English and learn more about the United States . ''
Luiza Ogorodnik was a physician in Ukraine and was interested in books and theater , the obituary states .
Feliks Ogorodnik was a manager of a construction company in Ukraine .
He was dedicated to his family and loved gardening .
• Read the full story from the Chicago Sun-Times at chicago.suntimes.com .

First Illinois couple claimed by COVID-19 die hours apart
Feliks and Luiza Ogorodnik of Skokie are the first Illinois couple in Illinois to both die from COVID-19. ChicagoJewishFunerals.com via Chicago Sun-Times
A married Skokie couple who emigrated from Ukraine more than two decades ago died of the coronavirus only hours apart over the weekend.
Feliks Ogorodnik, 88, and his wife, Luiza, 84, died Saturday at Glenbrook Hospital in Glenview, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office.
Luiza died March 28 at 12:12 p.m. Feliks died at the same hospital at 4:50 p.m. They both died of pneumonia with COVID-19 and other preexisting conditions as contributing factors, the medical examiner's office said.
They are the first married couple that officials in Illinois have identified as succumbing to the coronavirus.
They "were very grateful to be here and become U.S. citizens," their obituary states. "They always strived to improve their English and learn more about the United States."
Luiza Ogorodnik was a physician in Ukraine and was interested in books and theater, the obituary states.
Feliks Ogorodnik was a manager of a construction company in Ukraine. He was dedicated to his family and loved gardening.
• Read the full story from the Chicago Sun-Times at chicago.suntimes.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-01--Cancer patient serving 4 years for THC chocolates out of prison thanks to governor


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-01--Rolling Meadows proposes limits on video gambling

After the growth of video gambling in Rolling Meadows after a ban was overturned in 2018 , city officials have proposed putting limits on the number of businesses that have the machines in town .
In addition to a cap of a dozen such businesses citywide , there also would be geographic restrictions , where clusters of as many as three businesses with the video machines would be permitted in certain commercial corridors .
Under rules introduced Tuesday by Alderman Kevin O'Brien , three city video gambling licenses would be limited to an area along Kirchoff Road from Wilke to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Road/Meacham Road from Bryant Road to Old Plum Grove Road , three near the shopping area at Golf and Algonquin roads , and one near Algonquin and Route 53 .
Currently , there are 10 businesses with video gambling in town , and two applications pending before the city .
`` The feeling is that we are very near capacity for gaming in the city of Rolling Meadows , '' said O'Brien , referring to extensive discussions with aldermen , business owners and residents .
`` Residents are in support of it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our thoroughfares to turn into the Las Vegas Strip . ''
There would also be a restriction of one video gambling business allowed per strip mall .
During an extensive two-hour discussion of the proposal late Tuesday , most aldermen favored the proposed new limits during a series of unofficial committee-of-the-whole straw poll votes .
As part of the discussion , other aldermen also introduced new rules in an effort to better define the city 's video gambling ordinance .
Alderman Lara Sanoica suggested establishing different city licenses for current or proposed restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to supplement their income , versus gambling cafes .
That would mirror rules set up in neighboring Schaumburg .
And Alderman Jenifer Vinezeano proposed a six-month waiting period for a new business to apply for a video gambling license , in an effort to curb additional gambling cafes from opening .
Those additional items also earned the support of the majority of the council .
But a final decision would come at a future city council meeting .

Rolling Meadows proposes limits on video gambling
After the growth of video gambling in Rolling Meadows after a ban was overturned in 2018, city officials have proposed putting limits on the number of businesses that have the machines in town.
In addition to a cap of a dozen such businesses citywide, there also would be geographic restrictions, where clusters of as many as three businesses with the video machines would be permitted in certain commercial corridors.
Under rules introduced Tuesday by Alderman Kevin O'Brien, three city video gambling licenses would be limited to an area along Kirchoff Road from Wilke to Rohlwing roads, three on Plum Grove Road/Meacham Road from Bryant Road to Old Plum Grove Road, three near the shopping area at Golf and Algonquin roads, and one near Algonquin and Route 53.
Currently, there are 10 businesses with video gambling in town, and two applications pending before the city.
"The feeling is that we are very near capacity for gaming in the city of Rolling Meadows," said O'Brien, referring to extensive discussions with aldermen, business owners and residents. "Residents are in support of it, but they don't want one of our thoroughfares to turn into the Las Vegas Strip."
There would also be a restriction of one video gambling business allowed per strip mall.
During an extensive two-hour discussion of the proposal late Tuesday, most aldermen favored the proposed new limits during a series of unofficial committee-of-the-whole straw poll votes.
As part of the discussion, other aldermen also introduced new rules in an effort to better define the city's video gambling ordinance.
Alderman Lara Sanoica suggested establishing different city licenses for current or proposed restaurants that want to add the video machines to supplement their income, versus gambling cafes. That would mirror rules set up in neighboring Schaumburg.
And Alderman Jenifer Vinezeano proposed a six-month waiting period for a new business to apply for a video gambling license, in an effort to curb additional gambling cafes from opening.
Those additional items also earned the support of the majority of the council. But a final decision would come at a future city council meeting.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-01--Oberweis vs. Underwood: Ideology, health care, immigration to lead in nationally watched congression

While every other congressional candidate in Illinois who survived the March 17 primary spent most of the days immediately following gearing up for the main event in November , Jim Oberweis found himself still awaiting an important nod of recognition from his own party .
There was no word from the National Republican Congressional Committee , even after his GOP rivals in the 14th Congressional District conceded .
Nothing on the following Wednesday as all his other fellow Republicans received public congratulations from NRCC Chairman Tom Emmer .
Still nothing on Thursday , two full days after the election .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ candidate played them down .
`` We know there are some people who do n't like Jim who are saying the NRCC just does n't like Jim Oberweis , '' said Travis Akin , a spokesman for the Oberweis campaign .
`` That 's not true .
They have an internal policy that they are waiting for The Associated Press to call the race .
But because of that , we are basically in a holding pattern . ''
The AP finally on the following Friday decided Oberweis , of Sugar Grove , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognizing Oberweis arrived .
`` Congratulations to Jim Oberweis on his primary victory , '' Emmer said .
`` Lauren Underwood is a die-hard member of the socialist Democrat majority in Congress who votes with AOC 96 % of the time and Nancy Pelosi 100 % of the time .
Illinois voters will reject Lauren Underwood 's socialist agenda in November , and Republicans will take back this seat . ''
Underwood , of Naperville , was already at work painting her picture of the contest .
In recent weeks , while Republicans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Social Security and the Second Amendment , Underwood peppered her constituents with health care messages and pending legislation she was working on .
Now this formerly reliable Republican district will be among the most watched -- and well-funded -- races in the nation .
In 2018 , Underwood rode a wave of concern that Republicans would repeal the Affordable Care Act , and protections for preexisting conditions with it , all the way to an upset victory against multi-term GOP incumbent Randy Hultgren .
The capper was two pieces of legislation President Donald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the price of insulin by making generic insulin available sooner .
The other law created new standards for medical screenings for people crossing the border .
And , right after the primary , she hosted a virtual town hall to speak directly to her constituents about COVID-19 and their concerns , then followed it up with an appearance on WTTW Channel 11 's `` Chicago Tonight '' for a similar discussion .
Meanwhile , the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee was already taking full swings against Oberweis .
If Underwood 's actions did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put forward health care as the main policy issue in the race .
`` Illinoisans are going to have nauseating déjà vu as they watch Oberweis run another general election campaign on his long record of opposing legislation that cut prescription drug costs for Medicare recipients and pushing for full repeal of our health care system , '' the statement said .
Oberweis did say he would support a repeal of the Affordable Care Act during the campaign .
He also opposes a Medicare for All system `` since it eliminates our ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wish to have and the doctors we wish to visit . ''
Oberweis made it clear in announcing his plan to go against Underwood that his views on limiting immigration , now made popular by Trump , will be a center point of his campaign .
He has already advocated mandatory use of E-Verify , the construction of a southern border wall , the end of birthright citizenship and the hiring of more border patrol agents .
For now , Akin said the focus of the campaign will be uniting the Republican Party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a very heated race , '' Akin said .
`` Jim was under fire much of the campaign .
We are reaching out to the local party people and trying to put this behind us .
He wants their help .
We have to rally as a party to beat Lauren Underwood . ''
Both candidates will have to see their parties rally behind them to raise enough money to win .
The COVID-19 outbreak will eliminate many of the traditional grip-and-grins , dinner parties and visits by the stars of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main avenues for campaign fundraising .
That said , some projections estimate it will take upward of $ 15 million to capture a winning number of votes .
Underwood raised just under $ 5 million for her first campaign .
Oberweis , including his statewide contest against Sen. Dick Durbin , has never raised more than $ 3 million .
The sprawling 14th Congressional District includes parts of DuPage , Kane , Lake , McHenry and Will counties .

Oberweis vs. Underwood: Ideology, health care, immigration to lead in nationally watched congressional race
Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove and Lauren Underwood of Naperville, candidates for the 14th U.S. congressional district
While every other congressional candidate in Illinois who survived the March 17 primary spent most of the days immediately following gearing up for the main event in November, Jim Oberweis found himself still awaiting an important nod of recognition from his own party.
There was no word from the National Republican Congressional Committee, even after his GOP rivals in the 14th Congressional District conceded. Nothing on the following Wednesday as all his other fellow Republicans received public congratulations from NRCC Chairman Tom Emmer. Still nothing on Thursday, two full days after the election.
The rumors began to simmer. The candidate played them down.
"We know there are some people who don't like Jim who are saying the NRCC just doesn't like Jim Oberweis," said Travis Akin, a spokesman for the Oberweis campaign. "That's not true. They have an internal policy that they are waiting for The Associated Press to call the race. But because of that, we are basically in a holding pattern."
The AP finally on the following Friday decided Oberweis, of Sugar Grove, won, and the statement from Emmer recognizing Oberweis arrived.
"Congratulations to Jim Oberweis on his primary victory," Emmer said. "Lauren Underwood is a die-hard member of the socialist Democrat majority in Congress who votes with AOC 96% of the time and Nancy Pelosi 100% of the time. Illinois voters will reject Lauren Underwood's socialist agenda in November, and Republicans will take back this seat."
Underwood, of Naperville, was already at work painting her picture of the contest. In recent weeks, while Republicans in their primary battled over immigration, Social Security and the Second Amendment, Underwood peppered her constituents with health care messages and pending legislation she was working on.
Now this formerly reliable Republican district will be among the most watched -- and well-funded -- races in the nation.
In 2018, Underwood rode a wave of concern that Republicans would repeal the Affordable Care Act, and protections for preexisting conditions with it, all the way to an upset victory against multi-term GOP incumbent Randy Hultgren. The capper was two pieces of legislation President Donald Trump signed into law. One lowered the price of insulin by making generic insulin available sooner. The other law created new standards for medical screenings for people crossing the border.
And, right after the primary, she hosted a virtual town hall to speak directly to her constituents about COVID-19 and their concerns, then followed it up with an appearance on WTTW Channel 11's "Chicago Tonight" for a similar discussion.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee was already taking full swings against Oberweis. If Underwood's actions didn't make it clear enough, the DCCC put forward health care as the main policy issue in the race.
"Illinoisans are going to have nauseating déjà vu as they watch Oberweis run another general election campaign on his long record of opposing legislation that cut prescription drug costs for Medicare recipients and pushing for full repeal of our health care system," the statement said.
Oberweis did say he would support a repeal of the Affordable Care Act during the campaign. He also opposes a Medicare for All system "since it eliminates our ability to choose the type of plan we wish to have and the doctors we wish to visit."
Oberweis made it clear in announcing his plan to go against Underwood that his views on limiting immigration, now made popular by Trump, will be a center point of his campaign.
He has already advocated mandatory use of E-Verify, the construction of a southern border wall, the end of birthright citizenship and the hiring of more border patrol agents.
For now, Akin said the focus of the campaign will be uniting the Republican Party for the coming fight.
"This was a very heated race," Akin said. "Jim was under fire much of the campaign. We are reaching out to the local party people and trying to put this behind us. He wants their help. We have to rally as a party to beat Lauren Underwood."
Both candidates will have to see their parties rally behind them to raise enough money to win. The COVID-19 outbreak will eliminate many of the traditional grip-and-grins, dinner parties and visits by the stars of the two political parties typically used as the main avenues for campaign fundraising.
That said, some projections estimate it will take upward of $15 million to capture a winning number of votes.
Underwood raised just under $5 million for her first campaign. Oberweis, including his statewide contest against Sen. Dick Durbin, has never raised more than $3 million.
The sprawling 14th Congressional District includes parts of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--Aurora police chief a finalist to lead Chicago force

Chicago 's next police superintendent will be either the woman running the Aurora Police Department or one of two men @ @ @ @ @ chief or a fast-rising Chicago police deputy chief .
Aurora 's Kristen Ziman , Dallas @ @ @ @ @ 's Ernest Cato are the three finalists chosen by the Chicago Police Board after a @ @ @ @ @ a city hall source .
Ziman recently tested positive for the coronavirus and is leading @ @ @ @ @ the size of one Chicago police district -- from her home .

Aurora police chief a finalist to lead Chicago force
Aurora Police Chief Kristen Ziman speaks during a news conference about the Henry Pratt Co. mass shooting in February 2019. Daily Herald file photo
Chicago's next police superintendent will be either the woman running the Aurora Police Department or one of two men: the retired Dallas police chief or a fast-rising Chicago police deputy chief.
Aurora's Kristen Ziman, Dallas' David Brown and Chicago's Ernest Cato are the three finalists chosen by the Chicago Police Board after a nationwide search, according to a city hall source.
Ziman recently tested positive for the coronavirus and is leading her suburban department -- about the size of one Chicago police district -- from her home.
• For the full story, visit chicago.suntimes.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-31--A song to make you smile: "Walk of Life" by Dire Straits

We 're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper ( and on dailyherald.com ) with a daily `` @ @ @ @ @ . ''
It 's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk .
@ @ @ @ @ Walk of Life '' by Dire Straits , released in 1985 .

A song to make you smile: "Walk of Life" by Dire Straits
Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits plays his Gibson Les Paul guitar during the Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium in London in 1985. Associated Press
We're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper (and on dailyherald.com) with a daily "Song to Make You Smile."
It's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk.
Today's selection is "Walk of Life" by Dire Straits, released in 1985.
Send your ideas to suggestions@dailyherald.com.