dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-25--Raoul says limit on gatherings regulates Illinoisans' conduct, not speech

SPRINGFIELD -- State regulation of the number of people allowed at gatherings does not violate Illinoisans ' First Amendment rights , the attorney general 's office argued in a court document .
A lawsuit filed on June 15 by the state 's Republican Party alleged Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's executive order limiting gatherings to 10 residents or fewer was unconstitutional because it restricted the party 's freedom of speech .
It also contended the order treated religious institutions and protests differently than other groups , which breaches the U.S. Constitution 's equal protections clause .
The governor 's May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow COVID-19 safety guidelines -- limit indoor services to 10 people , for example -- but did not require they do so .
The GOP also pointed to Pritzker 's attendance at a Black Lives Matter demonstration as evidence he was not enforcing his order against groups he supports .
But neither allegation is accurate , the state wrote in a document filed Wednesday .
`` The 10-person limitation on gatherings is no different for First Amendment purposes than a building occupancy limit imposed by a municipal fire code , '' officials at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Constitution protects speech and the right to assemble , but allows governmental bodies with a `` compelling interest '' to protect `` the safety of the general public , '' according to the argument .
`` Political rallies and conventions have always had to abide by occupancy limits , even though overflow crowds ( or lack thereof ) may signal strong support ( or the reverse ) for a particular message or messenger , '' the office continued .
`` The act of gathering in a confined space , which increases the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fire , is what is being regulated , not the message being delivered at the gathering . ''
The Illinois Republican Party proved it has been able to share with members of the public its message , largely online , the state alleged .
The Northwest Side GOP Club held virtual meetings in April and May , the Schaumburg Township Republican Organization opened its office to gather voter signatures in support of a candidate and the Will County Republican Central Committee published video of a press conference on Facebook .
Although the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` is most effective and persuasive when delivered in person , '' the attorney general 's office argued the U.S. Constitution does not `` guarantee a right to the 'most effective and persuasive ' mode of speech in the midst of a pandemic . ''
An exemption of religious institutions included in Pritzker 's executive order follows the federal and state government 's history of providing those houses of worship `` separate and unique safeguards against governmental action against free exercise , '' the state wrote in its court filing .
The Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political groups are `` entities of similar character '' and should thus be treated similarly .
The attorney general 's office , in its response , wrote that is `` incorrect '' because churches , for instance , are not permitted to participate in political activities .
The state added that `` at least three '' members of the GOP `` publicly sought or celebrated '' the exemption for religious organizations in the governor 's order .
And Pritzker made the `` personal decision '' to participate in a protest calling for an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- he did not do so in his official capacity , the office argued .
He has not `` prohibited any public demonstrations on the basis of its content , '' the office continued , including the Reopen Illinois rallies that included demonstrators holding signs depicting the governor as a Nazi .
According to the court document , the Republican Party , as a nonprofit organization , is allowed to use its offices for official work as long as COVID-19 safety guidelines are followed .
The GOP `` completely ignore the devastating toll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is more likely to reach attendees of their own events if '' the state is barred from enforcing Pritzker 's executive order , the attorney general 's office wrote .
The party 's `` desire to switch from virtual to in-person events does not compare favorably to the risk of further spread of COVID-19 and any subsequent loss of life that could result from '' a judge suspending the governor 's order .

Raoul says limit on gatherings regulates Illinoisans' conduct, not speech
SPRINGFIELD -- State regulation of the number of people allowed at gatherings does not violate Illinoisans' First Amendment rights, the attorney general's office argued in a court document.
A lawsuit filed on June 15 by the state's Republican Party alleged Gov. J.B. Pritzker's executive order limiting gatherings to 10 residents or fewer was unconstitutional because it restricted the party's freedom of speech. It also contended the order treated religious institutions and protests differently than other groups, which breaches the U.S. Constitution's equal protections clause.
The governor's May 29 executive order suggested houses of worship follow COVID-19 safety guidelines -- limit indoor services to 10 people, for example -- but did not require they do so. The GOP also pointed to Pritzker's attendance at a Black Lives Matter demonstration as evidence he was not enforcing his order against groups he supports.
But neither allegation is accurate, the state wrote in a document filed Wednesday.
"The 10-person limitation on gatherings is no different for First Amendment purposes than a building occupancy limit imposed by a municipal fire code," officials at the attorney general's office wrote.
The Constitution protects speech and the right to assemble, but allows governmental bodies with a "compelling interest" to protect "the safety of the general public," according to the argument.
"Political rallies and conventions have always had to abide by occupancy limits, even though overflow crowds (or lack thereof) may signal strong support (or the reverse) for a particular message or messenger," the office continued. "The act of gathering in a confined space, which increases the risk of casualties in the event of a fire, is what is being regulated, not the message being delivered at the gathering."
The Illinois Republican Party proved it has been able to share with members of the public its message, largely online, the state alleged. The Northwest Side GOP Club held virtual meetings in April and May, the Schaumburg Township Republican Organization opened its office to gather voter signatures in support of a candidate and the Will County Republican Central Committee published video of a press conference on Facebook.
Although the GOP's lawsuit argued its political speech "is most effective and persuasive when delivered in person," the attorney general's office argued the U.S. Constitution does not "guarantee a right to the 'most effective and persuasive' mode of speech in the midst of a pandemic."
An exemption of religious institutions included in Pritzker's executive order follows the federal and state government's history of providing those houses of worship "separate and unique safeguards against governmental action against free exercise," the state wrote in its court filing.
The Republican Party in its lawsuit argued churches and political groups are "entities of similar character" and should thus be treated similarly. The attorney general's office, in its response, wrote that is "incorrect" because churches, for instance, are not permitted to participate in political activities.
The state added that "at least three" members of the GOP "publicly sought or celebrated" the exemption for religious organizations in the governor's order.
And Pritzker made the "personal decision" to participate in a protest calling for an end to systemic racism held in Chicago -- he did not do so in his official capacity, the office argued.
He has not "prohibited any public demonstrations on the basis of its content," the office continued, including the Reopen Illinois rallies that included demonstrators holding signs depicting the governor as a Nazi.
According to the court document, the Republican Party, as a nonprofit organization, is allowed to use its offices for official work as long as COVID-19 safety guidelines are followed.
The GOP "completely ignore the devastating toll of a pandemic that has ravaged Illinois and is more likely to reach attendees of their own events if" the state is barred from enforcing Pritzker's executive order, the attorney general's office wrote. The party's "desire to switch from virtual to in-person events does not compare favorably to the risk of further spread of COVID-19 and any subsequent loss of life that could result from" a judge suspending the governor's order.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-25--Elmhurst College is set to become Elmhurst University

Elmhurst College is poised to start its next chapter with a new name .
The 149-year-old private college officially will become Elmhurst University on Wednesday and celebrate the occasion with virtual events .
It 's a day school officials have been anticipating for more than a year since the college board of trustees approved the name change on June 15 , 2019 .
`` We 're excited about what this will do , '' President Troy VanAken said Thursday .
`` It will open up some new possibilities for us in terms of individuals being aware of what we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the school originally was named Elmhurst Proseminary and prepared young men for theological seminary and trained teachers for parochial schools , according to its website .
The school took on the name Elmhurst College in 1924 when it became a four-year college for men .
Women first enrolled in 1930 .
Putting `` university '' in the name , officials say , will more accurately reflect the school 's current profile as a comprehensive higher education institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and applied sciences .
`` Our graduate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 years , '' VanAken said , `` and we 're looking at adding some doctoral programs . ''
Elmhurst offers more than 60 undergraduate programs , as well as 20 master 's degree and graduate certificate programs .
Last fall , it had an enrollment of 3,500 , including 562 graduate students .
Being called a university , VanAken said , `` is a representation of who are . ''
`` This will distinguish us in terms of the brand that we want to represent , '' VanAken said .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ degree-granting institution . ''
Officials said the name change will enhance the school 's recruitment efforts , especially among international students , because university status is more widely understood .
`` The word 'college ' in international circles oftentimes means high school or technical school , '' VanAken said .
In addition to helping recruitment , officials also believe it will help Elmhurst graduates when they 're looking for jobs .
Even with the name change , the atmosphere at the school wo n't change .
`` It reflects that we have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graduate level , '' VanAken said .
`` But certainly the quality of programs are still going to be small and intimate . ''
He said all classes will continue to be taught by faculty members -- not graduate assistants or teaching assistants .
The new name will adorn school stationary , signs and its website beginning Wednesday .
Also on that day , the school will release a celebration video that captures the unveiling of the new Elmhurst University arch over the Gates of Knowledge at 190 S. Prospect Ave. , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be released at 11 a.m. on the institution 's Facebook and YouTube channels .
In addition , VanAken will host an online celebration for the campus community .

Elmhurst College is set to become Elmhurst University
After being known as Elmhurst College for 96 years, the school is set to become Elmhurst University on Wednesday, July 1. Daily Herald file photo
Elmhurst College is poised to start its next chapter with a new name.
The 149-year-old private college officially will become Elmhurst University on Wednesday and celebrate the occasion with virtual events.
It's a day school officials have been anticipating for more than a year since the college board of trustees approved the name change on June 15, 2019.
"We're excited about what this will do," President Troy VanAken said Thursday. "It will open up some new possibilities for us in terms of individuals being aware of what we have become."
Founded in 1871, the school originally was named Elmhurst Proseminary and prepared young men for theological seminary and trained teachers for parochial schools, according to its website. The school took on the name Elmhurst College in 1924 when it became a four-year college for men. Women first enrolled in 1930.
Putting "university" in the name, officials say, will more accurately reflect the school's current profile as a comprehensive higher education institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and applied sciences.
"Our graduate programs have been growing over the past 20 years," VanAken said, "and we're looking at adding some doctoral programs."
Elmhurst offers more than 60 undergraduate programs, as well as 20 master's degree and graduate certificate programs. Last fall, it had an enrollment of 3,500, including 562 graduate students.
Being called a university, VanAken said, "is a representation of who are."
"This will distinguish us in terms of the brand that we want to represent," VanAken said. "We're a bachelor's and a graduate degree-granting institution."
Officials said the name change will enhance the school's recruitment efforts, especially among international students, because university status is more widely understood.
"The word 'college' in international circles oftentimes means high school or technical school," VanAken said.
In addition to helping recruitment, officials also believe it will help Elmhurst graduates when they're looking for jobs.
Even with the name change, the atmosphere at the school won't change.
"It reflects that we have a breadth of programs at the undergraduate and graduate level," VanAken said. "But certainly the quality of programs are still going to be small and intimate."
He said all classes will continue to be taught by faculty members -- not graduate assistants or teaching assistants.
The new name will adorn school stationary, signs and its website beginning Wednesday.
Also on that day, the school will release a celebration video that captures the unveiling of the new Elmhurst University arch over the Gates of Knowledge at 190 S. Prospect Ave., the main entrance to campus. The video will be released at 11 a.m. on the institution's Facebook and YouTube channels.
In addition, VanAken will host an online celebration for the campus community.
Visit elmhurst.edu for more details.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Why police, safety advocates have more concerns about fireworks this year

With COVID-19 stamping out most Independence Day fireworks shows in the suburbs this year , there 's plenty of temptation out there for people to put on their own pyrotechnics displays to celebrate the occasion .
In fact , police in some towns -- and hundreds of complaints on social media -- say many have gotten an early start on the festivities , interrupting our quiet summer nights with window-rattling booms and ear-piercing screeches .
And that has suburban law enforcement and safety advocates worried about what 's to come .
`` We expect this year there 's going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Round Lake Park Police Chief George Filenko told us this week .
`` Generally when there are no fireworks displays , private people bring in the big stuff . ''
That was the case eight years ago when a summer drought led many towns to cancel or postpone their Fourth of July shows , said Filenko , whose town is just a 30-minute drive to Wisconsin and legally purchased fireworks .
`` You can step over the border and get whatever you want , '' he said .
Elgin is among the cities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complaints .
Police on Tuesday said they 'd received 225 complaints since June 1 -- more than 10 a day .
During the same time frame last year , they received 25 complaints .
In response , the police department has special detail officers responding to fireworks complaints from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily .
So far this month , they 've issued six warning tickets and 12 citations .
And it 's not just those shooting off fireworks who face fines -- if police find evidence of fireworks being detonated on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited .
Fines range from $ 100 to $ 750 .
`` We know this is a difficult time of the year for parents of young children , pet owners and our veterans , '' police said in a Facebook post .
`` We are here to work with our community and address these complaints to the best of our abilities . ''
Police in Rolling Meadows issued a similar warning this week , saying violators could be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor .
`` The reality is we can not catch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every year and they are dealt with , '' police said .
Other departments we spoke to -- including Lake Zurich and Mundelein -- say they have n't seen a surge in complaints yet , but they expect them to come as the holiday nears .
`` I do anticipate an increase due to the lack of municipal displays , '' Lake Zurich Chief Steve Husak said .
Safety experts say more people setting off fireworks at home to celebrate Independence Day this year will almost certainly lead to more injuries .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they go bad terribly , '' said Mike Figolah , former Mount Prospect fire chief and past president of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance .
More than a nuisance For most of us , backyard fireworks displays are just an annoyance we live with for a few days every summer .
But they can create severe stress and anxiety for veterans and our pets , and safety experts say they 're far more dangerous than people believe , particularly for children .
Mike Figolah , the former Mount Prospect fire chief and past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , told us Thursday that 45 % of those injured by fireworks every year are children under 12 years old .
They 're curious enough to get too close and not agile enough to get out of the way when something goes wrong .
`` When things go bad with fireworks , they go bad terribly , '' Figolah said .
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission , there were about 10,000 fireworks-related injuries that required a visit to the ER last year , and 73 % of them took place between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were the number one cause of injuries , half of them involving children younger than 5 .
At least 12 people died .
Figolah said it 's almost certain that more fireworks at home will mean more injuries this year .
`` Our position has always been to leave the fireworks to the professionals , '' he said .
`` Unfortunately , with COVID-19 , there are n't as many professional displays , and people are taking it into their own hands . ''
With the weather warmer and the days longer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , gutter repair , pest control or some other service may be more common .
And while the vast majority are legit , police say it 's a good idea to know the signs of a scam .
One sign ?
Visitors claiming they need to check your water supply for COVID-19 .
Police in Arlington Heights say that was the scheme behind a pair of `` ruse '' burglaries during the past two weeks .
According to police , two men knocked on residents ' doors posing as water department employees and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply for the coronavirus .
While one of the men distracted the homeowner with the ruse , the second offender went into the house and stole property .
Police said the village is n't testing water supplies for COVID-19 .
Health experts say there 's no evidence the virus is present or transmitted through water .
To avoid becoming a victim , police say you should n't allow anyone you do not know or did not make an appointment with in your house , never leave your front door unlocked or unattended when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for an ID to verify if the person claims to be with a utility company or local government agency .
• Have a question , tip or comment ?
Email us at copsandcrime @ dailyherald.com .

Why police, safety advocates have more concerns about fireworks this year
With COVID-19 stamping out most Independence Day fireworks shows in the suburbs this year, there's plenty of temptation out there for people to put on their own pyrotechnics displays to celebrate the occasion.
In fact, police in some towns -- and hundreds of complaints on social media -- say many have gotten an early start on the festivities, interrupting our quiet summer nights with window-rattling booms and ear-piercing screeches.
And that has suburban law enforcement and safety advocates worried about what's to come.
"We expect this year there's going to be excessive use of fireworks," Round Lake Park Police Chief George Filenko told us this week. "Generally when there are no fireworks displays, private people bring in the big stuff."
That was the case eight years ago when a summer drought led many towns to cancel or postpone their Fourth of July shows, said Filenko, whose town is just a 30-minute drive to Wisconsin and legally purchased fireworks.
"You can step over the border and get whatever you want," he said.
Elgin is among the cities already seeing a big spike in fireworks complaints. Police on Tuesday said they'd received 225 complaints since June 1 -- more than 10 a day. During the same time frame last year, they received 25 complaints.
In response, the police department has special detail officers responding to fireworks complaints from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily. So far this month, they've issued six warning tickets and 12 citations.
And it's not just those shooting off fireworks who face fines -- if police find evidence of fireworks being detonated on a property, its owner can be cited. Fines range from $100 to $750.
"We know this is a difficult time of the year for parents of young children, pet owners and our veterans," police said in a Facebook post. "We are here to work with our community and address these complaints to the best of our abilities."
Police in Rolling Meadows issued a similar warning this week, saying violators could be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor.
"The reality is we cannot catch everyone, but we do catch several every year and they are dealt with," police said.
Other departments we spoke to -- including Lake Zurich and Mundelein -- say they haven't seen a surge in complaints yet, but they expect them to come as the holiday nears.
"I do anticipate an increase due to the lack of municipal displays," Lake Zurich Chief Steve Husak said.
Safety experts say more people setting off fireworks at home to celebrate Independence Day this year will almost certainly lead to more injuries. "When things go bad with fireworks, they go bad terribly," said Mike Figolah, former Mount Prospect fire chief and past president of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance. - Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg, 2014
For most of us, backyard fireworks displays are just an annoyance we live with for a few days every summer. But they can create severe stress and anxiety for veterans and our pets, and safety experts say they're far more dangerous than people believe, particularly for children.
Mike Figolah, the former Mount Prospect fire chief and past president of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance, told us Thursday that 45% of those injured by fireworks every year are children under 12 years old. They're curious enough to get too close and not agile enough to get out of the way when something goes wrong.
"When things go bad with fireworks, they go bad terribly," Figolah said.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were about 10,000 fireworks-related injuries that required a visit to the ER last year, and 73% of them took place between June 21 and July 21.
Sparklers were the number one cause of injuries, half of them involving children younger than 5. At least 12 people died.
Figolah said it's almost certain that more fireworks at home will mean more injuries this year.
"Our position has always been to leave the fireworks to the professionals," he said. "Unfortunately, with COVID-19, there aren't as many professional displays, and people are taking it into their own hands."
COVID-19 in your water?
With the weather warmer and the days longer, solicitors knocking on your door selling windows, gutter repair, pest control or some other service may be more common. And while the vast majority are legit, police say it's a good idea to know the signs of a scam.
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer, 2019 COVID-19 in Arlington Heights' water supply? No, but that's the ruse burglars are using to get into houses, police say.
One sign? Visitors claiming they need to check your water supply for COVID-19.
Police in Arlington Heights say that was the scheme behind a pair of "ruse" burglaries during the past two weeks. According to police, two men knocked on residents' doors posing as water department employees and saying they needed to test the water supply for the coronavirus.
While one of the men distracted the homeowner with the ruse, the second offender went into the house and stole property.
Police said the village isn't testing water supplies for COVID-19. Health experts say there's no evidence the virus is present or transmitted through water.
To avoid becoming a victim, police say you shouldn't allow anyone you do not know or did not make an appointment with in your house, never leave your front door unlocked or unattended when dealing with a solicitor, and ask for an ID to verify if the person claims to be with a utility company or local government agency.
• Have a question, tip or comment? Email us at copsandcrime@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Movie theaters return, and cinema superheroes won't be the only ones with masks

Successfully rebooting local movie theaters sidelined by the coronavirus pandemic will depend on two make-or-break factors .
First , earning the public 's confidence that movie theaters will be safe and clean places where people can gather -- starting today in some spots .
Second , exhibitors being able to book the blockbuster movies most people want to see on the big screen .
Add new policies , including mandatory masks , and theater officials acknowledge it wo n't be easy .
`` I got up at 5 this morning , '' Chris Johnson said .
`` I could n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office at 6:30 .
I kept thinking about this thing . ''
The `` thing '' he keeps thinking about ?
How to revamp , revive and resurrect the 15 movie theaters he 's responsible for as chief executive of Classic Cinemas , headquartered in Downers Grove .
Starting today as part of the state 's Phase 4 plan to bring back `` nonessential '' businesses , Classic Cinemas will be reopening most , not all , of its theaters , including Cinema 12 in Carpentersville , the Elk Grove in Elk Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles , the Fox Lake in Fox Lake , and the York in Elmhurst .
AMC , Regal , Marcus and Studio Grill theaters were contacted for this story , but none replied by Thursday afternoon .
AMC announced it will reopen 450 of its theaters on July 15 .
According to corporate websites , Regal and Cinemark will reactivate theaters on July 10 .
Marcus ' Elgin Cinema will open its `` Elgin Parking Lot Cinema '' today with other theaters opening `` soon . ''
Studio Movie Grill , in Wheaton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Serving as a precursor for these theaters ' reopening , the parking lot of Hoffman Estates ' Sears Centre arena became a temporary drive-in movie theater , with significant restrictions , beginning Thursday night , with a showing of the 1985 adventure comedy `` The Goonies . ''
More than 75 carloads of people watched the movie projected on a 70-foot screen .
The company behind the effort , Chicago Drive-In Theater launched earlier this month with screenings at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview .
Future showings at the Sears Centre include `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and `` Trading Places '' today , `` Toy Story 4 '' and `` The Blues Brothers '' on Saturday , and `` Beetlejuice '' on Monday .
For more than three months , closed `` hardtop '' theaters have teetered perilously on the cusp of financial ruin because of the pandemic .
`` It 's just brutal , '' Johnson observed .
He cited the bleak statistics at Classic .
Comparing 2019 figures up to June 26 with 2020 figures up to June 26 , `` we will be down 1.2 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Johnson said .
`` Getting back to some semblance of regular business is very important . ''
Reopening is a big step , but Johnson wo n't be popping any champagne corks just yet .
`` The uncertainty is definitely the hardest part , '' he said .
`` When do you start ordering food ?
How much should you order ?
How do you know if you have enough staff ? ''
Florida 's CMX Cinemas theater chain filed for bankruptcy in April .
Two weeks ago , AMC , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the closures of $ 2.2 billion .
So , what can we expect the new pandemic-era theater experience to look like ?
Johnson offered a preview of what Classic Cinemas has planned for returning patrons : • Masks will be required for staff members and audiences .
• For ticket sales , computers will automatically place three empty seats between patrons ( two empty seats between recliners ) , ensuring social distancing .
( With your family ?
On a date ?
Do n't worry .
Allowances can be made for you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ computers also keep track of who sat where , so crews know which chairs to sanitize after every screening .
• Concessions will be available with touchless purchases .
All refills will be issued with new containers .
• Seats in every other row will be empty to preserve social distancing .
( No tape or barriers will be used in the auditoriums .
`` We do n't want the place to look like a crime scene , '' Johnson said . )
But what about the lifeblood of cinema , the blockbusters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picture that will bring back the mystery and intrigue is Christopher Nolan 's 'Tenet '' scheduled for July 31 , '' Johnson said .
Late Thursday , Warner Bros. said that movie 's release is being postponed to Aug. 12 .
`` Then we have Disney 's live-action 'Mulan ' ( July 24 ) .
That should help get people out .
Then in September , ' A Quiet Place Part II , ' in October , 'Wonder Woman 1984 , ' in November , James Bond in 'No Time to Die , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Maverick . '
'' Despite Johnson 's optimism , the road to economic recovery comes lined with marketing booby traps and potholes of uncertainty .
When the nation 's three largest chains -- AMC , Cinemark and Regal -- announced masks would not be mandatory if not already required by states or municipalities , instant social media backlash forced them to reverse their policies .
As for Classic Cinemas , it possesses one more tactic to deploy in its mission to put patrons back in theater seats .
`` Popcorn , fresh-popped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` A movie without popcorn is n't really a movie . ''

Movie theaters return, and cinema superheroes won't be the only ones with masks
Successfully rebooting local movie theaters sidelined by the coronavirus pandemic will depend on two make-or-break factors.
First, earning the public's confidence that movie theaters will be safe and clean places where people can gather -- starting today in some spots.
Second, exhibitors being able to book the blockbuster movies most people want to see on the big screen.
Add new policies, including mandatory masks, and theater officials acknowledge it won't be easy.
"I got up at 5 this morning," Chris Johnson said. "I couldn't sleep, so I came into the office at 6:30. I kept thinking about this thing."
The "thing" he keeps thinking about? How to revamp, revive and resurrect the 15 movie theaters he's responsible for as chief executive of Classic Cinemas, headquartered in Downers Grove.
Starting today as part of the state's Phase 4 plan to bring back "nonessential" businesses, Classic Cinemas will be reopening most, not all, of its theaters, including Cinema 12 in Carpentersville, the Elk Grove in Elk Grove Village, the Charlestowne 18 in St. Charles, the Fox Lake in Fox Lake, and the York in Elmhurst.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Andy Bach, general manager of Classic Cinemas' York Theatre in Elmhurst, explains how the seating will work when the theater reopens today.
AMC, Regal, Marcus and Studio Grill theaters were contacted for this story, but none replied by Thursday afternoon. AMC announced it will reopen 450 of its theaters on July 15. According to corporate websites, Regal and Cinemark will reactivate theaters on July 10. Marcus' Elgin Cinema will open its "Elgin Parking Lot Cinema" today with other theaters opening "soon." Studio Movie Grill, in Wheaton and Chicago, will open July 17.
Serving as a precursor for these theaters' reopening, the parking lot of Hoffman Estates' Sears Centre arena became a temporary drive-in movie theater, with significant restrictions, beginning Thursday night, with a showing of the 1985 adventure comedy "The Goonies." More than 75 carloads of people watched the movie projected on a 70-foot screen.
The company behind the effort, Chicago Drive-In Theater launched earlier this month with screenings at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview. Future showings at the Sears Centre include "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" and "Trading Places" today, "Toy Story 4" and "The Blues Brothers" on Saturday, and "Beetlejuice" on Monday.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Signs throughout Classic Cinemas' York Theatre in Elmhurst spell out new rules in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
For more than three months, closed "hardtop" theaters have teetered perilously on the cusp of financial ruin because of the pandemic.
"It's just brutal," Johnson observed. He cited the bleak statistics at Classic.
Comparing 2019 figures up to June 26 with 2020 figures up to June 26, "we will be down 1.2 million people, which is an insane number," Johnson said. "Getting back to some semblance of regular business is very important."
Reopening is a big step, but Johnson won't be popping any champagne corks just yet.
"The uncertainty is definitely the hardest part," he said. "When do you start ordering food? How much should you order? How do you know if you have enough staff?"
Florida's CMX Cinemas theater chain filed for bankruptcy in April. Two weeks ago, AMC, America's largest chain, reported losses during the closures of $2.2 billion.
So, what can we expect the new pandemic-era theater experience to look like?
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Signs throughout Classic Cinemas' York Theatre in Elmhurst spell out new rules in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Johnson offered a preview of what Classic Cinemas has planned for returning patrons:
• Masks will be required for staff members and audiences.
• For ticket sales, computers will automatically place three empty seats between patrons (two empty seats between recliners), ensuring social distancing. (With your family? On a date? Don't worry. Allowances can be made for you to sit together.)
• Those computers also keep track of who sat where, so crews know which chairs to sanitize after every screening.
• Concessions will be available with touchless purchases. All refills will be issued with new containers.
• Seats in every other row will be empty to preserve social distancing. (No tape or barriers will be used in the auditoriums. "We don't want the place to look like a crime scene," Johnson said.)
But what about the lifeblood of cinema, the blockbusters?
"I do think the one picture that will bring back the mystery and intrigue is Christopher Nolan's 'Tenet' scheduled for July 31," Johnson said. Late Thursday, Warner Bros. said that movie's release is being postponed to Aug. 12.
"Then we have Disney's live-action 'Mulan' (July 24). That should help get people out. Then in September, 'A Quiet Place Part II,' in October, 'Wonder Woman 1984,' in November, James Bond in 'No Time to Die,' and in December, 'Top Gun: Maverick.'"
Despite Johnson's optimism, the road to economic recovery comes lined with marketing booby traps and potholes of uncertainty.
When the nation's three largest chains -- AMC, Cinemark and Regal -- announced masks would not be mandatory if not already required by states or municipalities, instant social media backlash forced them to reverse their policies.
As for Classic Cinemas, it possesses one more tactic to deploy in its mission to put patrons back in theater seats.
"Popcorn, fresh-popped every day," Johnson said. "A movie without popcorn isn't really a movie."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-25--Casinos can reopen Wednesday, Pritzker says

All bets are back on in Illinois starting next week .
Following an unprecedented three-month shutdown due to the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ Pritzker 's administration on Thursday gave the state 's 10 casinos and thousands of video @ @ @ @ @ light to welcome back bettors next Wednesday .
That 's a few days behind other @ @ @ @ @ the statewide introduction of Phase 4 , but it 's welcome news for casino executives @ @ @ @ @ rolling again -- and for the Democratic governor to jump-start gaming revenue for a COVID-19-riddled @ @ @ @ @ not an expert about how many times you need to wipe down a video gambling @ @ @ @ @ , '' Pritzker said during a Loop news conference .
`` Like other activities , @ @ @ @ @ these things in measures , with lots of health and safety guidance .
The No @ @ @ @ @ people should not get sick while doing those activities . ''

Casinos can reopen Wednesday, Pritzker says
The Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin and other casinos across the state can reopen Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday. Rick West | Staff Photographer, 2019
All bets are back on in Illinois starting next week.
Following an unprecedented three-month shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration on Thursday gave the state's 10 casinos and thousands of video gambling machine operators the green light to welcome back bettors next Wednesday.
That's a few days behind other crowd-dependent industries reopening Friday with the statewide introduction of Phase 4, but it's welcome news for casino executives eager to get the slots rolling again -- and for the Democratic governor to jump-start gaming revenue for a COVID-19-riddled budget.
"I'm not an expert about how many times you need to wipe down a video gambling terminal to make it safe," Pritzker said during a Loop news conference. "Like other activities, we're trying to do these things in measures, with lots of health and safety guidance. The No. 1 driving factor is people should not get sick while doing those activities."
For the full report, visit chicago.suntimes.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Prospect Heights panel recommends pot shop on Rand Road

Members of Prospect Heights ' planning and zoning board of appeals Thursday voted 6-1 to recommend the city council approve a proposed recreational marijuana dispensary near the intersection of Rand Road and Thomas Street .
In casting her dissenting vote , Commissioner Janet Saewert said that while she accepted that the proposal for Zen Leaf at Prospect Heights at 1434 N. Rand Road adhered to all city codes and regulations , she agreed with many members of the public who 'd criticized the site 's proximity to both Hersey High School to the east and Thomas Middle School to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a first reading of the proposed dispensary 's special use permit on July 13 , with the second and final reading likely to occur on July 27 .
City staff members and some other members of the planning and zoning board made it clear that the proposal did meet all the standards and regulations adopted in 2019 to become Prospect Heights ' one permitted recreational marijuana dispensary .
Those including its distance from the two schools in the area .
Chairman Danielle Dash opened the hearing by stating that its purpose was to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city 's conditions for a permit , and not to debate either the adult use of marijuana or state or local laws on such use .
But for more than two hours much of the discussion during the hearing held on Zoom consisted of criticisms of the location and the danger of marijuana to passing schoolchildren , with many of the speakers being residents of nearby Arlington Heights .
Anthony Marsico , vice president of retail for Zen Leaf , spoke of the security and vigilance that are part of his company 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not as many appropriate sites in Prospect Heights as critics of the selected one seemed to think .
He added that much of Prospect Heights is residential , and that choosing a site in a shared strip mall rather than the free-standing former First Midwest Bank building would raise other types of issues .
The majority of the zoning board agreed .
`` Seeing vacant retail is never a good thing , '' Dash said .
Disagreeing with public comments that the dispensary would be more attractive to teens than at a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that its visibility would deter illegal behavior .
Marsico said the planned business would employ 30 to 40 people and generate an estimated $ 720,000 in annual sales tax for the city .

Prospect Heights panel recommends pot shop on Rand Road
A rendering of the interior of the Zen Leaf recreational marijuana dispensary proposed for the former First Midwest Bank building at 1434 N. Rand Road in Prospect Heights. Courtesy of city of Prospect Heights
A rendering of the Zen Leaf recreational marijuana dispensary proposed for the former First Midwest Bank building at 1434 N. Rand Road in Prospect Heights. Courtesy of city of Prospect Heights
Members of Prospect Heights' planning and zoning board of appeals Thursday voted 6-1 to recommend the city council approve a proposed recreational marijuana dispensary near the intersection of Rand Road and Thomas Street.
In casting her dissenting vote, Commissioner Janet Saewert said that while she accepted that the proposal for Zen Leaf at Prospect Heights at 1434 N. Rand Road adhered to all city codes and regulations, she agreed with many members of the public who'd criticized the site's proximity to both Hersey High School to the east and Thomas Middle School to the west.
The city council will consider a first reading of the proposed dispensary's special use permit on July 13, with the second and final reading likely to occur on July 27.
City staff members and some other members of the planning and zoning board made it clear that the proposal did meet all the standards and regulations adopted in 2019 to become Prospect Heights' one permitted recreational marijuana dispensary. Those including its distance from the two schools in the area.
Chairman Danielle Dash opened the hearing by stating that its purpose was to establish whether the proposed business met the city's conditions for a permit, and not to debate either the adult use of marijuana or state or local laws on such use.
But for more than two hours much of the discussion during the hearing held on Zoom consisted of criticisms of the location and the danger of marijuana to passing schoolchildren, with many of the speakers being residents of nearby Arlington Heights.
Anthony Marsico, vice president of retail for Zen Leaf, spoke of the security and vigilance that are part of his company's existing locations and explained that there are not as many appropriate sites in Prospect Heights as critics of the selected one seemed to think.
He added that much of Prospect Heights is residential, and that choosing a site in a shared strip mall rather than the free-standing former First Midwest Bank building would raise other types of issues.
The majority of the zoning board agreed.
"Seeing vacant retail is never a good thing," Dash said.
Disagreeing with public comments that the dispensary would be more attractive to teens than at a more obscure location, Commissioner Nilax Patel argued that its visibility would deter illegal behavior.
Marsico said the planned business would employ 30 to 40 people and generate an estimated $720,000 in annual sales tax for the city.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-25--Elgin chief presents initiatives for police improvement, while council wants task force

The Elgin City Council plans to form a task force that includes residents to examine areas of improvement for the police department , which launched an online community survey and wants to establish eight resident-led community advisory boards to discuss policing issues .
Police Chief Ana Lalley said she is OK with the task force but also said the department already has been proactive about change and has shown a commitment to responding to the community 's desire to be heard .
Policing has been the focus of several protests this month in Elgin .
Other upcoming initiatives , Lalley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equity challenge '' that police officers and the community would take part in .
The challenge was created by Eddie Moore Jr. of the nonprofit The Privilege Institute .
It involves taking one action daily `` to further your understanding of power , privilege , supremacy , oppression , and equity '' and comes with suggestions for readings , podcasts , videos and more .
The department also wants to add more members to its youth advisory council and plans to hold a community event in August centered on the issues outlined in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Robin DiAngelo , which police command staff members have been reading , Lalley said .
The department will start posting monthly use-of-force data on its website , she added .
One pending issue is whether Elgin will create a civilian police review board and what kind of authority it would have .
Conversations about this started after the police killing of resident Decynthia Clements in 2018 and will take longer , possibly up to a year , because the issue is complex and involves the police union , Lalley and council members agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the idea of having eight community advisory groups that would meet in their own neighborhoods -- maybe in someone 's home -- and set their own agendas .
Two police officers , including a supervisor , would be present mainly to listen and answer questions .
The police department for many years has had a citizen advisory committee that meets at the police station .
Council members voted Wednesday to make some changes regarding police procedures : requiring more police officers to live in town , hiring an outside firm to investigate serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two residents to the board of police and fire commissioners .
The task force is needed to continue that examination in a more comprehensive manner , Dixon said .
`` When we talk about addressing policy or culture , that takes a group effort . ''
At one point , there was an unusually vehement exchange between Lalley and Councilwoman Carol Rauschenberger , who said Elgin can `` re-imagine '' its police department , as other cities across the nation are doing , and examine ideas like having fewer police officers and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ department that 's reading 'White Fragility ' and who 's going to host a conversation with their community about it , '' Lalley replied .
`` This is a great police department with great officers who are forward-thinking .
We 've shown that time and time again .
If no one 's going to say it , I 'm going to say it . ''
`` I agree , '' Rauschenberger said .
`` But this is ( an issue of ) 'before George Floyd ' and 'after George Floyd . '
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when everybody around the world is re-looking at policing . ''

Elgin chief presents initiatives for police improvement, while council wants task force
The Elgin City Council plans to form a task force to examine areas for improvement for the police department. Councilwoman Carol Rauschenberger said she wants to examine ideas like having fewer police officers and more social workers. courtesy of city of Elgin
The Elgin City Council plans to form a task force that includes residents to examine areas of improvement for the police department, which launched an online community survey and wants to establish eight resident-led community advisory boards to discuss policing issues.
Police Chief Ana Lalley said she is OK with the task force but also said the department already has been proactive about change and has shown a commitment to responding to the community's desire to be heard. Policing has been the focus of several protests this month in Elgin.
Other upcoming initiatives, Lalley said, are a "21-day racial equity challenge" that police officers and the community would take part in.
The challenge was created by Eddie Moore Jr. of the nonprofit The Privilege Institute. It involves taking one action daily "to further your understanding of power, privilege, supremacy, oppression, and equity" and comes with suggestions for readings, podcasts, videos and more.
The department also wants to add more members to its youth advisory council and plans to hold a community event in August centered on the issues outlined in the book "White Fragility" by Robin DiAngelo, which police command staff members have been reading, Lalley said.
The department will start posting monthly use-of-force data on its website, she added.
One pending issue is whether Elgin will create a civilian police review board and what kind of authority it would have. Conversations about this started after the police killing of resident Decynthia Clements in 2018 and will take longer, possibly up to a year, because the issue is complex and involves the police union, Lalley and council members agreed.
Councilman Corey Dixon said he likes the idea of having eight community advisory groups that would meet in their own neighborhoods -- maybe in someone's home -- and set their own agendas. Two police officers, including a supervisor, would be present mainly to listen and answer questions. The police department for many years has had a citizen advisory committee that meets at the police station.
Council members voted Wednesday to make some changes regarding police procedures: requiring more police officers to live in town, hiring an outside firm to investigate serious allegations of police misconduct, and adding two residents to the board of police and fire commissioners.
The task force is needed to continue that examination in a more comprehensive manner, Dixon said. "When we talk about addressing policy or culture, that takes a group effort."
At one point, there was an unusually vehement exchange between Lalley and Councilwoman Carol Rauschenberger, who said Elgin can "re-imagine" its police department, as other cities across the nation are doing, and examine ideas like having fewer police officers and more social workers.
"Find a police department that's reading 'White Fragility' and who's going to host a conversation with their community about it," Lalley replied. "This is a great police department with great officers who are forward-thinking. We've shown that time and time again. If no one's going to say it, I'm going to say it."
"I agree," Rauschenberger said. "But this is (an issue of) 'before George Floyd' and 'after George Floyd.' I think it's a moment in history when everybody around the world is re-looking at policing."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-25--Sears Centre drive-in premieres with 'The Goonies'

Moviegoers Thursday night took their DeLoreans and other vehicles back in time to 1985 -- when you could watch a @ @ @ @ @ '' somewhere other than your home .
Just hours before the start of Phase 4 @ @ @ @ @ allowed the limited reopening of some indoor movie theaters , the parking lot of the @ @ @ @ @ drive-in experience featuring the 35-year-old adventure comedy .
Upcoming screenings from this second Chicago Drive-In @ @ @ @ @ in Bridgeview ) include `` Honey , I Shrunk the Kids '' and `` Trading @ @ @ @ @ `` Toy Story 4 '' and `` The Blues Brothers '' on Saturday ; `` @ @ @ @ @ `` Moana '' on Tuesday ; `` The Princess Bride '' on Wednesday ; `` @ @ @ @ @ , July 2 ; `` Ferris Bueller 's Day Off '' and `` Dazed and @ @ @ @ @ July 3 ; and `` Independence Day '' on Independence Day .
Tickets and further @ @ @ @ @ .

Sears Centre drive-in premieres with 'The Goonies'
Moviegoers Thursday night took their DeLoreans and other vehicles back in time to 1985 -- when you could watch a film like "The Goonies" somewhere other than your home.
Just hours before the start of Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan allowed the limited reopening of some indoor movie theaters, the parking lot of the Sears Centre Arena provided a drive-in experience featuring the 35-year-old adventure comedy.
Upcoming screenings from this second Chicago Drive-In location (the other is in Bridgeview) include "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" and "Trading Places" on Friday; "Toy Story 4" and "The Blues Brothers" on Saturday; "Beetlejuice" on Monday; "Moana" on Tuesday; "The Princess Bride" on Wednesday; "The Sandlot" on Thursday, July 2; "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Dazed and Confused" on Friday, July 3; and "Independence Day" on Independence Day.
Tickets and further information are available at chicagodrivein.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Phase 4 of reopening: What you need to know, and what doctors warn

As the state makes a giant leap forward Friday when movie theaters reopen , youth sports resume and other activities curtailed by COVID-19 return with restrictions , health experts warn residents to take it slow .
The reopening momentum intensified Monday when Gov .
J.B. Pritzker released guidelines for residents , business and industries to shift into Phase 4 , or Revitalization , of a four-region , five-phase reopening plan .
`` Science and data are the overreaching guardrails for how Illinois will keep reaching forward , '' Pritzker said .
`` By staying home and practicing social distancing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to drop and each region throughout the state is prepared to move to Phase 4 . ''
Illinois is meeting all the health metrics , including declining hospitalizations and a 2 % average positivity rate for COVID-19 testing , that will propel it out of the Phase 3 limitations .
But do n't toss your face mask , given that COVID-19 is spread mainly through droplets when people sneeze , said physician Michael Bauer .
`` It is not all fine .
It is not back to normal , '' Bauer said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we are still in the midst of this pandemic . ''
The Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital medical director , for one , does n't plan to watch a movie anytime soon , for example .
`` To me , personally , I would have no desire to sit in an indoor space like that , '' Bauer said .
The Phase 4 guidelines also allow people to gather in groups of 50 or less , dine indoors , visit museums and zoos , and swim at pools -- but all with Illinois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he personally wo n't be eating indoors at a restaurant in Phase 4 , but for people who opt in , be `` a keen observer , '' he advised .
`` Are the tables physically distanced to a minimum of 6 feet apart ?
How crowded is it ? ''
In the coming weeks , 400,000 Illinoisans are expected to return to work , officials estimated .
But at Edward Hospital in Naperville , doctors are seeing a trend of COVID-19 cases involving patients who were infected at workplaces , Edward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prevention Jonathan Pinsky said .
An eight-hour day prolongs exposure to co-workers ' germs , so `` if you go back to work , wear a mask and make sure other people are wearing a mask , too , '' Pinsky said .
At lunch , he typically eats solo and recommends others avoid socializing over a meal in the office cafe .
The nuances of the guidelines allow most of Classic Cinemas ' facilities to reopen , but not its iconic Tivoli Theater in Downers Grove .
Rules allow 50 people or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whichever is less .
`` It is what it is , '' Classic Cinemas owner Chris Johnson said .
Opening the Tivoli 's 1,000-seat auditorium for 50 people is n't feasible .
But the company 's other cinemas with multiple screens will light up in Elk Grove Village , Elmhurst , St. Charles and other locations Friday .
Social distancing and mask rules apply , but `` in these COVID-19 times , everyone gets the drill , '' Johnson said .
Here 's a look at some of the guidelines : • For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to either 50 people or 50 % of the capacity of the room , whichever is less .
This includes conferences and weddings .
• Indoor dining can resume , but parties must be 10 or less and tables must be spaced 6 feet apart .
Standing areas at bars are permitted but with physical distancing .
Guests should wear masks while waiting for a table , when ordering and until they are served .
• For youth sports : Group sizes of 50 or less are permitted including players , coaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but not when exercising .
Spectators are allowed but at 20 % capacity of the seating area .
Spectators should wear masks when entering and exiting but can remove them when eating or drinking , or if outside and separate from other people .
• Museums and zoos can reopen but with 25 % of normal occupancy .
Interactive exhibits and rides are closed .
Guided tours are limited to groups of 50 or fewer .
• Movie theaters , cinemas and performing arts centers can serve up to 50 people or 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Patrons must wear masks except when seated .
Social distancing of 6 feet or more must be maintained between each party .
• Select indoor recreation , such as bowling , can reopen following the rules of 50 or fewer individuals or 50 % of overall capacity with social distancing .
• Water parks and recreational swimming will be allowed , but Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines will apply .
• Health and fitness centers and gyms may open at 50 % capacity .
Group fitness classes of up to 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks when they are not exercising .
Equipment like weights should be cleaned after use by members .
• For day camps , `` water-based activities are permitted but only at 50 % of facility capacity with group size of no more than 15 participants in a group , '' the guidelines state .

Phase 4 of reopening: What you need to know, and what doctors warn
A man sits in front of the Art Institute of Chicago museum in downtown Chicago. Museums can reopen under Phase 4 of Illinois' reopening plan but with restrictions and at 25% capacity. Associated Press
As the state makes a giant leap forward Friday when movie theaters reopen, youth sports resume and other activities curtailed by COVID-19 return with restrictions, health experts warn residents to take it slow.
The reopening momentum intensified Monday when Gov. J.B. Pritzker released guidelines for residents, business and industries to shift into Phase 4, or Revitalization, of a four-region, five-phase reopening plan.
"Science and data are the overreaching guardrails for how Illinois will keep reaching forward," Pritzker said. "By staying home and practicing social distancing, the rate of new COVID-19 cases continues to drop and each region throughout the state is prepared to move to Phase 4."
Illinois is meeting all the health metrics, including declining hospitalizations and a 2% average positivity rate for COVID-19 testing, that will propel it out of the Phase 3 limitations.
But don't toss your face mask, given that COVID-19 is spread mainly through droplets when people sneeze, said physician Michael Bauer.
"It is not all fine. It is not back to normal," Bauer said. "Everyone wants it to be, but we are still in the midst of this pandemic."
The Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital medical director, for one, doesn't plan to watch a movie anytime soon, for example.
"To me, personally, I would have no desire to sit in an indoor space like that," Bauer said.
The Phase 4 guidelines also allow people to gather in groups of 50 or less, dine indoors, visit museums and zoos, and swim at pools -- but all with Illinois Department of Public Health caveats.
Bauer said he personally won't be eating indoors at a restaurant in Phase 4, but for people who opt in, be "a keen observer," he advised. "Are the tables physically distanced to a minimum of 6 feet apart? How crowded is it?"
In the coming weeks, 400,000 Illinoisans are expected to return to work, officials estimated.
But at Edward Hospital in Naperville, doctors are seeing a trend of COVID-19 cases involving patients who were infected at workplaces, Edward's Medical Director for Infection Control and Prevention Jonathan Pinsky said.
An eight-hour day prolongs exposure to co-workers' germs, so "if you go back to work, wear a mask and make sure other people are wearing a mask, too," Pinsky said. At lunch, he typically eats solo and recommends others avoid socializing over a meal in the office cafe.
The nuances of the guidelines allow most of Classic Cinemas' facilities to reopen, but not its iconic Tivoli Theater in Downers Grove. Rules allow 50 people or 50% overall capacity per theater, whichever is less.
"It is what it is," Classic Cinemas owner Chris Johnson said. Opening the Tivoli's 1,000-seat auditorium for 50 people isn't feasible. But the company's other cinemas with multiple screens will light up in Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, St. Charles and other locations Friday.
Social distancing and mask rules apply, but "in these COVID-19 times, everyone gets the drill," Johnson said.
Here's a look at some of the guidelines:
• For meetings and events: Groups can assemble up to either 50 people or 50% of the capacity of the room, whichever is less. This includes conferences and weddings.
• Indoor dining can resume, but parties must be 10 or less and tables must be spaced 6 feet apart. Standing areas at bars are permitted but with physical distancing. Guests should wear masks while waiting for a table, when ordering and until they are served.
• For youth sports: Group sizes of 50 or less are permitted including players, coaches and referees. Athletes should wear masks but not when exercising. Spectators are allowed but at 20% capacity of the seating area. Spectators should wear masks when entering and exiting but can remove them when eating or drinking, or if outside and separate from other people.
• Museums and zoos can reopen but with 25% of normal occupancy. Interactive exhibits and rides are closed. Guided tours are limited to groups of 50 or fewer.
• Movie theaters, cinemas and performing arts centers can serve up to 50 people or 50% overall capacity, whichever is less. Patrons must wear masks except when seated. Social distancing of 6 feet or more must be maintained between each party.
• Select indoor recreation, such as bowling, can reopen following the rules of 50 or fewer individuals or 50% of overall capacity with social distancing.
• Water parks and recreational swimming will be allowed, but Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines will apply.
• Health and fitness centers and gyms may open at 50% capacity. Group fitness classes of up to 50 people are allowed. Members should wear masks when they are not exercising. Equipment like weights should be cleaned after use by members.
• For day camps, "water-based activities are permitted but only at 50% of facility capacity with group size of no more than 15 participants in a group," the guidelines state.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Indoor dining returns. Here's what suburban restaurants are doing to prepare.

For diners and restaurateurs , another new normal begins this weekend .
After months of carryout , curbside pickup and al fresco service , suburban restaurants are preparing to welcome diners indoors as the state enters phase 4 of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's plan to resume activities curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic .
Just because this new phase permits indoor dining does n't mean crowds will immediately descend on suburban eateries , says Arnie Krause , co-owner and operator of The Claim Company restaurants in Northbrook and Vernon Hills .
`` The wild card is how quick people will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who co-owns the restaurants with Ted and Michael Holleb .
`` My gut tells me that we 're going to see more foot traffic in Vernon Hills than in Northbrook . ''
Still , restaurant owners and managers seem to greet this next phase with measured enthusiasm and cautious optimism .
They say the health and safety of patrons and employees is paramount .
To that end , owners will rearrange seating to increase the distance between tables , require employees and patrons to wear face coverings and increase the frequency of cleaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Claim Company went a few steps farther , said Krause , installing glass partitions between booths , placing hand sanitizer dispensers every 20 feet or so and removing the Northbrook restaurant 's self-serve salad bar .
That said , Krause acknowledges it will take time for patrons to become truly at ease dining out again .
`` Behavior is driven by different factors , '' he said .
`` Until ( diners ) feel comfortable they wo n't go out ...
It 's a gradual thing and it will take a long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will limit parties to tables of 10 people or fewer and will require diners to wear face coverings while in the restaurant unless they are seated at a table .
Additionally , diners will be able to access the menu from their cellphones .
According to a prepared release , employees will be screened and have their temperatures taken before they enter the restaurant .
Mago Grill & Cantina restaurants in Arlington Heights and South Barrington are among the establishments screening employees , said co-owner/manager Rick Munoz .
`` We will have hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room for employees and guests to use , '' Munoz said .
Employees will continuously clean frequently touched surfaces , including doorknobs , to `` make sure everything is spick and span , '' Munoz said .
Unlike some restaurants that have adopted cashless payment , Mago will accept both paper currency and credit cards but will require employees to wash their hands after every transaction .
`` We have n't considered not taking cash , '' Munoz said .
Like The Claim Company , Jameson 's Restaurant Group which operates restaurants in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Huntley , Mount Prospect , Skokie , Vernon Hills and Woodridge , has installed plexiglass between booths , said Christina Angelos , manager of Jameson 's social media and marketing .
The Arlington Heights restaurant is not part of the restaurant group , Angelos said .
Restaurant party rooms will be repurposed for general dining to allow for proper distancing , she said .
Face coverings are required for servers , she said , while patrons must wear them in common spaces .
`` The challenging part is getting customers to adhere to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` But we 're definitely doing our part . ''
The pandemic changed the way the group operates , Angelos acknowledged , but the chain has learned how to adapt in the 30 years since it opened its flagship in Mount Prospect .
That restaurant `` never missed a beat '' as it transitioned to carryout and curbside service during the initial weeks of the pandemic , Angelos said .
`` That was an indicator to us that we 'll be fine in the long term , '' she said .

Indoor dining returns. Here's what suburban restaurants are doing to prepare.
For diners and restaurateurs, another new normal begins this weekend.
After months of carryout, curbside pickup and al fresco service, suburban restaurants are preparing to welcome diners indoors as the state enters phase 4 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's plan to resume activities curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Just because this new phase permits indoor dining doesn't mean crowds will immediately descend on suburban eateries, says Arnie Krause, co-owner and operator of The Claim Company restaurants in Northbrook and Vernon Hills.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Disinfecting wipes instead of mints greet patrons to Northbrook's The Claim Company, which opens its indoor dining room to patrons beginning Friday, June 26.
"The wild card is how quick people will come out," said Krause, who co-owns the restaurants with Ted and Michael Holleb. "My gut tells me that we're going to see more foot traffic in Vernon Hills than in Northbrook."
Still, restaurant owners and managers seem to greet this next phase with measured enthusiasm and cautious optimism. They say the health and safety of patrons and employees is paramount. To that end, owners will rearrange seating to increase the distance between tables, require employees and patrons to wear face coverings and increase the frequency of cleaning high-touch areas, among other precautions.
The Claim Company went a few steps farther, said Krause, installing glass partitions between booths, placing hand sanitizer dispensers every 20 feet or so and removing the Northbrook restaurant's self-serve salad bar.
That said, Krause acknowledges it will take time for patrons to become truly at ease dining out again.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Arnie Krause, co-owner and operator of The Claim Company in Northbrook, gets his restaurant ready to welcome patrons inside beginning Friday, June 26. To that end, employees have installed partitions between booths to help keep diners safe.
"Behavior is driven by different factors," he said. "Until (diners) feel comfortable they won't go out ... It's a gradual thing and it will take a long time."
The Clubhouse Oak Brook will limit parties to tables of 10 people or fewer and will require diners to wear face coverings while in the restaurant unless they are seated at a table. Additionally, diners will be able to access the menu from their cellphones.
According to a prepared release, employees will be screened and have their temperatures taken before they enter the restaurant.
Mago Grill & Cantina restaurants in Arlington Heights and South Barrington are among the establishments screening employees, said co-owner/manager Rick Munoz.
"We will have hand sanitizer at strategic points in the dining room for employees and guests to use," Munoz said.
Employees will continuously clean frequently touched surfaces, including doorknobs, to "make sure everything is spick and span," Munoz said.
Unlike some restaurants that have adopted cashless payment, Mago will accept both paper currency and credit cards but will require employees to wash their hands after every transaction.
"We haven't considered not taking cash," Munoz said.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer The Claim Company, which has locations in Northbrook (seen here) and Vernon Hills, is among many suburban restaurants prepared to reopen indoor dining rooms as the state enters Phase 4 of the revitalization plan.
Like The Claim Company, Jameson's Restaurant Group which operates restaurants in Algonquin, Bloomingdale, Crystal Lake, Huntley, Mount Prospect, Skokie, Vernon Hills and Woodridge, has installed plexiglass between booths, said Christina Angelos, manager of Jameson's social media and marketing. The Arlington Heights restaurant is not part of the restaurant group, Angelos said.
Restaurant party rooms will be repurposed for general dining to allow for proper distancing, she said.
Face coverings are required for servers, she said, while patrons must wear them in common spaces.
"The challenging part is getting customers to adhere to (safety guidelines)," Angelos said. "But we're definitely doing our part."
The pandemic changed the way the group operates, Angelos acknowledged, but the chain has learned how to adapt in the 30 years since it opened its flagship in Mount Prospect.
That restaurant "never missed a beat" as it transitioned to carryout and curbside service during the initial weeks of the pandemic, Angelos said.
"That was an indicator to us that we'll be fine in the long term," she said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--'This is like normal': Suburbs move into Phase 4 of reopening plan

Restaurants began serving customers indoors .
Museums and movie theaters started reopening with limited occupancy .
People could visit zoos , work out at gyms and gather in groups of 50 or less .
Suburban residents were given the green light Friday to resume various social and recreational activities -- with restrictions -- as the state moves into Phase 4 of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's Restore Illinois plan .
Some commemorated the milestone by dining inside their favorite restaurants for the first time since mid-March .
Others browsed a local museum or returned to their gyms after months of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I feel like a lot of people 's lives have been impacted the last few months .
People have been living in a bubble , '' said Huntley resident Trevor Vogal , a member of Northwestern Medicine Health and Fitness Center .
`` It 's nice to see a little bit of normalcy coming back . ''
For customers of The Original Granny 's , the first order of business was eating a hearty breakfast inside the Wheeling restaurant on a rainy morning .
Ben Kelle of Mount Prospect and his daughter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to revisit the neighborhood favorite .
`` We always loved Granny 's , so we come here quite often , '' Ben said .
`` This is like normal .
``  '' We 're not adjusting to the new normalcy ; we want the old normalcy , '' Lisa added .
The Phase 4 benchmark has been achieved through the reduction of average daily COVID-19 infections and the availability of hospital beds , among other metrics .
But health experts urge caution as residents enjoy their newfound freedoms .
Capacities are capped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing protocols remain in effect .
Sanitizing stations and signage were added throughout Northwestern Medicine 's fitness centers in Huntley and Crystal Lake .
All members and employees must be screened , and masks are required unless visitors are able to maintain a 6- to 8-foot distance while exercising , Senior Director Ryan Messinger said .
North Suburban YMCA in Northbrook reopened its fitness center and weight room by appointment only to keep members spaced apart .
The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Oak Brook spent several weeks implementing new safety guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Director Dorothy Asher said .
Guests will be given inexpensive styluses to use the touch screens and other interactive features throughout the facility .
`` ( It 's ) a real change from the way we normally would operate , '' she said .
`` That 's been very time consuming . ''
At The Original Granny 's , every other booth is closed to ensure 50 % capacity and 6-foot separation between parties , General Manager Peter Kastanis said .
Servers must use a fresh cup for every beverage refill as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business , but at least we know we 're keeping people healthy , '' he said .
Similar distancing regulations are in place at Alter Brewing , which opened a new taproom and kitchen in St. Charles just last month .
`` It 's been the most challenging environment I 've ever opened a restaurant in , and I 've opened about 10 , '' partner Ken Henricks said as the establishment welcomed customers to its indoor dining area Friday .
`` We 'll continue on with things we were doing during Phase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cautious as we can possibly be . ''
The Landmark Bar and Grille in Northbrook is allowing about 40 customers in at a time , compared to its usual 150-person capacity , co-owner Helene Kapetaneas said .
Some regulars have been `` ecstatic '' to dine inside , she said , while other customers seemed a little anxious .
`` Everybody just takes it differently , '' she said .
Crystal Lake resident Betty Stork took comfort in the spacing of guests at Lincolnshire 's Strawberry Field Pancakes and Cafe .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as she joined three friends for lunch .
Meanwhile , some restaurants , gyms , movie theaters and other facilities are holding off on loosening restrictions right away .
Some YMCA fitness centers will start opening Wednesday , while others , including Elmhurst , are waiting until Aug. 1 .
Recreation Pool in Arlington Heights is targeted for a July 6 reopening , the same day the Fox River Valley Public Library District will resume limited operations at its East and West Dundee facilities .
At Fry the Coop in Elmhurst , Oak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe Fontana said he does n't want to risk opening the dining rooms too soon out of concern for his employees and customers .
`` I know everyone 's getting antsy and everyone wants to go out and be back to normal , but I still feel like we 're kind of in the thick of things , '' he said .
`` We 're keeping our staff as safe as we can , and it 's working , so why jeopardize that ? ''
He and his management team are `` taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , '' Fontana said , noting he plans to survey his employees to gauge their comfort level .
The restaurants have converted their doors into takeout windows , allowing them to continue operating successfully .
But he recognizes that not all businesses have been so lucky .
At gyms like Crunch Fitness , the one-on-one training sessions and outdoor classes allowed under Phase 3 cost more money than they made , said Keith Smith , district manager for the Schaumburg , Mount Prospect and Aurora franchises .
The facilities can now open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which leaves the business a bit short of its goal but provides more sustainability .
Business at The Original Granny 's dropped about 80 % the first month of the shutdown , even though carryout service was still available , Kastanis said .
Through social media and mass marketing , business jumped back up to 50 % of the norm in the second month .
The introduction of outdoor and now limited indoor dining is continuing to restore business .
Returning to work Friday for the first time since March , server @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surprised by the feeling of newness that accompanied the long-anticipated day. '' It means getting my legs back under me , '' she said laughing .
`` I 'm nervous .
I feel like a rookie .
I 've been doing this for 30 years .
``  All 16 of the employees that were working at the restaurant before the stay-at-home order are expected back within the next few days .
`` I love this place , '' Larson said .
`` It 's like family here . ''
• Daily Herald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Dave Oberhelman and photographers Rick West and Paul Valade contributed to this report .

'This is like normal': Suburbs move into Phase 4 of reopening plan
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art Director Dorothy Asher said the museum in Oak Brook is now taking online reservations and will allow some walk-ins as space permits. Rick West | Staff Photographer
A security guard walks past a jade pagoda sculpture at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Oak Brook, which reopened Friday for the first time since the lockdown. The sculpture was carved from a nine-ton boulder and the altar objects include over 1,000 pieces of jade that took 150 carvers more than 10 years to finish. It was first exhibited at the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago in 1933 and gifted to the Lizzadro Museum by the Chang family in 2018. Rick West | Staff Photographer
Server Mary Kate Lesmann brings a flight of beers to Elburn residents Corey and Erica Kile as indoor dining opens at Alter Brewing in St. Charles for the first time during Phase 4. "It's kind of weird but really nice," Corey said. Rick West | Staff Photographer
Members of Crunch Fitness in Schaumburg work out while socially distancing on the first day of Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan Friday. Courtesy of Crunch Fitness — Schaumburg
General Manager Michael Medina welcomes patrons back to Crunch Fitness at 612 E. Golf Road in Schaumburg on Friday -- the beginning of Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan. Courtesy of Crunch Fitness — Schaumburg
Restaurants began serving customers indoors. Museums and movie theaters started reopening with limited occupancy. People could visit zoos, work out at gyms and gather in groups of 50 or less.
Suburban residents were given the green light Friday to resume various social and recreational activities -- with restrictions -- as the state moves into Phase 4 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Restore Illinois plan.
Some commemorated the milestone by dining inside their favorite restaurants for the first time since mid-March. Others browsed a local museum or returned to their gyms after months of getting creative with at-home exercises.
"I feel like a lot of people's lives have been impacted the last few months. People have been living in a bubble," said Huntley resident Trevor Vogal, a member of Northwestern Medicine Health and Fitness Center. "It's nice to see a little bit of normalcy coming back."
David and Rebekah Maurin of Geneva enjoy lunch at the bar at Alter Brewing in St. Charles as indoor dining opens for the first time during Phase 4. It was the first time they'd dined in a restaurant since January. - Rick West | Staff Photographer
For customers of The Original Granny's, the first order of business was eating a hearty breakfast inside the Wheeling restaurant on a rainy morning. Ben Kelle of Mount Prospect and his daughter, Lisa Kelle, were among the first to revisit the neighborhood favorite.
"We always loved Granny's, so we come here quite often," Ben said. "This is like normal."
"We're not adjusting to the new normalcy; we want the old normalcy," Lisa added.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Wearing a mask, server Armondo Segura brings out a tray of breakfast food at The Original Granny's in Wheeling as the restaurant opened Friday for indoor dining.
The Phase 4 benchmark has been achieved through the reduction of average daily COVID-19 infections and the availability of hospital beds, among other metrics. But health experts urge caution as residents enjoy their newfound freedoms.
Capacities are capped, masks are encouraged and other social distancing protocols remain in effect.
Sanitizing stations and signage were added throughout Northwestern Medicine's fitness centers in Huntley and Crystal Lake. All members and employees must be screened, and masks are required unless visitors are able to maintain a 6- to 8-foot distance while exercising, Senior Director Ryan Messinger said.
North Suburban YMCA in Northbrook reopened its fitness center and weight room by appointment only to keep members spaced apart.
The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Oak Brook spent several weeks implementing new safety guidelines before accepting reservations and walk-ins Friday, Director Dorothy Asher said. Guests will be given inexpensive styluses to use the touch screens and other interactive features throughout the facility.
"(It's) a real change from the way we normally would operate," she said. "That's been very time consuming."
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Peter Valenziano, center, Terey Gallagher, left, and Ann D'Amour wait to dine inside a restaurant for the first time in months as Illinois moves into Phase 4 of its reopening plan.
At The Original Granny's, every other booth is closed to ensure 50% capacity and 6-foot separation between parties, General Manager Peter Kastanis said. Servers must use a fresh cup for every beverage refill as well.
"It's bittersweet for the business, but at least we know we're keeping people healthy," he said.
Similar distancing regulations are in place at Alter Brewing, which opened a new taproom and kitchen in St. Charles just last month.
"It's been the most challenging environment I've ever opened a restaurant in, and I've opened about 10," partner Ken Henricks said as the establishment welcomed customers to its indoor dining area Friday. "We'll continue on with things we were doing during Phase 3 and just (be) as cautious as we can possibly be."
Anthony Chiaro of St. Charles delivers food to a table at Alter Brewing in St. Charles. - Rick West | Staff Photographer
The Landmark Bar and Grille in Northbrook is allowing about 40 customers in at a time, compared to its usual 150-person capacity, co-owner Helene Kapetaneas said. Some regulars have been "ecstatic" to dine inside, she said, while other customers seemed a little anxious.
"Everybody just takes it differently," she said.
Crystal Lake resident Betty Stork took comfort in the spacing of guests at Lincolnshire's Strawberry Field Pancakes and Cafe.
"The distancing really helps," she said as she joined three friends for lunch.
- Russell Lissau | Staff Photographer From lower left, Janice Marcinek, Judith Sedlack, Ildi Magyar and Betty Stork enjoy lunch at Strawberry Field Pancakes and Cafe in Lincolnshire on Friday.
Meanwhile, some restaurants, gyms, movie theaters and other facilities are holding off on loosening restrictions right away. Some YMCA fitness centers will start opening Wednesday, while others, including Elmhurst, are waiting until Aug. 1.
Recreation Pool in Arlington Heights is targeted for a July 6 reopening, the same day the Fox River Valley Public Library District will resume limited operations at its East and West Dundee facilities.
At Fry the Coop in Elmhurst, Oak Lawn and Chicago, owner and founder Joe Fontana said he doesn't want to risk opening the dining rooms too soon out of concern for his employees and customers.
"I know everyone's getting antsy and everyone wants to go out and be back to normal, but I still feel like we're kind of in the thick of things," he said. "We're keeping our staff as safe as we can, and it's working, so why jeopardize that?"
He and his management team are "taking it day by day, week by week," Fontana said, noting he plans to survey his employees to gauge their comfort level. The restaurants have converted their doors into takeout windows, allowing them to continue operating successfully.
But he recognizes that not all businesses have been so lucky.
Members of Crunch Fitness in Schaumburg use the cardio equipment while social distancing on the first day of Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan Friday. - Courtesy of Crunch Fitness -- Schaumburg
At gyms like Crunch Fitness, the one-on-one training sessions and outdoor classes allowed under Phase 3 cost more money than they made, said Keith Smith, district manager for the Schaumburg, Mount Prospect and Aurora franchises. The facilities can now open with 50% occupancy under Phase 4, which leaves the business a bit short of its goal but provides more sustainability.
Business at The Original Granny's dropped about 80% the first month of the shutdown, even though carryout service was still available, Kastanis said.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Calvin Mims of Homewood and Elisia Nava of Wheeling eat breakfast inside The Original Granny's in Wheeling. The state moved Friday into Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan, which allows customers to dine indoors for the first time in months.
Through social media and mass marketing, business jumped back up to 50% of the norm in the second month. The introduction of outdoor and now limited indoor dining is continuing to restore business.
Returning to work Friday for the first time since March, server Donna Larson of Palatine said she was surprised by the feeling of newness that accompanied the long-anticipated day.
"It means getting my legs back under me," she said laughing. "I'm nervous. I feel like a rookie. I've been doing this for 30 years."
All 16 of the employees that were working at the restaurant before the stay-at-home order are expected back within the next few days.
"I love this place," Larson said. "It's like family here."
• Daily Herald staff writers Eric Peterson, Russell Lissau and Dave Oberhelman and photographers Rick West and Paul Valade contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-26--Uptick in Kane County COVID-19 cases triggers warning; state sees 857 new cases, 39 deaths

Kane County is one of eight counties in Illinois showing warning signs of increased COVID-19 risks .
That 's according to the Illinois Department of Public Health 's new risk metrics released on their COVID-19 statistics website , dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics .
The new tracking site went live Friday , the same day Illinois moved to Phase 4 of the governor 's reopening plan , which saw restaurants allow limited numbers of diners back inside , fitness centers reopen and loosened restrictions for gatherings of 50 or fewer .
The state also announced 39 more COVID-19 deaths Friday , bringing the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 6,847 .
Another 857 residents tested positive as well , which means the disease has now infected 140,291 people in Illinois , according to the IDPH .
The new county risk tracking site is just the latest data portal IDPH has rolled out since the outbreak began .
It shows each county 's weekly new case average , number of deaths , test positivity rates , the number of tests performed , emergency room visits , hospitalizations , the percentage of new cases that are part of a cluster and the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kane County averaged 58 new cases for every 100,000 residents between June 14 and June 20 .
Anything above 50 cases per 100,000 residents triggers the warning , according to the website .
Less populated counties are measure by the growth in cases during the week .
The target is anything less than 10 new cases for the week in those locations , according to the IDPH site .
Kane County also shows 15.8 % of the cases from that week came from cluster events .
That could be an outbreak at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or jail , or a party where people were exposed .
Cases linked to clusters are 3 % in Chicago , 3.9 % in suburban Cook , 4.1 % in DuPage , 5.6 % in Lake , 7.9 % in McHenry and 2.6 % in Will counties .
`` This metric is used for context to understand large increases in cases , '' according to the explanation on the IDPH website .
`` It is also an indicator of successful investigation of cases to a known source .
This is not a metric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warning . ''
Kane County was on target in six other categories .
Chicago and suburban Cook , DuPage , Lake , McHenry and Will counties were on target in all categories .
Outside the Chicago area , Boone , Cass , Kankakee , St. Clair and Union counties also are averaging more than 50 new cases per 100,000 residents , according to the site .
In Cass and Wabash counties , more than 10 % of COVID-19 tests had positive results for the week , as well .
Morgan County received a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the previous week 's total .
IDPH said the warnings should help guide residents ' decisions to visit those counties .
Meanwhile , the state is experiencing a slight uptick in its seven-day rolling average infection rate .
On Tuesday , the state was showing an average 2.4 % of those who took a test over the past seven days were positive for the virus .
On Friday , 2.7 % of the people who took tests over the past seven days were diagnosed with an infection .
That 's still well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state to revert to a more restrictive phase , but noteworthy because the state moved into Phase 3 less than a month ago and the infection rate had been dwindling until three days ago .

Uptick in Kane County COVID-19 cases triggers warning; state sees 857 new cases, 39 deaths
Anthony Chiaro of St. Charles delivers food to a table at Alter Brewing in St. Charles Friday on the first day since the COVID-19 outbreak that diners were allowed back inside eateries. Rick West | Staff Photographer
Mark Welsh/mwelsh@dailyherald.comJae Vyskocio of Geneva talks to people who were getting tested for COVID-19 last week in Wheaton.
Kane County is one of eight counties in Illinois showing warning signs of increased COVID-19 risks.
That's according to the Illinois Department of Public Health's new risk metrics released on their COVID-19 statistics website, dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics.
The new tracking site went live Friday, the same day Illinois moved to Phase 4 of the governor's reopening plan, which saw restaurants allow limited numbers of diners back inside, fitness centers reopen and loosened restrictions for gatherings of 50 or fewer.
The state also announced 39 more COVID-19 deaths Friday, bringing the state's death toll from the respiratory disease to 6,847. Another 857 residents tested positive as well, which means the disease has now infected 140,291 people in Illinois, according to the IDPH.
The new county risk tracking site is just the latest data portal IDPH has rolled out since the outbreak began. It shows each county's weekly new case average, number of deaths, test positivity rates, the number of tests performed, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, the percentage of new cases that are part of a cluster and the number of intensive care unit beds available.
Kane County averaged 58 new cases for every 100,000 residents between June 14 and June 20. Anything above 50 cases per 100,000 residents triggers the warning, according to the website. Less populated counties are measure by the growth in cases during the week. The target is anything less than 10 new cases for the week in those locations, according to the IDPH site.
Kane County also shows 15.8% of the cases from that week came from cluster events. That could be an outbreak at a group living facility like a nursing home or jail, or a party where people were exposed. Cases linked to clusters are 3% in Chicago, 3.9% in suburban Cook, 4.1% in DuPage, 5.6% in Lake, 7.9% in McHenry and 2.6% in Will counties.
"This metric is used for context to understand large increases in cases," according to the explanation on the IDPH website. "It is also an indicator of successful investigation of cases to a known source. This is not a metric that is used to trigger a county warning."
Kane County was on target in six other categories. Chicago and suburban Cook, DuPage, Lake, McHenry and Will counties were on target in all categories.
Outside the Chicago area, Boone, Cass, Kankakee, St. Clair and Union counties also are averaging more than 50 new cases per 100,000 residents, according to the site. In Cass and Wabash counties, more than 10% of COVID-19 tests had positive results for the week, as well. Morgan County received a warning because the number of deaths increased from the previous week's total. IDPH said the warnings should help guide residents' decisions to visit those counties.
Meanwhile, the state is experiencing a slight uptick in its seven-day rolling average infection rate. On Tuesday, the state was showing an average 2.4% of those who took a test over the past seven days were positive for the virus. On Friday, 2.7% of the people who took tests over the past seven days were diagnosed with an infection. That's still well below the threshold that would require the state to revert to a more restrictive phase, but noteworthy because the state moved into Phase 3 less than a month ago and the infection rate had been dwindling until three days ago.