dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-15--Data center in, technology park out in Hoffman Estates

A proposal for an internet data center has replaced the previously planned Hoffman Technology Park for a 53-acre site north of the developing Bell Works Chicagoland `` Metroburb '' in Hoffman Estates .
Though the petitioner for the data center -- Syska Hennessy Group Inc. -- has so far sought only an informal courtesy review by village officials , the company already has purchased the land from the would-be developers of the technology park .
`` The tech park was still very alive , but then the data center user came along and offered a very good price to buy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Director of Development Services Peter Gugliotta said .
`` The tech park developer decided it made more sense to sell rather than proceed with their original project .
The tech park developer is currently looking for another site in the area because they still think it could be successful . ''
Andrew Krebs , project engineer for Syska Hennessy Group , explained to village board members last month that a data center is basically a physical hub for the internet containing the networking and telecommunications equipment one or more companies would need .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm can not yet disclose whether the data center it is designing is for one company or multiple ones .
But he described the location as ideal for its access to Interstate 90 and O'Hare International Airport , as well as for the area 's power and water resources .
The racks of equipment that will store the data generate heat and need to be cooled through a system that uses water , and redundant power systems are required to ensure no cutoff of electricity occurs .
The company is working with ComEd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also is doing a feasibility study of connecting to an existing electricity supply south of I-90 by either overhead or underground lines .
The final size of the two-building , 22-foot-tall facility is estimated at 400,000 square feet .
It would be built in two phases and ultimately have 25 to 50 full-time employees .
The previously proposed technology park , in contrast , would have had three or four buildings totaling a maximum of 800,000 square feet that multiple companies would have used for manufacturing , service , warehousing , showrooms , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site lies north side of Lakewood Boulevard , 1,300 feet east of Barrington Road .
The data center is estimated to generate $ 2.9 million in municipal taxes and fees over 15 years and $ 1.1 million in state taxes during the same time period .
Construction costs are estimated at $ 450 million to $ 500 million , and that work would employ 600 to 800 people during the 18-month first phase .
As far as the exterior design , both a brighter and more muted color scheme were presented to village @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more colorful one , four liked the muted version and two remained uncommitted .
`` I 'm not as solid on ( option ) 1 versus 2 in terms of colors , '' Trustee Gary Pilafas said .
`` What I 'd like to see is the power lines buried because our whole north side of I-90 for the most part has power lines that are buried .
I know it 's a lot more expensive and more intricate .
I get that . ''
Krebs said he does n't know how long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the village board seeking formal approval for the data center .

Data center in, technology park out in Hoffman Estates
A close-up rendering of the more colorful exterior option for Syska Hennessy Group Inc.'s proposed data center on Lakewood Boulevard in Hoffman Estates. Courtesy of Hoffman Estates
A close-up rendering of the more muted exterior option for Syska Hennessy Group Inc.'s proposed data center on Lakewood Boulevard in Hoffman Estates. Courtesy of Hoffman Estates
A proposal for an internet data center has replaced the previously planned Hoffman Technology Park for a 53-acre site north of the developing Bell Works Chicagoland "Metroburb" in Hoffman Estates.
Though the petitioner for the data center -- Syska Hennessy Group Inc. -- has so far sought only an informal courtesy review by village officials, the company already has purchased the land from the would-be developers of the technology park.
"The tech park was still very alive, but then the data center user came along and offered a very good price to buy the full site," Hoffman Estates Director of Development Services Peter Gugliotta said. "The tech park developer decided it made more sense to sell rather than proceed with their original project. The tech park developer is currently looking for another site in the area because they still think it could be successful."
Andrew Krebs, project engineer for Syska Hennessy Group, explained to village board members last month that a data center is basically a physical hub for the internet containing the networking and telecommunications equipment one or more companies would need.
Krebs told the Daily Herald that the firm cannot yet disclose whether the data center it is designing is for one company or multiple ones.
But he described the location as ideal for its access to Interstate 90 and O'Hare International Airport, as well as for the area's power and water resources.
The racks of equipment that will store the data generate heat and need to be cooled through a system that uses water, and redundant power systems are required to ensure no cutoff of electricity occurs. The company is working with ComEd on securing an on-site substation.
ComEd also is doing a feasibility study of connecting to an existing electricity supply south of I-90 by either overhead or underground lines.
The final size of the two-building, 22-foot-tall facility is estimated at 400,000 square feet. It would be built in two phases and ultimately have 25 to 50 full-time employees.
The previously proposed technology park, in contrast, would have had three or four buildings totaling a maximum of 800,000 square feet that multiple companies would have used for manufacturing, service, warehousing, showrooms, offices and research and development.
The site lies north side of Lakewood Boulevard, 1,300 feet east of Barrington Road.
The data center is estimated to generate $2.9 million in municipal taxes and fees over 15 years and $1.1 million in state taxes during the same time period.
Construction costs are estimated at $450 million to $500 million, and that work would employ 600 to 800 people during the 18-month first phase.
As far as the exterior design, both a brighter and more muted color scheme were presented to village board members.
One immediately favored the more colorful one, four liked the muted version and two remained uncommitted.
"I'm not as solid on (option) 1 versus 2 in terms of colors," Trustee Gary Pilafas said. "What I'd like to see is the power lines buried because our whole north side of I-90 for the most part has power lines that are buried. I know it's a lot more expensive and more intricate. I get that."
Krebs said he doesn't know how long it will be before his company returns to the village board seeking formal approval for the data center.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Pedestrian in critical condition after Buffalo Grove crash

An Arlington Heights man is in critical condition at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge after he was struck @ @ @ @ @ the Plaza Verde shopping center in Buffalo Grove , police said Monday .
Buffalo Grove @ @ @ @ @ that the crash occurred about 8 p.m. Friday , when a 2020 Nissan Rogue driven @ @ @ @ @ in his 50s struck the pedestrian in the right southbound lane of Arlington Heights Road @ @ @ @ @ said the pedestrian , who is in his 60s , was crossing from the east @ @ @ @ @ of Arlington Heights Road , in the direction of the shopping center entrance .
Witnesses @ @ @ @ @ not appear to be paying attention to traffic , he added .
The victim was @ @ @ @ @ where he was listed in critical condition Monday with head injuries .
Rodriguez said the @ @ @ @ @ injured , had been traveling slower than the speed limit and was not ticketed after @ @ @

Pedestrian in critical condition after Buffalo Grove crash
An Arlington Heights man is in critical condition at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge after he was struck by an SUV Friday near the Plaza Verde shopping center in Buffalo Grove, police said Monday.
Buffalo Grove police Lt. Mike Rodriguez said that the crash occurred about 8 p.m. Friday, when a 2020 Nissan Rogue driven by a Buffalo Grove man in his 50s struck the pedestrian in the right southbound lane of Arlington Heights Road near Dundee Road.
Rodriguez said the pedestrian, who is in his 60s, was crossing from the east side to the west side of Arlington Heights Road, in the direction of the shopping center entrance. Witnesses told police the man did not appear to be paying attention to traffic, he added.
The victim was taken to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition Monday with head injuries.
Rodriguez said the driver, who was not injured, had been traveling slower than the speed limit and was not ticketed after the crash.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Longtime Hoffman Estates mayor faces reelection challenges

Longtime Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod will face a pair of challengers as he seeks his sixth term as the village 's top elected official in the spring election .
Recently retired village police lieutenant Mark Mueller and resident Nicholas Waryas , who unsuccessfully ran for village trustee in 2017 , filed nominating petitions Monday to place their names on the April 6 ballot .
Mueller , who retired from the police department last month , filed along with a slate of three trustee candidates hoping to oust the three incumbents seeking reelection .
McLeod also filed nominating papers Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taxes , what he called the financial burden of the Now Arena on residents , and cuts to the police and fire departments ' budgets .
His `` Hoffman Estates Forward '' slate consists of trustee candidates James Murre , Renee Robinson and Gaurav Patel .
They will challenge incumbent trustees Karen Mills , Michael Gaeta and Karen Arnet .
`` It 's time for a new direction in Hoffman Estates , '' Mueller said in a written statement .
`` The Hoffman Estates Forward team will put a stop to the wasteful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We will help our small businesses create good-paying jobs right here in our community .
And we will keep our families and neighborhoods safe . ''
Mueller , who grew up in the village and spent more than 30 years of his professional career there , said he met his fellow slate members through various community activities and found they had a similar motives for running .
In response to Mueller 's criticism , McLeod noted that most of the property taxes village residents pay go to school districts , with the village @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rising pension costs for police and firefighters are the only reason the village has n't kept its property tax levy flat , he said .
The village 's crime rate has been dropping , McLeod said , adding that staffing recommendations for the police and fire departments come from their respective chiefs .
The village has had no problems making its debt service payments on the Now Arena , formerly the Sears Centre , he said .
The arena also has sparked economic development , including the Main Event entertainment center and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Waryas , who announced his campaign back in the summer of 2019 , said his platform calls for passing term limits , protecting the village 's remaining farmland from developers , lowering property taxes , eliminating the stormwater tax and ending wasteful spending .
A resident of Hoffman Estates for all 37 years of his life , Waryas said that as someone who collects disability payments himself , he has empathy for people with visual impairments and wants the village to install sidewalk bumps at both ends of all blocks to inform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points to the proposed development of a data center on 53 acres north of Bell Works Chicagoland as an example of where he would work to protect natural space and wetlands .
McLeod 's lengthy public service began when he was appointed a village trustee in 1980 and then elected to that position several times through the '80s and '90s .
After the death of then-Mayor Michael O'Malley in September 2000 , McLeod was appointed acting mayor by his fellow trustees .
He has been elected mayor five times since 2001 .
Hoffman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for reelection Monday but as yet is facing no challengers .
No races yet in Schaumburg : Trustees Jack Sullivan and Frank Kozak were joined by plan commission Chairman Jamie Clar in filing nominating petitions Monday morning .
Clar is seeking the seat of longtime Trustee Marge Connelly , who is not running for reelection .
The mayor 's and village clerk 's offices are not on the ballot next year in Schaumburg .
Because Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates have a primary system that would narrow down a large field of candidates , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 primary runs through next Monday , Nov. 23 .
A primary would be triggered only if the number of candidates who file exceeds four times the number of seats for a position .
It would take five candidates to trigger a primary for mayor or clerk , and 13 to trigger a primary for trustee .
The filing period in suburbs without a primary system is Dec. 14-21 .

Longtime Hoffman Estates mayor faces reelection challenges
Longtime Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod will face a pair of challengers as he seeks his sixth term as the village's top elected official in the spring election.
Recently retired village police lieutenant Mark Mueller and resident Nicholas Waryas, who unsuccessfully ran for village trustee in 2017, filed nominating petitions Monday to place their names on the April 6 ballot.
Mueller, who retired from the police department last month, filed along with a slate of three trustee candidates hoping to oust the three incumbents seeking reelection. McLeod also filed nominating papers Monday.
Mueller criticized McLeod for rising property taxes, what he called the financial burden of the Now Arena on residents, and cuts to the police and fire departments' budgets.
His "Hoffman Estates Forward" slate consists of trustee candidates James Murre, Renee Robinson and Gaurav Patel. They will challenge incumbent trustees Karen Mills, Michael Gaeta and Karen Arnet.
"It's time for a new direction in Hoffman Estates," Mueller said in a written statement. "The Hoffman Estates Forward team will put a stop to the wasteful spending and constant property tax hikes. We will help our small businesses create good-paying jobs right here in our community. And we will keep our families and neighborhoods safe."
Mueller, who grew up in the village and spent more than 30 years of his professional career there, said he met his fellow slate members through various community activities and found they had a similar motives for running.
In response to Mueller's criticism, McLeod noted that most of the property taxes village residents pay go to school districts, with the village's share being only 12%. Rising pension costs for police and firefighters are the only reason the village hasn't kept its property tax levy flat, he said.
The village's crime rate has been dropping, McLeod said, adding that staffing recommendations for the police and fire departments come from their respective chiefs.
The village has had no problems making its debt service payments on the Now Arena, formerly the Sears Centre, he said. The arena also has sparked economic development, including the Main Event entertainment center and the new Holiday Inn Express, McLeod said.
Waryas, who announced his campaign back in the summer of 2019, said his platform calls for passing term limits, protecting the village's remaining farmland from developers, lowering property taxes, eliminating the stormwater tax and ending wasteful spending.
A resident of Hoffman Estates for all 37 years of his life, Waryas said that as someone who collects disability payments himself, he has empathy for people with visual impairments and wants the village to install sidewalk bumps at both ends of all blocks to inform them they're approaching streets.
Waryas points to the proposed development of a data center on 53 acres north of Bell Works Chicagoland as an example of where he would work to protect natural space and wetlands.
McLeod's lengthy public service began when he was appointed a village trustee in 1980 and then elected to that position several times through the '80s and '90s. After the death of then-Mayor Michael O'Malley in September 2000, McLeod was appointed acting mayor by his fellow trustees. He has been elected mayor five times since 2001.
Hoffman Estates Village Clerk Bev Romanoff also filed for reelection Monday but as yet is facing no challengers.
No races yet in Schaumburg:
Trustees Jack Sullivan and Frank Kozak were joined by plan commission Chairman Jamie Clar in filing nominating petitions Monday morning. Clar is seeking the seat of longtime Trustee Marge Connelly, who is not running for reelection.
The mayor's and village clerk's offices are not on the ballot next year in Schaumburg.
Because Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates have a primary system that would narrow down a large field of candidates, the filing period for their potential Feb. 23 primary runs through next Monday, Nov. 23.
A primary would be triggered only if the number of candidates who file exceeds four times the number of seats for a position. It would take five candidates to trigger a primary for mayor or clerk, and 13 to trigger a primary for trustee.
The filing period in suburbs without a primary system is Dec. 14-21.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Governor's forecasters: Even with spending cuts, taxes must be raised to balance budget

SPRINGFIELD -- A new report from the Governor 's Office of Management and Budget suggests the state will have to raise taxes on individuals or businesses or both to offset years of multibillion-dollar deficits , even if the spending cuts Gov .
J.B. Pritzker has directed are made .
According to the report , one of the options being considered is some form of tax increase or elimination of corporate and business tax `` loopholes . ''
`` As the cuts that would be required to bring Illinois ' budget to balance would harm education and human services programs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy , the governor continues to believe that cuts alone can not be the solution , and revenue adjustments need to be considered as well , '' the report states .
The credit rating agency Moody 's has said raising the state 's flat tax rate by 0.7 percentage point , to 5.65 % , would generate nearly same amount as the graduated tax that Pritzker proposed and voters rejected this month .
But Pritzker so far has expressed reluctance to consider an across-the-board tax hike .
`` There 's a lot on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his daily COVID-19 briefing Monday in Chicago .
`` We 've got to look at cuts first , and we 're all looking at that .
I think those cuts will be somewhat painful , and then we 'll consider all the other options about what we need to do in order to get to balance for FY21 and moving forward . ''
The report notes that Pritzker remains hopeful that the federal government will provide another round of economic stimulus to help troubled state and local governments offset the revenues they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also acknowledges that federal aid will not solve Illinois ' ongoing budget problems .
The agency 's report says the state would face a budget deficit of $ 3.9 billion in the current fiscal year and continuing deficits of $ 4 billion or more in each of the next five fiscal years without significant cuts or revenue increases .
It also projects that the state 's backlog of unpaid bills could grow to as much as $ 33 billion by fiscal year 2026 , up from the current backlog total of about $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make structural changes .
The report , released late Friday , attributes much of the current fiscal year 's deficit to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic , which has resulted in dramatic revenue losses for state and local governments throughout the country .
But it also notes that voters ' rejection of Pritzker 's proposed constitutional amendment to allow for a graduated income tax on the Nov. 3 ballot -- which would have allowed higher tax rates to be levied on people with higher incomes -- means the state will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its ongoing `` structural '' budget deficits .
Revenue officials had estimated that passage of the amendment would have brought in an additional $ 1.2 billion during the last six months of the current fiscal year and roughly $ 3.2 billion per year after that .
`` Looking ahead to the fiscal year 2022 budget ( which begins July 1 , 2021 ) and recognizing that Illinois continues to face significant financial challenges , there are limited ways to address the structural deficit of the state budget in the absence of the tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided under the changes in the proposed constitutional amendment , '' the report stated .
Earlier this year , Pritzker advised state agency directors to prepare for a 5 % budget reduction this year , and to make plans for a potential 10 % cut in fiscal year 2022 , which begins July 1 .
But the report says even that would not be enough to close the gap between anticipated revenues and expenditures , and that Pritzker is unwilling to make deeper cuts , which means he will have to seek legislative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The governor will work with the legislature to identify corporate and business tax loopholes that can be closed and tax adjustments that can be made that will minimize the impact to lower- and middle-class families while ensuring that Illinois can meet its financial responsibilities , '' the report itself said .
Another short-term option is to borrow from the Federal Reserve 's Municipal Liquidity Facility , which lawmakers authorized during their special session in May , but the budget report notes that would only add to the state 's debt obligations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .

Governor's forecasters: Even with spending cuts, taxes must be raised to balance budget
Gov. J.B. Prtizker gives a COVID-19 update on Nov. 9. He said Monday that the state is looking at "painful" budget cuts. Courtesy of ABC 7 Chicago
SPRINGFIELD -- A new report from the Governor's Office of Management and Budget suggests the state will have to raise taxes on individuals or businesses or both to offset years of multibillion-dollar deficits, even if the spending cuts Gov. J.B. Pritzker has directed are made.
According to the report, one of the options being considered is some form of tax increase or elimination of corporate and business tax "loopholes."
"As the cuts that would be required to bring Illinois' budget to balance would harm education and human services programs and damage essential areas of the state's economy, the governor continues to believe that cuts alone cannot be the solution, and revenue adjustments need to be considered as well," the report states.
The credit rating agency Moody's has said raising the state's flat tax rate by 0.7 percentage point, to 5.65%, would generate nearly same amount as the graduated tax that Pritzker proposed and voters rejected this month. But Pritzker so far has expressed reluctance to consider an across-the-board tax hike.
"There's a lot on the table," Pritzker said during his daily COVID-19 briefing Monday in Chicago. "We've got to look at cuts first, and we're all looking at that. I think those cuts will be somewhat painful, and then we'll consider all the other options about what we need to do in order to get to balance for FY21 and moving forward."
The report notes that Pritzker remains hopeful that the federal government will provide another round of economic stimulus to help troubled state and local governments offset the revenues they have lost during the pandemic. But it also acknowledges that federal aid will not solve Illinois' ongoing budget problems.
The agency's report says the state would face a budget deficit of $3.9 billion in the current fiscal year and continuing deficits of $4 billion or more in each of the next five fiscal years without significant cuts or revenue increases.
It also projects that the state's backlog of unpaid bills could grow to as much as $33 billion by fiscal year 2026, up from the current backlog total of about $7.8 billion, if lawmakers do not make structural changes.
The report, released late Friday, attributes much of the current fiscal year's deficit to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in dramatic revenue losses for state and local governments throughout the country.
But it also notes that voters' rejection of Pritzker's proposed constitutional amendment to allow for a graduated income tax on the Nov. 3 ballot -- which would have allowed higher tax rates to be levied on people with higher incomes -- means the state will have fewer tools at its disposal to address its ongoing "structural" budget deficits.
Revenue officials had estimated that passage of the amendment would have brought in an additional $1.2 billion during the last six months of the current fiscal year and roughly $3.2 billion per year after that.
"Looking ahead to the fiscal year 2022 budget (which begins July 1, 2021) and recognizing that Illinois continues to face significant financial challenges, there are limited ways to address the structural deficit of the state budget in the absence of the tax rate structure flexibility that would have been provided under the changes in the proposed constitutional amendment," the report stated.
Earlier this year, Pritzker advised state agency directors to prepare for a 5% budget reduction this year, and to make plans for a potential 10% cut in fiscal year 2022, which begins July 1.
But the report says even that would not be enough to close the gap between anticipated revenues and expenditures, and that Pritzker is unwilling to make deeper cuts, which means he will have to seek legislative approval for some form of tax increases.
"The governor will work with the legislature to identify corporate and business tax loopholes that can be closed and tax adjustments that can be made that will minimize the impact to lower- and middle-class families while ensuring that Illinois can meet its financial responsibilities," the report itself said.
Another short-term option is to borrow from the Federal Reserve's Municipal Liquidity Facility, which lawmakers authorized during their special session in May, but the budget report notes that would only add to the state's debt obligations and the projected budget deficits in future years.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-15--With COVID-19, taking shelter gets complicated for chilly Metra riders

Here 's another COVID-19 mind bender for public health officials with winter on the doorstep : How do you keep public transit riders safe from the elements -- and socially distanced amid a pandemic ?
`` As I stood at the Metra station in Crystal Lake waiting to get on the train , myself and several others were packed nearly shoulder to shoulder under the shelter because of the cold temperatures and high winds , '' the Union Pacific Northwest Line regular said .
`` This is seemingly a significant risk to not just my own health but the health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases and positivity rates break records in Illinois , huddling with strangers for warmth definitely is not what health experts advise .
`` During this pandemic , we recommend people avoid public transportation as much as possible , '' Illinois Department of Public Health officials said .
`` If that is not possible , we would like to remind people that the closer they are in contact with other people and for a longer duration of time , the greater the risk of virus transmission . ''
And `` we would not recommend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be infected with COVID-19 , for warmth this winter , '' Lake County Health Department spokeswoman Hannah Goering said .
`` Dress in layers for warmth and find a place shielded from the wind when waiting at a bus stop or platform .
Maintain 6 feet of distance and wear a mask any time you 're around people who do n't live in your household . ''
Many municipalities operate Metra stations , including Buffalo Grove , where `` our station is open as a warming shelter , '' Village Manager Dane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to observe social distancing and mask guidelines when they are inside of the facility .
Since Metra ridership has been very low since the COVID-19 pandemic began , we do n't anticipate the need to add additional warming shelters at the present time , '' he said .
`` If we see ridership start to increase again during the winter months , we would evaluate some outdoor 'patio heating ' systems for use . ''
In Naperville , `` we do not have any plans to provide additional shelters at the station @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Commuter ridership on the BNSF line remains low , and , based on our recent commuter survey , we expect this trend to continue through the winter months . ''
Metra planners reported last week that ridership has tanked by about 90 % compared to a year ago .
In Hanover Park , there have been just four to seven cars in the station parking lot -- a problem because parking revenues help with the upkeep of the facility .
`` This has us revisiting our snowplowing contract , and we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Craig , a Metra director , told the Daily Herald .
He raised the issue at a Friday Metra board meeting .
`` All I 'm asking is that we give some thought to keeping people spread out with this cold weather coming forward , '' Craig said .
But Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski said that `` with low ridership , physical distancing is n't much of a concern , '' '' We encourage all passengers to wear their masks .
We will keep the stations sanitized .
We will keep doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trains on time , '' he said .
`` We 'll make sure our heaters are working where we have heaters ; not all stations have that . ''
Even at 10 % of ridership , that 's still more than 25,000 people on the system daily .
And if this winter holds true to norms , passengers can expect weather-related delays .
For example , just one ice chunk falling into a track switch can turn a brief wait outside into a long , cold ordeal .
How 's your commute on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dailyherald.com Watch out for slowdowns on Route 59 in Naperville and Plainfield now through November 2021 .
IDOT crews are installing new traffic signals and sidewalks at Route 59 and Champion Road .
You should know After requests from cyclists asking Metra to expand its capacity for bikes on trains , the agency started a pilot project this month with a designated Bike Car on the Milwaukee North Line .
Instead of the usual five bikes allowed , up to 16 will be permitted through early spring .
The railroad also is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lines , not just diesel , although cyclists should be aware Metra does not guarantee bikes will be accommodated , particularly during rush hours .
Planning a trip on Amtrak ?
The railroad now offers a capacity indicator that lets riders see which trains are less crowded when they book .
Millions fewer will travel over the Thanskgiving holiday this year .
Fewer pilgrimages AAA anticipates a nearly 10 % drop in Thanksgiving excursions this year , with 50.6 million Americans taking a trip compared to 56 million in 2019 .
In Illinois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelers .
Nationwide , air travel dropped by 47.5 % , or 2.4 million people flying now instead of 4.58 million a year ago .

With COVID-19, taking shelter gets complicated for chilly Metra riders
Here's another COVID-19 mind bender for public health officials with winter on the doorstep: How do you keep public transit riders safe from the elements -- and socially distanced amid a pandemic?
That dichotomy hit Travis Weidman in late October.
"As I stood at the Metra station in Crystal Lake waiting to get on the train, myself and several others were packed nearly shoulder to shoulder under the shelter because of the cold temperatures and high winds," the Union Pacific Northwest Line regular said.
Metra commuter Travis Weidman is concerned about how passengers can stay warm and socially distance this winter. He took this photo on a cold day in late October at the Crystal Lake station, where he said about 14 people were sheltering close together. - Courtesy of Travis Weidman
"This is seemingly a significant risk to not just my own health but the health of other commuters."
As COVID-19 cases and positivity rates break records in Illinois, huddling with strangers for warmth definitely is not what health experts advise.
"During this pandemic, we recommend people avoid public transportation as much as possible," Illinois Department of Public Health officials said. "If that is not possible, we would like to remind people that the closer they are in contact with other people and for a longer duration of time, the greater the risk of virus transmission."
And "we would not recommend that people rely on others, who could be infected with COVID-19, for warmth this winter," Lake County Health Department spokeswoman Hannah Goering said.
"Dress in layers for warmth and find a place shielded from the wind when waiting at a bus stop or platform. Maintain 6 feet of distance and wear a mask any time you're around people who don't live in your household."
Many municipalities operate Metra stations, including Buffalo Grove, where "our station is open as a warming shelter," Village Manager Dane C. Bragg said.
"We ask everyone to observe social distancing and mask guidelines when they are inside of the facility. Since Metra ridership has been very low since the COVID-19 pandemic began, we don't anticipate the need to add additional warming shelters at the present time," he said. "If we see ridership start to increase again during the winter months, we would evaluate some outdoor 'patio heating' systems for use."
In Naperville, "we do not have any plans to provide additional shelters at the station," Mayor Steve Chirico said. "Commuter ridership on the BNSF line remains low, and, based on our recent commuter survey, we expect this trend to continue through the winter months."
Metra planners reported last week that ridership has tanked by about 90% compared to a year ago. In Hanover Park, there have been just four to seven cars in the station parking lot -- a problem because parking revenues help with the upkeep of the facility.
"This has us revisiting our snowplowing contract, and we have cut back significantly," Mayor Rod Craig, a Metra director, told the Daily Herald.
He raised the issue at a Friday Metra board meeting.
"All I'm asking is that we give some thought to keeping people spread out with this cold weather coming forward," Craig said.
But Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski said that "with low ridership, physical distancing isn't much of a concern,"
"We encourage all passengers to wear their masks. We will keep the stations sanitized. We will keep doing everything in our power to keep the trains on time," he said. "We'll make sure our heaters are working where we have heaters; not all stations have that."
Even at 10% of ridership, that's still more than 25,000 people on the system daily. And if this winter holds true to norms, passengers can expect weather-related delays. For example, just one ice chunk falling into a track switch can turn a brief wait outside into a long, cold ordeal. How's your commute on Metra? Drop an email to mpyke@dailyherald.com
Gridlock alert
Watch out for slowdowns on Route 59 in Naperville and Plainfield now through November 2021. IDOT crews are installing new traffic signals and sidewalks at Route 59 and Champion Road.
You should know
After requests from cyclists asking Metra to expand its capacity for bikes on trains, the agency started a pilot project this month with a designated Bike Car on the Milwaukee North Line. Instead of the usual five bikes allowed, up to 16 will be permitted through early spring. The railroad also is easing rules allowing bicycles on all 11 lines, not just diesel, although cyclists should be aware Metra does not guarantee bikes will be accommodated, particularly during rush hours.
One more thing
Planning a trip on Amtrak? The railroad now offers a capacity indicator that lets riders see which trains are less crowded when they book.
Millions fewer will travel over the Thanskgiving holiday this year. - Daily Herald file photo
AAA anticipates a nearly 10% drop in Thanksgiving excursions this year, with 50.6 million Americans taking a trip compared to 56 million in 2019. In Illinois, that boils down to 430,000 fewer travelers. Nationwide, air travel dropped by 47.5%, or 2.4 million people flying now instead of 4.58 million a year ago.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Teachers union urges schools, colleges to shift to remote learning

Illinois ' second-largest teachers union is urging school districts , community colleges and universities to close buildings entirely and shift to or remain in full-time remote instruction with the statewide COVID-19 death toll at its highest since May .
Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery is calling on state officials to set a threshold that would trigger an automatic shift to remote learning .
That would make it easier for local school boards and administrators who are getting a lot of pushback to close schools down again , he added .
`` We 'd like a little more clarity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're calling for the governor and the Illinois State Board of Education to issue very clear metrics for how to move forward .
In New York City , at 3 % positivity rate schools go to remote instruction .
Here , there is no consistency .
Superintendents and school boards are telling us that they would like that certainty and clarity , as well . ''
IFT represents 103,000 teachers and paraprofessionals in prekindergarten through 12th-grade school districts as well as faculty and staff at Illinois ' community colleges and universities , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ College , Harper College and McHenry County College .
Harper College in Palatine has been almost fully in remote mode this semester except for a few classes with labs , such as chemistry and HVAC .
Even those labs will switch to being completely online starting Saturday , said David Richmond , history professor and president of Harper 's faculty senate .
Harper 's 210 full-time faculty members have been teaching remotely from the start .
A limited number of students -- roughly 10 % of the normal population -- were allowed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We are still averaging almost one COVID case per day , '' Richmond said .
`` It 's definitely been increasing for the last couple of weeks .
All of our feeder districts have had to shut down ( after trying hybrid classes ) .
It looks like we are going to stay all remote in the spring . ''
Of the 235 educational institutions whose staff the union represents , 42 are operating fully in person , 13 have in-person classes for adults only , 68 have gone fully remote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Montgomery said .
`` Make no mistake : Our members are working harder than ever -- long hours , working in environments that risk their health , learning new ways to reach students , and doing everything they can to make learning successful this year , '' Montgomery said .
`` Our members from preschool to higher education want to be back with their students , but the stakes are too high to open school buildings for in-person instruction while the death toll and infection rates surge . ''
Montgomery said in some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work out issues with school leaders to do more testing and ensure safety .
`` Although now , every county in Illinois is well over any kind of safe limit , '' Montgomery said .
`` We 've had numerous outbreaks in schools ... we 've had outbreaks and even deaths occur ... this is an extremely dangerous time that will get worse , and that is really the context of this . ''
Union leadership is willing to go to court or the labor board to redress any grievances , he added @

Teachers union urges schools, colleges to shift to remote learning
Illinois' second-largest teachers union is urging school districts, community colleges and universities to close buildings entirely and shift to or remain in full-time remote instruction with the statewide COVID-19 death toll at its highest since May.
Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery is calling on state officials to set a threshold that would trigger an automatic shift to remote learning. That would make it easier for local school boards and administrators who are getting a lot of pushback to close schools down again, he added.
"We'd like a little more clarity," Montgomery said. "We're calling for the governor and the Illinois State Board of Education to issue very clear metrics for how to move forward. In New York City, at 3% positivity rate schools go to remote instruction. Here, there is no consistency. Superintendents and school boards are telling us that they would like that certainty and clarity, as well."
IFT represents 103,000 teachers and paraprofessionals in prekindergarten through 12th-grade school districts as well as faculty and staff at Illinois' community colleges and universities, including College of Lake County, Elgin Community College, Harper College and McHenry County College.
Harper College in Palatine has been almost fully in remote mode this semester except for a few classes with labs, such as chemistry and HVAC. Even those labs will switch to being completely online starting Saturday, said David Richmond, history professor and president of Harper's faculty senate.
Harper's 210 full-time faculty members have been teaching remotely from the start. A limited number of students -- roughly 10% of the normal population -- were allowed on campus for labs at any given time.
"We are still averaging almost one COVID case per day," Richmond said. "It's definitely been increasing for the last couple of weeks. All of our feeder districts have had to shut down (after trying hybrid classes). It looks like we are going to stay all remote in the spring."
Of the 235 educational institutions whose staff the union represents, 42 are operating fully in person, 13 have in-person classes for adults only, 68 have gone fully remote and 107 are offering blended learning, Montgomery said.
"Make no mistake: Our members are working harder than ever -- long hours, working in environments that risk their health, learning new ways to reach students, and doing everything they can to make learning successful this year," Montgomery said. "Our members from preschool to higher education want to be back with their students, but the stakes are too high to open school buildings for in-person instruction while the death toll and infection rates surge."
Montgomery said in some cases local unions have been able to work out issues with school leaders to do more testing and ensure safety.
"Although now, every county in Illinois is well over any kind of safe limit," Montgomery said. "We've had numerous outbreaks in schools ... we've had outbreaks and even deaths occur ... this is an extremely dangerous time that will get worse, and that is really the context of this."
Union leadership is willing to go to court or the labor board to redress any grievances, he added.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Northbrook man dies after suffering injuries in Glenview crash

A 68-year-old Northbrook man died Sunday after suffering injuries a day earlier in a single-vehicle crash in Glenview , authorities @ @ @ @ @ pronounced dead at Glenbrook Hospital , where he had been taken after the crash , @ @ @ @ @ medical examiner 's office .
An autopsy is pending .
Glenview police said the crash @ @ @ @ @ in the 2000 block of Willow Road .
Burke , who initially was responsive when @ @ @ @ @ , was the only person in his vehicle at the time of the crash .
@ @ @ @ @ under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the Glenview Police Department at @ @ @ @ @ the Glenview Police Tip Line at ( 847 ) 901-6055 .

Northbrook man dies after suffering injuries in Glenview crash
A 68-year-old Northbrook man died Sunday after suffering injuries a day earlier in a single-vehicle crash in Glenview, authorities said.
Kevin Burke was pronounced dead at Glenbrook Hospital, where he had been taken after the crash, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office. An autopsy is pending.
Glenview police said the crash occurred about 3:23 p.m. Saturday in the 2000 block of Willow Road. Burke, who initially was responsive when officers arrived at the scene, was the only person in his vehicle at the time of the crash.
Police said the crash remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the Glenview Police Department at (847) 729-5000 or the Glenview Police Tip Line at (847) 901-6055.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Kane County Board member files financial ethics complaint against Chairman Lauzen

Kane County Board Chairman Chris Lauzen 's tenure will close under the shadow of an ethics complaint centering on a key issue he campaigned to improve .
Board member Matt Hanson filed the complaint last week , alleging a campaign contribution to Lauzen is beyond the amount allowed by the county 's ethics ordinance and subverts transparency provisions in the county 's procurement process .
The ethics ordinance has been invoked several times since it came on the books and was later amended in 2015 .
It 's never resulted in any formal or informal reprimands , and the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is more symbolic than enforceable .
The ordinance limits campaign contributions to $ 2,000 in any calendar year from any contractor that does more than $ 15,000 of work for the county .
Hanson 's complaint points to a $ 2,500 contribution by Cordogan & Clark to Lauzen .
According to the county 's online checkbook , the architectural firm has done $ 1.14 million in business with the county this year .
Hanson also objects to the timing of the Oct. 26 contribution .
When the company filed its proposal to remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it filled out a disclosure form saying it had made no political contributions to any county elected officials in the last year .
That was true at the time .
But it was no longer true when the proposal came to the county board for a review , and Hanson said there is no record of the form being updated or the board being informed of the contribution .
Brian Kronewitter , an executive vice president with Cordogan & Clark who has been involved in some of the firm 's projects with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the complaint .
`` I know nothing about this or any donations made in the last 12+ months , '' Kronewitter said in an email .
John Cordogan , the principal of the firm , could not be reached for comment .
Hanson noticed the contribution in researching local political activity just before the November election .
A total of $ 18,500 in contributions flowed to Lauzen , including Cordogan & Clark 's donation .
Lauzen has publicly denied any impropriety stemming from Cordogan & Clark 's latest contribution .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` We 'll have people who are more of a lawyer than I am and you are to get that sorted out . ''
Even though Lauzen withdrew his candidacy for reelection in January , he has continued to collect campaign contributions to support other candidates .
Campaign finance reports show Cordogan & Clark is a regular Lauzen contributor , donating at least $ 10,000 since 2016 .
The firm has had a no-bid contract with the county for the entirety of Lauzen 's tenure , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
So does Lauzen 's pledge to avoid even the appearance of impropriety or the perception of `` systematic political influence to be gained '' in trade for campaign cash .
Lauzen made those pledges during his first campaign for chairman in 2012 , when the Daily Herald examined contributions to former county board Chair Karen McConnaughay .
He doubled down on them during his reelection in 2016 .
During both efforts , he was criticized by rivals for not practicing what he preached .
Campaign finance reports continue to show a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A search of recent contributions shows money flowing to Lauzen from firms such as Alarm Detection Systems , the Bronner Group and Geneva Construction Co. , among others , that have done business with the county .
In the past year , Lauzen has also made about $ 12,000 in payments from his campaign fund to his wife , Sarah , for `` campaign services . ''
Lauzen has acknowledged he has n't had a perfect record on that promise and has returned all questionable contributions when brought to his attention .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to delay consideration of a new deal with Cordogan & Clark until a new board and new chairman are sworn in .
The end of Lauzen 's tenure may blunt any possible consequences if an ethics ordinance violation is found .
Because Lauzen appoints the county 's ethics adviser , the matter was sent to the Kane County state 's attorney 's office .
He and the officials in that office have been at odds for most of Lauzen 's tenure .

Kane County Board member files financial ethics complaint against Chairman Lauzen
Kane County Board Chairman Chris Lauzen's tenure will close under the shadow of an ethics complaint centering on a key issue he campaigned to improve.
Board member Matt Hanson filed the complaint last week, alleging a campaign contribution to Lauzen is beyond the amount allowed by the county's ethics ordinance and subverts transparency provisions in the county's procurement process.
The ethics ordinance has been invoked several times since it came on the books and was later amended in 2015. It's never resulted in any formal or informal reprimands, and the last two state's attorneys have said it is more symbolic than enforceable.
The ordinance limits campaign contributions to $2,000 in any calendar year from any contractor that does more than $15,000 of work for the county. Hanson's complaint points to a $2,500 contribution by Cordogan & Clark to Lauzen.
According to the county's online checkbook, the architectural firm has done $1.14 million in business with the county this year.
Hanson also objects to the timing of the Oct. 26 contribution. When the company filed its proposal to remain the county's architect last month, it filled out a disclosure form saying it had made no political contributions to any county elected officials in the last year.
That was true at the time. But it was no longer true when the proposal came to the county board for a review, and Hanson said there is no record of the form being updated or the board being informed of the contribution.
Brian Kronewitter, an executive vice president with Cordogan & Clark who has been involved in some of the firm's projects with the county, said he was unaware of the complaint.
"I know nothing about this or any donations made in the last 12+ months," Kronewitter said in an email.
John Cordogan, the principal of the firm, could not be reached for comment.
Hanson noticed the contribution in researching local political activity just before the November election. A total of $18,500 in contributions flowed to Lauzen, including Cordogan & Clark's donation.
Lauzen has publicly denied any impropriety stemming from Cordogan & Clark's latest contribution.
"It is not a violation of the ethics ordinance," he said. "We'll have people who are more of a lawyer than I am and you are to get that sorted out."
Even though Lauzen withdrew his candidacy for reelection in January, he has continued to collect campaign contributions to support other candidates.
Campaign finance reports show Cordogan & Clark is a regular Lauzen contributor, donating at least $10,000 since 2016.
The firm has had a no-bid contract with the county for the entirety of Lauzen's tenure, but the county's relationship with the firm precedes that. So does Lauzen's pledge to avoid even the appearance of impropriety or the perception of "systematic political influence to be gained" in trade for campaign cash.
Lauzen made those pledges during his first campaign for chairman in 2012, when the Daily Herald examined contributions to former county board Chair Karen McConnaughay. He doubled down on them during his reelection in 2016.
During both efforts, he was criticized by rivals for not practicing what he preached.
Campaign finance reports continue to show a mixed bag in that regard for Lauzen. A search of recent contributions shows money flowing to Lauzen from firms such as Alarm Detection Systems, the Bronner Group and Geneva Construction Co., among others, that have done business with the county.
In the past year, Lauzen has also made about $12,000 in payments from his campaign fund to his wife, Sarah, for "campaign services."
Lauzen has acknowledged he hasn't had a perfect record on that promise and has returned all questionable contributions when brought to his attention.
That said, the county board voted to delay consideration of a new deal with Cordogan & Clark until a new board and new chairman are sworn in.
The end of Lauzen's tenure may blunt any possible consequences if an ethics ordinance violation is found. Because Lauzen appoints the county's ethics adviser, the matter was sent to the Kane County state's attorney's office. He and the officials in that office have been at odds for most of Lauzen's tenure.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--10 outdoor and drive-through holiday light shows in suburbs, Chicago

Enjoying holiday lights -- either on an outdoor stroll or from the warmth of your car -- allows families to get in the spirit of the season safely this year , when so much else has been canceled by COVID-19 .
Here 's a look at 10 holiday light shows in the suburbs and Chicago .
5-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday , 5-10 p.m. Friday through Sunday , Nov. 27 to Dec. 26 , Phillips Park , 1000 Ray Moses Drive , enter from Smith Boulevard , Aurora .
The winter holiday drive offers more than a mile of lighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20-foot singing , dancing Christmas tree .
Donations accepted .
www.aurorafestivaloflights.com .
3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday , Nov. 27-29 ; Wednesday through Sunday , Dec , 2-6 , 9-13 , and 16-20 ; and Saturday through Thursday , Dec. 26-31 , Brookfield Zoo , 8400 W. 31st St. , Brookfield .
The zoo lights festival 's 39th year will feature more than a million twinkling LED lights , including a 600-foot-long tunnel with colored lights synchronized to music , a 20-foot lit orb , decorated trees , larger-than-life LED animal sculptures , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reserve tickets in advance .
Zoo admission is $ 24.95 for adults , $ 19.95 for seniors 65 and over , $ 17.95 for children 3-11 and free for ages 2 and under .
Admission is free on Tuesdays and Thursdays in November and Mondays and Tuesdays in December through Dec. 22 , though reservations are still required .
www.czs.org/holidaymagic .
Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m. Nov. 27 to Dec. 30 , ( closed Dec. 25 ) , Cosley Zoo , 1356 N. Gary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winter wonderland featuring more than 20,000 twinkling lights and a herd of whimsical lighted animal figures .
Four varieties of trees are available for sale as well as wreaths , greens and garlands .
Zoo admission is free during the festival , however timed-entry reservations are required .
cosleyzoo.org .
4-9 p.m. weekends and select weekdays Nov. 27 to Dec. 30 , Six Flags Great America , 1 Great America Parkway , Gurnee .
Walk through more than 2.5 million sparkling lights , with continuous twinkling holiday light displays , themed entertainment for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , holiday treats and more .
The park 's rides will not be open .
Reservations are required .
For fees and tickets , visit www.sixflags.com/greatamerica .
5-10 p.m. ( last entry at 9:15 p.m. ) Sunday through Thursday , 5-11 p.m. ( last entry at 10:15 p.m. ) Friday and Saturday , from Nov. 20 to Jan. 3 , ( closed Mondays Nov. 23 , Nov. 30 , Dec. 7 and Dec. 14 ) , Morton Arboretum , 4100 Illinois Route 53 , Lisle .
See trees in a different light at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving experience , 30 to 40 minutes long , featuring a spectacle of color , light and music .
See returning favorites and five newly designed sights displayed in a tunnel of lights along a two-mile road .
Date-specific tickets must be purchased online in advance ; tickets will not be available for purchase on-site .
Ticket prices per car are : $ 39 peak night , $ 29 standard night for members ; $ 49 peak night , $ 39 standard night for guests .
www.mortonarb.org .
Previewed the weekend of Dec. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dec. 11 through Jan. 3 , Kohl 's Children 's Museum , 2100 Patriot Blvd.
, Glenview .
The holiday show designed specifically for children allows guests to interact with thousands of lights in a two-acre outdoor exhibit .
All stations have `` no-touch '' activation ; kids manipulate displays with their bodies , glow sticks or thermal sensors .
Tickets are $ 25 per person , with discounts for museum members .
Infants under 1 are free .
Advance reservations are required at www.kohlights.com .
4:30-10 p.m. weekdays , 4:30-11 p.m. weekends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( closed Nov. 26 and Dec. 25 ) , Northbrook Court , 1515 Lake-Cook Road , Northbrook .
Guests are invited to stay in their cars and immerse themselves in a wonderland of light displays synchronized to holiday classics .
Online tickets required , no tickets will be available at the door .
$ 29.99 weekdays , $ 39.99 weekends ; Fast Pass add on $ 15 .
shinelightshow.com .
4:30-10 p.m. Sundays or 11 p.m. select Fridays and Saturdays , now through Jan. 3 , ( closed Nov. 26 and Dec. 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 1000 Lake-Cook Road , Glencoe .
Visitors walk an after-dark , illuminated trail designed with safety in mind .
Thousands of twinkling lights are featured .
Book early to guarantee preferred dates .
Ticket prices vary .
See www.chicagobotanic.org/lightscape .
5-10 p.m. Nov. 20 to Jan. 3 , Lake County Fairgrounds , 1060 E Peterson Road , Grayslake .
The drive-through light show returns with almost double the lights and more than 700 feet of tunnels including a new techno rainbow tunnel .
The re-imagined layout includes themed worlds .
Online reservation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ date , $ 19.99- $ 27.99 per car , $ 5 per passenger over six passengers .
santasrocknlights.com .
4-10 p.m. select dates Nov. 21 to Jan. 3 , Lincoln Park Zoo , 2001 N. Clark St. , Chicago .
Hundreds of luminous displays and seasonal activities are featured .
All guests , including children and infants , must have a ticket to enter ZooLights , and groups can not exceed 10 people .
$ 5 ; free nights will be available on Nov. 24 and Dec. 9 , 17 , 21 and @ @ @

10 outdoor and drive-through holiday light shows in suburbs, Chicago
Six Flags Great America's Holiday in the Park in Gurnee features more than 2.5 million sparkling lights. Courtesy of Great America
Six Flags Great America's Holiday in the Park in Gurnee features more than 2.5 million sparkling lights. Courtesy of Great America
Light, color and sound combine for Lightscapes, the outdoor holiday lights show at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. Courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden
Lightscapes brings new and returning favorites, including the Cathedral of Light, to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. Courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden/Alex Hewitt
Enjoying holiday lights -- either on an outdoor stroll or from the warmth of your car -- allows families to get in the spirit of the season safely this year, when so much else has been canceled by COVID-19.
Here's a look at 10 holiday light shows in the suburbs and Chicago.
Aurora Festival of Lights
5-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5-10 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 27 to Dec. 26, Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, enter from Smith Boulevard, Aurora. The winter holiday drive offers more than a mile of lighted displays, some animated, including the 20-foot singing, dancing Christmas tree. Donations accepted. www.aurorafestivaloflights.com.
Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic
3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 27-29; Wednesday through Sunday, Dec, 2-6, 9-13, and 16-20; and Saturday through Thursday, Dec. 26-31, Brookfield Zoo, 8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield. The zoo lights festival's 39th year will feature more than a million twinkling LED lights, including a 600-foot-long tunnel with colored lights synchronized to music, a 20-foot lit orb, decorated trees, larger-than-life LED animal sculptures, Santa, holiday refreshments and more. Reserve tickets in advance. Zoo admission is $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for seniors 65 and over, $17.95 for children 3-11 and free for ages 2 and under. Admission is free on Tuesdays and Thursdays in November and Mondays and Tuesdays in December through Dec. 22, though reservations are still required. www.czs.org/holidaymagic.
Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights and Tree Sale
Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with last entry at 8:30 p.m. Nov. 27 to Dec. 30, (closed Dec. 25), Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Stroll through the winter wonderland featuring more than 20,000 twinkling lights and a herd of whimsical lighted animal figures. Four varieties of trees are available for sale as well as wreaths, greens and garlands. Zoo admission is free during the festival, however timed-entry reservations are required. cosleyzoo.org.
Great America's Holiday in the Park
4-9 p.m. weekends and select weekdays Nov. 27 to Dec. 30, Six Flags Great America, 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee. Walk through more than 2.5 million sparkling lights, with continuous twinkling holiday light displays, themed entertainment for open-air viewing, socially distanced photo ops, holiday treats and more. The park's rides will not be open. Reservations are required. For fees and tickets, visit www.sixflags.com/greatamerica.
Illumination, Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
5-10 p.m. (last entry at 9:15 p.m.) Sunday through Thursday, 5-11 p.m. (last entry at 10:15 p.m.) Friday and Saturday, from Nov. 20 to Jan. 3, (closed Mondays Nov. 23, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14), Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. See trees in a different light at the annual light show re-imagined as a driving experience, 30 to 40 minutes long, featuring a spectacle of color, light and music. See returning favorites and five newly designed sights displayed in a tunnel of lights along a two-mile road. Date-specific tickets must be purchased online in advance; tickets will not be available for purchase on-site. Ticket prices per car are: $39 peak night, $29 standard night for members; $49 peak night, $39 standard night for guests. www.mortonarb.org.
Kohlights: A Mesmertastic Holiday Lightacular
Previewed the weekend of Dec. 4-6, then on select days from Dec. 11 through Jan. 3, Kohl's Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. The holiday show designed specifically for children allows guests to interact with thousands of lights in a two-acre outdoor exhibit. All stations have "no-touch" activation; kids manipulate displays with their bodies, glow sticks or thermal sensors. Tickets are $25 per person, with discounts for museum members. Infants under 1 are free. Advance reservations are required at www.kohlights.com.
Let it Shine
4:30-10 p.m. weekdays, 4:30-11 p.m. weekends, Nov. 15 to Jan. 9, (closed Nov. 26 and Dec. 25), Northbrook Court, 1515 Lake-Cook Road, Northbrook. Guests are invited to stay in their cars and immerse themselves in a wonderland of light displays synchronized to holiday classics. Online tickets required, no tickets will be available at the door. $29.99 per car on weekdays and $39.99 per car on weekends; Fast Pass add on $15. shinelightshow.com.
Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
4:30-10 p.m. Sundays or 11 p.m. select Fridays and Saturdays, now through Jan. 3, (closed Nov. 26 and Dec. 24 and 25), Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Visitors walk an after-dark, illuminated trail designed with safety in mind. Thousands of twinkling lights are featured. Book early to guarantee preferred dates. Ticket prices vary. See www.chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.
Santa's Rock 'N' Lights
5-10 p.m. Nov. 20 to Jan. 3, Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E Peterson Road, Grayslake. The drive-through light show returns with almost double the lights and more than 700 feet of tunnels including a new techno rainbow tunnel. The re-imagined layout includes themed worlds. Online reservation required; prices vary by time and date, $19.99-$27.99 per car, $5 per passenger over six passengers. santasrocknlights.com.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
4-10 p.m. select dates Nov. 21 to Jan. 3, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Hundreds of luminous displays and seasonal activities are featured. All guests, including children and infants, must have a ticket to enter ZooLights, and groups cannot exceed 10 people. $5; free nights will be available on Nov. 24 and Dec. 9, 17, 21 and 29. www.lpzoo.org.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Schaumburg Library closes again as precaution against pandemic

The Schaumburg Township District Library will be closed until further notice to help minimize the spread of COVID-19 , officials @ @ @ @ @ be checked out online and picked up in the outdoor lockers at the central library @ @ @ @ @ in Schaumburg , or the branch libraries in Hoffman Estates and Hanover Park , which @ @ @ @ @ about the library 's programs , services , safety guidelines and more is available at @ @ @ @ @ online services , the library also offers free Wi-Fi , which has been extended out @ @ @ @ @ all three locations .
Executive Director Annie Miskewitch encourages library patrons to use trusted sources @ @ @ @ @ Disease Control and Prevention and the Illinois Department of Public Health , for information regarding @ @

Schaumburg Library closes again as precaution against pandemic
The Schaumburg Township District Library's three locations in Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates and Hanover Park have closed again as a precaution against spread of COVID-19. Courtesy of Susan Miura, 2014
The Schaumburg Township District Library will be closed until further notice to help minimize the spread of COVID-19, officials announced.
Library materials may be checked out online and picked up in the outdoor lockers at the central library, 130 S. Roselle Road in Schaumburg, or the branch libraries in Hoffman Estates and Hanover Park, which offer curbside pickup.
Information about the library's programs, services, safety guidelines and more is available at SchaumburgLibrary.org. In addition to online services, the library also offers free Wi-Fi, which has been extended out to the parking lots in all three locations.
Executive Director Annie Miskewitch encourages library patrons to use trusted sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Illinois Department of Public Health, for information regarding COVID-19.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Feder: TV reporter from Crystal Lake dies in motorcycle crash

Jennifer Lenzini , a 26-year-old TV news reporter who grew up in northwest suburban Crystal Lake , was killed in @ @ @ @ @ North Port , Florida .
Lenzini , a graduate of Prairie Ridge High School in @ @ @ @ @ of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , had just joined NBC affiliate WBBH/ABC affiliate WZVN in Fort @ @ @ @ @ July after four years with NBC affiliate KTIV in Sioux City , Iowa .
She @ @ @ @ @ of a BMW motorcycle Saturday afternoon in Sarasota County when the driver lost control of @ @ @ @ @ tree , according to police reports .
`` Jenny covered stories that mattered most to @ @ @ @ @ and Lee County , '' her station posted Sunday .
`` She was always diligent @ @ @ @ @ sure you knew how grateful and thankful she was to be reporting in Southwest Florida @ @ @ @ @ report , and more Chicago media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: TV reporter from Crystal Lake dies in motorcycle crash
Jennifer Lenzini, a 26-year-old TV news reporter who grew up in northwest suburban Crystal Lake, was killed in a motorcycle accident Saturday in North Port, Florida.
Jennifer Lenzini, a 26-year-old TV news reporter who grew up in northwest suburban Crystal Lake, was killed in a motorcycle accident Saturday in North Port, Florida.
Lenzini, a graduate of Prairie Ridge High School in Crystal Lake and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, had just joined NBC affiliate WBBH/ABC affiliate WZVN in Fort Myers, Florida, in July after four years with NBC affiliate KTIV in Sioux City, Iowa.
She was riding on the back of a BMW motorcycle Saturday afternoon in Sarasota County when the driver lost control of the vehicle and hit a tree, according to police reports.
"Jenny covered stories that mattered most to our community in Charlotte County and Lee County," her station posted Sunday. "She was always diligent in her work and made sure you knew how grateful and thankful she was to be reporting in Southwest Florida,"
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-15--Believe Project returns for seventh year of helping others

In this season of giving and sharing , it 's important that we continue to believe .
We should believe @ @ @ @ @ should believe in helping those in need .
So for the seventh consecutive year , @ @ @ @ @ tell us how you would use $ 100 -- not for yourself , but for @ @ @ @ @ donor and former businesswoman Carolyn Gable , our Believe Project aims to celebrate the true @ @ @ @ @ .
Gable has given us 31 envelopes , each containing a $ 100 bill .
@ @ @ @ @ to readers who submit the most compelling stories -- in 150 words or fewer -- @ @ @ @ @ readers then will pass along the money to the people in need .
Each day @ @ @ @ @ paper and online , we 'll share the stories of deserving recipients , of people @ @ @ @ @ helping hand or who deserve a pat on the back .
To tell us who @ @ @ @ @ , visit https : //events.dailyherald.com/believe/ no later than Friday , Nov. 27 .

Believe Project returns for seventh year of helping others
To tell us who you think deserves $100, visit https://events.dailyherald.com/believe/ no later than Friday, Nov. 27.
In this season of giving and sharing, it's important that we continue to believe.
We should believe in each other. We should believe in helping those in need.
So for the seventh consecutive year, we're inviting you to tell us how you would use $100 -- not for yourself, but for someone else.
Thanks to donor and former businesswoman Carolyn Gable, our Believe Project aims to celebrate the true meaning of comfort and joy.
Gable has given us 31 envelopes, each containing a $100 bill. We will send those envelopes to readers who submit the most compelling stories -- in 150 words or fewer -- for helping others. The readers then will pass along the money to the people in need.
Each day in December, in the paper and online, we'll share the stories of deserving recipients, of people facing hardships who need a helping hand or who deserve a pat on the back.
To tell us who you think deserves $100, visit https://events.dailyherald.com/believe/ no later than Friday, Nov. 27.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Judge finds Pritzker acted lawfully when he mandated health measures at schools

SPRINGFIELD -- A Sangamon County judge on Monday ruled Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's administration has power under state law and the state Constitution to issue executive orders that mandate public health measures at schools amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
The decision , issued by Sangamon County Judge Raylene Grischow after a roughly two-hour hearing , relates to two lawsuits -- Mainer v. Illinois Department of Public Health and Pritzker v. Board of Education of Hutsonville -- that arose from Pritzker 's June executive orders regarding schools .
The governor 's executive orders apply to all public and nonpublic schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they allow schools to reopen as long as they follow state health department requirements , which include capping the number of people in gatherings , mandatory face coverings and temperature screenings .
In explaining her decision , Grischow cited her Aug. 18 order in Pritzker v. Board of Education of Hutsonville in which she issued a temporary restraining order requiring the schools to follow the state 's public health guidelines set forth in Pritzker 's executive orders .
`` This court 's opinion that was issued on August 18 has not changed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The court is still of the opinion that the governor has the authority to issue executive orders , successive executive orders , along with guidance to the agency to help promulgate those executive orders . ''
Her decision , issued verbally from the bench , finds that the governor 's executive orders regarding schools were issued lawfully , and the state agencies lawfully issued the guidance contained in those orders .
She also cited a 2nd District Appellate Court decision issued earlier this month that ruled Pritzker has the power under state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That decision stemmed from a case involving a Kane County restaurant that sued the state over the indoor dining ban , which was imposed last month .
A Kane County judge ordered the restaurant could stay open , and the state appealed his order to the 2nd District Appellate Court , which reversed the judge 's order .
The 2nd District Appellate Court 's decision , in FoxFire Tavern v. Jay Robert Pritzker et al.
, was initially issued as a ruling that could not be cited as precedent .
The attorney general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court to publish the opinion in order for it to be used as precedent in similar cases .
Unlike Grischow 's decision on the temporary restraining order , the ruling on Monday addressed the substance of each side 's legal arguments .
In both lawsuits , parents of schoolchildren affected by the orders argued that the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois State Board of Education can not impose mandatory health guidance in schools without the approval of the Illinois General Assembly .
Specifically , they argued against the authority of Pritzker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limit on gatherings , a mask mandate and temperature screening requirements at schools .
Rather , those restrictions should be enacted by the legislature , according to the parents ' attorney Thomas DeVore .
At Monday 's hearing , DeVore argued that the legislature could have explicitly delegated to the governor these powers to impose required health guidance in schools but it did not .
`` The ( state ) legislature could have added that .
If they would have added that we would n't be having this conversation today , '' DeVore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thomas J. Verticchio , one of Pritzker 's attorneys , argued that the governor has the authority under the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act to issue executive orders that mandate health guidance in schools during a global pandemic .
He pointed to Grischow 's earlier decision as support .
`` The court has already written an opinion on the legal issue , '' Verticchio said during Monday 's hearing .
After Grischow issued her temporary restraining order , DeVore appealed her order to the 4th District Appellate Court , which upheld her ruling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state in lawsuits challenging Pritzker 's disaster declaration , among other issues , that are consolidated before Grischow , including a case that involves Rep. Darren Bailey , a Xenia Republican .
Those cases were not included in the scope of Grischow 's order Monday .
DeVore said he plans to appeal Grischow 's latest ruling , again to the 4th District Appellate Court .
He also downplayed the significance of her decision , saying it applies only to the schools named in the lawsuits .
`` As for the majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it means nothing , '' DeVore said .
Verticchio declined to comment on the impact of the decision .
The attorney general 's Office did not respond to a request for comment on the decision 's impact .

Judge finds Pritzker acted lawfully when he mandated health measures at schools
SPRINGFIELD -- A Sangamon County judge on Monday ruled Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration has power under state law and the state Constitution to issue executive orders that mandate public health measures at schools amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision, issued by Sangamon County Judge Raylene Grischow after a roughly two-hour hearing, relates to two lawsuits -- Mainer v. Illinois Department of Public Health and Pritzker v. Board of Education of Hutsonville -- that arose from Pritzker's June executive orders regarding schools.
The governor's executive orders apply to all public and nonpublic schools from prekindergarten through 12th grade, and they allow schools to reopen as long as they follow state health department requirements, which include capping the number of people in gatherings, mandatory face coverings and temperature screenings.
In explaining her decision, Grischow cited her Aug. 18 order in Pritzker v. Board of Education of Hutsonville in which she issued a temporary restraining order requiring the schools to follow the state's public health guidelines set forth in Pritzker's executive orders.
"This court's opinion that was issued on August 18 has not changed," Grischow said in court Monday. "The court is still of the opinion that the governor has the authority to issue executive orders, successive executive orders, along with guidance to the agency to help promulgate those executive orders."
Her decision, issued verbally from the bench, finds that the governor's executive orders regarding schools were issued lawfully, and the state agencies lawfully issued the guidance contained in those orders.
She also cited a 2nd District Appellate Court decision issued earlier this month that ruled Pritzker has the power under state law to issue successive disaster proclamations.
That decision stemmed from a case involving a Kane County restaurant that sued the state over the indoor dining ban, which was imposed last month. A Kane County judge ordered the restaurant could stay open, and the state appealed his order to the 2nd District Appellate Court, which reversed the judge's order.
The 2nd District Appellate Court's decision, in FoxFire Tavern v. Jay Robert Pritzker et al., was initially issued as a ruling that could not be cited as precedent.
The attorney general's office, however, asked the court to publish the opinion in order for it to be used as precedent in similar cases.
Unlike Grischow's decision on the temporary restraining order, the ruling on Monday addressed the substance of each side's legal arguments.
In both lawsuits, parents of schoolchildren affected by the orders argued that the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois State Board of Education cannot impose mandatory health guidance in schools without the approval of the Illinois General Assembly.
Specifically, they argued against the authority of Pritzker and his agencies to broadly impose a limit on gatherings, a mask mandate and temperature screening requirements at schools. Rather, those restrictions should be enacted by the legislature, according to the parents' attorney Thomas DeVore.
At Monday's hearing, DeVore argued that the legislature could have explicitly delegated to the governor these powers to impose required health guidance in schools but it did not.
"The (state) legislature could have added that. If they would have added that we wouldn't be having this conversation today," DeVore said.
Assistant Chief Deputy Attorney General Thomas J. Verticchio, one of Pritzker's attorneys, argued that the governor has the authority under the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act to issue executive orders that mandate health guidance in schools during a global pandemic.
He pointed to Grischow's earlier decision as support.
"The court has already written an opinion on the legal issue," Verticchio said during Monday's hearing.
After Grischow issued her temporary restraining order, DeVore appealed her order to the 4th District Appellate Court, which upheld her ruling.
DeVore also represents several businesses across the state in lawsuits challenging Pritzker's disaster declaration, among other issues, that are consolidated before Grischow, including a case that involves Rep. Darren Bailey, a Xenia Republican.
Those cases were not included in the scope of Grischow's order Monday.
DeVore said he plans to appeal Grischow's latest ruling, again to the 4th District Appellate Court.
He also downplayed the significance of her decision, saying it applies only to the schools named in the lawsuits.
"As for the majority of the people in the state of Illinois, it means nothing," DeVore said.
Verticchio declined to comment on the impact of the decision.
The attorney general's Office did not respond to a request for comment on the decision's impact.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--U-46 to pause hybrid classes, return to fully remote learning

Elgin Area School District U-46 will halt in-person classes and switch to fully remote learning starting Monday through Dec. 4 , after guidance from local health officials .
The change will come after merely two weeks of hybrid learning for early grades .
The district started in-person hybrid classes for 4,400 students in prekindergarten through second grade on Nov. 10 .
Select groups of middle and high school students in specialized programs began in-person classes this week while third- through sixth-graders were supposed to move to a hybrid schedule on Dec. 1 .
The Kane County Health Department on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take an `` adaptive pause . ''
`` They believe we will be OK continuing with our current plans for this week , then strictly offering distance learning for all students effective Nov. 23 , '' Superintendent Tony Sanders told the school board Monday .
`` That means that no in-person instruction or extracurricular activities will occur during that time period .
Grades three through six that were supposed to start back on ( Dec. 1 ) will remain in distance learning until the adaptive pause is concluded .
Teaching assignments for grades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for now .
However , we are proceeding forward with professional development for those teachers this Thursday and Friday as we had planned to do so . ''
Sanders said Kane County superintendents will meet with health officials on Nov. 30 and Dec. 2 to review COVID-19 case numbers and get further guidance before considering extending the hiatus from in-person lessons .
`` While we are on this adaptive pause , all administrators and all 12-month staff members will need to continue working from our buildings to support teachers who may choose to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Elgin Teachers Association President Barb Bettis said she had planned at Monday 's meeting to share the concerns she had been hearing from many of the 2,700 teachers union members .
`` We are still committed to continuing to work with the district administration to help ensure its ultimate implementation is safe , successful , and sustainable , '' Bettis said .
`` We are grateful for this pause so that we can address the areas of concern that currently exist in our system . ''
Some school board members acknowledged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from parents who are struggling with remote learning .
`` We are doing distance learning in our house and I get how miserable it is , '' school board member Kane Thommes said .
`` If it gets beyond just rotten , ask for help .
There are people who can help . ''

U-46 to pause hybrid classes, return to fully remote learning
Elgin Area School District U-46 will halt in-person classes and switch to fully remote learning starting Monday through Dec. 4, after guidance from local health officials.
The change will come after merely two weeks of hybrid learning for early grades. The district started in-person hybrid classes for 4,400 students in prekindergarten through second grade on Nov. 10. Select groups of middle and high school students in specialized programs began in-person classes this week while third- through sixth-graders were supposed to move to a hybrid schedule on Dec. 1.
The Kane County Health Department on Monday notified U-46 leaders that the district must take an "adaptive pause."
"They believe we will be OK continuing with our current plans for this week, then strictly offering distance learning for all students effective Nov. 23," Superintendent Tony Sanders told the school board Monday. "That means that no in-person instruction or extracurricular activities will occur during that time period. Grades three through six that were supposed to start back on (Dec. 1) will remain in distance learning until the adaptive pause is concluded. Teaching assignments for grades three through six will remain the same for now. However, we are proceeding forward with professional development for those teachers this Thursday and Friday as we had planned to do so."
Sanders said Kane County superintendents will meet with health officials on Nov. 30 and Dec. 2 to review COVID-19 case numbers and get further guidance before considering extending the hiatus from in-person lessons.
"While we are on this adaptive pause, all administrators and all 12-month staff members will need to continue working from our buildings to support teachers who may choose to teach from their classrooms," Sanders said.
Elgin Teachers Association President Barb Bettis said she had planned at Monday's meeting to share the concerns she had been hearing from many of the 2,700 teachers union members.
"We are still committed to continuing to work with the district administration to help ensure its ultimate implementation is safe, successful, and sustainable," Bettis said. "We are grateful for this pause so that we can address the areas of concern that currently exist in our system."
Some school board members acknowledged they have been receiving emails and comments from parents who are struggling with remote learning.
"We are doing distance learning in our house and I get how miserable it is," school board member Kane Thommes said. "If it gets beyond just rotten, ask for help. There are people who can help."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-16--Palatine council wants to work with restaurant's igloo plan

The village of Palatine is looking to allow a downtown restaurant to use a public sidewalk to install `` igloo '' pods for winter dining , pending a reasonable cost assessment for sidewalk accommodations .
Mike and Christine Siena , owners of Gianni 's Cafe at 18 W. Station St. , said they were elated the village council was supportive of their request .
The couple installed two igloos last week on the restaurant 's patio and want to install four more on the sidewalk south of the building , along Station Street .
`` We are really , really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are , '' Christine Siena said after the village council meeting Monday night .
`` We are hoping this will be a draw to the downtown area .
Those igloos really provide that kind of 'wow ' experience , '' Mike Siena said .
The Sienas also had presented two lesser options to the village for winter outdoor dining : installing igloos on the parking spots on Station Street , alongside the railroad tracks , and installing outdoor tents on the public sidewalk .
Village Manager Reid Ottesen told the council that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't allow occupying parking spots with structures long term .
Having tents on the sidewalk was the option preferred by the village staff to maintain maximum safety and ease of snow removal , plus limit liability issues , Ottesen said .
The village council , however , wanted to accommodate the restaurant 's preferred plan .
`` As much as we like the tent idea so we have room for pedestrians , it 's just going to restrict them so much , '' Councilman Brad Helms said .
Councilman Kollin Kozlowski said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referring to COVID-19 .
Before the plan can be executed , the village will figure out the cost of installing concrete barriers to create a temporary pedestrian way on the street .
Mike Siena said he 's willing to take on some or all of the cost , based on the final price tag .
That portion of Station Street might become a temporary one-way street .
Ottesen said he will consult with the public works staff and talk with nearby property owners , including businesses and The Providence condo building .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be worked out with the village so they can install the additional igloos .
If not , their backup plan will be to install tents or possibly `` garden houses '' on the sidewalk , they said .
The Sienas also own Gianni 's Cafe in Kildeer , where they installed seven igloos on the patio .
Christine Siena said the feedback has been positive from employees -- who can continue working during the ban on indoor dining -- and from patrons .
`` It 's fun , it 's a unique @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel very safe , we are told .
And warm , '' she said .
The igloos have heaters and air purification at an overall cost of up to $ 2,200 each .
The couple tested one for months in their backyard to ensure everything worked properly , she said .
`` We have honestly put in a lot of time and reason into this , '' Christine Siena said .
`` It 's pretty exciting , even beyond COVID-19 , that we have another option for people to be able to extend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

Palatine council wants to work with restaurant's igloo plan
The village of Palatine is looking to allow a downtown restaurant to use a public sidewalk to install "igloo" pods for winter dining, pending a reasonable cost assessment for sidewalk accommodations.
Mike and Christine Siena, owners of Gianni's Cafe at 18 W. Station St., said they were elated the village council was supportive of their request. The couple installed two igloos last week on the restaurant's patio and want to install four more on the sidewalk south of the building, along Station Street.
"We are really, really, really pleased with how supportive they are," Christine Siena said after the village council meeting Monday night.
"We are hoping this will be a draw to the downtown area. Those igloos really provide that kind of 'wow' experience," Mike Siena said.
The Sienas also had presented two lesser options to the village for winter outdoor dining: installing igloos on the parking spots on Station Street, alongside the railroad tracks, and installing outdoor tents on the public sidewalk.
Village Manager Reid Ottesen told the council that the village's lease with Union Pacific doesn't allow occupying parking spots with structures long term. Having tents on the sidewalk was the option preferred by the village staff to maintain maximum safety and ease of snow removal, plus limit liability issues, Ottesen said.
The village council, however, wanted to accommodate the restaurant's preferred plan.
"As much as we like the tent idea so we have room for pedestrians, it's just going to restrict them so much," Councilman Brad Helms said.
Councilman Kollin Kozlowski said, "This is hard times," referring to COVID-19.
Before the plan can be executed, the village will figure out the cost of installing concrete barriers to create a temporary pedestrian way on the street. Mike Siena said he's willing to take on some or all of the cost, based on the final price tag.
That portion of Station Street might become a temporary one-way street. Ottesen said he will consult with the public works staff and talk with nearby property owners, including businesses and The Providence condo building.
The Sienas said they are optimistic the details will be worked out with the village so they can install the additional igloos. If not, their backup plan will be to install tents or possibly "garden houses" on the sidewalk, they said.
The Sienas also own Gianni's Cafe in Kildeer, where they installed seven igloos on the patio.
Christine Siena said the feedback has been positive from employees -- who can continue working during the ban on indoor dining -- and from patrons. "It's fun, it's a unique experience, and they (patrons) feel very safe, we are told. And warm," she said.
The igloos have heaters and air purification at an overall cost of up to $2,200 each. The couple tested one for months in their backyard to ensure everything worked properly, she said.
"We have honestly put in a lot of time and reason into this," Christine Siena said. "It's pretty exciting, even beyond COVID-19, that we have another option for people to be able to extend outdoor dining from summer into fall."