dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-29--District 300 switching to online learning for school start

Algonquin-based Community Unit District 300 leaders have reversed an earlier plan to reopen schools for in-person instruction and instead will start the school year Aug. 17 with fully remote learning due a rise in COVID-19 cases in Kane County .
`` I think this is the safest way for us to approach this right now , '' said Fred Heid , superintendent of the state 's sixth-largest school district , which educates more than 21,000 students in 26 schools .
Originally , officials had hoped to bring back elementary and middle school students to a normal five-day schedule with some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model .
Evolving guidance from state education and health officials and an increase in COVID-19 cases across the region forced the district to reevaluate in-person instruction .
For now , the district plans to be in remote learning mode for students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade through the first quarter , which ends Oct. 9 .
The district has provided Chromebooks for all students and will be switching out nearly 18,000 devices in the coming weeks .
Families will be notified when to pick up the new Chromebooks as well as other instructional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ math manipulatives , workbooks , and a dry erase board to take home .
The district will pay to cover the cost of Comcast mobile hotspots for families in need of internet access .
It also retrofitted a school bus to serve as a wireless antenna that can be driven into low-income neighborhoods .
During remote learning , the district will continue to provide food service for low-income families in packages covering three to five days of breakfasts , lunches , dinners , and snacks .
Teachers will work from their classrooms as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Students with special needs will learn remotely during the first two weeks but also will have scheduled appointments for occupational and speech therapy and other in-person support .
The district is coordinating with local providers , the Boys & Girls Club , the YMCA , and local park districts so families that need help can get free child care .
Virtual town-hall meetings to answer questions about school start were scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday for elementary school parents , Thursday for middle school parents , Friday for high school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for preschool and kindergarten parents .

District 300 switching to online learning for school start
Algonquin-based Community Unit District 300 leaders have reversed an earlier plan to reopen schools for in-person instruction and instead will start the school year Aug. 17 with fully remote learning due a rise in COVID-19 cases in Kane County.
"I think this is the safest way for us to approach this right now," said Fred Heid, superintendent of the state's sixth-largest school district, which educates more than 21,000 students in 26 schools.
Originally, officials had hoped to bring back elementary and middle school students to a normal five-day schedule with some modifications while high schools followed a hybrid model.
Evolving guidance from state education and health officials and an increase in COVID-19 cases across the region forced the district to reevaluate in-person instruction.
For now, the district plans to be in remote learning mode for students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade through the first quarter, which ends Oct. 9.
The district has provided Chromebooks for all students and will be switching out nearly 18,000 devices in the coming weeks. Families will be notified when to pick up the new Chromebooks as well as other instructional materials, such as art supplies, math manipulatives, workbooks, and a dry erase board to take home.
The district will pay to cover the cost of Comcast mobile hotspots for families in need of internet access. It also retrofitted a school bus to serve as a wireless antenna that can be driven into low-income neighborhoods.
During remote learning, the district will continue to provide food service for low-income families in packages covering three to five days of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks.
Teachers will work from their classrooms as much as possible even with remote instruction.
Students with special needs will learn remotely during the first two weeks but also will have scheduled appointments for occupational and speech therapy and other in-person support.
The district is coordinating with local providers, the Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA, and local park districts so families that need help can get free child care.
Virtual town-hall meetings to answer questions about school start were scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday for elementary school parents, Thursday for middle school parents, Friday for high school parents, and Monday, Aug. 3, for preschool and kindergarten parents.
For more information, visit www.d300.org/BackToSchool.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-29--Bears fully stand behind Goldman's decision to opt out

The Bears are fully behind defensive tackle Eddie Goldman 's decision to opt out of the 2020 season .
General manager Ryan Pace and head coach Matt Nagy both voiced their support of Goldman in a news conference via Zoom on Wednesday .
`` As we go through that process , specifically with Eddie Goldman , we just recognize that this is personal for everyone , '' Pace said .
`` And you 're just very respectful and supportive of that decision .
Both Matt and I talked to Eddie , we relayed that to Eddie .
Eddie is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family , and we 're going to welcome him back at the appropriate time . ''
NFL Network 's Ian Rapoport first reported the news Tuesday that Goldman would sit out the season , citing health concerns related to COVID-19 .
Goldman , 26 , was a Pro Bowl alternate last year and has started at least 15 games in each of the past three season for the Bears , primarily at nose tackle .
More than two dozen NFL players have reportedly opted out of the 2020 season , citing health concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patriots opted out on Tuesday , according to reports , including linebacker Dont ' a Hightower and safety Patrick Chung .
New York Giants ' offensive tackle Nate Solder announced he was opting out in an emotional statement Wednesday , citing concerns for his own health and the health of his children .
Nagy said Goldman reached out via email first , and the two later talked about Goldman 's decision .
`` What 's very important here to understand is , for us , we completely support him , '' Nagy said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important in everybody understanding that he knew that right away .
We just told him we support him . ''
Nagy said the two discussed the Bears ' safety protocols at Halas Hall , which Pace described as `` above and beyond '' the league 's minimum requirements .
`` We told him what we have here , so he knows , and that 's the decision that he decided to make , '' Nagy said .
The move likely means bigger roles for defensive linemen Bilal Nichols and Roy Robertson-Harris .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has experience at nose tackle , over the offseason .
Goldman 's presence will be missed , though .
`` He 's a really important part of our defense a really good young player for us , '' Pace said .
`` But I think , this is when we talk about the depth that we 've had built up , and especially on the defensive line when you talk about guys like Roy Roberston-Harris and Bilal ( Nichols ) and John Jenkins and Brent Urban .
Then you factor in ( defensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think is just an outstanding coach .
It gives us a lot of confidence with that position . ''
The Bears officially placed Goldman on the Reserve/Opt-Out list Wednesday afternoon .
The Bears placed tight end Eric Saubert on the reserve/COVID-19 list On Wednesday , according to Rapoport .
Rookie running back Artavis Pierce was also placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday .
The reserve/COVID-19 list is for players who either test positive or have been in close contact with someone who tested positive .
It does not necessarily mean the player @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the team will not be divulging any further information on players placed on the list .

Bears fully stand behind Goldman's decision to opt out
Bears nose tackle Eddie Goldman celebrates a first-quarter sack against Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler. The Bears are fully behind defensive tackle Eddie Goldman's decision to opt out of the 2020 season. Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer, December 2016
The Bears are fully behind defensive tackle Eddie Goldman's decision to opt out of the 2020 season.
General manager Ryan Pace and head coach Matt Nagy both voiced their support of Goldman in a news conference via Zoom on Wednesday.
"As we go through that process, specifically with Eddie Goldman, we just recognize that this is personal for everyone," Pace said. "And you're just very respectful and supportive of that decision. Both Matt and I talked to Eddie, we relayed that to Eddie. Eddie is an important part of our team and our family, and we're going to welcome him back at the appropriate time."
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport first reported the news Tuesday that Goldman would sit out the season, citing health concerns related to COVID-19.
Goldman, 26, was a Pro Bowl alternate last year and has started at least 15 games in each of the past three season for the Bears, primarily at nose tackle.
More than two dozen NFL players have reportedly opted out of the 2020 season, citing health concerns related to COVID-19. Six New England Patriots opted out on Tuesday, according to reports, including linebacker Dont'a Hightower and safety Patrick Chung.
New York Giants' offensive tackle Nate Solder announced he was opting out in an emotional statement Wednesday, citing concerns for his own health and the health of his children.
Nagy said Goldman reached out via email first, and the two later talked about Goldman's decision.
"What's very important here to understand is, for us, we completely support him," Nagy said. "I think that's very important in everybody understanding that he knew that right away. We just told him we support him."
Nagy said the two discussed the Bears' safety protocols at Halas Hall, which Pace described as "above and beyond" the league's minimum requirements.
"We told him what we have here, so he knows, and that's the decision that he decided to make," Nagy said.
The move likely means bigger roles for defensive linemen Bilal Nichols and Roy Robertson-Harris. The Bears also signed John Jenkins, who has experience at nose tackle, over the offseason.
Goldman's presence will be missed, though.
"He's a really important part of our defense a really good young player for us," Pace said. "But I think, this is when we talk about the depth that we've had built up, and especially on the defensive line when you talk about guys like Roy Roberston-Harris and Bilal (Nichols) and John Jenkins and Brent Urban. Then you factor in (defensive line coach) Jay Rodgers, who I think is just an outstanding coach. It gives us a lot of confidence with that position."
The Bears officially placed Goldman on the Reserve/Opt-Out list Wednesday afternoon.
Saubert added to reserve/COVID-19 list:
The Bears placed tight end Eric Saubert on the reserve/COVID-19 list On Wednesday, according to Rapoport. Rookie running back Artavis Pierce was also placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday.
The reserve/COVID-19 list is for players who either test positive or have been in close contact with someone who tested positive. It does not necessarily mean the player contracted the virus.
Pace said Wednesday that the team will not be divulging any further information on players placed on the list.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-29--Bears introduce COVID-19 policies at Halas Hall

With NFL training camps opening this week , all Bears players , coaches and staff members will have numerous protocols they need to follow before they can enter the Halas Hall team facility in Lake Forest .
The facility itself , which just completed a major renovation , will look different in certain areas , too .
Players were allowed to return Tuesday , with the first few days devoted solely to testing and virtual meetings .
No actual training or practices are taking place at the facility yet .
Bears general manager Ryan Pace said in a Wednesday Zoom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have one of the most state-of-the-art facilities in the league .
`` We feel like we have a major advantage in just the sheer amount of square footage we have and we 've been very creative with how we maximize our space , '' Pace said .
Bears head athletic trainer Andre Tucker , who took on the new role of infectious control officer , oversees the Bears ' health and building protocols .
All employees must check their temperature twice at home , and temperatures must be below 100.4 degrees .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with four screening questions .
An employee who passes those four questions will receive a day pass into Halas Hall .
If someone fails the questionnaire , Tucker is notified and will review on a case-by-case basis .
At Halas Hall , a trailer is set up outside to provide testing for the virus and virus antibodies .
After testing , temperatures are checked again using a facial recognition scanner .
Only then can an employee proceed down the hallways .
High-touch areas , such as the players entrance doors , will open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employee , upon entering , will be given a proximity reader , which is used for contact tracing purposes .
Tucker showed off a reader , similar to a wristwatch , on his arm .
For players , the locker room has been expanded into the player lounge to provide additional space .
Every other shower will be turned off .
Treatment with athletic trainers will be by appointment only , and partitions have been added between trainers tables and rehab equipment .
The NFL is allowing only 15 players in a weight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have added a second weight room at the Walter Payton Center indoor practice facility down the street from the main building .
Full team meetings will be held at the Walter Payton Center to provide adequate space .
Chairs and video monitors will be provided .
Smaller meeting rooms have tighter capacity limits .
The NFL is attempting its return as the MLB 's Miami Marlins learned this week of numerous positive tests within their team , just days into the new baseball season .
Tucker said the Marlins ' news `` did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said the most important thing is educating players and their families .
Because there is no NFL bubble , like the NHL or NBA , players will be leaving the facility after their work day is finished .
`` The most at risk I think we are is when everybody leaves Halas Hall at the end of the day , '' Pace said .
Pace said the team did not consider quarantining its players in a hotel or nearby facility .
`` We just took the parameters that the league and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to create that environment [ at Halas Hall ] , '' Pace said .
Employees will have to remain diligent at home .
Tucker said employees will be encouraged to think ahead about what they will need to do in their own homes should a family member become sick .
`` Do you have a place in your house where you 're able to isolate that individual ? ''
Tucker said .
`` Do you have a bathroom ?
What does it look like for groceries ?
The more we vet that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help everyone plan accordingly . ''
Tucker said Bears testing samples will be sent to a lab in Minnesota , but is `` confident '' the team should receive results within 24 hours .
Amid all of these changes and protocols , the Bears will have to narrow down their roster over the next month and make decisions on who will start come Week 1 .
Pace said Wednesday that the Bears plan to have the roster cut to 80 players -- down from 90 -- by this weekend , which will allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , per the NFL 's rules .
Position battles , like that between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles at quarterback , will take place with limited practice time and no preseason games .
`` We need to be creative within these drills and make sure that the time that 's given to us in practice , that we 're using it as much as we can with competitive periods , '' Bears head coach Matt Nagy said .
`` It 's hard to do that in walk-throughs , it 's hard to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a chance to go out there , we 're evaluating the quarterbacks with every single play .
Not just throws , but every single check that they make at the line of scrimmage , every bit of leadership that they show in and out of the huddle , we 're there watching . ''
Nagy said he feels confident that the quarterback battle `` will all play itself out , '' and noted that the battle is `` completely open . ''
A year ago , the Bears played their starters sparingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he did n't like the results that approach produced and he had originally planned to give his starters more time on the field during the preseason in 2020 .
The coronavirus had other ideas .
Pace noted that the coaching staff has done a great job of creating `` a competitive environment , '' in the practice plan , despite not having any preseason games .
`` Every coach in the league is going to be different and I do n't know if anyone has the perfect answer , '' Nagy said @

Bears introduce COVID-19 policies at Halas Hall
With NFL training camps opening this week, all Bears players, coaches and staff members will have numerous protocols they need to follow before they can enter the Halas Hall team facility in Lake Forest, coach Matt Nagy said on Wednesday. Associated Press File Photo
With NFL training camps opening this week, all Bears players, coaches and staff members will have numerous protocols they need to follow before they can enter the Halas Hall team facility in Lake Forest. The facility itself, which just completed a major renovation, will look different in certain areas, too.
Players were allowed to return Tuesday, with the first few days devoted solely to testing and virtual meetings. No actual training or practices are taking place at the facility yet.
Bears general manager Ryan Pace said in a Wednesday Zoom news conference that the team is fortunate to have one of the most state-of-the-art facilities in the league.
"We feel like we have a major advantage in just the sheer amount of square footage we have and we've been very creative with how we maximize our space," Pace said.
Bears head athletic trainer Andre Tucker, who took on the new role of infectious control officer, oversees the Bears' health and building protocols.
All employees must check their temperature twice at home, and temperatures must be below 100.4 degrees. Employees then must log into an app with four screening questions. An employee who passes those four questions will receive a day pass into Halas Hall. If someone fails the questionnaire, Tucker is notified and will review on a case-by-case basis.
At Halas Hall, a trailer is set up outside to provide testing for the virus and virus antibodies. After testing, temperatures are checked again using a facial recognition scanner. Only then can an employee proceed down the hallways. High-touch areas, such as the players entrance doors, will open automatically upon scanning an ID.
Every employee, upon entering, will be given a proximity reader, which is used for contact tracing purposes. Tucker showed off a reader, similar to a wristwatch, on his arm.
For players, the locker room has been expanded into the player lounge to provide additional space. Every other shower will be turned off. Treatment with athletic trainers will be by appointment only, and partitions have been added between trainers tables and rehab equipment.
The NFL is allowing only 15 players in a weight room at a time. The Bears have added a second weight room at the Walter Payton Center indoor practice facility down the street from the main building. Full team meetings will be held at the Walter Payton Center to provide adequate space. Chairs and video monitors will be provided. Smaller meeting rooms have tighter capacity limits.
The NFL is attempting its return as the MLB's Miami Marlins learned this week of numerous positive tests within their team, just days into the new baseball season.
Tucker said the Marlins' news "didn't scare me at all."
He said the most important thing is educating players and their families. Because there is no NFL bubble, like the NHL or NBA, players will be leaving the facility after their work day is finished.
"The most at risk I think we are is when everybody leaves Halas Hall at the end of the day," Pace said.
Pace said the team did not consider quarantining its players in a hotel or nearby facility.
"We just took the parameters that the league and the union agreed upon, and we just try to create that environment [at Halas Hall]," Pace said.
Employees will have to remain diligent at home. Tucker said employees will be encouraged to think ahead about what they will need to do in their own homes should a family member become sick.
"Do you have a place in your house where you're able to isolate that individual?" Tucker said. "Do you have a bathroom? What does it look like for groceries? The more we vet that out ahead of time, that will help everyone plan accordingly."
Tucker said Bears testing samples will be sent to a lab in Minnesota, but is "confident" the team should receive results within 24 hours.
Amid all of these changes and protocols, the Bears will have to narrow down their roster over the next month and make decisions on who will start come Week 1.
Pace said Wednesday that the Bears plan to have the roster cut to 80 players -- down from 90 -- by this weekend, which will allow the team to practice in one group, per the NFL's rules.
Position battles, like that between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles at quarterback, will take place with limited practice time and no preseason games.
"We need to be creative within these drills and make sure that the time that's given to us in practice, that we're using it as much as we can with competitive periods," Bears head coach Matt Nagy said. "It's hard to do that in walk-throughs, it's hard to do that with meetings. ... When we get a chance to go out there, we're evaluating the quarterbacks with every single play. Not just throws, but every single check that they make at the line of scrimmage, every bit of leadership that they show in and out of the huddle, we're there watching."
Nagy said he feels confident that the quarterback battle "will all play itself out," and noted that the battle is "completely open."
A year ago, the Bears played their starters sparingly in preseason games. Nagy said Wednesday that he didn't like the results that approach produced and he had originally planned to give his starters more time on the field during the preseason in 2020.
The coronavirus had other ideas.
Pace noted that the coaching staff has done a great job of creating "a competitive environment," in the practice plan, despite not having any preseason games.
"Every coach in the league is going to be different and I don't know if anyone has the perfect answer," Nagy said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--'The long-term solution is not Arlington Park': CEO says land could be sold

A week after live racing returned without spectators to Arlington International Racecourse , the CEO of the track 's parent company cast an even darker shadow Thursday over the already precarious future of the storied Arlington Heights oval .
`` The long-term solution is not Arlington Park .
That land will have a higher and better purpose for something else at some point , '' Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said during a quarterly earnings call with investors .
`` But we want to work constructively with all of the constituencies in the market to see if there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ otherwise change the circumstances so that racing can continue in Illinois , '' Carstanjen continued .
`` For us , we 've been patient and thoughtful and constructive with the parties up in that jurisdiction , but long-term that land gets sold and that license will need to move if it 's going to continue . ''
Carstanjen made the comments in response to a question from an industry analyst about the racetrack 's future .
It 's been growing ever more doubtful since Churchill 's decision nearly a year ago to forgo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once seen as a lifeline for the state 's struggling horse racing industry .
Company officials pointed to the tax structure of the state gambling law and an increasingly competitive market that they say would make it hard to gain an acceptable financial return .
Carstanjen again Thursday floated the possibility of Arlington moving its racing license elsewhere in the state , having previously suggested that it may be more economically viable elsewhere .
`` Long-term for Arlington Park , as we 've explained on these calls and we 've explained to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Carstanjen said .
`` The economics do n't work .
It 's not a viable solution .
We 'd like to give the state , given everything that 's going on , an opportunity to help us find a better long-term solution . ''
Carstanjen 's comments drew rebuke Thursday from Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes , who wants the park to remain a horse racing track .
`` It 's very disappointing to hear , '' Hayes said .
`` Certainly I 've never felt Churchill Downs was all that concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all .
I think they 're concerned about the bottom line .
`` I certainly understand that from a business perspective , but I have a different perspective about what 's in the best interest of Arlington Heights and our community . ''
Officials with the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen 's Association , the group of horse owners and trainers who were locked in a protracted contract dispute with the corporation until last month , reiterated previous criticism of Churchill 's decision not to pursue casino games that could have boosted purses at Arlington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say preposterously that Churchill has been 'patient ' with other stakeholders speaks to the height of Churchill 's contempt for the elected officials and working families of Illinois , '' according to a statement released by the horsemen Thursday .
`` The very least that Churchill could do is be honest about its true intention : the company cares only about maximizing profit and is happy to sacrifice the spirit of Illinois law and the livelihood of working Illinoisans to serve its greed . ''
Despite applying for a sports betting license March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arlington no longer plans on pursuing it , said Carstanjen , pointing to the early success of the Rivers Casino sportsbook in Des Plaines .
Churchill owns a 61 % stake in the casino about 10 miles from Arlington .
`` We 're happy to play heavily in Illinois in sports wagering through our Rivers license , '' he said .
`` That 'll be our play for sports wagering in Illinois . ''
A shortened 30-day live race meet at Arlington started without spectators on July 23 , although it marked a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said a resumption without fans would n't be possible due to a high cost structure .
An Arlington official said last week the track could lose $ 7 million to $ 8 million this year with the loss of general admission , group sales , and food and beverage revenues .
The races restarted after management inked a new two-year contract with horsemen after contentious negotiations .
Last year , Carstanjen committed to keeping Arlington 's gates open only through 2021 .
But on Thursday , he said the track has an agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` if we elect to do so . ''
An annual hearing for 2021 racing dates is scheduled before the Illinois Racing Board in September .

'The long-term solution is not Arlington Park': CEO says land could be sold
A week after live racing returned without spectators to Arlington International Racecourse, the CEO of the track's parent company cast an even darker shadow Thursday over the already precarious future of the storied Arlington Heights oval.
"The long-term solution is not Arlington Park. That land will have a higher and better purpose for something else at some point," Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said during a quarterly earnings call with investors.
"But we want to work constructively with all of the constituencies in the market to see if there's an opportunity to move the license or otherwise change the circumstances so that racing can continue in Illinois," Carstanjen continued. "For us, we've been patient and thoughtful and constructive with the parties up in that jurisdiction, but long-term that land gets sold and that license will need to move if it's going to continue."
Carstanjen made the comments in response to a question from an industry analyst about the racetrack's future.
It's been growing ever more doubtful since Churchill's decision nearly a year ago to forgo slots and table games at Arlington -- once seen as a lifeline for the state's struggling horse racing industry.
Company officials pointed to the tax structure of the state gambling law and an increasingly competitive market that they say would make it hard to gain an acceptable financial return.
Carstanjen again Thursday floated the possibility of Arlington moving its racing license elsewhere in the state, having previously suggested that it may be more economically viable elsewhere.
"Long-term for Arlington Park, as we've explained on these calls and we've explained to the state, it doesn't work," Carstanjen said. "The economics don't work. It's not a viable solution. We'd like to give the state, given everything that's going on, an opportunity to help us find a better long-term solution."
Carstanjen's comments drew rebuke Thursday from Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes, who wants the park to remain a horse racing track.
"It's very disappointing to hear," Hayes said. "Certainly I've never felt Churchill Downs was all that concerned about Arlington Heights and our community at all. I think they're concerned about the bottom line.
"I certainly understand that from a business perspective, but I have a different perspective about what's in the best interest of Arlington Heights and our community."
Officials with the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, the group of horse owners and trainers who were locked in a protracted contract dispute with the corporation until last month, reiterated previous criticism of Churchill's decision not to pursue casino games that could have boosted purses at Arlington.
"For Churchill's CEO to say preposterously that Churchill has been 'patient' with other stakeholders speaks to the height of Churchill's contempt for the elected officials and working families of Illinois," according to a statement released by the horsemen Thursday. "The very least that Churchill could do is be honest about its true intention: the company cares only about maximizing profit and is happy to sacrifice the spirit of Illinois law and the livelihood of working Illinoisans to serve its greed."
Despite applying for a sports betting license March 9 through the Illinois Gaming Board, Arlington no longer plans on pursuing it, said Carstanjen, pointing to the early success of the Rivers Casino sportsbook in Des Plaines. Churchill owns a 61% stake in the casino about 10 miles from Arlington.
"We're happy to play heavily in Illinois in sports wagering through our Rivers license," he said. "That'll be our play for sports wagering in Illinois."
A shortened 30-day live race meet at Arlington started without spectators on July 23, although it marked a reversal by Churchill officials, who initially said a resumption without fans wouldn't be possible due to a high cost structure. An Arlington official said last week the track could lose $7 million to $8 million this year with the loss of general admission, group sales, and food and beverage revenues.
The races restarted after management inked a new two-year contract with horsemen after contentious negotiations.
Last year, Carstanjen committed to keeping Arlington's gates open only through 2021. But on Thursday, he said the track has an agreement with horsemen to run a 2021 meet "if we elect to do so."
An annual hearing for 2021 racing dates is scheduled before the Illinois Racing Board in September.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--1,772 new COVID-19 infections the most in one day since May

Cases of COVID-19 rose by 1,772 Thursday , the largest one-day increase since May 24 , when more than 2,500 new cases were diagnosed .
Eighteen more deaths of Illinois residents also were reported .
The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting the state 's seven-day average infection rate is at 3.8 % , where it has hovered for the past three days .
But Thursday 's daily infection rate was 4.3 % , the highest single-day rate since June 6 .
The rate comes from 41,134 test results returned Thursday .
According to the state health department , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in suburban Cook County and the five collar counties of DuPage , Kane , Lake , McHenry and Will .
Suburban Cook County alone was responsible for 17.8 % of the new cases .
The state is averaging 1,424 new cases a day over the past seven days , according to state records .
In mid-June , the state was averaging less than 600 new cases a day for the week .
The state 's death toll now stands at 7,478 since the outbreak began , and 176,896 residents have been infected .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ J.B. Pritzker warned that area 's infection rate and hospitalizations were heading in the wrong direction , which could result in the closure of bars and restaurants once again and more limits on gatherings .
`` We have 11 regions , most of which are inching up on several metrics , '' Pritzker said .
`` The virus is not something we can wish away .
We 're at a danger point . ''
The state health department reported the region with Will and Kankakee counties has an infection rate of 6.2 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level among the four suburban regions .
Exceeding an 8 % infection rate for three consecutive days could trigger rollbacks of business operations and social gatherings and other limitations .
`` Doing what needs to be done to keep people safe does n't always win you popularity contests , but it 's still the right thing to do , '' said Dr. Ngozi Ezike , head of the state health department .
`` People masking so they do n't get themselves exposed or expose someone else , that is going to drive down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,452 COVID-19 patients hospitalized , according to the state , and 353 of those patients were in intensive care beds .
The state is reporting that 95 % of those who were infected have fully recovered from the respiratory disease .

1,772 new COVID-19 infections the most in one day since May
Cases of COVID-19 rose by 1,772 Thursday, the largest one-day increase since May 24, when more than 2,500 new cases were diagnosed.
Eighteen more deaths of Illinois residents also were reported.
The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting the state's seven-day average infection rate is at 3.8%, where it has hovered for the past three days. But Thursday's daily infection rate was 4.3%, the highest single-day rate since June 6. The rate comes from 41,134 test results returned Thursday.
According to the state health department, 41% of the new cases were in suburban Cook County and the five collar counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will. Suburban Cook County alone was responsible for 17.8% of the new cases.
The state is averaging 1,424 new cases a day over the past seven days, according to state records. In mid-June, the state was averaging less than 600 new cases a day for the week.
The state's death toll now stands at 7,478 since the outbreak began, and 176,896 residents have been infected.
In Peoria Thursday morning, Gov. J.B. Pritzker warned that area's infection rate and hospitalizations were heading in the wrong direction, which could result in the closure of bars and restaurants once again and more limits on gatherings.
"We have 11 regions, most of which are inching up on several metrics," Pritzker said. "The virus is not something we can wish away. We're at a danger point."
The state health department reported the region with Will and Kankakee counties has an infection rate of 6.2% as of July 27, the highest level among the four suburban regions. Exceeding an 8% infection rate for three consecutive days could trigger rollbacks of business operations and social gatherings and other limitations.
"Doing what needs to be done to keep people safe doesn't always win you popularity contests, but it's still the right thing to do," said Dr. Ngozi Ezike, head of the state health department. "People masking so they don't get themselves exposed or expose someone else, that is going to drive down (cases)."
Statewide, hospitals reported a slight dip in coronavirus admissions.
There were 1,452 COVID-19 patients hospitalized, according to the state, and 353 of those patients were in intensive care beds.
The state is reporting that 95% of those who were infected have fully recovered from the respiratory disease.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Wheaton Warrenville District 200 delaying first day of school

Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 is joining other area school systems in pushing back the start of the academic year as educators face daunting challenges reopening classrooms during the coronavirus pandemic .
While Naperville schools already have moved the first day into September , District 200 has delayed the start date by a week to Aug. 25 .
In preparation of student attendance , the district is working through a complicated puzzle .
The reopening details evolve on a weekly , sometimes daily , basis .
Putting health safeguards in place creates a domino effect on classroom size , daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district 's budget .
The school board tentatively has allocated $ 1 million in contingency funds to support efforts to reopen the district 's 20 buildings .
`` We 're going to need every bit of that contingency as we work through it , '' Superintendent Jeff Schuler said .
Postponing the first day of school will give administrators more time to finalize planning , Schuler told the board Wednesday night .
But at least one school board member is expressing concern with the `` bigger picture '' of rising COVID-19 infections and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a fully virtual curriculum .
State health officials announced 1,772 new virus cases on Thursday -- the largest tally recorded in a single day since May 24 .
`` I think we have a great program here , but I prefer to see this happen when the numbers go down , '' board member Jim Mathieson said .
`` And truthfully I would like to see some other school districts other than us be the leader in this . ''
The district plans to reopen with elementary and prekindergarten students receiving full-time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school students will follow a hybrid schedule .
Many families are choosing to enroll their children in an online option .
So far , nearly 2,200 students will learn virtually from home , new registration data shows .
Almost 80 % of families that have registered for the school year have indicated an interest in in-school learning .
Schuler remains confident in the district 's reopening plan , noting he 's in talks twice a week with other superintendents and the county health department .
`` It 's entirely possible that data on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state level , could move us at some point back into that e-learning path , but we 're ready , '' Schuler said .
`` The fact that we have the virtual academy , and we 've got a format mapped out I think would allow us to transition into that fairly easily . ''
The district has started the process of staffing the virtual academy with teachers who have submitted physician 's notes restricting them from in-person learning .
A memo of understanding with the teachers union also has extended the retirement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sizes will accommodate physical distancing , with desks spaced 6 feet apart .
The average class will have 15 to 17 students in elementary schools .
Adding more class sections means needing more staff .
Complicating hiring matters is a national shortage of substitute teachers who could fill in when a teacher is sick or needs to go into quarantine .
To help recruit substitutes , the board has agreed to increase the district 's daily pay rate for `` permanent guest '' teachers from $ 90 to $ 115 .
The district @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nurses from $ 115 to $ 140 as each school building will operate two different health office spaces .
One will address basic first aid and other traditional medical concerns .
A separate assessment room will handle students or teachers presenting COVID-19 symptoms All classrooms will have wall-mounted hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies .
Mechanical systems , now retrofitted with upgraded filters , will bring in more outside air in an effort to reduce transmission of the virus .
The district also is providing face coverings for all students and employees .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on hand an ample supply of any of the personal protective equipment that we will need based on staff and role , '' Schuler said .
The district continues to field parent questions about its response to positive cases .
The Illinois Department of Public Health has provided draft guidance for determining when students or teachers could return to school if they 've tested positive for the virus .
They could only come back after meeting all three of the following thresholds : at least 10 days have passed since their symptoms first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed with no fever and without fever-reducing medications ; and other symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath have improved .

Wheaton Warrenville District 200 delaying first day of school
Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 is pushing back the start of the school year until Aug. 25. Daily Herald file photo
Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 is joining other area school systems in pushing back the start of the academic year as educators face daunting challenges reopening classrooms during the coronavirus pandemic.
While Naperville schools already have moved the first day into September, District 200 has delayed the start date by a week to Aug. 25.
In preparation of student attendance, the district is working through a complicated puzzle. The reopening details evolve on a weekly, sometimes daily, basis. Putting health safeguards in place creates a domino effect on classroom size, daily schedules, staffing, busing and the district's budget.
The school board tentatively has allocated $1 million in contingency funds to support efforts to reopen the district's 20 buildings.
"We're going to need every bit of that contingency as we work through it," Superintendent Jeff Schuler said.
Postponing the first day of school will give administrators more time to finalize planning, Schuler told the board Wednesday night.
But at least one school board member is expressing concern with the "bigger picture" of rising COVID-19 infections and surrounding school districts reversing course and moving to a fully virtual curriculum.
State health officials announced 1,772 new virus cases on Thursday -- the largest tally recorded in a single day since May 24.
"I think we have a great program here, but I prefer to see this happen when the numbers go down," board member Jim Mathieson said. "And truthfully I would like to see some other school districts other than us be the leader in this."
The district plans to reopen with elementary and prekindergarten students receiving full-time, in-person instruction while middle and high school students will follow a hybrid schedule.
Many families are choosing to enroll their children in an online option. So far, nearly 2,200 students will learn virtually from home, new registration data shows.
Almost 80% of families that have registered for the school year have indicated an interest in in-school learning.
Schuler remains confident in the district's reopening plan, noting he's in talks twice a week with other superintendents and the county health department.
"It's entirely possible that data on a regional level, data on a state level, could move us at some point back into that e-learning path, but we're ready," Schuler said. "The fact that we have the virtual academy, and we've got a format mapped out I think would allow us to transition into that fairly easily."
The district has started the process of staffing the virtual academy with teachers who have submitted physician's notes restricting them from in-person learning. A memo of understanding with the teachers union also has extended the retirement window to Aug. 7.
Smaller class sizes will accommodate physical distancing, with desks spaced 6 feet apart. The average class will have 15 to 17 students in elementary schools. Adding more class sections means needing more staff.
Complicating hiring matters is a national shortage of substitute teachers who could fill in when a teacher is sick or needs to go into quarantine.
To help recruit substitutes, the board has agreed to increase the district's daily pay rate for "permanent guest" teachers from $90 to $115.
The district also will increase daily wages for guest nurses from $115 to $140 as each school building will operate two different health office spaces. One will address basic first aid and other traditional medical concerns. A separate assessment room will handle students or teachers presenting COVID-19 symptoms
All classrooms will have wall-mounted hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies. Mechanical systems, now retrofitted with upgraded filters, will bring in more outside air in an effort to reduce transmission of the virus. The district also is providing face coverings for all students and employees.
"We have ordered and we will have on hand an ample supply of any of the personal protective equipment that we will need based on staff and role," Schuler said.
The district continues to field parent questions about its response to positive cases.
The Illinois Department of Public Health has provided draft guidance for determining when students or teachers could return to school if they've tested positive for the virus. They could only come back after meeting all three of the following thresholds: at least 10 days have passed since their symptoms first appeared; at least 24 hours have passed with no fever and without fever-reducing medications; and other symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath have improved.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Trump tweet about delaying election ignites reaction from suburban lawmakers, candidates

President Donald Trump 's musings on Twitter about delaying the Nov. 3 election drew sharp reactions from suburban Democrats while some prominent state Republicans downplayed the impact .
Trump , who has raised unproven claims that voting by mail will lead to election fraud , tweeted Thursday that `` with Universal Mail-In Voting ( not Absentee Voting , which is good ) , 2020 will be the most INACCURATE & FRAUDULENT Election in history .
It will be a great embarrassment to the USA .
`` Delay the Election until people can properly , securely and safely vote ?
?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Trump 's idea coincides with negative polls and that the president lacks the power to change the election .
Mail-in ballots are gaining attention amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a safer alternative to mingling with others at polling stations this fall .
`` For the president of the United States to suggest that he will try to delay an election is not only deeply disturbing , it is unconstitutional , '' U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi , an attorney , said on Twitter .
`` Only Congress can change the date of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
Democratic U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider of Deerfield said on Twitter that `` Congress set the national election date by law in 1845 , and only Congress can change the date .
We 've held elections during the Civil War , two World Wars , the Great Depression , and even the Spanish flu pandemic . ''
Both candidates for U.S. House in the 6th District -- a hotly contested matchup between Democratic U.S. Rep. Sean Casten and Republican Jeanne Ives -- dismissed delaying the election .
`` Vote-by-mail is proven to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ casting ballots , '' Casten , of Downers Grove , said in a statement .
Ives plans to vote by mail herself .
`` We are confident that this election will happen on Nov. 3 , '' the former Wheaton state lawmaker said in a statement .
`` I believe the president was expressing his frustration over potential voter fraud , '' said Schneider , of Bartlett .
`` I 'm sure the election will occur as scheduled . ''
Republican state Sen. Jim Oberweis , who is challenging Democratic U.S. Rep. Lauren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ District , said `` a delay should not -- and will not -- occur , and it 's not something to joke about .
`` No election in American history has ever been delayed .
While COVID-19 has created some challenges for administering a normal election , everyone must come together to ensure a free , fair , and regularly scheduled election , '' said Oberweis , of Sugar Grove .
Illinois ' two U.S. senators also entered the fray .
`` The president does n't have the power to delay an election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dick Durbin tweeted , suggesting Trump `` focus on building an effective response to a pandemic that has killed 150,000 Americans and devastated the economy . ''
Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Hoffman Estates referenced the Constitution on Twitter : `` The Congress may determine the time of ( choosing ) the electors , and the day on which they shall give their votes ; which day shall be the same throughout the United States . ''
Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley of Chicago said on Twitter that `` mail-in voting and absentee voting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfectly safe .
`` In fact , we should provide strong funding to help support mail-voting so Americans do n't have to choose between casting their vote and protecting their health , '' Quigley wrote .
And Democratic U.S. Rep. Bill Foster of Naperville suggested Trump was `` trying to distract from his failures , like over 150,000 COVID-19 deaths and a reeling economy . ''
According to The Associated Press , the president appointed a commission after his 2016 election to investigate whether voter fraud was widespread , but the panel disbanded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by mail in the Florida primary election in March , AP said .

Some suburban Republicans downplay president's tweet about delaying election
Mail-in ballots have sparked a Twitter storm from President Donald Trump, who speculated whether the Nov. 3 election should be delayed, an idea both Democrats and Republicans in Illinois say won't happen. Associated Press
President Donald Trump's musings on Twitter about delaying the Nov. 3 election drew sharp reactions from suburban Democrats while some prominent state Republicans downplayed the impact.
"We are confident that this election will happen on Nov. 3," said former Republican state Rep. Jeanne Ives of Wheaton, who plans to vote by mail herself in her hotly contested matchup with Democratic U.S. Rep. Sean Casten for the 6th District.
Republican state Sen. Jim Oberweis, meanwhile, who is running for Congress in the 14th District, said a delay "is not something to joke about."
Trump, who has raised unproven claims that voting by mail will lead to election fraud, tweeted Thursday that "2020 will be the most INACCURATE & FRAUDULENT Election in history. It will be a great embarrassment to the USA." "Delay the Election until people can properly, securely and safely vote???" the president concluded.
Critics said Trump's idea coincides with negative polls and that the president lacks the power to change the election.
Mail-in ballots are gaining attention amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a safer alternative to mingling with others at polling stations this fall.
"For the president of the United States to suggest that he will try to delay an election is not only deeply disturbing, it is unconstitutional," U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, an attorney, said on Twitter.
"Only Congress can change the date of the general election," the Schaumburg Democrat added.
Casten, of Downers Grove, said "vote-by-mail is proven to be a safe and secure method of casting ballots."
Oberweis, who will face Democratic U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood of Naperville in the 14th District, said "a delay should not -- and will not -- occur, and it's not something to joke about.
"No election in American history has ever been delayed. While COVID-19 has created some challenges for administering a normal election, everyone must come together to ensure a free, fair, and regularly scheduled election," said Oberweis, of Sugar Grove.
Underwood said: "We learned today that from April to June, we lost a full one-third of our economic activity due to the spread of COVID-19. Tomorrow, unemployment benefits for families who lost work due to the pandemic are set to expire. I will not be distracted from fighting for the support our families, health care providers, essential workers and small businesses urgently need."
Illinois Republican Party Chairman Tim Schneider advised calm.
"I believe the president was expressing his frustration over potential voter fraud," said Schneider, of Bartlett. "I'm sure the election will occur as scheduled."
Illinois' two U.S. senators also entered the fray.
"The president doesn't have the power to delay an election and he knows it," Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin tweeted, suggesting Trump "focus on building an effective response to a pandemic that has killed 150,000 Americans and devastated the economy."
Durbin's Republican opponent, former Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran, however, said that "we believe that the reason President Donald Trump floated that delay idea is because he, along with millions of other voters, are very concerned with voter fraud."
Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Hoffman Estates referenced the Constitution on Twitter: "The Congress may determine the time of (choosing) the electors, and the day on which they shall give their votes; which day shall be the same throughout the United States."
Democratic U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider of Deerfield said on Twitter that "Congress set the national election date by law in 1845, and only Congress can change the date. We've held elections during the Civil War, two World Wars, the Great Depression, and even the Spanish flu pandemic."
Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley of Chicago said on Twitter that "mail-in voting and absentee voting are the same thing, and are perfectly safe.
"In fact, we should provide strong funding to help support mail-voting so Americans don't have to choose between casting their vote and protecting their health," Quigley wrote.
And Democratic U.S. Rep. Bill Foster of Naperville suggested Trump was "trying to distract from his failures, like over 150,000 COVID-19 deaths and a reeling economy."
According to The Associated Press, the president appointed a commission after his 2016 election to investigate whether voter fraud was widespread, but the panel disbanded without any findings. Trump himself voted by mail in the Florida primary election in March, AP said.
• Daily Herald staff writer Marie Wilson contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Wahlburgers is the latest celebrity-owned restaurant in the suburbs. Here's a look at others

St. Charles got the star treatment this week when singer/actor Donnie Wahlberg opened his latest restaurant on Randall Road .
Wahlberg , who lives in St. Charles with his wife , Jenny McCarthy , owns the Boston-based Wahlburgers chain with his brothers -- film star Mark and chef Paul .
But Wahlburgers is not the only suburban eatery with celebrity owners .
Here 's a look at the new spot and others in the suburbs and Chicago with famous names backing up the food .
Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy take a second before greeting guests at the new Wahlburgers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles .
Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy take a second before greeting guests at the new Wahlburgers restaurant on opening day Tuesday in St. Charles .
Wahlburgers Celebrity connection : The chain is a family collaboration featuring the three Wahlberg brothers : New Kids on the Block singer and `` Blue Bloods '' star Donnie , film star Mark and reality TV star/executive chef Paul .
Specialties : The expanding burger chain shares its name with an A & E reality TV series about the restaurant .
A Chicago location opened in 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of COVID-19 .
Bill Murray , with cellist Jan Vogler , left , bar CEO Mac Haskell and Johnny Murray tell stories at a press conference before the opening of the Murray Bros. Caddyshack sports bar in Rosemont two years ago .
Bill Murray , with cellist Jan Vogler , left , bar CEO Mac Haskell and Johnny Murray tell stories at a press conference before the opening of the Murray Bros. Caddyshack sports bar in Rosemont two years ago .
Murray Bros. Caddyshack Restaurant Celebrity connection : Owned by actors ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joel Murray , Brian-Doyle Murray and other siblings .
Specialties : Bill Murray and his brothers returned to their suburban roots in 2018 when they opened this Rosemont branch of their Florida restaurant , inspired by the blockbuster 1980 film `` Caddyshack . ''
The menu offers American fare with names inspired by the film and the Murray family , including Bill Murray Classic burger , Brian 's Fish Tacos , crispy potato golf balls , Professor Wang 's Wings , Spaulding 's Hack salad and more .
There 's even a cocktail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Old Fashioned ) , not to mention the Pool Water Martini ( Baby Ruth ) , Andy Murray 's Pain Killer and more .
The Big Mike Burger is one of the signature menu items at Michael Jordan 's Restaurant in Oak Brook .
Michael Jordan 's Restaurant Celebrity connection : Michael Jordan , the basketball superstar who led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships .
Specialties : The miniseries `` The Last Dance '' reminded the world why Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls dominated basketball in the 1990s .
Guests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brook are invited to `` Dine Like a Champ '' on signature dishes like the Big Mike Burger , prime Delmonico , Faroe Island salmon , lobster ravioli and more either on the outdoor patio or in the recently reopened dining room .
Celebrity connection : Mike Ditka , the coach of the 1985 Superbowl Champion Chicago Bears Specialties : Chicago Bears memorabilia is incorporated into the decor of this upscale restaurant and bar that focuses on American fare such as Coach 's Pot Roast Nachos , the `` Fridge '' burger , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , steaks , chops , seafood and more .
Chicken Vesuvio is a specialty on the menu at Harry Caray 's Italian Steakhouse locations .
Harry Caray's Specialties : The late Hall of Fame broadcaster lent his name to what has become a local restaurant empire .
Each location is filled with sports memorabilia and celebrity snapshots , while the restaurants alternately specialize in Harry 's Chicken Vesuvio , steaks , burgers and seafood as well as specialty drinks such as The Dutchie , Southside and Navy Pear martinis and the Harry Mary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a past winner of `` The Apprentice , '' and Giuliana Rancic , a former reporter for E !
News .
Specialties : The Rancics teamed up with Lettuce Entertain You for three upscale Windy City restaurants , each focused on either Italian cuisine , steaks or seafood .
RPM Seafood has a prime multilevel location overlooking the Chicago River .
Specialties : Margaritas , of course , and the copyrighted `` Cheeseburger in Paradise '' lead the menu of this Chicago outpost of Jimmy Buffett 's restaurant empire .
Lake Michigan is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Navy Pier location certainly attracts plenty of vacationing tourists ready to chow down on comfort food such as the volcano nachos , Jimmy 's Jammin ' Jambalaya , Landshark Lager fish and chips , Caribbean chicken egg rolls and more .

Wahlburgers is the latest celebrity-owned restaurant in the suburbs. Here's a look at others
Donnie Wahlberg, center, and St. Charles Mayor Raymond Rogina left, with Paul Wahlberg, right, breaking ground for the new Wahlburgers restaurant in St. Charles. Daily Herald file photo, 2018
St. Charles got the star treatment this week when singer/actor Donnie Wahlberg opened his latest restaurant on Randall Road.
Wahlberg, who lives in St. Charles with his wife, Jenny McCarthy, owns the Boston-based Wahlburgers chain with his brothers -- film star Mark and chef Paul. But Wahlburgers is not the only suburban eatery with celebrity owners.
Here's a look at the new spot and others in the suburbs and Chicago with famous names backing up the food.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy take a second before greeting guests at the new Wahlburgers restaurant on opening day Tuesday in St. Charles.
Celebrity connection: The chain is a family collaboration featuring the three Wahlberg brothers: New Kids on the Block singer and "Blue Bloods" star Donnie, film star Mark and reality TV star/executive chef Paul.
Locations: 825 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, (331) 235-5200, and at 2 E. Ontario St., Chicago, (312) 291-8997 (temporarily closed).
Website: wahlburgers.com
Specialties: The expanding burger chain shares its name with an A&E reality TV series about the restaurant. A Chicago location opened in 2019, though it has been temporarily closed because of COVID-19.
- Rick West | Staff Photographer, 2018 Bill Murray, with cellist Jan Vogler, left, bar CEO Mac Haskell and Johnny Murray tell stories at a press conference before the opening of the Murray Bros. Caddyshack sports bar in Rosemont two years ago.
Celebrity connection: Owned by actors (and Wilmette natives) Bill Murray, Joel Murray, Brian-Doyle Murray and other siblings.
Location: Crown Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel & Conference Center, 9546 Balmoral Ave., Rosemont, (847) 443-3673
Website: mbcshack.com
Murray Bros. Caddyshack in Rosemont offers a drink named after the Wilmette natives' mother: Lucille's Old Fashioned. - Daily Herald file photo, 2018
Specialties: Bill Murray and his brothers returned to their suburban roots in 2018 when they opened this Rosemont branch of their Florida restaurant, inspired by the blockbuster 1980 film "Caddyshack." The menu offers American fare with names inspired by the film and the Murray family, including Bill Murray Classic burger, Brian's Fish Tacos, crispy potato golf balls, Professor Wang's Wings, Spaulding's Hack salad and more. There's even a cocktail named for mom Lucille (Lucille's Old Fashioned), not to mention the Pool Water Martini (Baby Ruth), Andy Murray's Pain Killer and more.
The Big Mike Burger is one of the signature menu items at Michael Jordan's Restaurant in Oak Brook. - Courtesy of Michael Jordan's Restaurant
Celebrity connection: Michael Jordan, the basketball superstar who led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships.
Restaurant location: 1225 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, (630) 828-2932
Steak House location: 505 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, (312) 321-8823 (temporarily closed)
Website: michaeljordansrestaurant.com
Specialties: The miniseries "The Last Dance" reminded the world why Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls dominated basketball in the 1990s. Guests at Jordan's namesake restaurant in Oak Brook are invited to "Dine Like a Champ" on signature dishes like the Big Mike Burger, prime Delmonico, Faroe Island salmon, lobster ravioli and more either on the outdoor patio or in the recently reopened dining room.
Ditka's Restaurant
Celebrity connection: Mike Ditka, the coach of the 1985 Superbowl Champion Chicago Bears
Restaurant: 2 Mid America Plaza Suite 100, Oakbrook Terrace, (630) 572-2200
Grill 89: 800 E. Ogden Ave., Westmont, (630) 570-5889
Website: ditkasrestaurants.com
Specialties: Chicago Bears memorabilia is incorporated into the decor of this upscale restaurant and bar that focuses on American fare such as Coach's Pot Roast Nachos, the "Fridge" burger, Mike's salad, fullback filet mignon, steaks, chops, seafood and more.
Chicken Vesuvio is a specialty on the menu at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse locations. - Courtesy of Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
Celebrity connection: Harry Caray, the late baseball announcer and sportscaster
Holy Mackerel!: 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard, (630) 953-3444
Italian Steakhouses: 33 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, (312) 828-0966; 10233 W. Higgins Road, Rosemont, (847) 699-1200; 70 Yorktown Center, Lombard, (630) 953-3400
Navy Pier Tavern: 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, (312) 527-9700
7th Inning Stretch: 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, (312) 202-0500
Midway Airport Shortstop: Terminal A, Chicago, (773) 598-6717
Website: harrycarays.com
Specialties: The late Hall of Fame broadcaster lent his name to what has become a local restaurant empire. Each location is filled with sports memorabilia and celebrity snapshots, while the restaurants alternately specialize in Harry's Chicken Vesuvio, steaks, burgers and seafood as well as specialty drinks such as The Dutchie, Southside and Navy Pear martinis and the Harry Mary.
RPM Restaurants
Celebrity connections: Bill Rancic, a past winner of "The Apprentice," and Giuliana Rancic, a former reporter for E! News.
RPM Italian: 52 W. Illinois St., Chicago, (312) 222-1888
RPM Steak: 66 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, (312) 284-4990
RPM Seafood: 317 N. Clark St., Chicago, (312) 900-9035
Website: rpmrestaurants.com
Specialties: The Rancics teamed up with Lettuce Entertain You for three upscale Windy City restaurants, each focused on either Italian cuisine, steaks or seafood. RPM Seafood has a prime multilevel location overlooking the Chicago River.
Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville
Celebrity connection: Singer-songwriter and lifestyle mogul Jimmy Buffett
Location: 700 E. Grand Ave. #118, Chicago, (312) 496-3840
Website: margaritavillechicago.com
Specialties: Margaritas, of course, and the copyrighted "Cheeseburger in Paradise" lead the menu of this Chicago outpost of Jimmy Buffett's restaurant empire. Lake Michigan isn't quite the tropical beach, but the Navy Pier location certainly attracts plenty of vacationing tourists ready to chow down on comfort food such as the volcano nachos, Jimmy's Jammin' Jambalaya, Landshark Lager fish and chips, Caribbean chicken egg rolls and more.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--July 30 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code

Interactive mapSuburbs ' portion Since the outbreak began , there have been 87,384 cases in the suburbs as of Thursday , 49.3 % of the state 's total , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health .
There have been 3,791 deaths in the suburbs , representing 50.6 % of all deaths in Illinois .
Cook County • As of Thursday , suburban Cook County had 44,315 cases and 2,097 deaths , according to the state .
In Chicago : 60,372 cases and 2,775 fatalities .
• Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Des Plaines , 909 cases and 63 deaths in Wheeling , 864 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine , 750 cases and 23 deaths in Streamwood , 743 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect , 717 cases and 19 deaths in Schaumburg , 689 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights , 717 cases and 50 deaths in Glenview , 553 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park ( Cook County portion ) , 588 cases and 29 deaths in Hoffman Estates , 410 cases and 39 deaths in Elk Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Northbrook , 420 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows , 297 cases and 8 deaths in Prospect Heights , and 143 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove ( Cook County portion ) .
DuPage County • The county reported 11,151 cases and 508 deaths as of Thursday .
• Top counts : 911 cases and 9 deaths in Addison , 860 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago , 745 cases and 12 deaths in Glendale Heights , 692 cases and 36 deaths in Naperville ( DuPage County portion ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bensenville , 625 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream , 530 cases and 26 deaths in Lombard , 512 cases and 40 deaths in Elmhurst , 446 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora ( DuPage County portion ) , 382 cases and 22 deaths in Wheaton , 309 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park , 290 cases and 3 deaths in Hanover Park ( DuPage County portion ) , 279 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn .
Lake County • The county listed 11,768 cases and 427 deaths on its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counts : 3,005 to 3,009 in Waukegan , 675 to 679 in Round Lake Beach , 445 to 449 in Mundelein , 375 to 379 in Gurnee , 295 to 299 in Round Lake , 220 to 224 in Buffalo Grove ( Lake County portion ) , 240 to 244 in Lake Zurich , 215 to 219 in Vernon Hills , 180 to 184 in Wauconda , 180 to 184 in Libertyville , 145 to 149 in Grayslake .
Kane County • The county confirmed 9,065 cases with 297 deaths on its website @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases in Aurora ( Kane County portion ) , 2,139 in Elgin ( Kane County portion ) , 849 in Carpentersville , 469 in St. Charles , 393 in South Elgin , 254 in North Aurora , 250 in Geneva , 199 in Batavia , and 71 in Algonquin ( Kane County portion ) .
McHenry County • 2,846 cases and 111 deaths , according to the health department Thursday .
• 8,352 cases and 338 deaths , as of Thursday .
• Cases per town include 562 in Naperville ( Will County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Will County portion ) .

July 30 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code
A person wears a mask while leaving a Planet Fitness gym Wednesday in Des Plaines. Planet Fitness will require patrons to wear masks at all locations beginning Saturday. Associated Press
Interactive mapSuburbs' portion Since the outbreak began, there have been 87,384 cases in the suburbs as of Thursday, 49.3% of the state's total, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. There have been 3,791 deaths in the suburbs, representing 50.6% of all deaths in Illinois.
Cook County• As of Thursday, suburban Cook County had 44,315 cases and 2,097 deaths, according to the state. In Chicago: 60,372 cases and 2,775 fatalities. • Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner's office: 1,934 cases and 102 deaths in Des Plaines, 909 cases and 63 deaths in Wheeling, 864 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine, 750 cases and 23 deaths in Streamwood, 743 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect, 717 cases and 19 deaths in Schaumburg, 689 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights, 717 cases and 50 deaths in Glenview, 553 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park (Cook County portion), 588 cases and 29 deaths in Hoffman Estates, 410 cases and 39 deaths in Elk Grove Village, 408 cases and 42 deaths in Northbrook, 420 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows, 297 cases and 8 deaths in Prospect Heights, and 143 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove (Cook County portion).
DuPage County• The county reported 11,151 cases and 508 deaths as of Thursday.
• Top counts: 911 cases and 9 deaths in Addison, 860 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago, 745 cases and 12 deaths in Glendale Heights, 692 cases and 36 deaths in Naperville (DuPage County portion), 597 cases and 12 deaths in Bensenville, 625 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream, 530 cases and 26 deaths in Lombard, 512 cases and 40 deaths in Elmhurst, 446 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora (DuPage County portion), 382 cases and 22 deaths in Wheaton, 309 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park, 290 cases and 3 deaths in Hanover Park (DuPage County portion), 279 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn.
Lake County • The county listed 11,768 cases and 427 deaths on its website as of Thursday.
• Top counts: 3,005 to 3,009 in Waukegan, 675 to 679 in Round Lake Beach, 445 to 449 in Mundelein, 375 to 379 in Gurnee, 295 to 299 in Round Lake, 220 to 224 in Buffalo Grove (Lake County portion), 240 to 244 in Lake Zurich, 215 to 219 in Vernon Hills, 180 to 184 in Wauconda, 180 to 184 in Libertyville, 145 to 149 in Grayslake.
Kane County• The county confirmed 9,065 cases with 297 deaths on its website Thursday.
• Top counts: 3,702 cases in Aurora (Kane County portion), 2,139 in Elgin (Kane County portion), 849 in Carpentersville, 469 in St. Charles, 393 in South Elgin, 254 in North Aurora, 250 in Geneva, 199 in Batavia, and 71 in Algonquin (Kane County portion).
McHenry County• 2,846 cases and 111 deaths, according to the health department Thursday.
Will County
• 8,352 cases and 338 deaths, as of Thursday.
• Cases per town include 562 in Naperville (Will County portion) and 106 in Aurora (Will County portion).


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Parole denied again for Patricia Columbo, Frank DeLuca in Elk Grove murders

Convicted killers Patricia Columbo and Frank DeLuca -- serving time for the murders of her family in their Elk Grove Village home -- have again been denied parole by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board .
Board members Thursday voted 13 to 1 against release for Columbo , who was 19 in 1976 when she and DeLuca , then 37 , murdered her parents and 13-year-old brother .
Board members voted 14 to 0 against DeLuca 's release .
Convicted in 1977 , Columbo , now 64 , and DeLuca , 82 , were sentenced to more than 300 years for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and their son , Michael .
Columbo and DeLuca will be eligible for another parole hearing in 2023 , according to Jason Sweat , chief legal counsel for the prisoner review board .
Raymond Rose , the former Elk Grove Village deputy police chief who investigated the May 1976 triple homicide , has been attending review board hearings since 1984 to oppose parole .
After the hearings , which were held in Springfield , Rose expressed relief at the outcome .
`` We were able to accomplish what the family expected of us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Rose , `` to identify the reasons why the people who committed this heinous crime should remain in prison . ''
Rose , a former Mundelein police chief and Lake County undersheriff , and Elk Grove Village Police Chief Charles Walsh testified for nearly two hours Thursday .
`` My sense this time was that they all agreed she 's not ready to be released , '' Rose said , pointing to Columbo 's lack of remorse .
Cook County State 's Attorney Kimberly Foxx concurred in a letter to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Columbo 's ) selective memory indicates that she has not taken full responsibility for this horrific crime and therefore , can not being considered rehabilitated . ''
Nothing Columbo has done justifies her `` being afforded the grace of parole , '' Foxx wrote .
According to Rose , Columbo instigated and planned the murders , even attempting to hire hit men .
Eventually , she manipulated DeLuca , her married lover , into killing her family by falsely claiming her father planned to have her and DeLuca killed , Rose said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot .
Mary 's throat was slit , and Frank was stabbed in the throat and chest .
Michael Columbo was stabbed 87 times with scissors .
`` That was the day Elk Grove residents started locking their doors , '' said Walsh , referencing a comment by Mayor Craig Johnson .
Like Rose , Walsh intends to continue speaking against the killers ' release .
`` We 're the victims ' voice now and that voice still needs to be heard , '' he said .
`` Mr. Columbo , Mrs. Columbo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We 'll keep coming down here to be the voice of those victims . ''

Parole denied again for Patricia Columbo, Frank DeLuca in Elk Grove murders
Convicted killers Patricia Columbo and Frank DeLuca -- serving time for the murders of her family in their Elk Grove Village home -- have again been denied parole by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board.
Board members Thursday voted 13 to 1 against release for Columbo, who was 19 in 1976 when she and DeLuca, then 37, murdered her parents and 13-year-old brother. Board members voted 14 to 0 against DeLuca's release.
Convicted in 1977, Columbo, now 64, and DeLuca, 82, were sentenced to more than 300 years for the murders of Frank and Mary Columbo and their son, Michael. Columbo and DeLuca will be eligible for another parole hearing in 2023, according to Jason Sweat, chief legal counsel for the prisoner review board.
Raymond Rose, the former Elk Grove Village deputy police chief who investigated the May 1976 triple homicide, has been attending review board hearings since 1984 to oppose parole. After the hearings, which were held in Springfield, Rose expressed relief at the outcome.
"We were able to accomplish what the family expected of us and what the community expected of us," said Rose, "to identify the reasons why the people who committed this heinous crime should remain in prison."
Rose, a former Mundelein police chief and Lake County undersheriff, and Elk Grove Village Police Chief Charles Walsh testified for nearly two hours Thursday.
"My sense this time was that they all agreed she's not ready to be released," Rose said, pointing to Columbo's lack of remorse.
Cook County State's Attorney Kimberly Foxx concurred in a letter to the review board, writing "(Columbo's) selective memory indicates that she has not taken full responsibility for this horrific crime and therefore, cannot being considered rehabilitated."
Nothing Columbo has done justifies her "being afforded the grace of parole," Foxx wrote.
According to Rose, Columbo instigated and planned the murders, even attempting to hire hit men. Eventually, she manipulated DeLuca, her married lover, into killing her family by falsely claiming her father planned to have her and DeLuca killed, Rose said.
Frank and Mary Columbo were bludgeoned and shot. Mary's throat was slit, and Frank was stabbed in the throat and chest. Michael Columbo was stabbed 87 times with scissors.
"That was the day Elk Grove residents started locking their doors," said Walsh, referencing a comment by Mayor Craig Johnson.
Like Rose, Walsh intends to continue speaking against the killers' release.
"We're the victims' voice now and that voice still needs to be heard," he said. "Mr. Columbo, Mrs. Columbo and Michael -- their voice was silenced. We'll keep coming down here to be the voice of those victims."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Authorities identify Bartlett bicyclist killed in Elgin crash; husband still in hospital

A Bartlett couple who were out on a bike ride when a vehicle crashed into them during a police pursuit in Elgin loved being physically active and spending time together , relatives said .
Sandra Sampey , 52 , died of multiple injuries due to the crash Tuesday at the intersection of Raymond Street and Purify Drive in Elgin , the Kane County coroner 's office said Thursday .
Her husband John Sampey , 58 , was critically injured .
He underwent surgery and the family is optimistic about his recovery , said his cousin Tim Sampey , of Chicago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sandi , '' had family in Brazil and worked as an international flight attendant for United Airlines .
The couple have two teenage sons .
`` She had a very glowing personality , '' Tim Sampey said .
`` She truly was just a very nice person who was very protective of her family and cherished her family . ''
Tim Sampey 's wife , Jamie , added , `` She was a vibrant woman with a smile that was seen across the room .
She loved her husband and her boys more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Sandra and John were very involved in the community , their relatives said .
John Sampey is on the Bartlett board of police and fire commissioners , and Sandra Sampey was a fitness instructor at Taylor Family YMCA in Elgin .
`` We all love her so much because she 's a wonderful instructor , '' said Parvathi Kumar , membership coordinator at the YMCA .
Sandra and John also were involved in their children 's sports including football , baseball and wrestling .
`` He coached , and she was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Biking was one of the many activities that John and Sandra Sampey enjoyed doing together , their relatives said .
`` It was a stress relief , as well as it kept them in shape , '' Tim Sampey said .
`` They were innocently standing by there , and life just changed that quickly . ''
The police pursuit started after officers responded to two 911 calls regarding a hit-and-run about 4 p.m. Tuesday near the intersection of East Chicago Street and Villa Court .
Officers attempted to stop the vehicle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the vehicle sped away .
The crash with the two bicyclists happened less than 2 miles south on Raymond Street , soon after police slowed their pursuit , according to police .
The driver ran away and was captured by police officers after a two-hour search , police said .
The driver remained in police custody Thursday afternoon , Cmdr .
Jim Bisceglie said .
`` We are doing a thorough investigation '' including talking to witnesses and reviewing video , including squad car video , he said .
The Elgin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as hospital staff , did `` a phenomenal job , '' Tim Sampey said .

Authorities identify Bartlett bicyclist killed in Elgin crash; husband still in hospital
Sandra Sampey, 52, left, and John Sampey, 58, of Bartlett were riding their bicycles Tuesday in Elgin when they were struck by a vehicle being pursued by police. Sandra died and John was hospitalized in critical condition. courtesy of Jamie Sampey
A Bartlett couple who were out on a bike ride when a vehicle crashed into them during a police pursuit in Elgin loved being physically active and spending time together, relatives said.
Sandra Sampey, 52, died of multiple injuries due to the crash Tuesday at the intersection of Raymond Street and Purify Drive in Elgin, the Kane County coroner's office said Thursday.
Her husband John Sampey, 58, was critically injured. He underwent surgery and the family is optimistic about his recovery, said his cousin Tim Sampey, of Chicago.
Sandra, whose nickname was "Sandi," had family in Brazil and worked as an international flight attendant for United Airlines. The couple have two teenage sons.
"She had a very glowing personality," Tim Sampey said.
"She truly was just a very nice person who was very protective of her family and cherished her family."
Tim Sampey's wife, Jamie, added, "She was a vibrant woman with a smile that was seen across the room. She loved her husband and her boys more than anything. They were her life."
Sandra and John were very involved in the community, their relatives said.
John Sampey is on the Bartlett board of police and fire commissioners, and Sandra Sampey was a fitness instructor at Taylor Family YMCA in Elgin.
"We all love her so much because she's a wonderful instructor," said Parvathi Kumar, membership coordinator at the YMCA.
Sandra and John also were involved in their children's sports including football, baseball and wrestling.
"He coached, and she was a cheerleader," Tim Sampey said.
Biking was one of the many activities that John and Sandra Sampey enjoyed doing together, their relatives said.
"It was a stress relief, as well as it kept them in shape," Tim Sampey said. "They were innocently standing by there, and life just changed that quickly."
The police pursuit started after officers responded to two 911 calls regarding a hit-and-run about 4 p.m. Tuesday near the intersection of East Chicago Street and Villa Court.
Officers attempted to stop the vehicle that was headed south on Raymond Street, but the vehicle sped away.
The crash with the two bicyclists happened less than 2 miles south on Raymond Street, soon after police slowed their pursuit, according to police.
The driver ran away and was captured by police officers after a two-hour search, police said.
The driver remained in police custody Thursday afternoon, Cmdr. Jim Bisceglie said.
"We are doing a thorough investigation" including talking to witnesses and reviewing video, including squad car video, he said.
The Elgin police and fire departments, as well as hospital staff, did "a phenomenal job," Tim Sampey said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--More Democrats seek Madigan's ouster as speaker amid ComEd scandal

Two suburban state representatives joined the limited ranks of Democrats calling for Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan to resign from leadership right away amid a swelling federal corruption investigation .
`` I demand you to do the right thing and step down immediately , '' Democratic Rep. Stephanie Kifowit of Aurora said Thursday in a letter to Madigan .
And Democratic Rep. Terra Costa Howard of Glen Ellyn said Wednesday in a statement , `` The corruption and unethical behavior that have been revealed by this investigation make it impossible for Rep. Madigan to continue in his leadership roles .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. attorney 's office for the Northern District of Illinois , ComEd admitted to bribery and colluding with a state official , identified as the speaker , to get laws enabling rate hikes passed in exchange for hiring and awarding contracts to Madigan cronies .
Madigan says he did not commit any crimes and is hunkering down in dual roles as speaker and leader of the Illinois Democratic Party .
Madigan `` has never made a legislative decision with improper motives and has engaged in no wrongdoing here , '' a spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only a massive war chest but also the legislative clout that can doom or propel a state representative 's bills .
Many state Democrats are either silent on his future or have sought Madigan 's ouster predicated on whether he is found guilty of a crime .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday reiterated his stance that `` if the allegations are true , the speaker should be called to resign .
This is a standard I think is reasonable . ''
Kifowit said ComEd 's evidence showed `` that you ( Madigan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office of speaker of the House and undermined the public trust . ''
Costa Howard said , `` Even if he was not directly involved in this scheme , these accusations clearly demonstrate that the speaker 's leadership has failed .
Democratic state Sen. Melinda Bush of Grayslake was among the first lawmakers to call for Madigan to go .
`` It is clear from the contents of this case that ( Madigan ) was intimately involved in both the planning and execution of a long-standing bribery scheme with Illinois ' largest utility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And on July 20 , Democrat state Rep. Anna Stava-Murray of Naperville said ComEd 's admissions were `` horrifying , '' and Madigan `` absolutely ... should step down and resign from both his positions .
Many of the Democrats seeking the speaker 's resignation are women , reflecting dissatisfaction with Madigan 's handling of sexual harassment problems at the Capitol previously .
This week , two high-ranking Chicago Democrats broke ranks .
Sen. Iris Martinez called for Madigan to step down as Illinois Democratic Party chairman , and Sen. Heather Steans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positions .
On Thursday , state Rep. Grant Wehrli of Naperville co-sponsored a bill to strip Madigan of his title as speaker .
`` He has brought shame onto the position of speaker of the House and onto the House of Representatives , '' Wehrli said in a statement .
In a related move , state Sen. Don DeWitte of St. Charles is co-sponsoring a resolution to give a $ 200 million fine imposed on ComEd by prosecutors back to customers .
The resolution urges Congress to redistribute the fine .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid directly to Illinois ratepayers , who ultimately paid for ComEd 's illegal activity , '' DeWitte said in a statement .

More Democrats seek Madigan's ouster as speaker amid ComEd scandal
Two suburban state representatives joined the limited ranks of Democrats calling for Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan to resign from leadership right away amid a swelling federal corruption investigation.
"I demand you to do the right thing and step down immediately," Democratic Rep. Stephanie Kifowit of Aurora said Thursday in a letter to Madigan.
And Democratic Rep. Terra Costa Howard of Glen Ellyn said Wednesday in a statement, "The corruption and unethical behavior that have been revealed by this investigation make it impossible for Rep. Madigan to continue in his leadership roles."
In a July 17 agreement with the U.S. attorney's office for the Northern District of Illinois, ComEd admitted to bribery and colluding with a state official, identified as the speaker, to get laws enabling rate hikes passed in exchange for hiring and awarding contracts to Madigan cronies.
Madigan says he did not commit any crimes and is hunkering down in dual roles as speaker and leader of the Illinois Democratic Party.
Madigan "has never made a legislative decision with improper motives and has engaged in no wrongdoing here," a spokeswoman said.
The political veteran has not only a massive war chest but also the legislative clout that can doom or propel a state representative's bills. Many state Democrats are either silent on his future or have sought Madigan's ouster predicated on whether he is found guilty of a crime.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday reiterated his stance that "if the allegations are true, the speaker should be called to resign. This is a standard I think is reasonable."
Kifowit said ComEd's evidence showed "that you (Madigan) have compromised the integrity of the office of speaker of the House and undermined the public trust."
Costa Howard said, "Even if he was not directly involved in this scheme, these accusations clearly demonstrate that the speaker's leadership has failed.
Democratic state Sen. Melinda Bush of Grayslake was among the first lawmakers to call for Madigan to go. "It is clear from the contents of this case that (Madigan) was intimately involved in both the planning and execution of a long-standing bribery scheme with Illinois' largest utility company," she said July 17.
And on July 20, Democrat state Rep. Anna Stava-Murray of Naperville said ComEd's admissions were "horrifying," and Madigan "absolutely ... should step down and resign from both his positions.
Many of the Democrats seeking the speaker's resignation are women, reflecting dissatisfaction with Madigan's handling of sexual harassment problems at the Capitol previously.
This week, two high-ranking Chicago Democrats broke ranks. Sen. Iris Martinez called for Madigan to step down as Illinois Democratic Party chairman, and Sen. Heather Steans asked the speaker to resign from both positions.
Meanwhile, Republicans are seeking legislative remedies.
On Thursday, state Rep. Grant Wehrli of Naperville co-sponsored a bill to strip Madigan of his title as speaker.
"He has brought shame onto the position of speaker of the House and onto the House of Representatives," Wehrli said in a statement.
In a related move, state Sen. Don DeWitte of St. Charles is co-sponsoring a resolution to give a $200 million fine imposed on ComEd by prosecutors back to customers. The resolution urges Congress to redistribute the fine.
"It is only appropriate that these funds be paid directly to Illinois ratepayers, who ultimately paid for ComEd's illegal activity," DeWitte said in a statement.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--City mourns St. Charles 'champion' Vern Oie

Vernon `` Vern '' Oie of St. Charles had his hands in many endeavors in the Tri-Cities over the past nine decades .
`` Vern had many wonderful sayings , and the one that he exemplified is : 'If you 're going to get involved in something , then do it to make things better , not worse , ' '' his family wrote in an obituary .
Oie received two prestigious awards for community service : the Barth Award from Tri-City Family Services and the Charlemagne Award from the St. Chamber of Commerce .
The latter he shared with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him .
`` He gets you so fired up because he believes in the project , '' Sharon Oie said at the Barth ceremony , about Oie 's ability to get other people involved in community service projects .
St. Charles Mayor Ray Rogina said Oie `` was always a champion for St. Charles , '' and said he thought of Vern and Sharon as a partnership .
The city dedicated a sculpture to the couple in 2018 .
According to a 1998 Daily Herald article , Oie 's first job was washing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cream of St. Charles in 1940 .
`` That was the lowliest job in the place , '' Oie said .
`` On a warm summer day , they could get a little ripe . ''
But it brought him into contact with the owner , Joe K. Anderson .
Anderson helped establish the Tri-City Corps of the Salvation Army , and Oie led the fundraising effort to build its new center , named after his old boss , in the 1990s .
Oie served in the Army , and graduated from Oregon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working in Springfield as a conservationist for the state .
They married in 1951 .
Oie retired as a marketing director for Valley Community Bank .
He was also an owner of Fox Valley Cleaners , a family business .
He served on the boards of Delnor Hospital and Delnor-Community Hospital for 30 years .
He served with the St. Charles and Batavia MainStreet business organizations , and was a founding member of the River Corridor Partnership that beautified the Fox River banks in downtown St. Charles .
He and Sharon were involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also sang in the choir at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St. Charles .
Oie served on the board , including a stint as chairman , of the Fox Valley Community Airport Authority , which ran the DuPage County Airport in St. Charles from the mid-1960s to 1987 .
But one post eluded him : mayor .
He lost to incumbent Fred Norris in 1993 .
`` This man has accomplished more for public service than he ever could have in a public role , '' former mayor Sue Klinkhamer said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2003 .
Funeral arrangements will be announced later .
Memorial gifts may be made to the River Glen of St. Charles Benevolent Fund , 975 N. Fifth Ave. , St. Charles .
Oie is survived by his sons , David and Chris ; two grandchildren ; two great-grandchildren ; and his brother , Robert .

City mourns St. Charles 'champion' Vern Oie
Vernon "Vern" Oie, in 2003, when he received the Barth Award.
Businessman. Actor. Volunteer. Nature enthusiast. Dishwasher.
Vernon "Vern" Oie of St. Charles had his hands in many endeavors in the Tri-Cities over the past nine decades.
Oie, 93, died July 25.
"Vern had many wonderful sayings, and the one that he exemplified is: 'If you're going to get involved in something, then do it to make things better, not worse,'" his family wrote in an obituary.
Oie received two prestigious awards for community service: the Barth Award from Tri-City Family Services and the Charlemagne Award from the St. Chamber of Commerce. The latter he shared with his wife, Sharon, who survives him.
"He gets you so fired up because he believes in the project," Sharon Oie said at the Barth ceremony, about Oie's ability to get other people involved in community service projects.
St. Charles Mayor Ray Rogina said Oie "was always a champion for St. Charles," and said he thought of Vern and Sharon as a partnership. The city dedicated a sculpture to the couple in 2018.
According to a 1998 Daily Herald article, Oie's first job was washing metal ice cream containers for Colonial Ice Cream of St. Charles in 1940. "That was the lowliest job in the place," Oie said. "On a warm summer day, they could get a little ripe."
But it brought him into contact with the owner, Joe K. Anderson. Anderson helped establish the Tri-City Corps of the Salvation Army, and Oie led the fundraising effort to build its new center, named after his old boss, in the 1990s.
Oie served in the Army, and graduated from Oregon State University. He met Sharon while working in Springfield as a conservationist for the state. They married in 1951.
Oie retired as a marketing director for Valley Community Bank. He was also an owner of Fox Valley Cleaners, a family business.
He served on the boards of Delnor Hospital and Delnor-Community Hospital for 30 years. He served with the St. Charles and Batavia MainStreet business organizations, and was a founding member of the River Corridor Partnership that beautified the Fox River banks in downtown St. Charles.
He and Sharon were involved with the Playmakers theatrical troupe. Oie also sang in the choir at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St. Charles.
Oie served on the board, including a stint as chairman, of the Fox Valley Community Airport Authority, which ran the DuPage County Airport in St. Charles from the mid-1960s to 1987.
But one post eluded him: mayor. He lost to incumbent Fred Norris in 1993.
"This man has accomplished more for public service than he ever could have in a public role," former mayor Sue Klinkhamer said, when presenting Oie the Barth Award in 2003.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
Memorial gifts may be made to the River Glen of St. Charles Benevolent Fund, 975 N. Fifth Ave., St. Charles.
Oie is survived by his sons, David and Chris; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his brother, Robert.