dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--As Elgin church closes school, services still in question

Kane County authorities are urging an Elgin-area church to suspend services and heed the governor 's stay-at-home order to stem the spread of the coronavirus .
Northwest Bible Baptist Church held its regularly scheduled service on Sunday .
However , at the urging of the Kane County sheriff 's office , the church since has closed its school and switched to e-learning , sheriff 's Lt. Pat Gengler said Monday .
`` That was our more immediate concern , '' Gengler said .
Gengler said the sheriff 's office is working with church leaders to persuade them to cancel regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future .
`` We 're going to continue to have a dialogue with them to try to do the same thing that they did with the school , '' he said .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's order Friday bans all public and private gatherings of 10 or more people .
It does not specify religious gatherings , though it does list other types of banned assemblies .
Pastor Keith Gomez could not be reached Monday and did not return multiple calls seeking comment .
Gomez wrote in a Facebook post last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visible changes and protective measures being put into action .
We take the health of our church family very seriously and have committed extra time and resources to the cleaning and sanitizing procedures that we already have in place . ''
The church , which describes itself at its website as an `` old-fashioned , independent , fundamental Baptist church , '' is urging members to stay home if they feel ill , are elderly or vulnerable to sickness .
Gengler said he is unaware of any other religious organizations in the unincorporated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services .
Religious congregations across the suburbs have suspend gatherings to help slow the spread of the coronavirus and heed the governor 's order .
If Northwest Bible continues to hold services , the sheriff 's office will work with the Kane County State 's Attorney Joe McMahon 's office to `` take whatever action that is necessary , '' Gengler said .
It is unclear what authority the county has to enforce a shutdown of a church .
`` Those are all conversations that we will have with the state 's attorney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue to monitor the situation .
The ( coronavirus case ) numbers are only going to get worse from here .
We 're really hoping that the gravity of the situation this particular church 's pastor realizes .
Doing a couple of weeks of online services , maybe it is a small sacrifice . ''

As Elgin church closes school, services still in question
Northwest Baptist Academy in Elgin voluntarily closed its school today after originally refusing do so. Rick West | Staff Photographer
Kane County authorities are urging an Elgin-area church to suspend services and heed the governor's stay-at-home order to stem the spread of the coronavirus.
Northwest Bible Baptist Church held its regularly scheduled service on Sunday. However, at the urging of the Kane County sheriff's office, the church since has closed its school and switched to e-learning, sheriff's Lt. Pat Gengler said Monday.
"That was our more immediate concern," Gengler said.
Gengler said the sheriff's office is working with church leaders to persuade them to cancel regular Wednesday and Sunday services for the near future.
"We're going to continue to have a dialogue with them to try to do the same thing that they did with the school," he said.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker's order Friday bans all public and private gatherings of 10 or more people. It does not specify religious gatherings, though it does list other types of banned assemblies.
Pastor Keith Gomez could not be reached Monday and did not return multiple calls seeking comment.
Gomez wrote in a Facebook post last week, "anyone who attends will notice visible changes and protective measures being put into action. We take the health of our church family very seriously and have committed extra time and resources to the cleaning and sanitizing procedures that we already have in place."
The church, which describes itself at its website as an "old-fashioned, independent, fundamental Baptist church," is urging members to stay home if they feel ill, are elderly or vulnerable to sickness.
Gengler said he is unaware of any other religious organizations in the unincorporated areas of Kane County continuing to hold services.
Religious congregations across the suburbs have suspend gatherings to help slow the spread of the coronavirus and heed the governor's order.
If Northwest Bible continues to hold services, the sheriff's office will work with the Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon's office to "take whatever action that is necessary," Gengler said.
It is unclear what authority the county has to enforce a shutdown of a church.
"Those are all conversations that we will have with the state's attorney," Gengler said. "We will continue to monitor the situation. The (coronavirus case) numbers are only going to get worse from here. We're really hoping that the gravity of the situation this particular church's pastor realizes. Doing a couple of weeks of online services, maybe it is a small sacrifice."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--In unprecedented move for local town, Elk Grove issues $2.8 million coronavirus relief package

In an unprecedented move for a local municipality , Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson on Monday signed a proclamation establishing a $ 2.8 million coronavirus relief package that gives water bill credits to residents and waives various licensing fees for businesses .
`` We know this outbreak has placed plenty of economic stress on our families and our businesses , so if there 's something we can do as a village to make things just a little bit easier , we 're gon na do it , '' Johnson said in a video message posted to the village 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at his desk in village hall , Johnson signed the proclamation at the end of a five-minute video message to the community .
The mayor said he individually polled village board members , all of whom supported the measure .
The financial expenditures are set to be formally approved at the board 's next scheduled meeting April 14 .
The village is paying for the relief package -- equating to some $ 2.3 million for residents and $ 500,000 for businesses -- with its surplus from last year 's budget .
Johnson says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the town 's financial strength and because officials `` have always planned for the tough times . ''
The deal gives each of Elk Grove 's 11,500 households a $ 200 credit on their bimonthly water bills .
The average residential water bill is $ 84 , so officials anticipate most customers will be able to take advantage of the credit for two or three billing cycles .
Johnson said the village is requiring landlords to pass savings onto their tenants , and likewise condo associations to their unit owners , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2,200 businesses in town , Elk Grove is waiving annual licensing fees that would have been due June 1 .
That will mean some $ 220,000 in fees waived for restaurants and bars that have been closed and others that have had to scale back operations with takeout orders only , and more than $ 75,000 in relief for building contractors , officials said .
Johnson on Monday also announced a grace period for all payments to the village through May 31 without any late fees or penalties .
That includes water/sewer bills @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hotel/motel tax .
The grace period will be reevaluated and could be extended , he added .
`` We know that this relief package will not cure everyone 's financial challenges , but we also know that every little bit counts , '' Johnson said .

In unprecedented move for local town, Elk Grove issues $2.8 million coronavirus relief package
In an unprecedented move for a local municipality, Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson on Monday signed a proclamation establishing a $2.8 million coronavirus relief package that gives water bill credits to residents and waives various licensing fees for businesses.
"We know this outbreak has placed plenty of economic stress on our families and our businesses, so if there's something we can do as a village to make things just a little bit easier, we're gonna do it," Johnson said in a video message posted to the village's website and social media channels.
Seated at his desk in village hall, Johnson signed the proclamation at the end of a five-minute video message to the community. The mayor said he individually polled village board members, all of whom supported the measure.
The financial expenditures are set to be formally approved at the board's next scheduled meeting April 14.
The village is paying for the relief package -- equating to some $2.3 million for residents and $500,000 for businesses -- with its surplus from last year's budget. Johnson says Elk Grove was able to do it because of the town's financial strength and because officials "have always planned for the tough times."
According to its 2019 audit, Elk Grove Village has $28 million in its unassigned reserve account, which is about six months of general fund expenses.
Brad Cole, executive director of the Illinois Municipal League, said it's the first he's heard of a local town providing direct funds to residents in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
"They are a well-run village, they had a budget surplus, and they've decided to return that back to their residents," Cole said. "I think it's a great decision from the village board. It's something that they're obviously able to do, but most other communities are not."
Mark Fowler, executive director of the Northwest Municipal Conference, said towns in the Northwest suburbs have been brainstorming various ways to help during the crisis, such as delaying food and beverage tax payments. But Elk Grove's package represents the first direct financial award.
"I applaud Elk Grove for doing this and hopefully this leads the way in showing other towns some unique out-of-the-box things that can be done," Fowler said.
The deal gives each of Elk Grove's 11,500 households a $200 credit on their bimonthly water bills. The average residential water bill is $84, so officials anticipate most customers will be able to take advantage of the credit for two or three billing cycles.
Johnson said the village is requiring landlords to pass savings onto their tenants, and likewise condo associations to their unit owners, through future assessment fees.
For the 2,200 businesses in town, Elk Grove is waiving annual licensing fees that would have been due June 1. That will mean some $220,000 in fees waived for restaurants and bars that have been closed and others that have had to scale back operations with takeout orders only, and more than $75,000 in relief for building contractors, officials said.
Johnson on Monday also announced a grace period for all payments to the village through May 31 without any late fees or penalties. That includes water/sewer bills, parking/traffic tickets, food/beverage tax and hotel/motel tax. The grace period will be reevaluated and could be extended, he added.
"We know that this relief package will not cure everyone's financial challenges, but we also know that every little bit counts," Johnson said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Wheeling man struck and killed by semi on I-290

A 26-year-old Wheeling man was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer late Sunday on Interstate 290 near Oak Park .
@ @ @ @ @ man ran into the westbound lanes of I-290 just before midnight and was hit by @ @ @ @ @ right lane .
He was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead @ @ @ @ @ officials said .
After an autopsy Monday , the Cook County medical examiner 's office @ @ @ @ @ a result of multiple injuries and determined his death to be a suicide .
The @ @ @ @ @ but reopened at 2:41 a.m .

Wheeling man struck and killed by semi on I-290
A 26-year-old Wheeling man was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer late Sunday on Interstate 290 near Oak Park.
Illinois State Police said the man ran into the westbound lanes of I-290 just before midnight and was hit by the tractor-trailer driving in the right lane.
He was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead about 30 minutes later, officials said.
After an autopsy Monday, the Cook County medical examiner's office determined the man died as a result of multiple injuries and determined his death to be a suicide.
The interstate was temporarily closed, but reopened at 2:41 a.m.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Funerals during COVID-19: No crowds, no hugs, no handshakes

The long line to express condolences , followed by a pause at the casket to pay respects to someone who has died .
Hugging a bereaved friend .
Looking at a poster board of photos of the deceased and sharing stories about their lives .
These funeral traditions have fallen victim to the COVID-19 pandemic .
You can see it in what 's missing now from many newspaper obituaries : A time , date and place for wakes and funeral services .
Instead , families are holding private services , or are postponing them until after the crisis .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Bryan Moss , owner of the Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia and St. Charles .
He is following advice from state and national funeral directors ' associations that call for fewer people attending wakes and services .
Clients are issuing invitations to funerals , rather than publicizing a date and time .
Moss had expected this week to have a large visitation and service for a man in his 30s , a married father who was heavily involved in the community .
Instead , the family postponed the memorial service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can accommodate two funerals at a time , he is limiting it to one .
He also has closed the refreshment room , where families typically take a break .
Roman Catholics believe burying the dead is one of seven `` corporal acts of mercy , '' ways to show love to people by taking care of their physical needs .
A funeral shows respect for life , and is a way to support people .
But now , the Archdiocese of Chicago advises that no more than 10 people at a time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Touching people , such as shaking hands , is discouraged .
Bryan Moss , owner of Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia , said families are scaling back funeral services due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` You can never be too safe , '' he said .
Bryan Moss , owner of Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia , said families are scaling back funeral services due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` You can never be too safe , '' he said .
Cemeteries Committal rites at the 45 Catholic Cemeteries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the graveside , not in the chapels , under guidelines issued by the archdiocese last week .
As with funerals , no more than 10 people should attend .
Secular cemeteries are advising the same 10-person attendance limit .
At Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien , mourners are asked to stay in their cars until the casket has been moved to the gravesite , and are to return to their cars before the casket is lowered .
This is the first time the Rev .
Eric Kennaugh of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis , in his 19 years of being a pastor .
Two families postponed memorial services last week , he said .
Another funeral -- for a 74-year-old woman who had been active in the church and community -- probably would have drawn a crowd of 100 or more people in normal times , Kennaugh said .
Instead , there were about 25 people , mostly relatives .
`` We tried to make it as normal as we could , to try to give them some closure , '' he said .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He attended a wake last week where an empty row of chairs was put between the immediate family and the mourners , to maintain physical distance .
`` We are encouraging people if they can , if the person is cremated , to wait '' to have a memorial service , Kennaugh said .
For those whose relatives are being buried , `` We would do graveside ( service ) for the family , so we can give them that closure , '' he said .
Kennaugh noted that in the Christian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the living , not the dead .
`` It 's about what God has done for them ( the deceased ) not about what they did , '' he added .
Because Christians believe they will one day be resurrected , the service reassures them they will be reunited in Heaven .
Having a pastor say that , in person , makes it more concrete , Kennaugh said .
And while his church , like many , is conducting worship services online during the crisis , he does n't foresee video funerals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a moment where people really need it , '' Kennaugh said .

Funerals during COVID-19: No crowds, no hugs, no handshakes
The long line to express condolences, followed by a pause at the casket to pay respects to someone who has died. Hugging a bereaved friend. Looking at a poster board of photos of the deceased and sharing stories about their lives.
These funeral traditions have fallen victim to the COVID-19 pandemic.
You can see it in what's missing now from many newspaper obituaries: A time, date and place for wakes and funeral services. Instead, families are holding private services, or are postponing them until after the crisis.
"You can never be too safe," said Bryan Moss, owner of the Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia and St. Charles.
He is following advice from state and national funeral directors' associations that call for fewer people attending wakes and services. Clients are issuing invitations to funerals, rather than publicizing a date and time.
Moss had expected this week to have a large visitation and service for a man in his 30s, a married father who was heavily involved in the community. Instead, the family postponed the memorial service until May.
Even though his buildings can accommodate two funerals at a time, he is limiting it to one. He also has closed the refreshment room, where families typically take a break.
Roman Catholics believe burying the dead is one of seven "corporal acts of mercy," ways to show love to people by taking care of their physical needs. A funeral shows respect for life, and is a way to support people.
But now, the Archdiocese of Chicago advises that no more than 10 people at a time attend a visitation or funeral Mass. Touching people, such as shaking hands, is discouraged.
- John Starks | Staff Photographer Bryan Moss, owner of Moss Family Funeral Home in Batavia, said families are scaling back funeral services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "You can never be too safe," he said.
Committal rites at the 45 Catholic Cemeteries of Chicago are to be done at the graveside, not in the chapels, under guidelines issued by the archdiocese last week. As with funerals, no more than 10 people should attend.
Secular cemeteries are advising the same 10-person attendance limit. At Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien, mourners are asked to stay in their cars until the casket has been moved to the gravesite, and are to return to their cars before the casket is lowered.
Spiritual health
This is the first time the Rev. Eric Kennaugh of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia has had to deal with such a crisis, in his 19 years of being a pastor.
Two families postponed memorial services last week, he said.
Another funeral -- for a 74-year-old woman who had been active in the church and community -- probably would have drawn a crowd of 100 or more people in normal times, Kennaugh said. Instead, there were about 25 people, mostly relatives.
"We tried to make it as normal as we could, to try to give them some closure," he said. That included having the church organist play music.
He attended a wake last week where an empty row of chairs was put between the immediate family and the mourners, to maintain physical distance.
"We are encouraging people if they can, if the person is cremated, to wait" to have a memorial service, Kennaugh said.
For those whose relatives are being buried, "We would do graveside (service) for the family, so we can give them that closure," he said.
Kennaugh noted that in the Christian tradition, a funeral service focuses on the living, not the dead.
"It's about what God has done for them (the deceased) not about what they did," he added.
Because Christians believe they will one day be resurrected, the service reassures them they will be reunited in Heaven. Having a pastor say that, in person, makes it more concrete, Kennaugh said.
And while his church, like many, is conducting worship services online during the crisis, he doesn't foresee video funerals.
"It loses that personal touch in a moment where people really need it," Kennaugh said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--'Families are in critical need': Ronald McDonald Houses seek gift cards during coronavirus upheaval

Away from home , Jenny Dias Da Costa finds comfort in this kitchen .
There are small victories every time her son 's appetite perks up , and he craves cheese pizza or peanut butter waffles .
During his cancer treatment , the routine of breakfast , lunch and dinner restores some semblance of normalcy while the Elmhurst mom and her 5-year-old are staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Winfield .
But they 're separated from their loved ones and now another support system : Volunteers who lovingly prepared meals that fortified her and her son , Maxime .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay-at-home order has forced Ronald McDonald House Charities to turn away volunteers who provided the comforts of home for five houses in the region -- all near hospitals so families can remain close to a sick child .
Families who would otherwise be eating out of hospital vending machines still need nourishment .
So Ronald McDonald Houses are asking for people to give donations or send gift cards through the mail for restaurants that will cater meals .
Easy access to nutritious foods helps Dias Da Costa take care of herself even as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's cancer .
`` You do n't think about what you 're going to eat , '' she said .
`` That 's like the last thing on your mind . ''
The kitchen is the heart of the home , and that 's also true of Ronald McDonald Houses because of volunteers , said Lisa Mitchell , vice president of the group 's Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana chapter .
`` Our houses are built on community , so declining the volunteer services during this time has been very hard for us on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meals where a vast majority of our volunteers invest their time , '' she said .
A core group of about 1,700 volunteers has stepped back from regular shifts helping operate the five houses .
Drop-off donations of toys and blankets also have been suspended , though there is an existing inventory .
`` Staff is cooking with pantry supplies whenever we can , but we 're also functioning at a reduced staff coverage just because we also are trying to limit the community of the house , '' Mitchell said .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ card drive to have restaurants fill in the gap with individually packaged meals .
`` Our families are under great stress always , '' Mitchell said .
`` That 's what Ronald McDonald Houses are there to help offset , which is the stress of childhood illness , and it just does n't take a break due to this crisis . ''
The houses typically support 162 families every night .
While the charity asks those who can to donate $ 10 a night , there is no obligation to pay .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week -- has decreased as hospitals postpone planned procedures and focus on urgent cases .
`` Those families are in critical need .
If there is any option for them to not have their kid in the hospital at this point , that would certainly be the case , '' Mitchell said .
`` We just really need to be there for these families . ''
Dias Da Costa and her son have been staying in the two-story , Craftsman-style house across the street from Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital since February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the proton therapy center in Warrenville where Maxime receives a form of radiation treatment for recurrent medulloblastoma , a central nervous system cancer that came back last November .
He was first diagnosed in September 2018 when he was just 3½ years old .
Balance issues led to an emergency MRI that revealed a tumor the size of a small orange against the brain stem .
`` When he 's in active treatment , Ronald McDonald House has been really sort of a silver lining for him , '' his mom said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slow the virus ' spread has magnified the isolation already felt by families with sick children .
But the house still serves as a home base between Maxime 's radiation sessions five days a week .
`` It was nice for him to be around other kids that looked like him .
Kids walking around with emesis bags , '' his mom said .
`` Kids that would barely eat or kids that were constantly only eating ramen if they ate anything .
Kids that were tired or got fatigued easily .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this space among the people here than there is in that outside world . ''

'Families are in critical need': Ronald McDonald Houses seek gift cards during coronavirus upheaval
Volunteers are noticeably absent from the kitchen at the Ronald McDonald House in Winfield. Courtesy of RMHC-CNI
The Ronald McDonald House in Winfield provides a place of respite for families of hospitalized children. Courtesy of RMHC-CNI
Maxime Dias Da Costa meets with Opie, the therapy dog at the Ronald McDonald House in Winfield. Courtesy of Jenny Dias Da Costa
Maxime Dias Da Costa and his mom Jenny are staying in the Ronald McDonald House across from Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield. The boy's cancer came back last fall. Courtesy Jenny Dias Da Costa
Away from home, Jenny Dias Da Costa finds comfort in this kitchen.
There are small victories every time her son's appetite perks up, and he craves cheese pizza or peanut butter waffles.
During his cancer treatment, the routine of breakfast, lunch and dinner restores some semblance of normalcy while the Elmhurst mom and her 5-year-old are staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Winfield.
But they're separated from their loved ones and now another support system: Volunteers who lovingly prepared meals that fortified her and her son, Maxime.
The coronavirus pandemic and the state's stay-at-home order has forced Ronald McDonald House Charities to turn away volunteers who provided the comforts of home for five houses in the region -- all near hospitals so families can remain close to a sick child.
Families who would otherwise be eating out of hospital vending machines still need nourishment. So Ronald McDonald Houses are asking for people to give donations or send gift cards through the mail for restaurants that will cater meals.
Easy access to nutritious foods helps Dias Da Costa take care of herself even as her whole world revolves around her son's cancer.
"You don't think about what you're going to eat," she said. "That's like the last thing on your mind."
Doesn't take a break
The Ronald McDonald House in Winfield is one of five across the region suspending volunteer services because of the coronavirus. - Courtesy of RMHC-CNI
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and that's also true of Ronald McDonald Houses because of volunteers, said Lisa Mitchell, vice president of the group's Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana chapter.
"Our houses are built on community, so declining the volunteer services during this time has been very hard for us on all fronts, in particular around the meals where a vast majority of our volunteers invest their time," she said.
A core group of about 1,700 volunteers has stepped back from regular shifts helping operate the five houses. Drop-off donations of toys and blankets also have been suspended, though there is an existing inventory.
"Staff is cooking with pantry supplies whenever we can, but we're also functioning at a reduced staff coverage just because we also are trying to limit the community of the house," Mitchell said.
So Ronald McDonald Houses have started a gift card drive to have restaurants fill in the gap with individually packaged meals.
"Our families are under great stress always," Mitchell said. "That's what Ronald McDonald Houses are there to help offset, which is the stress of childhood illness, and it just doesn't take a break due to this crisis."
The houses typically support 162 families every night. While the charity asks those who can to donate $10 a night, there is no obligation to pay.
The head count -- at around 90 families last week -- has decreased as hospitals postpone planned procedures and focus on urgent cases.
"Those families are in critical need. If there is any option for them to not have their kid in the hospital at this point, that would certainly be the case," Mitchell said. "We just really need to be there for these families."
A 'silver lining'
Ronald McDonald House has become a home base for Maxime Dias Da Costa and his mom, Jenny, during his cancer treatment. "It's nice for these kids -- they've been through so much -- to have something to look forward to or something that they had a positive association with during the worst time of it all." - Courtesy of Jenny Dias Da Costa
Dias Da Costa and her son have been staying in the two-story, Craftsman-style house across the street from Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital since February.
It's only 15 minutes away from the proton therapy center in Warrenville where Maxime receives a form of radiation treatment for recurrent medulloblastoma, a central nervous system cancer that came back last November.
He was first diagnosed in September 2018 when he was just 3½ years old. Balance issues led to an emergency MRI that revealed a tumor the size of a small orange against the brain stem.
"When he's in active treatment, Ronald McDonald House has been really sort of a silver lining for him," his mom said.
The practice of social distancing to slow the virus' spread has magnified the isolation already felt by families with sick children. But the house still serves as a home base between Maxime's radiation sessions five days a week.
"It was nice for him to be around other kids that looked like him. Kids walking around with emesis bags," his mom said. "Kids that would barely eat or kids that were constantly only eating ramen if they ate anything. Kids that were tired or got fatigued easily. There's just a different level of sensitivity in this space among the people here than there is in that outside world."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--With coronavirus, should I disinfect my mail -- and other things?

As coronavirus cases continue to rise , and everyone does their best to stay safe ( and keep others safe @ @ @ @ @ questions about how the virus is transmitted , and what you can and ca n't @ @ @ @ @ to receive a package ?
What about checking my mail ?
Yes .
According to @ @ @ @ @ the likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low , and the risk @ @ @ @ @ a package or letter that has been traveling and exposed to different temperatures is also @ @ @ @ @ a subscriber , that includes your copy of the Daily Herald .

With coronavirus, should I disinfect my mail -- and other things?
As coronavirus cases continue to rise, and everyone does their best to stay safe (and keep others safe), you might have questions about how the virus is transmitted, and what you can and can't touch.
Is it safe to receive a package? What about checking my mail?
Yes. According to the World Health Organization, the likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low, and the risk of catching the virus from a package or letter that has been traveling and exposed to different temperatures is also low.
If you're a subscriber, that includes your copy of the Daily Herald.
For more, check chicago.suntimes.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Long Grove cancels Chocolate Festival amid coronavirus concerns

Long Grove 's Chocolate Festival in mid-May has been canceled due to uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic .
On Monday , the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association and Ravenswood Special Events announced the decision not to stage the three-day festival , which was scheduled for May 15-17 .
`` Although there is still a lot of uncertainty with regards to how long this crisis will play out , it 's our responsibility to take all preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of all attendees , sponsors , volunteers and staff , '' said Terri Taylor , marketing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a prepared statement .
`` We realize this news will cause many sad faces , however it 's vital we all do our part in helping slow the spread of this virus . ''
The Chocolate Festival typically draws tens of thousands visitors to Long Grove 's Historic District , which was recently renovated .
Long Grove 's annual Egg Hunt scheduled for Saturday , April 4 , and its Craft Beer Festival on Saturday , April 25 , were also recently canceled .
The business association still hopes to be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ festivals , Strawberry Fest in late June and Apple Fest in late September .

Long Grove cancels Chocolate Festival amid coronavirus concerns
Chris Brienzo of Palos Heights enjoyed a chocolate-covered banana at Long Grove's Chocolate Festival in 2019. This year's three-day festival scheduled for mid-May has been canceled due to concerns about coronavirus. Daily Herald File Photo, 2019
Long Grove's Chocolate Festival has been canceled due to concerns about the coronavirus. The event was scheduled for Friday to Sunday, May 15 to 17. Daily Herald File Photo, 2019
Long Grove's Chocolate Festival in mid-May has been canceled due to uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
On Monday, the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association and Ravenswood Special Events announced the decision not to stage the three-day festival, which was scheduled for May 15-17.
"Although there is still a lot of uncertainty with regards to how long this crisis will play out, it's our responsibility to take all preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of all attendees, sponsors, volunteers and staff," said Terri Taylor, marketing chair of Long Grove business group said in a prepared statement. "We realize this news will cause many sad faces, however it's vital we all do our part in helping slow the spread of this virus."
The Chocolate Festival typically draws tens of thousands visitors to Long Grove's Historic District, which was recently renovated.
Long Grove's annual Egg Hunt scheduled for Saturday, April 4, and its Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, April 25, were also recently canceled. The business association still hopes to be able to present its two other major annual festivals, Strawberry Fest in late June and Apple Fest in late September.
For more information, visit longgrove.org.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Not sure which restaurants are open right now? Here's a helpful list

Local restaurants all over the suburbs are open for business -- but you 'll have to order for delivery or @ @ @ @ @ Prior to the health safety shut down , our region supported over 21,000 jobs in @ @ @ @ @ sector , '' Meet Chicago Northwest President Dave Parulo said .
`` Folks doing takeout @ @ @ @ @ only have a connection to the community , it also is saving jobs . ''
@ @ @ @ @ of restaurants compiled by your local chambers of commerce .
Click on each town to @ @ @ @ @ are subject to change and we will continue to update .
Barrington ( Every Business @ @ @ @

Restaurants that are open for you to order delivery or carry out
Local restaurants all over the suburbs are open for business -- but you'll have to order for delivery or get carry out.
"Prior to the health safety shut down, our region supported over 21,000 jobs in the hotel and food service sector," Meet Chicago Northwest President Dave Parulo said. "Folks doing takeout and gift card purchases not only have a connection to the community, it also is saving jobs."
Dining at a Distance is one global website compiling restaurant information. The Chicago-area page is diningatadistance.com/chicago.
Your local chambers of commerce or business associations are also compiling restaurants. Click on each town to go a list or a site with related postings.
They are subject to change and we will continue to update.
Addison
Arlington Heights
Algonquin-Lake in the Hills
Aurora
Barrington (Every Business that is open)
Bartlett
Batavia
Bloomingdale
Buffalo Grove
Carol Stream
Deer Park
Des Plaines
DuPage County
Elgin
Elmhurst
GOA, Itasca and Elk Grove Village
Geneva
Glen Ellyn
Glendale Heights
GLMV
Grayslake
Hoffman Estates
Libertyville
Lisle
Lombard
Meet Chicago Northwest
Mount Prospect
Mundelein
Naperville
Randhurst Village
Rolling Meadows
Roselle
St. Charles
Schaumburg
South Barrington
Westmont
Wheaton
Wheeling


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Former union leader, Mundelein trustee Ronald Powell dies

A longtime union leader and former Mundelein trustee is being remembered for his work on behalf of laborers in the grocery industry .
Powell was the former president of Local 881 of the United Food and Commercial Workers union .
He also had served as the union 's international vice president .
A Wisconsin native , Powell served in the Army as a young man and then studied at Northern Illinois University , graduating in 1960 .
That same year while still in college , Powell began working at what was then the Jewel Tea Co. in DeKalb .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for customers , said his daughter , Kelly Morrissey .
Early on , Powell led a strike to force the company to recognize an employee union .
He subsequently joined the Local 881 staff .
Powell rose through the union ranks and was elected president of the local union in 1983 .
He held that post until retiring in 2018 .
Working for the union was important to Powell because `` he ( felt ) he could make a difference in his members ' lives , '' said Brad Powell , one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vice president of the Illinois AFL-CIO executive board in 1986 .
He served on the Mundelein village board for 10 years , and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1996 , 2000 and 2008 .
He supported many philanthropic causes and community groups , including the Little City Foundation and United Way of Illinois .
Another of Powell 's children , Steven , also served as a Mundelein trustee .
The elder Powell 's survivors include four children , 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren .
A private graveside service for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Powell 's life will be held at a later date .
Memorials may be sent to : Local 881 UFCW Charitable Foundation , 1350 E. Touhy Ave. , Suite 300 E , Des Plaines , IL , 60018 .

Former union leader, Mundelein trustee Ronald Powell dies
A longtime union leader and former Mundelein trustee is being remembered for his work on behalf of laborers in the grocery industry.
Ronald E. Powell, 84, of Mundelein, died Monday.
Powell was the former president of Local 881 of the United Food and Commercial Workers union. He also had served as the union's international vice president.
A Wisconsin native, Powell served in the Army as a young man and then studied at Northern Illinois University, graduating in 1960.
That same year while still in college, Powell began working at what was then the Jewel Tea Co. in DeKalb. He was a service clerk, bagging groceries for customers, said his daughter, Kelly Morrissey.
Early on, Powell led a strike to force the company to recognize an employee union. He subsequently joined the Local 881 staff.
Powell rose through the union ranks and was elected president of the local union in 1983. He held that post until retiring in 2018.
Working for the union was important to Powell because "he (felt) he could make a difference in his members' lives," said Brad Powell, one of his sons.
Powell also was elected vice president of the Illinois AFL-CIO executive board in 1986.
He served on the Mundelein village board in the 1960s and again in the 1980s, and he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1996, 2000 and 2008. He supported many philanthropic causes and community groups, including the Little City Foundation and United Way of Illinois.
Another of Powell's children, Steven, also served as a Mundelein trustee.
The elder Powell's survivors include four children, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A private graveside service for family is planned. A celebration of Powell's life will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be sent to: Local 881 UFCW Charitable Foundation, 1350 E. Touhy Ave., Suite 300 E, Des Plaines, IL, 60018.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--West Dundee offers up to $1 million in TIF incentives to senior housing developer

West Dundee is offering financial incentives to assist with development of a senior housing facility along the Route 31 corridor .
The Westbrook at Canterfield residential community aims to address a demand for assisted living and memory care in an area where such housing options are lacking , said Tim Scott , community and economic development director .
Proposed by Iowa-based Nelson Construction & Development , the project calls for building 126 units on a vacant 9-acre property at Route 31 and Angle Tarn .
In a pact approved last week , the village board agreed to use tax increment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for up to $ 1 million .
The pay-as-you-go contribution will help cover the cost of site improvements for the project , Village Manager Joe Cavallaro said in a memo .
In a TIF district , the property tax revenues that go to local governments are frozen at a certain level .
Any taxes generated above that base assessed value can go back into redevelopment .
According to the deal , 90 % of the incremental property taxes generated at the Westbrook at Canterfield site will go back to Nelson Construction until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the village will fulfill its obligation within three or four years upon completion of the project .
After that , the additional tax revenue will be collected entirely by the village .
`` We feel that the giveback of their taxes for an abbreviated period of time will be more than made up by the fact that they will generate far more increment during the life of the TIF , '' said Village President Chris Nelson , who has no affiliation with the development group .
`` Those proceeds will help to fund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Trustees last week also unanimously approved final development plans for the project , which is expected to cost Nelson Construction about $ 35 million for land acquisition , construction and other expenses , according to village documents .
The development group is purchasing the site from the Haeger Estes family , who founded the now-shuttered Haeger Potteries in East Dundee .
Fourth-generation company owner Lexy Haeger Estes and her husband , Craig Zachrich , have been partitioning sections of the family 's estate for development purposes for decades .
But stimulating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging , Nelson said , largely because of the way the nearby Randall Road corridor `` exploded '' with commercial development .
A senior housing facility , though still a significant investment , has little impact on village services and is an appropriate use for the property , Nelson said .
By contrast , retail buildings or a high-density apartment complex would have a greater potential of disrupting residents in an adjacent single-family neighborhood .
The Westbrook at Canterfield project also addresses a gap in housing and services for aging residents who want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` What we want is positive activity that serves the needs of the community and that is low impact , '' Nelson said .
`` That fits the bill . ''

West Dundee offers up to $1 million in TIF incentives to senior housing developer
West Dundee officials are offering roughly $1 million in tax increment financing dollars to help developers construct a senior housing facility at Route 31 and Angle Tarn. Courtesy of the village of West Dundee
The Westbrook at Canterfield senior housing facility is expected to offer 126 assisted living and memory care units at Route 31 and Angle Tarn in West Dundee. Courtesy of the village of West Dundee
West Dundee is offering financial incentives to assist with development of a senior housing facility along the Route 31 corridor.
The Westbrook at Canterfield residential community aims to address a demand for assisted living and memory care in an area where such housing options are lacking, said Tim Scott, community and economic development director. Proposed by Iowa-based Nelson Construction & Development, the project calls for building 126 units on a vacant 9-acre property at Route 31 and Angle Tarn.
In a pact approved last week, the village board agreed to use tax increment financing dollars to reimburse the development group for up to $1 million. The pay-as-you-go contribution will help cover the cost of site improvements for the project, Village Manager Joe Cavallaro said in a memo.
In a TIF district, the property tax revenues that go to local governments are frozen at a certain level. Any taxes generated above that base assessed value can go back into redevelopment.
According to the deal, 90% of the incremental property taxes generated at the Westbrook at Canterfield site will go back to Nelson Construction until the maximum reimbursement is reached.
Cavallaro estimates the village will fulfill its obligation within three or four years upon completion of the project. After that, the additional tax revenue will be collected entirely by the village.
"We feel that the giveback of their taxes for an abbreviated period of time will be more than made up by the fact that they will generate far more increment during the life of the TIF," said Village President Chris Nelson, who has no affiliation with the development group. "Those proceeds will help to fund other projects and improvements throughout the community."
Trustees last week also unanimously approved final development plans for the project, which is expected to cost Nelson Construction about $35 million for land acquisition, construction and other expenses, according to village documents.
The development group is purchasing the site from the Haeger Estes family, who founded the now-shuttered Haeger Potteries in East Dundee. Fourth-generation company owner Lexy Haeger Estes and her husband, Craig Zachrich, have been partitioning sections of the family's estate for development purposes for decades.
But stimulating substantial growth along Route 31 has been challenging, Nelson said, largely because of the way the nearby Randall Road corridor "exploded" with commercial development.
A senior housing facility, though still a significant investment, has little impact on village services and is an appropriate use for the property, Nelson said. By contrast, retail buildings or a high-density apartment complex would have a greater potential of disrupting residents in an adjacent single-family neighborhood.
The Westbrook at Canterfield project also addresses a gap in housing and services for aging residents who want to stay in town, he said.
"What we want is positive activity that serves the needs of the community and that is low impact," Nelson said. "That fits the bill."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Midway tower scrub in final stage, FAA reports

Disinfection of Midway International Airport 's air traffic control tower has reached the final stages , the Federal Aviation Administration reported Monday .
The tower closed March 17 after several technicians tested positive for the coronavirus , COVID-19 .
`` Cleaning operations ongoing -- on phase three of three , '' an FAA update stated .
The employees are in self-quarantine and officials are tracing their contacts .
The Midway tower is one of 11 FAA airport facilities affected by spiraling cases of COVID-19 , a respiratory disease that can cause pneumonia .
Some locations , including John F. Kennedy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cleaning of air traffic control towers after employees tested positive for COVID-19 .
Airlines using Midway , including Southwest Airlines , have canceled hundreds of flights since March 17 .
As of midmorning Monday , 67 % of 502 flights at Midway were slashed .
`` Every air traffic control facility in the country has a contingency plan to keep air traffic moving safely when events impede normal operations , '' the FAA stated .
`` In some cases , this means transferring duties to adjacent facilities .
Each disruption has a distinct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are experiencing this at the handful of facilities already affected by COVID-19 .
This is frustrating and inconvenient , but is necessary in the interest of safety . ''
Without air traffic controllers in the tower , Midway is operating on a `` one in , one out '' basis for airplanes .
Much of the air traffic in and out of Midway has been handed off to the Chicago Terminal Radar Approach Control ( TRACON ) facility in Elgin .
TRACON controllers will manage flights until within sight of Midway , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the airport frequency .
Outbound pilots will announce their presence before departing , then be picked up by TRACON staff .

Midway tower scrub in final stage, FAA reports
Southwest Airlines and other airlines at Midway are canceling multiple flights with the closure of the air traffic control tower due to COVID-19. Associated Press, February 2012
Disinfection of Midway International Airport's air traffic control tower has reached the final stages, the Federal Aviation Administration reported Monday.
The tower closed March 17 after several technicians tested positive for the coronavirus, COVID-19.
"Cleaning operations ongoing -- on phase three of three," an FAA update stated. The employees are in self-quarantine and officials are tracing their contacts.
The Midway tower is one of 11 FAA airport facilities affected by spiraling cases of COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can cause pneumonia.
Some locations, including John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia international airports, have completed cleaning of air traffic control towers after employees tested positive for COVID-19.
Airlines using Midway, including Southwest Airlines, have canceled hundreds of flights since March 17. As of midmorning Monday, 67% of 502 flights at Midway were slashed.
"Every air traffic control facility in the country has a contingency plan to keep air traffic moving safely when events impede normal operations," the FAA stated.
"In some cases, this means transferring duties to adjacent facilities. Each disruption has a distinct impact on the air traffic system. We are experiencing this at the handful of facilities already affected by COVID-19. This is frustrating and inconvenient, but is necessary in the interest of safety."
Without air traffic controllers in the tower, Midway is operating on a "one in, one out" basis for airplanes.
Much of the air traffic in and out of Midway has been handed off to the Chicago Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility in Elgin.
TRACON controllers will manage flights until within sight of Midway, then arriving pilots will announce their presence on the airport frequency. Outbound pilots will announce their presence before departing, then be picked up by TRACON staff.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--A song to make you smile: "Don't Stop Believin' " by Journey

We 're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper ( and on dailyherald.com ) with a daily `` @ @ @ @ @ . ''
It 's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk .
@ @ @ @ @ Do n't Stop Believin ' '' by Journey , released in 1981 .

A song to make you smile: "Don't Stop Believin' " by Journey
Members of the band Journey received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles in 2005. Associated Press
We're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper (and on dailyherald.com) with a daily "Song to Make You Smile."
It's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk.
Today's selection is "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, released in 1981.
Send your ideas to suggestions@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Elgin gives $150K emergency loan to food pantry

Faced with a double-whammy -- a grant that did n't come through plus increased need due to the COVID-19 pandemic -- Food for Great Elgin got a lifesaving $ 150,000 emergency loan from the city of Elgin .
`` What the city gave us with the loan is the assurance that , 'Yeah , we are going to be here , at least through the crisis , ' '' said Michael Montgomery , the food pantry 's interim executive director .
The nonprofit expects to serve about 600 families weekly , up from 500 pre-pandemic , Montgomery said .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the general public and has added noon to 2 p.m. hours on Fridays for seniors only .
It started serving students of Elgin Community College after the campus closed along with its food pantry , and is supplying the police department with food for emergency calls , Montgomery said .
The zero-interest loan is repayable at $ 6,250 monthly starting in April 2021 , he said .
Montgomery started the job Jan. 20 and took over from Shelia Jackson , who left in February .
Jackson did a great job of enhancing client @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash base for the $ 400,000 nonprofit `` has been getting just a little worse every month for a long time , '' mostly due to dwindling donors , he said .
Also , a deadline was missed last year to apply for a $ 15,000 grant that normally comes in February , always a tight month , he said .
`` Last week , everything was suddenly hitting us in the face at the same time , '' Montgomery said .
`` We had two weeks ' worth of cash to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the next payroll . ''
The loan came after the food pantry 's board chairman Mike Warren met with Mayor David Kaptain .
`` It 's something that just had to be done , '' Kaptain said .
`` When people are being sent home from work , and many of them are living paycheck to paycheck , the situation is going to get critical pretty quickly . ''
The city established the emergency loan program during the 2016 state budget crisis , and it was used by three social service agencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly authorize the loan for the food pantry , without formal city council approval , thanks to his expanded authority after a local state of emergency declaration earlier this month .
The council agrees the food pantry is vital to the community , Kaptain said .
Montgomery praised the speedy work of city staff members .
The money came from the city 's reserves , spokeswoman Molly Gillespie said .
Businesses also have stepped up donations , such as a sizable check from John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc. and eight pallets of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
The food pantry also needs more volunteers because its senior volunteers have to take precautions and stay home due to COVID-19 .
The pantry has implemented daily sanitation , no drive-by pick up and social distancing .
Anyone interested can contact volunteer coordinator Mike Kuhn at ( 224 ) 242-3375 , mkuhn @ ffge.org or sign up online at ffge.org/volunteer .

Elgin gives $150K emergency loan to food pantry
Faced with a double-whammy -- a grant that didn't come through plus increased need due to the COVID-19 pandemic -- Food for Great Elgin got a lifesaving $150,000 emergency loan from the city of Elgin.
"What the city gave us with the loan is the assurance that, 'Yeah, we are going to be here, at least through the crisis,'" said Michael Montgomery, the food pantry's interim executive director.
The nonprofit expects to serve about 600 families weekly, up from 500 pre-pandemic, Montgomery said.
The pantry is open Monday to Thursday to the general public and has added noon to 2 p.m. hours on Fridays for seniors only. It started serving students of Elgin Community College after the campus closed along with its food pantry, and is supplying the police department with food for emergency calls, Montgomery said.
The zero-interest loan is repayable at $6,250 monthly starting in April 2021, he said.
Montgomery started the job Jan. 20 and took over from Shelia Jackson, who left in February. Jackson did a great job of enhancing client service and increasing programs, but the cash base for the $400,000 nonprofit "has been getting just a little worse every month for a long time," mostly due to dwindling donors, he said.
Also, a deadline was missed last year to apply for a $15,000 grant that normally comes in February, always a tight month, he said.
"Last week, everything was suddenly hitting us in the face at the same time," Montgomery said. "We had two weeks' worth of cash to make payroll but we needed to raise money for the next payroll."
The loan came after the food pantry's board chairman Mike Warren met with Mayor David Kaptain.
"It's something that just had to be done," Kaptain said. "When people are being sent home from work, and many of them are living paycheck to paycheck, the situation is going to get critical pretty quickly."
The city established the emergency loan program during the 2016 state budget crisis, and it was used by three social service agencies that year.
Kaptain was able to quickly authorize the loan for the food pantry, without formal city council approval, thanks to his expanded authority after a local state of emergency declaration earlier this month. The council agrees the food pantry is vital to the community, Kaptain said.
Montgomery praised the speedy work of city staff members. The money came from the city's reserves, spokeswoman Molly Gillespie said.
Businesses also have stepped up donations, such as a sizable check from John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc. and eight pallets of food from Grand Victoria Casino, Montgomery said.
The food pantry also needs more volunteers because its senior volunteers have to take precautions and stay home due to COVID-19. The pantry has implemented daily sanitation, no drive-by pick up and social distancing.
Anyone interested can contact volunteer coordinator Mike Kuhn at (224) 242-3375, mkuhn@ffge.org or sign up online at ffge.org/volunteer.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Meet Chicago Northwest encourages restaurant takeout Tuesday

Meet Chicago Northwest , the tourism and visitors bureau for the Northwest suburbs , is encouraging support for local restaurants @ @ @ @ @ Great American Takeout Day .
To support these eateries through the downturn in business caused @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 outbreak , the bureau is urging people to plan takeout or delivery meals on @ @ @ @ @ has compiled a list of its restaurant partners on its website at chicagonorthwest.com where you @ @ @ @ @ cards or order food for The Great American Takeout Day .

Meet Chicago Northwest encourages restaurant takeout Tuesday
Meet Chicago Northwest, the tourism and visitors bureau for the Northwest suburbs, is encouraging support for local restaurants on Tuesday -- deemed The Great American Takeout Day.
To support these eateries through the downturn in business caused by social restrictions during the COVID-19 outbreak, the bureau is urging people to plan takeout or delivery meals on Tuesday.
Meet Chicago Northwest has compiled a list of its restaurant partners on its website at chicagonorthwest.com where you can either purchase online gift cards or order food for The Great American Takeout Day.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Woodland superintendent departs early for medical procedure

Longtime Woodland School District 50 Superintendent Joy Swoboda had planned to depart the district in mid-April to correspond with an elective medical procedure .
But coronavirus concerns led the date of the surgery -- and her last day on the job -- to be moved up .
Swoboda , who is now recovering from home after the operation , said her farewells to staff on Wednesday before the surgery on Thursday .
`` We 're so excited for her , '' said Lori Casey , who has been colleagues with Swoboda for about 20 of Swoboda 's 25 years in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school board to replace her as superintendent last year .
`` She 's been waiting for this surgery , and when she got the news it could be moved up we were thrilled . ''
Swoboda used a walker , and though Casey did not get into specifics about the surgery , she said it was related to Swoboda 's mobility .
Casey said the surgery was a success .
Swoboda sent a letter informing the community of her departure last week .
`` I have seen firsthand how much our families support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I have enjoyed experiencing how engaged families are with their children 's education .
I will miss many supportive professional colleagues , lifelong friends and those smiling faces of our students . ''
Casey said Swoboda 's legacy was her ability to improve services over the years while the district weathered dire financial situations .
`` She always put children first , with her that was not just a saying it is something that always happened , '' Casey said .
`` She is a very compassionate and caring person .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that legacy .
In her letter to the community , Swoboda said she was humbled and honored to have served as superintendent .
`` Thank you for entrusting me with the community 's greatest asset -- your children , our community 's future , '' she wrote .

Woodland superintendent departs early for medical procedure
Longtime Woodland School District 50 Superintendent Joy Swoboda had planned to depart the district in mid-April to correspond with an elective medical procedure. But coronavirus concerns led the date of the surgery -- and her last day on the job -- to be moved up.
Swoboda, who is now recovering from home after the operation, said her farewells to staff on Wednesday before the surgery on Thursday.
"We're so excited for her," said Lori Casey, who has been colleagues with Swoboda for about 20 of Swoboda's 25 years in the district and was selected by the school board to replace her as superintendent last year. "She's been waiting for this surgery, and when she got the news it could be moved up we were thrilled."
Swoboda used a walker, and though Casey did not get into specifics about the surgery, she said it was related to Swoboda's mobility. Casey said the surgery was a success.
Swoboda sent a letter informing the community of her departure last week.
"I have seen firsthand how much our families support the school district," Swoboda wrote. "I have enjoyed experiencing how engaged families are with their children's education. I will miss many supportive professional colleagues, lifelong friends and those smiling faces of our students."
Casey said Swoboda's legacy was her ability to improve services over the years while the district weathered dire financial situations.
"She always put children first, with her that was not just a saying it is something that always happened," Casey said. "She is a very compassionate and caring person."
Casey said she intends to continue that legacy.
In her letter to the community, Swoboda said she was humbled and honored to have served as superintendent.
"Thank you for entrusting me with the community's greatest asset -- your children, our community's future," she wrote.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Mundelein mayor: I have COVID-19 virus

Mundelein mayor: I have COVID-19 virus

Mundelein Mayor Steve Lentz on Monday announced he has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus -- making him the first municipal leader in the Northwest suburbs to publicly reveal that diagnosis .
Lentz told the Daily Herald his wife , Michelle , also tested positive for the disease .
Lentz 's mood was positive and he was optimistic about recovery .
`` So far so good , '' Lentz said .
`` It 's mild symptoms . ''
Lentz made a more formal statement about his diagnosis during Monday night 's village board meeting .
He , the trustees and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than at village hall .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker legalized such official gatherings last week by ordering some requirements of the state 's Open Meetings Act temporarily lifted because of the COVID-19 virus epidemic .
`` Normally , I would never tell our constituents that I have a runny nose , a cold , the flu , or even a broken limb , '' Lentz said , reading from a prepared statement .
`` But given the awful events surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus , as an elected official I feel obligated to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive for this virus . ''
Lentz told the Daily Herald he went to a COVID-19 testing center Friday after experiencing a scratchy throat .
He said he was told Saturday of the positive test result .
Lentz and his wife have isolated themselves in their Mundelein home .
In his remarks during the meeting , Lentz stressed the importance of social distancing during this crisis , even if you feel OK. '' My first symptom , a scratchy throat , was so mild I would never have thought I had ( the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Without the call to social distancing , I think it highly likely that I would have gone about my routine as usual and spread the disease unknowingly . ''
Lentz also asked for people to pray about the crisis five times a day -- at 9 a.m. , noon , 3 p.m. 6 p.m. and 9 p.m .
The Archdiocese of Chicago and Cardinal Blase Cupich proposed such activity for the Chicago area Friday .
`` It does n't have to be dramatic , '' Lentz said .
`` You could just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and say a prayer in your heart . ''
As of Monday afternoon , 1,285 COVID-19 cases have been discovered in Illinois , and the death toll has reached 12 .
The Lentzes are among 96 Lake County residents who tested positive for the disease as of Monday afternoon .

Mundelein mayor: I have COVID-19 virus
Mundelein Mayor Steve Lentz, seen here in 2019, has tested positive for COVID-19. Daily Herald file photo
Mundelein Mayor Steve Lentz on Monday announced he has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus -- making him the first municipal leader in the Northwest suburbs to publicly reveal that diagnosis.
Lentz told the Daily Herald his wife, Michelle, also tested positive for the disease.
Lentz's mood was positive and he was optimistic about recovery.
"So far so good," Lentz said. "It's mild symptoms."
Lentz made a more formal statement about his diagnosis during Monday night's village board meeting. He, the trustees and other officials attended remotely via computer, rather than at village hall. Gov. J.B. Pritzker legalized such official gatherings last week by ordering some requirements of the state's Open Meetings Act temporarily lifted because of the COVID-19 virus epidemic.
"Normally, I would never tell our constituents that I have a runny nose, a cold, the flu, or even a broken limb," Lentz said, reading from a prepared statement. "But given the awful events surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus, as an elected official I feel obligated to disclose that over the weekend I tested positive for this virus."
Lentz told the Daily Herald he went to a COVID-19 testing center Friday after experiencing a scratchy throat. He said he was told Saturday of the positive test result.
Lentz and his wife have isolated themselves in their Mundelein home.
In his remarks during the meeting, Lentz stressed the importance of social distancing during this crisis, even if you feel OK.
"My first symptom, a scratchy throat, was so mild I would never have thought I had (the virus)," he said. "Without the call to social distancing, I think it highly likely that I would have gone about my routine as usual and spread the disease unknowingly."
Lentz also asked for people to pray about the crisis five times a day -- at 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m. 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The Archdiocese of Chicago and Cardinal Blase Cupich proposed such activity for the Chicago area Friday.
"It doesn't have to be dramatic," Lentz said. "You could just close your eyes for a few moments and say a prayer in your heart."
As of Monday afternoon, 1,285 COVID-19 cases have been discovered in Illinois, and the death toll has reached 12. The Lentzes are among 96 Lake County residents who tested positive for the disease as of Monday afternoon.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Constable: Magicians try new tricks as gigs disappear

Just say the magic words , `` COVID-19 , '' and poof -- the livelihood of local magicians vanishes .
`` Everything is gone , '' says Pete Kovacevich , 62 , a full-time magician from Buffalo Grove .
`` Everything I had on the books canceled until the end of April . ''
A versatile entertainer who also does work as Parky the Clown , Kovacevich said his last gig was the Sunday before St. Patrick 's Day , when he performed as a leprechaun at Peggy Kinnane 's in Arlington Heights .
His actual St. Patrick 's Day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Libertyville was scrubbed as part of the mass closures in an attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus .
`` I know a lot of guys who lost three months of business in a blink of an eye , '' says Mark Doetsch , an Island Lake magician and president of the Conjurers Corner Magic Club , which canceled its meeting on Monday because of COVID-19 .
Doetsch , 61 , does n't work full time now , but for the past dozen years he 's performed every Friday at Gators Wing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and every Friday for the foreseeable future .
`` I do walk-around magic , '' Doetsch says , explaining how he 's connected with families .
`` I love that close-up magic .
I 've seen kids grow up there . ''
Naperville magician Tim Adams , 55 , lost gigs where he performs as `` The Amazing Tim Adamz , '' and his side business also tanked .
`` I have balloon artists in restaurants in three states , '' Adams says , unsure of when work will return .
`` What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the new normal .
I hope not .
I hope this is temporary normal , '' he says .
He 's added `` virtual magic shows '' and lessons in magic and ballooning at his amazingadamz.com website .
His wife , an elementary school nurse , is being paid during the shutdown , `` and that 's saving our family right now , '' Adams says .
He knows one magician who lost $ 25,000 because two trade shows were canceled and another who is unable to pay his mortgage this month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad as this , '' Adams says .
`` Magicians , face-painters , balloon-artists , even actors on Broadway make our living where people gather .
If there 's no group , there 's no need for us . ''
Fun Incorporated , a Wheeling manufacturer , printer and distributor of cards , tricks and everything magical since 1941 , does n't know if all the mom-and-pop shops that sell their products will survive .
`` It all happened kind of quickly as conventions got canceled , '' says owner Andrew Michals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` making magic . ''
He remembers being the only 13-year-old with a cellphone `` because my parents would be driving me to gigs . ''
With her shows that incorporate magic , philosophy , theater , physics and performance art , Wheaton native Jeanette Andrews , 30 , has a busy career with performances at private parties and corporate events and installations at museums .
Now her automated email response notes that her reply might be delayed due to `` my performances being impacted by COVID-19 . ''
But she does urge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WeAreInThisTogether and # FreelancersUnite , and invites people to phone ( 855 ) BY-MAGIC ( 296-2442 ) for her art piece titled , `` Magic by Telephone . ''
COVID-19 's timing could n't be worse for magician Randy Bernstein of Glenview to launch his new businessmagic.com website , where the homepage promises `` Business Magic knows how to draw crowds . ''
`` I 've lost at least four trade shows , one speaking engagement and a few sales meetings , '' says Bernstein , 56 , who has been doing corporate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and recently had a performance at the Wauconda Area Library and all his Easter shows canceled .
`` It 's devastating . ''
A couple of corporate events that he 's worked for years let him keep their deposits , but Bernstein says he returned money for all the private parties that got canceled .
It 's not only money he misses .
`` You have to stay connected to the community , '' says Bernstein says , who is launching free online magic shows on his Facebook page with Magic Monday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help keep my sanity . ''

Constable: Magicians try new tricks as gigs disappear
Wheaton native Jeanette Andrews has a busy career turning her magic into an interactive sensory experience. Now she's busy coping with cancellations due to COVID-19. Courtesy of David Linsell
Pete Kovacevich of Palatine, with his face-painting wife, Barb, made his last performance as a leprechaun on the Sunday before St. Patrick's Day. Since then, the "shelter in place" order has canceled all his gigs. Courtesy of Pete Kovacevich
With COVID-19 canceling his gigs, Island Lake magician Mark Doetsch sits in his "magic room" at home and puts out a video of one of his tricks. Courtesy of Mark Doetsch
Before COVID-19 shut down restaurants and public gatherings, Island Lake magician Mark Doetsch performed every Friday at Gators Wing Shack in Palatine. Daily Herald file photo
Just say the magic words, "COVID-19," and poof -- the livelihood of local magicians vanishes.
"Everything is gone," says Pete Kovacevich, 62, a full-time magician from Buffalo Grove. "Everything I had on the books canceled until the end of April."
A versatile entertainer who also does work as Parky the Clown, Kovacevich said his last gig was the Sunday before St. Patrick's Day, when he performed as a leprechaun at Peggy Kinnane's in Arlington Heights. His actual St. Patrick's Day appearance scheduled at Timothy O'Toole's in Libertyville was scrubbed as part of the mass closures in an attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
"I know a lot of guys who lost three months of business in a blink of an eye," says Mark Doetsch, an Island Lake magician and president of the Conjurers Corner Magic Club, which canceled its meeting on Monday because of COVID-19. Doetsch, 61, doesn't work full time now, but for the past dozen years he's performed every Friday at Gators Wing Shack in Palatine -- until last Friday and every Friday for the foreseeable future.
"I do walk-around magic," Doetsch says, explaining how he's connected with families. "I love that close-up magic. I've seen kids grow up there."
Naperville magician Tim Adams, 55, lost gigs where he performs as "The Amazing Tim Adamz," and his side business also tanked. "I have balloon artists in restaurants in three states," Adams says, unsure of when work will return.
"What really bugs me is people saying this is the new normal. I hope not. I hope this is temporary normal," he says.
He's added "virtual magic shows" and lessons in magic and ballooning at his amazingadamz.com website. His wife, an elementary school nurse, is being paid during the shutdown, "and that's saving our family right now," Adams says. He knows one magician who lost $25,000 because two trade shows were canceled and another who is unable to pay his mortgage this month.
"Even 9/11 wasn't as bad as this," Adams says. "Magicians, face-painters, balloon-artists, even actors on Broadway make our living where people gather. If there's no group, there's no need for us."
Fun Incorporated, a Wheeling manufacturer, printer and distributor of cards, tricks and everything magical since 1941, doesn't know if all the mom-and-pop shops that sell their products will survive. "It all happened kind of quickly as conventions got canceled," says owner Andrew Michals, 37, who has spent his life "making magic." He remembers being the only 13-year-old with a cellphone "because my parents would be driving me to gigs."
With her shows that incorporate magic, philosophy, theater, physics and performance art, Wheaton native Jeanette Andrews, 30, has a busy career with performances at private parties and corporate events and installations at museums. Now her automated email response notes that her reply might be delayed due to "my performances being impacted by COVID-19." But she does urge people to unite through the hashtags #WeAreInThisTogether and #FreelancersUnite, and invites people to phone (855) BY-MAGIC (296-2442) for her art piece titled, "Magic by Telephone."
COVID-19's timing couldn't be worse for magician Randy Bernstein of Glenview to launch his new businessmagic.com website, where the homepage promises "Business Magic knows how to draw crowds."
"I've lost at least four trade shows, one speaking engagement and a few sales meetings," says Bernstein, 56, who has been doing corporate magic and private shows for 33 years and recently had a performance at the Wauconda Area Library and all his Easter shows canceled. "It's devastating."
A couple of corporate events that he's worked for years let him keep their deposits, but Bernstein says he returned money for all the private parties that got canceled. It's not only money he misses.
"You have to stay connected to the community," says Bernstein says, who is launching free online magic shows on his Facebook page with Magic Monday and Wednesday Wonders. "This is to help keep my sanity."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Mini libraries now double as mini food pantries in Mount Prospect

A series of 19 miniature libraries on front lawns throughout Mount Prospect now double as mini food pantries , thanks to the efforts of organizer Joey Carbone and their homeowner caretakers .
Carbone launched the MP Mini Library Mission last June , and the group got certified as a nonprofit in January .
The tiny boxes atop wooden posts already serve as community resources to pick up or drop off a new read .
To help those in need during the coronavirus outbreak , books now share space with bags of pretzels and other nonperishable items .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carbone , who builds , designs and paints the mini libraries in his garage .
He emphasizes to those he calls library `` custodians '' to keep the libraries and items within them clean .
Some boxes have hand sanitizer to use there , too .
`` I tell everybody , 'Make sure it 's clean , sanitized , and keep it safe , ' '' Carbone said .
`` I 'm washing my mini library three times a day . ''
So far , 19 of the 27 mini libraries that dot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
Carbone collects donations and materials to build the boxes .
He has a waiting list of more than 100 residents who want one .

Mini libraries now double as mini food pantries in Mount Prospect
This mini library box in Mount Prospect is one of 19 throughout the village that now also serves as a mini food pantry. Courtesy of Joey Carbone
A series of 19 miniature libraries on front lawns throughout Mount Prospect now double as mini food pantries, thanks to the efforts of organizer Joey Carbone and their homeowner caretakers.
Carbone launched the MP Mini Library Mission last June, and the group got certified as a nonprofit in January. The tiny boxes atop wooden posts already serve as community resources to pick up or drop off a new read. To help those in need during the coronavirus outbreak, books now share space with bags of pretzels and other nonperishable items.
"It's the community coming together," said Carbone, who builds, designs and paints the mini libraries in his garage.
He emphasizes to those he calls library "custodians" to keep the libraries and items within them clean. Some boxes have hand sanitizer to use there, too.
"I tell everybody, 'Make sure it's clean, sanitized, and keep it safe,'" Carbone said. "I'm washing my mini library three times a day."
So far, 19 of the 27 mini libraries that dot Mount Prospect have become mini pantries, he said. Carbone collects donations and materials to build the boxes. He has a waiting list of more than 100 residents who want one.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--Arlington Heights-based religious order funds hotel rooms for homeless amid pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted everyday lives , but that 's especially true for the homeless in the Northwest suburbs , who are finding that with area churches closing , so are their PADS emergency shelters .
Officials with Journeys : The Road Home in Palatine , which coordinates PADS sites serving 37 communities in north and northwest Cook County , say the need for alternative housing is now urgent .
`` We sleep approximately 100 clients a night through our PADS Shelter program , '' said Journeys Executive Director Beth Nabors .
`` We only have seven out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The situation is dire . ''
In response to the crisis , at least one faith community has stepped up .
The Arlington Heights-based Clerics of Saint Viator has donated $ 63,000 to house 60 homeless people in local hotels for three weeks .
`` This is in line with our mission as a Catholic religious community , '' says the Rev .
Daniel Hall , the provincial superior for the Viatorians .
`` This crisis could lead to between 60 to 80 men , women and children on the verge of living @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable to the coronavirus . ''
Hall hopes other local faith communities and individuals join in their mission of providing shelter for the homeless .
`` It is my hope that you join us in this commitment to care for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers during this crisis , '' Hall wrote in a letter to supporters .
Nabors welcomed the donation , but stresses that the organization still needs more funds to pay for additional hotel stays .
In the meantime , volunteers continue to serve at the shelters that remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Center in Palatine , where the organization provides counseling and other services to the homeless or those at risk of becoming homeless .
Others are helping with a newly created mobile food delivery program , providing for clients now staying in hotels .
`` The majority of our staff continue to work and expose themselves to the virus until we can get all clients placed in hotels , '' Nabors said .
The emergency situation comes at a time when Journeys officials are in the midst of a capital campaign to build a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clients .
The new facility would offer year-round shelter , as well as permanent affordable housing , on separate floors .
Residents would receive services such as primary health care , substance abuse treatment , vocational development and food assistance .
`` Had we already completed our Building for Hope campaign we 'd still be navigating uncharted territory with the rest of the world , but we would already be set up with transitional housing , a permanent PADS shelter , 24-hour security , and increased staff , '' said Journeys board member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help house clients during the pandemic , or to provide other basic needs , visit www.journeystheroadhome.org .

Arlington Heights-based religious order funds hotel rooms for homeless amid pandemic
Journeys: The Road Home Executive Director Beth Nabors, left, and Director of Development Suzanne Ploger coordinating ongoing fundraising efforts as they work to find alternative housing for homeless people during the coronavirus pandemic. Courtesy of Journeys the Road Home
The Arlington Heights-based Clerics of Saint Viator has donated $63,000 to pay for hotel rooms for 60 homeless people during the COVID-19 pandemic. There's an urgent need for alternative housing because the virus has forced the closure of many shelters, advocates say. Daily Herald File Photo
Members of the Journeys: The Road Home clinical team, including, from left, Housing Case Manager Michelle Dubil, Vocational Case Manager Mandy Smith, Corner Case Manager Marie Bulfer and Hope Center Manager Jon Rapp, meet to discuss the agency's response to the coronavirus pandemic. Courtesy of Journeys the Road Home
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted everyday lives, but that's especially true for the homeless in the Northwest suburbs, who are finding that with area churches closing, so are their PADS emergency shelters.
Officials with Journeys: The Road Home in Palatine, which coordinates PADS sites serving 37 communities in north and northwest Cook County, say the need for alternative housing is now urgent.
"We sleep approximately 100 clients a night through our PADS Shelter program," said Journeys Executive Director Beth Nabors. "We only have seven out of our 19 shelter sites still operating. The situation is dire."
In response to the crisis, at least one faith community has stepped up. The Arlington Heights-based Clerics of Saint Viator has donated $63,000 to house 60 homeless people in local hotels for three weeks.
"This is in line with our mission as a Catholic religious community," says the Rev. Daniel Hall, the provincial superior for the Viatorians. "This crisis could lead to between 60 to 80 men, women and children on the verge of living on the streets, and even more vulnerable to the coronavirus."
Hall hopes other local faith communities and individuals join in their mission of providing shelter for the homeless.
"It is my hope that you join us in this commitment to care for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers during this crisis," Hall wrote in a letter to supporters.
Nabors welcomed the donation, but stresses that the organization still needs more funds to pay for additional hotel stays.
In the meantime, volunteers continue to serve at the shelters that remain open, or at Journeys' HOPE Center in Palatine, where the organization provides counseling and other services to the homeless or those at risk of becoming homeless.
Others are helping with a newly created mobile food delivery program, providing for clients now staying in hotels.
"The majority of our staff continue to work and expose themselves to the virus until we can get all clients placed in hotels," Nabors said.
The emergency situation comes at a time when Journeys officials are in the midst of a capital campaign to build a three-story, fixed shelter site for their clients.
The new facility would offer year-round shelter, as well as permanent affordable housing, on separate floors. Residents would receive services such as primary health care, substance abuse treatment, vocational development and food assistance.
"Had we already completed our Building for Hope campaign we'd still be navigating uncharted territory with the rest of the world, but we would already be set up with transitional housing, a permanent PADS shelter, 24-hour security, and increased staff," said Journeys board member Melissa Swartz.
To make a donation to help house clients during the pandemic, or to provide other basic needs, visit www.journeystheroadhome.org.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--State relaxes rules so retired medical workers can help with COVID-19 response

Retired health care professionals considering answering Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's call join the fight against the coronavirus will have fewer obstacles to getting their licenses renewed .
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has relaxed its rules to increase the number of doctors and nurses available to help .
A surge of patients is expected even as communities enforce staying at home to stem the COVID-19 outbreak .
The state regulatory agency has granted a series of variances for physicians , nurses , physician assistants and respiratory care therapists whose license status is inactive , non-renewed or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ satisfying specific criteria .
`` Illinois has many very qualified health care professionals throughout the state that we are encouraging to come back into practice to assist with the impact of COVID-19 , '' said Deborah Hagan , department secretary .
Physicians and physician assistants whose licenses are expired , inactive or non-renewed for less than three years can have them restored temporarily for no fee or continuing education requirement to work under the direction of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency , Illinois Department of Public Health or in a long-term care facility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This rule change also applies to licensed practical nurses , registered nurses , advanced practice registered nurses and respiratory care therapists whose licenses are inactive or non-renewed for less than five years .
Out-of-state physicians , nurses , physician assistants , pharmacists and respiratory care therapists also may practice in Illinois , if licensed in another state and in good standing .
This temporary practice approval expires Sept. 30 .
To renew licenses or get a temporary practice permit , visit idfpr.com .
Some professional medical associations and retired health workers have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal protection gear and the fact that most retirees fall in the highest risk category , which could prevent a swell of people from volunteering .
Illinois has asked the federal government for 4,000 respirators and received none so far and sought 2.3 million N95 masks and has been given 246,860 or 10 percent .
For most people , the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms , such as fever and cough .
For some , especially older adults and people with existing health problems , it can cause more severe illness , @ @ @

State relaxes rules so retired medical workers can help with COVID-19 response
Retired health care professionals considering answering Gov. J.B. Pritzker's call join the fight against the coronavirus will have fewer obstacles to getting their licenses renewed.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has relaxed its rules to increase the number of doctors and nurses available to help.
A surge of patients is expected even as communities enforce staying at home to stem the COVID-19 outbreak.
The state regulatory agency has granted a series of variances for physicians, nurses, physician assistants and respiratory care therapists whose license status is inactive, non-renewed or expired to restore their licenses temporarily after satisfying specific criteria.
"Illinois has many very qualified health care professionals throughout the state that we are encouraging to come back into practice to assist with the impact of COVID-19," said Deborah Hagan, department secretary.
Physicians and physician assistants whose licenses are expired, inactive or non-renewed for less than three years can have them restored temporarily for no fee or continuing education requirement to work under the direction of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Department of Public Health or in a long-term care facility, hospital or federally qualified health center.
This rule change also applies to licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses and respiratory care therapists whose licenses are inactive or non-renewed for less than five years.
Out-of-state physicians, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists and respiratory care therapists also may practice in Illinois, if licensed in another state and in good standing. This temporary practice approval expires Sept. 30.
To renew licenses or get a temporary practice permit, visit idfpr.com.
Some professional medical associations and retired health workers have expressed concerns over the lack of available personal protection gear and the fact that most retirees fall in the highest risk category, which could prevent a swell of people from volunteering.
Illinois has asked the federal government for 4,000 respirators and received none so far and sought 2.3 million N95 masks and has been given 246,860 or 10 percent.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--A musical message of hope from the Elk Grove High School staff

Across the nation , spring break is n't quite what it should have been for students and families -- or @ @ @ @ @ Elk Grove High School used their spring break to make a musical video with a @ @ @ @ @ of the Ashford & Simpson standard `` Ai n't No Mountain High Enough . ''
@ @ @ @ @ , `` teachers decided to let their students know that they are thinking about them @ @ @ @ @ Janu by email .
The teacher said more than 60 staff members appear in the @ @ @ @ @ Principal Paul Kelly telling students to take care of themselves and stay healthy .

A musical message of hope from the Elk Grove High School staff
Across the nation, spring break isn't quite what it should have been for students and families -- or teachers.
The staff at Elk Grove High School used their spring break to make a musical video with a message of hope, courtesy of the Ashford & Simpson standard "Ain't No Mountain High Enough."
In the video embedded above, "teachers decided to let their students know that they are thinking about them," said Bruce David Janu by email. The teacher said more than 60 staff members appear in the video, which ends with Principal Paul Kelly telling students to take care of themselves and stay healthy.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-03-23--A song to make you smile: "Good Day Sunshine" by the Beatles

We 're going to try to inject a little positivity in the paper ( and on dailyherald.com ) with a @ @ @ @ @ You Smile . ''
It 's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ is `` Good Day Sunshine '' by the Beatles , released in 1966 .

A song to make you smile: "Good Day Sunshine" by the Beatles
The Beatles pose together before their performance in a TV studio in London, England, in 1966. Associated Press
We're going to try to inject a little positivity in the paper (and on dailyherald.com) with a daily "Song to Make You Smile."
It's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk.
Today's selection is "Good Day Sunshine" by the Beatles, released in 1966.
Send your ideas to suggestions@dailyherald.com.