dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Oberweis, Underwood spar in online candidate forum

Republican congressional hopeful Jim Oberweis used an online candidate forum to repeatedly criticize Democratic incumbent Lauren Underwood on Tuesday , bashing her voting history and some of her stances .
`` When Lauren Underwood started voting like a radical socialist , I decided it was time to run for the 14th Congressional District , '' said Oberweis , a state senator and dairy magnate from Sugar Grove .
`` Her values are not our values . ''
Underwood , a freshman legislator from Naperville , rejected that characterization and got in some shots of her own during the roughly hourlong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Commerce .
Most pointedly , Underwood called comments Oberweis has made in opposition of abortion and in favor of limiting access to birth control `` extremely disturbing . ''
`` His views , frankly , are radical and out of touch with the people in our community , '' said Underwood , who supports unrestricted access to reproductive health services .
The candidates also discussed the COVID-19 crisis , the economy and other subjects during the forum , which was moderated by chamber president and CEO Jim Di Ciaula and observed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republican Randy Hultgren two years ago to turn the historically red seat blue .
Oberweis was elected to the state Senate in 2012 .
He has unsuccessfully campaigned for Congress , U.S. senator and governor .
When asked to cite his priorities if elected , Oberweis said the economy has to come first and insisted he 's the guy to tackle the job .
`` That 's where my strength is .
That 's what I 've done for my entire life , '' he said .
`` I believe that we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes to motivate entrepreneurs to risk their time and their energy and their capital to create jobs and opportunities for other people . ''
Oberweis also said reducing crime and violence would be a priority .
`` I strongly support the right of people to protest peacefully , but not to damage businesses and steal things , '' Oberweis said , referring to the rioting and looting that have occurred across the country recently .
Oberweis called on Underwood to condemn that violence , but she did n't respond .
Underwood said addressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A full economic recovery wo n't be possible `` until we get our arms around this virus , '' she said .
`` We need to have a national strategy for managing COVID-19 .
We need to be able to extend testing across the country , making sure that people can actually get their results back ( in a timely fashion ) , '' said Underwood , a registered nurse who has worked as a senior adviser at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and in other health care roles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And we need to be preparing the American people to receive this vaccine . ''
`` We know that out-of-pocket costs are too high , '' she said .
`` Even in what President Trump was hailing as a booming economy , we knew that the American people were tapering their insulin , cutting their pills in half , delaying visits to their providers or postponing procedures because they could n't afford the out-of-pocket costs . ''
Underwood said she and some colleagues have drafted legislation aiming to lower those costs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House with bipartisan support .
Throughout the forum , Oberweis attacked Underwood for voting in line with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi .
In response , Underwood noted that three pieces of legislation she developed had bipartisan support and ultimately were signed into law by President Donald Trump .
Those bills sought to reduce insulin costs , improve medical screenings at the U.S.-Mexico border and secure supply chains for drugs and medical devices manufactured outside the U.S. '' I think it 's really telling that my opponent 's decided to use his time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
`` My record is clear . ''
The sprawling 14th District includes parts of DuPage , Kane , Lake , McHenry , Will , DeKalb and Kendall counties .

Oberweis, Underwood spar in online candidate forum
Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove and Lauren Underwood of Naperville are the candidates for the 14th U.S. Congressional District seat
Editor's note: Three bills Rep. Underwood said she put forth and later were signed into law by President Donald Trump were absorbed into different pieces of legislation that became law.
Republican congressional hopeful Jim Oberweis used an online candidate forum to repeatedly criticize Democratic incumbent Lauren Underwood on Tuesday, bashing her voting history and some of her stances.
"When Lauren Underwood started voting like a radical socialist, I decided it was time to run for the 14th Congressional District," said Oberweis, a state senator and dairy magnate from Sugar Grove. "Her values are not our values."
Underwood, a freshman legislator from Naperville, rejected that characterization and got in some shots of her own during the roughly hourlong discussion hosted by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce. Most pointedly, Underwood called comments Oberweis has made in opposition of abortion and in favor of limiting access to birth control "extremely disturbing."
"His views, frankly, are radical and out of touch with the people in our community," said Underwood, who supports unrestricted access to reproductive health services.
Oberweis didn't respond.
The candidates also discussed the COVID-19 crisis, the economy and other subjects during the forum, which was moderated by chamber president and CEO Jim Di Ciaula and observed by about 70 people.
Underwood defeated incumbent Republican Randy Hultgren two years ago to turn the historically red seat blue.
Oberweis was elected to the state Senate in 2012. He has unsuccessfully campaigned for Congress, U.S. senator and governor. When asked to cite his priorities if elected, Oberweis said the economy has to come first and insisted he's the guy to tackle the job.
"That's where my strength is. That's what I've done for my entire life," he said. "I believe that we need people in Washington who understand what it takes to motivate entrepreneurs to risk their time and their energy and their capital to create jobs and opportunities for other people."
Oberweis also said reducing crime and violence would be a priority.
"I strongly support the right of people to protest peacefully, but not to damage businesses and steal things," Oberweis said, referring to the rioting and looting that have occurred across the country recently.
Oberweis called on Underwood to condemn that violence, but she didn't respond. Underwood said addressing the COVID-19 pandemic is her top priority. A full economic recovery won't be possible "until we get our arms around this virus," she said.
"We need to have a national strategy for managing COVID-19. We need to be able to extend testing across the country, making sure that people can actually get their results back (in a timely fashion)," said Underwood, a registered nurse who has worked as a senior adviser at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and in other health care roles. "We need free coronavirus treatment. And we need to be preparing the American people to receive this vaccine."
Underwood called health care another key issue.
"We know that out-of-pocket costs are too high," she said. "Even in what President Trump was hailing as a booming economy, we knew that the American people were tapering their insulin, cutting their pills in half, delaying visits to their providers or postponing procedures because they couldn't afford the out-of-pocket costs."
Underwood said she and some colleagues have drafted legislation aiming to lower those costs, and that the proposals have cleared the House with bipartisan support.
Throughout the forum, Oberweis attacked Underwood for voting in line with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In response, Underwood noted that three pieces of legislation she developed had bipartisan support and ultimately were signed into law by President Donald Trump.
"I think it's really telling that my opponent's decided to use his time to distort and attack my record," she said. "My record is clear."
The bills in question -- which sought to reduce insulin costs, fund a Department of Homeland Security electronic health record system for immigrants and secure supply chains for drugs and medical devices manufactured outside the U.S. -- were absorbed into different pieces of legislation that became law.
The sprawling 14th District includes parts of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will, DeKalb and Kendall counties.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--New ramps opening at Jane Byrne Interchange will give traffic relief

After months of driving torture amid the Jane Byrne Interchange reconstruction , motorists will see some daylight this month with the completion of two significant projects .
On Thursday morning , the Illinois Department of Transportation will open up the rebuilt ramp from the inbound Eisenhower Expressway ( I-290 ) to the outbound Kennedy Expressway ( I-90/94 ) , weather permitting .
And in mid-September , a new ramp from outbound Ida B .
Wells Drive ( formerly Congress Parkway ) will take drivers to the outbound Kennedy Expressway .
`` The new ramps will improve traffic flow and help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicles that use them daily , '' Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman said in a statement .
The move means drivers wo n't need to use the `` Texas U-turn '' detour from the Eisenhower to the Kennedy as of about 5 a.m. Wednesday .
And , traffic on the inbound Eisenhower will revert to its previous patterns with the two left lanes channeling vehicles to Ida B .
Wells Drive , the third lane heading to the outbound Kennedy and far right lane to the outbound Dan Ryan Expressway .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't mean an end to delays heading into downtown .
This week , the ramp from the inbound Eisenhower to the outbound Dan Ryan Expressway ( I-90/94 ) will slim down to one lane from two , which is expected to contribute to gridlock .
That configuration will be in place through 2022 to allow for construction on the mainline Kennedy and Dan Ryan expressways .
Both new ramps are opening a month ahead of schedule , IDOT officials said , although the Byrne Interchange project has been plagued with delays and cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 535 million now stands at over $ 796 million .

New ramps opening at Jane Byrne Interchange will give traffic relief
Two major expressway access points are reopening at the Jane Byrne Interchange this month. Daily Herald File Photo
After months of driving torture amid the Jane Byrne Interchange reconstruction, motorists will see some daylight this month with the completion of two significant projects.
On Thursday morning, the Illinois Department of Transportation will open up the rebuilt ramp from the inbound Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) to the outbound Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94), weather permitting.
And in mid-September, a new ramp from outbound Ida B. Wells Drive (formerly Congress Parkway) will take drivers to the outbound Kennedy Expressway.
"The new ramps will improve traffic flow and help reduce delays for the more than 40,000 vehicles that use them daily," Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman said in a statement.
The move means drivers won't need to use the "Texas U-turn" detour from the Eisenhower to the Kennedy as of about 5 a.m. Wednesday.
And, traffic on the inbound Eisenhower will revert to its previous patterns with the two left lanes channeling vehicles to Ida B. Wells Drive, the third lane heading to the outbound Kennedy and far right lane to the outbound Dan Ryan Expressway.
But the completion of the two ramps doesn't mean an end to delays heading into downtown. This week, the ramp from the inbound Eisenhower to the outbound Dan Ryan Expressway (I-90/94) will slim down to one lane from two, which is expected to contribute to gridlock. That configuration will be in place through 2022 to allow for construction on the mainline Kennedy and Dan Ryan expressways.
Both new ramps are opening a month ahead of schedule, IDOT officials said, although the Byrne Interchange project has been plagued with delays and cost overruns. The project originally estimated at $535 million now stands at over $796 million.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Schaumburg Boomers to host four more socially distanced concerts

The pandemic forced cancellation of Schaumburg 's traditional Septemberfest this weekend , but the Schaumburg Boomers baseball team is set to host more socially distanced concerts in its `` Live from the Lot '' series over four consecutive days this month .
Following the same protocols established for shows this summer , a total of six bands will perform from Sept. 17 to 20 in the parking lot of Boomers Stadium at 1999 Springinsguth Road in Schaumburg .
• The Palmer Squares at 7:30 p.m. before Tropidelic at 8 p.m. on Thursday , Sept. 17 ; • Led Zeppelin 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- A Doors Tribute at 7 p.m. on Sunday , Sept. 20 .
The tickets are sold by vehicle , for up to six occupants , with some shows also having VIP tickets still available .
All purchases are available online at ticketweb.com .
VIP ticketholders can park in the first four rows and have dedicated food and beverage services come to their vehicle , as well as being close to restrooms .
General admission tickets to the Sept. 17 concert cost $ 90 per vehicle , with VIP tickets available for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remaining shows cost $ 60 per carpool .
VIP tickets are sold out for Sept. 18 and 19 , but are available for $ 100 on Sept. 20 .
The lot opens at 6:30 p.m. for most of the concerts , but at 4 p.m. on Sept. 20 .
Each vehicle will have a 10-foot-wide space to its left where its occupants can be without a mask , but face coverings are required for anyone leaving this dedicated area .
Food and beverages are available for purchase , and the concert area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , three ADA-accessible restrooms , six sanitizer stations and six hand wash stations .
The application for the concerts to the village of Schaumburg estimates about 292 vehicles per show .
Oversized vehicles , including RVs , are not allowed .
This concert series may be a way for attendees to bid farewell to summer , but it 's not necessarily the last socially-distanced event at Boomers Stadium in 2020 .
`` We are exploring several other event possibilities through the end of October , '' Schaumburg Boomers General Manager Michael Larson said @

Schaumburg Boomers to host four more socially distanced concerts
The Schaumburg Boomers will host four more socially distanced "Live from the Lot" concerts, featuring a total of six bands, from Sept. 17 through 20 in the parking lot next to the ballpark at 1999 Springinsguth Road in Schaumburg. Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations
The pandemic forced cancellation of Schaumburg's traditional Septemberfest this weekend, but the Schaumburg Boomers baseball team is set to host more socially distanced concerts in its "Live from the Lot" series over four consecutive days this month.
Following the same protocols established for shows this summer, a total of six bands will perform from Sept. 17 to 20 in the parking lot of Boomers Stadium at 1999 Springinsguth Road in Schaumburg.
The lineup includes:
• The Palmer Squares at 7:30 p.m. before Tropidelic at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17;
• Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18;
• Sixteen Candles at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and
• Led Zeppelin 2 at 5 p.m. followed by Of Perception -- A Doors Tribute at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20.
The tickets are sold by vehicle, for up to six occupants, with some shows also having VIP tickets still available. All purchases are available online at ticketweb.com.
VIP ticketholders can park in the first four rows and have dedicated food and beverage services come to their vehicle, as well as being close to restrooms.
General admission tickets to the Sept. 17 concert cost $90 per vehicle, with VIP tickets available for $120.
The general admission tickets for the remaining shows cost $60 per carpool. VIP tickets are sold out for Sept. 18 and 19, but are available for $100 on Sept. 20.
The lot opens at 6:30 p.m. for most of the concerts, but at 4 p.m. on Sept. 20.
Each vehicle will have a 10-foot-wide space to its left where its occupants can be without a mask, but face coverings are required for anyone leaving this dedicated area.
Food and beverages are available for purchase, and the concert area will be equipped with 12 standard-sized restrooms, three ADA-accessible restrooms, six sanitizer stations and six hand wash stations.
The application for the concerts to the village of Schaumburg estimates about 292 vehicles per show. Oversized vehicles, including RVs, are not allowed.
This concert series may be a way for attendees to bid farewell to summer, but it's not necessarily the last socially-distanced event at Boomers Stadium in 2020.
"We are exploring several other event possibilities through the end of October," Schaumburg Boomers General Manager Michael Larson said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Naperville searching for suspects in stabbing

Naperville Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of suspects involved in a June 1 stabbing .
The altercation occurred about 10 p.m. near West Jefferson Avenue and Webster Street during a riot and incidents of looting in the city 's downtown , according to a news release .
Police said earlier that one protester had been stabbed during the unrest , which broke out several hours after a peaceful demonstration protesting the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis .
One suspect involved in the stabbing is described as a 25-year-old white man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 160 pounds and has brown hair and a mustache , according to the news release .
He was wearing a black mask and a white or gray sweatshirt .
The second suspect , a white man between the ages of 17 and 20 , is about 5 feet , 10 inches tall , weighs 150 pounds and has short blonde hair , officials said .
He was wearing a black mask and a black sweatshirt .
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at ( 630 ) 420-6006 or through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anonymous .

Naperville searching for suspects in stabbing
Naperville Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of suspects involved in a June 1 stabbing.
The altercation occurred about 10 p.m. near West Jefferson Avenue and Webster Street during a riot and incidents of looting in the city's downtown, according to a news release. Police said earlier that one protester had been stabbed during the unrest, which broke out several hours after a peaceful demonstration protesting the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
One suspect involved in the stabbing is described as a 25-year-old white man who is approximately 6 feet tall, 160 pounds and has brown hair and a mustache, according to the news release. He was wearing a black mask and a white or gray sweatshirt.
The second suspect, a white man between the ages of 17 and 20, is about 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighs 150 pounds and has short blonde hair, officials said. He was wearing a black mask and a black sweatshirt.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at (630) 420-6006 or through the website at napervillecrimestoppers.com. Tipsters can remain anonymous.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Overlooks, pathways and more: How Naperville Riverwalk could be improved by 2031

Improved gateways , overlooks , paths and attractions are envisioned as potential enhancements to the Naperville Riverwalk over the next several years .
Looking ahead toward the city 's bicentennial in 2031 , members of the Riverwalk Commission are finalizing a proposed master plan that aims to close amenity gaps and strengthen experiences along the shores of the West Branch of the DuPage River in the city 's downtown .
The more than 20-page document addresses existing conditions and conceptual ideas for the 1.75-mile path , serving as a framework for desirable future improvements that could be spearheaded by governmental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
The full commission is expected to vote next week on adopting the Riverwalk Master Plan 2031 , a draft of which is being updated in the next few days to incorporate community suggestions and cost estimates .
It then would be sent to the city council and park district board for consideration .
Most of the feedback received during a weekslong engagement process was `` highly supportive '' of the work completed so far , while also offering some suggestions for the plan , commission member Pat Kennedy said Tuesday during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committee meeting .
Stemming from conversations with North Central College , for example , committee members agreed to add a project that calls for constructing a multiuse path on the east side of the river , improving the connectivity to downtown Naperville for cyclists and pedestrians , Kennedy said .
A new pedestrian bridge linking the east side path to the west side Riverwalk also could be incorporated into those upgrades .
`` While it 's a short stretch , it 's a somewhat important one , and one that 's missing today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ master plan includes improvements to the Grand Pavilion parking area and plaza ; a block-long transformation of the area between Main to Washington streets ; a future park and plaza at 430 S. Washington St. ; and an extension of the Riverwalk south to Martin Avenue .
The document also addresses overlook points , accessibility improvements , enhancements to gateway areas and ecological restoration efforts .
Commissioners called the plan a `` fluid document '' that can be updated with additional ideas and details in the coming years .
Looking ahead a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have started tentatively budgeting for engineering costs related to the Riverwalk extension and other master plan projects , said Bill Novack , director of transportation , engineering and development costs .
`` Those always move around a little bit , '' he said , `` but we wanted to be in a position where we could potentially get some of the design and permitting done on some of those so that if we have opportunities , we can go ahead and move forward quickly . ''

Overlooks, pathways and more: How Naperville Riverwalk could change by 2031
Improved gateways, overlooks, paths and attractions are envisioned as potential enhancements to the Naperville Riverwalk over the next several years.
Looking ahead toward the city's bicentennial in 2031, members of the Riverwalk Commission are finalizing a proposed master plan that aims to close amenity gaps and strengthen experiences along the shores of the West Branch of the DuPage River in the city's downtown.
The more than 20-page document addresses existing conditions and conceptual ideas for the 1.75-mile path, serving as a framework for desirable future improvements that could be spearheaded by governmental entities or service groups, Riverwalk stewards said.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Looking ahead at Naperville's bicentennial in 2031, the Riverwalk Commission is finalizing a master plan aimed at closing gaps and adding enhancements along the popular path through the downtown.
The full commission is expected to vote next week on adopting the Riverwalk Master Plan 2031, a draft of which is being updated in the next few days to incorporate community suggestions and cost estimates. It then would be sent to the city council and park district board for consideration.
Most of the feedback received during a weekslong engagement process was "highly supportive" of the work completed so far, while also offering some suggestions for the plan, commission member Pat Kennedy said Tuesday during a Riverwalk planning, design and construction committee meeting.
Stemming from conversations with North Central College, for example, committee members agreed to add a project that calls for constructing a multiuse path on the east side of the river, improving the connectivity to downtown Naperville for cyclists and pedestrians, Kennedy said. A new pedestrian bridge linking the east side path to the west side Riverwalk also could be incorporated into those upgrades.
"While it's a short stretch, it's a somewhat important one, and one that's missing today," he said.
The proposed master plan includes improvements to the Grand Pavilion parking area and plaza; a block-long transformation of the area between Main to Washington streets; a future park and plaza at 430 S. Washington St.; and an extension of the Riverwalk south to Martin Avenue. The document also addresses overlook points, accessibility improvements, enhancements to gateway areas and ecological restoration efforts.
Commissioners called the plan a "fluid document" that can be updated with additional ideas and details in the coming years.
Looking ahead a few years down the road, city officials have started tentatively budgeting for engineering costs related to the Riverwalk extension and other master plan projects, said Bill Novack, director of transportation, engineering and development costs.
"Those always move around a little bit," he said, "but we wanted to be in a position where we could potentially get some of the design and permitting done on some of those so that if we have opportunities, we can go ahead and move forward quickly."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Constable: Therapist's good deed multiplied with a wedding giveaway

This pandemic has messed with everything , from wedding plans to the education of children with special needs .
But a grass-roots contest provides a happy story on both those fronts .
In June , a call went out on Instagram seeking `` heroes '' whose 2020 wedding plans were canceled because of COVID-19 as Laura Reitsma , owner of a wedding and event planning company called Fierce Productions , hatched a plan to give away a wedding package to a worthy couple .
The winning nomination came from Downers Grove 's Kristin Flood , owner of Rebellious Beauty in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lauren Steinkuehler and Eliora Jares , who run We Only Do Pretty , a hair and makeup service for weddings , photo shoots and other events .
They nominated Salena Schon , the therapist responsible for improvements in Steinkuehler 's 4-year-old son , Grayson , who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder .
`` Improvement is an understatement , '' says Steinkuehler , whose son had been attending a therapeutic day school .
`` With COVID in March , schools were closed . ''
Schon , 31 , a therapist at the school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go to the Steinkuehlers ' home in Chicago `` because I could n't stand seeing the little guy regress , '' she says .
`` The difference is he communicates better .
He had maybe 10 words at the beginning .
Now he has over 30 , '' Steinkuehler says .
`` He listens to you .
He 's able to say his colors .
He counts .
To watch it has been unbelievable . ''
Grayson 's rapid improvements have made life brighter for Steinkuehler , her husband , Rob , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For Schon , too .
`` Just yesterday , he spoke a five-word sentence , '' Schon says of Grayson .
`` As a mom , you worry that he 'll live with you all his life , you worry about all kinds of -- I 'm going to cry , '' says Steinkuehler , who takes time to wipe tears from her eyes .
`` And Salena has changed that . ''
But the pandemic also caused strife for Schon , whose Aug. 8 wedding to longtime fiancee Jess Bequette , 27 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We waited to send out invitations and we ended up not , '' Schon says , thanking everyone involved for this past weekend 's wedding celebration .
`` Coming from the community of LGBTQ , before 2015 , we did n't even think we could have this .
I 'm just so incredibly thankful . ''
Reitsma says she and the others who voted for the winner among 10 nominees were moved by Schon 's story .
`` Just learning about Lauren 's son , the disability and the power of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they had plans to have a wedding that did not happen , '' Reitsma says .
`` It all felt like the universe was telling me to vote for them . ''
On Saturday night , Schon and Bequette were treated to a `` mini wedding '' curated by Fierce Productions at the Wicker Park Inn , with flowers from Leelee 's Garden , photos from Golden Hours Photography , video from Matthew Robert Creative , livestreaming and DJ from Cage and Aquarium , hair and makeup by We Only Do Pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in bed the day after by Heartfelt Catering , and a wedding cake by ECBG Cake Studio .
The couple 's planned honeymoon in Greece is n't possible because of the pandemic .
But that 's OK with the happy couple , and Grayson , says Schon , who went back to work Monday .
`` I ca n't go a week without seeing him . ''

Constable: Therapist's good deed multiplied with a wedding giveaway
When the pandemic closed his therapeutic day school, 4-year-old Grayson Steinkuehler improved tremendously with in-home visits with therapist Salena Schon. To reward her "heroism," a group including Rebellious Beauty of Oak Brook gave Schon a free wedding. Courtesy of Lauren Steinkuehler
This pandemic has messed with everything, from wedding plans to the education of children with special needs. But a grass-roots contest provides a happy story on both those fronts.
In June, a call went out on Instagram seeking "heroes" whose 2020 wedding plans were canceled because of COVID-19 as Laura Reitsma, owner of a wedding and event planning company called Fierce Productions, hatched a plan to give away a wedding package to a worthy couple.
The winning nomination came from Downers Grove's Kristin Flood, owner of Rebellious Beauty in Oak Brook, and her partners, Lauren Steinkuehler and Eliora Jares, who run We Only Do Pretty, a hair and makeup service for weddings, photo shoots and other events. They nominated Salena Schon, the therapist responsible for improvements in Steinkuehler's 4-year-old son, Grayson, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
"Improvement is an understatement," says Steinkuehler, whose son had been attending a therapeutic day school. "With COVID in March, schools were closed."
Schon, 31, a therapist at the school trained in applied behavior analysis, volunteered to go to the Steinkuehlers' home in Chicago "because I couldn't stand seeing the little guy regress," she says.
"The difference is he communicates better. He had maybe 10 words at the beginning. Now he has over 30," Steinkuehler says. "He listens to you. He's able to say his colors. He counts. To watch it has been unbelievable."
Grayson's rapid improvements have made life brighter for Steinkuehler, her husband, Rob, and their 5-year-old daughter, Mattie. For Schon, too.
The pandemic postponed therapist Salena Schon's wedding and threatened regression for 4-year-old Grayson Steinkuehler, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. But a group including Rebellious Beauty of Oak Brook helped make things right. - Courtesy of Lauren Steinkuehler
"Just yesterday, he spoke a five-word sentence," Schon says of Grayson.
"As a mom, you worry that he'll live with you all his life, you worry about all kinds of -- I'm going to cry," says Steinkuehler, who takes time to wipe tears from her eyes. "And Salena has changed that."
But the pandemic also caused strife for Schon, whose Aug. 8 wedding to longtime fiancee Jess Bequette, 27, fell victim to the COVID-19 restrictions.
"We waited to send out invitations and we ended up not," Schon says, thanking everyone involved for this past weekend's wedding celebration. "Coming from the community of LGBTQ, before 2015, we didn't even think we could have this. I'm just so incredibly thankful."
Their original wedding date of Aug. 8 was postponed by the pandemic. But Salena Schon, left, and Jess Bequette were given a wedding as part of a contest by Fierce Productions and a host of vendors, who honored Schon's work as a therapist with a boy diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. - Courtesy of Golden Hours
Reitsma says she and the others who voted for the winner among 10 nominees were moved by Schon's story.
"Just learning about Lauren's son, the disability and the power of therapy. On top of it, that they had plans to have a wedding that did not happen," Reitsma says. "It all felt like the universe was telling me to vote for them."
On Saturday night, Schon and Bequette were treated to a "mini wedding" curated by Fierce Productions at the Wicker Park Inn, with flowers from Leelee's Garden, photos from Golden Hours Photography, video from Matthew Robert Creative, livestreaming and DJ from Cage and Aquarium, hair and makeup by We Only Do Pretty, catering by The Caterist, breakfast in bed the day after by Heartfelt Catering, and a wedding cake by ECBG Cake Studio.
The couple's planned honeymoon in Greece isn't possible because of the pandemic. But that's OK with the happy couple, and Grayson, says Schon, who went back to work Monday. "I can't go a week without seeing him."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Feder: Trump tweets 'good luck' message on eve of 'News Nation' launch

Hours before tonight 's debut of a three-hour primetime national newscast from Chicago that promises to be free of political @ @ @ @ @ '' has received an unsolicited blessing from President Donald Trump , reports Robert Feder .
@ @ @ @ @ Compton , a winner at everything he does ! ''
Trump tweeted at 9:02 a.m. @ @ @ @ @ Stephen Battaglio 's story Monday in the Los Angeles Times raising the curtain on `` @ @ @ @

Feder: Trump tweets 'good luck' message on eve of 'News Nation' launch
Hours before tonight's debut of a three-hour primetime national newscast from Chicago that promises to be free of political bias, "News Nation" has received an unsolicited tweet from President Donald Trump.
Hours before tonight's debut of a three-hour primetime national newscast from Chicago that promises to be free of political bias, "News Nation" has received an unsolicited blessing from President Donald Trump, reports Robert Feder.
"Good luck to Sean Compton, a winner at everything he does!" Trump tweeted at 9:02 a.m. Tuesday over a link to Stephen Battaglio's story Monday in the Los Angeles Times raising the curtain on "News Nation."
Read the full story here.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Lake Villa beekeeper could feel sting of loss if village takes hives away

Willie Pilipauskas set up his first bee box colony under a tree in his parents ' Lake Villa backyard when he was 12 .
Nearly 20 years later , he 's evolved from a bee beginner to a bee expert , and his colony has grown to a small apiary of 15 boxes .
But whether the Pilipauskas family will be able to keep the backyard bees has been in question since mid-July , when Lake Villa village officials served the family notice that the bees were not permitted .
Lake Villa Village Manager Karl Warwick said the village received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bee population was so large that a portion of the neighbor 's backyard was unusable .
`` We 're just here to make sure people can use their property and enjoy their property , and if they ca n't , it 's a violation , '' Warwick said .
Pilipauskas , now 31 , lives in McHenry County with his own family but brings his kids to visit his parents in Lake Villa several times a week .
The hobby that started in their yard is now a career : Pilipauskas manages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lake and McHenry county areas and makes his living selling honey and helping people remove bees from places they are n't wanted .
He wants to leave his original colony intact -- and has hired a lawyer .
The first court hearing on the matter is scheduled for Sept. 15 .
Pilipauskas questions the village 's claim that neighbors reported a problem with the bees .
He said the areas where his backyard bees would leave the property are near tall trees and shrubs .
While the bees can fly over tall vegetation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back down on the other side and prefer instead to stay high in the air .
Pilipauskas said he has great relationships with his parents ' neighbors and often gives them free honey .
Joe Morrison , Pilipauskas ' Waukegan-based attorney , expressed hope that a solution could be found .
`` We 're hoping to work things out with the village , '' Morrison said .
Warwick also expressed a desire for the two sides to work together on a voluntary , mutual resolution .
`` I understand they 're frustrated , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's how a lot of things happen in municipal government : You respond to a complaint and you work toward a solution . ''
The Lake Villa village code does not address beekeeping in residential zones .
Pilipauskas said he hopes that changes so other kids can get into backyard beekeeping and find their passion as he did nearly 20 years ago .
`` It seems like a weird time to be against it when there 's so much interest in it , '' Pilipauskas said of beekeeping .
`` If you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then what are we still doing here ? ''

Willie Pilipauskas set up his first bee box colony under a tree in his parents' Lake Villa backyard when he was 12.
Nearly 20 years later, he's evolved from a bee beginner to a bee expert, and his colony has grown to a small apiary of 15 boxes.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Willie Pilipauskas keeps tall bushes between his bee boxes and his parents' neighbor's home in Lake Villa. The tall bushes encourage a high flight pattern for the bees, keeping them flying over nearby yards instead of through them, he says.
But whether the Pilipauskas family will be able to keep the backyard bees has been in question since mid-July, when Lake Villa village officials served the family notice that the bees were not permitted.
Lake Villa Village Manager Karl Warwick said the village received a complaint from a neighbor who said the bee population was so large that a portion of the neighbor's backyard was unusable.
"We're just here to make sure people can use their property and enjoy their property, and if they can't, it's a violation," Warwick said.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Willie Pilipauskas works on the bee colony he started at his family's Lake Villa home when he was 12.
Pilipauskas, now 31, lives in McHenry County with his own family but brings his kids to visit his parents in Lake Villa several times a week. The hobby that started in their yard is now a career: Pilipauskas manages 600 to 700 bee colonies in the Lake and McHenry county areas and makes his living selling honey and helping people remove bees from places they aren't wanted.
He wants to leave his original colony intact -- and has hired a lawyer. The first court hearing on the matter is scheduled for Sept. 15.
Pilipauskas questions the village's claim that neighbors reported a problem with the bees.
He said the areas where his backyard bees would leave the property are near tall trees and shrubs. While the bees can fly over tall vegetation, he said, they rarely fly back down on the other side and prefer instead to stay high in the air.
Pilipauskas said he has great relationships with his parents' neighbors and often gives them free honey.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Willie Pilipauskas, right, and his father, Dave, check on the bee crates behind the family's Lake Villa home Friday morning. Village officials say the backyard bees are not permitted.
Joe Morrison, Pilipauskas' Waukegan-based attorney, expressed hope that a solution could be found.
"We're hoping to work things out with the village," Morrison said.
Warwick also expressed a desire for the two sides to work together on a voluntary, mutual resolution.
"I understand they're frustrated," Warwick said. "But that's how a lot of things happen in municipal government: You respond to a complaint and you work toward a solution."
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Willie Pilipauskas' hives create honey for his Willie's Honey Co.
The Lake Villa village code does not address beekeeping in residential zones. Pilipauskas said he hopes that changes so other kids can get into backyard beekeeping and find their passion as he did nearly 20 years ago.
"It seems like a weird time to be against it when there's so much interest in it," Pilipauskas said of beekeeping. "If you can have chickens and bees in Chicago, then what are we still doing here?"


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Feder: The Score restores Bruce Levine after time out for tweet

Veteran Chicago sports reporter Bruce Levine , who 's been off the grid since he posted a controversial tweet Aug. @ @ @ @ @ return this week as baseball insider on Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM , insiders said Monday @ @ @ @ @ tweet reporting that outfielder Ian Miller had been recalled by the Chicago Cubs , Levine @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump with a lewd comment about Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton .
Read @ @ @ @ @ Feder here .

Feder: The Score restores Bruce Levine after time out for tweet
Veteran Chicago sports reporter Bruce Levine, who's been off the grid since he posted a controversial tweet Aug. 23, is expected to return this week as baseball insider on Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM, insiders said Monday.
Under a seemingly innocuous tweet reporting that outfielder Ian Miller had been recalled by the Chicago Cubs, Levine attached a photoshopped image of President Donald Trump with a lewd comment about Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton.
Read the full story from Robert Feder here.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Pandemic inspires suburbanites to discover benefits of horseback riding

June Pedersen usually sees two or three new riders a month seeking beginner lessons at Castle Ridge Keep Horse Facility for an activity whose popularity has faded in recent years -- horseback riding .
In the past five months , since the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic , that trend is reversing .
A lot .
Pedersen is welcoming three or four new people each week now , making her one of the few business owners these days who can say their new clients have quadrupled .
`` People are tired of being inside , '' the Crystal Lake stable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of being sequestered and socially distanced and they want to get out and do something . ''
It 's adults .
It 's children .
It 's adults and children together .
`` I ca n't even get an adult in a lesson right now , '' said Pat Doyle , who owns Fitzjoy Farm in Palos Park .
`` We 're adding more ( kids ) camps -- they keep coming back for more . ''
Suburban residents are rediscovering the surprisingly large number of stables throughout the area , many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most cases , instructors will have a minimum age for riders and the littlest ones can expect to be led around on the horse by an adult .
It is all about teaching them how to sit in the saddle , maintain balance and -- this is important -- learn how to steer and stop an animal that can weigh 1,000 pounds and has its own opinions .
Learning the basics of caring for a horse provides children , as well as adults , something other than the current stress of the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for an hour .
But there are other benefits , as well .
`` The biggest thing I say to all riders : Riding is a total body sport , it stretches muscles , strengthens core , and there 's an emotional release after riding .
I do n't think there 's anything else that does all of those things , '' said Lauren Schlesselman of Journey Hill Farm in Barrington .
Her stable even offers a mommy-and-me-style class ; it 's a Pony Pal camp for toddlers and their moms .
Her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ riding for a year -- with exceptional supervision and lots of helping hands , of course , she said .
Lesson barns have had to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions along with other businesses .
For the most part , though , they permit riders to go maskless if they want during riding time .
Horseback riders are almost always at least 6 feet apart -- if not more .
Masks generally need to go back on in an indoor arena -- and when in the barn aisles , owners said .
In addition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table for now .
Riders can expect to receive private or semiprivate instruction to make sure social distancing levels are maintained .
Horseback riding is providing the stress relief and relaxation that many people are looking for right now .
`` I 'm finding a lot of angry people .
At the store they 're frustrated , angry , zero patience , '' Pedersen said .
`` Horses force you to be a better human : you have to have patience , you have to use your head .
If you are mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be your friend .
`` They allow us to ride and work with them , not because we force them .
If you have a horse that 's your friend it 's on a mutual term .
There 's a lot of healing involved with horses . ''
As all lesson barns have COVID-19 measures in place , call before you visit so you are prepared .
Some facilities only train experienced riders .
Others specialize in beginners .
Minimum ages differ .
It is best to visit websites , check Facebook pages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the right facility for you .
• Sunset Knoll Riding Academy , ( 630 ) 327-3290 , Beginner to advanced saddleseat , Hunter on the flat , Western Pleasure , Basic Dressage , Min .
age : 4. www.facebook.com/SunsetKnollRidingAcademy/ • Willow Creek Farm , ( 630 ) 688-2113 , Specializing in AQHA All-Around Events , English Hunter/Jumper and Flat , Western Showmanship , Horsemanship and Trail , Min .
age : 5. facebook.com/groups/1541685945993592/

Pandemic inspires suburbanites to discover benefits of horseback riding
June Pedersen usually sees two or three new riders a month seeking beginner lessons at Castle Ridge Keep Horse Facility for an activity whose popularity has faded in recent years -- horseback riding.
In the past five months, since the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, that trend is reversing. A lot.
Pedersen is welcoming three or four new people each week now, making her one of the few business owners these days who can say their new clients have quadrupled.
Casual, relaxing trail rides are one of the best ways to enter the world of horseback riding and gauge whether it's an activity you'd like to continue. - Courtesy of Forest View Farms
"People are tired of being inside," the Crystal Lake stable owner said. "They're tired of being sequestered and socially distanced and they want to get out and do something."
It's adults. It's children. It's adults and children together.
"I can't even get an adult in a lesson right now," said Pat Doyle, who owns Fitzjoy Farm in Palos Park. "We're adding more (kids) camps -- they keep coming back for more."
Suburban residents are rediscovering the surprisingly large number of stables throughout the area, many of which offer lessons for beginners.
Where to start?
In most cases, instructors will have a minimum age for riders and the littlest ones can expect to be led around on the horse by an adult. It is all about teaching them how to sit in the saddle, maintain balance and -- this is important -- learn how to steer and stop an animal that can weigh 1,000 pounds and has its own opinions.
Learning the basics of caring for a horse provides children, as well as adults, something other than the current stress of the world to focus on -- even if just for an hour. But there are other benefits, as well.
James Schlesselman, only 2½, is a riding veteran of one year already atop his trusty steed, Tye Dye, at Journey Hill Farm in Barrington. - Courtesy of Lauren Schlesselman
"The biggest thing I say to all riders: Riding is a total body sport, it stretches muscles, strengthens core, and there's an emotional release after riding. I don't think there's anything else that does all of those things," said Lauren Schlesselman of Journey Hill Farm in Barrington.
Her stable even offers a mommy-and-me-style class; it's a Pony Pal camp for toddlers and their moms. Her 2½-year-old son, James, has been riding for a year -- with exceptional supervision and lots of helping hands, of course, she said.
Lesson barns have had to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions along with other businesses. For the most part, though, they permit riders to go maskless if they want during riding time. Horseback riders are almost always at least 6 feet apart -- if not more. Masks generally need to go back on in an indoor arena -- and when in the barn aisles, owners said.
In addition, large group lessons are off the table for now. Riders can expect to receive private or semiprivate instruction to make sure social distancing levels are maintained.
- Catherine Edman | Staff Photographer Hector Morataya, 14, of Chicago, takes one of his first riding lessons at Jaynesway Farms in Bartlett. Those new to riding, especially children, can expect to spend a few lessons with close assistance from instructors such as Abby Spike, of Streamwood, who is helping show him steering skills.
Horseback riding is providing the stress relief and relaxation that many people are looking for right now.
"I'm finding a lot of angry people. At the store they're frustrated, angry, zero patience," Pedersen said. "Horses force you to be a better human: you have to have patience, you have to use your head. If you are mean to a horse, they won't be your friend.
"They allow us to ride and work with them, not because we force them. If you have a horse that's your friend it's on a mutual term. There's a lot of healing involved with horses."
Suburban horse stables
As all lesson barns have COVID-19 measures in place, call before you visit so you are prepared. Some facilities only train experienced riders. Others specialize in beginners. Minimum ages differ. It is best to visit websites, check Facebook pages and then call to make sure it is the right facility for you.
Batavia
• Beau Cheval Stable, (630) 292-0135, English, Hunter/Jumper, Minimum age: 6. www.facebook.com/beaucheval.farm
Barrington
• Journey Hill Farm, (773) 799-7021, English, Hunter/Jumper, Mother/Child Camp. Min. age: 2. www.facebook.com/JourneyHillFarm/
Bartlett
• Sunset Hill Farm, (630) 649-2198, Western, English, Min. age 5. sunsethillfarm.wixsite.com/sunset-hill-farm
• Jaynesway Farms, (630) 483-1827, English, Hunter/Jumper, English on the Flat, Western, Min. age: 5. www.jayneswayfarms.com
Beecher
• Wild Ran Riding, (708) 280-0486, Western, Barrel Racing, Min. age: 5. www.facebook.com/pg/Wild-Ran-Riding-102538311091521/about/?ref=page_internal
Big Rock
• Sunset Knoll Riding Academy, (630) 327-3290, Beginner to advanced saddleseat, Hunter on the flat, Western Pleasure, Basic Dressage, Min. age: 4. www.facebook.com/SunsetKnollRidingAcademy/
Bolingbrook
• Windridge Farm, (630) 842-5545 English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 7. www.windridgefarmllc.com/lessons
Countryside
• Double J Riding Club, (708) 528-4674, English, Dressage, Jumping, Western, Homeschool Classes, Camps, Min. age: 4. doublejridingclub.com/riding-lessons/
Crete
• Hannaberry Farms, (773) 875-1118, English, Dressage, Eventing, Min. age: 6. www.hannaberryfarm.com/lessons
Crystal Lake
• Castle Ridge Keep Horse Facility, (815) 405-9424, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Western Pleasure, Driving, Eventing, Min. age: 3. castleridgekeep.com
• Dream Riders, (815) 788-1020, English, Western, Bareback, Therapeutic Riding. Min. age: 5. www.dreamriderstlc.com
Elburn
• Bull Run Equestrian Center, (630) 365-1376, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 7. www.facebook.com/BullRunEquestrianCenter/
Elgin
• Campton Hills Equestrian Center, (630) 417-9667, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 5. www.camptonhillsequestrian.com
• Dunham Woods, (847) 628-6339, English Hunter/Jumper, Equitation, Min. age: 8. www.dunhamwoodsfarm.com/
Grayslake
• Shorewood Acres, (847) 344-8373, Western, English, Min. age: 8. shorewoodacres.com
Hampshire
• Top Line Equestrian, (847) 464-4095, English, Hunter/Jumper, Horsemanship, Min. age: 5. topline-equestrian.com
• Tower Hill Stables, (847) 464-1616, English, Hunter/Jumper, Western, Dressage, Equitation, Gaited, Min. age: N/A. www.towerhillstables.net
Harvard
• Cripple Creek Ranch, (815) 943-4513, Western, Barrel Racing, Poles, Competitive Trail, Western Dressage, Roping, Working Equitation, Cow and Cowgirl Challenges, Min. age: N/A. www.ccrequinecenter.com
Hawthorn Woods
Creekside Farm (located at Indian Creek Farm), (847) 331-4765, Hunter/Jumper, lessons. rideatcreeksidefarm.com
Island Lake
• Timmermann's Ranch, (847) 526-8066, Western, English flat work, Drill Teams, Barrel Racing. Min. age: 6. timmermannsranch.com
Lake Forest
• Millennium Farm, (847) 833-4953, English Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 5. www.millenniumfarmltd.com
Lemont
• Kopping Farms, (630) 257-7271, AQHA/APHA All Around, Hunter/Jumper, Trail Rides, Equestrian Therapy, Min. age: N/A. facebook.com/KoppingFarms
Lockport
• The Legacy Ranch, (630) 601-8920, Traditional English/Western riding lessons, Corporate Team Building, Min. age: 6. www.thelegacyranch.org
Maple Park
• Over the Top Equine, (630) 853-4280, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Min. age: 5. www.overthetopequine.com
• Yakle Acres, (815) 739-4643, Western, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Min. age: 3. www.yakleacres.com
• Equestrian Events Stable, (630) 639-1093, Dressage, English, Hunter/Jumper, Working Equitation, Min. age: 3. equestrianeventstables.com
Marengo
• County Line Farm, (815) 354-3488, Western, English, Min. age: 3. www.facebook.com/CountyLineFarmLLC/
• Edgewater Equestrian, (815) 508-3650, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 4. www.facebook.com/edgewatereq/
• Glory Bound Rescue Ranch, (815) 388-2594, Horse/Animal Lover Classes, English, Western, Min. age: 8. www.gloryboundrr.org/
• Rockin Horse Farm, (815) 345-7302, English, Western, Horse care, Tacking, Min. age: 4. www.facebook.com/rockinhorsefarm1/
• Easy Ridin' (815) 901-4086, Western, Ranch, Min. age. 3. easyridin.com
Minooka
• Ever After Equestrian, (815) 693-8617, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 5. www.everafterequestrian.com
Morton Grove
• Glen Grove Equestrian Center, (847) 966-8032, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Pony Lessons, Min. age: N/A. www.glengroveequine.com/
Naperville
• Trillion Equestrian, (630) 800-8422, Western, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Equitation, Min. age: N/A. www.trillionequestrian.com
Oswego
• Camelot Farm, (630) 551-0145, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 6. www.camelotfarm.org
Palatine
• Palatine Stables, (847) 359-0009, English, Hunter/Jumper, Horsemanship, Min. age: 4. www.palatinestables.org/contact
Palos Park
• Fitzjoy Farm, (708) 361-7977, English and Western, Min. age. 7. www.fitzjoyfarm.com
Plainfield
• Soaring Eagle Stables, (630) 392-1395, Western, English, Min. age: 8. www.soaringeaglestables.com
Richmond
• Running Junction Stables, (815) 575-4945, Western Performance: Rodeo, Drill Team, Barrel Racing, Min. age: 5. www.facebook.com/groups/939569846516587/
• Heavenly Horses, (847) 867-6656, English, Hunter/Jumper, Western Pleasure. Min. age: 5. heavenlyhorses.biz
Spring Grove
• Meadowsweet Ranch, (815) 675-1177, English, Western, Horsemanship, Min. age: 4. meadowsweetranch.com
• Rip O Wind Farm, (847) 629-7507, English, Western, Min. age: 5. ripowindfarm.com
Sugar Grove
• Baythorne Farm, (630) 466-1599, English, Dressage, Eventing Min. age: N/A. facebook.com/BaythorneFarm
• Northstar Farm, (630) 448-2619, Western, English, Hunter/Jumper/Dressage, Min. age: N/A. northstarhorsefarm.com
Sycamore
• Willow Creek Farm, (630) 688-2113, Specializing in AQHA All-Around Events, English Hunter/Jumper and Flat, Western Showmanship, Horsemanship and Trail, Min. age: 5. facebook.com/groups/1541685945993592/
Tinley Park
• Forest View Farms, (708) 560-0306, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Western, Working Equitation, Driving, Trail Rides, Pony Lessons, Min. age: 5. www.fvfarms.com
Wauconda
• Foxcreek Stables, (312) 203-7241, English, Western, Jumping, Camps, Min. age: 6. dlehnig.wixsite.com/foxcreekstables
• Poets Hill Farm, (847) 715-8439, English, Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Min. age: 5. poetshillfarm.weebly.com
• Wedgewood Riding Center, (847) 526-8610, English, Western, Jumping, Team Roping, Trail Rides, Min. age: N/A.
Wayne
• Wayne Equestrian Center, (630) 797-5910, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 5. www.wayneequestriancenter.com
Woodstock
• Victorious Farms, (815) 245-0242, English, Hunter/Jumper, Min. age: 5. www.victoriousfarm.net


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-02--Glen Ellyn easing downtown parking limits as apartment project construction begins

Glen Ellyn is lifting parking restrictions around downtown before major construction begins on a controversial $ 40 million apartment development along a Main Street block .
The village will grant downtown visitors a free pass to commuter lots emptied by the plunge in Metra ridership during the coronavirus pandemic .
Some downtown business owners have expressed angst over construction disruptions compounding economic hardships from COVID-19 .
The village board will hold a special meeting Thursday to hear additional concerns from merchants .
The Main Street parking lot closed Tuesday as crews prep the site for the Apex 400 project .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ apartment building and a parking garage to replace the surface lot as part of a project that has faced legal challenges for nearly a year and a half .
To help ease parking woes , the village is promoting free , all-day customer parking in lots at Duane Street and Glenwood Avenue near Citibank , Main and the Prairie Path , and Duane and Forest Avenue near Marinella Italian Restaurant .
The lots provide more than 200 available spots within one block of Main Street businesses , Village President Diane McGinley said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have mainly been used for commuters , and we do n't normally advertise them as much as we plan to for people who are coming into town , '' McGinley said .
`` So I think in the beginning , it 's going to be a little bit of a shift , but then I think people are going to benefit from the plethora of available parking all within one block . ''
But some merchants are worried about the downtown parking strategy amid the ongoing construction of the Civic Center parking garage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recover from 11 weeks of COVID-19 closures .
Many restaurants and stores still have employees furloughed , shop owner Julie Spiller said .
`` I know of several businesses on our end of Main Street that are struggling and likely wo n't make it , '' Spiller said in a letter to the village board .
In response to questions over whether the village could delay the closure of the Main Street parking lot , officials say the developer now owns it .
`` That 's challenging to the developer who wants to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get the footings and the site graded and prepared , '' Village Manager Mark Franz said .
The planned two-story Apex 400 parking garage would include public parking on the first floor and residential spaces on the second floor .
GSP Development would convey back the first floor of the new structure to the village at the end of the project .
`` We 're contractually obligated to move forward with this , and we 're going to try to make the best of it , '' Franz told trustees Monday .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employee parking , including Civic Center users and construction workers , to the Metra lot at Park Boulevard and the Prairie Path to free up spaces on Forest and Hillside avenues for three-hour customer parking .
The village also is promoting parking on Phillips and Hillside avenues , between Main and Forest , and on Forest between Phillips and Duane for all businesses .
On a stretch of Main Street , the village will allow one-hour parking and curbside pickup from 5 to 8 p.m. , plus deliveries .
Near the construction zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help restaurants reeling from shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus .
The tent is tentatively set to remain in place until Nov. 2 .
That schedule and the parking plan are subject to change as businesses raise concerns , officials say .
`` We try to problem-solve and adjust on the fly , '' Franz said .
`` We 've been doing that really since the pandemic began .
We 're going to continue to do that as issues come up , so this plan will likely be tweaked @ @ @

Glen Ellyn easing downtown parking limits as apartment project construction begins
Glen Ellyn is lifting parking restrictions around downtown before major construction begins on a controversial $40 million apartment development along a Main Street block.
The village will grant downtown visitors a free pass to commuter lots emptied by the plunge in Metra ridership during the coronavirus pandemic.
Some downtown business owners have expressed angst over construction disruptions compounding economic hardships from COVID-19. The village board will hold a special meeting Thursday to hear additional concerns from merchants.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer The Main Street public parking spot in downtown Glen Ellyn closed on Tuesday.
The Main Street parking lot closed Tuesday as crews prep the site for the Apex 400 project. The developer plans to build a five-story apartment building and a parking garage to replace the surface lot as part of a project that has faced legal challenges for nearly a year and a half.
To help ease parking woes, the village is promoting free, all-day customer parking in lots at Duane Street and Glenwood Avenue near Citibank, Main and the Prairie Path, and Duane and Forest Avenue near Marinella Italian Restaurant.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer The redevelopment site at the former Giesche Shoes in downtown Glen Ellyn is targeted for apartments.
The lots provide more than 200 available spots within one block of Main Street businesses, Village President Diane McGinley said.
"Up until now, those areas have mainly been used for commuters, and we don't normally advertise them as much as we plan to for people who are coming into town," McGinley said. "So I think in the beginning, it's going to be a little bit of a shift, but then I think people are going to benefit from the plethora of available parking all within one block."
But some merchants are worried about the downtown parking strategy amid the ongoing construction of the Civic Center parking garage and as restaurants and retailers try to recover from 11 weeks of COVID-19 closures. Many restaurants and stores still have employees furloughed, shop owner Julie Spiller said.
"I know of several businesses on our end of Main Street that are struggling and likely won't make it," Spiller said in a letter to the village board.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer A rendering of the proposed redevelopment plan hangs on the fencing at the site of the former Giesche Shoes store in downtown Glen Ellyn.
In response to questions over whether the village could delay the closure of the Main Street parking lot, officials say the developer now owns it.
"That's challenging to the developer who wants to get this project started and needs to get the footings and the site graded and prepared," Village Manager Mark Franz said.
The planned two-story Apex 400 parking garage would include public parking on the first floor and residential spaces on the second floor. GSP Development would convey back the first floor of the new structure to the village at the end of the project.
"We're contractually obligated to move forward with this, and we're going to try to make the best of it," Franz told trustees Monday.
In addition, the village is shifting downtown employee parking, including Civic Center users and construction workers, to the Metra lot at Park Boulevard and the Prairie Path to free up spaces on Forest and Hillside avenues for three-hour customer parking.
A rendering shows a planned apartment complex in downtown Glen Ellyn. - Courtesy of the village of Glen Ellyn
The village also is promoting parking on Phillips and Hillside avenues, between Main and Forest, and on Forest between Phillips and Duane for all businesses.
On a stretch of Main Street, the village will allow one-hour parking and curbside pickup from 5 to 8 p.m., plus deliveries.
Near the construction zone is an outdoor dining tent set up to help restaurants reeling from shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The tent is tentatively set to remain in place until Nov. 2.
That schedule and the parking plan are subject to change as businesses raise concerns, officials say.
"We try to problem-solve and adjust on the fly," Franz said. "We've been doing that really since the pandemic began. We're going to continue to do that as issues come up, so this plan will likely be tweaked again."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--Vandals destroy Wheaton church's Black, gay solidarity signs

For five years , Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton has been home to two congregations -- one white , one Black .
Worshippers have shared the building off Wiesbrook Road , Palm Sunday brunches , Sunday communions and Christmas season festivities .
Now , they are sharing the pain of racism .
The progressive , white Hope Church 's attempts to show solidarity with its African American brethren from Bethel New Life Church through `` Black Lives Matter '' signs have been met with repeated acts of vandalism that church leaders view as hate crimes .
A `` Black Lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aug. 23 Kenosha police shooting of Jacob Blake was stolen .
A replacement sign posted Sunday affirming `` Black Dignity '' was `` chopped up , '' while another rainbow sign supporting gays was burned to the ground Monday , Hope Presbyterian Pastor Jay Moses said .
`` My community is heartbroken and shocked , '' Moses said of his 128-member congregation that has been a part of Wheaton for 50 years .
`` They are shocked that anybody in Wheaton would do this ... and they are heartbroken because they realize what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the burning cross .
It felt like the ( Ku Klux ) Klan had been there almost . ''
A similar case of `` Black Lives Matter '' signs being defaced occurred in August at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Arlington Heights .
Moses views this latest act of vandalism as an escalation from a previous graffiti incident on a solidarity board installed after the May 25 Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd so community members could write supportive messages .
At the time , another Black Lives Matter sign also was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to do is witness , '' Moses said .
`` We are choosing to be in solidarity with the African American community and we are having to walk their steps right now .
It 's an enlightening journey .
We have stepped out as a white church in support of Black dignity .
And now in some ways , we are being treated like what African Americans have been treated . ''
Since March , members of both congregations have been worshipping virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic , with only leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for its numerous churches , Wheaton is predominantly white ( 85 % ) , conservative and Republican .
Blacks constitute 4 % , and Latinos and Asians each make up 6 % of its population .
Bethel New Life 's 50 members hail from other suburbs , including Bolingbrook , St. Charles and Willowbrook , said pastor R. Keith Beauchamp , himself of Streamwood .
`` What is the community going to be like when we arrive back here ? ''
Beauchamp said Tuesday from Hope Church .
`` We want to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sometimes awkward .
We know there 's issues .
We know there are challenges .
We still have to love unconditionally .
We still have to forgive , and we have to move forward . ''
Beauchamp fears for his congregation , and for the safety of Hope Presbyterian 's members who took a bold step posting the signs .
`` It was courageous , but it does n't mean that people always appreciate your courage , '' he said .
`` We celebrated ( together ) the moment when it was put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down because we know what that means . ''
Leaders of both churches aim to come together in the coming days to figure out next steps and organize a vigil in support of the Black community .
`` It can be a transformative moment of self-understanding , of who we really are , '' Moses said .
`` It 's kind of a mirror .
Our mirror got shattered . ''

Vandals destroy Wheaton church's Black, gay solidarity signs
For five years, Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton has been home to two congregations -- one white, one Black.
Worshippers have shared the building off Wiesbrook Road, Palm Sunday brunches, Sunday communions and Christmas season festivities. Now, they are sharing the pain of racism.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Pastor Jay Moses, of Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, talks Tuesday about how vandals Monday destroyed signs supporting "Black Lives Matter" and gay pride on church property.
The progressive, white Hope Church's attempts to show solidarity with its African American brethren from Bethel New Life Church through "Black Lives Matter" signs have been met with repeated acts of vandalism that church leaders view as hate crimes.
A "Black Lives Matter" sign put up after the Aug. 23 Kenosha police shooting of Jacob Blake was stolen. A replacement sign posted Sunday affirming "Black Dignity" was "chopped up," while another rainbow sign supporting gays was burned to the ground Monday, Hope Presbyterian Pastor Jay Moses said.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Pastor Jay Moses, of Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, talks Tuesday about how vandals destroyed "Black Lives Matter" signs the church posted in solidarity with the African American community.
"My community is heartbroken and shocked," Moses said of his 128-member congregation that has been a part of Wheaton for 50 years. "They are shocked that anybody in Wheaton would do this ... and they are heartbroken because they realize what it signifies. It really felt like the burning cross. It felt like the (Ku Klux) Klan had been there almost."
A similar case of "Black Lives Matter" signs being defaced occurred in August at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Arlington Heights.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer R. Keith Beauchamp, pastor of Bethel New Life Church, right, and pastor Jay Moses, of Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, came together Tuesday to talk about the recent vandalism of signs posted in support of Black lives. The congregations of both churches share Hope Presbyterian's building for services.
Moses views this latest act of vandalism as an escalation from a previous graffiti incident on a solidarity board installed after the May 25 Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd so community members could write supportive messages. At the time, another Black Lives Matter sign also was stolen.
"What we are really trying to do is witness," Moses said. "We are choosing to be in solidarity with the African American community and we are having to walk their steps right now. It's an enlightening journey. We have stepped out as a white church in support of Black dignity. And now in some ways, we are being treated like what African Americans have been treated."
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer A white Wheaton church's attempts to show solidarity with the African American community through Black Lives Matter signs have been met with repeated acts of vandalism.
Since March, members of both congregations have been worshipping virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic, with only leaders tending to the church property.
Known for its numerous churches, Wheaton is predominantly white (85%), conservative and Republican. Blacks constitute 4%, and Latinos and Asians each make up 6% of its population.
Bethel New Life's 50 members hail from other suburbs, including Bolingbrook, St. Charles and Willowbrook, said pastor R. Keith Beauchamp, himself of Streamwood.
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer Encouraging remarks have been written in chalk on the sidewalk in front of Hope Presbyterian Church in Wheaton. Church leaders aimed to show solidarity with the African American community through Black Lives Matter signs that were vandalized Monday.
"What is the community going to be like when we arrive back here?" Beauchamp said Tuesday from Hope Church. "We want to live among and share, but it's sometimes awkward. We know there's issues. We know there are challenges. We still have to love unconditionally. We still have to forgive, and we have to move forward."
Beauchamp fears for his congregation, and for the safety of Hope Presbyterian's members who took a bold step posting the signs.
"It was courageous, but it doesn't mean that people always appreciate your courage," he said. "We celebrated (together) the moment when it was put up and cried when it was torn down because we know what that means."
- Brian Hill | Staff Photographer A white Wheaton church's attempts to show solidarity with the African American community through Black Lives Matter signs have been met with repeated acts of vandalism that church officials view as hate crimes. Here, one of the church's signs supporting gays was burned.
Leaders of both churches aim to come together in the coming days to figure out next steps and organize a vigil in support of the Black community.
"It can be a transformative moment of self-understanding, of who we really are," Moses said. "It's kind of a mirror. Our mirror got shattered."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-02--Naming rights Lake County Fairgrounds' Event Center for sale

Sponsors for activities at the Lake County Fairgrounds are common , but for the first time , the association that runs the facility is soliciting long-term naming rights for its signature building .
Interested parties are being sought to submit written proposals and tour by appointment the 85,000-square-foot multipurpose Event Center , the centerpiece of the fairgrounds at Peterson and Midlothian roads in Grayslake .
The 92nd annual Lake County Fair and all other live events were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic , but while income is important , officials say it is n't the impetus for the call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talked about it for at least seven years , '' said Jon Brodzik Jr. , general manager and a former member of the not-for-profit association 's board of directors .
`` It 's one of those things we kicked around but never had the time or opportunity to do it . ''
The Event Center was built in 2008 as the fair prepared to move from its longtime home at routes 45 and 120 in Grayslake .
It is set back from Peterson Road but is recognizable from a distance by an expansive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center hosts more than 500,000 annual visitors for a variety of branded events , as well as antique , home and garden , and dog shows .
Inside , the Expo Hall is described as `` social-distance friendly '' and flexible .
Large vehicles , watercraft and industrial equipment can be driven inside to accommodate car , RV and boat shows , swap meets , sporting events and concerts , according to bidding information .
Also , two event center meeting rooms can be used separately or combined for socially distanced meetings and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During normal operations , the event center is booked nearly every weekend year-round , Brodzik said .
But because of state mandates , only 50 people are allowed inside , so activities have been on hold .
`` Most of the people who rent the site have more than 50 vendors .
We 're in limbo at the moment , '' he said .
Meanwhile , work continues on maintenance and other projects .
Known collectively as the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center , the property is about 120 acres , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That provides space and parking for outdoor music festivals , farmers markets , obstacle fun runs and other events , according to the fair association .
A grandstand arena seats up to 5,000 and can be used for rodeos , motor sports or equestrian events .
Also , a Show Barn is used for weddings , family reunions and corporate events .
Brodzik said the call for corporate sponsorship was approved at the July board meeting .
Bids are due by 2 p.m. Monday , Oct. 4 .
A contract will be awarded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of value and the best interest '' of the fair association as determined by the board of directors .
`` We did n't set any minimums on anything , '' he said .
`` We 're testing the waters , '' he added .
`` Hopefully , it 's a Lake County company . ''
Interested parties should call ( 847 ) 680-7200 or email shannon @ lcfair.com and use the `` Invitation to Bid '' subject line .
Visit www.lcfair.com .

Naming rights for Lake County Fairgrounds' Event Center for sale
The Lake County Fair Association is seeking written proposals for naming rights of the Event Center at its facility in Grayslake. Courtesy of Lake County Fair Association
Sponsors for activities at the Lake County Fairgrounds are common, but for the first time, the association that runs the facility is soliciting long-term naming rights for its signature building.
Interested parties are being sought to submit written proposals and tour by appointment the 85,000-square-foot multipurpose Event Center, the centerpiece of the fairgrounds at Peterson and Midlothian roads in Grayslake.
The 92nd annual Lake County Fair and all other live events were canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, but while income is important, officials say it isn't the impetus for the call for naming rights.
"We've talked about it for at least seven years," said Jon Brodzik Jr., general manager and a former member of the not-for-profit association's board of directors.
"It's one of those things we kicked around but never had the time or opportunity to do it."
The Event Center was built in 2008 as the fair prepared to move from its longtime home at routes 45 and 120 in Grayslake.
It is set back from Peterson Road but is recognizable from a distance by an expansive green roof. As advertised, the center hosts more than 500,000 annual visitors for a variety of branded events, as well as antique, home and garden, and dog shows.
Inside, the Expo Hall is described as "social-distance friendly" and flexible. Large vehicles, watercraft and industrial equipment can be driven inside to accommodate car, RV and boat shows, swap meets, sporting events and concerts, according to bidding information.
Also, two event center meeting rooms can be used separately or combined for socially distanced meetings and private events for up to 180 people.
During normal operations, the event center is booked nearly every weekend year-round, Brodzik said. But because of state mandates, only 50 people are allowed inside, so activities have been on hold.
"Most of the people who rent the site have more than 50 vendors. We're in limbo at the moment," he said.
Meanwhile, work continues on maintenance and other projects.
Known collectively as the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, the property is about 120 acres, including 12 acres of paved surface. That provides space and parking for outdoor music festivals, farmers markets, obstacle fun runs and other events, according to the fair association.
A grandstand arena seats up to 5,000 and can be used for rodeos, motor sports or equestrian events. Also, a Show Barn is used for weddings, family reunions and corporate events.
Brodzik said the call for corporate sponsorship was approved at the July board meeting. Bids are due by 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 4. A contract will be awarded within 30 days on the "determination of value and the best interest" of the fair association as determined by the board of directors.
"We didn't set any minimums on anything," he said.
"We're testing the waters," he added. "Hopefully, it's a Lake County company."
Interested parties should call (847) 680-7200 or email shannon@lcfair.com and use the "Invitation to Bid" subject line. Visit www.lcfair.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-01--As of Sept. 1, COVID-19 case counts per county, per ZIP code

Since the outbreak began , there have been 111,654 COVID-19 cases in the suburbs as of Tuesday .
That 's 47 % of the state 's total , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health .
There have been 3,975 deaths in the suburbs , representing 49 % of all deaths in Illinois .
Cook County • As of Tuesday , suburban Cook County had 55,551 cases and 2,186 deaths , according to the state .
In Chicago : 71,441 cases and 2,879 fatalities .
• Top suburb case counts as of Tuesday from Cook County 's health department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examiner 's office : 2,208 cases and 106 deaths in Des Plaines , 1,109 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine , 1,048 cases and 70 deaths in Wheeling , 943 cases and 21 deaths in Schaumburg , 934 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights , 926 cases and 25 deaths in Streamwood , 892 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect , 850 cases and 51 deaths in Glenview , 745 cases and 29 deaths in Hoffman Estates , 674 cases and 11 deaths in Hanover Park ( Cook County portion ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elk Grove Village , 492 cases and 14 deaths in Rolling Meadows , 502 cases and 42 deaths in Northbrook , 350 cases and 9 deaths in Prospect Heights , and 194 cases and 20 deaths in Buffalo Grove ( Cook County portion ) .
DuPage County • The county reported 14,632 cases and 534 deaths as of Tuesday .
• Top counts : 1,095 cases and 9 deaths in Addison , 1,030 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago , 1,006 cases and 39 deaths in Naperville ( DuPage County portion ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glendale Heights , 797 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream , 717 cases and 28 deaths in Lombard , 661 cases and 15 deaths in Bensenville , 671 cases and 44 deaths in Elmhurst , 634 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora ( DuPage County portion ) , 589 cases and 23 deaths in Wheaton , 463 cases and 2 deaths in Glen Ellyn , 433 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park , 374 cases and 3 deaths in Hanover Park ( DuPage County portion ) .
Lake County • The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on its website Tuesday .
• Most recent top counts : 3,565 to 3,569 in Waukegan , 940 to 944 in Round Lake Beach , 565 to 569 in Mundelein , 475 to 479 in Gurnee , 400 to 404 in Round Lake , 275 to 279 in Lake Zurich , 275 to 279 in Vernon Hills , 265 to 269 in Buffalo Grove ( Lake County portion ) , 230 to 234 in Libertyville , 215 to 219 in Wauconda , 210 to 214 in Grayslake .
Kane County • The county @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its website Tuesday .
• Top counts : 4,271 cases in Aurora ( Kane County portion ) , 2,552 in Elgin ( Kane County portion ) , 1,074 in Carpentersville , 837 in St. Charles , 531 in South Elgin , 373 in Geneva , 305 in North Aurora , 294 in Batavia , 119 in Hampshire , 119 in Gilberts and 94 in Algonquin ( Kane County portion ) .
McHenry County • 3,866 cases and 115 deaths , according to the health department Tuesday .
Will County • 11,692 cases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cases per town include 837 in Naperville ( Will County portion ) and 141 in Aurora ( Will County portion ) .

As of Sept. 1, COVID-19 case counts per county, per ZIP code
Interactive mapSuburbs' portion
Since the outbreak began, there have been 111,654 COVID-19 cases in the suburbs as of Tuesday. That's 47% of the state's total, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
There have been 3,975 deaths in the suburbs, representing 49% of all deaths in Illinois.
Cook County• As of Tuesday, suburban Cook County had 55,551 cases and 2,186 deaths, according to the state. In Chicago: 71,441 cases and 2,879 fatalities.
• Top suburb case counts as of Tuesday from Cook County's health department and as of Friday from the medical examiner's office: 2,208 cases and 106 deaths in Des Plaines, 1,109 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine, 1,048 cases and 70 deaths in Wheeling, 943 cases and 21 deaths in Schaumburg, 934 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights, 926 cases and 25 deaths in Streamwood, 892 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect, 850 cases and 51 deaths in Glenview, 745 cases and 29 deaths in Hoffman Estates, 674 cases and 11 deaths in Hanover Park (Cook County portion), 517 cases and 39 deaths in Elk Grove Village, 492 cases and 14 deaths in Rolling Meadows, 502 cases and 42 deaths in Northbrook, 350 cases and 9 deaths in Prospect Heights, and 194 cases and 20 deaths in Buffalo Grove (Cook County portion).
DuPage County• The county reported 14,632 cases and 534 deaths as of Tuesday.
• Top counts: 1,095 cases and 9 deaths in Addison, 1,030 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago, 1,006 cases and 39 deaths in Naperville (DuPage County portion), 891 cases and 12 deaths in Glendale Heights, 797 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream, 717 cases and 28 deaths in Lombard, 661 cases and 15 deaths in Bensenville, 671 cases and 44 deaths in Elmhurst, 634 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora (DuPage County portion), 589 cases and 23 deaths in Wheaton, 463 cases and 2 deaths in Glen Ellyn, 433 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park, 374 cases and 3 deaths in Hanover Park (DuPage County portion).
Lake County • The county listed 14,649 cases and 448 deaths on its website Tuesday.
• Most recent top counts: 3,565 to 3,569 in Waukegan, 940 to 944 in Round Lake Beach, 565 to 569 in Mundelein, 475 to 479 in Gurnee, 400 to 404 in Round Lake, 275 to 279 in Lake Zurich, 275 to 279 in Vernon Hills, 265 to 269 in Buffalo Grove (Lake County portion), 230 to 234 in Libertyville, 215 to 219 in Wauconda, 210 to 214 in Grayslake.
Kane County• The county confirmed 11,326 cases with 313 deaths on its website Tuesday.
• Top counts: 4,271 cases in Aurora (Kane County portion), 2,552 in Elgin (Kane County portion), 1,074 in Carpentersville, 837 in St. Charles, 531 in South Elgin, 373 in Geneva, 305 in North Aurora, 294 in Batavia, 119 in Hampshire, 119 in Gilberts and 94 in Algonquin (Kane County portion).
McHenry County• 3,866 cases and 115 deaths, according to the health department Tuesday.
Will County• 11,692 cases and 362 deaths as of Tuesday.
• Cases per town include 837 in Naperville (Will County portion) and 141 in Aurora (Will County portion).


dailyheraldchicago--2020-09-02--2,128 new cases, and Pritzker warns of Labor Day COVID-19 infections as regions see spikes

As COVID-19 cases rose by 2,128 on Wednesday , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker urged residents to be cautious about social gatherings during the coming Labor Day holiday weekend .
`` You 're going to let your guard down because you 'll be gathering with people you know , but that 's exactly where spread is occurring , '' he warned .
`` The reality is you do n't know where everybody who 's there has been , and unless you maintain social distance and are mindful about wearing masks , there can be -- and has been -- a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nine of the state 's 11 regions have seen increases in the average infection rates over the past week , including four regions where the increase amounted to more than one full percentage point .
The admonition from the governor comes as state health officials announced Wednesday that 27 more Illinois residents have died from COVID-19 , bringing the state 's death toll from the virus to 8,091 .
Thirteen of the deaths were in Chicago and the collar counties , and 14 were downstate .
Since the outbreak began , 238,643 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new infections , the state 's seven-day rate of positive test results stands at 4.5 % , the highest level since early June .
However , Illinois Department of Public Health officials acknowledged problems collecting some test data over the past few days , which has affected the number of test results the state agency is reporting .
Pritzker warned residents to remain vigilant about washing hands , wearing masks and maintaining social distance , or they could see restrictions on businesses and gatherings that other parts of the state have already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ East region near St. Louis and the region containing Will and Kankakee counties -- are under `` enhanced mitigation efforts '' intended to help lower infection rates that exceed 8 % .
Those restrictions include reduced service hours for many businesses , a ban on indoor dining and bar service , and limits on gathering sizes to 25 people or less .
`` Let me remind you that people are dying every day from this horrible virus , '' Pritzker said .
`` And thousands who have recovered are still suffering from life-threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported 83 more people were hospitalized with COVID-19 Tuesday than the previous day , with 1,596 patients now being treated in hospitals throughout the state for the infection .
Of those hospitalized , 347 are in intensive care .
The state has reported three straight days of increased hospitalization counts for patients with the virus .
COVID-19 patients are taking up 4.6 % of the state 's hospital beds , according to IDPH figures .
At the height of the pandemic in late April though , COVID-19 patients were taking up nearly 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During his news conference , Pritzker also urged residents to participate in the census in order to ensure better federal funding and representation .
The governor also took a swipe at Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan , a fellow Democrat , regarding the empaneling of a special legislative committee to investigate Madigan 's dealings with ComEd , saying perhaps the committee will `` actually get some of those answers '' to questions Madigan has avoided answering .
Pritzker also spoke about President Donald Trump 's visit to Kenosha Tuesday , calling it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president is looking for ways to `` sow division . ''

Pritzker warns of Labor Day COVID-19 infections as regions see spikes
Gov. J.B. Pritzker urges Illinoisans to take precautions against spreading COVID-19 as they take part in holiday events this coming Labor Day weekend. Courtesy of Blueroomstream.com
As COVID-19 cases rose by 2,128 on Wednesday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker urged residents to be cautious about social gatherings during the coming Labor Day holiday weekend.
"You're going to let your guard down because you'll be gathering with people you know, but that's exactly where spread is occurring," he warned. "The reality is you don't know where everybody who's there has been, and unless you maintain social distance and are mindful about wearing masks, there can be -- and has been -- a significant amount of spread."
Pritzker noted nine of the state's 11 regions have seen increases in the average infection rates over the past week, including four regions where the increase amounted to more than one full percentage point.
The admonition from the governor comes as state health officials announced Wednesday that 27 more Illinois residents have died from COVID-19, bringing the state's death toll from the virus to 8,091.
Thirteen of the deaths were in Chicago and the collar counties, and 14 were downstate.
Since the outbreak began, 238,643 people have been infected in Illinois.
With the new infections, the state's seven-day rate of positive test results stands at 4.5%, the highest level since early June. However, Illinois Department of Public Health officials acknowledged problems collecting some test data over the past few days, which has affected the number of test results the state agency is reporting.
Pritzker warned residents to remain vigilant about washing hands, wearing masks and maintaining social distance, or they could see restrictions on businesses and gatherings that other parts of the state have already experienced.
Two regions -- the Metro East region near St. Louis and the region containing Will and Kankakee counties -- are under "enhanced mitigation efforts" intended to help lower infection rates that exceed 8%. Those restrictions include reduced service hours for many businesses, a ban on indoor dining and bar service, and limits on gathering sizes to 25 people or less.
"Let me remind you that people are dying every day from this horrible virus," Pritzker said. "And thousands who have recovered are still suffering from life-threatening pulmonary and cardiac symptoms."
IDPH reported 83 more people were hospitalized with COVID-19 Tuesday than the previous day, with 1,596 patients now being treated in hospitals throughout the state for the infection. Of those hospitalized, 347 are in intensive care.
The state has reported three straight days of increased hospitalization counts for patients with the virus.
COVID-19 patients are taking up 4.6% of the state's hospital beds, according to IDPH figures. At the height of the pandemic in late April though, COVID-19 patients were taking up nearly 16% of the state's hospital beds.
During his news conference, Pritzker also urged residents to participate in the census in order to ensure better federal funding and representation.
The governor also took a swipe at Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan, a fellow Democrat, regarding the empaneling of a special legislative committee to investigate Madigan's dealings with ComEd, saying perhaps the committee will "actually get some of those answers" to questions Madigan has avoided answering.
Pritzker also spoke about President Donald Trump's visit to Kenosha Tuesday, calling it a "political stunt" where the president is looking for ways to "sow division."