dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Pfizer seeking emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine in U.S.

Pfizer said Friday it is asking U.S. regulators to allow emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine , starting the clock on a process that could bring limited first shots as early as next month and eventually an end to the pandemic -- but not until after a long , hard winter .
The action comes days after Pfizer Inc. and its German partner BioNTech announced that its vaccine appears 95 % effective at preventing mild to severe COVID-19 disease in a large , ongoing study .
The companies said that protection plus a good safety record means the vaccine should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Food and Drug Administration can grant before the final testing is fully complete .
In addition to Friday 's FDA submission , they have already started `` rolling '' applications in Europe and the U.K. and intend to submit similar information soon .
`` Our work to deliver a safe and effective vaccine has never been more urgent , '' Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement .
With the coronavirus surging around the U.S. and the world , the pressure is on for regulators to make a speedy decision .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Dr. Anthony Fauci , the top U.S. infectious disease expert said on the eve of Pfizer 's announcement , adding that it 's too early to abandon masks and other protective measures .
`` We need to actually double down on the public health measures as we 're waiting for that help to come . ''
Friday 's filing would set off a chain of events as the FDA and its independent advisers debate if the shots are ready .
If so , still another government group will have to decide how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to anxiously awaiting Americans .
How much vaccine is available and when is a moving target , but initial supplies will be scarce and rationed .
Globally , Pfizer has estimated it could have 50 million doses available by year 's end .
About 25 million may become available for U.S. use in December , 30 million in January and 35 million more in February and March , according to information presented to the National Academy of Medicine this week .
Recipients will need two doses , three weeks apart .
Not far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine .
Its early data suggests the shots are as strong as Pfizer 's , and that company expects to also seek emergency authorization within weeks .
Here 's what happens next : The public 's first chance to see how strong the evidence really is will come in early December at a public meeting of the FDA 's scientific advisers .
So far , what 's known is based only on statements from Pfizer and BioNTech .
Of 170 infections detected to date , only eight were among people who 'd received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gotten a dummy shot .
On the safety side , the companies cites results from 38,000 study participants who 've been tracked for two months after their second dose .
That 's a milestone FDA set because historically , vaccine side effects do n't crop up later than that .
`` We 'll drill down on these data , '' said FDA adviser Dr. Paul Offit of the Children 's Hospital of Philadelphia .
Think of it like science on trial .
A few days before the meeting , the FDA will release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the stage for the advisers ' daylong debate about any signs of safety concerns and how the new vaccine technology works before rendering a verdict .
They 'll recommend not just whether FDA should allow broader use of the vaccine generally but if so , for whom .
For example , is there enough proof the vaccine works as well for older , sicker adults as for younger , healthier people ?
There 's still no guarantee .
`` We do n't know what that vote 's going to be , '' said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EMERGENCY USE IS N'T THE SAME AS FULL APPROVAL If there 's an emergency green light , `` that vaccine is still deemed investigational .
It 's not approved yet , '' Dr. Marion Gruber , chief of FDA 's vaccine office , told the National Academy of Medicine this week .
That means anyone offered an emergency vaccination must get a `` fact sheet '' describing potential benefits and risks before going through with the shot , she said .
There will be a lot of unknowns .
For example , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who developed symptoms and then were tested for the virus .
Can the vaccinated get infected but have no symptoms , able to spread the virus ?
How long does protection last ?
That 's why the 44,000-person study needs to keep running -- something difficult considering ethically , participants given dummy shots at some point must be offered real vaccine , complicating the search for answers .
And at least for now , pregnant women wo n't qualify because they were n't studied .
Pfizer only recently began testing the vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A decision on Pfizer 's vaccine wo n't affect other COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the pipeline , which will be judged separately .
Brewing vaccine is more complex than typical drug manufacturing , yet the millionth dose to roll out of Pfizer 's Kalamazoo , Michigan , factory must be the same purity and potency as every dose before and after .
That means the FDA decision is n't just based on study data , but on its determination that the vaccine is being made correctly .
The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine -- and Moderna @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technology .
They do n't contain the actual coronavirus .
Instead , they 're made with a piece of genetic code for the `` spike '' protein that studs the virus .
That messenger RNA , or mRNA , instructs the body to make some harmless spike protein , training immune cells to recognize it if the real virus eventually comes along .
Another government group -- advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention -- decides who is first in line for scarce doses .
Health and Human Services Secretary Alex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be made at the same time as FDA 's .
The Trump administration 's Operation Warp Speed has worked with states to line up how many doses they 'd need to cover the populations offered vaccine first .
Pfizer will ship those supplies as ordered by the states -- only after FDA gives the OK. Company projections of how much it will ship each month are just predictions , Baylor warned .
`` It 's not like a pizza , '' he said .
Manufacturing is so complex that `` you do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute 's Department of Science Education .
The AP is solely responsible for all content .

Pfizer, BioNTech seek emergency use of COVID-19 shots in US
Pfizer announced Wednesday more results in its ongoing coronavirus vaccine study that suggest the shots are 95% effective a month after the first dose. Associated Press/Nov. 9, 2020
Pfizer formally asked U.S. regulators Friday to allow emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine, starting the clock on a process that could bring limited first shots as early as next month and eventually an end to the pandemic -- but not until after a long, hard winter.
The action comes days after Pfizer Inc. and its German partner BioNTech announced that its vaccine appears 95% effective at preventing mild to severe COVID-19 disease in a large, ongoing study.
The companies said that protection plus a good safety record means the vaccine should qualify for emergency use authorization, something the Food and Drug Administration can grant before the final testing is fully complete. In addition to the FDA submission, they have already started "rolling" applications in Europe and the U.K. and intend to submit similar information soon.
With the coronavirus surging around the U.S. and the world, the pressure is on for regulators to make a speedy decision.
"Help is on the way," Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert said on the eve of Pfizer's announcement, adding that it's too early to abandon masks and other protective measures. "We need to actually double down on the public health measures as we're waiting for that help to come."
Friday's filing sets off a chain of events as the FDA and its independent advisers debate if the shots are ready. If so, still another government group will have to decide how the initial limited supplies are rationed out to anxiously awaiting Americans.
How much vaccine is available and when is a moving target, but initial supplies will be scarce and rationed. Globally, Pfizer has estimated it could have 50 million doses available by year's end.
About 25 million may become available for U.S. use in December, 30 million in January and 35 million more in February and March, according to information presented to the National Academy of Medicine this week. Recipients will need two doses, three weeks apart. The U.S. government has a contract to buy millions of Pfizer-BioNTech doses, as well as other candidates than pan out, and has promised shots will be free.
Not far behind is competitor Moderna Inc.'s COVID-19 vaccine. Its early data suggests the shots are as strong as Pfizer's, and that company expects to also seek emergency authorization within weeks.
Here's what happens next:
MAKING THE DATA PUBLIC
The public's first chance to see how strong the evidence really is will come in early December at a public meeting of the FDA's scientific advisers.
So far, what's known is based only on statements from Pfizer and BioNTech. Of 170 infections detected to date, only eight were among people who'd received the actual vaccine and the rest had gotten a dummy shot. On the safety side, the companies cite results from 38,000 study participants who've been tracked for two months after their second dose. That's a milestone FDA set because historically, vaccine side effects don't crop up later than that.
"We'll drill down on these data," said FDA adviser Dr. Paul Offit of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Think of it like science on trial. A few days before the meeting, the FDA will release its own internal analysis. That sets the stage for the advisers' daylong debate about any signs of safety concerns and how the new vaccine technology works before rendering a verdict.
They'll recommend not just whether FDA should allow broader use of the vaccine generally but if so, for whom. For example, is there enough proof the vaccine works as well for older, sicker adults as for younger, healthier people?
There's still no guarantee. "We don't know what that vote's going to be," said former FDA vaccine chief Norman Baylor.
EMERGENCY USE ISN'T THE SAME AS FULL APPROVAL
If there's an emergency green light, "that vaccine is still deemed investigational. It's not approved yet," Dr. Marion Gruber, chief of FDA's vaccine office, told the National Academy of Medicine this week.
That means anyone offered an emergency vaccination must get a "fact sheet" describing potential benefits and risks before going through with the shot, she said.
There will be a lot of unknowns. For example, the 95% protection rate is based on people who developed symptoms and then were tested for the virus. Can the vaccinated get infected but have no symptoms, able to spread the virus? How long does protection last?
That's why the 44,000-person study needs to keep running -- something difficult considering ethically, participants given dummy shots at some point must be offered real vaccine, complicating the search for answers.
"I'm curious," said Barry Colvin, 52, of White Plains, New York, who is taking part in that study at NYU Langone Health.
But he's not in a great hurry to find out which group he's in. "You need to hang in there for a while to understand and answer a lot of the other questions that remain unknown."
Additionally at least for now, pregnant women won't qualify because they weren't studied. Pfizer only recently began testing the vaccine in children as young as 12.
A decision on Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine won't affect other COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the pipeline, which will be judged separately.
MANUFACTURING
Brewing vaccine is more complex than typical drug manufacturing, yet the millionth dose to roll out of Pfizer's Kalamazoo, Michigan, factory must be the same purity and potency as every dose before and after.
That means the FDA decision isn't just based on study data, but on its determination that the vaccine is being made correctly.
The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine -- and Moderna's shots -- are made with new technology. They don't contain the actual coronavirus. Instead, they're made with a piece of genetic code for the "spike" protein that studs the virus.
That messenger RNA, or mRNA, instructs the body to make some harmless spike protein, training immune cells to recognize it if the real virus eventually comes along.
GETTING INTO PEOPLE'S ARMS
Another government group -- advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention -- decides who is first in line for scarce doses. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said he hopes that decision can be made at the same time as FDA's.
The Trump administration's Operation Warp Speed has worked with states to line up how many doses they'd need to cover the populations offered vaccine first.
Pfizer will ship those supplies as ordered by the states -- only after FDA gives the OK.
Company projections of how much it will ship each month are just predictions, Baylor warned.
"It's not like a pizza," he said. Manufacturing is so complex that "you don't necessarily end up with what you thought."
AP video journalist Kathy Young contributed to this report.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-19--New statewide network helps get marijuana convictions expunged

Illinois ' legalization of cannabis earlier this year means people with arrests or convictions for lower-level marijuana offenses can have their records expunged .
While misdemeanor arrests ( for the possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana or the sale of up to 10 grams ) that did not result in conviction are eligible for automatic expungement through the Illinois State Police , other records require more effort .
That 's where New Leaf Illinois comes in .
Funded by in part by taxes generated from the sale of legal marijuana , New Leaf is a network of 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A project of the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation , New Leaf launched Thursday to provide free legal advice to those seeking to erase marijuana convictions from their records .
The idea is to help people start fresh , especially `` Black and brown people who 've been disproportionately penalized '' by the criminalization of marijuana , Gray Mateo-Harris , a labor and employment attorney and an Illinois Equal Justice Foundation board member , said during a news conference Thursday .
Legal aid organizations participating in the New Leaf network include : Evanston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Illinois Legal Aid Online , Cabrini Green Legal Aid , the Greater Chicago Legal Clinic and First Defense Legal Aid , among others .
`` This is a starting point , '' said state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth , a Peoria Democrat and an expungement advocate who described it as a `` life-changing tool . ''
About 770,000 records are eligible for expungement , according to Illinois Equal Justice Foundation representatives who note that number refers to records , not individuals , because some people might have more than one marijuana-related charge .
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at ( 885 ) 963-9532 or fill out a form at newleafillinois.org .
A legal aid representative will evaluate the applicant 's eligibility and contact him or her .
Legal services are free for those who qualify .
Those whose income level does n't qualify them for free assistance will receive referrals for legal services .

New statewide network helps get marijuana convictions expunged
New Leaf, a network of 20 legal aid organizations, provides free legal advice to those seeking to erase marijuana convictions from their records. Associated Press file photo
Illinois' legalization of cannabis earlier this year means people with arrests or convictions for lower-level marijuana offenses can have their records expunged.
While misdemeanor arrests (for the possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana or the sale of up to 10 grams) that did not result in conviction are eligible for automatic expungement through the Illinois State Police, other records require more effort. That's where New Leaf Illinois comes in.
Funded by in part by taxes generated from the sale of legal marijuana, New Leaf is a network of 20 legal aid organizations from around the state. A project of the Illinois Equal Justice Foundation, New Leaf launched Thursday to provide free legal advice to those seeking to erase marijuana convictions from their records.
The idea is to help people start fresh, especially "Black and brown people who've been disproportionately penalized" by the criminalization of marijuana, Gray Mateo-Harris, a labor and employment attorney and an Illinois Equal Justice Foundation board member, said during a news conference Thursday.
Legal aid organizations participating in the New Leaf network include: Evanston's Moran Center for Youth Advocacy, Illinois Legal Aid Online, Cabrini Green Legal Aid, the Greater Chicago Legal Clinic and First Defense Legal Aid, among others.
"This is a starting point," said state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, a Peoria Democrat and an expungement advocate who described it as a "life-changing tool."
About 770,000 records are eligible for expungement, according to Illinois Equal Justice Foundation representatives who note that number refers to records, not individuals, because some people might have more than one marijuana-related charge.
Those seeking expungement assistance can call New Leaf at (885) 963-9532 or fill out a form at newleafillinois.org. A legal aid representative will evaluate the applicant's eligibility and contact him or her. Legal services are free for those who qualify. Those whose income level doesn't qualify them for free assistance will receive referrals for legal services.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Suburban towns find a way to keep the season jolly with tree lightings

Community tree lightings , for many years a traditional way to kick off the holiday season , look different this year because of the pandemic .
Some have adapted to be drive-through or socially distant events ; others will be held virtually , and some have canceled altogether .
This list was current at press time , but plans may change on short notice ; we recommend checking websites and calling ahead to verify events .
Algonquin : The annual Miracle on Main tree-lighting ceremony is canceled , but the village is offering alternative holiday enjoyment .
There is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' where families can schedule a Zoom meeting with Santa and Mrs. Claus , as well as an Algonquin Holiday Express to see them from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday , Dec. 5 , at Jacobs High School .
Visit algonquin.org/egov/documents/1603136025_06285.pdf .
Antioch : The traditional parade and tree-lighting have been canceled .
The parks department is planning a drive-through Santa event .
Visit www.antioch.il.gov/departments/parks-department .
Arlington Heights : The village and park district are recording a virtual tree-lighting that will be shown on their websites and social media platforms , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The video will be released online prior to the traditional date of the Friday after Thanksgiving .
Visit vah.com .
Bartlett : 7 p.m. Friday , Dec. 4 .
A public event will not be held ; the village is working on plans to stream the tree-lighting virtually .
www.village.bartlett.il.us .
Barrington : 5 p.m. Saturday , Dec. 5 .
There will be a virtual tree-lighting broadcast on the village 's YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/UCJ9e3NNaN0FOG8SZ9TpsEYQ/videos .
The tree will be lit by Rollin Potter , cultural director for Barrington 's White House , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bensenville : 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday , Nov. 22 , `` Holiday Tree & Lights Spectacular , '' starting north at Center Street from Memorial Drive .
The traditional Holiday Magic celebration has been reconfigured as a free , self-guided driving tour featuring decorated Bensenville homes and a holiday light display along Center Street .
Donations are encouraged for the Bensenville Food Pantry .
Visit bensenville.il.us .
Batavia : 5 p.m. Sunday , Nov. 29 , on Batavia Access Television 's television channel and YouTube channel .
The in-person festivities are canceled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceremony will be streamed online .
There will be an address by Mayor Jeff Schielke , a visit from Santa Claus , and highlights from Christmas Tree Lane .
Visit Bataviaparks.org .
Campton Hills : 6 p.m. Saturday , Nov. 28 , throughout the village .
The Campton Hills Community Relations Commission announced it will have a lighting ceremony without a crowd .
The village is encouraging businesses and residents to light up the village with decorations .
There also will be a virtual giving tree where residents in need receive gifts purchased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday , Dec. 6 , north Metra parking lot , enter off Main Street and High Road and exit via Jandus Road .
With the Merry Cary `` Turn Around '' Parade , the Cary-Grove Chamber of Commerce is modifying the annual event by having floats , displays and vehicles that are in the parade parked in the north Metra parking lot .
Viewers can drive past in their cars to kick off the holiday season .
Free .
Call ( 847 ) 639-2800 or visit carygrovechamber.com .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the tree-lighting and arrival of Santa Claus and Santa Lucia , is canceled .
But the Chamber of Commerce plans a light show lit each day beginning Dec. 4 .
The tree will be lit earlier that week , no time is released , at the lawn of the Kane County Courthouse , 100 S. Third St. Other activities are also planned for weekends in December , including Santa Claus visits and a by-reservation caroling party .
Visit genevachamber.com .
Glenview : 4-6 p.m. Saturday , Nov. 28 .
The Glenview Chamber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parade .
Floats will be located in parking spaces opposite Jackman Park , and attendees will drive south on Lehigh Avenue from Washington Street to Glenview Road .
Tickets , one per car , are required with reserved times available first come , first served .
To register for a ticket that will be emailed , visit www.signupgenius.com/go/20FOA4CAAA72FA2F49-reverse .
Hanover Park : 7 p.m. Friday , Dec. 4 , online .
Hanover Park will hold a Virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony during its `` Santa Claus is Coming to Hanover Park '' event .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ traveling on a predetermined route from 4 to 8 p.m. , waving and spreading holiday cheer .
Families can follow him online so they know when he is in their area , or listen for the siren and come outside to wave .
At 7 p.m. , the online feed will cut over to elected officials flipping the switch to light up the village hall and all the decorations in the village .
Visit hpil.org .
Hawthorn Woods : The traditional tree-lighting has been canceled as a public event , but the village @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Town , '' a drive-through event , from 2-4 p.m. Saturday , Dec. 5 , at Heritage Oaks Park , 310 Fairfield Road .
Visit www.vhw.org/92/Parks-Recreation .
Libertyville : 6:30 p.m. Friday , Nov. 27 , virtually .
Details for viewing can be found at www.libertyville.com or on its Facebook page , www.facebook.com/LibertyvilleVOL .
Lisle : 6 p.m. Saturday , Dec. 5 , near the village hall , 925 Burlington Ave. ( streamed live at Facebook.com/VillageofLisle ) .
This year a `` Holiday Caravan '' replaces the usual parade and features elected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceremony .
The caravan route is still being finalized , so visit villageoflisle.org for full details .
Lombard : 4:30 to 9 p.m. daily , Dec. 5 through Jan. 3 , at Lilacia Park , 150 S. Park Ave. `` Holiday Lights Shining Bright '' display will feature an array of animated light shows , decorated trees , a gingerbread house and more .
The park will remain open , provided visitors comply with the social distancing requirements .
Free .
Visit lombardparks.com/project/holiday-lights .
Long Grove : 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streamed live on Facebook .
Do-it-yourself ornaments are being sold at the Visitors Center , 308 Old McHenry Road ; visitors can bring an ornament or decoration to add to the tree .
Visit http : //longgrove.org/festivals/holiday-season/ .
Mount Prospect : 5 p.m. Wednesday , Nov. 25 , the village will hold a virtual tree-lighting , which can be viewed on YouTube through the village 's Facebook page , www.facebook.com/mountprospectIL .
Mundelein : 6 p.m. Friday , Dec. 4 , the village will hold a virtual tree-lighting , live streamed on Facebook .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ village will hold a drive-through Santa 's Cottage event from noon to 3 p.m. at Plaza Circle , 300 Plaza Circle .
It will include a `` Letters to Santa '' Mailbox , Santa and Mrs. Claus and goody bags for children .
Visit www.mundelein.org .
Palatine : 5 p.m. Saturday , Nov. 21 , `` park and watch '' holiday tree-lighting event near the intersection of Slade and Greeley streets .
Following the tree-lighting , visitors can drive south on Greeley Street ( from Slade Street ) to wave to Santa .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but new lights and decorations will be in place near the historical museum campus at Central Road and Barker Avenue .
Visit cityrm.org .
Rosemont : The public ceremony has been canceled .
According to village officials , the holiday lights in Rosemont will be turned on during the evening of Wednesday , Nov. 25 , so visitors and locals can enjoy them Thanksgiving weekend .
www.rosemont.com/thepark .
South Elgin : 4 p.m. Saturday , Nov. 21 , livestreamed at www.facebook.com/southelginillinois .
An Almost Winter Day festival will take place from 4-6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drive-through event at Panton Mill Park , featuring decorated trees , goody bags handed out by elves , and a ballot to vote for your favorite tree .
An elf will accept letters to Santa , and Santa will be inside a snow globe and will be available for socially distant pictures by advance registration .
Visit www.southelgin.com .
St. Charles : The annual Holiday Homecoming will take place Nov. 27 and 28 , but it 'll look different due to COVID-19 restrictions .
The Lighting of the Lights Celebration will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be broadcast on social media outlets .
There will be a Holiday Tree Trail near 1st Street and the Riverwalk , and socially-distant pictures with Santa are available on the East Plaza .
Visit stcholidayhomecoming.com .
Vernon Hills : On Saturday , Nov. 28 , Santa will be escorted through most residential subdivisions .
The entourage will leave Countryside Fire Protection District headquarters , 600 Deerpath Drive , about 2:30 p.m. and end about 5 p.m. at the village 's 9-hole municipal golf course on Route 45 and Evergreen Drive , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be held virtually .
Only necessary village staff will be allowed .
Once Santa 's route and timing is determined , the information can be promoted and shared via social media .
Vernon Hills police will lead the escort followed by a fire truck and Vernon Hills Park District vehicle .
The event will be broadcast live on the village Facebook page , www.facebook.com/vernonhillsIL and available later on its public access channel .
Villa Park : The village is not hosting a tree-lighting this year , but the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Traditions with a Peppermint Twist '' from 5 to 8 p.m. nightly between Saturday , Dec. 5 , to Friday , Dec. 25 .
It involves a `` Peppermint Prairie Path '' along Park Boulevard in Villa Park that can be viewed on foot or in your vehicle .
Visit villaparkchamber.org Volo : 5 p.m. Saturday , Nov. 28 , at the village hall , 500 S. Fish Lake Road .
At the village 's sixth annual tree-lighting , visitors will be directed to a parking spot and can tune radios to holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be given a gift bag and asked if they want to visit with Santa , who will arrive at 5:30 p.m .
Families will watch from their vehicles and be invited one vehicle at a time to visit with Santa .
Masks are required for all families any time they are outside their vehicle .
Plans are subject to change .
villageofvolo.com .
Warrenville : 5:30 p.m. Friday , Dec. 4 , a tree-lighting and greetings from the mayor and Santa will be livestreamed on Facebook .
From 6-7 p.m. , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter at the corner of Tracy Place and Warren Avenue ) with carolers , hot cocoa and cookies to go , a children 's craft to go and Santa in a snow globe .
Visit www.warrenville.il.us .
Wauconda : Dusk Wednesday , Nov. 25 , in front of the village hall , 101 N. Main St. Main Street will be decorated and the streetlights turned on with the flip of a switch during a brief event .
Visit www.wauconda-il.gov .
West Dundee : 6 p.m. Friday , Dec. 4 , a tree lighting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook page .
Visit www.facebook.com/WestDundee .
Wheaton : Dusk to 10 p.m. nightly , Friday , Nov. 20 , through Wednesday , Jan. 20 , Nights of Lights at Adams Park , Main and Wesley streets .
Nights of Lights is a walk-through seasonal lighting display .
Free .
www.downtownwheaton.com/event/nights-of-lights .

Suburban communities find a way to keep the season jolly with tree lightings
Bartlett will hold a public tree-lighting ceremony, but masks and social distancing will be required. Courtesy of Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce/Mary Beth Smith
Community tree lightings, for many years a traditional way to kick off the holiday season, look different this year because of the pandemic. Some have adapted to be drive-through or socially distant events; others will be held virtually, and some have canceled altogether.
This list was current at press time, but plans may change on short notice; we recommend checking websites and calling ahead to verify events.
Algonquin: The annual Miracle on Main tree-lighting ceremony is canceled, but the village is offering alternative holiday enjoyment. There is a "Zoom to the North Pole," where families can schedule a Zoom meeting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as an Algonquin Holiday Express to see them from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Jacobs High School. Visit algonquin.org/egov/documents/1603136025_06285.pdf.
Antioch: The traditional parade and tree-lighting have been canceled. The parks department is planning a drive-through Santa event. Visit www.antioch.il.gov/departments/parks-department.
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer A crowd gathers around the tree during a previous Arlington Heights Christmas tree lighting. This year's tree lighting will be virtual.
Arlington Heights: The village and park district are recording a virtual tree-lighting that will be shown on their websites and social media platforms, as well as the village cable access channels. The video will be released online prior to the traditional date of the Friday after Thanksgiving. Visit vah.com.
Bartlett: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4. A public event will not be held; the village is working on plans to stream the tree-lighting virtually. www.village.bartlett.il.us.
Barrington: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. There will be a virtual tree-lighting broadcast on the village's YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/UCJ9e3NNaN0FOG8SZ9TpsEYQ/videos. The tree will be lit by Rollin Potter, cultural director for Barrington's White House, and his wife, Joanne McDade.
Bensenville: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, "Holiday Tree & Lights Spectacular," starting north at Center Street from Memorial Drive. The traditional Holiday Magic celebration has been reconfigured as a free, self-guided driving tour featuring decorated Bensenville homes and a holiday light display along Center Street. Donations are encouraged for the Bensenville Food Pantry. Visit bensenville.il.us.
Batavia: 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, on Batavia Access Television's television channel and YouTube channel. The in-person festivities are canceled. The "Celebration of Lights" ceremony will be streamed online. There will be an address by Mayor Jeff Schielke, a visit from Santa Claus, and highlights from Christmas Tree Lane. Visit Bataviaparks.org.
Campton Hills: 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, throughout the village. The Campton Hills Community Relations Commission announced it will have a lighting ceremony without a crowd. The village is encouraging businesses and residents to light up the village with decorations. There also will be a virtual giving tree where residents in need receive gifts purchased for them. Visit camptonhills.illinois.gov.
Cary: 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, north Metra parking lot, enter off Main Street and High Road and exit via Jandus Road. With the Merry Cary "Turn Around" Parade, the Cary-Grove Chamber of Commerce is modifying the annual event by having floats, displays and vehicles that are in the parade parked in the north Metra parking lot. Viewers can drive past in their cars to kick off the holiday season. Free. Call (847) 639-2800 or visit carygrovechamber.com.
Des Plaines: Canceled
Downers Grove: Canceled
East Dundee: Canceled
Elburn: Canceled
Elgin: Canceled
Elk Grove Village: Canceled
Geneva: The traditional Christmas Walk, including the tree-lighting and arrival of Santa Claus and Santa Lucia, is canceled. But the Chamber of Commerce plans a light show lit each day beginning Dec. 4. The tree will be lit earlier that week, no time is released, at the lawn of the Kane County Courthouse, 100 S. Third St. Other activities are also planned for weekends in December, including Santa Claus visits and a by-reservation caroling party. Visit genevachamber.com.
Glenview: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28. The Glenview Chamber of Commerce is presenting a reverse holiday parade. Floats will be located in parking spaces opposite Jackman Park, and attendees will drive south on Lehigh Avenue from Washington Street to Glenview Road. Tickets, one per car, are required with reserved times available first come, first served. To register for a ticket that will be emailed, visit www.signupgenius.com/go/20FOA4CAAA72FA2F49-reverse.
The pandemic has led many communities to cancel or modify their holiday tree-lighting ceremonies this year. - Daily Herald File Photo
Hanover Park: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, online. Hanover Park will hold a Virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony during its "Santa Claus is Coming to Hanover Park" event. Santa will be on a fire truck traveling on a predetermined route from 4 to 8 p.m., waving and spreading holiday cheer. Families can follow him online so they know when he is in their area, or listen for the siren and come outside to wave. At 7 p.m., the online feed will cut over to elected officials flipping the switch to light up the village hall and all the decorations in the village. Visit hpil.org.
Hawthorn Woods: The traditional tree-lighting has been canceled as a public event, but the village will hold "Santa is Still Coming to Town," a drive-through event, from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Heritage Oaks Park, 310 Fairfield Road. Visit www.vhw.org/92/Parks-Recreation.
Hoffman Estates: Canceled
Island Lake: Canceled
Libertyville: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, virtually. Details for viewing can be found at www.libertyville.com or on its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/LibertyvilleVOL.
Lincolnshire: Canceled
Lisle: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, near the village hall, 925 Burlington Ave. (streamed live at Facebook.com/VillageofLisle). This year a "Holiday Caravan" replaces the usual parade and features elected officials and Santa before the free tree-lighting ceremony. The caravan route is still being finalized, so visit villageoflisle.org for full details.
Lombard: 4:30 to 9 p.m. daily, Dec. 5 through Jan. 3, at Lilacia Park, 150 S. Park Ave. "Holiday Lights Shining Bright" display will feature an array of animated light shows, decorated trees, a gingerbread house and more. The park will remain open, provided visitors comply with the social distancing requirements. Free. Visit lombardparks.com/project/holiday-lights.
Long Grove: 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, a tree-lighting will be streamed live on Facebook. Do-it-yourself ornaments are being sold at the Visitors Center, 308 Old McHenry Road; visitors can bring an ornament or decoration to add to the tree. Visit http://longgrove.org/festivals/holiday-season/.
Mount Prospect: 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, the village will hold a virtual tree-lighting, which can be viewed on YouTube through the village's Facebook page, www.facebook.com/mountprospectIL.
Mundelein: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, the village will hold a virtual tree-lighting, live streamed on Facebook. On Dec. 12 and 19, the village will hold a drive-through Santa's Cottage event from noon to 3 p.m. at Plaza Circle, 300 Plaza Circle. It will include a "Letters to Santa" Mailbox, Santa and Mrs. Claus and goody bags for children. Visit www.mundelein.org.
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer Santa Claus assists from a fire department ladder truck during a previous Palatine tree lighting. This year's tree lighting will be a drive-up event.
Palatine: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, "park and watch" holiday tree-lighting event near the intersection of Slade and Greeley streets. Following the tree-lighting, visitors can drive south on Greeley Street (from Slade Street) to wave to Santa. Visit www.palatine.il.us.
Prospect Heights: Canceled
Rolling Meadows: Canceled, but new lights and decorations will be in place near the historical museum campus at Central Road and Barker Avenue. Visit cityrm.org.
Rosemont: The public ceremony has been canceled. According to village officials, the holiday lights in Rosemont will be turned on during the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 25, so visitors and locals can enjoy them Thanksgiving weekend. www.rosemont.com/thepark.
Schaumburg: Canceled
Sleepy Hollow: Canceled
South Barrington: Canceled
South Elgin: 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, livestreamed at www.facebook.com/southelginillinois. An Almost Winter Day festival will take place from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, as a drive-through event at Panton Mill Park, featuring decorated trees, goody bags handed out by elves, and a ballot to vote for your favorite tree. An elf will accept letters to Santa, and Santa will be inside a snow globe and will be available for socially distant pictures by advance registration. Visit www.southelgin.com.
St. Charles: The annual Holiday Homecoming will take place Nov. 27 and 28, but it'll look different due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Lighting of the Lights Celebration will be a virtual event on Nov. 27 and will be broadcast on social media outlets. There will be a Holiday Tree Trail near 1st Street and the Riverwalk, and socially-distant pictures with Santa are available on the East Plaza. Visit stcholidayhomecoming.com.
Streamwood: Canceled
Vernon Hills: On Saturday, Nov. 28, Santa will be escorted through most residential subdivisions. The entourage will leave Countryside Fire Protection District headquarters, 600 Deerpath Drive, about 2:30 p.m. and end about 5 p.m. at the village's 9-hole municipal golf course on Route 45 and Evergreen Drive, where the traditional tree and Menorah lighting will be held virtually. Only necessary village staff will be allowed. Once Santa's route and timing is determined, the information can be promoted and shared via social media. Vernon Hills police will lead the escort followed by a fire truck and Vernon Hills Park District vehicle. The event will be broadcast live on the village Facebook page, www.facebook.com/vernonhillsIL and available later on its public access channel.
Villa Park: The village is not hosting a tree-lighting this year, but the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 22nd annual "Joyful Traditions with a Peppermint Twist" from 5 to 8 p.m. nightly between Saturday, Dec. 5, to Friday, Dec. 25. It involves a "Peppermint Prairie Path" along Park Boulevard in Villa Park that can be viewed on foot or in your vehicle. Visit villaparkchamber.org
Volo: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, at the village hall, 500 S. Fish Lake Road. At the village's sixth annual tree-lighting, visitors will be directed to a parking spot and can tune radios to holiday music beginning at 5 p.m. Each child will be given a gift bag and asked if they want to visit with Santa, who will arrive at 5:30 p.m. Families will watch from their vehicles and be invited one vehicle at a time to visit with Santa. Masks are required for all families any time they are outside their vehicle. Plans are subject to change. villageofvolo.com.
Warrenville: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, a tree-lighting and greetings from the mayor and Santa will be livestreamed on Facebook. From 6-7 p.m., there will be a Holly Days Drive-Thru (enter at the corner of Tracy Place and Warren Avenue) with carolers, hot cocoa and cookies to go, a children's craft to go and Santa in a snow globe. Visit www.warrenville.il.us.
Wauconda: Dusk Wednesday, Nov. 25, in front of the village hall, 101 N. Main St. Main Street will be decorated and the streetlights turned on with the flip of a switch during a brief event. Visit www.wauconda-il.gov.
West Chicago: Canceled
West Dundee: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, a tree lighting will be livestreamed from the village's Facebook page. Visit www.facebook.com/WestDundee.
Wheaton: Dusk to 10 p.m. nightly, Friday, Nov. 20, through Wednesday, Jan. 20, Nights of Lights at Adams Park, Main and Wesley streets. Nights of Lights is a walk-through seasonal lighting display. Free. www.downtownwheaton.com/event/nights-of-lights.
Wheeling: Canceled
Winfield: Canceled


US-Pres-Sum,100

Needed to win : 270 of the 538 electoral votes ( ev ) from the 50 states and the District @ @ @

US-Pres-Sum,100
Trump 73,781,603 - 47 percent
Has won 25 states with 232 ev.
Leads in 0 states with 0 ev.
Others 2,674,725 - 2 percent
Has won 0 states with 0 ev.
Leads in 0 states with 0 ev.
Needed to win: 270 of the 538 electoral votes (ev) from
the 50 states and the District of Columbia.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Antioch teen charged in Kenosha protest slayings posts $2 million bail

KENOSHA , Wis. -- A 17-year-old from Antioch who is charged with killing two people during a protest in Wisconsin and whose case has become a rallying cry for some conservatives posted $ 2 million bail Friday and was released from custody .
Kyle Rittenhouse is accused of fatally shooting Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and wounding Gaige Grosskreutz during a demonstration Aug. 25 that followed the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha .
He posted bond through his attorney about 2 p.m. , Kenosha County sheriff 's Sgt .
David Wright said .
Rittenhouse told police he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that he fired in self-defense .
He faces multiple charges , including intentional homicide , reckless endangerment and being a minor in possession of a firearm .
Wisconsin law does n't permit minors to carry or possess a gun unless they 're hunting .
He is due back in court on Dec. 3 for a preliminary hearing .
His case has taken on political overtones .
Supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement have painted Rittenhouse as a trigger-happy white supremacist .
Conservatives upset over property destruction during recent protests have portrayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bear arms during unrest .
A legal-defense fund for him has attracted millions of dollars in donations , and his mother got a standing ovation from women at a Waukesha County GOP function in September .
Attorney L. Lin Wood confirmed on Twitter that Rittenhouse was out on bond , the Kenosha News reported on its website .
`` Kyle Rittenhouse is out of jail , '' he wrote .
`` God bless ALL who donated to help # FightBack raise required $ 2M cash bail . ''
Wood wrote that actor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump-supporting chief executive of My Pillow Inc. , put up some of the money , thanking them for `` putting us over the top . ''
Huber 's father , John Huber , asked Kenosha County Circuit Court Commissioner Loren Keating during a hearing Nov. 2 to set Rittenhouse 's bail between $ 4 million and $ 10 million .
Huber said Rittenhouse thinks he 's above the law and noted the effort to raise money on his behalf .
He also suggested militia groups would hide him from police if he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at $ 2 million , saying Rittenhouse was a flight risk given the seriousness of the charges against him .

Antioch teen charged in Kenosha protest slayings posts $2 million bail
In this screen grab from video, Kyle Rittenhosue appears during his initial court appearance in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Rittenhouse posted $2 million bail Friday and was released from custody. Associated Press/Nov. 2, 2020
KENOSHA, Wis. -- A 17-year-old from Antioch who is charged with killing two people during a protest in Wisconsin and whose case has become a rallying cry for some conservatives posted $2 million bail Friday and was released from custody.
Kyle Rittenhouse is accused of fatally shooting Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and wounding Gaige Grosskreutz during a demonstration Aug. 25 that followed the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha. He posted bond through his attorney about 2 p.m., Kenosha County sheriff's Sgt. David Wright said.
Rittenhouse told police he was attacked while he was guarding a business and that he fired in self-defense.
He faces multiple charges, including intentional homicide, reckless endangerment and being a minor in possession of a firearm. Wisconsin law doesn't permit minors to carry or possess a gun unless they're hunting. He is due back in court on Dec. 3 for a preliminary hearing.
His case has taken on political overtones. Supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement have painted Rittenhouse as a trigger-happy white supremacist. Conservatives upset over property destruction during recent protests have portrayed him as a patriot exercising his right to bear arms during unrest. A legal-defense fund for him has attracted millions of dollars in donations, and his mother got a standing ovation from women at a Waukesha County GOP function in September.
Attorney L. Lin Wood confirmed on Twitter that Rittenhouse was out on bond, the Kenosha News reported on its website.
"Kyle Rittenhouse is out of jail," he wrote. "God bless ALL who donated to help #FightBack raise required $2M cash bail."
Wood wrote that actor Ricky Schroder and Mike Lindell, the Donald Trump-supporting chief executive of My Pillow Inc., put up some of the money, thanking them for "putting us over the top."
Huber's father, John Huber, asked Kenosha County Circuit Court Commissioner Loren Keating during a hearing Nov. 2 to set Rittenhouse's bail between $4 million and $10 million. Huber said Rittenhouse thinks he's above the law and noted the effort to raise money on his behalf. He also suggested militia groups would hide him from police if he were released.
Rittenhouse's attorney, Mark Richards, asked for $750,000 bail.
Keating ultimately set bail at $2 million, saying Rittenhouse was a flight risk given the seriousness of the charges against him.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--COVID-19 infections in children, teens more than double in last month

COVID-19 infections in children and teens more than doubled in a month , state data showed Friday , as new cases of the virus reached 13,012 with 126 more deaths .
The state 's virus test positivity rate sits at 11.5 % based on a seven-day average , the Illinois Department of Public Health reported -- the lowest it 's been since Nov. 9 .
Friday ushered in stricter rules to prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
Those include reducing capacity to 50 % at grocery stores and 25 % at other stores , suspending indoor group sports , closing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events at banquet halls , party venues and clubs .
`` The core philosophy here is -- if we all stay home as much as possible and avoid trips outside the house that we do n't need to take -- we can fight this recent surge and turn things around for the health care workers and hospital systems who face an increasingly dangerous situation , '' Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said at a briefing .
`` And , we can potentially pull back on these mitigations for everyone before the December holidays .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ night , the highest tally since the pandemic began .
One month ago , on Oct. 19 , there were 2,261 virus hospitalizations .
In Will and Kankakee counties ( Region 7 ) , available hospital beds have dipped below recommended state levels of 20 % .
Currently , the number of available ICU beds is at 14 % and regular beds is at 11 % .
`` It 's a dire situation .
Their positivity is still going up , which means that we 're going to see more people infected , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added the state and hospitals are collaborating with surrounding counties to coordinate transfers of patients if needed or directing ambulances to hospitals with capacity .
`` We 're not at the point where we 're going to have anybody just flailing in the hallway because we ca n't get them a bed , '' she said .
The largest demographic with COVID-19 infections remains young people in their 20s , comprising 19 % of the total , or 122,522 cases .
That tally was 20 % , or 60,973 , in early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have increased by 130 % since Oct. 5 , when there were 38,795 virus cases equaling 12.8 % of the total .
As of Friday , COVID-19 cases in people 19 and younger came to 89,349 or 14 % .
As Pfizer Inc. waits for federal approval of the emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine , Illinois officials are trying to identify locations with freezers capable of storing it at minus 94 degrees , Ezike said .
The government has purchased 20 freezers to be placed in Illinois ' 11 public health regions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at every part of the state . ''
The initial number of vaccines the state will receive is 400,000 doses and `` we 're working with that number to identify how to partition that out , '' she noted .
Health care workers and first responders will receive the vaccine first and `` we 're feverishly working with excitement '' on logistics , Ezike said .
A virus test positivity of 8 % or higher triggers alarms and actions from the state if it continues .
Region 7 's average virus positivity rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IDPH data showed Friday .
Elsewhere , in suburban Cook , DuPage , Kane Lake , and McHenry counties there was a slight downward trend .
DuPage and Kane ( Region 8 ) hit a 14.6 % positivity rate ; Lake and McHenry ( Region 9 ) reached 15.4 % ; and suburban Cook was at 15.5 % .
Friday 's new daily caseload is below Thursday 's 14,612 tally but above the seven-day average of 11,777 .
State labs processed 116,024 tests in the last 24 hours .
The latest data brings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the respiratory disease to 11,304 .
Other restrictions ordered by Pritzker temporarily shutter movie theaters and limit outdoor gatherings to 10 people and funerals to 10 relatives .
`` The numbers , candidly , at this particular moment , have been brutal , '' Classic Cinemas owner Chris Johnson said .
`` We 're asking , begging , whatever it is for Congress to do something in the lame duck session '' to enact a stimulus bill .
When the state lifted many stay-at-home rules in late June , Classic reopened screens in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles and other locations with strict rules about masking and sanitizing .
Johnson had to shutter them two weeks later `` because the business just was n't there . ''
A lot of it had to do with not having new movies , Johnson said .
`` One thing that 's been the most challenging during the pandemic is the uncertainty , '' he said .
Changing government policies and the trajectory of the virus make staffing and stocking supplies of drinks , popcorn , chips and candy unmanageable , he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 've had to get rid of .
I ca n't believe how many nacho chips I 've had , '' Johnson said , jokingly .

COVID-19 infections in children, teens more than double in last month
COVID-19 infections in children and teens more than doubled in a month, state data showed Friday, as new cases of the virus reached 13,012 with 126 more deaths.
The state's virus test positivity rate sits at 11.5% based on a seven-day average, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported -- the lowest it's been since Nov. 9.
Friday ushered in stricter rules to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Those include reducing capacity to 50% at grocery stores and 25% at other stores, suspending indoor group sports, closing casinos and gaming terminals, and banning events at banquet halls, party venues and clubs.
"The core philosophy here is -- if we all stay home as much as possible and avoid trips outside the house that we don't need to take -- we can fight this recent surge and turn things around for the health care workers and hospital systems who face an increasingly dangerous situation," Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at a briefing. "And, we can potentially pull back on these mitigations for everyone before the December holidays."
Illinois hospitals had 6,111 patients Thursday night, the highest tally since the pandemic began. One month ago, on Oct. 19, there were 2,261 virus hospitalizations.
In Will and Kankakee counties (Region 7), available hospital beds have dipped below recommended state levels of 20%. Currently, the number of available ICU beds is at 14% and regular beds is at 11%.
"It's a dire situation. Their positivity is still going up, which means that we're going to see more people infected," IDPH Director Ngozi Ezike said. She added the state and hospitals are collaborating with surrounding counties to coordinate transfers of patients if needed or directing ambulances to hospitals with capacity.
"We're not at the point where we're going to have anybody just flailing in the hallway because we can't get them a bed," she said.
The largest demographic with COVID-19 infections remains young people in their 20s, comprising 19% of the total, or 122,522 cases. That tally was 20%, or 60,973, in early October.
Infections in teenagers and children have increased by 130% since Oct. 5, when there were 38,795 virus cases equaling 12.8% of the total. As of Friday, COVID-19 cases in people 19 and younger came to 89,349 or 14%.
As Pfizer Inc. waits for federal approval of the emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine, Illinois officials are trying to identify locations with freezers capable of storing it at minus 94 degrees, Ezike said. The government has purchased 20 freezers to be placed in Illinois' 11 public health regions "to make sure there is access at every part of the state."
The initial number of vaccines the state will receive is 400,000 doses and "we're working with that number to identify how to partition that out," she noted. Health care workers and first responders will receive the vaccine first and "we're feverishly working with excitement" on logistics, Ezike said.
A virus test positivity of 8% or higher triggers alarms and actions from the state if it continues. Region 7's average virus positivity rate measured 20.6% as of Tuesday, IDPH data showed Friday. Elsewhere, in suburban Cook, DuPage, Kane Lake, and McHenry counties there was a slight downward trend.
DuPage and Kane (Region 8) hit a 14.6% positivity rate; Lake and McHenry (Region 9) reached 15.4%; and suburban Cook was at 15.5%.
Friday's new daily caseload is below Thursday's 14,612 tally but above the seven-day average of 11,777.
State labs processed 116,024 tests in the last 24 hours.
The latest data brings statewide infections to 634,395 and deaths from the respiratory disease to 11,304.
Other restrictions ordered by Pritzker temporarily shutter movie theaters and limit outdoor gatherings to 10 people and funerals to 10 relatives.
"The numbers, candidly, at this particular moment, have been brutal," Classic Cinemas owner Chris Johnson said. "We're asking, begging, whatever it is for Congress to do something in the lame duck session" to enact a stimulus bill.
When the state lifted many stay-at-home rules in late June, Classic reopened screens in Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, St. Charles and other locations with strict rules about masking and sanitizing.
Johnson had to shutter them two weeks later "because the business just wasn't there."
A lot of it had to do with not having new movies, Johnson said.
"One thing that's been the most challenging during the pandemic is the uncertainty," he said.
Changing government policies and the trajectory of the virus make staffing and stocking supplies of drinks, popcorn, chips and candy unmanageable, he said.
"There have been hundreds of cases we've had to get rid of. I can't believe how many nacho chips I've had," Johnson said, jokingly.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Rozner: Theo Epstein sees baseball's problems. Will he help fix them someday?

There are generally two kinds of sports executives when it comes to their public stance on the game in which they work .
There are the politically correct types that offer no opinions , and there are those who tell you what they really think , at times an honesty bordering on stupidity .
Theo Epstein has rarely fallen into either category , a master at knowing precisely what to say and when to say it , the ability to offer clues without bashing the commissioner or his cronies .
But at his farewell news conference , Epstein pulled the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without question his most interesting answer of the day , a response to a query about the state of baseball today .
`` I do n't think it 's appropriate for me to expound on that much from this chair , and we have great people in the industry already working on those issues , '' Epstein prefaced as he was about to make a significant admission .
`` But clearly -- and this is well documented -- the quality of on-field play ( is an issue ) .
It is the greatest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are some threats to it because of the way the game is evolving .
`` I take some responsibility for that .
Executives like me who have spent a lot of time using analytics and other measures to try to optimize individual and team performance have unwittingly had a negative impact on the aesthetic value and entertainment value of the game . ''
Ca n't blame a guy for doing anything he could to gain a competitive advantage .
You 'll not hear Cubs or Red Sox fans complain .
But the more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , strikeouts and home runs , the less we see the true athletic genius , something Mookie Betts reminded everyone of this postseason .
`` The strikeout rate is little bit out of control and we need to find a way to get more action in the game , '' Epstein said .
`` We need to get the ball in play more often and allow players to show their athleticism more .
Give the fans more of what they want . ''
You can see almost see a player standing on first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , knowing second is his for the taking , but also fearing criticism as the stolen base and hit-and-run have disappeared from baseball .
`` Maybe there 's a way to do it through changes over time , to put the game back in the hands of the players and let them do their thing on the field , '' Epstein said .
`` I think that 's the best way to give the fans more of what they want .
`` The game changes , whether you 're intentional about it or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredible rise in strikeout rate and three true outcomes .
`` Starters are n't going as deep into games and you have increases in the number of relievers on rosters .
The incredible increase in stuff and velocity and movement has led to the strikeout rate that 's impacting the game .
`` Maybe there 's a way to get that under control a little bit . ''
If anyone knows that answer , they have n't said it publicly , and you certainly do n't want to leave it in the hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He has absolutely no feel for the game and perhaps no genuine love of it .
Epstein does , but he no more wants to be commissioner than he does a politician .
He would be superb at either , but from a quality of life standpoint -- especially for his family -- it seems neither would fit the bill at this point in his career .
`` Obviously , the pandemic has impacted the industry , '' Epstein said .
`` The owners and the union did a great job working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimately it was a triumph on the field .
`` Long term , everyone hopes there will be a CBA moving forward and labor peace that will allow the game to continue to thrive .
`` That 's what it looks like from a distance .
`` When you 're with a club you do n't necessarily have the ability to be objective and contribute to that discourse , but now that I wo n't be with a club anymore , maybe I can find a way to do that in some fashion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Epstein is wise beyond his years , but something tells you that he 's not about to give up any secrets at this point if he intends to run another club down the road .
The man does n't have many limitations .
Only those that are self-imposed .

Rozner: Theo Epstein sees baseball's problems. Will he help fix them someday?
There are generally two kinds of sports executives when it comes to their public stance on the game in which they work.
There are the politically correct types that offer no opinions, and there are those who tell you what they really think, at times an honesty bordering on stupidity.
Theo Epstein has rarely fallen into either category, a master at knowing precisely what to say and when to say it, the ability to offer clues without bashing the commissioner or his cronies.
But at his farewell news conference, Epstein pulled the curtain back a bit when he gave without question his most interesting answer of the day, a response to a query about the state of baseball today.
"I don't think it's appropriate for me to expound on that much from this chair, and we have great people in the industry already working on those issues," Epstein prefaced as he was about to make a significant admission. "But clearly -- and this is well documented -- the quality of on-field play (is an issue). It is the greatest game in the world, but there are some threats to it because of the way the game is evolving.
"I take some responsibility for that. Executives like me who have spent a lot of time using analytics and other measures to try to optimize individual and team performance have unwittingly had a negative impact on the aesthetic value and entertainment value of the game."
Can't blame a guy for doing anything he could to gain a competitive advantage. You'll not hear Cubs or Red Sox fans complain.
But the more baseball has become a game of walks, strikeouts and home runs, the less we see the true athletic genius, something Mookie Betts reminded everyone of this postseason.
"The strikeout rate is little bit out of control and we need to find a way to get more action in the game," Epstein said. "We need to get the ball in play more often and allow players to show their athleticism more. Give the fans more of what they want."
You can see almost see a player standing on first base doing the math in his head, knowing second is his for the taking, but also fearing criticism as the stolen base and hit-and-run have disappeared from baseball.
"Maybe there's a way to do it through changes over time, to put the game back in the hands of the players and let them do their thing on the field," Epstein said. "I think that's the best way to give the fans more of what they want.
"The game changes, whether you're intentional about it or not, but we've had this incredible rise in strikeout rate and three true outcomes.
"Starters aren't going as deep into games and you have increases in the number of relievers on rosters. The incredible increase in stuff and velocity and movement has led to the strikeout rate that's impacting the game.
"Maybe there's a way to get that under control a little bit."
If anyone knows that answer, they haven't said it publicly, and you certainly don't want to leave it in the hands of a labor lawyer like Rob Manfred. He has absolutely no feel for the game and perhaps no genuine love of it.
Epstein does, but he no more wants to be commissioner than he does a politician. He would be superb at either, but from a quality of life standpoint -- especially for his family -- it seems neither would fit the bill at this point in his career.
That might change someday.
"Obviously, the pandemic has impacted the industry," Epstein said. "The owners and the union did a great job working together to get through this year and ultimately it was a triumph on the field.
"Long term, everyone hopes there will be a CBA moving forward and labor peace that will allow the game to continue to thrive.
"That's what it looks like from a distance.
"When you're with a club you don't necessarily have the ability to be objective and contribute to that discourse, but now that I won't be with a club anymore, maybe I can find a way to do that in some fashion."
His ideas would be welcome. Epstein is wise beyond his years, but something tells you that he's not about to give up any secrets at this point if he intends to run another club down the road.
The man doesn't have many limitations. Only those that are self-imposed.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Beach Park man dies after being hit while crossing road

A 76-year-old Beach Park man died at the hospital after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the @ @ @ @ @ sheriff 's office said in a news release .
The accident happened about 7 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ just north of Waldo Avenue in Beach Park .
Witnesses told sheriff 's deputies the @ @ @ @ @ the street from the west side of the road to his driveway , which was @ @ @ @ @ the road , when he was struck by a northbound 2003 Cadillac Seville .
The @ @ @ @ @ injuries when deputies arrived and was taken to the hospital by rescue personnel from the @ @ @ @ @ The vehicle was driven by a 23-year-old Beach Park woman , according to the news @ @ @ @ @ under investigation by the Lake County Sheriff 's Office Technical Crash Investigations Unit .

Beach Park man dies after being hit while crossing road
A 76-year-old Beach Park man died at the hospital after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the road, the Lake County sheriff's office said in a news release.
The accident happened about 7 p.m. Wednesday on Green Bay Road just north of Waldo Avenue in Beach Park. Witnesses told sheriff's deputies the pedestrian was attempting to cross the street from the west side of the road to his driveway, which was on the east side of the road, when he was struck by a northbound 2003 Cadillac Seville.
The man was unconscious with serious injuries when deputies arrived and was taken to the hospital by rescue personnel from the Beach Park Fire Department.
The vehicle was driven by a 23-year-old Beach Park woman, according to the news release. The crash remains under investigation by the Lake County Sheriff's Office Technical Crash Investigations Unit.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Police: 8 injured in Wisconsin mall shooting, and suspect is at large

WAUWATOSA , Wis. ( AP ) -- Police searched Friday evening for the suspect in a shooting at a suburban Milwaukee mall that left seven adults and a teenager injured .
Wauwatosa Police Chief Barry Weber gave no motive for the attack at the Mayfair Mall in a brief update about three hours after the 2:50 p.m. incident near an entrance to the Macy 's store .
He said the extent of the eight victims ' injuries was unknown , but all were alive .
He added that the shooter was `` no longer at the scene '' when authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indicate that the shooter is a white male in his 20s or 30s , '' Weber told reporters .
`` Investigators are working on determining the identity of that suspect . ''
The chief called the mall an active crime scene and asked people to continue to stay away .
He said the mall would remain closed until further notice .
Witnesses told WISN-TV that they had heard what they believed to be eight to 12 gunshots .
Some people remained in the mall while police searched for a suspect .
The station @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they had friends sheltered inside stores while the search was ongoing .
Jill Wooley was inside Macy 's with her 79-year-old mother when they heard eight to 12 gunshots just outside the store entrance .
`` We heard the first shot fired and knew immediately it was a gunshot , '' Wooley told CBS58 in Milwaukee .
`` We both just dropped to the floor . ''
Wooley said she did n't see anyone but the shots were `` very close . ''
She added that they ran in the opposite direction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where they then hid .
Trish Cox 's 19-year-old nephew works at Finish Line sporting goods store .
She said she was worried because the store 's phone was n't being answered and was frantic as she waited while FBI agents cleared the mall .
An agent who would n't give his name said the mall was being `` methodically '' cleared .
Heavily armed FBI personnel were visible at the mall .
Mall operator Brookfield Properties said in a statement they were `` disheartened and angered that our guests and tenants were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' They declined further comment .
The Mayfair Mall was the site of a February shooting in which a city police officer , Joseph Mensah , shot and killed Alvin Cole , a Black 17-year-old .
Police said Cole was fleeing from police ; Mensah , who is also Black , said he shot Cole because Cole pointed a gun at him .
The mall was the target of sporadic protests over several months in the wake of the shooting .
The Milwaukee County district attorney declined to file charges against Mensah , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a separation agreement in which Mensah will be paid at least $ 130,000 to leave the force .
Associated Press writers Scott Bauer in Madison and Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis and freelance journalist Rich Rovito contributed to this report .

Police: 8 injured in Wisconsin mall shooting, and suspect is at large
Wauwatosa Police chief Barry Weber speaks at a news conference, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wis., and police are still searching for the shooter.
Wauwatosa Police chief Barry Weber speaks at a news conference, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wis., and police are still searching for the shooter.
FBI officials convene after a shooting at the Mayfair Mall, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall. Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride says in a statement that a suspect remains at large after the shooting at Mayfair Mall.
FBI officials walk to the Mayfair Mall, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall. Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride says in a statement that a suspect remains at large after the shooting at Mayfair Mall.
A shopper leaves the Mayfair Mall after a shooting, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall, and police are still searching for the shooter.
Police and FBI agents investigate a shooting at the Mayfair Mall, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall, and police are still searching for the shooter.
In this image taken from video provided by WISN-TV, emergency crews place two people in waiting ambulances at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wis., on Friday, Nov. 20, 2020. A police dispatcher says officers are responding to "a very active situation" at the suburban Milwaukee mall. The dispatcher said she could not immediately provide further details. Witnesses told WISN-TV that they heard what they believed were eight to 12 shots. (WISN-TV via AP)
Police investigate a shooting at the Mayfair Mall, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall and police are still searching for the shooter.
Police officials walk to the Mayfair Mall, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the mall and police are still searching for the shooter.
Wauwatosa Police chief Barry Weber speaks at a news conference, Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, in Wauwatosa, Wis. Multiple people were shot Friday afternoon at the Mayfair Mall in Wauwatosa, Wis., and police are still searching for the shooter.
WAUWATOSA, Wis. (AP) -- Police searched Friday evening for the suspect in a shooting at a suburban Milwaukee mall that left seven adults and a teenager injured.
Wauwatosa Police Chief Barry Weber gave no motive for the attack at the Mayfair Mall in a brief update about three hours after the 2:50 p.m. incident near an entrance to the Macy's store. He said the extent of the eight victims' injuries was unknown, but all were alive. He added that the shooter was "no longer at the scene" when authorities arrived.
"Preliminary statements from witnesses indicate that the shooter is a white male in his 20s or 30s," Weber told reporters. "Investigators are working on determining the identity of that suspect."
The chief called the mall an active crime scene and asked people to continue to stay away. He said the mall would remain closed until further notice.
Witnesses told WISN-TV that they had heard what they believed to be eight to 12 gunshots. Some people remained in the mall while police searched for a suspect. The station interviewed several people outside the mall who said they had friends sheltered inside stores while the search was ongoing.
Jill Wooley was inside Macy's with her 79-year-old mother when they heard eight to 12 gunshots just outside the store entrance.
"We heard the first shot fired and knew immediately it was a gunshot," Wooley told CBS58 in Milwaukee. "We both just dropped to the floor."
Wooley said she didn't see anyone but the shots were "very close." She added that they ran in the opposite direction to the basement of the store, where they then hid.
Trish Cox's 19-year-old nephew works at Finish Line sporting goods store. She said she was worried because the store's phone wasn't being answered and was frantic as she waited while FBI agents cleared the mall.
An agent who wouldn't give his name said the mall was being "methodically" cleared. Heavily armed FBI personnel were visible at the mall.
Mall operator Brookfield Properties said in a statement they were "disheartened and angered that our guests and tenants were subject to this violent incident today." They declined further comment.
The Mayfair Mall was the site of a February shooting in which a city police officer, Joseph Mensah, shot and killed Alvin Cole, a Black 17-year-old. Police said Cole was fleeing from police; Mensah, who is also Black, said he shot Cole because Cole pointed a gun at him. The mall was the target of sporadic protests over several months in the wake of the shooting.
The Milwaukee County district attorney declined to file charges against Mensah, but the city this week agreed to a separation agreement in which Mensah will be paid at least $130,000 to leave the force.
Associated Press writers Scott Bauer in Madison and Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis and freelance journalist Rich Rovito contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--$9.6 million Antioch library renovation approved by 8 votes

It took more than two weeks to learn the final tally , but a measure enabling a major upgrade of the Antioch library came out on top by 8 votes out of 13,162 cast .
Supporters are relieved at the incredibly close outcome , but say voter approval of borrowing $ 9.6 million to expand and renovate the library is a victory for all .
`` We really are here to serve everybody whether it 's a 'Yes ' vote or a 'No ' vote , '' said library Director Jennifer Drinka .
`` If it would have been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been fine , too .
We wanted to ask '' voters .
The tally , canvassed Thursday by Lake County Clerk Robin O'Connor , was 6,585 in favor of the ballot question and 6,577 against .
`` I was blown away by the fact we won .
However , it speaks or Antioch -- people like the library , '' said Ann Kakacek , who served for 36 years on the library board , including the last 26 years as president before opting not to run in 2017 .
Kakacek led a grass-roots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the proposal leading up to Election Day .
`` We did n't threaten anything , '' she said .
`` We went ahead in a respectful way .
Even our signs were small . ''
The library district serves 26,000 in Antioch , Antioch Township and parts of Fox Lake , Spring Grove and Newport Township .
Drinka said the library began assessing its options for the building at 757 N. Main St. ( Route 83 ) in 2017 .
That included a survey of about 1,000 library users and nonusers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable places to read ; a makerspace ; and , a teen area were among the top requests .
The need to replace the roof and HVAC system , among other work , was also a consideration in seeking voter approval to expand and remodel the library , the first such request since it was built in 1970 .
`` We went about this because people asked for it , '' Drinka said .
`` We really wanted to know , 'What is the total community support for this ? '
'' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more referendums passed during high turnout elections .
It was a close vote against the measure on election night , but with tens of thousands of votes still outstanding everyone knew that could change .
The approval will add about $ 50 a year to the property tax bill of a home valued at $ 200,000 .
Kakacek said the thought of an improved library may have been sort of a ray of hope during a dark time .
`` People do n't want to spend more money on their taxes , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'No ' vote . ''
There was no apparent organized opposition .
However , it technically is n't over .
Electors can petition the county clerk for discovery and select no more than 25 % of precincts within the district to be retabulated or hand counted .
Filers have five calendar days after the last day all election authorities must certify to the State Board of Elections , which is Nov. 24 .
Since the clerk 's office is closed Nov. 26 and Nov. 27 , that deadline is Dec. 1 .

$9.6 million Antioch library renovation approved by 8 votes
Voters narrowly agreed to let the Antioch Public Library borrow $9.6 million by issuing bonds to expand and upgrade the building. Courtesy of Antioch Public Library
A dedicated teen room is part of a wide-ranging building project approved by voters in the Antioch Public Library District. The district will borrow $9.6 million by issuing bonds for the work. Courtesy of Antioch Public Library District
It took more than two weeks to learn the final tally, but a measure enabling a major upgrade of the Antioch library came out on top by 8 votes out of 13,162 cast.
Supporters are relieved at the incredibly close outcome, but say voter approval of borrowing $9.6 million to expand and renovate the library is a victory for all.
"We really are here to serve everybody whether it's a 'Yes' vote or a 'No' vote," said library Director Jennifer Drinka. "If it would have been a 'No' vote, we would have been fine, too. We wanted to ask" voters.
The tally, canvassed Thursday by Lake County Clerk Robin O'Connor, was 6,585 in favor of the ballot question and 6,577 against.
"I was blown away by the fact we won. However, it speaks or Antioch -- people like the library," said Ann Kakacek, who served for 36 years on the library board, including the last 26 years as president before opting not to run in 2017.
Kakacek led a grass-roots group of library supporters who educated voters on the proposal leading up to Election Day.
"We didn't threaten anything," she said. "We went ahead in a respectful way. Even our signs were small."
The library district serves 26,000 in Antioch, Antioch Township and parts of Fox Lake, Spring Grove and Newport Township.
Drinka said the library began assessing its options for the building at 757 N. Main St. (Route 83) in 2017. That included a survey of about 1,000 library users and nonusers.
The availability of coffee; enhanced, comfortable places to read; a makerspace; and, a teen area were among the top requests.
The need to replace the roof and HVAC system, among other work, was also a consideration in seeking voter approval to expand and remodel the library, the first such request since it was built in 1970.
"We went about this because people asked for it," Drinka said. "We really wanted to know, 'What is the total community support for this?'" she added.
Drinka said she learned that more referendums passed during high turnout elections. It was a close vote against the measure on election night, but with tens of thousands of votes still outstanding everyone knew that could change.
The approval will add about $50 a year to the property tax bill of a home valued at $200,000.
Kakacek said the thought of an improved library may have been sort of a ray of hope during a dark time.
"People don't want to spend more money on their taxes," she said. "We respect every 'No' vote."
There was no apparent organized opposition. However, it technically isn't over.
Electors can petition the county clerk for discovery and select no more than 25% of precincts within the district to be retabulated or hand counted.
Filers have five calendar days after the last day all election authorities must certify to the State Board of Elections, which is Nov. 24. Since the clerk's office is closed Nov. 26 and Nov. 27, that deadline is Dec. 1.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Pfizer, BioNTech seek emergency use of COVID-19 shots in US

Pfizer formally asked U.S. regulators Friday to allow emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine , starting the clock on a process that could bring limited first shots as early as next month and eventually an end to the pandemic -- but not until after a long , hard winter .
The action comes days after Pfizer Inc. and its German partner BioNTech announced that its vaccine appears 95 % effective at preventing mild to severe COVID-19 disease in a large , ongoing study .
The companies said that protection plus a good safety record means the vaccine should qualify for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Drug Administration can grant before the final testing is fully complete .
In addition to the FDA submission , they have already started `` rolling '' applications in Europe and the U.K. and intend to submit similar information soon .
With the coronavirus surging around the U.S. and the world , the pressure is on for regulators to make a speedy decision .
`` Help is on the way , '' Dr. Anthony Fauci , the top U.S. infectious disease expert said on the eve of Pfizer 's announcement , adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other protective measures .
`` We need to actually double down on the public health measures as we 're waiting for that help to come . ''
Friday 's filing sets off a chain of events as the FDA and its independent advisers debate if the shots are ready .
If so , still another government group will have to decide how the initial limited supplies are rationed out to anxiously awaiting Americans .
How much vaccine is available and when is a moving target , but initial supplies will be scarce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimated it could have 50 million doses available by year 's end .
About 25 million may become available for U.S. use in December , 30 million in January and 35 million more in February and March , according to information presented to the National Academy of Medicine this week .
Recipients will need two doses , three weeks apart .
The U.S. government has a contract to buy millions of Pfizer-BioNTech doses , as well as other candidates than pan out , and has promised shots will be free .
Not far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine .
Its early data suggests the shots are as strong as Pfizer 's , and that company expects to also seek emergency authorization within weeks .
Here 's what happens next : The public 's first chance to see how strong the evidence really is will come in early December at a public meeting of the FDA 's scientific advisers .
So far , what 's known is based only on statements from Pfizer and BioNTech .
Of 170 infections detected to date , only eight were among people who 'd received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gotten a dummy shot .
On the safety side , the companies cite results from 38,000 study participants who 've been tracked for two months after their second dose .
That 's a milestone FDA set because historically , vaccine side effects do n't crop up later than that .
`` We 'll drill down on these data , '' said FDA adviser Dr. Paul Offit of the Children 's Hospital of Philadelphia .
Think of it like science on trial .
A few days before the meeting , the FDA will release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the stage for the advisers ' daylong debate about any signs of safety concerns and how the new vaccine technology works before rendering a verdict .
They 'll recommend not just whether FDA should allow broader use of the vaccine generally but if so , for whom .
For example , is there enough proof the vaccine works as well for older , sicker adults as for younger , healthier people ?
There 's still no guarantee .
`` We do n't know what that vote 's going to be , '' said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EMERGENCY USE IS N'T THE SAME AS FULL APPROVAL If there 's an emergency green light , `` that vaccine is still deemed investigational .
It 's not approved yet , '' Dr. Marion Gruber , chief of FDA 's vaccine office , told the National Academy of Medicine this week .
That means anyone offered an emergency vaccination must get a `` fact sheet '' describing potential benefits and risks before going through with the shot , she said .
There will be a lot of unknowns .
For example , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who developed symptoms and then were tested for the virus .
Can the vaccinated get infected but have no symptoms , able to spread the virus ?
How long does protection last ?
That 's why the 44,000-person study needs to keep running -- something difficult considering ethically , participants given dummy shots at some point must be offered real vaccine , complicating the search for answers .
`` I 'm curious , '' said Barry Colvin , 52 , of White Plains , New York , who is taking part in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But he 's not in a great hurry to find out which group he 's in .
`` You need to hang in there for a while to understand and answer a lot of the other questions that remain unknown . ''
Additionally at least for now , pregnant women wo n't qualify because they were n't studied .
Pfizer only recently began testing the vaccine in children as young as 12 .
A decision on Pfizer-BioNTech 's vaccine wo n't affect other COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the pipeline , which will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complex than typical drug manufacturing , yet the millionth dose to roll out of Pfizer 's Kalamazoo , Michigan , factory must be the same purity and potency as every dose before and after .
That means the FDA decision is n't just based on study data , but on its determination that the vaccine is being made correctly .
The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine -- and Moderna 's shots -- are made with new technology .
They do n't contain the actual coronavirus .
Instead , they 're made with a piece of genetic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that studs the virus .
That messenger RNA , or mRNA , instructs the body to make some harmless spike protein , training immune cells to recognize it if the real virus eventually comes along .
Another government group -- advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention -- decides who is first in line for scarce doses .
Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said he hopes that decision can be made at the same time as FDA 's .
The Trump administration 's Operation Warp Speed has worked with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 'd need to cover the populations offered vaccine first .
Pfizer will ship those supplies as ordered by the states -- only after FDA gives the OK. Company projections of how much it will ship each month are just predictions , Baylor warned .
`` It 's not like a pizza , '' he said .
Manufacturing is so complex that `` you do n't necessarily end up with what you thought . ''
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute 's Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for all content .


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Remote learning extended through Jan. 15 for all District 204 students

Indian Prairie Unit District 204 is extending its remote learning plans for all students through Jan. 15 to help control the community spread of the COVID-19 virus and prevent a post-holiday surge in schools .
The district initially planned to move from an e-learning format to a hybrid model at the beginning of the month , but administrators have delayed the transition multiple times amid an escalating number of new infections in the area .
The Naperville and Aurora-area district has seen a spike in confirmed cases , with 275 staff members required to quarantine in the last two weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Talley said in a letter to families .
And the community 's positivity rate and increased hospitalizations are not expected to start declining any time soon , he said .
`` While we are disappointed to announce an extended pause to our in-person learning plans , public health officials are providing no indication that the community transmission level will be reduced from substantial to moderate , '' Talley said .
Local health department data must show a `` moderate '' transmission level for two consecutive weeks before the district will move into its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the district 's preschool and STEPS programs and those with special needs have still been receiving in-person support , though Talley reported an increasing number of parents choosing not to send their kids to school .
Those students will revert to an entirely remote setting starting Monday .
Amid concerns over COVID-19 transmission during the holidays , public health officials have been imploring residents to avoid travel , forgo large events and limit gatherings to immediate family inside their homes .
Keeping all students home through Jan. 15 allows for a recommended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Talley said .
A Tier 3 mitigation strategy took effect statewide Friday as Gov .
J.B. Pritzker urged residents to stay home as much as possible .
Tighter restrictions include reducing capacity to 50 % at grocery stores and 25 % at other stores , suspending indoor group sports , closing casinos and gaming terminals , and banning events at banquet halls , party venues and clubs .
Illinois Department of Public Health data reported Friday shows a weekly infection rate of 543 new cases per 100,000 people in DuPage County and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Will County .
District 204 officials are expected to monitor health department metrics and reassess the situation in January , Talley said .
`` The only way we will decrease the community transmission level is if we all do our part to slow the spread of COVID , '' he said .

Remote learning extended through Jan. 15 for all District 204 students
Neuqua Valley high schoolers and all other Indian Prairie Unit District 204 students will remain in a remote learning environment through Jan. 15, Superintendent Adrian Talley announced this week. Daily Herald file photo
Indian Prairie Unit District 204 is extending its remote learning plans for all students through Jan. 15 to help control the community spread of the COVID-19 virus and prevent a post-holiday surge in schools.
The district initially planned to move from an e-learning format to a hybrid model at the beginning of the month, but administrators have delayed the transition multiple times amid an escalating number of new infections in the area.
The Naperville and Aurora-area district has seen a spike in confirmed cases, with 275 staff members required to quarantine in the last two weeks due to possible exposure, Superintendent Adrian Talley said in a letter to families. And the community's positivity rate and increased hospitalizations are not expected to start declining any time soon, he said.
"While we are disappointed to announce an extended pause to our in-person learning plans, public health officials are providing no indication that the community transmission level will be reduced from substantial to moderate," Talley said.
Local health department data must show a "moderate" transmission level for two consecutive weeks before the district will move into its hybrid model, he said.
Students in the district's preschool and STEPS programs and those with special needs have still been receiving in-person support, though Talley reported an increasing number of parents choosing not to send their kids to school. Those students will revert to an entirely remote setting starting Monday.
Amid concerns over COVID-19 transmission during the holidays, public health officials have been imploring residents to avoid travel, forgo large events and limit gatherings to immediate family inside their homes. Keeping all students home through Jan. 15 allows for a recommended 14-day quarantine after Thanksgiving and winter breaks, Talley said.
A Tier 3 mitigation strategy took effect statewide Friday as Gov. J.B. Pritzker urged residents to stay home as much as possible. Tighter restrictions include reducing capacity to 50% at grocery stores and 25% at other stores, suspending indoor group sports, closing casinos and gaming terminals, and banning events at banquet halls, party venues and clubs.
Illinois Department of Public Health data reported Friday shows a weekly infection rate of 543 new cases per 100,000 people in DuPage County and 743 new cases per 100,000 residents in Will County.
District 204 officials are expected to monitor health department metrics and reassess the situation in January, Talley said.
"The only way we will decrease the community transmission level is if we all do our part to slow the spread of COVID," he said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-11-20--Des Plaines taps veteran Lisle cop to be new chief

A veteran suburban police officer and administrator has been named Des Plaines ' next police chief .
David Anderson , the chief of Benedictine University 's police force in Lisle and the former Lisle chief , has been tapped for the Des Plaines job .
Anderson will replace Chief William Kushner , who is set to retire next month .
`` It is an honor to be given the opportunity to serve the Des Plaines community alongside the fine officers of the police department , '' Anderson said in a news release .
`` I 'm looking forward to meeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model of the city of Des Plaines . ''
`` We welcome his ideas and recommendations for enhancing our organization , '' Bartholomew said in the news release .
Anderson is expected to start his new job Dec. 14 , working with Kushner to facilitate a smooth transition , officials said .
He will collect a $ 155,000 annual salary , Bartholomew said .
Anderson retired as Lisle 's police chief in 2019 after 28 years with the department .
He 'd spent his entire career with the Lisle department until taking the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led the Des Plaines police force since 2012 .
He previously was chief in Lakemoor and Berwyn , and he was an officer in Chicago .

Des Plaines taps veteran Lisle cop to be new chief
A veteran suburban police officer and administrator has been named Des Plaines' next police chief.
David Anderson, the chief of Benedictine University's police force in Lisle and the former Lisle chief, has been tapped for the Des Plaines job.
Anderson will replace Chief William Kushner, who is set to retire next month.
"It is an honor to be given the opportunity to serve the Des Plaines community alongside the fine officers of the police department," Anderson said in a news release. "I'm looking forward to meeting community members and supporting the strong service model of the city of Des Plaines."
City Manager Michael Bartholomew made the appointment after a nationwide search.
"We welcome his ideas and recommendations for enhancing our organization," Bartholomew said in the news release.
Anderson is expected to start his new job Dec. 14, working with Kushner to facilitate a smooth transition, officials said. He will collect a $155,000 annual salary, Bartholomew said.
Anderson retired as Lisle's police chief in 2019 after 28 years with the department. He'd spent his entire career with the Lisle department until taking the job at the university.
Kushner has led the Des Plaines police force since 2012. He previously was chief in Lakemoor and Berwyn, and he was an officer in Chicago.