dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-19--School projects, street repairs on Lake County primary ballot

School building projects , fire station upgrades and a new sales tax will be among the requests put to Lake County voters March 17 .
Here 's a recap of referendums on the primary ballot : The district is asking the tax rate be set to generate about $ 1.3 million each year , mainly for roof replacements and other needed work at its two schools .
`` There are no huge bells-and-whistles improvements happening , '' Superintendent Heather Friziellie said .
`` This is just bricks-and-mortar stuff that has to get done . ''
Because the debt to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra money would be `` repurposed '' for other things , according to Friziellie .
Some of the money would be set aside for salaries , as the District 114 teachers are among the lowest-paid in Lake County .
If voters approve the measure , taxes would stay roughly the same -- about $ 394 for the owner of a house valued at $ 200,000 -- Friziellie said .
But bills would drop if voters reject the request .
First Fire Protection District of Antioch Township headquarters at 835 Holbek Drive in Antioch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district , which covers about 35 square miles including the village of Antioch and unincorporated areas , is asking for a tax increase to generate about $ 1.57 million per year for personnel and building repairs .
Service calls have increased 10 % to 3,450 in two years , and the goal of making contact with 90 % of callers within six minutes is becoming a struggle , said Chief Jon Cokefair .
Calls are expected to rise because of growth to the east of Antioch , he said .
The fire district @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three aging fire stations in need of various repairs and improvements , including roofs , parking lots , windows , doors and lighting .
About $ 800,000 of the requested annual amount would go to staffing .
The district does not pay pensions , Cokefair emphasized , and the 12 positions manning the three stations 24 hours are contracted or part-time employees .
If approved , owners of a house valued at $ 200,000 would pay about $ 163 in annual taxes .
Visit www.antiochfire.org/ for more information .
Hawthorn Woods officials are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an annual road repair program .
Hawthorn Woods officials are seeking voter approval to raise funds for an annual road repair program .
Hawthorn Woods roads Village officials intended last April to ask for a tax increase to fund a comprehensive road repair program , but a glitch kept it off the ballot .
Since then , the amount of the annual road program has been reduced from $ 1.2 million to $ 950,000 .
Officials are seeking a tax increase to raise $ 975,000 per year , which would amount to about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 300,000 house .
This annual increase would provide funding over time for a comprehensive $ 25.5 million streets program , according to Pam Newton , the village 's chief operating officer .
By not borrowing the money , the village would save millions in interest payments , she added .
If voters approve the tax increase , the village plans to eliminate vehicle sticker fees .
Libertyville officials are seeking voter approval to impose a 1 % non-home rule sales tax .
It would raise $ 2 million in new annual revenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repairs .
Libertyville officials are seeking voter approval to impose a 1 % non-home rule sales tax .
It would raise $ 2 million in new annual revenue to fund infrastructure projects , including road repairs .
Libertyville sales tax Voters in Libertyville will be asked to approve a 1 % nonhome-rule sales tax to raise $ 2 million in new annual revenue to fund infrastructure projects , including road repairs .
The tax is equivalent to a penny-per-dollar on general merchandise but would not apply to medicines , titled goods such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Village officials have said a 1 % sales tax on restaurants would be repealed if the non-home rule sales tax were approved .
According to the village , the money is needed to offset a nearly $ 2.5 million annual shortfall for road repairs , sidewalks , streetlights , parking lots , parks , facilities , and technology .
Some of the money also could be used as initial funding for stormwater projects .
`` We 're not just raising taxes to raise money ; there 's a specific need for it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Detailed information is posted at libertyville.com , and town-hall meetings on the request are scheduled for Jan. 30 and March 4. Voters in Lake Villa Elementary District 41 will be asked to authorize borrowing $ 30.7 million to fund building projects at four schools .
The request has changed significantly since a sound defeat last April .
The scope of projects and the requested amount has been reduced .
Nearly two dozen public meetings have been held to solicit input , discuss building and maintenance needs and make revisions .
A major difference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in proposed work at Joseph J. Pleviak Elementary School , which the district owns but does n't use , was dropped from the plan .
The questions last April faced organized opposition from a group called District 41 .
Safer .
Better .
More Sustainable , but that group has said it is not opposing the revised request to issue bonds .
The district is seeking authority to issue $ 147 million in school building bonds for a variety of projects to include paying for basic improvements at all schools in areas such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electrical , roofing and heating , ventilation and air conditioning .
Voters last April rejected a request to borrow $ 185 million for facility upgrades .
Due to existing debt the district expects to pay off in 2021 , approval of the ballot measure would have the owner of a $ 500,000 home still see a net decrease of about $ 75 a year compared with the 2019 tax bill .
Without the referendum , the same homeowner would see a reduction of $ 468.In other questions , voters in Beach Park District @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school board to borrow $ 23 million by issuing bonds for projects at five schools .
And voters in Wheeling will be asked whether the village clerk should be appointed rather than elected .

School projects, street repairs on Lake County primary ballot
School building projects, fire station upgrades and a new sales tax will be among the requests put to Lake County voters March 17.
Here's a recap of referendums on the primary ballot:
Fox Lake Elementary District 114
The district is asking the tax rate be set to generate about $1.3 million each year, mainly for roof replacements and other needed work at its two schools.
"There are no huge bells-and-whistles improvements happening," Superintendent Heather Friziellie said. "This is just bricks-and-mortar stuff that has to get done."
Because the debt to build Lotus School will be paid off, extra money would be "repurposed" for other things, according to Friziellie. Some of the money would be set aside for salaries, as the District 114 teachers are among the lowest-paid in Lake County.
If voters approve the measure, taxes would stay roughly the same -- about $394 for the owner of a house valued at $200,000 -- Friziellie said. But bills would drop if voters reject the request.
First Fire Protection District of Antioch Township headquarters at 835 Holbek Drive in Antioch - Daily Herald file, 2016
The fire district, which covers about 35 square miles including the village of Antioch and unincorporated areas, is asking for a tax increase to generate about $1.57 million per year for personnel and building repairs.
Service calls have increased 10% to 3,450 in two years, and the goal of making contact with 90% of callers within six minutes is becoming a struggle, said Chief Jon Cokefair. Calls are expected to rise because of growth to the east of Antioch, he said.
The fire district also has $8.5 million invested in three aging fire stations in need of various repairs and improvements, including roofs, parking lots, windows, doors and lighting.
About $800,000 of the requested annual amount would go to staffing. The district does not pay pensions, Cokefair emphasized, and the 12 positions manning the three stations 24 hours are contracted or part-time employees.
If approved, owners of a house valued at $200,000 would pay about $163 in annual taxes. Visit www.antiochfire.org/ for more information.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer, 2019 Hawthorn Woods officials are seeking voter approval to raise funds for an annual road repair program.
Village officials intended last April to ask for a tax increase to fund a comprehensive road repair program, but a glitch kept it off the ballot.
Since then, the amount of the annual road program has been reduced from $1.2 million to $950,000. Officials are seeking a tax increase to raise $975,000 per year, which would amount to about $206 for the owner of a $300,000 house.
This annual increase would provide funding over time for a comprehensive $25.5 million streets program, according to Pam Newton, the village's chief operating officer. By not borrowing the money, the village would save millions in interest payments, she added.
If voters approve the tax increase, the village plans to eliminate vehicle sticker fees.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer Libertyville officials are seeking voter approval to impose a 1% non-home rule sales tax. It would raise $2 million in new annual revenue to fund infrastructure projects, including road repairs.
Voters in Libertyville will be asked to approve a 1% nonhome-rule sales tax to raise $2 million in new annual revenue to fund infrastructure projects, including road repairs.
The tax is equivalent to a penny-per-dollar on general merchandise but would not apply to medicines, titled goods such as cars and trailers, and most groceries.
Village officials have said a 1% sales tax on restaurants would be repealed if the non-home rule sales tax were approved.
According to the village, the money is needed to offset a nearly $2.5 million annual shortfall for road repairs, sidewalks, streetlights, parking lots, parks, facilities, and technology. Some of the money also could be used as initial funding for stormwater projects.
"We're not just raising taxes to raise money; there's a specific need for it," said Mayor Terry Weppler.
Detailed information is posted at libertyville.com, and town-hall meetings on the request are scheduled for Jan. 30 and March 4.
District 41 bond issue
Voters in Lake Villa Elementary District 41 will be asked to authorize borrowing $30.7 million to fund building projects at four schools.
The request has changed significantly since a sound defeat last April. The scope of projects and the requested amount has been reduced. Nearly two dozen public meetings have been held to solicit input, discuss building and maintenance needs and make revisions.
A major difference from last April is $4.4 million in proposed work at Joseph J. Pleviak Elementary School, which the district owns but doesn't use, was dropped from the plan.
The questions last April faced organized opposition from a group called District 41. Safer. Better. More Sustainable, but that group has said it is not opposing the revised request to issue bonds.
District 220 projects
The district is seeking authority to issue $147 million in school building bonds for a variety of projects to include paying for basic improvements at all schools in areas such as safety and security, plumbing, electrical, roofing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Voters last April rejected a request to borrow $185 million for facility upgrades.
Due to existing debt the district expects to pay off in 2021, approval of the ballot measure would have the owner of a $500,000 home still see a net decrease of about $75 a year compared with the 2019 tax bill. Without the referendum, the same homeowner would see a reduction of $468.In other questions, voters in Beach Park District 3 will be asked to authorize the school board to borrow $23 million by issuing bonds for projects at five schools.
And voters in Wheeling will be asked whether the village clerk should be appointed rather than elected.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Sabonis' triple-double leads Pacers past Nuggets 115-107

DENVER -- Despite playing from behind for most of their game against the Denver Nuggets , Domantas Sabonis never felt the Indiana Pacers were out of it .
Sabonis had 22 points , 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his first career triple-double , Doug McDermott scored 18 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter and the Pacers rallied late to beat the Nuggets 115-107 on Sunday night .
`` I just felt like we were always right there , down 5-6 points all game , '' Sabonis said .
`` I felt like this was the game we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip right and just believed in my teammates that we could make that next step .
And in the fourth quarter everybody stepped up and made big-time plays . ''
In one sequence with just under three minutes remaining , Sabonis helped protect the Pacers ' late lead by fighting through traffic in the low post to grab three offensive rebounds before finishing with a tip-in .
`` McDermott killed us .
Sabonis killed us , '' Nuggets coach Michael Malone said .
`` The fourth quarter , they had six offensive rebounds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miss , they just pushed us around , much more physical than us .
Disappointing loss . ''
Malcom Brogdon and T.J. Warren added 22 points each for the Pacers , who snapped a 10-game skid at Pepsi Center .
They overcame a 30-point performance from the Nuggets ' Nikola Jokic to win their fifth straight .
`` We just played really well together out there in the fourth quarter , '' McDermott said .
`` We had a lot of shots fall and I thought we did a good job on defense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Will Barton added 16 points apiece for the Nuggets , who were again without injured starters Paul Millsap , Gary Harris and Jamal Murray .
Denver had the lead for most of the game but was outscored 41-26 in the fourth quarter .
The Nuggets missed 10 of 32 free throws and were 3 of 23 from 3-point range while the Pacers connected on 13 of 29 from beyond the arc , including six 3-pointers by McDermott .
`` I think we got real relaxed and we did n't play with a sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half , '' said Michael Porter Jr. , who scored 10 points for Denver .
`` I think we kind of gave that one away . ''
Brogdon connected on a 3-pointer in the waning seconds of the third quarter and the Pacers pulled within 81-74 going into the final period .
Successive 3-pointers by Aaron Holiday and McDermott followed by McDermott 's layup evened the score at 91 with 6:59 left .
The sides alternated scores in the closing minutes , with the Pacers taking their first lead , 98-97 , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corner by McDermott .
Consecutive baskets by Sabonis put Indiana in front 104-99 with 1:30 left and McDermott answered two free throws by Jokic with another 3-pointer as the Pacers pulled out to a six-point advantage with 1:08 remaining .
The Nuggets could not close the gap .
Pacers : Missed nine of their first 10 shots six minutes into the game but trailed by just four points .
...
Improved to 8-8 this season when playing teams with a better than .500 record .
Nuggets : Millsap missed a sixth consecutive game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Murray was out for a second game in a row because of a left ankle sprain .
... Harris remained sidelined for a third consecutive game because of a right adductor strain .
Pacers : Play the second of a back-to-back set on the road at Utah on Monday night .
Nuggets : Complete a back-to-back set on Monday night at Minnesota to start a three-game trip .

Sabonis' triple-double leads Pacers past Nuggets 115-107
Denver Nuggets guard Will Barton, front, is stopped as he drives to the rim by Indiana Pacers guard Aaron Holiday in the first half of an NBA basketball game Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Associated Press
Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis, center, looks to pass the ball as, from left, Denver Nuggets guards Will Barton and Monte Morris and center Nikola Jokic defend in the second half of an NBA basketball game Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Indiana won 115-107. Associated Press
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, front, pulls down a rebound in front of Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis in the first half of an NBA basketball game Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Associated Press
Indiana Pacers forward Doug McDermott is congratulated after hitting a three-point basket in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Indiana won 115-107. Associated Press
Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner, right, congratulates Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis after he hit a key basket late in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Indiana won 115-107. Associated Press
Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis argues for a foul in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Denver. Indiana won 115-107. Associated Press
DENVER -- Despite playing from behind for most of their game against the Denver Nuggets, Domantas Sabonis never felt the Indiana Pacers were out of it.
Sabonis had 22 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his first career triple-double, Doug McDermott scored 18 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter and the Pacers rallied late to beat the Nuggets 115-107 on Sunday night.
"I just felt like we were always right there, down 5-6 points all game," Sabonis said. "I felt like this was the game we needed to get to start the road trip right and just believed in my teammates that we could make that next step. And in the fourth quarter everybody stepped up and made big-time plays."
In one sequence with just under three minutes remaining, Sabonis helped protect the Pacers' late lead by fighting through traffic in the low post to grab three offensive rebounds before finishing with a tip-in.
"McDermott killed us. Sabonis killed us," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "The fourth quarter, they had six offensive rebounds. The very few times they did miss, they just pushed us around, much more physical than us. Disappointing loss."
Malcom Brogdon and T.J. Warren added 22 points each for the Pacers, who snapped a 10-game skid at Pepsi Center. They overcame a 30-point performance from the Nuggets' Nikola Jokic to win their fifth straight.
"We just played really well together out there in the fourth quarter," McDermott said. "We had a lot of shots fall and I thought we did a good job on defense and rebounding."
Jerami Grant and Will Barton added 16 points apiece for the Nuggets, who were again without injured starters Paul Millsap, Gary Harris and Jamal Murray.
Denver had the lead for most of the game but was outscored 41-26 in the fourth quarter. The Nuggets missed 10 of 32 free throws and were 3 of 23 from 3-point range while the Pacers connected on 13 of 29 from beyond the arc, including six 3-pointers by McDermott.
"I think we got real relaxed and we didn't play with a sense of urgency, especially in the second half," said Michael Porter Jr., who scored 10 points for Denver. "I think we kind of gave that one away."
Brogdon connected on a 3-pointer in the waning seconds of the third quarter and the Pacers pulled within 81-74 going into the final period.
Successive 3-pointers by Aaron Holiday and McDermott followed by McDermott's layup evened the score at 91 with 6:59 left. The sides alternated scores in the closing minutes, with the Pacers taking their first lead, 98-97, with 4:13 remaining on a 3-pointer from the corner by McDermott.
Consecutive baskets by Sabonis put Indiana in front 104-99 with 1:30 left and McDermott answered two free throws by Jokic with another 3-pointer as the Pacers pulled out to a six-point advantage with 1:08 remaining. The Nuggets could not close the gap.
TIP-INS
Pacers: Missed nine of their first 10 shots six minutes into the game but trailed by just four points. ... Improved to 8-8 this season when playing teams with a better than .500 record.
Nuggets: Millsap missed a sixth consecutive game with a bruised left knee. ... Murray was out for a second game in a row because of a left ankle sprain. ... Harris remained sidelined for a third consecutive game because of a right adductor strain.
UP NEXT
Pacers: Play the second of a back-to-back set on the road at Utah on Monday night.
Nuggets: Complete a back-to-back set on Monday night at Minnesota to start a three-game trip.
___
More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Hoffman Estates breakfast honors King's legacy with call to action

Hoffman Estates community leaders and residents gathered with neighbors from surrounding communities Monday to honor the legacy of the Rev .
Martin Luther King Jr .
The Hoffman Estates Cultural Awareness Commission 's 18th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast , themed `` Rising Together : Our Path to the Mountaintop , '' featured a keynote address by Hanover Park Trustee Herb Porter .
In his address , Porter spoke of the mountaintop -- a reference to King 's `` I 've Been to the Mountaintop '' speech delivered the day before his assassination -- as not a destination , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He also encouraged his fellow leaders in local government to do more to eliminate our culture 's `` pervasive '' implicit biases that create barriers for minorities and other disadvantaged people in society .
`` In all areas of our culture , we must be vigilant in our efforts to eradicate all biases from our daily discourse , '' he said .
`` Let 's join together and be the change as we march toward the promised land . ''
Porter later described King as a `` champion of love . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pragmatic , practical love , that made him stand up against the powers of the day and demand freedom , equality and opportunity for those so long denied these basic elements of the American dream . ''

Hoffman Estates breakfast honors King's legacy with call to action
Hoffman Estates community leaders and residents gathered with neighbors from surrounding communities Monday to honor the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Hoffman Estates Cultural Awareness Commission's 18th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, themed "Rising Together: Our Path to the Mountaintop," featured a keynote address by Hanover Park Trustee Herb Porter.
In his address, Porter spoke of the mountaintop -- a reference to King's "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech delivered the day before his assassination -- as not a destination, but a stop on a journey.
He also encouraged his fellow leaders in local government to do more to eliminate our culture's "pervasive" implicit biases that create barriers for minorities and other disadvantaged people in society.
"In all areas of our culture, we must be vigilant in our efforts to eradicate all biases from our daily discourse," he said. "Let's join together and be the change as we march toward the promised land."
Porter later described King as a "champion of love."
"Not of a romanticized love, but a pragmatic, practical love, that made him stand up against the powers of the day and demand freedom, equality and opportunity for those so long denied these basic elements of the American dream."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--King holiday 'a day to do something positive' for Arlington Heights church

Four months ago , Peter Uccio was diagnosed with liver cancer .
He and his wife , Donniece Samuels , traveled from Pennsylvania to the Northwest suburbs where he hoped to find work , but dealing with cancer has made that a challenge .
Their difficulties brought them to the basement of the First Presbyterian Church in Arlington Heights on Monday where they enjoyed a lunch provided by volunteers taking part in a day of service to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day .
`` It 's something we are supposed to do , '' said Walt Meyer , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feed anyone who wanders in from the cold .
`` Jesus said to take care of his people , and we are . ''
The effort was appreciated by Uccio , Samuels and the others who joined them for lunch .
`` It 's good that they do this , get us a meal , get us fed , '' Uccio said .
TC Anderson , associate pastor at First Presbyterian , said food donated as part of the event also will be distributed to food pantries in Arlington Heights .
`` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this .
I think the purpose is to try and create a little more brightness in the world , '' Anderson said .
`` Use Martin Luther King Jr. Day to do something positive instead of having the day off and bum about . ''

King holiday 'a day to do something positive' for Arlington Heights church
Four months ago, Peter Uccio was diagnosed with liver cancer.
He and his wife, Donniece Samuels, traveled from Pennsylvania to the Northwest suburbs where he hoped to find work, but dealing with cancer has made that a challenge.
Their difficulties brought them to the basement of the First Presbyterian Church in Arlington Heights on Monday where they enjoyed a lunch provided by volunteers taking part in a day of service to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
"It's something we are supposed to do," said Walt Meyer, who prepared dozens of grilled cheese sandwiches to feed anyone who wanders in from the cold. "Jesus said to take care of his people, and we are."
The effort was appreciated by Uccio, Samuels and the others who joined them for lunch.
"It's good that they do this, get us a meal, get us fed," Uccio said.
TC Anderson, associate pastor at First Presbyterian, said food donated as part of the event also will be distributed to food pantries in Arlington Heights.
"This is the second year we have done this. I think the purpose is to try and create a little more brightness in the world," Anderson said. "Use Martin Luther King Jr. Day to do something positive instead of having the day off and bum about."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Choir brings joyous sounds to Judson on MLK Day

Choir members and musicians from Second Baptist Church of Elgin brought the joyous sounds of worship to a packed house @ @ @ @ @ Herrick Chapel during a Martin Luther King Jr. Day service .
Now in its 17th @ @ @ @ @ spearheaded by Second Baptist Church the Rev .
Dr. Nathaniel Edmond , a former member @ @ @ @ @ trustees .
Edmond joined the choir onstage and eschewed his notes , instead talking about @ @ @ @ @ years ago by escaped slaves from Alabama and what he hopes will be another 150 @ @ @ @ @ Elgin .
Edmond is retiring this year after 20 years at Second Baptist .
The @ @ @ @ @ to the Judson University general scholarship fund .

Choir brings joyous sounds to Judson on MLK Day
Choir members and musicians from Second Baptist Church of Elgin brought the joyous sounds of worship to a packed house Monday at Judson University's Herrick Chapel during a Martin Luther King Jr. Day service.
Now in its 17th year, the program is spearheaded by Second Baptist Church the Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Edmond, a former member of Judson's board of trustees.
Edmond joined the choir onstage and eschewed his notes, instead talking about the church's founding 153 years ago by escaped slaves from Alabama and what he hopes will be another 150 years for the church in Elgin. Edmond is retiring this year after 20 years at Second Baptist.
The church also made a donation to the Judson University general scholarship fund.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Rozner: Cubs' TV voice Kasper joins elite company

As is the case with great baseball players midway through their careers , now is about the time you start wondering about Len Kasper 's Hall of Fame chances .
But if you start doing the math , Kasper -- who enters his 22nd year broadcasting baseball and turns 49 on Tuesday -- figures to have at least another 20 years in him if he wants to do it that long .
And that will land him in the Cooperstown conversation .
Quietly -- well , everything about Kasper is quiet when he 's not screaming for a Javy Baez @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself -- Kasper has joined Harry Caray in second place on the all-time list of Cubs lead play-by-play TV voices .
`` I had n't done the math .
I did n't know that , '' Kasper said Monday .
`` I ca n't even believe that number or how fast it 's gone .
It feels like a snap of the fingers . ''
This will be his 16th year at Wrigley Field , same as Caray , and trailing only Jack Brickhouse and his valiant 34 years directing cheers on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There are youngsters graduating from college who have known only Kasper as the voice of Cubs television .
That 's pretty impressive when you consider it 's an entire baseball generation .
`` The one regret I have is not getting to know Harry or Jack , '' said Kasper , who arrived in Chicago seven years after Caray 's death .
`` I was incredibly fortunate to get to know -- and become friends with -- Ernie Harwell , my broadcasting idol .
`` But circumstances and age kept me from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would be proud of the way I go about the job .
I think of them often . ''
Unlike so many who merely hang around and mail it in once they 've established themselves , Kasper continues to work at his craft .
In an ever-changing business , entertainment is entirely necessary as a balance against the analytics that have swallowed up some very dull and unwatchable broadcasts .
`` I 'm always working on it , '' Kasper admitted .
`` Once you find your voice -- which takes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You have to maintain your place while being open to things that might work . ''
Which includes outright theft if necessary .
`` I told Joe Buck that one key breakthrough for me watching a Fox game was when an inning ended with a huge commotion , he did n't say anything and just kind of let the picture tell the story , '' Kasper said .
`` Like 15 to 20 seconds of him not talking .
I thought that was brilliant and displayed incredible confidence .
`` If you hear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
And if there 's times you think Kasper is n't loud enough , he 's absolutely fine with that .
`` I do n't block people on Twitter , and the biggest criticism I get there is a valid one , '' Kasper explained .
`` They say , 'Sometimes you put me to sleep ' or 'You 're boring . '
That criticism never bothers me .
`` Ernie Harwell was my hero .
He said people would come up to him every day and say , ' I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times . '
`` Baseball is like golf , a very soothing experience .
It 's not like hockey or football where your hair is on fire .
`` I want it to be comfortable .
I 'd rather have that than , 'You 're annoying .
Stop talking .
You never shut up . '
'' As broadcasters and employees of the team , it 's been known for a year in franchise circles that Kasper and partner Jim Deshaies would be leading the Cubs ' Marquee Sports Network , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Myers .
Kasper wanted to dip his toes into the Fox waters , so this season he 'll be working about 10 non-Cubs games while Myers fills in .
And when Pat Hughes takes a few days off , Kasper may take some games on radio just because he enjoys it , and that will give Myers a few more opportunities on Marquee .
`` I 'm excited about something brand new .
J.D .
and I will have a new adventure on TV with the new network , '' Kasper said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has passed .
I feel really fortunate to have been here this long . ''
Fifteen years in the blink of an eye , from unknown in Chicago to part of the viewer 's family and a household name , a superstar in baseball broadcasting .
How long he does it -- and where he wants it to take him -- will be entirely up to him .

Rozner: Cubs' TV voice Kasper joins elite company
The Cubs introduced Len Kasper as their new TV play-by-play man in late 2004. He begins his 16th year this season. Daily Herald File Photo
As is the case with great baseball players midway through their careers, now is about the time you start wondering about Len Kasper's Hall of Fame chances.
Yeah, that happened fast.
But if you start doing the math, Kasper -- who enters his 22nd year broadcasting baseball and turns 49 on Tuesday -- figures to have at least another 20 years in him if he wants to do it that long.
And that will land him in the Cooperstown conversation.
Quietly -- well, everything about Kasper is quiet when he's not screaming for a Javy Baez moonshot, as he hates talking about himself -- Kasper has joined Harry Caray in second place on the all-time list of Cubs lead play-by-play TV voices.
"I hadn't done the math. I didn't know that," Kasper said Monday. "I can't even believe that number or how fast it's gone. It feels like a snap of the fingers."
This will be his 16th year at Wrigley Field, same as Caray, and trailing only Jack Brickhouse and his valiant 34 years directing cheers on the North Side, mostly for awful teams.
There are youngsters graduating from college who have known only Kasper as the voice of Cubs television. That's pretty impressive when you consider it's an entire baseball generation.
"The one regret I have is not getting to know Harry or Jack," said Kasper, who arrived in Chicago seven years after Caray's death. "I was incredibly fortunate to get to know -- and become friends with -- Ernie Harwell, my broadcasting idol.
"But circumstances and age kept me from knowing Harry and Jack. Hopefully, they would be proud of the way I go about the job. I think of them often."
Unlike so many who merely hang around and mail it in once they've established themselves, Kasper continues to work at his craft.
In an ever-changing business, entertainment is entirely necessary as a balance against the analytics that have swallowed up some very dull and unwatchable broadcasts.
"I'm always working on it," Kasper admitted. "Once you find your voice -- which takes a while -- maintaining it takes work. You have to maintain your place while being open to things that might work."
Which includes outright theft if necessary.
"I told Joe Buck that one key breakthrough for me watching a Fox game was when an inning ended with a huge commotion, he didn't say anything and just kind of let the picture tell the story," Kasper said. "Like 15 to 20 seconds of him not talking. I thought that was brilliant and displayed incredible confidence.
"If you hear that, I'm copying Joe Buck."
And if there's times you think Kasper isn't loud enough, he's absolutely fine with that.
"I don't block people on Twitter, and the biggest criticism I get there is a valid one," Kasper explained. "They say, 'Sometimes you put me to sleep' or 'You're boring.' That criticism never bothers me.
"Ernie Harwell was my hero. He said people would come up to him every day and say, 'I've fallen asleep to your voice a thousand times.'
"Baseball is like golf, a very soothing experience. It's not like hockey or football where your hair is on fire.
"I want it to be comfortable. I'd rather have that than, 'You're annoying. Stop talking. You never shut up.'"
As broadcasters and employees of the team, it's been known for a year in franchise circles that Kasper and partner Jim Deshaies would be leading the Cubs' Marquee Sports Network, but there were some surprise additions, like Chris Myers.
Kasper wanted to dip his toes into the Fox waters, so this season he'll be working about 10 non-Cubs games while Myers fills in.
And when Pat Hughes takes a few days off, Kasper may take some games on radio just because he enjoys it, and that will give Myers a few more opportunities on Marquee.
"I'm excited about something brand new. J.D. and I will have a new adventure on TV with the new network," Kasper said. "Just crazy the way the time has passed. I feel really fortunate to have been here this long."
Fifteen years in the blink of an eye, from unknown in Chicago to part of the viewer's family and a household name, a superstar in baseball broadcasting.
How long he does it -- and where he wants it to take him -- will be entirely up to him.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--If you value local journalism, here's an opportunity for you to help

Last year , we reported about 26,000 stories , but there still were plenty of stories we did n't get to .
That 's to some degree the nature of newspapering .
There is always one more story to do , especially here in the suburbs .
But it 's also a reflection of the staffing challenges facing newspapers throughout the country .
This summer , we will be adding three reporters to the staff through a program underwritten by the nonprofit Report for America to strengthen the nation 's local journalism .
These additions will greatly help us better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up local coverage following the historic challenges the newspaper industry has confronted for the last decade .
Report for America 's groundbreaking support also comes with a challenge -- to fundraise to match at least half of its grant .
Today , we launch our 2020 Report for the Suburbs Campaign , a yearlong fund drive coordinated with Report for America .
We 'd be grateful for your support .
If you 'd like to make a tax-deductible contribution , do so at events.dailyherald.com .
If you 'd like to help , talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone you know who values local journalism .
Encourage them to contribute at events.dailyherald.com .
If you have ideas or would like to volunteer , email me at R4Suburbs @ dailyherald.com .

If you value local journalism, here's an opportunity for you to help
Last year, we reported about 26,000 stories, but there still were plenty of stories we didn't get to.
That's to some degree the nature of newspapering. There is always one more story to do, especially here in the suburbs.
But it's also a reflection of the staffing challenges facing newspapers throughout the country.
This summer, we will be adding three reporters to the staff through a program underwritten by the nonprofit Report for America to strengthen the nation's local journalism.
These additions will greatly help us better cover the suburbs. They will beef up local coverage following the historic challenges the newspaper industry has confronted for the last decade.
Report for America's groundbreaking support also comes with a challenge -- to fundraise to match at least half of its grant.
Today, we launch our 2020 Report for the Suburbs Campaign, a yearlong fund drive coordinated with Report for America.
We'd be grateful for your support.
If you'd like to make a tax-deductible contribution, do so at events.dailyherald.com.
If you'd like to help, talk this campaign up with your friends and anyone you know who values local journalism. Encourage them to contribute at events.dailyherald.com.
If you have ideas or would like to volunteer, email me at R4Suburbs@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Have you waited a long time at a freight train crossing? The feds want to hear about it.

Fuming in the idling car while an interminable freight train steals 20 minutes you 'll never get back ?
Get revenge -- or at least get on the record -- by reporting the delay to a new Federal Railroad Administration database .
The agency recently launched the website www.fra.dot.gov/blockedcrossings with the intent of capturing data on blocked crossings to help identify chronic situations where trains cause traffic jams and hamstring first-responders for long stretches of time .
`` The FRA understands that blocked crossings pose potential safety risks and negatively impact quality of life in locations where trains routinely stand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman said .
It will `` help empower the public to hold the freight railroads accountable when they are blocking crossings , '' said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin , a Springfield Democrat who lobbied to create and fund the website .
Freight trains have grown in length by about 25 % since 2008 , with trains on some railroads averaging 1.2 to 1.4 miles in 2017 , according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office .
`` Blocked crossings are an ongoing problem without a solution , '' Illinois Commerce Commission Railroad Safety Specialist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how long a train can obstruct a crossing , and railroads are tight-lipped about the issue .
Once enough valid and reliable data on train obstructions is gathered , it will be made public , the FRA promises .
Finding worst cases will help `` communities work with railroads to minimize or prevent their recurrence , '' officials said .
But will knowledge equal power ?
The hope is communities that experience the worst train-generated gridlock could lobby for federal dollars to build grade separations or use the knowledge to pressure railroads to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the website can scroll a map that designates specific crossings and give the reason for the blocked crossing and how long they had to wait .
There 's also a chance to advise about problems like stymied ambulances or pedestrians crawling under trains , as happened in June 2018 in Barrington when a stalled CN train blocked crossings for one hour .
`` I am glad FRA is launching it and I think it will be helpful , '' Barrington Mayor Karen Darch said .
`` Actually , though , having the railroads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as the Surface Transportation Board had CN do ... would yield even more effective and comprehensive data . ''
CN was ordered to report blocked crossing occurrences from 2009 through 2017 after it merged with the EJ & E Railroad that runs through the suburbs .
The data showed multiple cases of blockages lasting over an hour .
Meanwhile , Illinois crashes at railway tracks intersecting with roads in public areas jumped from 66 between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31 , 2018 , to 85 during the same period in 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 and 17 in 2019 .
What 's the worst crossing for train delays on your commute ?
Drop an email to mpyke @ dailyherald.com .
Hey ... were n't freight trains shorter a few years back ?
It 's not your faulty memory , a Government Accountability Office report shows .
Seven major railroads operating in the U.S. are running longer than average trains on specific routes , although some indicated that 's just a small percentage of total traffic .
`` One railroad said it runs a 3-mile-long train twice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A new discount airline is coming to Midway International Airport .
More at Midway A new discount airline is coming to Midway International Airport .
Allegiant announced last week it would start offering service between Midway and the following cities : Allentown , Pennsylvania ; Des Moines , Iowa ; Savannah , Georgia ; Asheville , North Carolina ; Knoxville , Tennessee ; and Destin/Fort Walton Beach , Florida .
As an incentive , some fares will be as low as $ 35 one-way .
To learn more , go to allegiantair.com .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Chicago Auto Show Feb. 8-17 , at McCormick Place in Chicago , including Steve Vondrak of Palatine .
It 's a 12-year tradition for him and adult son , Andy .
`` I love the luxury SUVs and am always switching back and forth year to year between the Escalades and the Navigators .
The Cadillac XT4 and XT5 really grabbed both our attentions last year , '' Vondrak wrote .
Lynne Kalberg of Schaumburg drives a 2008 Honda Odyssey dubbed `` the Nana bus '' that is `` able to transport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Her husband drives a 2008 Honda CR-V , and the couple plan to downsize to one automobile .
`` Having different makes and models of cars in one place , indoors , would be very helpful for us , '' she wrote .
Downsizing became a necessity Jan. 15 after Ken and the CR-V collided with a deer , Kalberg said .
`` The cost of repair would be more than the Blue Book value of a 2008 , '' she noted .

Have you waited a long time at a freight train crossing? The feds want to hear about it.
Fuming in the idling car while an interminable freight train steals 20 minutes you'll never get back? Get revenge -- or at least get on the record -- by reporting the delay to a new Federal Railroad Administration database.
The agency recently launched the website www.fra.dot.gov/blockedcrossings with the intent of capturing data on blocked crossings to help identify chronic situations where trains cause traffic jams and hamstring first-responders for long stretches of time.
"The FRA understands that blocked crossings pose potential safety risks and negatively impact quality of life in locations where trains routinely stand idle for extended periods," a spokesman said.
It will "help empower the public to hold the freight railroads accountable when they are blocking crossings," said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, a Springfield Democrat who lobbied to create and fund the website.
Freight trains have grown in length by about 25% since 2008, with trains on some railroads averaging 1.2 to 1.4 miles in 2017, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office.
"Blocked crossings are an ongoing problem without a solution," Illinois Commerce Commission Railroad Safety Specialist Steve Laffey said.
No laws regulate how long a train can obstruct a crossing, and railroads are tight-lipped about the issue.
Once enough valid and reliable data on train obstructions is gathered, it will be made public, the FRA promises.
Finding worst cases will help "communities work with railroads to minimize or prevent their recurrence," officials said.
But will knowledge equal power? The hope is communities that experience the worst train-generated gridlock could lobby for federal dollars to build grade separations or use the knowledge to pressure railroads to offer operational fixes.
Participants who visit the website can scroll a map that designates specific crossings and give the reason for the blocked crossing and how long they had to wait. There's also a chance to advise about problems like stymied ambulances or pedestrians crawling under trains, as happened in June 2018 in Barrington when a stalled CN train blocked crossings for one hour.
"I am glad FRA is launching it and I think it will be helpful," Barrington Mayor Karen Darch said. "Actually, though, having the railroads report their delays which exceed 10 minutes, as the Surface Transportation Board had CN do ... would yield even more effective and comprehensive data."
CN was ordered to report blocked crossing occurrences from 2009 through 2017 after it merged with the EJ&E Railroad that runs through the suburbs. The data showed multiple cases of blockages lasting over an hour.
Meanwhile, Illinois crashes at railway tracks intersecting with roads in public areas jumped from 66 between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31, 2018, to 85 during the same period in 2019, Laffey reported. There were 13 fatalities in 2018 and 17 in 2019.
What's the worst crossing for train delays on your commute? Drop an email to mpyke@dailyherald.com.
One more thing
Hey ... weren't freight trains shorter a few years back? It's not your faulty memory, a Government Accountability Office report shows.
Seven major railroads operating in the U.S. are running longer than average trains on specific routes, although some indicated that's just a small percentage of total traffic. "One railroad said it runs a 3-mile-long train twice week," the GOA noted.
A new discount airline is coming to Midway International Airport. -
A new discount airline is coming to Midway International Airport. Allegiant announced last week it would start offering service between Midway and the following cities: Allentown, Pennsylvania; Des Moines, Iowa; Savannah, Georgia; Asheville, North Carolina; Knoxville, Tennessee; and Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida. As an incentive, some fares will be as low as $35 one-way. To learn more, go to allegiantair.com.
Your voice
Lots of folks are revving up for the Chicago Auto Show Feb. 8-17, at McCormick Place in Chicago, including Steve Vondrak of Palatine. It's a 12-year tradition for him and adult son, Andy. "I love the luxury SUVs and am always switching back and forth year to year between the Escalades and the Navigators. The Cadillac XT4 and XT5 really grabbed both our attentions last year," Vondrak wrote.
Lynne Kalberg of Schaumburg drives a 2008 Honda Odyssey dubbed "the Nana bus" that is "able to transport all six of my grandchildren." Her husband drives a 2008 Honda CR-V, and the couple plan to downsize to one automobile. "Having different makes and models of cars in one place, indoors, would be very helpful for us," she wrote.
Downsizing became a necessity Jan. 15 after Ken and the CR-V collided with a deer, Kalberg said. "The cost of repair would be more than the Blue Book value of a 2008," she noted.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Joliet cop charged with DUI in crash that killed cop from Glen Ellyn

A 12-year veteran of the Joliet Police Department has been charged with driving under the influence and driving too fast for conditions in a weekend crash that killed her passenger , a Berwyn police officer from Glen Ellyn .
Killed was Charles Schauer , 33 , of Glen Ellyn , who was a passenger in the Dodge Durango SUV driven by Erin L. Zilka , 35 , of Plainfield around 6 a.m. Sunday on southbound I-55 just north of U.S. Route 30 .
Zilka hit a disabled box truck that was in the roadway , according to a news release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued a misdemeanor DUI ticket for Zilka , according to Carole Cheney , a spokesman for the Will County state 's attorney .
The state 's attorney is reviewing the case to see if a felony charge is appropriate .
The box truck had been hit by a pickup truck shortly before that , and the two vehicles came to rest in the right two lanes .
A Plainfield man , 42-year-old Rodrigo Marin , may be charged with aggravated DUI-reckless homicide for causing the initial crash , authorities said .
A probable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Marin 's bail was set at $ 250,000 .
To be freed from the Will County jail , he would have to post $ 25,000 .
Prosecutors presented evidence that Marin could be charged with aggravated DUI-three or more convictions , aggravated DUI-reckless homicide , DUI , failure to give information or render aid at an injury accident , leaving the scene of an accident , improper lane use , failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident , and driving on a revoked or suspended license .
His next court date is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Zilka was off-duty at the time of the crash and that it has begun an internal investigation .
The Berwyn Police Department said on its Facebook page Sunday that it `` is grieving the loss of a well-respected Police Officer , Charles Schauer , a ten year veteran . ''
Hundreds expressed condolences in comments .

Joliet cop charged with DUI in crash that killed cop from Glen Ellyn
A 12-year veteran of the Joliet Police Department has been charged with driving under the influence and driving too fast for conditions in a weekend crash that killed her passenger, a Berwyn police officer from Glen Ellyn.
Killed was Charles Schauer, 33, of Glen Ellyn, who was a passenger in the Dodge Durango SUV driven by Erin L. Zilka, 35, of Plainfield around 6 a.m. Sunday on southbound I-55 just north of U.S. Route 30.
Zilka hit a disabled box truck that was in the roadway, according to a news release from Illinois State Police.
State police issued a misdemeanor DUI ticket for Zilka, according to Carole Cheney, a spokesman for the Will County state's attorney. The state's attorney is reviewing the case to see if a felony charge is appropriate.
The box truck had been hit by a pickup truck shortly before that, and the two vehicles came to rest in the right two lanes. A Plainfield man, 42-year-old Rodrigo Marin, may be charged with aggravated DUI-reckless homicide for causing the initial crash, authorities said.
A probable cause hearing was held Monday, and Marin's bail was set at $250,000. To be freed from the Will County jail, he would have to post $25,000.
Prosecutors presented evidence that Marin could be charged with aggravated DUI-three or more convictions, aggravated DUI-reckless homicide, DUI, failure to give information or render aid at an injury accident, leaving the scene of an accident, improper lane use, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, and driving on a revoked or suspended license. His next court date is Wednesday afternoon.
The Joliet Police Department says Zilka was off-duty at the time of the crash and that it has begun an internal investigation.
The Berwyn Police Department said on its Facebook page Sunday that it "is grieving the loss of a well-respected Police Officer, Charles Schauer, a ten year veteran." Hundreds expressed condolences in comments.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Mundelein's next public arts project: Stars

Downtown Mundelein will be full of stars this summer -- and you can be part of the excitement .
The village 's next public arts project will feature 15 large , fiberglass replicas of Mundelein 's star-shaped logo .
The Mundelein Arts Commission will hire artists to decorate the stars , which will be displayed starting in June .
The volunteer commission will give each artist $ 500 to cover materials and time .
Preference will be given to artists from Mundelein and Lake County , but anyone can submit a proposal .
`` This is a great opportunity for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` The stars will be a fixture in downtown for at least a few years , and an artist with a unique vision can have a real impact . ''
Made from a custom mold , each star is 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide .
The stars will be sprayed with a protective coating to preserve them after they 're decorated .
In addition to artists , local businesses or groups can apply to sponsor the stars .
The names of the artists and sponsors will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporting each star .
The application deadline for artists is 5 p.m. Feb. 10 .
Proposals should not contain violent or otherwise inappropriate content , nor should they feature commercial messages or logos .
For more information or an application , go to mundelein.org/mac .
Chicago and the suburbs have a colorful history of public art displays using painted fiberglass figures , starting with 1999 's `` Cows on Parade '' effort in Chicago .
To name a few : Lincolnshire has displayed giant apples , Buffalo Grove commissioned painted bison , Arlington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shown off painted sculptures of books , hearts , cars and other objects .
Mundelein 's previous public art projects include painted cows and utility boxes , and a large mural on the side of a building in the downtown area .
Trustee Ray Semple said arts projects make the town more attractive and inviting .
They also encourage community members to show off their artistic abilities , he said .
Trustee Kara Lambert likes how arts projects make Mundelein stand out from other towns .
`` I like anything that differentiates us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The project is the first since the village board created the Kracklauer Fund for the Arts to acquire and display public art in town .
The fund , named after a former Mundelein family , was launched last week with $ 10,000 in village funds .

Mundelein's next public arts project: Stars
Mundelein officials celebrated the completion of a mural on the side of a downtown building in September 2018. Daily Herald File Photo, 2018
Mundelein's latest public arts project will feature 15 fiberglass stars that replicate the village logo. They'll be painted or otherwise decorated and put on display in the downtown area this summer. Courtesy of Village of Mundelein
Downtown Mundelein will be full of stars this summer -- and you can be part of the excitement.
The village's next public arts project will feature 15 large, fiberglass replicas of Mundelein's star-shaped logo. The Mundelein Arts Commission will hire artists to decorate the stars, which will be displayed starting in June.
The volunteer commission will give each artist $500 to cover materials and time. Preference will be given to artists from Mundelein and Lake County, but anyone can submit a proposal.
Mayor Steve Lentz encouraged local artists to submit concepts.
"This is a great opportunity for local artists to add to their portfolio," he said. "The stars will be a fixture in downtown for at least a few years, and an artist with a unique vision can have a real impact."
Made from a custom mold, each star is 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The stars will be sprayed with a protective coating to preserve them after they're decorated.
In addition to artists, local businesses or groups can apply to sponsor the stars. The names of the artists and sponsors will be engraved in plaques on steel bases supporting each star.
The application deadline for artists is 5 p.m. Feb. 10. Proposals should not contain violent or otherwise inappropriate content, nor should they feature commercial messages or logos.
For more information or an application, go to mundelein.org/mac.
Chicago and the suburbs have a colorful history of public art displays using painted fiberglass figures, starting with 1999's "Cows on Parade" effort in Chicago. To name a few: Lincolnshire has displayed giant apples, Buffalo Grove commissioned painted bison, Arlington Heights had horses, and Naperville has shown off painted sculptures of books, hearts, cars and other objects.
Mundelein's previous public art projects include painted cows and utility boxes, and a large mural on the side of a building in the downtown area.
Trustee Ray Semple said arts projects make the town more attractive and inviting. They also encourage community members to show off their artistic abilities, he said.
Trustee Kara Lambert likes how arts projects make Mundelein stand out from other towns.
"I like anything that differentiates us as a community," she said.
The project is the first since the village board created the Kracklauer Fund for the Arts to acquire and display public art in town. The fund, named after a former Mundelein family, was launched last week with $10,000 in village funds.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Where parks in DuPage, Kane counties are getting state, federal funds

State and federal money is set to match local funds from 13 governmental agencies that have park and open space projects in DuPage and Kane counties .
Funding awards from the state Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund and Recreational Trails Program will benefit park districts , villages and a forest preserve district as they expand and improve outdoor spaces .
The amounts coming to projects in DuPage and Kane counties are among $ 29.7 million in state funding and $ 3 million in federal funding for recreation projects announced Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the projects .
Itasca Park District has long wanted to replace its water park 's bathhouse because the 50-year-old building is beyond its useful life .
But officials were unable to begin the project last year because the work was going to cost more than the district had to spend .
So they pursued a state grant to help pay for the $ 3.2 million project and will receive $ 400,000 from the OSLAD program .
`` The timing of the grant is perfect because we are going out to bid next week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maryfran Leno said Monday .
`` The goal is that the bathhouse will be torn down in August 2020 . ''
The plan calls for the new bathhouse to open in June 2021 .
The roughly 5,500-square-foot facility will include a 1,200-square-foot program room that can be used year-round .
`` We want to build a new building that will last another 50 years , '' Leno said .
`` This will get us up to current standards and where our patrons expect our facilities to be . ''
At Hickory Hill Park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials plan to use a $ 363,800 matching grant from the OSLAD program to improve access and attract patrons .
With limited amenities other than an aging baseball field , the park at 770 Navajo Drive does n't get used as often as park district officials would like , Deputy Director Ross Bertone said .
Planned improvements include a bike repair station , a basketball court , a playground , a picnic shelter and a family fun area that includes cornhole boards .
The baseball field will be replaced with free-play soccer areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create a bike path and a walking trail , as well as a new parking lot , to make the park more accessible for nearby residents , Bertone said .
A $ 2.5 million project to create a park at the last large undeveloped open space in Oak Brook is getting a $ 400,000 boost from the OSLAD grant .
The money will combine with $ 2.1 million left from a tax increase voters approved in 2018 that allowed the district to buy a 34-acre site from McDonald 's when the fast-food giant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brook Park District Executive Director Laure Kosey said the park will include two soccer fields , two outdoor fitness stations , a central plaza with basketball courts and targets to play cornhole or bags , as well as picnic shelters , walking paths and parking lot improvements .
Work is expected to start in June .
The village of South Elgin is set to receive $ 99,200 from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to combine with a local match to help buy the last remaining portion of the Fox River Trail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , director of parks and recreation .
The village plans to buy 1.75 acres to open up the path near the intersection of Mill and Center streets , where it is closed and in disrepair , Wascher said .
That 's why the village looks forward to getting the land on the public rolls to make it accessible .
But `` be patient , '' Wascher warns , as the process of filing paperwork to accept grant funds and closing on the land is expected to take months .
Then , the village @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resurfacing and clearing fallen and overgrown trees .
Other state grants : Downers Grove Park District , $ 400,000 for McCollum Park ; Village of Elburn , $ 390,900 for Elburn Station Unit 1 Park ; Glen Ellyn Park District , $ 400,000 for Newton Park ; Village of Glendale Heights , $ 400,000 for Camera Park ; Village of Hinsdale , $ 400,000 for community pool redevelopment ; Lombard Park District , $ 400,000 for Four Seasons Park ; Roselle Park District , $ 177,900 for Odlum Park .
Other federal grants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 750,000 for acquisition of Rutland Bog and surrounding natural areas ; Westmont Park District , $ 137,500 for Fritz Werley Park expansion • Daily Herald staff writers Robert Sanchez and Lauren Rohr contributed to this report

Where parks in DuPage, Kane counties are getting state, federal funds
The Itasca Park District plans to use a $400,000 state grant to help with the $3.2 million cost of renovating the 50-year-old bath house at its water park. Courtesy of Itasca Park District
State and federal money is set to match local funds from 13 governmental agencies that have park and open space projects in DuPage and Kane counties.
Funding awards from the state Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund and Recreational Trails Program will benefit park districts, villages and a forest preserve district as they expand and improve outdoor spaces. The amounts coming to projects in DuPage and Kane counties are among $29.7 million in state funding and $3 million in federal funding for recreation projects announced Friday.
Here are details on four of the projects.
Itasca bathhouse
Itasca Park District has long wanted to replace its water park's bathhouse because the 50-year-old building is beyond its useful life.
But officials were unable to begin the project last year because the work was going to cost more than the district had to spend.
So they pursued a state grant to help pay for the $3.2 million project and will receive $400,000 from the OSLAD program.
"The timing of the grant is perfect because we are going out to bid next week for this project," Executive Director Maryfran Leno said Monday. "The goal is that the bathhouse will be torn down in August 2020."
The plan calls for the new bathhouse to open in June 2021. The roughly 5,500-square-foot facility will include a 1,200-square-foot program room that can be used year-round.
"We want to build a new building that will last another 50 years," Leno said. "This will get us up to current standards and where our patrons expect our facilities to be."
Dundee Township
At Hickory Hill Park in Carpentersville, Dundee Township Park District officials plan to use a $363,800 matching grant from the OSLAD program to improve access and attract patrons.
With limited amenities other than an aging baseball field, the park at 770 Navajo Drive doesn't get used as often as park district officials would like, Deputy Director Ross Bertone said.
Planned improvements include a bike repair station, a basketball court, a playground, a picnic shelter and a family fun area that includes cornhole boards. The baseball field will be replaced with free-play soccer areas.
The project also is expected to create a bike path and a walking trail, as well as a new parking lot, to make the park more accessible for nearby residents, Bertone said.
Oak Brook property
A $2.5 million project to create a park at the last large undeveloped open space in Oak Brook is getting a $400,000 boost from the OSLAD grant. The money will combine with $2.1 million left from a tax increase voters approved in 2018 that allowed the district to buy a 34-acre site from McDonald's when the fast-food giant moved its headquarters to Chicago.
Oak Brook Park District Executive Director Laure Kosey said the park will include two soccer fields, two outdoor fitness stations, a central plaza with basketball courts and targets to play cornhole or bags, as well as picnic shelters, walking paths and parking lot improvements. Work is expected to start in June.
South Elgin path
The village of South Elgin is set to receive $99,200 from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to combine with a local match to help buy the last remaining portion of the Fox River Trail on private land, said Kim Wascher, director of parks and recreation.
The village plans to buy 1.75 acres to open up the path near the intersection of Mill and Center streets, where it is closed and in disrepair, Wascher said. That's why the village looks forward to getting the land on the public rolls to make it accessible.
But "be patient," Wascher warns, as the process of filing paperwork to accept grant funds and closing on the land is expected to take months. Then, the village will need to make repairs such as resurfacing and clearing fallen and overgrown trees.
Other state grants: Downers Grove Park District, $400,000 for McCollum Park; Village of Elburn, $390,900 for Elburn Station Unit 1 Park; Glen Ellyn Park District, $400,000 for Newton Park; Village of Glendale Heights, $400,000 for Camera Park; Village of Hinsdale, $400,000 for community pool redevelopment; Lombard Park District, $400,000 for Four Seasons Park; Roselle Park District, $177,900 for Odlum Park.
Other federal grants: Kane County Forest Preserve District, $750,000 for acquisition of Rutland Bog and surrounding natural areas; Westmont Park District, $137,500 for Fritz Werley Park expansion
• Daily Herald staff writers Robert Sanchez and Lauren Rohr contributed to this report


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--The 'X Caucus' factor: Concessions to moderates key in Harmon's election as Senate leader

Oak Park Democrat Don Harmon 's selection as the new Illinois Senate president Sunday came thanks , in large part , to a group of moderate suburban and downstate Democrats who quietly supported him in his monthslong rise to the head of the chamber .
The group , calling itself the `` X Caucus '' is made up of `` approximately 10 to 12 '' members depending on the issue , said Democratic Tinley Park Sen. Michael Hastings .
He also noted the caucus sought certain concessions in backing Harmon , including increased power at the committee chair level and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The X Caucus had an influential role in the process , '' Hastings said .
`` It 's normally not a loud caucus , but it 's an effective caucus . ''
Hastings called the caucus , which also includes Democrat Steve Landek of Bridgeview , `` a good group of common-sense , consensus-building legislators '' who `` do n't fit into the ultraconservative or ultraliberal sects '' of the Democratic Party .
In the end , their support was unanimous for Harmon , , who had a 22-17 edge on his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , on the first blind vote that was conducted behind the locked door of the Senate president 's chamber on the third floor of the Capitol .
Media and the public were not allowed even in the corridors outside the offices or the floors immediately below it .
After the closed-door meeting , there was no second ballot as Harmon 's and Lightford 's camps reached an agreement that would make him president .
Lightford will remain Senate majority leader , Harmon said .
The new president received unanimous Democratic support in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his predecessor , former President John Cullerton , a Chicago Democrat , abstaining .
Harmon said the Democrats `` built a coalition ticket reflecting the diversity of our caucus . ''
Hastings said the eventual unanimous support from the Democratic members of the Senate without a second ballot indicated Harmon 's `` professionalism '' and ability to lead .
Aside from seeking rules to `` increase chairmanship power '' and the inclusion of `` various caucuses '' in leadership roles , Hastings said the X Caucus sought a `` more inclusive '' leadership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate president was n't inclusive , but a more inclusive approach toward what 's going on in the in the caucus , '' he said .
`` So information flow was a very important topic when picking a new Senate president . ''
He said ethics would be `` of top priority as well '' moving forward .

The 'X Caucus' factor: Concessions to moderates key in Harmon's election as Senate leader
Oak Park Democrat Don Harmon's selection as the new Illinois Senate president Sunday came thanks, in large part, to a group of moderate suburban and downstate Democrats who quietly supported him in his monthslong rise to the head of the chamber.
The group, calling itself the "X Caucus" is made up of "approximately 10 to 12" members depending on the issue, said Democratic Tinley Park Sen. Michael Hastings. He also noted the caucus sought certain concessions in backing Harmon, including increased power at the committee chair level and better "flow of information."
"The X Caucus had an influential role in the process," Hastings said. "It's normally not a loud caucus, but it's an effective caucus."
Hastings called the caucus, which also includes Democrat Steve Landek of Bridgeview, "a good group of common-sense, consensus-building legislators" who "don't fit into the ultraconservative or ultraliberal sects" of the Democratic Party.
In the end, their support was unanimous for Harmon,, who had a 22-17 edge on his opponent, Democrat Kimberly Lightford of Maywood, on the first blind vote that was conducted behind the locked door of the Senate president's chamber on the third floor of the Capitol. Media and the public were not allowed even in the corridors outside the offices or the floors immediately below it.
After the closed-door meeting, there was no second ballot as Harmon's and Lightford's camps reached an agreement that would make him president. Lightford will remain Senate majority leader, Harmon said.
The new president received unanimous Democratic support in a 37-12 vote with two Democrats absent and his predecessor, former President John Cullerton, a Chicago Democrat, abstaining.
Harmon said the Democrats "built a coalition ticket reflecting the diversity of our caucus."
Hastings said the eventual unanimous support from the Democratic members of the Senate without a second ballot indicated Harmon's "professionalism" and ability to lead.
Aside from seeking rules to "increase chairmanship power" and the inclusion of "various caucuses" in leadership roles, Hastings said the X Caucus sought a "more inclusive" leadership approach.
"Not that the last Senate president wasn't inclusive, but a more inclusive approach toward what's going on in the in the caucus," he said. "So information flow was a very important topic when picking a new Senate president."
He said ethics would be "of top priority as well" moving forward.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Feder: Will angry Cubs fans turn off TV and boost The Score?

If Marquee Sports Network turns out to be the disaster some critics are predicting , another broadcast partner of the @ @ @ @ @ handsomely , Robert Feder writes .
Fans who booed bossman Tom Ricketts when he mentioned @ @ @ @ @ weekend 's Cubs Convention -- and others alienated by the loss of free games on @ @ @ @ @ of the new service -- can still hear it all on Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM @ @ @ @ @ through 2022 , Cubs broadcasts on The Score ( with Pat Hughes and Ron Coomer @ @ @ @ @ free as sunshine and a summer breeze , '' in the words of Chicago Tribune @ @ @ @ @ surmised nearly a year ago : `` Hughes and Coomer might even gain listeners amid @ @ @ @ @ 2020 Marquee launch .
Get the full report , and more Chicago media news , @ @ @

Feder: Will angry Cubs fans turn off TV and boost The Score?
If Marquee Sports Network turns out to be the disaster some critics are predicting, another broadcast partner of the Chicago Cubs stands to benefit handsomely, Robert Feder writes.
Fans who booed bossman Tom Ricketts when he mentioned the cable network at last weekend's Cubs Convention -- and others alienated by the loss of free games on TV and the unknown cost of the new service -- can still hear it all on Entercom sports/talk WSCR 670-AM.
Under a long-term deal through 2022, Cubs broadcasts on The Score (with Pat Hughes and Ron Coomer) "will remain as free as sunshine and a summer breeze," in the words of Chicago Tribune's Phil Rosenthal, who surmised nearly a year ago: "Hughes and Coomer might even gain listeners amid all the upheaval from the 2020 Marquee launch.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-20--Hometown fans are pumped about Jimmy Garoppolo's Super Bowl appearance

While the Bears wo n't be playing in Super Bowl LIV next month , many in the Northwest suburbs will have a deep stake in the game 's outcome when native son and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo takes the field in Miami .
The success of the Rolling Meadows High School grad -- whose football roots go back to the Cowboys youth program in his hometown Arlington Heights -- is never far from the thoughts of today 's students and athletes , local school officials said .
Last week , Garoppolo 's old yearbooks were pulled out for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heights .
The school held a pep rally Friday and created a `` Good Luck , Jimmy ! ''
social media video ahead of Sunday 's NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers .
`` It 's just a cool thing , '' said Adam Harris , head of communications and storytelling for Arlington Heights Elementary District 25 .
`` Someone who went to our schools is in the Super Bowl .
It 's a really rare , rare thing for the community to celebrate . ''
Lisa Da Rocha , assistant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garoppolo 's budding NFL stardom is watched closely at the school .
`` With all the things that he 's accomplished in his short career , we 're just super happy for him and proud of how he 's handling himself , '' she said .
Tony Wolanski , an assistant football coach at Rolling Meadows High when Garoppolo played there , attested to the natural talent and character of the Super Bowl-bound quarterback .
`` I think as a player , he was always one of the more talented Rolling Meadows High @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But I think what separates him from a lot of others was his leadership skills . ''
Through his 28 seasons as a football coach , Wolanski said , Garoppolo was one of only three players he believed could make it to the NFL if he wanted .
`` He wanted to always get better and improve , '' Wolanski said .
Wolanski has since become friends with Garoppolo 's dad and said he knows now where the young man 's character came from .
`` His family brought him up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He 's a very nice guy .
He 's grown up to be a very humble adult .
He really does take care of people .
That 's the way his family is . ''
Wolanski , who now coaches girls softball at Rolling Meadows , said everyone at the school is a San Francisco 49ers fan .
Garoppolo 's local fans made themselves felt Sunday at Rep 's Place in Rolling Meadows , where his high school jersey hangs on the wall .
`` We had a full house for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' sports bar owner Mike Reppe said .
`` It was a very high-energy . ''
Both 49ers playoff games brought Rep 's its biggest crowds of the season , and arrangements likely will be made to create even more space for the Super Bowl audience Feb. 2 , he said .
`` If the Bears ca n't be in it , this is better or the next best thing , '' Reppe said .
Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes said he expects village officials will formally reach out to Garoppolo to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a village board meeting sometime after the Super Bowl and be formally recognized for his recent accomplishments .
On May 8 , 2014 -- the day Garoppolo was drafted into the NFL -- the village honored him by declaring it Jimmy Garoppolo Day in Arlington Heights .

Hometown fans are pumped about Jimmy Garoppolo's Super Bowl appearance
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo celebrates after converting a first down against the Green Bay Packers during the first half of the NFC Championship Game. AP Photo/Tony Avelar
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo celebrates Sunday after he helped lead the team to an NFC Championship game win and a Super Bowl berth. It was just 10 years ago that he was Rolling Meadows High's quarterback, top. AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez
South Middle School social studies teacher Dave Frintner sports a Jimmy Garoppolo jersey as he leads the student body in a pep rally Friday for the Arlington Heights school's famous alumnus. Frintner coached Garoppolo in basketball at the middle school. Courtesy of Arlington Heights Elementary District 25
While the Bears won't be playing in Super Bowl LIV next month, many in the Northwest suburbs will have a deep stake in the game's outcome when native son and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo takes the field in Miami.
The success of the Rolling Meadows High School grad -- whose football roots go back to the Cowboys youth program in his hometown Arlington Heights -- is never far from the thoughts of today's students and athletes, local school officials said.
Last week, Garoppolo's old yearbooks were pulled out for students at South Middle School in Arlington Heights. The school held a pep rally Friday and created a "Good Luck, Jimmy!" social media video ahead of Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers.
"It's just a cool thing," said Adam Harris, head of communications and storytelling for Arlington Heights Elementary District 25. "Someone who went to our schools is in the Super Bowl. It's a really rare, rare thing for the community to celebrate."
Lisa Da Rocha, assistant principal at Rolling Meadows High, said Garoppolo's budding NFL stardom is watched closely at the school.
"With all the things that he's accomplished in his short career, we're just super happy for him and proud of how he's handling himself," she said.
Tony Wolanski, an assistant football coach at Rolling Meadows High when Garoppolo played there, attested to the natural talent and character of the Super Bowl-bound quarterback.
"I think as a player, he was always one of the more talented Rolling Meadows High School ever had," Wolanski said. "But I think what separates him from a lot of others was his leadership skills."
Through his 28 seasons as a football coach, Wolanski said, Garoppolo was one of only three players he believed could make it to the NFL if he wanted.
And Jimmy did.
"He wanted to always get better and improve," Wolanski said.
Wolanski has since become friends with Garoppolo's dad and said he knows now where the young man's character came from.
"His family brought him up the right way," he said. "He's a very nice guy. He's grown up to be a very humble adult. He really does take care of people. That's the way his family is."
Wolanski, who now coaches girls softball at Rolling Meadows, said everyone at the school is a San Francisco 49ers fan.
Garoppolo's local fans made themselves felt Sunday at Rep's Place in Rolling Meadows, where his high school jersey hangs on the wall.
"We had a full house for the second game yesterday for sure," sports bar owner Mike Reppe said. "It was a very high-energy."
Both 49ers playoff games brought Rep's its biggest crowds of the season, and arrangements likely will be made to create even more space for the Super Bowl audience Feb. 2, he said.
"If the Bears can't be in it, this is better or the next best thing," Reppe said.
Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes said he expects village officials will formally reach out to Garoppolo to see if he might be able to come to a village board meeting sometime after the Super Bowl and be formally recognized for his recent accomplishments.
On May 8, 2014 -- the day Garoppolo was drafted into the NFL -- the village honored him by declaring it Jimmy Garoppolo Day in Arlington Heights.
• Daily Herald staff writer Christopher Placek contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-21--After Elk Grove robocalls, pro-Johnson group plans 'old school' response

After months of robocalls , mailings and even a digital billboard truck urging Elk Grove Village voters to back municipal term limits in an upcoming referendum , allies of Mayor Craig Johnson are starting to mount their campaign in response .
But they 're going down a much more traditional route .
`` We 're going old school , '' said Kitty Vanderweel Weiner , chairwoman of the Committee to Oppose the Retroactive Term Limits Referendum that 's being bankrolled by Johnson .
Their strategy includes a mix of yard signs , knocking on doors and sending mailers -- not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helped run during her career as a political consultant .
Using Johnson 's letterhead , Weiner 's committee sent a letter to Elk Grove residents and businesses late last week that touts the record of the 22-year mayor and his long-tenured board .
The mailing also includes a slip people can send back if they want a yard sign , would be willing to host a coffee or wish to make a financial contribution .
The committee is planning its first event for Saturday , Feb. 1 , at Real Time Sports Bar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson letter arrived in mailboxes just days after he ramped up the rhetoric against the term limits organizers -- specifically , Concerned Citizens of Elk Grove Village chairman Tim Burns -- during a village board meeting Tuesday .
The morning after , Burns attorney Ross Secler labeled the mayor 's comments as `` electioneering '' meant to suppress and intimidate voters .
The same day , a Cook County judge found a new state law barring retroactive municipal term limits unconstitutional , putting the binding question back on the March 17 Elk Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mayor and village trustees should be able to serve no more than two consecutive 4-year terms .
If approved , it would prevent Johnson and three other board members from running for reelection in April 2021 .
A separate objection to the referendum brought by Weiner 's committee will get its first hearing before a judge Wednesday .
But she said committee members are still approaching their campaign strategy as if the question will be on the ballot .
`` We always had our eye on 7 p.m. March 17 , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never the end all , be all of whatever happened in the ( electoral board ) hearing or court .
Our eye has always been on the finish line . ''
Weiner does n't believe the anti-term limits campaign is starting too late , but that voters may start paying attention now with less than two months to go before Election Day .
After Burns ' group collected signatures over July 4 weekend and submitted them to the village clerk 's office the following Monday , a series of anti-incumbent campaign flyers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and on phone lines almost immediately .
Burns ' committee has claimed responsibility for some of the dozen or so phone calls and other materials , while Johnson and his allies have tried to tie other opponents to the rest , including local developer Mario Gullo .
Perhaps the most unconventional set of campaign messaging from Burns ' committee has been a traveling electronic billboard truck that 's popped up around town .
The pro-term limits committee has spent close to $ 6,000 on it , according to a recent campaign disclosure filing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party for its supporters last month .
Weiner said her committee would n't do any robocalls , and the plan is not to go negative in campaign flyers .
`` It 's going to be our job to get to as many people and say , 'This is what 's going on , this is what ( the referendum ) says and here 's what we believe , '' she said .
Response : Pro-Johnson group says it 's not going negative

After Elk Grove robocalls, pro-Johnson group plans 'old school' response
After months of robocalls, mailings and even a digital billboard truck urging Elk Grove Village voters to back municipal term limits in an upcoming referendum, allies of Mayor Craig Johnson are starting to mount their campaign in response.
But they're going down a much more traditional route.
"We're going old school," said Kitty Vanderweel Weiner, chairwoman of the Committee to Oppose the Retroactive Term Limits Referendum that's being bankrolled by Johnson.
Their strategy includes a mix of yard signs, knocking on doors and sending mailers -- not unlike some of the campaigns Weiner has helped run during her career as a political consultant.
Using Johnson's letterhead, Weiner's committee sent a letter to Elk Grove residents and businesses late last week that touts the record of the 22-year mayor and his long-tenured board. The mailing also includes a slip people can send back if they want a yard sign, would be willing to host a coffee or wish to make a financial contribution.
The committee is planning its first event for Saturday, Feb. 1, at Real Time Sports Bar and Grill to organize supporters.
The Johnson letter arrived in mailboxes just days after he ramped up the rhetoric against the term limits organizers -- specifically, Concerned Citizens of Elk Grove Village chairman Tim Burns -- during a village board meeting Tuesday.
The morning after, Burns attorney Ross Secler labeled the mayor's comments as "electioneering" meant to suppress and intimidate voters.
The same day, a Cook County judge found a new state law barring retroactive municipal term limits unconstitutional, putting the binding question back on the March 17 Elk Grove ballot. It would ask voters whether the mayor and village trustees should be able to serve no more than two consecutive 4-year terms. If approved, it would prevent Johnson and three other board members from running for reelection in April 2021.
A separate objection to the referendum brought by Weiner's committee will get its first hearing before a judge Wednesday. But she said committee members are still approaching their campaign strategy as if the question will be on the ballot.
"We always had our eye on 7 p.m. March 17," Weiner said. "It was just never the end all, be all of whatever happened in the (electoral board) hearing or court. Our eye has always been on the finish line."
Weiner doesn't believe the anti-term limits campaign is starting too late, but that voters may start paying attention now with less than two months to go before Election Day.
After Burns' group collected signatures over July 4 weekend and submitted them to the village clerk's office the following Monday, a series of anti-incumbent campaign flyers and robocalls began to pop up in mailboxes and on phone lines almost immediately.
Burns' committee has claimed responsibility for some of the dozen or so phone calls and other materials, while Johnson and his allies have tried to tie other opponents to the rest, including local developer Mario Gullo.
Perhaps the most unconventional set of campaign messaging from Burns' committee has been a traveling electronic billboard truck that's popped up around town. The pro-term limits committee has spent close to $6,000 on it, according to a recent campaign disclosure filing. The committee also had a holiday party for its supporters last month.
Weiner said her committee wouldn't do any robocalls, and the plan is not to go negative in campaign flyers.
"It's going to be our job to get to as many people and say, 'This is what's going on, this is what (the referendum) says and here's what we believe," she said.
Response: Pro-Johnson group says it's not going negative


dailyheraldchicago--2020-01-21--Palatine again says yes, please widen Quentin Road on village's north end

Palatine is calling for a widening of a two-lane section of Quentin Road on the village 's north end as part of a reconstruction plan .
For the third time since 1996 , the village council Monday night approved a resolution asking the Cook County Board to pursue the widening of Quentin between Lake-Cook and Dundee roads `` as expeditiously as possible . ''
There also is a coalition requesting the county to go with a two-lane proposal .
Noting the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways widened Quentin to four lanes north of Algonquin Road to Dundee , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Palatine from Dundee to Lake-Cook has been in an engineering study for 13 years .
The 1-mile stretch is known for cracked pavement and holes that combine for a bumpy ride .
In addition to the village , some residents from nearby subdivisions are calling for the county to rebuild Quentin with two lanes in each direction between Dundee and Lake-Cook .
There also would be a center turn lane for much of the section slicing through Cook County 's Deer Grove Forest Preserve .
Homeowners association presidents for the Dunhaven Woods East @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council Monday night in support of remaking Quentin into a four-lane road .
Ami Rajpurkar , president of the Dunhaven Woods South association board , said all 104 homes in the two subdivisions support four traffic lanes .
`` I think everybody loves the forest preserve , '' Dunhaven East association President Eric Wasowicz said .
`` We all love the trees .
But we also love life itself .
And we 've seen so many accidents there over the years . ''
However , on the other side is an 11-year-old group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes Palatine residents in subdivisions near the road and has support from organizations such as the Chicago Audubon Society , Active Transportation Alliance and the Deer Grove Natural Areas Volunteers .
Build Quentin Right contends safety upgrades would not be compromised in pushing for two renovated lanes for north- and southbound drivers , plus a full-width lane in the middle for left turns , emergency vehicles and other purposes .
Concerns have been expressed by about tree removal and other potentially negative environmental effects on Deer Grove from widening the road .
Quentin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dundee and Lake-Cook , according to the latest Illinois Department of Transportation statistics .
About $ 505,100 has been set aside in Cook County 's 2020 capital budget for the Quentin Road project 's design , planning and preliminary engineering .
If the work begins as expected in 2021 , federal funding , motor fuel tax revenue and other sources tentatively are projected to provide $ 40 million .

Palatine again says yes, please widen Quentin Road on village's north end
Palatine is calling for a widening of a two-lane section of Quentin Road on the village's north end as part of a reconstruction plan.
For the third time since 1996, the village council Monday night approved a resolution asking the Cook County Board to pursue the widening of Quentin between Lake-Cook and Dundee roads "as expeditiously as possible." There also is a coalition requesting the county to go with a two-lane proposal.
Noting the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways widened Quentin to four lanes north of Algonquin Road to Dundee, village officials say the final leg in Palatine from Dundee to Lake-Cook has been in an engineering study for 13 years. The 1-mile stretch is known for cracked pavement and holes that combine for a bumpy ride.
In addition to the village, some residents from nearby subdivisions are calling for the county to rebuild Quentin with two lanes in each direction. There also would be a center turn lane for much of the roadway that slices through Cook County's Deer Grove Forest Preserve.
Homeowners association presidents for the Dunhaven Woods East and South subdivisions appeared before the village council Monday night in support of remaking Quentin into a four-lane road. Ami Rajpurkar, president of the Dunhaven Woods South association board, said all 104 homes in the two subdivisions support four traffic lanes.
"I think everybody loves the forest preserve," Dunhaven East association President Eric Wasowicz said. "We all love the trees. But we also love life itself. And we've seen so many accidents there over the years."
However, on the other side is an 11-year-old group called Build Quentin Right, which also includes Palatine residents in subdivisions near the road and has support from organizations such as the Chicago Audubon Society, Active Transportation Alliance and the Deer Grove Natural Areas Volunteers.
Build Quentin Right contends safety would not be compromised with two renovated lanes for north- and southbound drivers, plus a full-width lane in the middle for left turns, emergency vehicles and other purposes. Concerns have been expressed by about tree removal and other potentially negative environmental effects on Deer Grove from widening the road to two lanes in each direction.
Quentin receives about 20,000 vehicle trips daily between Dundee and Lake-Cook, according to the latest Illinois Department of Transportation statistics.
About $505,100 has been set aside in Cook County's 2020 capital budget for the Quentin Road project's design, planning and preliminary engineering. If the work begins as expected in 2021, federal funding, motor fuel tax revenue and other sources tentatively are projected to provide $40 million.