dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Plea deal could be coming for father accused of killing AJ Freund

A plea deal between McHenry County prosecutors and the father of slain 5-year-old Crystal Lake boy AJ Freund could be on its way , the man 's attorney said in court today .
An unshackled Andrew T. Freund Sr. was escorted into a McHenry County courtroom , clad in the county jail 's orange jumpsuit and a surgical face mask .
Thursday marked Freund 's first court appearance since AJ 's mother , JoAnn D. Cunningham , was sentenced to 35 years in prison for her part in the boy 's death .
Freund 's appointed attorney , Special Public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judge Robert Wilbrandt he was having `` pretty serious conversations '' with prosecutors about reaching a potential negotiated plea .
The attorney declined to say what 61-year-old Freund might be willing to plead guilty to or how much time he could receive .
Sugden said he hopes to have the terms of any possible plea bargain worked out by Freund 's Aug. 28 court date .
Freund pleaded not guilty on May 10 , 2019 , to first-degree murder and other charges stemming from AJ 's death .
Chief of the McHenry County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Division Randi Freese declined to comment on the case while it is ongoing .
Prosecutors have previously said they were disappointed with the sentence that McHenry County Judge Robert Wilbrandt issued Cunningham on July 17 .
The sentence also came as a disappointment to AJ 's surviving family , who said they hoped the 37-year-old mother would receive the maximum 60-year sentence .
Sugden , who sat through Cunningham 's two-day sentencing hearing , said details revealed through testimony and the woman 's psychological evaluation helped bolster Freund 's defense .
`` She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Sugden said after court Thursday .
`` If you read the psychological report , she did n't even know where he was when it happened . ''
Freund and Cunningham were arrested on April 24 , 2019 , nearly one week after the parents falsely reported AJ missing from their Crystal Lake home .
The report sparked a massive police and community search for the boy , which came to an end when Freund led investigators to AJ 's burial site in rural Woodstock , court records show .
Both parents were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of felonies tied to AJ 's death .
Investigators have said the parents forced AJ into a cold shower before putting him to bed naked , wet and cold the night of his April 15 , 2019 , death .
Freund remained at the McHenry County Jail Thursday on a $ 5 million bond .

Plea deal could be coming for father accused of killing AJ Freund
Andrew T. Freund Sr., accused of murdering his son AJ Freund, 5, in Crystal Lake, appears Thursday in McHenry County Circuit Court in Woodstock. Matthew Apgar/Shaw Media
Andrew T. Freund Sr., accused of murdering his son AJ Freund, 5, in Crystal Lake, appears Thursday in McHenry County Circuit Court in Woodstock. Matthew Apgar/Shaw Media
A plea deal between McHenry County prosecutors and the father of slain 5-year-old Crystal Lake boy AJ Freund could be on its way, the man's attorney said in court today.
An unshackled Andrew T. Freund Sr. was escorted into a McHenry County courtroom, clad in the county jail's orange jumpsuit and a surgical face mask. Thursday marked Freund's first court appearance since AJ's mother, JoAnn D. Cunningham, was sentenced to 35 years in prison for her part in the boy's death.
Freund's appointed attorney, Special Public Defender Henry Sugden, told McHenry County Judge Robert Wilbrandt he was having "pretty serious conversations" with prosecutors about reaching a potential negotiated plea. The attorney declined to say what 61-year-old Freund might be willing to plead guilty to or how much time he could receive.
Sugden said he hopes to have the terms of any possible plea bargain worked out by Freund's Aug. 28 court date.
Freund pleaded not guilty on May 10, 2019, to first-degree murder and other charges stemming from AJ's death.
Chief of the McHenry County State's Attorney's Office's Criminal Division Randi Freese declined to comment on the case while it is ongoing.
Prosecutors have previously said they were disappointed with the sentence that McHenry County Judge Robert Wilbrandt issued Cunningham on July 17. The sentence also came as a disappointment to AJ's surviving family, who said they hoped the 37-year-old mother would receive the maximum 60-year sentence.
Sugden, who sat through Cunningham's two-day sentencing hearing, said details revealed through testimony and the woman's psychological evaluation helped bolster Freund's defense.
"She basically admitted that she did it," Sugden said after court Thursday. "If you read the psychological report, she didn't even know where he was when it happened."
Freund and Cunningham were arrested on April 24, 2019, nearly one week after the parents falsely reported AJ missing from their Crystal Lake home.
The report sparked a massive police and community search for the boy, which came to an end when Freund led investigators to AJ's burial site in rural Woodstock, court records show.
Both parents were charged with first-degree murder and a litany of felonies tied to AJ's death. Investigators have said the parents forced AJ into a cold shower before putting him to bed naked, wet and cold the night of his April 15, 2019, death.
Freund remained at the McHenry County Jail Thursday on a $5 million bond.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Flat bike tire? Slipped chain? No problem in suburbs with do-it-yourself repair stations

If you 're bicycling through southeast Lake County and find yourself with a loose seat or low tire pressure , do n't panic -- just head over to the bike path near Lincolnshire 's village hall .
That 's where , on the northeast corner of Olde Half Day Road and Route 22 , you 'll find a new , do-it-yourself bike repair station .
Connected to the 4½-foot , black post are wrenches , screwdrivers and many other helpful tools .
And yes , there 's an air pump , too .
Lincolnshire is n't the only suburb that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public use .
They also can be found along trails , in parks or in other bike-friendly locations in Libertyville , Northbrook , Rolling Meadows , Elmhurst , Batavia and elsewhere .
`` When people are out riding , often you 'll need a slight repair , to tighten a bolt or fill a tire up with air , '' said suburban bike shop owner George Garner , who donated a total of eight stations to Libertyville and Northbrook .
`` These repair stations will allow you to make any necessary adjustments on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a variety of finishes available , bicycle repair stations can be installed indoors or outdoors .
They feature horizontal bars that let riders hang their bikes off the ground , which makes changing tires and performing other repairs easier .
Tools are securely attached by stainless steel cables that either hang alongside the poles or are retractable .
The strong cables make the items theft-resistant , but the tools can be removed if they become worn or damaged .
`` We 're very impressed with the quality of the stations , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are in Libertyville , Northbrook and Lake Zurich .
`` They 're built to last . ''
Prices vary by manufacturer and based on options added .
They can be found for less than $ 700 or as much as nearly $ 2,500 .
Lincolnshire Village Manager Brad Burke suggested the village look into buying a repair station after seeing one in Highland Park .
Trustee Jill Raizin made a similar recommendation after spotting one while on vacation in Michigan .
`` It was in a park across the street from ( our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Knowing how much people like to ride their bikes in Lincolnshire , I thought this would be a great addition to Lincolnshire 's bike paths . ''
Lincolnshire 's repair station is a deluxe model from an Oregon firm called Huntco Site Furnishings that cost $ 1,850 .
It 's equipped with a hex key set , two tire levers that assist in tire removal , a headset-and-pedal wrench , two cone wrenches of different sizes , Phillips and standard screwdrivers , a Torx driver with a star-shaped head and a manual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to pick up her kids when they were younger because of flat tires and slipped chains , Raizin called the station `` a great idea . ''
`` ( It 's ) a wonderful thing to add to our community , '' she said .
If the device proves popular , she said , officials may buy another one for a different location .
Bike repair stations have been hits in Libertyville .
That town 's four stations are in Adler Park at 1500 N. Milwaukee Ave. ; near the North Shore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; near Odom Field in Butler Lake Park , off the 700 block of Winchester Road ; and at the downtown Metra station , 200 Lake St. '' The Winchester , Adler and Sunnyside bike repair stations ' locations were chosen since they are adjacent to bike paths , '' Assistant Public Works Director Laura Ditano said .
`` The Metra lot bike repair station was chosen since several train commuters ride their bikes to the station . ''
Ditano expects more towns will purchase repair stations as more people read about them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell their local officials about them .

Flat bike tire? Slipped chain? No problem in suburbs with do-it-yourself repair stations
A growing number of suburbs offer do-it-yourself bike repair stations like this one near the northeast corner of Olde Half Day Road and Route 22 in Lincolnshire. Stations offer tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, tire levers and air pumps. Courtesy of Lincolnshire
If you're bicycling through southeast Lake County and find yourself with a loose seat or low tire pressure, don't panic -- just head over to the bike path near Lincolnshire's village hall.
That's where, on the northeast corner of Olde Half Day Road and Route 22, you'll find a new, do-it-yourself bike repair station. Connected to the 4½-foot, black post are wrenches, screwdrivers and many other helpful tools.
And yes, there's an air pump, too.
Lincolnshire isn't the only suburb that has a bike repair station available for public use. They also can be found along trails, in parks or in other bike-friendly locations in Libertyville, Northbrook, Rolling Meadows, Elmhurst, Batavia and elsewhere.
"When people are out riding, often you'll need a slight repair, to tighten a bolt or fill a tire up with air," said suburban bike shop owner George Garner, who donated a total of eight stations to Libertyville and Northbrook. "These repair stations will allow you to make any necessary adjustments on the ride."
Made of steel with a variety of finishes available, bicycle repair stations can be installed indoors or outdoors. They feature horizontal bars that let riders hang their bikes off the ground, which makes changing tires and performing other repairs easier.
Tools are securely attached by stainless steel cables that either hang alongside the poles or are retractable. The strong cables make the items theft-resistant, but the tools can be removed if they become worn or damaged.
"We're very impressed with the quality of the stations," said Garner, whose eponymous bike shops are in Libertyville, Northbrook and Lake Zurich. "They're built to last."
Prices vary by manufacturer and based on options added. They can be found for less than $700 or as much as nearly $2,500.
Lincolnshire Village Manager Brad Burke suggested the village look into buying a repair station after seeing one in Highland Park. Trustee Jill Raizin made a similar recommendation after spotting one while on vacation in Michigan.
"It was in a park across the street from (our) hotel," Raizin said. "Knowing how much people like to ride their bikes in Lincolnshire, I thought this would be a great addition to Lincolnshire's bike paths."
Lincolnshire's repair station is a deluxe model from an Oregon firm called Huntco Site Furnishings that cost $1,850. It's equipped with a hex key set, two tire levers that assist in tire removal, a headset-and-pedal wrench, two cone wrenches of different sizes, Phillips and standard screwdrivers, a Torx driver with a star-shaped head and a manual air pump.
Recalling the times she had to pick up her kids when they were younger because of flat tires and slipped chains, Raizin called the station "a great idea."
"(It's) a wonderful thing to add to our community," she said.
If the device proves popular, she said, officials may buy another one for a different location.
Bike repair stations have been hits in Libertyville. That town's four stations are in Adler Park at 1500 N. Milwaukee Ave.; near the North Shore Bike Path at Sunnyside and Seventh avenues; near Odom Field in Butler Lake Park, off the 700 block of Winchester Road; and at the downtown Metra station, 200 Lake St.
"The Winchester, Adler and Sunnyside bike repair stations' locations were chosen since they are adjacent to bike paths," Assistant Public Works Director Laura Ditano said. "The Metra lot bike repair station was chosen since several train commuters ride their bikes to the station."
Ditano expects more towns will purchase repair stations as more people read about them or encounter them on rides and then tell their local officials about them.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-29--Dining events: CityGate Grille offering Thirsty Thursday Zoom cocktail classes

Ever wonder how bartenders perfectly mix drinks ?
Now is your chance to learn with CityGate Grille 's new Thirsty Thursday virtual cocktail classes led by bar manager Pierce Lueders .
He 'll be leading the classes at 5 p.m. every Thursday in August on Zoom .
On Aug. 6 , learn how to make Fruit Forward drinks such as a strawberry mojito , blueberry/watermelon and tequila and `` Two to Mango . ''
The Aug. 13 class features Cocktails in Pop Culture , including Orange Whip ( `` The Blues Brothers '' ) , White Russian ( `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( `` Casablanca '' ) .
Hopes for Tailgating is the theme for Aug. 20 , with drinks such as basil lemonade , BeerGarita and Bloody Mary .
The series finishes with KISS ( Keep It Simple , Silly ! )
on Aug. 27 , with a side car , daiquiri and Tom Collins .
Classes cost $ 45 each or $ 144 for the series and include the Zoom link and all the ingredients needed to mix three drinks per class .
Advance registration is required .
Registration for the series ends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Registration for individual classes closes at 5 p.m. on the Wednesday before each class .
Those who register must verify that they are 21 or older ; a valid ID must be shown at kit pickup , which will be available between 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the day of the event .
Visit Lake County wants everyone to go out to dinner this next week in Lake County to support the first Lake County Restaurant Rally , which will help local establishments feeling the economic effects of the pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ breweries , wineries and distilleries will be participating and offering specials and entertainment from Friday , July 31 , through Sunday , Aug. 9 .
For details , see visitlakecounty.org/restaurant-rally .
Diners can once again order a ramen burger at the reopened Tokio Pub in Schaumburg .
Return to service Tokio Pub is back and ready to serve guests with limited capacity in the dining room and on the all-season patio .
Diners will once again be able to dine on hand-rolled sushi , ramen , the ramen burger and Japanese Hot Rock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , 4 to 9 p.m. Friday , 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday .
Reservations are strongly encouraged .
Carryout and delivery also are available .
Owner John Macrito is transforming the former Corkscrew Pointe in McHenry into Grinders Ale House .
Change up The time is right for change , says owner John Macrito , who is transforming the former Corkscrew Pointe in McHenry into Grinders Ale House .
Besides a new name , Macrito is changing up the menu to serve a variety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an array of cheese and bread options that will range in price from $ 5.95 to $ 8.95 .
Plus , there will be 16 craft beers on tap .
The interior is also getting revamped : A former game room is being transformed into a dining room overlooking the Fox River .
Weather-permitting , diners can head outside to the riverfront deck , too .
The kitchen will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily starting Saturday , Aug. 1 .
Carryout will be available .
• Olde North Pancake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doors after 57 years in business , bringing a history of family traditions to a nostalgic end .
`` COVID-19 is something we 're just not able to overcome , '' said second-generation owner Rick Horan .
The family restaurant 's last day in business was Sunday .
• At the close of business last Saturday , barbecue restaurant Rack House Kitchen and Tavern , at 222 E. Algonquin Road in Arlington Heights , closed its doors for the final time .
The economic impact of COVID-19 was too great , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook .
`` We appreciate all of our amazing customers that got us this far , and all of our loyal staff for sticking with us until the end , '' they wrote .
`` It has been a great pleasure serving you for the past 8 years while creating memories that will last a lifetime . ''

Dining events: CityGate Grille offering Thirsty Thursday Zoom cocktail classes
Thirsty Thursday
Ever wonder how bartenders perfectly mix drinks? Now is your chance to learn with CityGate Grille's new Thirsty Thursday virtual cocktail classes led by bar manager Pierce Lueders. He'll be leading the classes at 5 p.m. every Thursday in August on Zoom. On Aug. 6, learn how to make Fruit Forward drinks such as a strawberry mojito, blueberry/watermelon and tequila and "Two to Mango." The Aug. 13 class features Cocktails in Pop Culture, including Orange Whip ("The Blues Brothers"), White Russian ("The Big Lebowski") and French 75 ("Casablanca"). Hopes for Tailgating is the theme for Aug. 20, with drinks such as basil lemonade, BeerGarita and Bloody Mary. The series finishes with KISS (Keep It Simple, Silly!) on Aug. 27, with a side car, daiquiri and Tom Collins. Classes cost $45 each or $144 for the series and include the Zoom link and all the ingredients needed to mix three drinks per class. Advance registration is required. Registration for the series ends at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5. Registration for individual classes closes at 5 p.m. on the Wednesday before each class. Those who register must verify that they are 21 or older; a valid ID must be shown at kit pickup, which will be available between 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the day of the event.
CityGate Grille is at 2020 Calamos Court, Naperville, (630) 718-1010, citygategrille.com/event.
Restaurant Rally
Visit Lake County wants everyone to go out to dinner this next week in Lake County to support the first Lake County Restaurant Rally, which will help local establishments feeling the economic effects of the pandemic. More than 80 restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries and distilleries will be participating and offering specials and entertainment from Friday, July 31, through Sunday, Aug. 9. For details, see visitlakecounty.org/restaurant-rally.
Diners can once again order a ramen burger at the reopened Tokio Pub in Schaumburg. - Courtesy of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises
Tokio Pub is back and ready to serve guests with limited capacity in the dining room and on the all-season patio. Diners will once again be able to dine on hand-rolled sushi, ramen, the ramen burger and Japanese Hot Rock from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Carryout and delivery also are available.
Tokio Pub is at 1900 E. Higgins Road, Schaumburg, (847) 278-5181, tokiopub.com/.
Owner John Macrito is transforming the former Corkscrew Pointe in McHenry into Grinders Ale House. - Courtesy of John Macrito
The time is right for change, says owner John Macrito, who is transforming the former Corkscrew Pointe in McHenry into Grinders Ale House. Besides a new name, Macrito is changing up the menu to serve a variety of grinders featuring 11 premium meats and an array of cheese and bread options that will range in price from $5.95 to $8.95. Plus, there will be 16 craft beers on tap. The interior is also getting revamped: A former game room is being transformed into a dining room overlooking the Fox River. Weather-permitting, diners can head outside to the riverfront deck, too. The kitchen will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily starting Saturday, Aug. 1. Carryout will be available.
Grinders Ale House is at 1402 N. Riverside Drive, McHenry, (815) 578-8360, facebook.com/.
Recent closures
• Olde North Pancake House near West Chicago has closed its doors after 57 years in business, bringing a history of family traditions to a nostalgic end. "COVID-19 is something we're just not able to overcome," said second-generation owner Rick Horan. The family restaurant's last day in business was Sunday.
• At the close of business last Saturday, barbecue restaurant Rack House Kitchen and Tavern, at 222 E. Algonquin Road in Arlington Heights, closed its doors for the final time. The economic impact of COVID-19 was too great, according to the owners, who announced the closing on Facebook. "We appreciate all of our amazing customers that got us this far, and all of our loyal staff for sticking with us until the end," they wrote. "It has been a great pleasure serving you for the past 8 years while creating memories that will last a lifetime."
• Send restaurant news, events and deals to clinden@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Lakemoor man accused of rape in Fox Lake

Fox Lake police on Thursday apprehended a Lakemoor man who has been charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sexual @ @ @ @ @ 23 , is alleged to have entered a Fox Lake business where a woman was @ @ @ @ @ , according to an investigation conducted by Fox Lake detectives in conjunction with the Lake @ @ @ @ @ office .
According to a news release , Cooper had a brief conversation with the @ @ @ @ @ false name , led her to a rear area of the building and sexually assaulted @ @ @ @ @ the sexual assault after Cooper left the area .
An arrest warrant was issued Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ at his residence on Neptune Cove in Lakemoor .
He remains in the Lake County @ @ @ @ @ .

Lakemoor man accused of rape in Fox Lake
Fox Lake police on Thursday apprehended a Lakemoor man who has been charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault.
Allan Cooper, 23, is alleged to have entered a Fox Lake business where a woman was working alone on June 19, according to an investigation conducted by Fox Lake detectives in conjunction with the Lake County state's attorney's office.
According to a news release, Cooper had a brief conversation with the woman, gave her a false name, led her to a rear area of the building and sexually assaulted her. The woman reported the sexual assault after Cooper left the area.
An arrest warrant was issued Wednesday. Cooper was arrested Thursday at his residence on Neptune Cove in Lakemoor. He remains in the Lake County jail on $500,000 bond.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Lawsuit: Dist. 303, bus driver failed to secure boy's wheelchair

Parents of a special-needs student at Wredling Middle School have sued St. Charles Unit District 303 for damages , arguing a bus driver in August 2019 neglected to strap the boy 's 387-pound wheelchair to the floor .
The wheelchair tipped over on top of the boy while the bus driver dropped off another student , and the boy 's parents were n't notified of his injuries until a half-hour later , the suit that was filed in Kane County in late-July argues .
Sam Amirante , a lawyer for the family , said an audio and video recording from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employees , as well as willful and wanton conduct that resulted in multiple broken bones and a nearly two-month hospitalization for the boy .
`` He was smothered under the wheelchair , almost a 400-pound chair was on top of him , '' Amirante said Thursday .
`` They were standing over the kid , laughing about it .
This was beyond an accident .
It was horrible and egregious . ''
In addition to the school district , the district 's transportation director , bus driver and bus aide also are named @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the boy , who was 13 at the time , was one of four students on a bus at 3:46 p.m. when the bus driver and aide tried to secure the wheelchair .
After three minutes of trying to secure the wheelchair , the driver walked to the front of the bus and said , `` Shoot ...
I 've got a lot of kids this afternoon ...
I 'll just be careful going around corners . ''
The driver `` carelessly operated the school bus by heavily and abruptly applying the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thereby causing ( the boy 's ) wheelchair to fall forward on top of him .
Almost a whole minute passed before ( the driver ) stopped the bus , '' according to the lawsuit .
Instead of helping the boy , the driver dropped off another student , then began driving again , causing the wheelchair to tip further on top of boy , according to the suit .
The driver finally stopped and called 911 .
Paramedics found the boy pinned between the wheelchair and the bus sidewall , and both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give information to first responders or help in any way as to what happened , '' according to the suit .
Carol Smith , spokeswoman for the school district , said the district can not comment on litigation .
Amirante said the family hopes for an amicable and quick resolution to the lawsuit .
The two sides are due in court on Oct 15 .
The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages .

Lawsuit: Dist. 303, bus driver failed to secure boy's wheelchair
Legal Affairs Writer
hhitzeman@dailyherald.com
Parents of a special needs student at Wredling Middle School have sued St. Charles Unit District 303 for damages, arguing a bus driver in August 2019 neglected to strap the boy's 387-pound wheelchair to the floor.
The wheelchair tipped over on top of the boy while the bus driver dropped off another student, and the boy's parents weren't notified of his injuries until a half-hour later, the suit that was filed in Kane County in late-July argues.
Sam Amirante, a lawyer for the family, said an audio and video recording from the bus shows the negligence of the employees, as well as willful and wanton conduct that resulted in multiple broken bones and a nearly two-month hospitalization for the boy.
"He was smothered under the wheelchair, almost a 400-pound chair was on top of him," Amirante said Thursday. "They were standing over the kid, laughing about it. This was beyond an accident. It was horrible and egregious."
In addition to the school district, the district's transportation director, bus driver and bus aide also are named as defendants.
According to the lawsuit, the boy, who was 13 at the time, was one of four students on a bus at 3:46 p.m. when the bus driver and aide tried to secure the wheelchair.
After three minutes of trying to secure the wheelchair, the driver walked to the front of the bus and said, "Shoot ... I've got a lot of kids this afternoon ... I'll just be careful going around corners," according to the suit.
The driver "carelessly operated the school bus by heavily and abruptly applying the brakes to avoid missing a turn, thereby causing (the boy's) wheelchair to fall forward on top of him. Almost a whole minute passed before (the driver) stopped the bus," according to the lawsuit.
Instead of helping the boy, the driver dropped off another student, then began driving again, causing the wheelchair to tip further on top of boy, according to the suit.
The driver finally stopped and called 911. Paramedics found the boy pinned between the wheelchair and the bus sidewall, and both the driver and aide "were unwilling to give information to first responders or help in any way as to what happened," according to the suit.
Carol Smith, spokeswoman for the school district, said the district cannot comment on litigation. Amirante said the family hopes for an amicable and quick resolution to the lawsuit.
The two sides are due in court on Oct 15. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Sox's first-round draft pick easing in at Boomers Stadium

If there was a minor-league season this year , first-round draft pick Garrett Crochet would probably be at high Class A Winston-Salem right now .
`` Then , I 'm sure Double-A ( Birmingham ) would n't have been out of the question , '' said White Sox director of player development Chris Getz .
The No .
11 overall pick in last month 's draft , Crochet is making the most of his first professional season .
With no minor-league baseball this year due to COVID-19 , Crochet is training with the Sox 's taxi squad at Boomers Stadium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , man , '' said Crochet , who pitched 3⅓ collegiate innings for Tennessee this season before play was halted .
`` Being around experienced guys , a bunch of guys with big-league experience , they are very welcoming to me .
Definitely kind of coaxed me out of my shell , per se .
I was a little bit nervous when I first got there , my first experience in pro ball . ''
The Schaumburg camp 's first objective is getting players ready to help the White Sox this season .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Sox want to use his promising left-handed arm at any point this year , Crochet is all for it .
`` Yeah , 100 percent , '' the 21-year-old pitcher said .
`` If it was n't in the back of my mind , I probably would n't consider myself a competitor .
That 's definitely something that I 'm thinking about at all times .
But at the same time , I 'm trying to juggle the new developments that I 'm undergoing , like my new four-seam ( fastball ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the Sox 's starting second baseman sometime soon , Nick Madrigal is staying game ready in Schaumburg .
`` He 's pretty close , '' Chris Getz said .
`` It 's purely putting him in a position to succeed when he gets there .
His starter kit is pretty good as is , but we want to make sure we 're getting the most out of him right out of the gate . ''
Getz said the key for Madrigal , the No .
4 overall pick in the 2018 draft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ batter 's box and `` focusing on pitches he can hit . ''
According to director of player development Chris Getz , most of the players training in Schaumburg are staying at a local extended stay hotel for safety reasons .
In addition to helping upgrade Boomers Stadium , the White Sox are also paying Schaumburg an undisclosed rent .
The Sox have seven minor-league coaches , including Arlington Heights native Matt Zaleski ( Class AAA Charlotte pitching coach ) , and a group of trainers and strength coaches working in Schaumburg .

Sox's first-round draft pick easing in at Boomers Stadium
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.comLeft-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet, the White Sox's first-round draft pick last month, is getting his professional career started at Boomers Stadium in Schaumburg.
If there was a minor-league season this year, first-round draft pick Garrett Crochet would probably be at high Class A Winston-Salem right now.
"Then, I'm sure Double-A (Birmingham) wouldn't have been out of the question," said White Sox director of player development Chris Getz.
The No. 11 overall pick in last month's draft, Crochet is making the most of his first professional season. With no minor-league baseball this year due to COVID-19, Crochet is training with the Sox's taxi squad at Boomers Stadium in Schaumburg.
"It's incredible, man," said Crochet, who pitched 3⅓ collegiate innings for Tennessee this season before play was halted. "Being around experienced guys, a bunch of guys with big-league experience, they are very welcoming to me. Definitely kind of coaxed me out of my shell, per se. I was a little bit nervous when I first got there, my first experience in pro ball."
The Schaumburg camp's first objective is getting players ready to help the White Sox this season. Development is No. 2.
If the Sox want to use his promising left-handed arm at any point this year, Crochet is all for it.
"Yeah, 100 percent," the 21-year-old pitcher said. "If it wasn't in the back of my mind, I probably wouldn't consider myself a competitor. That's definitely something that I'm thinking about at all times. But at the same time, I'm trying to juggle the new developments that I'm undergoing, like my new four-seam (fastball) grip."
Madrigal watch:
Expected to take over as the Sox's starting second baseman sometime soon, Nick Madrigal is staying game ready in Schaumburg.
"He's pretty close," Chris Getz said. "It's purely putting him in a position to succeed when he gets there. His starter kit is pretty good as is, but we want to make sure we're getting the most out of him right out of the gate."
Getz said the key for Madrigal, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2018 draft, is getting more comfortable in the batter's box and "focusing on pitches he can hit."
Scouting Schaumburg:
According to director of player development Chris Getz, most of the players training in Schaumburg are staying at a local extended stay hotel for safety reasons.
In addition to helping upgrade Boomers Stadium, the White Sox are also paying Schaumburg an undisclosed rent.
The Sox have seven minor-league coaches, including Arlington Heights native Matt Zaleski (Class AAA Charlotte pitching coach), and a group of trainers and strength coaches working in Schaumburg.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--First firefighter on scene remembers Arlington Park fire 35 years later

Four years into his budding career as a firefighter , Glenn Ericksen was used to putting out routine fires in apartments , single-family homes and small businesses in Arlington Heights .
Then in the early morning hours of July 31 , 1985 , he and his co-workers at the firehouse got the call they 'll never forget : A fire had broken out in the Horseman 's Lounge at Arlington Park .
Ericksen drove the first engine that arrived on the scene .
`` When we got on the grounds itself , we were met by a security guard in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've never seen that before , so it was kinda like , 'Uh oh , ' '' he said .
`` Still , it did n't really look bad , but they were telling us the fire was on the other side of the building .
We pulled out on the track surface where we saw the bulk of the fire .
It 's where we sat til the early afternoon that day . ''
Ericksen , who became Arlington Heights ' fire chief years later and now coordinates a statewide firefighting response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blazes over the course of some four decades in the fire service .
But there have been none greater in the suburbs before or since the one 35 years ago at the racetrack .
`` I 'm sure the city of Chicago has had some larger-scales , '' said Ericksen , who has been CEO of the Wheeling-based Mutual Aid Box Alarm System since retiring as Arlington Heights ' chief in 2014 .
`` But the number of firefighters and companies that it took and the time it took to fight it and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , no , I have n't seen anything like that . ''
Positioned on the racetrack itself , Ericksen and his fellow firefighters hooked up to a nearby hydrant connected to Arlington Park 's private water supply .
But the threads on the hydrant soon broke .
They eventually tapped into the municipal water system , had other fire companies truck in an alternative supply , and even drew water out of the infield lake at the track .
Still , the blaze kept growing .
As firefighters pulled back layers upon layers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all they found was more flames .
By afternoon , officials decided to pull back and let the blaze overtake the building .
`` I remember that decision very vividly , '' said Ericksen , recalling the thick black smoke they had been fighting all morning overtaking his engine position on the track .
`` We were driving blind trying to get away from it . ''
No one was injured or killed in the massive blaze , attributed to an electrical fire that quickly got out of control .
But there were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day , Ericksen said .
Fire departments started using larger-diameter hoses -- essentially `` aboveground water mains '' -- so they could attack bigger fires , he said .
Firefighter training also began to focus on how to stay safe when responding to a blaze in a large facility .
And while the value of mutual aid -- in place in northern Illinois since the late 1960s -- was reinforced in the region , it also greatly expanded statewide , Ericksen said .

First firefighter on scene remembers Arlington Park fire 35 years later
Glenn Ericksen was early into his career as a firefighter when he drove the first truck to arrive on the scene of the Arlington Park fire on July 31, 1985.
Arlington Park's grandstand became a mass of twisted building materials after the historic July 31, 1985, fire. It broke out in the Horseman's Lounge and was blamed on an electrical malfunction. Daily Herald File Photo
The July 31, 1985, fire at Arlington Park overtook the grandstand once officials determined that after hours of fighting, it had become too risky to save. Daily Herald File Photo
Four years into his budding career as a firefighter, Glenn Ericksen was used to putting out routine fires in apartments, single-family homes and small businesses in Arlington Heights.
Then in the early morning hours of July 31, 1985, he and his co-workers at the firehouse got the call they'll never forget: A fire had broken out in the Horseman's Lounge at Arlington Park.
Ericksen drove the first engine that arrived on the scene.
"When we got on the grounds itself, we were met by a security guard in a vehicle flashing his lights. We've never seen that before, so it was kinda like, 'Uh oh,'" he said.
"Still, it didn't really look bad, but they were telling us the fire was on the other side of the building. We pulled out on the track surface where we saw the bulk of the fire. It's where we sat til the early afternoon that day."
Ericksen, who became Arlington Heights' fire chief years later and now coordinates a statewide firefighting response consortium, has fought a lot of blazes over the course of some four decades in the fire service. But there have been none greater in the suburbs before or since the one 35 years ago at the racetrack.
"I'm sure the city of Chicago has had some larger-scales," said Ericksen, who has been CEO of the Wheeling-based Mutual Aid Box Alarm System since retiring as Arlington Heights' chief in 2014. "But the number of firefighters and companies that it took and the time it took to fight it and eventually have the outcome that it did, no, I haven't seen anything like that."
Positioned on the racetrack itself, Ericksen and his fellow firefighters hooked up to a nearby hydrant connected to Arlington Park's private water supply. But the threads on the hydrant soon broke.
They eventually tapped into the municipal water system, had other fire companies truck in an alternative supply, and even drew water out of the infield lake at the track.
Still, the blaze kept growing. As firefighters pulled back layers upon layers of floors, walls and ceilings, all they found was more flames.
By afternoon, officials decided to pull back and let the blaze overtake the building.
"I remember that decision very vividly," said Ericksen, recalling the thick black smoke they had been fighting all morning overtaking his engine position on the track.
"We were driving blind trying to get away from it."
No one was injured or killed in the massive blaze, attributed to an electrical fire that quickly got out of control.
But there were a number of lessons learned from that day, Ericksen said.
Fire departments started using larger-diameter hoses -- essentially "aboveground water mains" -- so they could attack bigger fires, he said.
Firefighter training also began to focus on how to stay safe when responding to a blaze in a large facility.
And while the value of mutual aid -- in place in northern Illinois since the late 1960s -- was reinforced in the region, it also greatly expanded statewide, Ericksen said.
Fire:


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Cook County Board votes to 'defund' police, but what does that really mean?

The Cook County Board -- with the notable exception of one suburban commissioner -- voted overwhelmingly Thursday in favor of defunding law enforcement .
But do n't expect any reduction in policing just yet .
The largely symbolic measure , known as the Justice for Black Lives resolution , passed by a 15-1 vote , with one commissioner voting present .
It calls for the county to redirect funds from policing and incarceration to public services not administered by law enforcement .
However , as an advisory measure , it does n't authorize any specific spending changes and does not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of any of its funding .
And it does n't call for the elimination of the sheriff 's office or any other law enforcement agency .
Instead , backers say , it sets the stage for future discussions about where the county should focus its resources .
More of those resources should go to job creation , housing assistance , mental health programs and community outreach , and less to traditional law enforcement , they say .
That did n't prevent some passionate debate Thursday , including from the measure 's lone opponent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Morrison , a Republican whose oddly shaped 17th District stretches all the way up into parts of Des Plaines , Mount Prospect and Elk Grove Village , blasted the resolution as `` bombastic '' and argued it castigates all of law enforcement .
`` We need to make sure law enforcement fully understands we have their backs , '' Morrison said .
`` Because the first thing we do if something goes bad in our home or in our neighborhood is pick up the phone and call 9-1-1 , and then how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ panel 's only other Republican , Peter Silvestri of Elmwood Park , voted with the majority , despite voicing some reservations about the resolution 's language toward police .
That language includes phrases like `` the brutality of law enforcement has become so commonplace in Black life '' and `` there is little positive correlation between residents ' feeling of safety and the degree of law enforcement presence in those communities . ''
Suburban Democrats Kevin Morrison of Elk Grove Village and Scott Britton of Glenview voted for the resolution .
`` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history , and we are seeing our youth stand up to right the wrongs of our forefathers , '' Kevin Morrison said .
`` We all recognize there are great people who stand up to protect our communities , and this does not disrespect them , '' he said .
Britton said the need to support the measure was driven home by President Donald Trump making remarks condoning displays of Confederate flags .
`` I think we need to stand as an ally ( to the Black community ) , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday said only that he looks forward to further discussion of his office 's budget .
But he went in depth on calls to defund police Wednesday during an appearance before the City Club of Chicago .
`` The defunding part of it , I ca n't for the life of me see how that makes any sense , '' Dart said .
`` Now , reinventing , changing the way you operate , that makes a lot of sense .
But it 's how you go about doing this .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call that 's deviated to a social worker and that social worker goes out to a house where there 's a domestic violence call , that will not work out well , '' he said .
`` These are complicated issues , and thoughtful people , that 's not how they operate . ''
For years since his retirement from law enforcement , Bartlett resident Ray Cowin has been hosting a yearly golf outing with friends from the force that came to be known as The Cowin Open .
This year 's event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Villa Olivia Golf Course , but it was the absence of one regular in particular that gave the gathering a new name and new sense of purpose .
Former Arlington Heights Deputy Police Chief Andrew Whowell , a friend of Cowin 's since their days together at Luther North High School on Chicago 's North Side , died unexpectedly in December at just 62 years old .
Whowell served 30 years with the Arlington Heights force , working his way up the ranks from patrol officer to detective to sergeant and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deputy chief .
With his longtime friend 's passing , Cowin decided this year to rename his annual gathering the Andy Whowell Memorial Golf Outing and used the event to raise $ 1,725 for one of Whowell 's favorite causes -- Lutheran Church Charities ' K-9 Police Ministry .
Cowin , who started his career as an Arlington Heights police officer before joining the Chicago Police Department , said the size of the event grew once word got around that it was being held in honor of Whowell .
`` A lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take part , '' he said .
Donating proceeds to the K-9 Police Ministry seemed a natural fit .
After his retirement in 2015 , Whowell volunteered as a handler for program , which provides crisis response and ongoing support to law enforcement members and their family members in times of need .
On Saturday , Cowin , Whowell 's widow , Ingrid , and others will gather at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights for a presentation of the money raised at the golf outing .
• Have a question , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ copsandcrime @ dailyherald.com .

Cook County Board votes to 'defund' police, but what does that really mean?
Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, left, here with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, said measures calling for the defunding of police -- like the one passed Thursday by the county board -- make no sense. Brian Jackson/Chicago Sun-Times/2015
The Cook County Board -- with the notable exception of one suburban commissioner -- voted overwhelmingly Thursday in favor of defunding law enforcement.
But don't expect any reduction in policing just yet.
The largely symbolic measure, known as the Justice for Black Lives resolution, passed by a 15-1 vote, with one commissioner voting present. It calls for the county to redirect funds from policing and incarceration to public services not administered by law enforcement.
However, as an advisory measure, it doesn't authorize any specific spending changes and does not strip the Cook County sheriff's office of any of its funding. And it doesn't call for the elimination of the sheriff's office or any other law enforcement agency.
Instead, backers say, it sets the stage for future discussions about where the county should focus its resources. More of those resources should go to job creation, housing assistance, mental health programs and community outreach, and less to traditional law enforcement, they say.
That didn't prevent some passionate debate Thursday, including from the measure's lone opponent, Commissioner Sean Morrison of Palos Park. Morrison, a Republican whose oddly shaped 17th District stretches all the way up into parts of Des Plaines, Mount Prospect and Elk Grove Village, blasted the resolution as "bombastic" and argued it castigates all of law enforcement.
Sean Morrison, Cook County commissioner
"We need to make sure law enforcement fully understands we have their backs," Morrison said. "Because the first thing we do if something goes bad in our home or in our neighborhood is pick up the phone and call 9-1-1, and then how quickly our attitudes change."
The panel's only other Republican, Peter Silvestri of Elmwood Park, voted with the majority, despite voicing some reservations about the resolution's language toward police. That language includes phrases like "the brutality of law enforcement has become so commonplace in Black life" and "there is little positive correlation between residents' feeling of safety and the degree of law enforcement presence in those communities."
Suburban Democrats Kevin Morrison of Elk Grove Village and Scott Britton of Glenview voted for the resolution.
Kevin B. Morrison, Cook County commissioner
"This is an incredibly powerful moment in American history, and we are seeing our youth stand up to right the wrongs of our forefathers," Kevin Morrison said.
"We all recognize there are great people who stand up to protect our communities, and this does not disrespect them," he said.
Britton said the need to support the measure was driven home by President Donald Trump making remarks condoning displays of Confederate flags.
Scott Britton, Cook County commissioner
"I think we need to stand as an ally (to the Black community)," he said.
What's the sheriff think?
Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart on Thursday said only that he looks forward to further discussion of his office's budget. But he went in depth on calls to defund police Wednesday during an appearance before the City Club of Chicago.
"The defunding part of it, I can't for the life of me see how that makes any sense," Dart said. "Now, reinventing, changing the way you operate, that makes a lot of sense. But it's how you go about doing this.
"The notion that somehow you have a 9-1-1 call that's deviated to a social worker and that social worker goes out to a house where there's a domestic violence call, that will not work out well," he said. "These are complicated issues, and thoughtful people, that's not how they operate."
Honoring a friend's memory
For years since his retirement from law enforcement, Bartlett resident Ray Cowin has been hosting a yearly golf outing with friends from the force that came to be known as The Cowin Open.
This year's event July 8 drew more than 30 golfers to Villa Olivia Golf Course, but it was the absence of one regular in particular that gave the gathering a new name and new sense of purpose.
Friends and onetime colleagues of former Arlington Heights police Deputy Chief Andrew Whowell took part in the inaugural Andy Whowell Memorial Golf Outing this month. The July 8 event raised $1,725 in Whowell's honor for one of his favorite causes, Lutheran Church Charities' K-9 Police Ministry. - Daily Herald File Photo
Former Arlington Heights Deputy Police Chief Andrew Whowell, a friend of Cowin's since their days together at Luther North High School on Chicago's North Side, died unexpectedly in December at just 62 years old. Whowell served 30 years with the Arlington Heights force, working his way up the ranks from patrol officer to detective to sergeant and then patrol commander, before his 2013 promotion to deputy chief.
With his longtime friend's passing, Cowin decided this year to rename his annual gathering the Andy Whowell Memorial Golf Outing and used the event to raise $1,725 for one of Whowell's favorite causes -- Lutheran Church Charities' K-9 Police Ministry.
Cowin, who started his career as an Arlington Heights police officer before joining the Chicago Police Department, said the size of the event grew once word got around that it was being held in honor of Whowell.
"A lot of guys jumped in and wanted to take part," he said.
Donating proceeds to the K-9 Police Ministry seemed a natural fit. After his retirement in 2015, Whowell volunteered as a handler for program, which provides crisis response and ongoing support to law enforcement members and their family members in times of need.
On Saturday, Cowin, Whowell's widow, Ingrid, and others will gather at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights for a presentation of the money raised at the golf outing.
• Have a question, tip or comment? Email us at copsandcrime@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Duckworth a Democratic convention co-chair, but what does that say about vice presidential odds?

Until presidential candidate Joe Biden makes the call , it 's not certain what position U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth will play at the Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee this August , but she does have one assigned role .
The Hoffman Estates Democrat was named as one of six permanent co-chairs of the DNC that runs Aug. 17-20 .
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic , it will be an unconventional convention with the vast majority of activities occurring virtually .
Biden is scheduled to accept his party 's nomination Aug. 20 , and his vice presidential choice is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thai American wounded in the Iraq War and former assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs , is thought to be on Biden 's shortlist of women for vice president .
However , other prominent names also keep rising , including U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris , of California , as a lead contender .
Duckworth 's military experience and the fact she is a wounded combat veteran are qualifications that set her aside from other candidates , noted political scientist Kent Redfield , emeritus professor at the University of Illinois at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself a former vice president , will drop the name of his pick , `` historically the choice for a non-incumbent is a few days before the convention starts , '' Redfield said .
Does the fact Duckworth now occupies a position as a convention co-chair signal she 's not the one ?
That 's unknown , and so is whether the senator will be making a prime-time speech at the event , a staffer said .
Duckworth has emerged as a prominent critic of President Donald Trump over issues ranging from Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intolerance , and she has made numerous television news appearances this summer .
Meanwhile , plans for the virtual convention are ongoing , and it 's likely the Illinois delegation will be participating from home .
`` Ballots will be emailed to delegates on Aug. 3 to be returned by Aug. 15 , before the convention , '' said state Rep. Fred Crespo , a delegate .
Organizers are `` strongly discouraging delegates to travel to Milwaukee .
There will be local events for delegates .
There will also be virtual caucus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the convention which will be streamed and televised , '' the Hoffman Estates Democrat added .

Duckworth a Democratic convention co-chair, but what does that say about vice presidential odds?
Sen. Tammy Duckworth, shown visiting with Girl Scouts in Elk Grove Village, is among the co-chairs of the Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee this August. Daily Herald File Photo
Until presidential candidate Joe Biden makes the call, it's not certain what position U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth will play at the Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee this August, but she does have one assigned role.
The Hoffman Estates Democrat was named as one of six permanent co-chairs of the DNC that runs Aug. 17-20. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be an unconventional convention with the vast majority of activities occurring virtually. Biden is scheduled to accept his party's nomination Aug. 20, and his vice presidential choice is expected to speak Aug. 19.
Duckworth, a Thai American wounded in the Iraq War and former assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is thought to be on Biden's shortlist of women for vice president. However, other prominent names also keep rising, including U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris, of California, as a lead contender.
Duckworth's military experience and the fact she is a wounded combat veteran are qualifications that set her aside from other candidates, noted political scientist Kent Redfield, emeritus professor at the University of Illinois at Springfield.
As to when Biden, himself a former vice president, will drop the name of his pick, "historically the choice for a non-incumbent is a few days before the convention starts," Redfield said.
Does the fact Duckworth now occupies a position as a convention co-chair signal she's not the one? That's unknown, and so is whether the senator will be making a prime-time speech at the event, a staffer said.
Duckworth has emerged as a prominent critic of President Donald Trump over issues ranging from Russia's bounties on U.S. troops to racial intolerance, and she has made numerous television news appearances this summer.
Meanwhile, plans for the virtual convention are ongoing, and it's likely the Illinois delegation will be participating from home.
"Ballots will be emailed to delegates on Aug. 3 to be returned by Aug. 15, before the convention," said state Rep. Fred Crespo, a delegate.
Organizers are "strongly discouraging delegates to travel to Milwaukee. There will be local events for delegates. There will also be virtual caucus and committee meetings. There will be programming during the convention which will be streamed and televised," the Hoffman Estates Democrat added.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--Some suburban Republicans downplay president's tweet about delaying election

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

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


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-30--District 21 switches to remote learning for start of school year

On a day that saw the highest daily increase in Illinois ' confirmed COVID-19 cases in more than two months , the Wheeling Township Elementary District 21 board voted unanimously to change course and start the new school year exclusively with remote learning on Aug. 20 .
Their vote Thursday endorsed a plan presented by Superintendent Michael Connolly that included `` worrisome '' changes in the data and conditions upon which the previous decision to offer a choice between in-person and remote learning was based .
Among that new information are questions about the previously held beliefs on the transmission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Connolly said .
`` There is uncertainty in the public health community , '' he added .
But the revised plan includes a tentative goal to return to in-person learning for those families that choose it on Monday , Oct. 5 .
A decision about the ability to meet that goal is expected by Friday , Sept. 25 , Connolly said .
The 35 public comments made both in person and via Zoom during the board meeting ran the gamut from total agreement to total disagreement .
Those angered by the change asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during Connolly 's initial presentation .
Board President Phil Pritzker said the new questions would be answered in a `` Frequently Asked Questions '' section soon to be posted on the district 's website , https : //ccsd21.org/ .
The only comments Pritzker chose to address immediately were those alleging political motives for the changed plan .
`` This is not a political issue for us , '' Pritzker said .
`` We 're not elected by any political party . ''
Connolly did promise a more sophisticated and robust approach to remote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spring .
Teachers will address students from their classrooms and engage them for five hours of structured learning each day , he said .
District 21 has 13 schools serving about 6,200 students in parts of Wheeling , Buffalo Grove , Prospect Heights , Mount Prospect and Arlington Heights .

District 21 switches to remote learning for start of school year
On a day that saw the highest daily increase in Illinois' confirmed COVID-19 cases in more than two months, the Wheeling Township Elementary District 21 board voted unanimously to change course and start the new school year exclusively with remote learning on Aug. 20.
Their vote Thursday endorsed a plan presented by Superintendent Michael Connolly that included "worrisome" changes in the data and conditions upon which the previous decision to offer a choice between in-person and remote learning was based.
Among that new information are questions about the previously held beliefs on the transmission of the virus among young children, Connolly said.
"There is uncertainty in the public health community," he added.
But the revised plan includes a tentative goal to return to in-person learning for those families that choose it on Monday, Oct. 5. A decision about the ability to meet that goal is expected by Friday, Sept. 25, Connolly said.
The 35 public comments made both in person and via Zoom during the board meeting ran the gamut from total agreement to total disagreement. Those angered by the change asked for more data than had been provided during Connolly's initial presentation.
Board President Phil Pritzker said the new questions would be answered in a "Frequently Asked Questions" section soon to be posted on the district's website, https://ccsd21.org/.
The only comments Pritzker chose to address immediately were those alleging political motives for the changed plan.
"This is not a political issue for us," Pritzker said. "We're not elected by any political party."
Connolly did promise a more sophisticated and robust approach to remote learning than had been quickly improvised in the spring. Teachers will address students from their classrooms and engage them for five hours of structured learning each day, he said.
District 21 has 13 schools serving about 6,200 students in parts of Wheeling, Buffalo Grove, Prospect Heights, Mount Prospect and Arlington Heights.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-31--Feder: Tribune's John Kass fires back at 'cancel culture' critics

Chicago Tribune columnist John Kass responded forcefully to critics -- including members of the Chicago Tribune Guild -- who accused @ @ @ @ @ conspiracy theory in a column about billionaire George Soros , Robert Feder writes .
Kass @ @ @ @ @ a column headlined : `` What happened to an America where you could freely speak @ @ @ @ @ I will not apologize for writing about Soros .
I will not bow to those @ @ @ @ @ .
I will continue writing my column .
The left does n't like my politics @ @ @ @ @ I do n't like theirs much , either , '' he wrote .
Get the @ @ @ @ @ Chicago media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: Tribune's John Kass fires back at 'cancel culture' critics
Chicago Tribune columnist John Kass responded forcefully to critics -- including members of the Chicago Tribune Guild -- who accused him of invoking an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory in a column about billionaire George Soros, Robert Feder writes.
Kass broke his silence Wednesday with a column headlined: "What happened to an America where you could freely speak your mind?" "I will not apologize for writing about Soros. I will not bow to those who've wrongly defamed me. I will continue writing my column. The left doesn't like my politics. I get that. I don't like theirs much, either," he wrote.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-31--Rozner: What a sad ending for Arlington Park

For anyone who has followed horse racing closely the last few decades , Thursday 's news was hardly a surprise .
But it was no less devastating .
During an investor earnings call , Churchill Downs Inc. -- which owns Arlington Park -- dropped a bomb on local horse racing fans .
As reported by the Daily Herald 's Christopher Placek , CDI boss Bill Carstanjen no longer sounded like a man threatening the future of the Arlington Heights palace .
He made it crystal clear that the Local Oval has no future in hosting ponies .
`` The long-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carstanjen said .
`` That land will have a higher and better purpose for something else at some point .
`` But we want to work constructively with all of the constituencies in the market to see if there 's an opportunity to move the ( racing ) license or otherwise change the circumstances so that racing can continue in Illinois .
`` We 've been patient and thoughtful and constructive with the parties up in that jurisdiction , but long-term that land gets sold and that license will need to move if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The gambling bill that passed in 2019 was too late for Arlington Park .
The track -- and all of Illinois horse racing -- needed a casino on property 10 years ago if it wanted to contend with states that offer higher purses and higher-quality racing .
Many breeders , owners and trainers could not remain in Illinois and survive under the circumstances .
When the state finally passed a pair of gambling bills in 2011 and 2012 , after decades of neglect , then Gov .
Pat Quinn refused to sign them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revenue they would have produced .
Even then it might have been too late , but at least horse racing with slots at the tracks would have had a fighting chance .
Instead , Illinois tracks were not allowed to compete with tracks around the country that had slots , not compete with Illinois casinos , and not compete with any restaurant or gas station could install slots .
But a plant that 's had regulated gaming since 1927 was n't given the same privilege .
Thus , the best horses left for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50,000 Illinois jobs across horse racing and agriculture was left to wither .
You do n't have to stretch the imagination to wonder what causes politicians to kill jobs and flush revenue , especially in Illinois .
So sad when you remember it was only a couple decades ago that Illinois horse racing was a major player in the game , and that the Chicago area once had more tracks than any other metropolitan area in the country .
Today , Churchill is the obstacle , now that it owns a huge chunk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Given the massive expenditure for licenses and taxes for expanded gambling , not to mention infrastructure , Churchill decided against adding a sportsbook , slots or table games at Arlington , not needing to compete with Rivers only a few furlongs away .
So Churchill is also willing to let Arlington die , with little concern for the history , track , employees , patrons , community or horse racing in Illinois .
To pretend otherwise is laughable .
Having failed to get what it needed from the state when Arlington could have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found another way to make money by purchasing 61 percent of Rivers .
Cynical and clinical in its approach , CDI fits right in with Illinois politics , and thus the spot the track is in now , with dreadful racing and no hope for the future .
Arlington Heights officials will complain now about what they 're losing , but let 's not forget how hard they once fought to keep slots and a casino out of the track .
It was like the village was afraid Al Capone was going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't pretend now that Arlington Heights was on board with a casino all along .
What becomes of the 300 acres is very much up in the air , but one can imagine a combination of houses , condos and apartments with a new entertainment destination occupying prime real estate .
It was suggested here before the Cubs spent a billion dollars to renovate Wrigley Field that they ought to purchase Arlington Park and all its property to build a Friendly Confines replica , complete with all the restaurants , bars , hotels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stuck on the South Side through 2029 and the Bears on the lakefront until 2033 .
What seems certain is there wo n't be horse racing .
`` Long-term for Arlington Park , as we 've explained on these calls and we 've explained to the state , it does n't work , '' Carstanjen said .
`` The economics do n't work .
It 's not a viable solution .
We 'd like to give the state , given everything that 's going on , an opportunity to help us find a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not commit to racing again next year , saying , `` We 're running the race meet right now and have an agreement to run a 2021 race meet if we elect to do so . ''
Which means the final race ever at Arlington Park could be run in two months with no fans on property , an unceremonious funeral for one of the grandest facilities ever to host a spectacular sport .
Hard to imagine a more gruesome and gloomy ending .

Rozner: What a sad ending for Arlington Park
For anyone who has followed horse racing closely the last few decades, Thursday's news was hardly a surprise.
But it was no less devastating.
During an investor earnings call, Churchill Downs Inc. -- which owns Arlington Park -- dropped a bomb on local horse racing fans. As reported by the Daily Herald's Christopher Placek, CDI boss Bill Carstanjen no longer sounded like a man threatening the future of the Arlington Heights palace.
He made it crystal clear that the Local Oval has no future in hosting ponies.
"The long-term solution is not Arlington Park," Carstanjen said. "That land will have a higher and better purpose for something else at some point.
"But we want to work constructively with all of the constituencies in the market to see if there's an opportunity to move the (racing) license or otherwise change the circumstances so that racing can continue in Illinois.
"We've been patient and thoughtful and constructive with the parties up in that jurisdiction, but long-term that land gets sold and that license will need to move if it's going to continue."
The gambling bill that passed in 2019 was too late for Arlington Park. The track -- and all of Illinois horse racing -- needed a casino on property 10 years ago if it wanted to contend with states that offer higher purses and higher-quality racing. Many breeders, owners and trainers could not remain in Illinois and survive under the circumstances.
When the state finally passed a pair of gambling bills in 2011 and 2012, after decades of neglect, then Gov. Pat Quinn refused to sign them, despite the $500 million in revenue they would have produced. Even then it might have been too late, but at least horse racing with slots at the tracks would have had a fighting chance.
Instead, Illinois tracks were not allowed to compete with tracks around the country that had slots, not compete with Illinois casinos, and not compete with any restaurant or gas station that could install slots.
But a plant that's had regulated gaming since 1927 wasn't given the same privilege. Thus, the best horses left for greener pastures and a billion-dollar industry with 50,000 Illinois jobs across horse racing and agriculture was left to wither.
You don't have to stretch the imagination to wonder what causes politicians to kill jobs and flush revenue, especially in Illinois.
So sad when you remember it was only a couple decades ago that Illinois horse racing was a major player in the game, and that the Chicago area once had more tracks than any other metropolitan area in the country.
Today, Churchill is the obstacle, now that it owns a huge chunk of Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. Given the massive expenditure for licenses and taxes for expanded gambling, not to mention infrastructure, Churchill decided against adding a sportsbook, slots or table games at Arlington, not needing to compete with Rivers only a few furlongs away.
So Churchill is also willing to let Arlington die, with little concern for the history, track, employees, patrons, community or horse racing in Illinois. To pretend otherwise is laughable. Having failed to get what it needed from the state when Arlington could have been saved, Churchill moved on and found another way to make money by purchasing 61 percent of Rivers.
Cynical and clinical in its approach, CDI fits right in with Illinois politics, and thus the spot the track is in now, with dreadful racing and no hope for the future.
Arlington Heights officials will complain now about what they're losing, but let's not forget how hard they once fought to keep slots and a casino out of the track. It was like the village was afraid Al Capone was going to walk through the door, so don't pretend now that Arlington Heights was on board with a casino all along.
What becomes of the 300 acres is very much up in the air, but one can imagine a combination of houses, condos and apartments with a new entertainment destination occupying prime real estate.
It was suggested here before the Cubs spent a billion dollars to renovate Wrigley Field that they ought to purchase Arlington Park and all its property to build a Friendly Confines replica, complete with all the restaurants, bars, hotels and profits.
Too late now.
The White Sox are stuck on the South Side through 2029 and the Bears on the lakefront until 2033.
What seems certain is there won't be horse racing.
"Long-term for Arlington Park, as we've explained on these calls and we've explained to the state, it doesn't work," Carstanjen said. "The economics don't work. It's not a viable solution. We'd like to give the state, given everything that's going on, an opportunity to help us find a better long-term solution."
Carstanjen would not commit to racing again next year, saying, "We're running the race meet right now and have an agreement to run a 2021 race meet if we elect to do so."
Which means the final race ever at Arlington Park could be run in two months with no fans on property, an unceremonious funeral for one of the grandest facilities ever to host a spectacular sport.
Hard to imagine a more gruesome and gloomy ending.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-31--Muslims gather across suburbs for socially distanced Eid prayers

Muslims gathered across the suburbs Friday for socially distanced communal prayers to observe the festival of Eid al-Adha .
The Festival of Sacrifice , as it is known , marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia performed by millions of Muslims annually from across the globe .
This year , Hajj pilgrims were limited to mere thousands due to new COVID-19 restrictions .
In the suburbs , worshippers wearing masks and spaced 6 feet apart performed the ritual Eid congregational prayer in two back-to-back services in the parking lot of Boomers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our concern , '' said Rezwan Ul Haque , spokesman and past president of Masjid al-Huda in Schaumburg , which organized the services .
Attendees were asked to bring their own prayer rugs so they could stand distanced without coming into contact with anyone else .
Loud speakers were set up so everyone could hear the sermons and prayers led by Sheikh Omar Haqqani and mosque Imam Sheikh Khalid Herrington .
Similar outdoor and indoor congregations took place at Islamic centers in Bolingbrook , Des Plaines , Elgin , Glendale Heights , Libertyville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ West Chicago , Wheaton and Villa Park .
Festivities continue this weekend with drive-through Eid celebrations planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of The Mecca Center , 16W560 91st St. , Willowbrook , and from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of Islamic Foundation of Villa Park , 300 W. Highridge Road .

Muslims gather across suburbs for socially distanced Eid prayers
Muslims gathered across the suburbs Friday for socially distanced communal prayers to observe the festival of Eid al-Adha.
The Festival of Sacrifice, as it is known, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia performed by millions of Muslims annually from across the globe. This year, Hajj pilgrims were limited to mere thousands due to new COVID-19 restrictions.
In the suburbs, worshippers wearing masks and spaced 6 feet apart performed the ritual Eid congregational prayer in two back-to-back services in the parking lot of Boomers Stadium in Schaumburg.
"Safety is our concern," said Rezwan Ul Haque, spokesman and past president of Masjid al-Huda in Schaumburg, which organized the services.
Attendees were asked to bring their own prayer rugs so they could stand distanced without coming into contact with anyone else. Loud speakers were set up so everyone could hear the sermons and prayers led by Sheikh Omar Haqqani and mosque Imam Sheikh Khalid Herrington.
Similar outdoor and indoor congregations took place at Islamic centers in Bolingbrook, Des Plaines, Elgin, Glendale Heights, Libertyville, Lombard, Naperville, Plainfield, West Chicago, Wheaton and Villa Park.
Festivities continue this weekend with drive-through Eid celebrations planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of The Mecca Center, 16W560 91st St., Willowbrook, and from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of Islamic Foundation of Villa Park, 300 W. Highridge Road.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-31--1,941 more COVID-19 cases, 21 more deaths, and an eye on suburbs' positivity rates

Illinois ' COVID-19 case total grew by 1,941 Friday , and the death toll from the respiratory disease rose by 21 , as the state reported a record number of 49,782 daily tests for the respiratory disease .
It 's the 10th day in a row of new caseloads totaling over 1,200 and the highest daily infection count since May 24 , when the tally was 2,508 , the Illinois Department of Public Health reported .
But the average daily number of people dying has decreased -- from 52 a day in June to 19 a day in July .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tests done , which will no matter what , will typically result in a record number of cases ... particularly as we 're rising now , '' Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said at an event in Downers Grove .
Three suburban regions are being watched for increasing COVID-19 positivity rates .
Cook County has an average positivity rate of 5.7 % as of Tuesday , the IDPH reported .
That rate has risen each of the past nine days .
Lake and McHenry counties have an average positivity rate of 5.3 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days .
Will and Kankakee counties have a 6.3 % average positivity rate ; that rate has increased for seven days .
DuPage and Kane counties have a 4.7 % positivity rate that does not activate warnings , though it has risen for five days .
The state is divided into 11 regions to monitor COVID-19 conditions and predict whether a surge is occurring .
A combination of sustained increases in the test positivity rate and hospitalizations or a reduction below 20 % in the number of ICU or hospital beds can trigger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banning indoor dining at restaurants .
Another trigger is three consecutive days with an 8 % or greater positivity rate .
Separate statistics show the suburbs continue to set off state warning levels for exceeding 50 per 100,000 cases of COVID-19 for the week ending July 25 , the IDPH reported Friday .
Lake County is at 90 cases per 100,000 people , McHenry is at 75 , DuPage is at 73 , suburban Cook is at 70 , Kane is at 66 , and Will is at 65 .
The localized information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions about COVID-19 risks .
`` In those regions that cross over the metrics we have set , we will have to impose some mitigations , '' Pritzker said .
He attended a mask giveaway in Downers Grove prompted by Olivia Dru Tyler , 7 , of Lombard , who makes face coverings to benefit people who are homeless .
The IDPH announced Friday that 13 counties -- Cass , Champaign , Gallatin , Jackson , Jo Daviess , Johnson , Perry , Randolph , Saline , Sangamon , St. Clair , White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two or more risk factors .
The total infections statewide are 178,837 and the total number of fatalities reached 7,495 .
The seven-day average COVID-19 test positivity rate ticked up to 3.9 % , compared to 3.8 % , where it has rested since Monday .
It 's the 10th day in a row that daily case counts have surpassed 1,000 .
The daily average for July is 1,150 compared to 756 in June .
The number of people in Illinois hospitals with COVID-19 stands at 1,369 as of Thursday night , less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital , Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Lakeforest Hospital are seeking volunteers for stage 3 clinical trials for a COVID-19 vaccine being developed by Oxford University and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca .
Volunteers must be 18 or older and be at greater risk of virus exposure than other people such as health care workers , grocery store employees or nursing home staff members or residents .
The vaccine mimics COVID-19 and stimulates the body 's immune system to create defenses .
As a result , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defenses that fight the virus and not allow it to infect your body , '' CDH physician Daniel Boyle said .
If all goes well , a vaccine might be available in early 2021 , he said .
Patients would receive two injections and the trials are expected to start later in August .
Earlier tests showed the vaccine was `` safe and boosted antibody responses , '' officials said .
To learn more , go to redcap.nubic.northwestern.edu/redcap/surveys/ .

1,941 more COVID-19 cases, 21 more deaths, and an eye on suburbs' positivity rates
Illinois' COVID-19 case total grew by 1,941 Friday, and the death toll from the respiratory disease rose by 21, as the state reported a record number of 49,782 daily tests for the respiratory disease.
It's the 10th day in a row of new caseloads totaling over 1,200 and the highest daily infection count since May 24, when the tally was 2,508, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported. But the average daily number of people dying has decreased -- from 52 a day in June to 19 a day in July.
"We've had a record number of tests done, which will no matter what, will typically result in a record number of cases ... particularly as we're rising now," Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at an event in Downers Grove.
Three suburban regions are being watched for increasing COVID-19 positivity rates. Cook County has an average positivity rate of 5.7% as of Tuesday, the IDPH reported. That rate has risen each of the past nine days.
Lake and McHenry counties have an average positivity rate of 5.3%; that rate has risen for eight days.
Will and Kankakee counties have a 6.3% average positivity rate; that rate has increased for seven days.
DuPage and Kane counties have a 4.7% positivity rate that does not activate warnings, though it has risen for five days.
The state is divided into 11 regions to monitor COVID-19 conditions and predict whether a surge is occurring.
A combination of sustained increases in the test positivity rate and hospitalizations or a reduction below 20% in the number of ICU or hospital beds can trigger restrictions for a region, such as banning indoor dining at restaurants.
Another trigger is three consecutive days with an 8% or greater positivity rate.
Separate statistics show the suburbs continue to set off state warning levels for exceeding 50 per 100,000 cases of COVID-19 for the week ending July 25, the IDPH reported Friday. Lake County is at 90 cases per 100,000 people, McHenry is at 75, DuPage is at 73, suburban Cook is at 70, Kane is at 66, and Will is at 65.
The localized information is intended to help Illinoisans make informed decisions about COVID-19 risks.
"In those regions that cross over the metrics we have set, we will have to impose some mitigations," Pritzker said. He attended a mask giveaway in Downers Grove prompted by Olivia Dru Tyler, 7, of Lombard, who makes face coverings to benefit people who are homeless.
The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Friday that 11 counties -- Cass, Gallatin, Jackson, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Perry, Randolph, Saline, Sangamon, St. Clair and White -- reached warning levels in two or more risk factors. - Capitol news illinois
The IDPH announced Friday that 13 counties -- Cass, Champaign, Gallatin, Jackson, Jo Daviess, Johnson, Perry, Randolph, Saline, Sangamon, St. Clair, White and Whiteside -- reached warning levels in two or more risk factors.
The total infections statewide are 178,837 and the total number of fatalities reached 7,495.
The seven-day average COVID-19 test positivity rate ticked up to 3.9%, compared to 3.8%, where it has rested since Monday.
It's the 10th day in a row that daily case counts have surpassed 1,000. The daily average for July is 1,150 compared to 756 in June.
The number of people in Illinois hospitals with COVID-19 stands at 1,369 as of Thursday night, less than the weekly average of 1,420.
Meanwhile, researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Lakeforest Hospital are seeking volunteers for stage 3 clinical trials for a COVID-19 vaccine being developed by Oxford University and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.
Volunteers must be 18 or older and be at greater risk of virus exposure than other people such as health care workers, grocery store employees or nursing home staff members or residents.
The vaccine mimics COVID-19 and stimulates the body's immune system to create defenses. As a result, a vaccinated person "would have stored defenses that fight the virus and not allow it to infect your body," CDH physician Daniel Boyle said.
If all goes well, a vaccine might be available in early 2021, he said.
Patients would receive two injections and the trials are expected to start later in August. Earlier tests showed the vaccine was "safe and boosted antibody responses," officials said. To learn more, go to redcap.nubic.northwestern.edu/redcap/surveys/.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-31--Districts 204 and 203 now going all remote learning to start school year

Indian Prairie Unit District 204 and Naperville Unit District 203 are among the latest school districts to announce they will begin the next academic year with all remote learning .
Both districts ' superintendents sent messages to their communities Friday announcing changes from earlier plans that would have offered in-person learning on alternating hybrid schedules , as well as fully online academies .
Now , the two districts serving a total of roughly 44,500 students in the Naperville and Aurora area both will begin instruction only online .
`` With new guidelines being released on a regular basis from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State Board of Education , and local health departments , it is my recommendation that we provide stability by announcing we will start the school year having all students begin remotely through Oct. 30 , '' District 204 Superintendent Adrian Talley said in his message Friday .
`` We will begin the 2020-2021 school year with an eLearning model and will slowly transition into the hybrid learning model for those who are able and ready to return to in-person learning , '' District 203 Superintendent Dan Bridges said in a highlighted portion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online learning models will meet families ' high expectations for rigorous learning .
And both superintendents acknowledged each family has a different situation that will change its views on the plan for the new school year .
Both districts plan to discuss further details of their remote learning plans with their school boards during meetings at 7 p.m. Monday .
Viewers can watch District 204 's meeting live on the district 's YouTube page at https : //www.youtube.com/IndianPrairie204 .
Viewers can see District 203 's meeting live on the district 's website at @ @ @ @

Districts 204 and 203 now going all remote learning to start school year
Waubonsie Valley High School will be among the Aurora and Naperville high schools beginning the school year with all-remote learning. Daily Herald file photo, 2018
Indian Prairie Unit District 204 and Naperville Unit District 203 are among the latest school districts to announce they will begin the next academic year with all remote learning.
Both districts' superintendents sent messages to their communities Friday announcing changes from earlier plans that would have offered in-person learning on alternating hybrid schedules, as well as fully online academies. Now, the two districts serving a total of roughly 44,500 students in the Naperville and Aurora area both will begin instruction only online.
"With new guidelines being released on a regular basis from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois State Board of Education, and local health departments, it is my recommendation that we provide stability by announcing we will start the school year having all students begin remotely through Oct. 30," District 204 Superintendent Adrian Talley said in his message Friday.
"We will begin the 2020-2021 school year with an eLearning model and will slowly transition into the hybrid learning model for those who are able and ready to return to in-person learning," District 203 Superintendent Dan Bridges said in a highlighted portion of his message.
Both superintendents said their online learning models will meet families' high expectations for rigorous learning. And both superintendents acknowledged each family has a different situation that will change its views on the plan for the new school year.
Both districts plan to discuss further details of their remote learning plans with their school boards during meetings at 7 p.m. Monday.
Viewers can watch District 204's meeting live on the district's YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/IndianPrairie204.
Viewers can see District 203's meeting live on the district's website at https://www.naperville203.org/domain/732.