dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--June 10 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code

Interactive mapSuburbs ' portion Since the outbreak began , there have been 66,719 cases in the suburbs , about 51 % of the state 's total , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health as of Wednesday .
There have been 3,116 deaths in the suburbs , representing about 51 % of all deaths in Illinois .
Cook County • As of Wednesday , suburban Cook County had 34,843 cases and 1,739 deaths , according to the state ( visit bit.ly/dhIDPHcovid19 ) .
In Chicago : 48,742 cases and 2,314 fatalities .
• Top suburb counts from the Cook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examiner 's office : 1,583 cases and 85 deaths in Des Plaines , 774 cases and 44 deaths in Wheeling , 633 cases and 14 deaths in Palatine , 623 cases and 16 deaths in Streamwood , 601 cases and 7 deaths in Mount Prospect , 528 cases and 14 deaths in Schaumburg , 497 cases and 44 deaths in Glenview , 481 cases and 31 deaths in Arlington Heights , 470 cases and 9 deaths in Hanover Park ( Cook County portion ) , 432 cases and 9 deaths in Hoffman Estates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elk Grove Village , 327 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows , 250 cases and 5 deaths in Prospect Heights , and 112 cases and 14 deaths in Buffalo Grove ( Cook County portion ) .
DuPage County • The county reported 8,263 cases and 415 deaths as of Wednesday .
• Top counts : 782 cases and 9 deaths in Addison , 740 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago , 625 cases and 7 deaths in Glendale Heights , 504 cases and 11 deaths in Bensenville , 491 cases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ portion ) , 481 cases and 27 deaths in Carol Stream , 362 cases and 18 deaths in Lombard , 308 cases and 10 deaths in Aurora ( DuPage portion ) , 255 cases and 30 deaths in Elmhurst , 237 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park ( DuPage portion ) , 230 cases and 18 deaths in Wheaton , 220 cases and 3 deaths in Villa Park , 145 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn and 143 cases and 18 deaths in Willowbrook .
Lake County • The county listed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website Wednesday .
• Top counts as of Wednesday : 2,530 to 2,534 in Waukegan ; 540 to 544 in Round Lake Beach ; 350 to 354 in Mundelein ; 275 to 279 in Gurnee ; 155 to 159 in Vernon Hills ; 135 to 139 in Buffalo Grove ( Lake County portion ) ; 125 to 129 in Wauconda ; 115 to 119 in Lake Zurich ; 105 to 109 in Libertyville ; 80 to 84 in Grayslake ; and 35 to 39 in Lake Villa .
Kane County • The county @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its website Wednesday .
• Top counts : 3,178 cases in Aurora ( Kane County portion ) , 1,669 in Elgin ( Kane portion ) , 684 in Carpentersville , 250 in South Elgin , 250 in St. Charles , 173 in North Aurora , 153 in Geneva , 102 in Batavia , and 47 in Algonquin ( Kane portion ) .
McHenry County • 1,784 cases and 85 deaths in McHenry County , according to the health department Wednesday .
Will County • There have been 6,011 cases and 295 deaths in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ department 's website Wednesday .
• Cases per town include 347 in Naperville ( Will County portion ) and 64 in Aurora ( Will County portion ) .

June 10 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code
Interactive mapSuburbs' portion Since the outbreak began, there have been 66,719 cases in the suburbs, about 51% of the state's total, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health as of Wednesday. There have been 3,116 deaths in the suburbs, representing about 51% of all deaths in Illinois.
Cook County• As of Wednesday, suburban Cook County had 34,843 cases and 1,739 deaths, according to the state (visit bit.ly/dhIDPHcovid19). In Chicago: 48,742 cases and 2,314 fatalities.
• Top suburb counts from the Cook County Department of Public Health and medical examiner's office: 1,583 cases and 85 deaths in Des Plaines, 774 cases and 44 deaths in Wheeling, 633 cases and 14 deaths in Palatine, 623 cases and 16 deaths in Streamwood, 601 cases and 7 deaths in Mount Prospect, 528 cases and 14 deaths in Schaumburg, 497 cases and 44 deaths in Glenview, 481 cases and 31 deaths in Arlington Heights, 470 cases and 9 deaths in Hanover Park (Cook County portion), 432 cases and 9 deaths in Hoffman Estates, 340 cases and 29 deaths in Elk Grove Village, 327 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows, 250 cases and 5 deaths in Prospect Heights, and 112 cases and 14 deaths in Buffalo Grove (Cook County portion).
DuPage County• The county reported 8,263 cases and 415 deaths as of Wednesday.
• Top counts: 782 cases and 9 deaths in Addison, 740 cases and 12 deaths in West Chicago, 625 cases and 7 deaths in Glendale Heights, 504 cases and 11 deaths in Bensenville, 491 cases and 32 deaths in Naperville (DuPage County portion), 481 cases and 27 deaths in Carol Stream, 362 cases and 18 deaths in Lombard, 308 cases and 10 deaths in Aurora (DuPage portion), 255 cases and 30 deaths in Elmhurst, 237 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park (DuPage portion), 230 cases and 18 deaths in Wheaton, 220 cases and 3 deaths in Villa Park, 145 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn and 143 cases and 18 deaths in Willowbrook.
Lake County• The county listed 8,924 cases and 336 deaths on its website Wednesday.
• Top counts as of Wednesday: 2,530 to 2,534 in Waukegan; 540 to 544 in Round Lake Beach; 350 to 354 in Mundelein; 275 to 279 in Gurnee; 155 to 159 in Vernon Hills; 135 to 139 in Buffalo Grove (Lake County portion); 125 to 129 in Wauconda; 115 to 119 in Lake Zurich; 105 to 109 in Libertyville; 80 to 84 in Grayslake; and 35 to 39 in Lake Villa.
Kane County• The county confirmed 6,996 cases with 219 deaths on its website Wednesday.
• Top counts: 3,178 cases in Aurora (Kane County portion), 1,669 in Elgin (Kane portion), 684 in Carpentersville, 250 in South Elgin, 250 in St. Charles, 173 in North Aurora, 153 in Geneva, 102 in Batavia, and 47 in Algonquin (Kane portion).
McHenry County• 1,784 cases and 85 deaths in McHenry County, according to the health department Wednesday.
Will County• There have been 6,011 cases and 295 deaths in Will County, according to the health department's website Wednesday.
• Cases per town include 347 in Naperville (Will County portion) and 64 in Aurora (Will County portion).


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Paroled sex offender arrested on child pornography charges

A Crystal Lake man is being held in the McHenry County jail on eight counts of possession of child pornography @ @ @ @ @ 32 , of the 4000 Block of Fox Trail , is a registered sexual offender @ @ @ @ @ in violation of his parole by possessing unregistered electronic devices .
On June 2 , @ @ @ @ @ were dispatched to the 9100 Block of Trinity Drive .
A parole officer was on @ @ @ @ @ detained .
After a joint investigation by Lake in the Hills Police Department and McHenry @ @ @ @ @ authorities filed charges against Looman on June 4 .
Looman is being held on $ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled to appear in court June 19 .

Paroled sex offender arrested on child pornography charges
A Crystal Lake man is being held in the McHenry County jail on eight counts of possession of child pornography.
Andrew J. Looman, 32, of the 4000 Block of Fox Trail, is a registered sexual offender and was suspected to be in violation of his parole by possessing unregistered electronic devices.
On June 2, Lake in the Hills police were dispatched to the 9100 Block of Trinity Drive. A parole officer was on the scene and had Looman detained.
After a joint investigation by Lake in the Hills Police Department and McHenry County sheriff's office, authorities filed charges against Looman on June 4.
Looman is being held on $50,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court June 19.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Body cameras, civilian review board among proposed Aurora police reforms

Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin announced a new reform initiative Tuesday that aims to strengthen police accountability and improve relationships between law enforcement and the community .
Called CHANGE ( Community Helping Aurora 's Necessary Growth and Empowerment ) , the initiative calls for a multi-phased approach to review law enforcement policies and explore new measures , such as body cameras and a civilian review board .
The initiative was presented to the city council a little more than a week after protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis were followed by looting and vandalism affecting numerous downtown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'one Aurora ' if segments of our community feel unheard , unassured and unattached , '' Irvin said during Tuesday 's city council meeting .
`` I apologize to any person who has experienced unjust , unfair , undeserved treatment at any time in Aurora by police officers , public policy or any parts of the administration .
However , these are just words .
The best apology is changed behavior . ''
The first phase of the effort will include a review of use-of-force policies and training .
Community members will join @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the training process and give recommendations for improvements .
`` Aurora is taking it a step beyond the national call to review use-of-force policies , '' Irvin said .
`` We will also conduct a community-based review of the police department 's training policies . ''
A series of `` review and recommendation '' sessions will be planned through June and July .
Community members can register online at www.aurora-il.org/CHANGE when dates are announced next week .
Irvin said the city has been reviewing the use of body cameras for officers since last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expedite the process .
That includes plans for the city to seek proposals from body camera companies .
The final part of the CHANGE plan will explore the implementation of a new independent civilian review board to address misconduct complaints .
`` Let me be clear : this is only the first phase of the CHANGE Reform Initiative , '' Irvin said .
`` Chief ( Kristen ) Ziman , Deputy Chief ( Keith ) Cross and our teams are ready to move forward with our residents to make very substantive changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we are all committed to listen , learn , act and implement changes for the betterment of Aurora . ''
To learn more about the CHANGE Reform Initiative , visit www.aurora-il.org/CHANGE .

Body cameras, civilian review board among proposed Aurora police reforms
Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin announced a new reform initiative Tuesday that aims to strengthen police accountability and improve relationships between law enforcement and the community.
Called CHANGE (Community Helping Aurora's Necessary Growth and Empowerment), the initiative calls for a multi-phased approach to review law enforcement policies and explore new measures, such as body cameras and a civilian review board.
The initiative was presented to the city council a little more than a week after protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis were followed by looting and vandalism affecting numerous downtown businesses.
"We can't say 'one Aurora' if segments of our community feel unheard, unassured and unattached," Irvin said during Tuesday's city council meeting. "I apologize to any person who has experienced unjust, unfair, undeserved treatment at any time in Aurora by police officers, public policy or any parts of the administration. However, these are just words. The best apology is changed behavior."
The first phase of the effort will include a review of use-of-force policies and training. Community members will join city and police officials to learn about the training process and give recommendations for improvements.
"Aurora is taking it a step beyond the national call to review use-of-force policies," Irvin said. "We will also conduct a community-based review of the police department's training policies."
A series of "review and recommendation" sessions will be planned through June and July. Community members can register online at www.aurora-il.org/CHANGE when dates are announced next week.
Irvin said the city has been reviewing the use of body cameras for officers since last year and the CHANGE initiative will help to expedite the process. That includes plans for the city to seek proposals from body camera companies.
The final part of the CHANGE plan will explore the implementation of a new independent civilian review board to address misconduct complaints.
"Let me be clear: this is only the first phase of the CHANGE Reform Initiative," Irvin said. "Chief (Kristen) Ziman, Deputy Chief (Keith) Cross and our teams are ready to move forward with our residents to make very substantive changes. Change won't happen overnight, but we are all committed to listen, learn, act and implement changes for the betterment of Aurora."
To learn more about the CHANGE Reform Initiative, visit www.aurora-il.org/CHANGE.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--New rules would allow marijuana shops in Rosemont entertainment areas

Two Rosemont entertainment districts are among the locations eligible to host recreational marijuana dispensaries under new zoning rules approved Wednesday by village trustees .
Parkway Bank Park , the prominent 200,000-square-foot complex east of the Tri-State Tollway that opened in 2012 , and The Pearl District mixed-use complex , which opened on the other side of the tollway in 2018 , are two of the three spots in town that would permit the pot shops , according to the zoning code changes board members signed off on .
A total of two marijuana retailers would be allowed villagewide .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trustees overturned their long-standing ban on video gambling , opening up the possibility for some 40 liquor license holders in town to install as many as six poker machines each .
The village board approvals follow guidance from voters in two advisory referendums in March that showed a majority in favor of pot sales and video gambling .
At the same time , village leaders began reconsidering their initial hesitancy once they saw how much tax revenue could be made off both .
Village estimates indicate marijuana sales and the new video machines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million to $ 3 million a year for municipal coffers .
While there currently are no vacancies at the village-owned Parkway Bank Park , officials are keeping open the possibility it could host a dispensary , bringing daytime foot traffic to an area that normally only comes alive at night .
`` Obviously the question was posed and I said , 'Why not ? '
'' said Mayor Brad Stephens .
`` For the most part , these places right now are popping up everywhere . ''
Stephens said there has been preliminary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open a dispensary at the entrance to The Pearl south of Balmoral Avenue and west of Pearl Street .
The site being eyed is a village-owned piece of land near the Metra station .
But he said a more viable proposal is for the third area that would allow dispensaries -- a strip mall on Touhy Avenue just blocks north of the Allstate Arena .
It would be a quicker turnaround to get a shop there up and running because of the vacant strip mall space available , as opposed to building from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he added .
Now that local rules governing dispensaries have been approved , Stephens said formal proposals would be collected and vetted by an internal committee headed by Village Attorney John Donahue .
While the zoning rules can easily be amended , even the possibility of recreational marijuana sales at all is a distinct change from some board members ' earlier attitudes on the issue .
After marijuana sales were legalized statewide last year , Rosemont trustees were split on whether to opt out or not .
But the advisory question they placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of voters in favor of allowing the sales .
That led to the board 's vote Wednesday to craft new zoning rules , along with approval of a 3 % local tax on sales .
The village would also be able to collect smaller percentages from its existing home rule sales tax and share of state sales tax .
The video gambling rules approved Wednesday require businesses to have full-service menus and no more than half of gross revenues dedicated to gambling , to avoid the proliferation of gambling cafes , officials said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those gaming cafes and a guy with a refrigerator and a couple of six-packs of beer , and now he calls himself a bar , '' Stephens said .
So far , Moretti 's on Higgins Road and Adobe Gila 's in Parkway Bank Park are among those interested in applying for the machines , which also require the approval of the Illinois Gaming Board .

New rules would allow marijuana shops in Rosemont entertainment areas
Two Rosemont entertainment districts are among the locations eligible to host recreational marijuana dispensaries under new zoning rules approved Wednesday by village trustees.
Parkway Bank Park, the prominent 200,000-square-foot complex east of the Tri-State Tollway that opened in 2012, and The Pearl District mixed-use complex, which opened on the other side of the tollway in 2018, are two of the three spots in town that would permit the pot shops, according to the zoning code changes board members signed off on.
A total of two marijuana retailers would be allowed villagewide.
The new rules came on the same day trustees overturned their long-standing ban on video gambling, opening up the possibility for some 40 liquor license holders in town to install as many as six poker machines each.
The village board approvals follow guidance from voters in two advisory referendums in March that showed a majority in favor of pot sales and video gambling. At the same time, village leaders began reconsidering their initial hesitancy once they saw how much tax revenue could be made off both.
Village estimates indicate marijuana sales and the new video machines could bring in a combined $2 million to $3 million a year for municipal coffers.
While there currently are no vacancies at the village-owned Parkway Bank Park, officials are keeping open the possibility it could host a dispensary, bringing daytime foot traffic to an area that normally only comes alive at night.
"Obviously the question was posed and I said, 'Why not?'" said Mayor Brad Stephens. "For the most part, these places right now are popping up everywhere."
Stephens said there has been preliminary interest from a group that wants to open a dispensary at the entrance to The Pearl south of Balmoral Avenue and west of Pearl Street. The site being eyed is a village-owned piece of land near the Metra station.
But he said a more viable proposal is for the third area that would allow dispensaries -- a strip mall on Touhy Avenue just blocks north of the Allstate Arena. It would be a quicker turnaround to get a shop there up and running because of the vacant strip mall space available, as opposed to building from the ground up in The Pearl, he added.
Now that local rules governing dispensaries have been approved, Stephens said formal proposals would be collected and vetted by an internal committee headed by Village Attorney John Donahue.
While the zoning rules can easily be amended, even the possibility of recreational marijuana sales at all is a distinct change from some board members' earlier attitudes on the issue. After marijuana sales were legalized statewide last year, Rosemont trustees were split on whether to opt out or not.
But the advisory question they placed on the spring ballot yielded 59% of voters in favor of allowing the sales.
That led to the board's vote Wednesday to craft new zoning rules, along with approval of a 3% local tax on sales. The village would also be able to collect smaller percentages from its existing home rule sales tax and share of state sales tax.
The video gambling rules approved Wednesday require businesses to have full-service menus and no more than half of gross revenues dedicated to gambling, to avoid the proliferation of gambling cafes, officials said.
"We don't want one of those gaming cafes and a guy with a refrigerator and a couple of six-packs of beer, and now he calls himself a bar," Stephens said.
So far, Moretti's on Higgins Road and Adobe Gila's in Parkway Bank Park are among those interested in applying for the machines, which also require the approval of the Illinois Gaming Board.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Are diners really 6 feet apart at suburban restaurants? Officials are getting few complaints.

With alfresco dining entering its second week , some suburban towns and health departments are reporting few complaints against establishments for not following adequate social distancing rules .
Restaurants and bars across the suburbs have been bustling since they were allowed to reopen for outdoor eating and drinking May 29 with limits on how many patrons they can accommodate at a time .
The state 's Phase 3 guidelines on outdoor dining include allowing up to six people at a table , spacing tables 6 feet apart , and requiring servers and employees to wear masks and wash or sanitize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than 10 complaints -- from patrons and employees -- regarding restaurants since May 29 , '' said Karen Ayala , executive director of the DuPage County Health Department .
`` We are following up directly with the businesses to ensure they are fully informed of the public health guidance and restrictions .
Our goal is to achieve compliance , not to issue violations . ''
Health officials are relying on customers ' reviews and on-site food service inspections to monitor and respond to infractions .
They are n't too concerned about a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more freely at outdoor eating venues as long as everyone abides by masking and social distancing guidelines .
Citing roaring success since reopening , some towns are considering expanding outdoor dining beyond sidewalks , streets and parking lots .
`` It looked like a typical summer Saturday in downtown Naperville this weekend , '' Christine Jeffries , president of Dine Naperville and Naperville Development Partnership , said about the traffic at downtown eateries .
`` The restaurant reopening has certainly had an enthusiastic welcome .
Everybody seems to be very cognizant .
... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We 're keeping an eye on folks . ''
Jeffries said that of the roughly 300 restaurants in town , many do n't have outdoor space to offer dining .
To help those eateries , officials are considering opening up Naper Settlement as picnic grounds starting next week .
Naperville restaurants would be allowed to set up food tents , carts or trucks there for free .
`` We are also looking into some street closures on weekends to expand outdoor dining , '' said Jeffries , adding she hopes the governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon as restaurants prove `` they can follow the rules . ''
Downtown Arlington Heights opened for alfresco dining June 3 with restaurants sprawling onto sidewalks and a portion of the street to expand seating .
Officials say they went to `` great lengths '' to ensure owners and customers adhered to social distancing protocols .
No complaints have been reported .
`` Mostly 99 % has been positive feedback from residents , business owners and those patronizing , '' said Charles Perkins , village director of planning and community development .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ various times patrolling . ''
In Libertyville , officials cited `` a robust response '' to reopening last weekend .
Most village restaurants have some type of outdoor dining area , including private parking lots or shared public parking .
So far , 31 downtown restaurants are offering outdoor dining , and officials expect more to set up seating soon after demonstrating they can adequately follow guidelines , said Heather Rowe , village economic development coordinator .
A few complaints have been lodged about how some businesses are handling social distancing , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules .
`` It 's an adjustment period , '' Rowe said .
`` Sometimes people have to be reeducated about wearing the masks .
For the most part , everybody has been compliant .
Most people are interested in making it a fun , safe experience for all involved . ''

With alfresco dining entering its second week, some suburban towns and health departments are reporting few complaints against establishments for not following adequate social distancing rules.
Restaurants and bars across the suburbs have been bustling since they were allowed to reopen for outdoor eating and drinking May 29 with limits on how many patrons they can accommodate at a time.
The state's Phase 3 guidelines on outdoor dining include allowing up to six people at a table, spacing tables 6 feet apart, and requiring servers and employees to wear masks and wash or sanitize hands frequently.
"We have recorded less than 10 complaints -- from patrons and employees -- regarding restaurants since May 29," said Karen Ayala, executive director of the DuPage County Health Department. "We are following up directly with the businesses to ensure they are fully informed of the public health guidance and restrictions. Our goal is to achieve compliance, not to issue violations."
Health officials are relying on customers' reviews and on-site food service inspections to monitor and respond to infractions. They aren't too concerned about a resurgence of COVID-19 cases as people gather more freely at outdoor eating venues as long as everyone abides by masking and social distancing guidelines.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Outdoor dining during lunch hour in downtown Arlington Heights has people relaxed with social distancing and wearing masks. Village officials said there haven't been any issues with reopening thus far.
Citing roaring success since reopening, some towns are considering expanding outdoor dining beyond sidewalks, streets and parking lots.
"It looked like a typical summer Saturday in downtown Naperville this weekend," Christine Jeffries, president of Dine Naperville and Naperville Development Partnership, said about the traffic at downtown eateries. "The restaurant reopening has certainly had an enthusiastic welcome. Everybody seems to be very cognizant. ... People are wearing masks, social distancing. We're keeping an eye on folks."
Jeffries said that of the roughly 300 restaurants in town, many don't have outdoor space to offer dining. To help those eateries, officials are considering opening up Naper Settlement as picnic grounds starting next week. Naperville restaurants would be allowed to set up food tents, carts or trucks there for free.
"We are also looking into some street closures on weekends to expand outdoor dining," said Jeffries, adding she hopes the governor will be encouraged to allow indoor dining soon as restaurants prove "they can follow the rules."
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer Patrons enjoying outdoor dining in downtown Arlington Heights. People have relaxed with social distancing and wearing masks while they are out and about, but keeping 6 feet apart is really difficult when seated at a small table.
Downtown Arlington Heights opened for alfresco dining June 3 with restaurants sprawling onto sidewalks and a portion of the street to expand seating. Officials say they went to "great lengths" to ensure owners and customers adhered to social distancing protocols. No complaints have been reported.
"Mostly 99% has been positive feedback from residents, business owners and those patronizing," said Charles Perkins, village director of planning and community development. "We do have police officers present at various times patrolling."
In Libertyville, officials cited "a robust response" to reopening last weekend.
- Paul Valade | Staff Photographer A portion of East Park Street in downtown Mundelein has been closed off for outdoor dining at Tina G's Cafe, Park Street Craft Kitchen & Bar and Area General Store.
Most village restaurants have some type of outdoor dining area, including private parking lots or shared public parking. So far, 31 downtown restaurants are offering outdoor dining, and officials expect more to set up seating soon after demonstrating they can adequately follow guidelines, said Heather Rowe, village economic development coordinator.
A few complaints have been lodged about how some businesses are handling social distancing, but officials simply reminded the owners of the rules.
"It's an adjustment period," Rowe said. "Sometimes people have to be reeducated about wearing the masks. For the most part, everybody has been compliant. Most people are interested in making it a fun, safe experience for all involved."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Bartlett man who kicked grocery bagger with special needs gets 2 years in prison

A Bartlett man was sentenced to two years in prison Wednesday for kicking a grocery-store bagger with special needs .
Bruce Mirabella , 51 , was convicted in March of one count of aggravated battery for an attack on a 27-year-old man with Asperger 's syndrome , a form of autism .
Mirabella will get credit for the 100 days he 's served in jail .
Prosecutors asked for the maximum five-year sentence ; the defense asked for probation .
In a written statement to the DuPage County court , the victim said he `` felt like a loser after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't normally work night shifts and was apprehensive about it .
`` Unfortunately , what I feared all along became a reality , '' he wrote .
Mirabella has been in the DuPage jail since Judge Brian Telander convicted him and revoked his bail March 4 .
Mirabella had been charged with three counts of aggravated battery -- one for kicking the bagger and two accusing him of punching the bagger in the face .
Telander found him not guilty of the other two counts , because store security video showed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was in line paying for liquor .
`` If these counts charged him ( Mirabella ) with being a jerk , there 's no doubt he 's guilty , '' Telander said in March .
The charges stemmed from a July 22 , 2019 , case at the Jewel-Osco store at 125 Stearns Road .
A cashier testified Mirabella was buying liquor around 9:30 p.m. and asked the cashier how old he was .
When the cashier replied he was 23 , the victim asked Mirabella how old he was , the cashier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to kick your ( butt ) , '' the cashier said .
The victim testified he was joking with Mirabella , and walked toward him to give him a pat on the back and say `` Well , you have a good day . ''
Mirabella testified he thought the bagger , who is almost a foot taller than Mirabella , was attacking him , and that he merely pushed the bagger away with his foot .
The victim was kicked in the buttocks , and hit in the mouth , causing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the court he would have acted differently had he known the victim had special needs .
`` I had no idea he was playing , '' he said .
He said he `` barely touched the victim . ''
Mirabella 's attorney , Tom Breen , said his client had been bullied in the past because of his short stature .
Assistant State 's Attorney Nick Catizone , however , characterized Mirabella as `` a powder keg .
He is ready to go off at a moment 's notice . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after high school graduation , lives with his parents and does not drive .
Police recognized Mirabella from previous encounters , and arrested him at his house that night .
On a squad car audio recording , Mirabella repeatedly referred to the bagger with slurs that Telander said `` are the kinds of things that tell me where your heart is . ''
Mirabella pleaded guilty to reckless homicide for a crash he caused on I-88 in 1993 that killed a woman ; he told police he had consumed three or four 16-ounce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to five years in prison .
He was convicted in 1987 of illegal transportation of open alcohol .
He received court supervision in September 1987 on a DUI charge , and court supervision in 1991 in Madison County on a disorderly conduct charge .
He has a Cook County conviction for domestic battery to his mother .

Bartlett man who kicked grocery bagger with special needs gets 2 years in prison
A Bartlett man was sentenced to two years in prison Wednesday for kicking a grocery-store bagger with special needs.
Bruce Mirabella, 51, was convicted in March of one count of aggravated battery for an attack on a 27-year-old man with Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism.
Mirabella will get credit for the 100 days he's served in jail. Prosecutors asked for the maximum five-year sentence; the defense asked for probation.
In a written statement to the DuPage County court, the victim said he "felt like a loser after the attack." He said he didn't normally work night shifts and was apprehensive about it. "Unfortunately, what I feared all along became a reality," he wrote.
Mirabella has been in the DuPage jail since Judge Brian Telander convicted him and revoked his bail March 4. Mirabella had been charged with three counts of aggravated battery -- one for kicking the bagger and two accusing him of punching the bagger in the face. Telander found him not guilty of the other two counts, because store security video showed the bagger walking quickly toward Mirabella, who was in line paying for liquor.
"If these counts charged him (Mirabella) with being a jerk, there's no doubt he's guilty," Telander said in March.
The charges stemmed from a July 22, 2019, case at the Jewel-Osco store at 125 Stearns Road. A cashier testified Mirabella was buying liquor around 9:30 p.m. and asked the cashier how old he was.
When the cashier replied he was 23, the victim asked Mirabella how old he was, the cashier testified. Mirabella replied "old enough to kick your (butt)," the cashier said.
The victim testified he was joking with Mirabella, and walked toward him to give him a pat on the back and say "Well, you have a good day."
Mirabella testified he thought the bagger, who is almost a foot taller than Mirabella, was attacking him, and that he merely pushed the bagger away with his foot. The victim was kicked in the buttocks, and hit in the mouth, causing a cut lip.
On Wednesday, Mirabella told the court he would have acted differently had he known the victim had special needs. "I had no idea he was playing," he said.
He said he "barely touched the victim."
Mirabella's attorney, Tom Breen, said his client had been bullied in the past because of his short stature.
Assistant State's Attorney Nick Catizone, however, characterized Mirabella as "a powder keg. He is ready to go off at a moment's notice."
The bagger attended special-education programs in school and after high school graduation, lives with his parents and does not drive.
Police recognized Mirabella from previous encounters, and arrested him at his house that night.
On a squad car audio recording, Mirabella repeatedly referred to the bagger with slurs that Telander said "are the kinds of things that tell me where your heart is."
Mirabella pleaded guilty to reckless homicide for a crash he caused on I-88 in 1993 that killed a woman; he told police he had consumed three or four 16-ounce beers that night, and was sentenced to five years in prison.
He was convicted in 1987 of illegal transportation of open alcohol. He received court supervision in September 1987 on a DUI charge, and court supervision in 1991 in Madison County on a disorderly conduct charge.
He has a Cook County conviction for domestic battery to his mother.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Death of man found in Elk Grove ruled a homicide

The death of a 45-year-old Des Plaines man whose body was found behind an Elk Grove Village business Tuesday has @ @ @ @ @ authorities said Wednesday .
Elk Grove Village police said officers located the body in a @ @ @ @ @ tracks at about 8:06 a.m. Tuesday when called to the 1400 block of Greenleaf Avenue @ @ @ @ @ examiner 's office determined the man suffered multiple stab wounds , according to police .
@ @ @ @ @ and forensic technicians from the Northwest suburban Major Case Assistance Team , are investigating the @ @ @ @ @ identity is being withheld pending positive identification and family notification , police said .
Anyone @ @ @ @ @ early Tuesday and may have information is encouraged to contact the Elk Grove Village Police @ @ @ @ @ 357-4100 .

Death of man found in Elk Grove ruled a homicide
The death of a 45-year-old Des Plaines man whose body was found behind an Elk Grove Village business Tuesday has been ruled a homicide, authorities said Wednesday.
Elk Grove Village police said officers located the body in a grassy ditch next to railroad tracks at about 8:06 a.m. Tuesday when called to the 1400 block of Greenleaf Avenue.
The Cook County medical examiner's office determined the man suffered multiple stab wounds, according to police.
Police, along with detectives and forensic technicians from the Northwest suburban Major Case Assistance Team, are investigating the death.
The man's identity is being withheld pending positive identification and family notification, police said.
Anyone who was in the area early Tuesday and may have information is encouraged to contact the Elk Grove Village Police Department at (847) 357-4100.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Lake Arlington path is back open in Arlington Heights, and pools could be next

While still holding out hope for limited outdoor swimming later this month , the Arlington Heights Park District already is reopening some of its marquee attractions .
The path at Lake Arlington reopened Wednesday , while plans call for the driving range at Sunset Meadows Park to open Friday , Canine Commons dog park at Melas Park on Saturday , and basketball courts next week .
The reopenings were approved Tuesday night by the park board amid a barrage of emails and calls district officials say they 've received from residents who want more park amenities open .
The district @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meadows parks shuttered in early April when crowds gathered despite the COVID-19 outbreak .
Even with the gradual reopenings , some park features -- such as playgrounds -- remain closed .
Pioneer Pool has been filled with water in anticipation of lifeguard training , and could be ready to host lap swimming , lessons and swim team practices by June 26 , officials said .
Recreation Pool is targeted for a July 6 reopening after some repairs are completed .
`` For our community , this is like the one thing that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be pushing as hard as we can , '' said park board President Maryfran Leno , who advocated for the earlier opening for Pioneer .
`` I think it 's more than doable . ''
The board is expected to reevaluate whether to open more aquatics facilities , including three other outdoor pools and the indoor pools at the Arlington Ridge Center , depending on guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health .
Open public swimming is not part of current Phase 3 guidelines in Governor J.B. Pritzker 's Restore Illinois plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on what is allowed may change .
That 's what happened late last Friday when state health officials released new rules permitting some limited swimming in Phase 3 .
Amid a flurry of other park-related closures in the preceding months , Arlington Heights ' park district was one of the few in the suburbs not to rule out pool reopenings in 2020 .
`` Taking it two weeks at a time and preparing for the next phase without going to the next phase has been our modus operandi this summer , and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Commissioner Will Ploger said .
Under the preliminary plans , pool use for lap swimming would be limited to Arlington Heights residents 14 and older and require signing up for designated times .

Lake Arlington path is back open in Arlington Heights, and pools could be next
This story was updated Thursday, June 11 with new reopening information.
While still holding out hope for limited outdoor swimming later this month, the Arlington Heights Park District already is reopening some of its marquee attractions.
The path at Lake Arlington reopened Wednesday, while plans call for the driving range at Sunset Meadows Park to open Friday, Canine Commons dog park at Melas Park on Saturday, and all basketball courts by June 19.
The reopenings were approved Tuesday night by the park board amid a barrage of emails and calls district officials say they've received from residents who want more park amenities open.
The district ordered its popular Lake Arlington and Sunset Meadows parks shuttered in early April when crowds gathered despite the COVID-19 outbreak.
Even with the gradual reopenings, some park features -- such as playgrounds -- remain closed.
Parks staff were adding directional signs to the path at Lake Arlington, which is now open for biking, running and walking. Fishing and privately-owned boats with lake stickers are also allowed.
At the Sunset Meadows driving range, only every other spot will be available to take swings, golf balls and baskets will be sanitized before use, and credit card payments are strongly encouraged, officials say.
The dog park will be limited to no more than 10 owners at a time, and they must be six feet away from each other. If social distancing cannot be maintained, face coverings should be worn, officials said.
As of Thursday, basketball courts at seven neighborhood parks had already reopened. Parks staff is reinstalling rims previously removed because of large pickup group games that were held. Officials warned users this week to practice social distancing while enjoying the courts.
Pioneer Pool has been filled with water in anticipation of lifeguard training, and could be ready to host lap swimming, lessons and swim team practices by June 26, officials said.
Recreation Pool is targeted for a July 6 reopening after some repairs are completed.
"For our community, this is like the one thing that we're able to do that we should be pushing as hard as we can," said park board President Maryfran Leno, who advocated for the earlier opening for Pioneer. "I think it's more than doable."
The board is expected to reevaluate whether to open more aquatics facilities, including three other outdoor pools and the indoor pools at the Arlington Ridge Center, depending on guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Open public swimming is not part of current Phase 3 guidelines in Governor J.B. Pritzker's Restore Illinois plan, but park officials say state regulations on what is allowed may change. That's what happened late last Friday when state health officials released new rules permitting some limited swimming in Phase 3.
Amid a flurry of other park-related closures in the preceding months, Arlington Heights' park district was one of the few in the suburbs not to rule out pool reopenings in 2020.
"Taking it two weeks at a time and preparing for the next phase without going to the next phase has been our modus operandi this summer, and I think we keep going on that," Commissioner Will Ploger said.
Under the preliminary plans, pool use for lap swimming would be limited to residents 14 and older and require signing up for designated times.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Officials give sneak peek at new COVID-19 test site at DuPage County fairgrounds

DuPage officials on Wednesday provided a sneak peek at one of two COVID-19 testing sites that will begin operations in @ @ @ @ @ two weeks .
The first will open Tuesday at the county fairgrounds in Wheaton and @ @ @ @ @ entrance of the government complex off County Farm Road .
It will be open from @ @ @ @ @ Tuesdays through Saturdays , or until 400 tests are completed each day .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ testing available to our residents , to assist us in learning how prevalent COVID-19 is @ @ @ @ @ to reduce the spread of the virus , '' said Karen Ayala , executive director @ @ @ @ @ .
Residents do n't need an appointment , doctor referral or insurance to receive a @ @ @ @ @ the safety of testing personnel , the tests will be done while participants remain in @ @ @ @ @ will be allowed .
In addition , the county is supporting a testing site in @ @ @ @ @ the number of individuals who are able to be tested .

Officials give sneak peek at new COVID-19 test site at DuPage County fairgrounds
DuPage officials on Wednesday provided a sneak peek at one of two COVID-19 testing sites that will begin operations in the county over the next two weeks.
The first will open Tuesday at the county fairgrounds in Wheaton and be accessible through the main entrance of the government complex off County Farm Road.
It will be open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, or until 400 tests are completed each day.
"It's important to have robust testing available to our residents, to assist us in learning how prevalent COVID-19 is, which will allow us to reduce the spread of the virus," said Karen Ayala, executive director of the county health department.
Residents don't need an appointment, doctor referral or insurance to receive a free test.
To ensure the safety of testing personnel, the tests will be done while participants remain in their vehicles. No motorcycles will be allowed.
In addition, the county is supporting a testing site in Willowbrook, which will double the number of individuals who are able to be tested.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-11--Why I won't watch Sosa and McGwire in "Long Gone Summer"

As much as I miss baseball this summer , I 'm not going to watch ESPN 's 30 for 30 `` Long Gone Summer '' on Sunday night .
It tells the story of the 1998 home run battle between the Chicago Cubs ' Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals .
Credited then with `` saving baseball , '' those two caused damage that still lingers and leaves a sour taste in the mouths of many fans .
Both McGwire and Sosa were linked to performance-enhancing drugs through Major League Baseball testing , the Mitchell report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had kept both from joining others with similar lofty numbers in baseball 's Hall of Fame .
Oh , sure , we cheered Sosa 's 66 dingers that led the Cubs to a 1998 playoff spot .
But Sosa hit .182 , struck out four times , and did n't hit any homers or drive in a single run , as the Atlanta Braves outscored the Cubs 15-4 to sweep the National League division series three games to none .
Even when Sosa was good , fans knew something was n't right with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Valuable Player Award .
White Sox fans remember Sosa as a skinny , 6-foot , 165-pound right-fielder who stole 32 bases , hit 15 homers and struck out 150 times , while compiling a .233 batting average .
Cubs fans remember Sosa as the bloated slugger who had three years with more than 60 homers , and surpassed `` Mr. Cub '' Ernie Banks as the team 's all-time home-run leader with 545 homers to Banks ' well-earned 512 .
As the team 's all-time strikeout leader , Sosa was much more dominating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runner-up Ron Santo 's 1,271 .
Sosa was the star attraction during his 13-year career with the Cubs , which ended when he ducked out early on the last game of the 2004 season -- without his boom box , which was demolished , apparently by a teammate .
The year before , Sosa was suspended for eight games after it was discovered he was using a corked bat .
In a column about Sosa the cheater , I noted , `` Whether discovered or not , cheating always leaves a stain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is , an ever-present chink in the character that neither money nor fame can erase . ''
In 1998 , the only time I gave Sosa a paragraph was after reporters asked him about the `` pressure '' of competing amid all the media attention .
`` Pressure is when I was back home cleaning shoes , '' said Sosa , who had to shine shoes and work in a factory as a kid to help support his family in the Dominican Republic .
That seems to be the only positive thing I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never worked his way into my heart as did many other Cubs ' players .
Watching games with my dad always led to talks about the flaws in Sosa 's game .
`` He missed the cutoff man , '' my dad said often about Sosa 's throws from the outfield .
Dad also thought Sosa was a selfish player , more concerned about home runs than winning .
Dad thought Sosa should put his head down and run hard to first base instead of taking his trademark hop on any long fly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The cloud of performance-enhancing drug rumors hangs over Sosa , McGwire and other players of that era .
San Francisco slugger Barry Bonds made a mockery of all the records when he joined the freakishly enhanced fraternity and smashed 73 homers in 2001 .
Still , some credit Sosa and McGwire with `` saving baseball , '' which had seen attendance drop 20 % after the strike that canceled the end of the 1994 season and shortened the 1995 campaign .
But ESPN points out that attendance actually was creeping up in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McGwire show was essentially a steroid shot to fan interest .
Attendance dropped again in 1999 .
The idea that `` Chicks Dig the Longball '' and the emphasis on home runs changed baseball in a way that still shows today .
Gone are the days of speedy leadoff men and pesky batters at the top of the order getting singles , complete games by starting pitchers , and two-hour broadcasts .
Today 's game is more about homers , walks and strikeouts .
That might be the way to win , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch as a parade of balls in play .
So I do n't need to watch a documentary about 1998 beefed-up sluggers .
However , if ESPN wants to show the Cubs ' final game that season when Sosa went hitless and struck out twice as magical ex-Cub Greg Maddux , who played the game the way it was meant to be played , led his Atlanta Braves to an easy 6-2 victory , I 'd watch that .

Why I won't watch Sosa and McGwire in 'Long Gone Summer'
After getting caught using a corked bat thought to make a ball travel farther, Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa served a seven-game suspension for cheating in 2003. These Orioles fans in Baltimore didn't let him forget that at a game played that same year. Associated Press
Some say the Cubs' Sammy Sosa and the Cardinals' Mark McGwire "saved baseball" in 1998 with their chase to see who could break Roger Maris' record of 61 home runs in a season. Others see them as bloated sluggers who hurt the game. Associated Press
As much as I miss baseball this summer, I'm not going to watch ESPN's 30 for 30 "Long Gone Summer" on Sunday night. It tells the story of the 1998 home run battle between the Chicago Cubs' Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals. Credited then with "saving baseball," those two caused damage that still lingers and leaves a sour taste in the mouths of many fans.
Both McGwire and Sosa were linked to performance-enhancing drugs through Major League Baseball testing, the Mitchell report or other sources, and that stain had kept both from joining others with similar lofty numbers in baseball's Hall of Fame.
Oh, sure, we cheered Sosa's 66 dingers that led the Cubs to a 1998 playoff spot. But Sosa hit .182, struck out four times, and didn't hit any homers or drive in a single run, as the Atlanta Braves outscored the Cubs 15-4 to sweep the National League division series three games to none. Even when Sosa was good, fans knew something wasn't right with our slugger who won the 1998 Most Valuable Player Award.
White Sox fans remember Sosa as a skinny, 6-foot, 165-pound right-fielder who stole 32 bases, hit 15 homers and struck out 150 times, while compiling a .233 batting average. Cubs fans remember Sosa as the bloated slugger who had three years with more than 60 homers, and surpassed "Mr. Cub" Ernie Banks as the team's all-time home-run leader with 545 homers to Banks' well-earned 512. As the team's all-time strikeout leader, Sosa was much more dominating, compiling 1,815 strikeouts to easily best runner-up Ron Santo's 1,271.
Sosa was the star attraction during his 13-year career with the Cubs, which ended when he ducked out early on the last game of the 2004 season -- without his boom box, which was demolished, apparently by a teammate.
The year before, Sosa was suspended for eight games after it was discovered he was using a corked bat. In a column about Sosa the cheater, I noted, "Whether discovered or not, cheating always leaves a stain, a lingering doubt about who a person is, an ever-present chink in the character that neither money nor fame can erase."
In 1998, the only time I gave Sosa a paragraph was after reporters asked him about the "pressure" of competing amid all the media attention.
"Pressure is when I was back home cleaning shoes," said Sosa, who had to shine shoes and work in a factory as a kid to help support his family in the Dominican Republic. That seems to be the only positive thing I've ever said about Sosa, who never worked his way into my heart as did many other Cubs' players.
Watching games with my dad always led to talks about the flaws in Sosa's game. "He missed the cutoff man," my dad said often about Sosa's throws from the outfield.
Dad also thought Sosa was a selfish player, more concerned about home runs than winning. Dad thought Sosa should put his head down and run hard to first base instead of taking his trademark hop on any long fly ball. I still agree with Dad.
The cloud of performance-enhancing drug rumors hangs over Sosa, McGwire and other players of that era. San Francisco slugger Barry Bonds made a mockery of all the records when he joined the freakishly enhanced fraternity and smashed 73 homers in 2001.
Still, some credit Sosa and McGwire with "saving baseball," which had seen attendance drop 20% after the strike that canceled the end of the 1994 season and shortened the 1995 campaign. But ESPN points out that attendance actually was creeping up in 1996 and 1997 before the Sosa and McGwire show was essentially a steroid shot to fan interest. Attendance dropped again in 1999.
The idea that "Chicks Dig the Longball" and the emphasis on home runs changed baseball in a way that still shows today. Gone are the days of speedy leadoff men and pesky batters at the top of the order getting singles, complete games by starting pitchers, and two-hour broadcasts. Today's game is more about homers, walks and strikeouts. That might be the way to win, but it's not as much fun to watch as a parade of balls in play.
So I don't need to watch a documentary about 1998 beefed-up sluggers. However, if ESPN wants to show the Cubs' final game that season when Sosa went hitless and struck out twice as magical ex-Cub Greg Maddux, who played the game the way it was meant to be played, led his Atlanta Braves to an easy 6-2 victory, I'd watch that.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--No ice rink with Civic Center Plaza revamp in Elgin

There will be no ice rink included in the renovation of Civic Center Plaza in Elgin after a decision by the city council to pull back on expenses due to the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic .
However , the council might examine at a future date , based on economic projections and available funding , the feasibility of installing an ice rink at Festival Park or Wing Park .
Council members unanimously voted Wednesday night to award a $ 2,050,174 construction bid for the renovation to W.E .
O'Neil Construction based in Chicago .
That was the lowest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
The renovation will include new paving and additional green space .
The work is expected to be done by the end of the year , said Amanda Harris , assistant to the city manager for special projects and the arts .
The city expects $ 2 million from the state 's 2020-21 capital budget to be allocated to the project , meaning only about $ 50,000 would come from city funding .
The state funding was secured by state Sen. Cristina Castro , city officials said .
However , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the state will move forward because of the uncertainty about federal funding and the general economic climate .
As a fallback , Elgin can use tax-increment financing funds for the project at Civic Center Plaza , City Manager Rick Kozal said .
The city already had included the project in this year 's budget .
Civic Center Plaza , built in the 1960s , has been in need of repairs for years , with cracks and unevenness in the concrete and even reports of people falling over the years .
Installing an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether natural or synthetic ice -- would mean spending about $ 600,000 more , which council members said they were uncomfortable doing .
The ice rink was typically open from Thanksgiving for about 2½ months and used by about 3,400 people each year ; its average income was $ 12,000 for the last five years , Harris said .
In the wake of the pandemic , the city manager implemented widespread furloughs among nonunion employees and other measures such as not filling some positions , which is expected to save $ 1.4 million @ @ @ @

No ice rink with Civic Center Plaza revamp in Elgin
The Elgin City Council examined options for renovations at Civic Center Plaza and decided to go with option No. 1, on the left, which does include an ice rink. The final design might change somewhat, city officials said. courtesy of city of Elgin
There will be no ice rink included in the renovation of Civic Center Plaza in Elgin after a decision by the city council to pull back on expenses due to the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the council might examine at a future date, based on economic projections and available funding, the feasibility of installing an ice rink at Festival Park or Wing Park.
Council members unanimously voted Wednesday night to award a $2,050,174 construction bid for the renovation to W.E. O'Neil Construction based in Chicago. That was the lowest among six bids submitted, city officials said.
The renovation will include new paving and additional green space. The work is expected to be done by the end of the year, said Amanda Harris, assistant to the city manager for special projects and the arts.
The city expects $2 million from the state's 2020-21 capital budget to be allocated to the project, meaning only about $50,000 would come from city funding. The state funding was secured by state Sen. Cristina Castro, city officials said. However, it's unclear if all the capital projects budgeted by the state will move forward because of the uncertainty about federal funding and the general economic climate.
As a fallback, Elgin can use tax-increment financing funds for the project at Civic Center Plaza, City Manager Rick Kozal said. The city already had included the project in this year's budget.
Civic Center Plaza, built in the 1960s, has been in need of repairs for years, with cracks and unevenness in the concrete and even reports of people falling over the years.
Installing an ice rink at Civic Center Plaza -- whether natural or synthetic ice -- would mean spending about $600,000 more, which council members said they were uncomfortable doing.
The ice rink was typically open from Thanksgiving for about 2½ months and used by about 3,400 people each year; its average income was $12,000 for the last five years, Harris said.
In the wake of the pandemic, the city manager implemented widespread furloughs among nonunion employees and other measures such as not filling some positions, which is expected to save $1.4 million in personnel expenses.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Peterson Road McDonald's to get a facelift in Libertyville

It will be awhile , but the 25-year old McDonald 's restaurant on the north side of Libertyville will be getting a facelift inside and out .
The restaurant at 1417 W. Peterson Road will be remodeled to include a new layout , counter space and other features to provide a `` redesigned , elevated guest experience , '' according to owner/operator Chris Prucnal .
Other planned features include self-order kiosks , a two-lane drive-through , outdoor seating , and a new Playplace , according to Prucnal .
The project is scheduled to begin in March 2021 and take nine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday with approvals to allow for exterior changes and the reconfiguration of the drive-through from a single lane to two side by side .
Increased green space and improved traffic circulation are other benefits , according to the company .
One thing McDonald 's wo n't have its way is the number of wall signs .
The company had sought six , but that was reduced to three as a condition of approval by the village board .
The pending changes will be a break from the `` Old World '' building motif @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , where McDonald 's is located , was approved in 1996 .
That style was reflected in the exterior facades and roof lines of the buildings by using wood , stucco and brick throughout .
The renovation calls for the outside wall finishes and signs to be replaced for McDonald 's 'modern ' scheme , according to the plan .
That will include a parapet band around the roof .
The building footprint wo n't change and there will be upgrades for accessible sidewalks and ramps .
Five parking spaces will be eliminated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , representing McDonald 's , said other shopping center business owners agreed with the changes .
`` The proposed construction ( of ) McDonald 's looks to be an attractive improvement for customers , '' said Heather Rowe , the village 's economic development coordinator .

Peterson Road McDonald's to get a facelift in Libertyville
This rendering shows the proposed exterior change to the McDonald's on Peterson Road in Libertyville. Work to modernize the interior and exterior is scheduled to begin in March 2021. Courtesy of village of Libertyville
It will be awhile, but the 25-year old McDonald's restaurant on the north side of Libertyville will be getting a facelift inside and out.
The restaurant at 1417 W. Peterson Road will be remodeled to include a new layout, counter space and other features to provide a "redesigned, elevated guest experience," according to owner/operator Chris Prucnal.
Other planned features include self-order kiosks, a two-lane drive-through, outdoor seating, and a new Playplace, according to Prucnal.
The project is scheduled to begin in March 2021 and take nine weeks. Village officials cleared the way Tuesday with approvals to allow for exterior changes and the reconfiguration of the drive-through from a single lane to two side by side.
Increased green space and improved traffic circulation are other benefits, according to the company.
One thing McDonald's won't have its way is the number of wall signs. The company had sought six, but that was reduced to three as a condition of approval by the village board.
The pending changes will be a break from the "Old World" building motif designated when the Butterfield Square shopping center, where McDonald's is located, was approved in 1996.
That style was reflected in the exterior facades and roof lines of the buildings by using wood, stucco and brick throughout.
The renovation calls for the outside wall finishes and signs to be replaced for McDonald's 'modern' scheme, according to the plan. That will include a parapet band around the roof.
The building footprint won't change and there will be upgrades for accessible sidewalks and ramps. Five parking spaces will be eliminated for green space.
Attorney James Olguin, representing McDonald's, said other shopping center business owners agreed with the changes.
"The proposed construction (of) McDonald's looks to be an attractive improvement for customers," said Heather Rowe, the village's economic development coordinator.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Cubs stay home with draft pick, select Mount Carmel shortstop Howard

The Cubs already have one of the best shortstops in the game -- Javier Baez .
Before the coronavirus pandemic shut down baseball , Baez was wondering about his future on the North Side .
He 's eligible for free agency after the 2021 season , no matter what happens this year .
`` It 's up to them , '' Baez said .
`` When the right deal comes , we 'll be ready for it .
We 'll see . ''
Having a replacement ready just in case Baez moves on makes sense for the Cubs , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With the No .
16 overall pick in the draft the Cubs selected a local product , Ed Howard .
Even though his senior season at Mount Carmel High School was wiped out by the COVID-19 pandemic , Howard is a well-known talent and a terrific get for the Cubs .
`` We 're ecstatic , '' said Dan Kantrovitz , who is in his first year as the Cubs ' director of amateur scouting .
`` No doubt , this has been a challenging year on a lot of fronts .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the opportunity to select Ed Howard with our first pick , it was literally our best-case scenario and we could n't be more thrilled . ''
Howard feels the same way .
`` It 's a surreal moment , '' he said .
`` I 'm excited to be a hometown guy , I think it 's special , it 's unique .
I 'm ready to take on that challenge , have fun and play my game . ''
The 18-year-old Howard batted .421 with 11 doubles , 4 triples and 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ junior for Mount Carmel last year .
He was a 2020 preseason All-American by Perfect Game and the 6-foot-2 , 185-pounder played in last year 's Under Armour All-America Game at Wrigley Field .
Keeping it local , Howard was the starting shortstop on the 2014 Jackie Robinson West Little League Team that advanced to the finals of the Little League World Series .
He also played in the White Sox 's ACE ( Amateur City Elite ) program .
Kantrovitz was n't able to see Howard play this season , but he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had with the prep phenom .
`` I noticed Ed adjust himself sitting in his seat , '' Kantrovitz said .
`` I saw something on his left hand and it looked a little strange .
I recognized it was actually a glove .
He was literally wearing his baseball mitt .
`` It was n't something I think he expected us to notice or see .
The moment I realized he was wearing his glove and just chomping at the bit to get on the field and take ground balls and play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we were looking for .
`` He 's got an electric skillset .
He 's a plus shortstop , he 's got pop in his bat , he can run , he can impact a game in so many ways .
We think he 's got a chance to be a star . ''

Cubs stay home with draft pick, select Mount Carmel shortstop Howard
Jackie Robinson West's Ed Howard celebrates after his team won 7-5 over Las Vegas to advance to the finals of Little League World Series in 2014. The Chicago Cubs selected the local product in the first round of the draft Wednesday night, landing Mount Carmel High School shortstop Howard with the No. 16 overall pick. Associated Press File Photo
The Cubs already have one of the best shortstops in the game -- Javier Baez.
Before the coronavirus pandemic shut down baseball, Baez was wondering about his future on the North Side. He's eligible for free agency after the 2021 season, no matter what happens this year.
"It's up to them," Baez said. "When the right deal comes, we'll be ready for it. We'll see."
Having a replacement ready just in case Baez moves on makes sense for the Cubs, and they addressed that possibility Wednesday night.
With the No. 16 overall pick in the draft the Cubs selected a local product, Ed Howard.
Even though his senior season at Mount Carmel High School was wiped out by the COVID-19 pandemic, Howard is a well-known talent and a terrific get for the Cubs.
"We're ecstatic," said Dan Kantrovitz, who is in his first year as the Cubs' director of amateur scouting. "No doubt, this has been a challenging year on a lot of fronts. But for our draft to start with having the opportunity to select Ed Howard with our first pick, it was literally our best-case scenario and we couldn't be more thrilled."
Howard feels the same way.
"It's a surreal moment," he said. "I'm excited to be a hometown guy, I think it's special, it's unique. I'm ready to take on that challenge, have fun and play my game."
The 18-year-old Howard batted .421 with 11 doubles, 4 triples and 3 home runs in 35 games as a junior for Mount Carmel last year.
He was a 2020 preseason All-American by Perfect Game and the 6-foot-2, 185-pounder played in last year's Under Armour All-America Game at Wrigley Field.
Keeping it local, Howard was the starting shortstop on the 2014 Jackie Robinson West Little League Team that advanced to the finals of the Little League World Series. He also played in the White Sox's ACE (Amateur City Elite) program.
Kantrovitz wasn't able to see Howard play this season, but he'll never forget a Zoom call he had with the prep phenom.
"I noticed Ed adjust himself sitting in his seat," Kantrovitz said. "I saw something on his left hand and it looked a little strange. I recognized it was actually a glove. He was literally wearing his baseball mitt.
"It wasn't something I think he expected us to notice or see. The moment I realized he was wearing his glove and just chomping at the bit to get on the field and take ground balls and play, we knew he had the intangibles we were looking for.
"He's got an electric skillset. He's a plus shortstop, he's got pop in his bat, he can run, he can impact a game in so many ways. We think he's got a chance to be a star."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-11--New rules would allow marijuana shops in Rosemont entertainment areas


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Great graduation speeches: Steve Jobs at Stanford University in 2005

To honor the class of 2020 , we 're showcasing some of the great graduation speeches from past years .
@ @ @ @ @ Steve Jobs at Stanford University in 2005 .

Great graduation speeches: Steve Jobs at Stanford University in 2005
To honor the class of 2020, we're showcasing some of the great graduation speeches from past years.
Today's speech is from Steve Jobs at Stanford University in 2005.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Accidental fire during rehearsal in Volo sends woman to hospital

Performers who were rehearsing with fire Wednesday night in Volo accidentally started a townhouse blaze that sent one woman to @ @ @ @ @ .
The woman suffered burns that were not considered life-threatening and was taken to Northwestern @ @ @ @ @ people were injured in the fire , which started in the garage of a townhouse @ @ @ @ @ Terra Vista Court in Volo .
Lake County sheriff 's Sgt .
Christopher Covelli said @ @ @ @ @ p.m. A preliminary investigation showed that one of the residents dropped a fire tool in @ @ @ @ @ the blaze , he said .
Covelli said the tool ignited accelerants stored in the @ @ @ @ @ to spread quickly .
There was extensive damage to the townhouse , and the blaze @ @ @ @ @ The Round Lake , Wauconda , Fox Lake , Lake Villa , Grayslake and Countryside @ @ @ @ @ The fire remains under investigation .

Accidental fire during rehearsal in Volo sends woman to hospital
Performers who were rehearsing with fire Wednesday night in Volo accidentally started a townhouse blaze that sent one woman to the hospital, authorities said.
The woman suffered burns that were not considered life-threatening and was taken to Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital
No other people were injured in the fire, which started in the garage of a townhouse on the 100 block of Terra Vista Court in Volo.
Lake County sheriff's Sgt. Christopher Covelli said deputies were dispatched at 7:08 p.m.
A preliminary investigation showed that one of the residents dropped a fire tool in the garage and accidentally started the blaze, he said. Covelli said the tool ignited accelerants stored in the garage, causing the flames to spread quickly.
There was extensive damage to the townhouse, and the blaze spread to adjoining units.
The Round Lake, Wauconda, Fox Lake, Lake Villa, Grayslake and Countryside fire departments also responded. The fire remains under investigation.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--ECC students, community discuss policing in the U.S.

Keonte Terrell has seen anti-black racism in action .
Cops have pulled guns on him and his friends , and his grandmother has been pepper sprayed .
`` We 've been through it all .
We 're just sick and tired of it , '' said Terrell , a graduate of Elgin Community College speaking Wednesday during a Black Lives Matter virtual discussion hosted by the college .
`` It needs to change . ''
ECC 's new series of Black Lives Matter conversations was prompted by the May 25 murder of George Floyd -- an unarmed black man choked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsequent protests and riots across the country .
It focused on policing in the United States and had 175 attendees , including students , local law enforcement and college leaders .
`` I worry that 28 years after Rodney King , we still have to have this conversation about police brutality , '' said ECC Deputy Chief of Police Craig Campbell .
Campbell , 53 , has been a police officer for 25 years .
He said while there are some racist cops , most police officers join `` for the right reasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'us versus them ' society , '' said Campbell about police and the public .
`` The problem is that neither camp acknowledges the legitimacy of the other , let alone listens to their point of view .
We are not your enemy . ''
Many law enforcement agencies are looking within to bring about change since the Floyd protests began , said Illinois State Police Master Sgt .
Jayme Taylor , representing the Illinois Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers .
`` Ever since I was little , I knew that this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about being in law enforcement .
Yet , as a young black woman , Taylor had her own brush with profiling when she first moved from Florida to Illinois as a high schooler .
She was stopped while driving by local police who drew their guns because her car had tinted windows .
`` I did n't let that experience stop me from contributing in a positive manner , '' she said .
`` Those experiences can either hinder you or push you to do better . ''
Hiring the right people with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competency as police officers is key to changing attitudes toward law enforcement agencies , said ECC Police Chief David Kintz .
Kintz said that after the 2014 protests and riots in Ferguson , Missouri , following the fatal shooting of Michael Brown by a police officer , there was a similar public outcry for change , resulting in the development of 10 shared principles of community policing .
Topmost is the value for the life of every person , he added .
Officials stressed the need for body cameras and training police on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police Chief Ana Lalley welcomed the idea of a civilian board to review complaints about excessive force by police .
`` Getting feedback is important and it 's crucial , because I think we are not going to be successful without our community , '' said Lalley , adding , `` all our use-of-force data is online .
All our citizen complaints ... you can never be afraid of people questioning what you do .
That , in my opinion , is what pushes police departments to keep evolving , keep changing .
@

ECC students, community discuss policing in the U.S.
Mia Hardy, Elgin Community College assistant professor of sociology, participated in Wednesday's Black Lives Matter discussion on "Policing in the U.S." hosted by the college. Facebook Video Screenshot
Elgin Community College's Deputy Chief of Police Craig Campbell talks about police brutality, racism and the need for both sides -- police and the public -- to engage in dialogue about these issues during Wednesday's Black Lives Matter virtual discussion. Facebook Video Screenshot
Elgin Community College graduate Keonte Terrell participates in Wednesday's Black Lives Matter discussion on "Policing in the U.S." as part of a new series hosted by the college. "I can't go out to run because of the color of my skin," he said. Facebook Video Screenshot
Keonte Terrell has seen anti-black racism in action.
Cops have pulled guns on him and his friends, and his grandmother has been pepper sprayed.
"We've been through it all. We're just sick and tired of it," said Terrell, a graduate of Elgin Community College speaking Wednesday during a Black Lives Matter virtual discussion hosted by the college. "It needs to change."
ECC's new series of Black Lives Matter conversations was prompted by the May 25 murder of George Floyd -- an unarmed black man choked by a Minneapolis police officer -- and subsequent protests and riots across the country. It focused on policing in the United States and had 175 attendees, including students, local law enforcement and college leaders.
"I worry that 28 years after Rodney King, we still have to have this conversation about police brutality," said ECC Deputy Chief of Police Craig Campbell.
Campbell, 53, has been a police officer for 25 years. He said while there are some racist cops, most police officers join "for the right reasons."
"America has become an 'us versus them' society," said Campbell about police and the public. "The problem is that neither camp acknowledges the legitimacy of the other, let alone listens to their point of view. We are not your enemy."
Many law enforcement agencies are looking within to bring about change since the Floyd protests began, said Illinois State Police Master Sgt. Jayme Taylor, representing the Illinois Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers.
"Ever since I was little, I knew that this was my calling," said Taylor about being in law enforcement.
Yet, as a young black woman, Taylor had her own brush with profiling when she first moved from Florida to Illinois as a high schooler. She was stopped while driving by local police who drew their guns because her car had tinted windows.
"I didn't let that experience stop me from contributing in a positive manner," she said. "Those experiences can either hinder you or push you to do better."
Hiring the right people with demonstrated abilities in community engagement and cultural competency as police officers is key to changing attitudes toward law enforcement agencies, said ECC Police Chief David Kintz.
Kintz said that after the 2014 protests and riots in Ferguson, Missouri, following the fatal shooting of Michael Brown by a police officer, there was a similar public outcry for change, resulting in the development of 10 shared principles of community policing. Topmost is the value for the life of every person, he added.
Officials stressed the need for body cameras and training police on de-escalation tactics and crisis intervention.
Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley welcomed the idea of a civilian board to review complaints about excessive force by police.
"Getting feedback is important and it's crucial, because I think we are not going to be successful without our community," said Lalley, adding, "all our use-of-force data is online. All our citizen complaints ... you can never be afraid of people questioning what you do. That, in my opinion, is what pushes police departments to keep evolving, keep changing."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-11--As COVID-19 cases statewide surpass 130,000, Republicans seek faster reopening

Cases of COVID-19 rose by 766 Thursday in Illinois , bringing the total confirmed infections statewide to 130,603 , officials said amid calls from Republican lawmakers to expedite reopening businesses and services .
The state recorded 91 more deaths from the respiratory disease in the last 24 hours , the Illinois Department of Public Health reported .
The total number of Illinoisans who have died from COVID-19 is now 6,185 .
Test results from the last seven days showed a 4 % positivity rate .
The latest data came as the Cook County Department of Public Health announced a $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hiring 400 COVID-19 contact tracers .
Meanwhile , state Republicans renewed criticism of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's Restore Illinois reopening plan , which has five phases .
On June 26 , if health metrics are met , the state will enter Phase 4 , or revitalization , which entails loosening more restrictions that were instituted to reduce spread of the disease .
Groups of 50 people or fewer would be allowed to gather , triggering a reopening of movie theaters and indoor dining with capacity limits , for example .
The state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allows groups of 10 people or fewer , and outdoor dining is permitted .
Republican senators in a Wednesday letter to Pritzker asked him to alter the plan so the state shifts into Phase 4 in 14 days , which would be Friday , instead of 28 days .
Illinois is `` one of the most restrictive states in the nation , '' while Wisconsin and Michigan have reopened more businesses and services , lawmakers said .
Sen. Don DeWitte of St. Charles added in a statement that `` individuals and businesses here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch those in other states reopen their businesses , return to work , and enjoy various activities and gatherings . ''
Pritzker spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh said Restore Illinois was `` created by public health experts and relies on lifting mitigation measures in a phased-in approach to ensure there is no rise in case positivity rates or hospitalizations . ''
Pritzker `` is sticking to the plan that led Illinois to being the first state in the nation to hit the federal metrics to reopen , '' Abudayyeh said .
Among the metrics in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of test results staying at or under 20 % and at least 14 % available hospitals beds , plus 28 days of no overall increase in hospital admissions .
On May 28 , Pritzker said `` the whole purpose of each phase and reason there 's a 28-day period involved ... is to monitor ( results ) when you make changes .
One day , two days , seven days , even 14 days is n't enough ; we see that in other states .
`` It sometimes takes three weeks or even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effect of an opening up , '' Pritzker said .
Suburban Republicans who signed the letter included DeWitte , Sen. John Curran of Downers Grove , Sen. Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods , Sen. Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove and Sen. Craig Wilcox of McHenry .
The number of daily deaths -- 91 -- is above the 14-day average of 73 .
The number of daily cases -- 766 -- is lower than the two-week average of 1,055 .
Individuals interested in a contact tracing job may fill out a statement of @ @ @ @ @ @ @

As COVID-19 cases statewide surpass 130,000, Republicans seek faster reopening
Cases of COVID-19 rose by 766 Thursday in Illinois, bringing the total confirmed infections statewide to 130,603, officials said amid calls from Republican lawmakers to expedite reopening businesses and services.
The state recorded 91 more deaths from the respiratory disease in the last 24 hours, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported.
The total number of Illinoisans who have died from COVID-19 is now 6,185. Test results from the last seven days showed a 4% positivity rate.
The latest data came as the Cook County Department of Public Health announced a $41 million state grant to help fund hiring 400 COVID-19 contact tracers.
Meanwhile, state Republicans renewed criticism of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Restore Illinois reopening plan, which has five phases.
On June 26, if health metrics are met, the state will enter Phase 4, or revitalization, which entails loosening more restrictions that were instituted to reduce spread of the disease. Groups of 50 people or fewer would be allowed to gather, triggering a reopening of movie theaters and indoor dining with capacity limits, for example.
The state is currently in Phase 3, which allows groups of 10 people or fewer, and outdoor dining is permitted.
Republican senators in a Wednesday letter to Pritzker asked him to alter the plan so the state shifts into Phase 4 in 14 days, which would be Friday, instead of 28 days.
Illinois is "one of the most restrictive states in the nation," while Wisconsin and Michigan have reopened more businesses and services, lawmakers said.
Sen. Don DeWitte of St. Charles added in a statement that "individuals and businesses here in Illinois continue to suffer as they watch those in other states reopen their businesses, return to work, and enjoy various activities and gatherings."
Pritzker spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh said Restore Illinois was "created by public health experts and relies on lifting mitigation measures in a phased-in approach to ensure there is no rise in case positivity rates or hospitalizations."
Pritzker "is sticking to the plan that led Illinois to being the first state in the nation to hit the federal metrics to reopen," Abudayyeh said.
Among the metrics in the state plan: a 14-day period of test results staying at or under 20% and at least 14% available hospitals beds, plus 28 days of no overall increase in hospital admissions.
On May 28, Pritzker said "the whole purpose of each phase and reason there's a 28-day period involved ... is to monitor (results) when you make changes. One day, two days, seven days, even 14 days isn't enough; we see that in other states.
"It sometimes takes three weeks or even more before you really start to see the effect of an opening up," Pritzker said.
Suburban Republicans who signed the letter included DeWitte, Sen. John Curran of Downers Grove, Sen. Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods, Sen. Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove and Sen. Craig Wilcox of McHenry.
The number of daily deaths -- 91 -- is above the 14-day average of 73. The number of daily cases -- 766 -- is lower than the two-week average of 1,055.
Individuals interested in a contact tracing job may fill out a statement of interest form at redcap.dph.illinois.gov/surveys/?s=KWKJL93TM7.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-11--No dice, yet, for casino reopenings in Illinois

While casinos in Las Vegas reopened a week ago and Indiana prepares to welcome back gamblers Monday , it 's no dice , yet , for the 10 gambling houses in Illinois .
Illinois Gaming Board officials said Thursday the timing and conditions for the resumption of casino gambling is still unknown , but they will be based on public health guidance and the framework of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's Restore Illinois plan .
The state ordered all casinos closed March 16 amid the outbreak of COVID-19 .
`` Gov .
Pritzker and the Illinois Gaming Board are mindful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this pandemic is causing for our industry , our licensees , their employees , and communities and families across Illinois , '' board Administrator Marcus Fruchter said during a board meeting Thursday .
`` We are committed to the safe , fair , deliberate , consistent and regulatory compliant resumption of casino and video gaming when health conditions permit . ''
Also Thursday , the board took steps to shore up a promised new state revenue source -- sports betting -- once casinos reopen .
At as much as $ 10 million a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were doled out to seven casinos , including Rivers in Des Plaines , Grand Victoria in Elgin , Hollywood in Aurora and Joliet , Par-A-Dice in East Peoria , Argosy in Alton and Casino Queen in East St. Louis .
The state 's three horse racing tracks -- Arlington International Racecourse in Arlington Heights , Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney and Fairmount Park in Collinsville -- also have applied for sports betting licenses , but they have n't yet been approved .
Other major sporting venues are also eligible , while online-only sportsbooks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 months , under terms of the state gambling expansion approved a year ago .
With a temporary license in hand , Rivers was less than a week into taking bets at its new sportsbook in early March when the temporary closure began .
Thursday marked the first meeting -- held by videoconference -- of the appointed state regulatory panel since January , with other meetings canceled due to the coronavirus .
Earlier in the week , the state agency released a set of protocols casinos must follow to obtain approval to resume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requirements ; the availability and use of face masks and personal protective equipment , hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes ; and cleaning of touch surfaces , table game areas , dice , chips and cards .
Temperature checks will be required upon entry to casinos , which would be limited to 50 % occupancy to start .
For now , what wo n't be permitted is buffets , poker rooms , table game tournaments or any other promotions that require patrons to cluster .
Each casino must submit its own resumption plan to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
While protocols vary from state to state , Illinois ' most lucrative casino , Rivers in Des Plaines , may follow some of the procedures of its sister casino in Pittsburgh , which reopened Tuesday .
Gamblers arrived to find plexiglass dividers between sports betting kiosks , social distancing decals near craps tables , only three seats per blackjack table , every other slot machine available , and 140 hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes stations .
In addition , a `` Rivers Clean Team '' regularly wipes down slot machines , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , closes early weekday mornings for a deep-clean .

No dice, yet, for casino reopenings in Illinois
Plexiglass dividers were installed between sports betting kiosks at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh before reopening Tuesday. Courtesy of Rivers Casino
Members of the "Rivers Clean Team" at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh wipe down slot machines as part of cleaning procedures the casino has put in place. Courtesy of Rivers Casino
As Illinois casinos including Rivers Casino in Des Plaines remain shuttered for now, they are putting plans in place to eventually resume operations under a set of state safety protocols. Daily Herald File Photo, 2011
While casinos in Las Vegas reopened a week ago and Indiana prepares to welcome back gamblers Monday, it's no dice, yet, for the 10 gambling houses in Illinois.
Illinois Gaming Board officials said Thursday the timing and conditions for the resumption of casino gambling is still unknown, but they will be based on public health guidance and the framework of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's Restore Illinois plan.
The state ordered all casinos closed March 16 amid the outbreak of COVID-19.
"Gov. Pritzker and the Illinois Gaming Board are mindful of the hardship and dire economic disruption this pandemic is causing for our industry, our licensees, their employees, and communities and families across Illinois," board Administrator Marcus Fruchter said during a board meeting Thursday. "We are committed to the safe, fair, deliberate, consistent and regulatory compliant resumption of casino and video gaming when health conditions permit."
Also Thursday, the board took steps to shore up a promised new state revenue source -- sports betting -- once casinos reopen. At as much as $10 million a pop, four-year master sports wagering licenses were doled out to seven casinos, including Rivers in Des Plaines, Grand Victoria in Elgin, Hollywood in Aurora and Joliet, Par-A-Dice in East Peoria, Argosy in Alton and Casino Queen in East St. Louis.
The state's three horse racing tracks -- Arlington International Racecourse in Arlington Heights, Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney and Fairmount Park in Collinsville -- also have applied for sports betting licenses, but they haven't yet been approved. Other major sporting venues are also eligible, while online-only sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings have to wait 18 months, under terms of the state gambling expansion approved a year ago.
With a temporary license in hand, Rivers was less than a week into taking bets at its new sportsbook in early March when the temporary closure began.
Thursday marked the first meeting -- held by videoconference -- of the appointed state regulatory panel since January, with other meetings canceled due to the coronavirus.
Earlier in the week, the state agency released a set of protocols casinos must follow to obtain approval to resume operations. It includes 6-foot social distancing requirements; the availability and use of face masks and personal protective equipment, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes; and cleaning of touch surfaces, table game areas, dice, chips and cards.
Temperature checks will be required upon entry to casinos, which would be limited to 50% occupancy to start. For now, what won't be permitted is buffets, poker rooms, table game tournaments or any other promotions that require patrons to cluster.
Each casino must submit its own resumption plan to the gaming board for approval, officials said.
While protocols vary from state to state, Illinois' most lucrative casino, Rivers in Des Plaines, may follow some of the procedures of its sister casino in Pittsburgh, which reopened Tuesday.
Gamblers arrived to find plexiglass dividers between sports betting kiosks, social distancing decals near craps tables, only three seats per blackjack table, every other slot machine available, and 140 hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes stations.
In addition, a "Rivers Clean Team" regularly wipes down slot machines, and the casino, normally open 24/7, closes early weekday mornings for a deep-clean.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-11--Palatine restaurants, bars allowed longer outdoor hours, live music

Palatine restaurants and bars have gained permission to not only have longer operating hours for outdoor dining and drinking , but also offer live music for patrons .
Under the original village regulations that became effective May 29 , establishments were allowed alfresco service for seated guests from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday .
Now they may stay open until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday , as result of village council action this week .
Food must be available at all times when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed to reverse a prohibition on live entertainment .
Ambient or acoustic-type music now is permitted until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday .
Village Manager Reid Ottesen has the authority to act on complaints that could lead to an earlier closing time for a bar or restaurant .
`` There will be a lot of discretion with police , that if they can go there one time and say , 'Look , we 're getting complaints , quiet down , ' and everything quiets down , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` If it happens a second or third time , I 'll be consulted , and I 'm comfortable with that . ''
Councilman Brad Helms , whose District 6 includes downtown Palatine , said restaurant and bar operators will need to know how to navigate the regulations .
`` Obviously , different neighborhoods are going to bring different situations , '' Helms said , `` and if there ( are ) complaints , it 's up to the establishment owner to manage that .
And if they ca n't , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times that we have it . ''
Restaurants and bars may use existing patios or other private property for the outdoor operations .
Open-sided tents on private lots also will be allowed after passing a village inspection .
Some public parking spaces have been closed at the discretion of village officials to accommodate outdoor dining and drinking beyond a sidewalk .
Ottesen reiterated that there must be a balance to make sure other businesses are not affected by the reduction of parking spots .
Ottesen said he has n't received any negative feedback @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There 's been some making sure everybody 's been operating under the same concept of what it was , but that 's been more of an educational process , '' he said .
`` We have n't had any complaints coming in over the events . ''

Palatine restaurants, bars allowed longer outdoor hours, live music
Palatine restaurants and bars have gained permission to not only have longer operating hours for outdoor dining and drinking, but also offer live music for patrons.
Under the original village regulations that became effective May 29, establishments were allowed alfresco service for seated guests from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.
Now they may stay open until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, as result of village council action this week. Food must be available at all times when alcohol is served.
The council also agreed to reverse a prohibition on live entertainment. Ambient or acoustic-type music now is permitted until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Village Manager Reid Ottesen has the authority to act on complaints that could lead to an earlier closing time for a bar or restaurant.
"There will be a lot of discretion with police, that if they can go there one time and say, 'Look, we're getting complaints, quiet down,' and everything quiets down, it never rises to me," Ottesen said. "If it happens a second or third time, I'll be consulted, and I'm comfortable with that."
Councilman Brad Helms, whose District 6 includes downtown Palatine, said restaurant and bar operators will need to know how to navigate the regulations.
"Obviously, different neighborhoods are going to bring different situations," Helms said, "and if there (are) complaints, it's up to the establishment owner to manage that. And if they can't, then that's going to dictate the times that we have it."
Restaurants and bars may use existing patios or other private property for the outdoor operations. Open-sided tents on private lots also will be allowed after passing a village inspection.
Some public parking spaces have been closed at the discretion of village officials to accommodate outdoor dining and drinking beyond a sidewalk. Ottesen reiterated that there must be a balance to make sure other businesses are not affected by the reduction of parking spots.
Ottesen said he hasn't received any negative feedback since outdoor dining started two weeks ago.
"There's been some making sure everybody's been operating under the same concept of what it was, but that's been more of an educational process," he said. "We haven't had any complaints coming in over the events."