dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--COVID-19 emergency funding for suburban Latinos in the works

An initiative to gather emergency funding for Latinos most in need across the state , particularly those left out of government relief programs , is being spearheaded by the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation .
Foundation co-chairs state Sen. Omar Aquino of Chicago and state Rep. Elizabeth Hernandez of Cicero , both Democrats , announced in English and Spanish the creation of the COVID-19 Solidarity Fund , to be managed by the Chicago Community Trust .
Grants will be awarded to Latino-serving organizations `` with deep roots in the community '' that can disburse the money quickly for people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food and health care .
The effort targets areas that have high concentrations of Latinos , the legislators said .
`` Many Latino families in our community who were barely getting by before the COVID-19 crisis are now struggling for their very survival , '' Aquino said .
`` Worried about how they will pay their rent , get back to work , keep their family healthy , and feed their children . ''
There are an estimated 2.2 million Latino residents in Illinois , comprising 17.5 % of the population and 26 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Latinos were more concerned than other groups about the health and financial repercussions of COVID-19 , according to a survey through the Pew Research Center last month .
Many Latinos work in the leisure , hospitality and other service industries , and are less likely to have health insurance .
In general , immigrants without permanent status -- such as the undocumented but also some with temporary visas -- are excluded from COVID-19-related assistance from the government , said Megan McKenna , director of the nonprofit Mano a Mano Family Resource Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families with mixed immigration status , such as U.S. citizens married to undocumented immigrants , and people who file taxes with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers , she said .
`` It 's wonderful , '' McKenna said of the Latino Caucus Foundation initiative .
`` I think this is a really good example of people in influential positions stepping up to leverage their networks to get everybody involved to help those who need it . ''
The foundation has been reaching out to corporate and foundation donors and has launched a GoFundMe page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has secured funding but would n't say how much .
More information , including how to apply , will come next week , and the first round of funds is expected to be disbursed in about two weeks , they said .
Mano a Mano launched its own Tanda Emergency Fund initiative two weeks ago , with $ 210,000 pledged so far by donors such as charitable and family foundations , McKenna said .
The money can be used for food and urgent medical costs and is available to residents of Lake and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or their work hours cut due to the pandemic and are not eligible for government benefits .
`` We are really trying to get to those who have no other option for assistance , '' she said .
The nonprofit received more than 500 calls about the emergency funding and set up about 90 phone screening appointments in the last three days .
One caller said he was in self-quarantine with a COVID-19 diagnosis and had only a box of crackers left to eat , McKenna said .
Jaime Garcia , executive director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said there 's been an increase in phone calls from people who 've lost their jobs and need financial assistance .
The Elgin area has a good number of food pantries , including a small one at Centro , so that does n't seem to be a pressing need , Garcia said .
The Elgin nonprofit is asking for donations during the pandemic and is applying for grant opportunities , but it has n't launched a large-scale fundraising effort , Garcia said .
`` We will certainly look into that , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new initiative .
`` Up to now we have been a service-driven organization ; we have not really had funding to disburse to people for rent or medical assistance . ''
Health and human services nonprofits in the greater Chicago region also can apply for funding from the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund .

COVID-19 emergency funding for suburban Latinos in the works
An initiative to gather emergency funding for Latinos most in need across the state, particularly those left out of government relief programs, is being spearheaded by the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation.
Foundation co-chairs state Sen. Omar Aquino of Chicago and state Rep. Elizabeth Hernandez of Cicero, both Democrats, announced in English and Spanish the creation of the COVID-19 Solidarity Fund, to be managed by the Chicago Community Trust.
Grants will be awarded to Latino-serving organizations "with deep roots in the community" that can disburse the money quickly for people to cover necessities like rent, utilities, food and health care. The effort targets areas that have high concentrations of Latinos, the legislators said.
"Many Latino families in our community who were barely getting by before the COVID-19 crisis are now struggling for their very survival," Aquino said. "Worried about how they will pay their rent, get back to work, keep their family healthy, and feed their children."
There are an estimated 2.2 million Latino residents in Illinois, comprising 17.5% of the population and 26% of K-12 students in the state. Latinos were more concerned than other groups about the health and financial repercussions of COVID-19, according to a survey through the Pew Research Center last month. Many Latinos work in the leisure, hospitality and other service industries, and are less likely to have health insurance.
In general, immigrants without permanent status -- such as the undocumented but also some with temporary visas -- are excluded from COVID-19-related assistance from the government, said Megan McKenna, director of the nonprofit Mano a Mano Family Resource Center in Round Lake Park. That includes families with mixed immigration status, such as U.S. citizens married to undocumented immigrants, and people who file taxes with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, she said.
"It's wonderful," McKenna said of the Latino Caucus Foundation initiative. "I think this is a really good example of people in influential positions stepping up to leverage their networks to get everybody involved to help those who need it."
The foundation has been reaching out to corporate and foundation donors and has launched a GoFundMe page. Aquino and Hernandez said the effort has secured funding but wouldn't say how much. More information, including how to apply, will come next week, and the first round of funds is expected to be disbursed in about two weeks, they said.
Mano a Mano launched its own Tanda Emergency Fund initiative two weeks ago, with $210,000 pledged so far by donors such as charitable and family foundations, McKenna said. The money can be used for food and urgent medical costs and is available to residents of Lake and McHenry counties who have lost their jobs or their work hours cut due to the pandemic and are not eligible for government benefits. "We are really trying to get to those who have no other option for assistance," she said.
The nonprofit received more than 500 calls about the emergency funding and set up about 90 phone screening appointments in the last three days. One caller said he was in self-quarantine with a COVID-19 diagnosis and had only a box of crackers left to eat, McKenna said.
Jaime Garcia, executive director of Centro de Informacion in Elgin, said there's been an increase in phone calls from people who've lost their jobs and need financial assistance. The Elgin area has a good number of food pantries, including a small one at Centro, so that doesn't seem to be a pressing need, Garcia said.
The Elgin nonprofit is asking for donations during the pandemic and is applying for grant opportunities, but it hasn't launched a large-scale fundraising effort, Garcia said.
"We will certainly look into that," he said about the Latino Caucus Foundation's new initiative. "Up to now we have been a service-driven organization; we have not really had funding to disburse to people for rent or medical assistance."
Health and human services nonprofits in the greater Chicago region also can apply for funding from the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--'Steeped in tradition': Batavia officials support deal with new popcorn depot owner

Mayor Jeff Schielke can name a few time-honored traditions that are uniquely Batavia .
The downtown popcorn stand is one of them .
A staple of the city since 1929 , the small , red concession stand has been woven into the memories of longtime residents and visitors , he says .
A new proprietor now intends to carry on the history of the business , known as the Batavia Popcorn Depot .
Aldermen this week supported a license agreement with Batavia resident Talitha Mueller for use of a city-owned property at Houston and North Water streets , the popcorn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full city council is expected to vote on the measure Monday .
`` If you ask anybody who grew up here in the '30s , '40s , '50s , everybody 's got memories of this , '' Schielke said .
`` It 's very steeped in tradition and something that I think is a very viable community asset to us . ''
The business was launched more than 90 years ago by friends Norm Freedlund and Buddy Anderson , both 14 at the time , who built the shack at its first location @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moved throughout the downtown , sitting for decades at the corner of North Water and West Wilson streets before moving a block north to an oddly shaped property that once housed an electrical substation , Schielke said .
The popcorn depot was operated for years by Robert Pepper and his son , Jack , until a sign in the window indicated the 2019 season would be their last , City Administrator Laura Newman said .
As a frequent customer who had gotten to know the Peppers over the years , Mueller and her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity to take over the business , she told the Daily Herald earlier this month .
She also hopes to provide employment opportunities to Batavia High School students with special needs .
City officials characterized the popcorn depot as a benefit to the community and a prominent part of the downtown historic district .
`` I wholeheartedly support this , '' Second Ward Alderman Alan Wolff said .
`` I think it 's a really cool , old-time Batavia thing that has maintained itself through just about everything . ''

'Steeped in tradition': Batavia officials support deal with new popcorn depot owner
Batavia officials offered early support for granting a license agreement to Talitha Mueller, who recently purchased the long-standing Batavia Popcorn Depot with her husband, David. Courtesy of the Mueller family
Mayor Jeff Schielke can name a few time-honored traditions that are uniquely Batavia. The downtown popcorn stand is one of them.
A staple of the city since 1929, the small, red concession stand has been woven into the memories of longtime residents and visitors, he says.
A new proprietor now intends to carry on the history of the business, known as the Batavia Popcorn Depot.
Aldermen this week supported a license agreement with Batavia resident Talitha Mueller for use of a city-owned property at Houston and North Water streets, the popcorn stand's most recent home. The full city council is expected to vote on the measure Monday.
"If you ask anybody who grew up here in the '30s, '40s, '50s, everybody's got memories of this," Schielke said. "It's very steeped in tradition and something that I think is a very viable community asset to us."
The business was launched more than 90 years ago by friends Norm Freedlund and Buddy Anderson, both 14 at the time, who built the shack at its first location on South Batavia Avenue. It has moved throughout the downtown, sitting for decades at the corner of North Water and West Wilson streets before moving a block north to an oddly shaped property that once housed an electrical substation, Schielke said.
The popcorn depot was operated for years by Robert Pepper and his son, Jack, until a sign in the window indicated the 2019 season would be their last, City Administrator Laura Newman said.
As a frequent customer who had gotten to know the Peppers over the years, Mueller and her husband, David, jumped at the opportunity to take over the business, she told the Daily Herald earlier this month. She also hopes to provide employment opportunities to Batavia High School students with special needs.
City officials characterized the popcorn depot as a benefit to the community and a prominent part of the downtown historic district.
"I wholeheartedly support this," Second Ward Alderman Alan Wolff said. "I think it's a really cool, old-time Batavia thing that has maintained itself through just about everything."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--Suburban restaurants, hotels, breweries receive grants via lottery

The state of Illinois this week released a list of hospitality industry businesses selected via lottery to share $ 14.45 @ @ @ @ @ Hospitality Emergency Grant Program was launched on March 23 by the Illinois Department of Commerce @ @ @ @ @ hotels and food and beverage businesses affected almost immediately by the COVID-19 pandemic .
The @ @ @ @ @ cover payroll and rent and train employees shifted into new roles , according to the @ @ @ @ @ funds were originally budgeted for job training , tourism promotion and other purposes .
Bars @ @ @ @ @ fewer than 50 workers and less than $ 3 million in revenue in 2019 were @ @ @ @ @ five-day window that closed April 1 .
Bars and restaurants were eligible to receive up @ @ @ @ @ up to $ 50,000 .
Of the 12,128 completed applications DECO received , more than @ @ @ @ @ awarded grants .
Below is a partial list of suburban businesses :

Suburban restaurants, hotels, breweries receive grants via lottery
Dog's Paw Brewing in Elgin is one of the breweries selected via lottery to share in state grant money. Daily Herald file photo
The state of Illinois this week released a list of hospitality industry businesses selected via lottery to share $14.45 million in grants.
The Hospitality Emergency Grant Program was launched on March 23 by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to assist hotels and food and beverage businesses affected almost immediately by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The grants are meant to help cover payroll and rent and train employees shifted into new roles, according to the state's website. The funds were originally budgeted for job training, tourism promotion and other purposes.
Bars, restaurants and hotels with fewer than 50 workers and less than $3 million in revenue in 2019 were eligible to apply during a five-day window that closed April 1. Bars and restaurants were eligible to receive up to $25,000, hotels up to $50,000.
Of the 12,128 completed applications DECO received, more than 700 hospitality industry businesses were awarded grants. Below is a partial list of suburban businesses:
• 601 Bar & Grill, Addison
• Tavern At The Bridge, Algonquin
• Little Bean Coffee Company, Antioch
• The Shedd, Antioch
• Mr. Allison's Restaurant, Arlington Heights
• Red Roof Inn, Arlington Heights
• China Chef, Aurora
• Hibachi Grill Buffet, Aurora
• O'Malley's Pub and Eatery, Aurora
• Pizza Now, Aurora
• Clarke's Cakes and Pastries, Inc., Barrington
• Crabby Boil, Batavia
• Energy City Brewing, LLC, Batavia
• Bella's Bistro, Bensenville
• Holiday Inn and Suites, Bolingbrook
• Wingstop, Carpentersville
• 750 Cucina Rustica, Cary
• Holiday Inn, Crystal Lake
• Cozzi Corner Hot Dogs & Beef, Downers Grove
• Downers Sand Club Sports Bar & Grill, Downers Grove
• DG Hotels, LLC, Downers Grove
• Black & Gray Brewing Co., East Dundee
• Eddie Gaedel Pub & Grill, Elburn
• Dog's Paw Brewing LLC, Elgin
• Hampton Inn, Elgin
• Colonial Lodge Motel, Elgin
• Sheraton Suites Chicago, Elk Grove Village
• Hacienda de Los Perez Mexican Grill, Gilberts
• Comfort Suites, Grayslake
• Baymont Inn and Suites, Gurnee
• Baby Vegas Cafe LLC, Hoffman Estates
• Koffee Kup Restaurant, Lake Zurich
• Grande Jakes, Lindenhurst
• Comfort Suites, Lombard
• Chataka Masti Indian Grill, Naperville
• Ellie's Deli, Naperville
• The Indian Harvest, Naperville
• Agit Bar & Grill, Niles
• Little Red Schoolhouse, North Aurora
• Dunkin' Donuts, Park Ridge
• Sushi Express, Park Ridge
• Bukanas Sports Bar, Round Lake
• Dairy Queen, Schaumburg
• Comfort Suites O'Hare, Schiller Park
• Lucky Bernie's, Spring Grove
• Subway, Villa Park
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Waukegan
• Motel 6, Waukegan
• Om Shivaya, Waukegan
• Taqueria Toluca, Waukegan
• Cairo Ale House, West Chicago
• Dominick's Pizzeria Inc., West Dundee
• Papa John's, West Dundee
• Harbor Brewing Company, Winthrop Harbor
• Light House Pub & Grill Inc., Winthrop Harbor


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--Gurnee, Island Lake men identified as wrong-way crash victims

The two men killed in a wrong-way crash early Thursday in Wauconda have been identified as Island Lake and Gurnee @ @ @ @ @ 25 , of Island Lake , and Montana Brown , 24 , of Gurnee , @ @ @ @ @ the Lake County coroner 's office announced Friday .
They were in a Honda Odyssey @ @ @ @ @ lanes of Route 12 about 2:15 a.m. when it collided head-on with a delivery truck @ @ @ @ @ police said .
DeKruif was driving the Odyssey .
Brown was a passenger in the @ @ @ @ @ men suffered blunt force injuries , Coroner Howard Cooper said in a news release .
@ @ @ @ @ The driver of the delivery truck was injured but survived .
Video from a red @ @ @ @ @ had turned onto Route 12 from Bonner Road , more than a mile north of @ @ @ @ @ said Friday .
Wauconda police , the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team and the @ @ @ @ @ the crash .

Gurnee, Island Lake men identified as wrong-way crash victims
The two men killed in a wrong-way crash early Thursday in Wauconda have been identified as Island Lake and Gurnee residents.
Kyle DeKruif, 25, of Island Lake, and Montana Brown, 24, of Gurnee, died in the crash, the Lake County coroner's office announced Friday.
They were in a Honda Odyssey headed south in the northbound lanes of Route 12 about 2:15 a.m. when it collided head-on with a delivery truck near Route 59, Wauconda police said.
DeKruif was driving the Odyssey. Brown was a passenger in the Odyssey.
Autopsies revealed both men suffered blunt force injuries, Coroner Howard Cooper said in a news release. Toxicology results are pending.
The driver of the delivery truck was injured but survived.
Video from a red light camera showed the Odyssey had turned onto Route 12 from Bonner Road, more than a mile north of the crash site, police said Friday.
Wauconda police, the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team and the coroner's office continue investigating the crash.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--How to find a drive-up Wi-Fi hot spot by ZIP code

As students across Illinois get accustomed to remote learning , state agencies have released a new tool aimed at connecting those who need internet to drive-up Wi-Fi hot spots .
The interactive map is searchable by ZIP code and municipality , and the hot spots contain information as to how internet service can be accessed .
As of April 15 , the map had 200 hot spots aimed at allowing students and parents or guardians to continue social distancing by remaining in their cars while using the internet .
`` The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the life of every Illinois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Superintendent of Education Carmen Ayala said in a news release .
`` The transition to remote learning has accelerated our efforts to close the digital divide among Illinois students and families .
This map is one way to level the playing field in the short term and to increase access to the tools students and educators need to engage more deeply in remote education . ''
According to the release , the effort was spearheaded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and several other state agencies .
`` The Illinois Board of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to identify public locations across the state where students could tap into free internet access , '' IBHE Executive Director Ginger Ostro said .
`` It 's key to helping our state 's students to 'attend ' class , use video and conference calling , conducting research , emailing assignments , and more . ''
The hot spots are available at sites including local colleges and libraries .
The link to find them is http : //illinois.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html ?
id=23e8046edd2940bc8ad3ad1725e47cd0 .

How to find a drive-up Wi-Fi hot spot by ZIP code
A new tool put together by state agencies aims to connect students with available drive-up Wi-Fi hot spots. Courtesy of State of Illinois
As students across Illinois get accustomed to remote learning, state agencies have released a new tool aimed at connecting those who need internet to drive-up Wi-Fi hot spots.
The interactive map is searchable by ZIP code and municipality, and the hot spots contain information as to how internet service can be accessed. As of April 15, the map had 200 hot spots aimed at allowing students and parents or guardians to continue social distancing by remaining in their cars while using the internet.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the life of every Illinois student but not equally," State Superintendent of Education Carmen Ayala said in a news release. "The transition to remote learning has accelerated our efforts to close the digital divide among Illinois students and families. This map is one way to level the playing field in the short term and to increase access to the tools students and educators need to engage more deeply in remote education."
According to the release, the effort was spearheaded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and several other state agencies.
"The Illinois Board of Higher Education embarked on a collaborative project to identify public locations across the state where students could tap into free internet access," IBHE Executive Director Ginger Ostro said. "It's key to helping our state's students to 'attend' class, use video and conference calling, conducting research, emailing assignments, and more."
The hot spots are available at sites including local colleges and libraries. The link to find them is http://illinois.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=23e8046edd2940bc8ad3ad1725e47cd0.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--What others are writing about COVID-19

What others are writing about COVID-19

After Fauci urged caution in reopening the economy , Fox News turned to Dr. Phil for a second opinion '' We do n't shut the country down for that , '' Dr. Phil McGraw said referring to accidental deaths such as car crashes and pool drownings .
`` Yet we are doing it for this and the fallout is going to last for years because people 's lives are being destroyed . ''
The segment with Laura Ingraham followed Dr. Anthony Fauci 's explanation of the White House 's new guidelines on reopening the economy .
Read the story from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overreacting to the coronavirus Some people are starting to wonder if the cure of social distancing and economic shutdown is worse than the coronavirus disease .
But public health experts say we will know we did the right thing if in the end we feel like we overreacted .
Vox explains the paradox of public health and why the right action looks like overreaction .
Here are the drugs that could treat coronavirus .
But do n't expect a magic bullet .
Researchers , pharmaceutical companies and governments are working at a frenzied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus .
The Washington Post looks at the top contenders right now .
29 Dead at One Nursing Home From the Virus .
Or More .
No One Will Say .
At a nursing home in Queens , families say they are not getting straight answers about how bad the outbreak is .
The New York Times investigates and looks into why nursing homes have been so hard hit by COVID-19 .
Scott Gottlieb on how , and when , to end social distancing People are beginning to talk about what it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy .
Vox 's Ezra Klein interviews Scott Gottlieb , former FDA commissioner under President Donald Trump and fellow at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute , about his plan .
They discuss the challenges to getting out of the lockdown and what the world looks like until a vaccine is discovered .
Listen to the podcast .
Klein also looks at four different plans in `` I 've read the plans to reopen the economy .
They 're scary . ''

What others are writing about COVID-19
After Fauci urged caution in reopening the economy, Fox News turned to Dr. Phil for a second opinion
"We don't shut the country down for that," Dr. Phil McGraw said referring to accidental deaths such as car crashes and pool drownings. "Yet we are doing it for this and the fallout is going to last for years because people's lives are being destroyed." The segment with Laura Ingraham followed Dr. Anthony Fauci's explanation of the White House's new guidelines on reopening the economy. Read the story from The Washington Post.
We're not overreacting to the coronavirus
Some people are starting to wonder if the cure of social distancing and economic shutdown is worse than the coronavirus disease. But public health experts say we will know we did the right thing if in the end we feel like we overreacted. Vox explains the paradox of public health and why the right action looks like overreaction.
Here are the drugs that could treat coronavirus. But don't expect a magic bullet.
Researchers, pharmaceutical companies and governments are working at a frenzied pace to test potential drugs to combat the coronavirus. The Washington Post looks at the top contenders right now.
29 Dead at One Nursing Home From the Virus. Or More. No One Will Say.
At a nursing home in Queens, families say they are not getting straight answers about how bad the outbreak is. The New York Times investigates and looks into why nursing homes have been so hard hit by COVID-19.
Scott Gottlieb on how, and when, to end social distancing
People are beginning to talk about what it's going to take to reopen the economy. Vox's Ezra Klein interviews Scott Gottlieb, former FDA commissioner under President Donald Trump and fellow at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute, about his plan. They discuss the challenges to getting out of the lockdown and what the world looks like until a vaccine is discovered. Listen to the podcast. Klein also looks at four different plans in "I've read the plans to reopen the economy. They're scary."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--District 15 adding virtual meetings to distance learning

Palatine Township Elementary District 15 plans to implement the virtual meeting platform Google Meet on Monday , April 20 for @ @ @ @ @ teachers as COVID-19 social restrictions continue .
According to a message to parents from Superintendent @ @ @ @ @ learning how to properly utilize the security features of Google Meet to ensure meetings remain @ @ @ @ @ staff invited to participate .
Though teachers are expected to be reaching out to students @ @ @ @ @ about the virtual meetings , families also will have the right to opt out .
@ @ @ @ @ pursued after district officials heard a resounding desire for more video-based and virtual instruction during @ @ @ @ @ said .

District 15 adding virtual meetings to distance learning
Palatine Township Elementary District 15 plans to implement the virtual meeting platform Google Meet on Monday, April 20 for face-to-face interactions between students and teachers as COVID-19 social restrictions continue.
According to a message to parents from Superintendent Laurie Heinz, teachers are learning how to properly utilize the security features of Google Meet to ensure meetings remain private to only students and staff invited to participate.
Though teachers are expected to be reaching out to students and parents directly with information about the virtual meetings, families also will have the right to opt out.
Introducing this new tool was pursued after district officials heard a resounding desire for more video-based and virtual instruction during the coronavirus outbreak, Heinz said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--How DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry jails are avoiding an outbreak

While a legal battle rages involving the nearly 600 Cook County inmates , officers and staffers infected with the COVID-19 virus , jails in DuPage , Kane , Lake and McHenry counties all report zero or nearly zero infections .
Sheriffs are thwarting an outbreak -- for now -- with strict screening and cleaning protocols , they say .
All four suburban departments have also worked with local police to issue citations rather than make arrests , and they have released as many inmates charged or convicted of nonviolent crimes as possible .
The Lake County jail has no infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inmate released Monday tested positive for COVID-19 two days later .
The inmate had complained of flu-like symptoms last week , but they had abated and his temperature was normal when he was released after a plea agreement .
Otherwise , the jail has seen no cases .
It has released or shifted more than 50 inmates to the Illinois Department of Corrections .
Bond court is conducted electronically to reduce possible exposures to the virus .
If and when inmates show signs of infection , they are placed in isolation cells with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the illness , authorities said , and the staff is cleaning and sanitizing areas more frequently .
`` This is a health crisis that is changing every hour , and we are adapting , planning and executing contingency plans , '' said Sgt .
Chris Covelli , the sheriff 's public information officer .
`` We will continue to use every tool within our legal authority to keep the sheriff 's staff and inmates safe . ''
In Kane County , Sheriff Ron Hain began working to reduce costs by lowering the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took office last year .
Hain also pursued reinstatement of an electronic home monitoring program the county board had dumped because of budget constraints .
So , when the pandemic hit , the moves allowed the staff to screen and quarantine inmates to prevent fights , as well as to identify and isolate possible infections .
`` We poured the kitchen sink of reforms into the jail in 2019 , '' Hain said .
`` Because we all work so closely together , we knew who we could put where and what people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The county also implemented a two-week rotating shift of employees at the jail to further reduce the possibility of staff members bringing the virus into the jail .
In DuPage , prevention measures begin before anyone gets near the jail .
The use of citations instead of arrests has helped reduce the number of new inmates by 80 % , the department says .
At the start of the outbreak , the jail , which has a maximum capacity of 1,000 , had a population of 530 inmates .
It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Anyone coming into the jail , including contractors and employees , is screened with a thermometer .
The air ventilation system was changed to take in 100 % fresh air and exhaust directly to the outside .
All employees wear face masks for their entire shift .
Sheriff James Mendrick suspended visiting hours and replaced them with extra phone privileges .
Even the community has stepped up .
White Glove Sanitation Chemicals and Solutions in Wood Dale , for instance , donated a 55-gallon drum of cleaning solution for use wiping down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` While we realize it is unlikely we will forever be able to hold the pandemic at bay , we are very proud of our efforts to date , '' Mendrick said .
Similarly , at the McHenry County jail , cleaning efforts have increased , and all new inmates are screened and isolated regardless of whether they are showing symptoms , Sgt .
Aimee Knop said .
Those with a fever or other signs of infection are given a mask and gloves , placed in a single cell and quarantined while their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms are put into a `` step '' housing unit away from others .
As for Cook County , Sheriff Tom Dart told The Associated Press last week that he already had implemented most measures included in a federal judge 's order designed to address the county jail 's massive rate of COVID-19 infections .
Dart said he has worked with officials to reduce the jail 's population of more than 4,000 inmates by 20 % , but he does not have the authority to free inmates on his own .
Dart has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including screening the temperature of everyone who enters the jail and forbidding visitors .
The federal judge acknowledged that social distancing measures are limited by the large number of inmates in the jail but insisted inmates still are due constitutional protections .
Three Cook County inmates have died from the virus .

How DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry jails are avoiding an outbreak
The Lake County jail has no coronavirus infections. If and when inmates show any signs of infection, they are placed in isolation cells with reverse airflow technology to limit the spread of the illness, authorities said, and the staff is cleaning and sanitizing areas more frequently. Courtesy of the Lake County Sheriff's Office
While a legal battle rages involving the nearly 600 Cook County inmates, officers and staffers infected with the COVID-19 virus, jails in DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry counties all report zero or nearly zero infections.
Sheriffs are thwarting an outbreak -- for now -- with strict screening and cleaning protocols, they say. All four suburban departments have also worked with local police to issue citations rather than make arrests, and they have released as many inmates charged or convicted of nonviolent crimes as possible.
The Lake County jail has no infections, but it reported Friday that an inmate released Monday tested positive for COVID-19 two days later. The inmate had complained of flu-like symptoms last week, but they had abated and his temperature was normal when he was released after a plea agreement.
Otherwise, the jail has seen no cases. It has released or shifted more than 50 inmates to the Illinois Department of Corrections. Bond court is conducted electronically to reduce possible exposures to the virus.
If and when inmates show signs of infection, they are placed in isolation cells with reverse airflow technology to limit the spread of the illness, authorities said, and the staff is cleaning and sanitizing areas more frequently.
"This is a health crisis that is changing every hour, and we are adapting, planning and executing contingency plans," said Sgt. Chris Covelli, the sheriff's public information officer. "We will continue to use every tool within our legal authority to keep the sheriff's staff and inmates safe."
Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain began working to reduce costs by lowering the jail's population as soon as he took office last year. So, when the pandemic hit, the staff could screen and quarantine inmates, and identify and isolate possible infections. - Daily herald file photo, 2019
In Kane County, Sheriff Ron Hain began working to reduce costs by lowering the jail's population as soon as he took office last year. Hain also pursued reinstatement of an electronic home monitoring program the county board had dumped because of budget constraints.
So, when the pandemic hit, the moves allowed the staff to screen and quarantine inmates to prevent fights, as well as to identify and isolate possible infections.
"We poured the kitchen sink of reforms into the jail in 2019," Hain said. "Because we all work so closely together, we knew who we could put where and what people we could get out of the facility."
The county also implemented a two-week rotating shift of employees at the jail to further reduce the possibility of staff members bringing the virus into the jail.
In DuPage, prevention measures begin before anyone gets near the jail. The use of citations instead of arrests has helped reduce the number of new inmates by 80%, the department says.
At the start of the outbreak, the jail, which has a maximum capacity of 1,000, had a population of 530 inmates. It was down to below 400 by early April.
Anyone coming into the jail, including contractors and employees, is screened with a thermometer. The air ventilation system was changed to take in 100% fresh air and exhaust directly to the outside. All employees wear face masks for their entire shift.
- Mark Welsh | Staff Photographer, 2019 In DuPage County, the use of citations instead of arrests has helped reduce the number of new jail inmates by 80%, the department says, and Sheriff James Mendrick suspended visiting hours and replaced them with extra phone privileges.
Sheriff James Mendrick suspended visiting hours and replaced them with extra phone privileges.
Even the community has stepped up. White Glove Sanitation Chemicals and Solutions in Wood Dale, for instance, donated a 55-gallon drum of cleaning solution for use wiping down all squad cars involved with arrests.
"While we realize it is unlikely we will forever be able to hold the pandemic at bay, we are very proud of our efforts to date," Mendrick said.
Similarly, at the McHenry County jail, cleaning efforts have increased, and all new inmates are screened and isolated regardless of whether they are showing symptoms, Sgt. Aimee Knop said.
Those with a fever or other signs of infection are given a mask and gloves, placed in a single cell and quarantined while their condition is monitored. New inmates without symptoms are put into a "step" housing unit away from others.
As for Cook County, Sheriff Tom Dart told The Associated Press last week that he already had implemented most measures included in a federal judge's order designed to address the county jail's massive rate of COVID-19 infections. Dart said he has worked with officials to reduce the jail's population of more than 4,000 inmates by 20%, but he does not have the authority to free inmates on his own.
Dart has said he has implemented anti-COVID-19 measures, including screening the temperature of everyone who enters the jail and forbidding visitors. The federal judge acknowledged that social distancing measures are limited by the large number of inmates in the jail but insisted inmates still are due constitutional protections.
Three Cook County inmates have died from the virus.
• Daily Herald staff writer Lauren Rohr contributed to this report.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--Murder conviction overturned for third time

Nineteen years ago , two masked men entered the Burrito Express in McHenry in an attempted armed robbery .
Restaurant owner Raul Briseno and an employee chased the men outside into the parking lot , shots were fired and Briseno was killed .
Three times , Kenneth E. Smith , 44 , formerly of Park City has been convicted of first-degree murder and attempted armed robbery .
But a federal judge has ruled he is entitled to yet another trial .
Smith 's brother , Robert Smith , 39 , of Ringwood , said he and his family `` are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attorney 's office `` does the right thing '' and sets him free without a fourth trial .
Calling the state 's case against Smith `` extremely thin '' and his conviction a `` miscarriage of justice , '' U.S. District Court Judge Andrea R. Wood cited numerous errors violating Smith 's constitutional rights -- including the exclusion of evidence that pointed to another possible suspect .
McHenry County State 's Attorney Patrick Kenneally , who was not the state 's attorney at the time and did not try the case , noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case was heard and considered by 36 jurors , all of whom resolved the conflicts in the testimony against Mr. Smith beyond a reasonable doubt .
Kenneally added that Smith 's case had been appealed to the Illinois Second District as well as the Illinois Supreme Court , each of which `` ultimately affirmed the decision of the unanimous jury . ''
Smith was convicted along with three other defendants .
Justin Houghtaling , 37 , formerly of Round Lake , pleaded guilty in 2001 to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Round Lake was convicted of murder and attempted armed robbery in 2002 and sentenced to 25 years in prison .
She is appealing her sentence and is being represented by the Illinois Innocence Project .
David Collett , 37 , of Spring Grove pleaded guilty to aggravated armed robbery in September 2001 and was sentenced to five years in prison .
After learning this week of the federal judge 's ruling , Briseno 's widow , Leticia Briseno , had only a few words .
`` When and if this goes to court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family , as we have for the last 19 years , '' she said .
`` This will not bring us down . ''

Murder conviction overturned for third time
Nineteen years ago, two masked men entered the Burrito Express in McHenry in an attempted armed robbery. Restaurant owner Raul Briseno and an employee chased the men outside into the parking lot, shots were fired and Briseno was killed.
Three times, Kenneth E. Smith, 44, formerly of Park City has been convicted of first-degree murder and attempted armed robbery. But a federal judge has ruled he is entitled to yet another trial.
Smith's brother, Robert Smith, 39, of Ringwood, said he and his family "are praying" the McHenry County state's attorney's office "does the right thing" and sets him free without a fourth trial.
Calling the state's case against Smith "extremely thin" and his conviction a "miscarriage of justice," U.S. District Court Judge Andrea R. Wood cited numerous errors violating Smith's constitutional rights -- including the exclusion of evidence that pointed to another possible suspect.
McHenry County State's Attorney Patrick Kenneally, who was not the state's attorney at the time and did not try the case, noted that "the conflicting testimony in this case was heard and considered by 36 jurors, all of whom resolved the conflicts in the testimony against Mr. Smith beyond a reasonable doubt.
Kenneally added that Smith's case had been appealed to the Illinois Second District as well as the Illinois Supreme Court, each of which "ultimately affirmed the decision of the unanimous jury."
Smith was convicted along with three other defendants. Justin Houghtaling, 37, formerly of Round Lake, pleaded guilty in 2001 to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Jennifer McMullan of Round Lake was convicted of murder and attempted armed robbery in 2002 and sentenced to 25 years in prison. She is appealing her sentence and is being represented by the Illinois Innocence Project. David Collett, 37, of Spring Grove pleaded guilty to aggravated armed robbery in September 2001 and was sentenced to five years in prison.
After learning this week of the federal judge's ruling, Briseno's widow, Leticia Briseno, had only a few words.
"When and if this goes to court, we will stand united as a family, as we have for the last 19 years," she said. "This will not bring us down."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--Federal judge imposes oversight on Cook County clerk

A federal judge on Friday ordered court oversight for the Cook County clerk 's office after determining Clerk Karen Yarbrough @ @ @ @ @ .
In his decision , U.S. Magistrate Judge Staley Schenkier said Yarbrough , a Democrat @ @ @ @ @ jobs , failed to get court approval for ranking positions and favored people with political @ @ @ @ @ Schenkier noted Yarbrough implemented a `` rotation policy '' among clerk supervisors of suburban offices @ @ @ @ @ operations .
The supervisors cited several hardships , including disruptions to family life and long @ @ @ @ @ the policy was implemented to make them so miserable they would quit .
Yarbrough denied @ @ @ @ @ she will appeal his decision .
Schenkier noted that while Yarbrough was Cook County 's @ @ @ @ @ years , the office was continuously monitored due to allegations of `` unlawful political discrimination @ @ @ @ @ that is a concern because the clerk 's and recorder of deeds offices are to @ @ @ @

Federal judge imposes oversight on Cook County clerk
A federal judge on Friday ordered court oversight for the Cook County clerk's office after determining Clerk Karen Yarbrough has violated anti-patronage hiring rules.
In his decision, U.S. Magistrate Judge Staley Schenkier said Yarbrough, a Democrat, disregarded requirements to post jobs, failed to get court approval for ranking positions and favored people with political pedigrees for open positions.
Schenkier noted Yarbrough implemented a ''rotation policy'' among clerk supervisors of suburban offices under the guise of standardizing operations. The supervisors cited several hardships, including disruptions to family life and long commutes resulted. They argued the policy was implemented to make them so miserable they would quit.
Yarbrough denied Schenkier's assertions and said she will appeal his decision.
Schenkier noted that while Yarbrough was Cook County's recorder of deeds for six years, the office was continuously monitored due to allegations of "unlawful political discrimination." The judge said that is a concern because the clerk's and recorder of deeds offices are to combine in December.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--A song to make you smile: 'Don't Worry Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin

We 're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper ( and on dailyherald.com ) with a daily `` @ @ @ @ @ . ''
It 's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk .
@ @ @ @ @ Do n't Worry Be Happy '' by Bobby McFerrin , released in 1988 .

A song to make you smile: 'Don't Worry Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin
Bobby McFerrin holds the four awards he won at the 1989 Grammys. Associated Press
We're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper (and on dailyherald.com) with a daily "Song to Make You Smile."
It's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk.
Today's selection is "Don't Worry Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin, released in 1988.
Send your ideas to suggestions@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--125 new COVID-19 deaths, but telehealth for recovering at home now available statewide

State officials on Saturday reported 125 new deaths from the COVID-19 virus , tying a mark for the most deaths within a 24-hour period that first was set on Thursday .
The increase brings the total death toll from the virus to 1,259 across Illinois since the pandemic began .
Officials on Saturday also reported 1,585 more cases of the new coronavirus , bringing the total statewide to 29,160 .
`` Although our numbers continue to climb , it is with some guarded optimism that we say the growth is slowing , '' Illinois Department of Public Health Director Ngozi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would not say whether he will extend the stay-at-home order or when he will announce a decision .
`` I 'm going to do what 's best for the people of the state , '' Pritzker said during his 41st daily coronavirus briefing in a row .
`` We 're not yet at our peak , so it 's hard to make decisions about what happens after the peak . ''
Pritzker on Saturday also announced the expansion to northern Illinois of what he described as `` a terrific new telehealth program that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The program , in partnership with Advocate Aurora Health , will provide daily virtual visits with health care workers to patients who have tested positive for the respiratory illness , along with wellness kits to help them manage the virus at home .
The kits will include equipment such as a thermometer , pulse oximeter , blood pressure cuffs and alcohol wipes .
The telehealth service launched in southern and central Illinois last week and now is available statewide .
To access the service , call ( 866 ) 443-2584 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient monitoring program is available to everyone who is COVID-positive and recovering at home , regardless of your insurance coverage , '' Pritzker said .
The service is meant for people who develop a mild version of the illness .
`` That 's the vast majority of people who get infected , '' Pritzker said .
Despite calls to open up the Lake Michigan shoreline or the fishing holes at state parks for socially distanced use , Pritzker did not alter the stay-at-home order , which extends until April 30 , during Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay vigilant to continue to slow the virus ' spread .
`` I know people are getting tired of hearing the same message , but the same tactics continue to apply , '' Ezike said .
`` Continue to stay home , continue to wash your hands , wear a mask if you go outside .
Let 's keep up the progress we 've made thus far . ''

125 new COVID-19 deaths, but telehealth for recovering at home now available statewide
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has announced the expansion of a telehealth program to help northern Illinois residents who are recovering at home from COVID-19. Associated Press
State officials on Saturday reported 125 new deaths from the COVID-19 virus, tying a mark for the most deaths within a 24-hour period that first was set on Thursday.
The increase brings the total death toll from the virus to 1,259 across Illinois since the pandemic began.
Officials on Saturday also reported 1,585 more cases of the new coronavirus, bringing the total statewide to 29,160.
"Although our numbers continue to climb, it is with some guarded optimism that we say the growth is slowing," Illinois Department of Public Health Director Ngozi Ezike said.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker would not say whether he will extend the stay-at-home order or when he will announce a decision.
"I'm going to do what's best for the people of the state," Pritzker said during his 41st daily coronavirus briefing in a row. "We're not yet at our peak, so it's hard to make decisions about what happens after the peak."
Pritzker on Saturday also announced the expansion to northern Illinois of what he described as "a terrific new telehealth program that allows remote patient monitoring for COVID-19."
The program, in partnership with Advocate Aurora Health, will provide daily virtual visits with health care workers to patients who have tested positive for the respiratory illness, along with wellness kits to help them manage the virus at home. The kits will include equipment such as a thermometer, pulse oximeter, blood pressure cuffs and alcohol wipes.
The telehealth service launched in southern and central Illinois last week and now is available statewide. To access the service, call (866) 443-2584.
"To be very clear, the remote patient monitoring program is available to everyone who is COVID-positive and recovering at home, regardless of your insurance coverage," Pritzker said.
The service is meant for people who develop a mild version of the illness.
"That's the vast majority of people who get infected," Pritzker said.
Despite calls to open up the Lake Michigan shoreline or the fishing holes at state parks for socially distanced use, Pritzker did not alter the stay-at-home order, which extends until April 30, during Saturday's briefing.
Ezike reminded residents to stay vigilant to continue to slow the virus' spread.
"I know people are getting tired of hearing the same message, but the same tactics continue to apply," Ezike said. "Continue to stay home, continue to wash your hands, wear a mask if you go outside. Let's keep up the progress we've made thus far."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--Constable: You're bored at home? Try living in the now, Lake Barrington psychologist says

It 's been a month since Gov .
J.B. Pritzker issued the stay-at-home order , and some people might be feeling a little restless .
Working from home and sheltering in place with his wife , Cheryl , Russ Riendeau is n't going to get bored .
`` If I do , it 's my fault , '' says the 62-year-old executive recruiter who owns New Frontier Search Company and lives in Lake Barrington .
`` It 's not that you 're bored .
You 're just being lazy . ''
Riendeau has a doctoral degree in behavioral psychology and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is founder of Lucky Savage Leather Goods , where he makes wallets and other items out of old baseball gloves .
He 's written 11 business books ( one with a forward from Pat Hughes , the radio voice of the Chicago Cubs ) .
He 's published a collection of his Rusty & Pogo comic strips .
He is working on a new book of his poetry .
His sculptures have been displayed in art shows .
He 's produced seven CDs of his music .
He 's given TED Talks and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an accomplished abstract painter .
And he golfs , flies planes , rides motorcycles and runs marathons .
`` I am an adventure capitalist , '' Riendeau says , explaining he works to make money to do the things that bring him joy .
`` It funds the things I love to do . ''
Growing up in Rolling Meadows as the oldest of five boys gives Riendeau a leg up when it comes to sheltering at home .
`` People who are older have an advantage because we 're used to solitary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Riendeau says .
`` We literally had to invent ourselves every day .
We learned how to be creative , how to make things with our hands . ''
As a young boy , he helped his father plant a silver maple tree in their backyard .
Years later , when he and the tree had grown , Riendeau would shimmy up the tree , lie on a branch and gently sway in the breeze , watching his brothers playing below .
`` That feeling of flight and freedom still stays with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspects his time `` flying the maple tree '' led him to get his pilot 's license at age 19 .
Frustrated while looking out his window on a beautiful day at the golf course closed because of the COVID-19 mandates , Riendeau writes a poem titled , `` Golf Eternal , '' in which he `` thinks about the world 's struggles and dreams of plaid golf pants . ''
He spends about 90 minutes on it .
`` This is good enough , '' Riendeau says .
`` I had fun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writing skills .
It forced me to use my thesaurus . ''
More people stuck at home should try something new , stretch their boundaries , he says .
That does n't mean you need to compete with friends and celebrities on social media .
`` We do n't have to share it with anybody .
The joy is in the creation .
The fear and anxiety is in the presentation , '' Riendeau says .
`` When we put a label on it , a label comes with a set of expectations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do it . ''
Society puts a premium on production these days , trying to figure the return on investment of everything we do and wanting to shame people who are n't being productive .
That 's not good for us , Riendeau says .
`` I 'm going for a walk .
Gee , what 's the ROI on that ? ''
he says .
He advises parents struggling to pry kids away from screens to tell them , `` Put your phone down and go outside and dig a hole .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , smell the earth , appreciate the texture of the soil , find a worm .
`` Just embed yourself in that moment .
That experience is as good as it gets , '' Riendeau says .
Letting go of your inhibitions is preferable to giving up , he says .
`` If you are bored now , what are you going to look like on the other side of this pandemic ? ''
Riendeau says .
The coronavirus gives us a chance to try new things in the privacy of our homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Riendeau advises people to live in the moment .
`` Do n't worry about the outcome , '' Riendeau says .
`` Just do it for the love of doing it . ''

Constable: You're bored at home? Try living in the now, Lake Barrington psychologist says
As an executive recruiter with a doctorate in behavioral psychology, Ross Riendeau of Lake Barrington gives plenty of talks, including this 2014 TEDxNaperville presentation. COURTESY OF RUSS RIENDEAU
Buying old baseball gloves at garage sales, Russ Riendeau of Lake Barrington found a new use for the leather. This is one of the wallets made for his Lucky Savage Leather business. Courtesy of Russ Riendeau
Making wallets out of old baseball gloves fueled the start of Lucky Savage Leather for Russ Riendeau of Lake Barrington. He makes a variety of products, including these leather-wrapped "energy stones." Courtesy of Russ Riendeau
With a doctoral degree in behavioral psychology, business owner Russ Riendeau of Lake Barrington says people should try new things and step out of their routine as they stay at home. Focus on the process, not the result, he says. Courtesy of Russ Riendeau
It's been a month since Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued the stay-at-home order, and some people might be feeling a little restless. Working from home and sheltering in place with his wife, Cheryl, Russ Riendeau isn't going to get bored.
"If I do, it's my fault," says the 62-year-old executive recruiter who owns New Frontier Search Company and lives in Lake Barrington. "It's not that you're bored. You're just being lazy."
Riendeau has a doctoral degree in behavioral psychology and knows how to keep busy. He is founder of Lucky Savage Leather Goods, where he makes wallets and other items out of old baseball gloves. He's written 11 business books (one with a forward from Pat Hughes, the radio voice of the Chicago Cubs). He's published a collection of his Rusty & Pogo comic strips. He is working on a new book of his poetry. His sculptures have been displayed in art shows. He's produced seven CDs of his music. He's given TED Talks and delivered humorous keynote speeches. He's an accomplished abstract painter. And he golfs, flies planes, rides motorcycles and runs marathons.
"I am an adventure capitalist," Riendeau says, explaining he works to make money to do the things that bring him joy. "It funds the things I love to do."
Growing up in Rolling Meadows as the oldest of five boys gives Riendeau a leg up when it comes to sheltering at home.
"People who are older have an advantage because we're used to solitary confinement and making games for ourselves," Riendeau says. "We literally had to invent ourselves every day. We learned how to be creative, how to make things with our hands."
As a young boy, he helped his father plant a silver maple tree in their backyard. Years later, when he and the tree had grown, Riendeau would shimmy up the tree, lie on a branch and gently sway in the breeze, watching his brothers playing below. "That feeling of flight and freedom still stays with me," says Riendeau, who suspects his time "flying the maple tree" led him to get his pilot's license at age 19.
Frustrated while looking out his window on a beautiful day at the golf course closed because of the COVID-19 mandates, Riendeau writes a poem titled, "Golf Eternal," in which he "thinks about the world's struggles and dreams of plaid golf pants."
He spends about 90 minutes on it.
"This is good enough," Riendeau says. "I had fun doing it. I worked on my writing skills. It forced me to use my thesaurus."
More people stuck at home should try something new, stretch their boundaries, he says. That doesn't mean you need to compete with friends and celebrities on social media.
"We don't have to share it with anybody. The joy is in the creation. The fear and anxiety is in the presentation," Riendeau says. "When we put a label on it, a label comes with a set of expectations. Detach from the outcome. Simply do it."
Society puts a premium on production these days, trying to figure the return on investment of everything we do and wanting to shame people who aren't being productive. That's not good for us, Riendeau says.
"I'm going for a walk. Gee, what's the ROI on that?" he says. He advises parents struggling to pry kids away from screens to tell them, "Put your phone down and go outside and dig a hole." They might work up a sweat, smell the earth, appreciate the texture of the soil, find a worm.
"Just embed yourself in that moment. That experience is as good as it gets," Riendeau says. Letting go of your inhibitions is preferable to giving up, he says.
"If you are bored now, what are you going to look like on the other side of this pandemic?" Riendeau says. The coronavirus gives us a chance to try new things in the privacy of our homes. Calling himself a "Now-ist," Riendeau advises people to live in the moment.
"Don't worry about the outcome," Riendeau says. "Just do it for the love of doing it."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--Cancer survivors share tips on how to stay resilient during quarantine

Dancing was an escape for Ava Blaser and played a big part in her journey as a two-time cancer survivor .
It 's how she coped during weeks of isolation to safeguard her weakened immune system while undergoing chemotherapy .
Ava , 12 , of Wheaton , believes her experiences with cancer can help others deal with self-isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
She 's now is part of an international effort called the Resilience Campaign that 's aimed at highlighting the importance of quarantining and promoting coping strategies from lessons learned by cancer survivors .
`` I would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are here and healthy , '' Ava said of stay-at-home orders .
`` I lost two of my best friends to childhood cancer , and they would give anything to be inside .
Compared to cancer , this is just a small inconvenience to stay home . ''
Ava would know .
She was diagnosed in 2011 with stage 5 bilateral Wilms tumor in both kidneys .
The diagnosis came five days after her first dance recital .
She was 3 years old .
After 12 weeks of chemotherapy to shrink multiple tumors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and part of her right .
She then had six rounds of radiation to kill off any remaining cancerous growth and another 15 weeks of chemotherapy .
During all that , Ava and her older siblings missed out on a lot of things -- hanging out with friends , birthday parties , and playing in the park .
`` I learned your health comes first in that situation no matter how bad you want to see people , '' Ava said .
She realized not being able to do what she wanted `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world . ''
She and her siblings enjoyed their time together while being cooped up at home .
`` We realized the more you follow the rules and stay isolated , the faster it is going to go . ''
Ava 's love of dance -- contemporary , jazz , hip-hop , and ballet -- helped her glide through the dreariness of quarantine .
`` I ended up ( dancing ) the whole time . ''
She was cleared in January 2012 but the cancer returned six years later , again confining her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surgeries , Ava was declared cancer free in September 2018 .
Through two bouts with cancer , she found a positive attitude goes a long way to getting oneself out of a slump , she said .
During quarantine , she would find ways to keep busy -- FaceTime with friends , doing her makeup , and making YouTube videos .
Ava became a childhood cancer advocate and was featured on `` The Ellen Show '' for her survival spirit .
Her story is now part of Twist Out Cancer 's Resilience Campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from cancer survivors who have experienced isolation and loneliness .
It features videos of survivors offering tips to help people cope with the COVID-19 lockdown .
`` The kind of anxiety and uncertainty that all of us are facing due to COVID-19 is what cancer survivors face all the time , '' said Jenna Benn Shersher , founder and CEO of Twist Out Cancer .
`` It 's the what-ifs , not knowing when it 's going to end , what the future will hold ... questions that all of us are grappling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancer survivor who grew up in Glencoe , started the international nonprofit to provide psychosocial support to anyone touched by cancer through creative arts programming .
`` We have seen incredible stories of resilience , strength and perseverance , '' Shersher said .
`` Being able to use the tools and resources that they have acquired over time is really relevant . ''
The Resilience Campaign 's goal is helping people come together to talk about the collective COVID-19 experience .
Anyone touched by cancer can submit personal videos at twistoutcancer.org/resilience .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Out Cancer also is offering free virtual art therapy sessions every Tuesday and survival strategies .
Even when life eventually goes back to normal , many people might have a hard time reintegrating into society , much like recovering cancer patients tiptoeing back into the world .
In that post-COVID-19 era , whether it 's returning to full-time work at the office , eating out at restaurants , going to the movies or attending parties , `` everyone has to determine their comfort level in how they interact with each other again , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very easy when those decisions are made for us , '' she said .
`` The sooner we can accept that life is not going to be the same as it was , the quicker it is going to be to properly cope with this . ''

Cancer survivors share tips on how to stay resilient during quarantine
Ava Blaser participates in a Five Dance Wear model shoot in Utah during treatment for her cancer in July 2018. Her story of resilience is part of a new campaign aimed at helping people cope with quarantine. Courtesy of Michelle Boley/Fivedanceware.com
Ava Blaser, 12, of Wheaton, is a two-time cancer survivor who was featured on The Ellen Show in 2018. She is sharing her experiences with cancer and isolation to help people face quarantine due to the COVID-19 lockdown as part of Twist Out Cancer's Resilience Campaign. Courtesy of Blaser family
Twelve-year-old Ava Blaser of Wheaton, center, with her sister Emma and brother Austin. Ava is a two-time cancer survivor who was once featured on "The Ellen Show" and now talks about how her experiences with cancer and isolation can help people cope with the COVID-19 lockdown. Courtesy of Blaser family
A two-time cancer survivor, Ava was featured on "The Ellen Show" in 2018 and now talks about how her experiences with cancer can help others cope. Courtesy of Blaser family
Ava Blaser dances during a competition two weeks into beginning treatment after her cancer relapsed. Dancing is what helped Ava survive cancer twice and cope with isolation. Courtesy of Star Dance Alliance
Dancing was an escape for Ava Blaser and played a big part in her journey as a two-time cancer survivor.
It's how she coped during weeks of isolation to safeguard her weakened immune system while undergoing chemotherapy.
Ava, 12, of Wheaton, believes her experiences with cancer can help others deal with self-isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She's now is part of an international effort called the Resilience Campaign that's aimed at highlighting the importance of quarantining and promoting coping strategies from lessons learned by cancer survivors.
"I would say to just be thankful that you are here and healthy," Ava said of stay-at-home orders. "I lost two of my best friends to childhood cancer, and they would give anything to be inside. Compared to cancer, this is just a small inconvenience to stay home."
Ava would know. She was diagnosed in 2011 with stage 5 bilateral Wilms tumor in both kidneys. The diagnosis came five days after her first dance recital. She was 3 years old.
After 12 weeks of chemotherapy to shrink multiple tumors, doctors removed Ava's left kidney and part of her right. She then had six rounds of radiation to kill off any remaining cancerous growth and another 15 weeks of chemotherapy.
During all that, Ava and her older siblings missed out on a lot of things -- hanging out with friends, birthday parties, and playing in the park.
"I learned your health comes first in that situation no matter how bad you want to see people," Ava said. She realized not being able to do what she wanted "wasn't the worst thing in the world."
She and her siblings enjoyed their time together while being cooped up at home. "We realized the more you follow the rules and stay isolated, the faster it is going to go."
Ava's love of dance -- contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and ballet -- helped her glide through the dreariness of quarantine. "I ended up (dancing) the whole time."
She was cleared in January 2012 but the cancer returned six years later, again confining her to home. After additional chemotherapy and surgeries, Ava was declared cancer free in September 2018.
Through two bouts with cancer, she found a positive attitude goes a long way to getting oneself out of a slump, she said. During quarantine, she would find ways to keep busy -- FaceTime with friends, doing her makeup, and making YouTube videos.
Ava became a childhood cancer advocate and was featured on "The Ellen Show" for her survival spirit. Her story is now part of Twist Out Cancer's Resilience Campaign, which provides daily doses of hope from cancer survivors who have experienced isolation and loneliness. It features videos of survivors offering tips to help people cope with the COVID-19 lockdown.
"The kind of anxiety and uncertainty that all of us are facing due to COVID-19 is what cancer survivors face all the time," said Jenna Benn Shersher, founder and CEO of Twist Out Cancer. "It's the what-ifs, not knowing when it's going to end, what the future will hold ... questions that all of us are grappling with now."
Shersher, a cancer survivor who grew up in Glencoe, started the international nonprofit to provide psychosocial support to anyone touched by cancer through creative arts programming.
"We have seen incredible stories of resilience, strength and perseverance," Shersher said. "Being able to use the tools and resources that they have acquired over time is really relevant."
The Resilience Campaign's goal is helping people come together to talk about the collective COVID-19 experience. Anyone touched by cancer can submit personal videos at twistoutcancer.org/resilience.
To help cope with social distancing, Twist Out Cancer also is offering free virtual art therapy sessions every Tuesday and survival strategies.
Even when life eventually goes back to normal, many people might have a hard time reintegrating into society, much like recovering cancer patients tiptoeing back into the world.
In that post-COVID-19 era, whether it's returning to full-time work at the office, eating out at restaurants, going to the movies or attending parties, "everyone has to determine their comfort level in how they interact with each other again," Shersher said.
"It's very easy when those decisions are made for us," she said. "The sooner we can accept that life is not going to be the same as it was, the quicker it is going to be to properly cope with this."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-18--'It's heartbreaking for our athletes': Prep sports community reacts to schools closing

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's announcement Friday that all schools will be closed for the remainder of the academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic was met with sadness and frustration , but also understanding by the high school sports community .
`` It 's not a surprise but it 's very disappointing , '' said Naperville North athletic director Bob Quinn .
`` It 's heartbreaking for our athletes , our coaches and our families .
We 're relying on medical professionals and for that reason we 'll follow the guidelines . ''
The closing of schools until at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of the 2019-20 high school sports season , although the Illinois High School Association did not make that immediate determination Friday .
`` The IHSA board of directors is scheduled to meet via video conference on Tuesday , '' IHSA executive director Craig Anderson said in a statement Friday after the governor 's announcement .
`` At that meeting , the board will make a final determination on the IHSA 's spring sport state tournaments based on the governor 's announcement that Illinois high schools will not return to in-person learning this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indicated , the cessation of in-person learning will make it difficult for the IHSA to conduct spring state tournaments this year .
More information will be provided following Tuesday 's board meeting . ''
Coaches and athletic directors from across the suburbs had similar reactions of disappointment and understanding .
`` The announcement does n't come as surprise , '' said Barrington athletic director Mike Obsuszt .
`` We 're very , very disappointed we are not going to be able to have our athletes participating this spring .
Obviously , though , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No .
1 priority at this point as well as the health of everyone else . ''
This is Mike Schmidt 's 25th year coaching the Burlington Central boys track and field team .
The Rockets had nine seniors on a team Schmidt said had the potential to win a state trophy .
`` They do n't get to fulfill everything they have worked so hard for , '' Schmidt said .
`` That 's the most frustrating thing .
The hard work and dedication to their sport is not going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some it 's the end of their careers , some will go on to college .
For those who this is it it 's a sad day . ''
Steve May , Wheeling 's assistant principal/student activities said : `` It 's really disappointing that a lot of these kids who only play one sport .
They 've geared up for their spring season and the seniors are losing out on their final opportunities .
It 's sad for them .
`` I just had a meeting with all my spring coaches and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they do , They love interacting with the student/athletes .
They love the competition .
I 'm just sad for everyone -- parents , teachers coaches , everyone . ''
Grayslake Central baseball coach Troy Whalen was trying Friday to determine how to speak to his players .
`` Illinois was one of the last states holding on and everyone had a small glimmer of hope for spring sports , '' Whalen said .
`` But most people saw this coming .
It 's just like anything else though .
Once you hear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , especially for the seniors .
`` I have a Zoom call with my seniors later today , just the seniors , and it 's a call that I never in my wildest imagination thought I would ever be on .
I 've been thinking about what I 'm going to say and I 'm sure it will get emotional .
I know it will for me .
The first thing I 'm going to tell them is that as a coach , I feel robbed of getting to spend time this season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're never going to get that time back and that 's tough . ''
Burlington 's Schmidt also has the perspective as a parent .
His son Zac is a sophomore on the track team .
`` Equally frustrating but from a different angle of seeing the progress and the ability to achieve greater things and see him enjoy time with his teammates , '' Schmidt said .
`` And for us as parents to go watch him .
There 's a finite amount of time you get to see your kid play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes away a little bit more of that . ''
Rob Harvey , Wheaton Warrenville South girls track and field coach who is also the father of a South Elgin boys track and field athlete , said it 's not about winning and losing .
`` The winning and losing , those are secondary , '' Harvey said .
`` Yeah , we have some kids on our team that would have possibly run for state championships or all-state medals and conference championships and all those type of things .
But those are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coaches and teachers try to create for kids .
Those moments , you ca n't get those back , and it breaks my heart .
`` From a personal standpoint , I miss my kids .
I miss my teaching .
I miss the kids I see in second period and third and fifth and all the way through the day .
What I do n't think kids understand is that they are a really , really big part of our life , the kids we teach and really as high school coaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many of them go on and become lifelong friends .
They 're huge , huge , parts of our lives .
And we do n't know when we 'll see them again . ''
St. Charles East 's softball team was hoping to make a return trip to the state tournament .
The Saints lost 1-0 to Huntley in last year 's Class 4A state title game .
While disappointed not to have that opportunity , that 's not what Saints coach Jarod Gutesha said he 's going to miss the most .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's the day-to-day , the practices , the day-to-day stuff is toughest , '' Gutesha said .
`` I 'd love 3 to 5 when we are dialed into softball .
Hitting ground balls , getting better .
Having the kids make those bonds .
That 's the stuff I miss the most as a coach is the day-to-day . ''
Stevenson 's girls water polo team is the three-time defending state champion and had run its current winning streak to 70 .
`` It 's only logical right now , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday 's decision .
`` First and foremost , and I 've said this to kids for 30-something years , health is more important than anything .
Without health , you have nothing .
And right now it 's health with your family and health with everyone .
Every time I see and talk to anyone , I finish by saying , 'Stay healthy . '
`` Larkin athletic director Ethan Karolczak placed an emphasis on education .
`` It was n't necessarily unexpected but it 's still disappointing and it 's kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` My text message alert is blowing up .
I 've gotten 22 text messages from athletic directors in the last five minutes .
It 's kind of surreal for us , too .
Now our job is doing everything we can to make sure that our student-athletes are still learning .
He ( Gov .
Pritzker ) did n't say learning was closed .
`` It 's unfortunate , but I believe that if the medical health experts and the state officials think it 's in the best interests of keeping everybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a sacrifice we 're all going to have to make .
That 's our priority . ''
Naperville North girls soccer coach Steve Goletz also said health and safety have to come first .
`` I think as the date kept getting pushed back the hope continued to get smaller and smaller and then once the word came out today it was one of those things where it feels like , all right , what can we really do ?
But the health and safety of everybody is paramount in this situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know the kids and families understand that , but it does n't make it any easier for especially senior athletes to swallow .
`` As you watch these press conferences that happen , you continue to see some signs that just point you towards , what is normal going to be again and what is normal going to look like ?
For our kids it 's hard to wrap your head around that because it 's hard for us as adults to wrap your head around it .
There 's only so much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sting out of the losses that they 're incurring over the last month here . ''
`` You kind of knew this was expected but when the finality actually happens , yeah , it 's sad , '' he said .
`` You just feel awful for the athletes , especially the seniors .
The next thing is we hope we can get together again in the summer . ''
• Daily Herald sports writers Orrin Schwarz , John Lemon , Joe Aguilar , Kevin Schmit , Dave Oberhelman , John Leusch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story .

'It's heartbreaking for our athletes': Prep sports community reacts to schools closing
High school sports will likely not return in Illinois this spring after Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Friday the state's schools will remain closed for the remainder of the academic year. Daily Herald File Photo
Gov. J.B. Pritzker's announcement Friday that all schools will be closed for the remainder of the academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic was met with sadness and frustration, but also understanding by the high school sports community.
"It's not a surprise but it's very disappointing," said Naperville North athletic director Bob Quinn. "It's heartbreaking for our athletes, our coaches and our families. We're relying on medical professionals and for that reason we'll follow the guidelines."
The closing of schools until at least August will likely also mean the end of the 2019-20 high school sports season, although the Illinois High School Association did not make that immediate determination Friday.
"The IHSA board of directors is scheduled to meet via video conference on Tuesday," IHSA executive director Craig Anderson said in a statement Friday after the governor's announcement. "At that meeting, the board will make a final determination on the IHSA's spring sport state tournaments based on the governor's announcement that Illinois high schools will not return to in-person learning this school year.
"As we previously indicated, the cessation of in-person learning will make it difficult for the IHSA to conduct spring state tournaments this year. More information will be provided following Tuesday's board meeting."
Coaches and athletic directors from across the suburbs had similar reactions of disappointment and understanding.
"The announcement doesn't come as surprise," said Barrington athletic director Mike Obsuszt. "We're very, very disappointed we are not going to be able to have our athletes participating this spring. Obviously, though, the health of our students in the No. 1 priority at this point as well as the health of everyone else."
This is Mike Schmidt's 25th year coaching the Burlington Central boys track and field team. The Rockets had nine seniors on a team Schmidt said had the potential to win a state trophy.
"They don't get to fulfill everything they have worked so hard for," Schmidt said. "That's the most frustrating thing. The hard work and dedication to their sport is not going to be fulfilled for this year anyway. For some it's the end of their careers, some will go on to college. For those who this is it it's a sad day."
Steve May, Wheeling's assistant principal/student activities said: "It's really disappointing that a lot of these kids who only play one sport. They've geared up for their spring season and the seniors are losing out on their final opportunities. It's sad for them.
"I just had a meeting with all my spring coaches and they're devastated because they love what they do, They love interacting with the student/athletes. They love the competition. I'm just sad for everyone -- parents, teachers coaches, everyone."
Grayslake Central baseball coach Troy Whalen was trying Friday to determine how to speak to his players.
"Illinois was one of the last states holding on and everyone had a small glimmer of hope for spring sports," Whalen said. "But most people saw this coming. It's just like anything else though. Once you hear that final message, it's tough, especially for the seniors.
"I have a Zoom call with my seniors later today, just the seniors, and it's a call that I never in my wildest imagination thought I would ever be on. I've been thinking about what I'm going to say and I'm sure it will get emotional. I know it will for me. The first thing I'm going to tell them is that as a coach, I feel robbed of getting to spend time this season with some really great seniors. You're never going to get that time back and that's tough."
Burlington's Schmidt also has the perspective as a parent. His son Zac is a sophomore on the track team.
"Equally frustrating but from a different angle of seeing the progress and the ability to achieve greater things and see him enjoy time with his teammates," Schmidt said. "And for us as parents to go watch him. There's a finite amount of time you get to see your kid play sports in high school and this just takes away a little bit more of that."
Rob Harvey, Wheaton Warrenville South girls track and field coach who is also the father of a South Elgin boys track and field athlete, said it's not about winning and losing.
"The winning and losing, those are secondary," Harvey said. "Yeah, we have some kids on our team that would have possibly run for state championships or all-state medals and conference championships and all those type of things. But those are secondary to the moments that we as coaches and teachers try to create for kids. Those moments, you can't get those back, and it breaks my heart.
"From a personal standpoint, I miss my kids. I miss my teaching. I miss the kids I see in second period and third and fifth and all the way through the day. What I don't think kids understand is that they are a really, really big part of our life, the kids we teach and really as high school coaches, the kids that we coach. Many of them go on and become lifelong friends. They're huge, huge, parts of our lives. And we don't know when we'll see them again."
St. Charles East's softball team was hoping to make a return trip to the state tournament. The Saints lost 1-0 to Huntley in last year's Class 4A state title game.
While disappointed not to have that opportunity, that's not what Saints coach Jarod Gutesha said he's going to miss the most.
"It's not the end, it's the day-to-day, the practices, the day-to-day stuff is toughest," Gutesha said. "I'd love 3 to 5 when we are dialed into softball. Hitting ground balls, getting better. Having the kids make those bonds. That's the stuff I miss the most as a coach is the day-to-day."
Stevenson's girls water polo team is the three-time defending state champion and had run its current winning streak to 70.
"It's only logical right now," said Patriots' coach Jeff Wimer of Friday's decision. "First and foremost, and I've said this to kids for 30-something years, health is more important than anything. Without health, you have nothing. And right now it's health with your family and health with everyone. Every time I see and talk to anyone, I finish by saying, 'Stay healthy.' "
Larkin athletic director Ethan Karolczak placed an emphasis on education.
"It wasn't necessarily unexpected but it's still disappointing and it's kind of surreal," he said. "My text message alert is blowing up. I've gotten 22 text messages from athletic directors in the last five minutes. It's kind of surreal for us, too. Now our job is doing everything we can to make sure that our student-athletes are still learning. He (Gov. Pritzker) didn't say learning was closed.
"It's unfortunate, but I believe that if the medical health experts and the state officials think it's in the best interests of keeping everybody alive and keeping everybody safe, it's a sacrifice we're all going to have to make. That's our priority."
Naperville North girls soccer coach Steve Goletz also said health and safety have to come first.
"I think as the date kept getting pushed back the hope continued to get smaller and smaller and then once the word came out today it was one of those things where it feels like, all right, what can we really do? But the health and safety of everybody is paramount in this situation," Goletz said. "I know the kids and families understand that, but it doesn't make it any easier for especially senior athletes to swallow.
"As you watch these press conferences that happen, you continue to see some signs that just point you towards, what is normal going to be again and what is normal going to look like? For our kids it's hard to wrap your head around that because it's hard for us as adults to wrap your head around it. There's only so much you can say to kids to take the sting out of the losses that they're incurring over the last month here."
WW South AD Mike Healy looked to the future.
"You kind of knew this was expected but when the finality actually happens, yeah, it's sad," he said. "You just feel awful for the athletes, especially the seniors. The next thing is we hope we can get together again in the summer."
• Daily Herald sports writers Orrin Schwarz, John Lemon, Joe Aguilar, Kevin Schmit, Dave Oberhelman, John Leusch and Patricia Babcock McGraw contributed to this story.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-04-17--Rozner: 'The Last Dance' is a painful reminder that Bulls could have had 1 more season

The grand contradiction of `` The Last Dance '' is so very simple and yet maddeningly elusive to all but a few who were right in the middle of it .
The truth is that it did n't have to end when it did .
What is almost certain to be ESPN 's best production ever -- and so desperately needed as it begins Sunday night -- will probably include certain revisions of history .
That wo n't make it any less compelling .
When the greatest athlete of all time -- yeah , greatest basketball player is a hopelessly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there ca n't be enough of it .
It will be extraordinary .
But with the lockout of 1998-99 shortening the season to 50 games , it would have been the perfect rest for a Bulls team that was on fumes when Michael Jordan finished off the Jazz in Utah in June 1998 .
There was one more title in that group if only Phil Jackson had allowed it to happen .
Naturally , the blame will all be dropped on the late Jerry Krause , convenient since he 's no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was any good at it when he was alive .
A victim of bullying and anti-Semitism for much of his childhood and into his professional life , Krause 's ego and insecurities -- and lust for credit -- often got in the way when he spoke , even when he was trying to say the right thing .
But it was Jackson who declared that the 1997-98 season would be his last coaching the Bulls , knowing that Jordan had said he would never play for another coach .
Jackson gave 23 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last deal , he told the Bulls that would be the end , which the Bulls and Krause then announced .
Jackson was not as certain as that final season played out , offering up the possibility that circumstances might allow a return .
As late as April of that year , Jackson waffled in an ESPN interview , to which Jordan cracked the door , saying , `` I 'm pretty sure there 's been some burned bridges this season .
... We 'll have to see what happens when people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There was flipping and flopping all season .
Then in July 1998 -- yes , July -- and a week after hiring Tim Floyd as the next head coach , while sitting at breakfast Krause told me for a Daily Herald column , `` We have n't given up on the idea ( of signing Jackson for another year ) just because of what was said ( in the past ) .
`` Time is not an enemy here and in time people sometimes change their minds .
Time changes things and you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Krause thought the door remained open for Jerry Reinsdorf to make another trip to Montana with another personal plea to Jackson , especially since the league was shut down and there would be no NBA for a while .
`` We 're not sure how we 'll go about it or when , or whether he 'll say 'yes ' or 'no , ' but we will talk to him , '' Krause said .
`` Time is not a problem here , but as far as the timing goes , we want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
`` Tim ( Floyd ) has to go about his job as head coach of the Bulls , but what most people do n't realize is that it was Tim 's idea to offer Phil the job again because he wants what 's best for the organization and what 's best for Michael Jordan .
`` He cares about those things a lot .
He hopes Michael and Phil return , but until then someone has to get ready for next year . ''
Despite repeated attempts by Jerrys Reinsdorf and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he obviously refused .
It was an exhausting and daily grind those last few years for anyone working for or around the Bulls , the sniping and griping a constant , not one of them without blame and all acting frequently like children .
No one was ever satisfied .
Thirsty egos could not desire enough and suffering followed .
In the process , they robbed Chicago -- and each other -- of an opportunity to extend the dynasty .
It 's something to keep in mind , though no less reason to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Last Dance , '' which begins Sunday night at 8 p.m. with two parts , and offers two episodes every Sunday for five weeks .
The lens through which you view it is less important than the opportunity to visit with the GOAT .
There may never be another quite like it .

Rozner: 'The Last Dance' is a painful reminder that Bulls could have had 1 more season
Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson share a few words during a game in April 1996 against the Heat in Miami. Two years later their partnership and the Bulls' dynasty would end. Courtesy of Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE Via Getty Images
The grand contradiction of "The Last Dance" is so very simple and yet maddeningly elusive to all but a few who were right in the middle of it.
The truth is that it didn't have to end when it did.
What is almost certain to be ESPN's best production ever -- and so desperately needed as it begins Sunday night -- will probably include certain revisions of history.
That won't make it any less compelling. When the greatest athlete of all time -- yeah, greatest basketball player is a hopelessly insufficient title -- is on the screen, there can't be enough of it.
It will be extraordinary.
But with the lockout of 1998-99 shortening the season to 50 games, it would have been the perfect rest for a Bulls team that was on fumes when Michael Jordan finished off the Jazz in Utah in June 1998.
There was one more title in that group if only Phil Jackson had allowed it to happen. Naturally, the blame will all be dropped on the late Jerry Krause, convenient since he's no longer here to defend himself.
Not that he was any good at it when he was alive.
A victim of bullying and anti-Semitism for much of his childhood and into his professional life, Krause's ego and insecurities -- and lust for credit -- often got in the way when he spoke, even when he was trying to say the right thing.
But it was Jackson who declared that the 1997-98 season would be his last coaching the Bulls, knowing that Jordan had said he would never play for another coach.
Jackson gave 23 no way out.
When signing his last deal, he told the Bulls that would be the end, which the Bulls and Krause then announced. Jackson was not as certain as that final season played out, offering up the possibility that circumstances might allow a return.
As late as April of that year, Jackson waffled in an ESPN interview, to which Jordan cracked the door, saying, "I'm pretty sure there's been some burned bridges this season. ... We'll have to see what happens when people are in a more jovial mood."
There was flipping and flopping all season.
Then in July 1998 -- yes, July -- and a week after hiring Tim Floyd as the next head coach, while sitting at breakfast Krause told me for a Daily Herald column, "We haven't given up on the idea (of signing Jackson for another year) just because of what was said (in the past).
"Time is not an enemy here and in time people sometimes change their minds. Time changes things and you never know what might happen."
Krause thought the door remained open for Jerry Reinsdorf to make another trip to Montana with another personal plea to Jackson, especially since the league was shut down and there would be no NBA for a while.
"We're not sure how we'll go about it or when, or whether he'll say 'yes' or 'no,' but we will talk to him," Krause said. "Time is not a problem here, but as far as the timing goes, we want to make sure it's the right time.
"Tim (Floyd) has to go about his job as head coach of the Bulls, but what most people don't realize is that it was Tim's idea to offer Phil the job again because he wants what's best for the organization and what's best for Michael Jordan.
"He cares about those things a lot. He hopes Michael and Phil return, but until then someone has to get ready for next year."
Despite repeated attempts by Jerrys Reinsdorf and Krause to get Jackson to reconsider, he obviously refused.
It was an exhausting and daily grind those last few years for anyone working for or around the Bulls, the sniping and griping a constant, not one of them without blame and all acting frequently like children.
No one was ever satisfied. Thirsty egos could not desire enough and suffering followed.
In the process, they robbed Chicago -- and each other -- of an opportunity to extend the dynasty.
It's something to keep in mind, though no less reason to bask in the glory of the "The Last Dance," which begins Sunday night at 8 p.m. with two parts, and offers two episodes every Sunday for five weeks.
The lens through which you view it is less important than the opportunity to visit with the GOAT.
There may never be another quite like it.