dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--U-46 now will start new school year with remote learning

Elgin Area School District U-46 is planning to start the school year next month with distance learning for all students , reversing an earlier decision to begin the fall semester using a hybrid model of in-person and online instruction .
After analyzing the results of a survey of parents and employees , district officials acknowledged there remains much apprehension about starting school in-person with lingering uncertainties over the COVID-19 pandemic and a surge in cases nationwide .
Superintendent Tony Sanders said the loss of a student or staff member as a result of the decision to reopen schools is unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like we usually do at the beginning of a school year where all the buses roll out of the transportation department , where every classroom teacher is back in a classroom , what I see this year going as is more of a dimmer switch , '' Sanders said .
`` We will remain predominantly in distance learning through the first quarter with schools bringing in students in much smaller groups in much more manageable sizes .
In our planning , we continue to rely upon the guidance of federal , state , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Illinois State Board of Education will be releasing further guidance for reopening schools this week , which may impact the district 's plan .
`` We recognize we must operate in concert with these agencies to best protect our students and our communities , '' he said .
More than 3,000 employees and 13,000 families provided feedback in the survey conducted last month .
Staff members and families sought certain assurances for reopening schools , including strict 6-foot social distancing and limiting group sizes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all times , and clear protocols for communicating cases of COVID-19 .
Nearly 40 % of families said they would allow their children to return to school based on whatever safeguards the district implements .
Roughly 31 % said they would only allow a return to classrooms with strict 6-foot social distancing and possibly limiting the number of students in the building at one time , and mandatory masks .
About 17 % said they would only allow students to return once the state enters Phase 5 of its reopening plan , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their children to return for any in-person instruction .
Among employees , 44 % approved of returning to in-person classroom instruction , 34 % said they would only return with strict social distancing , 16 % favored returning to in-person classes only in Phase 5 , and 5 % were entirely opposed to in-person classes .
To reopen schools under the state 's Phase 4 guidelines , U-46 must ensure everyone within a school is wearing a mask with rare exceptions , not allow more than 50 people to gather within a space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing whenever possible .
If the district ca n't adhere to that 6-foot rule , local health departments would require it quarantine any families that were in contact for more than 15 minutes at less than 6 feet .
The district also must have a process for symptom screening and cleaning and disinfecting spaces , Sanders said .
`` For these reasons ... we will start off with full-time online learning , '' Sanders said .
That will last through Oct. 9 .
During that time , access to buildings will be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lab work and Individualized Education Program requirements .
Small groups of students will be brought in to acclimate them to what school looks like in the COVID-19 era , officials said .
Priority access will be allowed in small groups for English Language Learner , special education , early childhood and kindergarten students .
The district also will work with Right at School and community partners to provide child care from its high schools , officials said .
Beginning Oct. 12 , officials hope to move elementary and middle school students to hybrid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of students in a school building at a time or on alternating days , and offering a combination of face-to-face instruction and online learning .
High school students would continue online learning with limited building access to small groups for career and technical education ( CTE ) programs , labs , specialized courses of study , and students needing interventions or supports .
`` If cases continue to climb and we return to Phase 3 , Phase 2 or Phase 1 , we will be in all distance learning across U-46 , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to plan with any certainty beyond quarter one given the quick-changing landscape of this pandemic .
It does not appear likely that we will be in a position to move to Phase 5 in the fall of 2020 . ''

U-46 now will start new school year with remote learning
U-46 Superintendent Tony Sanders said the loss of a student or staff member as a result of the decision to reopen schools is unacceptable. file photo
Elgin Area School District U-46 is planning to start the school year next month with distance learning for all students, reversing an earlier decision to begin the fall semester using a hybrid model of in-person and online instruction.
After analyzing the results of a survey of parents and employees, district officials acknowledged there remains much apprehension about starting school in-person with lingering uncertainties over the COVID-19 pandemic and a surge in cases nationwide.
Superintendent Tony Sanders said the loss of a student or staff member as a result of the decision to reopen schools is unacceptable.
"Rather than flipping a switch like we usually do at the beginning of a school year where all the buses roll out of the transportation department, where every classroom teacher is back in a classroom, what I see this year going as is more of a dimmer switch," Sanders said. "We will remain predominantly in distance learning through the first quarter with schools bringing in students in much smaller groups in much more manageable sizes. In our planning, we continue to rely upon the guidance of federal, state, and local authorities."
Sanders said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Illinois State Board of Education will be releasing further guidance for reopening schools this week, which may impact the district's plan.
"We recognize we must operate in concert with these agencies to best protect our students and our communities," he said.
More than 3,000 employees and 13,000 families provided feedback in the survey conducted last month. Staff members and families sought certain assurances for reopening schools, including strict 6-foot social distancing and limiting group sizes, the use of face coverings at all times, and clear protocols for communicating cases of COVID-19.
Nearly 40% of families said they would allow their children to return to school based on whatever safeguards the district implements. Roughly 31% said they would only allow a return to classrooms with strict 6-foot social distancing and possibly limiting the number of students in the building at one time, and mandatory masks. About 17% said they would only allow students to return once the state enters Phase 5 of its reopening plan, while 12% said they would not allow their children to return for any in-person instruction.
Among employees, 44% approved of returning to in-person classroom instruction, 34% said they would only return with strict social distancing, 16% favored returning to in-person classes only in Phase 5, and 5% were entirely opposed to in-person classes.
To reopen schools under the state's Phase 4 guidelines, U-46 must ensure everyone within a school is wearing a mask with rare exceptions, not allow more than 50 people to gather within a space, and require 6 feet of social distancing whenever possible. If the district can't adhere to that 6-foot rule, local health departments would require it quarantine any families that were in contact for more than 15 minutes at less than 6 feet. The district also must have a process for symptom screening and cleaning and disinfecting spaces, Sanders said.
"For these reasons ... we will start off with full-time online learning," Sanders said.
That will last through Oct. 9. During that time, access to buildings will be allowed for specific purposes, such as for lab work and Individualized Education Program requirements. Small groups of students will be brought in to acclimate them to what school looks like in the COVID-19 era, officials said.
Priority access will be allowed in small groups for English Language Learner, special education, early childhood and kindergarten students. The district also will work with Right at School and community partners to provide child care from its high schools, officials said.
Beginning Oct. 12, officials hope to move elementary and middle school students to hybrid learning, potentially allowing half the number of students in a school building at a time or on alternating days, and offering a combination of face-to-face instruction and online learning.
High school students would continue online learning with limited building access to small groups for career and technical education (CTE) programs, labs, specialized courses of study, and students needing interventions or supports.
"If cases continue to climb and we return to Phase 3, Phase 2 or Phase 1, we will be in all distance learning across U-46," Sanders said. "It is impossible to plan with any certainty beyond quarter one given the quick-changing landscape of this pandemic. It does not appear likely that we will be in a position to move to Phase 5 in the fall of 2020."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Long Grove might rename Robert Parker Coffin Road

Long Grove village board members are considering a proposal to bring back the original name for the downtown thoroughfare now known as Robert Parker Coffin Road - an idea supported by his family and one that proponents say would provide an identification boost while still honoring a late founding father .
Coffin 's name replaced Long Grove Road in the downtown area in the 1980s , officials said .
However , with Long Grove about to reopen its signature covered bridge and attracting more businesses downtown , Village President Bill Jacob said a name change would come at a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been some confusion on why Long Grove Road does n't go into ( downtown ) Long Grove , '' Jacob said .
Under the proposal , the name Long Grove Road would officially return to the stretch from Route 83 on the east to Route 53 on the west , with Coffin 's name posted on honorary street signs along the route .
The village also would name the 114-year-old bridge for him .
Coffin , who was 101 when he died in June 2019 , was among the first trustees when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was village president from 1959 to 1981 and went on to volunteer on the advisory plan commission for 22 years , holding firm on keeping the town 's rural character .
Barbara Coffin said while her father was flattered by the road being named for him , he would support the return to the original name .
The family backs the proposal , she said , calling it a `` perfect '' idea to have the bridge named for her father .
`` We understand it 's a rather long , awkward name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grove Road runs about four miles , but barely goes through its namesake village .
It starts on the west at Ela Road near Barrington , going about 2.5 miles through unincorporated Lake County and Deer Park , then another mile east of Rand Road through Kildeer .
Only a half-mile of Long Grove Road goes through the village before ending at Route 53 .
While Jacob and other proponents say the change would help with downtown branding and other efforts to boost businesses , some Long Grove officials are questioning the idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addressed a second time at an upcoming village board meeting .
Trustee Jennifer Michaud floated the idea of replacing Coffin Road with Covered Bridge Road .
She also expressed concern about unwanted traffic .
`` I have serious concerns that if we have two Long Grove Roads that we 're going to have even more people trying to get from one Long Grove to the other Long Grove , '' Michaud said .
Insurance company owner Ryan Messner , whose office is near the downtown bridge that 's on the National Register of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses operators would like a return to Long Grove Road .
Some customers inquire about the word `` coffin '' in the current street name .
`` Especially now that our ( road and bridge ) construction is done , what a better way to kick off the new Long Grove by bringing back our old road name , '' Messner said .
Soon after becoming a national landmark , the one-lane covered bridge downtown was hit by a box truck on June 27 , 2018 .
With renovations including a new timber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bridge over Buffalo Creek to reopen in a matter of weeks .
Constructed in 1906 by the Joliet Bridge and Iron Co. , the span is a rare surviving example of a pin-connected pony truss bridge built for an urban setting , according to documents submitted for the national landmark process .
One of Coffin 's many lasting contributions was designing the bridge cover , which was added in 1972 to protect it .
Jacob said the village would look into installing a plaque recognizing Coffin if the bridge receives his name @

Long Grove might rename Robert Parker Coffin Road
This is Long Grove Road west of Rand Road near Deer Park. Village officials are considering a return to that original name for Robert Parker Coffin Road in the downtown. Coffin's name would go on honorary street signs and on the historic covered bridge downtown. Bob Susnjara
Long Grove officials are considering changing the name of Robert Parker Coffin Road in the village's downtown back to its original name,. Long Grove Road. Coffin's name would go on honorary street signs and on the historic covered bridge downtown. Bob Susnjara
Long Grove village board members are considering a proposal to bring back the original name for the downtown thoroughfare now known as Robert Parker Coffin Road - an idea supported by his family and one that proponents say would provide an identification boost while still honoring a late founding father.
Coffin's name replaced Long Grove Road in the downtown area in the 1980s, officials said. However, with Long Grove about to reopen its signature covered bridge and attracting more businesses downtown, Village President Bill Jacob said a name change would come at a good time.
"There' s always been some confusion on why Long Grove Road doesn't go into (downtown) Long Grove," Jacob said.
Under the proposal, the name Long Grove Road would officially return to the stretch from Route 83 on the east to Route 53 on the west, with Coffin's name posted on honorary street signs along the route. The village also would name the 114-year-old bridge for him.
Coffin, who was 101 when he died in June 2019, was among the first trustees when the village was incorporated in 1956. He was village president from 1959 to 1981 and went on to volunteer on the advisory plan commission for 22 years, holding firm on keeping the town's rural character.
Barbara Coffin said while her father was flattered by the road being named for him, he would support the return to the original name. The family backs the proposal, she said, calling it a "perfect" idea to have the bridge named for her father.
"We understand it's a rather long, awkward name," Coffin said Tuesday.
Long Grove Road runs about four miles, but barely goes through its namesake village. It starts on the west at Ela Road near Barrington, going about 2.5 miles through unincorporated Lake County and Deer Park, then another mile east of Rand Road through Kildeer.
Only a half-mile of Long Grove Road goes through the village before ending at Route 53.
While Jacob and other proponents say the change would help with downtown branding and other efforts to boost businesses, some Long Grove officials are questioning the idea. The issue is expected to be addressed a second time at an upcoming village board meeting.
Trustee Jennifer Michaud floated the idea of replacing Coffin Road with Covered Bridge Road. She also expressed concern about unwanted traffic.
"I have serious concerns that if we have two Long Grove Roads that we're going to have even more people trying to get from one Long Grove to the other Long Grove," Michaud said.
Insurance company owner Ryan Messner, whose office is near the downtown bridge that's on the National Register of Historic Places, said he and other businesses operators would like a return to Long Grove Road. Some customers inquire about the word "coffin" in the current street name.
"Especially now that our (road and bridge) construction is done, what a better way to kick off the new Long Grove by bringing back our old road name," Messner said.
Soon after becoming a national landmark, the one-lane covered bridge downtown was hit by a box truck on June 27, 2018. With renovations including a new timber cover nearly finished, village officials expect the bridge over Buffalo Creek to reopen in a matter of weeks.
Constructed in 1906 by the Joliet Bridge and Iron Co., the span is a rare surviving example of a pin-connected pony truss bridge built for an urban setting, according to documents submitted for the national landmark process.
One of Coffin's many lasting contributions was designing the bridge cover, which was added in 1972 to protect it. Jacob said the village would look into installing a plaque recognizing Coffin if the bridge receives his name.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Arlington Heights trustees favor affordable housing ordinance

Arlington Heights is poised to become one of eight municipalities in the Chicago area that has an affordable housing ordinance on the books .
The new rules , agreed to Monday night by the village board , would put more teeth into guidelines that have been in place since 2008 , but have been largely unrealistic and unenforceable with every proposed development project that has come to town , officials say .
Though eight board members present for Monday 's meeting expressed their support for the new housing standards , a final vote on the five-page ordinance is expected at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It calls for certain percentages of new construction apartments to be priced below market rates , allows developers to pay fees to a village housing trust fund in some cases , and would charge an impact fee to discourage teardowns of older , smaller homes .
`` We know it does n't go as far as some people would like .
We also know it probably goes further than some developers would like , '' said Charles Witherington-Perkins , the village 's director of planning and community development .
`` We 're trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come up with an implementable ordinance that wo n't scare development away , while still allow the ability to get affordable units in Arlington Heights . ''
Under the ordinance , the village would charge a so-called $ 3,500 linkage fee to developers who demolish older , more affordable homes and replace them with newer , more expensive ones .
Such a fee would represent about 0.4 % of a new home 's list price .
Trustees Mary Beth Canty and Rich Baldino said they thought the proposed fee was too low , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's a starting point and can be amended in the future .
`` It 's kind of a blessing and a curse that we have these market tailwinds that on the one hand allow us to improve our housing stock and keep them from falling into disrepair , '' Recklaus said .
`` But on the other hand obviously we do n't want to have an unchecked market where you 're losing all of your affordable housing , which is something we 've been seeing . ''
The ordinance calls for all new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ units to provide apartments deemed `` affordable , '' which would be priced for those making at or below 60 % of the area median income ( about $ 37,440 for a single person ) .
For the downtown , that would mean 7.5 % of apartments in a building , though a developer could provide a minimum of 5 % while paying the other 2.5 % as a $ 25,000-per-unit fee in lieu .
Outside the downtown , 5 % of units must be below market rates , while publicly-assisted developments are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New rental properties of nine units or less and multi-family for sale developments would not be required to provide cheaper units , but would have to pay fees instead .
Trustee Tom Schwingbeck said he 's glad the ordinance still allows `` room for discussion '' with developers .
That includes a provision allowing the village board to grant relief from strict application of the requirements .
`` The proof is in the pudding , and if we 're seeing developers either walk away from projects or not come to our village in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towns and cities around us , we 're going to have to monitor this closely so we do n't lose some nice opportunities that we 're trying to bring to this village , '' Schwingbeck said .
Other municipalities with affordable housing ordinances are Chicago , Crystal Lake , Evanston , Highland Park , Lake Forest , Oak Park and St. Charles .

Arlington Heights trustees favor affordable housing ordinance
The proposed Arlington 425 residential and commercial campus in downtown Arlington Heights is one recent residential development that was required to provide below-market rate apartments under the village's affordable housing guidelines. The village plans to put guidelines into a formal ordinance next month. Courtesy of Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights is poised to become one of eight municipalities in the Chicago area that has an affordable housing ordinance on the books.
The new rules, agreed to Monday night by the village board, would put more teeth into guidelines that have been in place since 2008, but have been largely unrealistic and unenforceable with every proposed development project that has come to town, officials say.
Though eight board members present for Monday's meeting expressed their support for the new housing standards, a final vote on the five-page ordinance is expected at the next board meeting Aug. 3.
It calls for certain percentages of new construction apartments to be priced below market rates, allows developers to pay fees to a village housing trust fund in some cases, and would charge an impact fee to discourage teardowns of older, smaller homes.
"We know it doesn't go as far as some people would like. We also know it probably goes further than some developers would like," said Charles Witherington-Perkins, the village's director of planning and community development. "We're trying to kind of walk that line to come up with an implementable ordinance that won't scare development away, while still allow the ability to get affordable units in Arlington Heights."
Under the ordinance, the village would charge a so-called $3,500 linkage fee to developers who demolish older, more affordable homes and replace them with newer, more expensive ones. Such a fee would represent about 0.4% of a new home's list price.
Trustees Mary Beth Canty and Rich Baldino said they thought the proposed fee was too low, but Village Manager Randy Recklaus said it's a starting point and can be amended in the future.
"It's kind of a blessing and a curse that we have these market tailwinds that on the one hand allow us to improve our housing stock and keep them from falling into disrepair," Recklaus said. "But on the other hand obviously we don't want to have an unchecked market where you're losing all of your affordable housing, which is something we've been seeing."
The ordinance calls for all new multifamily rental developments of more than nine units to provide apartments deemed "affordable," which would be priced for those making at or below 60% of the area median income (about $37,440 for a single person).
For the downtown, that would mean 7.5% of apartments in a building, though a developer could provide a minimum of 5% while paying the other 2.5% as a $25,000-per-unit fee in lieu.
Outside the downtown, 5% of units must be below market rates, while publicly-assisted developments are held to a 10% standard.
New rental properties of nine units or less and multi-family for sale developments would not be required to provide cheaper units, but would have to pay fees instead.
Trustee Tom Schwingbeck said he's glad the ordinance still allows "room for discussion" with developers. That includes a provision allowing the village board to grant relief from strict application of the requirements.
"The proof is in the pudding, and if we're seeing developers either walk away from projects or not come to our village in the first place, going to other towns and cities around us, we're going to have to monitor this closely so we don't lose some nice opportunities that we're trying to bring to this village," Schwingbeck said.
Other municipalities with affordable housing ordinances are Chicago, Crystal Lake, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Oak Park and St. Charles.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Arson suspected in Naperville fire than displayed 20 people

Twenty people in a Naperville multifamily residential building were displaced as the result of suspected arson on the 700 Block @ @ @ @ @ afternoon .
There were no injuries to any occupants ( 18 adults and two children @ @ @ @ @ the scene .
The cause of the fire was determined to be suspicious , and @ @ @ @ @ uninhabitable after an inspection .
Investigators from the Naperville Fire Investigation Team and Naperville Police @ @ @ @ @ a suspect .
Extra time was taken to extinguish smoldering materials during overhaul and remove @ @ @ @ @ Crews continued to perform salvage and overhaul operations for another 90 minutes after the main @ @ @ @ @

Arson suspected in Naperville fire that displaced 20 people
Twenty people in a Naperville multifamily residential building were displaced as the result of suspected arson on the 700 Block of Inland Circle on Tuesday afternoon.
There were no injuries to any occupants (18 adults and two children) or firefighters operating at the scene.
The cause of the fire was determined to be suspicious, and six occupied units were deemed uninhabitable after an inspection.
Investigators from the Naperville Fire Investigation Team and Naperville Police Department are working to identify a suspect.
At 3:57 p.m., Naperville's Public Safety Answering Point received a fire alarm notification from a first-floor unit.
Extra time was taken to extinguish smoldering materials during overhaul and remove smoke from the building.
Crews continued to perform salvage and overhaul operations for another 90 minutes after the main fire area was extinguished.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Computer problems may delay Daily Herald delivery Wednesday

The Daily Herald is experiencing significant technical difficulties with our systems today that are severely hampering the production of Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ is doing everything in its power to creatively resolve the problems as quickly as possible @ @ @ @ @ apt to lead to late newspaper delivery Wednesday morning and may require some alterations in @ @ @ @ @ newspaper .
The problems also have shut down the company 's phone system , including @ @ @ @ @ Service Department .
If you need to get in touch , email circulation @ dailyherald.com @ @ @ @ @ will be available , as always , on dailyherald.com .
We apologize for any inconvenience @ @ @ @ @ patience .

Daily Herald experiencing technical difficulties
The Daily Herald's computerized operating systems were the target early Tuesday of a sophisticated cyberattack. We are working with several cyber security experts to analyze and resolve the issue, but in the meantime, today's newspaper has fewer sections and pages compared with our standard portfolio.
The functionality of our e-edition is also limited and readers are unable to click on individual stories at this time.
I am so proud of the innovative and tireless staff that worked through myriad problems to create today's newspaper. Miracle truly is the right word for it.
Because of the problems, it's possible delivery of today's newspaper was delayed.
Those challenges required us to streamline the newspaper and alter some of its normal design. In that regard, today's paper was condensed.
The cyberattack also shut down our phone system, including the line to our Customer Service Department. If you need to get in touch, please email circulation@dailyherald.com.
As always, up-to-the-minute news and advertising is available at dailyherald.com, and your print subscription provides you with complete access to it.
It is difficult to tell how long the newspaper will be affected by this criminal attack. But please be assured that our staff is working tirelessly to address the challenges. And that we're committed, as always, to serving you.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
Thank you for reading. Stay well.
John Lampinen
Editor


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--July 21 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code code

Since the outbreak began , there have been 82,204 cases in the suburbs as of Tuesday , 50.2 % of the state 's total , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health .
There have been 3,726 deaths in the suburbs , representing 51 % of all deaths in Illinois .
Cook County • As of Tuesday , suburban Cook County had 42,122 cases and 2,056 deaths , according to the state .
In Chicago : 57,342 cases and 2,732 fatalities .
• Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner 's office : 1,881 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 863 cases and 61 deaths in Wheeling , 810 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine , 726 cases and 23 deaths in Streamwood , 708 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect , 675 cases and 19 deaths in Schaumburg , 669 cases and 48 deaths in Glenview , 653 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights , 551 cases and 28 deaths in Hoffman Estates , 533 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park ( Cook County portion ) , 393 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows , 391 cases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 386 cases and 41 deaths in Northbrook , 289 cases and 8 deaths in Prospect Heights , and 133 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove ( Cook County portion ) .
DuPage County • The county reported 10,411 cases and 496 deaths as of Tuesday .
• Top counts : 885 cases and 9 deaths in Addison , 840 cases and 14 deaths in West Chicago , 720 cases and 11 deaths in Glendale Heights , 628 cases and 34 deaths in Naperville ( DuPage County portion ) , 574 cases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 29 deaths in Carol Stream , 487 cases and 24 deaths in Lombard , 465 cases and 38 deaths in Elmhurst , 399 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora ( DuPage County portion ) , 340 cases and 22 deaths in Wheaton , 287 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park , 272 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park ( DuPage County portion ) , 236 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn .
Lake County • The county reported 10,972 cases and 434 deaths , according to IDPH as of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 2,879 in Waukegan , 640 to 644 in Round Lake Beach , 410 to 414 in Mundelein , 345 to 349 in Gurnee , 260 to 264 in Round Lake , 220 to 224 in Buffalo Grove ( Lake County portion ) , 225 to 229 in Lake Zurich , 195 to 199 in Vernon Hills , 175 to 179 in Wauconda , 165 to 169 in Libertyville , 130 to 134 in Grayslake .
Kane County • The county confirmed 8,496 cases with 292 deaths on its website Tuesday .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( Kane County portion ) , 2,029 in Elgin ( Kane County portion ) , 799 in Carpentersville , 396 in St. Charles , 361 in South Elgin , 235 in Geneva , 230 in North Aurora , 166 in Batavia , and 61 in Algonquin ( Kane County portion ) .
McHenry County • 2,514 cases and 107 deaths , according to the health department Tuesday .
Will County • 7,762 cases and 336 deaths , as of Tuesday .
• Cases per town include 496 in Naperville ( Will County portion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ County portion ) .

July 21 COVID-19 cases per county; search by ZIP code code
Since the outbreak began, there have been 82,204 cases in the suburbs as of Tuesday, 50.2% of the state's total, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. There have been 3,726 deaths in the suburbs, representing 51% of all deaths in Illinois.
Cook County
• As of Tuesday, suburban Cook County had 42,122 cases and 2,056 deaths, according to the state. In Chicago: 57,342 cases and 2,732 fatalities.
• Top suburb counts from the county health department and medical examiner's office: 1,881 cases and 101 deaths in Des Plaines, 863 cases and 61 deaths in Wheeling, 810 cases and 19 deaths in Palatine, 726 cases and 23 deaths in Streamwood, 708 cases and 10 deaths in Mount Prospect, 675 cases and 19 deaths in Schaumburg, 669 cases and 48 deaths in Glenview, 653 cases and 34 deaths in Arlington Heights, 551 cases and 28 deaths in Hoffman Estates, 533 cases and 10 deaths in Hanover Park (Cook County portion), 393 cases and 12 deaths in Rolling Meadows, 391 cases and 39 deaths in Elk Grove Village, 386 cases and 41 deaths in Northbrook, 289 cases and 8 deaths in Prospect Heights, and 133 cases and 19 deaths in Buffalo Grove (Cook County portion).
DuPage County
• The county reported 10,411 cases and 496 deaths as of Tuesday.
• Top counts: 885 cases and 9 deaths in Addison, 840 cases and 14 deaths in West Chicago, 720 cases and 11 deaths in Glendale Heights, 628 cases and 34 deaths in Naperville (DuPage County portion), 574 cases and 12 deaths in Bensenville, 586 cases and 29 deaths in Carol Stream, 487 cases and 24 deaths in Lombard, 465 cases and 38 deaths in Elmhurst, 399 cases and 11 deaths in Aurora (DuPage County portion), 340 cases and 22 deaths in Wheaton, 287 cases and 5 deaths in Villa Park, 272 cases and 2 deaths in Hanover Park (DuPage County portion), 236 cases and 3 deaths in Glen Ellyn.
Lake County
• The county reported 10,972 cases and 434 deaths, according to IDPH as of Tuesday.
• Top counts: 2,875 to 2,879 in Waukegan, 640 to 644 in Round Lake Beach, 410 to 414 in Mundelein, 345 to 349 in Gurnee, 260 to 264 in Round Lake, 220 to 224 in Buffalo Grove (Lake County portion), 225 to 229 in Lake Zurich, 195 to 199 in Vernon Hills, 175 to 179 in Wauconda, 165 to 169 in Libertyville, 130 to 134 in Grayslake.
Kane County
• The county confirmed 8,496 cases with 292 deaths on its website Tuesday.
• Top counts: 3,556 cases in Aurora (Kane County portion), 2,029 in Elgin (Kane County portion), 799 in Carpentersville, 396 in St. Charles, 361 in South Elgin, 235 in Geneva, 230 in North Aurora, 166 in Batavia, and 61 in Algonquin (Kane County portion).
McHenry County
• 2,514 cases and 107 deaths, according to the health department Tuesday.
Will County
• 7,762 cases and 336 deaths, as of Tuesday.
• Cases per town include 496 in Naperville (Will County portion) and 99 in Aurora (Will County portion).


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--West Chicago man charged after woman shot in ankle

A West Chicago man has been charged with aggravated battery - discharge of a weapon , after a woman was shot in an ankle as she and another woman were fighting .
According to a DuPage County prosecutor , the woman he 's accused of shooting is his girlfriend .
Angel Maldonado , 19 , of the 200 block of Neltnor Boulevard , appeared Tuesday before Judge George Bakalis , who set his bail at $ 150,000 .
According to Assistant State 's Attorney Kristin Sullivan , police were called around 5:13 p.m. Monday to the 100 block of Pomeroy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the victim sitting on a curb , being tended to by Maldonado 's sister .
Two other people there said Maldonado was the shooter , according to Sullivan .
She said Maldonado and his girlfriend had gone to the house to pick up an ID , and the girlfriend and another woman got in to a fistfight .
A man reported seeing Maldonado with a gun , and another witness said the man told Maldonado `` If you are going to shoot it , shoot it . ''
The man then heard a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Maldonado drove away , witnesses told police .
He crashed his car , and went to his sister 's house nearby to borrow hers .
The victim was treated at a hospital for injuries not considered life-threatening , according to West Chicago police .
If Maldanado posts bond , he will be placed on a GPS monitor and confined to his house , except for work , school or appointments with doctors , his lawyer or court .
He is awaiting trial on a felony charge of aggravated resisting a Warrenville police @ @

West Chicago man charged after woman shot in ankle
A West Chicago man has been charged with aggravated battery - discharge of a weapon, after a woman was shot in an ankle as she and another woman were fighting.
According to a DuPage County prosecutor, the woman he's accused of shooting is his girlfriend.
Angel Maldonado, 19, of the 200 block of Neltnor Boulevard, appeared Tuesday before Judge George Bakalis, who set his bail at $150,000.
According to Assistant State's Attorney Kristin Sullivan, police were called around 5:13 p.m. Monday to the 100 block of Pomeroy Street to investigate gunshots.
They found the victim sitting on a curb, being tended to by Maldonado's sister. Two other people there said Maldonado was the shooter, according to Sullivan.
She said Maldonado and his girlfriend had gone to the house to pick up an ID, and the girlfriend and another woman got in to a fistfight. A man reported seeing Maldonado with a gun, and another witness said the man told Maldonado "If you are going to shoot it, shoot it." The man then heard a shot. Two more shots were fired as Maldonado drove away, witnesses told police.
He crashed his car, and went to his sister's house nearby to borrow hers.
The victim was treated at a hospital for injuries not considered life-threatening, according to West Chicago police.
If Maldanado posts bond, he will be placed on a GPS monitor and confined to his house, except for work, school or appointments with doctors, his lawyer or court.
He is awaiting trial on a felony charge of aggravated resisting a Warrenville police officer.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Elgin co-op looking at building space after latest snag

The eight-year effort to start a co-op grocery store in downtown Elgin hit another major snag last week when a prospective location fell through , but those involved say they remain enthusiastic and are starting to consider building a space from the ground up .
The board of Shared Harvest had been working to secure use of part of the former PNC Bank building at 28 N. Grove Ave. , which was purchased last year by Judson University 's World Leaders Forum , board member Ian Kuhn said .
However , the building owners recently decided they wanted to use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have been through every property several times in downtown Elgin , and there are several still on the table .
But with COVID-19 , everything is in flux , '' he said .
The board is starting to consider purchasing an empty lot to build a structure , which other co-ops have done or are doing , Kuhn said .
Shared Harvest wants to offer affordable , healthy and locally-produced food while supporting local sustainability .
Food co-operatives are owned by people who buy shares .
A majority of shareholders said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downtown , or just outside downtown , which makes the search more difficult because the venture requires adequate parking , said Carole Rauschenberger , an Elgin City Council member who is actively involved with Shared Harvest .
`` There have been opportunities , but that 's ( dedicated downtown parking ) made it a lot harder -- and also everything takes longer than one thinks , '' she said .
The ideal location is 8,000 to 10,000 square feet , Kuhn and Rauschenberger said .
The initiative suffered its first major blow in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of directors had settled on -- an empty area of Ziegler 's Ace hardware store downtown -- turned out to require too much work .
Shared Harvest has about $ 250,000 in the bank , including $ 100 shares sold to 1,026 households with a maximum 10 shares per household , Kuhn said .
More loans are expected to be available when a building is secured , and the board has solicited applications for the grocery store manager position , he said .
The co-op also has an informal partnership with Blue Goose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been providing free advice about issues , such as the grocery supply chain , Kuhn said .
`` They are advising us just for the good of what we are doing , '' he said .
Shared Harvest will not hold its annual fundraising dinner this fall but is looking into the idea of partnering with a local farm to sell boxes of produce as a fundraiser , Kuhn said .

Elgin co-op looking at building space after latest snag
The board of the yet-to-come Shared Harvest grocery store co-op in Elgin now is considering building a space on an empty lot somewhere in the downtown area. This photo shows Willy Street Co-op North in Madison, Wisconsin, which provides inspiration for Shared Harvest, board member Ian Kuhn said. Courtesy of Ian Kuhn
The eight-year effort to start a co-op grocery store in downtown Elgin hit another major snag last week when a prospective location fell through, but those involved say they remain enthusiastic and are starting to consider building a space from the ground up.
The board of Shared Harvest had been working to secure use of part of the former PNC Bank building at 28 N. Grove Ave., which was purchased last year by Judson University's World Leaders Forum, board member Ian Kuhn said. However, the building owners recently decided they wanted to use the entire building, he said.
"We have been through every property several times in downtown Elgin, and there are several still on the table. But with COVID-19, everything is in flux," he said.
The board is starting to consider purchasing an empty lot to build a structure, which other co-ops have done or are doing, Kuhn said.
Shared Harvest wants to offer affordable, healthy and locally-produced food while supporting local sustainability. Food co-operatives are owned by people who buy shares.
A majority of shareholders said they want the co-op to be located downtown, or just outside downtown, which makes the search more difficult because the venture requires adequate parking, said Carole Rauschenberger, an Elgin City Council member who is actively involved with Shared Harvest.
"There have been opportunities, but that's (dedicated downtown parking) made it a lot harder -- and also everything takes longer than one thinks," she said.
The ideal location is 8,000 to 10,000 square feet, Kuhn and Rauschenberger said.
The initiative suffered its first major blow in 2017 when a commercial space the board of directors had settled on -- an empty area of Ziegler's Ace hardware store downtown -- turned out to require too much work.
Shared Harvest has about $250,000 in the bank, including $100 shares sold to 1,026 households with a maximum 10 shares per household, Kuhn said. More loans are expected to be available when a building is secured, and the board has solicited applications for the grocery store manager position, he said.
The co-op also has an informal partnership with Blue Goose Market in St. Charles, whose owners have been providing free advice about issues, such as the grocery supply chain, Kuhn said. "They are advising us just for the good of what we are doing," he said.
Shared Harvest will not hold its annual fundraising dinner this fall but is looking into the idea of partnering with a local farm to sell boxes of produce as a fundraiser, Kuhn said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Naperville police reporting drop in most crimes

A reduction in most crimes so far this year in Naperville could be the one good thing attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic , authorities said .
The Naperville Police Department on Tuesday released mid-year crime figures that show decreases compared to last year 's midpoint totals in both Part I crimes , which are considered serious and violent , and lesser Part II crimes .
For the Part II category , which includes issues such as drug crimes , financial crimes , disorderly conduct , interference with public officers , offenses involving children , sex offenses and motor vehicle offenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , `` Our department believes COVID-19 has played a factor in this reduction . ''
Part II crimes decreased 17 % from the first six months of 2019 to the first six months of 2020 , statistics show .
The total drop includes a 93 % decrease in drug paraphernalia offenses ( six so far this year compared with 81 during the first half of last year ) ; a 79 % decrease in interfering with public officers ( 11 , down from 53 ) ; and a 34 % decrease in motor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down from 188 ) .
Police said more people working from home has meant fewer drivers on the roads , leading to fewer vehicle-related offenses .
Similarly , police said , less social contact because of people sheltering in place has created fewer opportunities for financial crimes such as identity theft , deception and forgery , which decreased 18 % from last year .
Part I crimes also fell by 4.2 % compared with the first half of last year , police said .
The decrease comes despite a string of convenience store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 138 % increase in armed robberies ( 19 this year , up from 8 ) and a 117 % increase in burglaries to vehicles ( 180 this year , up from 83 last year ) .
Police said they have made several arrests this year that account for more than 40 cases of burglaries to vehicles , and detectives continue to follow up .
They said unlocked doors were involved in 86 % of the burglary to motor vehicle cases reported so far this year .
`` Our police officers and staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have done a great job addressing crime in our city .
However , we continue to need help from members of our community to drive crime down , '' police said in a news release .
`` Residents are encouraged to get involved with our police department , continue reporting suspicious activity immediately to 911 and always lock up their belongings . ''

Naperville police reporting drop in most crimes
A reduction in most crimes so far this year in Naperville could be the one good thing attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities said.
The Naperville Police Department on Tuesday released mid-year crime figures that show decreases compared to last year's midpoint totals in both Part I crimes, which are considered serious and violent, and lesser Part II crimes.
For the Part II category, which includes issues such as drug crimes, financial crimes, disorderly conduct, interference with public officers, offenses involving children, sex offenses and motor vehicle offenses, police said in a news release, "Our department believes COVID-19 has played a factor in this reduction."
Part II crimes decreased 17% from the first six months of 2019 to the first six months of 2020, statistics show. The total drop includes a 93% decrease in drug paraphernalia offenses (six so far this year compared with 81 during the first half of last year); a 79% decrease in interfering with public officers (11, down from 53); and a 34% decrease in motor vehicle offenses (124 this year, down from 188).
Police said more people working from home has meant fewer drivers on the roads, leading to fewer vehicle-related offenses. Similarly, police said, less social contact because of people sheltering in place has created fewer opportunities for financial crimes such as identity theft, deception and forgery, which decreased 18% from last year.
Part I crimes also fell by 4.2% compared with the first half of last year, police said. The decrease comes despite a string of convenience store robberies early this year that contributed to a 138% increase in armed robberies (19 this year, up from 8) and a 117% increase in burglaries to vehicles (180 this year, up from 83 last year).
Police said they have made several arrests this year that account for more than 40 cases of burglaries to vehicles, and detectives continue to follow up. They said unlocked doors were involved in 86% of the burglary to motor vehicle cases reported so far this year.
"Our police officers and staff, partnered with our community members, have done a great job addressing crime in our city. However, we continue to need help from members of our community to drive crime down," police said in a news release. "Residents are encouraged to get involved with our police department, continue reporting suspicious activity immediately to 911 and always lock up their belongings."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Metra wants feds to intervene in spat with Union Pacific

Metra is asking federal regulators to intervene in a dispute with Union Pacific Railroad over operating commuter trains that carry up to 45,000 riders .
Freight railroad Union Pacific currently runs commuter trains between Chicago and the suburbs as part of an agreement with Metra , but that pact expires at the end of August .
UP wants to hand over the reins , arguing that nowhere else in the U.S. do its employees operate passenger trains .
Not so fast , say Metra executives , who contend that UP is legally obligated to provide commuter service .
Metra also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plug on ticket agents and maintaining cars and locomotives .
Union Pacific filed a federal lawsuit in December asking the courts to rule on the dispute .
But Metra on Tuesday asked the U.S .
Surface Transportation Board , which has authority over railroads , to intervene .
`` Metra and Union Pacific have had a longstanding , cooperative working relationship and our intention is to continue to maintain this relationship going forward , '' Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski said .
`` These filings are an effort by Metra to maintain the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northwest and West lines while at the same time attempting to resolve critical points of disagreement between us . ''
UP officials said `` we desire a mutually beneficial service agreement with Metra , allowing Metra to do what it does best - provide commuter rail service - and Union Pacific to deliver the goods Americans use every day .
Union Pacific does not use its own employees to operate or maintain passenger operations anywhere in the 23 states where we operate , except for the service we provide Metra . ''
Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in re-arranging the pact , although those figures have not been disclosed .
Metra warned that UP has said that if the STB does n't take its case -- and a federal judge determines it has no legal obligation to provide commuter service -- the railroad `` intends to discontinue service 90 days after that decision . ''
UP leaders countered that `` Chicago commuters receive safe , reliable service on the UP North , Northwest and West lines .
This will not change .
We have been clear with Metra that commuter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lines and service will not be degraded or halted . ''
Regardless of any decision , UP would still own the tracks carrying passengers on all three lines .

Metra wants feds to intervene in spat with Union Pacific
Metra is asking federal regulators to intervene in a dispute with Union Pacific Railroad over operating commuter trains that carry up to 45,000 riders.
Freight railroad Union Pacific currently runs commuter trains between Chicago and the suburbs as part of an agreement with Metra, but that pact expires at the end of August.
UP wants to hand over the reins, arguing that nowhere else in the U.S. do its employees operate passenger trains.
Not so fast, say Metra executives, who contend that UP is legally obligated to provide commuter service.
Metra also is concerned UP plans to pull the plug on ticket agents and maintaining cars and locomotives.
Union Pacific filed a federal lawsuit in December asking the courts to rule on the dispute.
But Metra on Tuesday asked the U.S. Surface Transportation Board, which has authority over railroads, to intervene.
"Metra and Union Pacific have had a longstanding, cooperative working relationship and our intention is to continue to maintain this relationship going forward," Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski said.
"These filings are an effort by Metra to maintain the status quo on the UP North, Northwest and West lines while at the same time attempting to resolve critical points of disagreement between us."
UP officials said "we desire a mutually beneficial service agreement with Metra, allowing Metra to do what it does best - provide commuter rail service - and Union Pacific to deliver the goods Americans use every day. Union Pacific does not use its own employees to operate or maintain passenger operations anywhere in the 23 states where we operate, except for the service we provide Metra."
Another area of friction is the expense involved in re-arranging the pact, although those figures have not been disclosed.
Metra warned that UP has said that if the STB doesn't take its case -- and a federal judge determines it has no legal obligation to provide commuter service -- the railroad "intends to discontinue service 90 days after that decision."
UP leaders countered that "Chicago commuters receive safe, reliable service on the UP North, Northwest and West lines. This will not change. We have been clear with Metra that commuter trains will continue to run on these lines and service will not be degraded or halted."
Regardless of any decision, UP would still own the tracks carrying passengers on all three lines.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Dist. 75 proceeding with plans for students to return to classrooms

School reopening plans come with an asterisk because of the coronavirus pandemic , but at this point Mundelein Elementary District 75 is proceeding with plans for students to be in classrooms starting Aug. 13 .
`` Things can change , '' said Dan Swartz , assistant superintendent for teaching and learning .
All parents will have the choice of remote or in-class learning for their kids , officials said .
At the end of school in June , about 20 % of responding families chose remote learning as their preferred option .
Another survey went out Tuesday , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedures , the first of several virtual town halls hosted by the district is set for Thursday to get parents up to speed and hear their input .
A session is Spanish is set for 3 p.m. and English at 6 p.m. After the school board last week discussed aspects of the reopening plan focused on the in-school experience , Thursday 's town-hall meeting will focus more on remote learning plans , Swartz said .
`` The hope is that the town hall gives our parents enough information to make an informed choice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are scheduled for 3 p.m. ( in English ) and 6:30 p.m. ( in Spanish ) Monday , July 27 .
The upcoming session will consist of several `` mini-presentations ' '' and should last about an hour , Swartz said .
Under the district 's plan , students at the Washington Early Learning Center and Mechanics Grove School will attend classes in person five days a week .
Carl Sandburg Middle School students will alternate daily between in-person and remote instruction .
`` There is no one right answer but there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Swartz said .
`` We want to provide options for families . ''
The content and standards for in-class and remote learning will be the same , officials said .
Universal precautions at all schools include temperature checks and symptom monitoring ; multiple entrances ; limited and controlled movement in hallways ; social distancing ; assigned seating in classrooms and on school buses ; outdoor classrooms ; limited sharing of materials ; and required mask wearings .
None of the buildings will have a typical lunchroom .
At Washington and Mechanics Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eating in the classroom and 10 to 15 minutes of recess .
Students can bring lunch from home or eat prepackaged meals provided by the school .
At Carl Sandburg , students will eat in groups of no more than 30 in four large group areas .
According to the district , the cost of providing the appropriate social distancing , face coverings , enhanced sanitation and other measures for five days of in-person learning for the entire school year will be $ 675,300 , or about $ 72,000 per month .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover costs .
District 75 is a feeder school for Mundelein High School District 120 .
Kevin Myers serves as superintendent for both .
`` We are looking forward to having our students return to school , but with new restrictions on how we provide a safe environment for them to learn , '' he said in July 10 message to parents .
`` Keep in mind , however , that current guidelines may continue to change and be very different by the time school starts , '' he added .
Myers is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be taken if COVID-19 positivity rates or the reported number of infections reach certain levels .

Dist. 75 proceeding with plans for students to return to classrooms
School reopening plans come with an asterisk because of the coronavirus pandemic, but at this point Mundelein Elementary District 75 is proceeding with plans for students to be in classrooms starting Aug. 13.
"Things can change," said Dan Swartz, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning.
All parents will have the choice of remote or in-class learning for their kids, officials said. At the end of school in June, about 20% of responding families chose remote learning as their preferred option. Another survey went out Tuesday, according to Swartz.
As school officials fine tune procedures, the first of several virtual town halls hosted by the district is set for Thursday to get parents up to speed and hear their input. A session in Spanish is set for 3 p.m. and one in English at 6 p.m.
After the school board last week discussed aspects of the reopening plan focused on the in-school experience, Thursday's town-hall meeting will focus more on remote learning plans, Swartz said.
"The hope is that the town hall gives our parents enough information to make an informed choice," he said.
Future sessions are scheduled for 3 p.m. (in English) and 6:30 p.m. (in Spanish) Monday, July 27.
The upcoming session will consist of several "mini-presentations'" and should last about an hour, Swartz said.
Participants also can submit questions.
Under the district's plan, students at the Washington Early Learning Center and Mechanics Grove School will attend classes in person five days a week. Carl Sandburg Middle School students will alternate daily between in-person and remote instruction.
"There is no one right answer but there's a right answer for your family," Swartz said. "We want to provide options for families."
The content and standards for in-class and remote learning will be the same, officials said.
Universal precautions at all schools include temperature checks and symptom monitoring; multiple entrances; limited and controlled movement in hallways; social distancing; assigned seating in classrooms and on school buses; outdoor classrooms; limited sharing of materials; and required mask wearing.
None of the buildings will have a typical lunchroom. At Washington and Mechanics Grove, lunch will be 30 minutes of eating in the classroom and 10 to 15 minutes of recess. Students can bring lunch from home or eat prepackaged meals provided by the school.
At Carl Sandburg, students will eat in groups of no more than 30 in four large group areas.
According to the district, the cost of providing the appropriate social distancing, face coverings, enhanced sanitation and other measures for five days of in-person learning for the entire school year will be $675,300, or about $72,000 per month. The school board has authorized using reserves to cover costs.
District 75 is a feeder school for Mundelein High School District 120. Kevin Myers serves as superintendent for both.
"We are looking forward to having our students return to school, but with new restrictions on how we provide a safe environment for them to learn," he said in July 10 message to parents.
"Keep in mind, however, that current guidelines may continue to change and be very different by the time school starts," he added.
Myers is drafting a working plan of what actions should be taken if COVID-19 positivity rates or the reported number of infections reach certain levels.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--State unveils six-year road, bridge improvement plan

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov .
J.B. Pritzker joined Illinois Department of Transportation officials Tuesday to unveil a six-year , $ 21.3 billion statewide road and bridge improvement plan that is an extension of the Rebuild Illinois infrastructure package passed last year by the General Assembly .
IDOT is tasked with unveiling a multi-year plan each year to detail how it will spend transportation dollars on state and local highway transportation systems .
For the current fiscal year , the investment in road and bridge infrastructure totals $ 3.15 billion , according to the governor 's office .
Current funding levels would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miles of road improvements and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck in total over the next six years .
The infrastructure spending largely relies on revenue from the motor fuel tax -- which was increased on July 1 , as it will every year forthcoming under the new state law -- among other driving-related fees .
According to an overview of the multi-year plan on the IDOT website , however , revenue estimates were not adjusted to account for economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated stay-at-home orders .
`` Due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay-at-home guidance , the reduced consumption of gas is expected to cause a decrease in motor fuel tax revenue that would be deposited into the state 's road and state construction fund , '' according to IDOT 's summary of the plan .
`` It is not yet known what the actual decrease will be .
Therefore , no adjustments were made to the ( multi-year plan ) . ''
`` The department will continue to monitor the data and make any adjustments deemed necessary as actual revenue impacts become known , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a news conference unveiling the plan touted the Rebuild Illinois package , which passed in 2019 , acting IDOT Secretary Omer Osman said the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unforeseen challenges .
`` The multi-year plan keeps us on track during these uncertain times , '' Osman said at an event in Collinsville .
`` While we are not cutting or delaying projects at this time , we will continue monitoring the impact on future revenue to ensure we are investing taxpayer resources wisely .
Clearly , COVID-19 is not going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but likely impact our decision making for years to come . ''
Despite the pandemic , Osman said , Pritzker allowed road work to continue by deeming construction workers essential in his executive orders .
That allowed year one of work on the Rebuild Illinois plan to continue despite state stay-at-home orders , so the first year of the plan saw $ 2.77 billion in improvements , with $ 2.15 billion to the state system and $ 616 million in the local system .
Included was 1,385 miles of road improvements in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 157 safety improvements -- as well as 321 miles of road improvements in the local system , including 67 bridges and 71 safety improvements .
Pritzker noted IDOT had developed a plan consistent with the Federal Highway Administration 's Transportation Asset Management Plan standards .
`` That standard puts an end to the practice of letting roads and bridges in Illinois deteriorate until they 're in just terrible shape , '' the governor said .
`` Instead we 're investing on the front end saving money for taxpayers . ''
Among other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan included design work on an Interstate 80 bridge over the Des Plaines River that was deemed structurally deficient , resurfacing on state Route 251 , widening and reconstruction on state Route 47 , reconstruction on the Murray Baker Bridge in Peoria , construction and bridge repairs on Interstate 74 , resurfacing on Interstate 55 and U.S. Highway 51 , resurfacing and bridge repairs on Interstate 255 , and completion of design for added lanes and bridge replacement on Interstate 57 in southern Illinois .
Pritzker touted the plan as one that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Illinois and across the U.S. '' Even in a pandemic -- especially in a pandemic -- our transportation systems connect the lives of our residents and our communities , '' Pritzker said .
`` …The Multi-Year Plan we 're announcing today provides funding to reconstruct over 3,300 miles of roads and over 8 million square feet of bridges -- and , more importantly , create and support hundreds of thousands of jobs over the next 6 years for hardworking Illinoisans across our state . ''
Projects for the plan are selected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pavement conditions and traffic volumes .

State unveils six-year road, bridge improvement plan
Gov. J.B. Pritzker speaks at a news conference Tuesday in Collinsville in unveiling the state's six-year capital infrastructure plan. Each year IDOT unveils its multi-year plan, and this year's did not take into account anticipated revenue losses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a summary of the plan. illinois.gov
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. J.B. Pritzker joined Illinois Department of Transportation officials Tuesday to unveil a six-year, $21.3 billion statewide road and bridge improvement plan that is an extension of the Rebuild Illinois infrastructure package passed last year by the General Assembly.
IDOT is tasked with unveiling a multi-year plan each year to detail how it will spend transportation dollars on state and local highway transportation systems. For the current fiscal year, the investment in road and bridge infrastructure totals $3.15 billion, according to the governor's office.
Current funding levels would allow the multi-year plan to include 3,356 miles of road improvements and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck in total over the next six years.
The infrastructure spending largely relies on revenue from the motor fuel tax -- which was increased on July 1, as it will every year forthcoming under the new state law -- among other driving-related fees.
According to an overview of the multi-year plan on the IDOT website, however, revenue estimates were not adjusted to account for economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated stay-at-home orders.
"Due to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and national stay-at-home guidance, the reduced consumption of gas is expected to cause a decrease in motor fuel tax revenue that would be deposited into the state's road and state construction fund," according to IDOT's summary of the plan. "It is not yet known what the actual decrease will be. Therefore, no adjustments were made to the (multi-year plan)."
"The department will continue to monitor the data and make any adjustments deemed necessary as actual revenue impacts become known," the summary continued.
While the attendees of a news conference unveiling the plan touted the Rebuild Illinois package, which passed in 2019, acting IDOT Secretary Omer Osman said the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unforeseen challenges.
"The multi-year plan keeps us on track during these uncertain times," Osman said at an event in Collinsville. "While we are not cutting or delaying projects at this time, we will continue monitoring the impact on future revenue to ensure we are investing taxpayer resources wisely. Clearly, COVID-19 is not going to be something that lasts for a few months, but likely impact our decision making for years to come."
Despite the pandemic, Osman said, Pritzker allowed road work to continue by deeming construction workers essential in his executive orders.
That allowed year one of work on the Rebuild Illinois plan to continue despite state stay-at-home orders, so the first year of the plan saw $2.77 billion in improvements, with $2.15 billion to the state system and $616 million in the local system.
Included was 1,385 miles of road improvements in the state system -- comprising 61 bridges and 157 safety improvements -- as well as 321 miles of road improvements in the local system, including 67 bridges and 71 safety improvements.
Pritzker noted IDOT had developed a plan consistent with the Federal Highway Administration's Transportation Asset Management Plan standards.
"That standard puts an end to the practice of letting roads and bridges in Illinois deteriorate until they're in just terrible shape," the governor said. "Instead we're investing on the front end saving money for taxpayers."
Among other projects, the first year of the plan included design work on an Interstate 80 bridge over the Des Plaines River that was deemed structurally deficient, resurfacing on state Route 251, widening and reconstruction on state Route 47, reconstruction on the Murray Baker Bridge in Peoria, construction and bridge repairs on Interstate 74, resurfacing on Interstate 55 and U.S. Highway 51, resurfacing and bridge repairs on Interstate 255, and completion of design for added lanes and bridge replacement on Interstate 57 in southern Illinois.
Pritzker touted the plan as one that would create jobs in a difficult economic climate in Illinois and across the U.S.
"Even in a pandemic -- especially in a pandemic -- our transportation systems connect the lives of our residents and our communities," Pritzker said. "…The Multi-Year Plan we're announcing today provides funding to reconstruct over 3,300 miles of roads and over 8 million square feet of bridges -- and, more importantly, create and support hundreds of thousands of jobs over the next 6 years for hardworking Illinoisans across our state."
Projects for the plan are selected by safety criteria such as crash history, pavement conditions and traffic volumes.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--1 closed ferry resumes service, 2nd expected Saturday

PADUCAH , Ky. -- Two ferries that closed due to mechanical issues are expected to reopen this week , officials @ @ @ @ @ , which runs across the Mississippi River connecting Kentucky and Missouri , is expected to @ @ @ @ @ the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said in a statement .
It may still have some intermittent @ @ @ @ @ weeks due to dredging work planned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Hickman @ @ @ @ @ .
The Cave-in-Rock Ferry , which runs across the Ohio River connecting Kentucky and Illinois @ @ @ @ @ repairs completed by Wednesday , officials said .
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry and the Cave-in-Rock Ferry @ @ @ @ @ is able to resume , officials said .

1 closed ferry resumes service, 2nd expected Saturday
PADUCAH, Ky. -- One of two ferries that had closed due to mechanical issues has reopened.
The Cave-in-Rock Ferry, which carries about 500 vehicles daily across the Ohio River between Kentucky and Illinois, reopened at 6 a.m. Tuesday, Kentucky transportation officials said.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry, which carries vehicles across the Mississippi River between Kentucky and Missouri, is expected to resume service on Saturday, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said in a statement. The ferry remained closed for additional engine repairs. A dredge is working in the Hickman Harbor, and officials hope the dredge work can be completed about the same time as the engine repairs are done.
More information about the service schedule of the Dorena-Hickman Ferry and the Cave-in-Rock Ferry can be found online.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--Computer problems may delay Daily Herald delivery today

The Daily Herald 's computerized operating systems were the target early Tuesday of a sophisticated cyberattack .
We are working with several cyber security experts to analyze and resolve the issue , but in the meantime , today 's newspaper has fewer sections and pages compared with our standard portfolio .
I am so proud of the innovative and tireless staff that worked through myriad problems to create today 's newspaper .
Miracle truly is the right word for it .
Because of the problems , it 's possible delivery of today 's newspaper was delayed .
Those challenges required @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of its normal design .
In that regard , today 's paper was condensed to two sections , with Neighbor and Food moved into the front section .
The cyberattack also shut down our phone system , including the line to our Customer Service Department .
If you need to get in touch , please email circulation @ dailyherald.com .
As always , up-to-the-minute news and advertising is available at dailyherald.com , and your print subscription provides you with complete access to it .
It is difficult to tell how long the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attack .
But please be assured that our staff is working tirelessly to address the challenges .
And that we 're committed , as always , to serving you .
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience .
Thank you for reading .
Stay well .


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--'We're just not ready yet': Stevenson officials answer questions on remote learning plan

An online video seminar about a Lake County high school 's plan to resume remote learning this fall because of the COVID-19 pandemic drew more than 2,200 audience members -- and a lot of questions -- Tuesday night .
The virtual discussion came a day after Stevenson High School officials announced the Lincolnshire campus would essentially remain off limits to the school 's nearly 4,400 students when the 2020-21 term begins Aug. 17 -- likely for the entire first semester .
Principal Troy Gobble and Superintendent Eric Twadell read questions that had been sent to administrators electronically ahead of and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked if the school will transition to on-campus education if COVID-19 crisis eases .
Twadell said yes but noted that `` we 're just not ready yet . ''
Several people reportedly asked if athletics will be canceled .
That decision lies with the Illinois High School Association , Gobble said , and it has n't yet been made .
Others reportedly asked about whether theater productions would be staged .
Officials said they hope that 'll be possible .
One person reportedly asked if students will be required to keep their iPads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work in appropriate learning spaces .
`` That is certainly our expectation , '' Gobble said .
Tuesday 's chat started with a roughly 90-minute presentation by Twadell , Gobble and other administrators about the educational options they considered , the factors that led to choosing remote learning and a description of how this round of remote learning will work .
It was a repeat performance of the presentation they gave to the school board Monday night .
Under the plan , live instruction will occur five days a week in every class @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Homework , testing and grading will mirror expectations of traditional classroom instruction , which was n't the case at many schools that instituted remote learning in the spring .
Academic assistance and other services will be offered through video conferencing .
Small groups of students will be allowed on campus for special-education programs , sports , clubs and some services .
Some teachers will be allowed to lead remote lessons from their classrooms , but most employees will be encouraged to work from home .
By sticking with remote learning , Stevenson is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools across the suburbs .
Administrators at Carmel Catholic High in Mundelein , Libertyville High , Vernon Hills High and Mundelein High are among those who have either decided to have a mix of in-person and remote schooling or are leaning toward such a plan .
Twadell said he expects administrators at other schools will follow Stevenson 's lead -- even if they 're planning to start the year with some on-campus classes at this point .
The odds of schools expanding to all on-campus classes by Oct. 1 are slim , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highly unlikely , '' Twadell said .
`` The virus is getting worse , not better . ''

'We're just not ready yet': Stevenson officials answer questions on remote learning plan
More than 2,200 people attended an online discussion about Stevenson High School's plan to resume remote learning when classes start next month. Daily Herald File Photo, 2018
An online video seminar about a Lake County high school's plan to resume remote learning this fall because of the COVID-19 pandemic drew more than 2,200 audience members -- and a lot of questions -- Tuesday night.
The virtual discussion came a day after Stevenson High School officials announced the Lincolnshire campus would essentially remain off limits to the school's nearly 4,400 students when the 2020-21 term begins Aug. 17 -- likely for the entire first semester.
Principal Troy Gobble and Superintendent Eric Twadell read questions that had been sent to administrators electronically ahead of and during the seminar.
One person reportedly asked if the school will transition to on-campus education if COVID-19 crisis eases. Twadell said yes but noted that "we're just not ready yet."
Several people reportedly asked if athletics will be canceled. That decision lies with the Illinois High School Association, Gobble said, and it hasn't yet been made. Others reportedly asked about whether theater productions would be staged. Officials said they hope that'll be possible.
One person reportedly asked if students will be required to keep their iPads' cameras on during lessons and do work in appropriate learning spaces.
"That is certainly our expectation," Gobble said.
Tuesday's chat started with a roughly 90-minute presentation by Twadell, Gobble and other administrators about the educational options they considered, the factors that led to choosing remote learning and a description of how this round of remote learning will work. It was a repeat performance of the presentation they gave to the school board Monday night.
Under the plan, live instruction will occur five days a week in every class via students' iPad computer tablets. Homework, testing and grading will mirror expectations of traditional classroom instruction, which wasn't the case at many schools that instituted remote learning in the spring.
Academic assistance and other services will be offered through video conferencing.
Small groups of students will be allowed on campus for special-education programs, sports, clubs and some services. Some teachers will be allowed to lead remote lessons from their classrooms, but most employees will be encouraged to work from home.
By sticking with remote learning, Stevenson is bucking the trend developing at many other schools across the suburbs. Administrators at Carmel Catholic High in Mundelein, Libertyville High, Vernon Hills High and Mundelein High are among those who have either decided to have a mix of in-person and remote schooling or are leaning toward such a plan.
Twadell said he expects administrators at other schools will follow Stevenson's lead -- even if they're planning to start the year with some on-campus classes at this point. The odds of schools expanding to all on-campus classes by Oct. 1 are slim, he said.
"We see that as highly unlikely," Twadell said. "The virus is getting worse, not better."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-21--Arson suspected in Naperville fire than displaced 20 people


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--Feder: Block Club Chicago teams with Austin Weekly on free West Side newsletter

The underserved communities of Austin , North Lawndale and Garfield Park on Chicago 's West Side are the focus of a free twice-weekly newsletter to be launched jointly today by two local newsrooms , Robert Feder writes .
Neighborhood news website Block Club Chicago and the Austin Weekly News are collaborating on the newsletter , which will be delivered to subscribers by email on Wednesdays and Fridays .
In addition to the work of the two news organizations , the newsletter also will highlight coverage of the West Side by The Triibe , Austin Talks , Free Spirit Media and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have historically ignored the West Side except to exploit sensational stories that play into the same tired narratives of hopelessness , violence and trauma in Black neighborhoods , '' said Block Club West Side reporter Pascal Sabino , who will curate the newsletter with Austin Weekly editor Michael Romain .
`` Austin Weekly News has been here all along covering the stories that matter most to West Side residents -- and Block Club shares that mission .
I hope this collaboration helps create a new model for reporting on the West Side that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ narrative , '' Sabino said .
Block Club was founded in 2018 by alumni of DNAinfo Chicago as a nonprofit digital news site .
Growing Community Media , parent company of the 34-year-old Austin Weekly , recently moved to a nonprofit business model .
Get the full report , and more Chicago media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: Block Club Chicago teams with Austin Weekly on free West Side newsletter
The underserved communities of Austin, North Lawndale and Garfield Park on Chicago's West Side are the focus of a free twice-weekly newsletter to be launched jointly today by two local newsrooms, Robert Feder writes.
Neighborhood news website Block Club Chicago and the Austin Weekly News are collaborating on the newsletter, which will be delivered to subscribers by email on Wednesdays and Fridays.
In addition to the work of the two news organizations, the newsletter also will highlight coverage of the West Side by The Triibe, Austin Talks, Free Spirit Media and City Bureau.
"Legacy Chicago newsrooms have historically ignored the West Side except to exploit sensational stories that play into the same tired narratives of hopelessness, violence and trauma in Black neighborhoods," said Block Club West Side reporter Pascal Sabino, who will curate the newsletter with Austin Weekly editor Michael Romain.
"Austin Weekly News has been here all along covering the stories that matter most to West Side residents -- and Block Club shares that mission. I hope this collaboration helps create a new model for reporting on the West Side that empowers residents to control the community's narrative," Sabino said.
Block Club was founded in 2018 by alumni of DNAinfo Chicago as a nonprofit digital news site. Growing Community Media, parent company of the 34-year-old Austin Weekly, recently moved to a nonprofit business model.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--Tropical depression near tropical storm strength in Atlantic

MIAMI -- A tropical depression formed Tuesday in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is expected to strengthen , @ @ @ @ @ a landfall location .
The U.S. National Hurricane Center said the depression was centered Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ 2,188 kilometers ) west-southwest of the Southern Windward Islands .
At 11 p.m. EDT , @ @ @ @ @ of 35 mph ( 55 kph ) and was moving west-northwest at 9 mph ( @ @ @ @ @ said it could reach tropical storm status sometime on Wednesday .
There were no coastal @ @ @ @ @ depression .
The depression could set a record for the earliest named seventh tropical storm @ @ @ @ @ if it strengthens into Tropical Storm Gonzalo before Friday .
Tropical Storm Gert formed on @ @ @ @ @ making it the current record holder .
So far this year , Cristobal , Danielle @ @ @ @ @ all set records for being the earliest named stormed of their respective place in the @ @

First hurricane of the season forms in eastern Pacific
MEXICO CITY -- The first hurricane of the eastern Pacific season formed far from land Wednesday.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center said Hurricane Douglas was centered about 1,785 miles (2,870 kilometers) east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, Wednesday morning with maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120' kph).
It was moving to the west at 15 mph (24 kph). That track would carry it toward Hawaii on Sunday or Monday, but forecasters said it was likely to weaken back to a tropical depression by that point.
Meanwhile, recently formed Tropical Storm Gonzalo was strengthening in the Atlantic and the center said it was expected to become a hurricane by Thursday.
As of Wednesday evening, Gonzalo was centered about 1,110 miles (1,785 kilometers) east of the southern Windward Islands with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 kph). It was heading west at 14 mph (22 kph).
The Hurricane Center said that interests in the Windward Islands should monitor the storm.
Gonzalo's strengthening breaks a record set by Tropical Storm Gert, which formed on July 24, 2005. So far this year, Cristobal, Danielle, Edouard and Fay also set records for being the earliest named Atlantic storms of their respective place in the alphabet.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--Highest one-day infection count in Illinois since early June

State health officials announced Wednesday that 23 more Illinois residents have died from COVID-19 , while an additional 1,598 people have been infected .
That 's the largest single-day number of new cases this month and the most since early June .
With 39,633 test results returned as well , that 's a daily infection rate of slightly more than 4 % .
That 's also the highest rate since early June , according to Illinois Department of Public Health figures .
`` A rise is still a rise and it is on all of us to bring these numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said at a news conference in Chicago .
`` Wear a mask .
If you are not wearing a mask in public , you 're endangering everyone around you , so the enemy is you . ''
The state 's death toll stands at 7,347 since the outbreak began , and 165,301 cases of the respiratory disease have been diagnosed in Illinois .
`` We are seeing increased transmissions , '' warned Dr. Ngozi Ezike , head of the IDPH .
`` Some of it was predictable as we opened up more .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ % masking compliance . ''
Pritzker noted that while Illinois ' infection rate is climbing again , it is still far below bordering states where the rates are `` two or three times '' of Illinois ' .
He said the Metro East region near St. Louis is close to having new restrictions put in place as the infection rate there is approaching levels that would warrant greater caution .
Health officials also announced 337 of the state 's 1,456 hospitalized COVID-19 patients are in intensive care -- the most since the beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pritzker also announced a grant program for county health departments to boost contact-tracing efforts by outsourcing workloads to local organizations that can assist the process .
More than $ 50 million has been earmarked , he said .
`` By working with established community-based organizations , we are hoping to reach people who may be at higher risk of infection , but hesitant to talk with health officials , '' Ezike said .
`` We need people who are trusted in communities across the state to let people who have been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they need to monitor their health and take steps to potentially prevent spread of the virus to their family , friends , coworkers and other community members . ''
Additionally , Pritzker warned of a nationwide unemployment scam that may affect unsuspecting Illinois residents .
He said scammers , using personal information stolen from previous data breaches -- such as the 2017 Equifax breach -- may have applied for unemployment benefits .
He said anyone who received a debit card or letter from the Illinois Department of Employment Security without filing for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to report the potential fraud .
Pritzker said the breach was affecting almost every state because the federal program to help address the economic crisis brought on by the pandemic was `` poorly designed and susceptible to fraud . ''
The number to call is ( 800 ) 814-0513 .

Highest one-day infection count in Illinois since early June
State health officials announced Wednesday that 23 more Illinois residents have died from COVID-19, while an additional 1,598 people have been infected.
That's the largest single-day number of new cases this month and the most since early June. With 39,633 test results returned as well, that's a daily infection rate of slightly more than 4%. That's also the highest rate since early June, according to Illinois Department of Public Health figures.
"A rise is still a rise and it is on all of us to bring these numbers down," Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at a news conference in Chicago. "Wear a mask. If you are not wearing a mask in public, you're endangering everyone around you, so the enemy is you."
The state's death toll stands at 7,347 since the outbreak began, and 165,301 cases of the respiratory disease have been diagnosed in Illinois.
"We are seeing increased transmissions," warned Dr. Ngozi Ezike, head of the IDPH. "Some of it was predictable as we opened up more. But we needed that coupled with 100% masking compliance."
Pritzker noted that while Illinois' infection rate is climbing again, it is still far below bordering states where the rates are "two or three times" of Illinois'. He said the Metro East region near St. Louis is close to having new restrictions put in place as the infection rate there is approaching levels that would warrant greater caution.
Health officials also announced 337 of the state's 1,456 hospitalized COVID-19 patients are in intensive care -- the most since the beginning of the month, according to IDPH.
Pritzker also announced a grant program for county health departments to boost contact-tracing efforts by outsourcing workloads to local organizations that can assist the process. More than $50 million has been earmarked, he said.
"By working with established community-based organizations, we are hoping to reach people who may be at higher risk of infection, but hesitant to talk with health officials," Ezike said. "We need people who are trusted in communities across the state to let people who have been in close contact with a confirmed case know that they need to monitor their health and take steps to potentially prevent spread of the virus to their family, friends, coworkers and other community members."
Additionally, Pritzker warned of a nationwide unemployment scam that may affect unsuspecting Illinois residents.
He said scammers, using personal information stolen from previous data breaches -- such as the 2017 Equifax breach -- may have applied for unemployment benefits. He said anyone who received a debit card or letter from the Illinois Department of Employment Security without filing for such a claim should contact the agency to report the potential fraud.
Pritzker said the breach was affecting almost every state because the federal program to help address the economic crisis brought on by the pandemic was "poorly designed and susceptible to fraud."
The number to call is (800) 814-0513.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-22--IHSA prepared to delay 2020-21 high school sports season

Illinois High School Association executive director Craig Anderson told the state 's athletic directors on Wednesday the IHSA is prepared to delay the start of the 2020-21 high school sports season , possibly until January as some models have suggested .
`` If we remain limited in our ability to offer all of our fall sports this fall , we are considering a schedule that would permit all 3 seasons of sport activity to be conducted during the 2020-21 school year .
We have received numerous emails from school administrators requesting this model to play out .
This idea remains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are considering virtual competitions for many of our activities , '' Anderson 's weekly email to ADs said .
Anderson also reiterated to ADs the reason that Wednesday 's scheduled board of directors meeting was postponed to July 29 .
`` The special board of directors ' meeting scheduled for ( Wednesday ) has been postponed until July 29 , 2020 , '' the email said .
`` The reason for the postponement is two-fold .
First , to date we continue to have incomplete information from IDPH and the Governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the fall sports time period .
Second , two members of our board of directors will join me in a virtual roundtable with representatives of IDPH and ISBE on Friday , July 24 to help us gain more information on the circumstances surrounding a return to activities . ''
Earlier this month , the IHSA rolled out its Phase 4 plan for returning to play , a plan that allowed contact in all summer drills .
Shortly after that , the plan was rolled back when the IHSA received guidance from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July 14 , the IHSA said it will now defer to the IDPH , ISBE and the governor 's office for further guidance on returning to play guidelines .
The first official day of high school sports practices is scheduled for August 10 .

IHSA prepared to delay 2020-21 high school sports season
Illinois High School Association executive director Craig Anderson told the state's athletic directors on Wednesday the IHSA is prepared to delay the start of the 2020-21 high school sports season, possibly until January as some models have suggested.
"If we remain limited in our ability to offer all of our fall sports this fall, we are considering a schedule that would permit all 3 seasons of sport activity to be conducted during the 2020-21 school year. We have received numerous emails from school administrators requesting this model to play out. This idea remains a priority for our staff and board. We are considering virtual competitions for many of our activities," Anderson's weekly email to ADs said.
Anderson also reiterated to ADs the reason that Wednesday's scheduled board of directors meeting was postponed to July 29.
"The special board of directors' meeting scheduled for (Wednesday) has been postponed until July 29, 2020," the email said. "The reason for the postponement is two-fold. First, to date we continue to have incomplete information from IDPH and the Governor's office on what plans/limitations will exist for the fall sports time period. Second, two members of our board of directors will join me in a virtual roundtable with representatives of IDPH and ISBE on Friday, July 24 to help us gain more information on the circumstances surrounding a return to activities."
Earlier this month, the IHSA rolled out its Phase 4 plan for returning to play, a plan that allowed contact in all summer drills. Shortly after that, the plan was rolled back when the IHSA received guidance from the IDPH to not allow contact.
On July 14, the IHSA said it will now defer to the IDPH, ISBE and the governor's office for further guidance on returning to play guidelines.
The first official day of high school sports practices is scheduled for August 10.