dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Nerheim says he backed out of debate because of format, challenger's conduct

Citing concerns with the format and his opponent 's recent conduct , Lake County State 's Attorney Michael Nerheim backed out of an online debate earlier this week against Democratic challenger Eric Rinehart .
The virtual event was hosted on Facebook by JustDoIt_Vote Coalition , a Lake County-based group that focuses on educating millennials and young people and getting them out to vote .
Nerheim 's sister , Lori Nerheim , who works on his campaign , gave notice on Sunday that he would not be participating .
On Monday evening , Lori Nerheim sent an email to the organizers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate 's format was not provided , the rules for use of video and images were unclear and that Rinehart had already shown he does not abide by agreed-upon rules .
The email was read aloud on the livestream to the predominantly Black group by one of the debate moderators , Yashin Phillips .
`` Mike looks forward to be active in the Black community including in many forums related to issues experienced by people of color , '' the email from Lori Nerheim concluded .
Wygenia Brisco , who founded the coalition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the debate because that 's the way millennials do things .
`` They do n't do it like the typical debates used to be years ago , '' said Brisco , a baby boomer who serves as an adviser to the group .
Rinehart said Monday night he was disappointed that his Republican opponent did not participate in the forum .
`` We 've had several good discussions over the last few days , and I think the voters have learned a lot listening to our different viewpoints , '' Rinehart said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday an example of Rinehart 's not abiding by rules is that he misconstrued a comment Michael Nerheim made during a Daily Herald editorial board endorsement interview .
In a TV ad that focuses on wrongful convictions in Lake County , Rinehart 's campaign includes a clip of Nerheim saying `` mistakes were made , '' without context .
Nerheim was discussing the work he 's done to prevent wrongful convictions .
`` A big part of this review process is to find out how these cases happen in the first place , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then put protocols into place to make sure they do n't happen again , '' Nerheim said during the endorsement interview in September .
Lori Nerheim said Rinehart used the clip out of context in violation of rules the Daily Herald laid out .
The Daily Herald requests that if candidates use quotes from the endorsement interviews , they do so `` fairly with proper context . ''
Rinehart 's campaign manager , Xavier Nogueras , said Wednesday he did not believe the quote was taken out of context because the ad was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deputy in the state 's attorney 's office who has been involved with wrongful convictions .
`` It is n't that Nerheim made a mistake , it 's that mistakes continue to have been made for a decade and he 's keeping someone who could have been responsible , '' Nogueras said .

Editor's note: The story has been changed to update an incomplete quote and correct when Lori Nerheim's email was sent.
Citing concerns with the format and his opponent's recent conduct, Lake County State's Attorney Michael Nerheim backed out of an online debate earlier this week against Democratic challenger Eric Rinehart.
The virtual event was hosted on Facebook by JustDoIt_Vote Coalition, a Lake County-based group that focuses on educating millennials and young people and getting them out to vote.
Nerheim's sister, Lori Nerheim, who works on his campaign, gave notice on Sunday that he would not be participating. Lori Nerheim sent an email to the organizers stating he was not attending because the debate's format was not provided, the rules for use of video and images were unclear and that Rinehart had already shown he does not abide by agreed-upon rules.
The email was read aloud Monday night on the livestream to the predominantly Black group by one of the debate moderators, Yashin Phillips.
"Mike looks forward to continuing to be active in the Black community including in many forums related to issues experienced by people of color," the email from Lori Nerheim concluded.
Wygenia Brisco, who founded the coalition, said there were no stated rules for the debate because that's the way millennials do things.
"They don't do it like the typical debates used to be years ago," said Brisco, a baby boomer who serves as an adviser to the group.
Rinehart said Monday night he was disappointed that his Republican opponent did not participate in the forum.
"We've had several good discussions over the last few days, and I think the voters have learned a lot listening to our different viewpoints," Rinehart said during the livestream.
Lori Nerheim said Wednesday an example of Rinehart's not abiding by rules is that he misconstrued a comment Michael Nerheim made during a Daily Herald editorial board endorsement interview. In a TV ad that focuses on wrongful convictions in Lake County, Rinehart's campaign includes a clip of Nerheim saying "mistakes were made," without context. Nerheim was discussing the work he's done to prevent wrongful convictions.
"A big part of this review process is to find out how these cases happen in the first place, find out what mistakes were made and then put protocols into place to make sure they don't happen again," Nerheim said during the endorsement interview in September.
Lori Nerheim said Rinehart used the clip out of context in violation of rules the Daily Herald laid out. The Daily Herald requests that if candidates use quotes from the endorsement interviews, they do so "fairly with proper context."
Rinehart's campaign manager, Xavier Nogueras, said Wednesday he did not believe the quote was taken out of context because the ad was about how Nerheim hasn't fired a deputy in the state's attorney's office who has been involved with wrongful convictions.
"It isn't that Nerheim made a mistake, it's that mistakes continue to have been made for a decade and he's keeping someone who could have been responsible," Nogueras said.
• For more election coverage and help filling out your ballot, visit dailyherald.com/election.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Partisan battle over state Supreme Court race could exceed $6 million in spending

With Election Day weeks away , top Republican donors have funneled more than $ 2.5 million to unseat one of four Democratic justices on the Illinois Supreme Court -- and potentially seize control from the court 's Democratic majority , which has lasted since 1964 .
Justice Thomas Kilbride faces an anti-retention effort from the Citizens for Judicial Fairness , a committee that formed last month and is chaired by James Nowlan , a political commentator , a former state legislator and a former University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign faculty member .
As of Thursday , Nowlan 's committee has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- including a $ 2 million donation from Citadel CEO and founder Kenneth Griffin , the wealthiest person in Illinois .
Kilbride 's own campaign committee , the Kilbride for Supreme Court Judge Committee , has reported raising roughly $ 2.98 million since July 1 .
Kilbride , 67 , was elected to his first 10-year term in 2000 by voters in the 3rd Judicial District , which spans 21 counties across portions of north-central Illinois , including Will County , the Quad Cities , Peoria , Ottawa and Galesburg .
He was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yes '' votes , or 65.88 % of the total vote .
The seven justices on the Illinois Supreme Court are elected from five judicial districts .
The First Judicial District , which encompasses Cook County , contains three justices .
Currently , the court 's Democratic majority consists of Kilbride and the three First District justices : Anne M. Burke , Mary Jane Theis and P. Scott Neville .
During this election season , like past years , Kilbride 's campaign committee has been funded largely by plaintiff law firms as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also received backing from prominent Republicans , including ex-Gov .
Jim Thompson shortly before his death and Dan Webb , a former U.S. attorney in Chicago .
The anti-retention effort is backed by fiscal conservatives , including Griffin and Richard Uihlein , who are aligned with business interests and the Illinois GOP .
Uihlein and his wife , Elizabeth , co-founded Uline , a distributor of shipping materials .
Griffin and Uihlein are both billionaires who have spent millions to support `` liberty-oriented '' conservative causes and candidates in the state .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the graduated income tax proposal set to appear on the Nov. 3 ballot .
In an interview with CNI , Kilbride said the politicization of the court is not something he started .
`` There would be no contributions at all if the other side were not attacking me , '' he said .
`` There 's no question in my mind that I can still maintain fairness and balance .
And I 'm afraid that the opposition wants to imbalance things on the court to get somebody into the seat that I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on everything .
The notion that contributions have somehow swayed the court is just wrong . ''
Kent Redfield , emeritus professor of political science at the University of Illinois at Springfield , said he is n't surprised by the influx of money into this year 's retention campaign , especially given the large amount of spending in recent past judicial elections .
In 2010 , Kilbride 's campaign raised about $ 2.8 million for his retention effort .
`` Retentions have become contentious and partisan .
Now , that was certainly not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Convention back in 1970 .
The idea was that retention would be a way to get rid of bad judges that had egregious behavior or made crazy rulings .
It was not intended that it would necessarily become partisan , '' said Redfield , who has been researching campaign finance in Illinois politics for nearly 30 years .
If the anti-retention effort succeeds and Kilbride fails to receive at least 60 % of the vote , the chief judge of the Supreme Court would appoint a replacement until a special election in 2022 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elections spokesman Matt Dietrich .
The possibility of a special election also means a chance for state Republicans to regain control over the Illinois Supreme Court .
`` It would get the whole court to change , and it would no longer protect the Chicago Democratic majority , '' Nowlan said .
Nowlan is especially critical of Kilbride 's vote in a 2016 decision that blocked a ballot proposal seeking to change how the state redraws legislative and congressional district maps every 10 years .
The Support Independent Maps group was behind the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ petition signatures .
The group 's proposal would have amended the redistricting section of the state Constitution by removing the legislature 's role in redistricting and implementing a less partisan process .
In a 4-3 decision , the Democratic majority ruled the proposal went beyond the narrow scope outlined in the state Constitution that governs citizen initiatives .
Nowlan said Kilbride should have recused himself from the decision because opponents of the ballot initiative were allied with powerful House Speaker Michael Madigan and the Illinois Democratic Party , which contributed to Kilbride 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maps ) did n't bring the petition within the confines of Article 4 ( of the state Constitution ) , and there is abundant court precedent predating that case that mandates that decision , '' he said .
He also insists that a firewall between him and his donors prevents him from viewing his campaign contributors , which are a matter of public record .
`` Theoretically , I could ( look at my donors ) , but I do n't .
And I 've committed myself to that position .
I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filed with the state board of elections .
I have a finance committee and instructed my treasurer , clearly , to not involve me and not to show me anything .
And that 's the way it operates . ''

Partisan battle over state Supreme Court race could exceed $6 million in spending
State Supreme Court Justice Thomas L. Kilbride must receive at least 60% of the vote to be retained in the Nov. 3 election. Associated Press, 2013
With Election Day weeks away, top Republican donors have funneled more than $2.5 million to unseat one of four Democratic justices on the Illinois Supreme Court -- and potentially seize control from the court's Democratic majority, which has lasted since 1964.
Justice Thomas Kilbride faces an anti-retention effort from the Citizens for Judicial Fairness, a committee that formed last month and is chaired by James Nowlan, a political commentator, a former state legislator and a former University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign faculty member.
As of Thursday, Nowlan's committee has raised $2.8 million in individual contributions -- including a $2 million donation from Citadel CEO and founder Kenneth Griffin, the wealthiest person in Illinois.
Kilbride's own campaign committee, the Kilbride for Supreme Court Judge Committee, has reported raising roughly $2.98 million since July 1.
Kilbride, 67, was elected to his first 10-year term in 2000 by voters in the 3rd Judicial District, which spans 21 counties across portions of north-central Illinois, including Will County, the Quad Cities, Peoria, Ottawa and Galesburg.
He was retained in 2010, with 338,520 "yes" votes, or 65.88% of the total vote.
The seven justices on the Illinois Supreme Court are elected from five judicial districts. The First Judicial District, which encompasses Cook County, contains three justices. Currently, the court's Democratic majority consists of Kilbride and the three First District justices: Anne M. Burke, Mary Jane Theis and P. Scott Neville.
During this election season, like past years, Kilbride's campaign committee has been funded largely by plaintiff law firms as well as education and labor unions.
He has also received backing from prominent Republicans, including ex-Gov. Jim Thompson shortly before his death and Dan Webb, a former U.S. attorney in Chicago.
The anti-retention effort is backed by fiscal conservatives, including Griffin and Richard Uihlein, who are aligned with business interests and the Illinois GOP.
Uihlein and his wife, Elizabeth, co-founded Uline, a distributor of shipping materials.
Griffin and Uihlein are both billionaires who have spent millions to support "liberty-oriented" conservative causes and candidates in the state.
They also donated to campaigns opposed to the graduated income tax proposal set to appear on the Nov. 3 ballot.
In an interview with CNI, Kilbride said the politicization of the court is not something he started.
"There would be no contributions at all if the other side were not attacking me," he said. "There's no question in my mind that I can still maintain fairness and balance. And I'm afraid that the opposition wants to imbalance things on the court to get somebody into the seat that I occupy that would agree with their view on everything. The notion that contributions have somehow swayed the court is just wrong."
Kent Redfield, emeritus professor of political science at the University of Illinois at Springfield, said he isn't surprised by the influx of money into this year's retention campaign, especially given the large amount of spending in recent past judicial elections.
In 2010, Kilbride's campaign raised about $2.8 million for his retention effort.
"Retentions have become contentious and partisan. Now, that was certainly not the intent in terms of the Constitutional Convention back in 1970. The idea was that retention would be a way to get rid of bad judges that had egregious behavior or made crazy rulings. It was not intended that it would necessarily become partisan," said Redfield, who has been researching campaign finance in Illinois politics for nearly 30 years.
If the anti-retention effort succeeds and Kilbride fails to receive at least 60% of the vote, the chief judge of the Supreme Court would appoint a replacement until a special election in 2022, according to Illinois State Board of Elections spokesman Matt Dietrich.
The possibility of a special election also means a chance for state Republicans to regain control over the Illinois Supreme Court.
"It would get the whole court to change, and it would no longer protect the Chicago Democratic majority," Nowlan said.
Nowlan is especially critical of Kilbride's vote in a 2016 decision that blocked a ballot proposal seeking to change how the state redraws legislative and congressional district maps every 10 years.
The Support Independent Maps group was behind the 2016 ballot initiative and gained nearly 600,000 petition signatures. The group's proposal would have amended the redistricting section of the state Constitution by removing the legislature's role in redistricting and implementing a less partisan process.
In a 4-3 decision, the Democratic majority ruled the proposal went beyond the narrow scope outlined in the state Constitution that governs citizen initiatives.
Nowlan said Kilbride should have recused himself from the decision because opponents of the ballot initiative were allied with powerful House Speaker Michael Madigan and the Illinois Democratic Party, which contributed to Kilbride's campaign in 2010.
Kilbride maintains his decision wasn't based on political considerations.
"(Independent Maps) didn't bring the petition within the confines of Article 4 (of the state Constitution), and there is abundant court precedent predating that case that mandates that decision," he said.
He also insists that a firewall between him and his donors prevents him from viewing his campaign contributors, which are a matter of public record.
"Theoretically, I could (look at my donors), but I don't. And I've committed myself to that position. I haven't looked at any of these reports filed with the state board of elections. I have a finance committee and instructed my treasurer, clearly, to not involve me and not to show me anything. And that's the way it operates."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Tollway revenue drop reflects how many staying at home during COVID-19

The Illinois tollway 's 2021 tentative budget anticipates a continued impact from the COVID-19 pandemic as officials predict toll revenues will be $ 67 million below 2019 levels .
But the agency 's road construction program will forge ahead in 2021 with a focus on design and preparatory work on I-490 , a ring road on the western side of O'Hare International Airport .
The tollway 's 2021 budget proposal was presented at a virtual Thursday board meeting and will be voted on in December .
Planners originally budgeted $ 1.49 billion in revenues from tolls in 2020 but expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to $ 1.24 billion , as thousands of Illinoisans worked from home , lost their jobs or avoided trips as a result of the virus .
In comparison , tolls in 2019 came to $ 1.46 billion .
Next year , the agency estimates it will receive more than $ 1.39 billion in tolls , which includes an increase for trucks .
Additional revenues include about $ 20 million from investments , concessions at oases and miscellaneous income .
The 2021 tentative budget is balanced and calls for nearly $ 1.42 billion in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to operations and maintenance , $ 468 million for debt payments , and $ 567 million for road building and improvements .
In 2020 , the tollway budgeted $ 380 million for operations and maintenance , which included salaries .
The agency 's tentative head count decreases from 1,462 in 2020 to 1,434 in 2021 .
However , while some divisions , such as toll operations , are down by 51 toll collector positions , the administration , information technology and procurement departments added 38 jobs collectively , the plan indicates .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion , with $ 451 million earmarked for planning and advance work on I-490 and access to O'Hare 's western flank , plus interchanges with the Jane Addams Tollway ( I-90 ) near Des Plaines , Tri-State Tollway ( I-294 ) near Franklin Park , and Route 390 , the former Elgin-O'Hare Expressway .
An additional $ 690 million will continue expansion of the Central Tri-State , and $ 78 million is allocated for the I-294 and I-57 interchange .
Virtual hearings on the budget will be at noon and 6 p.m. Nov. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illinoistollway.com .

Tollway revenue drop reflects how many staying at home during COVID-19
The Illinois tollway's 2021 tentative budget anticipates a continued impact from the COVID-19 pandemic as officials predict toll revenues will be $67 million below 2019 levels.
But the agency's road construction program will forge ahead in 2021 with a focus on design and preparatory work on I-490, a ring road on the western side of O'Hare International Airport.
The tollway's 2021 budget proposal was presented at a virtual Thursday board meeting and will be voted on in December.
Planners originally budgeted $1.49 billion in revenues from tolls in 2020 but expect that will drop by $255 million to $1.24 billion, as thousands of Illinoisans worked from home, lost their jobs or avoided trips as a result of the virus. In comparison, tolls in 2019 came to $1.46 billion.
Next year, the agency estimates it will receive more than $1.39 billion in tolls, which includes an increase for trucks. Additional revenues include about $20 million from investments, concessions at oases and miscellaneous income.
The 2021 tentative budget is balanced and calls for nearly $1.42 billion in spending, with $380 million going to operations and maintenance, $468 million for debt payments, and $567 million for road building and improvements. In 2020, the tollway budgeted $380 million for operations and maintenance, which included salaries.
The agency's tentative head count decreases from 1,462 in 2020 to 1,434 in 2021. However, while some divisions, such as toll operations, are down by 51 toll collector positions, the administration, information technology and procurement departments added 38 jobs collectively, the plan indicates.
The capital budget for 2021 is $1.53 billion, with $451 million earmarked for planning and advance work on I-490 and access to O'Hare's western flank, plus interchanges with the Jane Addams Tollway (I-90) near Des Plaines, Tri-State Tollway (I-294) near Franklin Park, and Route 390, the former Elgin-O'Hare Expressway.
An additional $690 million will continue expansion of the Central Tri-State, and $78 million is allocated for the I-294 and I-57 interchange.
Virtual hearings on the budget will be at noon and 6 p.m. Nov. 4. For more information, visit illinoistollway.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Gun owners frustrated with FOID application backlog

SPRINGFIELD -- Despite a temporary rule that extends the expiration dates for Firearm Owners Identification cards and concealed carry permits , many Illinois gun owners are still finding it difficult to buy weapons and ammunition .
That was one of the issues that came up Wednesday during a meeting of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules , a legislative body that oversees the state 's regulatory processes .
`` The problem that a lot of my constituents are having is firearms dealers and businesses are not accepting the FOID cards that are expired , even though they know ... that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hey , they 're still good beyond the expiration date , '' state Sen. Paul Schimpf , a Waterloo Republican , said during the hearing .
Schimpf was speaking to officials from the Illinois State Police , which recently renewed an emergency rule first adopted in April that extends the expiration date of FOID cards and concealed carry permits by 12 months , as long as the permit holder submits a renewal application .
On Sept. 3 , the agency extended that rule to 18 months .
The state police , who issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a backlog of applications since long before the pandemic began .
But the problem multiplied after the pandemic hit and again later amid the civil unrest that erupted following the May 25 murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police .
According to data that state police provided in an email , 147,862 FOID card applications were received during the first four months of the disaster declaration , March through June .
That was more than double the number received in the prior four-month period .
From July through September , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 135,798 applications for new or renewed FOID cards .
There are currently more than 142,000 FOID card applications pending and more than 26,000 applications pending for concealed carry licenses .
Richard Pearson , executive director of the Illinois State Rifle Association , said in an interview that he receives complaints from gun owners who are frustrated about the delays on a daily basis .
`` One guy has been waiting for three years and no explanation of why he has n't gotten it or anything .
So , yeah , we 're actually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
Under state law , FOID cards are supposed to be issued or denied within 30 days of an application , but the backlog has caused most applicants to wait for several months .
Pearson said there are currently 12 lawsuits pending in various courts arguing the delays amount to a violation of individuals ' constitutional right to bear arms .
According to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence , Illinois is one of only three states , alongside Massachusetts and New York , that require a license @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ten states require a permit to purchase at least some types of firearms , but not all of them require a license to continue owning one .
Pearson confirmed that despite the emergency rule extending the expiration dates , many gun dealers still will not sell firearms to anyone who does not have a current , valid FOID card .
`` I know that they 're worried about liability , '' he said .
`` And so , ( the rule ) might say that they 're OK , but the law says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the executive order overrides the law .
It is a big quagmire .
Plus the fact that these people ca n't buy ammunition in Illinois .
And so they have to go on online and buy it , and to get it online , you have to supply the provider of that ammunition , the seller of that ammunition , with a valid FOID card and they do n't have a valid FOID card . ''
Pearson said that has been especially frustrating for hunters because deer and waterfowl hunting seasons are coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some places are in short supply , '' he said .
`` So , you know , you 're supposed to have a valid FOID card while you 're out hunting .
But of course , the executive order overrides that , so they 're not doing anything about it . ''
State police general counsel Yvette Loizon said during Wednesday 's hearing that the agency has heard directly from firearms dealers about the issue .
`` It 's an issue that we are cognizant of , and we are looking into ideas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alleviate some of those problems , '' she said .
A state police representative said in an email that the agency has been in the process of hiring more analysts to process applications since early this year .
`` The hiring process is ongoing and includes a minimum six-month training program to ensure applications are accurately and efficiently processed , '' the representative said .

Gun owners frustrated with FOID application backlog
SPRINGFIELD -- Despite a temporary rule that extends the expiration dates for Firearm Owners Identification cards and concealed carry permits, many Illinois gun owners are still finding it difficult to buy weapons and ammunition.
That was one of the issues that came up Wednesday during a meeting of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, a legislative body that oversees the state's regulatory processes.
"The problem that a lot of my constituents are having is firearms dealers and businesses are not accepting the FOID cards that are expired, even though they know ... that the state of Illinois has said, hey, they're still good beyond the expiration date," state Sen. Paul Schimpf, a Waterloo Republican, said during the hearing.
Schimpf was speaking to officials from the Illinois State Police, which recently renewed an emergency rule first adopted in April that extends the expiration date of FOID cards and concealed carry permits by 12 months, as long as the permit holder submits a renewal application. On Sept. 3, the agency extended that rule to 18 months.
The state police, who issue firearm permits, had been struggling with a backlog of applications since long before the pandemic began. But the problem multiplied after the pandemic hit and again later amid the civil unrest that erupted following the May 25 murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.
According to data that state police provided in an email, 147,862 FOID card applications were received during the first four months of the disaster declaration, March through June. That was more than double the number received in the prior four-month period.
From July through September, the state police said the agency received 135,798 applications for new or renewed FOID cards.
There are currently more than 142,000 FOID card applications pending and more than 26,000 applications pending for concealed carry licenses.
Richard Pearson, executive director of the Illinois State Rifle Association, said in an interview that he receives complaints from gun owners who are frustrated about the delays on a daily basis.
"One guy has been waiting for three years and no explanation of why he hasn't gotten it or anything. So, yeah, we're actually forwarding those all to our attorney," he said.
Under state law, FOID cards are supposed to be issued or denied within 30 days of an application, but the backlog has caused most applicants to wait for several months. Pearson said there are currently 12 lawsuits pending in various courts arguing the delays amount to a violation of individuals' constitutional right to bear arms.
According to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, Illinois is one of only three states, alongside Massachusetts and New York, that require a license to buy and possess a firearm. Ten states require a permit to purchase at least some types of firearms, but not all of them require a license to continue owning one.
Pearson confirmed that despite the emergency rule extending the expiration dates, many gun dealers still will not sell firearms to anyone who does not have a current, valid FOID card.
"I know that they're worried about liability," he said. "And so, (the rule) might say that they're OK, but the law says you can't do it, and the executive order overrides the law. It is a big quagmire. Plus the fact that these people can't buy ammunition in Illinois. And so they have to go on online and buy it, and to get it online, you have to supply the provider of that ammunition, the seller of that ammunition, with a valid FOID card and they don't have a valid FOID card."
Pearson said that has been especially frustrating for hunters because deer and waterfowl hunting seasons are coming soon.
"And deer slugs in some places are in short supply," he said. "So, you know, you're supposed to have a valid FOID card while you're out hunting. But of course, the executive order overrides that, so they're not doing anything about it."
State police general counsel Yvette Loizon said during Wednesday's hearing that the agency has heard directly from firearms dealers about the issue.
"It's an issue that we are cognizant of, and we are looking into ideas in different ways where we could help alleviate some of those problems," she said.
A state police representative said in an email that the agency has been in the process of hiring more analysts to process applications since early this year.
"The hiring process is ongoing and includes a minimum six-month training program to ensure applications are accurately and efficiently processed," the representative said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--How buying a car in Libertyville can help other local businesses

At the halfway mark , a revived incentive program to buy or lease new cars and help local business in Libertyville is generating interest , officials say .
The Libertyville Rewards program was introduced in 2009 to support and promote local businesses during the recession , and again was offered in 2015 .
Village officials revived it as of Oct. 1 and budgeted $ 75,000 to cover costs .
`` I 'd say the vehicle sales have been fairly robust but we still have certificate availability at all the stores , '' said Heather Rowe , economic development director .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at any of 12 dealerships receive village-backed vouchers of $ 100 for nonresidents and $ 200 for residents .
The program ends Oct. 31 .
Vouchers will be mailed in early November and can be redeemed through Feb. 28 .
Participating dealers each received 30 vouchers .
About 80 retailers , including restaurants boutiques , groceries and others will honor the vouchers , with more expected .
`` We 'll probably get close to 100 , I expect , '' Rowe said .
`` I think the large response from participating businesses shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back in their stores . ''
Rowe said anecdotal reports indicate the village is on track to use all the vouchers .
The program is in partnership with what is known as the Libertyville Mile of Cars , a dealership group .
Dealers are donating $ 100 to local charities for every customer who receives a voucher , and have paid for advertising the program .
`` It 's exciting to be able to reward customers for their local support and to extend the benefit to residents and businesses throughout the community , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Libertyville Lincoln and a Mile of Cars representative .
Pandemic-related supply chain issues resulted in an initial lack of inventory for auto dealers but is returning to normal in the fourth quarter , said Dan Marks , Lincoln president .
Sales tax is the top revenue source for the village 's general fund , which pays for day-to-day expenses .
Services and auto-related businesses account for about 60 % of the total , according to the village .
Overall sales taxes generated in June and received by the village in September were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That was a significant improvement from May , according to Finance Director Nick Mostardo , and reflects more substantial business reopenings including outdoor dining .
However , sales taxes are down about $ 635,000 for the first five months of the 2020-21 budget year compared to last year .
Like most communities , Libertyville has felt the pinch of the pandemic .
As of Sept. 30 , total revenue for the current fiscal year dropped 17.6 % to $ 18.5 million compared to a year ago .
On Tuesday , the village @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which ends May 1 , by $ 4.1 million .

How buying a car in Libertyville can help other local businesses
At the halfway mark, a revived incentive program to buy or lease new cars and help local business in Libertyville is generating interest, officials say.
The Libertyville Rewards program was introduced in 2009 to support and promote local businesses during the recession, and again was offered in 2015.
Village officials revived it as of Oct. 1 and budgeted $75,000 to cover costs.
"I'd say the vehicle sales have been fairly robust but we still have certificate availability at all the stores," said Heather Rowe, economic development director.
Customers who buy or lease new cars at any of 12 dealerships receive village-backed vouchers of $100 for nonresidents and $200 for residents. The program ends Oct. 31. Vouchers will be mailed in early November and can be redeemed through Feb. 28.
Participating dealers each received 30 vouchers. About 80 retailers, including restaurants boutiques, groceries and others will honor the vouchers, with more expected.
"We'll probably get close to 100, I expect," Rowe said. "I think the large response from participating businesses shows how interested they are in getting customers back in their stores."
Rowe said anecdotal reports indicate the village is on track to use all the vouchers.
The program is in partnership with what is known as the Libertyville Mile of Cars, a dealership group. Dealers are donating $100 to local charities for every customer who receives a voucher, and have paid for advertising the program.
"It's exciting to be able to reward customers for their local support and to extend the benefit to residents and businesses throughout the community," said Glenn Bockwinkel, general manager for Libertyville Lincoln and a Mile of Cars representative.
Pandemic-related supply chain issues resulted in an initial lack of inventory for auto dealers but is returning to normal in the fourth quarter, said Dan Marks, Lincoln president.
Sales tax is the top revenue source for the village's general fund, which pays for day-to-day expenses. Services and auto-related businesses account for about 60% of the total, according to the village.
Overall sales taxes generated in June and received by the village in September were down only $21,555 versus June 2019. That was a significant improvement from May, according to Finance Director Nick Mostardo, and reflects more substantial business reopenings including outdoor dining.
However, sales taxes are down about $635,000 for the first five months of the 2020-21 budget year compared to last year.
Like most communities, Libertyville has felt the pinch of the pandemic. As of Sept. 30, total revenue for the current fiscal year dropped 17.6% to $18.5 million compared to a year ago.
On Tuesday, the village board reduced the adopted 2020-21 budget, which ends May 1, by $4.1 million.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Bicyclist injured in Batavia hit-and-run

Authorities are looking for an SUV driver who struck a bicyclist and then fled Wednesday night in Batavia , according @ @ @ @ @ .
Police responded to the 400 block of South River Street at 9:46 p.m. after @ @ @ @ @ investigation shows the bicyclist , a 37-year-old North Aurora man , was riding his illuminated @ @ @ @ @ on South River Street when the vehicle came up behind him and sideswiped him , @ @ @ @ @ vehicle , described as a dark gray or black SUV , is believed to have @ @ @ @ @ taillight .
The bicyclist 's injuries were not considered life-threatening .
Anyone with information about @ @ @ @ @ at ( 630 ) 454-2500 .

Bicyclist injured in Batavia hit-and-run
Authorities are looking for an SUV driver who struck a bicyclist and then fled Wednesday night in Batavia, according to a Thursday news release.
Police responded to the 400 block of South River Street at 9:46 p.m. after the crash.
The preliminary investigation shows the bicyclist, a 37-year-old North Aurora man, was riding his illuminated bike south near the shoulder on South River Street when the vehicle came up behind him and sideswiped him, the release said.
The vehicle, described as a dark gray or black SUV, is believed to have damage to the rear passenger's-side taillight.
The bicyclist's injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Anyone with information about the crash should call police at (630) 454-2500.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Forget all those defensive studs, Bears MVP is a special teamer

I submit that through five weeks of this 2020 season Cordarrelle Patterson is the Bears Most Valuable Player .
He is in fact , a three-time first-team All Pro and three-time second-team All Pro as a kickoff returner , and last season he won the award for both his return and coverage abilities as the best special teams player in the game .
He is currently the best in the NFL both returning kickoffs and covering kickoffs and punts as a gunner .
But Patterson has also been the Bears No .
2 running back and doubled as either the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wide receiver and made huge contributions from both positions .
In the Bears ' miraculous opening-day comeback in Detroit , with just over three minutes to play in the third quarter , the Lions kicked a 44-yard field goal to go up 23-6 and Patterson returned the ensuing kickoff 45 yards to set up the Bears near midfield , hitting them with a defibrillator and beginning their comeback .
Eight plays later on 4th-and-1 at the Lions ' 10 , Patterson went around left end for 3 yards and the first down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jimmy Graham to make it a 23-13 game and put the Bears back in it .
In Atlanta , the Falcons took the opening kickoff of the second half in for a touchdown to go up 23-10 and the Bears looked like they were done until Cordarrelle Patterson returned the ensuing kickoff 40 yards to flip the field and light a fire under the Bears .
Yes , Trubisky threw the ugly pick three plays later that handed his job to Nick Foles , but the defense responded , holding the Falcons to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a field goal to keep it a two-score game at 26-10 , and the Bears took off from there .
Last Thursday night , trailing Tampa with 2:05 to play in the first half , he took a swing pass 25 yards to the Bucs ' 3 for the Bears first chunk play of the night , setting up Montgomery to go in on the next play and make it a 13-7 game .
A little over a minute later following the Kyle Fuller forced fumble , on 3rd-and-3 at the Bucs ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass in the left flat for 8 yards and the first down , and on the next play Jimmy Graham gave the Bears a 14-13 lead .
Making sure the Bears could keep the momentum , Paterson took the opening kickoff of the second half 40 yards and the Bears actually dominated their first half of football all season .
Ask Peterson if he needs a permanent position or more touches and he will tell you , `` I mean I 'm always ready .
That 's something I 've been ready for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time comes , it comes .
Whenever it comes , my number is called , I just go out there and be ready .
Whenever it is , man , like I say , if it happens , it happens .
If it do n't , it do n't .
I 'm going to still be me at the end of the day . ''
As for his new role with the Bears as the No .
2 back now that Tarik Cohen has gone down , Patterson admits he 's energized .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
`` I just love getting the ball and just running .
I remember last week , one of the big boys from the Giants tried to tackle me , he said bro , you run hard , bro , you hard to tackle .
That 's what I 'm going for , man .
I 'm just trying to run through a wall if I can . ''
From the day Patterson landed in Chicago , I ca n't remember seeing him without a smile on his face , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most popular and jovial guys in the locker room .
There is one concern with Patterson today and it is something he actually shares with Allen Robinson : The 29-year-old will be a free agent at the end of this season , he has significantly outplayed his two-year , $ 10 million deal , and you can bet he 'll have plenty of suitors if he 's allowed to get to free agency .
Should the Bears refuse to get Robinson a new deal , one would hope they at least make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patterson soon .

Forget all those defensive studs, Bears MVP is a special teamer
Bears wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson out runs Tampa Bay Buccaneers free safety Jordan Whitehead after a catch during the Bears win over the Bucs. Through five weeks of this 2020 season, Patterson is the Bears Most Valuable Player. Associated Press
I submit that through five weeks of this 2020 season Cordarrelle Patterson is the Bears Most Valuable Player.
He is in fact, a three-time first-team All Pro and three-time second-team All Pro as a kickoff returner, and last season he won the award for both his return and coverage abilities as the best special teams player in the game.
He is currently the best in the NFL both returning kickoffs and covering kickoffs and punts as a gunner.
But Patterson has also been the Bears No. 2 running back and doubled as either the No. 3 or No. 4 wide receiver and made huge contributions from both positions.
In the Bears' miraculous opening-day comeback in Detroit, with just over three minutes to play in the third quarter, the Lions kicked a 44-yard field goal to go up 23-6 and Patterson returned the ensuing kickoff 45 yards to set up the Bears near midfield, hitting them with a defibrillator and beginning their comeback.
Eight plays later on 4th-and-1 at the Lions' 10, Patterson went around left end for 3 yards and the first down, and three plays later Mitch Trubisky hit Jimmy Graham to make it a 23-13 game and put the Bears back in it.
In Atlanta, the Falcons took the opening kickoff of the second half in for a touchdown to go up 23-10 and the Bears looked like they were done until Cordarrelle Patterson returned the ensuing kickoff 40 yards to flip the field and light a fire under the Bears.
Yes, Trubisky threw the ugly pick three plays later that handed his job to Nick Foles, but the defense responded, holding the Falcons to 1 yard on three plays, forcing a field goal to keep it a two-score game at 26-10, and the Bears took off from there.
Last Thursday night, trailing Tampa with 2:05 to play in the first half, he took a swing pass 25 yards to the Bucs' 3 for the Bears first chunk play of the night, setting up Montgomery to go in on the next play and make it a 13-7 game.
A little over a minute later following the Kyle Fuller forced fumble, on 3rd-and-3 at the Bucs' 20, Patterson caught a Foles' pass in the left flat for 8 yards and the first down, and on the next play Jimmy Graham gave the Bears a 14-13 lead.
Making sure the Bears could keep the momentum, Paterson took the opening kickoff of the second half 40 yards and the Bears actually dominated their first half of football all season.
Ask Peterson if he needs a permanent position or more touches and he will tell you, "I mean I'm always ready. That's something I've been ready for my whole life.
"When my time comes, it comes. Whenever it comes, my number is called, I just go out there and be ready. Whenever it is, man, like I say, if it happens, it happens. If it don't, it don't. I'm going to still be me at the end of the day."
As for his new role with the Bears as the No. 2 back now that Tarik Cohen has gone down, Patterson admits he's energized.
"It's fun, man," he said. "I just love getting the ball and just running. I remember last week, one of the big boys from the Giants tried to tackle me, he said bro, you run hard, bro, you hard to tackle. That's what I'm going for, man. I'm just trying to run through a wall if I can."
From the day Patterson landed in Chicago ,I can't remember seeing him without a smile on his face, and he appears to be one of the most popular and jovial guys in the locker room.
There is one concern with Patterson today and it is something he actually shares with Allen Robinson: The 29-year-old will be a free agent at the end of this season, he has significantly outplayed his two-year, $10 million deal, and you can bet he'll have plenty of suitors if he's allowed to get to free agency.
Should the Bears refuse to get Robinson a new deal, one would hope they at least make an effort to get something done with Patterson soon.
Twitter: @Hub_Arkush


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--How a suburban police chief is using her Ph.D. in psychology to help fellow cops

Laura King knows better than most the impact a career in law enforcement has an officer 's mental and physical well-being .
King , the McHenry County Conservation District police chief , grew up in a home in which both her parents were police officers , and sheremembers seeing the challenges and frustrations of the job take their toll on her father in particular .
She followed in their footsteps , spending two decades with the McHenry Police Department , then serving as chief investigator for the McHenry County state 's attorney before landing in her current role in January @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of how the job affected her father or her colleagues , and that 's one reason she pursued a Ph.D. in psychology , with a focus on stress management and work-life balance .
Now , King 's two worlds of expertise have come together with her book , `` Officer Safety : REDEFINED . ''
Published last week and available on Amazon , King 's book serves as a guide for police officers -- or those in other life-or-death professions , such as first responders and military personnel -- working to overcome the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ careers .
`` Officer safety is not only about what we face on the street with violent offenders , but also how it effects our bodies and our minds , '' King told us this week .
The evidence of those effects is clear : Police officers , on average , die younger than those in other professions , commit suicide more often , have higher rates of divorce and are more likely to suffer from depression , anxiety , substance abuse and chronic health problems , such as heart disease and obesity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consequences of the job are n't fait accompli .
But police need to be given the tools to overcome them .
That 's where her book comes in .
`` We have more control over our psychological health than we 're often led to believe , '' she told us .
`` We have the ability to protect our mental health and psychological resiliency .
And we are the ones who have to take the responsibility for doing that . ''
King believes working in law enforcement literally can change the way a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traumatic events over and over again -- known as Critical Incident Exposure -- trains the mind to be always on the lookout for threats , constantly guarded .
`` We 're waiting for the next bad thing to happen , '' she said .
That , King says , makes it difficult for police officers to simply turn off and enjoy time away from their duties .
So while some of her advice sounds common for anyone dealing with stress or anxiety -- get enough sleep , eat healthy , exercise , make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ King said police officers need to be especially mindful and intentional about those pursuits .
`` I 'm really hopeful ( the book ) will help create healthy experiences for police officers across the nation , '' she said .
Kudos to McHenry County Sheriff Bill Prim , who this month received the Lieutenant Rich Kozik Memorial Valor Award from the 100 Club of Chicago .
The award recognizes Prim for his work furthering the mission of the club , which provides financial and other support to the families of fallen first responders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong advocate for the mission of the 100 Club and was an integral piece in bringing assistance to the families of first responders in McHenry County , '' Caitlyn Brennan , CEO of the 100 Club of Chicago , said in an announcement of the award .
The club expanded into McHenry County last year after the killing of sheriff 's Deputy Jacob Keltner in March 2019 .
Keltner , 35 , of Crystal Lake , was assigned to the U.S .
Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force when he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a suspect at a Rockford motel .
He was survived by his wife and two young sons .
`` Ghostbusters , '' starring Dan Aykroyd , Bill Murray and Harold Ramis , is one of two 1980s ghost comedies that will be shown next weekend during the `` Fall Flicks in the Yard '' fundraiser at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site .
Big screen in the Big House Susan confesses she 's the kind of scaredy-cat who sometimes watches `` Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein '' through fingers covering her eyes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ghost movies being shown next weekend at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site .
The Rialto Theater and the Joliet Area Historical Museum are teaming for the fundraiser `` Fall Flicks in the Yard , '' featuring the comedically spooky 1980s classics `` Beetlejuice '' ( Oct. 23 ) and `` Ghostbusters '' ( Oct. 24 ) .
Tickets are $ 50 per twosome , with additional tickets $ 20 per person .
You 'll have to bring your own lawn chair or blanket .
The money will help support both nonprofit organizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rain or shine , no refunds .
The movies will be shown at 7 p.m. on a four-story screen inside the old prison 's walls .
There also will be self-guided tours , and food and beverages will be sold .
By the way The Joliet state prison was built in 1858 and closed in 2002 .
It has starred in movies and television shows , including the opening sequence of `` The Blue Brothers . ''
• Have a question , tip or comment ?
Email us at copsandcrime @ dailyherald.com .

How a suburban police chief is using her Ph.D. in psychology to help fellow cops
Laura King knows better than most the impact a career in law enforcement has an officer's mental and physical well-being.
King, the McHenry County Conservation District police chief, grew up in a home in which both her parents were police officers, and she remembers seeing the challenges and frustrations of the job take their toll on her father in particular.
She followed in their footsteps, spending two decades with the McHenry Police Department, then serving as chief investigator for the McHenry County state's attorney before landing in her current role in January 2019.
But she never lost sight of how the job affected her father or her colleagues, and that's one reason she pursued a Ph.D. in psychology, with a focus on stress management and work-life balance.
Now, King's two worlds of expertise have come together with her book, "Officer Safety: REDEFINED." Published last week and available on Amazon, King's book serves as a guide for police officers -- or those in other life-or-death professions, such as first responders and military personnel -- working to overcome the negative mental and physical consequences of their careers.
"Officer safety is not only about what we face on the street with violent offenders, but also how it effects our bodies and our minds," King told us this week.
The evidence of those effects is clear: Police officers, on average, die younger than those in other professions, commit suicide more often, have higher rates of divorce and are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse and chronic health problems, such as heart disease and obesity.
King makes the argument those negative consequences of the job aren't fait accompli. But police need to be given the tools to overcome them. That's where her book comes in.
"We have more control over our psychological health than we're often led to believe," she told us. "We have the ability to protect our mental health and psychological resiliency. And we are the ones who have to take the responsibility for doing that."
'The next bad thing'
King believes working in law enforcement literally can change the way a person's mind works. Responding to traumatic events over and over again -- known as Critical Incident Exposure -- trains the mind to be always on the lookout for threats, constantly guarded.
"We're waiting for the next bad thing to happen," she said.
That, King says, makes it difficult for police officers to simply turn off and enjoy time away from their duties. So while some of her advice sounds common for anyone dealing with stress or anxiety -- get enough sleep, eat healthy, exercise, make time for the things you enjoy -- King said police officers need to be especially mindful and intentional about those pursuits.
"I'm really hopeful (the book) will help create healthy experiences for police officers across the nation," she said.
Bill Prim -
Kudos to McHenry County Sheriff Bill Prim, who this month received the Lieutenant Rich Kozik Memorial Valor Award from the 100 Club of Chicago.
The award recognizes Prim for his work furthering the mission of the club, which provides financial and other support to the families of fallen first responders.
"Sheriff Prim has been a strong advocate for the mission of the 100 Club and was an integral piece in bringing assistance to the families of first responders in McHenry County," Caitlyn Brennan, CEO of the 100 Club of Chicago, said in an announcement of the award.
The club expanded into McHenry County last year after the killing of sheriff's Deputy Jacob Keltner in March 2019.
Keltner, 35, of Crystal Lake, was assigned to the U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force when he was shot to death while trying to capture a suspect at a Rockford motel. He was survived by his wife and two young sons.
"Ghostbusters," starring Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray and Harold Ramis, is one of two 1980s ghost comedies that will be shown next weekend during the "Fall Flicks in the Yard" fundraiser at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site. - Courtesy of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Susan confesses she's the kind of scaredy-cat who sometimes watches "Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein" through fingers covering her eyes. But she can probably handle the two ghost movies being shown next weekend at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site.
The Rialto Theater and the Joliet Area Historical Museum are teaming for the fundraiser "Fall Flicks in the Yard," featuring the comedically spooky 1980s classics "Beetlejuice" (Oct. 23) and "Ghostbusters" (Oct. 24).
Tickets are $50 per twosome, with additional tickets $20 per person. You'll have to bring your own lawn chair or blanket.
The money will help support both nonprofit organizations.
The show will go on, rain or shine, no refunds. The movies will be shown at 7 p.m. on a four-story screen inside the old prison's walls. There also will be self-guided tours, and food and beverages will be sold.
To buy tickets, visit jolietprison.org.
By the way
The Joliet state prison was built in 1858 and closed in 2002. It has starred in movies and television shows, including the opening sequence of "The Blue Brothers."
• Have a question, tip or comment? Email us at copsandcrime@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Political movements: Women's marches on tap in several suburbs Saturday

Hundreds of people are expected to rally at women 's marches across the suburbs Saturday , celebrating the centennial of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing voting rights for women .
Organizers say they will urge women to vote in Nov. 3 election , observe moments of silence for late U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg , and highlight women 's issues , including equal pay , LGBTQ and reproductive rights , and racial justice and equality .
Rallies are planned in Buffalo Grove , Des Plaines , Downers Grove , Geneva and Glenview at these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- 11 a.m. , intersection sidewalks at East Oakton Street and Mannheim Road .
• Geneva -- 11 a.m. at intersections along a 28-mile stretch of Randall Road from Aurora to Algonquin .
The events will be socially distanced with participants wearing masks .
`` This march is for everyone , '' said Jen Perkins , 30 , of Aurora , a special-education teacher organizing the Randall Road rally through the communities of Aurora , Batavia , Geneva , St. Charles , Elgin and Algonquin .
`` We need to get out the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as important as the general election ( for presidential candidates ) . ''
For more information about marches , visit map.womensmarch.com .

Women's marches on tap in several suburbs Saturday
Hundreds of people are expected to rally at women's marches across the suburbs Saturday, celebrating the centennial of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing voting rights for women.
Organizers say they will urge women to vote in Nov. 3 election, observe moments of silence for late U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and highlight women's issues, including equal pay, LGBTQ and reproductive rights, and racial justice and equality.
Rallies are planned in Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Downers Grove, Geneva and Glenview at these times and locations:
• Buffalo Grove -- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mike Rylko Community Park, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road.
• Des Plaines -- 11 a.m., intersection sidewalks at East Oakton Street and Mannheim Road.
• Downers Grove -- 2 p.m., the Municipal Commuter Parking Lot H -- Belmont Metra station, 5000 Belmont Ave.
• Geneva -- 11 a.m. at intersections along a 28-mile stretch of Randall Road from Aurora to Algonquin.
• Glenview -- 11 a.m., Jackman Park, 1930 Prairie St.
The events will be socially distanced with participants wearing masks.
"This march is for everyone," said Jen Perkins, 30, of Aurora, a special-education teacher organizing the Randall Road rally through the communities of Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, Elgin and Algonquin. "We need to get out the vote. These local elections are just as important as the general election (for presidential candidates)."
For more information about marches, visit map.womensmarch.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Biden, Trump face tough questions in dueling town halls

WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden squared off , in a way , Thursday night in dueling televised town halls that showcased striking differences in temperament , views on racial justice and approaches to a pandemic that has reshaped the nation .
Coming just 2½ weeks before Election Day , the night offered crystalizing contrasts and a national , if divided , audience .
Trump defended his administration 's handling of the coronavirus and was evasive when pressed about if he took a required COVID-19 test before his first debate with Biden .
Angry and combative , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group -- and did so only regarding white supremacists .
Though vague at times , Biden suggested he will offer clarity on his position on expanding the Supreme Court if Trump 's nominee to the bench is seated before Election Day .
Trump also appeared to acknowledge revelations from a recent New York Times report that he was in debt and left open the possibility that some of it was owed to a foreign bank .
But he insisted that he did n't owe any money to Russia or any `` sinister people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in debt was a `` very , very small percentage '' compared to his overall assets .
Biden denounced the White House 's handling of the virus , declaring that it was at fault for closing a pandemic response office established by the Obama administration in which he served .
After Biden 's 90-minute town hall event formally concluded , the candidate spent another half hour taking questions from those in the audience who did n't get an opportunity during the televised program .
Trump and Biden were supposed to spend Thursday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But that faceoff was scuttled after Trump 's coronavirus infection , which jolted the race and threatened the health of the American president .
Trump backed out of plans for a virtual debate .
Trump would n't say whether he had tested negative on the day of his first debate with Biden on Sept. 29 , allowing only `` possibly I did , possibly I did n't . ''
Debate rules required that each candidate , using the honor system , had tested negative before the Cleveland event , but Trump spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested negative .
The presidential rivals took questions in different cities on different networks : Trump on NBC from Miami , Biden on ABC from Philadelphia .
The town halls offered a different format for the two candidates to present themselves to voters , after the pair held a chaotic and combative first debate late last month .
The difference in the men 's tone was immediate and striking .
Trump was Trump .
He was loud and argumentative , rebuking his FBI director , fighting with the host , Savannah Guthrie , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying for the first time that he would honor the results of a fair election , but only after casting an extraordinary amount of doubt on the likeliness of fairness .
`` And then they talk 'Will you accept a peaceful transfer , ' '' Trump said .
`` And the answer is , 'Yes , I will . '
But I want it to be an honest election , and so does everybody else . ''
He again sought to minimize revelations from a New York Times investigation that he has more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggested that reports are wrong that he paid little or no federal income taxes in most years over the past two decades .
Biden meanwhile , took a far different , softer , approach with audience questions .
The former vice president , who struggled growing up with a stutter , stuttered slightly at the start of the program and at one point squeezed his eyes shut and slowed down his response to clearly enunciate his words .
At times his answers droned on .
Holding a white cloth mask in one hand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small card of notes on stage and referred to it while promising to roll back tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans .
He said doing so would save , as he consulted his notes , `` let me see ... $ 92 billion . ''
Biden vowed to say before Election Day whether he will support expanding the number of justices on the Supreme Court if Democrats win the presidency , the Senate and hold the House after November .
He has for weeks refused to answer the question but went further Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm still not a fan '' of expanding the court , but that his ultimate decision depended on how the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court `` is handled '' and `` how much they rush this . ''
Biden also blasted Trump 's foreign policy , declaring that `` 'America first ' has made 'America alone ' '' and `` This president embraces all the thugs in the world . ''
He turned introspective when asked what it would say if he lost .
`` It could say that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I did n't do a good job , '' Biden said .
`` But I think , I hope that it does n't say that we 're as racially , ethnically and religiously at odds as it appears the president wants us to be . ''
Biden said he plans to participate in next week 's debate but that he would ask Trump to take a COVID-19 test before arriving .
`` It 's just decency '' for everyone around him , including non-candidates like camera operators , Biden said .
The two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same space for a debate for a second and final time next week in Nashville .

Biden, Trump face tough questions in dueling town halls
WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden squared off, in a way, Thursday night in dueling televised town halls that showcased striking differences in temperament, views on racial justice and approaches to a pandemic that has reshaped the nation.
Coming just 2½ weeks before Election Day, the night offered crystalizing contrasts and a national, if divided, audience.
Trump defended his administration's handling of the coronavirus and was evasive when pressed about if he took a required COVID-19 test before his first debate with Biden. Angry and combative, Trump refused to denounce the QAnon conspiracy group -- and did so only regarding white supremacists.
Though vague at times, Biden suggested he will offer clarity on his position on expanding the Supreme Court if Trump's nominee to the bench is seated before Election Day.
Trump also appeared to acknowledge revelations from a recent New York Times report that he was in debt and left open the possibility that some of it was owed to a foreign bank. But he insisted that he didn't owe any money to Russia or any "sinister people" and suggested that $400 million in debt was a "very, very small percentage" compared to his overall assets.
Biden denounced the White House's handling of the virus, declaring that it was at fault for closing a pandemic response office established by the Obama administration in which he served.
After Biden's 90-minute town hall event formally concluded, the candidate spent another half hour taking questions from those in the audience who didn't get an opportunity during the televised program.
Trump and Biden were supposed to spend Thursday night on the same debate stage in Miami. But that faceoff was scuttled after Trump's coronavirus infection, which jolted the race and threatened the health of the American president. Trump backed out of plans for a virtual debate.
Trump wouldn't say whether he had tested negative on the day of his first debate with Biden on Sept. 29, allowing only "possibly I did, possibly I didn't." Debate rules required that each candidate, using the honor system, had tested negative before the Cleveland event, but Trump spoke in circles when asked when he last tested negative.
The presidential rivals took questions in different cities on different networks: Trump on NBC from Miami, Biden on ABC from Philadelphia. The town halls offered a different format for the two candidates to present themselves to voters, after the pair held a chaotic and combative first debate late last month. The difference in the men's tone was immediate and striking.
Trump was Trump. He was loud and argumentative, rebuking his FBI director, fighting with the host, Savannah Guthrie, complaining about the questioning -- and eventually saying for the first time that he would honor the results of a fair election, but only after casting an extraordinary amount of doubt on the likeliness of fairness.
"And then they talk 'Will you accept a peaceful transfer,'" Trump said. "And the answer is, 'Yes, I will.' But I want it to be an honest election, and so does everybody else."
He again sought to minimize revelations from a New York Times investigation that he has more than $400 million in debt and suggested that reports are wrong that he paid little or no federal income taxes in most years over the past two decades.
Biden meanwhile, took a far different, softer, approach with audience questions. The former vice president, who struggled growing up with a stutter, stuttered slightly at the start of the program and at one point squeezed his eyes shut and slowed down his response to clearly enunciate his words. At times his answers droned on.
Holding a white cloth mask in one hand, the Democratic nominee also brought a small card of notes on stage and referred to it while promising to roll back tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. He said doing so would save, as he consulted his notes, "let me see... $92 billion."
Biden vowed to say before Election Day whether he will support expanding the number of justices on the Supreme Court if Democrats win the presidency, the Senate and hold the House after November.
He has for weeks refused to answer the question but went further Thursday night. He said, "I'm still not a fan" of expanding the court, but that his ultimate decision depended on how the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court "is handled" and "how much they rush this."
Biden also blasted Trump's foreign policy, declaring that "'America first' has made 'America alone'" and "This president embraces all the thugs in the world." He turned introspective when asked what it would say if he lost.
"It could say that I'm a lousy candidate, that I didn't do a good job," Biden said. "But I think, I hope that it doesn't say that we're as racially, ethnically and religiously at odds as it appears the president wants us to be."
Biden said he plans to participate in next week's debate but that he would ask Trump to take a COVID-19 test before arriving. "It's just decency" for everyone around him, including non-candidates like camera operators, Biden said.
The two men are still scheduled to occupy the same space for a debate for a second and final time next week in Nashville.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--Gun owners frustrated with FOID application backlog


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-15--Garage parking spots no longer reserved for moviegoers in Rosemont

Moviegoers in Rosemont may now have to park a bit farther within the village 's massive 7-level entertainment district parking garage .
Patrons of the AMC theater previously took a separate ramp into the garage and could park among the 1,300 spaces dedicated to the theater on the north side of the garage .
But parking now is first come , first served , under a change to the parking agreement approved by the village board this week .
Mayor Brad Stephens said AMC requested the change , as the struggling cinema chain looks to cut costs amid the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 200,000 a year for parking spaces in the village-owned garage , but under the deal approved Wednesday it will pay $ 72,000 annually .
Theatergoers , as well as customers of any of the other entertainment venues within Parkway Bank Park , can still park for free , as long as they remember to validate their tickets before heading home .
The changes to AMC 's parking agreement came a day after the corporation said in a public filing that it could run out of cash by the end of the year or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at theaters and a diminished Hollywood movie slate .
Just before the pandemic took hold , AMC unveiled renovations to its theater in Rosemont , in which it shut down six of the building 's 18 screens , with plans to parcel out that space to another user .
Now branded AMC DINE-IN Rosemont 12 , the theater features a food `` delivery to seat '' experience ; plush , power recliners ; and upgraded restaurant and lobby .
AMC leases the building from iStar , a New York-based real estate capital group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , AMC contributes to a village-controlled entertainment district promotional fund , but Stephens said those fees have been waived for now in light of COVID-19 .

Garage parking spots no longer reserved for moviegoers in Rosemont
Moviegoers in Rosemont may now have to park a bit farther within the village's massive 7-level entertainment district parking garage.
Patrons of the AMC theater previously took a separate ramp into the garage and could park among the 1,300 spaces dedicated to the theater on the north side of the garage.
But parking now is first come, first served, under a change to the parking agreement approved by the village board this week.
Mayor Brad Stephens said AMC requested the change, as the struggling cinema chain looks to cut costs amid the coronavirus pandemic. The company previously paid $200,000 a year for parking spaces in the village-owned garage, but under the deal approved Wednesday it will pay $72,000 annually.
Theatergoers, as well as customers of any of the other entertainment venues within Parkway Bank Park, can still park for free, as long as they remember to validate their tickets before heading home.
The changes to AMC's parking agreement came a day after the corporation said in a public filing that it could run out of cash by the end of the year or early 2021, due to reduced attendance at theaters and a diminished Hollywood movie slate.
Just before the pandemic took hold, AMC unveiled renovations to its theater in Rosemont, in which it shut down six of the building's 18 screens, with plans to parcel out that space to another user. Now branded AMC DINE-IN Rosemont 12, the theater features a food "delivery to seat" experience; plush, power recliners; and upgraded restaurant and lobby.
AMC leases the building from iStar, a New York-based real estate capital group. Besides payment for the parking garage, AMC contributes to a village-controlled entertainment district promotional fund, but Stephens said those fees have been waived for now in light of COVID-19.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--Feder: Former Chicago sportswriter Vaughn McClure dies at 48

Chicago sports media colleagues were stunned and saddened Thursday to learn of the death of ESPN reporter and former Chicago @ @ @ @ @ , reports Robert Feder .
McClure died at home in Atlanta , according to ESPN @ @ @ @ @ Atlanta Falcons for NFL Nation .
No cause death was released .

Feder: Former Chicago sportswriter Vaughn McClure dies at 48
Chicago sports media colleagues were stunned and saddened Thursday to learn of the death of ESPN reporter and former Chicago sportswriter Vaughn McClure, 48, reports Robert Feder.
McClure died at home in Atlanta, according to ESPN, where he covered the Atlanta Falcons for NFL Nation. No cause of death was released.
Read the full story here.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--New COVID-19 infections hit 4,554 as officials cite 'blatant disregard' for mask, distancing rules

New cases of COVID-19 totaled 4,554 Friday , a new high after Thursday 's record 4,015 , and deaths from the respiratory disease came to 38 , triggering a warning about Illinoisans `` blatantly disregarding '' face mask and social distancing rules .
Illinois ' virus test positivity rate is 5.1 % based on a seven-day rolling average , reflecting rising trends in October .
`` I am deeply concerned , '' Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said at a briefing .
`` We are in a new wave here of COVID-19 -- rising cases , rising positivity all across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thirty-four counties , including DeKalb , Kane , McHenry and Will , received an Illinois Department of Public Health warning for metrics indicating risk of an outbreak .
Kane County 's test positivity rate has climbed past 8 % on average the last few days , which could mean restrictions that could also affect DuPage County if the spike continues .
`` Unless we change our behavior as a community , we can expect to see more illness , death and economic hardship , '' Kane County Health Department Director Barbara Jeffers said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their 20s constitute more than 40 % of infections .
`` Younger people exposing their older , more vulnerable family members is a serious concern , '' she warned .
Other risk factors for Kane County include 114 cases per 100,000 people -- well above the recommended level of 50 -- and an increase in deaths , according to recent data through Oct. 10 .
In McHenry County , the average positivity rate was 8.6 % , with 102 virus cases per 100,000 people as of Oct. 10 .
Will County recorded 133 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in deaths .
Gatherings at bars and clubs , college parties and sports , weddings , funerals and family get-togethers were among the reasons for the caution , IDPH said .
`` Public health officials are observing businesses blatantly disregarding mitigation measures , people not social distancing , gathering in large groups , and not using face coverings , '' IDPH experts said in a statement .
The state is divided into 11 health care regions , allowing officials to target areas at risk of a virus surge .
Region 8 , comprising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average COVID-19 test positivity rate of 7.4 % as of Tuesday , the IDPH reported .
Elsewhere , suburban Cook had a positivity rate of 6.3 % , Lake and McHenry were at 6.6 % , and Will and Kankakee counties were at 6.8 % .
DuPage County Health Department experts warned of `` COVID-19 fatigue '' and urged residents to be vigilant about wearing masks Friday , noting the average number of cases per day had increased from 112 to 169 from Oct. 6 to 13 .
The number of patients in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Thursday night -- the most since June 12 when hospitalizations hit 2,117 .
The seven-day average for hospitalizations is 1,874 .
COVID-19 patients in ICU beds reached 410 , the highest since June 22 , and 151 patients were on ventilators as of Thursday .
The state has processed 6.6 million tests so far , and 87,759 in the last 24 hours .
The number of COVID-19 cases statewide is at 336,174 , and the number of people dying since the pandemic began is 9,165 .
The average number of new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is 3,236 compared to 2,267 from Oct. 3 to 9 .
Illinois has had `` one of the lowest positivity rates in the Midwest and lowest among our neighbors , '' Pritzker said , adding one challenge is the state 's proximity to states with high infection rates .
Indiana has a test positivity rate of 16.5 % , Iowa is at 20 % and Wisconsin is at 22.9 % , according to Johns Hopkins University .
The governor made his remarks at Elgin 's Centro de Información where he announced $ 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agencies that serve immigrants with providing COVID-19 care , housing , job training and health education .
The state 's largest daily count of COVID-19 infections was 5,368 on Sept. 4 , but that included cases that were backlogged because of data processing problems since corrected .

New COVID-19 infections hit 4,554 as officials cite 'blatant disregard' for mask, distancing rules
As cases of COVID-19 grow in Illinois, the testing facility at Arlington Park was busy Friday with lines stretching east on Euclid Road, causing traffic backups. Brian Hill | Staff Photographer
New cases of COVID-19 totaled 4,554 Friday, a new high after Thursday's record 4,015, and deaths from the respiratory disease came to 38, triggering a warning about Illinoisans "blatantly disregarding" face mask and social distancing rules.
Illinois' virus test positivity rate is 5.1% based on a seven-day rolling average, reflecting rising trends in October.
"I am deeply concerned," Gov. J.B. Pritzker said at a briefing. "We are in a new wave here of COVID-19 -- rising cases, rising positivity all across the nation, not just Illinois."
Thirty-four counties, including DeKalb, Kane, McHenry and Will, received an Illinois Department of Public Health warning for metrics indicating risk of an outbreak. Kane County's test positivity rate has climbed past 8% on average the last few days, which could mean restrictions that could also affect DuPage County if the spike continues.
"Unless we change our behavior as a community, we can expect to see more illness, death and economic hardship," Kane County Health Department Director Barbara Jeffers said in a statement, adding residents in their 20s constitute more than 40% of infections.
"Younger people exposing their older, more vulnerable family members is a serious concern," she warned.
Other risk factors for Kane County include 114 cases per 100,000 people -- well above the recommended level of 50 -- and an increase in deaths, according to recent data through Oct. 10.
In McHenry County, the average positivity rate was 8.6%, with 102 virus cases per 100,000 people as of Oct. 10. Will County recorded 133 cases per 100,000 people and an increase in deaths.
Gatherings at bars and clubs, college parties and sports, weddings, funerals and family get-togethers were among the reasons for the caution, IDPH said.
"Public health officials are observing businesses blatantly disregarding mitigation measures, people not social distancing, gathering in large groups, and not using face coverings," IDPH experts said in a statement.
The state is divided into 11 health care regions, allowing officials to target areas at risk of a virus surge. Region 8, comprising Kane and DuPage counties, had an average COVID-19 test positivity rate of 7.4% as of Tuesday, the IDPH reported. Elsewhere, suburban Cook had a positivity rate of 6.3%, Lake and McHenry were at 6.6%, and Will and Kankakee counties were at 6.8%.
DuPage County Health Department experts warned of "COVID-19 fatigue" and urged residents to be vigilant about wearing masks Friday, noting the average number of cases per day had increased from 112 to 169 from Oct. 6 to 13.
The number of patients in Illinois hospitals with COVID-19 reached 2,016 as of Thursday night -- the most since June 12 when hospitalizations hit 2,117. The seven-day average for hospitalizations is 1,874. COVID-19 patients in ICU beds reached 410, the highest since June 22, and 151 patients were on ventilators as of Thursday.
The state has processed 6.6 million tests so far, and 87,759 in the last 24 hours.
The number of COVID-19 cases statewide is at 336,174, and the number of people dying since the pandemic began is 9,165.
The average number of new cases per day in the last seven days is 3,236 compared to 2,267 from Oct. 3 to 9.
Illinois has had "one of the lowest positivity rates in the Midwest and lowest among our neighbors," Pritzker said, adding one challenge is the state's proximity to states with high infection rates. Indiana has a test positivity rate of 16.5%, Iowa is at 20% and Wisconsin is at 22.9%, according to Johns Hopkins University.
The governor made his remarks at Elgin's Centro de Información where he announced $30 million in federal grants to support Illinois agencies that serve immigrants with providing COVID-19 care, housing, job training and health education.
The state's largest daily count of COVID-19 infections was 5,368 on Sept. 4, but that included cases that were backlogged because of data processing problems since corrected.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--How the pandemic reinvigorated suburban golf

For nearly a decade , many publicly owned suburban golf courses rarely met revenue goals and had to rely on additional tax dollars to cover costs .
Then came the pandemic .
`` We definitely had a good year , '' said Dave Peterson , executive director of the Dundee Township Park District .
`` It far exceeded what we did last year .
And I 'd say even going back five years , this is probably the best year we 've had , and that 's even with the month of May when we were only letting two ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Peterson said golf revenues through September at the district 's two courses have exceeded budgeted revenue goals by 20 % , and the number of rounds played exceeded the district 's anticipated number by the same margin .
As interest in the sport waned significantly after a boom in the 1990s , publicly owned golf courses throughout the suburbs saw a resurgence this year because it was one of the few athletic activities allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` I think this really put a spotlight on the game of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing out people who had never golfed before , '' said Brian Meyer , director of recreation and facilities at the Arlington Heights Park District .
`` I think it appealed to a lot of people who either wanted to take part in something new or have some sense of normalcy . ''
Meyer said the district , which operates an 18-hole course and nine-hole course , has seen 6,000 more rounds of golf played this year than in 2019 , and its golf revenues are up roughly $ 300,000 over where they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a common refrain at other publicly owned courses .
`` We were able to exceed budget in just five months ' time , '' said Kevin Carlson , director of golf at the Naperville Park District .
`` With the restrictions on other recreational opportunities , golf certainly benefitted . ''
Many golfers still working from home , rather than traditional office spaces , has only increased their abilities to get in a round this year .
`` That has had a huge role , '' said Alex Eichman , superintendent of golf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forest Preserve District .
`` Golfers have told us that all season .
More people working from home means more flexible schedules for many employees , and that means more time for golf . ''
The season usually begins in March for many suburban courses , but the pandemic essentially shut down all recreational opportunities throughout the state .
It was n't until May that state officials allowed golf courses to reopen , and then it was with severe capacity limitations .
Golf courses did n't have the same restrictions in Indiana and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state of Illinois loosened restrictions on golf courses and the golfers arrived in droves .
The Lake County Forest Preserve District 's golf operations at its four 18-hole courses at three clubs had barely broken even the previous two years , according to its annual audits .
This year , they 're already somewhere between 25 % and 30 % above budget expectations .
`` Golf is a sport that 's very easy to socially distance yourself from others , '' Eichman said .
`` This has given golf the shot in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's our job to keep that enthusiasm going . ''
Rory Spears , host of Golfers on Golf Radio on WCPT 820-AM , said the sport should be able to sustain the renewed interest .
He cited a Golf Digest report noting how July had bested a 13-year-old golf equipment sales record , with retailers reporting $ 388.6 million in sales of balls , clubs and other items .
`` If you do n't have people spending a ton of money on other activities and events , they 're going to have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Spears said .
`` And who knows what 's going to happen next spring ? ''
Yet , while golf has seen a boom , other park district activities have gone bust .
The additional revenue being created by the golf resurgence is n't enough to cover losses elsewhere .
`` We 've eliminated five positions , '' Dundee Township Park District 's Peterson said .
`` We 're actually ahead financially because even though we did n't open up our aquatic center this summer , it saved us about $ 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program is subsidized by tax dollars . ''
In Arlington Heights , Meyer said 400 staff members were furloughed at one point and the district has experienced layoffs as well .
Unbudgeted costs for safety equipment and cleaning supplies incurred by most golf operations ate into any profits .
But it was such a good year for golf , even the weather cooperated .
A fairly dry spring and mild summer helped keep the links open with greater frequency than golfers had experienced over the past two years , experts agreed .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behavior as tee times booked up and the courses filled with golfers .
`` There are a lot of people who I know who said to me that if it takes five hours , that 's great because I 'm tired of being cooped up in my house , '' Spears said .
`` And they 're out someplace where you do n't have to wear a mask .
I think everybody was just glad to be outside . ''

How the pandemic reinvigorated suburban golf
For nearly a decade, many publicly owned suburban golf courses rarely met revenue goals and had to rely on additional tax dollars to cover costs.
Then came the pandemic.
"We definitely had a good year," said Dave Peterson, executive director of the Dundee Township Park District. "It far exceeded what we did last year. And I'd say even going back five years, this is probably the best year we've had, and that's even with the month of May when we were only letting two (golfers) go out at a time."
Peterson said golf revenues through September at the district's two courses have exceeded budgeted revenue goals by 20%, and the number of rounds played exceeded the district's anticipated number by the same margin.
As interest in the sport waned significantly after a boom in the 1990s, publicly owned golf courses throughout the suburbs saw a resurgence this year because it was one of the few athletic activities allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I think this really put a spotlight on the game of golf, and we believe it was bringing out people who had never golfed before," said Brian Meyer, director of recreation and facilities at the Arlington Heights Park District. "I think it appealed to a lot of people who either wanted to take part in something new or have some sense of normalcy."
Meyer said the district, which operates an 18-hole course and nine-hole course, has seen 6,000 more rounds of golf played this year than in 2019, and its golf revenues are up roughly $300,000 over where they were expected to be.
That's a common refrain at other publicly owned courses. "We were able to exceed budget in just five months' time," said Kevin Carlson, director of golf at the Naperville Park District. "With the restrictions on other recreational opportunities, golf certainly benefitted."
Many golfers still working from home, rather than traditional office spaces, has only increased their abilities to get in a round this year.
"That has had a huge role," said Alex Eichman, superintendent of golf course management operations at the Lake County Forest Preserve District. "Golfers have told us that all season. More people working from home means more flexible schedules for many employees, and that means more time for golf."
The season usually begins in March for many suburban courses, but the pandemic essentially shut down all recreational opportunities throughout the state. It wasn't until May that state officials allowed golf courses to reopen, and then it was with severe capacity limitations.
Golf courses didn't have the same restrictions in Indiana and Wisconsin. But once June arrived, the state of Illinois loosened restrictions on golf courses and the golfers arrived in droves.
The Lake County Forest Preserve District's golf operations at its four 18-hole courses at three clubs had barely broken even the previous two years, according to its annual audits. This year, they're already somewhere between 25% and 30% above budget expectations.
"Golf is a sport that's very easy to socially distance yourself from others," Eichman said. "This has given golf the shot in the arm golf needed, and it's our job to keep that enthusiasm going."
Rory Spears, host of Golfers on Golf Radio on WCPT 820-AM, said the sport should be able to sustain the renewed interest. He cited a Golf Digest report noting how July had bested a 13-year-old golf equipment sales record, with retailers reporting $388.6 million in sales of balls, clubs and other items.
"If you don't have people spending a ton of money on other activities and events, they're going to have the time and resources to play golf," Spears said. "And who knows what's going to happen next spring?"
Yet, while golf has seen a boom, other park district activities have gone bust. The additional revenue being created by the golf resurgence isn't enough to cover losses elsewhere.
"We've eliminated five positions," Dundee Township Park District's Peterson said. "We're actually ahead financially because even though we didn't open up our aquatic center this summer, it saved us about $100,000 (in personnel costs) because that program is subsidized by tax dollars."
In Arlington Heights, Meyer said 400 staff members were furloughed at one point and the district has experienced layoffs as well.
Unbudgeted costs for safety equipment and cleaning supplies incurred by most golf operations ate into any profits.
But it was such a good year for golf, even the weather cooperated. A fairly dry spring and mild summer helped keep the links open with greater frequency than golfers had experienced over the past two years, experts agreed. And golf officials reported few problems with golfer behavior as tee times booked up and the courses filled with golfers.
"There are a lot of people who I know who said to me that if it takes five hours, that's great because I'm tired of being cooped up in my house," Spears said. "And they're out someplace where you don't have to wear a mask. I think everybody was just glad to be outside."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--Nerheim: Officers involved in fatal Beach Park shootout acted 'appropriately'

Lake County State 's Attorney Michael Nerheim said Friday that two officers working with the U.S .
Marshals Service acted `` reasonably and appropriately '' when using deadly force during a June 16 confrontation with an armed fugitive outside a Beach Park house .
The confrontation happened after the vehicle belonging to Brandon Gardner , a 24-year-old Beach Park man who was wanted on a warrant for first-degree murder , was spotted in the driveway of a home on the 38000 block of Green Bay Road .
When the two officers approached the vehicle , Gardener opened the passenger's-side door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a handgun at the police and fired multiple rounds in their direction , according to a news release issued by Nerheim 's office Friday .
The officers , whose identities were not released by the state 's attorney 's office , returned fire and struck Gardner twice .
Gardner first was treated at the scene and then was rushed to Vista East Hospital in Waukegan , where he was pronounced dead .
One of the officers received a cut on his arm but neither was shot , according to officials at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this task force deal with some of the most treacherous situations a police officer can ever face and apprehend the most dangerous of offenders , '' Nerheim said in the release .
`` It was the quick reaction and training of these officers -- along with a good bit of luck -- that prevented this tragic situation from becoming even worse . ''
At the time , a spokesman for the Lake County sheriff 's office said one of the officers who fired on Gardner was a Lake County sheriff 's deputy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sheriff 's office .
The Lake County sheriff 's deputy was a 10-year veteran of the office at the time , and the McHenry County sheriff 's deputy was an 11-year veteran at the time .
A redacted version of the full investigation can be found on the state 's attorney 's website .

Nerheim: Officers involved in fatal Beach Park shootout acted 'appropriately'
Lake County State's Attorney Michael Nerheim said Friday that two officers with the U.S. Marshals Service involved in a fatal shootout in June in Beach Park acted appropriately. Courtesy of ABC 7 Chicago
Lake County State's Attorney Michael Nerheim said Friday that two officers working with the U.S. Marshals Service acted "reasonably and appropriately" when using deadly force during a June 16 confrontation with an armed fugitive outside a Beach Park house.
The confrontation happened after the vehicle belonging to Brandon Gardner, a 24-year-old Beach Park man who was wanted on a warrant for first-degree murder, was spotted in the driveway of a home on the 38000 block of Green Bay Road.
When the two officers approached the vehicle, Gardener opened the passenger's-side door, swung his legs out, pointed a handgun at the police and fired multiple rounds in their direction, according to a news release issued by Nerheim's office Friday.
The officers, whose identities were not released by the state's attorney's office, returned fire and struck Gardner twice. Gardner first was treated at the scene and then was rushed to Vista East Hospital in Waukegan, where he was pronounced dead.
One of the officers received a cut on his arm but neither was shot, according to officials at the time.
"The members who serve on this task force deal with some of the most treacherous situations a police officer can ever face and apprehend the most dangerous of offenders," Nerheim said in the release. "It was the quick reaction and training of these officers -- along with a good bit of luck -- that prevented this tragic situation from becoming even worse."
At the time, a spokesman for the Lake County sheriff's office said one of the officers who fired on Gardner was a Lake County sheriff's deputy and the other was with the McHenry County sheriff's office.
The Lake County sheriff's deputy was a 10-year veteran of the office at the time, and the McHenry County sheriff's deputy was an 11-year veteran at the time.
A redacted version of the full investigation can be found on the state's attorney's website.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-10-16--Women's marches on tap in several suburbs Saturday