dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Lombard library officials agree to buy former Mr. Z's Supermarket site

Lombard library officials have agreed to acquire a shuttered supermarket to move forward with a long-stalled plan for a new building .
Helen M. Plum Memorial Library board members on Monday night voted to ratify and approve contracts for the purchase of the former Mr. Z 's Supermarket site at 401 S. Main St. , a small professional building next door at 425 S. Main St. and an adjacent easement .
`` As the village of Lombard begins healing from the COVID-19 crisis , a new library in the heart of our Main Street corridor will serve as a beacon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the well-being of community members , '' library board President Jason Brandt said a written statement .
`` It has taken longer than anticipated , but we hope we can all embrace the path forward , as we watch together a new library rise on Lombard 's Main Street . ''
Plum officials have spent more than 3½ years trying to fulfill a promise to construct a roughly 50,000-square-foot facility to replace the existing library at 110 W. Maple St .
Voters in November 2016 approved a property tax increase for the library @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delays .
The initial plan was to build on the library 's existing location , but officials struggled to create a proposal that could pass muster with the Lombard Park District , which owns neighboring Lilacia Park .
In November , library officials revealed they were reviewing other locations , including the former Mr. Z 's site .
The supermarket building has stood vacant since the business abruptly closed in 2013 .
Brandt said the library has agreed to pay $ 2.295 million for the Mr. Z 's property , $ 340,000 for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and $ 20,000 for the easement parcel .
The deal is contingent upon the library getting zoning approvals from the village .
Brandt , meanwhile , acknowledged that library officials have been `` frustrated and dismayed at the extensive delay to begin construction . ''
The library board pursued talks with the park district for more than three years , Brandt said , `` because the board members and many Lombard residents firmly believed that building a new library at its current location , adjacent Lilacia Park , benefitted the community , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downtown . ''
Last fall , the library board made a final attempt to reach an agreement with the park district by reconsidering an offer the park district made in November 2017 .
But the negotiations failed .
So in late fall , a library representative reached out to the owners of the former Mr. Z 's site with a series of offers below the public asking price of $ 2.295 million .
`` Each of those offers were rejected and the owners provided their appraisal and their justification of the nonnegotiable asking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cost of the property , the library wo n't need to spend an estimated $ 1.5 million to modify , move into and lease an interim location .
Instead , the existing library building will remain in use until construction of the Main Street location is completed .
The Main Street location also has some advantages , including access to adjacent parking .
`` Ultimately , '' Brandt said , `` the Main Street library building will be able to serve our community better than the Maple Street building plans we attempted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the park district . ''
He said the board is yet to decide what will happen to the existing library building when the new one opens .

Lombard library officials agree to buy former Mr. Z's Supermarket site
Lombard library officials have agreed to acquire a shuttered supermarket to move forward with a long-stalled plan for a new building.
Helen M. Plum Memorial Library board members on Monday night voted to ratify and approve contracts for the purchase of the former Mr. Z's Supermarket site at 401 S. Main St., a small professional building next door at 425 S. Main St. and an adjacent easement.
"As the village of Lombard begins healing from the COVID-19 crisis, a new library in the heart of our Main Street corridor will serve as a beacon of hope and a place to support the well-being of community members," library board President Jason Brandt said a written statement. "It has taken longer than anticipated, but we hope we can all embrace the path forward, as we watch together a new library rise on Lombard's Main Street."
Plum officials have spent more than 3½ years trying to fulfill a promise to construct a roughly 50,000-square-foot facility to replace the existing library at 110 W. Maple St.
Voters in November 2016 approved a property tax increase for the library, but the project has faced repeated delays.
The initial plan was to build on the library's existing location, but officials struggled to create a proposal that could pass muster with the Lombard Park District, which owns neighboring Lilacia Park.
In November, library officials revealed they were reviewing other locations, including the former Mr. Z's site. The supermarket building has stood vacant since the business abruptly closed in 2013.
Brandt said the library has agreed to pay $2.295 million for the Mr. Z's property, $340,000 for the property at 425 S. Main, and $20,000 for the easement parcel.
The deal is contingent upon the library getting zoning approvals from the village.
Brandt, meanwhile, acknowledged that library officials have been "frustrated and dismayed at the extensive delay to begin construction."
The library board pursued talks with the park district for more than three years, Brandt said, "because the board members and many Lombard residents firmly believed that building a new library at its current location, adjacent Lilacia Park, benefitted the community, the park, the library and Lombard's downtown."
Last fall, the library board made a final attempt to reach an agreement with the park district by reconsidering an offer the park district made in November 2017. But the negotiations failed.
So in late fall, a library representative reached out to the owners of the former Mr. Z's site with a series of offers below the public asking price of $2.295 million.
"Each of those offers were rejected and the owners provided their appraisal and their justification of the nonnegotiable asking price," Brandt said.
Despite the cost of the property, the library won't need to spend an estimated $1.5 million to modify, move into and lease an interim location. Instead, the existing library building will remain in use until construction of the Main Street location is completed.
The Main Street location also has some advantages, including access to adjacent parking.
"Ultimately," Brandt said, "the Main Street library building will be able to serve our community better than the Maple Street building plans we attempted to come to an agreement on with the park district."
He said the board is yet to decide what will happen to the existing library building when the new one opens.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Co-defendant in shooting of trooper enters gun charge plea

EAST ST. LOUIS , Ill. -- A co-defendant in the August 2019 fatal shooting of an Illinois State Police trooper has pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge .
U.S. District Chief Judge Nancy Rosenstengel has ordered Al Stewart Jr. , 20 , to remain in jail until his sentencing in September .
Stewart had been indicted on one count of unlawfully using a controlled substance while in possession of a gun .
He faces armed violence , obstruction of justice and unlawful delivery of cannabis in St. Clair County Circuit Court .
Stewart was living next door to Christopher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Grant allegedly shot to death Trooper Nick Hopkins as a no-knock warrant targeting drugs and illegal weapons was being served .
Hopkins , the married father of three young children , was the first Illinois State Police trooper to be fatally shot in 30 years .
In his plea agreement , Stewart said he grabbed a pistol when he heard gunshots , but put it down when he went to a window and spotted Illinois State Police .
He said Grant came to his home through an attic connection and said they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not guilty to first-degree murder charges in St. Clair County .
He also faces federal charges connected to the case .
Although it was n't mentioned in his plea agreement , the original charges allege Stewart 's gun was linked to a double homicide in East St. Louis in 2018 , an attempted murder in Washington Park in 2018 , and a nonfatal shooting in East St. Louis in 2016 .
Stewart told investigators he found the gun when he moved into the home .

Co-defendant in shooting of trooper enters gun charge plea
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. -- A co-defendant in the August 2019 fatal shooting of an Illinois State Police trooper has pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge.
U.S. District Chief Judge Nancy Rosenstengel has ordered Al Stewart Jr., 20, to remain in jail until his sentencing in September. Stewart had been indicted on one count of unlawfully using a controlled substance while in possession of a gun. He faces armed violence, obstruction of justice and unlawful delivery of cannabis in St. Clair County Circuit Court.
Stewart was living next door to Christopher Grant in an East St. Louis duplex when Grant allegedly shot to death Trooper Nick Hopkins as a no-knock warrant targeting drugs and illegal weapons was being served. Hopkins, the married father of three young children, was the first Illinois State Police trooper to be fatally shot in 30 years.
In his plea agreement, Stewart said he grabbed a pistol when he heard gunshots, but put it down when he went to a window and spotted Illinois State Police. He said Grant came to his home through an attic connection and said they needed to surrender. Grant has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges in St. Clair County. He also faces federal charges connected to the case.
Although it wasn't mentioned in his plea agreement, the original charges allege Stewart's gun was linked to a double homicide in East St. Louis in 2018, an attempted murder in Washington Park in 2018, and a nonfatal shooting in East St. Louis in 2016. Stewart told investigators he found the gun when he moved into the home.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Golf tip: Tips to wallop longer tee shots

Do you feel you 're not getting everything out of your driver ?
Here are my top tips on how to hit the driver as far as possible .
In order to hit a ball high and far you need to set up for success .
The first key is ball position .
With the driver you want the club head traveling upward into impact .
This eliminates the amount of backspin the ball has and helps the ball launch high .
As a general rule , the ball position should be lined up with your lead armpit .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its upward ascent into the ball .
Tee the ball high , making it easier to hit in the angle previously discussed .
Once ball position is set , you need a stance wider than shoulder width .
The driver is the longest club in the bag , and it generates the most speed .
When you increase speed , you need a way to balance that increase in energy and stance width helps .
The last setup key is make sure the lead shoulder and hip are in line , and your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoulder .
A tendency is that once the ball position moves forward , golfers tend to open their shoulders to reach the ball .
This puts the ball back in relation to the center of the chest , thus making it harder to hit up on the ball .
Once setup is complete there are three things to do in the motion .
First , your backswing needs a faster tempo than normal .
Too often , players are trying to control where the ball goes and , consequently , they end up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Second , hit up on the ball .
This could be the single most important thing that you do to improve overall distance .
Hitting up has many effects on the ball and how far it flies .
The last thing is swing fast .
I often get the question of how to hit it farther .
Once a player is more efficient with the strike and the angle of attack , it comes down to getting the club moving fast .
There is no secret to this ; it is just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you can .
Speed comes from training your body to consistently swing fast .
With these tips I 'm confident you 'll hit your longest drives ever .
Give it a try .
• DiNino is a certified professional through the PGA of America and a certified U.S .
Kids Instructor .
He is at Countryside Golf Club in Mundelein April to November .
Visit stevedininogolf.com .

Golf tip: Tips to wallop longer tee shots
Steve DiNino is a certified professional through the PGA of America. Courtesy of the Illinois PGA
Do you feel you're not getting everything out of your driver? Here are my top tips on how to hit the driver as far as possible.
In order to hit a ball high and far you need to set up for success.
The first key is ball position. With the driver you want the club head traveling upward into impact. This eliminates the amount of backspin the ball has and helps the ball launch high.
As a general rule, the ball position should be lined up with your lead armpit. This gives the club enough time to start its upward ascent into the ball. Tee the ball high, making it easier to hit in the angle previously discussed.
Once ball position is set, you need a stance wider than shoulder width. The driver is the longest club in the bag, and it generates the most speed. When you increase speed, you need a way to balance that increase in energy and stance width helps.
The last setup key is make sure the lead shoulder and hip are in line, and your lead shoulder is higher than your trail shoulder.
A tendency is that once the ball position moves forward, golfers tend to open their shoulders to reach the ball. This puts the ball back in relation to the center of the chest, thus making it harder to hit up on the ball.
Once setup is complete there are three things to do in the motion. First, your backswing needs a faster tempo than normal. Too often, players are trying to control where the ball goes and, consequently, they end up limiting how far the ball could travel.
Second, hit up on the ball. This could be the single most important thing that you do to improve overall distance. Hitting up has many effects on the ball and how far it flies.
The last thing is swing fast. I often get the question of how to hit it farther. Once a player is more efficient with the strike and the angle of attack, it comes down to getting the club moving fast.
There is no secret to this; it is just trying to hit the ball as hard as you can. Speed comes from training your body to consistently swing fast.
With these tips I'm confident you'll hit your longest drives ever. Give it a try.
• DiNino is a certified professional through the PGA of America and a certified U.S. Kids Instructor. He is at Countryside Golf Club in Mundelein April to November. Visit stevedininogolf.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Plan to shrink Lake County government headed to voters this fall

Lake County residents will have the rare opportunity to reduce the size of local government when they vote this fall .
The county board on Tuesday agreed to ask voters if the office of recorder of deeds should be eliminated and its duties absorbed by the county clerk 's office .
If voters approve the proposal Nov. 3 , the offices would merge by Dec. 1 , 2022 .
The elected position of recorder would disappear .
The recorder 's office keeps real estate transactions , military discharge papers and other documents .
The clerk 's office oversees elections and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as other documents .
Most of Illinois ' 102 counties have one office handling all those duties , however .
Proponents of merging the offices say it could save money .
The recorder 's $ 127,874 annual salary would be eliminated , as would the cost of the recorder 's health insurance coverage and other benefits .
There was little discussion of the proposal Tuesday before the board approved adding the question to the ballot .
Although pleased with the potential cost savings , Lincolnshire Republican Ann Maine said improved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any office consolidations .
When it came time to vote , Waukegan Democrat Bill Durkin abstained .
Vanderventer is his sister .
The 20 other board members supported the proposal .
The meeting was held remotely because of the COVID-19 crisis .
Lake County voters are n't the first in the Chicago area to be asked to consider a merger .
Cook County voters voted in 2016 to merge the offices , and that move is supposed to be completed by this December .
McHenry County voters took the same step in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue for their county in November .
Even though she supports the merger , Vanderventer is seeking reelection in November .
She 'll face Deerfield Republican Emilia Czyszczon .
Czyszczon wants the offices to merge , too .

Plan to shrink Lake County government headed to voters this fall
Lake County residents will have the rare opportunity to reduce the size of local government when they vote this fall.
The county board on Tuesday agreed to ask voters if the office of recorder of deeds should be eliminated and its duties absorbed by the county clerk's office.
If voters approve the proposal Nov. 3, the offices would merge by Dec. 1, 2022. The elected position of recorder would disappear.
The current recorder, Waukegan Democrat Mary Ellen Vanderventer, supports the merger.
The recorder's office keeps real estate transactions, military discharge papers and other documents. The clerk's office oversees elections and maintains birth, marriage and death records, as well as other documents.
Most of Illinois' 102 counties have one office handling all those duties, however.
Proponents of merging the offices say it could save money. The recorder's $127,874 annual salary would be eliminated, as would the cost of the recorder's health insurance coverage and other benefits.
There was little discussion of the proposal Tuesday before the board approved adding the question to the ballot. Although pleased with the potential cost savings, Lincolnshire Republican Ann Maine said improved service also should be a goal of any office consolidations.
When it came time to vote, Waukegan Democrat Bill Durkin abstained. Vanderventer is his sister. The 20 other board members supported the proposal.
The meeting was held remotely because of the COVID-19 crisis.
Lake County voters aren't the first in the Chicago area to be asked to consider a merger.
Cook County voters voted in 2016 to merge the offices, and that move is supposed to be completed by this December. McHenry County voters took the same step in 2018. DuPage County voters will decide the issue for their county in November.
Even though she supports the merger, Vanderventer is seeking reelection in November. She'll face Deerfield Republican Emilia Czyszczon. Czyszczon wants the offices to merge, too.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Are diners really 6 feet apart at suburban restaurants? Officials are getting few complaints.

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

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


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--NBC 5 anchor Dick Johnson dies at 66

NBC 5 anchor Dick Johnson dies at 66

Dick Johnson , a Chicago television news anchor and reporter for 38 years , is being remembered by colleagues for @ @ @ @ @ as well as his gracious manner on and off the air .
Johnson , 66 @ @ @ @ @ Michigan , where he had been on medical disability for a respiratory ailment , pulmonary @ @ @ @ @ when the coronavirus pandemic hit , according to NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5 .
His death was @ @ @ @ @ station officials said .
`` Dick was a consummate professional and an outstanding journalist , @ @ @ @ @ president and general manager of NBC 5 .
`` He was welcoming to everyone who @ @ @ @ @ will be missed dearly .
He was a nice man who always had a positive @ @ @ @ @ by all and will be missed .
This is a sad day . ''
Survivors @ @ @ @ @ , three children and two grandchildren .
To read more of Robert Feder 's active @ @ @ @ @

NBC 5 anchor Dick Johnson dies at 66
Dick Johnson, a Chicago television news anchor and reporter for 38 years, is being remembered by colleagues for his versatility as a journalist as well as his gracious manner on and off the air.
Johnson, 66, died Tuesday in northern Michigan, where he had been on medical disability for a respiratory ailment, pulmonary fibrosis, since early March when the coronavirus pandemic hit, according to NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5. His death was not related to COVID-19, station officials said.
"Dick was a consummate professional and an outstanding journalist," said David Doebler, president and general manager of NBC 5. "He was welcoming to everyone who joined the team and he will be missed dearly. He was a nice man who always had a positive demeanor. He was loved by all and will be missed. This is a sad day."
Survivors include his wife, Lauren, three children and two grandchildren.
To read more of Robert Feder's active blog, visit robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--Downed power lines start fire that engulfs SUV in Arlington Heights

Storms that blew through the area on Tuesday night turned an SUV parked in a residential driveway in Arlington Heights @ @ @ @ @ Arlington Heights police spokeswoman said the strong winds caused tree branches to hit power lines @ @ @ @ @ 600 block of North Dryden Avenue .
The transformer exploded and the power lines fell @ @ @ @ @ the driver's-side door , starting the fire .
The car was quickly engulfed .
The @ @ @ @ @ monitor the flames and water the area around the car to prevent the spread of @ @ @ @ @ to shut off power to the area .
Meanwhile , the intersection of Dryden Avenue @ @ @ @ @ for nearly two hours while the police and fire departments handled the situation .

Downed power lines start fire that engulfs SUV in Arlington Heights
Storms that blew through the area on Tuesday night turned an SUV parked in a residential driveway in Arlington Heights into an inferno.
An Arlington Heights police spokeswoman said the strong winds caused tree branches to hit power lines near a house on the 600 block of North Dryden Avenue. The transformer exploded and the power lines fell on the parked car near the driver's-side door, starting the fire. The car was quickly engulfed.
The fire department initially could only monitor the flames and water the area around the car to prevent the spread of the fire.
ComEd arrived to shut off power to the area. Meanwhile, the intersection of Dryden Avenue and Euclid Avenue was closed for nearly two hours while the police and fire departments handled the situation.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--AMC says it expects 97%-98% of its theaters reopened by mid-July

NEW YORK -- After three months of near total blackout of cinemas nationwide , movie theaters are preparing to reopen -- even if it means only a few titles on the marquee and showings limited to as little as 25 % capacity .
AMC Theaters , the world 's largest theater operator , said Tuesday that it expects to have 97-98 % of its theaters worldwide reopened by mid-July .
The National Association of Theater Owners , the trade group that represents exhibitors , expects some 90-95 % of cinemas around the world will be opened by mid-July .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as AMC Entertainment 's chief executive , Adam Aron , said in a call Tuesday with investors .
But provided flare-ups of the coronavirus do n't unmake plans , the industry is gearing up for a dramatic resumption of widespread business just in time for Christopher Nolan 's `` Tenet . ''
The Warner Bros. thriller , the latest from arguably Hollywood 's most passionate defender of the big-screen experience , is slated for release July 17 .
Warner Bros. did n't comment late Tuesday , and the most recent trailer for `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release date .
But theater owners are cautiously optimistic that `` Tenet '' will hold where it is .
Aron said that AMC 's conversations as recent as Monday with Warner Bros. and Disney , which has `` Mulan '' slated for July 24 , have been reassuring .
The larger question might be whether moviegoers feel safe returning to theaters .
Health officials have warned that large indoor gatherings are risky .
Broadway theaters will remain dark through at least early September .
It will be up to movie theater operators to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once again sit in the dark among strangers .
Only recently have state guidelines allowed the reopening of theaters in California ( including in the country 's top market , Los Angeles , where local officials have yet to agree ) .
In New York City , open cinemas come in phase four of its reopening schedule ; it began phase one only on Monday .
Aron granted New York theaters , which constitute the second largest market , may not open in time for `` Tenet . ''
Theaters have slowly been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while a renaissance of drive-ins has flourished .
Cinemark , which operates about 6,000 U.S. screens has said it will begin reopening in late June and fully reopen by July 10 .
Cineworld , which owns Regal Cinemas , the world 's second-largest chain , is also tracking for a July reopening .
But AMC 's announcement Tuesday signaled the most ambitious and widespread plan for a resumption of business .
`` After a period of time where billions of people have endured confinement and limited social interaction , we believe that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get back out in the world , '' said Aron .
`` Having said that , we 're under no illusions .
The waters will be choppy .
There may be unforeseen tosses and turns to be navigated through .
And full recovery may take quite a while . ''
AMC , like other chains , expects to limit audience sizes to facilitate social distancing , including keeping cinemas 25-50 % full and blocking out seats .
Cinemas will be regularly cleaned .
Ordering concessions will be possible from an app .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ AMC has already opened 10 theaters in Europe .
Three theaters in Norway sold 83 % of available tickets , said Aron .
Although 25 % capacity may sound like an untenable business model , Aron said movie theaters are usually part-empty , calling them -- unlike typically sold-out Broadway theaters -- `` a church built for Easter Sunday . ''
He was optimistic box-office returns would n't be badly jeopardized , especially since 12-20 screen multiplexes will likely be showing only a handful of films .
With so many working from home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also not be as focused on Friday and Saturday .
Before `` Tenet '' arrives , theaters will play -- just as those that are currently open are showing -- recent and classic catalog offerings .
The Russell Crowe thriller `` Unhinged , '' from Solstice Studios , is also set for July 1 .
Shortly after AMC 's announcement , Sony Pictures said it will roll out the romantic comedy `` The Broken Hearts Gallery '' on July 10 , only in theaters .

AMC says it expects 97%-98% of its theaters reopened by mid-July
NEW YORK -- After three months of near total blackout of cinemas nationwide, movie theaters are preparing to reopen -- even if it means only a few titles on the marquee and showings limited to as little as 25% capacity.
AMC Theaters, the world's largest theater operator, said Tuesday that it expects to have 97-98% of its theaters worldwide reopened by mid-July. The National Association of Theater Owners, the trade group that represents exhibitors, expects some 90-95% of cinemas around the world will be opened by mid-July.
A lot is still "fluid," as AMC Entertainment's chief executive, Adam Aron, said in a call Tuesday with investors. But provided flare-ups of the coronavirus don't unmake plans, the industry is gearing up for a dramatic resumption of widespread business just in time for Christopher Nolan's "Tenet." The Warner Bros. thriller, the latest from arguably Hollywood's most passionate defender of the big-screen experience, is slated for release July 17.
Warner Bros. didn't comment late Tuesday, and the most recent trailer for "Tenet" was notably vague on its release date. But theater owners are cautiously optimistic that "Tenet" will hold where it is. Aron said that AMC's conversations as recent as Monday with Warner Bros. and Disney, which has "Mulan" slated for July 24, have been reassuring.
The larger question might be whether moviegoers feel safe returning to theaters. Health officials have warned that large indoor gatherings are risky. Broadway theaters will remain dark through at least early September. It will be up to movie theater operators to convince moviegoers that it's safe to once again sit in the dark among strangers.
Only recently have state guidelines allowed the reopening of theaters in California (including in the country's top market, Los Angeles, where local officials have yet to agree). In New York City, open cinemas come in phase four of its reopening schedule; it began phase one only on Monday. Aron granted New York theaters, which constitute the second largest market, may not open in time for "Tenet."
Theaters have slowly been reopening in other areas of the country, while a renaissance of drive-ins has flourished. Cinemark, which operates about 6,000 U.S. screens has said it will begin reopening in late June and fully reopen by July 10. Cineworld, which owns Regal Cinemas, the world's second-largest chain, is also tracking for a July reopening.
But AMC's announcement Tuesday signaled the most ambitious and widespread plan for a resumption of business.
"After a period of time where billions of people have endured confinement and limited social interaction, we believe that there will be a significant pent-up demand to get back out in the world," said Aron. "Having said that, we're under no illusions. The waters will be choppy. There may be unforeseen tosses and turns to be navigated through. And full recovery may take quite a while."
AMC, like other chains, expects to limit audience sizes to facilitate social distancing, including keeping cinemas 25-50% full and blocking out seats. Cinemas will be regularly cleaned. Ordering concessions will be possible from an app. As a kind of test case, AMC has already opened 10 theaters in Europe. Three theaters in Norway sold 83% of available tickets, said Aron.
Although 25% capacity may sound like an untenable business model, Aron said movie theaters are usually part-empty, calling them -- unlike typically sold-out Broadway theaters -- "a church built for Easter Sunday." He was optimistic box-office returns wouldn't be badly jeopardized, especially since 12-20 screen multiplexes will likely be showing only a handful of films. With so many working from home due to the pandemic, moviegoing may also not be as focused on Friday and Saturday.
Before "Tenet" arrives, theaters will play -- just as those that are currently open are showing -- recent and classic catalog offerings. The Russell Crowe thriller "Unhinged," from Solstice Studios, is also set for July 1. Shortly after AMC's announcement, Sony Pictures said it will roll out the romantic comedy "The Broken Hearts Gallery" on July 10, only in theaters.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Principal makes special home delivery for Huntley High graduates

The sounds of `` Pomp and Circumstance '' and shouts of joy echoed through Lake in the Hills as a team of dedicated Huntley High School officials hand-delivered diplomas to graduating seniors Tuesday .
Dressed in traditional graduation attire , Principal Marcus Belin and associate principals Danyce Letkewicz and Shelly Kish traveled from home to home aboard a bus .
At each stop they gave a short congratulatory speech and took a group photo before climbing back on the bus and heading for the next graduate 's home .
The five-day event started Monday , with 600 of the school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery .
Tuesday 's schedule included 120 stops .
Belin came up with the idea after seeing several Huntley senior yard signs displayed along his bicycling route .
`` COVID-19 has taken away so much from many of us in so many different ways , and for our seniors , ending their high school career at home , I thought it would be very personable to drive around and visit the houses and celebrate with them in their driveways '' Belin said .
`` That way they maintain social distancing and also bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them receive their diploma . ''
Graduate Brianna Carlson said it was sad that she could n't take her last steps in the school as a senior and say goodbye to her favorite teachers .
But she was grateful for the diploma delivery .
`` I think it 's super cool since we ca n't really get that walk on the stage , '' said Brianna , who will be attending McHenry County College in the fall to study elementary education .
`` It 's really nice that Dr. Belin is going around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebratory moment for each individual student . ''
Belin said there 's been an overwhelming response of joy and gratitude .
`` Our students are happy , our families are happy , lot of tears and emotions as we travel from house to house , '' he said .
`` We have n't seen the students and for us to be able to see them , especially our seniors for maybe one last time , was very rewarding .
So we are super thankful . ''

The sounds of "Pomp and Circumstance" and shouts of joy echoed through Lake in the Hills as a team of dedicated Huntley High School officials hand-delivered diplomas to graduating seniors Tuesday.
Dressed in traditional graduation attire, Principal Marcus Belin and associate principals Danyce Letkewicz and Shelly Kish traveled from home to home aboard a bus. At each stop they gave a short congratulatory speech and took a group photo before climbing back on the bus and heading for the next graduate's home.
The five-day event started Monday, with 600 of the school's 736 graduates signed up for personal delivery. Tuesday's schedule included 120 stops.
Belin came up with the idea after seeing several Huntley senior yard signs displayed along his bicycling route.
"COVID-19 has taken away so much from many of us in so many different ways, and for our seniors, ending their high school career at home, I thought it would be very personable to drive around and visit the houses and celebrate with them in their driveways" Belin said. "That way they maintain social distancing and also bring family together to be able to see them receive their diploma."
Graduate Brianna Carlson said it was sad that she couldn't take her last steps in the school as a senior and say goodbye to her favorite teachers. But she was grateful for the diploma delivery.
"I think it's super cool since we can't really get that walk on the stage," said Brianna, who will be attending McHenry County College in the fall to study elementary education. "It's really nice that Dr. Belin is going around to over 500 houses and getting that celebratory moment for each individual student."
Belin said there's been an overwhelming response of joy and gratitude.
"Our students are happy, our families are happy, lot of tears and emotions as we travel from house to house," he said. "We haven't seen the students and for us to be able to see them, especially our seniors for maybe one last time, was very rewarding. So we are super thankful."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Feder: WGN Radio cancels Rick Pearson's 'Sunday Spin' for music show

With a presidential election less than five months away , WGN 720-AM is about to drop its weekly political talk show to add another nostalgic music program to its lineup , Robert Feder writes .
`` The Sunday Spin : Politics with Rick Pearson , '' hosted since 2013 by the chief political reporter for the Chicago Tribune , airs from 5 to 7 p.m. Sundays on the Nexstar Media Group news/talk station .
Its final broadcast will be this weekend .
The show originally aired from 7 to 9 a.m. Sundays , but was moved in December to accommodate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Dave Plier , '' a showcase for the music of Frank Sinatra , from 6:30 to 9 a.m. Sundays .
Pearson declined to comment on the cancellation Tuesday , but later tweeted : `` It 's been great to be a part of a legacy radio station and trying to help inform about the politics and policies behind the headlines . ''
Starting June 21 , WGN 's revamped Sunday lineup will include legal expert Karen Conti from 5 to 7 p.m. , `` After Hours with Rick Kogan '' from 7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Sunday Standards with John Williams '' from 9 to 11 p.m. Williams , who continues to host middays and `` The Wintrust Business Lunch '' during the week , will host and produce the new show , billed as featuring `` classic standards from the Great American Songbook . ''
Get the full report , and more Chicago media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: WGN Radio cancels Rick Pearson's 'Sunday Spin' for music show
With a presidential election less than five months away, WGN 720-AM is about to drop its weekly political talk show to add another nostalgic music program to its lineup, Robert Feder writes.
"The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson," hosted since 2013 by the chief political reporter for the Chicago Tribune, airs from 5 to 7 p.m. Sundays on the Nexstar Media Group news/talk station. Its final broadcast will be this weekend.
The show originally aired from 7 to 9 a.m. Sundays, but was moved in December to accommodate the addition of "The Sinatra Hours with Dave Plier," a showcase for the music of Frank Sinatra, from 6:30 to 9 a.m. Sundays.
Pearson declined to comment on the cancellation Tuesday, but later tweeted: "It's been great to be a part of a legacy radio station and trying to help inform about the politics and policies behind the headlines."
Starting June 21, WGN's revamped Sunday lineup will include legal expert Karen Conti from 5 to 7 p.m., "After Hours with Rick Kogan" from 7 to 9 p.m., and the new "Sunday Standards with John Williams" from 9 to 11 p.m.
Williams, who continues to host middays and "The Wintrust Business Lunch" during the week, will host and produce the new show, billed as featuring "classic standards from the Great American Songbook."
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--A song to make you smile: 'Let's Hang On' by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons

We 're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper ( and on dailyherald.com ) with a daily `` @ @ @ @ @ . ''
It 's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk .
@ @ @ @ @ Let 's Hang On '' by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons , released in @ @

A song to make you smile: 'Let's Hang On' by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons perform at the Rosemont Theatre. Associated Press, 2013
We're trying to inject a little positivity in the paper (and on dailyherald.com) with a daily "Song to Make You Smile."
It's designed to help lift you out of your coronavirus funk.
Today's selection is "Let's Hang On" by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, released in 1965.
Send your ideas to suggestions@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Child care providers urge less restrictions as state nears 130,000 cases

As Illinois closes in on 130,000 cases of COVID-19 , child care providers are urging the state to loosen staffing and capacity restrictions that have prevented them from reopening or expanding services to nonessential workers .
State health officials announced 78 more residents had died from COVID-19 and another 625 people were infected with the disease .
Meanwhile , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker toured the state Wednesday touting a new grant program using federal CARES Act dollars to help offset the financial burdens child care facilities throughout the state have experienced during the outbreak .
The state is planning to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualifying facilities , Pritzker said .
However , some providers complain the state placed stricter capacity and staffing guidelines on the industry just as they and other businesses were set to reopen in Phase 3 late last month , forcing many to remain closed .
And the grant program may not provide funding quick enough to keep them in business .
`` I find it very interesting that we remained open for essential workers for 12 weeks and then the next thing we know as we 're ready to add more children we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stricter rules than before , '' said Casindra Mladenoff , owner of Elmhurst Premier Childcare Center .
`` They want us to reduce class size and add more staff , which is a little counter productive . ''
The facility has remained open for essential workers , but Mladenoff 's plans to add children for nonessential workers headed back to their jobs were put on hold for at least another month .
`` How can you reopen Illinois if you do n't have child care ? ''
Sarah Stoliker , head of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pondered .
`` We know how to keep children safe , but this administration keeps saying one thing and doing another . ''
The guidelines put in place in late May limited the number of students in a classroom to 10 and required additional teaching staff to be in the rooms at all times .
On Wednesday , Pritzker unveiled the grant program and urged providers to visit the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies ' website inccrra.org to fill out a survey by June 19 that help guide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are allocated .
`` Strengthening child care is as much about building a strong economy as it is investing in our young people , '' Pritzker said .
`` Before this pandemic hit , I promised that Illinois would become the best state in the nation for raising young children .
The path forward has certainly become more complicated -- but our commitment is stronger than ever . ''
Stoliker praised the grant program , but urged the state to re-examine the limitations being placed on caregivers .
`` It 's no accident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the early stages of the crisis did not record any COVID-19 cases , '' she said .
`` Day care centers are run by professionals who work year round on healthy habits , sanitation and the detection and control of diseases . ''
Illinois Department of Public Health officials did not immediately respond to questions about cases in child care facilities , but the state has never reported any instances .
When asked more than a week ago about the additional restrictions placed on child care providers , Pritzker said he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ directors , but was concerned about exposing children to other diseases associated with COVID-19 infections , most commonly referred to as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children .
MIS-C can cause organ inflammation and other symptoms of children infected with COVID-19 , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
IDPH officials reported that of the 129,837 cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in Illinois , 8,828 are individuals under the age of 20 .
Among those younger people infected by the disease , seven have contracted MIS-C. None of the children died from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only four of the state 's 6,095 COVID-19 deaths were residents younger than 20 , according to the IDPH data portal .

Child care providers urge fewer restrictions as state nears 130,000 cases
As Illinois closes in on 130,000 cases of COVID-19, child care providers are urging the state to loosen staffing and capacity restrictions that have prevented them from reopening or expanding services to nonessential workers.
State health officials announced 78 more residents had died from COVID-19 and another 625 people were infected with the disease.
Meanwhile, Gov. J.B. Pritzker toured the state Wednesday touting a new grant program using federal CARES Act dollars to help offset the financial burdens child care facilities throughout the state have experienced during the outbreak. The state is planning to issue $270 million in grants to qualifying facilities, Pritzker said.
However, some providers complain the state placed stricter capacity and staffing guidelines on the industry just as they and other businesses were set to reopen in Phase 3 late last month, forcing many to remain closed. And the grant program may not provide funding quick enough to keep them in business.
"I find it very interesting that we remained open for essential workers for 12 weeks and then the next thing we know as we're ready to add more children we receive notification that we've got even stricter rules than before," said Casindra Mladenoff, owner of Elmhurst Premier Childcare Center. "They want us to reduce class size and add more staff, which is a little counter productive."
The facility has remained open for essential workers, but Mladenoff's plans to add children for nonessential workers headed back to their jobs were put on hold for at least another month.
"How can you reopen Illinois if you don't have child care?" Sarah Stoliker, head of the Illinois Directors and Owner of Childcare Centers, pondered. "We know how to keep children safe, but this administration keeps saying one thing and doing another."
The guidelines put in place in late May limited the number of students in a classroom to 10 and required additional teaching staff to be in the rooms at all times.
On Wednesday, Pritzker unveiled the grant program and urged providers to visit the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies' website inccrra.org to fill out a survey by June 19 that help guide the state in how the grant funds are allocated.
"Strengthening child care is as much about building a strong economy as it is investing in our young people," Pritzker said. "Before this pandemic hit, I promised that Illinois would become the best state in the nation for raising young children. The path forward has certainly become more complicated -- but our commitment is stronger than ever."
Stoliker praised the grant program, but urged the state to re-examine the limitations being placed on caregivers.
"It's no accident that centers that were permitted to operate during the early stages of the crisis did not record any COVID-19 cases," she said. "Day care centers are run by professionals who work year round on healthy habits, sanitation and the detection and control of diseases."
Illinois Department of Public Health officials did not immediately respond to questions about cases in child care facilities, but the state has never reported any instances.
When asked more than a week ago about the additional restrictions placed on child care providers, Pritzker said he was open to working with the owners and directors, but was concerned about exposing children to other diseases associated with COVID-19 infections, most commonly referred to as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. MIS-C can cause organ inflammation and other symptoms of children infected with COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
IDPH officials reported that of the 129,837 cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in Illinois, 8,828 are individuals under the age of 20. Among those younger people infected by the disease, seven have contracted MIS-C. None of the children died from the syndrome, IDPH officials reported.
Only four of the state's 6,095 COVID-19 deaths were residents younger than 20, according to the IDPH data portal.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--DuPage board member under fire for 'liking' Facebook comment

A DuPage County Board member is under fire for `` liking '' a Facebook comment that claimed people wo n't stop rioting until a few of them `` are shot dead . ''
Sean Noonan , who also is a Bloomingdale police officer , insists he never intended to endorse the comment , which a resident posted May 30 on Noonan 's personal Facebook page .
He has since `` unliked '' the comment and removed the post .
`` I condemn those words in the strongest possible terms , '' he said during Tuesday 's county board meeting .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after board members received written statements from residents demanding action .
The residents ' statements -- several of them identical or nearly identical -- called out Noonan for `` liking '' the Facebook comment that read : `` Sean , as awful as it sounds , until a few rioters are shot dead , and their bodies left in the street for the wolves , there 's no message law abiding people and the officers that protect them can send to these terrorists to instill fear and good behavior in them ... '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the comment by hitting the `` like '' button .
`` No DuPage commissioner should publicly endorse this type of violence , '' Goldenberg wrote .
`` I demand the DuPage County Board ... put out a public statement condemning those who call for violence to be taken on peaceful protesters , and that you take action against Sean Noonan for suggesting that it would be OK. '' Some of the residents said they were concerned because Noonan is a police officer .
`` Given the civil unrest that is happening across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against African Americans , I am very concerned that active police officer Noonan endorses dangerous vigilante action and hateful , racist rhetoric , '' wrote Katherine Nash of Lombard .
Noonan , who has represented District 2 since 2012 , on Wednesday released a statement saying he was `` sorry for the mistake I made '' on May 30 .
`` I was scrolling through social media late that night while listening to the Chicago police scanner , '' he said in the statement .
`` My attention was drawn to intensity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city and over the police radio when I clicked 'like ' on a post .
I hope others will learn from my mistake . ''
A day earlier Noonan said he `` liked '' the comment to `` indicate to the individual that I had read his comment . ''
`` It does not mean that I agree or condone what he had written , '' Noonan said .
`` Let me emphatically say that I do not agree with this constituent 's comments , and I find them abhorrent . ''
Noonan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows his character .
`` That is why I can not help but think today 's comments were political in nature and were opportunistically designed to embarrass someone who is on the ballot in a few short months , '' said Noonan , who is seeking reelection in November .
Other county board members did n't respond to the public comments .
On Wednesday , Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese said he has received phone calls and emails about the incident .
He said the police department , which has social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigation .
`` Our police department has an outstanding reputation , '' Giammarese said .
`` We do n't stand for discrimination . ''
Giammarese said all Bloomingdale officers receive diversity training , as well as de-escalation training .
He also said the department fully supports the right to protest peacefully .
He said it 's `` unfortunate '' Noonan `` liked '' the Facebook comment .
`` It was something that should n't have happened , '' he said .
`` That 's why we 're looking into it . ''

DuPage board member under fire for 'liking' Facebook comment
A DuPage County Board member is under fire for "liking" a Facebook comment that claimed people won't stop rioting until a few of them "are shot dead."
Sean Noonan, who also is a Bloomingdale police officer, insists he never intended to endorse the comment, which a resident posted May 30 on Noonan's personal Facebook page. He has since "unliked" the comment and removed the post.
"I condemn those words in the strongest possible terms," he said during Tuesday's county board meeting.
The Elmhurst Republican responded to the controversy after board members received written statements from residents demanding action.
The residents' statements -- several of them identical or nearly identical -- called out Noonan for "liking" the Facebook comment that read: "Sean, as awful as it sounds, until a few rioters are shot dead, and their bodies left in the street for the wolves, there's no message law abiding people and the officers that protect them can send to these terrorists to instill fear and good behavior in them ..."
Claire Goldenberg of Lisle said Noonan supported the comment by hitting the "like" button.
"No DuPage commissioner should publicly endorse this type of violence," Goldenberg wrote. "I demand the DuPage County Board ... put out a public statement condemning those who call for violence to be taken on peaceful protesters, and that you take action against Sean Noonan for suggesting that it would be OK."
Some of the residents said they were concerned because Noonan is a police officer.
"Given the civil unrest that is happening across the country in response to continued police brutality against African Americans, I am very concerned that active police officer Noonan endorses dangerous vigilante action and hateful, racist rhetoric," wrote Katherine Nash of Lombard.
Noonan, who has represented District 2 since 2012, on Wednesday released a statement saying he was "sorry for the mistake I made" on May 30.
"I was scrolling through social media late that night while listening to the Chicago police scanner," he said in the statement. "My attention was drawn to intensity of emotions that were being expressed in the city and over the police radio when I clicked 'like' on a post. I hope others will learn from my mistake."
A day earlier Noonan said he "liked" the comment to "indicate to the individual that I had read his comment."
"It does not mean that I agree or condone what he had written," Noonan said. "Let me emphatically say that I do not agree with this constituent's comments, and I find them abhorrent."
Noonan said anyone who has worked with him knows his character.
"That is why I cannot help but think today's comments were political in nature and were opportunistically designed to embarrass someone who is on the ballot in a few short months," said Noonan, who is seeking reelection in November.
Other county board members didn't respond to the public comments.
On Wednesday, Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese said he has received phone calls and emails about the incident. He said the police department, which has social media policies, will conduct an internal investigation.
"Our police department has an outstanding reputation," Giammarese said. "We don't stand for discrimination."
Giammarese said all Bloomingdale officers receive diversity training, as well as de-escalation training. He also said the department fully supports the right to protest peacefully.
He said it's "unfortunate" Noonan "liked" the Facebook comment.
"It was something that shouldn't have happened," he said. "That's why we're looking into it."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-09--How one principal's resignation led to changes at 3 suburban high schools

Erin DeLuga was n't looking for a new position when she was contacted this past year by a search firm .
She was making great strides in her fourth year as principal at York High School in Elmhurst , and was loving every second of it .
But when she was asked if she 'd be interested in a top leadership position within Lake Zurich Unit District 95 , DeLuga was intrigued .
Lake Zurich High School Principal Robert Vossel had submitted his resignation back in November , prompting an extensive search for his replacement .
With family in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home less than 10 minutes away , DeLuga figured there was no harm in applying .
She never thought she 'd make it to the final stages of interviews .
And she certainly never anticipated getting an offer .
DeLuga accepted the position earlier this year , igniting a chain reaction of new leaders in three suburban high school .
At York , DeLuga 's role will be filled by Glenbard East High School Principal Shahe Bagdasarian , an Elmhurst resident who is eager to serve the community where he is raising a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be Antoine Anderson , who has been an assistant principal at the Lombard school for several years .
Each administrator now faces the task of transitioning to a new position , made more difficult by the coronavirus pandemic , remote learning and the social distancing guidelines that have affected schools the past few months .
But all three say they 're up to the challenge .
And they 're leaning on their past experiences -- and each other -- to make it through .
DeLuga never planned to follow in the footsteps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in education -- her mother as an art teacher , her father as an English teacher .
But DeLuga wanted to pursue an entirely different path as a police officer , hoping to eventually work for the FBI .
The fall after she graduated from college with an English degree , her father encouraged her to apply for one of three open positions at Marian Catholic High School , where he worked .
Though DeLuga was hesitant , it turned out to be the job that launched her career .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DeLuga , a Palatine resident .
`` I did n't anticipate ever being an educator , but I 'm so glad that happened because it 's definitely my life 's passion .
I just did n't realize it at the time . ''
Those early years as an English teacher were a blur to DeLuga .
Former students who still keep in touch tell her she was their best teacher , that she touched their lives .
In reality , she said , `` I did n't know what I was doing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ always convey that love . ''
Back then , DeLuga never dreamed of becoming a principal .
She secured her teaching certificate , moved on to teach at Wheeling High School , and began pursuing a master 's degree in teaching .
But after a department chair told her she would do well in administration , she realized she had a knack for supporting both teachers and students and decided to change course .
DeLuga will never forget the moment her father , one of her biggest role models , commented that she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' having been frustrated by administrators and the school system structure throughout his career .
That resonated with DeLuga , who told her dad , `` I want to be the person who changes that for people like you . ''
DeLuga worked her way through the ranks at Northwest Suburban High School District 214 , serving as a department chairwoman and an associate principal .
Then about four years ago , she saw a job posting for a principal in Elmhurst Unit District 205 .
`` I was really , really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' she said .
Her time at York was full of accomplishments , from launching a business INCubatoredu program to creating a new manufacturing lab to implementing a blended learning experience even before the pandemic struck .
She formed strong bonds with her staff and her students -- especially the Class of 2020 , whom she watched grow from freshmen into young adults embarking on their post-high school adventures .
DeLuga now hopes to bring similar innovative , career-centered learning opportunities to Lake Zurich High School .
But her primary mission remains the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ education : be a champion and a supporter for students as they pursue their lifelong dreams .
`` It 's a trickle-down , pebble-in-a-pond effect , '' she said .
`` A principal should have a vision -- a balance of making sure ( educators ) know what their role is and know that you 're there to support them , but also that you 're all working toward the same end goal : helping kids . ''
Shahe Bagdasarian is leaving his principal position at Glenbard East High School in Lombard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School in Elmhurst , where he lives .
Shahe Bagdasarian is leaving his principal position at Glenbard East High School in Lombard to assume the same role at York High School in Elmhurst , where he lives .
Shahe Bagdasarian As principal of Glenbard East High School , Bagdasarian started every school year with a visit to each freshman English class .
He liked being able to introduce himself , chat with the new students and answer their questions in a more personalized setting .
Throughout the year , he attended athletic events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet with business INCubatoredu students before their pitch nights .
He organized a principal advisory council to hear concerns and suggestions from the student body .
Listening to the student voice is a `` big piece '' to running a school , Bagdasarian said , but it can be challenging when you 're being pulled in so many different directions .
`` You have to be intentional with that , '' he says .
`` Take every opportunity you can before school , after school , being in hallways , walking through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the job .
`` I think it 's really important as a principal to be visible . ''
Putting the students first is a philosophy that has stuck with Bagdasarian since he began his career as a special-education teacher at Elmwood Park High School .
He moved over to teach at York , where he later became the dean of students before taking a job as an assistant principal at Glenbard East .
Bagdasarian had no intention of leaving Glenbard East , which has become like a home to him over the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DeLuga would be leaving the top seat at York , he was intrigued by the opportunity to return .
Being an Elmhurst resident helped guide his decision , he said .
He 'll also have two sons at York next year -- a unique opportunity for Bagdasarian , though he knows it 'll be an adjustment for his kids , he said laughing .
To DeLuga , knowing that her replacement is a familiar face within the school and the community `` makes my heart happy . ''
From an academic and programming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer similar opportunities .
But there are some key differences , the most prominent being that Glenbard East is in a high school district , whereas York is part of unit district that offers kindergarten through 12th grade .
That means Bagdasarian 's new role will focus more heavily on vertical articulation -- working with the middle schools to ensure students districtwide are prepared to move into high school .
Equity in grading , assessments and course selection is a key piece of the puzzle .
Being a principal is demanding on multiple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership through tough circumstances , he said .
Those qualities have never been more pertinent than in light of the COVID-19 crisis .
`` We anticipate kids ' needs are going to change a bit .
We have to be ready to roll out a plan , '' Bagdasarian said .
`` You want to make sure you 're listening and leading with empathy .
Those are two things that I think are really important . ''
LaGrange Park resident Antoine Anderson , an assistant principal for several years , has been tapped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ East High School in Lombard .
LaGrange Park resident Antoine Anderson , an assistant principal for several years , has been tapped for the top leadership position at Glenbard East High School in Lombard .
Antoine Anderson Glenbard East students and staff members have a common chant to unify the school community : `` We are East . ''
That 's a loaded phrase , said Anderson , who just finished his seventh year as assistant principal for student services .
It points to the diverse population , to the unique culture within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who `` roll up our sleeves and do what 's best for students . ''
`` I feel that 's who I am as well , '' Anderson said .
`` I am East . ''
That 's why , when he learned that Bagdasarian would be vacating the principal position , Anderson jumped at the opportunity to apply .
In his nine years at Glenbard East -- including two as a dean -- he had overseen student discipline , activities and services that addressed social-emotional needs .
`` Considering my previous experiences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what our building needs , '' he said .
`` It just seemed like a good fit . ''
Looking back now , it 's hard to believe Anderson originally was pursuing a different career .
Anderson was a dual-sport athlete in college while earning a bachelor 's degree in business from Olivet Nazarene University .
When he returned for his final undergraduate semester , his baseball coach asked if he 'd be interested in becoming an assistant coach .
He grew `` quite fond '' of the position and decided to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of which he intended to leave and start a job in the business world .
But he instead stayed on at Olivet Nazarene to continue coaching while pursuing his master 's in teaching .
Thus began his unexpected career in education .
Anderson went on to serve as a business teacher for 10 years , first at Rich South High School in Richton Park , then at Maine West in Des Plaines .
After earning a second master 's in administration and leadership , he secured his first dean position at Glenbard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bagdasarian , an assistant principal at the time .
`` Over the years , we 've always had a collaborative relationship , '' Anderson said .
`` He 's a very valuable resource .
...
It makes the transition a little bit easier . ''
Anderson knows he 'll face challenges as he takes on a larger leadership role , particularly amid the coronavirus crisis .
He 's already had to shift his priorities to address the inevitable gaps students and staff members may face in the fall .
But he believes his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the better part of a decade gives him an advantage .
He knows the staff members very well -- `` I could n't imagine a better group of educators to take on these challenges with . ''
He loves the academic classes and extracurricular activities available to students -- `` a multitude of opportunities to find their area of passion . ''
He embraces the school 's diversity -- `` When you walk these halls on a daily basis , what you see is a reflection of our society .
I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward , Anderson hopes to cultivate a positive climate , make personal connections and help guide his students the way his own high school teachers and leaders helped him .
`` That time in my life I felt educators have the largest impact , '' he said .
`` That 's the stage right before they 're going to enter into society .
We 're preparing them for the real world . ''
Education : Master 's in school leadership from Concordia University ; Bachelor 's in English from University of Illinois Previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School ; associate principal for instruction and curriculum at Wheeling High School ; English/fine arts division chairwoman at Prospect High School ; English teacher at Wheeling High School ; English teacher at St. Charles North High School ; English teacher at Marian Catholic High School Education : Doctor of Education , Educational Leadership and Policy Studies , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ; Master of Education , Special Education , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ; Bachelor of Science , Exceptional Education , State University of New York College at Buffalo Previous work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School ; assistant principal for instruction , Glenbard East ; assistant principal for student services , Glenbard East ; dean of students , York Community High School ; special education teacher , York ; special education teacher , Elmwood Park High School Education : Master of Arts , administration and leadership , Concordia University ; Master of Arts , teaching , Olivet Nazarene University ; Bachelor of Science , business administration , Olivet Nazarene University Previous work experience : Assistant principal for student services , Glenbard East High School ; dean of students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of students , Glenbard East ; business education teacher , Maine West ; business education teacher , Rich South High School

How one principal's resignation led to changes at 3 suburban high schools
Erin DeLuga wasn't looking for a new position when she was contacted this past year by a search firm.
She was making great strides in her fourth year as principal at York High School in Elmhurst, and was loving every second of it. But when she was asked if she'd be interested in a top leadership position within Lake Zurich Unit District 95, DeLuga was intrigued.
Lake Zurich High School Principal Robert Vossel had submitted his resignation back in November, prompting an extensive search for his replacement.
With family in the Lake Zurich area, and her own home less than 10 minutes away, DeLuga figured there was no harm in applying. She never thought she'd make it to the final stages of interviews. And she certainly never anticipated getting an offer.
DeLuga accepted the position earlier this year, igniting a chain reaction of new leaders in three suburban high school.
At York, DeLuga's role will be filled by Glenbard East High School Principal Shahe Bagdasarian, an Elmhurst resident who is eager to serve the community where he is raising a family.
His successor at Glenbard East will be Antoine Anderson, who has been an assistant principal at the Lombard school for several years.
Each administrator now faces the task of transitioning to a new position, made more difficult by the coronavirus pandemic, remote learning and the social distancing guidelines that have affected schools the past few months.
But all three say they're up to the challenge. And they're leaning on their past experiences -- and each other -- to make it through.
Erin DeLuga
DeLuga never planned to follow in the footsteps of her parents.
Both had careers in education -- her mother as an art teacher, her father as an English teacher. But DeLuga wanted to pursue an entirely different path as a police officer, hoping to eventually work for the FBI.
The fall after she graduated from college with an English degree, her father encouraged her to apply for one of three open positions at Marian Catholic High School, where he worked. Though DeLuga was hesitant, it turned out to be the job that launched her career.
"It's been a wild ride," said DeLuga, a Palatine resident. "I didn't anticipate ever being an educator, but I'm so glad that happened because it's definitely my life's passion. I just didn't realize it at the time."
Those early years as an English teacher were a blur to DeLuga. Former students who still keep in touch tell her she was their best teacher, that she touched their lives. In reality, she said, "I didn't know what I was doing. ... I just loved literature and could always convey that love."
Back then, DeLuga never dreamed of becoming a principal. She secured her teaching certificate, moved on to teach at Wheeling High School, and began pursuing a master's degree in teaching. But after a department chair told her she would do well in administration, she realized she had a knack for supporting both teachers and students and decided to change course.
DeLuga will never forget the moment her father, one of her biggest role models, commented that she was going to the "dark side," having been frustrated by administrators and the school system structure throughout his career.
That resonated with DeLuga, who told her dad, "I want to be the person who changes that for people like you."
DeLuga worked her way through the ranks at Northwest Suburban High School District 214, serving as a department chairwoman and an associate principal. Then about four years ago, she saw a job posting for a principal in Elmhurst Unit District 205.
"I was really, really excited to give it a shot," she said.
Her time at York was full of accomplishments, from launching a business INCubatoredu program to creating a new manufacturing lab to implementing a blended learning experience even before the pandemic struck. She formed strong bonds with her staff and her students -- especially the Class of 2020, whom she watched grow from freshmen into young adults embarking on their post-high school adventures.
DeLuga now hopes to bring similar innovative, career-centered learning opportunities to Lake Zurich High School. But her primary mission remains the same as when she first started in education: be a champion and a supporter for students as they pursue their lifelong dreams.
"It's a trickle-down, pebble-in-a-pond effect," she said. "A principal should have a vision -- a balance of making sure (educators) know what their role is and know that you're there to support them, but also that you're all working toward the same end goal: helping kids."
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer Shahe Bagdasarian is leaving his principal position at Glenbard East High School in Lombard to assume the same role at York High School in Elmhurst, where he lives.
As principal of Glenbard East High School, Bagdasarian started every school year with a visit to each freshman English class. He liked being able to introduce himself, chat with the new students and answer their questions in a more personalized setting.
Throughout the year, he attended athletic events, plays and concerts. He would meet with business INCubatoredu students before their pitch nights. He organized a principal advisory council to hear concerns and suggestions from the student body.
Listening to the student voice is a "big piece" to running a school, Bagdasarian said, but it can be challenging when you're being pulled in so many different directions.
"You have to be intentional with that," he says. "Take every opportunity you can before school, after school, being in hallways, walking through the cafeteria -- those are all part of the job.
"I think it's really important as a principal to be visible."
Putting the students first is a philosophy that has stuck with Bagdasarian since he began his career as a special-education teacher at Elmwood Park High School. He moved over to teach at York, where he later became the dean of students before taking a job as an assistant principal at Glenbard East.
Bagdasarian had no intention of leaving Glenbard East, which has become like a home to him over the last 11 years. But when he heard DeLuga would be leaving the top seat at York, he was intrigued by the opportunity to return.
Being an Elmhurst resident helped guide his decision, he said. He'll also have two sons at York next year -- a unique opportunity for Bagdasarian, though he knows it'll be an adjustment for his kids, he said laughing.
To DeLuga, knowing that her replacement is a familiar face within the school and the community "makes my heart happy."
From an academic and programming perspective, Bagdasarian said the two schools offer similar opportunities. But there are some key differences, the most prominent being that Glenbard East is in a high school district, whereas York is part of unit district that offers kindergarten through 12th grade.
That means Bagdasarian's new role will focus more heavily on vertical articulation -- working with the middle schools to ensure students districtwide are prepared to move into high school. Equity in grading, assessments and course selection is a key piece of the puzzle.
Being a principal is demanding on multiple fronts, requiring flexibility and adaptability and leadership through tough circumstances, he said. Those qualities have never been more pertinent than in light of the COVID-19 crisis.
"We anticipate kids' needs are going to change a bit. We have to be ready to roll out a plan," Bagdasarian said. "You want to make sure you're listening and leading with empathy. Those are two things that I think are really important."
- Rick West | Staff Photographer LaGrange Park resident Antoine Anderson, an assistant principal for several years, has been tapped for the top leadership position at Glenbard East High School in Lombard.
Glenbard East students and staff members have a common chant to unify the school community: "We are East."
That's a loaded phrase, said Anderson, who just finished his seventh year as assistant principal for student services. It points to the diverse population, to the unique culture within the building, to the hardworking employees who "roll up our sleeves and do what's best for students."
"I feel that's who I am as well," Anderson said. "I am East."
That's why, when he learned that Bagdasarian would be vacating the principal position, Anderson jumped at the opportunity to apply. In his nine years at Glenbard East -- including two as a dean -- he had overseen student discipline, activities and services that addressed social-emotional needs.
"Considering my previous experiences, I thought it meshed well with what our building needs," he said. "It just seemed like a good fit."
Looking back now, it's hard to believe Anderson originally was pursuing a different career.
Anderson was a dual-sport athlete in college while earning a bachelor's degree in business from Olivet Nazarene University. When he returned for his final undergraduate semester, his baseball coach asked if he'd be interested in becoming an assistant coach.
He grew "quite fond" of the position and decided to stay on an extra semester, at the end of which he intended to leave and start a job in the business world. But he instead stayed on at Olivet Nazarene to continue coaching while pursuing his master's in teaching.
Thus began his unexpected career in education. Anderson went on to serve as a business teacher for 10 years, first at Rich South High School in Richton Park, then at Maine West in Des Plaines. After earning a second master's in administration and leadership, he secured his first dean position at Glenbard East -- and he was hired by Bagdasarian, an assistant principal at the time.
"Over the years, we've always had a collaborative relationship," Anderson said. "He's a very valuable resource. ... It makes the transition a little bit easier."
Anderson knows he'll face challenges as he takes on a larger leadership role, particularly amid the coronavirus crisis. He's already had to shift his priorities to address the inevitable gaps students and staff members may face in the fall.
But he believes his leadership experience within the Glenbard East community for the better part of a decade gives him an advantage.
He knows the staff members very well -- "I couldn't imagine a better group of educators to take on these challenges with." He loves the academic classes and extracurricular activities available to students -- "a multitude of opportunities to find their area of passion." He embraces the school's diversity -- "When you walk these halls on a daily basis, what you see is a reflection of our society. I'm very proud of that."
Moving forward, Anderson hopes to cultivate a positive climate, make personal connections and help guide his students the way his own high school teachers and leaders helped him.
"That time in my life I felt educators have the largest impact," he said. "That's the stage right before they're going to enter into society. We're preparing them for the real world."
Curriculum vitae
Erin DeLuga
Occupation: Lake Zurich High School principal
Residence: Palatine
Age: 43
Education: Master's in school leadership from Concordia University; Bachelor's in English from University of Illinois
Previous work experience: Principal at York High School; associate principal for instruction and curriculum at Wheeling High School; English/fine arts division chairwoman at Prospect High School; English teacher at Wheeling High School; English teacher at St. Charles North High School; English teacher at Marian Catholic High School
Shahe Bagdasarian
Occupation: York Community High School principal
Residence: Elmhurst
Age: 46
Education: Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Master of Education, Special Education, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Bachelor of Science, Exceptional Education, State University of New York College at Buffalo
Previous work experience: Principal, Glenbard East High School; assistant principal for instruction, Glenbard East; assistant principal for student services, Glenbard East; dean of students, York Community High School; special education teacher, York; special education teacher, Elmwood Park High School
Antoine Anderson
Occupation: Glenbard East High School principal
Residence: LaGrange Park
Education: Master of Arts, administration and leadership, Concordia University; Master of Arts, teaching, Olivet Nazarene University; Bachelor of Science, business administration, Olivet Nazarene University
Previous work experience: Assistant principal for student services, Glenbard East High School; dean of students, Maine West High School; dean of students, Glenbard East; business education teacher, Maine West; business education teacher, Rich South High School


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Amateur photographer chronicling growth of bald eagle family in Lake County

Amateur photographer Tim Elliott always has had an interest in birds , but it was n't until recently that circumstances led him to one of Lake County 's most majestic avian residents .
`` We saw them for the first time back in spring , before the babies , '' the Grayslake resident said of a nesting pair of bald eagles on the Fox River in southern Lake County .
`` We decided we 'd go back periodically and watch the progression . ''
From first sight to the emergence of a trio of eaglets in May , Elliott has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powerful magnifying lens .
`` I finally bought a lens that was long enough to seriously take pictures of birds , '' said Elliott , a retired IT professional who for the past few years has been an official volunteer photographer for the Lake County Forest Preserve District .
He was directed to the eagles ' nest as part of the district 's volunteer partnership .
`` It was exciting , '' said Elliott .
`` They 're such large birds and majestic birds . ''
With a wingspan that can reach 8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the national bird in 1782 .
However , by the 1960s it faced extinction and in 1978 was listed by federal authorities as endangered in most states .
Fortunes changed due to a ban of the pesticide DDT , habitat protection and other measures .
The bald eagle population has since flourished .
What 's notable about this family is that all three eaglets have survived .
According to the U.S .
Fish & Wildlife Service , successful eagle pairs usually raise one or two young per nest , but less often three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three survive that long , '' said Gary Glowacki , who has been a wildlife ecologist with the forest preserves for 16 years .
`` Could be weather .
Could be coincidence .
Could be humans staying away .
Whatever , it 's good , '' added Allison Frederick , public affairs assistant manager for the forest preserve district .
The nest is one of two known on and around forest preserve properties and there may be others in Lake County , according to Andrew Rutter , a wildlife ecologist with the district @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Wildlife Service on nest status .
One eaglet fledged from the same Fox River nest in both 2018 and one in 2019 , Rutter said .
`` Always happy to hear about additional nests if the public knows about them , '' he said .
Meanwhile , Elliott tries to return to the nest area once a week and regularly sends images to the forest preserve district for use online or in publications .
`` They 're fascinating , '' he said of the bald eagle family .
`` We 're still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fish .
That 's the goal . ''

Amateur photographer chronicling growth of bald eagle family in Lake County
Wildlife experts say it's unusual for three eaglets to survive in a single nest, as has been occurring along the Fox River in southern Lake County. Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake has been chronicling the eaglets young lives. Courtesy of Tim Elliott
Amateur photographer Tim Elliott always has had an interest in birds, but it wasn't until recently that circumstances led him to one of Lake County's most majestic avian residents.
"We saw them for the first time back in spring, before the babies," the Grayslake resident said of a nesting pair of bald eagles on the Fox River in southern Lake County.
Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake is documenting the young lives of three eaglets being raised in a nest along the Fox River in Lake County. A nesting pair usually raises one or two young per brood but only occasionally three. - Courtesy of Tim Elliott
"We decided we'd go back periodically and watch the progression."
From first sight to the emergence of a trio of eaglets in May, Elliott has chronicled the family's growth through a powerful magnifying lens.
"I finally bought a lens that was long enough to seriously take pictures of birds," said Elliott, a retired IT professional who for the past few years has been an official volunteer photographer for the Lake County Forest Preserve District.
A pair of bald eagles have been raising three eaglets in a nest along the Fox River in southern Lake County. Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake has been chronicling the eaglets young lives since the spring. - Courtesy of Tim Elliott
He was directed to the eagles' nest as part of the district's volunteer partnership.
"It was exciting," said Elliott. "They're such large birds and majestic birds."
With a wingspan that can reach 8 feet, the bald eagle was designated the national bird in 1782. However, by the 1960s it faced extinction and in 1978 was listed by federal authorities as endangered in most states.
Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake is documenting the young lives of three eaglets being raised in a nest along the Fox River in Lake County. A nesting pair usually raises one or two young per brood but only occasionally three. - Courtesy of Tim Elliott
Fortunes changed due to a ban of the pesticide DDT, habitat protection and other measures. The bald eagle population has since flourished.
What's notable about this family is that all three eaglets have survived. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, successful eagle pairs usually raise one or two young per nest, but less often three.
A bald eagle carries nesting materials to the top of a tree along the Fox River in Lake County. Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake is documenting the young lives of three eaglets being raised in a nest along the Fox River in Lake County. - Courtesy of Tim Elliott
"I don't recall seeing three survive that long," said Gary Glowacki, who has been a wildlife ecologist with the forest preserves for 16 years.
"Could be weather. Could be coincidence. Could be humans staying away. Whatever, it's good," added Allison Frederick, public affairs assistant manager for the forest preserve district.
The nest is one of two known on and around forest preserve properties and there may be others in Lake County, according to Andrew Rutter, a wildlife ecologist with the district, who updates the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on nest status. One eaglet fledged from the same Fox River nest in both 2018 and one in 2019, Rutter said.
Amateur photographer Tim Elliott of Grayslake is documenting the young lives of three eaglets being raised in a nest along the Fox River in Lake County. A nesting pair usually raises one or two young per brood but only occasionally three. - Courtesy of Tim Elliott
"Always happy to hear about additional nests if the public knows about them," he said.
Meanwhile, Elliott tries to return to the nest area once a week and regularly sends images to the forest preserve district for use online or in publications.
"They're fascinating," he said of the bald eagle family. "We're still waiting to see an eagle with a fish. That's the goal."


dailyheraldchicago--2020-06-10--Calling all princesses and superheroes: Sears Centre to host Drive-Thru Character Parade

Still a ways from its reopening phase of the Restore Illinois plan , Hoffman Estates ' Sears Centre Arena will experience an unusual splash of life and color Saturday , June 13 -- albeit outside -- in the form of a Drive-Thru Character Parade featuring princesses and superheroes from popular children 's movies .
The event will be from 10 a.m. to noon in the parking lot of the arena , 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway .
Due to social distancing protocols , all attendees are asked to remain in their vehicles .
The cost of admission is $ 20 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decorate their cars in the spirit of the parade .
The subject-to-change list of characters includes Elsa , Anna and Olaf from `` Frozen , '' Sleeping Beauty , Moana , Belle , Rapunzel , Jasmine , Ariel , Cinderella , Tiana , Elena of Avalor , Buzz Lightyear and Woody from `` Toy Story , '' LOL Surprise Diva Doll , Maui , Captain Hook , Captain America and Spider-Man .
The event also features an impersonator of performer JoJo Siwa , a DJ playing kids ' favorites and musical performances by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before the end of the day Friday , June 12 , and only a limited number of vehicles are permitted .
For details or to register , visit the eventbrite registration page at eventbrite.com/e/drive-thru-character-parade-tickets-108149921326 .

Calling all princesses and superheroes: Sears Centre to host Drive-Thru Character Parade
The Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates will host a Drive-Thru Character Parade that will respect social-distancing protocols in its parking lot from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 13. Daily Herald file photo, 2006
The Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates will host an outdoor Drive-Thru Character Parade on Saturday, June 13, featuring more than a dozen characters from popular children's movies. Courtesy of Sears Centre Arena
Still a ways from its reopening phase of the Restore Illinois plan, Hoffman Estates' Sears Centre Arena will experience an unusual splash of life and color Saturday, June 13 -- albeit outside -- in the form of a Drive-Thru Character Parade featuring princesses and superheroes from popular children's movies.
The event will be from 10 a.m. to noon in the parking lot of the arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway. Due to social distancing protocols, all attendees are asked to remain in their vehicles.
The cost of admission is $20 per vehicle, and attendees are encouraged to decorate their cars in the spirit of the parade.
The subject-to-change list of characters includes Elsa, Anna and Olaf from "Frozen," Sleeping Beauty, Moana, Belle, Rapunzel, Jasmine, Ariel, Cinderella, Tiana, Elena of Avalor, Buzz Lightyear and Woody from "Toy Story," LOL Surprise Diva Doll, Maui, Captain Hook, Captain America and Spider-Man.
The event also features an impersonator of performer JoJo Siwa, a DJ playing kids' favorites and musical performances by select characters.
Advanced registration is required before the end of the day Friday, June 12, and only a limited number of vehicles are permitted.
For details or to register, visit the eventbrite registration page at eventbrite.com/e/drive-thru-character-parade-tickets-108149921326.