dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Jobless claims in Illinois dip as businesses reopen

SPRINGFIELD -- The number of Illinois workers receiving state unemployment benefits fell by more than 29,000 during the last week of June as many businesses resumed operations after 14 weeks under a stay-at-home order brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic .
The U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday there were 676,338 people in Illinois receiving continuing unemployment benefits during the week that ended June 27 .
That was 29,511 fewer than the previous week .
First-time unemployment claims also fell to 45,249 , a decrease of 1,027 from the previous week , but still a 463 percent increase over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8,038 initial claims were filed .
In addition to those workers who qualify for traditional unemployment benefits , another 32,587 Illinoisans filed first-time claims for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance , more than triple the number from the week before .
PUA is a program funded entirely by the federal government under the CARES Act to extend benefits to independent contractors who are n't normally covered under traditional state-funded unemployment .
The Department of Labor also reported figures for the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for the week that ended June 13 , two weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PEUC is another federally funded program that extends benefits for up to 13 weeks for people who have exhausted their state-funded benefits .
That was down 15 percent from the week before .
First-time PEUC claims during that week in mid-June totaled 32,604 , a decrease of 14 percent from the prior week .
On June 26 , Illinois entered Phase 4 of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's reopening plan .
That allowed many retail establishments to reopen .
Bars and restaurants also were allowed to open for indoor dining while schools were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programs , all subject to capacity limits and social distancing requirements .
Nationally , just more than 1.4 million Americans filed first-time claims during the final week of June , an 8.2 percent decrease from the week before .
The Department of Labor reported a seasonally-adjusted 19.3 million Americans receiving continuing jobless benefits , an increase of 55,000 from the week before , while the national unemployment rate held steady at 13.2 percent .

Jobless claims in Illinois dip as businesses reopen
The U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday there were 676,338 people in Illinois receiving continuing unemployment benefits during the week that ended June 27. That was 29,511 fewer than the previous week.
SPRINGFIELD -- The number of Illinois workers receiving state unemployment benefits fell by more than 29,000 during the last week of June as many businesses resumed operations after 14 weeks under a stay-at-home order brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday there were 676,338 people in Illinois receiving continuing unemployment benefits during the week that ended June 27. That was 29,511 fewer than the previous week.
First-time unemployment claims also fell to 45,249, a decrease of 1,027 from the previous week, but still a 463 percent increase over the same week a year ago when only 8,038 initial claims were filed.
In addition to those workers who qualify for traditional unemployment benefits, another 32,587 Illinoisans filed first-time claims for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, more than triple the number from the week before. PUA is a program funded entirely by the federal government under the CARES Act to extend benefits to independent contractors who aren't normally covered under traditional state-funded unemployment.
The Department of Labor also reported figures for the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program for the week that ended June 13, two weeks earlier than the other unemployment numbers. PEUC is another federally funded program that extends benefits for up to 13 weeks for people who have exhausted their state-funded benefits. That was down 15 percent from the week before.
First-time PEUC claims during that week in mid-June totaled 32,604, a decrease of 14 percent from the prior week.
On June 26, Illinois entered Phase 4 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's reopening plan. That allowed many retail establishments to reopen. Bars and restaurants also were allowed to open for indoor dining while schools were allowed to reopen for in-person summer learning programs, all subject to capacity limits and social distancing requirements.
Nationally, just more than 1.4 million Americans filed first-time claims during the final week of June, an 8.2 percent decrease from the week before. The Department of Labor reported a seasonally-adjusted 19.3 million Americans receiving continuing jobless benefits, an increase of 55,000 from the week before, while the national unemployment rate held steady at 13.2 percent.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Where to find July 4 fireworks, modified parades and decorating contests

July 4 weekend is here -- minus much of the usual fanfare .
Festivals and most fireworks displays have been canceled because of COVID-19 , and what festivities remain are far from traditional .
But thanks to car parades , decorated-home routes and a few fireworks options , you can still get your fill of red , white and blue this weekend .
• McHenry : Fireworks will be launched at 9:30 p.m. July 4 from two locations -- the areas of Knox Park/Municipal Center and Fox Ridge Park -- to allow residents to view the displays from home .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ public .
The rain date is Sunday , July 5. cityofmchenry.org .
• Naperville : Fireworks in Naperville this year offer a few viewing options and a new location at the Frontier Sports Complex .
The display will run 9:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday , July 4 .
Viewers can watch from their cars or at a large field in the park , but they are asked to practice social distancing .
Parking is available at the park , 3380 Cedar Glade Drive , and at Neuqua Valley High School , 2360 95th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good news : Drive-In fireworks have been scheduled for July 2 , 3 and 4 at Boomers Stadium .
The bad news : The established viewing areas around the stadium are all sold out .
boomersbaseball.com .
• Spring Grove : Richardson Farm in Spring Grove opens for parking at 6 p.m. July 4 at 909 English Prairie Road .
Attendees can stay in their cars or set up chairs in front of their cars to enjoy a picnic .
Bring your own food , buy some at food trucks or get snacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corn and doughnuts .
$ 20 per car , cash only .
Phase 4 social distancing rules will be in place .
richardsonadventurefarm.com .
• Arlington Heights : Baird & Warner is sponsoring the 4th of July Parade Reimagined from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 4 .
Participants will be stationed in the parking lot at 210 W. Northwest Hwy.
, and visiting cars can drive by to enjoy live music , wave to veterans and the mayor and more .
Social distancing will be observed .
• Aurora : Replacing the traditional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Salute to Healthcare Workers Fourth of July Processional .
Included in the processional will be 10 vehicles from Aurora 's police and fire departments , the city 's emergency management agency and the Kane County sheriff 's office .
The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. July 4 at Rush-Copley Medical Center , 2000 Ogden Ave. , and it 's expected to end about 10:45 a.m. at AMITA Health Mercy Medical Center .
See the route at aurora-il.org .
• Barrington : The village of Barrington is encouraging residents to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive through their neighborhoods from 10 a.m. to noon July 4 , creating mini-parades for Barrington JULY 4th Reimagined .
The village will also deploy a small parade of fire and police vehicles , along with Bob the DJ .
There will be prizes , and the parade will be livestreamed on Facebook .
www.barrington-il.gov .
• Batavia : The Batavia VFW Post 1197 will host a mini parade for kids on its 6-acre property at 645 S. River St. , where leaders say they have plenty of room to social distance .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a.m. , and they 'll march around the perimeter starting at 10:30 on July 4 .
Fire trucks will be parked at the post for kids to tour .
After the parade , the post will offer hot dogs , chips and soda free to children younger than 8 and $ 5 a plate for anyone older .
Those who want to watch can bring lawn chairs .
vfw1197.org .
• Carol Stream : Residents and businesses are asked to decorate in honor of July 4 .
Prizes will be awarded .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and posted on the village website at www.carolstream.org for those who want to see the decorations July 4 .
• Glen Ellyn : A Patriotic Home and Storefront Decorating Contest calls for participants to meld creativity and patriotism .
The addresses of all registered houses and businesses will be posted at www.GlenEllyn4thOfJuly.org/patriotic-addresses so people can check them out .
• Glenview : The Glenview Park District is staging a reverse parade from 10 a.m. to noon July 4 at Community Park West , 1001 Zenith Ave. Preregistered spectators can drive past the stationary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but advance tickets are required by visiting glenview4th.org .
Patriotic music will play on WHPK 88.5-FM during the event .
• Highland Park : The Virtual Kids , Bike & Pet Parade -- Highland Park Style will be presented via video at noon July 4 .
The chamber will post the video on the event page of its website , www.chamberhp.com , and also on its Facebook and Instagram accounts .
• Lakemoor : The Village of Lakemoor July Fourth Parade of Homes encourages residents to decorate the outside of their houses and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to drive , walk or bike around town July 4 and 5 .
For details , visit https : //sites.google.com/lakemoor.net/village-july-4th-event/home ?
fbclid=IwAR025KeyRRwIDYFdSDsSdjwA5CoS5VbtnGt8gWj3PzYhAJeYRFgE6NMuMu4 .
• Lincolnshire : The villagewide # LincolnshireStrong Independence Day house decorating contest encourages residents to decorate their houses , front yards , driveways and balconies for Independence Day .
• McHenry : The `` Cavalcade for our Country '' will feature dozens of decorated boats on the Chain O ' Lakes throughout the day July 4 .
The procession will begin at 10:30 a.m. from the Snuggery on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there , boats will sail through each of the lakes in the Chain and pass several parks so those on land can watch .
For more information and a schedule of stops , visit the event 's Facebook page at https : //tinyurl.com/yal3z7s9 .
• Naperville : Celebrating Naperville 's Heroes is the theme of a rally hosted by Safe DuPage at 9:30 a.m. July 4 at Rotary Hill .
The event will feature speakers , and attendees are encouraged to wear red , white and blue and bring a flag to wave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to wear masks and respect social distancing guidelines .
See www.facebook.com/events/267715161213458/ .
• Northbrook : Northbrook is hosting a Fourth of July `` Porch Parade . ''
Residents were invited to decorate their houses , lawns and porches and submit their addresses to compete to win and to be added to an interactive parade route .
For those who want to see the houses across town from 2 to 4 p.m. July 4 , the map will be shared via the village website at northbrook.il.us , as well as on social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Villa Park , Lombard , Wheaton and Glen Ellyn : At 10 a.m. July 4 , DuPage Democrats are hosting a car parade and encouraging people to decorate .
Awards will be given ; registration is requested .
The cars will gather at the Safari Land parking lot at 701 North Ave. , Villa Park , and will get maps to the route .
For information , go to www.facebook.com/events/215334566153782/ .
• Waukegan : The Virtual Waukegan American Independence Parade -- Shoebox Edition runs 1 to 2 p.m. July 4 at www.facebook.com/events/654966672028140/ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in advance by decorating a `` mini float '' with a box .
For information , contact Debra at dcarl @ waukeganparks.org or ( 847 ) 360-4740 .
• Wheaton : Families are invited to participate in Wheaton Kids 4th of July Parade on July 4 at Adams Park , 201 N. Main St .
Participants are encouraged to wear a costume and decorate their bikes or other ride-on toys .
Families are asked to reserve a spot and observe safe practices .
Staging and a collection drive of nonperishable food and personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the parade starting at 10. www.facebook.com/Wheaton4thKids/ .

Where to find July 4 fireworks, modified parades and decorating contests
July 4 weekend is here -- minus much of the usual fanfare.
Festivals and most fireworks displays have been canceled because of COVID-19, and what festivities remain are far from traditional. But thanks to car parades, decorated-home routes and a few fireworks options, you can still get your fill of red, white and blue this weekend.
Fireworks
• McHenry: Fireworks will be launched at 9:30 p.m. July 4 from two locations -- the areas of Knox Park/Municipal Center and Fox Ridge Park -- to allow residents to view the displays from home. Neither site will be accessible to the public. The rain date is Sunday, July 5. cityofmchenry.org.
• Naperville: Fireworks in Naperville this year offer a few viewing options and a new location at the Frontier Sports Complex. The display will run 9:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Viewers can watch from their cars or at a large field in the park, but they are asked to practice social distancing. Parking is available at the park, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, and at Neuqua Valley High School, 2360 95th St.
• Schaumburg: First, the good news: Drive-In fireworks have been scheduled for July 2, 3 and 4 at Boomers Stadium. The bad news: The established viewing areas around the stadium are all sold out. boomersbaseball.com.
• Spring Grove: Richardson Farm in Spring Grove opens for parking at 6 p.m. July 4 at 909 English Prairie Road. Attendees can stay in their cars or set up chairs in front of their cars to enjoy a picnic. Bring your own food, buy some at food trucks or get snacks from golf carts selling beer, kettle corn and doughnuts. $20 per car, cash only. Phase 4 social distancing rules will be in place. richardsonadventurefarm.com.
Parade alternatives
• Arlington Heights: Baird & Warner is sponsoring the 4th of July Parade Reimagined from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 4. Participants will be stationed in the parking lot at 210 W. Northwest Hwy., and visiting cars can drive by to enjoy live music, wave to veterans and the mayor and more. Social distancing will be observed.
• Aurora: Replacing the traditional Fourth of July parade this year is a Salute to Healthcare Workers Fourth of July Processional. Included in the processional will be 10 vehicles from Aurora's police and fire departments, the city's emergency management agency and the Kane County sheriff's office. The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. July 4 at Rush-Copley Medical Center, 2000 Ogden Ave., and it's expected to end about 10:45 a.m. at AMITA Health Mercy Medical Center. See the route at aurora-il.org.
• Barrington: The village of Barrington is encouraging residents to decorate cars, bicycles and wagons and drive through their neighborhoods from 10 a.m. to noon July 4, creating mini-parades for Barrington JULY 4th Reimagined. The village will also deploy a small parade of fire and police vehicles, along with Bob the DJ. There will be prizes, and the parade will be livestreamed on Facebook. www.barrington-il.gov.
• Batavia: The Batavia VFW Post 1197 will host a mini parade for kids on its 6-acre property at 645 S. River St., where leaders say they have plenty of room to social distance. Kids are asked to gather at 10 a.m., and they'll march around the perimeter starting at 10:30 on July 4. Fire trucks will be parked at the post for kids to tour. After the parade, the post will offer hot dogs, chips and soda free to children younger than 8 and $5 a plate for anyone older. Those who want to watch can bring lawn chairs. vfw1197.org.
• Carol Stream: Residents and businesses are asked to decorate in honor of July 4. Prizes will be awarded. The addresses will be listed on a map and posted on the village website at www.carolstream.org for those who want to see the decorations July 4.
• Glen Ellyn: A Patriotic Home and Storefront Decorating Contest calls for participants to meld creativity and patriotism. The addresses of all registered houses and businesses will be posted at www.GlenEllyn4thOfJuly.org/patriotic-addresses so people can check them out.
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer Jacki Ruh and her family have decorated the exterior of their home for the Fourth of July and the Northbrook Porch Parade.
• Glenview: The Glenview Park District is staging a reverse parade from 10 a.m. to noon July 4 at Community Park West, 1001 Zenith Ave. Preregistered spectators can drive past the stationary floats. The event is free, but advance tickets are required by visiting glenview4th.org. Patriotic music will play on WHPK 88.5-FM during the event.
• Highland Park: The Virtual Kids, Bike & Pet Parade -- Highland Park Style will be presented via video at noon July 4. The chamber will post the video on the event page of its website, www.chamberhp.com, and also on its Facebook and Instagram accounts.
• Lakemoor: The Village of Lakemoor July Fourth Parade of Homes encourages residents to decorate the outside of their houses and show off their patriotism for those who want to drive, walk or bike around town July 4 and 5. For details, visit https://sites.google.com/lakemoor.net/village-july-4th-event/home?fbclid=IwAR025KeyRRwIDYFdSDsSdjwA5CoS5VbtnGt8gWj3PzYhAJeYRFgE6NMuMu4.
• Lincolnshire: The villagewide #LincolnshireStrong Independence Day house decorating contest encourages residents to decorate their houses, front yards, driveways and balconies for Independence Day.
• McHenry: The "Cavalcade for our Country" will feature dozens of decorated boats on the Chain O' Lakes throughout the day July 4. The procession will begin at 10:30 a.m. from the Snuggery on the upper Fox River in McHenry. From there, boats will sail through each of the lakes in the Chain and pass several parks so those on land can watch. For more information and a schedule of stops, visit the event's Facebook page at https://tinyurl.com/yal3z7s9.
• Naperville: Celebrating Naperville's Heroes is the theme of a rally hosted by Safe DuPage at 9:30 a.m. July 4 at Rotary Hill. The event will feature speakers, and attendees are encouraged to wear red, white and blue and bring a flag to wave. In addition, organizers are asking everyone to wear masks and respect social distancing guidelines. See www.facebook.com/events/267715161213458/.
• Northbrook: Northbrook is hosting a Fourth of July "Porch Parade." Residents were invited to decorate their houses, lawns and porches and submit their addresses to compete to win and to be added to an interactive parade route. For those who want to see the houses across town from 2 to 4 p.m. July 4, the map will be shared via the village website at northbrook.il.us, as well as on social media or by texting 4THJULY to 888777.
• Villa Park, Lombard, Wheaton and Glen Ellyn: At 10 a.m. July 4, DuPage Democrats are hosting a car parade and encouraging people to decorate. Awards will be given; registration is requested. The cars will gather at the Safari Land parking lot at 701 North Ave., Villa Park, and will get maps to the route. For information, go to www.facebook.com/events/215334566153782/.
• Waukegan: The Virtual Waukegan American Independence Parade -- Shoebox Edition runs 1 to 2 p.m. July 4 at www.facebook.com/events/654966672028140/. Families, businesses and organizations participated in advance by decorating a "mini float" with a box. For information, contact Debra at dcarl@waukeganparks.org or (847) 360-4740.
• Wheaton: Families are invited to participate in Wheaton Kids 4th of July Parade on July 4 at Adams Park, 201 N. Main St. Participants are encouraged to wear a costume and decorate their bikes or other ride-on toys. Families are asked to reserve a spot and observe safe practices. Staging and a collection drive of nonperishable food and personal care items start at 9:30 a.m., with the parade starting at 10. www.facebook.com/Wheaton4thKids/.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Judge denies GOP request to allow large political gatherings

SPRINGFIELD -- A federal judge on Thursday denied a request for a temporary restraining order that would have allowed the Schaumburg Township Republican Organization and other GOP groups to host large fundraising events .
In the lawsuit , the state GOP argued that Gov .
JB Pritzker 's 50-person cap on gathering sizes -- which was a 10-person cap when the lawsuit was filed -- does not apply to religious organizations , and the governor `` declined to enforce '' his order against protesters demanding an end to systemic racism .
The GOP -- along with the Will County Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Northwest Side GOP Club -- argued that applying those exemptions to protestors and religious institutions but not to political parties created an `` unconstitutional content-based restriction on speech , '' according to a court document .
That , the Republicans claimed , was a violation of their First and 14th Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution , which grant freedoms of speech and demonstration , as well as equal protections under the law .
U.S. District Court Judge Sara L. Ellis , of the Northern District of Illinois ' Eastern Division , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would allow the GOP to resume large gatherings , stating that granting the relief `` would pose serious risks to public health . ''
`` The number of COVID-19 infections continues to rise across the United States , which has led some states to recently impose greater restrictions on gatherings and activities , '' Ellis wrote in her ruling .
`` COVID-19 is highly contagious and continues to spread , requiring public officials to constantly evaluate the best method by which to protect residents ' safety against the economy and a myriad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chairman Tim Schneider said lawyers were already working on an appeal .
`` We are disappointed with today 's results and obviously disagree with the ruling , '' Schneider said in a statement .
`` Our fight to secure our First Amendment right is not over , however .
Our lawyers have immediately begun the process for appealing the decision . ''
In its June 15 court filing , the GOP argued political parties `` are for political expression what churches are for religious expression : the corporate manifestation of speech and interaction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` Yet , unlike churches , political parties are barred from gathering in groups greater than 10 ( now 50 ) under the governor 's executive order , '' the party continued .
`` And unlike protestors against police brutality , they have not been given an exemption based on his sympathy , recognition , and participation . ''
Ellis , however , argued that Pritzker 's order `` involves reasonable measures intended to protect public health while preserving avenues for First Amendment activities . ''
`` Plaintiffs ask that they be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite the advice of medical experts and the current rise in infections .
The risks in doing so are too great , '' she wrote .
`` The Court acknowledges that Plaintiffs ' interest in gathering as a political party is important , especially leading up to an election .
But this interest does not outweigh the governor 's interest in protecting the health of Illinois ' residents during this unprecedented public health crisis . ''
The judge also wrote that many political activities are still allowed , such as `` phone banks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as of Friday , June 26 , gatherings like fundraisers and meet-and-greet coffees that do not exceed 50 people . ''
Moreover , allowing the GOP to hold mass gatherings would `` open the floodgates to challenges from other groups that find in-person gatherings most effective , '' she wrote , agreeing with one of the state 's arguments .
`` An injunction that allows plaintiffs to gather in large groups so that they can engage in more effective speech is simply not in the public interest .
Such relief would expand beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing their risk of exposure .
Thus , the harms tilt significantly in the governor 's favor as he seeks to prevent the spread of this virulent virus , '' she concluded .
Ellis said the GOP failed to prove the state selectively chose not to enforce its order against protestors .
The governor also did not take action against Reopen Illinois protestors during the stay-at-home order , she pointed out .
`` Plaintiffs have failed to point to a single instance in which they , or anyone similarly situated , protested with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order against them because of this content , '' she wrote .
`` Thus , the court has no basis by which to evaluate whether the governor has selectively enforced the order . ''
The judge did , however , agree that the government engaged in `` content-based discrimination '' by allowing churches to gather .
`` When a gathering is still allowed based on the speech involved , the government has engaged in content-based discrimination .
The court finds that by exempting free exercise of religion from the gathering limit , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she wrote .
An appeal had not been filed Thursday afternoon , and the full case is still pending in Ellis ' court .

Judge denies GOP request to allow large political gatherings
SPRINGFIELD -- A federal judge on Thursday denied a request for a temporary restraining order that would have allowed the Schaumburg Township Republican Organization and other GOP groups to host large fundraising events.
In the lawsuit, the state GOP argued that Gov. JB Pritzker's 50-person cap on gathering sizes -- which was a 10-person cap when the lawsuit was filed -- does not apply to religious organizations, and the governor "declined to enforce" his order against protesters demanding an end to systemic racism.
The GOP -- along with the Will County Republican Central Committee, Schaumburg Township Republican Organization and Northwest Side GOP Club -- argued that applying those exemptions to protestors and religious institutions but not to political parties created an "unconstitutional content-based restriction on speech," according to a court document.
That, the Republicans claimed, was a violation of their First and 14th Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution, which grant freedoms of speech and demonstration, as well as equal protections under the law.
U.S. District Court Judge Sara L. Ellis, of the Northern District of Illinois' Eastern Division, denied the request for a temporary order that would allow the GOP to resume large gatherings, stating that granting the relief "would pose serious risks to public health."
"The number of COVID-19 infections continues to rise across the United States, which has led some states to recently impose greater restrictions on gatherings and activities," Ellis wrote in her ruling. "COVID-19 is highly contagious and continues to spread, requiring public officials to constantly evaluate the best method by which to protect residents' safety against the economy and a myriad of other concerns."
Illinois GOP Chairman Tim Schneider said lawyers were already working on an appeal.
"We are disappointed with today's results and obviously disagree with the ruling," Schneider said in a statement. "Our fight to secure our First Amendment right is not over, however. Our lawyers have immediately begun the process for appealing the decision."
In its June 15 court filing, the GOP argued political parties "are for political expression what churches are for religious expression: the corporate manifestation of speech and interaction within a community of shared belief."
"Yet, unlike churches, political parties are barred from gathering in groups greater than 10 (now 50) under the governor's executive order," the party continued. "And unlike protestors against police brutality, they have not been given an exemption based on his sympathy, recognition, and participation."
Ellis, however, argued that Pritzker's order "involves reasonable measures intended to protect public health while preserving avenues for First Amendment activities."
"Plaintiffs ask that they be allowed to gather -- without limitation -- despite the advice of medical experts and the current rise in infections. The risks in doing so are too great," she wrote. "The Court acknowledges that Plaintiffs' interest in gathering as a political party is important, especially leading up to an election. But this interest does not outweigh the governor's interest in protecting the health of Illinois' residents during this unprecedented public health crisis."
The judge also wrote that many political activities are still allowed, such as "phone banks, virtual strategy meetings, and, as of Friday, June 26, gatherings like fundraisers and meet-and-greet coffees that do not exceed 50 people."
Moreover, allowing the GOP to hold mass gatherings would "open the floodgates to challenges from other groups that find in-person gatherings most effective," she wrote, agreeing with one of the state's arguments.
"An injunction that allows plaintiffs to gather in large groups so that they can engage in more effective speech is simply not in the public interest. Such relief would expand beyond any gatherings and negatively impact non-parties by increasing their risk of exposure. Thus, the harms tilt significantly in the governor's favor as he seeks to prevent the spread of this virulent virus," she concluded.
Ellis said the GOP failed to prove the state selectively chose not to enforce its order against protestors. The governor also did not take action against Reopen Illinois protestors during the stay-at-home order, she pointed out.
"Plaintiffs have failed to point to a single instance in which they, or anyone similarly situated, protested with political messages and state officials enforced the order against them because of this content," she wrote. "Thus, the court has no basis by which to evaluate whether the governor has selectively enforced the order."
The judge did, however, agree that the government engaged in "content-based discrimination" by allowing churches to gather.
"When a gathering is still allowed based on the speech involved, the government has engaged in content-based discrimination. The court finds that by exempting free exercise of religion from the gathering limit, the order creates a content-based restriction," she wrote.
An appeal had not been filed Thursday afternoon, and the full case is still pending in Ellis' court.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell arrested

British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested by the FBI on Thursday on charges she helped procure underage sex partners for financier Jeffrey Epstein .
An indictment made public Thursday said Maxwell , who lived for years with Epstein and was his frequent travel companion on trips around the world , facilitated Epstein 's crimes by `` helping Epstein to recruit , groom , and ultimately abuse `` girls as young as 14 .
It also said she participated in the sexual abuse .
Epstein , 66 , killed himself in a federal detention center in New York last summer while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maxwell has , for years , been accused by many women of recruiting them to give Epstein massages , during which they were pressured into sex .
Those accusations , until now , never resulted in criminal charges .
Maxwell , 58 , was arrested in New Hampshire , where the FBI said it had been keeping tabs on her .
`` More recently we learned she had slithered away to a gorgeous property in New Hampshire , continuing to live a life of privilege while her victims live with the trauma inflicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sweeney , assistant director in charge of the FBI 's New York office , said at a news conference Thursday afternoon .
The indictment included counts of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts , enticement of a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts , conspiracy to transport minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity , transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and two counts of perjury .
`` Maxwell lied because the truth , as alleged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strauss , the acting U.S. attorney in Manhattan , said at the press conference .
She called the charges against Maxwell a `` prequel '' to the charges prosecutors brought last summer against Epstein .
Messages were sent Thursday to several of Maxwell 's attorneys seeking comment .
She has previously repeatedly denied wrongdoing and called some of the claims against her `` absolute rubbish . ''
Among the most sensational accusations was a claim by one Epstein victim , Virginia Roberts Giuffre , that Maxwell arranged for her to have sex with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ townhouse .
Giuffre bolstered her allegations with a picture of her , Andrew and Giuffre that she said was taken at the time .
Andrew denied her story and Maxwell said in one deposition that Giuffre was `` totally lying . ''
He was not mentioned by name in the indictment , and the charges covered Maxwell 's dealings with Epstein only in the period from 1994 through 1997 , a period well before his alleged encounters with Giuffre in 2001 .
Strauss said she would `` welcome Prince Andrew coming in to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not answer further questions pertaining to these charges and Andrew .
Brad Edwards , an attorney who represents Giuffre and several other Epstein victims said his clients were relieved by the charges .
`` Today is a very good day , '' he said .
The indictment focused on Epstein 's alleged abuse of three specific girls at his Manhattan mansion and other residences in Palm Beach , Florida ; Santa Fe , New Mexico and London .
Their names were not revealed in court filings .
The indictment mirrored many of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maxwell , saying she would `` entice and groom '' minor girls by asking them about their lives , their schools and their families .
`` Through this process , Maxwell and Epstein enticed victims to engage in sexual activity with Epstein .
In some instances , Maxwell was present for and participated in the sexual abuse of minor victims , '' the indictment said .
The indictment said Maxwell repeatedly lied when questioned about her conduct .
It says she committed perjury in 2016 in a deposition in a civil lawsuit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's scheme to recruit underage girls .
At the time the crimes occurred , Maxwell was in an intimate relationship with Epstein and also was paid by him to manage his various properties , according to the indictment , which included a photograph of Epstein with his arm around Maxwell and his head nuzzling hers .
Epstein was initially investigated in Florida and pleaded guilty to state charges in 2008 that allowed him to avoid a lengthy prison sentence .
He was free a little after a year in prison .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signed off on an agreement , initially filed in secret , that barred the federal government from charging `` any potential co-conspirators of Epstein . ''
Alexander Acosta , President Donald Trump 's former labor secretary , resigned last year after coming under fire for overseeing that deal when he was U.S. attorney in Miami .
Geoffrey Berman , the former U.S. attorney in Manhattan , argued that federal prosecutors in New York were not bound by that agreement and brought a sweeping indictment against Epstein .
Berman vowed to continue seeking justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financier 's death but was abruptly fired last month .
Maxwell 's indictment was celebrated by lawyers for some of Epstein 's accusers .
Jennifer Araoz , a woman who says Epstein raped her in his New York mansion in 2002 when she was 15 , said she feared the financier 's ring of conspirators for years .
`` Now that the ring has been taken down , I know that I ca n't be hurt anymore , '' Araoz , now 33 , said in a statement .
`` Day after day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Maxwell would be arrested and held accountable for her actions .
Her arrest is a step in that direction , and it truly means that the justice system did n't forget about us . ''
Spencer T. Kuvin , who represents some of the women , said Maxwell was `` hopefully be the first of many co-conspirators to face the consequences of this horrific crimes . ''
Maxwell was described in a lawsuit by another Epstein victim , Sarah Ransome , as the `` highest-ranking employee '' of Epstein 's alleged sex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recruiters , developed recruiting plans and helped conceal the activity from law enforcement , the lawsuit alleged .
Associated Press writer Curt Anderson contributed to this report from Miami and Danica Kirka contributed from London .

Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell arrested
Ghislaine Maxwell, a British socialite who was accused by many women of helping procure underage sex partners for Jeffrey Epstein, has been arrested in New Hampshire, the FBI said Thursday. Associated Press/Nov. 7, 1991
British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested by the FBI on Thursday on charges she helped procure underage sex partners for financier Jeffrey Epstein.
An indictment made public Thursday said Maxwell, who lived for years with Epstein and was his frequent travel companion on trips around the world, facilitated Epstein's crimes by "helping Epstein to recruit, groom, and ultimately abuse " girls as young as 14. It also said she participated in the sexual abuse.
Epstein, 66, killed himself in a federal detention center in New York last summer while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Maxwell has, for years, been accused by many women of recruiting them to give Epstein massages, during which they were pressured into sex. Those accusations, until now, never resulted in criminal charges.
Maxwell, 58, was arrested in New Hampshire, where the FBI said it had been keeping tabs on her.
"More recently we learned she had slithered away to a gorgeous property in New Hampshire, continuing to live a life of privilege while her victims live with the trauma inflicted upon them years ago," William Sweeney, assistant director in charge of the FBI's New York office, said at a news conference Thursday afternoon.
The indictment included counts of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, enticement of a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, conspiracy to transport minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and two counts of perjury.
"Maxwell lied because the truth, as alleged, was almost unspeakable," Audrey Strauss, the acting U.S. attorney in Manhattan, said at the press conference.
She called the charges against Maxwell a "prequel" to the charges prosecutors brought last summer against Epstein.
Messages were sent Thursday to several of Maxwell's attorneys seeking comment. She has previously repeatedly denied wrongdoing and called some of the claims against her "absolute rubbish."
Among the most sensational accusations was a claim by one Epstein victim, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, that Maxwell arranged for her to have sex with Britain's Prince Andrew at her London townhouse. Giuffre bolstered her allegations with a picture of her, Andrew and Giuffre that she said was taken at the time.
Andrew denied her story and Maxwell said in one deposition that Giuffre was "totally lying."
He was not mentioned by name in the indictment, and the charges covered Maxwell's dealings with Epstein only in the period from 1994 through 1997, a period well before his alleged encounters with Giuffre in 2001.
Strauss said she would "welcome Prince Andrew coming in to talk with us," but did not answer further questions pertaining to these charges and Andrew.
Brad Edwards, an attorney who represents Giuffre and several other Epstein victims said his clients were relieved by the charges. "Today is a very good day," he said.
The indictment focused on Epstein's alleged abuse of three specific girls at his Manhattan mansion and other residences in Palm Beach, Florida; Santa Fe, New Mexico and London. Their names were not revealed in court filings.
The indictment mirrored many of the claims previously made in civil lawsuits against Maxwell, saying she would "entice and groom" minor girls by asking them about their lives, their schools and their families.
"Through this process, Maxwell and Epstein enticed victims to engage in sexual activity with Epstein. In some instances, Maxwell was present for and participated in the sexual abuse of minor victims," the indictment said.
The indictment said Maxwell repeatedly lied when questioned about her conduct. It says she committed perjury in 2016 in a deposition in a civil lawsuit, in part by denying knowledge of Epstein's scheme to recruit underage girls.
At the time the crimes occurred, Maxwell was in an intimate relationship with Epstein and also was paid by him to manage his various properties, according to the indictment, which included a photograph of Epstein with his arm around Maxwell and his head nuzzling hers.
Epstein was initially investigated in Florida and pleaded guilty to state charges in 2008 that allowed him to avoid a lengthy prison sentence. He was free a little after a year in prison.
At the time, a federal prosecutor in Florida signed off on an agreement, initially filed in secret, that barred the federal government from charging "any potential co-conspirators of Epstein." Alexander Acosta, President Donald Trump's former labor secretary, resigned last year after coming under fire for overseeing that deal when he was U.S. attorney in Miami.
Geoffrey Berman, the former U.S. attorney in Manhattan, argued that federal prosecutors in New York were not bound by that agreement and brought a sweeping indictment against Epstein. Berman vowed to continue seeking justice for Epstein's victims even after the financier's death but was abruptly fired last month.
Maxwell's indictment was celebrated by lawyers for some of Epstein's accusers.
Jennifer Araoz, a woman who says Epstein raped her in his New York mansion in 2002 when she was 15, said she feared the financier's ring of conspirators for years.
"Now that the ring has been taken down, I know that I can't be hurt anymore," Araoz, now 33, said in a statement. "Day after day, I have waited for the news that Maxwell would be arrested and held accountable for her actions. Her arrest is a step in that direction, and it truly means that the justice system didn't forget about us."
Spencer T. Kuvin, who represents some of the women, said Maxwell was "hopefully be the first of many co-conspirators to face the consequences of this horrific crimes."
Maxwell was described in a lawsuit by another Epstein victim, Sarah Ransome, as the "highest-ranking employee" of Epstein's alleged sex trafficking enterprise. She oversaw and trained recruiters, developed recruiting plans and helped conceal the activity from law enforcement, the lawsuit alleged.
Associated Press writer Curt Anderson contributed to this report from Miami and Danica Kirka contributed from London.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Downstate judge rules Pritzker's COVID-19 orders are void

SPRINGFIELD -- All of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker 's executive orders since April 8 pertaining to the coronavirus pandemic are void because he exceeded his authority when he used his emergency powers for more than 30 days , a Clay County judge ruled Thursday .
The Illinois Department of Public Health instead has `` supreme authority '' to close businesses and restrict residents ' activities in a public health crisis , Circuit Court Judge Michael McHaney added .
His decision , which he expanded to apply to all Illinoisans , is the latest ruling in Xenia Republican Rep. Darren Bailey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 23 filing that the governor could not issue successive disaster proclamations to manage COVID-19 .
The attorney general 's office is likely to ask a higher court to reconsider the order .
Thomas DeVore , Bailey 's attorney , said business occupancy limitations and other restrictions can no longer be enforced .
A spokeswoman in the governor 's office , though , said the judge 's ruling is one `` contradicted by multiple other '' judges .
She added `` it is not a final judgement and has no injunction . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in effect , she said .
McHaney did not agree with all of the points Bailey alleged , however .
He rejected the argument that COVID-19 did not satisfy the definition of a `` disaster , '' as outlined in the law Pritzker cited in his executive orders .
`` One problem with the governor 's approach was that he acted as if he knew better how people should behave , '' Bailey said in a statement .
`` Instead of presenting facts and calling on people to respond in a collaborative way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Bailey entered the court Thursday afternoon and walked out to applause from a group of supporters who , the representative said , came from across Illinois .
Several were wearing gray shirts that said , `` My governor is an idiot . ''
The ruling in his lawsuit , he told reporters after the hearing , is beneficial for all Americans -- governors ' COVID-19 responses should not be unilateral .
Instead , he suggested , local departments of health should make determinations `` county by county . ''
`` Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- that has considered these exact issues has agreed with the administration that executive orders protecting Illinoisans ' health and safety are well within the governor 's constitutional authority , '' a Pritzker representative said in an email .
`` While this one county circuit court has gone a different direction from all of the other cases , the administration will ultimately seek to appeal this ruling , and the governor will continue to urge the people of Illinois to exercise constant vigilance and keep doing what has worked : wash your hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face covering . ''
DeVore said the attorney general 's office , which represented Pritzker in this case , could have asked the judge to suspend enforcement of his order but did not .
Unless a higher court overturns McHaney 's order , it will stand , he said .
A representative for Attorney General Kwame Raoul said officials are `` reviewing '' McHaney 's order and `` evaluating our options . ''
DeVore said the attorney general is `` supposed to be representing the people of Illinois , '' and he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` fighting 13 million people that he 's supposed to have a duty to protect . ''
Bailey 's case was in Clay County court because a federal judge returned it there Monday , denying a request by the attorney general 's office for it to be heard in federal court .
Accepting jurisdiction of the lawsuit would amount to `` judicial overreach , '' U.S. Magistrate Judge Gilbert Sison wrote .
He noted in his 16-page ruling he was analyzing only whether Bailey alleged his U.S. constitutional rights were violated and therefore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ federal judge , not whether `` the enormity of the issues raised '' in the case had merit .
`` The stakes are high on both sides of this litigation , '' the judge wrote .
`` There is no easy balance between protecting the public from a silent , fast-spreading , novel virus and preventing great social upheaval and the heavy strain of economic and financial uncertainty . ''
When the attorney general 's office moved Bailey 's case from Clay County to a federal court , it argued the representative claimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , interstate travel and `` a Republican form of government '' were violated by Pritzker 's successive disaster proclamations .
Bailey 's attorney responded in a court document that the venue shift was a `` delay tactic '' that was not supported by the lawsuit 's facts .
Sison , in his opinion , wrote that while `` at first blush '' the representative did not explicitly cite the U.S. Constitution in his case , the state 's lawyers could infer that `` to a certain degree . ''
He also admonished Bailey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The representative seems to `` acknowledge '' Pritzker 's actions violated his constitutionally-protected rights , but did not specify whether he was referring to the U.S. or Illinois constitutions .
Bailey 's `` argument that this is a case that clearly raises no federal claims is too confidently stated , '' the judge wrote .
Ultimately , Sison decided that the `` crux '' of the representative 's lawsuit `` clearly ... is the scope of the governor 's power under the statutory scheme established by the Illinois legislature . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state pay `` reasonable fees and costs '' associated with its venue shift .

Downstate judge rules Pritzker's COVID-19 orders are void
SPRINGFIELD -- All of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's executive orders since April 8 pertaining to the coronavirus pandemic are void because he exceeded his authority when he used his emergency powers for more than 30 days, a Clay County judge ruled Thursday.
The Illinois Department of Public Health instead has "supreme authority" to close businesses and restrict residents' activities in a public health crisis, Circuit Court Judge Michael McHaney added.
His decision, which he expanded to apply to all Illinoisans, is the latest ruling in Xenia Republican Rep. Darren Bailey's lawsuit. He argued in his April 23 filing that the governor could not issue successive disaster proclamations to manage COVID-19.
The attorney general's office is likely to ask a higher court to reconsider the order. Thomas DeVore, Bailey's attorney, said business occupancy limitations and other restrictions can no longer be enforced.
A spokeswoman in the governor's office, though, said the judge's ruling is one "contradicted by multiple other" judges. She added "it is not a final judgement and has no injunction." Phase 4 of the reopening plan is in effect, she said.
McHaney did not agree with all of the points Bailey alleged, however. He rejected the argument that COVID-19 did not satisfy the definition of a "disaster," as outlined in the law Pritzker cited in his executive orders.
"One problem with the governor's approach was that he acted as if he knew better how people should behave," Bailey said in a statement. "Instead of presenting facts and calling on people to respond in a collaborative way, hard and fast rules were imposed."
Bailey entered the court Thursday afternoon and walked out to applause from a group of supporters who, the representative said, came from across Illinois. Several were wearing gray shirts that said, "My governor is an idiot."
The ruling in his lawsuit, he told reporters after the hearing, is beneficial for all Americans -- governors' COVID-19 responses should not be unilateral. Instead, he suggested, local departments of health should make determinations "county by county."
"Every other court -- both state and federal -- that has considered these exact issues has agreed with the administration that executive orders protecting Illinoisans' health and safety are well within the governor's constitutional authority," a Pritzker representative said in an email.
"While this one county circuit court has gone a different direction from all of the other cases, the administration will ultimately seek to appeal this ruling, and the governor will continue to urge the people of Illinois to exercise constant vigilance and keep doing what has worked: wash your hands, watch your distance and wear your face covering."
DeVore said the attorney general's office, which represented Pritzker in this case, could have asked the judge to suspend enforcement of his order but did not. Unless a higher court overturns McHaney's order, it will stand, he said.
A representative for Attorney General Kwame Raoul said officials are "reviewing" McHaney's order and "evaluating our options."
DeVore said the attorney general is "supposed to be representing the people of Illinois," and he is "disappointed" that Raoul has been "fighting 13 million people that he's supposed to have a duty to protect."
Bailey's case was in Clay County court because a federal judge returned it there Monday, denying a request by the attorney general's office for it to be heard in federal court.
Accepting jurisdiction of the lawsuit would amount to "judicial overreach," U.S. Magistrate Judge Gilbert Sison wrote.
He noted in his 16-page ruling he was analyzing only whether Bailey alleged his U.S. constitutional rights were violated and therefore his case could be decided by a federal judge, not whether "the enormity of the issues raised" in the case had merit.
"The stakes are high on both sides of this litigation," the judge wrote. "There is no easy balance between protecting the public from a silent, fast-spreading, novel virus and preventing great social upheaval and the heavy strain of economic and financial uncertainty."
When the attorney general's office moved Bailey's case from Clay County to a federal court, it argued the representative claimed his freedoms of religion, due process, interstate travel and "a Republican form of government" were violated by Pritzker's successive disaster proclamations.
Bailey's attorney responded in a court document that the venue shift was a "delay tactic" that was not supported by the lawsuit's facts.
Sison, in his opinion, wrote that while "at first blush" the representative did not explicitly cite the U.S. Constitution in his case, the state's lawyers could infer that "to a certain degree."
He also admonished Bailey's attorney for writing an ambiguous argument. The representative seems to "acknowledge" Pritzker's actions violated his constitutionally-protected rights, but did not specify whether he was referring to the U.S. or Illinois constitutions.
Bailey's "argument that this is a case that clearly raises no federal claims is too confidently stated," the judge wrote.
Ultimately, Sison decided that the "crux" of the representative's lawsuit "clearly ... is the scope of the governor's power under the statutory scheme established by the Illinois legislature."
He also denied Bailey's request that the state pay "reasonable fees and costs" associated with its venue shift.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Sights, not sounds: Fourth of July decorating contests recapture holiday revelry

Diana Laufenberg has recaptured the sights -- if not the sounds -- of Glen Ellyn revelry on the Fourth of July .
On a far quieter Independence Day weekend , residents wo n't hear marching bands , firetruck sirens , block party music or the applause that greeted the parachute jumper hyping up the crowd for last year 's fireworks at Lake Ellyn .
But Laufenberg and her family are n't letting COVID-19 cancellations deprive the town of some of the holiday sparkle .
With their creative talents , Laufenberg , her husband , Nick , and their two kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their front porch with star-spangled finery to partake in a Fourth of July decorating contest .
A handful of other towns like Carol Stream , Lincolnshire and Northbrook have their own versions , but the granddaddy of them all is Glen Ellyn 's contest , where more than 40 entries feature day and nighttime displays .
`` It 's at a perfect time , just when we needed a little something fun to do this summer , '' Laufenberg said .
`` It 's magical . ''
The decorating themes run the gamut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ empty lawn chairs staking out what would have been a spot along the parade route .
Others have deeper relevance , encouraging people to vote and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement .
Still other displays are unique to Glen Ellyn .
Diana Martinez , who suggested the contest idea to Glen Ellyn 's Fourth of July committee , put a replica of the village 's iconic horse trough in her front yard , along with a life-size figure of Frida Kahlo , a nod to her art exhibition coming to the College @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are some really amazing ones , '' says Amy Keating , a committee member and one of the contest judges .
`` You can tell people really put a lot of effort into thinking out what they wanted to do .
There 's lots of colors , lots of flags , lots of different focuses . ''
The Laufenbergs wanted to go all out with the red , white and blue at their Bryant Avenue home .
`` We usually decorate our home for the holidays , but this year I really wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun and unexpected when you drove by , '' Diana Laufenberg said .
So the family sat down one night for dinner , took out some paper and brainstormed their ideas .
They spent a Saturday afternoon putting it all together .
Her kids spray painted stars on the lawn .
Their bikes stand ready with streamers , as if the two-wheelers are about to whiz down Linden Street in the parade .
The staging of a picnic spread and buntings galore complete the scene .
More decorations will pop up in time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 and the winners are announced .
Even if they do n't claim a prize , Laufenberg was glad to show her appreciation for what volunteers normally orchestrate every Fourth solely through donations and sponsorships .
`` I grew up in Glen Ellyn and have been going to the parade and fireworks and been a part of it my whole life , and I absolutely love it , '' she said .
Committee members have posted an online map to encourage people to drive around town and generate foot traffic for 10 participating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the categories of most patriotic , most creative and best overall .
Winners will receive prize baskets with a combined value of more than $ 2,000 , including tickets to the Frida Kahlo show , gift certificates and Glen Ellyn swag .
In Carol Stream , the village already has named the winners of its decorating contest : the first-place honor goes to 202 Coachlite Trail , second place to 1214 Easton Drive , and third place to 871 Omaha Court .
Judges will select winners Monday from 11 entries in the # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can still cast an online vote for the Community 's Choice award .
During Northbrook 's 4th of July Porch Parade , the village will provide giveaways along the route of displays from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday .
First- and second-place winners will be awarded in four categories -- overall best , most patriotic , most original and `` most likely to make you smile . ''
Jacki and Steve Ruhs ' house is one of the contenders .
`` We 're going to try to make it the most normal but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` I 'll be throwing candy at my kids in the front yard . ''

Sights, not sounds: Fourth of July decorating contests recapture holiday revelry
A home on Half Day Road is one of the entries in the #LincolnshireStrong Independence Day decorating contest. Courtesy of Jack Cascone
The Glen Ellyn Historical Society partakes in the village's Fourth of July decorating contest. Rick West | Staff Photographer
The sidewalks along S. Parkside through Dawes in Glen Ellyn are lined with flags for the Fourth of July decorating contest. Rick West | Staff Photographer
A home at 920 Newton is featured in the Glen Ellyn Fourth of July decorating contest. Rick West | Staff Photographer
The Laufenberg family, from left, Grace, 8, Nathan, 11, and Diana and Nick furnished their porch in patriotic fashion for Glen Ellyn's contest. Rick West | Staff Photographer
Diana Laufenberg has recaptured the sights -- if not the sounds -- of Glen Ellyn revelry on the Fourth of July.
On a far quieter Independence Day weekend, residents won't hear marching bands, firetruck sirens, block party music or the applause that greeted the parachute jumper hyping up the crowd for last year's fireworks at Lake Ellyn.
But Laufenberg and her family aren't letting COVID-19 cancellations deprive the town of some of the holiday sparkle.
With their creative talents, Laufenberg, her husband, Nick, and their two kids, Nathan and Grace, decked out their front porch with star-spangled finery to partake in a Fourth of July decorating contest.
A handful of other towns like Carol Stream, Lincolnshire and Northbrook have their own versions, but the granddaddy of them all is Glen Ellyn's contest, where more than 40 entries feature day and nighttime displays.
"It's at a perfect time, just when we needed a little something fun to do this summer," Laufenberg said. "It's magical."
The Laufenberg family decorated their home on Bryant Avenue for the Glen Ellyn Fourth of July decorating contest. - Rick West | Staff Photographer
The decorating themes run the gamut. Some are wistful, like the empty lawn chairs staking out what would have been a spot along the parade route.
Others have deeper relevance, encouraging people to vote and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement.
Still other displays are unique to Glen Ellyn. Diana Martinez, who suggested the contest idea to Glen Ellyn's Fourth of July committee, put a replica of the village's iconic horse trough in her front yard, along with a life-size figure of Frida Kahlo, a nod to her art exhibition coming to the College of DuPage next summer.
"There are some really amazing ones," says Amy Keating, a committee member and one of the contest judges. "You can tell people really put a lot of effort into thinking out what they wanted to do. There's lots of colors, lots of flags, lots of different focuses."
The Laufenbergs wanted to go all out with the red, white and blue at their Bryant Avenue home.
"We usually decorate our home for the holidays, but this year I really wanted to bring joy and happiness and something fun and unexpected when you drove by," Diana Laufenberg said.
So the family sat down one night for dinner, took out some paper and brainstormed their ideas. They spent a Saturday afternoon putting it all together.
Her kids spray painted stars on the lawn. Their bikes stand ready with streamers, as if the two-wheelers are about to whiz down Linden Street in the parade. The staging of a picnic spread and buntings galore complete the scene.
More decorations will pop up in time for today, when Nathan will turn 11 and the winners are announced.
Even if they don't claim a prize, Laufenberg was glad to show her appreciation for what volunteers normally orchestrate every Fourth solely through donations and sponsorships.
"I grew up in Glen Ellyn and have been going to the parade and fireworks and been a part of it my whole life, and I absolutely love it," she said.
Committee members have posted an online map to encourage people to drive around town and generate foot traffic for 10 participating businesses. Judges will pick winners in the categories of most patriotic, most creative and best overall.
Winners will receive prize baskets with a combined value of more than $2,000, including tickets to the Frida Kahlo show, gift certificates and Glen Ellyn swag.
In Carol Stream, the village already has named the winners of its decorating contest: the first-place honor goes to 202 Coachlite Trail, second place to 1214 Easton Drive, and third place to 871 Omaha Court.
Judges will select winners Monday from 11 entries in the #LincolnshireStrong Independence Day decorating contest. Residents can still cast an online vote for the Community's Choice award.
During Northbrook's 4th of July Porch Parade, the village will provide giveaways along the route of displays from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday. First- and second-place winners will be awarded in four categories -- overall best, most patriotic, most original and "most likely to make you smile."
- Joe Lewnard | Staff Photographer Jacki Ruh, with her daughter, Eleanor, 2, and her family have decorated the exterior of their home for Northbrook's 4th of July Porch Parade.
Jacki and Steve Ruhs' house is one of the contenders.
"We're going to try to make it the most normal but not-normal Fourth of July," she said.
"I'll be throwing candy at my kids in the front yard."
• Northbrook Herald staff writer Dave Oberhelman contributed.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Wheeling police giving social media followers 'inside' look at the department

One suburban department is trying to answer those questions with the launch of a new social media program called `` Inside the Wheeling Police Department . ''
Every week , Wheeling police will take to their social media platforms -- Facebook , Instagram and Twitter -- to explain a different facet of their work and policies .
Next week they 'll talk about use of force .
Future topics include training , use of cameras , civilian oversight , militarization of police and social services .
Chief Jamie Dunne told us Thursday the department frequently shares information about its operations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks he realized it was being seen by only a small part of the community .
`` I wrongly assumed that everybody understood the quality and progressiveness of the Wheeling Police Department , '' he said .
`` In a sense , we were in a bubble .
We want to make sure everyone knows who we are and what we stand for . ''
As an example , Dunne said that after Floyd 's killing , many residents pressed the department to sign on to the `` 8 Ca n't Wait '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight policies -- from a ban on chokeholds to requiring officers to step in when a colleague uses improper force -- that advocates say would reduce police violence and increase community safety .
Dunne said the department already embraces those principles and was among the first to sign the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police 's 10 Shared Principles of interaction , created in 2014 with the Illinois NAACP .
`` I 'm very proud of the fact our policies preexisted the social unrest , '' Dunne said .
A 97-year prison sentence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life term , even for a teenage defendant .
But what about 66 years ?
Same thing , a state appeals court ruled late last month in a case stemming from the gang-related killing of an East Aurora High School student .
The Second District Illinois Appellate Court has ordered a new sentence for former Aurora resident Zachary Reyes , ruling that the 66-year term imposed by a Kendall County judge was too long for a defendant who was just 16 years old when he committed his crime .
That sentence was handed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Supreme Court tossed out Reyes ' initial 97-year term .
The court ruled it was effectively a life sentence , which is unconstitutional for most juvenile defendants .
Reyes was convicted of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder for the 2009 slaying of Jason Ventura , a 17-year-old high school student .
Authorities say Reyes , at the urging of older gang members , opened fire on a car in Oswego , killing Ventura and seriously wounding a second teen .
In last week 's unanimous ruling , the appellate court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second sentence did n't find Reyes beyond rehabilitation .
`` In this case , the trial court imposed a de facto life sentence on the defendant , but the record does not reflect a determination by the trial court that the defendant was among the rarest of juvenile offenders whose conduct showed irretrievable depravity , permanent incorrigibility , or irreparable corruption beyond the possibility of rehabilitation , '' Justice Mary Seminara-Schostok wrote .
Reyes ' third sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled .
After 5 years , judge says get moving DuPage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5-year-old murder case on his docket to get moving .
To that end , on Monday he told defendant Launden Luckett he has two weeks to pick a date for his trial .
Luckett is charged with stabbing his girlfriend to death in her Woodridge apartment in February 2015 .
In October , he dismissed his public defender and received permission to represent himself .
At a routine status hearing Monday , Luckett said he 's had trouble getting time to use the computers in the DuPage County jail library , in part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs more time to learn about jury selection and trial procedure .
`` I understand it has been a long time , '' Luckett said , adding that he does n't expect to be ready for trial before the end of the year .
Then , he asked , `` Would you grant me the right to reappoint an attorney ? ''
The answer was an emphatic `` NO . ''
`` I 'm not going to appoint another attorney and delay ( the case ) more , '' MacKay said .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Email us at copsandcrime @ dailyherald.com .

Wheeling police giving social media followers 'inside' look at the department
Wheeling police have launched a social media program called "Inside the Wheeling Police Department" to help residents understand department policies and operations. "We want to make sure everyone knows who we are and what we stand for," Chief Jamie Dunne said. Courtesy of the Wheeling Police Department
One suburban department is trying to answer those questions with the launch of a new social media program called "Inside the Wheeling Police Department."
Every week, Wheeling police will take to their social media platforms -- Facebook, Instagram and Twitter -- to explain a different facet of their work and policies. Next week they'll talk about use of force. Future topics include training, use of cameras, civilian oversight, militarization of police and social services.
Chief Jamie Dunne told us Thursday the department frequently shares information about its operations with the public, but in recent weeks he realized it was being seen by only a small part of the community.
"I wrongly assumed that everybody understood the quality and progressiveness of the Wheeling Police Department," he said. "In a sense, we were in a bubble. We want to make sure everyone knows who we are and what we stand for."
As an example, Dunne said that after Floyd's killing, many residents pressed the department to sign on to the "8 Can't Wait" platform. It's a listing of eight policies -- from a ban on chokeholds to requiring officers to step in when a colleague uses improper force -- that advocates say would reduce police violence and increase community safety.
Dunne said the department already embraces those principles and was among the first to sign the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police's 10 Shared Principles of interaction, created in 2014 with the Illinois NAACP.
"I'm very proud of the fact our policies preexisted the social unrest," Dunne said.
Different sentence, same result
A 97-year prison sentence is almost certainly the equivalent of a life term, even for a teenage defendant.
But what about 66 years? Same thing, a state appeals court ruled late last month in a case stemming from the gang-related killing of an East Aurora High School student.
Zachary Reyes -
The Second District Illinois Appellate Court has ordered a new sentence for former Aurora resident Zachary Reyes, ruling that the 66-year term imposed by a Kendall County judge was too long for a defendant who was just 16 years old when he committed his crime.
That sentence was handed down in 2018, after the Illinois Supreme Court tossed out Reyes' initial 97-year term. The court ruled it was effectively a life sentence, which is unconstitutional for most juvenile defendants.
Reyes was convicted of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder for the 2009 slaying of Jason Ventura, a 17-year-old high school student. Authorities say Reyes, at the urging of older gang members, opened fire on a car in Oswego, killing Ventura and seriously wounding a second teen.
In last week's unanimous ruling, the appellate court said the judge that handed down the second sentence didn't find Reyes beyond rehabilitation.
"In this case, the trial court imposed a de facto life sentence on the defendant, but the record does not reflect a determination by the trial court that the defendant was among the rarest of juvenile offenders whose conduct showed irretrievable depravity, permanent incorrigibility, or irreparable corruption beyond the possibility of rehabilitation," Justice Mary Seminara-Schostok wrote.
Reyes' third sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
After 5 years, judge says get moving
DuPage County Judge Jeffrey MacKay really wants a 5-year-old murder case on his docket to get moving.
To that end, on Monday he told defendant Launden Luckett he has two weeks to pick a date for his trial.
Launden Luckett -
Luckett is charged with stabbing his girlfriend to death in her Woodridge apartment in February 2015.
In October, he dismissed his public defender and received permission to represent himself.
At a routine status hearing Monday, Luckett said he's had trouble getting time to use the computers in the DuPage County jail library, in part because of COVID-19 restrictions, and he needs more time to learn about jury selection and trial procedure.
"I understand it has been a long time," Luckett said, adding that he doesn't expect to be ready for trial before the end of the year.
Then, he asked, "Would you grant me the right to reappoint an attorney?"
The answer was an emphatic "NO."
"I'm not going to appoint another attorney and delay (the case) more," MacKay said.
• Have a question, tip or comment? Email us at copsandcrime@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Educator backs plan for minority youths to live in Barrington Hills mansion

Barrington High School Associate Principal Heath McFaul expressed his support Thursday night for a controversial plan to move disadvantaged minority youths into a Barrington Hills mansion in an effort to provide them better education and other opportunities .
Terrance Wallace wants his InZone Project in the 12,000-square-foot home on roughly 28 acres so the inner-city Chicago children of color , who are under his legal guardianship , can live in a nurturing residential environment with support .
The plan is to relocate InZone from Wauconda to Barrington Hills , with the boys there before school starts in August .
Wallace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the mansion and attend Barrington Area Unit District 220 schools .
McFaul , who 's met with Wallace over the past two years , said he looks forward to Barrington High 's students , teachers and the InZone boys learning from each other in the 2020-21 academic year .
`` There exists a unique and powerful opportunity for us to engage all of our young adults and our teachers in some real conversations , even some uncomfortable conversations , the conversations that will take place in classroom settings or other organized forums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual growth that will help us become more kind and inclusive and empathetic not only just in our high school learning environment , but in the greater good of our community , '' McFaul said during Thursday night 's virtual town-hall meeting .
Wallace , who hosted the online forum that drew about 200 visitors , said he first contacted Barrington Hills in April 2018 to make village officials aware of his plan and did not receive a response for several months .
He said officials have continued to ignore his recent emails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is behind Barrington Hills ' inaction .
In a statement before the forum , Barrington Hills officials reiterated that few details were provided when the InZone proposal arrived in 2018 .
Wallace was directed to consult the village 's codes to ensure compliance with use of the residentially zoned land .
`` Since that time , and including up to the present , the village has not received any further details on the proposal , '' the statement reads .
`` The village is waiting for additional information from Mr. Wallace in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what ordinances , laws and village regulations are applicable . ''
Village Attorney Patrick Bond told the Daily Herald that the issue solely is about how Barrington Hills ' zoning code applies to the plan .
Wallace said his plan is not for a group home that would need to go through an approval process for zoning variance .
He said the difference is that he -- not InZone -- would have legal guardianship of the 25 children .
During a question-and-answer portion of Thursday 's town hall over Zoom , Wallace eventually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own the property and pay taxes on the six-bedroom , six-bathroom mansion that includes an indoor basketball court , a library and an outdoor pool .
He said he 'll be the owner and that no one needs to know how the deal was worked out .
`` Someone is asking questions about property taxes , '' Wallace said .
`` Again , I do n't feel I need to disclose to you , me paying .
As a homeowner , do you pay your property taxes ?
I do n't think you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No .
1 , if I was not Black and if I did n't have all my boys .
`` So , I think that 's another case of racism for you to continue to ask me questions if I 'm going to pay my bills , as if you have any indications that I 've never paid my bills .
Look at my track record and see the history of my organization and me as a person to know I pay my bills . ''
Barrington Hills this week hired as special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ShawnTe Raines from the Ancel Glink law firm to work directly with InZone and village officials to determine the course of action for the proposal .
Welch also is a Democratic state representative .
In 2018 , Wallace was the legal guardian for five teens who lived with him in an Inverness mansion and attended Fremd High School in Palatine .
Wallace had a staff to help care for the boys , who returned to their Chicago homes most weekends .
Wallace founded InZone while living in New Zealand nine years ago and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
InZone is privately financed through fundraisers , a few key donors and the money Wallace makes through his consulting work and share of a biometric security technology business he co-founded .

Educator backs plan for minority youths to live in Barrington Hills mansion
Terrance Wallace wants to relocate his InZone Project from Wauconda to this 12,000-square-foot mansion on roughly 28 acres in Barrington Hills so he can provide better opportunities for 25 children who are under his legal guardianship. Wallace said the boys from the inner city would attend Barrington Area Unit District 220 schools and live in a nurturing environment with support. Photo by Jacobe Hollins
Barrington High School Associate Principal Heath McFaul expressed his support Thursday night for a controversial plan to move disadvantaged minority youths into a Barrington Hills mansion in an effort to provide them better education and other opportunities.
Terrance Wallace wants his InZone Project in the 12,000-square-foot home on roughly 28 acres so the inner-city Chicago children of color, who are under his legal guardianship, can live in a nurturing residential environment with support. The plan is to relocate InZone from Wauconda to Barrington Hills, with the boys there before school starts in August.
Wallace said up to 25 boys would live at the mansion and attend Barrington Area Unit District 220 schools. McFaul, who's met with Wallace over the past two years, said he looks forward to Barrington High's students, teachers and the InZone boys learning from each other in the 2020-21 academic year.
"There exists a unique and powerful opportunity for us to engage all of our young adults and our teachers in some real conversations, even some uncomfortable conversations, the conversations that will take place in classroom settings or other organized forums that are specifically designed to foster this individual growth that will help us become more kind and inclusive and empathetic not only just in our high school learning environment, but in the greater good of our community," McFaul said during Thursday night's virtual town-hall meeting.
Wallace, who hosted the online forum that drew about 200 visitors, said he first contacted Barrington Hills in April 2018 to make village officials aware of his plan and did not receive a response for several months. He said officials have continued to ignore his recent emails, and he has questioned whether discrimination is behind Barrington Hills' inaction.
In a statement before the forum, Barrington Hills officials reiterated that few details were provided when the InZone proposal arrived in 2018. Wallace was directed to consult the village's codes to ensure compliance with use of the residentially zoned land.
"Since that time, and including up to the present, the village has not received any further details on the proposal," the statement reads. "The village is waiting for additional information from Mr. Wallace in order to properly review the proposal to determine what ordinances, laws and village regulations are applicable."
Village Attorney Patrick Bond told the Daily Herald that the issue solely is about how Barrington Hills' zoning code applies to the plan.
Wallace said his plan is not for a group home that would need to go through an approval process for zoning variance. He said the difference is that he -- not InZone -- would have legal guardianship of the 25 children.
During a question-and-answer portion of Thursday's town hall over Zoom, Wallace eventually bristled at text queries on who would own the property and pay taxes on the six-bedroom, six-bathroom mansion that includes an indoor basketball court, a library and an outdoor pool. He said he'll be the owner and that no one needs to know how the deal was worked out.
"Someone is asking questions about property taxes," Wallace said. "Again, I don't feel I need to disclose to you, me paying. As a homeowner, do you pay your property taxes? I don't think you would be asking me this question, No. 1, if I was not Black and if I didn't have all my boys.
"So, I think that's another case of racism for you to continue to ask me questions if I'm going to pay my bills, as if you have any indications that I've never paid my bills. Look at my track record and see the history of my organization and me as a person to know I pay my bills."
Barrington Hills this week hired as special counsel Emanuel "Chris" Welch and ShawnTe Raines from the Ancel Glink law firm to work directly with InZone and village officials to determine the course of action for the proposal. Welch also is a Democratic state representative.
In 2018, Wallace was the legal guardian for five teens who lived with him in an Inverness mansion and attended Fremd High School in Palatine. Wallace had a staff to help care for the boys, who returned to their Chicago homes most weekends.
Wallace founded InZone while living in New Zealand nine years ago and returned to his native Chicago in 2016. InZone is privately financed through fundraisers, a few key donors and the money Wallace makes through his consulting work and share of a biometric security technology business he co-founded.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Duckworth to block 1,123 military promotions unless Pentagon vows not to retaliate against Vindman

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth is blocking promotions for 1,123 senior members of the military until she gets assurances from Defense Secretary Mark Esper that he will not retaliate against an Army officer for his role in the past year 's impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump .
The Hoffman Estates Democrat said Thursday she wants confirmation in writing from Esper that he did not or will not block the promotion of Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman .
Until she gets that assurance , she will maintain a hold on Senate confirmation of the hundreds of promotions .
Duckworth is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Army helicopter pilot who lost both her legs in the Iraq War .
Vindman , who received a Purple Heart for his actions in Iraq and later served as a White House aide on European affairs , is among hundreds of officers selected to be promoted to colonel this year .
In February , the White House ousted Vindman from his post on the National Security Council .
He had testified to Congress in November that he was disturbed by Trump 's call for Ukraine to investigate the president 's political rivals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ultimate meritocracy , '' Duckworth said in a statement .
`` It is simply unprecedented and wrong for any Commander in Chief to meddle in routine military matters at all , whether or not he has a personal vendetta against a Soldier who did his patriotic duty and told the truth -- a Soldier who has been recommended for promotion by his superiors because of his performance ...
This goes far beyond any single military officer , it is about protecting a merit-based system from political corruption and unlawful retaliation . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` unprecedented in modern times '' and said it was a response to `` numerous efforts by Donald Trump to politicize the nation 's Armed Forces . ''
In recent weeks , the president has threatened to send active-duty troops to quell protests against police brutality and has used top military officials `` as props for a photo op , '' Duckworth 's office said .
The president posed for a photo with Gen. Mark Milley , the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff , and others near the White House in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the area -- an appearance for which Milley was roundly criticized and later apologized .
Trump 's ouster of Vindman from the National Security Council in February was condemned as vindictive and an attempt to intimidate government officials who speak out against Trump .
Asked at the time about Vindman 's future , the president said only that he was `` not happy with him . ''
`` You think I 'm supposed to be happy with him ? ''
Trump said .
`` I 'm not . ''
Duckworth is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president accountable by blocking promotions or the consideration of Trump nominees .
In June , Sen. Chuck Grassley , R-Iowa , a longtime advocate for federal watchdogs , announced that he will block two of Trump 's nominees until the White House provides an explanation for the recent firings of intelligence community inspector general Michael Atkinson and State Department inspector general Steve Linick .

Duckworth to block 1,123 military promotions unless Pentagon vows not to retaliate against Vindman
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth is blocking promotions for 1,123 senior members of the military until she gets assurances from Defense Secretary Mark Esper that he will not retaliate against an Army officer for his role in the past year's impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump.
The Hoffman Estates Democrat said Thursday she wants confirmation in writing from Esper that he did not or will not block the promotion of Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman. Until she gets that assurance, she will maintain a hold on Senate confirmation of the hundreds of promotions.
Duckworth is a Purple Heart recipient and a former Army helicopter pilot who lost both her legs in the Iraq War.
Vindman, who received a Purple Heart for his actions in Iraq and later served as a White House aide on European affairs, is among hundreds of officers selected to be promoted to colonel this year.
In February, the White House ousted Vindman from his post on the National Security Council. He had testified to Congress in November that he was disturbed by Trump's call for Ukraine to investigate the president's political rivals.
"Our military is supposed to be the ultimate meritocracy," Duckworth said in a statement. "It is simply unprecedented and wrong for any Commander in Chief to meddle in routine military matters at all, whether or not he has a personal vendetta against a Soldier who did his patriotic duty and told the truth -- a Soldier who has been recommended for promotion by his superiors because of his performance ... This goes far beyond any single military officer, it is about protecting a merit-based system from political corruption and unlawful retaliation."
Duckworth's office described her move as "unprecedented in modern times" and said it was a response to "numerous efforts by Donald Trump to politicize the nation's Armed Forces." In recent weeks, the president has threatened to send active-duty troops to quell protests against police brutality and has used top military officials "as props for a photo op," Duckworth's office said.
The president posed for a photo with Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and others near the White House in June after authorities forcibly removed peaceful protesters from the area -- an appearance for which Milley was roundly criticized and later apologized.
Trump's ouster of Vindman from the National Security Council in February was condemned as vindictive and an attempt to intimidate government officials who speak out against Trump. Asked at the time about Vindman's future, the president said only that he was "not happy with him."
"You think I'm supposed to be happy with him?" Trump said. "I'm not."
Duckworth is the latest senator to seek to hold the president accountable by blocking promotions or the consideration of Trump nominees.
In June, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, a longtime advocate for federal watchdogs, announced that he will block two of Trump's nominees until the White House provides an explanation for the recent firings of intelligence community inspector general Michael Atkinson and State Department inspector general Steve Linick.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-02--Batavia panel supports revised plans for One Washington Place

More storefronts , fewer public parking spots and the addition of office space are among the key changes proposed for the One Washington Place project in downtown Batavia .
Updated plans for the mixed-use development , which includes 186 apartments , received support Wednesday from the city 's plan commission , which unanimously backed the design review and voted 5-1 to recommend approval of a planned development amendment .
Several residents voiced opposition to the $ 40 million project proposed for North River and State streets , saying they do n't believe the size , design and residential density are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LaLonde said the concept already has been debated extensively for years , most recently after a prior iteration was presented by developer Shodeen Group in 2018 .
`` I think that 's water under the bridge , '' he said .
`` There were a lot of concerns expressed .
I personally had a lot of concerns with the development .
But this is not a substantial change to what was approved previously , so therefore I 'm supporting it . ''
The 2018 plans , which had been updated from an initial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a 365-space parking garage and 5,725 square feet of retail along River Street .
At the request of several city officials , revised plans would create storefronts along Wilson Street , resulting in a net increase of 8,455 square feet of retail , Shodeen President David Patzelt said .
Also added would be 2,370 square feet of second-floor office space overlooking River Street .
That would lead to a loss of four residential units , as well as 32 garage spaces -- a primary concern for plan commission member Joan Joseph , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and downtown visitors will outweigh the parking availability .
`` I think that 's going to be a big problem , '' said Joseph , who cast the lone dissenting vote against the plans .
But several commissioners supported the revisions , saying they believe parking in the area is adequate and the additional retail and office space strengthens the project .
Batavia aldermen are expected to discuss the amended plans during a committee of the whole meeting , possibly later this month .
The city initially planned to issue $ 16 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ component and other eligible costs to be reimbursed through a tax increment financing district .
But environmental issues and higher-than-expected cost estimates have delayed the project by about three years , resulting in an anticipated $ 3 million shortfall when the 23-year TIF expires .
City officials are now considering dissolving that TIF and creating a new one that incorporates more properties to ensure One Washington Place is financially feasible and to spur other downtown development .
Resident Yvonne Dinwiddie criticized that strategy during Wednesday 's public hearing , saying the project is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their rightful and publicly voted tax dollars . ''
Others such as Steve Scharnweber called the development a `` monstrosity '' and suggested it be downsized or relocated .
Plan commission member Susan Stark said officials need to base their decisions on the facts collected and studies completed , versus generalities voiced by opponents .
`` I get a little frustrated when we beat these horses to death yet again , '' she said .

Batavia panel supports revised plans for One Washington Place
Revised plans for the proposed One Washington Place project in downtown Batavia have been recommended for approval by the city's advisory plan commission. Courtesy of Shodeen Group
An alternative plan to the One Washington Place proposal would add retail space along Wilson Street in downtown Batavia. The city's plan commission supported the concept this week. Courtesy of Shodeen Group
More storefronts, fewer public parking spots and the addition of office space are among the key changes proposed for the One Washington Place project in downtown Batavia.
Updated plans for the mixed-use development, which includes 186 apartments, received support Wednesday from the city's plan commission, which unanimously backed the design review and voted 5-1 to recommend approval of a planned development amendment.
Several residents voiced opposition to the $40 million project proposed for North River and State streets, saying they don't believe the size, design and residential density are suitable for downtown.
Commission Chairman Tom LaLonde said the concept already has been debated extensively for years, most recently after a prior iteration was presented by developer Shodeen Group in 2018.
"I think that's water under the bridge," he said. "There were a lot of concerns expressed. I personally had a lot of concerns with the development. But this is not a substantial change to what was approved previously, so therefore I'm supporting it."
The 2018 plans, which had been updated from an initial 2017 proposal, called for 190 apartments, a 365-space parking garage and 5,725 square feet of retail along River Street.
At the request of several city officials, revised plans would create storefronts along Wilson Street, resulting in a net increase of 8,455 square feet of retail, Shodeen President David Patzelt said. Also added would be 2,370 square feet of second-floor office space overlooking River Street.
That would lead to a loss of four residential units, as well as 32 garage spaces -- a primary concern for plan commission member Joan Joseph, who fears the demand from building residents and downtown visitors will outweigh the parking availability.
"I think that's going to be a big problem," said Joseph, who cast the lone dissenting vote against the plans.
But several commissioners supported the revisions, saying they believe parking in the area is adequate and the additional retail and office space strengthens the project.
Batavia aldermen are expected to discuss the amended plans during a committee of the whole meeting, possibly later this month.
The city initially planned to issue $16 million in bonds to fund the public parking component and other eligible costs to be reimbursed through a tax increment financing district. But environmental issues and higher-than-expected cost estimates have delayed the project by about three years, resulting in an anticipated $3 million shortfall when the 23-year TIF expires.
City officials are now considering dissolving that TIF and creating a new one that incorporates more properties to ensure One Washington Place is financially feasible and to spur other downtown development.
Resident Yvonne Dinwiddie criticized that strategy during Wednesday's public hearing, saying the project is "robbing the other taxing bodies of their rightful and publicly voted tax dollars." Others such as Steve Scharnweber called the development a "monstrosity" and suggested it be downsized or relocated.
Plan commission member Susan Stark said officials need to base their decisions on the facts collected and studies completed, versus generalities voiced by opponents.
"I get a little frustrated when we beat these horses to death yet again," she said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-07-03--Feder: NBC Chicago launched record-setting run for Hugh Downs

The great Hugh Downs , whose more than five decades in television earned him a Guinness-certified record for most hours on network TV , started it all in Chicago , Robert Feder writes .
As a radio announcer at NBC Chicago in the 1940s , Downs moved to TV on `` Kukla , Fran and Ollie , '' the seminal children 's show created by puppeteer Burr Tillstrom .
`` On rare occasions I would be seen also , but usually it was voice-over stuff , announcing the program , '' Downs recalled in a 1997 interview .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would discuss a situation and they would then just ad-lib the whole thing and do it somehow tailored to time .
That was an art that may be lost now in our business . ''
During the years he worked at NBC 's Merchandise Mart studios , Downs lived in north suburban Wilmette , according to broadcast historian Rich Samuels .
It was at NBC Chicago that Downs met Dave Garroway , whom he eventually would follow as host of NBC 's `` Today . ''
His amazing list of credits also included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' `` The Tonight Show '' with Jack Paar , the game show `` Concentration , '' and more than 20 years on ABC 's `` 20/20 . ''
Downs died Wednesday at his home in Scottsdale , Arizona .
He was 99 .
Get the full report , and more Chicago media news , at robertfeder.com .

Feder: NBC Chicago launched record-setting run for Hugh Downs
Hugh Downs, whose more than five decades in television earned him a Guinness-certified record for most hours on network TV, started it all in Chicago.
The great Hugh Downs, whose more than five decades in television earned him a Guinness-certified record for most hours on network TV, started it all in Chicago, Robert Feder writes.
As a radio announcer at NBC Chicago in the 1940s, Downs moved to TV on "Kukla, Fran and Ollie," the seminal children's show created by puppeteer Burr Tillstrom.
"On rare occasions I would be seen also, but usually it was voice-over stuff, announcing the program," Downs recalled in a 1997 interview. "The show had no real rehearsal. They would discuss a situation and they would then just ad-lib the whole thing and do it somehow tailored to time. That was an art that may be lost now in our business."
During the years he worked at NBC's Merchandise Mart studios, Downs lived in north suburban Wilmette, according to broadcast historian Rich Samuels.
It was at NBC Chicago that Downs met Dave Garroway, whom he eventually would follow as host of NBC's "Today." His amazing list of credits also included Sid Caesar's "Caesar's Hour," "The Tonight Show" with Jack Paar, the game show "Concentration," and more than 20 years on ABC's "20/20."
Downs died Wednesday at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was 99.
Get the full report, and more Chicago media news, at robertfeder.com.