chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--Dear Abby: Because my mom accepted me as gay, we had a strong relationship for life

DEAR ABBY : I grew up in an extremely conservative , rural area of northeast Mississippi in the ’ 60s .
I came out as gay to my mom when I was 13 in 1970 , and she said three things to me that set the course for a lifetime of love .
As she hugged me , she said , “ I will always love you , no matter what.
” Then , looking me straight in the eye , she thanked me for my honesty before again pulling me into her arms and whispering , “ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boy.
” I was overwhelmed by her acceptance , not to mention her validating words , and we wept together .
Our relationship became so much closer and stronger .
I never missed calling her every day of her life .
We shared our ups and downs , our dreams , failures and successes .
Most of all , we laughed — a lot .
We traveled together nationally and internationally .
And when she became ill , I returned to the small town where I grew up and looked after her until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wonderful final six years together .
My mother was obviously before her time .
I ’ m sure many coming-out stories don ’ t end this well , especially in Mississippi during the ’ 60s ( or today , for that matter ) .
But it does go to show how well it can be handled and the benefits of handling it properly .
Just wanted to share , Abby .
— OUT AND PROUD IN LOUISIANA DEAR OUT AND PROUD : Thank you for your heartwarming letter , which I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It brought to mind a letter I published in 2007 from a woman who , to her regret , was very late to accept her gay son .
Read on : DEAR ABBY : My husband and I raised two sons and two daughters .
One son and both daughters married well .
Our other son , “ Neil , ” is gay .
He and his partner , “ Ron , ” have been together 15 years , but Neil ’ s father and I never wanted to know Ron because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was 74 when my husband died , leaving me in ill health and nearly penniless .
No longer able to live alone , I asked my married son and two daughters if I could “ visit ” each of them for four months a year .
( I didn ’ t want to burden any one family and thought living out of a suitcase would be best for everyone . )
All three of them turned me down !
Feeling unwanted , I wanted to die .
When Neil and Ron heard what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move across the country and live with them .
They welcomed me into their home and even removed a wall between two rooms so I ’ d have a bedroom with a private bath and sitting room — although we spend most of our time together .
They also include me in many of their plans .
Since I moved in with them , I have traveled more than I have my whole life and seen places I only read about in books .
They never mention the fact that they are supporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past .
When old friends ask how it feels living with my gay son , I tell them I hope they ’ re lucky enough to have one who will take them in one day .
Please continue urging your readers to accept their children as they are .
My only regret is that I wasted 15 years .
— GRATEFUL MOM DEAR GRATEFUL MOM : You are indeed fortunate to have such a loving , generous and forgiving son .
Thank you for pointing out how important it is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are , not for what we would like them to be .
Sexual orientation is not a measure of anyone ’ s humanity or worth .
You could have learned that lesson long ago had you and your husband contacted PFLAG when you first learned that Neil was gay .
Among other things , the organization offers support groups and education for parents who need to learn more about LGBTQ issues .
It can be contacted by going to pflag.org .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “ The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.
” To order , send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Anger Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ )

DEAR ABBY: I grew up in an extremely conservative, rural area of northeast Mississippi in the ’60s. I came out as gay to my mom when I was 13 in 1970, and she said three things to me that set the course for a lifetime of love. As she hugged me, she said, “I will always love you, no matter what.” Then, looking me straight in the eye, she thanked me for my honesty before again pulling me into her arms and whispering, “I’ve known since you were a small boy.”
I was overwhelmed by her acceptance, not to mention her validating words, and we wept together. Our relationship became so much closer and stronger. I never missed calling her every day of her life. We shared our ups and downs, our dreams, failures and successes. Most of all, we laughed — a lot.
We traveled together nationally and internationally. And when she became ill, I returned to the small town where I grew up and looked after her until her death at 87. We had a wonderful final six years together.
My mother was obviously before her time. I’m sure many coming-out stories don’t end this well, especially in Mississippi during the ’60s (or today, for that matter). But it does go to show how well it can be handled and the benefits of handling it properly. Just wanted to share, Abby. — OUT AND PROUD IN LOUISIANA
DEAR OUT AND PROUD: Thank you for your heartwarming letter, which I am printing today, National Coming Out Day. It brought to mind a letter I published in 2007 from a woman who, to her regret, was very late to accept her gay son. Read on:
DEAR ABBY: My husband and I raised two sons and two daughters. One son and both daughters married well. Our other son, “Neil,” is gay. He and his partner, “Ron,” have been together 15 years, but Neil’s father and I never wanted to know Ron because we disapproved of their lifestyle.
I was 74 when my husband died, leaving me in ill health and nearly penniless. No longer able to live alone, I asked my married son and two daughters if I could “visit” each of them for four months a year. (I didn’t want to burden any one family and thought living out of a suitcase would be best for everyone.) All three of them turned me down! Feeling unwanted, I wanted to die.
When Neil and Ron heard what had happened, they invited me to move across the country and live with them. They welcomed me into their home and even removed a wall between two rooms so I’d have a bedroom with a private bath and sitting room — although we spend most of our time together.
They also include me in many of their plans. Since I moved in with them, I have traveled more than I have my whole life and seen places I only read about in books. They never mention the fact that they are supporting me, or that I ignored them in the past.
When old friends ask how it feels living with my gay son, I tell them I hope they’re lucky enough to have one who will take them in one day. Please continue urging your readers to accept their children as they are. My only regret is that I wasted 15 years. — GRATEFUL MOM
DEAR GRATEFUL MOM: You are indeed fortunate to have such a loving, generous and forgiving son. Thank you for pointing out how important it is that people respect one another for who they are, not for what we would like them to be. Sexual orientation is not a measure of anyone’s humanity or worth.
You could have learned that lesson long ago had you and your husband contacted PFLAG when you first learned that Neil was gay. Among other things, the organization offers support groups and education for parents who need to learn more about LGBTQ issues. It can be contacted by going to pflag.org.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.” To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--7 big questions about the Bears after their 4-1 start

With the Bears on somewhat of a break thanks to playing on Thursday last week and the next game being Oct. 18 at the Panthers , it ’ s time to assess where they ’ re headed .
As they continue a rocky transition to Nick Foles at quarterback and coach Matt Nagy ’ s offense flounders , here ’ s a look at where they stand and what to expect the rest of the season : The Bears ’ quarterback situation is … Regrettable .
There were so many better options than trading a fourth-round pick for Nick Foles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff handled their preseason competition was a mistake .
How does a team go from being certain that Mitch Trubisky is the right choice to three weeks later being even more certain that it ’ s Foles ?
The Bears misplayed their choices in the offseason and misjudged the competition .
Will Nick Foles start the rest of their games ?
No .
At some point this season , whether it ’ s because of injury or ineffectiveness , Trubisky will get another shot .
Foles has never started more than 11 games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether Trubisky can do anything other than what everyone has already seen for four seasons .
The biggest surprise of the Bears ’ season has been … Jimmy Graham still has something left .
It ’ s hard to imagine him ever putting up 100 yards or being a consistent weapon at this stage , so he ’ s still a step down from his prime , but he ’ s not washed up .
He ’ s been very good in the red zone ( 39 % of the Bears ’ passes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him ) and has already been productive enough to prove he ’ s a substantial upgrade over what the Bears had last season .
The biggest disappointment … Tarik Cohen ’ s season-ending torn ACL .
With Cohen rededicating himself and Nagy digging in harder than ever to find the best options in his playbook , it looked like Cohen was headed toward a resurgent season .
And the Bears ’ problem is they simply don ’ t have another player like him .
Matt Nagy must … Use the right players .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Allen Robinson , Darnell Mooney , Graham , Cordarrelle Patterson and David Montgomery .
He needs to not only play those guys more snaps , but get them the ball more frequently .
How is it possible that Montgomery is averaging just 12.6 carries per game and Mooney just five targets ?
It ’ s Nagy ’ s job to get better use of them .
Their MVP thus far is … Akiem Hicks .
His return from a dislocated elbow had made an enormous difference for the Bears in their pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than ever against the run with Eddie Goldman not playing this season .
In his 10th season , after 119 games at one of the most demanding positions in the game , he has played 77 % of the snaps , is tied for the team lead with 3.5 sacks and has 21 tackles .
Hicks is back .
Are the Bears a playoff team ?
Absolutely .
It would take an epic meltdown to go from 4-1 to missing the playoffs , especially when seven teams will make it in each conference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defense alone is too good to let that happen .
I ’ m upgrading my original 8-8 prediction to 10-6 .

With the Bears on somewhat of a break thanks to playing on Thursday last week and the next game being Oct. 18 at the Panthers, it’s time to assess where they’re headed. As they continue a rocky transition to Nick Foles at quarterback and coach Matt Nagy’s offense flounders, here’s a look at where they stand and what to expect the rest of the season:
The Bears’ quarterback situation is …
Regrettable. There were so many better options than trading a fourth-round pick for Nick Foles, and the way Nagy and his staff handled their preseason competition was a mistake. How does a team go from being certain that Mitch Trubisky is the right choice to three weeks later being even more certain that it’s Foles? The Bears misplayed their choices in the offseason and misjudged the competition.
Will Nick Foles start the rest of their games?
No. At some point this season, whether it’s because of injury or ineffectiveness, Trubisky will get another shot. Foles has never started more than 11 games in a season. The question is whether Trubisky can do anything other than what everyone has already seen for four seasons.
The biggest surprise of the Bears’ season has been …
Jimmy Graham still has something left. It’s hard to imagine him ever putting up 100 yards or being a consistent weapon at this stage, so he’s still a step down from his prime, but he’s not washed up. He’s been very good in the red zone (39% of the Bears’ passes inside the 10-yard line have been to him) and has already been productive enough to prove he’s a substantial upgrade over what the Bears had last season.
The biggest disappointment …
Tarik Cohen’s season-ending torn ACL. With Cohen rededicating himself and Nagy digging in harder than ever to find the best options in his playbook, it looked like Cohen was headed toward a resurgent season. And the Bears’ problem is they simply don’t have another player like him.
Matt Nagy must …
Use the right players. Here’s who can make plays: Allen Robinson, Darnell Mooney, Graham, Cordarrelle Patterson and David Montgomery. He needs to not only play those guys more snaps, but get them the ball more frequently. How is it possible that Montgomery is averaging just 12.6 carries per game and Mooney just five targets? It’s Nagy’s job to get better use of them.
Their MVP thus far is …
Akiem Hicks. His return from a dislocated elbow had made an enormous difference for the Bears in their pass rush, and they need him more than ever against the run with Eddie Goldman not playing this season. In his 10th season, after 119 games at one of the most demanding positions in the game, he has played 77% of the snaps, is tied for the team lead with 3.5 sacks and has 21 tackles. Hicks is back.
Are the Bears a playoff team?
Absolutely. It would take an epic meltdown to go from 4-1 to missing the playoffs, especially when seven teams will make it in each conference this season, and the Bears’ defense alone is too good to let that happen. I’m upgrading my original 8-8 prediction to 10-6.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--We young people have been devastated by COVID-19

It is no secret that COVID-19 has had a devastating impact .
Young people have been especially crushed , since schools and youth programs were among the first places to close , and the last to reopen .
For our whole lives , young people have been told to look forward to certain experiences — prom , sports events , graduation , college — that we may now never get the chance to have .
These are pivotal milestones .
You are only a teen for so long , and then you never have the chance to be one again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with terrible mental health outcomes , social isolation , lost jobs , even lost parents , and heartbreaking pessimism as we realize that the adults we rely on have failed us .
Yet despite this disproportionate impact , young people have been sidelined in crucial conversations about the pandemic .
This dismissive attitude was on full display at the first presidential debate .
When moderator Chris Wallace asked both candidates about opening schools , the candidates immediately pivoted to talking about the economy .
They discussed schools for less than a minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been affected by school closures .
Any discussions on schools are held as if those schools are devoid of students , as if the only opinions that matter are those of parents , teachers ’ unions , school board and the governor .
When adults do talk to students , it is to explain their decisions , not to solicit our advice .
Adults treat students like chess pieces to be pushed around .
How long can we keep students on a Zoom call ?
How much homework can we give them ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a classroom without causing a viral outbreak ?
They don ’ t consider that students are real people , whose eyes water when staring at a screen for too long , who have to hunch over their desks or makeshift workstations all day , who struggle to fit seven and a half hours of school , several hours of homework , exercise , extracurriculars , and eight hours of sleep into each day .
This exclusion of youth is not limited to school decisions .
Skim through COVID-19 articles , and it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peek into any government board room where decisions are made , and it is doubtful you will find any students .
It is no secret why .
Most young people are short on money and most teenagers can not vote .
But youth voices matter .
This pandemic has struck us at a pivotal moment in our lives , and we are paying close attention to society ’ s response .
We have seen the inaction , the lies , the indifference .
Many young people have begun to take matters into their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and speaking out .
Adults face a choice : include us now or alienate us forever .
We will be the ones to inherit this post-pandemic world , and we demand to be included in the conversation .
We already have a fair tax system in Illinois .
The less you make , the less you pay .
The more you make , the more you pay .
Those who succeed more than others should not be penalized for their success .

It is no secret that COVID-19 has had a devastating impact. Young people have been especially crushed, since schools and youth programs were among the first places to close, and the last to reopen.
For our whole lives, young people have been told to look forward to certain experiences — prom, sports events, graduation, college — that we may now never get the chance to have. These are pivotal milestones. You are only a teen for so long, and then you never have the chance to be one again.
Young people have also had to deal with terrible mental health outcomes, social isolation, lost jobs, even lost parents, and heartbreaking pessimism as we realize that the adults we rely on have failed us.
Yet despite this disproportionate impact, young people have been sidelined in crucial conversations about the pandemic.
SEND LETTERS TO: letters@suntimes.com. Please include your neighborhood or hometown and a phone number for verification purposes. Letters should be 350 words or less.
This dismissive attitude was on full display at the first presidential debate. When moderator Chris Wallace asked both candidates about opening schools, the candidates immediately pivoted to talking about the economy. They discussed schools for less than a minute, even though 55 million students have been affected by school closures.
Any discussions on schools are held as if those schools are devoid of students, as if the only opinions that matter are those of parents, teachers’ unions, school board and the governor. When adults do talk to students, it is to explain their decisions, not to solicit our advice.
Adults treat students like chess pieces to be pushed around. How long can we keep students on a Zoom call? How much homework can we give them? How many students can we shove into a classroom without causing a viral outbreak? They don’t consider that students are real people, whose eyes water when staring at a screen for too long, who have to hunch over their desks or makeshift workstations all day, who struggle to fit seven and a half hours of school, several hours of homework, exercise, extracurriculars, and eight hours of sleep into each day.
This exclusion of youth is not limited to school decisions. Skim through COVID-19 articles, and it is rare to find young people quoted. Peek into any government board room where decisions are made, and it is doubtful you will find any students.
It is no secret why. Most young people are short on money and most teenagers cannot vote. But youth voices matter. This pandemic has struck us at a pivotal moment in our lives, and we are paying close attention to society’s response. We have seen the inaction, the lies, the indifference.
Many young people have begun to take matters into their own hands, launching worldwide protest movements and speaking out. Adults face a choice: include us now or alienate us forever. We will be the ones to inherit this post-pandemic world, and we demand to be included in the conversation.
Tova Kaplan, Lincoln Park
The Fair Tax
We already have a fair tax system in Illinois. The less you make, the less you pay. The more you make, the more you pay. Those who succeed more than others should not be penalized for their success.
Mike Kirchberg, Little Italy


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--Guard working for TV station in custody after man dies in shooting at Denver protests

DENVER — A private security guard working for a TV station was in custody Saturday after a person died from a shooting that took place during dueling protests in downtown Denver .
The shooting took place shortly before 3:50 p.m. in Civic Center Park after a man participating in what was billed a “ Patriot Rally ” sprayed mace at another man , the Denver Post reported .
That man then shot the other individual with a handgun near the courtyard outside the Denver Art Museum , according to a Denver Post journalist who witnessed the incident .
The man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearby hospital , where he died an hour later , the KUSA TV station said .
The KUSA TV station said on its website that it had contracted the private security guard who was arrested in connection with the shooting .
“ It has been the practice of 9NEWS for a number of months to hire private security to accompany staff at protests , ” the station said .
Denver Police Department Division Chief Joe Montoya told the Post that police could not confirm the shooter ’ s or the victim ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started as a verbal altercation .
Two guns were found at the scene , Montoya said , as well as a mace can .
The Patriot Rally was one of two rallies taking place about the same time in the park .
A counter-protest called “ BLM-Antifa Soup Drive ” took place nearby .
The right-wing Patriot Rally protesters gathered in the park ’ s amphitheater and occasionally chanted patriotic songs and held up banners , the Post reported .
Protesters at the left-wing “ BLM-Antifa Soup Drive ” held up flags and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they gathered in the middle of the park , several hundred feet from the barricaded-off amphitheater , the newspaper added .

DENVER — A private security guard working for a TV station was in custody Saturday after a person died from a shooting that took place during dueling protests in downtown Denver.
The shooting took place shortly before 3:50 p.m. in Civic Center Park after a man participating in what was billed a “Patriot Rally” sprayed mace at another man, the Denver Post reported. That man then shot the other individual with a handgun near the courtyard outside the Denver Art Museum, according to a Denver Post journalist who witnessed the incident.
The man who was shot was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died an hour later, the KUSA TV station said.
The KUSA TV station said on its website that it had contracted the private security guard who was arrested in connection with the shooting. “It has been the practice of 9NEWS for a number of months to hire private security to accompany staff at protests,” the station said.
Denver Police Department Division Chief Joe Montoya told the Post that police could not confirm the shooter’s or the victim’s affiliations, but he said the incident started as a verbal altercation. Two guns were found at the scene, Montoya said, as well as a mace can.
The Patriot Rally was one of two rallies taking place about the same time in the park. A counter-protest called “BLM-Antifa Soup Drive” took place nearby.
The right-wing Patriot Rally protesters gathered in the park’s amphitheater and occasionally chanted patriotic songs and held up banners, the Post reported.
Protesters at the left-wing “BLM-Antifa Soup Drive” held up flags and signs railing against Nazis and white supremacists as they gathered in the middle of the park, several hundred feet from the barricaded-off amphitheater, the newspaper added.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-10--Not one but two flies land on ‘SNL’ spoof of Pence-Harris debate

The “ Saturday Night Live ” parody of this week ’ s vice presidential debate began , as expected , with Maya Rudolph and Beck Bennett calmly having it out , but ended with a different duo : a pair of flies on Mike Pence ’ s head .
Seizing on the oddity that dominated the post-debate chatter on social media , the show managed to double the insect population that lurked in the hair of the seemingly oblivious Pence .
The first , we were told , actually was Joe Biden , teleported there but blended with bug DNA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movie “ The Fly , ” from which actual footage was included .
As he played Biden in an insect costume , Jim Carrey hammered home the point by seguing into the voice of “ The Fly ” star Jeff Goldblum — first as the misguided scientist , but then also with “ Jurassic Park ” dialogue and a pitch for Apartments.com .
Then he was joined by the late businessman/politician Herman Cain ( Kenan Thompson ) , reincarnated in fly form , rubbing his hands and fuming about his COVID-19 death , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a Trump rally .
“ If you ’ re watching this at home , ” said the six-legged Cain , “ don ’ t trust this white devil about that ’ rona !
” Until that bizarre turn , the most unusual element of the debate sketch was its evenhandedness .
While taking predictable shots at Pence ’ s evasive answers and moralist attitude , the often left-leaning show also spotlighted some of his rival ’ s missteps .
As Harris , Rudolph pandered hard to fracking supporters with an over-the-top defense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mate earlier opposed , vowing , “ Joe Biden fracks in his free time !
Joe Biden will frack you so good , Pennsylvania !
” And when asked about the political minefield of packing the Supreme Court , all the fake Harris could do was dribble her martini and change the subject .
Besides letting Carrey show off two impersonations in his repertoire , the scene showcased Rudolph ’ s expressive powers as she explained and demonstrated Harris ’ facial reactions — from squints and nods to what she called a “ @ @ @ @ @

The “Saturday Night Live” parody of this week’s vice presidential debate began, as expected, with Maya Rudolph and Beck Bennett calmly having it out, but ended with a different duo: a pair of flies on Mike Pence’s head.
Seizing on the oddity that dominated the post-debate chatter on social media, the show managed to double the insect population that lurked in the hair of the seemingly oblivious Pence.
The first, we were told, actually was Joe Biden, teleported there but blended with bug DNA much like the scientist in the 1986 movie “The Fly,” from which actual footage was included. As he played Biden in an insect costume, Jim Carrey hammered home the point by seguing into the voice of “The Fly” star Jeff Goldblum — first as the misguided scientist, but then also with “Jurassic Park” dialogue and a pitch for Apartments.com.
(Those who had rallied for a cameo by the real Goldblum didn’t get their wish, but they did get to see their man hawking the online apartment finder during later a commercial break.)
Then he was joined by the late businessman/politician Herman Cain (Kenan Thompson), reincarnated in fly form, rubbing his hands and fuming about his COVID-19 death, blamed by many on his attendance unmasked at a Trump rally. “If you’re watching this at home,” said the six-legged Cain, “don’t trust this white devil about that ’rona!”
Until that bizarre turn, the most unusual element of the debate sketch was its evenhandedness. While taking predictable shots at Pence’s evasive answers and moralist attitude, the often left-leaning show also spotlighted some of his rival’s missteps. As Harris, Rudolph pandered hard to fracking supporters with an over-the-top defense of the practice she and her running mate earlier opposed, vowing, “Joe Biden fracks in his free time! Joe Biden will frack you so good, Pennsylvania!”
And when asked about the political minefield of packing the Supreme Court, all the fake Harris could do was dribble her martini and change the subject.
Besides letting Carrey show off two impersonations in his repertoire, the scene showcased Rudolph’s expressive powers as she explained and demonstrated Harris’ facial reactions — from squints and nods to what she called a “Clair Huxtable side-eye.”


chicagosun-times--2020-10-10--Horoscope for Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020

Horoscope for Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020

There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions .
The moon is in Leo .
This is a social , upbeat day !
Enjoy interacting with others .
Sports events , social outings , fun activities with kids , the arts and fun with family will all be excellent choices for you .
A partner or close friend might promise more than they can deliver .
( Or you might ? )
Today you feel healthy , vigorous and turned on by life !
Nevertheless , you might choose to hunker down at home because it feels good .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ might be important .
Do something to get better organized because this will please you .
Great day !
Hop out of bed and get dressed !
Explore fun activities and social interactions .
Sports events , playful outings with kids and the arts will all appeal .
You will enjoy talking to others and exchanging information .
Expect to learn something interesting !
This is a feel-good day because family members are happy , especially a parent or someone in a position of authority in your family .
( Might be you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matters right now and are happy for the support of partners and close friends .
It ’ s a great day !
This is a wonderful day !
The moon is in your sign , which means your luck is slightly better .
( Ask the universe for a favor ! )
Naturally , with the moon in your sign , you are also emotionally heightened .
You ’ re eager to learn and explore your immediate environment .
Don ’ t bite off more than you can chew .
This might be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for yourself although you might go overboard .
( Save your receipts . )
It ’ s a positive , fun-loving day and a good day for financial negotiations and dealing with money .
You might prefer to be low-key .
Today the sun is in your sign dancing with lucky Jupiter .
Meanwhile , the moon will encourage warm interactions with friends and groups .
Yes , it ’ s a winning day !
Be careful that you don ’ t make promises that you might not be able to keep because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confident .
This is a feel-good day .
However , what is a bit curious is that in one way , you are keeping a low profile .
This is because of the placement of the sun in your chart .
And yet , the moon is calling attention to you !
Go figure .
Perhaps this means everyone can see that you ’ re hiding ?
You will enjoy spending time with friends and groups today .
Get involved !
Others want to see you and they will enjoy your participation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ because you want to broaden your horizons .
All things are possible !
You look successful in the eyes of others today .
You also look affluent ( regardless of how wealthy you actually are ) .
Be careful about promising more than you can deliver to someone .
Nevertheless , it ’ s a good day to discuss shared property , inheritances and such .
You might be excited about future travel plans .
Others will be equally excited about opportunities in publishing , the media , medicine and the law .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ opposite your sign , which means you have to go more than halfway when dealing with others .
Cooperation pays off .
This is a positive day and for your sign , it ’ s a productive day !
You want to get your ducks in a row , which is a good thing because the support you need from others ( practical or financial ) is forthcoming .
Get busy !
If Your Birthday Is Today Actor Matt Bomer ( 1977 ) shares your birthday .
You are charming and supportive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar values .
This year you will learn something that sets you in a new direction , which could be crucial for your success next year .
It ’ s a time of learning and perhaps teaching as well .
Explore meditation , yoga or any discipline that helps you get a better understanding of who you are .

Moon Alert
There are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The moon is in Leo.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
This is a social, upbeat day! Enjoy interacting with others. Sports events, social outings, fun activities with kids, the arts and fun with family will all be excellent choices for you. A partner or close friend might promise more than they can deliver. (Or you might?)
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Today you feel healthy, vigorous and turned on by life! Nevertheless, you might choose to hunker down at home because it feels good. A conversation with a female family member might be important. Do something to get better organized because this will please you.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Great day! Hop out of bed and get dressed! Explore fun activities and social interactions. Sports events, playful outings with kids and the arts will all appeal. You will enjoy talking to others and exchanging information. Expect to learn something interesting!
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
This is a feel-good day because family members are happy, especially a parent or someone in a position of authority in your family. (Might be you?) You feel good about financial matters right now and are happy for the support of partners and close friends. It’s a great day!
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
This is a wonderful day! The moon is in your sign, which means your luck is slightly better. (Ask the universe for a favor!) Naturally, with the moon in your sign, you are also emotionally heightened. You’re eager to learn and explore your immediate environment. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
This might be a good day to buy wardrobe items for yourself although you might go overboard. (Save your receipts.) It’s a positive, fun-loving day and a good day for financial negotiations and dealing with money. You might prefer to be low-key.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Today the sun is in your sign dancing with lucky Jupiter. Meanwhile, the moon will encourage warm interactions with friends and groups. Yes, it’s a winning day! Be careful that you don’t make promises that you might not be able to keep because it’s easy to be too confident.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
This is a feel-good day. However, what is a bit curious is that in one way, you are keeping a low profile. This is because of the placement of the sun in your chart. And yet, the moon is calling attention to you! Go figure. Perhaps this means everyone can see that you’re hiding?
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
You will enjoy spending time with friends and groups today. Get involved! Others want to see you and they will enjoy your participation. Meanwhile, you want a little adventure because you want to broaden your horizons. All things are possible!
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
You look successful in the eyes of others today. You also look affluent (regardless of how wealthy you actually are). Be careful about promising more than you can deliver to someone. Nevertheless, it’s a good day to discuss shared property, inheritances and such.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
You might be excited about future travel plans. Others will be equally excited about opportunities in publishing, the media, medicine and the law. Meanwhile, today’s moon is opposite your sign, which means you have to go more than halfway when dealing with others. Cooperation pays off.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
This is a positive day and for your sign, it’s a productive day! You want to get your ducks in a row, which is a good thing because the support you need from others (practical or financial) is forthcoming. Get busy!
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actor Matt Bomer (1977) shares your birthday. You are charming and supportive and like to surround yourself with people of similar values. This year you will learn something that sets you in a new direction, which could be crucial for your success next year. It’s a time of learning and perhaps teaching as well. Explore meditation, yoga or any discipline that helps you get a better understanding of who you are.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-10--Williams, Crawford lead No. 5 Notre Dame past Florida State

SOUTH BEND , Ind .
— Kyren Williams ran for 185 yards and two touchdowns and safety Shaun Crawford helped thwart a potential Florida State rally with a goal-line interception in No .
5 Notre Dame ’ s 42-26 victory Saturday night .
Williams fumbled at his own 32 on the second play from scrimmage , then riddled Florida State the rest of the way , picking up 130 yards and both his TDs by halftime as the Fighting Irish ( 3-0 , 2-0 Atlantic Coast Conference ) took a 35-20 lead .
Ian Book completed 16 of 25 passes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ran for 58 yards and another score for ND .
With Notre Dame leading 42-26 , the Seminoles ( 1-3 , 0-3 ) drove 73 yards to the Irish 5 , but Crawford picked off Jordan Travis ’ pass with 8:21 left .
“ First and foremost , winning is hard , ” said Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly , whose team was playing after two idle weeks , one of them due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the team .
“ Just to be here talking about a victory is really satisfying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days ago we had 36 guys that were unavailable to us , ” Kelly said .
“ In short order , to prepare our team and have our guys be selfless and take care of themselves and put themselves in position to win a football game today , I couldn ’ t be more proud of our group.
” The Irish were too powerful despite a solid performance by Travis for the Seminoles .
Making his first start after shining in relief last week against Jacksonville State , Travis hit 13 of 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State in rushing with 96 yards on 19 keepers , even with a pair of sacks .
He threw a TD pass and ran for a score .
“ We ’ re all disappointed , ” Florida State coach Mike Norvell said .
“ You invest so much time and effort into a game to win that contest .
We didn ’ t do that and we didn ’ t do ( things ) consistently enough , even with some bright spots throughout the course.
” Florida State ’ s Tamorrion Terry caught @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touchdown .
Irish wideout Javon McKinley had five receptions for 107 yards , while freshman Chris Tyree joined Williams in surpassing 100 on the ground , closing at 103 on 11 carries with a TD .
Florida State : The Seminoles , who gave up 52 points two weeks ago at Miami , looked overwhelmed at times on defense .
Not only did the Irish offensive line have no trouble knocking Florida State off the ball — little surprise given Notre Dame ’ s ranking as the nation ’ s best unit — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often were unable to step up and close gaps .
Notre Dame had 240 rushing yards by halftime on 20 attempts .
Notre Dame : The Irish offense was often lethal , especially once it stopped hurting its own cause .
Norte Dame had five touchdowns and 365 yards in the first half and finished with 554 yards .
The damage could ’ ve been worse if not for Williams ’ fumble and a special teams turnover , those leading to 10 Seminoles points in the first quarter for a 17-14 FSU lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 Florida ’ s loss at No .
21 Texas A & M earlier in the day , stand poised to move up to that fourth slot , although they are also the lone club in the current top five yet to face a ranked opponent .
Kelly presented the game balls to athletic trainer Rob Hunt and team physician Matt Leiszler .
“ We couldn ’ t have been out here today without their extraordinary efforts to get our football team safe and healthy , ” Kelly said .
After Notre Dame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests and 14 others in quarantine due to contact tracing on Sept. 28 , just two players of note — starting defensive tackle Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa and linebacker Jack Kiser — were missing Saturday .
It was not confirmed that they were necessarily out due to the coronavirus .
Standout cornerback Asante Samuels ’ first-quarter fumble recovery for the Seminoles was his fifth takeaway of the season , giving him at least one in each of Florida State ’ s first four games .
That count includes three interceptions , which led the nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its second straight Top 10 opponent when No .
8 North Carolina visits Doak Campbell Stadium on Oct. 17 .
Notre Dame is home for the fourth straight game to start the season when Louisville visits Oct. 17 .

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Kyren Williams ran for 185 yards and two touchdowns and safety Shaun Crawford helped thwart a potential Florida State rally with a goal-line interception in No. 5 Notre Dame’s 42-26 victory Saturday night.
Williams fumbled at his own 32 on the second play from scrimmage, then riddled Florida State the rest of the way, picking up 130 yards and both his TDs by halftime as the Fighting Irish (3-0, 2-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) took a 35-20 lead.
Ian Book completed 16 of 25 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 58 yards and another score for ND.
With Notre Dame leading 42-26, the Seminoles (1-3, 0-3) drove 73 yards to the Irish 5, but Crawford picked off Jordan Travis’ pass with 8:21 left.
“First and foremost, winning is hard,” said Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly, whose team was playing after two idle weeks, one of them due to a COVID-19 outbreak within the team.
“Just to be here talking about a victory is really satisfying given the fact that just about 10 days ago we had 36 guys that were unavailable to us,” Kelly said. “In short order, to prepare our team and have our guys be selfless and take care of themselves and put themselves in position to win a football game today, I couldn’t be more proud of our group.”
The Irish were too powerful despite a solid performance by Travis for the Seminoles.
Making his first start after shining in relief last week against Jacksonville State, Travis hit 13 of 24 passes for 204 yards and led Florida State in rushing with 96 yards on 19 keepers, even with a pair of sacks. He threw a TD pass and ran for a score.
“We’re all disappointed,” Florida State coach Mike Norvell said. “You invest so much time and effort into a game to win that contest. We didn’t do that and we didn’t do (things) consistently enough, even with some bright spots throughout the course.”
Florida State’s Tamorrion Terry caught seven passes for 121 yards and a touchdown.
Irish wideout Javon McKinley had five receptions for 107 yards, while freshman Chris Tyree joined Williams in surpassing 100 on the ground, closing at 103 on 11 carries with a TD.
THE TAKEAWAY
Florida State: The Seminoles, who gave up 52 points two weeks ago at Miami, looked overwhelmed at times on defense. Not only did the Irish offensive line have no trouble knocking Florida State off the ball — little surprise given Notre Dame’s ranking as the nation’s best unit — but Seminoles linebackers other than Amari Gainer often were unable to step up and close gaps. Notre Dame had 240 rushing yards by halftime on 20 attempts.
Notre Dame: The Irish offense was often lethal, especially once it stopped hurting its own cause. Norte Dame had five touchdowns and 365 yards in the first half and finished with 554 yards. The damage could’ve been worse if not for Williams’ fumble and a special teams turnover, those leading to 10 Seminoles points in the first quarter for a 17-14 FSU lead.
POLL IMPLICATIONS
The Irish, given No. 4 Florida’s loss at No. 21 Texas A&M earlier in the day, stand poised to move up to that fourth slot, although they are also the lone club in the current top five yet to face a ranked opponent.
GAME BALLS
Kelly presented the game balls to athletic trainer Rob Hunt and team physician Matt Leiszler.
“We couldn’t have been out here today without their extraordinary efforts to get our football team safe and healthy,” Kelly said.
After Notre Dame had 25 players in isolation with positive tests and 14 others in quarantine due to contact tracing on Sept. 28, just two players of note — starting defensive tackle Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa and linebacker Jack Kiser — were missing Saturday.
It was not confirmed that they were necessarily out due to the coronavirus.
ASSAILING ASANTE
Standout cornerback Asante Samuels’ first-quarter fumble recovery for the Seminoles was his fifth takeaway of the season, giving him at least one in each of Florida State’s first four games.
That count includes three interceptions, which led the nation entering the day.
UP NEXT
Florida State faces its second straight Top 10 opponent when No. 8 North Carolina visits Doak Campbell Stadium on Oct. 17.
Notre Dame is home for the fourth straight game to start the season when Louisville visits Oct. 17.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-10--It’s become a tradition: Christian Howe’s fall report from southern Cook County to the Northwoods

I just enjoy Christian Howe ’ s fall colors and general outdoors report each fall from southern Cook County to the Northwoods .
It ’ s become a tradition .
For me , the tradition is photographing the tree ( which lost about half itself in a storm last year ) at the top .
That tree is sort of a snap shot of the growing season .
In a really good year , it turns a brilliant red .
It looks sort of average this year from the 21 years I ’ ve observed it .
Here ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from their drive north : Here is my Falls colors report , from Southern Cook County to Iron County , MI via I294-94 , I43 to US 141 .
Southern Cook County to Lake County , IL - starting to see some subtle changes , mainly fading summer green .
My locust trees have begun to lighten in the past few days , the neighbors maples are going red .
Lake county to the Cheddar Curtain - starting to see a few oaks and other hardwoods brighten , cottonwood nearing peak along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Washington - pretty much the same .
A few bright spots , most trees in early stages of changing .
Port Washington to Sheboygan - oak , maple , birch are brightening in patches , other areas still green .
Cottonwoods still green .
Next weekend could be near or at peak colors especially near the Big Pond .
Ferns are down , scrub and saplings are in full color .
Sheboygan to Green Bay ( Booo ) - Everything is on the brink of breaking out in peak colors .
Some vibrant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the stragglers .
With the stable weather for the next few days near peak colors should be next weekend .
Green Bay to Lena - The big show is on !
Closer to Lena the colors started tapering off in spots , but what a show .
Lena to Florence - fading fast .
The winds Friday likely sped the trees dropping their leaves along .
What color is left are a few bright birch , and Tamark ’ s ( my favorite ) starting to change .
Florence to the Ottawa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 - Tamark ’ s near full color , most hardwoods have dropped their leaves and are done .
A few spots along US 2 between Iron River and Watersmeet are just past peak , but made the drive worth it .
We wandered some back & US Forest Service roads and found a few more pockets of color , but they ’ re fading fast .
We stopped along the Bond Falls Flowage to take in sights and weren ’ t disappointed .
The flowage holds a special place in my heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my teeth as a teen Walleye fishing with my brother Adam and brother in-law Darvell .
This fall is different than the past for me .
There won ’ t be any fall duties or fishing squeezed in .
I broke my foot at work in July and I am awaiting surgery to repair the damage .
We came as a family came up to Iron County MI to take it easy and ignore the outside world for a while .
Consequently I have no personal fishing report .
From friends south of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall mode taking suckers , walleye are anywhere on any given day , and if you can find chubs you ’ re lucky .
Other wise a sucker on the smaller side and jigging raps are taking some fish .
The weather changes are messing with a true pattern .
The neighbors report the rut is going and we ’ ve seen first hand that it is , a few zombie bucks chasing does around , and a few fresh roadkills too .
Ducks are moving too .
I see them come in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ River at my wife ’ s family cabin .
Teal , a few mergansers , and a wood duck so far today .
Oh , mallards too .
Lots of mallards .
I hope to see you out there soon chasing perch , if not see you for powerlining .

Here is my Falls colors report, from Southern Cook County to Iron County, MI via I294-94, I43 to US 141. Southern Cook County to Lake County, IL - starting to see some subtle changes, mainly fading summer green. My locust trees have begun to lighten in the past few days, the neighbors maples are going red. Lake county to the Cheddar Curtain - starting to see a few oaks and other hardwoods brighten, cottonwood nearing peak along with scrub brush. Cheddar Curtain to Port Washington - pretty much the same. A few bright spots, most trees in early stages of changing. Port Washington to Sheboygan - oak, maple, birch are brightening in patches, other areas still green. Cottonwoods still green. Next weekend could be near or at peak colors especially near the Big Pond. Ferns are down, scrub and saplings are in full color. Sheboygan to Green Bay (Booo)- Everything is on the brink of breaking out in peak colors. Some vibrant oaks, maples and birch mixed in with the stragglers. With the stable weather for the next few days near peak colors should be next weekend. Green Bay to Lena - The big show is on! Closer to Lena the colors started tapering off in spots, but what a show. Lena to Florence - fading fast. The winds Friday likely sped the trees dropping their leaves along. What color is left are a few bright birch, and Tamark’s (my favorite) starting to change. Florence to the Ottawa National Forest via US 141 to US 2 - Tamark’s near full color, most hardwoods have dropped their leaves and are done. A few spots along US 2 between Iron River and Watersmeet are just past peak, but made the drive worth it. We wandered some back & US Forest Service roads and found a few more pockets of color, but they’re fading fast. We stopped along the Bond Falls Flowage to take in sights and weren’t disappointed. The flowage holds a special place in my heart as it’s where I cut my teeth as a teen Walleye fishing with my brother Adam and brother in-law Darvell. This fall is different than the past for me. There won’t be any fall duties or fishing squeezed in. I broke my foot at work in July and I am awaiting surgery to repair the damage. We came as a family came up to Iron County MI to take it easy and ignore the outside world for a while. Consequently I have no personal fishing report. From friends south of this cheddar curtain said musky are in fall mode taking suckers, walleye are anywhere on any given day, and if you can find chubs you’re lucky. Other wise a sucker on the smaller side and jigging raps are taking some fish. The weather changes are messing with a true pattern. The neighbors report the rut is going and we’ve seen first hand that it is, a few zombie bucks chasing does around, and a few fresh roadkills too. Ducks are moving too. I see them come in and out of the backwater of the River at my wife’s family cabin. Teal, a few mergansers, and a wood duck so far today. Oh, mallards too. Lots of mallards. I hope to see you out there soon chasing perch, if not see you for powerlining. Chris Howe


chicagosun-times--2020-10-10--Coronavirus live blog, October 10, 2020: Public health officials announce 2,905 new COVID-19 cases s

Coronavirus live blog, October 10, 2020: Public health officials announce 2,905 new COVID-19 cases statewide

On Satuday , the number of coronavirus cases in the state has continued to creep upward .
Illinois has recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week , due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day .
The nation ’ s most high profile coronavirus patient received good news from his doctor .
Navy Cmdr .
Dr. Sean Conley said President Donald Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “ currently recognized standards ” he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Here ’ s what happened today in the fight against the coronavirus in Chicago , the state and the nation .
9 p.m. Illinois ’ positivity rate creeps back up to 4 % with latest 2,905 coronavirus infections Illinois ’ average coronavirus testing positivity rate rose to 4 % for the first time in a month on Saturday as public health officials announced 2,905 more people have contracted the virus statewide .
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported 31 more deaths were attributed to COVID-19 , raising the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week , due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day .
The latest cases were confirmed among 66,256 tests , while on average more than 55,000 tests have been administered daily statewide over the last month — almost triple the testing rate during the worst days of the pandemic in May .
8:30 p.m. Trump ’ s doctor says the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus WASHINGTON — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus .
In a memo , Navy Cmdr .
Dr. Sean Conley says Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “ currently recognized standards ” he is no longer considered a transmission risk .
A new White House coronavirus aid offer got bad reviews from both ends of the political spectrum on Saturday .
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , rejected the most generous Trump administration plan to date as “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The Republicans who control the Senate dismissed it as too expensive and a political loser for conservatives .
Pelosi said she is still hopeful that progress can be made toward a deal but it ’ s as clear as ever that GOP conservatives don ’ t want a deal on her terms .
Despite coach Matt Nagy harping on his players to wear masks and the NFL ratcheting up its coronavirus protocols with each passing week , it was foolish to believe the Bears could get through the regular season without at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they put practice squad offensive tackle Badara Traore , an undrafted rookie from LSU , on the NFL ’ s reserve/COVID-19 list .
The question now becomes : will he be the only one ?
Read the full story by Patrick Finley here .
The future of the Belmont Snack Shop is up in the air after a fierce fire engulfed the late-night diner and left behind only charred remnants of the Avondale staple .
Restaurant manager Nelson Rodriguez and his wife , who live in an apartment above the diner near Belmont @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night around 7:50 p.m. when they spotted smoke rising outside their window .
Rodriguez bolted downstairs to try to put out the grease fire , but he was too late .
After evacuating the restaurant , Rodriguez stood beside his wife watching the blaze and smoke destroy the diner that has been in his family for two generations .
Read the full story by Madeline Kenney here .
2:45 p.m. Trump makes first public appearance since his hospital stay WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Saturday made his first public appearance since returning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the coronavirus .
The White House has refused to declare that he is no longer contagious , and the gathering of hundreds of people on the South Lawn went ahead despite the guidance of public health officials .
Trump delivered an address on his support for law enforcement from Blue Room balcony to a friendly crowd .
The president wore a mask as he walked for the speech but took it off to make his remarks .
He received an enthusiastic response from his supporters .
“ I ’ m feeling great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was thankful for their good wishes and prayers as he recovered .
Trump is also priming for a Florida rally on Monday .
Before the speech , White House officials said they had no information to release on whether the president was tested for COVID-19 , meaning he would make his first public appearance without the White House verifying that he ’ s no longer contagious .
1:42 p.m. Lake County flagged at COVID-19 warning level as 2,818 more test positive statewide Illinois ’ coronavirus testing positivity rate inched upward for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials announced another hefty caseload of 2,818 more people testing positive for COVID-19 .
They were diagnosed among 71,599 tests submitted , raising the statewide average positivity rate over the last week to 3.8 % .
That number indicates how rapidly the virus is spreading — and that ’ s as high as it ’ s been in almost a month .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker warned this week that the state ’ s improvement from a midsummer resurgence has “ cooled down.
” And while over the last few months , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popped up well beyond the Chicago area — mostly in central Illinois and downstate — the Democratic governor ’ s health team singled out north suburban Lake County for being among 26 counties considered to be at a coronavirus “ warning level.
” A Bears practice squad player tested positive for coronavirus , according to ESPN ’ s Adam Schefter , and the team is is putting him through contact tracing .
Practice squad players are not allowed on the sidelines during games , which means the unnamed practice squad player probably did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the active roster Thursday night .
The Bears did not gather as a team at Halas Hall on Friday , either .
Their schedule after the Buccaneers game had already featured a weekend off before the report of a positive test .
They won ’ t practice again in full until mid-afternoon Monday .
They are not set to practice Tuesday — a regular day off in their game-week schedule — and will practice Wednesday-Friday , as usual .
10:23 a.m. Men accused in plot on Michigan governor among armed protestors who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mich. — Among the armed protesters who rallied at the Michigan Capitol against Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer ’ s coronavirus lockdown this past spring were some of the men now accused in stunning plots to kidnap her , storm the Capitol and start a “ civil war.
” The revelation has sparked scrutiny of rallies that were organized by conservative groups opposed to the Democratic governor ’ s orders and egged on by President Donald Trump .
It has also prompted renewed calls from Democrats for a gun ban in the building — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even after they reported feeling threatened by rifle-carrying men who entered the Statehouse .
At least one man accused of aiding in the surveillance of Whitmer ’ s home as part of the alleged scheme to kidnap her stood in the Senate gallery on April 30 as majority Republicans refused to extend an emergency declaration that was the underpinning of Whitmer ’ s stay-at-home and other restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus .
Some lawmakers and staffers reported feeling intimidated .
“ Several ” of the 13 men arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were seen at Capitol protests this year , the state attorney general ’ s office said .
10:07 a.m. Cicero school district bringing staff back to buildings while remote learning continues More than 1,000 school employees in west suburban Cicero have been told to go back to their classrooms later this month even though the town ’ s COVID-19 test positivity rate ranks among the highest in the state .
Cicero Public School District 99 , the third-largest elementary system in Illinois , serves more than 11,270 students who have been learning remotely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the foreseeable future — since the district ’ s 16 schools started classes August 31 .
Teachers object to the Oct. 19 return date mandated by the district and want to continue teaching from home .
Rachel Esposito , president of the Cicero Council of the West Suburban Teachers Union , said the union ’ s stance is in-person teaching and learning shouldn ’ t resume until at least January due to the coronavirus pandemic .
“ The infection rate is way too high to start bringing people into the buildings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ language arts at Unity Junior High School .
“ We feel it ’ s unsafe not only for staff members but for students as well .
And we feel that the positivity rate has to drop several percentage points and stay there at least for seven days before we start talking about bringing people back into the buildings .
We think it ’ s irresponsible to do that at this time.
” 7:24 a.m. Downstate Rep. Mike Bost , an Illinois Trump campaign chair , tests positive for COVID-19 Downstate Rep. Mike Bost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for COVID-19 after coming down with “ a mild cough and a rapid loss of both taste and smell.
” The Republican congressman said in a statement that his public schedule is on hold and his meetings will go virtual as he isolates at home just a few weeks ahead of Election Day .
“ We are taking this situation seriously and will continue to serve the people of Southern Illinois while doing our best to ensure their health and safety , ” Bost said .
“ I will provide additional updates in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get back to work as soon as I make a full recovery.
” • Public health officials reported 3,059 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 across Illinois on Thursday , the state ’ s biggest caseload since the initial peak of the pandemic nearly five months ago .
• The state last topped 3,000 daily coronavirus cases on May 14 , when 3,239 people were infected .
• The Illinois Department for Public Health reported more than 5,300 cases on Sept. 4 , but that bloated figure was the result of a three-day data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the best of American medicine : Donald Trump must go It is rare for scientists at the highest levels to take an overt stand on the politics of the day , knowing their professional credibility depends on remaining above the fray .
Dr. Anthony Fauci , most famously , is a case in point .
Fauci , the federal government ’ s top immunologist , has given his best expert advice on the COVID-19 pandemic while resisting the temptation — and he must feel tempted — to call out the failures of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crisis .
When an authority of such stature does take a political stand , then , it carries all the more weight .
We all should listen closely .

On Satuday, the number of coronavirus cases in the state has continued to creep upward. Illinois has recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week, due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day.
The nation’s most high profile coronavirus patient received good news from his doctor. Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley said President Donald Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “currently recognized standards” he is no longer considered a transmission risk.
Here’s what happened today in the fight against the coronavirus in Chicago, the state and the nation.
News
9 p.m. Illinois’ positivity rate creeps back up to 4% with latest 2,905 coronavirus infections
Ashlee Rezin Garcia/Sun-Times
Illinois’ average coronavirus testing positivity rate rose to 4% for the first time in a month on Saturday as public health officials announced 2,905 more people have contracted the virus statewide.
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported 31 more deaths were attributed to COVID-19, raising the state’s death toll to 8,975.
Illinois has recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week, due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day.
The latest cases were confirmed among 66,256 tests, while on average more than 55,000 tests have been administered daily statewide over the last month — almost triple the testing rate during the worst days of the pandemic in May.
Read the full story here.
8:30 p.m. Trump’s doctor says the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s doctor said Saturday the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus.
In a memo, Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley says Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “currently recognized standards” he is no longer considered a transmission risk.
Read the full story here.
7 p.m. White House coronavirus aid offer is panned by Pelosi, Senate GOP
A new White House coronavirus aid offer got bad reviews from both ends of the political spectrum on Saturday.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., rejected the most generous Trump administration plan to date as “one step forward, two steps back.” The Republicans who control the Senate dismissed it as too expensive and a political loser for conservatives.
Pelosi said she is still hopeful that progress can be made toward a deal but it’s as clear as ever that GOP conservatives don’t want a deal on her terms.
Read the full story here.
5:15 p.m. Bears put practice squad rookie Badara Traore on reserve/COVID-19 list
Despite coach Matt Nagy harping on his players to wear masks and the NFL ratcheting up its coronavirus protocols with each passing week, it was foolish to believe the Bears could get through the regular season without at least one positive test.
Saturday, they put practice squad offensive tackle Badara Traore, an undrafted rookie from LSU, on the NFL’s reserve/COVID-19 list.
The question now becomes: will he be the only one?
Read the full story by Patrick Finley here.
4 p.m. Belmont Snack Shop’s future uncertain after coronavirus, devastating fire
The future of the Belmont Snack Shop is up in the air after a fierce fire engulfed the late-night diner and left behind only charred remnants of the Avondale staple.
Restaurant manager Nelson Rodriguez and his wife, who live in an apartment above the diner near Belmont and Kimball, were cooking dinner Thursday night around 7:50 p.m. when they spotted smoke rising outside their window.
Rodriguez bolted downstairs to try to put out the grease fire, but he was too late.
After evacuating the restaurant, Rodriguez stood beside his wife watching the blaze and smoke destroy the diner that has been in his family for two generations.
Read the full story by Madeline Kenney here.
2:45 p.m. Trump makes first public appearance since his hospital stay
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Saturday made his first public appearance since returning to the White House after being treated for the coronavirus. The White House has refused to declare that he is no longer contagious, and the gathering of hundreds of people on the South Lawn went ahead despite the guidance of public health officials.
Trump delivered an address on his support for law enforcement from Blue Room balcony to a friendly crowd. The president wore a mask as he walked for the speech but took it off to make his remarks. He received an enthusiastic response from his supporters.
“I’m feeling great,” said Trump, who said he was thankful for their good wishes and prayers as he recovered.
Trump is also priming for a Florida rally on Monday.
Before the speech, White House officials said they had no information to release on whether the president was tested for COVID-19, meaning he would make his first public appearance without the White House verifying that he’s no longer contagious.
Read the full story here.
1:42 p.m. Lake County flagged at COVID-19 warning level as 2,818 more test positive statewide
Illinois’ coronavirus testing positivity rate inched upward for a third consecutive day Friday as public health officials announced another hefty caseload of 2,818 more people testing positive for COVID-19.
They were diagnosed among 71,599 tests submitted, raising the statewide average positivity rate over the last week to 3.8%. That number indicates how rapidly the virus is spreading — and that’s as high as it’s been in almost a month.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker warned this week that the state’s improvement from a midsummer resurgence has “cooled down.”
And while over the last few months, the state’s COVID-19 problem areas have popped up well beyond the Chicago area — mostly in central Illinois and downstate — the Democratic governor’s health team singled out north suburban Lake County for being among 26 counties considered to be at a coronavirus “warning level.”
Reporter Mitch Armentrout has the full story.
11:56 a.m. Bears practice-squad player tests positive for COVID-19: report
A Bears practice squad player tested positive for coronavirus, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, and the team is is putting him through contact tracing.
Practice squad players are not allowed on the sidelines during games, which means the unnamed practice squad player probably did not have meaningful contact with his teammates on the active roster Thursday night. The Bears did not gather as a team at Halas Hall on Friday, either.
Their schedule after the Buccaneers game had already featured a weekend off before the report of a positive test. They won’t practice again in full until mid-afternoon Monday. They are not set to practice Tuesday — a regular day off in their game-week schedule — and will practice Wednesday-Friday, as usual.
Read the full story here.
10:23 a.m. Men accused in plot on Michigan governor among armed protestors who rallied at the Michigan Capitol
LANSING, Mich. — Among the armed protesters who rallied at the Michigan Capitol against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s coronavirus lockdown this past spring were some of the men now accused in stunning plots to kidnap her, storm the Capitol and start a “civil war.”
The revelation has sparked scrutiny of rallies that were organized by conservative groups opposed to the Democratic governor’s orders and egged on by President Donald Trump. It has also prompted renewed calls from Democrats for a gun ban in the building — an effort that so far has failed even after they reported feeling threatened by rifle-carrying men who entered the Statehouse.
At least one man accused of aiding in the surveillance of Whitmer’s home as part of the alleged scheme to kidnap her stood in the Senate gallery on April 30 as majority Republicans refused to extend an emergency declaration that was the underpinning of Whitmer’s stay-at-home and other restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Some lawmakers and staffers reported feeling intimidated. “Several” of the 13 men arrested in the plots against the state government were seen at Capitol protests this year, the state attorney general’s office said.
Read the full story here.
10:07 a.m. Cicero school district bringing staff back to buildings while remote learning continues
More than 1,000 school employees in west suburban Cicero have been told to go back to their classrooms later this month even though the town’s COVID-19 test positivity rate ranks among the highest in the state.
Cicero Public School District 99, the third-largest elementary system in Illinois, serves more than 11,270 students who have been learning remotely — and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future — since the district’s 16 schools started classes August 31.
Teachers object to the Oct. 19 return date mandated by the district and want to continue teaching from home. Rachel Esposito, president of the Cicero Council of the West Suburban Teachers Union, said the union’s stance is in-person teaching and learning shouldn’t resume until at least January due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The infection rate is way too high to start bringing people into the buildings,” said Esposito, who teaches English language arts at Unity Junior High School.
“We feel it’s unsafe not only for staff members but for students as well. And we feel that the positivity rate has to drop several percentage points and stay there at least for seven days before we start talking about bringing people back into the buildings. We think it’s irresponsible to do that at this time.”
Read the full story here.
7:24 a.m. Downstate Rep. Mike Bost, an Illinois Trump campaign chair, tests positive for COVID-19
Downstate Rep. Mike Bost announced Friday he’s tested positive for COVID-19 after coming down with “a mild cough and a rapid loss of both taste and smell.”
The Republican congressman said in a statement that his public schedule is on hold and his meetings will go virtual as he isolates at home just a few weeks ahead of Election Day.
“We are taking this situation seriously and will continue to serve the people of Southern Illinois while doing our best to ensure their health and safety,” Bost said. “I will provide additional updates in the days ahead and am anxious to get back to work as soon as I make a full recovery.”
Read the full story here.
New cases
Public health officials reported 3,059 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 across Illinois on Thursday, the state’s biggest caseload since the initial peak of the pandemic nearly five months ago.
The state last topped 3,000 daily coronavirus cases on May 14, when 3,239 people were infected.
The Illinois Department for Public Health reported more than 5,300 cases on Sept. 4, but that bloated figure was the result of a three-day data processing backlog.
Analysis & Commentary
7:26 a.m. Take it from the best of American medicine: Donald Trump must go
It is rare for scientists at the highest levels to take an overt stand on the politics of the day, knowing their professional credibility depends on remaining above the fray.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, most famously, is a case in point. Fauci, the federal government’s top immunologist, has given his best expert advice on the COVID-19 pandemic while resisting the temptation — and he must feel tempted — to call out the failures of the Trump administration’s handling of the crisis.
When an authority of such stature does take a political stand, then, it carries all the more weight. We all should listen closely.
Read the full editorial here.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--2 found dead in Chinatown hotel: police

2 found dead in Chinatown hotel: police

Chicago police are investigating the deaths of two people inside a Chinatown hotel room Sunday afternoon .
About 2:35 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ man and 61-year-old woman dead inside a room at the hotel in the 200 block @ @ @ @ @ said .
Additional details were not immediately available , police said , and Area One @ @ @ @ @ investigation .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

Police are investigating a murder-suicide at a Chinatown hotel where a 61-year-old woman from Texas fatally shot her grandson before turning the gun on herself.
Officers found the pair dead with gunshot wounds to their heads about 2:35 p.m. Sunday after responding to a well-being check at a hotel room in the 200 block of West Cermak, Chicago police said.
Detectives believe the woman fatally shot her 24-year-old grandson before shooting herself sometime Friday, according to police spokesman Michael Carroll.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office said the incident happened at the Jaslin Hotel, 261 W. Cermak Road. The woman was identified as Searcy Thornton-Allen, while her grandson was identified as Alivin Seals Jr. Both lived in Killeen, Texas.
Autopsy results confirmed Thornton-Allen died by suicide and Seals died by homicide, according to the medical examiner’s office.
Police on Monday initially said the man was the shooter before clarifying later in the morning that investigators believe the woman fired the shots.
Area One detectives are conducting a death investigation.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--St. Charles driver turns himself in after hit-and-run that killed 88-year-old Chicago woman: police

Police say a west suburban man fatally struck an 88-year-old Chicago woman in her wheelchair with his pickup truck and @ @ @ @ @ in St. Charles .
Andrew Jensen , 23 , turned himself in hours after the @ @ @ @ @ charges of failing to report an accident and leaving the scene of the crash that @ @ @ @ @ Charles police announced Sunday .
Radnoti was crossing Third Street with her son about 4 @ @ @ @ @ Ram waiting at the stoplight turned right onto westbound Main Street , according to police @ @ @ @ @ woman and continued on Main Street without stopping , police said .
Radnoti was taken @ @ @ @ @ , where she died .
Police released a photo of the truck and sought tips @ @ @ @ @ “ voluntarily came to the St. Charles Police Department ” late Friday , authorities said @ @ @ @ @ 100 block of South 13th Street in St. Charles , also faces a petty offense @ @ @ @ @ yield at the crosswalk .

A St. Charles man was ordered held on $500,000 bail Monday on charges that he fatally struck an 88-year-old Chicago woman in her wheelchair with his pickup truck without stopping.
Andrew Jensen, 23, turned himself in hours after the collision in the western suburb Friday and now faces felony charges of failing to report an accident and leaving the scene of the crash that killed Helen Radnoti, St. Charles police said.
Radnoti was crossing Third Street with her son about 4 p.m. when a 2016 Dodge Ram waiting at the stoplight turned right onto westbound Main Street, according to police.
The pickup hit the woman and continued on Main Street without stopping, police said.
Andrew Jensen. St. Charles police
Radnoti was taken to Delnor Hospital in Geneva, where she died.
Police released a photo of the truck and sought tips from the public before Jensen “voluntarily came to the St. Charles Police Department” late Friday, authorities said.
Jensen, of the 100 block of South 13th Street in St. Charles, also faces a petty offense charge for allegedly failing to yield at the crosswalk.
He is due in court again Oct. 20, according to the Kane County state’s attorney’s office.


chicagosun-times--2020-10-11--Illinois’ COVID-19 positivity rate climbs again Sunday with 2,727 new cases (LIVE UPDATES)

Illinois ’ average positivity rate continued to rise Sunday as health officials announced another 2,727 people have tested positive for the coronavirus .
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported nine more deaths attributed to COVID-19 , raising the state ’ s pandemic death toll to 8,984 .
Saturday marked the first time in a month the state ’ s seven-day positivity rate has hit 4 % .
That figure , used by health officials to gauge how rapidly the virus is spreading , rose to 4.2 % Sunday — nearly a full percentage point more than last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state ’ s seven-day positivity rate was 3.3 % .
Illinois has reported some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week , with Sunday marking the eighth day this.month the state has recorded 2,000-plus cases .
However , that rise can be attributed to the state ’ s increase in testing capacity .
Over the last 30 days , Illinois has administered more than 1.675 million tests , including 64,047 tests processed in the last day .
2:45 p.m .
Researchers dig into data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seven months into our coronavirus-induced recession , how much do we really understand it and do we get why it persists ?
Do we grasp why it has affected some communities and income groups more deeply than others ?
We rely a lot on government data , such as the Commerce or Labor department reports constantly in the news , but those are often broad assessments with a time lag , and this recession has been swift and evolving , almost like the virus itself .
It changes based on our behavior and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data sources can help form a detailed picture for even local markets .
This information is in the hands of private companies that have grown up around a singular fact of our technological age : Every person is one cluster of data within a world of clusters .
Each credit-card swipe , payroll entry , debit from a transit pass or log-in to an online learning program creates information that can add to our knowledge of the economy up close .
There was no clamoring at the start line Sunday morning for 43rd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ canceled in June in the wake of the coronavirus crisis .
Instead , the storied race that typically starts downtown and snakes through some of Chicago ’ s neighborhoods was relegated to the digital realm .
While some runners still took to the streets , many others tackled the 26.2-mile challenge elsewhere and shared their experiences on social media .
“ I am sad that we can not be together in person , but I am inspired by your determination to cross your own finish line , and I am grateful that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pinkowski , executive director of the marathon , said in a tweeted statement on Sunday .
Despite the official race being nixed , participants could still purchase packages that included medallions and personalized bibs .
What ’ s more , a makeshift “ start line ” was set up near Monroe Street and Columbus Drive .
And the Chicago Area Runners Association also designated four spots along the lakefront trail to offer participants support and fluids as they trotted past .
The NFL has postponed the Denver-New England game indefinitely due to another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That game , originally scheduled for Sunday , had been moved to Monday night .
A person familiar with the situation says the Patriots have closed their facility again after the positive test result , while the Tennessee Titans announced they closed their facility Sunday morning after a staff member tested positive .
The latest result also endangers the Titans ’ game with Buffalo ( 4-0 ) set for Tuesday night after it was moved from Sunday .
Six games have been moved already as the league is in its fifth week of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games for Week 5 , a person with direct knowledge of the planned changes to the overall NFL schedule tells The Associated Press that the Los Angeles Chargers will see the brunt of the alterations due to Monday ’ s Broncos-Patriots postponement .
Five of Los Angeles ’ next six scheduled weeks will change .
11:23 a.m. U.S. will get extended look at Amy Coney Barrett who will tell senators courts ‘ should not try ’ to make policy WASHINGTON — Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett will tell senators that courts “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , leaving those decisions to the political branches of government , according to opening remarks for her confirmation hearing obtained Sunday by The Associated Press .
The Senate Judiciary Committee hearings , set to begin Monday as the coronavirus pandemic sweeps across the country , are taking place three weeks before Election Day and after millions of Americans already have voted .
President Donald Trump nominated the federal appeals court judge soon after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died .
“ I have been nominated to fill Justice Ginsburg ’ s seat , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Barrett will tell the committee , according to her opening remarks .
Barrett says she has resolved to maintain the same perspective as her mentor , the late Justice Antonin Scalia , who was “ devoted to his family , resolute in his beliefs , and fearless of criticism.
” She speaks extensively of her family in the statement , and says she will never let the law define her identity or crowd out the rest of her life .
She says a similar principle applies to the courts , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem or right every wrong in our public life.
” “ The policy decisions and value judgments of government must be made by the political branches elected by and accountable to the People , ” she says .
“ The public should not expect courts to do so , and courts should not try.
” 7:42 a.m. Trump ’ s doctor says the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump ’ s doctor said Saturday the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cmdr .
Dr. Sean Conley says Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “ currently recognized standards ” he is no longer considered a transmission risk .
The future of the Belmont Snack Shop is up in the air after a fierce fire engulfed the late-night diner and left behind only charred remnants of the Avondale staple .
Restaurant manager Nelson Rodriguez and his wife , who live in an apartment above the diner near Belmont and Kimball , were cooking dinner Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smoke rising outside their window .
Rodriguez bolted downstairs to try to put out the grease fire , but he was too late .
After evacuating the restaurant , Rodriguez stood beside his wife watching the blaze and smoke destroy the diner that has been in his family for two generations .
Read the full story by Madeline Kenney here .
6 a.m. Illinois ’ positivity rate creeps back up to 4 % with latest 2,905 coronavirus infections Illinois ’ average coronavirus testing positivity rate rose to 4 % for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health officials announced 2,905 more people have contracted the virus statewide .
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported 31 more deaths were attributed to COVID-19 , raising the state ’ s death toll to 8,975 .
Illinois has recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week , due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day .
The latest cases were confirmed among 66,256 tests , while on average more than 55,000 tests have been administered daily statewide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the testing rate during the worst days of the pandemic in May .
• Downstate Rep. Mike Bost , an Illinois Trump campaign chair , tests positive for COVID-19 • Public health officials reported 3,059 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 across Illinois on Thursday , the state ’ s biggest caseload since the initial peak of the pandemic nearly five months ago .
• The state last topped 3,000 daily coronavirus cases on May 14 , when 3,239 people were infected .
• The Illinois Department for Public Health reported more than 5,300 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bloated figure was the result of a three-day data processing backlog .
7:26 a.m. Take it from the best of American medicine : Donald Trump must go It is rare for scientists at the highest levels to take an overt stand on the politics of the day , knowing their professional credibility depends on remaining above the fray .
Dr. Anthony Fauci , most famously , is a case in point .
Fauci , the federal government ’ s top immunologist , has given his best expert advice on the COVID-19 pandemic while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel tempted — to call out the failures of the Trump administration ’ s handling of the crisis .
When an authority of such stature does take a political stand , then , it carries all the more weight .
We all should listen closely .

The Latest
A medical worker takes a nasal swab sample from a student to test for COVID-19 at the Brooklyn Health Medical Alliance urgent care pop up testing site. Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images
Illinois’ average positivity rate continued to rise Sunday as health officials announced another 2,727 people have tested positive for the coronavirus.
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported nine more deaths attributed to COVID-19, raising the state’s pandemic death toll to 8,984.
Saturday marked the first time in a month the state’s seven-day positivity rate has hit 4%. That figure, used by health officials to gauge how rapidly the virus is spreading, rose to 4.2% Sunday — nearly a full percentage point more than last week. On Sunday, Oct. 4, the state’s seven-day positivity rate was 3.3%.
Illinois has reported some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week, with Sunday marking the eighth day this.month the state has recorded 2,000-plus cases. However, that rise can be attributed to the state’s increase in testing capacity. Over the last 30 days, Illinois has administered more than 1.675 million tests, including 64,047 tests processed in the last day.
Read the full story here.
News
2:45 p.m. Researchers dig into data for a clear view of the recession
Seven months into our coronavirus-induced recession, how much do we really understand it and do we get why it persists?
Do we grasp why it has affected some communities and income groups more deeply than others?
We rely a lot on government data, such as the Commerce or Labor department reports constantly in the news, but those are often broad assessments with a time lag, and this recession has been swift and evolving, almost like the virus itself. It changes based on our behavior and on new government mandates.
But other data sources can help form a detailed picture for even local markets. This information is in the hands of private companies that have grown up around a singular fact of our technological age: Every person is one cluster of data within a world of clusters. Each credit-card swipe, payroll entry, debit from a transit pass or log-in to an online learning program creates information that can add to our knowledge of the economy up close.
Read the full story here.
1:20 p.m. Chicago Marathon goes virtual amid pandemic
There was no clamoring at the start line Sunday morning for 43rd annual Chicago Marathon.
It had been canceled in June in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.
Instead, the storied race that typically starts downtown and snakes through some of Chicago’s neighborhoods was relegated to the digital realm. While some runners still took to the streets, many others tackled the 26.2-mile challenge elsewhere and shared their experiences on social media.
“I am sad that we cannot be together in person, but I am inspired by your determination to cross your own finish line, and I am grateful that we can stay together virtually,” Carey Pinkowski, executive director of the marathon, said in a tweeted statement on Sunday.
Despite the official race being nixed, participants could still purchase packages that included medallions and personalized bibs. What’s more, a makeshift “start line” was set up near Monroe Street and Columbus Drive. And the Chicago Area Runners Association also designated four spots along the lakefront trail to offer participants support and fluids as they trotted past.
Read the full story here.
1:00 p.m. NFL postpones Broncos-Patriots game indefinitely after another positive COVID-19 test
The NFL has postponed the Denver-New England game indefinitely due to another positive coronavirus test with the Patriots.
That game, originally scheduled for Sunday, had been moved to Monday night.
A person familiar with the situation says the Patriots have closed their facility again after the positive test result, while the Tennessee Titans announced they closed their facility Sunday morning after a staff member tested positive.
The latest result also endangers the Titans’ game with Buffalo (4-0) set for Tuesday night after it was moved from Sunday. Six games have been moved already as the league is in its fifth week of the schedule.
In addition to the games for Week 5, a person with direct knowledge of the planned changes to the overall NFL schedule tells The Associated Press that the Los Angeles Chargers will see the brunt of the alterations due to Monday’s Broncos-Patriots postponement. Five of Los Angeles’ next six scheduled weeks will change.
Read the full story here.
11:23 a.m. U.S. will get extended look at Amy Coney Barrett who will tell senators courts ‘should not try’ to make policy
WASHINGTON — Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett will tell senators that courts “should not try” to make policy, leaving those decisions to the political branches of government, according to opening remarks for her confirmation hearing obtained Sunday by The Associated Press.
The Senate Judiciary Committee hearings, set to begin Monday as the coronavirus pandemic sweeps across the country, are taking place three weeks before Election Day and after millions of Americans already have voted. President Donald Trump nominated the federal appeals court judge soon after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died.
“I have been nominated to fill Justice Ginsburg’s seat, but no one will ever take her place,” Barrett will tell the committee, according to her opening remarks.
Barrett says she has resolved to maintain the same perspective as her mentor, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, who was “devoted to his family, resolute in his beliefs, and fearless of criticism.”
She speaks extensively of her family in the statement, and says she will never let the law define her identity or crowd out the rest of her life. She says a similar principle applies to the courts, which are “not designed to solve every problem or right every wrong in our public life.”
“The policy decisions and value judgments of government must be made by the political branches elected by and accountable to the People,” she says. “The public should not expect courts to do so, and courts should not try.”
Read the full story here.
7:42 a.m. Trump’s doctor says the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s doctor said Saturday the president is no longer at risk of transmitting the coronavirus.
In a memo, Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley says Trump meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for safely discontinuing isolation and that by “currently recognized standards” he is no longer considered a transmission risk.
Read the full story here.
7 a.m. Belmont Snack Shop’s future uncertain after coronavirus, devastating fire
The future of the Belmont Snack Shop is up in the air after a fierce fire engulfed the late-night diner and left behind only charred remnants of the Avondale staple.
Restaurant manager Nelson Rodriguez and his wife, who live in an apartment above the diner near Belmont and Kimball, were cooking dinner Thursday night around 7:50 p.m. when they spotted smoke rising outside their window.
Rodriguez bolted downstairs to try to put out the grease fire, but he was too late.
After evacuating the restaurant, Rodriguez stood beside his wife watching the blaze and smoke destroy the diner that has been in his family for two generations.
Read the full story by Madeline Kenney here.
6 a.m. Illinois’ positivity rate creeps back up to 4% with latest 2,905 coronavirus infections
Illinois’ average coronavirus testing positivity rate rose to 4% for the first time in a month on Saturday as public health officials announced 2,905 more people have contracted the virus statewide.
The Illinois Department of Public Health also reported 31 more deaths were attributed to COVID-19, raising the state’s death toll to 8,975.
Illinois has recorded some of its highest daily case totals of the entire seven-month pandemic over the last week, due mostly to the fact that more people are being tested per day.
The latest cases were confirmed among 66,256 tests, while on average more than 55,000 tests have been administered daily statewide over the last month — almost triple the testing rate during the worst days of the pandemic in May.
Read the full story here.
New cases
Downstate Rep. Mike Bost, an Illinois Trump campaign chair, tests positive for COVID-19
Public health officials reported 3,059 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 across Illinois on Thursday, the state’s biggest caseload since the initial peak of the pandemic nearly five months ago.
The state last topped 3,000 daily coronavirus cases on May 14, when 3,239 people were infected.
The Illinois Department for Public Health reported more than 5,300 cases on Sept. 4, but that bloated figure was the result of a three-day data processing backlog.
Analysis & Commentary
7:26 a.m. Take it from the best of American medicine: Donald Trump must go
It is rare for scientists at the highest levels to take an overt stand on the politics of the day, knowing their professional credibility depends on remaining above the fray.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, most famously, is a case in point. Fauci, the federal government’s top immunologist, has given his best expert advice on the COVID-19 pandemic while resisting the temptation — and he must feel tempted — to call out the failures of the Trump administration’s handling of the crisis.
When an authority of such stature does take a political stand, then, it carries all the more weight. We all should listen closely.
Read the full editorial here.