chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--Chicago on pace for next reopening phase July 1 (LIVE UPDATES)

Chicago on pace for next reopening phase July 1 : ‘ If people can hang in there ’ Chicago ’ s top health official expects the city to advance to the next phase of reopening from the coronavirus shutdown on July 1 .
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said Friday it ’ s not out of the question Chicago could keep pace with the rest of the state in moving to Phase 4 as early as June 26 — but that it could take even longer if pandemic conditions deteriorate .
“ The real question will be of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Arwady said at a news conference announcing a new city coronavirus data portal .
The next reopening phase allows for gatherings of up to 50 people and lets museums , gyms , restaurants and additional businesses and institutions resume indoor operations at limited capacities .
But city and state officials are waiting to see the potential impact on the spread of the virus following limited Phase 3 reopenings of restaurants and businesses , as well as days of large protests following the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people that there are risks , and so the fact that protesters broadly in Chicago have been wearing face coverings — I ’ ve been pleased to see that , ” Arwady said , urging protesters to keep 6 feet of social distance and self-quarantine for two weeks .
Read the full report from Mitchell Armentrout here .
Oprah Winfrey is the commencement speaker for Sunday ’ s Chicago Public Schools ’ citywide high school graduation , with Chicago native and “ Hamilton ” star Miguel Cervantes emceeing the 1 p.m. virtual ceremony @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus restrictions .
The “ Graduation 2020 ” ceremony will be hosted by Mayor Lori Lightfoot and also feature rapper and Chicago native Common .
Others set to make appearances during the hourlong program , according to the mayor ’ s office , include : Kris Bryant , Jason Heyward and Kyle Schwarber from the Cubs ; Tim Anderson from the White Sox ; the Bears ’ Charles Leno ; Blackhawks star Patrick Kane ; the Sky ’ s Diamond Deshields and Cheyenne Parker ; the Bulls ’ Daniell Gafford ; and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; with “ after-party ” appearances by DJ Khaled , Ellie King , X Ambassadors , “ Jagged Little Pill ” musicians , The Second City , Thomas Rhett , Andy Grammer and , Louis the Child .
Beside coverage on multiple TV and radio stations , it will be streamed live on the city ’ s website and the mayor ’ s social media channels .
CPS students have been remote-learning since Gov .
J.B. Pritzker closed schools statewide in March to try to limit the spread of COVID-19 .
3:50 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off for pedestrians in Lake View Sarah Kraus was supposed to be on vacation in Italy now , with her buddy , Chelsea Stoyanoff .
Instead , the 30-somethings from Lake View found themselves sipping beers outside Dry Hop Brewers on Broadway on a blustery Friday .
“ If I can ’ t be in Rome drinking wine and eating pizza , I guess being on a street drinking some beers in Chicago is as good a second best as you can get , ” said Kraus , 31 .
There were very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flocked to a stretch of Broadway between Belmont and Diversey avenues closed off for pedestrians as part of the city ’ s cautious reopening .
Tables were all widely spaced apart and signs were posted every few feet , reminding patrons to wear masks .
“ It feels so great today .
You can see the energy on the street , ” said Martin Cournane , co-owner of Wilde Bar & Restaurant .
“ The weather is beautiful .
There ’ s a lot of hope from this .
I ’ m really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) for choosing us as one of the streets for this pilot program.
” A Cook County judge Friday denied granting bail to a former Northwestern University microbiologist accused of murder .
Wyndham Lathem , who is charged with murdering his boyfriend in 2017 , wanted to be released from Cook County Jail so he could assist in the battle against the coronavirus .
Prosecutors argued strenuously against granting Lathem release , saying he was adept at hiding his “ digital footprints , ” had previously evaded capture while on the run and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the murder to his mother .
Judge Charles Burns denied Lathem ’ s request to be released on $ 1 million bail once before in April .
When denying Lathem ’ s request again Friday , Burns said allowing Lathem to leave jail and having access to the internet would unleash a “ plethora of problems.
” The judge also seemed skeptical that Lathem , a renowned infectious disease expert , could be of much help in battling the coronavirus , particularly with the significant restrictions Lathem ’ s attorneys had offered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Lathem alone is not going to get us out of this situation , ” Burns said of the coronavirus pandemic and any help Lathem could offer .
Lathem ’ s attorneys , this time , were hoping their client could be released $ 1.5 million bail .
Read the full report from Matthew Hendrickson here .
The city of Chicago launched a virtual memorial Friday as part of its its coronavirus communication portal and is inviting residents who have lost loved ones to the disease to share their stories .
A form @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the name of someone lost to COVID-19 , a photo of them , and asks “ How did he/she/they bring joy to your life or the lives of others ?
” Submissions will be displayed on the website to serve as a virtual public memorial .
“ In light of the current situation , the way we mourn and celebrate one ’ s life needs to be reimagined , ” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a city release announcing the project .
“ The Virtual Memorial is just one way to help Chicagoans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved one to COVID-19 , but also to celebrate their lives and memories.
” Scientists at the University of Chicago are exploring a new saliva-based test for COVID-19 that could be an effective and less intrusive alternative to the standard nasal swab testing , while also providing new information about the virus and the course of the disease .
Researchers have set up a booth at UChicago Medicine ’ s curbside testing center , where they ’ re asking volunteers to spit in a tube after undergoing a second nasal swab .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found the results to match up with the hospital ’ s results , the university said .
“ The beauty of it is that it ’ s less invasive , and you could allow people to collect their own samples ; everyone knows how to spit , ” assistant professor and UChicago Medicine geneticist Evgeny Izumchenko said in a statement .
The saliva-test system could also eliminate inconclusive test results for patients who test negative but still show symptoms , the university said .
Researchers believe by using a digital system that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are lower amounts of the virus in the sample .
It could also provide a more accurate identification of asymptomatic cases , the university said .
“ It could provide clinicians with a quantitative measure of how much virus is present , beyond a simple yes or no , ” said professor Nishant Agrawal , a UChicago surgeon-scientist and an investigator on the study who has been working on digital PCR and saliva for over a decade .
“ The amount of virus detected among these symptomatic patients varies by up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UChicago pathologist Jeremy Segal said in a statement .
“ There ’ s so much we don ’ t know about that , in terms of its relationship to what part of the infection cycle the patient is in , as well as how it might be affected by different sampling methods .
But the extreme range and variability present a substantial challenge from a diagnostics standpoint.
” Though coronavirus case numbers have slowed in recent weeks , the university said the team will continue to research automated methods to conduct digital tests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests faster , and with a larger group of people at a time , if the U.S. sees a future spike in cases .
12:18 p.m .
The new coronavirus normal : An inside look at Chicago Christian athletes ’ Stage 1 workout No high fives .
No spotters in the weight room .
No crowding around the water fountain .
Will the new normal for prep football workouts take some getting used to ?
“ It ’ s gon na take a lot of getting used to , ” Chicago Christian junior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strength and conditioning work on Monday .
“ But you know , we ’ ll adapt , do what we have to do just to get back as a team and get back in shape.
” On June 5 , the Illinois High School Association released long-awaited guidance on how high school sports could resume team activities after being idled since mid-March by the coronavirus pandemic .
Under Phase 3 of Illinois ’ reopening plan , prep teams are allowed to do strength and conditioning with the now-familiar limitations : small groups , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While some programs were still working this week on plans that would meet school district and local guidelines , the Knights were ready to get out of the gate fast .
Read the full article from Mike Clark here .
10:57 a.m .
Downtown Riverwalk now open — but with strict guidelines Starting Friday , the Riverwalk will be open to the public from 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. , according to the city .
Visitors must wear a face mask and maintain social distance from others , and bars and restaurants must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart .
For now , the Riverwalk will only be accessible via Lake Street and through ramps between Franklin and Lake streets and State and Columbus streets .
To limit crowding , the city has established designated hours for certain activities .
From 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. , the Riverwalk will be open for running , walking and biking between Lake Shore Drive and Lake Street .
At 10 a.m. , it will close for cleaning .
Then , from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. , the Riverwalk ’ s bars and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Those businesses won ’ t all reopen at once , but will instead be phased in during the next few weeks .
During this block of time , the city said there will also be several “ passive recreation areas ” for outdoor use .
Read the full story here , and see a list of restaurants that are open .
9:41 a.m. How do you plan to spend your ( coronavirus ) summer vacation ?
We asked , you answered Summer ’ s just about here , and , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked Chicagoans what they plan to do for their summer vacations this year .
Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity .
“ Staying in Chicago , supporting as many local businesses we can .
If COVID-19 continues to decline , I may think about a driving trip within 250-300 miles in September or October.
” — Robert Smolen “ All of my daughter ’ s travel softball games in Missouri and Indiana.
” — Jim Cooper “ As much as I LOVE to travel , it won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ann Fields “ Same as the last three months : staying in the house , rewatching the same thing on Netflix over and over.
” — Kristin Annicks 8:05 a.m. McCormick Place , Park District fieldhouses could be alternative sites for CPS classes , alderman says The chairman of the City Council ’ s Education Committee on Thursday said McCormick Place , Navy Pier , Park District fieldhouses and public libraries could be used as alternative sites to safely reopen Chicago Public Schools this fall .
Mayor Lori Lightfoot is determined to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall but do it safely , perhaps by using staggered schedules to maintain social distance and limit the number of students in classrooms at any given time .
She has promised to be creative in crafting plans in concert with neighborhood leaders , perhaps by using community centers as alternate learning sites .
Now , Lightfoot ’ s hand-picked Education Committee chairman is being really creative — by suggesting the massive McCormick Place complex .
McCormick Place can ’ t host conventions until there ’ s a vaccine for the coronavirus , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” or the elimination of any new cases over a sustained period .
Read the full story from City Hall reporter Fran Spielman here .
7:07 a.m. MacArthur Foundation , 4 other groups pledge $ 1.7 billion to support nonprofits battered by the coronavirus Five philanthropic organizations , including the Chicago-based John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation , say they plan to donate $ 1.7 billion over the next three years to help nonprofit organizations around the globe that have been crippled by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic .
In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 % of the private workforce , and in a recent survey , 73 % of those organizations said they expect to see a 20 % drop in revenue in the coming year , according to the MacArthur Foundation .
“ At this moment of massive disruption , we see opportunity , ” MacArthur Foundation President John Palfrey said in a statement .
“ The pandemic is wreaking tragedy across the world and , in particular , in African American communities .
In the face of an extraordinary social and economic crisis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities require a transformation .
Our response to the pandemic will focus on supporting the reinvention of systems that create a more just , equitable , and resilient world.
” The money is expected to fund efforts that would tackle topics such as racial equity , social justice and climate change .
• Health officials on Thursday announced 91 more people have died in Illinois of COVID-19 , as another 766 tested positive for the coronavirus .
• “ Days of Our Lives ” star Judi Evans has been diagnosed with COVID-19 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related blood clots , her publicist says .
• Another employee at the Cook County Circuit Court clerk ’ s office has tested positive for COVID-19 , bringing the overall total to 25 , and three workers have received positive antibody test results .
• Two more detainees and an employee at Cook County Juvenile detention center tested positive for COVID-19 .
• Federal health authorities have received reports of nearly 26,000 nursing home residents dying from COVID-19 across the country .
8:17 a.m .
The NFL can guard against COVID-19 all it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackle each other The NFL really has this pandemic thing figured out , doesn ’ t it ?
The latest science-driven protocols will be in place when players return to team facilities in the coming weeks .
Testing for COVID-19 will be a regular occurrence .
Proper social distancing will be observed .
Masks will be mandatory at team meetings .
Locker rooms will be cleansed and disinfected so often you might mistake them for operating rooms .
We expect that from a league that prides itself on military-like precision .
But there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tugging at the sleeve : Eventually , the players are going to have to touch each other .
Touching is sort of a necessity when it comes to huddling and blocking and — this is a biggie — hitting , which is the whole point of football .
Touching goes against the concept of keeping 6 feet away from the person closest to you .
Tackling sneers at social distancing and , further , would blow it up like a defenseless receiver if it could .
And what ’ s gang tackling but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learned about keeping the coronavirus at bay ?
A football game is a buffet table of germs .
This virus will be on the menu .
There are too many people involved in the NFL for it not to be .
Read the full commentary from sports columnist Rick Morrissey here .

Chicago and the state continued trending in the right direction as it emerges from the coronavirus pandemic. The state confirmed 595 new cases of COVID-19, which is the lowest total for new cases since March 30. Health officials say the city remains on pace to move on to the next phase in July.
The Chicago Riverwalk opened up and restaurants began set up their outdoor seating in the cordoned off sections that are closed for vehicles.
Here’s what we learned today in the fight against coronavirus in Chicago and around the state.
News
9 p.m. Chicago on pace for next reopening phase July 1: ‘If people can hang in there’
Chicago police blocked access to the Lake Shore Drive pedestrian bridge leading to the Lakefront Trail at North Avenue Beach in March after the city closed the area to pedestrians amid fears of the coronavirus pandemic. Ashlee Rezin Garcia/Sun-Times
Chicago’s top health official expects the city to advance to the next phase of reopening from the coronavirus shutdown on July 1.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said Friday it’s not out of the question Chicago could keep pace with the rest of the state in moving to Phase 4 as early as June 26 — but that it could take even longer if pandemic conditions deteriorate.
“The real question will be of course what happens over the next few weeks,” Arwady said at a news conference announcing a new city coronavirus data portal.
The next reopening phase allows for gatherings of up to 50 people and lets museums, gyms, restaurants and additional businesses and institutions resume indoor operations at limited capacities.
But city and state officials are waiting to see the potential impact on the spread of the virus following limited Phase 3 reopenings of restaurants and businesses, as well as days of large protests following the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd.
“I think the protests have served to remind people that there are risks, and so the fact that protesters broadly in Chicago have been wearing face coverings — I’ve been pleased to see that,” Arwady said, urging protesters to keep 6 feet of social distance and self-quarantine for two weeks.
Read the full report from Mitchell Armentrout here.
7:45 p.m. Hold the deep fried candy bars — Illinois State Fair nixed over COVID-19 concerns
SPRINGFIELD — For the first time since World War II, Illinoisans will not be able to look forward to a summer filled with corn dogs, lemon shake-ups, the Butter Cow – or politicians trying to look at ease in their summer togs and wingtips at the state fair.
After suggesting the possibility weeks ago, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Friday he was pulling the plug on the Illinois State Fair in Springfield and the DuQuoin State Fair in deep southern Illinois, making them the latest events canceled because of public safety concerns over the coronavirus.
The decision drew the ire of some downstate Republicans.
It’s the first time the fair in Springfield has been canceled since 1945, the final year of a four-year hiatus during the second World War.
Read the full story by Neil Earley here.
5:05 p.m. Sunday’s CPS virtual high school graduation features Oprah, Miguel Cervantes, Common, more
Oprah Winfrey is the commencement speaker for Sunday’s Chicago Public Schools’ citywide high school graduation, with Chicago native and “Hamilton” star Miguel Cervantes emceeing the 1 p.m. virtual ceremony that’s being held online because of coronavirus restrictions.
The “Graduation 2020” ceremony will be hosted by Mayor Lori Lightfoot and also feature rapper and Chicago native Common.
Others set to make appearances during the hourlong program, according to the mayor’s office, include: Kris Bryant, Jason Heyward and Kyle Schwarber from the Cubs; Tim Anderson from the White Sox; the Bears’ Charles Leno; Blackhawks star Patrick Kane; the Sky’s Diamond Deshields and Cheyenne Parker; the Bulls’ Daniell Gafford; and “The Voice” finalist Katie Kadan; with “after-party” appearances by DJ Khaled, Ellie King, X Ambassadors, “Jagged Little Pill” musicians, The Second City, Thomas Rhett, Andy Grammer and, Louis the Child.
Beside coverage on multiple TV and radio stations, it will be streamed live on the city’s website and the mayor’s social media channels.
CPS students have been remote-learning since Gov. J.B. Pritzker closed schools statewide in March to try to limit the spread of COVID-19.
— Satchel Price
3:50 p.m. Chicagoans flock to stretch of Broadway closed off for pedestrians in Lake View
A stretch of Broadway between Belmont and Diversey avenues is closed off for pedestrians as part of the city’s cautious reopening. Anthony Vazquez/For the Sun-Times
Sarah Kraus was supposed to be on vacation in Italy now, with her buddy, Chelsea Stoyanoff.
Instead, the 30-somethings from Lake View found themselves sipping beers outside Dry Hop Brewers on Broadway on a blustery Friday.
“If I can’t be in Rome drinking wine and eating pizza, I guess being on a street drinking some beers in Chicago is as good a second best as you can get,” said Kraus, 31.
There were very few complaints, as long cooped-up Chicagoans flocked to a stretch of Broadway between Belmont and Diversey avenues closed off for pedestrians as part of the city’s cautious reopening.
Tables were all widely spaced apart and signs were posted every few feet, reminding patrons to wear masks.
“It feels so great today. You can see the energy on the street,” said Martin Cournane, co-owner of Wilde Bar & Restaurant. “The weather is beautiful. There’s a lot of hope from this. I’m really grateful to the mayor (Lori Lightfoot) for choosing us as one of the streets for this pilot program.”
— Stefano Esposito
3:15 p.m. NU professor accused of murder denied bail again
A Cook County judge Friday denied granting bail to a former Northwestern University microbiologist accused of murder.
Wyndham Lathem, who is charged with murdering his boyfriend in 2017, wanted to be released from Cook County Jail so he could assist in the battle against the coronavirus.
Prosecutors argued strenuously against granting Lathem release, saying he was adept at hiding his “digital footprints,” had previously evaded capture while on the run and had made a video-recording confessing his role in the murder to his mother.
Judge Charles Burns denied Lathem’s request to be released on $1 million bail once before in April.
When denying Lathem’s request again Friday, Burns said allowing Lathem to leave jail and having access to the internet would unleash a “plethora of problems.”
The judge also seemed skeptical that Lathem, a renowned infectious disease expert, could be of much help in battling the coronavirus, particularly with the significant restrictions Lathem’s attorneys had offered to impose upon him.
“Dr. Lathem alone is not going to get us out of this situation,” Burns said of the coronavirus pandemic and any help Lathem could offer.
Lathem’s attorneys, this time, were hoping their client could be released $1.5 million bail.
Read the full report from Matthew Hendrickson here.
2:36 p.m. City launches virtual ‘memorial wall’ for Chicagoans lost to coronavirus
Ashlee Rezin Garcia/Sun-Times
The city of Chicago launched a virtual memorial Friday as part of its its coronavirus communication portal and is inviting residents who have lost loved ones to the disease to share their stories.
A form on the website invites users to submit the name of someone lost to COVID-19, a photo of them, and asks “How did he/she/they bring joy to your life or the lives of others?”
Submissions will be displayed on the website to serve as a virtual public memorial.
“In light of the current situation, the way we mourn and celebrate one’s life needs to be reimagined,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a city release announcing the project. “The Virtual Memorial is just one way to help Chicagoans cope with the sudden loss of their loved one to COVID-19, but also to celebrate their lives and memories.”
— Lizzie Schiffman Tufano
1:56 p.m. UChicago explore digital saliva testing for COVID-19
Scientists at the University of Chicago are exploring a new saliva-based test for COVID-19 that could be an effective and less intrusive alternative to the standard nasal swab testing, while also providing new information about the virus and the course of the disease.
Researchers have set up a booth at UChicago Medicine’s curbside testing center, where they’re asking volunteers to spit in a tube after undergoing a second nasal swab. In comparing the two methods, researchers have found the results to match up with the hospital’s results, the university said.
“The beauty of it is that it’s less invasive, and you could allow people to collect their own samples; everyone knows how to spit,” assistant professor and UChicago Medicine geneticist Evgeny Izumchenko said in a statement.
The saliva-test system could also eliminate inconclusive test results for patients who test negative but still show symptoms, the university said. Researchers believe by using a digital system that they could get a positive reading even if there are lower amounts of the virus in the sample. It could also provide a more accurate identification of asymptomatic cases, the university said.
“It could provide clinicians with a quantitative measure of how much virus is present, beyond a simple yes or no,” said professor Nishant Agrawal, a UChicago surgeon-scientist and an investigator on the study who has been working on digital PCR and saliva for over a decade.
“The amount of virus detected among these symptomatic patients varies by up to a million-fold,” associate professor and UChicago pathologist Jeremy Segal said in a statement. “There’s so much we don’t know about that, in terms of its relationship to what part of the infection cycle the patient is in, as well as how it might be affected by different sampling methods. But the extreme range and variability present a substantial challenge from a diagnostics standpoint.”
Though coronavirus case numbers have slowed in recent weeks, the university said the team will continue to research automated methods to conduct digital tests, which will be able to conduct tests faster, and with a larger group of people at a time, if the U.S. sees a future spike in cases.
— Madeline Kenney
12:18 p.m. The new coronavirus normal: An inside look at Chicago Christian athletes’ Stage 1 workout
No high fives. No spotters in the weight room. No crowding around the water fountain.
Will the new normal for prep football workouts take some getting used to?
“It’s gonna take a lot of getting used to,” Chicago Christian junior Tony Barclay said when the Knights resumed strength and conditioning work on Monday. “But you know, we’ll adapt, do what we have to do just to get back as a team and get back in shape.”
On June 5, the Illinois High School Association released long-awaited guidance on how high school sports could resume team activities after being idled since mid-March by the coronavirus pandemic.
Under Phase 3 of Illinois’ reopening plan, prep teams are allowed to do strength and conditioning with the now-familiar limitations: small groups, social distancing, masks where possible.
While some programs were still working this week on plans that would meet school district and local guidelines, the Knights were ready to get out of the gate fast.
Read the full article from Mike Clark here.
10:57 a.m. Downtown Riverwalk now open — but with strict guidelines
Starting Friday, the Riverwalk will be open to the public from 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., according to the city. Visitors must wear a face mask and maintain social distance from others, and bars and restaurants must space out tables at least six feet apart.
For now, the Riverwalk will only be accessible via Lake Street and through ramps between Franklin and Lake streets and State and Columbus streets.
To limit crowding, the city has established designated hours for certain activities. From 5 a.m. to 10 a.m., the Riverwalk will be open for running, walking and biking between Lake Shore Drive and Lake Street. At 10 a.m., it will close for cleaning.
Then, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the Riverwalk’s bars and restaurants will be open by reservation only. Those businesses won’t all reopen at once, but will instead be phased in during the next few weeks. During this block of time, the city said there will also be several “passive recreation areas” for outdoor use.
Read the full story here, and see a list of restaurants that are open.
9:41 a.m. How do you plan to spend your (coronavirus) summer vacation? We asked, you answered
Summer’s just about here, and, with the coronavirus pandemic still gripping Illinois, we asked Chicagoans what they plan to do for their summer vacations this year. Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.
“Staying in Chicago, supporting as many local businesses we can. If COVID-19 continues to decline, I may think about a driving trip within 250-300 miles in September or October.” — Robert Smolen
“All of my daughter’s travel softball games in Missouri and Indiana.” — Jim Cooper
“As much as I LOVE to travel, it won’t be happening this summer.” — Jo Ann Fields
“Same as the last three months: staying in the house, rewatching the same thing on Netflix over and over.” — Kristin Annicks
Read the full story here.
8:05 a.m. McCormick Place, Park District fieldhouses could be alternative sites for CPS classes, alderman says
The chairman of the City Council’s Education Committee on Thursday said McCormick Place, Navy Pier, Park District fieldhouses and public libraries could be used as alternative sites to safely reopen Chicago Public Schools this fall.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot is determined to reopen the Chicago Public Schools on time this fall but do it safely, perhaps by using staggered schedules to maintain social distance and limit the number of students in classrooms at any given time.
She has promised to be creative in crafting plans in concert with neighborhood leaders, perhaps by using community centers as alternate learning sites.
Now, Lightfoot’s hand-picked Education Committee chairman is being really creative — by suggesting the massive McCormick Place complex.
McCormick Place can’t host conventions until there’s a vaccine for the coronavirus, or a “highly effective treatment widely available” or the elimination of any new cases over a sustained period.
Read the full story from City Hall reporter Fran Spielman here.
7:07 a.m. MacArthur Foundation, 4 other groups pledge $1.7 billion to support nonprofits battered by the coronavirus
Five philanthropic organizations, including the Chicago-based John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, say they plan to donate $1.7 billion over the next three years to help nonprofit organizations around the globe that have been crippled by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
In the United States alone, nonprofits employ about 10% of the private workforce, and in a recent survey, 73% of those organizations said they expect to see a 20% drop in revenue in the coming year, according to the MacArthur Foundation.
“At this moment of massive disruption, we see opportunity,” MacArthur Foundation President John Palfrey said in a statement. “The pandemic is wreaking tragedy across the world and, in particular, in African American communities. In the face of an extraordinary social and economic crisis, our city, country, and global communities require a transformation. Our response to the pandemic will focus on supporting the reinvention of systems that create a more just, equitable, and resilient world.”
The money is expected to fund efforts that would tackle topics such as racial equity, social justice and climate change.
Read the full story from Stefano Esposito.
New cases
Analysis & Commentary
8:17 a.m. The NFL can guard against COVID-19 all it wants, but players still have to tackle each other
The NFL really has this pandemic thing figured out, doesn’t it?
The latest science-driven protocols will be in place when players return to team facilities in the coming weeks. Testing for COVID-19 will be a regular occurrence. Proper social distancing will be observed. Masks will be mandatory at team meetings. Locker rooms will be cleansed and disinfected so often you might mistake them for operating rooms.
We expect that from a league that prides itself on military-like precision.
But there’s one little thing that keeps tugging at the sleeve: Eventually, the players are going to have to touch each other. Touching is sort of a necessity when it comes to huddling and blocking and — this is a biggie — hitting, which is the whole point of football.
Touching goes against the concept of keeping 6 feet away from the person closest to you. Tackling sneers at social distancing and, further, would blow it up like a defenseless receiver if it could. And what’s gang tackling but a renunciation of everything we’ve learned about keeping the coronavirus at bay?
A football game is a buffet table of germs. This virus will be on the menu. There are too many people involved in the NFL for it not to be.
Read the full commentary from sports columnist Rick Morrissey here.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--After Little Village demolition debacle, alderman wants option to revoke tax breaks

Following the botched demolition of an old power plant that left Little Village coated in dust Easter weekend , a Chicago alderman wants the city to have the power to rescind a tax break for developers who put residents ’ health and safety at risk .
At a City Council committee hearing Friday , Ald .
Mike Rodriguez , whose 22nd Ward includes Little Village , presented a resolution to begin a process allowing Chicago to revoke potentially millions of dollars in tax breaks for projects in which developers “ betray the public trust by engaging in egregious violations of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , safety and welfare of the surrounding community and the city as a whole.
” After the hearing , Rodriguez said he sponsored the resolution because of residents ’ concerns following the dust cloud .
He plans to introduce an ordinance to set up a process for rescinding the tax breaks , which are granted by Cook County .
The city can ask county commissioners to revoke tax credits but Chicago first must pass its own ordinance that sets up such a process .
Rodriguez said his resolution is aimed at Hilco Redevelopment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million in tax breaks for the Crawford project over 12 years .
The power plant is being demolished to make way for a warehouse distribution center for Target .
The city fined Hilco $ 68,000 for pollution violations stemming from the April demolition debacle .
“ We ’ re starting this process to hold them accountable , ” Rodriguez said .
He called the developer a “ bad actor ” and added that “ we ’ re trying to restore justice to the Little Village community.
” The tax break in question is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incentive , given to real estate developers who revitalize blighted areas and create jobs .
Last year , almost 1,700 real estate parcels in Cook County received reduced property assessments under the program , a spokesman for the county assessor ’ s office said .
In a statement , Hilco said the tax incentive “ benefits local residents and is used to encourage developers to take on complex projects that would otherwise remain obsolete and often contaminated.
” Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya said she began researching the tax breaks about a year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t living up to their commitments .
She was also concerned the county board had little oversight .
“ Developers should be held accountable , ” Anaya said .
These incentives “ should not be used to harm communities , to violate their trust , to violate their right to breathe.
” Both Anaya and U.S. Rep. Jesus “ Chuy ” Garcia provided letters supporting Rodriguez ’ s resolution , which was not voted on during the hearing of the council ’ s Committee on Economic , Capital and Technology Development .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Little Village demolition , saying Hilco ’ s “ carelessness , lack of transparency and failure to communicate with residents leading up to the implosions was unquestionably unacceptable.
” “ Our neighborhoods have tolerated a high concentration of industrial businesses that has compromised the air quality and consequently the health of community members , ” Garcia said in his letter .
Brett Chase ’ s reporting on the environment and public health is made possible by a grant from The Chicago Community Trust .

Following the botched demolition of an old power plant that left Little Village coated in dust Easter weekend, a Chicago alderman wants the city to have the power to rescind a tax break for developers who put residents’ health and safety at risk.
At a City Council committee hearing Friday, Ald. Mike Rodriguez, whose 22nd Ward includes Little Village, presented a resolution to begin a process allowing Chicago to revoke potentially millions of dollars in tax breaks for projects in which developers “betray the public trust by engaging in egregious violations of law or acts that jeopardize the health, safety and welfare of the surrounding community and the city as a whole.”
After the hearing, Rodriguez said he sponsored the resolution because of residents’ concerns following the dust cloud. He plans to introduce an ordinance to set up a process for rescinding the tax breaks, which are granted by Cook County. The city can ask county commissioners to revoke tax credits but Chicago first must pass its own ordinance that sets up such a process.
Rodriguez said his resolution is aimed at Hilco Redevelopment Partners, which can receive $19.7 million in tax breaks for the Crawford project over 12 years. The power plant is being demolished to make way for a warehouse distribution center for Target. The city fined Hilco $68,000 for pollution violations stemming from the April demolition debacle.
“We’re starting this process to hold them accountable,” Rodriguez said. He called the developer a “bad actor” and added that “we’re trying to restore justice to the Little Village community.”
The tax break in question is officially a Class 6(b) incentive, given to real estate developers who revitalize blighted areas and create jobs. Last year, almost 1,700 real estate parcels in Cook County received reduced property assessments under the program, a spokesman for the county assessor’s office said.
In a statement, Hilco said the tax incentive “benefits local residents and is used to encourage developers to take on complex projects that would otherwise remain obsolete and often contaminated.”
Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya said she began researching the tax breaks about a year ago after becoming concerned that developers weren’t living up to their commitments. She was also concerned the county board had little oversight.
La Voz Sidebar 2023 Lea este artículo en español en La Voz Chicago.
“Developers should be held accountable,” Anaya said. These incentives “should not be used to harm communities, to violate their trust, to violate their right to breathe.”
Both Anaya and U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia provided letters supporting Rodriguez’s resolution, which was not voted on during the hearing of the council’s Committee on Economic, Capital and Technology Development.
In her letter, Anaya referenced the Little Village demolition, saying Hilco’s “carelessness, lack of transparency and failure to communicate with residents leading up to the implosions was unquestionably unacceptable.”
“Our neighborhoods have tolerated a high concentration of industrial businesses that has compromised the air quality and consequently the health of community members,” Garcia said in his letter.
Brett Chase’s reporting on the environment and public health is made possible by a grant from The Chicago Community Trust.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--Man charged with murder in Old Town shooting

A man is accused of fatally shooting a man Wednesday in Old Town on the North Side .
Rotonio Esco @ @ @ @ @ with one count of first-degree murder in the death of Courtney Horton , Chicago police @ @ @ @ @ , was found with multiple gunshot wounds about 2:10 a.m. in the hallway of a @ @ @ @ @ of North Hudson Avenue , Chicago police said .
He was taken to Northwestern Memorial @ @ @ @ @ , officials said .
Officers saw Esco running from the scene and chased him onto @ @ @ @ @ in the 1400 block of North Cleveland Avenue , police said .
He was taken @ @ @ @ @ officers allegedly found a gun .

A man is accused of fatally shooting his friend over a money dispute Wednesday in Old Town on the North Side.
Rotonio Esco, 28, was charged with one count of first-degree murder in the death of Courtney Horton, Chicago police said.
Horton, 41, was found with multiple gunshot wounds about 2:10 a.m. in the hallway of a building in the 1300 block of North Hudson Avenue, Chicago police said.
Courtney and Esco were friends, and the pair were seen leaving leaving the main security building of the Marshall Fried Green Apartments complex just before 2 a.m., according to a bond proffer prepared by Cook County prosecutors.
About 10 minutes later, they came back to the complex and Esco is allowed to enter because he lives in the building, prosecutors said. Security guards overheard Horton tell Esco that Esco owed him money.
A few minutes later, the security guards responded to shots fired in the building and found Horton with multiple gunshot wounds in the hallway after following a blood trail, prosecutors said.
Horton was shot in the thigh, abdomen, chest, wrist and bicep, prosecutors said. He was pronounced dead at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
When officers arrived they saw Esco walking briskly through a courtyard towards the exit of the apartment complex, prosecutors said. He had blood stains on his gray sweatpants.
Esco ran off and dropped his cell phone, ID, and ditched a gun as he fled, prosecutors said. He jumped a locked Iron fence around the complex and onto Cleveland Avenue.
While officers were searching for Esco, they heard glass break and saw a broken sliding glass door at a nearby apartment, prosecutors said. The officers went inside and a resident pointed them towards the 3rd floor.
Esco had broken into the apartment, gone to the roof and walked to a building next door via a walkway, prosecutors said. He opened an unlocked door and walked into the bedroom of a woman who was asleep inside. He left the bedroom and went back onto the roof where he was taken into custody.
A 9mm cartridge fell from Esco as he was being led to a squad car, and officers recovered $1,200 soaked in blood near his waistband, prosecutors said.
Esco was ordered held without bail at a hearing Friday and was due in court again July 1.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--Joe Biden’s vice presidential list narrows to six, includes Warren, Harris, Susan Rice

WASHINGTON — Joe Biden ’ s search for a running mate is entering a second round of vetting for a dwindling list of potential vice presidential nominees , with several black women in strong contention .
Democrats with knowledge of the process said Biden ’ s search committee has narrowed the choices to as few as six serious contenders after initial interviews .
Among the group still in contention : Sens .
Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Kamala Harris of California , as well as Susan Rice , who served as President Barack Obama ’ s national security adviser .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ contenders and said the process remains somewhat fluid .
Additional candidates may still be asked to submit to the extensive document review process now underway for some top contenders .
Those familiar with Biden ’ s search spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the process .
The campaign dismissed the idea of a shortened list as early speculation .
“ Those who talk don ’ t know and those who know don ’ t talk , ” said Andrew Bates , a Biden spokesman .
Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pick a woman as his running mate , is facing increased calls from Democrats to put a woman of color on the ticket — both because of the outsize role that black voters played in Biden ’ s road to the nomination and because of the reckoning over racism and inequality roiling the nation following the death of George Floyd .
The black Minneapolis man died after a white police officer pressed his knee on his neck for several minutes , an episode that was captured on video .
Terry McAuliffe , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee chairman , said that while Biden ’ s choice was likely to be “ all about personal chemistry , ” it would be “ exciting for the party ” to have a black woman on a major party presidential ticket for the first time .
The campaign ’ s list includes several black women , including Harris and Rice .
Advisers have also looked closely at Florida Rep. Val Demings and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms , both of whom are black , and New Mexico Gov .
Michelle Lujan Grisham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committee had conversations with a larger group of women earlier this spring ; those continuing on in the process have been asked to turn over financial records , past writings and other documentation .
Biden has had various public and private interactions with many of the women his vetting committee has considered thus far , but has not yet had any formal one-on-one interviews expressly to discuss the No .
2 spot on the ticket .
Those aren ’ t expected for several weeks .
Rice , who worked closely with Biden during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emerged as a favorite among some former Obama administration officials and is personally close to the former president .
She has never held elected office but has extensive foreign policy experience , including as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations .
She ’ s also been an outspoken critic of the Trump administration since leaving the White House and considered running for U.S. Senate in Maine .
Rice has long been a target of Republicans , including for statements she made after the deadly 2012 attacks on Americans in Benghazi , Libya .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Michael Flynn , Trump ’ s first national security adviser , though records declassified by the Trump administration show no evidence of Rice improperly accessing any information .
Harris and Warren have been seen as top contenders for the No .
2 spot since ending their own presidential campaigns .
Warren and Biden have forged a surprising bond in recent months and talk regularly about the progressive policy ideas the Massachusetts senator put at the forefront of her campaign .
Biden already has adopted her proposed bankruptcy law overhaul .
And now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic slowdown elevating the nuts-and-bolts of governing , some Democrats see Warren ’ s policy credentials as an asset to the ticket .
A Biden-Warren pairing would mean both Democrats on the ticket are white and in their 70s .
Biden is 77 , and Warren is 70 .
Harris is the lone black contender who has won statewide office , notable experience given Biden ’ s emphasis on wanting a partner “ ready to be president.
” She and Biden have also demonstrated a comfortable manner with each other in online fundraisers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions of criminal justice , but some black progressives view her background as a prosecutor skeptically .
One contender whose standing does appear to have fallen is Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar , who was a prosecutor years ago in the county that includes Minneapolis .
During that period , more than two dozen people — mostly minorities — died during encounters with police .
While the people with knowledge of Biden ’ s vetting process did not rule Klobuchar out , she is widely viewed among Democrats with close ties to the Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given recent events .

WASHINGTON — Joe Biden’s search for a running mate is entering a second round of vetting for a dwindling list of potential vice presidential nominees, with several black women in strong contention.
Democrats with knowledge of the process said Biden’s search committee has narrowed the choices to as few as six serious contenders after initial interviews. Among the group still in contention: Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Kamala Harris of California, as well as Susan Rice, who served as President Barack Obama’s national security adviser. Those with knowledge declined to name other contenders and said the process remains somewhat fluid. Additional candidates may still be asked to submit to the extensive document review process now underway for some top contenders. Those familiar with Biden’s search spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the process. The campaign dismissed the idea of a shortened list as early speculation. “Those who talk don’t know and those who know don’t talk,” said Andrew Bates, a Biden spokesman.
Biden, who has already said he will pick a woman as his running mate, is facing increased calls from Democrats to put a woman of color on the ticket — both because of the outsize role that black voters played in Biden’s road to the nomination and because of the reckoning over racism and inequality roiling the nation following the death of George Floyd. The black Minneapolis man died after a white police officer pressed his knee on his neck for several minutes, an episode that was captured on video.
Terry McAuliffe, the former Virginia governor and former Democratic National Committee chairman, said that while Biden’s choice was likely to be “all about personal chemistry,” it would be “exciting for the party” to have a black woman on a major party presidential ticket for the first time.
The campaign’s list includes several black women, including Harris and Rice. Advisers have also looked closely at Florida Rep. Val Demings and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, both of whom are black, and New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Latina.
Biden’s vetting committee had conversations with a larger group of women earlier this spring; those continuing on in the process have been asked to turn over financial records, past writings and other documentation. Biden has had various public and private interactions with many of the women his vetting committee has considered thus far, but has not yet had any formal one-on-one interviews expressly to discuss the No. 2 spot on the ticket. Those aren’t expected for several weeks.
Rice, who worked closely with Biden during his time as vice president, has emerged as a favorite among some former Obama administration officials and is personally close to the former president. She has never held elected office but has extensive foreign policy experience, including as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. She’s also been an outspoken critic of the Trump administration since leaving the White House and considered running for U.S. Senate in Maine.
Rice has long been a target of Republicans, including for statements she made after the deadly 2012 attacks on Americans in Benghazi, Libya. Republicans have also accused her of spying on Michael Flynn, Trump’s first national security adviser, though records declassified by the Trump administration show no evidence of Rice improperly accessing any information.
Harris and Warren have been seen as top contenders for the No. 2 spot since ending their own presidential campaigns.
Warren and Biden have forged a surprising bond in recent months and talk regularly about the progressive policy ideas the Massachusetts senator put at the forefront of her campaign. Biden already has adopted her proposed bankruptcy law overhaul. And now, with the coronavirus pandemic and resulting economic slowdown elevating the nuts-and-bolts of governing, some Democrats see Warren’s policy credentials as an asset to the ticket.
A Biden-Warren pairing would mean both Democrats on the ticket are white and in their 70s. Biden is 77, and Warren is 70.
Harris is the lone black contender who has won statewide office, notable experience given Biden’s emphasis on wanting a partner “ready to be president.” She and Biden have also demonstrated a comfortable manner with each other in online fundraisers. Harris is an expert voice in discussions of criminal justice, but some black progressives view her background as a prosecutor skeptically.
One contender whose standing does appear to have fallen is Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who was a prosecutor years ago in the county that includes Minneapolis. During that period, more than two dozen people — mostly minorities — died during encounters with police.
While the people with knowledge of Biden’s vetting process did not rule Klobuchar out, she is widely viewed among Democrats with close ties to the Biden campaign as less likely to be tapped given recent events.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--After George Floyd’s death, an African American mother has ‘The Talk’ with her son

As we debate America ’ s struggle to achieve racial equity , there has been much talk about “ The Talk.
” The Talk , the conversation African American parents have with their children , where they must convey existential advice to keep them safe during encounters with the police .
Joselynne Gardner , an accomplished Chicago lawyer and devoted mother , was not ready for The Talk .
Her son and only child is 12 .
But time had run out .
He said , “ Mom , I ’ m very sad.
” “ Why ?
” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told me the other day , that he was struggling with something in school .
“ I saw the video of the man getting killed by the police , ” her son replied .
The George Floyd video .
Gardner has refused to view it , but you can not keep the kids off social media .
Why are you sad ?
“ We have always been told that police are to protect and serve and they ’ re our friends , and if ever we needed something , look for a police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he replied .
Gardner , 45 , is a former prosecutor .
No matter .
Her family is financially comfortable .
No matter .
Her son is thriving , bright , and active , she beams .
All that does not matter .
It was time .
His parents sat down with the 7th grader and “ told him that he will be treated differently based upon the color of his skin for the rest of his life , ” Gardner said .
“ No matter what we say or do , no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter where you go to school , this is the America we live in.
” How did he respond ?
“ He literally had this blank look on his face like we had just , like , blown up his whole universe.
” She pushed on to explain what all black mothers know in their bones .
What George Floyd ’ s mother knows in the grave .
If you are out with friends and encounter the police , “ you as a black young boy , will not be able to act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ white boys act , ” she told him .
“ You will have to be on your utmost behavior.
” No resistance .
No back talk .
No unexpected moves .
What about the law , he asked ?
What about the civil rights he learned at school ?
He reminded his mother that she works in the legal system , where justice is supposed to serve all .
Sometimes that does not matter .
“ That ’ s a very heavy way to have to steal the innocence from your child , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bears “ the knowledge of fear of violence against him because of the color of the skin.
” After The Talk , he would never view the police , or his world , as the same .
Still , Gardner is relived , she says , that she has begun to equip her son with the “ tools ” to survive in a racist world .
As he grows to manhood , she must live with her own fear — that her child could be the next George Floyd .
“ I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before he ’ s an adult , or when he ’ s an adult , as a black man in America .
That ’ s my ultimate fear , every day .
I wake up with that every day.
” She has no illusions .
“ Life is always going to be unfair .
We are black in America .
That ’ s the reality .
But my son is of the mind that it shouldn ’ t have to be , ” she said .
“ He is demanding that they treat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And I am inspired by that.
” For a school assignment , he created a “ superhero ” who can “ change something you feel is wrong with the world.
” He dubbed his African American superhero “ Silver Owl , ” and armed him with the power to eliminate racial inequality .
Follow Laura S. Washington on Twitter @ MediaDervish .
She is a columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times and a political analyst for ABC 7-Chicago .

As we debate America’s struggle to achieve racial equity, there has been much talk about “The Talk.”
The Talk is the conversation African American parents have with their children, where they must convey existential advice to keep them safe during encounters with the police.
Joselynne Gardner, an accomplished Chicago lawyer and devoted mother, was not ready for The Talk. Her son and only child is 12. But time had run out.
He said, “Mom, I’m very sad.”
“Why?” she asked him. She assumed, she told me the other day, that he was struggling with something in school.
“I saw the video of the man getting killed by the police,” her son replied.
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
The George Floyd video. Gardner has refused to view it, but you cannot keep the kids off social media.
Why are you sad?
“We have always been told that police are to protect and serve, and they’re our friends, and if ever we needed something, look for a police officer and ask for help,” he replied.
Gardner, 45, is a former prosecutor. No matter. Her family is financially comfortable. No matter. Her son is thriving, bright and active.
All that does not matter. It was time.
His parents sat down with the 7th grader and “told him that he will be treated differently based upon the color of his skin for the rest of his life,” Gardner said. “No matter what we say or do, no matter how good your grades, no matter where you go to school, this is the America we live in.”
How did he respond?
“He literally had this blank look on his face like we had just, like, blown up his whole universe.”
She pushed on to explain what all black mothers know in their bones. What George Floyd’s mother knows in the grave.
If you are out with friends and encounter the police, “you as a black young boy, will not be able to act in the way any of the young white boys act,” she told him. “You will have to be on your utmost behavior.”
No resistance. No back talk. No unexpected moves.
What about the law, he asked? What about the civil rights he learned at school? He reminded his mother that she works in the legal system, where justice is supposed to serve all.
Sometimes that does not matter.
“That’s a very heavy way to have to steal the innocence from your child,” she said. And now he bears “the knowledge of fear of violence against him because of the color of the skin.”
After The Talk, he would never view the police, or his world, as the same.
Still, Gardner is relieved, she says, that she has begun to equip her son with the “tools” to survive in a racist world.
As he grows to manhood, she must live with her own fear — that her child could be the next George Floyd.
“I am fearful that my son will be shot before he’s an adult or when he’s an adult, as a black man in America. That’s my ultimate fear, every day. I wake up with that every day.”
She has no illusions.
“Life is always going to be unfair. We are black in America. That’s the reality. But my son is of the mind that it shouldn’t have to be,” she said. “He is demanding that they treat us as the law is written. And I am inspired by that.”
For a school assignment, he created a “superhero” who can “change something you feel is wrong with the world.”
He dubbed his African American superhero “Silver Owl” and armed him with the power to eliminate racial inequality.
May the Silver Owl fly high.
Follow Laura S. Washington on Twitter @MediaDervish. She is a columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times and a political analyst for ABC 7-Chicago.
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-13--Suspects sought in Near West Side armed robbery

Police are asking the public for help identifying four people who robbed a business at gunpoint last month on the @ @ @ @ @ robbery happened about 3:15 p.m. May 29 in the 900 block of South Western Avenue @ @ @ @ @ alert from Chicago police .
The suspects displayed a handgun and took cash and other @ @ @ @ @ The suspects were either four males or three males and one female , ranging from @ @ @ @ @ said .
They wore dark clothing and drove away in a dark-colored Ford SUV with @ @ @ @ @ rust under the front passenger door handle .
Police released photos of the suspects and @ @ @ @ @ with information to call Area Four detectives at 312-746-8251 .
Read more on crime , @ @ @ @ @ s homicides .

Police are asking the public for help identifying four people who robbed a business at gunpoint last month on the Near West Side.
The robbery happened about 3:15 p.m. May 29 in the 900 block of South Western Avenue, according to a community alert from Chicago police. The suspects displayed a handgun and took cash and other items from the business.
The suspects were either four males or three males and one female, ranging from 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-2, police said. They wore dark clothing and drove away in a dark-colored Ford SUV with a broken rear window and rust under the front passenger door handle.
Police released photos of the suspects and SUV and are asking anyone with information to call Area Four detectives at 312-746-8251.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-13--Dear Abby: Grandma’s upset that bride wants nobody at her wedding

DEAR ABBY : Our first granddaughter is getting married in six months and has told her parents that no one from either family is invited to the wedding .
They want to get married by themselves because they are both shy and don ’ t want to be the center of attention .
At first I was OK with it , but the more I thought about it , the more hurt I felt .
The confusing part about this is she wants a pre-wedding party for both families to attend .
So I asked her to keep an open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right after the marriage ceremony .
Now she won ’ t talk to me !
Was I wrong to suggest an idea ?
My husband is now saying he doesn ’ t want to attend any party they will have .
I can ’ t stop thinking about our daughter and how she feels about not being able to see her daughter get married .
I ’ m afraid I may have made things worse , and I ’ m very depressed .
I just want to fix it so everyone is happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CAROLINA DEAR DEPRESSED : So you have appointed yourself the official family fixer ?
Your “ shy ” granddaughter and her fiance appear to be confirmed introverts .
If they prefer to take their vows privately , it ’ s their privilege , and you shouldn ’ t personalize it .
That was your mistake .
While I don ’ t think you have committed a cardinal sin and do think your granddaughter overreacted , you shouldn ’ t feel the need to mend any fences .
As to how your daughter will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ married , that is not your problem .
Take a step back and let the bride and groom celebrate their day as they wish .
P.S .
I find it odd the bride and groom would want ANY party , feeling the way they do about the ceremony .
DEAR ABBY : Why do people feel compelled to ask if my dog was adopted or rescued ?
I have wanted a dog for at least five years .
Because I was in nursing school , I waited until I graduated , and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While I love the idea of adopting , sheltering or rescuing , we wanted a purebred German shepherd puppy .
My son and I both have mental health issues , and our dog has been a huge help and an antidepressant all in one .
It is unfair that people ask these questions , or have the audacity to make faces and comments when I say no .
I have neither the desire nor the capacity to mend or train a potentially broken dog .
How I got her is no one ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s .
The best response I have heard when someone asks if a dog is adopted or rescued is , “ No , she ’ s biological.
” I ’ ve used it only once , but it got my point across .
Please remind your readers that asking these questions is rude .
— MYOB IN MASSACHUSETTS DEAR MYOB : I ’ m willing to remind them , but whether they ’ ll pay attention is anyone ’ s guess .
What these people are doing is expressing the idea that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good home should take priority .
That said , there is nothing wrong with having a purebred animal if that is your preference .
P.S .
I hear a lot lately about people adopting dogs during this quarantine period because they are desperate for company .
I sincerely hope the animals will not be forgotten or discarded once the quarantine is lifted and folks return to their ( somewhat ) normal lives .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .
What teens need to know about sex , drugs , AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “ What Every Teen Should Know.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Teen Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: Our first granddaughter is getting married in six months and has told her parents that no one from either family is invited to the wedding. They want to get married by themselves because they are both shy and don’t want to be the center of attention.
At first I was OK with it, but the more I thought about it, the more hurt I felt. The confusing part about this is she wants a pre-wedding party for both families to attend. So I asked her to keep an open mind and think about having the party right after the marriage ceremony. Now she won’t talk to me! Was I wrong to suggest an idea? My husband is now saying he doesn’t want to attend any party they will have.
I can’t stop thinking about our daughter and how she feels about not being able to see her daughter get married. I’m afraid I may have made things worse, and I’m very depressed. I just want to fix it so everyone is happy. Help! — DEPRESSED IN NORTH CAROLINA
DEAR DEPRESSED: So you have appointed yourself the official family fixer? Your “shy” granddaughter and her fiance appear to be confirmed introverts. If they prefer to take their vows privately, it’s their privilege, and you shouldn’t personalize it. That was your mistake.
While I don’t think you have committed a cardinal sin and do think your granddaughter overreacted, you shouldn’t feel the need to mend any fences. As to how your daughter will feel about not seeing her daughter get married, that is not your problem. Take a step back and let the bride and groom celebrate their day as they wish.
P.S. I find it odd the bride and groom would want ANY party, feeling the way they do about the ceremony.
DEAR ABBY: Why do people feel compelled to ask if my dog was adopted or rescued? I have wanted a dog for at least five years. Because I was in nursing school, I waited until I graduated, and then my partner and I researched extensively.
While I love the idea of adopting, sheltering or rescuing, we wanted a purebred German shepherd puppy. My son and I both have mental health issues, and our dog has been a huge help and an antidepressant all in one.
It is unfair that people ask these questions, or have the audacity to make faces and comments when I say no. I have neither the desire nor the capacity to mend or train a potentially broken dog. How I got her is no one’s business but ours and our vet’s.
The best response I have heard when someone asks if a dog is adopted or rescued is, “No, she’s biological.” I’ve used it only once, but it got my point across. Please remind your readers that asking these questions is rude. — MYOB IN MASSACHUSETTS
DEAR MYOB: I’m willing to remind them, but whether they’ll pay attention is anyone’s guess. What these people are doing is expressing the idea that animals who are in need of a good home should take priority. That said, there is nothing wrong with having a purebred animal if that is your preference.
P.S. I hear a lot lately about people adopting dogs during this quarantine period because they are desperate for company. I sincerely hope the animals will not be forgotten or discarded once the quarantine is lifted and folks return to their (somewhat) normal lives.
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.
What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-06-13--Chicago police officer hit by vehicle during River North traffic stop

A Chicago police officer was hit by a vehicle Friday when someone drove away from a traffic stop in River @ @ @ @ @ pulled the vehicle over at 11:17 p.m. in the 100 block of West Chicago Avenue @ @ @ @ @ .
As the officers removed the driver from the vehicle , the passenger jumped into @ @ @ @ @ and took off , hitting one of the officers in the process , police said @ @ @ @ @ to Rush University Medical Center in good condition with minor injuries , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ CPD officer was dragged by a vehicle in Englewood before another officer shot two people @ @ @ @ @ said .
That officer and both suspects were all taken to hospitals in good condition @ @ @ @ @ , and track the city ’ s homicides .

A Chicago police officer was hit by a vehicle Friday when someone drove away from a traffic stop in River North.
The officers had pulled the vehicle over at 11:17 p.m. in the 100 block of West Chicago Avenue, according to Chicago police.
As the officers removed the driver from the vehicle, the passenger jumped into the driver’s seat and took off, hitting one of the officers in the process, police said.
The officer was taken to Rush University Medical Center in good condition with minor injuries, police said.
Earlier Friday afternoon, a CPD officer was dragged by a vehicle in Englewood before another officer shot two people inside the vehicle, police said. That officer and both suspects were all taken to hospitals in good condition.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-13--7 displaced in Greater Grand Crossing 2-alarm fire

An extra-alarm fire left seven people displaced Saturday in Greater Grand Crossing on the South Side .
The two-alarm fire @ @ @ @ @ on the third floor of a three-story apartment building in the 6800 block of South @ @ @ @ @ the Chicago Fire Department .
The blaze was under control shortly before 3 a.m. , @ @ @ @ @ No injuries were reported , but the Illinois Department of Human Services was called to @ @ @ @ @ children with housing , according to fire officials .
Warming buses were also brought to @ @ @ @ @ .

An extra-alarm fire left seven people displaced Saturday in Greater Grand Crossing on the South Side.
The two-alarm fire was reported at 2:27 a.m. on the third floor of a three-story apartment building in the 6800 block of South Perry Avenue, according to the Chicago Fire Department.
The blaze was under control shortly before 3 a.m., the fire department said.
No injuries were reported, but the Illinois Department of Human Services was called to assist five adults and two children with housing, according to fire officials. Warming buses were also brought to the scene for affected residents.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--Horoscope for Saturday, June 13, 2020

Horoscope for Saturday, June 13, 2020

Caution : Avoid shopping or making important decisions from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chicago time .
After that , the moon moves from Pisces into Aries .
Yikes !
There is a serious moon alert in effect , which means postpone important decisions and restrict your spending to food , gas and entertainment .
However , when it is over , you ’ re in a practical , let ’ s-get-it-done frame of mind !
During the moon alert , avoid spending money except for food , gas and entertainment .
However , after the moon alert is over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with positive results that will impress a boss or parent .
We have a moon alert for most of this day , which means no shopping and no important decisions .
However , after the moon alert is over , someone older or more experienced might give you excellent advice .
Listen .
( You don ’ t have to reinvent the wheel . )
For most of this day , we are restricted by the moon alert .
( No shopping . )
However , during any moon alert , our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can easily think outside of the box .
After the moon alert , you will impress a boss or a parent with your practical ideas .
During the moon alert , avoid financial decisions .
Don ’ t shop for anything other than food or gas .
After the moon alert is over , your ability to study and concentrate will be excellent .
You might impress a teacher or mentor figure and learn something new .
Most of today is a moon alert during which you should avoid big decisions and spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gas .
However , after the moon alert is over , you will have productive conversations with partners about shared wealth or shared property .
Ka-ching !
Your efficiency will suffer during the moon alert , which occurs most of today .
( Having said that , the time during the moon alert can be very creative for artists and people in the entertainment world . )
After the moon alert is over , a practical discussion with a partner or close friend will help you .
This is a creative day because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the part of your chart related to the arts , the entertainment world and any kind of creative self-expression .
It ’ s a fun day !
( However , do not shop . )
Afterward , you ’ ll decide to get busy in a practical way .
Today you will enjoy frank discussions with family members and cocooning at home .
( During the moon alert , restrict your spending to food and gas . )
After the moon alert , you might make vacation plans or get involved with creative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the long moon alert .
( Oy ! )
It will affect your way of thinking .
It might make you indecisive .
However , you will have original , imaginative ideas !
After the moon alert is over , you will have practical ideas related to home and family .
Go figure .
Every moon alert takes place in a different sign , which means it has a different effect .
Today ’ s moon Alert will tempt you to spend money !
Don ’ t do it !
Restrict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entertainment .
Afterwards , you will have practical , sensible ideas .
Be careful because today ’ s Moon Alert , which lasts for most of today , takes place in your sign .
The upside is you will be creative and inventive .
The downside is you will feel at loose ends .
Don ’ t spend money .
Don ’ t shop .
When it ’ s over , then you have the green light to do what you want .
If Your Birthday Is Today Actor Chris Evans ( 1981 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adventurous , fun-loving and full of passion !
You ’ re also an excellent communicator .
This is an exciting year of change and new opportunities !
You will encounter adventure and stimulating situations .
If possible , ( maybe not ) , explore opportunities to travel and expand your world through learning .
Welcome change !
Let your personal freedom be your goal this year .

Moon Alert
Caution: Avoid shopping or making important decisions from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chicago time. After that, the moon moves from Pisces into Aries.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Yikes! There is a serious moon alert in effect, which means postpone important decisions and restrict your spending to food, gas and entertainment. However, when it is over, you’re in a practical, let’s-get-it-done frame of mind!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
During the moon alert, avoid spending money except for food, gas and entertainment. However, after the moon alert is over, you might research something and come up with positive results that will impress a boss or parent.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
We have a moon alert for most of this day, which means no shopping and no important decisions. However, after the moon alert is over, someone older or more experienced might give you excellent advice. Listen. (You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.)
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
For most of this day, we are restricted by the moon alert. (No shopping.) However, during any moon alert, our creative abilities are heightened because our minds can easily think outside of the box. After the moon alert, you will impress a boss or a parent with your practical ideas.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
During the moon alert, avoid financial decisions. Don’t shop for anything other than food or gas. After the moon alert is over, your ability to study and concentrate will be excellent. You might impress a teacher or mentor figure and learn something new.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Most of today is a moon alert during which you should avoid big decisions and spending money on anything other than food and gas. However, after the moon alert is over, you will have productive conversations with partners about shared wealth or shared property. Ka-ching!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Your efficiency will suffer during the moon alert, which occurs most of today. (Having said that, the time during the moon alert can be very creative for artists and people in the entertainment world.) After the moon alert is over, a practical discussion with a partner or close friend will help you.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
This is a creative day because the moon alert is taking place in the part of your chart related to the arts, the entertainment world and any kind of creative self-expression. It’s a fun day! (However, do not shop.) Afterward, you’ll decide to get busy in a practical way.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Today you will enjoy frank discussions with family members and cocooning at home. (During the moon alert, restrict your spending to food and gas.) After the moon alert, you might make vacation plans or get involved with creative projects.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Today is a spacey day because of the long moon alert. (Oy!) It will affect your way of thinking. It might make you indecisive. However, you will have original, imaginative ideas! After the moon alert is over, you will have practical ideas related to home and family. Go figure.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Every moon alert takes place in a different sign, which means it has a different effect. Today’s moon Alert will tempt you to spend money! Don’t do it! Restrict your spending to food, gas and entertainment. Afterwards, you will have practical, sensible ideas.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Be careful because today’s Moon Alert, which lasts for most of today, takes place in your sign. The upside is you will be creative and inventive. The downside is you will feel at loose ends. Don’t spend money. Don’t shop. When it’s over, then you have the green light to do what you want.
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actor Chris Evans (1981) shares your birthday. You are adventurous, fun-loving and full of passion! You’re also an excellent communicator. This is an exciting year of change and new opportunities! You will encounter adventure and stimulating situations. If possible, (maybe not), explore opportunities to travel and expand your world through learning. Welcome change! Let your personal freedom be your goal this year.


chicagosun-times--2020-06-12--Rally, march demand civilian control of police

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Washington Park Friday evening to demand civilian control over the Chicago Police Department — a long-sought goal for those critical of the agency .
The rally kicked off with several organizing leaders condemning police brutality and allowing relatives of those who lost their lives at the hands of police officers over the last decade to tell their story .
Shortly after the rally , protesters marched into the intersection of East 53rd Street and South Martin Luther King Drive carrying signs declaring “ Black Lives Matter ” and “ Stop police crimes CPAC now.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Who do you protect ?
” could be heard for blocks as one onlooker shouted “ Right on ” in support .
Police rode bikes as the peaceful protest stopped traffic .
An independent Civilian Police Accountability Council , or CPAC , would have the power to negotiate contracts with the police union , hire or fire police superintendents and discipline troubled officers .
The march and rally were organized by the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression , Black Lives Matter Chicago , Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive director of Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation , said she went to the protest to send a message to the Chicago City Council .
“ Now is the time for you to be on the right side of history as we demand justice for the victims of police violence , ” Watkins said .
The rally ended at 51st Street and Wentworth Avenue — just blocks away from the campaign office of U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush , who has accused Chicago officers of lounging in that office , which had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At the rally ’ s end , a banner was dropped from a Metra viaduct ; the banner declared that it listed the names of “ Over 500 black and brown people tortured and wrongfully convicted ” by Chicago police since the 1980s .
Marchers than took over a vacant lot and planted hundreds of signs , each containing one of the names on that banner .

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Washington Park Friday evening to demand civilian control over the Chicago Police Department — a long-sought goal for those critical of the agency.
The rally kicked off with several organizing leaders condemning police brutality and allowing relatives of those who lost their lives at the hands of police officers over the last decade to tell their story.
Shortly after the rally, protesters marched into the intersection of East 53rd Street and South Martin Luther King Drive carrying signs declaring “Black Lives Matter” and “Stop police crimes CPAC now.”
Chants of “Who do you serve? Who do you protect?” could be heard for blocks as one onlooker shouted “Right on” in support. Police rode bikes as the peaceful protest stopped traffic.
An independent Civilian Police Accountability Council, or CPAC, would have the power to negotiate contracts with the police union, hire or fire police superintendents and discipline troubled officers.
The march and rally were organized by the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, Black Lives Matter Chicago, Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation and several other organizations.
A march through Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood on Friday demanding the creation of the Civilian Police Accountability Council was organized by a coalition of groups, including Black Lives Matter Chicago. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Tanya Watkins, executive director of Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation, said she went to the protest to send a message to the Chicago City Council.
“Now is the time for you to be on the right side of history as we demand justice for the victims of police violence,” Watkins said.
The rally ended at 51st Street and Wentworth Avenue — just blocks away from the campaign office of U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush, who has accused Chicago officers of lounging in that office, which had been burglarized, as looters ransacked nearby businesses.
At the rally’s end, a banner was dropped from a Metra viaduct; the banner declared that it listed the names of “Over 500 black and brown people tortured and wrongfully convicted” by Chicago police since the 1980s.
Marchers than took over a vacant lot and planted hundreds of signs, each containing one of the names on that banner.