chicagosun-times--2020-05-09--FAA proposes $1.3M against city Dept. of Aviation over firefighter training logs

Federal Aviation Administration officials have proposed slapping Chicago ’ s Dept .
of Aviation with fines totaling almost $ 1.3 million for allegedly violating aircraft rescue and firefighter training regulations last year .
Between April and August , three firefighters assigned to O ’ Hare Airport worked shifts on a turret vehicle when they had not completed the required training , according to a statement from the FAA .
A Chicago Fire Department lieutenant allegedly falsified 13 training entries to make it seem he ’ d finished the training .
Additionally , a CFD captain at Midway Airport was assigned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she had not completed the required training , and accessed the airfield nine times without proper escorts or badges , FAA officials said .
The federal agency claims the city ’ s Aviation Department failed to ensure the fire department maintained the required training logs .
The city has already responded to the FAA complaints , and the proposed penalties could be reduced .
“ The safety and security of our airports is our highest priority , and our track record of delivering more than 105 million passengers safely to their destinations every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aviation officials said in a statement , calling the fire department “ a vital partner in these efforts .
“ Upon learning of these serious allegations , CDA immediately began working with the FAA and CFD to initiate a series of actions , including leadership changes and the retraining of [ Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting ] personnel to ensure all firefighters have the proper training and certifications to operate at the airports , ” city officials said .
“ Additionally , CFD training methods and record keeping practices have been overhauled to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This was all completed in 2019 , ” according to the city .
The allegations were also referred to the city inspector general ’ s office .

Federal Aviation Administration officials have proposed slapping Chicago’s Department of Aviation with fines totaling almost $1.3 million for allegedly violating aircraft rescue and firefighter training regulations last year.
Between April and August, three firefighters assigned to O’Hare Airport worked shifts on a turret vehicle when they had not completed the required training, according to a statement from the FAA. A Chicago Fire Department lieutenant allegedly falsified 13 training entries to make it seem he’d finished the training.
Additionally, a CFD captain at Midway Airport was assigned to a vehicle for two shifts when she had not completed the required training and accessed the airfield nine times without proper escorts or badges, FAA officials said.
The federal agency claims the city’s Aviation Department failed to ensure the fire department maintained the required training logs.
The city has already responded to the FAA complaints, and the proposed penalties could be reduced.
“The safety and security of our airports is our highest priority, and our track record of delivering more than 105 million passengers safely to their destinations every year speaks for itself,” city aviation officials said in a statement, calling the fire department “a vital partner in these efforts.
“Upon learning of these serious allegations, CDA immediately began working with the FAA and CFD to initiate a series of actions, including leadership changes and the retraining of [Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting] personnel to ensure all firefighters have the proper training and certifications to operate at the airports,” city officials said.
“Additionally, CFD training methods and record keeping practices have been overhauled to ensure those qualifications are tracked properly. This was all completed in 2019,” according to the city.
The allegations were also referred to the city inspector general’s office.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-09--Man, 70, missing from Near West Side located

A man who had been reported missing since Wednesday from the Near West Side has been located .
Oliver Flowers @ @ @ @ @ missing from the 1200 block of South Wood Street , according to Chicago police .
@ @ @ @ @ alert about 3:10 p.m. Saturday , saying Flowers had been located .

A man who had been reported missing since Wednesday from the Near West Side has been located.
Oliver Flowers, 70, was reported missing from the 1200 block of South Wood Street, according to Chicago police.
Police cancelled a missing persons alert about 3:10 p.m. Saturday, saying Flowers had been located.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Chicago outdoors: Owlet, spotted bass, charter comeback promise, partial albino robin

Notes come from all over Chicago outdoors .
Mike Lewandowski of Lew Shots Photography caught this great horned owl and owlet at a rookery in Highland , Ind .
WOTW , the celebration of wild stories and photos around Chicago outdoors , runs most weeks in the special two-page outdoors section in the Sun-Times Sports Saturday .
Submit nominations by message on Facebook ( Dale Bowman ) , on Twitter ( @ BowmanOutside ) and Instagram ( @ BowmanOutside ) or email ( BowmanOutside @ gmail.com ) .
Note : The Challunge on the Chain , by the Fox River @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been postponed until Sept. 20 .
Click here for details .
May 14 , Thursday : Final day , fifth and final turkey season , north zone .
“ Just got back from my midday bike ride .
Captured this bird on camera .
Either a new species , some sort of inbreeding experiment or a robin that was doused with bleach or paint.
” Tom Turek , Bridgeview A : I was intrigued enough to ask Chicago Audubon Society ’ s Alan Anderson , who indicated it was a partial albino @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he replied .
“ At least two birders have posted photos of similar looking birds ( can ’ t remember which species but one was a robin ) on the various local Facebook birding groups this year.
” He also passed along a good source for common oddities at feederwatch.org/learn/unusual-birds/ 7-3.12 : Pounds-ounces of the Illinois-record spotted bass , caught March 15 , 1992 from a Fulton County strip pit by Richard Leonard .
“ The minute I get the word and see I can legally do it , it will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Chicago-area charter captain , on what will happen when the go-ahead comes to start working again

Notes come from all over Chicago outdoors.
FIELD NOTES
WILD OF THE WEEK
Mike Lewandowski of Lew Shots Photography caught this great horned owl and owlet at a rookery in Highland, Ind.
WOTW, the celebration of wild stories and photos around Chicago outdoors, runs most weeks in the special two-page outdoors section in the Sun-Times Sports Saturday. Submit nominations by message on Facebook (Dale Bowman), on Twitter (@BowmanOutside) and Instagram (@BowmanOutside) or email (BowmanOutside@gmail.com).
WILD TIMES
FISH GATHERINGS
Note: The Challunge on the Chain, by the Fox River Valley chapter of Muskies, Inc., has been postponed until Sept. 20. Click here for details.
ILLINOIS PERMITS/SEASONS
May 14, Thursday: Final day, fifth and final turkey season, north zone.
DALE’S MAILBAG
“Just got back from my midday bike ride. Captured this bird on camera. Either a new species, some sort of inbreeding experiment or a robin that was doused with bleach or paint.” Tom Turek, Bridgeview
A partial albino robin Provided by Tom Turek
A: I was intrigued enough to ask Chicago Audubon Society’s Alan Anderson, who indicated it was a partial albino. “Happens in many species,” he replied. “At least two birders have posted photos of similar looking birds (can’t remember which species but one was a robin ) on the various local Facebook birding groups this year.” He also passed along a good source for common oddities at feederwatch.org/learn/unusual-birds/
BIG NUMBER
7-3.12: Pounds-ounces of the Illinois-record spotted bass, caught March 15, 1992 from a Fulton County strip pit by Richard Leonard.
LAST WORD
“The minute I get the word and see I can legally do it, it will be the biggest comeback in Chicago fishing.”
A Chicago-area charter captain, on what will happen when the go-ahead comes to start working again


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Dear Abby: My husband says no to divorce as he openly dates other people

DEAR ABBY : My husband and I have been married more than 40 years , but we have lived separately in a house and guesthouse on jointly owned property for the last 10 .
We split bills and communicate only when necessary via text .
I am somewhat afraid of him and try to distance myself from him and his friends and family .
He has been involved with multiple women and men throughout our marriage , but when I have tried to end our marriage , he has pushed me to remain .
He is currently openly involved with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for many years .
Several acquaintances recently informed me that the two of them are sporting matching wedding bands .
I don ’ t really care , but I don ’ t want any further humiliation .
I feel like a sword is hanging over my head .
What can I do ?
— ARRANGEMENT IN THE EAST DEAR ARRANGEMENT : What you can do is contact an attorney .
Tell the attorney exactly what you have told me — that you and your husband haven ’ t cohabited in a decade , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purporting to be married and wearing matching wedding bands , and that you want a divorce but are afraid of his reaction .
The lawyer can guide you from there .
Please don ’ t wait .
DEAR ABBY : I am a woman who has had genital herpes since I was in my 20s .
I ’ m single and in my 60s now .
I have always disclosed that I have it and that I treat it daily with medication that suppresses the virus .
I have never infected anyone — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do not have outbreaks .
I am often rejected by the men I disclose this to .
It is demeaning and painful and makes me feel dirty , which I am not .
I ’ m tired of it .
Must I continue to disclose it ?
I know for sure that I am not passing it on .
I haven ’ t given it to anyone in 40-plus years .
— REJECTED IN THE SOUTH DEAR REJECTED : Tempting as it may be to fudge the truth , I think you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status .
If you lie and the person you are involved with finds your medication , the relationship will be over anyway .
I don ’ t know if you have considered this , but have you thought about dating men who also have herpes ?
A website that has been mentioned in my column before is H-date.com .
If you meet someone there , you know you won ’ t be judged .
It offers a free dating service through which thousands of men and women meet .
Many very nice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — have herpes and live full , happy lives .
DEAR READERS : I want to wish a very Happy Mother ’ s Day to mothers everywhere — birth mothers , adoptive and foster mothers , stepmothers , grandmothers who are raising their grandchildren and dual-role dads .
Orchids to all of you for the love you give not only today , but also each and every day .
— LOVE , ABBY 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 .
For everything you need to know about wedding planning , order “ How to Have a Lovely Wedding.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Wedding Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been married more than 40 years, but we have lived separately in a house and guesthouse on jointly owned property for the last 10. We split bills and communicate only when necessary via text.
I am somewhat afraid of him and try to distance myself from him and his friends and family. He has been involved with multiple women and men throughout our marriage, but when I have tried to end our marriage, he has pushed me to remain.
He is currently openly involved with a woman he has “dated” for many years. Several acquaintances recently informed me that the two of them are sporting matching wedding bands. I don’t really care, but I don’t want any further humiliation. I feel like a sword is hanging over my head. What can I do? — ARRANGEMENT IN THE EAST
DEAR ARRANGEMENT: What you can do is contact an attorney. Tell the attorney exactly what you have told me — that you and your husband haven’t cohabited in a decade, that he and his longtime girlfriend are purporting to be married and wearing matching wedding bands, and that you want a divorce but are afraid of his reaction. The lawyer can guide you from there. Please don’t wait.
DEAR ABBY: I am a woman who has had genital herpes since I was in my 20s. I’m single and in my 60s now. I have always disclosed that I have it and that I treat it daily with medication that suppresses the virus. I have never infected anyone — including my former husband and boyfriends. I do not have outbreaks.
I am often rejected by the men I disclose this to. It is demeaning and painful and makes me feel dirty, which I am not. I’m tired of it. Must I continue to disclose it? I know for sure that I am not passing it on. I haven’t given it to anyone in 40-plus years. — REJECTED IN THE SOUTH
DEAR REJECTED: Tempting as it may be to fudge the truth, I think you should continue to be honest about your status. If you lie and the person you are involved with finds your medication, the relationship will be over anyway.
I don’t know if you have considered this, but have you thought about dating men who also have herpes? A website that has been mentioned in my column before is H-date.com. If you meet someone there, you know you won’t be judged. It offers a free dating service through which thousands of men and women meet. Many very nice, eligible people — people just like you — have herpes and live full, happy lives.
DEAR READERS: I want to wish a very Happy Mother’s Day to mothers everywhere — birth mothers, adoptive and foster mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers who are raising their grandchildren and dual-role dads. Orchids to all of you for the love you give not only today, but also each and every day. — LOVE, ABBY
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.
For everything you need to know about wedding planning, order “How to Have a Lovely Wedding.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Wedding Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Man charged in fight with Chicago cops at South Loop storage center

A man has been charged in connection with a fight that injured seven Chicago police officers Saturday at a storage facility in the South Loop .
Nathan Arrington , 57 , is charged with two felony counts of aggravated battery to a peace officer and one felony count of resisting or obstructing an officer , according to Chicago police .
He also faces one misdemeanor charge each of simple assault and criminal trespass to land , police said .
Officers were called shortly after 11 a.m. for reports of a disturbance in the lobby of the storage center in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police said .
Arrington refused to leave the property when asked by the manager and “ later threatened to harm him after stating his displeasure with their company policy , ” police said .
He again refused to leave when the officers arrived and an altercation ensued , during which seven officers were injured before Arrington was taken into custody about noon , according to police .
Six officers were treated on the scene for minor injuries , police said .
A seventh officer was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in fair condition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Arrington , who lives in Hyde Park , is scheduled to appear in court for a bail hearing on Sunday , police said .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

A man has been charged in connection with a fight that injured seven Chicago police officers Saturday at a storage facility in the South Loop.
Nathan Arrington, 57, is charged with two felony counts of aggravated battery to a peace officer and one felony count of resisting or obstructing an officer, according to Chicago police.
He also faces one misdemeanor charge each of simple assault and criminal trespass to land, police said.
Officers were called shortly after 11 a.m. for reports of a disturbance in the lobby of the storage center in the 1300 block of South Wabash Avenue, police said.
Arrington refused to leave the property when asked by the manager and “later threatened to harm him after stating his displeasure with their company policy,” police said.
He again refused to leave when the officers arrived and an altercation ensued, during which seven officers were injured before Arrington was taken into custody about noon, according to police.
Six officers were treated on the scene for minor injuries, police said. A seventh officer was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in fair condition with injuries to his shoulder and knee.
Arrington, who lives in Hyde Park, is scheduled to appear in court for a bail hearing on Sunday, police said.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Girl, 17, critically hurt in Englewood shooting

A teenage girl was shot multiple times Saturday in Englewood on the South Side .
The 17-year-old was shot in @ @ @ @ @ 10:30 p.m. , according to Chicago police .
Two males dropped her off at Holy @ @ @ @ @ was transferred to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition , police said .
Further details @ @ @ @ @ , as investigators have been unable to locate the males who dropped her off or @ @ @ @ @ said .
No one is in custody as Area One detectives investigate .
Read more @ @ @ @ @ the city ’ s homicides .

A teenage girl was shot multiple times Saturday in Englewood on the South Side.
The 17-year-old was shot in the face and neck about 10:30 p.m., according to Chicago police.
Two males dropped her off at Holy Cross Hospital, and she was transferred to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition, police said.
Further details about the shooting are unknown, as investigators have been unable to locate the males who dropped her off or any other witnesses, police said.
No one is in custody as Area One detectives investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-09--Horoscope for Sunday, May 10, 2020

Horoscope for Sunday, May 10, 2020

After 5 a.m. Chicago time we have the all clear to shop and do business .
The moon is in Capricorn .
Go forward with financial plans and armchair shopping because you sense that the universe is giving you the go-ahead to do things .
( In spite of any restrictions you have . )
Value your money-making ideas .
You can charm others today .
Today you are confident and in a positive state of mind .
Despite whatever restrictions and difficulties that you have had to face , you are still functioning effectively .
Bravo !
Relations with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive .
This is a good day for research and behind-the-scenes activities .
Whatever you attempt to do will succeed because the gods are with you .
Fortunately , with Venus in your sign , you find it easy to be charming .
This is a good time to buy wardrobe items , which is difficult to do online unless you wear a toga .
Because this is a good day for meetings and gatherings , you might want to hone your skills with Zoom and other apps that allow you to talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to explore these . )
In whatever way you can manage this , it ’ s a great day to talk to the troops !
You have always been able to think “ big.
” That ’ s why this an excellent day to talk to bosses , VIPs , parents and anyone in authority .
Pick up the phone or send that email because you ’ ll get results .
Others will see that you have a knack for seeing the big picture — and they will listen to you .
Continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , medicine , the law , publishing and anything to do with learning and higher education because these areas will give you a positive reinforcement , especially today .
Use the Internet to travel to other cities — see the world !
Discussions and negotiations related to inheritances , shared property and insurance disputes will go in your favor today .
If you can not talk to others you might set online correspondence in action .
Start the ball rolling !
Whatever you do might mean money in your pocket .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practical discussion with partners and close friends .
Others will respect what you have to say , especially if you frame it in positive terms , which you will .
Your greatest challenge is dealing with the increased chaos and activity on the home front .
Keep at it .
You feel reassured about health issues , which is always encouraging .
Likewise , good news related to a pet might please you .
Those of you who are working will find this to be a positive day because others are cooperative .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Relations with kids and young people will be upbeat and positive .
This is also an excellent day to dabble in the arts , write , compose , perform and get in touch with your creative talents .
You might explore new ideas related to sports ?
This is a perfect day for families to try an online group discussion .
Many Aquarians are high-tech people ( not all ) and today you feel the need to explore family issues .
Discussions about home repairs might also take place .
Because you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , people will enjoy hearing from you .
You might want to create a YouTube or speak to others on Facebook .
Share your positive ideas because others will be grateful .
Be a leader !
If Your Birthday Is Today Singer , songwriter , philanthropist Bono ( 1960 ) shares your birthday .
You work hard to pursue your dreams .
You love your creature comforts and you value your security .
It ’ s time to identify goals because you ’ re entering a year of exciting new beginnings !
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next several years ?
Be pro-active about going after what you want .
This year you will be physically energetic .

Moon Alert
After 5 a.m. Chicago time we have the all clear to shop and do business. The moon is in Capricorn.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Go forward with financial plans and armchair shopping because you sense that the universe is giving you the go-ahead to do things. (In spite of any restrictions you have.) Value your money-making ideas. You can charm others today.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Today you are confident and in a positive state of mind. Despite whatever restrictions and difficulties that you have had to face, you are still functioning effectively. Bravo! Relations with foreign countries and distant places will be positive.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
This is a good day for research and behind-the-scenes activities. Whatever you attempt to do will succeed because the gods are with you. Fortunately, with Venus in your sign, you find it easy to be charming. This is a good time to buy wardrobe items, which is difficult to do online unless you wear a toga.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Because this is a good day for meetings and gatherings, you might want to hone your skills with Zoom and other apps that allow you to talk to others. (I have yet to explore these.) In whatever way you can manage this, it’s a great day to talk to the troops!
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
You have always been able to think “big.” That’s why this an excellent day to talk to bosses, VIPs, parents and anyone in authority. Pick up the phone or send that email because you’ll get results. Others will see that you have a knack for seeing the big picture — and they will listen to you.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Continue to explore ideas related to the media, medicine, the law, publishing and anything to do with learning and higher education because these areas will give you a positive reinforcement, especially today. Use the Internet to travel to other cities — see the world!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Discussions and negotiations related to inheritances, shared property and insurance disputes will go in your favor today. If you cannot talk to others you might set online correspondence in action. Start the ball rolling! Whatever you do might mean money in your pocket.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
This is a great day for an upbeat, practical discussion with partners and close friends. Others will respect what you have to say, especially if you frame it in positive terms, which you will. Your greatest challenge is dealing with the increased chaos and activity on the home front. Keep at it.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
You feel reassured about health issues, which is always encouraging. Likewise, good news related to a pet might please you. Those of you who are working will find this to be a positive day because others are cooperative. Expect success dealing with foreign countries.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Relations with kids and young people will be upbeat and positive. This is also an excellent day to dabble in the arts, write, compose, perform and get in touch with your creative talents. You might explore new ideas related to sports?
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
This is a perfect day for families to try an online group discussion. Many Aquarians are high-tech people (not all) and today you feel the need to explore family issues. Discussions about home repairs might also take place.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Because you are in such a positive frame of mind, people will enjoy hearing from you. You might want to create a YouTube or speak to others on Facebook. Share your positive ideas because others will be grateful. Be a leader!
If Your Birthday Is Today
Singer, songwriter, philanthropist Bono (1960) shares your birthday. You work hard to pursue your dreams. You love your creature comforts and you value your security. It’s time to identify goals because you’re entering a year of exciting new beginnings! What do you want for yourself in the next several years? Be pro-active about going after what you want. This year you will be physically energetic.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-09--Woman, 40, missing from Streeterville located

If you reopen for business early and somebody dies , don ’ t expect your insurance company to bail you @ @ @ @ @ refuse to enforce Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s stay-at-home order , trial lawyers might @ @ @ @ @ might take a walk .

Pvt. Travis King entered the North while on a civilian tour of a Korean border village July 18, becoming the first American detained in the North in nearly five years.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-09--Man, 61, reported missing from Rogers Park

A 61-year-old man was reported missing Saturday from Rogers Park on the North Side .
Kevin Sauer was last seen @ @ @ @ @ West Columbia Avenue , Chicago police said .
Police described Sauer as a 6-foot , @ @ @ @ @ and green eyes .
It was not known what he was wearing when he went @ @ @ @ @ should call Area Three detectives at 312-744-8266 .


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--SBA should not be the sex police: Chicago strip club Paycheck Protection loan application in limbo

In these dismal economic times , the Admiral Theater on the Northwest Side should be allowed to get a Paycheck Protection Program loan and not be disqualified because it is in the business of erotic entertainment .
As the coronavirus pandemic destroys the U.S. economy and unemployment is soaring , we don ’ t need the Small Business Administration to be the sex police , guarding us from a lawfully operating strip club getting a loan .
Really , if that is the only public policy we need to worry about these days , it would be a very good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about how “ financing lawful activities of a prurient sexual nature is not in the public interest , ” is why the Admiral Theatre , 3940 W. Lawrence Ave. , so far can ’ t get a Paycheck loan .
It ’ s the Paycheck Protection Program , not the Prurient Interest Protection Program .
As Admiral puts it in a federal lawsuit filed Friday , what happens in the theater is “ designed to appeal to a healthy interest in basic human sexuality.
” In this emergency , let ’ s deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguments over strip clubs and the public interest for another day .
Admiral has 42 employees , according to the loan application it submitted to the Belmont Bank & Trust Company , seeking a $ 406,565 Paycheck loan .
The theater has been closed since March 15 .
Admiral Theatre attorney Joseph Obenberger filed the lawsuit against SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza — who is from Skokie — and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin .
The lawsuit alleges the SBA regulations “ unconstitutionally deprive businesses and workers who are engaged in First Amendment protected expression @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heard of the Admiral Theatre .
It was in the news two years ago when porn star Stormy Daniels — who alleged she had an affair with President Donald Trump — appeared there as part of her “ Make America Horny Again ” tour .
The Paycheck program is a bipartisan creation of Congress , part of the Coronavirus Aid , Relief , and Economic Security Act .
The program was designed to give qualifying small business and nonprofit employers financial lifelines as the economy tanks because of COVID-19 shutdown orders .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because if used as intended , to meet payrolls and pay some operating expenses , it does not have to be repaid .
Obenberger is taking aim at an SBA rule already in place for other loans and applied to Paycheck loan applicants : A business is not eligible for SBA funding if “ it presents live or recorded performances of a prurient sexual nature ” because the “ SBA has determined that financing lawful activities of a prurient sexual nature is not in the public interest.
” “ Prurient interest , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an appeal to a shameful or morbid interest rather than a normal or healthy interest in sex.
” At Admiral , the lawsuit said , female dancers provide “ healthy erotic ” performances for its patrons .
Admiral “ is an establishment that is open to the consenting adult public , and has both a restaurant facility and has been licensed by the City of Chicago , in which it is located , to operate a restaurant and a Gentlemen ’ s Club which features non-obscene erotic dance entertainment .
“ All of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-obscene ( and thus can not be deemed prurient ) , and is designed to appeal to a healthy interest in basic human sexuality.
” The loan money actually comes from the bank .
Belmont won ’ t do anything without a guarantee the SBA will pay them back .
Admiral ’ s application is in limbo .
The lawsuit said the bank asked the SBA to review the matter of Admiral ’ s eligibility for the loan .
As of last week , the bank was still waiting for a ruling .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ away , because the Paycheck loan money will soon run out , making their effort to get the loan moot .
With the economic meltdown , the SBA should err on the side of giving working people a break and reserve judgments about erotic performances for another day .
As of May 1 , just in Illinois , the SBA has approved $ 22.5 billion in loans for 159,628 Illinois employers , with more in the pipeline .
The theater is in Rep. Jesus “ Chuy ” Garcia ’ s district .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am a big supporter of the First Amendment and free speech and association and the like .
I think they have a point .
”

In these dismal economic times, the Admiral Theatre on the Northwest Side should be allowed to get a Paycheck Protection Program loan and not be disqualified because it is in the business of erotic entertainment.
As the coronavirus pandemic destroys the U.S. economy and unemployment is soaring, we don’t need the Small Business Administration to be the sex police, guarding us from a lawfully operating strip club getting a loan.
Really, if that is the only public policy we need to worry about these days, it would be a very good problem to have.
An SBA regulation about how “financing lawful activities of a prurient sexual nature is not in the public interest,” is why the Admiral Theatre, 3940 W. Lawrence Ave., so far can’t get a Paycheck loan.
It’s the Paycheck Protection Program, not the Prurient Interest Protection Program.
As Admiral puts it in a federal lawsuit filed Friday, what happens in the theater is “designed to appeal to a healthy interest in basic human sexuality.”
In this emergency, let’s deal with the workers first and spare us arguments over strip clubs and the public interest for another day.
Admiral has 42 employees, according to the loan application it submitted to the Belmont Bank & Trust Company, seeking a $406,565 Paycheck loan. The theater has been closed since March 15.
Admiral Theatre attorney Joseph Obenberger filed the lawsuit against SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza — who is from Skokie — and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
The lawsuit alleges the SBA regulations “unconstitutionally deprive businesses and workers who are engaged in First Amendment protected expression from receiving benefits.”
You may have heard of the Admiral Theatre. It was in the news two years ago when porn star Stormy Daniels — who alleged she had an affair with President Donald Trump — appeared there as part of her “Make America Horny Again” tour.
The Paycheck program is a bipartisan creation of Congress, part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. The program was designed to give qualifying small business and nonprofit employers financial lifelines as the economy tanks because of COVID-19 shutdown orders.
There is sky-high demand for the Paycheck loans because if used as intended, to meet payrolls and pay some operating expenses, it does not have to be repaid.
Obenberger is taking aim at an SBA rule already in place for other loans and applied to Paycheck loan applicants: A business is not eligible for SBA funding if “it presents live or recorded performances of a prurient sexual nature” because the “SBA has determined that financing lawful activities of a prurient sexual nature is not in the public interest.”
“Prurient interest,” the Admiral lawsuit argues, “means an appeal to a shameful or morbid interest rather than a normal or healthy interest in sex.”
At Admiral, the lawsuit said, female dancers provide “healthy erotic” performances for its patrons.
Admiral “is an establishment that is open to the consenting adult public, and has both a restaurant facility and has been licensed by the City of Chicago, in which it is located, to operate a restaurant and a Gentlemen’s Club which features non-obscene erotic dance entertainment.
“All of the entertainment provided by the Admiral is non-obscene (and thus cannot be deemed prurient), and is designed to appeal to a healthy interest in basic human sexuality.”
The loan money actually comes from the bank. Belmont won’t do anything without a guarantee the SBA will pay them back.
Admiral’s application is in limbo. The lawsuit said the bank asked the SBA to review the matter of Admiral’s eligibility for the loan. As of last week, the bank was still waiting for a ruling.
Admiral needs to get this resolved right away, because the Paycheck loan money will soon run out, making their effort to get the loan moot.
With the economic meltdown, the SBA should err on the side of giving working people a break and reserve judgments about erotic performances for another day.
As of May 1, just in Illinois, the SBA has approved $22.5 billion in loans for 159,628 Illinois employers, with more in the pipeline.
The theater is in Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia’s district. The Illinois Democrat told me Sunday, “I am a big supporter of the First Amendment and free speech and association and the like. I think they have a point.”


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Trump congratulates new Chicago police union president in tweet

President Donald Trump tweeted congratulations Sunday morning to John Catanzara , the new president of the Chicago police union on his election .
“ He always ‘ Gets the Job Done , ’ ” the president said in the tweet .
Catanzara won a runoff election against incumbent Kevin Graham , the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 announced Friday , earning 4,709 votes to Graham ’ s 3,872 .
Catanzara said Sunday he was told about the tweet by a friend and initially didn ’ t believe it but was “ pleasantly surprised ” upon seeing it himself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ any way , shape or form , [ which ] I can personally as the president of Lodge 7 alongside the larger umbrella of the Fraternal Order of Police , who obviously has the president ’ s back no matter what , ” Catanzara told the Chicago Sun-Times .
“ He has been the policeman ’ s friend more than almost any other president in modern times , and it makes a difference when we ’ re getting beat up constantly from every other direction.
” Catanzara ’ s outward support of Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a photo of him holding an American flag in front of a sign reading , “ I stand for the anthem , I love the American flag , I support my president and the 2nd Amendment , ” went viral on social media .
He was reprimanded at the time for violating department policy with the post .
Then in 2018 , Catanzara wore a jersey with “ Trump ” on the back to a City Hall meeting discussing community oversight of Chicago police .
He said Sunday that doing so was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it did , ” but that he won ’ t do so again .
“ I hope he gets re-elected all the way , ” Catanzara said .
“ But I ’ m not some blind , Kool Aid-drinking Trump-ite who doesn ’ t see faults in everybody , including myself .
”

President Donald Trump tweeted congratulations Sunday morning to John Catanzara, the new president of the Chicago police union on his election.
“He always ‘Gets the Job Done,’” the president said in the tweet.
Congratulations to Officer John Catanzara for being elected President of the Chicago Police Union. He always “Gets the Job Done”. #MAGA @foxandfriends — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2020
Catanzara won a runoff election against incumbent Kevin Graham, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 announced Friday, earning 4,709 votes to Graham’s 3,872.
Catanzara said Sunday he was told about the tweet by a friend and initially didn’t believe it but was “pleasantly surprised” upon seeing it himself.
“I would absolutely support him in any way, shape or form, [which] I can personally as the president of Lodge 7 alongside the larger umbrella of the Fraternal Order of Police, who obviously has the president’s back no matter what,” Catanzara told the Chicago Sun-Times. “He has been the policeman’s friend more than almost any other president in modern times, and it makes a difference when we’re getting beat up constantly from every other direction.”
Catanzara’s outward support of Trump has stirred controversy before.
In 2017, a photo of him holding an American flag in front of a sign reading, “I stand for the anthem, I love the American flag, I support my president and the 2nd Amendment,” went viral on social media. He was reprimanded at the time for violating department policy with the post.
Then in 2018, Catanzara wore a jersey with “Trump” on the back to a City Hall meeting discussing community oversight of Chicago police.
He said Sunday that doing so was meant to “get noticed, which it did,” but that he won’t do so again.
“I hope he gets re-elected all the way,” Catanzara said. “But I’m not some blind, Kool Aid-drinking Trump-ite who doesn’t see faults in everybody, including myself.”


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Chicago man surprises mom on Mother’s Day after being released from immigration detention

After spending nearly two years at an immigrant detention center in rural Wisconsin , 26-year-old Francisco Morales was released on bond Friday — and pulled off a Mother ’ s Day surprise Sunday .
“ I thought he was coming back Monday , that ’ s what he told me , ” Morales ’ mom , Adriana Torres , 46 , said .
“ I was so excited to hold him , to hug him .
It was so hard not knowing how he was doing , how they were treating him , if he was eating or not .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mother could ever ask for , ” she said .
Morales has twice been granted asylum , but government prosecutors appealed both rulings .
Immigration authorities were unwilling to release Morales as the appeals made their way through the courts , so his lawyers sued for his freedom in federal court last month .
“ It still feels unreal to me that I ’ m back .
It only hit me once I saw the skyline from the highway .
That ’ s when I felt my heart flutter , ” Morales said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dodge County jail by Arianna Salgado , a member of Organized Communities Against Deportations , an activist group based in Chicago .
The group posted his $ 1,500 bond .
“ We brought him a change of clothes and a mask , ” Salgado said .
“ The entire car ride we listened to all of his favorite songs .
He caught up on all of his favorite artists that released music while he was inside.
” Morales was born in Mexico and came to the United States in 2007 at age 13 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Enforcement took Morales into custody in September 2018 and placed him in deportation proceedings .
An immigration judge granted Morales asylum in April 2019 and again in February because he faces “ a substantial risk of torture ” if he ’ s deported to Mexico due to “ his severe mental health illnesses , his lack of familial support , and his sexual orientation , ” the judge wrote .
Morales has severe anxiety and depression , among other mental illnesses .
Government prosecutors appealed both rulings , which remain pending .
Keren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Immigrant Justice Center representing Morales , said the 26-year-old “ will be out in the world while his case is resolved ” as long as he stays clear of the law .
Having been out for three days , Morales said he still carries the stressors of being locked behind bars .
“ I have nightmares about being detained , about ICE coming after me , ” he said .
But Morales is ready to be patient with himself and learn to enjoy his newfound freedom .
“ It ’ s weird to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my life , I was in [ detention ] wishing I could give my mother a hug or being able to help my brother with his homework — and it takes me a minute to realize that I can , that I ’ ll finally to be a part of my family again , ” he said .
“ It gives me a peace of mind.
” Carlos Ballesteros is a corps member of Report for America , a not-for-profit journalism program that aims to bolster Sun-Times coverage of Chicago ’ s South @ @ @ @ @

After spending nearly two years at an immigrant detention center in rural Wisconsin, 26-year-old Francisco Morales was released on bond Friday — and pulled off a Mother’s Day surprise Sunday.
“I thought he was coming back Monday, that’s what he told me,” Morales’ mom, Adriana Torres, 46, said. “I was so excited to hold him, to hug him. It was so hard not knowing how he was doing, how they were treating him, if he was eating or not.
“This is the best gift a mother could ever ask for,” she said.
Morales has twice been granted asylum, but government prosecutors appealed both rulings. Immigration authorities were unwilling to release Morales as the appeals made their way through the courts, so his lawyers sued for his freedom in federal court last month.
They won.
“It still feels unreal to me that I’m back. It only hit me once I saw the skyline from the highway. That’s when I felt my heart flutter,” Morales said.
Morales was picked up from the Dodge County jail by Arianna Salgado, a member of Organized Communities Against Deportations, an activist group based in Chicago. The group posted his $1,500 bond.
“We brought him a change of clothes and a mask,” Salgado said. “The entire car ride we listened to all of his favorite songs. He caught up on all of his favorite artists that released music while he was inside.”
Adriana Torres, Israel Tena, Christian Morales and Francisco Morales reunite on Mother’s Day on May 10, 2020 after being separated for almost two years. Pat Nabong/Sun-Times
Morales was born in Mexico and came to the United States in 2007 at age 13 without proper authorization. Immigration and Customs Enforcement took Morales into custody in September 2018 and placed him in deportation proceedings.
An immigration judge granted Morales asylum in April 2019 and again in February because he faces “a substantial risk of torture” if he’s deported to Mexico due to “his severe mental health illnesses, his lack of familial support, and his sexual orientation,” the judge wrote. Morales has severe anxiety and depression, among other mental illnesses.
La Voz Sidebar 2023 Lea este artículo en español en La Voz Chicago.
Government prosecutors appealed both rulings, which remain pending. Keren Zwick, an attorney with the National Immigrant Justice Center representing Morales, said the 26-year-old “will be out in the world while his case is resolved” as long as he stays clear of the law.
Having been out for three days, Morales said he still carries the stressors of being locked behind bars. “I have nightmares about being detained, about ICE coming after me,” he said.
But Morales is ready to be patient with himself and learn to enjoy his newfound freedom.
“It’s weird to think that for almost two years of my life, I was in [detention] wishing I could give my mother a hug or being able to help my brother with his homework — and it takes me a minute to realize that I can, that I’ll finally to be a part of my family again,” he said.
“It gives me a peace of mind.”
Carlos Ballesteros is a corps member of Report for America, a not-for-profit journalism program that aims to bolster Sun-Times coverage of Chicago’s South Side and West Side.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Man charged with killing teen who chased his son through Ashburn: prosecutors

An Ashburn man charged with the fatal shooting of a teenage boy last week claims he was defending his son from gang members who were chasing him through the Southwest Side neighborhood .
Steve Kawar , 54 , was charged with first-degree murder for the shooting of the 16-year-old , police said .
The Cook County medical examiner ’ s office later identified the boy as Rodrigo Rangel .
Rangel was in a car with three friends Thursday morning when they saw Kawar ’ s son at a gas station near 83rd Street and Pulaski Road , the Cook County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The group — members of the Ambrose gang , according to prosecutors — “ mean-mugged ” Kawar ’ s son , thinking he might be a rival gang member .
Rangel ’ s group followed Kawar ’ s son as he left the gas station and chased him around the neighborhood “ to scare him , ” prosecutors said .
Kawar ’ s son then called his father and proceeded to drive toward their home .
After about 10 minutes , Kawar ’ s son stopped his vehicle at an angle near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way forward for Rangel and his friends , prosecutors said .
Seconds later , Kawar allegedly emerged onto the middle of the street , walked toward their vehicle and opened fire .
Kawar , a concealed-carry holder , claimed that someone fired at him first , police said .
However prosecutors say that an Uber Eats driver stuck behind the car saw Kawar unload several shots before anyone returned fire .
Rangel , who was in the back seat , was shot in the head , prosecutors said .
The driver and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a short distance away , while the back-seat passenger drove Rangel to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn , where he died .
Meanwhile , Kawar picked up his shell casings and tossed them down the street before stopping to talk to the Uber Eats driver , prosecutors said .
Kawar allegedly never brought up the issue of self-defense to the driver , instead saying that he saw “ Mexican gangbangers flying down the street.
” An exit hole in the car ’ s windshield and a shell casing recovered at the scene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car fired a shot , but the location of the bullet hole suggests that Kawar fired first , prosecutors said .
The Uber Eats driver also saw Kawar shoot first , prosecutors said , with smoke rising from his gun at the time the first shot was heard .
Kawar was ordered held on $ 350,000 bail , prosecutors said , though they asked that he be held without bail .
He is due back in court Monday .
Police said early Sunday that Kawar was released without charges but later clarified that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to say why Kawar was taken to the hospital .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

An Ashburn man charged with the fatal shooting of a teenage boy last week claims he was defending himself and his son from gang members who were chasing him through the Southwest Side neighborhood.
Steve Kawar, 54, was charged with first-degree murder for the shooting of the 16-year-old, police said. The Cook County medical examiner’s office later identified the boy as Rodrigo Rangel.
Rangel was in a car with three friends Thursday morning when they saw Kawar’s son at a gas station near 83rd Street and Pulaski Road, according to the Cook County state’s attorney’s office. The group — members of the Ambrose gang, according to prosecutors — “mean-mugged” Kawar’s son, thinking he might be a rival gang member.
Rangel’s group followed Kawar’s son as he left the gas station and chased him around the neighborhood “to scare him,” prosecutors said. Kawar’s son then called his father and proceeded to drive toward their home.
After about 10 minutes, Kawar’s son stopped his vehicle at an angle near 83rd Street and Springfield Avenue, blocking the way forward for Rangel and his friends, prosecutors said. Seconds later, Kawar allegedly emerged onto the middle of the street, walked toward their vehicle and opened fire.
Kawar, a concealed-carry holder, claimed that someone fired at him first, police said. However, prosecutors said that an Uber Eats driver stuck behind the car saw Kawar unload several shots before anyone returned fire.
Rangel, who was in the back seat, was shot in the head, prosecutors said. The driver and front-seat passenger fled on foot after driving a short distance away, while the back-seat passenger drove Rangel to Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he died.
Meanwhile, Kawar picked up his shell casings and tossed them down the street before stopping to talk to the Uber Eats driver, prosecutors said. Kawar allegedly never brought up the issue of self-defense to the driver, instead saying that he saw “Mexican gangbangers flying down the street.”
An exit hole in the car’s windshield and a shell casing recovered at the scene show that someone in Rangel’s car fired a shot, but the location of the bullet hole suggests that Kawar fired first, prosecutors said. The Uber Eats driver also saw Kawar shoot first, prosecutors said, with smoke rising from his gun at the time the first shot was heard.
Kawar was held on $350,000 bail, prosecutors said, though they asked that he be held without bond. He is due back in court Monday.
Police said early Sunday that Kawar was released without charges but later clarified that he had been hospitalized. Officials declined to say why Kawar was taken to the hospital.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--1st-and-10: Bears can use Larry Warford, but can they afford him?

The availability of three-time Pro Bowl guard Larry Warford is intriguing for a lot of NFL teams , but especially the Bears , who just happen to have a vacancy at right guard .
The Bears signed former Seahawks first-round pick Germain Ifedi in free agency .
But he ’ s on a one-year deal and might still have to beat out Rashaad Coward , who started 10 games in place of Kyle Long last season .
Warford , who was cut by the Saints in a salary-cap move Friday , would be a plug-and-play starter and immediate upgrade .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the NFL in 2019 by Pro Football Focus .
And his strength is run blocking — a particular focus of Matt Nagy ’ s offseason upgrade .
Conflicting reports have the Bears interested and not interested in Warford .
With high interest anticipated for a quality player who turns 29 in June , the Bears might not be able to afford him .
And moves like this aren ’ t always the no-brainers they appear to be .
The Saints have a knack for letting offensive lineman go at the right time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s best .
He struggled against the Vikings in the playoffs ( though the Saints in general appeared ill-prepared for the Vikings ’ strategy of having ends Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter pressure from inside more than the edge ) .
Long-term cost-efficiency could be an issue .
In 2016 , Pace ’ s second year with the Bears , he signed former Packers Pro Bowl guard Josh Sitton , who was cut at the 53-man roster deadline .
Like Warford , Sitton was not old ( 30 ) and was still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was rated the fifth best guard in the NFL by Pro Football Focus in 2015 .
Sitton made the Pro Bowl with the Bears at 30 in 2016 .
But after missing two games in six seasons as a starter with the Packers , he missed seven in two seasons with the Bears , who declined his 2018 option .
Sitton played one more game in the NFL in 2018 and retired at 32 .
With cap space tight , rookies to sign and wide receiver Allen Robinson due for an extension , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position to splurge .
But if they could , Warford would be a cherry-on-top finish to the Pace ’ s offseason refurbishing of the Bears ’ roster .
2 .
If the 2020 season ensues as planned , the Bears ’ early schedule looks very playable , but looks can be deceiving .
Though the first seven opponents were non-playoff teams in 2019 , the Colts with Philip Rivers and Buccaneers with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski could be vastly improved .
The Rams , a year removed from the Super Bowl , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Matthew Stafford back from an injury could be tough to beat at Ford Field .
Last year the Bears had a chance to start 6-1 and started 3-4 — and never recovered .
As the Bears know all too well , the fickle finger of fate in the NFL makes strength-of-schedule difficult to determine .
In 2018 and 2019 , the Bears ’ strength-of-schedule was the same ( their opponents had a .520 winning percentage the previous season ) .
But in 2018 , those opponents finished with a .442 winning percentage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bears ) and the Bears went 12-4 ; in 2019 , their opponents had a .508 winning percentage ( 121-117-2 ) and they finished 8-8 .
The bottom line : Predicting the Bears ’ record without seeing what Matt Nagy ’ s offense looks like in a real NFL game is almost pointless .
If the offense clicks , the Bears are a Super Bowl contender with their defense .
If it ’ s 2019 all over again , 8-8 will be a challenge .
3 .
An even better example of how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : In 2018 , ESPN.com ’ s NFL beat writers who predicted game-by-game results of the team they cover had the Bears going a composite 0-16 — and the Bears went 12-4 .
Last year they had the Bears going 11-5 — and they went 8-8 .
So take it for what it ’ s worth that ESPN ’ s beat writers have the Bears compositely going 6-10 this season — beating the Giants , Panthers , Vikings at Soldier Field , Lions at Soldier Field , Texans and Jaguars .
4 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trubisky rated ahead of Deshaun Watson and Patrick Mahomes prior to the 2017 draft : Mel Kiper ( Trubisky-Mahomes-Watson ) ; Todd McShay ( Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes ) ; NFL.com ( Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes ) ; PFF.com ( Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes ) ; WalterFootball.com ( Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes ) .
5 .
A good point by Tom Waddle of ESPN 1000 ’ s “ Waddle & Silvy Show ” : If offseason preparation continues to be affected by the COVID-19 restrictions — with possible abbreviated training camp and preseason — defenses likey will be ahead of offenses early in the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures to benefit the Bears , who have one of the most established defenses in the NFL .
6 .
If the season finale against the Packers already looks ominous , it ’ s for good reason .
The last time the Bears finished with the Packers was in 2013 , when they lost 33-28 at Soldier Field on Aaron Rodgers ’ 38-yard touchdown pass to Randall Cobb with 38 seconds left , costing the Bears ( 8-8 ) the NFC North title and a playoff spot .
The time before that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ champion Bears had a chance to keep the Packers out of the playoffs and lost 10-3 at Lambeau Field .
The Packers ended up beating the Bears in the NFC Championship game .
In fact , the Bears have lost their last five season finales against the Packers — also losing in 2006 , 2005 and 1998 .
7 .
Latest Lines : The latest Bears win total following the release of the schedule is eight .
The Bears are 1 1/2-point underdogs against Lions in Week 1 .
8 .
The Bears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tom Brady since 2006 , when the Patriots rallied late to beat the 9-1 Bears 17-13 at Gillette Stadium .
The Bears are 0-5 against Brady .
Ken Stabler is the only other Hall of Fame quarterback ( or presumed Hall of Famer ) they ’ ve faced more than twice but have not beaten .
They were 0-6 vs. Stabler .
Brady , for what it ’ s worth , is 12-1 on Thursday games since 2001 , with a 106.0 passer rating ( 28 touchdowns , six interceptions , 296 yards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McCown Ex-Bears Player of the Week Award : Quarterback Mike Glennon signed a one-year contract with the Jaguars , who to the surprise of many chose the journeyman over former league MVP Cam Newton .
The Jaguars are Glennon ’ s fifth team in the last five seasons , following the Raiders ( 2019 ) , Cardinals ( 2018 ) , Bears ( 2017 ) and Buccaneers ( 2016 ) .
10 .
Bear-ometer ( 9-7 ) — at Lions ( W ) ; vs. Giants ( W ) ; at Falcons ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) ; vs .
Buccaneers ( W ) ; at Panthers ( W ) ; at Rams ( L ) ; vs. Saints ( L ) ; at Titans ( L ) ; vs. Vikings ( W ) ; at Packers ( L ) ; vs. Lions ( W ) ; vs. Texans ( W ) ; at Vikings ( L ) ; at Jaguars ( W ) ; vs. Packers ( W ) .

The availability of three-time Pro Bowl guard Larry Warford is intriguing for a lot of NFL teams, but especially so for the Bears, who just happen to have a vacancy at right guard.
The Bears signed former Seahawks first-round pick Germain Ifedi in free agency, but he’s on a one-year deal and still might have to beat out Rashaad Coward, who started 10 games last season in place of Kyle Long.
Warford, who was cut by the Saints in a salary-cap move Friday, would be a plug-and-play starter and an immediate upgrade. He was rated the 11th-best guard in the NFL by Pro Football Focus, and his strength is run blocking — a particular focus of coach Matt Nagy’s offseason.
Conflicting reports have the Bears interested and not interested in Warford. With high interest anticipated for a quality player who will turn 29 next month, the Bears might not be able to afford him.
And moves such as this aren’t always the no-brainers they appear to be. The Saints have a knack for letting offensive linemen go at the right time. Last season wasn’t Warford’s best. He struggled against the Vikings in the playoffs (though the Saints in general appeared ill-prepared for the Vikings’ strategy of pressuring from inside more than the edge), and long-term cost efficiency might be an issue.
In 2016, Pace’s second year with the Bears, he signed former Packers Pro Bowl guard Josh Sitton, who had been cut at the 53-man roster deadline. Like Warford, Sitton was not old (30) and still was playing at a high level when he was cut. He was rated the fifth-best guard in the NFL by Pro Football Focus in 2015.
Sitton made the Pro Bowl with the Bears in 2016. But after missing two games in six seasons as a starter with the Packers, he missed seven in two seasons with the Bears, who declined his 2018 option. Sitton played one more game in the NFL and retired at 32.
With cap space tight, rookies to sign and receiver Allen Robinson due for an extension, the Bears aren’t in a position to splurge. But if they could, Warford would be a cherry-on-top finish to Pace’s offseason refurbishing of the roster.
2. If the 2020 season takes place as planned, the Bears’ early schedule looks promising. Looks, however, can be deceiving. Though their first seven opponents were non-playoff teams in 2019, the Colts with Philip Rivers and Buccaneers with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski could be vastly improved. The Rams, a year removed from a Super Bowl appearance, could bounce back. And the Lions with Matthew Stafford back from an injury might be tough to beat at Ford Field. The Bears had a chance to start 6-1 last season. Instead, they opened 3-4 — and never recovered.
As the Bears know all too well, the fickle finger of fate makes strength-of-schedule difficult to determine. In 2018 and 2019, the Bears’ strength-of-schedule was the same: Their opponents had a combined .520 winning percentage the previous season. But those opponents finished with a .442 winning percentage in 2018 (104-132-4, excluding games against the Bears), and the Bears went 12-4. Their opponents had a .508 winning percentage (121-117-2) in 2019, and the Bears finished 8-8.
The bottom line: Predicting the Bears’ record without seeing what the offense looks like in a real NFL game is almost pointless. If the offense clicks, the Bears might be a Super Bowl contender with their defense. If it’s 2019 all over again, 8-8 will be a challenge.
3. Here’s an even better example of how difficult it is to predict the NFL: In 2018, ESPN.com’s beat writers — who predicted game-by-game results of the teams they cover — had the Bears going a composite 0-16; they went 12-4. Last season, they had the Bears going 11-5; they went 8-8.
So take it for what it’s worth that ESPN’s beat writers have the Bears going 6-10 this season, beating the Giants, Panthers, Vikings (at Soldier Field), Lions (at Soldier Field), Texans and Jaguars.
4. The list: Outlets that had Mitch Trubisky rated ahead of Deshaun Watson and Patrick Mahomes before the 2017 draft: Mel Kiper (Trubisky-Mahomes-Watson), Todd McShay (Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes), NFL.com (Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes), PFF.com (Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes) and WalterFootball.com (Trubisky-Watson-Mahomes).
5. A good point by Tom Waddle of ESPN 1000’s ‘‘Waddle & Silvy Show’’: If offseason preparation continues to be affected by COVID-19 restrictions — with a possible abbreviated training camp and preseason — defenses likely will be ahead of offenses whenever the NFL season begins. That figures to benefit the Bears, who have one of the most established defenses in the NFL.
6. If the season finale against the Packers already looks ominous, it’s for good reason. The last time the Bears finished with the Packers at home was in 2013, when they lost 33-28 on a 38-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers to Randall Cobb with 38 seconds left, costing them the NFC North title and a playoff spot.
The time before that was in 2010, when the NFC North champion Bears had a chance to keep the Packers out of the playoffs and lost 10-3 at Lambeau Field. The Packers ended up beating the Bears in the NFC Championship Game that season. In fact, the Bears have lost their last five season finales against the Packers, also losing in 2006, 2005 and 1998.
7. Latest lines: The latest projected Bears victory total after the release of the schedule is eight. The Bears are 1œ-point underdogs against Lions in Week 1.
8. The Bears might have their best chance to beat Brady since 2006, when the Patriots rallied late to beat the Super Bowl-bound Bears 17-13 at Gillette Stadium. The Bears are 0-5 against Brady. Ken Stabler is the only other Hall of Fame quarterback (or presumed Hall of Famer) the Bears have faced more than twice but have not beaten. They were 0-6 against Stabler.
Brady, for what it’s worth, is 12-1 with a 106.0 passer rating (28 touchdowns, six interceptions, 296 yards per game) in Thursday games since 2001.
9. Josh McCown Ex-Bears Player of the Week Award: Quarterback Mike Glennon signed a one-year contract with the Jaguars, who — to the surprise of many — chose the journeyman over 2015 NFL most valuable player Cam Newton. The Jaguars will be Glennon’s fifth team in the last five seasons, following the Raiders (2019), Cardinals (2018), Bears (2017) and Buccaneers (2016).
10. Bear-ometer (9-7): at Lions (W); vs. Giants (W); at Falcons (L); vs. Colts (L); vs. Buccaneers (W); at Panthers (W); at Rams (L); vs. Saints (L); at Titans (L); vs. Vikings (W); at Packers (L); vs. Lions (W); vs. Texans (W); at Vikings (L); at Jaguars (W); vs. Packers (W).


chicagosun-times--2020-05-10--Time to reopen Illinois? You go first

Time to reopen Illinois? You go first

If Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch thinks parts of the state ’ s economy are ready to be opened up , my suggestion is that he goes first .
I want to see him getting up close and personal with the general public , risking his personal health on a daily basis .
And I want to see him do it for $ 15 an hour .
Given the vagueness of statements by Gov .
J .
B. Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot , along with the stance of the Chicago Teacher ’ s Union , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wall that there won ’ t be real school in the fall .
Instead of having a can-do attitude , it ’ s as if we ’ re searching for reasons to remain shut down .
The only thing “ virtual ” schooling assures is virtually no learning .
As a parent of two CPS kids , we are looking at other options .
As a large association of apartment owners and managers with properties ranging from two-flats to high-rises , the Chicagoland Apartment Association is proud to have signed Mayor Lightfoot ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these unprecedented times , true to the Solidarity Pledge , countless property managers are practicing grace and patience when rent is due , including extended payment plans , waiving late fees and offering significant grace periods .
We expect these scenarios to repeat tens of thousands of times going forward .
It ’ s important to emphasize what the mayor has said repeatedly : Those who can pay rent must .
Not only is it vital to stabilizing the housing market , it also increases apartment owners ’ flexibility to extend a helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardship in the wake of the pandemic .
Apartment owners are under similar financial pressures .
Their monthly costs including payroll , property taxes , insurance , maintenance and capital expenditures .
A group of Illinois lawmakers is endorsing # CancelRent legislation , but we would note the idea of forgiving widespread rent could result in a tremendous amount of foreclosures , exacerbating the region ’ s shortage of quality affordable housing options .
Short of the federal government delivering direct rental assistance , the best strategy is for property managers and residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communication from residents regarding their COVID-19-related needs is key to finding mutually agreeable resolutions .
It ’ s ironic that so many supporters of Donald Trump don ’ t believe in evolution .
In their refusal to shelter in place , wear face masks , and practice social distancing , they soon will present us with a startling demonstration in natural selection .

If Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch thinks parts of the state’s economy are ready to be opened up, my suggestion is that he goes first. I want to see him getting up close and personal with the general public, risking his personal health on a daily basis. And I want to see him do it for $15 an hour.
Don Anderson, Oak Park
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Given the vagueness of statements by Gov. J. B. Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot, along with the stance of the Chicago Teacher’s Union, the writing seems to be on the wall that there won’t be real school in the fall. Instead of having a can-do attitude, it’s as if we’re searching for reasons to remain shut down. The only thing “virtual” schooling assures is virtually no learning.
As a parent of two CPS kids, we are looking at other options.
Jim McIntosh, Hyde Park
Working with renters
As a large association of apartment owners and managers with properties ranging from two-flats to high-rises, the Chicagoland Apartment Association is proud to have signed Mayor Lightfoot’s Chicago Housing Solidarity Pledge. During these unprecedented times, true to the Solidarity Pledge, countless property managers are practicing grace and patience when rent is due, including extended payment plans, waiving late fees and offering significant grace periods. We expect these scenarios to repeat tens of thousands of times going forward.
It’s important to emphasize what the mayor has said repeatedly: Those who can pay rent must. Not only is it vital to stabilizing the housing market, it also increases apartment owners’ flexibility to extend a helping hand to the thousands of tenants facing hardship in the wake of the pandemic. Apartment owners are under similar financial pressures. Their monthly costs including payroll, property taxes, insurance, maintenance and capital expenditures.
A group of Illinois lawmakers is endorsing #CancelRent legislation, but we would note the idea of forgiving widespread rent could result in a tremendous amount of foreclosures, exacerbating the region’s shortage of quality affordable housing options. Short of the federal government delivering direct rental assistance, the best strategy is for property managers and residents to partner together.
Early, open communication from residents regarding their COVID-19-related needs is key to finding mutually agreeable resolutions.
Michael Mini
Executive vice president
Chicagoland Apartment Association
Natural selection
It’s ironic that so many supporters of Donald Trump don’t believe in evolution. In their refusal to shelter in place, wear face masks, and practice social distancing, they soon will present us with a startling demonstration in natural selection.
Daniel Welch Glen Ellyn