chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--Pritzker recruits retired doctors, nurses as Illinois coronavirus cases hit 753: ‘This is hero’s wor

Pritzker recruits retired doctors, nurses as Illinois coronavirus cases hit 753: ‘This is hero’s work’

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker issued a “ call to action ” Saturday for retired doctors and nurses to return to the field as the state ’ s health care system braces for a surge in confirmed coronavirus cases .
With the launch of his statewide “ stay-at-home ” order looming , Pritzker asked for the medical reinforcements while announcing Illinois ’ COVID-19 outbreak expanded by 168 patients , bringing the statewide total to 753 .
That includes a Cook County man in his 70s whose death marked the sixth in Illinois attributed to the disease so far , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ezike .
DuPage County officials said Saturday that they had 69 total cases with no deaths .
Forty-six of those cases were at a long-term care facility in Willowbrook , including 33 residents and 13 staff members .
“ We ’ re in the middle of a battle , and we need reinforcements , ” Pritzker said .
“ This is hero ’ s work , and all of you have our deepest gratitude for your willingness to serve.
” The governor asked all former physicians , nurses , physician ’ s assistants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have recently left the field to return to the frontline so current health care workers aren ’ t overloaded by the pandemic .
Beginning Monday , the state will waive any application fees and expedite the licensing process so medical professionals can get back to work as soon as possible , Pritzker said .
Licenses that are expiring soon will automatically be extended through September .
But for health care workers to adequately fight Illinois ’ growing coronavirus outbreak , they need the public to help by staying home .
“ What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reduce the further spread and prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed , ” Ezike said .
She said stocks of personal protective equipment — gloves , gowns , eye protection and respirator masks — are being “ used rapidly.
” By staying home , residents will help slow the viral spread and allow medical professionals to replenish supplies as they dwindle , Ezike said .
The number of cases could hit 3,400 within a week with expanded testing , according to Pritzker ’ s office .
Ezike stressed that patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should — recover at home .
“ The vast majority of people recover uneventfully without being in an ICU or ventilator , ” she said .
Pritzker ’ s stay-at-home order , effective through April 7 , bolsters the social distancing guidelines that health officials have urged .
Only essential businesses — including grocery stores , pharmacies , medical offices , hospitals and gas stations — will remain open .
The measure also extends to Illinois schools , which be closed through April 7 .
Chicago Public Schools , however , will stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lightfoot previously directed .
“ Non-essential ” retailers along the city ’ s Magnificent Mile started preparing for the closures Saturday morning , with The Disney Store , Sephora and MCM all boarding up their front windows .
Roads and highways will stay open .
So will public transportation systems , although Metra has already started cutting services .
Earlier Saturday , CTA officials announced a bus driver working out of a Northwest Side garage tested positive for the coronavirus .
A Chicago police officer and two fire department employees were diagnosed earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lori Lightfoot urged residents to keep calm and shop responsibly during a Saturday morning news conference .
“ There ’ s absolutely no need for people to rush to grocery stores or hoard any food or supplies , ” Lightfoot said .
“ We are in constant communication with major retailers to maintain a strong food supply .
And they have and they will .
Everything will remain stocked and available .
”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a “call to action” Saturday for retired doctors and nurses to return to the field as the state’s health care system braces for a surge in confirmed coronavirus cases.
With the launch of his statewide “stay-at-home” order looming, Pritzker asked for the medical reinforcements while announcing Illinois’ COVID-19 outbreak expanded by 168 patients, bringing the statewide total to 753.
That includes a Cook County man in his 70s whose death marked the sixth in Illinois attributed to the disease so far, according to Illinois Department of Public Health Director Ngozi Ezike.
The Cook County medical examiner’s office on Saturday identified two Chicago residents whose deaths have been attributed to the coronavirus. Timothy Loving, 59, of Austin and Diane Breymeyer, 80, of Old Town, each died of respiratory problems brought on by COVID-19, as well as other contributing conditions.
DuPage County officials said Saturday that they had 69 total cases with no deaths. Forty-six of those cases were at a long-term care facility in Willowbrook, including 33 residents and 13 staff members.
“We’re in the middle of a battle, and we need reinforcements,” Pritzker said. “This is hero’s work, and all of you have our deepest gratitude for your willingness to serve.”
The governor asked all former physicians, nurses, physician’s assistants, nurse practitioners and respiratory care therapists who have recently left the field to return to the frontline so current health care workers aren’t overloaded by the pandemic.
Beginning Monday, the state will waive any application fees and expedite the licensing process so medical professionals can get back to work as soon as possible, Pritzker said. Licenses that are expiring soon will automatically be extended through September.
But for health care workers to adequately fight Illinois’ growing coronavirus outbreak, they need the public to help by staying home.
“What’s important now is to try to reduce the further spread and prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed,” Ezike said.
She said stocks of personal protective equipment — gloves, gowns, eye protection and respirator masks — are being “used rapidly.” By staying home, residents will help slow the viral spread and allow medical professionals to replenish supplies as they dwindle, Ezike said.
The number of cases could hit 3,400 within a week with expanded testing, according to Pritzker’s office.
Ezike stressed that patients who are healthy enough can — and should — recover at home.
“The vast majority of people recover uneventfully without being in an ICU or ventilator,” she said.
Pritzker’s stay-at-home order, effective through April 7, bolsters the social distancing guidelines that health officials have urged.
Only essential businesses — including grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, hospitals and gas stations — will remain open. The measure also extends to Illinois schools, which be closed through April 7. Chicago Public Schools, however, will stay closed through April 21, Mayor Lori Lightfoot previously directed.
“Non-essential” retailers along the city’s Magnificent Mile started preparing for the closures Saturday morning, with The Disney Store, Sephora and MCM all boarding up their front windows.
A handful of stores were boarded up Saturday on the Magnificent Mile before Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order took effect. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Roads and highways will stay open. So will public transportation systems, although Metra has already started cutting services.
Earlier Saturday, CTA officials announced a bus driver working out of a Northwest Side garage tested positive for the coronavirus. A Chicago police officer and two fire department employees were diagnosed earlier in the week as well.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot urged residents to keep calm and shop responsibly during a Saturday morning news conference.
“There’s absolutely no need for people to rush to grocery stores or hoard any food or supplies,” Lightfoot said. “We are in constant communication with major retailers to maintain a strong food supply. And they have and they will. Everything will remain stocked and available.”


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--Malcolm Subban, Brendan Perlini made strange kinds of Blackhawks history this season

Malcolm Subban ’ s relief appearance on March 3 against the Ducks was as forgettable as they come .
With Corey Crawford being evaluated for a concussion shortly after a collision with Ryan Getzlaf ’ s knee , Subban made his Blackhawks debut by manning the crease for a mere one minute and 10 seconds until Crawford returned .
Subban received only a moment to warm up — the Hawks were leading 5-1 in the third period , after all — and didn ’ t face a single shot on goal , although the Ducks did produce a decent chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extremely brief relief appearance could end up making franchise history — as the shortest Hawks career ever .
That stat would only hold up if the 2019-20 regular season never resumes , and if Subban doesn ’ t re-sign this summer .
Those are two uncertainties , but they ’ re both rather likely at this point : the coronavirus situation is obvious to all , and Subban ’ s lack of usage following his throw-in inclusion in the Robin Lehner trade indicated he was likely not part of the Hawks ’ long-term @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tenure breaks the strange record held by fellow goalie Christian Soucy , who made one career NHL appearance — playing three minutes in a 6-3 loss to the Capitals — for the Hawks in 1993-94 .
But Soucy also played three seasons in the Hawks ’ minor-league system , as did the vast majority of other entries in the one-career-Hawks-appearance database .
It ’ s not too rare for a career minor-leaguer to come up for one game .
What makes Subban ’ s situation unique is that he ’ s an established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games for the Golden Knights ( and two for the Bruins ) prior to coming to Chicago .
Only two others , at least in recent decades , have played just one career game in the entire Hawks organization : Radek Smolenak — who was claimed off waivers from the Lightning , played 4:41 in an Oct. 2009 loss to the Red Wings , then waived by the Hawks and re-claimed by the Lightning — and 2018 emergency backup legend Scott Foster .
Subban also may become only the third player in Hawks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Hawks but 20 or more games for another NHL team in the same season .
Coincidentally , the second to do so happened earlier just this year .
Brendan Perlini played 7:49 for the Hawks in their Oct. 12 loss to the Jets .
Besides being healthy scratched for nine other games , that was all he did before his Oct. 28 trade to the Red Wings ( due to discontent about playing time ) .
In Detroit , though , Perlini played 39 games prior to the season postponement , meaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total appearances but only one Hawks appearance .
The only other player to do that in history is Tony Tanti , the Hawks ’ 1981 first-round pick who entered the lineup once in 1982-93 before being dealt to the Canucks , where he also played 39 games that season .
Of course , Tanti scored 16 points in his 39 games , whereas Perlini scored only four .
Tanti also scored 39 or more goals each of the next five seasons , while Perlini could struggle to still be in the NHL five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their odd seasons are one and the same .
Fortunately for Subban and Perlini , hockey ’ s record books and online archives are rarely used to identify the least remarkable careers , so their uniquely forgettable seasons will likely remain exactly that in the future .
But unfortunately for Subban and Perlini , this quarantined world requires digging for the smallest pieces of sports intrigue — so for now , their incredibly short tenures are worth a glance .

Malcolm Subban’s relief appearance March 3 against the Ducks was as forgettable as they come.
With Corey Crawford being evaluated for a concussion shortly after a collision with Ryan Getzlaf’s knee, Subban made his Blackhawks debut by manning the crease for a mere 1 minute, 10 seconds until Crawford returned.
Subban received a moment to warm up — the Hawks were leading 5-1 in the third period, after all — and didn’t face a shot on goal, although the Ducks did produce a decent chance that went wide.
But that one brief relief appearance could end up making franchise history — as the shortest Hawks career ever.
That stat would only hold up if the 2019-20 regular season never resumes, and if Subban doesn’t re-sign this summer. Those are two uncertainties, but they’re both likely at this point. The coronavirus situation is obvious to all, and Subban’s lack of use after his throw-in inclusion in the Robin Lehner trade indicated he probably wasn’t part of the Hawks’ long-term plans.
Subban’s one-minute tenure would break the strange record held by fellow goalie Christian Soucy, who made one career NHL appearance — playing three minutes in a 6-3 loss to the Capitals — for the Hawks in 1993-94.
But Soucy also played three seasons in the Hawks’ minor-league system, as did the vast majority of other entries in the one-career-Hawks-appearance database. It’s not too rare for a career minor-leaguer to come up for one game.
What makes Subban’s situation unique is that he’s an established NHL goalie, having played 63 career games for the Golden Knights (and two for the Bruins) before coming to Chicago.
Only two others, at least in recent -decades, have played one career game in the Hawks’ organization: Radek Smolenak — who was claimed off waivers from the Lightning, played 4:41 in an October 2009 loss to the Red Wings, then was waived by the Hawks and re-claimed by the Lightning — and 2018 emergency backup legend Scott Foster.
Subban also might become only the third player in Hawks history to play one game for the Hawks but 20 or more games for another NHL team in the same season.
Coincidentally, the second to do so happened earlier this season.
Brendan Perlini played 7:49 for the Hawks in their Oct. 12 loss to the Jets. Besides being a healthy scratch for nine other games, that was all he did before his Oct. 28 trade to the Red Wings (prompted by discontent about playing time).
In Detroit, however, Perlini played 39 games before the season postponement, meaning he’ll finish 2019-20 with 40 total appearances but only one with the Hawks.
The only other player to do that is Tony Tanti, the Hawks’ 1981 first-round pick who entered the lineup once in 1982-83 before being dealt to the Canucks, for whom he also played 39 games that season.
But Tanti had 16 points in his 39 games, whereas Perlini had only four. Tanti also scored 39 or more goals in each of the next five seasons; Perlini, on the other hand, could struggle to stay in the league five years from now. Technically, however, their odd seasons are one and the same.
Fortunately for Subban and Perlini, hockey’s record books and online archives are rarely used to identify the least remarkable careers. So their uniquely forgettable seasons likely will remain exactly that.
But unfortunately for Subban and Perlini, this quarantined world requires digging for the smallest pieces of sports intrigue. So for now, their incredibly short tenures are worth a glance.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--CPD patrols stepped up as businesses hunker down for stay-at-home order

With Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s “ stay-at-home ” order taking effect Saturday evening , thousands of Chicago police officers were redeployed to monitor retail areas and major thoroughfares throughout the city as they prepare for weeks of closures ahead .
The order effectively shuts down businesses deemed “ non-essential , ” and by Saturday morning , several shops along the Magnificent Mile were boarded up with plywood .
In recent months , the high-end shopping district has been the target of several smash-and-grab burglaries .
Aside from the weekend redeployments — which , a department spokesman said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CPD leadership has enacted an order that will allow department supervisors to quickly change any officer ’ s assignment , should a need for extra manpower arise .
“ The order is designed to be able to scale very quickly to a more elevated posture to be able to protect public safety infrastructure , ” Anthony Guglielmi , the CPD ’ s chief spokesman , said Friday .
“ If we start getting more and more cases of police officers and the exposure level ’ s high , you ’ re going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether those officers have to be quarantined.
” The order was enacted Thursday , the same day the department announced that a detective who works out of the CPD ’ s Homan Square facility had tested positive for COVID-19 .
As for enforcement among residents , Mayor Lori Lightfoot said anyone thought to be violating Pritzker ’ s order would get an “ admonition ” from Chicago police officers , though misdemeanor charges are possible .

With Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s “stay-at-home” order taking effect Saturday evening, thousands of Chicago police officers were redeployed to monitor retail areas and major thoroughfares throughout the city as they prepare for weeks of closures ahead.
The order effectively shuts down businesses deemed “non-essential,” and by Saturday morning, several shops along the Magnificent Mile were boarded up with plywood. In recent months, the high-end shopping district has been the target of several smash-and-grab burglaries.
A person walks on Saturday in front of the boarded up windows of MCM, a luxury travel goods store at 540 N. Michigan Ave. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Aside from the weekend redeployments — which, a department spokesman said, would be discontinued as of Monday — CPD leadership has enacted an order that will allow department supervisors to quickly change any officer’s assignment, should a need for extra manpower arise.
“The order is designed to be able to scale very quickly to a more elevated posture to be able to protect public safety infrastructure,” Anthony Guglielmi, the CPD’s chief spokesman, said Friday. “If we start getting more and more cases of police officers and the exposure level’s high, you’re going to have to make case-by-case decisions as to whether those officers have to be quarantined.”
The order was enacted Thursday, the same day the department announced that a detective who works out of the CPD’s Homan Square facility had tested positive for COVID-19.
As for enforcement among residents, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said anyone thought to be violating Pritzker’s order would get an “admonition” from Chicago police officers, though misdemeanor charges are possible.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--Catalytic converter thefts reported in Avondale: police

Three catalytic converter thefts were reported in March in Avondale on the Northwest Side .
• Between noon March 2 @ @ @ @ @ the 3100 block of North Sawyer Avenue ; • Between midnight March 3 and midnight @ @ @ @ @ block of North Spaulding Avenue ; and • Between 8:15 a.m. and 4 p.m. March @ @ @ @ @ of West Barry Avenue .
Police believe two men are involved .
Anyone with information @ @ @ @ @ North detectives at 312-744-8263 .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ @ @ @

Three catalytic converter thefts were reported in March in Avondale on the Northwest Side.
The thefts happened:
Between noon March 2 and noon March 3 in the 3100 block of North Sawyer Avenue;
Between midnight March 3 and midnight March 4 in the 3000 block of North Spaulding Avenue; and
Between 8:15 a.m. and 4 p.m. March 11 in the 3200 block of West Barry Avenue.
Police believe two men are involved.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Area North detectives at 312-744-8263.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Dear Abby: I’m depressed over a loss, but mom says I shouldn’t be

DEAR ABBY : I have had a serious boyfriend for six months .
He ’ s wonderful , a dream come true .
But I find myself more depressed and suicidal than ever .
Mom tells me I don ’ t have any reason to be depressed since I have a boyfriend .
It ’ s like she thinks I have no right to still be despondent over my twin ’ s death because I now have a significant other .
My eating disorder and self-harm have gotten worse , too .
I feel like I ’ m holding in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to show that I ’ m turning it all inward in self-destructive ways .
Although I love my boyfriend , I almost feel like breaking up just so everyone won ’ t expect me to be Pollyanna anymore .
The third anniversary of my twin ’ s suicide is coming , which is making everything more unbearable .
I just don ’ t know what to do .
I just want to disappear .
— THINGS AREN ’ T OK DEAR THINGS : If your mother truly believes a death in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is something that can be “ fixed ” by having a boyfriend , she is deluding herself .
You need professional help and right away .
There are support groups for survivors of a family member ’ s suicide , and you are three years overdue for finding one .
I urge you to contact the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention .
Someone there can help you to locate a support group for the survivors of a loved one ’ s suicide .
To find them , go online to afsp.org .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and tell a counselor about what ’ s going on .
If you do , you can be directed to a licensed therapist in your community who can help .
The toll-free number to call is ( 800 ) 273-8255 .
PLEASE do not put it off .
DEAR ABBY : My daughter and I have been estranged on and off for many years , most recently for the last 22 months .
At that time , she angrily took her 8-year-old daughter and left our home , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She said she was going to tell everyone I kicked her out .
Then she blocked me on Facebook and removed my access to my granddaughter ’ s classroom progress reports and my name from the school emergency card .
I had no idea where they went .
My poor granddaughter was in tears .
She had been upset moving back in with us again , and told me she wished her mom would get a job so they could stay in one place for real .
After no contact , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ married .
“ Save the date ” cards have gone out .
I have no desire or intention of going to a wedding of someone who has spent half her life being cruel to me , lying , ignoring me , being jealous at her sister ’ s wedding and so on , with never an apology for her horrible behavior .
She ’ s a Jekyll and Hyde .
We live in the same community , and I do all I can to avoid seeing her .
I ’ m happy for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a bedroom of her own , but I have no intention of playing happy family to someone who regularly sharpens knives in my back .
How do I answer any inquiries that may come up about the wedding ?
— CAN ’ T TAKE ANY MORE DEAR CAN ’ T : Do not engage in a litany of complaints and accusations .
You can get the message across to anyone who asks about the wedding by saying that you are not involved in the planning of the wedding and questions should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not have to discuss it further .
It ’ s short and sweet and gets the message across .
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 an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person , order “ How to Be Popular.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Popularity Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: I have had a serious boyfriend for six months. He’s wonderful, a dream come true. But I find myself more depressed and suicidal than ever. Mom tells me I don’t have any reason to be depressed since I have a boyfriend. It’s like she thinks I have no right to still be despondent over my twin’s death because I now have a significant other.
My eating disorder and self-harm have gotten worse, too. I feel like I’m holding in so much sadness I’m not allowed to show that I’m turning it all inward in self-destructive ways. Although I love my boyfriend, I almost feel like breaking up just so everyone won’t expect me to be Pollyanna anymore. The third anniversary of my twin’s suicide is coming, which is making everything more unbearable. I just don’t know what to do. I just want to disappear. — THINGS AREN’T OK
DEAR THINGS: If your mother truly believes a death in the family (particularly a twin!) is something that can be “fixed” by having a boyfriend, she is deluding herself. You need professional help and right away. There are support groups for survivors of a family member’s suicide, and you are three years overdue for finding one. I urge you to contact the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Someone there can help you to locate a support group for the survivors of a loved one’s suicide. To find them, go online to afsp.org.
If you are feeling suicidal, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and tell a counselor about what’s going on. If you do, you can be directed to a licensed therapist in your community who can help. The toll-free number to call is (800) 273-8255. PLEASE do not put it off.
DEAR ABBY: My daughter and I have been estranged on and off for many years, most recently for the last 22 months. At that time, she angrily took her 8-year-old daughter and left our home, where she had been living since another eviction. She said she was going to tell everyone I kicked her out. Then she blocked me on Facebook and removed my access to my granddaughter’s classroom progress reports and my name from the school emergency card.
I had no idea where they went. My poor granddaughter was in tears. She had been upset moving back in with us again, and told me she wished her mom would get a job so they could stay in one place for real.
After no contact, I have been told my daughter is being married. “Save the date” cards have gone out. I have no desire or intention of going to a wedding of someone who has spent half her life being cruel to me, lying, ignoring me, being jealous at her sister’s wedding and so on, with never an apology for her horrible behavior. She’s a Jekyll and Hyde.
We live in the same community, and I do all I can to avoid seeing her. I’m happy for her and delighted my granddaughter will finally have a bedroom of her own, but I have no intention of playing happy family to someone who regularly sharpens knives in my back. How do I answer any inquiries that may come up about the wedding? — CAN’T TAKE ANY MORE
DEAR CAN’T: Do not engage in a litany of complaints and accusations. You can get the message across to anyone who asks about the wedding by saying that you are not involved in the planning of the wedding and questions should be directed to your daughter. You do not have to discuss it further. It’s short and sweet and gets the message across.
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 an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person, order “How to Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--How one Chicago family is dealing with a case of coronavirus — confirmed days after being stuck at O

How one Chicago family is dealing with a case of coronavirus — confirmed days after being stuck at O’Hare

Jack Siebert was six weeks into his study abroad trip in Spain earlier this month when he came down with what he calls a “ nasty fever.
” The next weekend , the 20-year-old college junior found himself in a packed crowd at O ’ Hare Airport , waiting hours to get through customs and baggage claim as he scrambled to get home .
On Monday , Siebert learned he tested positive for the coronavirus .
Since then , he ’ s been quarantined in the basement of his family ’ s Old Town neighborhood house .
His mom , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms before her son got back from Madrid , is isolated upstairs .
Because her son tested positive , doctors told Kate Siebert to assume that she had also contracted coronavirus , but she has not been tested .
There are four Sieberts at home , and they ’ re all living distinctly different lives .
Kate is living and working in her son ’ s old room , while her son , a theater student at New York University , wakes up in the basement and gets on his laptop for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also just got back from college , does the same in her room .
John Siebert , Jack ’ s dad , is busy making coffee , cooking and cleaning the house .
He constantly scrubs counters and doorknobs and hangs up reminders for Kate and Jack to put on their masks if they leave their rooms .
“ He ’ s having to do everything , ” Kate said .
“ My husband and my daughter do all the work cooking and cleaning and bringing us meals .
I feel terrible that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The quarantined mom and son eat breakfast and lunch alone after John drops it off at their door .
But they like to share dinner together in the basement , away from the others .
“ I ’ m envious of the families who can play games and do puzzles , ” Kate said .
“ We can ’ t do that together , I don ’ t think it ’ s worth the risk.
” ‘ I ’ m very much a tough-it-out kind of person ’ When Jack and his friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heard of coronavirus-related closures in Europe , they weren ’ t too worried .
After all , their school hadn ’ t yet directed them to go home .
“ Everyone was sort of like , I ’ m going to stay and wait it out because it was an indefinite date , ” he said .
On March 9 , his university alerted the Madrid campus recommending they make plans to head home .
That night he fell sick with a fever , a cough and a bad headache .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of person , so I literally said to myself , my fever is probably stress-induced — which , fevers can ’ t really happen that way , ” he said , adding that anyone with mild symptoms should assume they have COVID-19 and follow public health officials ’ guidance to stay home .
When confusion started a couple days later over President Trump ’ s European travel ban , Jack made plans to head home so he wouldn ’ t be stuck overseas amid the crisis .
Then , he got stuck for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the mess at O ’ Hare .
“ They actually put hundreds of people in a very small space while there ’ s a massive global health crisis going on with people traveling in from Madrid , from Italy ; planes from hotbeds of the virus , ” he said .
The next day , the mother and son walked to Northwestern Memorial Hospital , where Jack , wearing a mask , waited outside for a nurse to bring him to a separate entrance to get tested .
Both said they feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical conditions and aren ’ t immunocompromised .
Their biggest worry is for healthcare workers and other essential employees , like their family friends who work in grocery stores .
“ I think we all just have to really take care of each other , ” Kate said .

Jack Siebert was six weeks into his study abroad trip in Spain earlier this month when he came down with what he calls a “nasty fever.”
The next weekend, the 20-year-old college junior found himself in a packed crowd at O’Hare Airport, waiting hours to get through customs and baggage claim as he scrambled to get home.
On Monday, Siebert learned he tested positive for the coronavirus.
Since then, he’s been quarantined in the basement of his family’s Old Town neighborhood house. His mom, Kate Siebert, who started showing COVID-19 symptoms before her son got back from Madrid, is isolated upstairs.
Because her son tested positive, doctors told Kate Siebert to assume that she had also contracted coronavirus, but she has not been tested.
‘I feel terrible that it’s hard on them’
There are four Sieberts at home, and they’re all living distinctly different lives.
Kate is living and working in her son’s old room, while her son, a theater student at New York University, wakes up in the basement and gets on his laptop for his online classes. His sister, who also just got back from college, does the same in her room.
John Siebert, Jack’s dad, is busy making coffee, cooking and cleaning the house. He constantly scrubs counters and doorknobs and hangs up reminders for Kate and Jack to put on their masks if they leave their rooms.
“He’s having to do everything,” Kate said. “My husband and my daughter do all the work cooking and cleaning and bringing us meals. I feel terrible that it’s hard on them.”
Jack Siebert sits across from his mom, Kate, as they have dinner together while quarantined. Provided
The quarantined mom and son eat breakfast and lunch alone after John drops it off at their door. But they like to share dinner together in the basement, away from the others.
“I’m envious of the families who can play games and do puzzles,” Kate said. “We can’t do that together, I don’t think it’s worth the risk.”
‘I’m very much a tough-it-out kind of person’
When Jack and his friends at NYU’s Madrid campus first heard of coronavirus-related closures in Europe, they weren’t too worried. After all, their school hadn’t yet directed them to go home.
“Everyone was sort of like, I’m going to stay and wait it out because it was an indefinite date,” he said.
On March 9, his university alerted the Madrid campus, recommending they make plans to head home. That night Jack fell sick with a fever, a cough and a bad headache. But a doctor he consulted in Madrid told him it likely wasn’t coronavirus and tested him instead for strep throat, he said.
“I’m very much a tough-it-out kind of person, so I literally said to myself, my fever is probably stress-induced — which, fevers can’t really happen that way,” he said, adding that anyone with mild symptoms should assume they have COVID-19 and follow public health officials’ guidance to stay home.
When confusion started a couple days later over President Trump’s European travel ban, Jack made plans to head home so he wouldn’t be stuck overseas amid the crisis. In the rush to get home, he wasn’t able to get the results for his strep throat test.
Then, he got stuck for three and a half hours last Saturday in the mess at O’Hare.
“They actually put hundreds of people in a very small space while there’s a massive global health crisis going on with people traveling in from Madrid, from Italy, planes from hotbeds of the virus,” he said.
Jack Siebert, wearing a mask, waits outside Northwestern Memorial Hospital to be tested for the coronavirus. A badge on his jacket is marked “C-19”. Provided
The next day, the mother and son walked to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where Jack, wearing a mask, waited outside for a nurse to bring him to a separate entrance to get tested.
Both said they feel lucky they don’t have underlying medical conditions and aren’t immunocompromised. Their biggest worry is for healthcare workers and other essential employees, like their family friends who work in grocery stores.
“I think we all just have to really take care of each other,” Kate said.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Smash-and-grab burglars hit Lincoln Park liquor store

Police are investigating a smash-and-grab burglary Sunday at a liquor store in Lincoln Park on the North Side .
Four @ @ @ @ @ glass front door shortly after midnight to enter the store in the 2300 block of @ @ @ @ @ to Chicago police .
The took multiple bottles of liquor , cigarettes , cigars and @ @ @ @ @ from the register , police said .
They fled north on Clark , possibly in @ @ @ @ @ businesses on the Magnificent Mile boarded up their storefronts Saturday ahead of Gov .
J.B. @ @ @ @ @ ” order taking effect to curb the spread of the coronavirus .
The order calls @ @ @ @ @ businesses across the state to work remotely or shut down until April 7 .
No @ @ @ @ @ Area Central detectives investigate .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ @ @ @

Police are investigating a smash-and-grab burglary Sunday at a liquor store in Lincoln Park on the North Side.
Four or five people broke the glass front door shortly after midnight to enter the store in the 2300 block of North Clark Street, according to Chicago police.
The took multiple bottles of liquor, cigarettes, cigars and an unspecified amount of cash from the register, police said. They fled north on Clark, possibly in a dark-colored sedan.
Several businesses on the Magnificent Mile boarded up their storefronts Saturday ahead of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s “stay-at-home” order taking effect to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The order calls for all “non-essential” businesses across the state to work remotely or shut down until April 7.
No one is in custody as Area Central detectives investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Girl missing from West Pullman found

Girl missing from West Pullman found

Two of the Chicago gang kingpin ’ s lieutenants already have been freed from prison under the First Step Act @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump to sign .

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--2020-03-22--Missing 20-year-old last seen in Garfield Park going to find phone

Police are looking for a 20-year-old man who went to find his phone in Garfield Park on the West Side @ @ @ @ @ Thursday leaving his home in the area of the 4100 block of West Jackson Boulevard @ @ @ @ @ Chicago police said .
Kadan was wearing a red shirt and a jacket with orange @ @ @ @ @ He is a 6-foot man weighing 185 pounds with brown eyes and black hair .
@ @ @ @ @ is asked to call Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380 .

Police are looking for a 20-year-old man who went to find his phone in Garfield Park on the West Side.
He was last seen Thursday leaving his home in the area of the 4100 block of West Jackson Boulevard to find his phone, Chicago police said.
Kadan was wearing a red shirt and a jacket with orange sleeves, police said. He is a 6-foot man weighing 185 pounds with brown eyes and black hair.
Anyone with information about him is asked to call Area Central detectives at 312-747-8380.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--Horoscope for Sunday, March 22, 2020

Horoscope for Sunday, March 22, 2020

We have the all clear to shop and do business .
The moon is in Pisces .
You are excited about something unusual or different that you ’ re working on , probably behind the scenes , perhaps quite private .
It might even be a trick or a prank that you want to play on someone ?
Your mind is working overtime to make this happen .
Boo !
Someone younger might suddenly come into your world and make a big difference .
Perhaps a conversation with a friend or a member of a group will surprise you and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
This is not a boring day .
People will surprise you one way or the other .
Get ready !
Do not overreact if bosses , parents , teachers or the police throw you a curveball , because you will be surprised by an authority figure in some way .
Possibly , something will occur that causes you to change your life direction ?
Whatever happens will grab your attention .
You ’ re keen to learn new things , which is why you want to study something unusual that will expand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t travel somewhere new and exciting .
Or can you ?
Check out virtual tours of fascinating places online .
Indulge yourself for 30 minutes .
Learn something new !
You might be excited about news related to banking , wealth or the resources of others , including inheritances or shared property .
Something in these areas has stirred your mind and your emotions .
Hopefully , new information will let you off the hook or leave you in an improved situation ?
Talking to partners and close friends will be fun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new .
You might see someone with new eyes .
You might find yourself examining your attitudes and your observations about someone close to you .
It ’ s a mind-revealing day !
Today will not be your usual routine , especially at work .
But no matter what you are doing , something will interrupt your day and take it in a new direction .
Stay light on your feet so that you have room for spontaneity and the ability to explore new activities .
New romance might excite you today !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for your kids , so do be vigilant about them .
Accept surprise invitations to an online group .
New contacts , new information , new subject matter could be fascinating .
Stock the fridge because something unanticipated will occur within your family dynamic or at home .
( At least if you can feed people , things will be easier . )
Surprise company might drop by .
Family news might be exciting ?
Be prepared .
Without doing anything different , your day will be different because your immediate environment will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might enter your world .
New ideas might surprise you .
A sudden change might demand your time .
Get ready !
Startling new ideas related to money and cash flow might occur to you .
You might see new ways to make money on the side or you might contemplate a new job ?
More likely , you will spontaneously purchase something high tech or very modern .
Today is full of surprises !
Expect new discoveries , new people and a sense of excitement everywhere around you .
Something will happen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world .
Others will learn something new about math , science or technology because today is full of startling possibilities .
( Nothing you can ’ t handle . )
If Your Birthday Is Today Actress Reese Witherspoon ( 1976 ) shares your birthday .
You are a worrier and will fight for what you believe in .
You can work in several disciplines .
This will be a more relaxed year for you .
Because your interactions with others will be important , do your best to cooperate .
Look for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Be open to engaging with others because business and personal relationships will benefit you .

Moon Alert
We have the all clear to shop and do business. The moon is in Pisces.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
You are excited about something unusual or different that you’re working on, probably behind the scenes, perhaps quite private. It might even be a trick or a prank that you want to play on someone? Your mind is working overtime to make this happen. Boo!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Someone younger might suddenly come into your world and make a big difference. Perhaps a conversation with a friend or a member of a group will surprise you and lead things in an entirely new direction? This is not a boring day. People will surprise you one way or the other. Get ready!
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Do not overreact if bosses, parents, teachers or the police throw you a curveball, because you will be surprised by an authority figure in some way. Possibly, something will occur that causes you to change your life direction? Whatever happens will grab your attention.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
You’re keen to learn new things, which is why you want to study something unusual that will expand your mind. Obviously, you can’t travel somewhere new and exciting. Or can you? Check out virtual tours of fascinating places online. Indulge yourself for 30 minutes. Learn something new!
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
You might be excited about news related to banking, wealth or the resources of others, including inheritances or shared property. Something in these areas has stirred your mind and your emotions. Hopefully, new information will let you off the hook or leave you in an improved situation?
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Talking to partners and close friends will be fun and upbeat because you will learn something new. You might see someone with new eyes. You might find yourself examining your attitudes and your observations about someone close to you. It’s a mind-revealing day!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Today will not be your usual routine, especially at work. But no matter what you are doing, something will interrupt your day and take it in a new direction. Stay light on your feet so that you have room for spontaneity and the ability to explore new activities.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
New romance might excite you today! Admittedly, this is another accident-prone day for your kids, so do be vigilant about them. Accept surprise invitations to an online group. New contacts, new information, new subject matter could be fascinating.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Stock the fridge because something unanticipated will occur within your family dynamic or at home. (At least if you can feed people, things will be easier.) Surprise company might drop by. Family news might be exciting? Be prepared.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Without doing anything different, your day will be different because your immediate environment will suddenly present something unusual. New people might enter your world. New ideas might surprise you. A sudden change might demand your time. Get ready!
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Startling new ideas related to money and cash flow might occur to you. You might see new ways to make money on the side or you might contemplate a new job? More likely, you will spontaneously purchase something high tech or very modern.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Today is full of surprises! Expect new discoveries, new people and a sense of excitement everywhere around you. Something will happen that gives you a new insight into the world. Others will learn something new about math, science or technology because today is full of startling possibilities. (Nothing you can’t handle.)
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actress Reese Witherspoon (1976) shares your birthday. You are a worrier and will fight for what you believe in. You can work in several disciplines. This will be a more relaxed year for you. Because your interactions with others will be important, do your best to cooperate. Look for ways to be kind and helpful. Be open to engaging with others because business and personal relationships will benefit you.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--2 Chicagoans killed by coronavirus identified

Two more Cook County residents who deaths are attributed to coronavirus have been identified , bringing the total number of confirmed deaths in the county to four .
Both were from Chicago , the Cook County medical examiner ’ s office said .
Timothy Loving , a 59-year-old man from Austin , died Tuesday morning at West Suburban Hospital in Oak Park , the medical examiner ’ s office said .
An autopsy found he died of respiratory failure due to COVID-19 , with chronic substance abuse and diabetes contributing .
On Thursday , Diane Breymeyer , an 80-year-old woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , died of pneumonia caused by COVID-19 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital , an autopsy found .
Heart disease and diabetes played a role as well .
The medical examiner ’ s office announced Friday that Michael Mika , 73 , of Jefferson Park , was Cook County ’ s second confirmed coronavirus death .
The first — in both Cook County and Illinois — was Patricia Frieson , a 61-year-old Gresham woman who died Monday .
Gov .
J.B. Pritzker announced Saturday that the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Illinois had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people , including the four Cook County residents , have died from the virus .

Two more Cook County residents whose deaths are attributed to coronavirus have been identified, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths in the county to four.
Both were from Chicago, the Cook County medical examiner’s office said.
On Thursday, Diane Breymeyer, an 80-year-old woman who lived in the Old Town Triangle, died of pneumonia caused by COVID-19 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, an autopsy found. Heart disease and diabetes played a role as well.
The medical examiner’s office announced Friday that Michael Mika, 73, of Jefferson Park, was Cook County’s second confirmed coronavirus death.
The first — in both Cook County and Illinois — was Patricia Frieson, a 61-year-old Gresham woman who died Monday.
Timothy Loving, a 59-year-old man from Austin, died Tuesday morning at West Suburban Hospital in Oak Park, the medical examiner’s office said. An autopsy found he died of respiratory failure due to COVID-19, with chronic substance abuse and diabetes contributing.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Saturday that the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Illinois had risen to 753. Six of those people, including the four Cook County residents, have died from the virus.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-21--Man missing from Douglas found

Man missing from Douglas found


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--‘Methtacular’ a top-notch musical about bottoming out

Actor Steven Strafford showed up in Chicago a la Peggy Sawyer in “ 42nd Street ” : young , talented and bursting with showbiz dreams of making it in the big city .
An insecure , 22-year-old virgin ( “ technically ” ) when he got here in 2000 , Strafford arrived with an enviable tenor and a wit as sharp as a Sweeney Todd ’ s razor .
He started getting noticed quicker than it takes to deep-fry a Twinkie .
Alas , it took very little time before he went from chorine-on-the-come-up to holed up in squalor , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and peed on him , a needle the size of a thermometer dangling off his arm .
From there he did what he always did .
Pulled out the rig and went out trawling for more meth .
And , ideally , an orgy or at least a thruple .
Then , as he tells it in his bravura one-man show “ Methtacular , ” things got really bad .
However .
As Strafford ’ s undeniably hilarious mini-musicale makes clear , showtunes ( plus the love of an extraordinary mother ) kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self intact , even as his body and mind were ravaged by drugs and thousands of sexual encounters , melting away like a cake left in the rain .
Written by Strafford and directed by Adam Fitzgerald , “ Methtacular ” ( which 16th Street Theater is streaming for ticket holders ) is an unusual and riveting beast .
It works well on a small screen , in part because it ’ s a hyperintimate show .
The stage is mostly bare but for Strafford .
There are no epic vistas to capture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many one-person shows written by and starring the same one person are therapy sessions masquerading as theater .
This is not that .
“ Methtacular ” is gruesome , laugh-out-loud funny and riddled with original songs that Strafford delivers with barnburner vocals and copious charm .
He ’ s unsparingly forthright , sparing few details of a life with one primary aim : Find men who could finance his meth habit , and do whatever it took to make them do so .
His tale of addiction and recovery is a tale as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is fresh , wince-inducingly honest ( if you ’ re unfamiliar with the early-Aughts bathhouse culture , “ Methtacular ” is nothing if not educational ) and refreshingly minus the false if-I-can-do-it-anyone-can !
Pollyanna platitudes that inform many tales of recovery .
Late in the song-filled show ( excellently supported by pianist Sam Groisser ) , Strafford looks dead-on at the audience .
He says he doesn ’ t know why he recovered , that there is no formula for doing so .
It ’ s a bracing , wonderstruck moment .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment options , but as any doctor worth her salt will tell you , nobody has a cure .
Strafford makes it plain : He was inexplicably fortunate , despite himself .
Consider : Strafford was fired from a well-paying gig after calling in sick so he could continue a weekend of meth and bondage in a bathhouse with dungeon capabilities .
He was tied to a cross-like device ( that he explains in fascinating detail ) when the artistic director of the theater where he was supposed to be working wandered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bathhouse , tied to a cross , ” he relates .
The anecdote is one of several juicy blind items , research projects for another day .
As Strafford ’ s tale unfolds , he makes it rather astoundingly easy to understand why he was willing to lie , steal , abuse his best friends and live in the depths .
His descriptions of being high are crystal clear : On meth , the world is perfect .
He is perfect .
On meth — even while being attacked by cats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ current moment is the single most precious thing in the universe and he is at the white-hot center of it .
When Strafford talks about how the meth made him feel , the question is no longer why is he doing this to himself but how could anyone voluntarily give this feeling up ?
The first time he does meth is during a botched attempt to lose his virginity .
It ’ s sad and humiliating but he ’ s euphoric afterward , walking home at dawn .
“ I could see the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I could smell bread baking .
It was like the opening scene of ‘ Beauty and the Beast.
’ ” Speaking of .
Strafford ’ s original musical numbers draw on everything from “ The Way We Were ” to “ The Wizard of Oz.
” His ability to weave standard showtune tropes into songs of ( for example ) being “ second wife ” to a drug dealer in a LTR with an asexual Greek Orthodox priest is impressive .
Throughout , Strafford ’ s mother shows up in moving video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for two days shortly after arriving in Chicago , later when he comes home for a baptism and then vanishes again , finally when she resorts to granite-tough love after her son takes an HIV test .
Here ’ s something to consider : Strafford ’ s been down some of the darkest roads imaginable .
He ’ s still here .
Let ’ s all take that in .

Actor Steven Strafford showed up in Chicago a la Peggy Sawyer in “42nd Street”: young, talented and bursting with showbiz dreams of making it in the big city. An insecure, 22-year-old virgin (“technically”) when he got here in 2000, Strafford arrived with an enviable tenor and a wit as sharp as a Sweeney Todd’s razor. He started getting noticed quicker than it takes to deep-fry a Twinkie.
Alas, it took very little time before he went from chorine-on-the-come-up to holed up in squalor, fending off the feral cats that bit and peed on him, a needle the size of a thermometer dangling off his arm. From there he did what he always did. Pulled out the rig and went out trawling for more meth. And, ideally, an orgy or at least a thruple. Then, as he tells it in his bravura one-man show “Methtacular,” things got really bad.
‘Methtacular’
Untitled When: Through April 4 Where: Via stream. The 16th Street Theater show was recorded at Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theater. Live talkbacks with Steven Strafford take place via Zoom at 9:15 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays. Tickets: $12 Run time: 100 minutes, no intermission Info: 16thstreettheater.org
However. As Strafford’s undeniably hilarious mini-musicale makes clear, showtunes (plus the love of an extraordinary mother) kept a flicker of Strafford’s best self intact, even as his body and mind were ravaged by drugs and thousands of sexual encounters, melting away like a cake left in the rain.
Written by Strafford and directed by Adam Fitzgerald, “Methtacular” (which 16th Street Theater is streaming for ticket holders) is an unusual and riveting beast. It works well on a small screen, in part because it’s a hyperintimate show. The stage is mostly bare but for Strafford. There are no epic vistas to capture, no elaborate sets writ small.
Many one-person shows written by and starring the same one person are therapy sessions masquerading as theater. This is not that. “Methtacular” is gruesome, laugh-out-loud funny and riddled with original songs that Strafford delivers with barnburner vocals and copious charm. He’s unsparingly forthright, sparing few details of a life with one primary aim: Find men who could finance his meth habit, and do whatever it took to make them do so.
His tale of addiction and recovery is a tale as old as time. But his telling is fresh, wince-inducingly honest (if you’re unfamiliar with the early-Aughts bathhouse culture, “Methtacular” is nothing if not educational) and refreshingly minus the false if-I-can-do-it-anyone-can! Pollyanna platitudes that inform many tales of recovery.
Late in the song-filled show (excellently supported by pianist William TN Hall), Strafford looks dead-on at the audience. He says he doesn’t know why he recovered, that there is no formula for doing so. It’s a bracing, wonderstruck moment. The world is awash in 12-step meetings and treatment options, but as any doctor worth her salt will tell you, nobody has a cure. Strafford makes it plain: He was inexplicably fortunate, despite himself.
Consider: Strafford was fired from a well-paying gig after calling in sick so he could continue a weekend of meth and bondage in a bathhouse with dungeon capabilities. He was tied to a cross-like device (that he explains in fascinating detail) when the artistic director of the theater where he was supposed to be working wandered by. “I was fired, naked in a bathhouse, tied to a cross,” he relates. The anecdote is one of several juicy blind items, research projects for another day.
As Strafford’s tale unfolds, he makes it rather astoundingly easy to understand why he was willing to lie, steal, abuse his best friends and live in the depths. His descriptions of being high are crystal clear: On meth, the world is perfect. He is perfect. On meth — even while being attacked by cats or fired in a dungeon — the current moment is the single most precious thing in the universe and he is at the white-hot center of it. When Strafford talks about how the meth made him feel, the question is no longer why is he doing this to himself but how could anyone voluntarily give this feeling up?
The first time he does meth is during a botched attempt to lose his virginity. It’s sad and humiliating but he’s euphoric afterward, walking home at dawn. “I could see the light hitting the dew on the cars. I could smell bread baking. It was like the opening scene of ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ ”
Speaking of. Strafford’s original musical numbers draw on everything from “The Way We Were” to “The Wizard of Oz.” His ability to weave standard showtune tropes into songs of (for example) being “second wife” to a drug dealer in a LTR with an asexual Greek Orthodox priest is impressive.
Throughout, Strafford’s mother shows up in moving video snippets — first when he goes missing for two days shortly after arriving in Chicago, later when he comes home for a baptism and then vanishes again, finally when she resorts to granite-tough love after her son takes an HIV test.
Here’s something to consider: Strafford’s been down some of the darkest roads imaginable. He’s still here. Let’s all take that in.
Catey Sullivan is a freelance writer.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--These dietary supplements can help boost your immunity during cold, flu season

With cold and flu viruses seemingly stronger than ever , the thought may have crossed your mind more than once : How to boost your immune system ?
Studies have proven that these three dietary supplements are among the most effective at enhancing your immunity to these infectious diseases .
There are nine different species of Echinacea , although three are used for medicinal purposes : Echinacea angustifolia , Echinacea pallida and Echinacea purpura .
Echinacea purpura extract is widely used to help deal with various infectious diseases , especially in children , the elderly , and the immunocompromised .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is antimicrobial against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria that cause colds , flu , sore throats , and other respiratory illnesses .
However , it has been shown to enhance the growth of gut flora ( healthy bacteria in the gut ) , specifically increasing the healthy Bifidobacterium species .
Therefore , echinacea may enhance the effects of priobiotics containing Bifidobacterium .
Echinacea also has anti-inflammatory properties , supports wound healing , and has been shown to improve the immune system ’ s resistance against infection .
Several cells of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need the vitamin to perform their tasks , especially phagocytes and T-cells .
And , zinc has been demonstrated to fight infections and help heal wounds .
Despite these therapeutic properties , for quite some time there has been a controversy on whether vitamin C and zinc can contribute to the prevention and therapy of the common cold .
However , a large number of randomized controlled intervention trials have settled this debate .
These trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C ( up to 1 g ) and zinc ( up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shorten the duration of the common cold .
Furthermore , vitamin C and zinc reduce the incidence and improve the outcome of pneumonia , malaria and diarrhea infections .
The elderberry plant , Sambucus nigra , is a good source of protein , amino acids , unsaturated fatty acids , fiber , vitamins and minerals .
In addition , elderberry contains antioxidants called polyphenols , mostly in the form of anthocyanins , flavonols , phenolic acids and proanthocyanidins , as well as terpenes and lectins .
The antioxidant effect of the polyphenols in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects on blood pressure , glycemia ( blood sugar ) reduction , and immune system stimulation with anti-viral and even anti-tumor potential .
In commercially made elderberry syrups , the dosage is often two teaspoons per day .
As always , discuss the use of supplements with your care provider before adding it to your regimen .
Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date , accurate information about health and nutrition .

With cold and flu viruses seemingly stronger than ever, the thought may have crossed your mind more than once: How to boost your immune system?
Studies have proven that these three dietary supplements are among the most effective at helping to enhance your immunity to colds and flu.
Echinacea has various medicinal properties. stock.adobe.com
Echinacea
There are nine different species of Echinacea, although three are used for medicinal purposes: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida and Echinacea purpura.
Echinacea purpura extract is widely used to help deal with various infectious diseases, especially in children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.
Echinacea has various medicinal properties. First, it is antimicrobial against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria that cause colds, flu and sore throats. However, it has been shown to enhance the growth of gut flora (healthy bacteria in the gut), specifically increasing the healthy Bifidobacterium species. Therefore, echinacea may enhance the effects of priobiotics containing Bifidobacterium.
Echinacea also has anti-inflammatory properties, supports wound healing, and has been shown to improve the immune system’s resistance against infection.
Clinical trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C (up to 1 g) and zinc (up to 30 mg) improve symptoms and shorten the duration of the common cold. stock.adobe.com
Vitamin C and zinc
Several cells of the immune system accumulate vitamin C and need the vitamin to perform their tasks, especially phagocytes and T-cells. And, zinc has been demonstrated to fight infections and help heal wounds.
Despite these therapeutic properties, for quite some time there has been a controversy on whether vitamin C and zinc can contribute to the prevention and therapy of the common cold.
However, a large number of randomized controlled intervention trials have settled this debate. These trials document that adequate intakes of vitamin C (up to 1 g) and zinc (up to 30 mg) ameliorate symptoms and can shorten the duration of the common cold.
Black elderberry
The elderberry plant, Sambucus nigra, is a good source of protein, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins and minerals. In addition, elderberry contains antioxidants called polyphenols, mostly in the form of anthocyanins, flavonols, phenolic acids and proanthocyanidins, as well as terpenes and lectins.
The antioxidant effect of the polyphenols in elderberry has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood pressure, glycemia (blood sugar) reduction, and immune system stimulation with anti-viral potential. In commercially made elderberry syrups, the dosage is often two teaspoons per day.
As always, discuss the use of supplements with your care provider before adding it to your regimen.
Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date, accurate information about health and nutrition.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Sen. Rand Paul is 1st member of U.S. Senate to test positive for coronavirus

WASHINGTON — Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky. , said Sunday that he had tested positive for the disease caused by the new coronavirus , becoming the first member of the Senate to report a case of COVID-19 .
He said in a tweet that he was feeling fine and was in quarantine .
Paul , an eye surgeon , said he has not had symptoms and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events .
He said he was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person .
Paul , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republicans who voted against a House-passed bill last week that provided more than $ 100 billion to boost testing for the coronavirus and guarantee paid sick leave for millions of workers .
He also was only Republican senator who opposed an earlier bill authorizing $ 8.3 billion for initial response to the coronavirus .
The senator was on Capitol Hill this past week , including at a luncheon Friday among GOP senators .
He spoke on the Senate floor on Wednesday afternoon , addressing the cornonavirus and an amendment he sponsored that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. forces from Afghanistan .
A spokesman for Sen. Jerry Moran , R-Kan. , said Moran briefly saw Paul at the Senate gym Sunday morning and that he shared that information with GOP colleagues at a policy meeting .
Moran “ followed CDC guidelines and kept a safe distance between him and Sen. Paul , ’ ’ spokesman Tom Brandt said .
Moran has spoken with the attending physician at the Capitol and has been told he does not need to self-quarantine , Brandt said .
South Dakota Sen. John Thune , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate floor that lawmakers will consult with the attending physician about all senators who have been in contact with Paul .
Sen. Mitt Romney , R-Utah , said he was praying for Paul and noted that Paul ’ s health is compromised .
Paul , 57 , broke several ribs in 2017 when a neighbor assaulted him over a long-standing landscaping dispute .
Paul , who was later awarded $ 580,000 in damages and medical expenses , had surgery last year to remove part of a lung damaged by the assault .
Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , R-Fla. , and Ben McAdams , D-Utah , , have tested positive .
The Senate was in session Sunday seeking a bipartisan response to the pandemic .
If approved , the bill would be the third measure Congress has approved in response to the coronavirus this month .
The White House has increasingly emphasized that testing should prioritize the elderly and health care workers who have symptoms of the virus .
While most cases of COVID-19 are mild and tens of thousands of people have recovered , older people and those with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for more serious problems , such as pneumonia .
“ We don ’ t want everyone to go out and get a test because there ’ s no reason for it , ” President Donald Trump told reporters in a briefing Friday .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tells people to seek testing if they have certain symptoms of the flu-like illness caused by the coronavirus – fever , cough and trouble breathing – and if they have traveled recently to an outbreak area or have been in close contact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first be tested for the flu and other routine infections .
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus .
According to the World Health Organization , people with mild illness recover in about two weeks , while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover .
Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report .

WASHINGTON — Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said Sunday that he had tested positive for the disease caused by the new coronavirus, becoming the first member of the Senate to report a case of COVID-19. He said in a tweet that he was feeling fine and was in quarantine.
Paul, an eye surgeon, said he has not had symptoms and was tested out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events. He said he was not aware of any direct contact with any infected person.
Paul, a deficit hawk, was among eight Senate Republicans who voted against a House-passed bill last week that provided more than $100 billion to boost testing for the coronavirus and guarantee paid sick leave for millions of workers. He also was only Republican senator who opposed an earlier bill authorizing $8.3 billion for initial response to the coronavirus.
The senator was on Capitol Hill this past week, including at a luncheon Friday among GOP senators. He spoke on the Senate floor on Wednesday afternoon, addressing the cornonavirus and an amendment he sponsored that would pay for virus relief efforts by withdrawing U.S. forces from Afghanistan.
A spokesman for Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said Moran briefly saw Paul at the Senate gym Sunday morning and that he shared that information with GOP colleagues at a policy meeting. Moran “followed CDC guidelines and kept a safe distance between him and Sen. Paul,’’ spokesman Tom Brandt said. Moran has spoken with the attending physician at the Capitol and has been told he does not need to self-quarantine, Brandt said.
South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the second-ranking Republican senator, said on the Senate floor that lawmakers will consult with the attending physician about all senators who have been in contact with Paul.
Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said he was praying for Paul and noted that Paul’s health is compromised. Paul, 57, broke several ribs in 2017 when a neighbor assaulted him over a long-standing landscaping dispute. Paul, who was later awarded $580,000 in damages and medical expenses, had surgery last year to remove part of a lung damaged by the assault.
Two House members, Reps. Mario Diaz Balart, R-Fla., and Ben McAdams, D-Utah,, have tested positive.
The Senate was in session Sunday seeking a bipartisan response to the pandemic. If approved, the bill would be the third measure Congress has approved in response to the coronavirus this month.
The White House has increasingly emphasized that testing should prioritize the elderly and health care workers who have symptoms of the virus. While most cases of COVID-19 are mild and tens of thousands of people have recovered, older people and those with underlying health problems are at higher risk for more serious problems, such as pneumonia.
“We don’t want everyone to go out and get a test because there’s no reason for it,” President Donald Trump told reporters in a briefing Friday.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tells people to seek testing if they have certain symptoms of the flu-like illness caused by the coronavirus – fever, cough and trouble breathing – and if they have traveled recently to an outbreak area or have been in close contact with someone who is infected. They should first be tested for the flu and other routine infections.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.
Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Illinois surpasses 1,000 coronavirus cases, including infant and 9 deaths

The tally of COVID-19 cases in Illinois surpassed 1,000 on Sunday , including an infant who recently tested positive for the virus .
Three more people have also died from the virus , and more deaths are expected , Dr. Ngozi Ezike , director of the Illinois Department of Public Health , said Sunday .
Ezike reported 296 new cases since Saturday ’ s briefing , bringing the statewide total to 1,049 .
Nine people have now died of the coronavirus in Illinois .
“ Unfortunately , the number of cases will continue to increase , as will the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pleading for people to follow stay-at-home guidelines and social-distancing measures .
“ Avoid becoming sick and infecting others.
” Gov .
J.B. Pritzker — having spent the morning in a contentious back-and-forth with President Donald Trump — said he refused to “ spend more time on [ Trump ’ s angry tweet ] than it deserves.
” “ I ’ m finding it hard to contain my anger with Donald Trump ’ s response to this national crisis , ” Pritzker said , noting that “ Illinoisans of all political stripes are doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the state have reached out to ask how they can help , ” Pritzker said .
“ Even people who have had profound political differences with me have been among the first to text or call asking to help.
” The governor doubled down on his critique that the federal government has inadequately provided state medical workers with PPE , or “ Personal Protection Equipment ” like masks , gloves , gowns and eye protection .
“ I have doctors , nurses and first responders begging for masks , equipment and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And staff working day and night to hunt down supplies we need .
Trump promised this weeks ago.
” Pritzker offered a glimpse of optimism , highlighting the many people , businesses and organizations that have volunteered time or resources to meet the state ’ s needs .
He thanked businesses like Koval Distillery in Ravenswood , which stopped making whiskey and gin in favor of hand sanitizer for medical workers .
The company has already raised more than $ 17,000 to support its efforts .
As hospitals and medical centers have struggled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses have started crafting face masks and other supplies for the state ’ s medical workers , Pritzker said .
He also highlighted animal shelters , which have seen an uptick in adoptions since the coronavirus crisis began , and restaurants and schools that are giving free meals to kids .
“ Millions of Illinoisans rely on the kindness of each other every day , ” Pritzker said .
“ That doesn ’ t need to change because you ’ ve been asked to stay home.
” Pritzker encouraged healthy people to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American Red Cross , which is working to stave off a potential blood supply shortage .
Celena Roldán , CEO of the American Red Cross of Illinois , said more than 6,000 blood drives — including 120 in Illinois — have been canceled across the country since the coronavirus pandemic began .
“ This blood shortage can impact patients needing surgery , victims of car accidents or other emergencies , people with chronic conditions or cancer patients , ” Roldán said .
She stressed that blood drives are still safe , and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be transmitted through blood donation or transfusion .
“ Even in moments when you ’ re feeling anxiety about what ’ s happening , hope is all around us and can still be found in every corner of this state , ” Pritzker said .

The tally of COVID-19 cases in Illinois surpassed 1,000 on Sunday, including an infant who recently tested positive for the virus.
Three more people have also died from the virus, and more deaths are expected, Dr. Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, said Sunday.
Ezike reported 296 new cases since Saturday’s briefing, bringing the statewide total to 1,049. Nine people have now died of the coronavirus in Illinois.
“Unfortunately, the number of cases will continue to increase, as will the number of deaths,” Ezike said, pleading for people to follow stay-at-home guidelines and social-distancing measures. “Avoid becoming sick and infecting others.”
Gov. J.B. Pritzker — having spent the morning in a contentious back-and-forth with President Donald Trump — said he refused to “spend more time on [Trump’s angry tweet] than it deserves.”
“I’m finding it hard to contain my anger with Donald Trump’s response to this national crisis,” Pritzker said, noting that “Illinoisans of all political stripes are doing their part.”
“Republicans from all over the state have reached out to ask how they can help,” Pritzker said. “Even people who have had profound political differences with me have been among the first to text or call asking to help.”
The governor doubled down on his critique that the federal government has inadequately provided state medical workers with PPE, or “Personal Protection Equipment” like masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection.
“I have doctors, nurses and first responders begging for masks, equipment and more tests,” Pritzker said. “And staff working day and night to hunt down supplies we need. Trump promised this weeks ago.”
Pritzker offered a glimpse of optimism, highlighting the many people, businesses and organizations that have volunteered time or resources to meet the state’s needs.
He thanked businesses like Koval Distillery in Ravenswood, which stopped making whiskey and gin in favor of hand sanitizer for medical workers. The company has already raised more than $17,000 to support its efforts.
As hospitals and medical centers have struggled with a depleting PPE supply, other businesses have started crafting face masks and other supplies for the state’s medical workers, Pritzker said.
He also highlighted animal shelters, which have seen an uptick in adoptions since the coronavirus crisis began, and restaurants and schools that are giving free meals to kids.
“Millions of Illinoisans rely on the kindness of each other every day,” Pritzker said. “That doesn’t need to change because you’ve been asked to stay home.”
Pritzker encouraged healthy people to find volunteer opportunities, highlighting organizations like the American Red Cross, which is working to stave off a potential blood supply shortage.
Celena Roldán, CEO of the American Red Cross of Illinois, said more than 6,000 blood drives — including 120 in Illinois — have been canceled across the country since the coronavirus pandemic began.
“This blood shortage can impact patients needing surgery, victims of car accidents or other emergencies, people with chronic conditions or cancer patients,” Roldán said.
She stressed that blood drives are still safe, and there is no evidence that respiratory viruses can be transmitted through blood donation or transfusion.
“Even in moments when you’re feeling anxiety about what’s happening, hope is all around us and can still be found in every corner of this state,” Pritzker said.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--Player breakdowns: Heck yeah, Bulls guard Zach LaVine deserves better?

That ’ s often where the best player on a bad team resides .
Good enough to put up numbers that at least make him an All-Star snub , but not given the full credit of what he does on a nightly basis because it ’ s perceived empty calories in the win-loss column .
Imagine what LaVine would be as a third option on a team like the Los Angeles Lakers or the Milwaukee Bucks .
Or picture him with Dallas , working alongside Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis .
LaVine would be the perfect stagger-minutes player in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up 20-22 points a game , while learning the meaning of winning basketball .
A lesson he hasn ’ t been able to grasp since he came into the league six years ago .
“ I ’ ve done a lot of losing my whole career , ’ ’ LaVine said last month .
“ I ’ ve been frustrated from the get-go , so I want that to change.
’ ’ It likely won ’ t , at least not in a Bulls uniform .
Despite the fact that LaVine set career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus put this season on hold , his team was still operating at a .338 winning percentage and had the ninth worst average point differential in the league ( -3.1 ) .
Obviously it ’ s not a one-man blame game and LaVine expected more help this season , but being the face of an organization is both a blessing and a curse .
The key piece in the trade for Jimmy Butler back in 2017 , continued finding that out .
“ I ’ ve been able to deal with ups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like a roller coaster , ’ ’ LaVine said recently .
“ I feel I ’ ve been able to be pretty even keeled , and just lock in and be prepared for each game.
’ ’ That goes for off-the-court as well .
Besides putting up the numbers , LaVine emerged as the go-to voice of the locker room , making himself as accessible as an NBA player can be , and not afraid to discuss any topic on the table .
It ’ s almost a shame that being a Bull @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Does he deserve better ?
Definitely , and it might be coming in a few years .
The Situation : LaVine is signed through the 2021-22 season , and will hit his free-agent season as a 27-year-old , seemingly hitting his prime .
Until then , however , he has no choice but to continue to try and improve , showing the rest of the Association that he hasn ’ t bumped his head on his talent ceiling .
He has continued to emerge as a long-distant threat with the three-ball , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best he ’ s still a combo guard because of his turnover issues .
LaVine ’ s athleticism is elite , but he tends to feel that he can squeeze passes into shrinking windows .
LaVine has continued to make small strides on the defensive end , especially on-the-ball , but focusing when the ball hops around still leads to problems with sticking to his man .
The Resolution : Some players are satisfied with putting up stats and collecting a huge pay day , putting winning third on that priority list .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That ’ s not LaVine .
He wants to taste the postseason for the first time in his career , and wants that big stage .
Losing is wearing on him , and there will be a breaking point .
Bold Prediction : Unable to find common ground on an extension , the Bulls will trade LaVine at the deadline in February of 2022 , insisting , “ It ’ s Coby White ’ s team now.
’ ’ LaVine will then sign a three-year deal with the Clippers that offseason , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of S.W.A.T.
, appearing as Hondo ’ s estranged half-brother .

Zach LaVine remains in basketball hell.
That’s often where the best player on a bad team resides — good enough to put up numbers that at least make him an All-Star snub, but not given full credit for what he does on a nightly basis because it’s perceived as empty calories in the win-loss column.
Imagine what LaVine would be as a third option on the Lakers or Bucks. Or picture him with the Mavericks, working alongside Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis.
He would be the perfect stagger-minutes player in all those scenarios, still able to put up 20-22 points a game while learning the meaning of winning basketball.
That’s a lesson he hasn’t been able to grasp since he came into the league six years ago.
“I’ve done a lot of losing my whole career,’’ LaVine said last month. “I’ve been frustrated from the get-go, so I want that to change.’’
Bad news, Zach.
It likely won’t, at least not in a Bulls uniform.
Even though LaVine set career highs in almost all the major categories before the coronavirus put the season on hold, his team was still operating at a .338 clip and had the ninth-worst average point differential in the league (minus-3.1).
Obviously, it’s not a one-man blame game, and LaVine expected more help this season, but being the face of an organization is a blessing and a curse.
The key piece in the trade for Jimmy Butler in 2017, LaVine keeps finding that out.
“I’ve been able to deal with ups and downs really well this year, like a roller coaster,’’ LaVine said recently. “I feel I’ve been able to be pretty even-keeled and just lock in and be prepared for each game.’’
That goes for off-the-court stuff, as well. Besides putting up the numbers, LaVine emerged as the go-to voice of the locker room, making himself as accessible as an NBA player can be, and he’s not afraid to discuss any topic on the table.
It’s almost a shame that being a Bull is his current fate. Does he deserve better? Definitely, and it might come in a few years.
The situation
LaVine is signed through the 2021-22 season and will hit his free-agent season at 27, seemingly at his prime.
Until then, however, he has no choice but to keep improving to show the rest of the league that he hasn’t bumped his head on his talent ceiling.
He has emerged as a long-distance threat, and his playmaking has gotten better, but at best, he’s still a combo guard because of his turnover issues. LaVine’s athleticism is elite, but he tends to feel that he can squeeze passes into shrinking windows.
LaVine has continued to make small strides on the defensive end, especially on the ball, but focusing when the ball hops around still leads to problems in sticking to his man.
The resolution
Some players are satisfied with putting up stats and collecting a huge paycheck, relegating winning to third on the priority list. See Kevin Love’s tenure with the Timberwolves. But that’s not LaVine.
He wants to taste the NBA postseason for the first time and would love that big stage. Losing is wearing on him, and there will be a breaking point.
Bold prediction
Unable to find common ground on an extension, the Bulls will trade LaVine at the deadline in February 2022, insisting, “It’s Coby White’s team now.’’ LaVine will then sign a three-year deal with the Clippers that offseason and start making cameos on Season 5 of ‘‘S.W.A.T.,’’ appearing as Hondo’s estranged half-brother.
He’ll finally reach the playoffs.


chicagosun-times--2020-03-22--In coronavirus fight, side with the scientists

Saturday was a beautiful , spring day in Washington .
People were out at Eastern Market and walking the National Mall , careful to keep a safe distance .
They were relieved to escape their apartments and actually see someone other than immediate family and cable TV talking heads .
My world was not as sunny .
The Senate was in session as we tried to agree on a Marshall Plan for our hospitals and a $ 1 trillion rescue of a faltering economy .
COVID-19 , or coronavirus , has brought most of America to a halt .
Restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimal and travel is out of the question .
We wash our hands regularly as we sing two rounds of “ Happy Birthday.
” Plastic bottles of hand sanitizer are everywhere .
Meanwhile senators and their staffs debate the right approach to buying time ( eight weeks ?
six months ? )
to weather a virus that is marching around the world .
Mitt Romney , Republican senator from Utah , saw me on the Senate floor and asked me to read a Medium article he forwarded titled , “ Evidence over hysteria-COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself as a founder of the Lincoln Network and part of Mitt Romney ’ s team in his 2012 presidential campaign .
As the title suggests , Ginn ’ s article is skeptical of the threat and perceived duration of COVID-19 .
He concludes that people should fear the government more than the virus .
With a wealth of graphs , he assaults “ abundance of caution ” policymakers , singling out closed restaurants and schools , shelter-in-place policies , and the demise of air travel as overblown reactions .
Ginn ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and just as divided on science .
But in the contest of experts on COVID-19 , I ’ m putting all my chips on Dr. Anthony Fauci ’ s square .
He is the respected head of infectious disease research at the National Institutes of Health , who started under President Ronald Reagan and has served with distinction under administrations of both political parties .
He is our government ’ s lead on the development of a COVID-19 vaccine .
Dr. Fauci tells us things will get worse before they get better , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a medical disaster later .
Contagion and infection are as basic as gravity , and though this respiratory pathogen is in many ways a novel threat , our defenses of social distance and hand washing can dull , if not defeat , its reach .
Some suggest that since the virus generally spares younger victims and children from a deadly outcome , we should focus our attention on those over 60 — who are most likely to have the most serious and dangerous health outcomes — while letting the rest of America revive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and return to a normal life .
That overlooks several points : those apparently healthy young people could still be asymptomatic carriers and many families have older parents or grandparents in the home as well as their kids .
It also fails to overlook new statistics out of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , which show that 38 percent of those sick enough to be hospitalized in the United States from coronavirus are under the age of 55 .
During this public health crisis , I have spoken with Illinois Gov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He has repeatedly asked for help in receiving the test kits and personal protective equipment for health care providers that have been promised by Washington .
And I have been pushing our federal agencies daily to fulfill this need .
Without more expansive testing , it is impossible to draw credible conclusions about the pace of infection or areas of our state that need to be targeted .
It is next to impossible to follow the President who , on one day , brags about tests for everyone , and then reminds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to deliver the promised help , that he is not a “ shipping clerk.
” None of the decisions our governors face are easy .
And , unfortunately , where you sit politically can determine where you stand on this issue .
If you are skeptical of the public health danger , you take your family out to a restaurant and post a photo as did the governor of Oklahoma .
If you want to mock the Nanny State , you wear a gas mask on the floor of the U.S. House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realize that you had to self-quarantine after coming into contact with someone who tested positive .
But Gov .
Pritzker and Republican Gov .
Mike DeWine of Ohio decided to err on the side of science and saving lives .
They closed the schools , limited the crowds , and made social distancing a stated policy .
Gov .
Pritzker shared with me some of the worst-case scenario numbers if our policies are ineffective in slowing the viral spread .
One could not hear those numbers without appreciating how an Italy-like outcome would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families .
When this national emergency is behind us — and I pray that will be soon — we need to take inventory of what we have learned about preparing for the next pandemic and investing today in the people and resources that we must count on to protect us in the future .

Saturday was a beautiful, spring day in Washington. People were out at Eastern Market and walking the National Mall, careful to keep a safe distance. They were relieved to escape their apartments and actually see someone other than immediate family and cable TV talking heads.
My world was not as sunny.
The Senate was in session as we tried to agree on a Marshall Plan for our hospitals and a $1 trillion rescue of a faltering economy.
Opinion bug Opinion
COVID-19, or coronavirus, has brought most of America to a halt. Restaurants and bars are closed. Traffic is minimal and travel is out of the question. We wash our hands regularly as we sing two rounds of “Happy Birthday.” Plastic bottles of hand sanitizer are everywhere. Meanwhile senators and their staffs debate the right approach to buying time (eight weeks? six months?) to weather a virus that is marching around the world.
Mitt Romney, Republican senator from Utah, saw me on the Senate floor and asked me to read a Medium article he forwarded titled, “Evidence over hysteria-COVID-19” by Aaron Ginn, who identifies himself as a founder of the Lincoln Network and part of Mitt Romney’s team in his 2012 presidential campaign.
As the title suggests, Ginn’s article is skeptical of the threat and perceived duration of COVID-19. He concludes that people should fear the government more than the virus. With a wealth of graphs, he assaults “abundance of caution” policymakers, singling out closed restaurants and schools, shelter-in-place policies, and the demise of air travel as overblown reactions.
Ginn’s views reflect an America divided on politics and just as divided on science. But in the contest of experts on COVID-19, I’m putting all my chips on Dr. Anthony Fauci’s square. He is the respected head of infectious disease research at the National Institutes of Health, who started under President Ronald Reagan and has served with distinction under administrations of both political parties. He is our government’s lead on the development of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Fauci tells us things will get worse before they get better, and a strong response now can avoid a medical disaster later. Contagion and infection are as basic as gravity, and though this respiratory pathogen is in many ways a novel threat, our defenses of social distance and hand washing can dull, if not defeat, its reach.
Some suggest that since the virus generally spares younger victims and children from a deadly outcome, we should focus our attention on those over 60 — who are most likely to have the most serious and dangerous health outcomes — while letting the rest of America revive the bar scene, open schools, and return to a normal life. That overlooks several points: those apparently healthy young people could still be asymptomatic carriers and many families have older parents or grandparents in the home as well as their kids. It also fails to overlook new statistics out of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which show that 38 percent of those sick enough to be hospitalized in the United States from coronavirus are under the age of 55.
During this public health crisis, I have spoken with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on a daily basis. He has repeatedly asked for help in receiving the test kits and personal protective equipment for health care providers that have been promised by Washington. And I have been pushing our federal agencies daily to fulfill this need. Without more expansive testing, it is impossible to draw credible conclusions about the pace of infection or areas of our state that need to be targeted. It is next to impossible to follow the President who, on one day, brags about tests for everyone, and then reminds the governors, when they ask for him to deliver the promised help, that he is not a “shipping clerk.”
None of the decisions our governors face are easy. And, unfortunately, where you sit politically can determine where you stand on this issue. If you are skeptical of the public health danger, you take your family out to a restaurant and post a photo as did the governor of Oklahoma. If you want to mock the Nanny State, you wear a gas mask on the floor of the U.S. House and then hope people don’t realize that you had to self-quarantine after coming into contact with someone who tested positive.
But Gov. Pritzker and Republican Gov. Mike DeWine of Ohio decided to err on the side of science and saving lives. They closed the schools, limited the crowds, and made social distancing a stated policy. Gov. Pritzker shared with me some of the worst-case scenario numbers if our policies are ineffective in slowing the viral spread. One could not hear those numbers without appreciating how an Italy-like outcome would create devastating results for thousands of Illinois families.
When this national emergency is behind us — and I pray that will be soon — we need to take inventory of what we have learned about preparing for the next pandemic and investing today in the people and resources that we must count on to protect us in the future.
Dick Durbin is a U.S. senator representing Illinois.
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com.