chicagosun-times--2020-11-14--Peyton Ramsey’s three TD passes lead No. 23 Northwestern past Purdue

WEST LAFAYETTE , Ind .
— Peyton Ramsey took advantage of his expertise Saturday .
He used nimble feet to evade pass rushers , remained poised under pressure and kept Northwestern moving down the field .
The Wildcats needed a solid performance from the fifth-year senior , and they got it .
Ramsey made up for a stymied rushing attack by throwing for 212 yards and three touchdowns , leading No .
23 Northwestern to a 27-20 victory over Purdue .
“ I don ’ t want to speak for him , but man , it seems like he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said coach Pat Fitzgerald , who played on the last Wildcats team to start 4-0 in league play in 1996 .
“ I don ’ t know what it looks like on TV , but on the boundary , this guy is awesome.
” The Boilermakers have seen enough of seeing Ramsey in the past two seasons .
Last November , Ramsey threw three TD passes and ran for two scores in Indiana ’ s overtime win at Purdue .
This time , he was equally poised .
Ramsey finished 23 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Ramaud Chiaokhiao-Bowman on all three scores .
The graduate transfer also ran six times for 21 yards , routinely extending plays while improving to 8-4 as a starter over the last two years .
“ That ’ s what he ’ s known for , ” Purdue linebacker Derrick Barnes said , referring to Ramsey ’ s mobility .
“ We have to do a better job against those types of quarterbacks.
” The Wildcats defense was strong yet again .
It held Purdue to 2 yards rushing and made two late @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ten win .
But Ramsey was the biggest key — right from the start .
His 8-yard TD pass on the opening possession ended Chiaokhiao-Bowman ’ s three-year scoring drought .
After the teams traded field goals and Aidan O ’ Connell tossed a tying 40-yard scoring pass to Garrett Miller on fourth-and-1 , Ramsey went back to work .
He completed all seven passes on the ensuing drive , the last to Chiaokhiao-Bowman for an 18-yard score that gave Northwestern a 17-10 halftime lead .
Chiaokhiao-Brown finished with eight catches for 86 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running game that managed 80 yards on 40 carries .
“ When Peyton made the decision to come here , he and Ramaud were in constant communication , ” Fitzgerald said .
“ That ’ s what older leaders do.
” Ramsey cashed in again with a 5-yard TD pass to Chiaokhiao-Bowman after Northwestern ( 4-0 , 4-0 ) recovered O ’ Connell ’ s third-quarter fumble .
And then he burned more than six minutes of clock time while setting up a 42-yard field goal for a 27-13 lead .
The Boilermakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 27-20 on an 18-yard TD pass from O ’ Connell to Milton Wright with 7:35 left , but they never reached scoring territory again .
O ’ Connell was 28 of 51 for 263 yards and two scores while Zander Horvath had nine catches for 100 yards , both career highs .
David Bell had nine catches for 78 yards , stopping his school-record streak of consecutive 100-yard games at five .
Northwestern : A stifling defense and a solid ground game will keep the Wildcats atop the Big Ten West Division for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if Ramsey and Chiaokhiao-Bowman continue to be as productive as they were Saturday , Northwestern could become a serious contender .
Purdue : The Boilermakers defense played better than expected and might have played well enough to win .
But coach Jeff Brohm said earlier this week he didn ’ t like having last week ’ s unscheduled bye because he thought it might throw the offense out of sync .
It sure looked like it , especially early .
This week , the Wildcats made their first Top 25 appearance since the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay there at least one more week and could climb a few spots , too .
Purdue hasn ’ t been ranked since early October 2007 and this loss won ’ t end the longest active drought among Power 5 conference teams .
Rondale Moore , Purdue ’ s All-American receiver , missed his fourth consecutive game but the Boilermakers still have not said why he is out .
Moore also missed the final eight games of last season with a hamstring injury .
He hasn ’ t played in nearly 14 months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next Saturday in another crucial division showdown .

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Peyton Ramsey took advantage of his expertise Saturday.
He used nimble feet to evade pass rushers, remained poised under pressure and kept Northwestern moving down the field. The Wildcats needed a solid performance from the fifth-year senior, and they got it.
Ramsey made up for a stymied rushing attack by throwing for 212 yards and three touchdowns, leading No. 23 Northwestern to a 27-20 victory over Purdue.
“I don’t want to speak for him, but man, it seems like he’s having a lot of fun,” said coach Pat Fitzgerald, who played on the last Wildcats team to start 4-0 in league play in 1996. “I don’t know what it looks like on TV, but on the boundary, this guy is awesome.”
The Boilermakers have seen enough of seeing Ramsey in the past two seasons.
Last November, Ramsey threw three TD passes and ran for two scores in Indiana’s overtime win at Purdue. This time, he was equally poised.
Ramsey finished 23 of 36 with one interception and hooked up with Ramaud Chiaokhiao-Bowman on all three scores. The graduate transfer also ran six times for 21 yards, routinely extending plays while improving to 8-4 as a starter over the last two years.
“That’s what he’s known for,” Purdue linebacker Derrick Barnes said, referring to Ramsey’s mobility. “We have to do a better job against those types of quarterbacks.”
The Wildcats defense was strong yet again. It held Purdue to 2 yards rushing and made two late stops to preserve a fifth straight Big Ten win.
But Ramsey was the biggest key — right from the start.
His 8-yard TD pass on the opening possession ended Chiaokhiao-Bowman’s three-year scoring drought. After the teams traded field goals and Aidan O’Connell tossed a tying 40-yard scoring pass to Garrett Miller on fourth-and-1, Ramsey went back to work.
He completed all seven passes on the ensuing drive, the last to Chiaokhiao-Bowman for an 18-yard score that gave Northwestern a 17-10 halftime lead. Chiaokhiao-Brown finished with eight catches for 86 yards, helping make up for a running game that managed 80 yards on 40 carries.
“When Peyton made the decision to come here, he and Ramaud were in constant communication,” Fitzgerald said. “That’s what older leaders do.”
Ramsey cashed in again with a 5-yard TD pass to Chiaokhiao-Bowman after Northwestern (4-0, 4-0) recovered O’Connell’s third-quarter fumble. And then he burned more than six minutes of clock time while setting up a 42-yard field goal for a 27-13 lead.
The Boilermakers (2-1, 2-1) made it 27-20 on an 18-yard TD pass from O’Connell to Milton Wright with 7:35 left, but they never reached scoring territory again.
O’Connell was 28 of 51 for 263 yards and two scores while Zander Horvath had nine catches for 100 yards, both career highs. David Bell had nine catches for 78 yards, stopping his school-record streak of consecutive 100-yard games at five.
THE TAKEAWAY
Northwestern: A stifling defense and a solid ground game will keep the Wildcats atop the Big Ten West Division for at least one more week. But if Ramsey and Chiaokhiao-Bowman continue to be as productive as they were Saturday, Northwestern could become a serious contender.
Purdue: The Boilermakers defense played better than expected and might have played well enough to win. But coach Jeff Brohm said earlier this week he didn’t like having last week’s unscheduled bye because he thought it might throw the offense out of sync. It sure looked like it, especially early.
POLL IMPLICATIONS
This week, the Wildcats made their first Top 25 appearance since the final poll in 2018. They should stay there at least one more week and could climb a few spots, too.
Purdue hasn’t been ranked since early October 2007 and this loss won’t end the longest active drought among Power 5 conference teams.
NO MOORE
Rondale Moore, Purdue’s All-American receiver, missed his fourth consecutive game but the Boilermakers still have not said why he is out. Moore also missed the final eight games of last season with a hamstring injury. He hasn’t played in nearly 14 months.
UP NEXT
Northwestern hosts No. 13 Wisconsin next Saturday in another crucial division showdown.
Purdue visits Minnesota under the Friday night lights.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--With prison looming, former escort squandered $150K COVID-19 loan on travel, clothes, feds say

Before a federal judge sentenced her in December to more than four years in prison , Crystal Lundberg said her federal wire fraud conviction had changed her life for the better — she had become legitimately employed and had “ definitely changed mentally , emotionally.
” Still , old habits die hard .
And now prosecutors say Lundberg has since squandered thousands from a $ 150,000 COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan on travel and legal bills , electronics , clothing and other items , all while putting off her surrender date with the Federal Bureau of Prisons that had originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , a federal agent also pointed in a court filing Monday to Lundberg ’ s Facebook postings , including one in which she allegedly wrote in October , “ I run it up [ until ] the feds come.
” “ Honestly , I can not wait to get this federal sh - - outta the way so I can go back [ to ] being F -- -ING GREAT !
” she allegedly wrote in September .
“ I hate living within limits !
!
” A defense attorney for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment .
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Eichenseer wrote in a filing seeking Lundberg ’ s detention that Lundberg ’ s counsel had promised to surrender her Monday .
The new allegations against Lundberg have so far not led to additional criminal charges against her , court records show .
Joseph Fitzpatrick , a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney ’ s office , said Monday night that Lundberg remained at large .
Lundberg , 34 , has been in hot water with the feds since 2017 , when she was first charged along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5.79 million fraud scheme .
The two met when Kennedy hired her as an escort .
He later gave her access to his company ’ s credit card , and she helped him wrack up exorbitant charges on luxury goods and services .
Kennedy pleaded guilty , testified at Lundberg ’ s trial about how he had fallen in love with her , and was sentenced in July to more than two years in prison .
Federal prison records show he is already in custody at a low-security facility in Texas .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her conviction at trial .
U.S. District Judge Elaine Bucklo handed her a 53-month sentence in December 2019 .
Since then , Lundberg has repeatedly sought to delay her surrender to the federal prison system .
She is now due Dec. 31 .
Meanwhile , the feds say Lundberg applied twice this summer for a COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan for a beauty salon business .
Such a loan must be repaid by the borrower , and a felony conviction within the past five years automatically disqualifies an applicant from the program , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special agent .
In her first application in June , Lundberg answered “ no ” to questions asking whether she faced criminal charges or had been convicted of a felony in the last five years .
That application was denied because her application did not indicate an economic injury , according to the affidavit .
In her second application in August , she answered “ yes ” to the questions about her criminal history .
When the Small Business Administration followed up to ask her about it , she apparently made reference only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in state court in Winnebago County , which was ultimately dismissed , and didn ’ t mention her federal conviction .
“ Eating [ sic ] in abetting a fugitive and obstruction of justice my daughter had her boyfriends friend in my house and I didn ’ t know about it so when the cops came to my door asked me about it I said no but I allowed them to check my house and they found a boy there so the arrested me but I got the charges dismissed , ” Lundberg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote “ Offense : Charges dropped , ” in Lundberg ’ s file on Aug. 31 , the affidavit said .
The next day , the SBA approved her $ 150,000 loan .
Between Sept. 5 and Sept. 30 , the feds say there were $ 75,031 in withdrawals from the account in which the money was deposited .
They also said expenditures from the account that month included $ 1,446 on SnapTravel , $ 1,088 at Towne Place Suites and $ 649 at Home2 Suites .
They also said $ 13,250 went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Schaumburg , including to a firm representing Lundberg ’ s daughter in a battery case in Winnebago County .
They also said purchases were made “ at or near the Mall of America ” after Lundberg asked a judge for permission to take a relative to the Mayo Clinic .

Before a federal judge sentenced her in December to more than four years in prison, Crystal Lundberg said her federal wire fraud conviction had changed her life for the better — she had become legitimately employed and had “definitely changed mentally, emotionally.”
Still, old habits die hard. And now prosecutors say Lundberg has since squandered thousands from a $150,000 COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan on travel and legal bills, electronics, clothing and other items, all while putting off her surrender date with the Federal Bureau of Prisons that had originally been set for Jan. 20, 2020.
Meanwhile, a federal agent also pointed in a court filing Monday to Lundberg’s Facebook postings, including one in which she allegedly wrote in October, “I run it up [until] the feds come.”
“Honestly, I cannot wait to get this federal sh - - outta the way so I can go back [to] being F---ING GREAT!” she allegedly wrote in September. “I hate living within limits!!”
A defense attorney for Lundberg did not respond to messages seeking comment. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Eichenseer wrote in a filing seeking Lundberg’s detention that Lundberg’s counsel had promised to surrender her Monday. The new allegations against Lundberg have so far not led to additional criminal charges against her, court records show.
Federal prison records on Tuesday showed Lundberg in custody at Chicago’s downtown Metropolitan Correctional Center.
Lundberg, 34, has been in hot water with the feds since 2017, when she was first charged along with financial executive Scott Kennedy in a $5.79 million fraud scheme. The two met when Kennedy hired her as an escort. He later gave her access to his company’s credit card, and she helped him rack up exorbitant charges on luxury goods and services.
Kennedy pleaded guilty, testified at Lundberg’s trial about how he had fallen in love with her, and was sentenced in July to more than two years in prison. Prison records show he is already in custody at a low-security facility in Texas.
However, Lundberg was sentenced first, following her conviction at trial. U.S. District Judge Elaine Bucklo handed her a 53-month sentence in December 2019. Since then, Lundberg has repeatedly sought to delay her surrender to the federal prison system. She is now due Dec. 31.
Meanwhile, the feds say Lundberg applied twice this summer for a COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan for a beauty salon business. Such a loan must be repaid by the borrower, and a felony conviction within the past five years automatically disqualifies an applicant from the program, according to an affidavit from an FBI special agent.
In her first application in June, Lundberg answered “no” to questions asking whether she faced criminal charges or had been convicted of a felony in the last five years. That application was denied because her application did not indicate an economic injury, according to the affidavit.
In her second application in August, she answered “yes” to the questions about her criminal history. When the Small Business Administration followed up to ask her about it, she apparently made reference only to a separate criminal case she faced in state court in Winnebago County, which was ultimately dismissed, and didn’t mention her federal conviction.
“Eating [sic] in abetting a fugitive and obstruction of justice my daughter had her boyfriends friend in my house and I didn’t know about it so when the cops came to my door asked me about it I said no but I allowed them to check my house and they found a boy there so the arrested me but I got the charges dismissed,” Lundberg allegedly wrote.
An SBA loan officer wrote “Offense: Charges dropped,” in Lundberg’s file on Aug. 31, the affidavit said. The next day, the SBA approved her $150,000 loan. Between Sept. 5 and Sept. 30, the feds say there were $75,031 in withdrawals from the account in which the money was deposited.
They also said expenditures from the account that month included $1,446 on SnapTravel, $1,088 at Towne Place Suites and $649 at Home2 Suites. They also said $13,250 went to law firms in Palatine, Rockford and Schaumburg, including to a firm representing Lundberg’s daughter in a battery case in Winnebago County. They also said purchases were made “at or near the Mall of America” after Lundberg asked a judge for permission to take a relative to the Mayo Clinic.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Rep. Cheri Bustos self-isolates after positive COVID-19 test

MOLINE , Ill. — Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos announced Monday she has tested positive for COVID-19 , which has triggered @ @ @ @ @ Illinois Democrat said she is feeling well despite the diagnosis .
“ I have been @ @ @ @ @ provider and , per CDC guidance , am self-isolating , ” Bustos said in a @ @ @ @ @ medical advice , I will be working remotely from my home in ( Moline ) @ @ @ @ @ ” According to Bustos , everyone she has been in contact with have been notified @ @ @ @ @ , 59 , was re-elected earlier this month to a fifth term in the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ Esther Joy King for the 17th District seat .
Her win came after an eleventh-hour @ @ @ @ @ her by the House Majority PAC , which is aligned with House Democratic leaders .

MOLINE, Ill. — Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos announced Monday she has tested positive for COVID-19, which has triggered mild symptoms.
The western Illinois Democrat said she is feeling well despite the diagnosis.
“I have been in contact with my medical provider and, per CDC guidance, am self-isolating,” Bustos said in a statement. “Consistent with medical advice, I will be working remotely from my home in (Moline) until cleared by my physician.”
According to Bustos, everyone she has been in contact with have been notified of her status.
Bustos, 59, was re-elected earlier this month to a fifth term in the U.S. House, defeating Republican challenger Esther Joy King for the 17th District seat. Her win came after an eleventh-hour $1 million expenditure for her by the House Majority PAC, which is aligned with House Democratic leaders.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Holiday plans? Pritzker urges coronavirus caution — says he hopes to spend his Thanksgiving in Illin

Holiday plans? Pritzker urges coronavirus caution — says he hopes to spend his Thanksgiving in Illinois

Already feeling the pain from the fall coronavirus explosion , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker on Monday urged Illinois residents to rethink crowded Thanksgiving dinners or the state could “ expect much worse.
” A little over a week before a holiday that typically sees people feasting indoors with family , the governor and Dr. Ngozi Ezike , the head of the Illinois Public Health Department , urged caution to avoid overtaxing the state ’ s health care apparatus .
“ Our hospitals are on their way to being overwhelmed — our doctors , nurses and health care workers are already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ezike said .
“ I don ’ t know how else to express the importance of personal responsibility.
” The governor urged people to ask themselves “ if it ’ s worth it to spread the virus at any upcoming gatherings.
” Though there ’ s “ real hope for possible widespread distribution ” of a vaccine by early spring , that ’ s still months away , Pritzker said .
For his part , Pritzker said he won ’ t be hosting friends who can ’ t go home for the holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether or not he ’ d be in the state for Thanksgiving , the governor was noncommittal , saying “ that is my hope , but I ’ ll let you know.
” Pritzker ’ s comments came on a day the state reported another 11,632 new and probable cases of the coronavirus , as well as 37 additional deaths , bringing the state ’ s death toll to 10,779 .
It was also the first day of stay-at-home advisories for residents of Chicago and suburban Cook County .
State health officials reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as of Sunday night , with 1,144 of those patients in intensive care units and 514 on ventilators .
The state is averaging about 5,200 patients with COVID-19 in the state ’ s hospitals , or about 400 more people than during the state ’ s highest point in the spring — “ a 70 % increase in the last two weeks alone , ” Pritzker said .
The 11,632 new infections marked the eleventh straight day of five-digit daily caseloads , a stretch that included Friday ’ s 15,415 .
That was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a single day by any state in the nation throughout eight months of the pandemic .
The governor also said the most recent week over week percent increase is three times what it was in early October , before the state saw a dramatic surge in case numbers .
With the nation now gripped by an unnerving surge , too , that means Illinois is also without “ reinforcements from other states , ” such as the nurses who came in the spring to help at Illinois hospitals .
“ Every bed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes up is a bed that ’ s not going to treat someone ’ s heart attack , a cancer patient or the victim of a car crash , every doctor reassigned to the COVID wing is a doctor no longer available to do an appendectomy , set a broken rib , ” Pritzker said .
“ Take into account that we have just 1,100 ICU beds open in a state of nearly 13 million people in the middle of a pandemic .
“ Deaths from COVID-19 are up 260 % since the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 deaths a day , up 98 % from two weeks ago when we were averaging 41 per day .
Now we ’ re seeing 81 deaths per day .
That means that every day , we ’ re averaging another 81 mothers or fathers , or children or grandchildren , no longer with us.
” Dr. Robert Citronberg , executive medical director of infectious disease and prevention at Advocate Aurora Health , told reporters in a separate briefing Monday “ we ’ re in the midst of an absolutely abysmal second wave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have the potential of being super spreader events , ” he said .
“ It ’ s so critically important that we do not do that .
The numbers are devastating right now .
Our health care system can not absorb doubling or tripling of those numbers.
” The large regional health care system , which also operates in Wisconsin , has 10 hospitals in Illinois , mostly in the Chicago area .
Advocate has more than 600 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 , more than three and a half times the number it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s figures bring the state ’ s total to 585,248 cases .
The caseload comes from 90,612 tests conducted over the last 24 hours .
The state ’ s seven-day statewide positivity rate for cases is 12.5 % .
Recent new and probable case records have broken records the state set earlier this year around the peak of the first coronavirus wave .
From last Monday to present , the state has reported 97,261 new cases .
With holidays looming , local officials , including Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Cook County Board President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ limit the spread of the virus .
The advisories for residents in suburban Cook County and Chicago went into effect 6 a.m. Monday .
Of the 37 deaths reported Monday , 19 were from Cook County .

Already feeling the pain from the fall coronavirus explosion, Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Monday urged Illinois residents to rethink crowded Thanksgiving dinners or the state could “expect much worse.”
A little over a week before a holiday that typically sees people feasting indoors with family, the governor and Dr. Ngozi Ezike, the head of the Illinois Public Health Department, urged caution to avoid overtaxing the state’s health care apparatus.
“Our hospitals are on their way to being overwhelmed — our doctors, nurses and health care workers are already being stretched beyond their limits,” Ezike said. “I don’t know how else to express the importance of personal responsibility.”
La Voz Sidebar 2023 Lea este artículo en español en La Voz Chicago.
The governor urged people to ask themselves “if it’s worth it to spread the virus at any upcoming gatherings.” Though there’s “real hope for possible widespread distribution” of a vaccine by early spring, that’s still months away, Pritzker said.
For his part, Pritzker said he won’t be hosting friends who can’t go home for the holiday as he usually does. But asked whether or not he’d be in the state for Thanksgiving, the governor was noncommittal, saying “that is my hope, but I’ll let you know.”
Gov. J.B. Pritzker answers questions from the media during a daily COVID-19 update at the James R. Thompson Center earlier this month. Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times file
Pritzker’s comments came on a day the state reported another 11,632 new and probable cases of the coronavirus, as well as 37 additional deaths, bringing the state’s death toll to 10,779.
It was also the first day of stay-at-home advisories for residents of Chicago and suburban Cook County.
State health officials reported 5,581 people were hospitalized with the virus as of Sunday night, with 1,144 of those patients in intensive care units and 514 on ventilators.
The state is averaging about 5,200 patients with COVID-19 in the state’s hospitals, or about 400 more people than during the state’s highest point in the spring — “a 70% increase in the last two weeks alone,” Pritzker said.
The 11,632 new infections marked the eleventh straight day of five-digit daily caseloads, a stretch that included Friday’s 15,415. That was the highest number of new cases logged in a single day by any state in the nation throughout eight months of the pandemic.
The governor also said the most recent week over week percent increase is three times what it was in early October, before the state saw a dramatic surge in case numbers. With the nation now gripped by an unnerving surge, too, that means Illinois is also without “reinforcements from other states,” such as the nurses who came in the spring to help at Illinois hospitals.
“Every bed in the hospital that a COVID patient takes up is a bed that’s not going to treat someone’s heart attack, a cancer patient or the victim of a car crash, every doctor reassigned to the COVID wing is a doctor no longer available to do an appendectomy, set a broken rib,” Pritzker said. “Take into account that we have just 1,100 ICU beds open in a state of nearly 13 million people in the middle of a pandemic.
“Deaths from COVID-19 are up 260% since the beginning of October when we were averaging 23 deaths a day, up 98% from two weeks ago when we were averaging 41 per day. Now we’re seeing 81 deaths per day. That means that every day, we’re averaging another 81 mothers or fathers, or children or grandchildren, no longer with us.”
A nurse takes her gloves off as she walks out of a COVID-19 patient’s room in April at Roseland Community Hospital on the Far South Side. Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times file
Dr. Robert Citronberg, executive medical director of infectious disease and prevention at Advocate Aurora Health, told reporters in a separate briefing Monday “we’re in the midst of an absolutely abysmal second wave of this pandemic.”
“Thanksgiving dinners have the potential of being super spreader events,” he said. “It’s so critically important that we do not do that. The numbers are devastating right now. Our health care system cannot absorb doubling or tripling of those numbers.”
The large regional health care system, which also operates in Wisconsin, has 10 hospitals in Illinois, mostly in the Chicago area. Advocate has more than 600 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, more than three and a half times the number it saw a month ago.
Monday’s figures bring the state’s total to 585,248 cases. The caseload comes from 90,612 tests conducted over the last 24 hours. The state’s seven-day statewide positivity rate for cases is 12.5%.
Recent new and probable case records have broken records the state set earlier this year around the peak of the first coronavirus wave. From last Monday to present, the state has reported 97,261 new cases.
With holidays looming, local officials, including Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, issued stay-at-home advisories to limit the spread of the virus.
The advisories for residents in suburban Cook County and Chicago went into effect 6 a.m. Monday.
Of the 37 deaths reported Monday, 19 were from Cook County.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Chicagoans keep shopping amid stay-at-home advisory

Businesses were still bustling hours after Chicago ’ s stay-at-home advisories took effect but “ panic buying ” seemed to be offset by quantity restrictions put in place .
“ Everybody kept their distance , and it was really peaceful inside , ” said Rene Reynoso after shopping at Aldi , 6520 W Fullerton Ave. “ I was surprised because with the stay-at-home order I thought it would be a more chaotic but no — it blew my mind.
” Shelves in Garfield Park , Humboldt Park and Belmont-Cragin remained stocked with groceries and essentials like toilet papers — which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March — were limited to one or two per person .
Reynoso said those limits prevented people from hoarding those items and assuring every customer could buy one .
Chicagoans are urged to hunker down at home for the next 30 days and limit social gatherings to only 10 people .
Residents are encouraged not to venture out unless it is for work , groceries , medical appointments and take-out food .
The advisory does not shut salons , barbershops , retail stores , movie theaters or fitness clubs .
At XSport Fitness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parking lot was filled with gymgoers Monday afternoon .
Fermin Corona stopped at the northwest side fitness center for a quick workout during his lunch break .
He believed the current stay-at-home advisory is “ absolutely necessary ” in protecting people from catching COVID-19 .
“ I would say , why keep healthy people at home when they can still go out in a safe manner , ” Corona said .
“ I think everyone who is getting affected [ by coronavirus ] aren ’ t following the rules with social gatherings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think , are getting sick.
” Corona said he has had to complained in the past to gym employees for not enforcing that people wearing their masks correctly .
“ I did complain about that because I want to watch my own health too , and I don ’ t want to be in there with people that aren ’ t being safe , ” Corona said .
“ So many people are not taking this as serious as they need too.
” Corona said he does caution against shutting down gyms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is up to people to properly regulate themselves .
The rising number of coronavirus cases in the city has Juanita Lane worried about the future .
The 63-year-old only visited one store Monday because she is trying to limit the number of people she has contact with .
“ I ’ m an older girl and I just started shopping online for the first time , ” Lane said .
“ I find that it ’ s safer , and I plan on doing a lot more of that.
” Manny Ramos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ America , a not-for-profit journalism program that aims to bolster Sun-Times coverage of issues affecting Chicago ’ s South and West sides .

Businesses were still bustling hours after Chicago’s stay-at-home advisories took effect but “panic buying” seemed to be offset by quantity restrictions put in place.
“Everybody kept their distance, and it was really peaceful inside,” said Rene Reynoso after shopping at Aldi, 6520 W Fullerton Ave. “I was surprised because with the stay-at-home order I thought it would be a more chaotic but no — it blew my mind.”
Shelves in Garfield Park, Humboldt Park and Belmont-Cragin remained stocked with groceries and essentials like toilet papers — which became scarce during the initial lockdown in March — were limited to one or two per person.
Reynoso said those limits prevented people from hoarding those items and assuring every customer could buy one.
Chicagoans are urged to hunker down at home for the next 30 days and limit social gatherings to only 10 people. Residents are encouraged not to venture out unless it is for work, groceries, medical appointments and take-out food.
Stacks of toilet paper at an Aldi at 6520 W Fullerton Ave. in Montclare, Monday, Nov. 16, 2020. Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times
The advisory does not shut salons, barbershops, retail stores, movie theaters or fitness clubs.
At XSport Fitness, 6420 W. Fullerton Ave., the parking lot was filled with gymgoers Monday afternoon.
Fermin Corona stopped at the northwest side fitness center for a quick workout during his lunch break. He believed the current stay-at-home advisory is “absolutely necessary” in protecting people from catching COVID-19.
“I would say, why keep healthy people at home when they can still go out in a safe manner,” Corona said. “I think everyone who is getting affected [by coronavirus] aren’t following the rules with social gatherings, and that is where most people, I think, are getting sick.”
Corona said he has had to complained in the past to gym employees for not enforcing that people wearing their masks correctly.
Fermin Corona, 46, poses for a portrait outside an XSport Fitness Center at 6420 W. Fullerton Ave. in Montclare, Monday, Nov. 16, 2020. Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times
“I did complain about that because I want to watch my own health too, and I don’t want to be in there with people that aren’t being safe,” Corona said. “So many people are not taking this as serious as they need too.”
Corona said he does caution against shutting down gyms or other businesses deemed non-essential and said it is up to people to properly regulate themselves.
The rising number of coronavirus cases in the city has Juanita Lane worried about the future. The 63-year-old only visited one store Monday because she is trying to limit the number of people she has contact with.
“I’m an older girl and I just started shopping online for the first time,” Lane said. “I find that it’s safer, and I plan on doing a lot more of that.”
Juanita Lane poses for a portrait outside Dollar Tree at 6460 W. Fullerton Ave. in Montclare, Monday, Nov. 16, 2020. Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times
Manny Ramos is a corps member in Report for America, a not-for-profit journalism program that aims to bolster Sun-Times coverage of issues affecting Chicago’s South and West sides.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Second potential coronavirus vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective (LIVE UPDATES)

Second potential coronavirus vaccine appears to be 94.5 % effective For the second time this month , there ’ s promising news from a COVID-19 vaccine candidate : Moderna said Monday its shots provide strong protection , a dash of hope against the grim backdrop of coronavirus surges in the U.S. and around the world .
Moderna said its vaccine appears to be 94.5 % effective , according to preliminary data from the company ’ s still ongoing study .
A week ago , competitor Pfizer Inc. announced its own COVID-19 vaccine appeared similarly effective — news that puts both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks for emergency use in the U.S. Dr. Stephen Hoge , Moderna ’ s president , welcomed the “ really important milestone ” but said having similar results from two different companies is what ’ s most reassuring .
“ That should give us all hope that actually a vaccine is going to be able to stop this pandemic and hopefully get us back to our lives , ” Hoge told The Associated Press .
6:04 p.m. Holiday plans ?
Pritzker urges coronavirus caution — says he hopes to spend his Thanksgiving in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall coronavirus explosion , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker on Monday urged Illinois residents to rethink crowded Thanksgiving dinners or the state could “ expect much worse.
” A little over a week before a holiday that typically sees people feasting indoors with family , the governor and Dr. Ngozi Ezike , the head of the Illinois Public Health Department , urged caution to avoid ovetaxing the state ’ s health care apparatus .
“ Our hospitals are on their way to being overwhelmed — our doctors , nurses and health care workers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Ezike said .
“ I don ’ t know how else to express the importance of personal responsibility.
” The governor urged people to ask themselves “ if it ’ s worth it to spread the virus at any upcoming gatherings.
” Though there ’ s “ real hope for possible widespread distribution ” of a vaccine by early spring , that ’ s still months away , Pritzker said .
For his part , Pritzker said he won ’ t be hosting friends who can ’ t go home for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked whether or not he ’ d be in the state for Thanksgiving , the governor was noncommittal , saying “ that is my hope , but I ’ ll let you know.
” Reporters Rachel Hinton and Brett Chase have the full story .
4:10 p.m. WW unveils new weight-loss program with more personalization , support amid COVID-19 WW International , the company formerly known as Weight Watchers , is doing a reset .
The weight-loss and wellness company rolls out a new comprehensive program Monday focusing not only on food but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials shared exclusively with USA TODAY .
The Oprah Winfrey-backed company ’ s new myWW+ comes with a more personal approach that can help with stress eating and lack of sleep , which have hit not only weight-conscious consumers during the coronavirus pandemic .
“ They want more support , they want more motivation , they want more inspiration but they want what they need , ” WW President and CEO Mindy Grossman told USA TODAY .
“ And they want a certain amount of personal accountability.
” A Cook County judge who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive for the coronavirus , marking the tenth judge countywide to test positive for the virus .
However , the judge last reported to work at the downtown office in October , according to a statement from the Office of the Chief Judge .
Illinois health officials announced 11,632 new and probable cases of the coronavirus Monday as well as 37 more deaths , as stay-at-home advisories took effect in Chicago and suburban Cook County and the state attempts to curb a surge in cases .
The new case numbers continue a grim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen more than 10,000 cases per day .
The new numbers bring the state ’ s total to 585,248 cases .
Monday ’ s case load comes from 90,612 tests conducted over the last 24 hours .
Health officials also reported 5,581 people with the virus were in hospitals as of Sunday night , with 1,144 of those patients in intensive care units and 514 on ventilators .
The Cook County sheriff ’ s office announced Sunday it will be suspending in-person visits at the Cook County Jail in hopes of warding off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the county .
The suspension is effective Monday , the sheriff ’ s office announced , citing the rising case numbers as well as the stay-at-home advisory issued Thursday for Chicago and suburban Cook County .
“ For months , detainees were able to safely meet with family and friends , ” the sheriff ’ s office said , referring to the reinstitution of in-person visits in June after a shutdown during the virus ’ initial spread .
“ Like detainees , the people who visit them come from the community , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cook County are at 15.6 % and 15.2 % respectively.
” 8:28 a.m. Statewide COVID-19 outbreak continues with 10,631 new cases Sunday Illinois surpassed 10,000 coronavirus cases for the 10th consecutive day on Sunday as state health officials announced 10,631 new coronavirus infections and an additional 72 fatalities .
Sunday ’ s new cases accounted for roughly 12.5 % of the more than 84,800 tests reported to the Illinois Department of Public Health in the last 24 hours .
The state ’ s seven-day statewide positivity rate — a figure experts use to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — reached 12.8 % Sunday , up from 8 % at the start of the month , the state public health department reported .
The surge in cases has led to Illinois hospitals treating the most COVID-19 patients they ’ ve ever had .
As of Saturday night , 5,474 beds were taken up by COVID-19 patients in Illinois hospitals , with 1,045 of those patients in intensive-care units and 490 on ventilators , officials said .
Cook County accounted for 21 of Sunday ’ s 72 fatalities .
Only 16 of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the age of 70 , and only six were under 60 .
Read the full story from reporter Madeline Kenney here .
• Illinois reported 10,631 new coronavirus infections and an additional 72 fatalities Sunday , marking the 10th consecutive day the state has surpassed 10,000 coronavirus cases .
• Nevada Gov .
Steve Sisolak on Friday said he has tested positive for COVID-19 .
5 p.m .
Step up to the plate for pandemic safety on Thanksgiving This is a year to be home for the holidays — as in staying at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to limit Thanksgiving festivities to immediate household members .
No one outside the quarantine bubble should show up , as much as we would love to see them .
Let ’ s heed the professionals ’ wise advice , even as the Moderna company on Monday announced a second vaccine that early data show to be 94.5 % effective .
A recent Ohio State University survey disturbingly showed 38 % of respondents planned holiday get-togethers of more than 10 people , and that many of those people aren ’ t planning to wear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Shrugging off the pandemic is a huge mistake .
COVID-19 is surging everywhere .
A million U.S. cases were recorded in just the past week .
Illinois has 10 % more hospitalizations than last spring ’ s peak .
Hospitals are devoting more beds and wings to COVID-19 patients , but there are only so many nurses , respiratory therapists , doctors and other health care professionals .
Last spring , Illinois was able to bring in health professionals from out of state , but now those other states are experiencing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are bringing us a COVID-19 vaccine In a letter to the Sun-Times editors , Jerry Gura of Clarendon Hills writes : Just last week , we received great news from Pfizer on the efficacy of its vaccine .
And while this is an extremely exciting step , the race is still far from finished , as it will still need to be approved by the FDA and then distributed to the general public .
This most recent news should still give us all some much-needed hope , and it speaks volumes about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bio-pharmaceutical scientists and researchers .
Our best and brightest minds have come together and made progress at a pace that has never been seen before with so much on the line .
While this important work continues , and we enter what we all hope will be the final stretch of this nightmare , lawmakers in Washington should take notice and ensure they do not enact any policy that could set back efforts .
This includes implementing government price-setting policies that could actually slow efforts not only to develop a vaccine but find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as cancer .
Personally , I just want to get back to normal as soon as possible , and the only way that will happen is if our lawmakers to do everything they can to support those working hard to end the pandemic with science .
Read this and more letters to the editors here .
9:50 a.m .
Feeding the hungry grows all the more difficult during a pandemic The coronavirus has put food banks throughout the United States in a nightmare position .
They are dealing with higher demand , declining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volunteer .
Locally , the Greater Chicago Food Depository is bracing for a loss of volunteers because of this fall ’ s big surge in COVID-19 cases and the city ’ s new stay-at-home advisory .
In the fiscal year that ended on June 30 , the food depository distributed more than 93 million pounds of food , the equivalent of 77.5 million meals .
It was by far the most food the depository has distributed in its 41-year history .
“ There is an increase in need , ” Greg Trotter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sun-Times .
“ With winter coming and the pandemic raging on , we are very worried.
” The Greater Chicago Food Depository serves a network of more than 700 food kitchens , shelters and pantries , organizations that this fall are providing food to 50 % more people each month than they were in January .
7:18 a.m .
He went to the hospital in the morning .
By mid-afternoon , he was dead from COVID-19 .
He didn ’ t celebrate because he had been feeling sick .
But he went on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for wishing him well .
The next morning , having trouble breathing , he called 911 to take him to the hospital .
He was able to walk to the ambulance and waved to a neighbor .
A couple of hours later , he texted his sister from the emergency room , saying he was feeling better .
At 3:38 that afternoon , Sprinkle was dead from acute respiratory failure caused by COVID-19 .
Just like that .
The toll from the coronavirus pandemic is mounting again , much like it was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decided to return to what I was doing then : telling the stories of the victims .

Another coronavirus vaccine is showing great promising, bringing a little bit of hope to Illinoisans as new daily case numbers remain high.
Here’s what else happened Monday in coronavirus-related news.
News
8:55 p.m. Second potential coronavirus vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective
AP Photos
For the second time this month, there’s promising news from a COVID-19 vaccine candidate: Moderna said Monday its shots provide strong protection, a dash of hope against the grim backdrop of coronavirus surges in the U.S. and around the world.
Moderna said its vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective, according to preliminary data from the company’s still ongoing study. A week ago, competitor Pfizer Inc. announced its own COVID-19 vaccine appeared similarly effective — news that puts both companies on track to seek permission within weeks for emergency use in the U.S.
Dr. Stephen Hoge, Moderna’s president, welcomed the “really important milestone” but said having similar results from two different companies is what’s most reassuring.
“That should give us all hope that actually a vaccine is going to be able to stop this pandemic and hopefully get us back to our lives,” Hoge told The Associated Press.
Read the full report here.
6:04 p.m. Holiday plans? Pritzker urges coronavirus caution — says he hopes to spend his Thanksgiving in Illinois
Already feeling the pain from the fall coronavirus explosion, Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Monday urged Illinois residents to rethink crowded Thanksgiving dinners or the state could “expect much worse.”
A little over a week before a holiday that typically sees people feasting indoors with family, the governor and Dr. Ngozi Ezike, the head of the Illinois Public Health Department, urged caution to avoid ovetaxing the state’s health care apparatus.
“Our hospitals are on their way to being overwhelmed — our doctors, nurses and health care workers are already being stretched beyond their limits,” Ezike said. “I don’t know how else to express the importance of personal responsibility.”
The governor urged people to ask themselves “if it’s worth it to spread the virus at any upcoming gatherings.” Though there’s “real hope for possible widespread distribution” of a vaccine by early spring, that’s still months away, Pritzker said.
For his part, Pritzker said he won’t be hosting friends who can’t go home for the holiday as he usually does. But asked whether or not he’d be in the state for Thanksgiving, the governor was noncommittal, saying “that is my hope, but I’ll let you know.”
Reporters Rachel Hinton and Brett Chase have the full story.
4:10 p.m. WW unveils new weight-loss program with more personalization, support amid COVID-19
WW International, the company formerly known as Weight Watchers, is doing a reset.
The weight-loss and wellness company rolls out a new comprehensive program Monday focusing not only on food but activity, mindset and sleep, company officials shared exclusively with USA TODAY.
The Oprah Winfrey-backed company’s new myWW+ comes with a more personal approach that can help with stress eating and lack of sleep, which have hit not only weight-conscious consumers during the coronavirus pandemic.
“They want more support, they want more motivation, they want more inspiration but they want what they need,” WW President and CEO Mindy Grossman told USA TODAY. “And they want a certain amount of personal accountability.”
Read the full report here.
2:33 p.m. Cook County judge at Daley Center tests positive for COVID-19
A Cook County judge who works at the Daley Center has tested positive for the coronavirus, marking the tenth judge countywide to test positive for the virus.
However, the judge last reported to work at the downtown office in October, according to a statement from the Office of the Chief Judge.
Reporter David Struett has the full story.
1:11 p.m. State reports another 11,632 COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths
Illinois health officials announced 11,632 new and probable cases of the coronavirus Monday as well as 37 more deaths, as stay-at-home advisories took effect in Chicago and suburban Cook County and the state attempts to curb a surge in cases.
The new case numbers continue a grim 11-day streak, during which Illinois has seen more than 10,000 cases per day.
The new numbers bring the state’s total to 585,248 cases. Monday’s case load comes from 90,612 tests conducted over the last 24 hours.
Health officials also reported 5,581 people with the virus were in hospitals as of Sunday night, with 1,144 of those patients in intensive care units and 514 on ventilators.
10:44 a.m. Sheriff’s office suspends in-person visits at Cook County Jail
The Cook County sheriff’s office announced Sunday it will be suspending in-person visits at the Cook County Jail in hopes of warding off another coronavirus outbreak as cases rise across the county.
The suspension is effective Monday, the sheriff’s office announced, citing the rising case numbers as well as the stay-at-home advisory issued Thursday for Chicago and suburban Cook County.
“For months, detainees were able to safely meet with family and friends,” the sheriff’s office said, referring to the reinstitution of in-person visits in June after a shutdown during the virus’ initial spread. “Like detainees, the people who visit them come from the community, where current test positivity rates for Chicago and Cook County are at 15.6% and 15.2% respectively.”
Read the full story here.
8:28 a.m. Statewide COVID-19 outbreak continues with 10,631 new cases Sunday
Illinois surpassed 10,000 coronavirus cases for the 10th consecutive day on Sunday as state health officials announced 10,631 new coronavirus infections and an additional 72 fatalities.
Sunday’s new cases accounted for roughly 12.5% of the more than 84,800 tests reported to the Illinois Department of Public Health in the last 24 hours.
The state’s seven-day statewide positivity rate — a figure experts use to understand how rapidly the virus is spreading — reached 12.8% Sunday, up from 8% at the start of the month, the state public health department reported.
The surge in cases has led to Illinois hospitals treating the most COVID-19 patients they’ve ever had. As of Saturday night, 5,474 beds were taken up by COVID-19 patients in Illinois hospitals, with 1,045 of those patients in intensive-care units and 490 on ventilators, officials said.
Cook County accounted for 21 of Sunday’s 72 fatalities. Only 16 of those deaths reported statewide were among people under the age of 70, and only six were under 60.
Read the full story from reporter Madeline Kenney here.
New cases
Illinois reported 10,631 new coronavirus infections and an additional 72 fatalities Sunday, marking the 10th consecutive day the state has surpassed 10,000 coronavirus cases.
Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak on Friday said he has tested positive for COVID-19.
Analysis & Commentary
5 p.m. Step up to the plate for pandemic safety on Thanksgiving
This is a year to be home for the holidays — as in staying at home.
Medical experts are telling us to limit Thanksgiving festivities to immediate household members. No one outside the quarantine bubble should show up, as much as we would love to see them. Let’s heed the professionals’ wise advice, even as the Moderna company on Monday announced a second vaccine that early data show to be 94.5% effective.
A recent Ohio State University survey disturbingly showed 38% of respondents planned holiday get-togethers of more than 10 people, and that many of those people aren’t planning to wear masks or engage in other protective measures.
Shrugging off the pandemic is a huge mistake. COVID-19 is surging everywhere. A million U.S. cases were recorded in just the past week. Illinois has 10% more hospitalizations than last spring’s peak. Hospitals are devoting more beds and wings to COVID-19 patients, but there are only so many nurses, respiratory therapists, doctors and other health care professionals. Last spring, Illinois was able to bring in health professionals from out of state, but now those other states are experiencing their own surges.
Read the CST Editorial Board’s full remarks.
12:11 p.m. Support those who are bringing us a COVID-19 vaccine
In a letter to the Sun-Times editors, Jerry Gura of Clarendon Hills writes:
Just last week, we received great news from Pfizer on the efficacy of its vaccine. And while this is an extremely exciting step, the race is still far from finished, as it will still need to be approved by the FDA and then distributed to the general public.
This most recent news should still give us all some much-needed hope, and it speaks volumes about the efforts of our country’s bio-pharmaceutical scientists and researchers. Our best and brightest minds have come together and made progress at a pace that has never been seen before with so much on the line.
While this important work continues, and we enter what we all hope will be the final stretch of this nightmare, lawmakers in Washington should take notice and ensure they do not enact any policy that could set back efforts. This includes implementing government price-setting policies that could actually slow efforts not only to develop a vaccine but find cures to other deadly diseases, such as cancer.
Personally, I just want to get back to normal as soon as possible, and the only way that will happen is if our lawmakers to do everything they can to support those working hard to end the pandemic with science.
Read this and more letters to the editors here.
9:50 a.m. Feeding the hungry grows all the more difficult during a pandemic
The coronavirus has put food banks throughout the United States in a nightmare position. They are dealing with higher demand, declining financial donations and fewer people who can volunteer.
Locally, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is bracing for a loss of volunteers because of this fall’s big surge in COVID-19 cases and the city’s new stay-at-home advisory.
In the fiscal year that ended on June 30, the food depository distributed more than 93 million pounds of food, the equivalent of 77.5 million meals. It was by far the most food the depository has distributed in its 41-year history.
“There is an increase in need,” Greg Trotter, spokesman for the depository, told the Sun-Times. “With winter coming and the pandemic raging on, we are very worried.”
The Greater Chicago Food Depository serves a network of more than 700 food kitchens, shelters and pantries, organizations that this fall are providing food to 50% more people each month than they were in January.
Read the full story here.
7:18 a.m. He went to the hospital in the morning. By mid-afternoon, he was dead from COVID-19.
John Sprinkle of Evergreen Park observed his 36th birthday Nov. 4.
He didn’t celebrate because he had been feeling sick. But he went on Facebook the following day to thank everyone for wishing him well.
The next morning, having trouble breathing, he called 911 to take him to the hospital. He was able to walk to the ambulance and waved to a neighbor.
A couple of hours later, he texted his sister from the emergency room, saying he was feeling better.
At 3:38 that afternoon, Sprinkle was dead from acute respiratory failure caused by COVID-19.
Just like that.
The toll from the coronavirus pandemic is mounting again, much like it was in the spring, and I’ve decided to return to what I was doing then: telling the stories of the victims.
Read Mark Brown’s column here.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--3 shot in West Garfield Park

3 shot in West Garfield Park

Three people were shot Monday in West Garfield Park .
Few details were released on the shooting , which happened @ @ @ @ @ 3800 block of West Gladys Avenue , Chicago police said .
Two men , 21 @ @ @ @ @ struck in the leg and were being treated at the scene , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ , was shot in the head and taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition .
@ @ @ @ @ and track the city ’ s homicides .

Three people were shot Monday in West Garfield Park.
Few details were released on the shooting, which happened about 5:20 p.m. in the 3800 block of West Gladys Avenue, Chicago police said.
Two men, 21 and 24, were each struck in the leg and were being treated at the scene, police said. A third man, 27, was shot in the head and taken to Stroger Hospital in serious condition.
Area Four detectives are investigating.
This is a developing story.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Developers push new Fulton Market ventures

In a sign of continued hope that Fulton Market will continue as a development mecca after the pandemic subsides , investors have submitted plans for a new residential high-rise and a hotel for the community .
The proposed 296-room hotel would go up at 311 N. Sangamon St. , replacing Fulton Market Kitchen .
The 26-story residential building , with 383 proposed units , would replace a cluster of small buildings that used to include an auto repair shop at 160 N. Elizabeth St .
Both projects were submitted Monday as zoning amendments to the City Council .
The applications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to council approval .
COVID-19 has taken a fierce toll on Fulton Market , shutting its restaurants , keeping home much of its daytime office worker population and quelling demand for hotel rooms .
But before the pandemic , it was Chicago ’ s hottest area and some investors are betting on its comeback .
“ Because of the slowdown , it been a good time to buy .
It ’ s going to get better , ” said the area ’ s alderman , Walter Burnett Jr. ( 27th ) .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these properties.
” The hotel is a venture of Marc Realty and members of the Stan family , zoning documents show .
The building would be connected to a four-story structure , currently vacant , that ’ s listed as a landmark at 310 N. Peoria St. Their zoning attorney could not be reached for comment .
The residential tower is planned for Fulton Market ’ s western edge near Union Park and is a venture of architect Thomas Roszak and Michael Moceri , who have teamed for several other projects .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ neither project has been submitted for community groups ’ review and he will withhold judgment until that happens .

In a sign of continued hope that Fulton Market will continue as a development mecca after the pandemic subsides, investors have submitted plans for a new residential high-rise and a hotel for the community.
The proposed 296-room hotel would go up at 311 N. Sangamon St., replacing Fulton Market Kitchen. The 26-story residential building, with 383 proposed units, would replace a cluster of small buildings that used to include an auto repair shop at 160 N. Elizabeth St.
Both projects were submitted Monday as zoning amendments to the City Council. The applications will start a review that could lead to council approval.
COVID-19 has taken a fierce toll on Fulton Market, shutting its restaurants, keeping home much of its daytime office worker population and quelling demand for hotel rooms. But before the pandemic, it was Chicago’s hottest area and some investors are betting on its comeback.
“Because of the slowdown, it been a good time to buy. It’s going to get better,” said the area’s alderman, Walter Burnett Jr. (27th). “Prices are going to rise on some of these properties.”
The hotel is a venture of Marc Realty and members of the Stan family, zoning documents show. The building would be connected to a four-story structure, currently vacant, that’s listed as a landmark at 310 N. Peoria St. Their zoning attorney could not be reached for comment.
The residential tower is planned for Fulton Market’s western edge near Union Park and is a venture of architect Thomas Roszak and Michael Moceri, who have teamed for several other projects. Roszak declined to comment.
Burnett said neither project has been submitted for community groups’ review and he will withhold judgment until that happens.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Bears’ Allen Robinson, Cole Kmet will play vs. Vikings

Receiver Allen Robinson , who the Bears listed as questionable because of a knee injury , will be active against the Vikings .
So will rookie tight end Cole Kmet , who was questionable to play because of a groin injury .
Jason Spriggs , who was questionable because of a knee injury , is active and could start at right tackle after missing last week ’ s game after he contracted the coronavirus .
Linebacker Barkevious Mingo , who carried the ball on a fake punt last week , will play after being questionable because of a shoulder injury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; quarterback Mitch Trubisky ( right shoulder ) , running back David Montgomery ( concussion ) , center Sam Mustipher ( knee ) , nose tackle John Jenkins ( ankle ) , outside linebacker Trevis Gipson and defensive lineman Anthony Rush .
Earlier Monday , the Bears activated center Cody Whitehair from the reserve/COVID-19 list and promoted former Pro Bowl running back Lamar Miller .
They should both impact the Bears ’ beleaguered run game — as should offensive coordinator Bill Lazor , who will call plays for the first time .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 712 yards .

The Bears’ top offensive weapon will play Monday night.
Receiver Allen Robinson, who the Bears listed as questionable because of a knee injury, will be active against the Vikings. So will rookie tight end Cole Kmet, who was questionable to play because of a groin injury.
Jason Spriggs, who was questionable because of a knee injury, is active and could start at right tackle after missing last week’s game after he contracted the coronavirus. Linebacker Barkevious Mingo, who carried the ball on a fake punt last week, will play after being questionable because of a shoulder injury.
The inactive Bears are no surprise; quarterback Mitch Trubisky (right shoulder), running back David Montgomery (concussion), center Sam Mustipher (knee), nose tackle John Jenkins (ankle), outside linebacker Trevis Gipson and defensive lineman Anthony Rush.
Earlier Monday, the Bears activated center Cody Whitehair from the reserve/COVID-19 list and promoted former Pro Bowl running back Lamar Miller. They should both impact the Bears’ beleaguered run game — as should offensive coordinator Bill Lazor, who will call plays for the first time.
This season, Robinson has 57 catches for 712 yards.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-16--Man, woman charged in attack on teens who wrote ‘Biden 2020’ at South Loop park

Charges have been filed against a man and a woman who were allegedly seen on video attacking two teens who wrote “ Biden 2020 ” in chalk on the sidewalk earlier this month at a South Loop park .
Lorena Petani , 64 , and 21-year-old Lucio Zapata are each charged with misdemeanor counts of battery , Chicago police said .
The incident , which occurred Nov. 4 in in the Chicago Women ’ s Park & Garden near 18th Street and Prairie Avenue about 11:30 a.m. , was recorded and posted to Facebook .
It was first reported by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a woman can be seen approaching two 19-year-old woman to complain their chalk message was “ insulting.
” “ Are we gon na have a war of Trump and cops versus BLM in a public park ?
” the woman asked , adding “ my husband is a cop , too.
” “ This is my park , ” she said .
“ I doubt you pay as much as me [ in taxes ] .
” The interaction between the two groups escalated , and the woman pushed one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushed the other teen to the ground and punched her , police said .
Police searched the area after the incident but didn ’ t find the pair .
The teens declined medical treatment .

Charges have been filed against a man and a woman who were allegedly seen on video attacking two teens who wrote “Biden 2020” in chalk on the sidewalk earlier this month at a South Loop park.
Lorena Petani, 64, and 21-year-old Lucio Zapata are each charged with misdemeanor counts of battery, Chicago police said.
The incident, which occurred Nov. 4 in in the Chicago Women’s Park & Garden near 18th Street and Prairie Avenue about 11:30 a.m., was recorded and posted to Facebook. It was first reported by Block Club Chicago.
In the video, a woman can be seen approaching two 19-year-old woman to complain their chalk message was “insulting.”
“Are we gonna have a war of Trump and cops versus BLM in a public park?” the woman asked, adding “my husband is a cop, too.”
“This is my park,” she said. “I doubt you pay as much as me [in taxes].”
The interaction between the two groups escalated, and the woman pushed one of the teens to the ground. The man pushed the other teen to the ground and punched her, police said.
Police searched the area after the incident but didn’t find the pair. The teens declined medical treatment.
Contributing: Sam Charles


chicagosun-times--2020-11-17--Gov. Pritzker, it’s time to show people how government can work for them

That ’ s my advice for Gov .
J.B. Pritzker now that his so-called Fair Tax , the graduated income tax constitutional amendment , has failed .
I supported the amendment .
It made sense for a lot of reasons .
This state needed more money before the COVID-19 pandemic hit and now it ’ s going to need more because sales tax revenues are going to be down , businesses are going broke and incomes are likely to decrease , meaning there will be less money for government programs .
Taxes are the price we pay for civilization .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Illinois Department of Employment Security ( IDES ) this past year certainly wanted government working for them .
And that ’ s the problem .
The program didn ’ t work as well as it should have .
No one answered the phones .
People didn ’ t get checks soon enough and the government ended up sending money to people who were scamming the system .
Right in the middle of the campaign for a fair tax , Pritzker had a chance to show people the government at its best and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That ’ s bad marketing .
It ’ s terrible public relations .
Too often that ’ s what our government does best .
We don ’ t expect you or the government to be perfect .
But we expect better .
There tend to be two kinds of politicians in my experience .
Those who want to spend more money on programs to help people and those who want to cut spending and tell people in trouble to take a hike .
What we need , all of us , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plate and make the government work the way it should .
One big reason the tax amendment failed is that people don ’ t trust the government .
They ’ ve seen too many examples of corruption and mismanagement .
They ’ ve encountered too many government employees who just don ’ t care .
Citizens desperate for help end up listening to a busy signal or told to visit some website where there is no human being to hear their complaint .
What happens when the government makes cuts is that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually answer the phones and try to help the public , end up unemployed .
The programs that need cutting escape the axe , but those that do help folks are destroyed .
I ’ m reminded of the massive cuts to mental health programs in this state over the years .
Those put a lot of sick people on the streets self-medicating on illegal drugs and committing crimes .
The courthouses and jails became overcrowded and local police departments spent a lot of time responding to calls about mentally ill people acting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money .
It cost us taxpayers money .
And it hurt people .
Not just sick people , but also the general public .
We need to do better .
How ?
Maybe put together groups right now ( businesspeople , college professors , working folks , students and not-for-profit volunteers ) and ask them for help .
This can ’ t be any 10-year plan .
It has to happen fast .
We need a way to make those cuts you are going to make this coming year more effective , governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are listening to them .
I supported the graduated income tax 30 years ago .
But I knew it would likely fail because I listened to people who told me why they hated the idea .
The government always wants more of my money , they said .
Folks in public office don ’ t care about me .
They just use my wages to line their pockets and those of their friends .
This may seem like the worst time to make things right .
I disagree .
This is when ordinary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The COVID-19 epidemic is stalking their communities .
Businesses are in trouble .
Peoples jobs are at risk .
They need to put food on their tables and keep a roof over their heads .
Make the government work now and people will remember for generations to come .
They will also remember if it fails them .

Make the government work right.
That’s my advice for Gov. J.B. Pritzker now that his so-called Fair Tax, the graduated income tax constitutional amendment, has failed.
I supported the amendment. It made sense for a lot of reasons. This state needed more money before the COVID-19 pandemic hit and now it’s going to need more because sales tax revenues are going to be down, businesses are going broke and incomes are likely to decrease, meaning there will be less money for government programs.
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
Taxes are the price we pay for civilization. All those unemployed folks seeking checks from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) this past year certainly wanted government working for them.
And that’s the problem. The program didn’t work as well as it should have. No one answered the phones. People didn’t get checks soon enough and the government ended up sending money to people who were scamming the system.
Right in the middle of the campaign for a fair tax, Pritzker had a chance to show people the government at its best and instead they saw government at its worst. That’s bad marketing. It’s terrible public relations. Too often that’s what our government does best.
We don’t expect you or the government to be perfect. But we expect better.
There tend to be two kinds of politicians in my experience. Those who want to spend more money on programs to help people and those who want to cut spending and tell people in trouble to take a hike.
What we need, all of us, is politicians who will step up to the plate and make the government work the way it should.
Opinion Newsletter
One big reason the tax amendment failed is that people don’t trust the government. They’ve seen too many examples of corruption and mismanagement. They’ve encountered too many government employees who just don’t care. Citizens desperate for help end up listening to a busy signal or told to visit some website where there is no human being to hear their complaint.
What happens when the government makes cuts is that the good people, the government workers who actually answer the phones and try to help the public, end up unemployed.
The programs that need cutting escape the axe, but those that do help folks are destroyed.
I’m reminded of the massive cuts to mental health programs in this state over the years. Those put a lot of sick people on the streets self-medicating on illegal drugs and committing crimes. The courthouses and jails became overcrowded and local police departments spent a lot of time responding to calls about mentally ill people acting out.
It didn’t save money. It cost us taxpayers money. And it hurt people. Not just sick people, but also the general public.
We need to do better.
How? Maybe put together groups right now (businesspeople, college professors, working folks, students and not-for-profit volunteers) and ask them for help. This can’t be any 10-year plan. It has to happen fast. We need a way to make those cuts you are going to make this coming year more effective, governor.
You need to convince people you are listening to them.
I supported the graduated income tax 30 years ago. But I knew it would likely fail because I listened to people who told me why they hated the idea.
The government always wants more of my money, they said. Folks in public office don’t care about me. They just use my wages to line their pockets and those of their friends.
This may seem like the worst time to make things right. I disagree. This is when ordinary people need their government the most. The COVID-19 epidemic is stalking their communities. Businesses are in trouble. Peoples jobs are at risk. They need to put food on their tables and keep a roof over their heads.
Make the government work now and people will remember for generations to come. They will also remember if it fails them.
Email: philkadner@gmail.com


chicagosun-times--2020-11-17--Dear Abby: If family members don’t need gifts, give to those who do

DEAR ABBY : With the holidays fast approaching , I ’ m starting to think about shopping .
Honestly , I ’ m tired of shopping for adults who don ’ t need anything .
Finding gifts for them becomes more daunting each year .
I think gift cards and direct money are tacky Christmas presents .
Do you think it would be odd to ask my adult children and other family members to select a charity they would like me to donate to instead of buying them gifts that just take up more room ?
This year has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of my family members are lucky enough to still be working through everything that has happened .
I think charities could use a boost .
— NEW IDEA IN FLORIDA DEAR NEW IDEA : I am sure they could .
Your idea is terrific , and it reminded me of a letter I printed many years ago , which I have edited because of space limitations .
Read on : DEAR ABBY : We have wrestled with the “ What do we get for people who have everything ?
” dilemma .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon a solution .
We discussed it with our grandparents .
They agreed it would be more charitable for us to give something to people who lack everyday necessities , so we adopted a battered children ’ s shelter .
Those little ones are truly refugees .
They need everything from toothbrushes and hairbrushes to baby formula and diapers — not to mention toys and games .
To our delight , our neighbors got involved in our project , too .
For weeks , on Thursdays , neighbors would leave donations in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would pick them up .
Our goal was for every child in that shelter to wake up on Christmas morning to find packages of necessities and a few playthings .
The project created so much excitement among our neighbors that we collected enough for two shelters .
There were pillows , socks , underwear , bath products , cold medicines , books , towels , baby clothes , etc .
Each child also got a large gift basket , including a nonbreakable tree ornament to help him or her remember this holiday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many families , but the rewards couldn ’ t have been greater .
We felt our project embodied the true spirit of Christmas .
It sensitized our children to the needs of others all year long .
Because it was one of the best holidays we have ever had , we ’ re repeating the drive again this year .
When people join together , everyone CAN make a difference .
— SANTA ’ S HELPERS IN PHOENIX DEAR SANTA ’ S HELPERS : Your signature describes you fittingly .
With that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be sensitive to the needs of charities in their local communities this year .
Because monies that would ordinarily have been donated to local charities may have been diverted in other directions , many charities are having difficulty raising enough to meet their budgets .
Remember , folks , charity begins at home — and by that I mean the communities in which you dwell .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .
For everything you need to know about wedding planning , order “ How to Have a Lovely Wedding.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Wedding Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: With the holidays fast approaching, I’m starting to think about shopping. Honestly, I’m tired of shopping for adults who don’t need anything. Finding gifts for them becomes more daunting each year. I think gift cards and direct money are tacky Christmas presents.
Do you think it would be odd to ask my adult children and other family members to select a charity they would like me to donate to instead of buying them gifts that just take up more room? This year has been hard on many people financially, but most of my family members are lucky enough to still be working through everything that has happened. I think charities could use a boost. — NEW IDEA IN FLORIDA
DEAR NEW IDEA: I am sure they could. Your idea is terrific, and it reminded me of a letter I printed many years ago, which I have edited because of space limitations. Read on:
DEAR ABBY: We have wrestled with the “What do we get for people who have everything?” dilemma. Last year, our family finally hit upon a solution. We discussed it with our grandparents. They agreed it would be more charitable for us to give something to people who lack everyday necessities, so we adopted a battered children’s shelter. Those little ones are truly refugees. They need everything from toothbrushes and hairbrushes to baby formula and diapers — not to mention toys and games.
To our delight, our neighbors got involved in our project, too. For weeks, on Thursdays, neighbors would leave donations in a sack by their mailbox, and we would pick them up. Our goal was for every child in that shelter to wake up on Christmas morning to find packages of necessities and a few playthings.
The project created so much excitement among our neighbors that we collected enough for two shelters. There were pillows, socks, underwear, bath products, cold medicines, books, towels, baby clothes, etc. Each child also got a large gift basket, including a nonbreakable tree ornament to help him or her remember this holiday.
The cost was small when spread over so many families, but the rewards couldn’t have been greater. We felt our project embodied the true spirit of Christmas. It sensitized our children to the needs of others all year long.
Because it was one of the best holidays we have ever had, we’re repeating the drive again this year. When people join together, everyone CAN make a difference. — SANTA’S HELPERS IN PHOENIX
DEAR SANTA’S HELPERS: Your signature describes you fittingly. With that in mind, I hope readers will be sensitive to the needs of charities in their local communities this year. Because monies that would ordinarily have been donated to local charities may have been diverted in other directions, many charities are having difficulty raising enough to meet their budgets. Remember, folks, charity begins at home — and by that I mean the communities in which you dwell.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
For everything you need to know about wedding planning, order “How to Have a Lovely Wedding.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Wedding Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-11-17--Cash-strapped state turning down $100M in pot taxes, industry says

With Illinois facing a nearly $ 4 billion budget deficit next year , lawmakers and cannabis industry insiders have claimed the state is missing out on more than $ 100 million in tax revenue by blocking certain pot shops from relocating .
While the state ’ s economy has been upended by the coronavirus pandemic , cannabis sales have remained a bright spot throughout the crisis .
Sales of recreational weed topped $ 500 million over the first 10 months of full-on legalization , and total monthly sales surpassed $ 100 million for the first time in October .
Nevertheless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s pot game say the industry has been hampered by Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s interpretation of the legalization law .
Under his administration ’ s reading , existing medical dispensaries aren ’ t allowed to move without losing their chance to also sell recreational weed — even if they ’ re operating in a city or town that has barred those sales or they ’ ve outgrown their current locations .
Pam Althoff , a former state senator who leads the Cannabis Business Association of Illinois , said lawmakers and state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has remained a contentious topic for more than a year .
“ Allowing dual licensees to move will not only increase tax revenues for the state and local municipalities but will permit the industry to hire more people and allow communities to maintain local control as to where in their community they wish these new cannabis operators to operate , ” said Althoff .
In August of last year , as Illinois was preparing to start its experiment with recreational pot , a group of lawmakers who led the legalization push penned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reconsider his position while noting that his administration ’ s reading of the law “ threatens the success of the program.
” Pritzker rebuffed their appeal , noting that the rule sought to ensure that existing dispensary operators “ do not completely dominate the new market ” before the so-called social equity candidates had a chance to win new licenses .
State senators later approved legislation in May that would have allowed some pot shops to move without any repercussions , but the bill was ultimately shot down in the House , leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memo created by industry sources and shared with lawmakers showed the state was losing out on roughly $ 135 million in revenue .
Those estimates included lost revenues from 13 dual-use stores that required larger spaces and nine medical dispensaries that either operated in municipalities that barred recreational sales , had leases that didn ’ t permit those sales or faced new zoning restrictions .
Given that some of those municipalities have since allowed the sale of recreational weed , the estimated losses now hover around $ 100 million based on the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t respond to a request for comment .
But Kelly Cassidy , a key sponsor of the legalization law who signed the letter to Pritzker , said the issue would likely take some time to resolve .
While Cassidy noted that a cannabis working group hasn ’ t addressed the topic yet , the lawmakers have ample time before the next legislative session in January .
“ It remains a concern for folks , whether it ’ s places where the towns are asking them to move for safety reasons — for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve seen in one or two cases — or others where their current facility is so small it ’ s really hard to safely serve clients and they want to have a bigger footprint so that they can spread out a little , ” said Cassidy .
She pointed to Cresco Labs , which is hoping to move its dual-use Sunnyside store in Lake View to the old John Barleycorn pub location just steps from Wrigleyville .
Cresco , a Loop-based pot firm that operates in multiple states , is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buffalo Grove where the landlord won ’ t allow recreational sales .
“ Both of these new locations would be in the same area and create significant tax revenue for both the cities they ’ re in and for the state , ” said Cresco spokesman Jason Erkes .
Pharmacann , another major Loop-based cannabis company , is also hoping to relocate its Verilife dispensaries in Romeoville and North Aurora .
Those dual-use shops would simply move to bigger spaces in those same villages to accommodate more customers , spokesman Jeremy Unruh said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business , and we would be doing business more smoothly , ” Unruh noted .

With Illinois facing a nearly $4 billion budget deficit next year, lawmakers and cannabis industry insiders have claimed the state is missing out on more than $100 million in tax revenue by blocking certain pot shops from relocating.
While the state’s economy has been upended by the coronavirus pandemic, cannabis sales have remained a bright spot throughout the crisis. Sales of recreational weed topped $500 million over the first 10 months of full-on legalization, and total monthly sales surpassed $100 million for the first time in October.
Nevertheless, some players in the state’s pot game say the industry has been hampered by Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s interpretation of the legalization law. Under his administration’s reading, existing medical dispensaries aren’t allowed to move without losing their chance to also sell recreational weed — even if they’re operating in a city or town that has barred those sales or they’ve outgrown their current locations.
Pam Althoff, a former state senator who leads the Cannabis Business Association of Illinois, said lawmakers and state officials should prioritize resolving the issue, which has remained a contentious topic for more than a year.
“Allowing dual licensees to move will not only increase tax revenues for the state and local municipalities but will permit the industry to hire more people and allow communities to maintain local control as to where in their community they wish these new cannabis operators to operate,” said Althoff.
In August of last year, as Illinois was preparing to start its experiment with recreational pot, a group of lawmakers who led the legalization push penned a letter to Pritzker urging him to reconsider his position while noting that his administration’s reading of the law “threatens the success of the program.” Pritzker rebuffed their appeal, noting that the rule sought to ensure that existing dispensary operators “do not completely dominate the new market” before the so-called social equity candidates had a chance to win new licenses.
State senators later approved legislation in May that would have allowed some pot shops to move without any repercussions, but the bill was ultimately shot down in the House, leaving dozens of dispensaries in limbo.
A memo created by industry sources and shared with lawmakers showed the state was losing out on roughly $135 million in revenue.
Those estimates included lost revenues from 13 dual-use stores that required larger spaces and nine medical dispensaries that either operated in municipalities that barred recreational sales, had leases that didn’t permit those sales or faced new zoning restrictions. Given that some of those municipalities have since allowed the sale of recreational weed, the estimated losses now hover around $100 million based on the same metrics.
Pritzker’s office didn’t respond to a request for comment. But Kelly Cassidy, a key sponsor of the legalization law who signed the letter to Pritzker, said the issue would likely take some time to resolve.
While Cassidy noted that a cannabis working group hasn’t addressed the topic yet, the lawmakers have ample time before the next legislative session in January.
“It remains a concern for folks, whether it’s places where the towns are asking them to move for safety reasons — for traffic safety kind of reasons, which I’ve seen in one or two cases — or others where their current facility is so small it’s really hard to safely serve clients and they want to have a bigger footprint so that they can spread out a little,” said Cassidy.
She pointed to Cresco Labs, which is hoping to move its dual-use Sunnyside store in Lake View to the old John Barleycorn pub location just steps from Wrigleyville. Cresco, a Loop-based pot firm that operates in multiple states, is also pushing to move from another storefront in Buffalo Grove where the landlord won’t allow recreational sales.
“Both of these new locations would be in the same area and create significant tax revenue for both the cities they’re in and for the state,” said Cresco spokesman Jason Erkes.
Pharmacann, another major Loop-based cannabis company, is also hoping to relocate its Verilife dispensaries in Romeoville and North Aurora. Those dual-use shops would simply move to bigger spaces in those same villages to accommodate more customers, spokesman Jeremy Unruh said.
“We would be doing more business, and we would be doing business more smoothly,” Unruh noted.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-17--Menu planner: Lemon-herb beef with pot roast

Combine 2 teaspoons lemon pepper , 2 teaspoons minced garlic and 1 teaspoon dried basil ; press onto a 2 1/2- to 3 1/2-pound beef shoulder roast .
Brown on all sides ; pour off drippings .
Add 1 cup water ; bring to a boil .
Reduce heat ; cover tightly and simmer 2 hours .
Add 2 cups baby carrots , 1 pound small red potatoes ( halved ) and 1 medium onion ( cut into 6 wedges ) .
Continue cooking , covered , 30 to 45 minutes or until roast and vegetables are fork-tender .
Remove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Skim fat from liquid .
Stir in 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water .
Cook and stir 1 minute or until thickened and bubbly .
Carve roast ; serve with vegetables and sauce .
2 pounds ( about 8 cups ) fresh zucchini , halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices Cook linguine according to package directions ; drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil .
In a large nonstick skillet , melt butter over medium-high heat .
Add zucchini and garlic ; cook 4 minutes or until softened .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ teaspoon pepper .
Combine zucchini mixture with cooked pasta and remaining olive oil ; toss to coat .
Sprinkle with cheese and remaining pepper .
In a Dutch oven , heat oil on medium .
Add onion , carrot , celery and garlic ; cook 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender , stirring frequently .
Add water , lentils , 1 tablespoon dill , bay leaves , red pepper and tomato sauce .
Bring to a boil ; reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes or until lentils are tender .
Stir in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black pepper ; discard bay leaves .
Sprinkle with cheese and serve .
1 to 2 jalapeno peppers , split lengthwise , seeded and cut crosswise into thin strips Cook edamame according to package directions ; drain .
In a large nonstick skillet on medium-high , cook bacon until crisp .
Remove bacon from pan , crumble and set aside ; reserve 1 tablespoon drippings in pan .
Reduce heat to medium ; add celery , onion , garlic and jalapeno peppers to pan .
Cook 2 minutes , stirring frequently .
Stir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cook 4 minutes , stirring frequently .
Add shrimp ; cook 5 minutes or until shrimp are opaque throughout , stirring frequently .
Remove from heat .
Stir in salt and pepper ; sprinkle with bacon and parsley .
NOTE : If you can ’ t find edamame ( green soybeans ) with other frozen vegetables , look in the frozen health food section of your market .
Using the leftover beef , shred 2 cups of the beef and combine with 3 cups packaged broccoli slaw mix and 1/4 cup hoisin sauce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole-grain tortillas ; roll , halve and serve .
Warm 1 ( 10 1/4-ounce ) can condensed less-fat less-sodium cream of mushroom soup and 3/4 cup 1 % milk over low heat .
Stir in 2 cups frozen tiny green peas ( thawed ) ; cook 5 minutes .
Toss soup with cooked wagon wheel ( or rotini ) pasta .

Lemon-herb beef pot roast
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven on medium.
Combine 2 teaspoons lemon pepper, 2 teaspoons minced garlic and 1 teaspoon dried basil; press onto a 2 1/2- to 3 1/2-pound beef shoulder roast. Brown on all sides; pour off drippings.
Add 1 cup water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 2 hours. Add 2 cups baby carrots, 1 pound small red potatoes (halved) and 1 medium onion (cut into 6 wedges). Continue cooking, covered, 30 to 45 minutes or until roast and vegetables are fork-tender.
Remove roast and vegetables; keep warm. Skim fat from liquid. Stir in 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water. Cook and stir 1 minute or until thickened and bubbly. Carve roast; serve with vegetables and sauce.
Add a green salad with shiitake mushrooms and whole-grain rolls.
Linguine with zucchini and fresh mint
Makes 6 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: about 5 minutes, plus pasta
INGREDIENTS
12 ounces linguine
2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon butter
2 pounds (about 8 cups) fresh zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Cook linguine according to package directions; drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil. In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and garlic; cook 4 minutes or until softened. Stir in mint, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Combine zucchini mixture with cooked pasta and remaining olive oil; toss to coat. Sprinkle with cheese and remaining pepper.
Per serving: 311 calories, 11 grams protein, 9 grams fat (25% calories from fat), 2 grams saturated fat, 48 grams carbohydrate, 5 milligrams cholesterol, 235 milligrams sodium, 3 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 3.
Lentil soup
Makes 6 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: about 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups dried lentils, rinsed and picked over
2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, divided
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 (8-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup (3 ounces) crumbled Greek feta cheese
In a Dutch oven, heat oil on medium. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic; cook 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently. Add water, lentils, 1 tablespoon dill, bay leaves, red pepper and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in remaining dill, vinegar, salt and black pepper; discard bay leaves. Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
Per serving: 268 calories, 18 grams protein, 6 grams fat (20% calories from fat), 1.7 grams saturated fat, 39 grams carbohydrate, 5 milligrams cholesterol, 454 milligrams sodium, 8 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 2.5.
Shrimp with edamame succotash
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: about 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups edamame (frozen, blanched and shelled) (see NOTE)
3 slices bacon
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped red onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, split lengthwise, seeded and cut crosswise into thin strips
2 cups frozen or fresh corn
3 tablespoons dry white wine
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped flatleaf parsley
Cook edamame according to package directions; drain. In a large nonstick skillet on medium-high, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon from pan, crumble and set aside; reserve 1 tablespoon drippings in pan. Reduce heat to medium; add celery, onion, garlic and jalapeno peppers to pan. Cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in edamame, corn and wine; cook 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add shrimp; cook 5 minutes or until shrimp are opaque throughout, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Stir in salt and pepper; sprinkle with bacon and parsley.
NOTE: If you can’t find edamame (green soybeans) with other frozen vegetables, look in the frozen health food section of your market.
Per serving: 329 calories, 27 grams protein, 13 grams fat (34% calories from fat), 3 grams saturated fat, 28 grams carbohydrate, 139 milligrams cholesterol, 622 milligrams sodium, 6 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 2.
Beef and broccoli slaw wraps
Using the leftover beef, shred 2 cups of the beef and combine with 3 cups packaged broccoli slaw mix and 1/4 cup hoisin sauce; mix well. Spoon onto warmed whole-grain tortillas; roll, halve and serve.
Heat the leftover vegetables to serve alongside. Add mixed greens.
Creamy-greeny wagon wheel pasta
Warm 1 (10 1/4-ounce) can condensed less-fat less-sodium cream of mushroom soup and 3/4 cup 1% milk over low heat. Stir in 2 cups frozen tiny green peas (thawed); cook 5 minutes. Toss soup with cooked wagon wheel (or rotini) pasta.


chicagosun-times--2020-11-17--Pickup truck rolls over after rear-ending CPD vehicle in Palmer Square

A pickup truck flipped over after rear-ending a Chicago police vehicle Tuesday near the 14th District police station in Palmer @ @ @ @ @ .
The pickup truck was traveling south about 1:30 a.m. in the 2100 block of @ @ @ @ @ it crashed into the back of a marked police SUV that had just turned onto @ @ @ @ @ .
The truck rolled over , and the 22-year-old woman driving it was taken to @ @ @ @ @ observation , police said .
Two officers in the SUV were also taken to a @ @ @ @ @ Everyone involved was listed in good condition .
Police said no citations are currently pending @ @ @ @ @ pickup truck .

A pickup truck flipped over after rear-ending a Chicago police vehicle Tuesday near the 14th District police station in Palmer Square on the Northwest Side.
The pickup truck was traveling south about 1:30 a.m. in the 2100 block of North California Avenue, when it crashed into the back of a marked police SUV that had just turned onto California, Chicago police said.
The truck rolled over, and the 22-year-old woman driving it was taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center for observation, police said. Two officers in the SUV were also taken to a local hospital for observation. Everyone involved was listed in good condition.
Police said no citations are currently pending against the woman driving the pickup truck.