chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--‘The Last Dance’ already sets record for ESPN original content

The first two episodes of “ The Last Dance , ” the 10-part documentary about Michael Jordan and the 1997-98 @ @ @ @ @ viewers Sunday across ESPN & ESPN2 .
Episode 1 averaged 6.3 million viewers , and @ @ @ @ @ , according to the network .
The episodes rank as the two most-viewed original content @ @ @ @ @ , when it began producing such shows , surpassing the 2012 film “ You Don @ @ @ @ @ ( 3.6 million ) .
It was the most-viewed telecast on ESPN since the CFP @ @ @ @ @ ranks as the most-watched telecast among adults 18-34 and 18-49 since sports halted because of @ @ @ @ @ surprisingly , Chicago was the top local market with a 12.1 rating .
Raleigh-Durham was @ @ @ @

The first two episodes of “The Last Dance,” the 10-part documentary about Michael Jordan and the 1997-98 Bulls, averaged 6.1 million viewers Sunday across ESPN & ESPN2. Episode 1 averaged 6.3 million viewers, and Episode 2 averaged 5.8 million, according to the network.
The episodes rank as the two most-viewed original content broadcasts on ESPN since 2004, when it began producing such shows, surpassing the 2012 film “You Don’t Know Bo” (3.6 million).
It was the most-viewed telecast on ESPN since the CFP national championship, and it ranks as the most-watched telecast among adults 18-34 and 18-49 since sports halted because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Not surprisingly, Chicago was the top local market with a 12.1 rating. Raleigh-Durham was next at 6.5.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--Efforts outlined to bridge Chicago’s racial divide in coronavirus-related deaths

Two weeks after declaring a “ public health red alarm , ” Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday outlined the immediate steps she has taken to prevent the coronavirus from continuing to kill African-Americans at a rate four times higher than whites .
The mayor ’ s “ hyper-local , data-informed ” strategy will be focused , at least initially , on three hard-hit neighborhoods : Austin , Auburn-Gresham and South Shore .
The unprecedented outreach by Lightfoot ’ s so-called “ racial equity rapid response teams ” includes expanded testing and free distribution of 60,000 masks , 80,000 door hangers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to “ pro-actively reach ” African-Americans at greatest risk of contracting the coronavirus because of their age , their underlying health conditions or the fact that they are “ essential ” employees who can not afford to stay safe at home .
To spread the message , the city is holding three , 90-minute telephone town hall meetings , one in each of the targeted neighborhoods .
South Shore is first — on Thursday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. — followed by Auburn Gresham from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Austin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public service announcements on radio and television are also planned , once again using comedy as an education vehicle .
And rapid response teams operating out of the city ’ s emergency operations center are talking about “ solutions to food insecurity ” on the South Side .
When Lightfoot first sounded the alarm about the racial disparity , Africans-Americans who comprise 30 percent of Chicago ’ s population made up 72 percent of COVID-19 deaths .
Now it ’ s down to a still-alarming 60 % — that ’ s 287 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady .
The death rate among African-Americans in Chicago remains four times higher than it is for whites , the commissioner said .
For a mayor who declared war on poverty before the pandemic , that is simply unacceptable .
“ The health disparities that result in high rates of diabetes , heart and respiratory disease are the very conditions that this virus ruthlessly attacks , ” the mayor told a City Hall news conference .
Lightfoot said the maps of coronavirus cases concentrated in black neighborhood “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inequality that has held these same communities in the grip of poverty for generations ” in Chicago .
“ That has withheld access to health care , jobs and education .
… The very issues that placed incredible burdens on our families before this crisis have only grown exponentially during this crisis — and thrust into high relief how the issues of equity and opportunity are truly matters of life and death , ” she said .
“ We simply will not stand for that here in Chicago .
Not anymore.
” Carlos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gresham Development Corporation , said he ’ s spent the last 3.5 years planning a 60,000-square-foot regional health and wellness center anchored by a full-service health center at 79th and Halsted streets .
“ We purchased the building .
We ’ ve had difficulty finding the last of the funds to get this project done .
It ’ s frustrating and it ’ s sobering to think how many families would have been supported — and possibly lives saved — if we ’ d been able to stand up this Auburn-Gresham health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ When this pandemic is over , it is imperative that we as a great community continue to fight other long-standing epidemics — like poverty , like food instability , like little access to health care and other social determinants of health — with the same vigor that we ’ re fighting right now.
” Darnell Shields , executive director of Austin Coming Together , openly acknowledged that it will be an uphill battle .
“ Social determinants of good health are not in our favor .
The number of pre-existing health conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result of extreme poverty [ and ] systemic racism make us more susceptible to the dangers of COVID-19 , ” Shields said .
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic , Lightfoot and Arwady were determined to narrow the nine-year gap in life expectancy between black and white Chicagoans .
The so-called “ death gap ” between people who live downtown compared to parts of the West Side is an even more astounding 16 years .
Her goal now is to “ break down silos ” of poverty — and establish food delivery systems to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that will last long after life in Chicago returns to some semblance of normalcy .

Two weeks after declaring a “public health red alarm,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday outlined the immediate steps she has taken to prevent the coronavirus from continuing to kill African Americans at a rate four times higher than whites.
The mayor’s “hyper-local, data-informed” strategy will be focused, at least initially, on three hard-hit neighborhoods: Austin, Auburn-Gresham and South Shore.
The unprecedented outreach by Lightfoot’s so-called “racial equity rapid response teams” includes expanded testing and free distribution of 60,000 masks, 80,000 door hangers and 150,000 postcards.
The goal is to “pro-actively reach” African Americans at greatest risk of contracting the coronavirus because of their age, their underlying health conditions or the fact that they are “essential” employees who cannot afford to stay safe at home.
To spread the message, the city is holding three, 90-minute telephone town hall meetings, one in each of the targeted neighborhoods. South Shore is first — on Thursday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. — followed by Auburn Gresham from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Austin from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Targeted public service announcements on radio and television are also planned, once again using comedy as an education vehicle. And rapid response teams operating out of the city’s emergency operations center are talking about “solutions to food insecurity” on the South Side.
When Lightfoot first sounded the alarm about the racial disparity, Africans Americans who comprise 30 percent of Chicago’s population made up 72 percent of COVID-19 deaths.
Now it’s down to a still-alarming 60% — that’s 287 of Chicago’s 500 deaths, according to Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady.
The death rate among African Americans in Chicago remains four times higher than it is for whites, the commissioner said.
For a mayor who declared war on poverty before the pandemic, that is simply unacceptable.
“The health disparities that result in high rates of diabetes, heart and respiratory disease are the very conditions that this virus ruthlessly attacks,” the mayor told a City Hall news conference.
Lightfoot said the maps of coronavirus cases concentrated in black neighborhood “illuminated the broken and racist system of inequality that has held these same communities in the grip of poverty for generations” in Chicago.
“That has withheld access to health care, jobs and education. … The very issues that placed incredible burdens on our families before this crisis have only grown exponentially during this crisis — and thrust into high relief how the issues of equity and opportunity are truly matters of life and death,” she said.
“We simply will not stand for that here in Chicago. Not anymore.”
Carlos Nelson, CEO of the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation, said he’s spent the last 3.5 years planning a 60,000-square-foot regional health and wellness center anchored by a full-service health center at 79th and Halsted streets.
“We purchased the building. We’ve had difficulty finding the last of the funds to get this project done. It’s frustrating and it’s sobering to think how many families would have been supported — and possibly lives saved — if we’d been able to stand up this Auburn-Gresham health and wellness center,” Nelson said.
“When this pandemic is over, it is imperative that we as a great community continue to fight other long-standing epidemics — like poverty, like food instability, like little access to health care and other social determinants of health — with the same vigor that we’re fighting right now.”
Darnell Shields, executive director of Austin Coming Together, openly acknowledged that it will be an uphill battle.
“Social determinants of good health are not in our favor. The number of pre-existing health conditions that plague the black community as a result of extreme poverty [and] systemic racism make us more susceptible to the dangers of COVID-19,” Shields said.
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, Lightfoot and Arwady were determined to narrow the nine-year gap in life expectancy between black and white Chicagoans.
The so-called “death gap” between people who live downtown compared to parts of the West Side is an even more astounding 16 years.
Her goal now is to “break down silos” of poverty — and establish food delivery systems to impoverished Chicago neighborhoods — in a way that will last long after life in Chicago returns to some semblance of normalcy.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--Coronavirus has made incarceration a potential death sentence

This week , the New York Times featured the story of how the coronavirus savaged the Federal Correctional Complex in Oakdale , Louisiana .
On March 28 , Patrick Jones , 49 , serving a 27-year sentence for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute , became the first federal inmate to die of the virus .
Barely three weeks later , seven inmates had died , at least 100 inmates and staff members had been infected , with more than 20 hospitalized — and an entire community terrorized .
The prisoners died , unreported , unknown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government that imprisoned them .
According to corrections officers there , the warden was slow to act , saying that “ we live in the South and it ’ s warm here .
We won ’ t have any problems , ” a haunting illustration of the dangers of loose rhetoric and tall tales from the president , amplified on social media .
The horrors of the Andover , New Jersey nursing home — with at least 70 residents dead and dozens more testing positive — has dramatized the vulnerability of the elderly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have died .
Our grossly overpopulated prisons and jails are quickly becoming the next centers to be ravaged by the disease .
Cook County Jail , the largest in the country , is already one of the nation ’ s largest sources of infections , with more confirmed cases than the USS Theodore Roosevelt or the New Rochelle , New York cluster .
Four inmates are dead and 215 have tested positive , as have 191 correctional officers and 34 other sheriff ’ s office employees .
One employee just died .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheriff Tom Dart has been the most open .
Many are suffering and dying of COVID-19 because sheriff ’ s offices around the county have not been very open and are not testing .
The jail is overwhelmed .
The sheriff and jail workers need more hands on deck .
For every shift change , the virus is recycled in the community .
A state prison in Ohio is now the largest reported source of coronavirus infection in the United States .
I called President Trump and urged him to make testing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those in jails , nursing homes and prisons .
The workers , inmates and communities where the workers live all need help .
In Ohio , 2,300 prisoners in three prisons have tested positive .
In prisons and jails across the country , inmates locked up for nonviolent crimes or while awaiting trial , and older , vulnerable inmates near the end of their term , among others , sit in terror , fearful that they face a death sentence .
Prisons and jails are virtual petri dishes for the virus .
Social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are often not available .
Correctional officers have no choice but to mix with inmates .
Many inmates are poor , often with health problems — asthma , diabetes , heart conditions , stress — that make them more vulnerable to the virus .
Prisons and jails have begun — although far too slowly — to react .
Cook County Jail has reduced its population from 10,000 to 4,200 , partly because of bail reform , some from courts sentencing fewer nonviolent offenders to prison , some from early release .
Soap and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with symptoms are isolated from the general population .
Visitors and volunteers are not allowed , often at great psychic cost to inmates .
Facilities are cleaned more frequently .
In some prisons , inmates have been locked in their cells for 22 hours a day to limit human interactions .
But — as is true for the general population — testing is often not available .
Too few are tested too seldom .
That puts not only prisoners but corrections officers and their families , and the people they interact with at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have begun , as terrorized inmates demand protection and more information .
Corrections officers have joined in lawsuits to get adequate protective equipment , information , and testing .
Too often , it is too little and too late .
There is no defense .
Clearly , at the federal and state level , prison officials should speed the release of nonviolent offenders , of the elderly and the vulnerable .
Universal testing is an imperative .
Prisoners need more access to soap and water .
And both prisoners and corrections officials need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — and , most of all , information on how to protect themselves .
Donald Trump informed me that he had made his son-in-law , Jared Kushner , the point person on prison reform .
The time for aggressive action is long past .
Prisons should be made a priority for supplies , for tests , and for early release of as many inmates as possible , particularly the elderly and the vulnerable .
If the pandemic continues to spread through prisons , the toll in lives will soar .
As the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moral outrage that the U.S. locks up more people than any other country , including China .
Prisoners are disproportionately poor and people of color , too often victims of institutionalized racism that still puts African American young men at greater risk of being stopped by police , charged , and jailed if convicted .
Even without the virus , that is a disgrace .
Now the virus is turning incarceration into a potential death sentence .
Rev .
Jesse Jackson at jjackson @ rainbowpush.org .
Follow him on Twitter @ RevJJackson .

This week, the New York Times featured the story of how the coronavirus savaged the Federal Correctional Complex in Oakdale, Louisiana. On March 28, Patrick Jones, 49, serving a 27-year sentence for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute, became the first federal inmate to die of the virus.
Barely three weeks later, seven inmates had died, at least 100 inmates and staff members had been infected, with more than 20 hospitalized — and an entire community terrorized. The prisoners died, unreported, unknown, their bodies essentially owned by the federal government that imprisoned them.
According to corrections officers there, the warden was slow to act, saying that “we live in the South and it’s warm here. We won’t have any problems,” a haunting illustration of the dangers of loose rhetoric and tall tales from the president, amplified on social media.
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
The horrors of the Andover, New Jersey nursing home — with at least 70 residents dead and dozens more testing positive — has dramatized the vulnerability of the elderly in nursing homes, where over 7,000 have died. Our grossly overpopulated prisons and jails are quickly becoming the next centers to be ravaged by the disease.
Cook County Jail, the largest in the country, is already one of the nation’s largest sources of infections, with more confirmed cases than the USS Theodore Roosevelt or the New Rochelle, New York cluster. Four inmates are dead and 215 have tested positive, as have 191 correctional officers and 34 other sheriff’s office employees. One employee just died.
We know the most about Cook County because Sheriff Tom Dart has been the most open. Many are suffering and dying of COVID-19 because sheriff’s offices around the country have not been very open and are not testing. The jail is overwhelmed. The sheriff and jail workers need more hands on deck. For every shift change, the virus is recycled in the community.
A state prison in Ohio is now the largest reported source of coronavirus infection in the United States. I called President Trump and urged him to make testing, tracing and social distancing a priority for those in jails, nursing homes and prisons. The workers, inmates and communities where the workers live all need help.
In Ohio, 2,300 prisoners in three prisons have tested positive. In prisons and jails across the country, inmates locked up for nonviolent crimes or while awaiting trial, and older, vulnerable inmates near the end of their term, among others, sit in terror, fearful that they face a death sentence.
Prisons and jails are virtual petri dishes for the virus. Social distancing is impossible. Soap and water are often not available.
Correctional officers have no choice but to mix with inmates. Many inmates are poor, often with health problems — asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, stress — that make them more vulnerable to the virus.
Prisons and jails have begun — although far too slowly — to react. Cook County Jail has reduced its population from 10,000 to 4,200, partly because of bail reform, some from courts sentencing fewer nonviolent offenders to prison, some from early release. Soap and disinfectants have been made available. Those with symptoms are isolated from the general population. Visitors and volunteers are not allowed, often at great psychic cost to inmates.
Facilities are cleaned more frequently. In some prisons, inmates have been locked in their cells for 22 hours a day to limit human interactions.
But — as is true for the general population — testing is often not available. Too few are tested too seldom. That puts not only prisoners but corrections officers and their families, and the people they interact with at risk.
Not surprisingly, prison uprisings have begun, as terrorized inmates demand protection and more information. Corrections officers have joined in lawsuits to get adequate protective equipment, information, and testing. Too often, it is too little and too late.
There is no defense. Clearly, at the federal and state level, prison officials should speed the release of nonviolent offenders, of the elderly and the vulnerable. Universal testing is an imperative. Prisoners need more access to soap and water. And both prisoners and corrections officials need protective gear — from masks to gloves — and, most of all, information on how to protect themselves.
Donald Trump informed me that he had made his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, the point person on prison reform. The time for aggressive action is long past. Prisons should be made a priority for supplies, for tests, and for early release of as many inmates as possible, particularly the elderly and the vulnerable.
If the pandemic continues to spread through prisons, the toll in lives will soar.
As the pandemic exposes once more, it is a moral outrage that the U.S. locks up more people than any other country, including China. Prisoners are disproportionately poor and people of color, too often victims of institutionalized racism that still puts African American young men at greater risk of being stopped by police, charged, and jailed if convicted.
Even without the virus, that is a disgrace. Now the virus is turning incarceration into a potential death sentence.
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com
Rev. Jesse Jackson at jjackson@rainbowpush.org. Follow him on Twitter @RevJJackson.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--19th Cook County chief judge’s office employee tests positive for COVID-19

The Office of the Chief Judge of Cook County announced Monday another employee tested positive for COVID-19 , bringing the @ @ @ @ @ office to 19 .
The employee works at the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center and last @ @ @ @ @ 17 , Office of the Chief Judge of Cook County spokesperson Pat Milhizer said .
@ @ @ @ @ worked received a deep cleaning and anyone who came into contact with them is being @ @ @ @ @ Anyone who has had contact with the employee will be notified of potential exposure .
@ @ @ @ @ 59 more deaths and 1,151 new confirmed cases .
State hospitalization levels have remained relatively @ @

The Office of the Chief Judge of Cook County announced Monday another employee tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the number of cases in that office to 19.
The employee works at the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center and last reported for work on April 17, Office of the Chief Judge of Cook County spokesperson Pat Milhizer said.
The areas where the employee worked received a deep cleaning and anyone who came into contact with them is being informed, Milhizer said. Anyone who has had contact with the employee will be notified of potential exposure.
Illinois health officials Monday announced 59 more deaths and 1,151 new confirmed cases. State hospitalization levels have remained relatively flat.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--Mental health therapists seek help from Blue Cross

Mental health therapists who contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois are pressuring the insurer to cover their telehealth services beyond April 30 , the current end of Gov .
J.B. Pritzker ’ s stay-at-home order .
In an email to Blue Cross executives , they said extending the coverage deadline would reduce stress for their small businesses needing cash flow and for clients concerned about payment .
They said the pandemic and its required isolation are exacerbating mental health issues .
“ We are seeing many more cases of depression because social support is such a huge part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Colleen Cira , executive director of the Cira Center for Behavioral Health in Chicago .
She said therapists are getting more cases involving suicidal thoughts , anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder , especially among health-care and other essential workers .
Cira said the email went to about 20 Blue Cross executives .
It was from her and 35 other leaders of mental health practices in the Chicago area that together employ more than 250 therapists .
A copy was provided to the Chicago Sun-Times .
A Blue Cross spokeswoman had no immediate comment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting for Pritzker to lengthen his stay-at-home order before extending telehealth coverage but that therapists and their clients need more certainty now .
“ Many of our patients do not feel safe coming to an office setting now in light of the COVID-19 pandemic , ” their email said .
“ Additionally , with the school year in Illinois now being closed , many people do not have child-care but still need mental health services.
” It asked that Blue Cross match some other insurers in making telehealth a permanently covered service , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a COVID-19 vaccine .
It also asked that the insurer modify a rule requiring that telehealth consulting be conducted over the MDLive platform .
Cira said many therapists can not get credentials to use MDLive and that its reimbursements rates are lower than at other platforms .
Finally , the email asked Blue Cross to speed reimbursement for telehealth counseling .
Cira said payment is taking weeks , whereas in-office visits are reimbursed in a few days .

Mental health therapists who contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois are pressuring the insurer to cover their telehealth services beyond April 30, the current end of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order.
In an email to Blue Cross executives, they said extending the coverage deadline would reduce stress for their small businesses needing cash flow and for clients concerned about payment. They said the pandemic and its required isolation are exacerbating mental health issues.
“We are seeing many more cases of depression because social support is such a huge part of dealing with it,” said Colleen Cira, executive director of the Cira Center for Behavioral Health in Chicago. She said therapists are getting more cases involving suicidal thoughts, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, especially among health-care and other essential workers.
Cira said the email went to about 20 Blue Cross executives. It was from her and 35 other leaders of mental health practices in the Chicago area that together employ more than 250 therapists. A copy was provided to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Blue Cross provided a statement that said, in part, “In this rapidly evolving pandemic, we are working to keep our providers updated on all the changes we are making on behalf of our members. We continue to evaluate our telehealth program to meet the needs of our members and providers and are happy to meet with this group to discuss its perspective.”
Cira said the insurer may be waiting for Pritzker to lengthen his stay-at-home order before extending telehealth coverage but that therapists and their clients need more certainty now.
“Many of our patients do not feel safe coming to an office setting now in light of the COVID-19 pandemic,” their email said. “Additionally, with the school year in Illinois now being closed, many people do not have child-care but still need mental health services.”
It asked that Blue Cross match some other insurers in making telehealth a permanently covered service, or at least covered until there is a COVID-19 vaccine. It also asked that the insurer modify a rule requiring that telehealth consulting be conducted over the MDLive platform. Cira said many therapists cannot get credentials to use MDLive and that its reimbursements rates are lower than at other platforms.
Finally, the email asked Blue Cross to speed reimbursement for telehealth counseling. Cira said payment is taking weeks, whereas in-office visits are reimbursed in a few days.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-21--Dear Abby: When teen relocates his party, stepmom takes it personally

DEAR ABBY : I really could use some outside advice .
I am a stepmother who raised my husband ’ s 18-year-old son , “ Todd.
” We have given him a loving home .
Todd ’ s abusive mother abandoned him at 16 , and he has lived with us ever since .
I have been a caring and generous mother to him since he was 6 .
I have always gone out of my way to make sure he feels comfortable , loved , fed , etc .
So I couldn ’ t help but feel slapped in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t want to have his graduation party at our home .
He said he is having it at his friend ’ s parents ’ house .
This is the same couple who disapproved of their son spending time in our home while the boys grew up because we ’ re not their religion .
I don ’ t know how to handle this gracefully without feeling hurt or refusing to be a part of it .
I know this may seem childish , but it ’ s how I feel on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
— DISAPPOINTED IN THE MIDWEST DEAR DISAPPOINTED : It might help to realize this isn ’ t a personal slap in the face .
His friend ’ s parents may have something special planned that Todd doesn ’ t want to miss .
It has nothing to do with your parenting and plenty to do with his level of immaturity and perhaps the appeal of the other house .
( Ask him . )
Please be smart and refrain from making this about you , because it isn ’ t .
DEAR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ex-wife from more than 50 years ago .
He found her on Facebook .
They chat every day , several times a day .
Before he reconnected with her , he would talk about her , how she was his first love and he would always have a special place for her in his heart , even though she cheated on him and left him .
Now he has begun calling her a pet name he used to call me .
Is this cheating , or am I overreacting ?
— BETRAYED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not overreacting .
Your husband is involved in an emotional affair .
For the sake of your marriage , it needs to stop .
If he won ’ t accept it from you , perhaps he will listen to his religious adviser , a marriage counselor or your lawyer .
Do not try to fight this alone ; you may need their help along the way .
DEAR ABBY : My husband of 63 years died three years ago .
He was sexually abused by a family friend when he was very young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it with me some 20 years after our marriage and asked me not to tell our four children .
At some point , I shared it with my grown daughter , but not my three grown sons .
Was I wrong to do this ?
My daughter feels I should tell them , and I sort of agree .
Their relationship with their father was loving , but also strained .
Should I tell them now or let it be ?
— UNSURE IN MICHIGAN DEAR UNSURE : I agree with your daughter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffered may have affected the relationship he had with your sons , it might be helpful if they understand the reason why it was the way it was .
Sunshine on dark places can yield positive outcomes .
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 .
To order “ How to Write Letters for All Occasions , ” send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby — Letter Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
Shipping and handling are included in the price .

DEAR ABBY: I really could use some outside advice. I am a stepmother who raised my husband’s 18-year-old son, “Todd.” We have given him a loving home. Todd’s abusive mother abandoned him at 16, and he has lived with us ever since.
I have been a caring and generous mother to him since he was 6. I have always gone out of my way to make sure he feels comfortable, loved, fed, etc. So I couldn’t help but feel slapped in the face when he told me he doesn’t want to have his graduation party at our home. He said he is having it at his friend’s parents’ house. This is the same couple who disapproved of their son spending time in our home while the boys grew up because we’re not their religion.
I don’t know how to handle this gracefully without feeling hurt or refusing to be a part of it. I know this may seem childish, but it’s how I feel on the inside. Can you help me? — DISAPPOINTED IN THE MIDWEST
DEAR DISAPPOINTED: It might help to realize this isn’t a personal slap in the face. His friend’s parents may have something special planned that Todd doesn’t want to miss. It has nothing to do with your parenting and plenty to do with his level of immaturity and perhaps the appeal of the other house. (Ask him.) Please be smart and refrain from making this about you, because it isn’t.
DEAR ABBY: My husband has reconnected with an ex-wife from more than 50 years ago. He found her on Facebook. They chat every day, several times a day. Before he reconnected with her, he would talk about her, how she was his first love and he would always have a special place for her in his heart, even though she cheated on him and left him. Now he has begun calling her a pet name he used to call me. Is this cheating, or am I overreacting? — BETRAYED IN OHIO
DEAR BETRAYED: You are not overreacting. Your husband is involved in an emotional affair. For the sake of your marriage, it needs to stop. If he won’t accept it from you, perhaps he will listen to his religious adviser, a marriage counselor or your lawyer. Do not try to fight this alone; you may need their help along the way.
DEAR ABBY: My husband of 63 years died three years ago. He was sexually abused by a family friend when he was very young and never disclosed it. He shared it with me some 20 years after our marriage and asked me not to tell our four children.
At some point, I shared it with my grown daughter, but not my three grown sons. Was I wrong to do this? My daughter feels I should tell them, and I sort of agree. Their relationship with their father was loving, but also strained. Should I tell them now or let it be? — UNSURE IN MICHIGAN
DEAR UNSURE: I agree with your daughter. Because the sexual abuse your husband suffered may have affected the relationship he had with your sons, it might be helpful if they understand the reason why it was the way it was. Sunshine on dark places can yield positive outcomes.
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.
To order “How to Write Letters for All Occasions,” send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby — Letter Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-21--Menu planner: Tasty meatball subs offer an inexpensive treat

Heat oven to 400 degrees .
Combine ground beef , bread crumbs , egg , water , salt and pepper in large bowl , mixing lightly but thoroughly .
Shape into 12 ( 2-inch ) meatballs .
Place on rack in broiler pan coated with cooking spray .
Bake 18 to 20 minutes .
Heat pasta sauce according to directions in medium saucepan .
Add hot cooked meatballs to sauce ; stir to coat evenly .
Divide meatballs and sauce evenly among split rolls .
Top each with giardiniera , if desired .
Heat oven to 350 degrees .
Cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slices .
Place lamb in shallow roasting pan .
In a small saucepan , combine honey , brown sugar , lemon juice , garlic powder and salt ; cook over low heat until bubbly , stirring until sugar dissolves .
Remove from heat ; stir in lemon zest , mint and walnuts .
Spoon glaze over lamb .
Bake 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 135 degrees ; baste occasionally .
Remove from oven ; let stand 5 to 10 minutes .
Slice and serve .
Cooking time : less than 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to directions .
Meanwhile , in a large nonstick skillet , heat olive oil on medium-high .
Add mushrooms ; sprinkle with salt and pepper .
Cook 8 minutes or until lightly browned , stirring occasionally .
Stir in broth and cheese ; heat through , stirring to combine .
Drain pasta .
Add pasta to sauce and toss to mix .
Garnish with parsley .
Heat oven to 350 degrees .
Cook 4 cups penne ( or another shape ) pasta according to directions ; drain .
Meanwhile , cook 1/2 pound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or until no longer pink ; drain .
In a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish , mix cooked pasta , cooked sausage , 3 cups no-salt-added red pasta sauce , 1 ( 4-ounce ) can drained sliced mushrooms and 1/4 cup canned sliced black olives .
Cover and bake about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly .
Sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella .
Bake uncovered 5 minutes or until cheese melts .
Combine 1 cup fat-free plain yogurt , 1/4 cup fresh lime juice , 2 tablespoons canola oil , 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chopped fresh ginger , 1 teaspoon curry powder , 1 teaspoon coarse salt , 1/2 teaspoon cumin , 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard , 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper , 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon turmeric ; mix well .
Place 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves in a glass baking dish ; pour marinade over chicken .
Cover and refrigerate 2 hours to overnight ; turn occasionally .
Heat broiler .
Remove chicken and discard marinade ; broil 6 to 8 minutes per side or until chicken is golden-brown and no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basmati rice , steamed carrots a Boston lettuce salad and naan .

Meatball subs
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: about 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 pound 96% lean ground beef
1/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 egg whites or 1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons water
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 cups red pasta sauce
4 crusty Italian bread rolls (5 to 6 inches each)
4 tablespoons giardiniera, drained (optional)
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, water, salt and pepper in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 12 (2-inch) meatballs. Place on rack in broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Bake 18 to 20 minutes. Heat pasta sauce according to directions in medium saucepan. Add hot cooked meatballs to sauce; stir to coat evenly. Divide meatballs and sauce evenly among split rolls. Top each with giardiniera, if desired.
Per serving: 472 calories, 37 grams protein, 11 grams fat (22 percent calories from fat), 3.5 grams saturated fat, 55 grams carbohydrate, 109 milligrams cholesterol, 921 milligrams sodium, 4 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 4.
Honey-lemon rack of lamb
Makes 4 to 5 servings (each 3 ounces cooked weight)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes; standing time: 5 to 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
2 to 2 1/2 pounds well-trimmed lamb rib roasts
2 cloves garlic, sliced
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon lemon zest (yellow part only)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cut 1-inch-deep slits in lamb; insert garlic slices. Place lamb in shallow roasting pan. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, lemon juice, garlic powder and salt; cook over low heat until bubbly, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat; stir in lemon zest, mint and walnuts. Spoon glaze over lamb. Bake 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 135 degrees; baste occasionally. Remove from oven; let stand 5 to 10 minutes. Slice and serve.
Per serving: 356 calories, 21 grams protein, 14 grams fat (34 percent calories from fat), 3.7 grams saturated fat, 39 grams carbohydrate, 64 milligrams cholesterol, 197 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber.
Carb choices: 2.5.
Cheesy pasta with mushrooms
Servings: makes 5 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: less than 15 minutes, plus pasta
INGREDIENTS
12 ounces bow-tie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound assorted or white fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup no-salt-added vegetable broth
1 (4-ounce) package garlic-and-herb spreadable cheese
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Cook pasta according to directions. Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil on medium-high. Add mushrooms; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook 8 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in broth and cheese; heat through, stirring to combine. Drain pasta. Add pasta to sauce and toss to mix. Garnish with parsley.
Per serving: 350 calories, 13 grams protein, 8 grams fat (20 percent calories from fat), 3 grams saturated fat, 57 grams carbohydrate, 16 milligrams cholesterol, 356 milligrams sodium, 3 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 4.
Penne casserole
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cook 4 cups penne (or another shape) pasta according to directions; drain. Meanwhile, cook 1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage 4 minutes on medium or until no longer pink; drain. In a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish, mix cooked pasta, cooked sausage, 3 cups no-salt-added red pasta sauce, 1 (4-ounce) can drained sliced mushrooms and 1/4 cup canned sliced black olives. Cover and bake about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella. Bake uncovered 5 minutes or until cheese melts.
Broiled tandoori chicken
Combine 1 cup fat-free plain yogurt, 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons canola oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon turmeric; mix well. Place 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves in a glass baking dish; pour marinade over chicken. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours to overnight; turn occasionally. Heat broiler. Remove chicken and discard marinade; broil 6 to 8 minutes per side or until chicken is golden-brown and no longer pink on the inside. Serve with basmati rice, steamed carrots a Boston lettuce salad and naan.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-21--Teen boy in critical condition after Woodlawn shooting

A 17-year-old boy is in critical condition after he was shot Monday in Woodlawn on the South Side .
About @ @ @ @ @ an argument with someone inside a home on South Ellis Avenue that turned physical , @ @ @ @ @ person then pulled out a gun and shot him in the abdomen , Chicago police @ @ @ @ @ taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ as Area Central detectives investigate .
Read more on crime , and track the city @ @ @ @

A 17-year-old boy is in critical condition after he was shot Monday in Woodlawn on the South Side.
About 10:52 p.m. he got into an argument with someone inside a home on South Ellis Avenue that turned physical, Chicago police said. The person then pulled out a gun and shot him in the abdomen, Chicago police said.
The teen was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition, police said.
No one is in custody as Area Central detectives investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-21--20th employee contracts COVID-19 at Cook County Circuit Court Clerk’s office

Another employee at the Cook County Circuit Court clerk ’ s office has tested positive for COVID-19 , bringing the @ @ @ @ @ The latest employee to test positive worked in the Probate Division , which is located @ @ @ @ @ the Daley Center , 50 W. Washington St. ; however , they primarily worked in @ @ @ @ @ for work on March 27 , according to a statement from the Office of the @ @ @ @ @ of Cook County .
The employee is self-quarantining at home .
A deep cleaning at @ @ @ @ @ , but the county Department of Facilities Management is conducting a routine cleaning of the @ @ @ @ @ , the clerk ’ s office said .
The first cases of the coronavirus in @ @ @ @ @ were reported March 25 .

Another employee at the Cook County Circuit Court clerk’s office has tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the overall total to 20.
The latest employee to test positive worked in the Probate Division, which is located on the 12th floor of the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St.; however, they primarily worked in a courtroom and last reported for work on March 27, according to a statement from the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. The employee is self-quarantining at home.
A deep cleaning at the offices was not requested, but the county Department of Facilities Management is conducting a routine cleaning of the area where the employee worked, the clerk’s office said.
The first cases of the coronavirus in the clerk’s office were reported March 25.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-21--Man carjacked in Pullman

Man carjacked in Pullman

A man was carjacked last week in Pullman on the South Side , according to Chicago police .
About 1:20 @ @ @ @ @ had arrived to his destination in the the 10000 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue @ @ @ @ @ by two people who flashed handguns and pulled him from his red Dodge pick-up truck @ @ @ @ @ The pair then fled east from the robbery in the truck , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ to contact Area South detectives at 312-747-8273 .
Read more on crime , and track @ @ @ @ @ .

A man was carjacked last week in Pullman on the South Side, according to Chicago police.
About 1:20 a.m. April 12, he had arrived to his destination in the the 10000 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue, when he was approached by two people who flashed handguns and pulled him from his red Dodge pick-up truck, Chicago police said.
The pair then fled east from the robbery in the truck, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Area South detectives at 312-747-8273.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--Corrections officer at Cook County Jail died of  COVID-19, family says

A Cook County corrections officer died after contracting COVID-19 , the first officer at the Southwest Side jail to die from complications related to coronavirus .
Sheila Rivera , 47 , died Sunday at Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago , her brother said .
She had worked as a corrections officer since 2012 , and last worked a shift at the jail on April 5 , according to Sheriff Tom Dart ’ s office .
In an emailed statement , sheriff ’ s spokeswoman Sophia Ansari called jail officers “ unsung heroes in the battle ” against coronavirus .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Officer Rivera , and we send our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones , ” the statement said .
Six jail detainees have also died from complications related to coronavirus this month .
The sheriff ’ s office has so far reported 185 corrections officers who tested positive for COVID-19 , and 215 detainees who are currently positive , including 17 who are at area hospitals .
Another 183 inmates who previously tested positive have been moved to a recovery area within the jail .
Rivera grew up in Tucker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Choctaw Indian Reservation where generations of her family had lived , her younger brother , Sonny Matterra said in a phone interview Monday .
Rivera ’ s first job in law enforcement was working for the Choctaw tribal police — where her fellow officers called her “ Possum , ” a nickname by which she became known to most residents of the reservation .
She left the department briefly after the birth of her son , Isaiah , to take a less-risky job as a social worker , but returned to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and there was never a bad word said about her , ” Matterra said .
Rivera likely would have stayed on the tribal department , but met her husband , Nolan Rivera , at a law enforcement conference .
Eventually , she moved to Chicago and worked as a social worker again until taking a job with the sheriff ’ s department .
“ She didn ’ t think of [ the jail ] like this harsh terrible thing .
I don ’ t think she really spoke about it badly , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping people that were less fortunate than her , and she liked being a voice of reason for some of the people in there .
“ She just kind of flipped back and forth between law enforcement and social work and I think that gave her a more of a sympathetic ear for someone in law enforcement.
” Rivera had been concerned about the spread of the coronavirus inside the jail , and complained to family about a lack of protective equipment , a rare departure from her usual happy-go-lucky demeanor , her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a week ago , and tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday , and went to the hospital .
Her symptoms worsened , though she was able to talk to her mother by phone as recently as Sunday morning .
She died shortly after 8 p.m. that night from bronchopneumonia , Cook County medical examiner ’ s office records show .
Because of the risk of spreading infection , her husband and son were not able to be in the hospital room with her .
“ I just wish everyone would stay home and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ People are dying out there .
My sister died alone in a hospital room.
” Funeral services will take place in Mississippi , her brother said .

A Cook County corrections officer died after contracting COVID-19, the first officer at the Southwest Side jail to die from complications related to coronavirus.
Sheila Rivera, 47, died Sunday at Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago, her brother said. She had worked as a corrections officer since 2012, and last worked a shift at the jail on April 5, according to Sheriff Tom Dart’s office.
In an emailed statement, sheriff’s spokeswoman Sophia Ansari called jail officers “unsung heroes in the battle” against coronavirus.
“Our hearts are broken over the loss of Officer Rivera, and we send our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones,” the statement said.
Six jail detainees have also died from complications related to coronavirus this month.
The sheriff’s office has so far reported 185 corrections officers who tested positive for COVID-19, and 215 detainees who are currently positive, including 17 who are at area hospitals. Another 183 inmates who previously tested positive have been moved to a recovery area within the jail.
Rivera grew up in Tucker, Mississippi, a tiny hamlet on the Choctaw Indian Reservation where generations of her family had lived, her younger brother, Sonny Matterra said in a phone interview Monday.
Rivera’s first job in law enforcement was working for the Choctaw tribal police — where her fellow officers called her “Possum,” a nickname by which she became known to most residents of the reservation. She left the department briefly after the birth of her son, Isaiah, to take a less-risky job as a social worker, but returned to the force.
“Everyone here knew her, and there was never a bad word said about her,” Matterra said.
Rivera likely would have stayed on the tribal department, but met her husband, Nolan Rivera, at a law enforcement conference. Eventually, she moved to Chicago and worked as a social worker again until taking a job with the sheriff’s department.
“She didn’t think of [the jail] like this harsh terrible thing. I don’t think she really spoke about it badly,” Matterra said. “She liked helping people that were less fortunate than her, and she liked being a voice of reason for some of the people in there.
“She just kind of flipped back and forth between law enforcement and social work and I think that gave her a more of a sympathetic ear for someone in law enforcement.”
Rivera had been concerned about the spread of the coronavirus inside the jail, and complained to family about a lack of protective equipment, a rare departure from her usual happy-go-lucky demeanor, her brother said. Rivera noticed flu-like symptoms a week ago, and tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, and went to the hospital.
Her symptoms worsened, though she was able to talk to her mother by phone as recently as Sunday morning. She died shortly after 8 p.m. that night from bronchopneumonia, Cook County medical examiner’s office records show.
Because of the risk of spreading infection, her husband and son were not able to be in the hospital room with her.
“I just wish everyone would stay home and quarantine,” her brother said. “People are dying out there. My sister died alone in a hospital room.”
Funeral services will take place in Mississippi, her brother said.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--2 more Cook County Jail inmates with coronavirus die

Two more inmates at Cook County Jail who tested positive for COVID-19 have died , the sheriff ’ s office @ @ @ @ @ man died Monday , and a 42-year-old died Sunday night , both at Stroger Hospital @ @ @ @ @ ’ s office announced .
As of Monday evening , 215 detainees were positive for @ @ @ @ @ s office said .
Another 183 inmates who had previously tested positive are recovering at @ @ @ @ @ .
Additionally , 185 correctional officers are positive for coronavirus , along with 34 other @ @ @ @ @ employees , the sheriff ’ s office said .
More than 100 employees have recovered @ @ @ @ @ returned to work .
The sheriff ’ s office announced that a Cook County corrections @ @ @ @ @ complications related to coronavirus .

Two more inmates at Cook County Jail who tested positive for COVID-19 have died, the sheriff’s office announced Monday.
A 53-year-old man died Monday, and a 42-year-old died Sunday night, both at Stroger Hospital, the Cook County sheriff’s office announced.
As of Monday evening, 215 detainees were positive for coronavirus, the sheriff’s office said. Another 183 inmates who had previously tested positive are recovering at a facility in the jail.
Additionally, 185 correctional officers are positive for coronavirus, along with 34 other Cook County sheriff’s employees, the sheriff’s office said. More than 100 employees have recovered from the virus and have returned to work.
The sheriff’s office announced that a Cook County corrections officer died Sunday due to complications related to coronavirus.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-20--Horoscope for Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Horoscope for Tuesday, April 21, 2020

We have the all clear to shop and do business .
The moon is in Aries .
Today you have a lot of emotional and inner energy , which is why you believe in your opinions and believe what you ’ re saying to others .
( Oh yeah ! )
However , you might encounter financial difficulties or obstacles .
No worries — your Aries resilience will survive !
You rock !
No matter what difficulties you might encounter dealing with parents , bosses or authority figures , your own inner resources will see you through this day .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambition , and the mental energy to do research .
Enjoy a lively discussion with a friend either in person or online .
Facetime someone !
You will both have strong opinions about something and will enjoy sharing ideas .
Your curiosity will want to explore new territory , especially if someone younger suggests something new to you .
People might be influenced by what you have to say , in part because you will speak your peace and say it with conviction .
It ’ s possible that you are speaking up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member of a group with whom you disagree .
( Ya got ta do what ya got ta do . )
You have strong opinions ; plus , exploring new ideas excites you .
Someone who is creative or artistic might inspire you with new information .
Perhaps this person is a partner or close friend ?
However , regardless of what happens , authority figures are tough to deal with .
Steer clear of controversial subjects like politics , religion and racial issues because you will encounter obstacles .
Instead , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared property , your job and your relations with parents and bosses .
This is where you will win today .
It will be easy to cooperate with friends and partners because you have good feelings that you want to share with them .
( You might be united against a common enemy ? )
Certainly , difficulties with taxes , debt and shared property are tough today .
Today the moon is opposite your sign , and dancing with Venus , Mars and Mercury .
This means relations with those who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talkative and pleasantly energetic .
However , you might encounter difficulties about insurance issues , shared property , taxes and debt .
Despite obstacles or difficulties with a boss at work , this is a fun-loving light-hearted day .
The secret is to know what to focus on .
Friends and partners are warm and cozy .
Plus , everyone wants to hear what you have to say .
Keep looking on the bright side !
Although romance might be challenging along with relations with kids , other than that , ( which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy at home today .
You ’ re pleased with things and you have energy to get things done .
You might figure out how to make some money from home ?
( Plant a money tree in the backyard ? )
You are an enthusiastic communicator today , which is why you will have no trouble persuading others to go along with your ideas .
This includes kids and romantic partners .
Nevertheless , relations with a parent or a family authority figure are sticky .
( Nothing is perfect . )
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ today .
And don ’ t let someone in your immediate circle ( siblings or neighbors ) bring you down .
On the whole , family is supportive to you at this time and you have lots of energy to work on something behind the scenes .
Get down to it !
If Your Birthday Is Today Queen Elizabeth II ( 1926 ) shares your birthday .
You set high standards for yourself and you work very hard to maintain them .
This will be a more relaxed year for you .
Because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , do your best to cooperate with others .
Look for ways to be kind and helpful .
Be open to engaging with others because business and personal relationships will benefit you .

Moon Alert
We have the all clear to shop and do business. The moon is in Aries.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Today you have a lot of emotional and inner energy, which is why you believe in your opinions and believe what you’re saying to others. (Oh yeah!) However, you might encounter financial difficulties or obstacles. No worries — your Aries resilience will survive! You rock!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
No matter what difficulties you might encounter dealing with parents, bosses or authority figures, your own inner resources will see you through this day. You have money-making ideas, energy and ambition, and the mental energy to do research.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Enjoy a lively discussion with a friend either in person or online. Facetime someone! You will both have strong opinions about something and will enjoy sharing ideas. Your curiosity will want to explore new territory, especially if someone younger suggests something new to you.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
People might be influenced by what you have to say, in part because you will speak your peace and say it with conviction. It’s possible that you are speaking up against someone else — a friend or a member of a group with whom you disagree. (Ya gotta do what ya gotta do.)
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
You have strong opinions; plus, exploring new ideas excites you. Someone who is creative or artistic might inspire you with new information. Perhaps this person is a partner or close friend? However, regardless of what happens, authority figures are tough to deal with.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Steer clear of controversial subjects like politics, religion and racial issues because you will encounter obstacles. Instead, focus on practical details regarding debt, shared property, your job and your relations with parents and bosses. This is where you will win today.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
It will be easy to cooperate with friends and partners because you have good feelings that you want to share with them. (You might be united against a common enemy?) Certainly, difficulties with taxes, debt and shared property are tough today.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Today the moon is opposite your sign, and dancing with Venus, Mars and Mercury. This means relations with those who are closest to you will be invigorating, talkative and pleasantly energetic. However, you might encounter difficulties about insurance issues, shared property, taxes and debt.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Despite obstacles or difficulties with a boss at work, this is a fun-loving light-hearted day. The secret is to know what to focus on. Friends and partners are warm and cozy. Plus, everyone wants to hear what you have to say. Keep looking on the bright side!
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Although romance might be challenging along with relations with kids, other than that, (which is a lot) you are pretty happy at home today. You’re pleased with things and you have energy to get things done. You might figure out how to make some money from home? (Plant a money tree in the backyard?)
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
You are an enthusiastic communicator today, which is why you will have no trouble persuading others to go along with your ideas. This includes kids and romantic partners. Nevertheless, relations with a parent or a family authority figure are sticky. (Nothing is perfect.)
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Do not be bogged down by worries today. And don’t let someone in your immediate circle (siblings or neighbors) bring you down. On the whole, family is supportive to you at this time and you have lots of energy to work on something behind the scenes. Get down to it!
If Your Birthday Is Today
Queen Elizabeth II (1926) shares your birthday. You set high standards for yourself and you work very hard to maintain them. This will be a more relaxed year for you. Because your interactions with others will be important, do your best to cooperate with others. Look for ways to be kind and helpful. Be open to engaging with others because business and personal relationships will benefit you.