chicagosun-times--2020-04-27--Downstate judge rules Pritzker out of line with stay-at-home – but governor calls suit ‘dangerous,’

Downstate judge rules Pritzker out of line with stay-at-home – but governor calls suit ‘dangerous,’ ‘insult to all Illinoisans’

A judge on Monday ruled in favor of a Downstate legislator who argued in a lawsuit that Democratic Gov .
J.B. Pritzker lacks the legal authority to force the Republican to stay home for more than 30 days during the coronavirus pandemic .
It ’ s a decision that only applies to the Southern Illinois lawmaker – state Rep. Darren Bailey – but the governor said it will endanger all Illinoisans — and open the door for others to file suit .
Pritzker was made aware of Clay County Circuit Court Judge Michael McHaney ’ s ruling Monday afternoon during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Darren Bailey ’ s decision to take to the courts to try and dismantle public health directives designed to keep people safe is an insult to all Illinoisans that have been lost during this COVID-19 crisis , and it ’ s a danger to millions of people who may get ill because of his recklessness , ” Pritzker said .
“ At best , no one is better off because of this ruling , and at worst , people ’ s health and safety will suffer tremendously in Illinois.
” The governor said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set by past disaster proclamations .
Pritzker said his team will be fighting the decision and issuing “ new public health directives so that we can continue to respond to this public crisis.
” Bailey filed both a suit and a motion for a temporary restraining order .
A judge on Monday ruled in favor of Bailey regarding the motion , which sought a temporary restraining order enjoining enforcement of the stay-at-home order “ until the Court renders a final verdict in this matter , ” as the suit remains ongoing .
McHaney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shown he has a clearly ascertainable right in need of immediate protection , namely his liberty interest to be free from Pritzker ’ s executive order of quarantine in his home.
” The order , dated Monday , also says that Bailey “ will suffer irreparable harm ” if the 30-day restraining order isn ’ t granted .
But Pritzker argued it ’ s the rest of the state that could suffer harm .
“ At this time I strongly encourage all municipal level leaders , as well as the people of Illinois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this virus to follow the advice of our scientists here in Illinois and across the nation , of IDPH and the CDC and continue to follow the guidelines of our stay-at-home order , ” Pritzker said .
Bailey is a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump .
He ’ s also a member of the Illinois House Republican ’ s so-called “ Eastern Bloc , ” a small group of legislators who once sponsored legislation to kick Chicago out of Illinois .
Trump won Clay County 79.8 % to Hillary Clinton ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , records show .
Clay County has reported only two cases of COVID-19 through Monday .
Bailey was not immediately available for comment on Monday , but last week he told the Chicago Sun-Times he filed suit days after speaking with the governor by telephone .
“ Our people down here are very frustrated with what ’ s been going on , ” Bailey said on Thursday .
“ We ’ re not affected by the COVID crisis like the other parts of the state are.
” Bailey said Pritzker called him April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic on southeastern Illinois .
At the time of conversation , Bailey had no plans to sue Pritzker , instead hoping that he could convince Pritzker to ease his restrictions on more rural parts of the state .
“ He did make some changes and that was good , but he just , you know , he didn ’ t make enough , ” Bailey said .
“ We ’ re not seeing the COVID numbers and crisis in any shape or form down here in the district.
” What that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the southern Illinoisan town of Xenia — population 364 — is not immediately clear .
The lawsuit filed last week specifically cites Bailey ’ s own rights being inhibited by the executive orders .
The filing , which sought a temporary restraining order against the stay-at-home order , said Pritzker ’ s decision limited “ Bailey ’ s constitutionally protected freedoms in that it ordered him to stay at home , or at his place of residence , as well as limited his ability to ravel within the state.
” While Bailey acknowledges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 30-day stay-at-home order , he argues the governor does not have the legal authority to extend it past the 30 days under the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act .
The Illinois Attorney General ’ s office is representing Pritzker in the suit , and the governor said they will work to overturn the decision “ in a swift fashion.
” “ It ’ s frankly , it ’ s insulting .
It ’ s dangerous and people ’ s safety and health has not been put at risk , ” Pritzker said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contract coronavirus as a result of what Darren Bailey has done.
” The governor spent some of Monday ’ s briefings trying to unpack a rash of regionalist heat that ’ s occurred during the outbreak .
“ I want to stop and take a moment now to address those who think that coronavirus is just a Chicago or a Cook County problem , and that Downstate Illinois is immune or doesn ’ t need restrictions , ” Pritzker said .
“ Folks , that ’ s just now how this virus operates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boundaries.
” The governor said two of five counties with the highest infection rates are in southern Illinois : Randolph and Jasper counties .
He said the two highest rates of death per capita are also in southern Illinois , in Jasper and Monroe counties .
“ That means you ’ re more likely to die of COVID-19 if you live in either of those two counties than if you live in Chicago or in Cook County , ” Pritzker said .
“ When these factors are taken into account the overall picture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than many have assumed .
...
It would be doing a massive disservice to our Downstate residents if we govern only by raw numbers.
” House Republican Leader Jim Durkin issued a statement but didn ’ t say whether he agreed or disagreed with the decision , just noting that it was the first ruling regarding Pritzker ’ s authority to issue executive orders during the pandemic .
“ I expect a quick appeal to the higher courts as this is a case of first impression and one that needs to be dealt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Western Springs Republican said .
“ We will be following the case closely as it progresses.
’ “ Like Governor Pritzker , I find Representative Bailey ’ s lawsuit to be extremely reckless , at a time we can least afford it , ” the Southwest Side Democrat said in written statement .
“ It is my sincere hope that upon further review , this decision is reversed , and that our health care workers , first responders and loved ones are not unnecessarily subjected to added risk by such a short-sighted @ @ @

A downstate judge on Monday agreed with a Republican legislator that Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker lacks the legal authority to force him to stay home past 30 days during the coronavirus pandemic.
It’s a decision that only applies to the Southern Illinois lawmaker – state Rep. Darren Bailey – but the governor said it will endanger all Illinoisans and open the door for others to file suit.
Pritzker was made aware of Clay County Circuit Court Judge Michael McHaney’s ruling Monday afternoon during his live COVID-19 briefing
“Rep. Darren Bailey’s decision to take to the courts to try and dismantle public health directives designed to keep people safe is an insult to all Illinoisans that have been lost during this COVID-19 crisis, and it’s a danger to millions of people who may get ill because of his recklessness,” Pritzker said. “At best, no one is better off because of this ruling, and at worst, people’s health and safety will suffer tremendously in Illinois.”
The governor said his executive orders have operated on precedents set by past disaster proclamations.
“Disasters don’t necessarily evaporate on a 30-day timeframe,” Pritzker said.
Pritzker said his team will be fighting the decision and issuing “new public health directives so that we can continue to respond to this public crisis.”
Bailey filed both a suit and a motion for a temporary restraining order. The Monday ruling regarded the motion, which sought to halt enforcement of the stay-at-home order “until the Court renders a final verdict in this matter.”
McHaney’s ruling states Bailey “has shown he has a clearly ascertainable right in need of immediate protection, namely his liberty interest to be free from Pritzker’s executive order of quarantine in his home.”
The order, dated Monday, also says that Bailey “will suffer irreparable harm” if the 30-day restraining order isn’t granted.
But Pritzker argued it’s the rest of the state that could suffer harm.
“At this time I strongly encourage all municipal level leaders, as well as the people of Illinois, who are our strongest weapon against this virus to follow the advice of our scientists here in Illinois and across the nation, of IDPH and the CDC and continue to follow the guidelines of our stay-at-home order,” Pritzker said.
Bailey is a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump. He’s also a member of the Illinois House Republican’s so-called “Eastern Bloc,” a small group of legislators who once sponsored legislation to kick Chicago out of Illinois.
Trump won Clay County 79.8% to Hillary Clinton’s 16.2% in the 2016 presidential election, records show. Clay County has reported only two cases of COVID-19 through Monday.
Bailey on Monday said he was “elated” about the ruling.
“I saw it as a victory for the people, for the Constitution that I believe has been hijacked here in Illinois,” Bailey said.
Last week, the lawmaker told the Chicago Sun-Times he filed suit days after speaking with the governor by telephone.
President Donald Trump speaks about the coronavirus in the White House, Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Alex Brandon/AP file
“Our people down here are very frustrated with what’s been going on,” Bailey said on Thursday. “We’re not affected by the COVID crisis like the other parts of the state are.”
Bailey said Pritzker called him April 18 to discuss the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on southeastern Illinois. At the time of the conversation, Bailey had no plans to sue Pritzker, instead hoping that he could persuade Pritzker to ease his restrictions on more rural parts of the state.
“He did make some changes, and that was good, but he just, you know, he didn’t make enough,” Bailey said. “We’re not seeing the COVID numbers and crisis in any shape or form down here in the district.”
What that means for Bailey’s constituents in the southern Illinois town of Xenia — population 364 — is not immediately clear. The lawsuit filed last week specifically cites Bailey’s own rights being inhibited by the executive orders.
The filing, which sought a temporary restraining order against the stay-at-home order, said Pritzker’s decision limited “Bailey’s constitutionally protected freedoms in that it ordered him to stay at home, or at his place of residence, as well as limited his ability to travel within the state.”
While Bailey acknowledges in his suit that Pritzker could declare a 30-day stay-at-home order, he argues the governor does not have the legal authority to extend it past the 30 days under the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act.
The Illinois Attorney General’s office is representing Pritzker in the suit, and the governor said they will work to overturn the decision “in a swift fashion.”
“It’s frankly, it’s insulting. It’s dangerous and people’s safety and health has now been put at risk,” Pritzker said. “There may be people who contract coronavirus as a result of what Darren Bailey has done.”
The governor spent some of Monday’s briefings trying to unpack a rash of regionalist heat that’s occurred during the outbreak.
“I want to stop and take a moment now to address those who think that coronavirus is just a Chicago or a Cook County problem, and that downstate Illinois is immune or doesn’t need restrictions,” Pritzker said. “Folks, that’s just now how this virus operates. COVID-19 knows no county or regional boundaries.”
The governor said two of five counties with the highest infection rates are in southern Illinois: Randolph and Jasper counties. He said the two highest rates of death per capita are also in southern Illinois, in Jasper and Monroe counties.
“That means you’re more likely to die of COVID-19 if you live in either of those two counties than if you live in Chicago or in Cook County,” Pritzker said. “When these factors are taken into account the overall picture around COVID-19 in Illinois is quite different than many have assumed. ... It would be doing a massive disservice to our downstate residents if we govern only by raw numbers.”
House Republican Leader Jim Durkin issued a statement but didn’t say whether he agreed or disagreed with the decision, just noting that it was the first ruling regarding Pritzker’s authority to issue executive orders during the pandemic.
“I expect a quick appeal to the higher courts as this is a case of first impression and one that needs to be dealt with on an expedited basis,” the Western Springs Republican said. “We will be following the case closely as it progresses.’
Democratic House Speaker Mike Madigan was more blunt.
“Like Governor Pritzker, I find Representative Bailey’s lawsuit to be extremely reckless, at a time we can least afford it,” the Southwest Side Democrat said in written statement. “It is my sincere hope that upon further review, this decision is reversed, and that our health care workers, first responders and loved ones are not unnecessarily subjected to added risk by such a short-sighted lawsuit.”
Mayor Lori Lightfoot also weighed in, calling the ruling “troubling and wrong.”
“One of the many problems with this ill-advised opinion is that it will destroy the collective progress we have made, giving Illinoisans the wrong impression that we have beaten the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
Contributing: Neal Earley


chicagosun-times--2020-04-27--Lakers return $4.6 million from coronavirus stimulus loan program

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers have repaid a loan of roughly $ 4.6 million from coronavirus business relief funds after learning the program had been depleted .
The Lakers applied for the loan under the Small Business Administration ’ s Paycheck Protection Program , a part of the federal government ’ s $ 2.2 trillion stimulus package .
The Lakers ’ request was granted in the first round of distribution , but after the fund ran out of money in less than two weeks , the team returned its loan , as did several wealthier business including Shake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualified for and received a loan under the Payroll Protection Program , ” the statement read .
“ However , once we found out the funds from the program had been depleted , we repaid the loan so that financial support would be directed to those most in need .
The Lakers remain completely committed to supporting both our employees and our community.
” The Treasury Department issued further guidance for the loan program last week , asking companies not to apply for the funds if they don ’ t need the cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the program because they have only about 300 employees .
But the team is thought to be the NBA ’ s second-most valuable franchise , with Forbes estimating a value of roughly $ 4 billion .
The 16-time NBA champions play in the nation ’ s second-largest media market , and their current roster led by superstars LeBron James and Antony Davis was on top of the Western Conference when the NBA suspended play last month .
The Lakers haven ’ t furloughed or fired any employees during the coronavirus pandemic , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make any cutbacks .
The team ’ s top executives agreed to defer 20 % of their salaries until later this year or early next year .

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers have repaid a loan of roughly $4.6 million from coronavirus business relief funds after learning the program had been depleted.
The Lakers applied for the loan under the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, a part of the federal government’s $2.2 trillion stimulus package. The Lakers’ request was granted in the first round of distribution, but after the fund ran out of money in less than two weeks, the team returned its loan, as did several wealthier businesses including Shake Shack and AutoNation.
The Lakers issued a statement Monday confirming what happened.
“The Lakers qualified for and received a loan under the Payroll Protection Program,” the statement read. “However, once we found out the funds from the program had been depleted, we repaid the loan so that financial support would be directed to those most in need. The Lakers remain completely committed to supporting both our employees and our community.”
ESPN first reported the Lakers’ decision.
The Treasury Department issued further guidance for the loan program last week, asking companies not to apply for the funds if they don’t need the cash to survive.
The Lakers qualified for the program because they have only about 300 employees. But the team is thought to be the NBA’s second-most valuable franchise, with Forbes estimating a value of roughly $4 billion.
The 16-time NBA champions play in the nation’s second-largest media market, and their current roster led by superstars LeBron James and Antony Davis was on top of the Western Conference when the NBA suspended play last month.
The Lakers haven’t furloughed or fired any employees during the coronavirus pandemic, and the franchise doesn’t plan to make any cutbacks. The team’s top executives agreed to defer 20% of their salaries until later this year or early next year.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-28--Dear Abby: After 54 years, I tell wife I want out, and she laughs

DEAR ABBY : I have a problem I can ’ t fix .
I have been married for 54 years .
For the last 20 we have slept in different bedrooms .
I get no affection from my wife , and everything has to be her way .
We no longer have anything in common except our children and grandchildren who , for the most part , come to me only when they need something .
Over the years , we have drifted apart , and there is no longer anything we enjoy doing together .
I have told her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we should part ways .
She laughs and shrugs it off .
Basically , to her I am a paycheck .
She thinks we don ’ t have a problem .
Her parents lived pretty much the same way .
I need someone who will sit with me when we go out to dinner , hold hands in public , have a couple of similar interests , share the same bed , etc .
I have met a woman online who seems to care and who wants to be with me .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every time I ’ m verbally abused , it ’ s pushing me more and more toward her .
Help .
— UNHAPPY IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR UNHAPPY : Tell your wife you are making an appointment with a licensed marriage and family therapist to discuss your marital situation .
It may be the wakeup call she needs to get her to quit laughing and pay attention to the fact that you are seriously unhappy .
Ask her to go with you , but if she refuses , follow through and go without her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you disengage from this marriage .
If you do end the marriage , recognize there will have to be a fair distribution of any assets that accumulated and be prepared to discuss your options with more than one lawyer .
A word of caution , however : Do NOT immediately rush into a romantic relationship with someone you know only through the internet .
It is crucial that you take the necessary time to detoxify and regain your balance after you exit this marriage .
DEAR ABBY : My mom passed away a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My parents were married for 38 years .
Dad started a whirlwind romance with a lady about nine months after Mom ’ s death .
Their relationship lasted three months , and they were supposed to get married .
She blindsided him by breaking the engagement a month before the wedding .
The breakup was because she still has feelings for an ex-husband and had nothing to do with my dad .
He keeps talking to her “ as a friend , ” but he is miserable because he ’ s in love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she gets nasty and criticizes him about small things .
She is not even a good friend .
I want my father to be happy and find someone who will love him .
But he continues to call and text this woman , even though it makes him sink deeper into depression every day .
He keeps thinking she ’ ll take him back , but I don ’ t see it happening .
How can I convince Daddy to cut off all contact with her ?
— WHAT ’ S BEST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ S BEST : I ’ m not sure you are the person to do that .
It might be better to enlist the aid of a male relative or close friend — someone who knows what has been going on .
Your father might be more receptive to that message if he hears it from a contemporary .
If not , he may have to learn his lesson the hard way .
DEAR READERS : For those of you having trouble coping with stress and anxiety during this challenging time , Jack Drescher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and member of the American Psychoanalytic Association , contacted me offering a resource for emotional health matters related to the coronavirus crisis .
For more information , go to psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychoanalysis-unplugged-0 .
— LOVE , ABBY Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .
What teens need to know about sex , drugs , AIDS and getting along with peers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Teen Should Know.
” Send your name and mailing address , plus check or money order for $ 8 ( U.S. funds ) , to : Dear Abby , Teen Booklet , P.O .
Box 447 , Mount Morris , IL 61054-0447 .
( Shipping and handling are included in the price . )

DEAR ABBY: I have a problem I can’t fix. I have been married for 54 years. For the last 20 we have slept in different bedrooms. I get no affection from my wife, and everything has to be her way. We no longer have anything in common except our children and grandchildren who, for the most part, come to me only when they need something.
Over the years, we have drifted apart, and there is no longer anything we enjoy doing together. I have told her many times that for my mental health we should part ways. She laughs and shrugs it off. Basically, to her I am a paycheck.
She thinks we don’t have a problem. Her parents lived pretty much the same way. I need someone who will sit with me when we go out to dinner, hold hands in public, have a couple of similar interests, share the same bed, etc.
I have met a woman online who seems to care and who wants to be with me. I haven’t followed through, but every time I’m verbally abused, it’s pushing me more and more toward her. Help. — UNHAPPY IN PENNSYLVANIA
DEAR UNHAPPY: Tell your wife you are making an appointment with a licensed marriage and family therapist to discuss your marital situation. It may be the wakeup call she needs to get her to quit laughing and pay attention to the fact that you are seriously unhappy. Ask her to go with you, but if she refuses, follow through and go without her. It may help you emotionally as you disengage from this marriage.
If you do end the marriage, recognize there will have to be a fair distribution of any assets that accumulated and be prepared to discuss your options with more than one lawyer. A word of caution, however: Do NOT immediately rush into a romantic relationship with someone you know only through the internet. It is crucial that you take the necessary time to detoxify and regain your balance after you exit this marriage.
DEAR ABBY: My mom passed away a year and a few months ago. My parents were married for 38 years.
Dad started a whirlwind romance with a lady about nine months after Mom’s death. Their relationship lasted three months, and they were supposed to get married. She blindsided him by breaking the engagement a month before the wedding. The breakup was because she still has feelings for an ex-husband and had nothing to do with my dad.
He keeps talking to her “as a friend,” but he is miserable because he’s in love with her. Ever since the breakup, she gets nasty and criticizes him about small things. She is not even a good friend.
I want my father to be happy and find someone who will love him. But he continues to call and text this woman, even though it makes him sink deeper into depression every day. He keeps thinking she’ll take him back, but I don’t see it happening. How can I convince Daddy to cut off all contact with her? — WHAT’S BEST FOR DAD IN GEORGIA
DEAR WHAT’S BEST: I’m not sure you are the person to do that. It might be better to enlist the aid of a male relative or close friend — someone who knows what has been going on. Your father might be more receptive to that message if he hears it from a contemporary. If not, he may have to learn his lesson the hard way.
DEAR READERS: For those of you having trouble coping with stress and anxiety during this challenging time, Jack Drescher, M.D., respected psychiatrist, psychoanalyst and member of the American Psychoanalytic Association, contacted me offering a resource for emotional health matters related to the coronavirus crisis. For more information, go to psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psychoanalysis-unplugged-0. — LOVE, ABBY
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds), to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)


chicagosun-times--2020-04-28--Menu planner: Treat the whole family with lemon Dijon cod saute

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium high heat .
Add lemon slices and cook until golden around edges , turning once .
Remove from skillet ; set aside .
In same skillet , cook shallots and olives about 3 minutes or until shallots are just tender .
Stir in mustard and wine ; cook 1 minute .
Season cod with thyme , salt and pepper and add to skillet .
Arrange lemon slices on top of cod .
Cook , covered , 5 minutes or until fish is opaque throughout and flakes with a fork .
Transfer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sauce .
Add extra olive oil if desired .
Cooking time : less than 25 minutes , plus pasta Heat oven to 400 degrees .
Cook pasta according to directions ; drain .
Meanwhile , break apart sausage and cook in a large nonstick skillet on medium for 5 to 7 minutes or until cooked through ; drain .
In a 2 1/2-quart baking dish , combine cooked sausage , marinara sauce , onion , oregano , basil and pepper ; mix well .
Add cooked pasta ; blend well .
Cover top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes or until cheese is melted and mixture is hot .
Serve immediately .
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning .
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium .
Add chicken and cook 6 to 8 minutes or until browned , turning once .
In a small bowl , combine soup , water , chilies and lime juice ; mix well .
Add to skillet and bring to a boil ; reduce heat and cook 5 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink .
Stir in sour cream and heat through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oven to 350 degrees .
Combine 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard , 2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce , 2 tablespoons cider vinegar , 2/3 cup maple syrup and coarse salt and pepper to taste ; mix well .
Spread evenly over 1 ( 3-pound ) boneless pork loin roast .
Place in a shallow roasting pan .
Surround pork with 1 pound baby carrots and 6 medium red potatoes ( halved ) .
Bake 45 minutes or until internal temperature of pork reaches 145 degrees and vegetables are tender .
Remove pan from oven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 minutes .
Slice pork and serve with vegetables .
Heat oven to 350 degrees .
Place 4 whole-grain flour tortillas on a baking sheet in 1 layer and bake 5 minutes .
Spread 2 tortillas with 1 ( 4-ounce ) can chopped green chilies and top with 1 ( 8- to 10-ounce ) package cooked carved chicken breast , 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese and then another tortilla .
Bake 10 minutes or until cheese melts .
Cut into wedges .
In a large bowl , combine 1 ( 15-ounce ) can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fresh spinach , 2/3 cup halved seedless grapes , 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper , 1/2 cup finely chopped celery and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion .
In a small bowl , mix 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons poppy seed dressing .
Add to chickpea mixture ; stir to combine .
Spoon into 4 whole-grain pita rounds ( halved ) .

Lemon Dijon cod saute
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: less than 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 lemons, thinly sliced
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1/3 cup chopped green olives with pimentos
2 tablespoons country-style Dijon mustard
1/2 cup dry white wine or unsalted chicken broth
1 pound cod fillets, cut into 4 pieces
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium high heat. Add lemon slices and cook until golden around edges, turning once. Remove from skillet; set aside. In same skillet, cook shallots and olives about 3 minutes or until shallots are just tender. Stir in mustard and wine; cook 1 minute. Season cod with thyme, salt and pepper and add to skillet. Arrange lemon slices on top of cod. Cook, covered, 5 minutes or until fish is opaque throughout and flakes with a fork. Transfer cod to serving dish and drizzle with sauce. Add extra olive oil if desired.
Per serving: 151 calories, 19 grams protein, 6 grams fat (36% calories from fat), 0.8 gram saturated fat, 3 grams carbohydrate, 43 milligrams cholesterol, 593 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber.
Carb choices: 0.
Pizza casserole
Makes 6 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: less than 25 minutes, plus pasta
INGREDIENTS
8 ounces wagon wheel pasta (or another shape)
8 ounces reduced-fat Italian sausage
1 (24- to 28-ounce) jar no-salt-added marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper
8 ounces thinly sliced mozzarella cheese
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Cook pasta according to directions; drain. Meanwhile, break apart sausage and cook in a large nonstick skillet on medium for 5 to 7 minutes or until cooked through; drain. In a 2 1/2-quart baking dish, combine cooked sausage, marinara sauce, onion, oregano, basil and pepper; mix well. Add cooked pasta; blend well. Cover top completely with cheese slices. Bake 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and mixture is hot. Serve immediately.
Per serving: 322 calories, 21 grams protein, 9 grams fat (25% calories from fat), 4.2 grams saturated fat, 37 grams carbohydrate, 43 milligrams cholesterol, 546 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber.
Carb choices: 2.5.
Cajun chicken with chili cream sauce
Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: about 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS
4 (5- to 6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons no-salt-added or less-sodium Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can less-sodium less-fat cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup water
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
Season chicken with Cajun seasoning. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet on medium. Add chicken and cook 6 to 8 minutes or until browned, turning once. In a small bowl, combine soup, water, chilies and lime juice; mix well. Add to skillet and bring to a boil; reduce heat and cook 5 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Stir in sour cream and heat through, but do not boil.
Per serving: 237 calories, 26 grams protein, 10 grams fat (38% calories from fat), 2.9 grams saturated fat, 10 grams carbohydrate, 83 milligrams cholesterol, 498 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber.
Carb choices: 0.5.
Maple mustard-glazed pork loin
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 2/3 cup maple syrup and coarse salt and pepper to taste; mix well. Spread evenly over 1 (3-pound) boneless pork loin roast. Place in a shallow roasting pan. Surround pork with 1 pound baby carrots and 6 medium red potatoes (halved). Bake 45 minutes or until internal temperature of pork reaches 145 degrees and vegetables are tender. Remove pan from oven; tent with foil and let stand 5 minutes. Slice pork and serve with vegetables.
Chicken quesadillas
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place 4 whole-grain flour tortillas on a baking sheet in 1 layer and bake 5 minutes. Spread 2 tortillas with 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies and top with 1 (8- to 10-ounce) package cooked carved chicken breast, 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese and then another tortilla. Bake 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Cut into wedges.
Chicken pita pockets
In a large bowl, combine 1 (15-ounce) can rinsed reduced-sodium chickpeas, 1 cup shredded fresh spinach, 2/3 cup halved seedless grapes, 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely chopped celery and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons poppy seed dressing. Add to chickpea mixture; stir to combine. Spoon into 4 whole-grain pita rounds (halved).


chicagosun-times--2020-04-28--5 shot Monday in Chicago

5 shot Monday in Chicago

Five people were shot Monday in Chicago .
The day ’ s most recent shooting wounded two men , 22 and 20 , in Austin on the West Side .
About 9:45 p.m. they were sitting inside a parked vehicle in the 4800 block of West Rice Street , when someone approached them and fired shots , Chicago police said .
The driver , the 20-year-old , was struck in the shoulder and his passenger , the 22-year-old , was struck in the chest .
They took themselves to the West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Lawn for treatment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and released .
The 22-year-old is in critical condition and has been transferred to Stroger Hospital , police said .
A 20-year-old man was wounded when he was shot in West Englewood on the South Side .
He was standing on the street about 6:18 p.m. in the 7200 block of South Marshfield Avenue when someone in a vehicle shot him in the leg , police said .
The man was taken to St. Bernard Hospital in good condition , police said .
A 16-year-old boy was wounded in a shooting in Canaryville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walking about 2 p.m. in the 4700 block of South Union Avenue when a gray sedan pulled up and someone inside opened fire , police said .
The teen was struck in the buttocks and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center , where he was listed in good condition , police said .
A man was wounded in a shooting in Englewood on the South Side .
The 23-year-old was found with gunshot wounds to his legs about 11 a.m. in the 6900 block of South Justine Street , police said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Chicago Medical Center , police said .
His condition was not immediately known .
Monday ’ s shootings come after a weekend where three people were killed and 16 others were wounded citywide .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s homicides .

Five people were shot Monday in Chicago.
The day’s most recent shooting wounded two men, 22 and 20, in Austin on the West Side.
About 9:45 p.m. they were sitting inside a parked vehicle in the 4800 block of West Rice Street, when someone approached them and fired shots, Chicago police said. The driver, the 20-year-old, was struck in the shoulder and his passenger, the 22-year-old, was struck in the chest.
They took themselves to the West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Lawn for treatment, police said. The 20-year-old was treated and released.
The 22-year-old is in critical condition and has been transferred to Stroger Hospital, police said.
A 20-year-old man was wounded when he was shot in West Englewood on the South Side.
He was standing on the street about 6:18 p.m. in the 7200 block of South Marshfield Avenue when someone in a vehicle shot him in the leg, police said.
The man was taken to St. Bernard Hospital in good condition, police said.
A 16-year-old boy was wounded in a shooting in Canaryville on the South Side.
He was walking about 2 p.m. in the 4700 block of South Union Avenue when a gray sedan pulled up and someone inside opened fire, police said.
The teen was struck in the buttocks and taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was listed in good condition, police said.
A man was wounded in a shooting in Englewood on the South Side.
The 23-year-old was found with gunshot wounds to his legs about 11 a.m. in the 6900 block of South Justine Street, police said.
He was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, police said. His condition was not immediately known.
Monday’s shootings come after a weekend where three people were killed and 16 others were wounded citywide.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-28--Vehicle thefts reported on the Near North Side: police

Five vehicle thefts were reported in April on the Near North Side .
In each incident someone stole vehicles parked @ @ @ @ @ , Chicago police said .
The thefts happened during the evening and afternoon hours : @ @ @ @ @ 600 block of North State Street ; • April 16 in the 200 block of @ @ @ @ @ April 23 in the first block of West Illinois Street ; • April 23 in @ @ @ @ @ Grand Avenue ; and • April 24 in the 1100 block of North State Street @ @ @ @ @ asked to contact Area Central detectives at 312-747-8382 .
Read more on crime , and @ @ @ @ @ homicides .

Five vehicle thefts were reported in April on the Near North Side.
In each incident someone stole vehicles parked in a driveway left running, Chicago police said.
The thefts happened during the evening and afternoon hours :
April 10 in the 600 block of North State Street;
April 16 in the 200 block of West Erie Street;
April 23 in the first block of West Illinois Street;
April 23 in the first block of West Grand Avenue; and
April 24 in the 1100 block of North State Street.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Area Central detectives at 312-747-8382.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-28--Shots fired by CPD at armed man in Fernwood

Chicago police fired shots at an armed man Monday in Ferwood on the South Side .
About 11:55 p.m. officers @ @ @ @ @ in the first block of West 99th Street , were speaking with witnesses when a @ @ @ @ @ , ” flashing a handgun and walking towards them , Chicago police said .
He @ @ @ @ @ officers , at which point an officer fired shots which did not strike him .
@ @ @ @ @ man ran and after a short foot chase was taken into custody , police said @ @ @ @ @ at the scene .
No one was struck by gunfire , police said .
One @ @ @ @ @ a fence but refused medical treatment .
Charges are pending against the man .
Read @ @ @ @ @ track the city ’ s homicides .

Chicago police fired shots at an armed man Monday in Ferwood on the South Side.
About 11:55 p.m. officers responding to a ShotSpotter alert in the first block of West 99th Street, were speaking with witnesses when a man started “yelling obscenities,” flashing a handgun and walking towards them, Chicago police said. He then pointed a gun at officers, at which point an officer fired shots which did not strike him.
After shots were fired the man ran and after a short foot chase was taken into custody, police said. A weapon was recovered at the scene.
No one was struck by gunfire, police said. One officer cut their hand on a fence but refused medical treatment.
Charges are pending against the man.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-27--Horoscope for Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Horoscope for Tuesday, April 28, 2020

We have the all clear to shop and do business .
The moon is in Cancer .
It ’ s easy to be narrow minded , especially about financial matters .
Oh yes , you ’ ll be a stickler for details !
Others may think you ’ re raining on their parade .
Temper your comments to avoid disputes with others because who needs this ?
Not you .
Today it ’ s easy to be critical of others .
No matter how hard you try , you might end up creating a negative impression .
This is because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You might also feel lonely or cut off from others .
Hey , this feeling is temporary .
You might feel lonely or depressed .
The truth is things are not as bad as they seem .
The stars are making you look at the dark side of life , especially its imperfections and flaws .
You feel this because your ruler Mercury is at odds with stern Saturn .
( “ No fun !
” ) A discussion with a member of a group or a friend might make you feel diminished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The truth is you ’ re only seeing part of things .
Join the club — we all feel this way today .
Everyone is seeing the “ gloomy part.
” Oy vey !
This is a poor day for an important discussion with a parent , boss or anyone in a position of authority .
Even though your critical faculty is sharp , your standards are so high for yourself and others , you will feel wanting .
You might also feel critical of others .
Isn ’ t this fun ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the media , the news and Facebook .
Something will get you down — almost certainly .
Actually , this same sensitive influence today can help you to study something with mental clarity , focus and drive .
Learn something new !
Discussions about inheritances , financial matters , shared property , insurance , taxes and the government might bring you down today .
You will find it difficult to confront others and defend your own best interests .
You can ’ t make the impression you want .
( Time to send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patient with partners and close friends because it ’ s easy for things to go off the rails today .
Perhaps you feel judged by someone or they feel judged by you ?
Things look worse today than they are .
Plus , increased chaos on the home front is not helping .
Be good to yourself .
You can accomplish a lot at work today because your mind is clear and sharp .
The downside is that people are inclined to be critical and judgmental of each other .
Don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s hope someone doesn ’ t do this to you !
( Bummer . )
It ’ s always darkest before it gets pitch black .
Lighten up today if you ’ re dealing with kids .
Because you believe that tough times are character building ( and they are ) , sometimes you are a stern taskmaster .
This is also a tough day for romance .
It ’ s hard to feel loved , adorable and precious .
This is a poor day for family discussions because parents or authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judgmental and critical .
Cooperation is difficult .
Bad day for negotiations .
You might have to say goodbye to someone today .
You can do a lot of heavy mental work today , especially with tasks that require discipline , thinking and attention to detail .
Critical faculty is sharp and your standards are high .
However , your ability to communicate with others is not that great .
You might be too negative or too demanding .
If Your Birthday Is Today Actor Tony Revolori ( 1996 ) shares your birthday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You don ’ t like to be rushed by others .
You are reserved , secretive and capable of greatness .
This year you ’ re winding up many things you began nine years ago by letting go of what is no longer relevant and moving on to something new and different .
You are lightening your load to get ready for new beginnings !

Moon Alert
We have the all clear to shop and do business. The moon is in Cancer.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
It’s easy to be narrow minded, especially about financial matters. Oh yes, you’ll be a stickler for details! Others may think you’re raining on their parade. Temper your comments to avoid disputes with others because who needs this? Not you.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Today it’s easy to be critical of others. No matter how hard you try, you might end up creating a negative impression. This is because pessimism can seep into your POV. You might also feel lonely or cut off from others. Hey, this feeling is temporary.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
You might feel lonely or depressed. The truth is things are not as bad as they seem. The stars are making you look at the dark side of life, especially its imperfections and flaws. You feel this because your ruler Mercury is at odds with stern Saturn. (“No fun!”)
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
A discussion with a member of a group or a friend might make you feel diminished. You feel criticized or inadequate. The truth is you’re only seeing part of things. Join the club — we all feel this way today. Everyone is seeing the “gloomy part.” Oy vey!
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
This is a poor day for an important discussion with a parent, boss or anyone in a position of authority. Even though your critical faculty is sharp, your standards are so high for yourself and others, you will feel wanting. You might also feel critical of others. Isn’t this fun?
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
This is the perfect day to avoid the media, the news and Facebook. Something will get you down — almost certainly. Actually, this same sensitive influence today can help you to study something with mental clarity, focus and drive. Learn something new!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Discussions about inheritances, financial matters, shared property, insurance, taxes and the government might bring you down today. You will find it difficult to confront others and defend your own best interests. You can’t make the impression you want. (Time to send out for dark chocolate.)
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Be patient with partners and close friends because it’s easy for things to go off the rails today. Perhaps you feel judged by someone or they feel judged by you? Things look worse today than they are. Plus, increased chaos on the home front is not helping. Be good to yourself.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
You can accomplish a lot at work today because your mind is clear and sharp. The downside is that people are inclined to be critical and judgmental of each other. Don’t do this to someone else and let’s hope someone doesn’t do this to you! (Bummer.) It’s always darkest before it gets pitch black.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Lighten up today if you’re dealing with kids. Because you believe that tough times are character building (and they are), sometimes you are a stern taskmaster. This is also a tough day for romance. It’s hard to feel loved, adorable and precious.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
This is a poor day for family discussions because parents or authority figures or even older siblings will be judgmental and critical. Cooperation is difficult. Bad day for negotiations. You might have to say goodbye to someone today.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
You can do a lot of heavy mental work today, especially with tasks that require discipline, thinking and attention to detail. Critical faculty is sharp and your standards are high. However, your ability to communicate with others is not that great. You might be too negative or too demanding.
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actor Tony Revolori (1996) shares your birthday. You are curious and adventurous. You don’t like to be rushed by others. You are reserved, secretive and capable of greatness. This year you’re winding up many things you began nine years ago by letting go of what is no longer relevant and moving on to something new and different. You are lightening your load to get ready for new beginnings!


chicagosun-times--2020-04-27--Leaders in two counties with highest COVID-19 death rates say Pritzker’s restrictions go too far: ‘T

Leaders in two counties with highest COVID-19 death rates say Pritzker’s restrictions go too far: ‘They was dying anyway’

SPRINGFIELD — Downstate Jasper County has seen only three residents die of COVID-19 , and Monroe County only ten .
But the two southern Illinois counties have the highest per capita death rates from coronavirus of all the state ’ s 102 counties , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said Monday .
“ That means you ’ re more likely to die of COVID-19 if you live in either of those two counties than if you live in Chicago or in Cook County , ” the governor said .
But despite Pritzker ’ s sobering warning that “ the overall picture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than many have assumed , ” local officials in those two counties still argue that the governor ’ s stay-at-home measures have gone too far .
“ You know , I read the obituaries every day , and there ’ s somebody ’ s name in there every day , and they didn ’ t die from the virus , ” said Bob Elmore , chairman of the Monroe County Board of Commissioners .
“ So , it ’ s kind of an overreach as far as I ’ m concerned.
” With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , calling for an end to the stay-at-home measures , Pritzker opened his daily briefing Monday with information he argues shows that the coronavirus is not just a Chicago area problem .
Rural Jasper County , in southern Illinois , with a population of 9,611 , has 42 reported cases and three deaths from the coronavirus , according to Illinois Public Health Department figures .
Monroe County , located in the Metro East area , and with a population of 34,637 , has had 64 reported cases and 10 deaths from the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pritzker ’ s stay-at-home measures have hurt their local economies , forcing many small businesses to close .
Government leaders in Jasper and Monroe counties point to outbreaks at nursing homes in their respective areas , saying the majority of deaths come from one source .
“ I mean , I ’ m not trying to say that they ’ re not concerned about what ’ s going on at the nursing home , because they are , ” said Brian Leffler , a member of the Jasper County Board .
“ That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everybody ’ s very sorry for it , but as far as keeping the whole county shut down because of it , I don ’ t know if that ’ s the answer.
” Newton Care Center nursing home accounts for 36 of 42 reported cases and two of the three deaths from the coronavirus in Jasper County , according to the Illinois Department of Public Health .
In Monroe County , Garden Place Independent & Assisted Living accounts for 29 of the county ’ s 64 reported cases and eight of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
State Rep. Darren Bailey , who represents Jasper County and persuaded a Clay County judge to rule in his favor in a lawsuit against Pritzker , said he was “ disgusted ” by the governor ’ s comments .
“ One size does not fit all , and since this governor has started , that ’ s exactly what we ’ ve seen in Illinois — one size fits all , ” the Republican from Xenia said .
Darrel Hickox , a member of the Jasper County Board , disputed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contending that “ nobody ” in Jasper County has died from the coronavirus .
He said that members of the media who report on the pandemic are “ socialists , liberals and communists.
” “ There has been some coronavirus here , but they was dying anyway , ” Hickox said .

SPRINGFIELD — Downstate Jasper County has seen only three residents die of COVID-19, and Monroe County only ten.
But the two southern Illinois counties have the highest per capita death rates from coronavirus of all the state’s 102 counties, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Monday.
“That means you’re more likely to die of COVID-19 if you live in either of those two counties than if you live in Chicago or in Cook County,” the governor said.
But despite Pritzker’s sobering warning that “the overall picture around COVID-19 in Illinois is quite different than many have assumed,” local officials in those two counties still argue that the governor’s stay-at-home measures have gone too far.
“You know, I read the obituaries every day, and there’s somebody’s name in there every day, and they didn’t die from the virus,” said Bob Elmore, chairman of the Monroe County Board of Commissioners. “So, it’s kind of an overreach as far as I’m concerned.”
With many people, especially in downstate Illinois, calling for an end to the stay-at-home measures, Pritzker opened his daily briefing Monday with information he argues shows that the coronavirus is not just a Chicago area problem.
Rural Jasper County, in southern Illinois, with a population of 9,611, has 42 reported cases and three deaths from the coronavirus, according to Illinois Public Health Department figures. Monroe County, located in the Metro East area, and with a population of 34,637, has had 64 reported cases and 10 deaths from the virus.
Local officials in both counties said Pritzker’s stay-at-home measures have hurt their local economies, forcing many small businesses to close. Government leaders in Jasper and Monroe counties point to outbreaks at nursing homes in their respective areas, saying the majority of deaths come from one source.
“I mean, I’m not trying to say that they’re not concerned about what’s going on at the nursing home, because they are,” said Brian Leffler, a member of the Jasper County Board. “That’s a bad deal, and everybody’s very sorry for it, but as far as keeping the whole county shut down because of it, I don’t know if that’s the answer.”
Newton Care Center nursing home accounts for 36 of 42 reported cases and two of the three deaths from the coronavirus in Jasper County, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. In Monroe County, Garden Place Independent & Assisted Living accounts for 29 of the county’s 64 reported cases and eight of the county’s 10 deaths from the virus.
State Rep. Darren Bailey Facebook
State Rep. Darren Bailey, who represents Jasper County and persuaded a Clay County judge to rule in his favor in a lawsuit against Pritzker, said he was “disgusted” by the governor’s comments.
“One size does not fit all, and since this governor has started, that’s exactly what we’ve seen in Illinois — one size fits all,” the Republican from Xenia said.
Darrel Hickox, a member of the Jasper County Board, disputed the numbers from state public health officials, contending that “nobody” in Jasper County has died from the coronavirus.
He said that members of the media who report on the pandemic are “socialists, liberals and communists.”
“There has been some coronavirus here, but they was dying anyway,” Hickox said.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-27--Nursing home workers give strike notice

Nursing home workers give strike notice

Workers at 40 nursing homes — mostly in the Chicago area — announced Monday they ’ d voted to go on strike May 8 if a list of demands related to working under coronavirus crisis conditions aren ’ t met .
Several of their chief demands : an additional 10 sick days , 50 % hazard pay and $ 15 minimum wage ( $ 16 for certified nursing assistants ) .
The workers are members of SEIU Healthcare Illinois .
SEIU Healthcare is an investor in Sun-Times Media .
The workers are calling for a short-term 1 year contract .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nursing home owners have refused to provide improved personal protective equipment and enhanced safety protocols , they say .
“ We have issued strike notices to 40 nursing homes , ” Greg Kelley President of SEIU Healthcare Illinois told the Chicago Sun-Times on Monday .
“ Workers are frustrated , angry and anxious .
The issues at nursing homes have been growing for years : staffing , personal protective equipment , wages — COVID-19 has exposed them and made them worse.
” The workers are negotiating with the Illinois Association of Health Care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Our members are on the front-line and feel like they ’ re not being heard by owners , ” Kelley said .
There have been 625 coronavirus-related deaths in Illinois among people who live and work in nursing homes , state health officials announced last week .

Workers at 40 nursing homes — mostly in the Chicago area — announced Monday they’d voted to go on strike May 8 if a list of demands related to working under coronavirus crisis conditions aren’t met.
Several of their chief demands: an additional 10 sick days, 50% hazard pay and $15 minimum wage ($16 for certified nursing assistants). The workers are members of SEIU Healthcare Illinois. SEIU Healthcare is an investor in Sun-Times Media.
The workers are calling for a short-term 1 year contract. Their current contract expires May 1.
Nursing home owners have refused to provide improved personal protective equipment and enhanced safety protocols, they say.
“We have issued strike notices to 40 nursing homes,” Greg Kelley President of SEIU Healthcare Illinois told the Chicago Sun-Times on Monday. “Workers are frustrated, angry and anxious. The issues at nursing homes have been growing for years: staffing, personal protective equipment, wages — COVID-19 has exposed them and made them worse.”
The workers are negotiating with the Illinois Association of Health Care Facilities to hammer out a new contract.
“Our members are on the front-line and feel like they’re not being heard by owners,” Kelley said.
There have been 625 coronavirus-related deaths in Illinois among people who live and work in nursing homes, state health officials announced last week.