chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Pritzker closes all Illinois schools for remainder of academic year

Illinois Gov .
J.B. Pritzker announced Friday he will not reopen schools for in-person instruction because of the coronavirus , ensuring the unprecedented disruption to the education of the state ’ s 2.2 million students will continue through the end of the academic year .
The governor announced the decision at his daily afternoon press conference , joining 27 states and three U.S. territories that have either ordered or recommended the same action , decisions that have impacted more than 25 million students .
“ Science says our students can ’ t go back to their normal routine , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who find themselves experiencing a world of emotions because of this pandemic , along with some extra stress with your kids at home all day , I promise you , you will get through this.
” Pritzker said parents should rest assured that “ Illinois students are in good hands .
Our teachers and our administrators are doing what they do best .
They ’ re stepping up to ensure that every child in this state receives the education that they deserve.
” The governor said state education officials will work with individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot , who didn ’ t attend the news conference with the governor because of scheduling conflicts , had pushed behind the scenes for an exception for Chicago Public Schools to reopen in June , sources said .
That effort was rebuffed .
Asked about the closures at a separate press briefing Friday afternoon , Lightfoot said city and CPS officials have been planning for weeks to offer support in case of long closures , such as a food program that has already handed out 6 million meals over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the school year on June 18 .
“ We ’ re in an ongoing conversation , as you might expect , on a range of different issues , ” the mayor said .
“ Obviously schools have come up , and we weighed in on what we thought would be the best thing for CPS.
” Chicago schools chief Janice Jackson later said in a statement that it was a difficult but necessary decision to protect the health of students , teachers and families .
“ As the leader of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and CPS alumna , I want families to know that I share their disappointment , ” Jackson said .
“ We will continue to prioritize the well-being of our families and staff as we move forward with remote learning through the remainder of the school year , and we will emerge as a school district and a city stronger than before.
” The state ordered all Illinois districts in late March to develop remote learning plans .
CPS started its program in earnest on Monday , after students returned from spring break .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the rest of the academic year , but all state-mandated standardized tests have already been canceled for this year .
State Supt .
of Education Carmen Ayala said Friday that additional state guidance will soon be released on grading and a series of other issues .
Pritzker said education officials recommend districts adjust grading policies so they give feedback rather than concrete assessment .
Different plans for different districts Above all else , the governor asked districts to work with families to fill their unique needs .
Pritzker pointed to Dallas City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a superintendent partnered with transportation officials to deliver meals and paper homework packets to homes .
A district in Augusta , a town near Quincy , has kept all classwork non-digital so students without computers aren ’ t left behind .
Another in Red Bud , just south of St. Louis , is handing out devices and honoring graduating seniors on social media .
District 201 Supt .
Tim Truesdale , who oversees Morton East and West high schools in west suburban Cicero and Berwyn , said he had “ hoped that kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rollout of remote learning for the district ’ s 8,000 students had gone well , he said , it didn ’ t compare to students sitting in class .
“ We ’ re glad kids still get a chance to see each other [ in virtual sessions ] , but of course it ’ s just not the same , ” he said .
The impact of the closure will be hardest felt in Chicago , where 355,000 students were set to be in school through late June .
The remaining 1.8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school in May or earlier in June .
Ald .
Michael Scott Jr. ( 24th ) , chairman of the City Council ’ s Education Committee , questioned why the governor would make such an early call when there ’ s still a possibility of salvaging at least a few weeks of a CPS school year that already had been disrupted and extended by a lengthy teachers ’ strike .
“ If the arc of this virus has flattened out enough to where children are able to get back to a regular course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later in May and June , to give that option would be the best-case scenario , ” Scott said Thursday .
“ ... Parents , teachers , the district as a whole would love to be able to work with children at the end of the school year , making sure that our children get everything that they can out of the classroom.
” While the governor ’ s decision has been anticipated for some time , it ’ s still tough to swallow , Ald .
Gilbert Villegas , Mayor Lori Lightfoot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Friday .
“ This has just been a bad school year from the get-go , ” said Villegas .
Villegas said he felt “ so sorry ” for graduating seniors and 8th graders , as well as athletes and students scheduled to take college admission exams that have since been canceled .
“ It ’ s just heartbreaking , ” he said .
Diana Guzman , a senior at Hancock College Prep on the Southwest Side , said she was not surprised by the news — but she was still disappointed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ could not say a last goodbye to her fellow classmates , or thank her teachers for their support and help before she heads off to Earlham College in Indiana .
“ I just feel like I hoped we would get a chance to go back , ” Guzman said .
“ Even just to catch up with people , I wanted to see them.
” Marleen Garcia , also a student at Hancock , said she was similarly disappointed , especially for graduation .
Garcia would be the first in her immediate family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We all worked hard for this .
I had so many teachers who helped me [ apply to college ] … and I know my parents would have wanted the pictures.
” An online or virtual graduation “ wouldn ’ t be the same.
” CPS is hampered by the fact that nearly 1 in 3 students did not have computers when remote learning started Monday .
The district is in the process of distributing 100,000 laptops and tablets to students and announced this week that it would lend 12,000 internet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While Villegas didn ’ t think some students could end up falling an entire academic year behind as a result of the disruptions , he said more needed to be done , including possibly continuing virtual learning over summer break “ so we start the 2020-to-2021 school year not so far behind .
“ We ’ re going to obviously have to ramp up the virtual classrooms .
I ’ m positive that teachers will do a good job in implementing and adapting to the new normal until we can get a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Meanwhile , Chicago Teachers Union Vice President Stacy Davis Gates said all stakeholders , including the union and the mayor ’ s office , have to keep working collaboratively to make on-the-fly adjustments moving forward .
“ We need to start rethinking how school is done , period .
Our priority in this moment is how do we begin to close these equity gaps .
“ I worry that our educators won ’ t be appreciated , that they won ’ t be seen as frontline and essential workers , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart is absolutely broken for kindergarteners , eighth graders , 12th graders , for athletes , celebrating their achievements .
Our lives have been turned upside down .
My heart goes out to them.
” The union leader said there needs to be a heightened focus on the most under-resourced schools and communities , like not only giving homeless students access to computers and internet , but homes , too .
She said the mayor has an opportunity to “ exercise extraordinary leadership in this moment in frontloading the needs of students .
@

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Friday he will not reopen schools for in-person instruction because of the coronavirus, ensuring the unprecedented disruption to the education of the state’s 2.2 million students will continue through the end of the academic year.
The governor announced the decision at his daily afternoon press conference, joining 27 states and three U.S. territories that have either ordered or recommended the same action, decisions that have impacted more than 25 million students.
“Science says our students can’t go back to their normal routine,” Pritzker said. “To the parents who find themselves experiencing a world of emotions because of this pandemic, along with some extra stress with your kids at home all day, I promise you, you will get through this.”
Pritzker said parents should rest assured that “Illinois students are in good hands. Our teachers and our administrators are doing what they do best. They’re stepping up to ensure that every child in this state receives the education that they deserve.” The governor said state education officials will work with individual districts with specific needs to be addressed.
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who didn’t attend the news conference with the governor because of scheduling conflicts, had pushed behind the scenes for an exception for Chicago Public Schools to reopen in June, sources said. That effort was rebuffed.
Asked about the closures at a separate press briefing Friday afternoon, Lightfoot said city and CPS officials have been planning for weeks to offer support in case of long closures, such as a food program that has already handed out 6 million meals over the past month and will continue through the end of the school year on June 18.
“We’re in an ongoing conversation, as you might expect, on a range of different issues,” the mayor said. “Obviously schools have come up, and we weighed in on what we thought would be the best thing for CPS.”
Chicago schools chief Janice Jackson later said in a statement that it was a difficult but necessary decision to protect the health of students, teachers and families.
“As the leader of this district, a CPS parent, and CPS alumna, I want families to know that I share their disappointment,” Jackson said. “We will continue to prioritize the well-being of our families and staff as we move forward with remote learning through the remainder of the school year, and we will emerge as a school district and a city stronger than before.”
The state ordered all Illinois districts in late March to develop remote learning plans. CPS started its program in earnest on Monday, after students returned from spring break. Remote learning plans will stay in effect for the rest of the academic year, but all state-mandated standardized tests have already been canceled for this year.
State Supt. of Education Carmen Ayala said Friday that additional state guidance will soon be released on grading and a series of other issues. Pritzker said education officials recommend districts adjust grading policies so they give feedback rather than concrete assessment.
Different plans for different districts
Above all else, the governor asked districts to work with families to fill their unique needs. Pritzker pointed to Dallas City, near the Iowa border, where a superintendent partnered with transportation officials to deliver meals and paper homework packets to homes. A district in Augusta, a town near Quincy, has kept all classwork non-digital so students without computers aren’t left behind. Another in Red Bud, just south of St. Louis, is handing out devices and honoring graduating seniors on social media.
District 201 Supt. Tim Truesdale, who oversees Morton East and West high schools in west suburban Cicero and Berwyn, said he had “hoped that kids could come back to school.” While the rollout of remote learning for the district’s 8,000 students had gone well, he said, it didn’t compare to students sitting in class.
“We’re glad kids still get a chance to see each other [in virtual sessions], but of course it’s just not the same,” he said.
Chicago hardest hit
The impact of the closure will be hardest felt in Chicago, where 355,000 students were set to be in school through late June. The remaining 1.8 million students statewide were to largely finish school in May or earlier in June.
Ald. Michael Scott Jr. (24th), chairman of the City Council’s Education Committee, questioned why the governor would make such an early call when there’s still a possibility of salvaging at least a few weeks of a CPS school year that already had been disrupted and extended by a lengthy teachers’ strike.
“If the arc of this virus has flattened out enough to where children are able to get back to a regular course of life and that includes school sometime later in May and June, to give that option would be the best-case scenario,” Scott said Thursday. “ ... Parents, teachers, the district as a whole would love to be able to work with children at the end of the school year, making sure that our children get everything that they can out of the classroom.”
Coronavirus Data The numbers that tell the story: Our coronavirus data tracking On our Coronavirus Data page, you’ll find a collection of graphs, charts and maps tracing the spread of the virus, tracking test results and plotting the impact on individual counties. Check back daily for updated totals.
Students missing out
While the governor’s decision has been anticipated for some time, it’s still tough to swallow, Ald. Gilbert Villegas, Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s City Council floor leader, said Friday.
“This has just been a bad school year from the get-go,” said Villegas.
Villegas said he felt “so sorry” for graduating seniors and 8th graders, as well as athletes and students scheduled to take college admission exams that have since been canceled.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” he said.
Diana Guzman, a senior at Hancock College Prep on the Southwest Side, was not surprised by the news — but she was still disappointed. Guzman said it would mean she could not say a last goodbye to her classmates, or thank her teachers for their support and help before she heads off to Earlham College in Indiana.
“I just feel like I hoped we would get a chance to go back,” Guzman said. “Even just to catch up with people, I wanted to see them.”
Diana Guzman, a senior at Hancock College Prep Provided
Parents split
The closures prompted debates among parents.
Joetta Harris, a mother of two CPS students, felt the decision came too early. She called the closure “devastating and preemptive” and said it eliminated any possibility of bringing kids back if it turned out to be safe to do so.
“I want us to be safe, but I also want our state government and school district to be mindful that there is no reason to be preemptive and hasty unnecessarily,” Harris said. “Also, proms and graduations can and should be made up so the kids could at least say goodbye and have closure on one of the most important chapters of their lives.”
Harris took part in a discussion on the Facebook page of parent group Raise Your Hand, where some other parents supported the decision.
“Luckily my child’s school was already a step ahead,” another mother wrote. “The remote learning we got runs through June. We are good with this. Safe at home.”
Many others worried about how students in special education would receive the support they need to get through the tough times.
“I know it’s really hard for everyone but I’m glad Pritzker is making this call.” Sarah Chambers, a special education teacher at Alcott Elementary, said on Twitter. “It’s not safe to go back to schools with 30-50 in students a class and no nurse (or a nurse once a week).”
Digital divide remains
CPS is hampered by the fact that nearly 1 in 3 students did not have computers when remote learning started Monday. The district is in the process of distributing 100,000 laptops and tablets to students and announced this week that it would lend 12,000 internet hotspots to kids in temporary living situations.
While Villegas didn’t think some students could end up falling an entire academic year behind as a result of the disruptions, he said more needed to be done, including possibly continuing virtual learning over summer break “so we start the 2020-to-2021 school year not so far behind.
“We’re going to obviously have to ramp up the virtual classrooms. I’m positive that teachers will do a good job in implementing and adapting to the new normal until we can get a hold of this pandemic,” he said.
CTU: Chance to close equity gaps
Meanwhile, Chicago Teachers Union Vice President Stacy Davis Gates said all stakeholders, including the union and the mayor’s office, have to keep collaborating to make on-the-fly adjustments.
“We need to start rethinking how school is done, period. Our priority in this moment is how do we begin to close these equity gaps.
“I worry that our educators won’t be appreciated, that they won’t be seen as frontline and essential workers,” Davis Gates said. “And my heart is absolutely broken for kindergarteners, eighth graders, 12th graders, for athletes, celebrating their achievements. Our lives have been turned upside down. My heart goes out to them.”
The union leader said there needs to be a heightened focus on the most under-resourced schools and communities, like not only giving homeless students access to computers and internet, but homes, too.
She said the mayor has an opportunity to “exercise extraordinary leadership in this moment in front-loading the needs of students.”


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--2020 WNBA draft: Sky select Ruthy Hebard with eighth overall pick

With the eighth pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft , the Sky on Friday selected forward Ruthy Hebard out of Oregon .
The Sky didn ’ t have a glaring need heading into the draft , but Hebard is a welcoming addition since forwards Jantel Lavender and Azura Stevens are both coming off foot injuries .
Standing at 6 ’ 4 , Hebard , a four-time All-Pac-12 selection , is a menace in the paint and has the ability to pass out of double teams .
She was highly efficient last season , shooting 68.5 percent .
General manager and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the basket and overall game reminds him “ a little bit of the Rookie of the Year from last year , Napheesa ” Collier .
Coming off their third 20-win season in franchise history and first playoff appearance since 2016 , the Sky are in win-now mode .
They retained their core group of starters in free agency , while adding point guard and frontcourt depth with Sydney Colson and Azura Stevens .
The Sky ’ s busy offseason paired with the new collective-bargaining agreement have put the Sky up against the salary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll carry an 11-player roster this season .
With that said , the Sky ’ s first-round pick is anticipated to make the team , though she won ’ t necessarily be relied on to contribute in a major way .
“ The players that we talked to , we told them what we expected from them coming in and what could potentially be their roles , ” Wade said .
“ The good fortune about us is we ’ re too deep in their position and so it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes you played ... just a few months ago that you ’ re not in our plans , but it ’ s going to probably be a little bit patient on both sides .
So I ’ m not going to ask a player to be patient and us not to be patient too .
“ We have a really good team with a bright future so I don ’ t expect especially someone we ’ re picking at eight to come in and demand minutes right away.
” Barring any trades , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twice more , but not for awhile .
They hold the No .
30 and 32 picks .
This is a developing story .
Check back for updates .

Ruthy Hebard had been dreaming, waiting for the WNBA draft — imagining what it would be like to walk the orange carpet at the Nike New York Headquarters, shake commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s hand on stage and then explore New York City with her former Oregon teammates Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally.
But on Friday, Hebard, whom the Sky picked eighth overall, instead watched the draft from the living room of her family’s home in Fairbanks, Alaska, as the league was forced to hold the event virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Looking back, Hebard wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s great. I’m so happy,” she said. “I’d never thought I would be in Alaska for a draft.”
Shortly after the draft ended, there was a friendly parade through Fairbanks — with social distancing — with Hebard as the waving star. Neighbors and friends cheered from their parked cars as Hebard and her family drove through the streets.
“I know a lot of people are happy and excited,” said Hebard, the third Duck to be drafted in the first round after Ionescu and Sabally went first and second overall to the Liberty and Wings, respectively. “It’s nice being around close family and friends during this time.”
Hebard, who was born in Chicago and adopted by a family in Fairbanks when she was an infant, was one of the top players on Sky general manager James Wade’s draft board. He saw her as a steal at No. 8.
Coming off their third 20-win season in team history and their first playoff appearance since 2016, the Sky are in win-now mode, and Hebard is a player who can make an immediate impact on both ends of the court this upcoming season. She has been a steady force for the Ducks the last four years, shooting a Pac-12 all-time best 65.1 percent from the field. Last season, she averaged 17.3 points on a career-best 68.5 percent shooting and 9.6 rebounds.
Hebard is also a menace in the paint and can pass out of double teams, which can help the Sky’s spacing and ability to attack the lane. She’s also a strong rebounder and a potential answer to the team’s deficiencies on defense.
“Any time you get the most efficient player in college basketball for the following three years, it’s a gift within itself,” said Wade, who also said Hebard’s game reminds him of that of Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, last year’s WNBA rookie of the year. “Pick-and-roll-wise, that’s when she’s at her best. So I think the way we play our game, we play a lot of pick-and-rolls . . . and she’s going to be a great target.”
Although there’s uncertainty about the upcoming season, Hebard plans to take advantage of this time off to grow her game and get herself physically and mentally prepared for her next step.
“[I’m going to] make sure whenever this [pandemic] all clears up, I’m ready to go and hopefully make an impact,” she said.
Wade, who also drafted former UCLA guard Japreece Dean at No. 30 and former Florida State forward Kiah Gillespie at No. 32, deemed the draft an overall success.
“I feel really good,” he said. “We got better. We addressed needs, and I think we got the best players available [at each spot].”
SKY 2020 DRAFT PICKS
F/C Ruthy Hebard
Round: 1 (8th pick overall)
School: Oregon
Height: 6-4
2019-20 stats: Averaged 17.3 points and 9.6 rebounds in 33 games
G Japreece Dean
Round: 3 (30th pick overall)
School: UCLA
Height: 5-7
2019-20 stats: Averaged 13.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists in 27 games
F Kiah Gillespie
Round: 3 (32nd pick overall)
School: Florida State
Height: 6-2
2019-20 stats: Averaged 15.6 points and 8.7 rebounds in 32 games


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--In praise of the ‘essential workers’ helping us all to brave the storm of coronavirus

Here ’ s to the essential worker .
To all the previously “ invisible people ” who some of us may suddenly now have discovered make the world go ‘ round .
To those workers who sometimes have been reduced to being “ just a CNA.
” To workers marginalized in the eyes of some who see your job as being “ less than ” — less glorious , less important , less essential .
To all the “ thanked-less ” men and women who happen to be “ just a blue-collar worker.
” “ Just a hospital orderly.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bus driver.
” “ Just a trash man.
” “ Just a gas station attendant.
” This one ’ s for the overlooked , over-taxed underpaid worker .
For every nameless , faceless person who does all the little things that even the least grateful among us these days ought to now see aren ’ t so little after all .
For each and every one of you without whom this global pandemic would be made unendurable , if not un-survivable .
This one ’ s for you .
For those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own family goodbye to brave the storm called COVID-19 , faithfully going to your jobs — jobs upon which we completely depend , as life as we knew it has been unceremoniously interrupted by the greatest viral threat to humankind in more than 100 years .
For truck drivers .
For train conductors .
For food preparers and deliverers .
For those who march each perilous day to the front lines .
For doctors and medical staff .
Nurses .
Technicians .
Police officers , firefighters , paramedics , security guards and those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose sacrifice and bravery are no less weighty ; and who deserve our respect and gratitude .
This one ’ s for the cashiers and the baggers at grocery stores who , by showing up each day , place yourselves potentially in the winds of the coronavirus .
For those who stock grocery shelves .
For store greeters who now direct gloved and masked shoppers to sanitized metal carts as we enter in silence and caution , determined to get quickly in and out .
For those who sometimes do the dirty or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Like cleaning up your charges at a nursing home — braving feces , urine and blood — and gently lifting an elderly woman from her wheelchair to her bed , going about your job with care and compassion .
I see you .
Perhaps I always have .
In college , I once worked in a hospital , preparing and delivering meals to patients .
As a restaurant worker at another time and a janitor at another , I came to know firsthand “ the look , ” as if your job somehow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , I was reminded of this upon watching a video post on social media of a woman angered — but mostly hurt — over being referred to as “ just a CNA.
” Wearing a nurse ’ s smock and a respiratory mask around her neck , she spoke about the verbal slight by another woman , tears flowing as she extolled the virtues of serving others with her whole heart and being a lifeline for those at the nursing home where she worked , especially in times like these .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
“ Sometimes you get burnt out .
Some days you just feel like you want to quit .
But then you ’ ve got them residents that ’ s depending on you…that touch your heart.
” Her words tearfully reminded me of the CNAs at South Suburban Rehabilitation Center who compassionately cared for my Alzheimer ’ s-stricken mother until the day she died .
Reminded of what it sometimes feels like to be an invisible or disregarded worker , though your services are essential and your commitment faithful .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say , “ Thank You ” to the essential worker .
This one ’ s for you .

Here’s to the essential worker. To all the previously “invisible people” who some of us may suddenly now have discovered make the world go ‘round.
To those workers who sometimes have been reduced to being “just a CNA.” To workers marginalized in the eyes of some who see your job as being “less than”— less glorious, less important, less essential.
Here’s to you.
To all the “thanked-less” men and women who happen to be “just a blue-collar worker.” “Just a hospital orderly.” “Just a cook.” “Just a bus driver.” “Just a trash man.” “Just a gas station attendant.”
Columnists bug Columnists In-depth political coverage, sports analysis, entertainment reviews and cultural commentary.
This one’s for the overlooked, over-taxed underpaid worker. For every nameless, faceless person who does all the little things that even the least grateful among us these days ought to now see aren’t so little after all.
For each and every one of you without whom this global pandemic would be made unendurable, if not un-survivable. This one’s for you.
For those who wake up each morning and kiss your own family goodbye to brave the storm called COVID-19, faithfully going to your jobs — jobs upon which we completely depend, as life as we knew it has been unceremoniously interrupted by the greatest viral threat to humankind in more than 100 years. For truck drivers. For train conductors. For food preparers and deliverers.
For those who march each perilous day to the front lines. For doctors and medical staff. Nurses. Technicians. Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, security guards and those whose posts are no less essential; whose sacrifice and bravery are no less weighty; and who deserve our respect and gratitude.
This one’s for the cashiers and the baggers at grocery stores who, by showing up each day, place yourselves potentially in the winds of the coronavirus.
For those who stock grocery shelves. For store greeters who now direct gloved and masked shoppers to sanitized metal carts as we enter in silence and caution, determined to get quickly in and out.
For those who sometimes do the dirty or grimy jobs that make others cringe. Like cleaning up your charges at a nursing home — braving feces, urine and blood — and gently lifting an elderly woman from her wheelchair to her bed, going about your job with care and compassion.
I see you. Perhaps I always have.
In college, I once worked in a hospital, preparing and delivering meals to patients. As a restaurant worker at another time and a janitor at another, I came to know firsthand “the look,” as if your job somehow made you “less than.”
This week, I was reminded of this upon watching a video post on social media of a woman angered — but mostly hurt — over being referred to as “just a CNA.” Wearing a nurse’s smock and a respiratory mask around her neck, she spoke about the verbal slight by another woman, tears flowing as she extolled the virtues of serving others with her whole heart and being a lifeline for those at the nursing home where she worked, especially in times like these.
“Sometimes it’s overwhelming,” she said. “Sometimes you get burnt out. Some days you just feel like you want to quit. But then you’ve got them residents that’s depending on you…that touch your heart.”
Her words tearfully reminded me of the CNAs at South Suburban Rehabilitation Center who compassionately cared for my Alzheimer’s-stricken mother until the day she died.
Reminded of what it sometimes feels like to be an invisible or disregarded worker, though your services are essential and your commitment faithful.
And it moved me to write. To say, “Thank You” to the essential worker.
This one’s for you.
Send letters to letters@suntimes.com
Email John Fountain at Author@johnwofuntain.com


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Medical examiner confirms 71 new COVID-19 deaths, bringing total to 855

The Cook County medical examiner ’ s office confirmed 71 more coronavirus-related deaths Friday , raising the county ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Friday , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker announced 62 more deaths and 1,842 new positive cases @ @ @ @ @ to 25,733 cases .
This is a record spike for new cases in the state @ @ @ @ @ about 75 percent of the 1,134 deaths across Illinois .

The Cook County medical examiner’s office confirmed 71 more coronavirus-related deaths Friday, raising the county’s total to 855.
Earlier Friday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced 62 more deaths and 1,842 new positive cases, raising the statewide total to 25,733 cases. This is a record spike for new cases in the state.
Cook County makes up about 75 percent of the 1,134 deaths across Illinois.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Calumet City man asks: Where’s my $1,200 COVID-19 stimulus check?

Bernie Butler was looking forward to his $ 1,200 “ economic impact payment ” check from the federal government for coronavirus relief .
“ Everyone ’ s on Facebook or texting , saying , ‘ I got mine , did you get yours ?
’ ” says Butler , a Calumet City resident who ’ s lost one of his two jobs during the statewide shutdown .
He got a shock when he checked the “ Get My Payment ” tool Wednesday on IRS.gov — it showed the payment was deposited but into an account he ’ s never seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s not my account number , ” he says .
People have complained on social media about glitches ranging from their payments being unexpectedly small or nonexistent to the deposits being sent to a mystery account .
The Washington Post reported several million people who filed their taxes via H & R Block , TurboTax and other services were unable to get their coronavirus payments because the IRS didn ’ t have their direct-deposit information .
A Treasury Department spokeswoman says people who ’ ve used a tax-preparation service and opted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wouldn ’ t have a bank account on file with the IRS and should submit their most recent tax return and bank account details on the Get My Payment app .
Butler says his most recent tax refund was correctly deposited to his bank account , which means the IRS should have his correct information .
“ I don ’ t know how they could have sent that to the right place , and then this goes to who knows where , ” he says .
The IRS didn ’ t respond to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , director of the U.S. Public Interest Research Group ’ s Consumer Watchdog program , says people should document any glitch with the stimulus checks , including screenshots , and complain to the IRS and their congressional representatives and senators .
The coronavirus payments are part of the CARES Act passed by Congress to quickly get people money for food , housing and other bills .
Most adults who qualify will get $ 1,200 , though some could get less depending on a variety of factors , with those making $ 75,000 or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualifying child 16 or younger in a household adds $ 500 to the payment .
Social Security recipients will automatically get their payment later this month .
Low-income and homeless people who don ’ t file a tax return can still get the coronavirus money but need to go on IRS.gov to the non-filers page .

Bernie Butler was looking forward to his $1,200 “economic impact payment” check from the federal government for coronavirus relief.
“Everyone’s on Facebook or texting, saying, ‘I got mine, did you get yours?’ ” says Butler, a Calumet City resident who’s lost one of his two jobs during the statewide shutdown.
He got a shock when he checked the “Get My Payment” tool Wednesday on IRS.gov — it showed the payment was deposited but into an account he’s never seen before.
“I knew right away that’s not my account number,” he says.
People have complained on social media about glitches ranging from their payments being unexpectedly small or nonexistent to the deposits being sent to a mystery account. The Washington Post reported several million people who filed their taxes via H&R Block, TurboTax and other services were unable to get their coronavirus payments because the IRS didn’t have their direct-deposit information.
A Treasury Department spokeswoman says people who’ve used a tax-preparation service and opted for a refund-anticipation loan and debit card wouldn’t have a bank account on file with the IRS and should submit their most recent tax return and bank account details on the Get My Payment app.
Butler says his most recent tax refund was correctly deposited to his bank account, which means the IRS should have his correct information.
“I don’t know how they could have sent that to the right place, and then this goes to who knows where,” he says.
The IRS didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Adam Garber, director of the U.S. Public Interest Research Group’s Consumer Watchdog program, says people should document any glitch with the stimulus checks, including screenshots, and complain to the IRS and their congressional representatives and senators.
The coronavirus payments are part of the CARES Act passed by Congress to quickly get people money for food, housing and other bills. Most adults who qualify will get $1,200, though some could get less depending on a variety of factors, with those making $75,000 or less getting the full amount.
Each qualifying child 16 or younger in a household adds $500 to the payment.
Social Security recipients will automatically get their payment later this month.
Low-income and homeless people who don’t file a tax return can still get the coronavirus money but need to go on IRS.gov to the non-filers page.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Michelle Obama to host kids’ storytime series  online during coronavirus quarantine

During the coronavirus pandemic , which finds millions of parents everywhere in search of new ways for their kids to fill their days outside of school work , watching movies or FaceTime playdates , former first lady and bestselling author Michelle Obama has got it covered .
Obama , in a special arrangement with Penguin Young Readers , Random House Children ’ s Books and PBS KIDS , will be hosting “ Mondays with Michelle Obama ” kicking off at 11 a.m. April 20 .
The Facebook and YouTube four-part weekly series ( through May 11 ) will feature Obama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as part of the recently announced “ Read Together , Be Together ” online initiative .
The four books are : April 20 : “ The Gruffalo , ” by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler April 27 : “ There ’ s a Dragon in Your Book , ” by Tom Fletcher and illustrated by Greg Abbott May 4 : “ Miss Maple ’ s Seeds , ” written and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler May 11 : “ The Very Hungry Caterpillar ” by Eric Carle The series will be livestreamed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and YouTube channel and will remain available for viewing on demand on all of those platforms immediately thereafter .
“ As a little kid , I loved to read aloud .
And when I became a parent , I found such joy in sharing the magic of storytelling with my own children — and then later , as first lady , with kids everywhere , ” Obama said via statement .
“ At this time when so many families are under so much stress , I ’ m excited to give kids a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some wonderful stories ( and to give parents and caretakers a much-needed break ) .
” The new initiative was set to launch this summer as part of the PBS “ Read Along !
” YouTube series , which has featured Brad Meltzer ( “ Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum ” ) , Marc Brown ( “ Arthur ” ) , Victoria Kann ( “ Pinkalicious & Peterrific ” ) , Angela Santomero ( “ Daniel Tiger ’ s Neighborhood ” ) .

During the coronavirus pandemic, which finds millions of parents everywhere in search of new ways for their kids to fill their days outside of school work, watching movies or FaceTime playdates, former first lady and bestselling author Michelle Obama has got it covered.
Obama, in a special arrangement with Penguin Young Readers, Random House Children’s Books and PBS KIDS, will be hosting “Mondays with Michelle Obama” kicking off at 11 a.m. April 20. The Facebook and YouTube four-part weekly series (through May 11) will feature Obama reading classic children’s storybooks aloud as part of the recently announced “Read Together, Be Together” online initiative.
The four books are:
April 20: “The Gruffalo,” by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler
April 27: “There’s a Dragon in Your Book,” by Tom Fletcher and illustrated by Greg Abbott
May 4: “Miss Maple’s Seeds,” written and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler
May 11: “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
The series will be livestreamed simultaneously on PBS KIDS’ Facebook page and YouTube channel and will remain available for viewing on demand on all of those platforms immediately thereafter.
“As a little kid, I loved to read aloud. And when I became a parent, I found such joy in sharing the magic of storytelling with my own children — and then later, as first lady, with kids everywhere,” Obama said via statement. “At this time when so many families are under so much stress, I’m excited to give kids a chance to practice their reading and hear some wonderful stories (and to give parents and caretakers a much-needed break).”
The new initiative was set to launch this summer as part of the PBS “Read Along!” YouTube series, which has featured Brad Meltzer (“Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum”), Marc Brown (“Arthur”), Victoria Kann (“Pinkalicious & Peterrific”) and Angela Santomero (“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood”).


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Lightfoot seeks expanded emergency spending and procurement powers during pandemic

Mayor Lori Lightfoot has already used an executive order to grant herself extraordinary spending and contracting powers during the coronavirus pandemic .
Now she ’ s asking the City Council ’ s Budget Committee to give her even more authority — even though aldermen have adopted rules allowing them to hold virtual Council meetings to conduct substantive city business .
The mayor ’ s ordinance will be introduced directly to the Budget Committee in preparation for a vote on Tuesday and final sign-off Wednesday by the full Council .
It would give Budget Director Susie Park carte blanche to “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other sources , establish new funding lines , consolidate funding lines and transfer or otherwise reallocate currently appropriated funds , including transfers between city departments ... to maximize effectiveness of the city response ” to the pandemic .
Chief Procurement Officer Shannon Andrews would be empowered to “ enter any contract or amendment to a contract as she deems necessary ” without requiring economic disclosure statements .
Assets , Information and Services Commissioner David Reynolds could sign “ temporary agreements for the use and occupancy of real property ” and extend those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patricia Jackowiak could “ postpone hearings and determinations ” that she deems necessary “ to promote the public good.
” And Aviation Commissioner Jamie Rhee would be empowered to authorize rent reductions , rent deferrals and other breaks to struggling concessionaires at O ’ Hare and Midway airports while offering loans and grants to disadvantaged business enterprises at the airports .
Ald .
Anthony Beale ( 9th ) , one of Lightfoot ’ s most outspoken critics , demanded to know why the mayor needs such extraordinary powers .
The City Council , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government , can hold virtual meetings to authorize mayoral spending decisions , Beale said .
“ There ’ s no reason to be in any rush to give anybody total control when we , as a legislative branch , are the stewards of the money .
To give all of that control over to one person without any checks and balances is a dictatorship , ” Beale said .
If the ordinance passes , the mayor could “ re-program anything at any given time without any checks and balances — without any City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control .
You can do whatever you want to do and there ’ s no repercussions .
This is the very thing that she campaigned against .
And now , she ’ s trying to do it times a hundred.
” Asked whether he expects opposition to the mayor ’ s ordinance , Beale said , “ There ’ s gon na be more than you know .
I wouldn ’ t be surprised if they pull it back.
” Ald .
Gilbert Villegas ( 36th ) , Lightfoot ’ s City Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances of the pandemic ” make such sweeping powers necessary .
The ordinance is certain to raise eyebrows among aldermen who already had been pushing back against the mayor ’ s efforts to usurp their powers before the coronavirus .
“ Time is of the essence in wanting to make sure that decisions can be made quickly in making sure that we ’ re saving lives , ” Villegas said .
“ This is a very unique circumstance .
We just want to make sure there ’ s some flexibility there.
” Villegas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayoral power grab .
He argued Council meetings require 48-hour advance public notice , which doesn ’ t allow for decisions that must be made on a dime during a pandemic .
“ We want to make sure that we ’ re not running into a situation where we need to find quorums or make a public posting that could delay certain procurements or certain things that need to be done in a timely fashion , ” Villegas said .
“ Every alderman has the right to vote however they want to vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can voice their opinion at the Budget [ Committee ] meeting .
”

Mayor Lori Lightfoot has already used an executive order to grant herself extraordinary spending and contracting powers during the coronavirus pandemic.
Now she’s asking the City Council’s Budget Committee to give her even more authority — even though aldermen have adopted rules allowing them to hold virtual Council meetings to conduct substantive city business.
The mayor’s ordinance will be introduced directly to the Budget Committee in preparation for a vote on Tuesday and final sign-off Wednesday by the full Council.
It would give Budget Director Susie Park carte blanche to “appropriate emergency-related funds from federal, state and other sources, establish new funding lines, consolidate funding lines and transfer or otherwise reallocate currently appropriated funds, including transfers between city departments ... to maximize effectiveness of the city response” to the pandemic.
Chief Procurement Officer Shannon Andrews would be empowered to “enter any contract or amendment to a contract as she deems necessary” without requiring economic disclosure statements.
Assets, Information and Services Commissioner David Reynolds could sign “temporary agreements for the use and occupancy of real property” and extend those contracts as needed. Administrative Hearings director Patricia Jackowiak could “postpone hearings and determinations” that she deems necessary “to promote the public good.”
And Aviation Commissioner Jamie Rhee would be empowered to authorize rent reductions, rent deferrals and other breaks to struggling concessionaires at O’Hare and Midway airports while offering loans and grants to disadvantaged business enterprises at the airports.
Ald. Anthony Beale (9th), one of Lightfoot’s most outspoken critics, demanded to know why the mayor needs such extraordinary powers. The City Council, meant to be a co-equal branch of government, can hold virtual meetings to authorize mayoral spending decisions, Beale said.
“There’s no reason to be in any rush to give anybody total control when we, as a legislative branch, are the stewards of the money. To give all of that control over to one person without any checks and balances is a dictatorship,” Beale said.
If the ordinance passes, the mayor could “re-program anything at any given time without any checks and balances — without any City Council approval. It’s total control. You can do whatever you want to do and there’s no repercussions. This is the very thing that she campaigned against. And now, she’s trying to do it times a hundred.”
Asked whether he expects opposition to the mayor’s ordinance, Beale said, “There’s gonna be more than you know. I wouldn’t be surprised if they pull it back.”
Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36th), Lightfoot’s City Council floor leader, said the “unique circumstances of the pandemic” make such sweeping powers necessary.
The ordinance is certain to raise eyebrows among aldermen who already had been pushing back against the mayor’s efforts to usurp their powers before the coronavirus.
“Time is of the essence in wanting to make sure that decisions can be made quickly in making sure that we’re saving lives,” Villegas said.
“This is a very unique circumstance. We just want to make sure there’s some flexibility there.”
Villegas rejected Beale’s claims of a mayoral power grab. He argued Council meetings require 48-hour advance public notice, which doesn’t allow for decisions that must be made on a dime during a pandemic.
“We want to make sure that we’re not running into a situation where we need to find quorums or make a public posting that could delay certain procurements or certain things that need to be done in a timely fashion,” Villegas said.
As for resistance?
“Every alderman has the right to vote however they want to vote,” Villegas said. “They can voice their opinion at the Budget [Committee] meeting.”


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--Dear Abby: Girl calls her younger cousin fat, and her mom doesn’t seem to mind

DEAR ABBY : My 11-year-old niece sometimes calls my 7-year-old son fat , which hurts him to the core .
He ’ s very close with his cousins , and we get together a lot .
I have talked to my sister on numerous occasions about it .
My son knows it ’ s not OK to make fun of how others look , and he doesn ’ t understand why she says these mean things to him .
She ’ s old enough to know better .
I don ’ t know how to get through to my sister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she doesn ’ t seem to care .
— FED UP IN WISCONSIN DEAR FED UP : Your sister ’ s parenting skills appear to be questionable .
Because she refuses to teach her daughter consideration for the feelings of others , or reprimand her when she ’ s cruel and hurtful , see less of the two of them and spend more time with the other cousins .
DEAR ABBY : I am a 26-year-old college graduate .
I immigrated here in 2001 , so English is my second language .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been doing well in my life overall , except I score low on reading and written communication when I take exams .
I ’ m intelligent and a quick learner , but my vocabulary is kind of limited , and it makes me feel stupid , especially when I don ’ t score well on exams .
I try to read , but I don ’ t always have the time .
Do you have ideas on how I can improve my vocabulary or do better on exams ?
— SMART BUT FEELS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who , like you , immigrated to the United States in her early 20s after having spent her first 17 years in Russia .
From there she went to Italy , where she learned to speak Italian .
From there she came to the U.S .
When I asked her how she learned English , she told me it was by watching American television .
If there was a word she didn ’ t understand , she would look it up in a dictionary .
Not only can this be fun , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way they learned English , too .
She also read books in English with a dictionary by her side .
Audiobooks could be helpful , too .
An adult education class might help you not only improve your vocabulary , but also help you sharpen your written English skills .
Please consider it .
DEAR ABBY : When I take my dog for a walk , I always carry little doggy bags and pick up his business .
I live in a residential neighborhood with alleys behind the houses .
After my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it up and often throw the tied-up bag in a trash can along the alley .
Is this rude ?
Is it illegal to put things in other people ’ s trash cans ?
My dog may make several stops along our long walks , and I don ’ t want to carry his waste with me the whole trip .
— CONSIDERATE IN COLORADO DEAR CONSIDERATE : Whether it ’ s illegal in your community is something you should check locally because there may be an ordinance that forbids it .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some of the homeowners those trash cans belong to would strenuously object to someone throwing dog doo-doo into them .
That ’ s why my advice is , “ When in doubt — DON ’ T. ” 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: My 11-year-old niece sometimes calls my 7-year-old son fat, which hurts him to the core. He’s very close with his cousins, and we get together a lot. I have talked to my sister on numerous occasions about it.
My son knows it’s not OK to make fun of how others look, and he doesn’t understand why she says these mean things to him. She’s old enough to know better. I don’t know how to get through to my sister that this behavior should be reprimanded when she doesn’t seem to care. — FED UP IN WISCONSIN
DEAR FED UP: Your sister’s parenting skills appear to be questionable. Because she refuses to teach her daughter consideration for the feelings of others, or reprimand her when she’s cruel and hurtful, see less of the two of them and spend more time with the other cousins.
DEAR ABBY: I am a 26-year-old college graduate. I immigrated here in 2001, so English is my second language. I have no accent, and I have been doing well in my life overall, except I score low on reading and written communication when I take exams.
I’m intelligent and a quick learner, but my vocabulary is kind of limited, and it makes me feel stupid, especially when I don’t score well on exams. I try to read, but I don’t always have the time. Do you have ideas on how I can improve my vocabulary or do better on exams? — SMART BUT FEELS STUPID
DEAR SMART: I know someone who, like you, immigrated to the United States in her early 20s after having spent her first 17 years in Russia. From there she went to Italy, where she learned to speak Italian. From there she came to the U.S.
When I asked her how she learned English, she told me it was by watching American television. If there was a word she didn’t understand, she would look it up in a dictionary. Not only can this be fun, I have heard others say that’s the way they learned English, too.
She also read books in English with a dictionary by her side. Audiobooks could be helpful, too. An adult education class might help you not only improve your vocabulary, but also help you sharpen your written English skills. Please consider it.
DEAR ABBY: When I take my dog for a walk, I always carry little doggy bags and pick up his business. I live in a residential neighborhood with alleys behind the houses. After my dog does his business, I pick it up and often throw the tied-up bag in a trash can along the alley. Is this rude? Is it illegal to put things in other people’s trash cans? My dog may make several stops along our long walks, and I don’t want to carry his waste with me the whole trip. — CONSIDERATE IN COLORADO
DEAR CONSIDERATE: Whether it’s illegal in your community is something you should check locally because there may be an ordinance that forbids it. While I can’t speak for everyone, some of the homeowners those trash cans belong to would strenuously object to someone throwing dog doo-doo into them. That’s why my advice is, “When in doubt — DON’T.”
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--2020-04-18--Chicago outdoors: Great blue heron, native plants for birds, steelhead, hunting/fishing in stay-at-h

Chicago outdoors: Great blue heron, native plants for birds, steelhead, hunting/fishing in stay-at-home

Notes come from all around Chicago outdoors .
“ Great blue herons and double-crested cormorants have returned to the Lemont area and are in full nest building mode , ” emailed Rich Anzalone , who took this photo April 5 .
WOTW , the celebration of wild stories and photos around Chicago outdoors , runs most weeks in the special two-page outdoors section in the Sun-Times Sports Saturday .
Submit nominations by message on Facebook ( Dale Bowman ) , on Twitter ( @ BowmanOutside ) and Instagram ( @ BowmanOutside ) or email ( BowmanOutside @ gmail.com ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , through Thursday , April 23 , third , Friday , April 24 , to April 29 ; south , third season , through Wednesday , April 22 , fourth , Thursday , April 23 , to April 29 .
Through April 30 : Applications for resident firearm and muzzleloader deer hunting “ I do have a question about your stories .
How do people get out and on the lakes , to the woods , etc .
My family hasn ’ t left our immediate property for the past three weeks.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have received in many forms .
They generally drive to nearby sites , such as the Chain ; some walk or bike .
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources gave this guidance last month : “ Hunters and anglers who wish to hunt or fish during the ‘ Stay at Home ’ order may do so provided they have the appropriate licensing and permits and are hunting or fishing on private property or at sites which are currently open to the public .
We ask our hunters and anglers to help their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public health directives , including staying at least six feet away from other sportsmen and staying home if they ’ re exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19.
” 6,000 : Steelhead numbers through South Bend on the St. Joseph River in March , Indiana ’ s Lake Michigan fisheries biologist , Ben Dickinson , on Facebook .
Another 3,000 has already come through in April .
“ During stressful times , it can be therapeutic to get your hands dirty and spend some time appreciating the plants and birds in the green spaces you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backyard , or local park .
In spring , migrating birds will see green spaces full of native plants as a welcome respite after their exhausting overnight flights .
Tending and appreciating your native plants will not only provide vital food and shelter to birds but also help keep your spirits high—which we could all use right now.
” National Audubon Society , on native plants and birds ; to find native plants for your area , go to audubon.org/native-plants/search

Notes come from all around Chicago outdoors.
WILD OF THE WEEK
“Great blue herons and double-crested cormorants have returned to the Lemont area and are in full nest building mode,” emailed Rich Anzalone, who took this photo April 5.
WOTW, the celebration of wild stories and photos around Chicago outdoors, runs most weeks in the special two-page outdoors section in the Sun-Times Sports Saturday. Submit nominations by message on Facebook (Dale Bowman), on Twitter (@BowmanOutside) and Instagram (@BowmanOutside) or email (BowmanOutside@gmail.com).
WILD TIMES
HUNTER SAFETY
Not listing events until gathering restrictions ease.
ILLINOIS PERMITS/SEASONS
Remember, IDNR sites remain closed.
Turkey hunting: North zone, second season, through Thursday, April 23, third, Friday, April 24, to April 29; south, third season, through Wednesday, April 22, fourth, Thursday, April 23, to April 29.
Through April 30: Applications for resident firearm and muzzleloader deer hunting
DALE’S MAILBAG
“I do have a question about your stories. How do people get out and on the lakes, to the woods, etc. My family hasn’t left our immediate property for the past three weeks.” Beth Sawyer
A: Good question I have received in many forms. They generally drive to nearby sites, such as the Chain; some walk or bike. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources gave this guidance last month: “Hunters and anglers who wish to hunt or fish during the ‘Stay at Home’ order may do so provided they have the appropriate licensing and permits and are hunting or fishing on private property or at sites which are currently open to the public. We ask our hunters and anglers to help their fellow outdoorsmen and women by following all public health directives, including staying at least six feet away from other sportsmen and staying home if they’re exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19.”
BIG NUMBER
6,000: Steelhead numbers through South Bend on the St. Joseph River in March, Indiana’s Lake Michigan fisheries biologist, Ben Dickinson, on Facebook. Another 3,000 has already come through in April.
LAST WORD
“During stressful times, it can be therapeutic to get your hands dirty and spend some time appreciating the plants and birds in the green spaces you can safely access right now—a balcony, backyard, or local park. In spring, migrating birds will see green spaces full of native plants as a welcome respite after their exhausting overnight flights. Tending and appreciating your native plants will not only provide vital food and shelter to birds but also help keep your spirits high—which we could all use right now.”
National Audubon Society, on native plants and birds; to find native plants for your area, go to audubon.org/native-plants/search


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--The biggest questions the Bears are facing with their 7 draft selections

Breaking down the biggest questions for each of the Bears ’ seven selection slots in next week ’ s NFL Draft : The big question : Will the Bears draft a quarterback ?
The Bears have more immediate needs at starting cornerback and safety and are still lacking talent at tight end , wide receiver and guard .
But big picture , there ’ s no greater question in all of sports than the one for which the Bears have no answer : Do they trust their quarterback to win them a championship ?
If the Bears think Georgia ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jacob Eason or Oklahoma ’ s Jalen Hurts could be that man someday , they must take him .
Whether the Bears trust Mitch Trubisky or Nick Foles to win a title or not , they certainly believe their defense can carry them that far .
They ’ ll use their first pick to shore up the most glaring need on the depth chart : a cornerback to start opposite Kyle Fuller .
General manager Ryan Pace ’ s offseason moves all point to making a playoff push in 2020 .
Drafting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to watch : The top available cornerbacks are expected to be TCU ’ s Jeff Gladney , Auburn ’ s Noah Igbinoghene and Mississippi State ’ s Cameron Dantzler .
The big question : Will they trade the 50th pick ?
The Bears don ’ t pick again until No .
162 , a span of three rounds .
The only way to change that is to trade down in the second round and gather extra picks .
Jimmy Johnson ’ s effective-but-crude draft-day trade-value chart presents a few potential matches , were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and third picks ( Nos .
61 and 93 ) , the Packers ’ second and third ( Nos .
62 and 94 ) or perhaps the Chiefs ’ second and fourth ( Nos .
63 and 96 ) .
How they ’ ll answer : By trading down .
Pace likes doing it .
He traded down in the second round twice to draft center Cody Whitehair in 2016 .
The next year , Pace moved down nine spots in the second round to take Adam Shaheen .
The Cardinals sent a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fourth- and sixth-rounders , plus a 2018 fourth-rounder .
Names to watch : Wherever the Bears pick in the second round , a member of a historically deep wide receiver class makes sense .
USC ’ s Michael Pittman , Colorado ’ s Laviska Shenault , TCU ’ s Jalen Reagor and Notre Dame ’ s Chase Claypool could be available .
The big question : Is Trey Burton ’ s replacement here ?
Pace said this month the Bears “ know we have some decisions we have to make across the board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end room .
Friday , he cut Trey Burton , who was hobbled by injuries all last season .
Could Shaheen be next ?
It still might not seem like there ’ s room for another tight end , but consider that none of the Bears ’ top four remaining players — Jimmy Graham , Demetrius Harris , Ben Braunecker and Shaheen — is a lock to be on the 2021 roster .
In a thin tight end class , will there be one worth taking in Round 5 ?
Or , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The fifth round is no time to be picky about position .
But if they selected a tight end here , he ’ d be the third-highest-picked player in the tight ends room .
Names to watch : Stanford ’ s Colby Parkinson , LSU ’ s Thaddeus Moss and Purdue ’ s Brycen Hopkins might be around .
Since 2015 , the Bears have used a Day 3 pick on safeties Eddie Jackson ( Pick 112 ) , Deon Bush ( 124 ) , Adrian Amos ( 142 ) and DeAndre Houston-Carson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfect time to get a strong safety to push Bush .
It might not preclude the Bears from eyeing a veteran in the post-draft free-agent market .
Names to watch : Auburn ’ s Daniel Thomas , Ohio State ’ s Jordan Fuller and Notre Dame ’ s Alohi Gilman and Jalen Elliott should be picked in Round 6 .
The Jaguars found Gardner Minshew in Round 6 last year , but most teams swim in these waters to find a third-stringer who , with some luck , might improve .
How they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pace has drafted one quarterback : Trubisky .
He has to eventually take another one , right ?
With four choices in the last two rounds , he could even package two picks for one .
Names to watch : FIU ’ s James Morgan , Oregon State ’ s Jake Luton , Washington State ’ s Anthony Gordon and Hawaii ’ s Cole McDonald are long-shot lottery tickets .
The big question : Will they finally address the offensive line ?
Bringing in former Seahawks tackle Germain Ifedi to play guard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t find an offensive lineman in the draft .
But they need help at guard and , perhaps next year , at tackle .
How they ’ ll answer : By taking the best O-lineman available The Bears could view Alex Bars , who went undrafted last year after having knee surgery , as their “ draft pick ” this year .
They need a swing tackle , though — whether that ’ s Ifedi or someone they draft .
Names to watch : Oregon ’ s Calvin Throckmorton is a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a wildly successful collegian but profiles as a pro guard .
Michigan ’ s Jon Runyan Jr. has the bloodlines — his dad played the O-line in the NFL for 14 years .
The big question : Will they get cute ?
Pace likes to use his seventh-round picks on projects : 5-10 wide receiver Daniel Braverman in 2016 and wide receiver-turned-cornerback Stephen Denmark last season .
How they ’ ll answer : By skipping the projects this year .
The NFL ’ s work-from-home draft means the scramble for undrafted free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with general managers , coaches and scouts needing to coordinate who pursues which player .
Simply drafting the player will be easier .
Names to watch : Running backs , inside linebackers and outside linebackers could fit on special teams and as practice-squad fodder .

Breaking down the biggest questions for each of the Bears’ seven selection slots in next week’s NFL Draft:
Round 2
Pick 43 (from Raiders)
The big question: Will the Bears draft a quarterback?
The Bears have more immediate needs at starting cornerback and safety and are still lacking talent at tight end, wide receiver and guard. But big picture, there’s no greater question in all of sports than the one for which the Bears have no answer: Do they trust their quarterback to win them a championship?
If the Bears think Georgia’s Jake Fromm, Washington’s Jacob Eason or Oklahoma’s Jalen Hurts could be that man someday, they must take him.
How they’ll answer: By drafting a cornerback.
Whether the Bears trust Mitch Trubisky or Nick Foles to win a title or not, they certainly believe their defense can carry them that far. They’ll use their first pick to shore up the most glaring need on the depth chart: a cornerback to start opposite Kyle Fuller.
General manager Ryan Pace’s offseason moves all point to making a playoff push in 2020. Drafting a cornerback best fits that template.
Names to watch: The top available cornerbacks are expected to be TCU’s Jeff Gladney, Auburn’s Noah Igbinoghene and Mississippi State’s Cameron Dantzler.
Pick 50
The big question: Will they trade the 50th pick?
The Bears don’t pick again until No. 162, a span of three rounds. The only way to change that is to trade down in the second round and gather extra picks.
Jimmy Johnson’s effective-but-crude draft-day trade-value chart presents a few potential matches, were teams motivated: the Titans’ second and third picks (Nos. 61 and 93), the Packers’ second and third (Nos. 62 and 94) or perhaps the Chiefs’ second and fourth (Nos. 63 and 96).
How they’ll answer: By trading down.
Pace likes doing it. He traded down in the second round twice to draft center Cody Whitehair in 2016. The next year, Pace moved down nine spots in the second round to take Adam Shaheen. The Cardinals sent a haul back: their own second-, fourth- and sixth-rounders, plus a 2018 fourth-rounder.
Names to watch: Wherever the Bears pick in the second round, a member of a historically deep wide receiver class makes sense. USC’s Michael Pittman, Colorado’s Laviska Shenault, TCU’s Jalen Reagor and Notre Dame’s Chase Claypool could be available.
Round 5
Pick 163
The big question: Is Trey Burton’s replacement here?
Pace said this month the Bears “know we have some decisions we have to make across the board” to thin out their 10-person tight end room. Friday, he cut Trey Burton, who was hobbled by injuries all last season. Could Shaheen be next?
It still might not seem like there’s room for another tight end, but consider that none of the Bears’ top four remaining players — Jimmy Graham, Demetrius Harris, Ben Braunecker and Shaheen — is a lock to be on the 2021 roster.
In a thin tight end class, will there be one worth taking in Round 5? Or, if they trade back, Round 4?
How they’ll answer: It depends.
The fifth round is no time to be picky about position. But if they selected a tight end here, he’d be the third-highest-picked player in the tight ends room.
Names to watch: Stanford’s Colby Parkinson, LSU’s Thaddeus Moss and Purdue’s Brycen Hopkins might be around.
Round 6
Pick 196
The big question: Time for a safety?
Since 2015, the Bears have used a Day 3 pick on safeties Eddie Jackson (Pick 112), Deon Bush (124), Adrian Amos (142) and DeAndre Houston-Carson (185).
How they’ll answer: By taking a safety.
This is the perfect time to get a strong safety to push Bush. It might not preclude the Bears from eyeing a veteran in the post-draft free-agent market.
Names to watch: Auburn’s Daniel Thomas, Ohio State’s Jordan Fuller and Notre Dame’s Alohi Gilman and Jalen Elliott should be picked in Round 6.
Pick 200 (from Eagles)
The big question: Want a camp arm?
The Jaguars found Gardner Minshew in Round 6 last year, but most teams swim in these waters to find a third-stringer who, with some luck, might improve.
How they’ll answer: By drafting one.
Pace has drafted one quarterback: Trubisky. He has to eventually take another one, right? With four choices in the last two rounds, he could even package two picks for one.
Names to watch: FIU’s James Morgan, Oregon State’s Jake Luton, Washington State’s Anthony Gordon and Hawaii’s Cole McDonald are long-shot lottery tickets.
Round 7
Pick 226 (from Raiders)
The big question: Will they finally address the offensive line?
Bringing in former Seahawks tackle Germain Ifedi to play guard gives the Bears cover if they can’t find an offensive lineman in the draft. But they need help at guard and, perhaps next year, at tackle.
How they’ll answer: By taking the best O-lineman available.
The Bears could view Alex Bars, who went undrafted last year after having knee surgery, as their “draft pick” this year. They need a swing tackle, though — whether that’s Ifedi or someone they draft.
Names to watch: Oregon’s Calvin Throckmorton is a lot like Whitehair — he played mostly tackle as a wildly successful collegian but profiles as a pro guard. Michigan’s Jon Runyan Jr. has the bloodlines — his dad played the O-line in the NFL for 14 years.
Pick 233
The big question: Will they get cute?
Pace likes to use his seventh-round picks on projects: 5-10 wide receiver Daniel Braverman in 2016 and wide receiver-turned-cornerback Stephen Denmark last season.
How they’ll answer: By skipping the projects this year.
The NFL’s work-from-home draft means the scramble for undrafted free agents will be more insane than ever, with general managers, coaches and scouts needing to coordinate who pursues which player. Simply drafting the player will be easier.
Names to watch: Running backs, inside linebackers and outside linebackers could fit on special teams and as practice-squad fodder.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--Thank you, Chicago, for the light show that helped me through a tough time

Two weeks ago , my wife , who is a nurse , became ill with coronavirus .
The first few days I did my best to take care of her , but she started having a harder time breathing and had no appetite .
I drove her to the emergency department .
She was placed on oxygen and taken to a sterile coronavirus ward , where I was not allowed to visit .
We were told the next 48 hours would tell if the disease would improve or worsen .
That night , I came back to my quiet apartment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moved in a few months ago from California , and there were few creature comforts .
The refrigerator was full of food I had tried to get my wife to eat , but I wasn ’ t hungry .
I felt lost .
There was no map .
There was nothing else I could do .
To my surprise , I heard sudden cheering outside .
From my balcony , I noticed flashing , swirling , twinkling lights coming from apartments across the city .
People were singing and playing music .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how resilient people can be .
A few days later , my wife turned the corner .
Each night now , we participate in the light show .
We hope our addition can comfort someone else .
Thank you , Chicago , for the light show and for helping me through a hard time .
Tell Congress to save the post office We can not allow Trump to kill the U.S .
Postal Service .
We just can ’ t !
In this age of online shopping , shipping and mailing is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only entity that delivers mail and packages to small and rural towns all over America .
It is not subject to mergers and acquisitions , price gouging or fixing .
It has the ability to handle millions of pieces of mail every day .
Miraculously , each letter or package gets to its destination .
It is a government agency that works well and benefits everyone .
Being forced to fully fund its pension and deliver to every address makes it difficult to operate in the black .
But USPS provides a necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it must be supported and funded .
Voters must write to their members of Congress and the president , and demand that the postal service not be dismantled at the whim of a ( hopefully ) outgoing president .
A year ago , I was afraid that President Trump ’ s re-election was a near-certainty .
The economy was booming .
The stock market was at an all-time high , unemployment at an all-time low .
Then came COVID-19 , a golden opportunity for the president to be seen as a “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on re-election .
Then came the president ’ s inane daily ” briefings.
” COVID-19 and the subsequent recession have virtually assured his demise .
Now , I think that every word out of his mouth is another vote for Joe Biden .
Hope I ’ m right .
There is no way to get past this COVID-19 pandemic without widespread nationwide testing .

Two weeks ago, my wife, who is a nurse, became ill with coronavirus. The first few days I did my best to take care of her, but she started having a harder time breathing and had no appetite.
I drove her to the emergency department. She was placed on oxygen and taken to a sterile coronavirus ward, where I was not allowed to visit. We were told the next 48 hours would tell if the disease would improve or worsen.
SEND LETTERS TO: letters@suntimes.com. Please include your neighborhood or hometown and a phone number for verification purposes.
That night, I came back to my quiet apartment in the South Loop. We had moved in a few months ago from California, and there were few creature comforts. The refrigerator was full of food I had tried to get my wife to eat, but I wasn’t hungry. I felt lost. There was no map. There was nothing else I could do.
To my surprise, I heard sudden cheering outside. From my balcony, I noticed flashing, swirling, twinkling lights coming from apartments across the city. People were singing and playing music. I stood and cried. It reminded me how resilient people can be.
A few days later, my wife turned the corner. Each night now, we participate in the light show. We hope our addition can comfort someone else.
Thank you, Chicago, for the light show and for helping me through a hard time.
Ian Foran, South Loop
Tell Congress to save the post office
We cannot allow Trump to kill the U.S. Postal Service. We just can’t!
In this age of online shopping, shipping and mailing is a vital industry. The USPS is the only entity that delivers mail and packages to small and rural towns all over America. It is not subject to mergers and acquisitions, price gouging or fixing. It has the ability to handle millions of pieces of mail every day. Miraculously, each letter or package gets to its destination. It is a government agency that works well and benefits everyone.
Being forced to fully fund its pension and deliver to every address makes it difficult to operate in the black. But USPS provides a necessary public service, like a utility, and it must be supported and funded.
Voters must write to their members of Congress and the president, and demand that the postal service not be dismantled at the whim of a (hopefully) outgoing president.
Carol Kraines, Deerfield
Trump makes the case for Biden
A year ago, I was afraid that President Trump’s re-election was a near-certainty. The economy was booming. The stock market was at an all-time high, unemployment at an all-time low.
Then came COVID-19, a golden opportunity for the president to be seen as a “wartime” leader and close the deal on re-election.
Then came the president’s inane daily ”briefings.” COVID-19 and the subsequent recession have virtually assured his demise.
Now, I think that every word out of his mouth is another vote for Joe Biden. Hope I’m right.
John Szot, Merrillville, Indiana
National testing is a must
There is no way to get past this COVID-19 pandemic without widespread nationwide testing.
Michael Shepherd, Bellwood


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--Woman, 12-year-old boy hurt in Austin hit-and-run

Police are looking for the driver of a car that hit a woman and a 12-year-old boy Friday in Austin @ @ @ @ @ The 37-year-old woman and the boy were crossing the street at 11:44 p.m. when they @ @ @ @ @ black sedan in the 5600 block of West Madison Street , according to Chicago police @ @ @ @ @ scene .
The child and the woman were both taken to Stroger Hospital in fair @ @ @ @ @ Their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening .
Read more on crime , and @ @ @ @ @ homicides .

Police are looking for the driver of a car that hit a woman and a 12-year-old boy Friday in Austin on the West Side.
The 37-year-old woman and the boy were crossing the street at 11:44 p.m. when they were hit by the westbound black sedan in the 5600 block of West Madison Street, according to Chicago police. The driver left the scene.
The child and the woman were both taken to Stroger Hospital in fair condition, police said. Their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
The CPD Major Accidents unit is investigating.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--Smash-and-grab burglar hits South Loop business

Police are investigating a burglary reported Saturday at a business in the South Loop .
Someone threw a rock through @ @ @ @ @ the business at 12:29 a.m. in the 700 block of South State Street , according @ @ @ @ @ suspect then took an undisclosed amount of costume jewelry , police said .
No one @ @ @ @ @ Central detectives investigate .
Read more on crime , and track the city ’ s @ @

Police are investigating a burglary reported Saturday at a business in the South Loop.
Someone threw a rock through the glass front door of the business at 12:29 a.m. in the 700 block of South State Street, according to Chicago police.
The suspect then took an undisclosed amount of costume jewelry, police said.
No one is in custody as Area Central detectives investigate.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-18--Armed robbers strike minutes apart in Uptown, Lake View

Police are warning North Side residents about a pair of armed robberies Friday morning in Uptown and Lake View .
@ @ @ @ @ men got out of a dark four-door sedan and held a victim up at gunpoint @ @ @ @ @ alert from Chicago police .
They took the victim ’ s property , hit the @ @ @ @ @ one case they also stole the victim ’ s vehicle , which was parked nearby @ @ @ @ @ first robbery occurred at 5:02 a.m. in the 4800 block of North Sheridan Road , @ @ @ @ @ happened at 5:05 a.m. in the 500 block of West Cornelia Avenue .
The suspects @ @ @ @ @ between 30 and 35 years old with brown eyes and black hair , according to @ @ @ @ @ 5-foot-9 and 6 feet tall and weighed 150-200 pounds , while the other was about @ @ @ @ @ Anyone with information is asked to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263 .
Read more @ @ @ @ @ the city ’ s homicides .

Police are warning North Side residents about a pair of armed robberies Friday morning in Uptown and Lake View.
In each case, two men got out of a dark four-door sedan and held a victim up at gunpoint, according to a community alert from Chicago police. They took the victim’s property, hit the victim and left.
In one case they also stole the victim’s vehicle, which was parked nearby, police said.
The first robbery occurred at 5:02 a.m. in the 4800 block of North Sheridan Road, police said. The other happened at 5:05 a.m. in the 500 block of West Cornelia Avenue.
The suspects were described as two men between 30 and 35 years old with brown eyes and black hair, according to police. One was between 5-foot-9 and 6 feet tall and weighed 150-200 pounds, while the other was about 5-foot-9 and 235 pounds.
Anyone with information is asked to call Area North detectives at 312-744-8263.
Read more on crime, and track the city’s homicides.


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Horoscope for Saturday, April 18, 2020

Horoscope for Saturday, April 18, 2020

We have the all clear to shop and do business .
The moon is in Pisces .
Today you are alert and mentally invigorated , which is why you ’ re keen to talk to others and express your ideas .
Not only that , you have fabulous ideas !
( Let ’ s hope people listen to you . )
In addition , Venus will sweeten your words so that people will like what they hear .
Your ability to research something or ferret out the truth about things is wonderful .
If you want solutions to old problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something , dig in because you have perseverance and intellectual insight .
( Do share whatever you discover . )
This is a great day to be active with young people .
Likewise , you will be influential if you ’ re involved in a group , especially online , because you are mentally alive and energetic today !
Expect to be in the position of shaping things to come .
( Do your homework first . )
This is a strong day to make your pitch to bosses , parents , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authority because you are clear and mentally vibrant .
People will be impressed with what you have to say , which means this is an excellent opportunity for you .
Go , go , go !
This is the perfect day to study any subject or explore heady topics about philosophy , metaphysics and religion .
It ’ s also a good day to use this dynamic , mental energy to finish a paper or a manuscript .
Get busy !
Don ’ t waste this energy .
You ’ ll have no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions about shared property , inheritances , taxes , insurance disputes and anything to do with the wealth and resources of others — this includes dealing with the government .
This is because your mind is in overdrive today !
This is a busy day for you , in part because you have the ability to present your ideas to others .
You will convince those who are close to you to follow your beliefs and do your bidding .
If you have to convince someone of something today - you will !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ initiative , whether working on the front lines or working at home , because you are mentally charged up and excited about ideas , especially practical ideas .
Quite likely , you see a better way of doing something .
Those of you who are teaching kids or working with kids will be effective today because you are personally turned on by your own ideas and beliefs .
And as we all know , enthusiasm is contagious .
( Oops — bad choice of words ? )
Relax , this is a fun-loving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be dynamic and lively today — no question .
Furthermore , some of you will tackle DIY projects with a vengeance — well , at least with enthusiasm , because you have the energy to follow through on your ideas .
It ’ s a productive day !
This is the perfect day to learn something new because you have lots of mental energy .
Likewise , you can spin this mental energy and challenge it into sales , marketing , teaching and acting .
Yes , you , too , can make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exercises ?
How to solve a computer problem ?
Take your pick .
You ’ re full of money-making ideas or better ways to deal with your financial situation today .
Likewise , you might want to clean , repair and organize your possessions because you want to establish better control in your life through what you own .
Sounds good to me .
If Your Birthday Is Today Actor Eric McCormack ( 1963 ) shares your birthday .
You are an intelligent , enthusiastic person who likes change .
You are both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nice person who is ambitious !
This is your time of harvest !
Yay !
Now you will begin to reap the benefits of your efforts in the last decade .
You deserve this time of success .
Expect to enjoy an increased influence and leadership in your relationships .
Yes !

Moon Alert
We have the all clear to shop and do business. The moon is in Pisces.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Today you are alert and mentally invigorated, which is why you’re keen to talk to others and express your ideas. Not only that, you have fabulous ideas! (Let’s hope people listen to you.) In addition, Venus will sweeten your words so that people will like what they hear.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Your ability to research something or ferret out the truth about things is wonderful. If you want solutions to old problems or you want to learn more about something, dig in because you have perseverance and intellectual insight. (Do share whatever you discover.)
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
This is a great day to be active with young people. Likewise, you will be influential if you’re involved in a group, especially online, because you are mentally alive and energetic today! Expect to be in the position of shaping things to come. (Do your homework first.)
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
This is a strong day to make your pitch to bosses, parents, the police or anyone in a position of authority because you are clear and mentally vibrant. People will be impressed with what you have to say, which means this is an excellent opportunity for you. Go, go, go!
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
This is the perfect day to study any subject or explore heady topics about philosophy, metaphysics and religion. It’s also a good day to use this dynamic, mental energy to finish a paper or a manuscript. Get busy! Don’t waste this energy.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
You’ll have no trouble defending your own best interests in discussions about shared property, inheritances, taxes, insurance disputes and anything to do with the wealth and resources of others — this includes dealing with the government. This is because your mind is in overdrive today!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
This is a busy day for you, in part because you have the ability to present your ideas to others. You will convince those who are close to you to follow your beliefs and do your bidding. If you have to convince someone of something today - you will!
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Today you will display your own individual initiative, whether working on the front lines or working at home, because you are mentally charged up and excited about ideas, especially practical ideas. Quite likely, you see a better way of doing something.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Those of you who are teaching kids or working with kids will be effective today because you are personally turned on by your own ideas and beliefs. And as we all know, enthusiasm is contagious. (Oops — bad choice of words?) Relax, this is a fun-loving day for you!
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Family discussions will be dynamic and lively today — no question. Furthermore, some of you will tackle DIY projects with a vengeance — well, at least with enthusiasm, because you have the energy to follow through on your ideas. It’s a productive day!
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
This is the perfect day to learn something new because you have lots of mental energy. Likewise, you can spin this mental energy and challenge it into sales, marketing, teaching and acting. Yes, you, too, can make your home You Tube video! Home exercises? How to solve a computer problem? Take your pick.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
You’re full of money-making ideas or better ways to deal with your financial situation today. Likewise, you might want to clean, repair and organize your possessions because you want to establish better control in your life through what you own. Sounds good to me.
If Your Birthday Is Today
Actor Eric McCormack (1963) shares your birthday. You are an intelligent, enthusiastic person who likes change. You are both assertive and sensitive. You’re a nice person who is ambitious! This is your time of harvest! Yay! Now you will begin to reap the benefits of your efforts in the last decade. You deserve this time of success. Expect to enjoy an increased influence and leadership in your relationships. Yes!


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--Man, 24, last seen on Near West Side found

Lightfoot order makes COVID-19 relief available to all , regardless of immigration status `` This order is more than just @ @ @ @ @ Lightfoot said .
`` It ’ s a statement of our values as a city @ @ @ @ @ are saying , ` We are all in this together ’ means all of us @ @ @ @ @ . ''

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


chicagosun-times--2020-04-17--2020 WNBA draft: Sky select Oregon’s Ruthy Hebard with eighth overall pick

Ruthy Hebard had been dreaming , waiting for the WNBA draft — imagining what it would be like to walk the orange carpet at the Nike New York Headquarters , shake commissioner Cathy Engelbert ’ s hand on stage and then explore New York City with her former Oregon teammates Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally .
But on Friday , Hebard , whom the Sky picked eighth overall , instead watched the draft from the living room of her family ’ s home in Fairbanks , Alaska , as the league was forced to hold the event virtually because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hebard wouldn ’ t have it any other way .
“ It ’ s great .
I ’ m so happy , ” she said .
“ I ’ d never thought I would be in Alaska for a draft.
” Shortly after the draft ended , there was a friendly parade through Fairbanks — with social distancing — with Hebard as the waving star .
Neighbors and friends cheered from their parked cars as Hebard and her family drove through the streets .
“ I know a lot of people are happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third Duck to be drafted in the first round after Ionescu and Sabally went first and second overall to the Liberty and Wings , respectively .
“ It ’ s nice being around close family and friends during this time.
” Hebard , who was born in Chicago and adopted by a family in Fairbanks when she was an infant , was one of the top players on Sky general manager James Wade ’ s draft board .
He saw her as a steal at No .
8 .
Coming off their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their first playoff appearance since 2016 , the Sky are in win-now mode , and Hebard is a player who can make an immediate impact on both ends of the court this upcoming season .
She has been a steady force for the Ducks the last four years , shooting a Pac-12 all-time best 65.1 percent from the field .
Last season , she averaged 17.3 points on a career-best 68.5 percent shooting and 9.6 rebounds .
Hebard is also a menace in the paint and can pass out of double teams , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spacing and ability to attack the lane .
She ’ s also a strong rebounder and a potential answer to the team ’ s deficiencies on defense .
“ Any time you get the most efficient player in college basketball for the following three years , it ’ s a gift within itself , ” said Wade , who also said Hebard ’ s game reminds him of that of Lynx forward Napheesa Collier , last year ’ s WNBA rookie of the year .
“ Pick-and-roll-wise , that ’ s when she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think the way we play our game , we play a lot of pick-and-rolls .
.
.
and she ’ s going to be a great target.
” Although there ’ s uncertainty about the upcoming season , Hebard plans to take advantage of this time off to grow her game and get herself physically and mentally prepared for her next step .
“ [ I ’ m going to ] make sure whenever this [ pandemic ] all clears up , I ’ m ready to go and hopefully make an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who also drafted former UCLA guard Japreece Dean at No .
30 and former Florida State forward Kiah Gillespie at No .
32 , deemed the draft an overall success .
“ I feel really good , ” he said .
“ We got better .
We addressed needs , and I think we got the best players available [ at each spot ] .
”