chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Former CPS head Barbara Byrd-Bennett, convicted of corruption, moved from prison to Ohio halfway hou

Former CPS head Barbara Byrd-Bennett, convicted of corruption, moved from prison to Ohio halfway house

Instead , Byrd-Bennett was promised hundreds of thousands of dollars as a “ signing bonus ” once she left her @ @ @ @ @ SUPES as a consultant , her plea deal said .
The bonus was to be @ @ @ @ @ up in the names her twin grandsons -- with the cash available to her once @ @ @ @

Jason Meisner, Katherine Rosenberg-Douglas

Barbara Byrd-Bennett, right, leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago on April 28, 2017, after being sentenced for her role in a bribery scandal. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)
Barbara Byrd-Bennett, the former head of Chicago Public Schools convicted in a scheme to pocket hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks, has been freed from federal prison more than a year early under an initiative to release inmates vulnerable to COVID-19.
Her lawyer, Erica Zunkel, said Byrd-Bennett was back home Wednesday and will serve the remainder of her 4 1/2-year sentence — which is scheduled to expire in June 2021 — on home confinement.
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“I’m extremely happy to be home,” Byrd-Bennett said in an emailed statement. “I’m thankful for my family, friends, legal counsel, and all who assisted and supported me during this time.”
Zunkel declined further comment. Byrd-Bennett’s state of residence was not immediately released, though she had been processed through a halfway house in Ohio on Tuesday.
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Byrd-Bennett, 70, had been serving her sentence at Alderson Federal Prison Camp, a minimum-security facility in West Virginia nicknamed “Camp Cupcake” where Martha Stewart served time for lying to the FBI about alleged insider trading in 2005.
Byrd-Bennett was freed as part of an initiative announced last month by Attorney General William Barr to release inmates who are near the end of their sentences and, due to age or medical issues, were at elevated risk for contracting the coronavirus.
As of Tuesday, more than 2,000 inmates at federal prisons across the country had contracted COVID-19 and 41 have died, according to the latest statistics posted by the prisons bureau.
No cases had been reported at the facility where Byrd-Bennett was housed, according to the prisons bureau.
Byrd-Bennett pleaded guilty to collecting kickbacks in exchange for steering more than $20 million in contracts to SUPES Academy, an education consulting firm where she had worked.
The case capped a stunning fall from grace for Byrd-Bennett, who was considered a star in urban education when Mayor Rahm Emanuel picked her to lead the city’s cash-strapped school district.
In a plea agreement with prosecutors, Byrd-Bennett admitted that in exchange for her influence, SUPES executives Gary Solomon and Thomas Vranas gave her tickets to sporting events, meals and other perks, though no cash actually exchanged hands.
Instead, Byrd-Bennett was promised hundreds of thousands of dollars as a “signing bonus” once she left her duties at CPS and rejoined SUPES as a consultant, her plea deal said. The bonus was to be concealed in trust accounts set up in the names her twin grandsons -- with the cash available to her once she left CPS.
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A CPS committee set up to evaluate no-bid contracts initially balked at awarding SUPES a noncompetitive deal but later approved the plan, records show.
In pushing for the contracts, Byrd-Bennett admitted she lied to other CPS administrators, telling them she had no financial connection with the company. When one district official raised concerns about the no-bid deal, Byrd-Bennett effectively had him fired, according to court records.
Much of the case centered on emails sent between Solomon and Byrd-Bennett that seemed to make no effort to conceal the alleged kickback scheme.
Solomon told Byrd-Bennett in one 2012 email, “If you only join for the day, you will be the highest paid person on the planet for that day. Regardless, it will be paid out on day one,” according to court records.
In another message, Byrd-Bennett implied she needed cash because she had “tuition to pay and casinos to visit,” records show.
At her sentencing hearing in 2017, Byrd-Bennett sobbed as she told U.S. District Judge Edmond Chang she had no excuse for lining her own pockets, despite the pressures of running the nation’s third-largest school district.
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“Oh, your honor, I wish I had magic words or a better explanation,” Byrd-Bennett said in court.
Her sentence was three years less than what prosecutors had requested and well below the seven-year term given to Solomon, who isn’t scheduled to be released until 2023.
Vranas was sentenced to 18 months in prison and was released in 2018, records show.
jmeisner@chicagotribune.com
kdouglas@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Cars.com lays off 170 employees to cut costs during COVID-19 pandemic

“ We proactively worked with our customers to help them manage through the crisis , while also taking immediate measures @ @ @ @ @ a 250-person furlough of our workforce , and from that furlough a permanent reduction of @ @ @ @ @ Vetter , CEO and president of Cars.com , said in a news release Wednesday .

Cars.com, the Chicago-based car shopping website, has laid off 170 employees to cut costs during COVID-19 pandemic.
The layoffs, which took effect May 1, reduced the size of the Cars.com workforce by about 10%, and were part of "significant” measures the company has taken since COVID-related business restrictions imposed in mid-March curtailed revenue for the auto industry broadly.
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“We proactively worked with our customers to help them manage through the crisis, while also taking immediate measures within the company, including a 250-person furlough of our workforce, and from that furlough a permanent reduction of 170 people," Alex Vetter, CEO and president of Cars.com, said in a news release Wednesday.
The furloughs were implemented on April 1.
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There were 94 Chicago-area employees laid off as part of the cost-savings move, spokeswoman Marita Thomas said. The company reduced compensation by 10% for remaining employees.
Cars.com had 1,547 employees as of Dec. 31, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The company, which launched more than 20 years ago as an online alternative to used-car classifieds, has shifted focus in recent years as a sales platform for new car buyers, linking dealers and customers digitally.
Cars.com CEO Alex Vetter has been with the company since its launch 20 years ago as online used car classifieds. In a May 6, 2020, news release announcing layoffs, Vetter said the company's digital offerings "are part of the antidote for our industry." (Robert Channick/Chicago Tribune)
Cars.com on Wednesday reported a first-quarter net loss of $787.4 million, compared with a loss of $9 million in the year-ago period, and took an impairment charge of $905.9 million during the first quarter related to the COVID-19 restrictions.
First-quarter revenue declined 4% to $148.1 million. Average revenue per dealer was down 6% due primarily to cancellations and discounts given in the second half of March as a result of the coronavirus.
“While the impact of COVID-19 is severe, we know our digital solutions are part of the antidote for our industry and we worked in partnership with dealers to initiate efforts to get car sales classified as essential services, selling safely through digital platforms,” Vetter said.
Founded in 1998 by a group of newspaper companies that included the former owner of the Chicago Tribune, Cars.com spun off on its own in 2017 as an independent, publicly traded company.
rchannick@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Skokie synagogue dedicated to deaf people may have to close its doors. ‘Right now is not a good time

Skokie synagogue dedicated to deaf people may have to close its doors. ‘Right now is not a good time to be asking people for money’

“ This temple has so much to offer , ” Daybook , an Avondale resident , said .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ language and spoken in English and Hebrew .
It felt so comforting to be involved @ @ @ @ @ first exposure to the deaf culture .
I give a lot of credit for this @ @ @ @ @ true identity — learning that I can have faith in God and in my religion @ @ @ @ @ deaf .
This temple needs to stay open .
Without this temple , I am @ @ @ @ @ do .
I can say much more , but others need to come and witness @ @ @ @ @ why this place is so special .
”

Sari Daybook, 37, was a year old when she was diagnosed with severe to profound hearing loss. She recalls being fitted with hearing aids at 17 months. With help from her family, she learned how to talk. She also remembers she was 5 years old when her family discovered the Congregation Bene Shalom in Skokie.
“It was so important to my grandmother that I love and appreciate my Jewish faith,” Daybook said in an email interview. “When I walked in at 5 years old, I was overwhelmed with joy and excitement watching members using sign language and talking back and forth. I was raised orally, and my family did not use sign language. So being involved at a deaf temple was such a wonderful experience for me. It still is to this day. Congregation Bene Shalom did just that."
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Since its creation in 1972, Bene Shalom has been a Reform Jewish congregation committed to providing an inclusive environment to experience God and understand Jewish heritage through prayer, study of the Torah, Kabbalah and healing prayer. It is the only full-service synagogue in the nation devoted to the deaf community, which is exempt from religious obligations according to some interpretations of Jewish law. Unfortunately the synagogue is on the cusp of closure, according to temple President Laura Schwartz. Over the years, she said, the temple has lost funding sources as congregation members have died.
“We used to have a friends group of some very wealthy people who really supported the synagogue, and many of those people have passed away,” she said. “When we launched our fundraising campaign around Thanksgiving last year, we were able to reach out to the children of the very wealthy people, and they did make some donations, so we did get enough money to get us through the year when we were really desperate. We’ve been managing those funds very carefully, but of course they are going to run out.”
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Schwartz said the synagogue’s rabbis have already taken pay cuts, the temple put a donation button on the top right of its website and a Gofundme campaign is in place. According to Rabbi Douglas Goldhamer, the annual budget is $300,000, and they still need $150,000 to remain open until January 2021.
“We’re struggling, but right now is not a good time to be asking people for money,” Schwartz said. “We’re hoping once this coronavirus situation dies down, hopefully in the fall, we’ll renew our fundraising efforts. We’re going to try everything we can. We haven’t been able to meet to figure out what our next big step is, but once this critical time passes, we’ll get together and put our heads together and come up with more ideas and brainstorm.”
Over the years, teens studying for their bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs have learned their Torah portion in Hebrew and translated it into English and sign language at Congregation Bene Shalom. A signing choir accompanies the cantorial soloist.
Daybook, an instructional assistant for special education at New Trier High School in Winnetka, said the temple has been with her for the majority of her life, including adult classes and Kabbalah. She became a Sunday school teacher, a member of the sign language choir and is now a rabbinical student at Bene Shalom.
Goldhamer said that if Bene Shalom shutters, its food pantry will close and the synagogue’s help for families in the community will end for deaf members as well as those who are not hard of hearing.
“We need to share money with people who need food, who need clothes,” Goldhamer, 75, said. “I do believe strongly God has inspired me to do this work because I was sharing with the people a new way of seeing God through the American Sign Language — translating the ancient Hebrew and Aramaic characters through American Sign Language. ... Imagine going to your church and seeing prayers signed — it’s as if the prayers are dancing before you.”
“This temple has so much to offer,” Daybook, an Avondale resident, said. “The services were always in sign language and spoken in English and Hebrew. It felt so comforting to be involved. Bene Shalom is my first exposure to the deaf culture. I give a lot of credit for this temple helping me learn my true identity — learning that I can have faith in God and in my religion even though I’m deaf. This temple needs to stay open. Without this temple, I am not sure what I would do. I can say much more, but others need to come and witness what they are supporting and why this place is so special.”
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drockett@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Watch live: Gov. J.B. Pritzker and health officials give an update on COVID-19 in Illinois

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker and state health officials are scheduled to provide an update on the coronavirus in Illinois at @ @ @ @ @ the latest coronavirus updates here .

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chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Remembering the lives of those in Illinois who died from coronavirus

As the number of deaths attributable to COVID-19 ticks upward , the Tribune is working to chronicle those who have @ @ @ @ @ Chicago area or who have connections to our region .
These are some of those @ @

They were mothers and fathers, daughters and sons. Many were proud grandparents. Two were sisters from a tight-knit South Side family. All were loved, relatives say, and will be forever missed.
As the number of deaths attributable to COVID-19 ticks upward, the Tribune is working to chronicle those who have lost their lives in the Chicago area or who have connections to our region. These are some of those victims.
If you know of someone or would like to offer a remembrance of someone please share your information here. To file a death notice, go here.
Subscribe to the Chicago Tribune: Our mission is to deliver trusted and meaningful local news. Your support allows us to continue providing the award-winning, watchdog and in-depth journalism our community deserves. Subscribe here.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Column: Trump wants ‘warrior’ Americans to face COVID-19 and reopen the country. You first, Mr. Pres

Column: Trump wants ‘warrior’ Americans to face COVID-19 and reopen the country. You first, Mr. President.

But first , let ’ s examine the battlefield .
America currently has more coronavirus-related deaths than any other country @ @ @ @ @ to rise .
We have more than 30 % of all coronavirus cases in the @ @ @ @ @ only about 4.4 % of the world ’ s population .

President Donald Trump tours a Honeywell International factory producing N95 masks May 5 in Phoenix, during his first trip since widespread COVID-19-related lockdowns went into effect. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / AFP via Getty Images)
As the number of American deaths from COVID-19 rose above 70,000, President Donald Trump issued a rallying cry for our long-quarantined country to bravely reopen so he can get reelected in the fall.
"Our country wants to open,” Trump lied Tuesday.
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According to a recent national survey conducted by researchers at Harvard, Rutgers and Northeastern universities: “A total of 94% strongly or somewhat approve asking people to stay home and avoid gathering in groups; 92% support canceling major sports and entertainment events; 91% approve closing K-12 schools; 91% approve limiting restaurants to carry-out only; 83% approve closing businesses other than grocery stores and pharmacies.”
But Trump has never let things like “data” or “public opinion” or “the truth” get in the way of his wishes, so he continued: “They have to open. And the people of our country should think of themselves as warriors.”
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Warriors — that sounds bold and exciting. Who among us doesn’t want to be a warrior? FETCH ME MY ARMOR AND BROADSWORD, I’M OFF TO BATTLE THE VIRUS!
But first, let’s examine the battlefield. America currently has more coronavirus-related deaths than any other country, and that number continues to rise. We have more than 30% of all coronavirus cases in the world while our population is only about 4.4% of the world’s population.
While the Trump administration’s coronavirus task force laid out benchmarks states should meet before reopening — like a two-week decline in coronavirus cases — many Republican-led states are charging forward, pulling back stay-at-home orders even as cases rise.
Georgia is one of them, a state relying on citizen warriors willing to head out and resume shopping and eating at restaurants despite warnings from public health officials that it’s too soon.
Stephen Moore, who serves on Trump’s council on reopening the country, explained this charge into battle to Politico: “If they stay closed for another month, month and a half, you’re gonna have body bags of businesses that will never recover.”
Nobody wants to see businesses in body bags. Better to fill those body bags with the actual bodies of “warriors,” I suppose.
So it seems what Trump and others in the Republican Party are offering is this:
1. A chance to be a warrior. (Cool!)
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2. A decidedly unsecured battlefield on which to fight an invisible enemy.
3. No obvious plan for victory.
4. Unoccupied body bags.
Trump also said Tuesday: “I’m not saying anything is perfect. Yes, will some people be affected? Yes. Will some people be affected badly? Yes.”
Sounds tempting. And I do love the warrior label and the whole freewheeling “no plan” thing.
But I don’t see why regular Americans should get to hog all the glory. Perhaps this is a moment for the much-maligned “one-percenters” to rehabilitate their image.
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For too long, the non-wealthy have had the honor of being America’s warriors. A 2016 study published in the University of Memphis Law Review — titled “Invisible Inequality: The Two Americas of Military Sacrifice” — examined socioeconomic disparities in military service and concluded: “Working class America is sacrificing at a higher rate than affluent America.”
Per the report: “The data show that while sacrifice was shared equally in World War II, beginning with the war in Korea, significant income gaps emerged. In raw, inflation-adjusted dollar terms, this income casualty gap increased over time from a $5,500 gap in Korea, to an $8,200 gap in Vietnam, and now to more than an $11,000 gap in Iraq and Afghanistan.”
And a 2008 research paper published in the Journal of Political and Military Sociology found “the all-volunteer force continues to see over-representation of the working and middle classes, with fewer incentives for upper class participation.”
I think there’s a wealthy president and a large number of wealthy corporate shareholders out there who deserve a shot at being warriors.
According to a Washington Post report this week: “Levi Strauss announced April 7 that the company would stop paying store workers, and about 4,000 are now on furlough. On the same day, the company announced that it was returning $32 million to shareholders.”
Also: “Stanley Black & Decker announced on April 2 that it was planning furloughs and layoffs because of the pandemic. Two weeks later, it issued a dividend to shareholders of about $106 million.”
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I’ve heard there are even some newspaper companies cutting employee pay and enforcing furloughs while still considering granting multimillion-dollar dividends to stockholders. (Ahem.)
So I have a simple and equitable proposal, one that allows the wealthy an opportunity to be brave coronavirus warriors: You first.
Let’s have the executives at Levi Strauss join the company’s shareholders for a couple of weeks on the production lines and working retail at shops in the mall. (They can grab lunch at the food court, where I’m sure higher-ups from fast-food chains will be happy to serve them.)
Let’s get the leaders of Amazon and food-delivery services like Instacart to warrior-up and work the warehouses and roam the grocery aisles. Heads of food companies can staff the meat plants.
I’m sure Warrior-President Trump will also be eager to show regular folks America is open for business. No way he would cower at the thought of being “affected badly.” Just hop a D.C. Metro train, Mr. President, and head to a nearby McDonald’s for some of your favorite eats.
If the president and other rich and powerful people keep insisting, against all prevailing evidence, that Americans are ready to become citizen-warriors, they should grab the glory and lead the way.
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We’ll check back with them in about 14 days and see how things are going.
rhuppke@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Tipping in the era of the coronavirus: What do you give the grocery or restaurant delivery person? T

Tipping in the era of the coronavirus: What do you give the grocery or restaurant delivery person? The mail carrier? The plumber?

For restaurant delivery , think 15-20 % .
Newfield says that even before the pandemic , a lot of people @ @ @ @ @ better restaurants , and now some people are tipping 40 % for delivery .
But @ @ @ @ @ average tip .
Carrico , the Gig Workers ’ spokesperson , estimates that people are @ @ @ @ @ restaurant delivery nationwide .
A local Grubhub driver responding to the Tribune ’ s query @ @ @ @ @ gets tips of 20 % or more .
Of the 63 Facebook users responding clearly @ @ @ @ @ , 51 indicated that they tip at least 20 % .
Six of the 51 @ @ @ @ @ 20 % , ranging from 25 % to 50 % .
An additional four people @ @ @ @ @ 10-15 % range and eight gave flat dollar amounts from $ 5 to $ 30 @

The Instacart workers who bring Lee Goldstein her groceries are usually women in their 20s or 30s. Goldstein wonders if they’ve lost their jobs due to the coronavirus epidemic. She suspects that they are the mothers of young children.
And so she tips an extra $15 or $20 in cash, beyond the 15 percent she has already agreed to online.
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“Everybody is doing what they need to do to survive right now,” said Goldstein, 68, of Elgin. “I’m struggling like everyone else, but everybody needs it right now. Everyone just needs help.”
Americans are in uncharted territory when it comes to tipping during the coronavirus crisis, when essential workers are putting their health at risk to bring us food and mail, fix our leaking pipes and unclog our drains.
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What’s clear, according to Peggy Newfield, president of the American School of Protocol in Atlanta, is that for those who can afford to tip more than usual, doing so is now fairly standard.
“I’m going to tip as much as I can for any service that’s rendered,” Newfield said. “This is a very desperate time in our America for many people.”
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 You may want to show the employees of your favorite grocery store just how much you appreciate them, but it’s important to ask first. Gottsman says to check with the store before offering an employee a cash tip. “Most grocers don’t allow their employees to accept gratuity,” she said. “They pay them an hourly rate because they are not relying on tips to make an hourly wage. However, during this time, they may change their policy.” (Joe Raedle/Getty Images News via Getty Images)
To get a sense of Chicago area tipping practices, the Tribune posted queries at neighborhood Facebook pages for Elgin, Naperville and Oak Park, drawing responses from more than 60 food delivery customers and a handful of delivery workers, including an Uber Eats worker who said she typically gets $5-$10 in tips per order and a Grubhub worker who mostly gets 20% or more. We also interviewed Newfield and a spokesperson for the Gig Workers Collective, a California-based organization that advocates for Instacart shoppers, Lyft drivers and similar independent contractors nationwide.
Here are some basic guidelines for the Chicago area:
For grocery delivery, 20% is a good tip. Gig Workers’ spokesperson Heidi Carrico said that a good tip during the coronavirus era is at least 20%, up from 10-15% before the epidemic; a great tip is now 30%. Among the 52 Chicago area Facebook users who responded to the Tribune’s grocery tipping query, 41 said they were tipping at least 20%. Seven of those 41 named specific amounts higher than 20%, ranging from 25% to 50%. An additional seven said they were tipping in the 10-15% range, and four were giving flat amounts of $5-$20. That breakdown is probably not representative of the Chicago area, but it does offer a snapshot of what some of the more generous tippers are giving.
For restaurant delivery, think 15-20%. Newfield says that even before the pandemic, a lot of people were tipping 22% at better restaurants, and now some people are tipping 40% for delivery. But that’s not your average tip. Carrico, the Gig Workers’ spokesperson, estimates that people are tipping about 15% for restaurant delivery nationwide. A local Grubhub driver responding to the Tribune’s query on Facebook said she typically gets tips of 20% or more. Of the 63 Facebook users responding clearly to the Tribune restaurant query, 51 indicated that they tip at least 20%. Six of the 51 named a specific amount over 20%, ranging from 25% to 50%. An additional four people said they tip in the 10-15% range and eight gave flat dollar amounts from $5 to $30.
Yes, some people are tipping for carryout. Four Facebook users told the Tribune they were tipping from 10% to “at least 20%,” an additional respondent reported tipping $10-$20, and another $20-$30. Again, bear in mind that this is what generous givers are saying in a semipublic forum; the average is likely to be lower.
The mail carrier isn’t eligible. Mail carriers aren’t technically allowed to accept cash or cash equivalents, but three local Facebook users reported springing for gift cards. One individual gave a $25 Target gift card and a group of neighbors banded together to give a $200 Grubhub gift card.
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You can try giving the plumber $10 to $15. Plumbers and electricians are relatively well-paid professionals, but if one risks his or her health to deal with a household emergency, you may want to go above and beyond. Plumbers working for bigger companies typically won’t accept a tip, Newfield said, but there’s no harm in asking if you’re so inclined. If you want to try to tip an independent plumber, or one working for a smaller company, $10 to $15 is a good amount, Newfield said.
nschoenberg@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Man charged after Geneva police officer struck in hit-and-run crash in Batavia

As the officer stood outside the driver ’ s car window with his squad lights activated , he was struck @ @ @ @ @ minivan that hit his left elbow , causing him to lose his balance and fall @ @ @ @ @ said .

A Geneva police officer conducting a traffic stop in Batavia was struck in a hit-and-run crash Tuesday afternoon, officials said.
The 22-year-old police officer initiated an unrelated traffic stop around 5 a.m. in the 1900 block of Kirk Road in Geneva near the border with Batavia. The vehicle pulled over south of Fabyan Parkway inside Batavia’s city limits, police said in a news release.
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As the officer stood outside the driver’s car window with his squad lights activated, he was struck by a white 2011 Volkswagen minivan that hit his left elbow, causing him to lose his balance and fall to the ground, officials said.
The minivan driver initially slowed down after the crash but then allegedly continued to drive south, police said.
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Police found the minivan parked at a business on the 700 block of North Kirk Road in Batavia, according to officials.
The minivan driver, Bartolo Martinez-Lopez, 53, of West Chicago, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury and passing an emergency vehicle causing personal injury, both felonies.
Bartolo Martinez-Lopez (Batavia Police Department / HANDOUT)
He is also charged with several misdemeanors, including failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to render aid in a traffic accident, driving with a suspended license and operating an uninsured vehicle.
The injured officer was taken to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva and has since been released.
mejones@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Parolee swaps identities with another inmate, walks out of Cook County Jail in mask covering distinc

Parolee swaps identities with another inmate, walks out of Cook County Jail in mask covering distinctive face tattoos

After being arrested and read his rights , Henderson told investigators that he met the man alleged to be Scott @ @ @ @ @ bail hearing who said he needed to get out of jail and promised him $ @ @ @ @ @ “ a favor , ” Murphy said .
The parolee would be released on Henderson @ @ @ @ @ be paid the money at a later meeting .

Authorities are searching for Jahquez Scott, left, who was assisted in his escape from the Cook County Jail by Quintin Henderson, right. Henderson was charged with aiding and betting an escape, a class 2 felony. (Cook County Sheriff's Office)
Having received a personal recognizance I-bond for a felony drug charge from a judge on Saturday, Quintin Henderson was set to head home that evening — that is, until a fellow defendant posed a proposition, according to Cook County prosecutors.
The other man, 21-year-old parolee Jahquez Scott, was facing jail, having just been ordered held for a gun case and for violating bail bond on a pending drug case. Henderson would later tell authorities that the man offered him $1,000 if he allowed the man to use his identity to leave jail, authorities told a judge Tuesday during a bail hearing at the Leighton Criminal Court Building that was broadcast on YouTube.
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An arrest warrant was issued Monday for Scott, charging him with obstructing identification.
The same day, a message apparently was posted on Scott’s Facebook page: “Don’t Let NOBODY Know How You About To Come, Just Come With EXTRA Pressure‼”
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Henderson, 28, of the 3900 block of West Gladys Avenue, was later charged with aiding and betting an escape, a class 2 felony.
A surveillance camera captured the men’s interaction in a receiving tunnel at Cook County Jail on Saturday evening where criminal defendants are processed into the jail or released from custody, authorities said. Henderson handed over his personal information, and the two also swapped hooded sweatshirts, according to Assistant State’s Attorney James Murphy.
When a jail guard called out Henderson’s name, the parolee stepped forward, identifying himself as Henderson, while the real Henderson stayed put, Murphy said. Scott allegedly used the real Henderson’s inmate number and signed release documents as Henderson, and after retrieving the real Henderson’s personal property, he walked freely out of Cook County Jail.
In a recent booking photo, Scott has distinctive tattoos on both sides of his face. But he was wearing a mask when he used Henderson’s name to get out, according to the sheriff’s office.
Things soon began to fall apart when the real Henderson finally approached a jail guard, claiming that he’d fallen asleep and wondered when his name and number would be called, Murphy said. Authorities quickly realized what occurred and sought an emergency arrest warrant for Scott.
Scott remained at large Wednesday and was classified an “absconder” by the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The U.S. Marshals Service is assisting the sheriff’s office in searching for Scott, according to a spokeswoman.
After being arrested and read his rights, Henderson told investigators that he met the man alleged to be Scott on the way to the bail hearing who said he needed to get out of jail and promised him $1,000 if he did him “a favor,” Murphy said. The parolee would be released on Henderson’s I-bond, but be paid the money at a later meeting.
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In court, Judge Mary C. Marubio explained to Henderson, who appeared via a Zoom meeting application, that he helped not only a defendant escape, but a violent felon who has a conviction for aggravated battery to a police officer.
“The nature of the offense isn’t just aiding and abetting. It’s who you aided and abetted — a violent person, and a dangerous person on parole — and that’s weighing heavily against you” Marubio said, ordering Henderson held on $25,000 bail, as well as a no-bond hold for violation of bail bond on his original narcotics case.
In a statement, Cook County sheriff’s officials said an internal investigation was being conducted, and a search was underway. The sheriff’s office called Saturday’s incident “extremely rare” and that officials didn’t anticipate a similar occurrence happening in the future.
Henderson is expected to return to court on May 20.
Chicago Tribune’s Jason Meisner contributed.
wlee@chicagotribune.com
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Twitter @MidNoirCowboy


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Indiana Dunes closing Porter Beach due to crowds, park officials say

“ For the safety of the public and park staff , buildings , restrooms and the Dunewood Campground remain closed @ @ @ @ @ being emptied .
Please use restrooms prior to visiting or leave the park if you @ @ @ @ @ Please pack all of your trash out of the park , ” he said .

The Indiana Dunes National Park is temporarily closing Porter Beach due to crowds until at least the end of May, officials said Wednesday.
“This closure includes both the national park beach and associated parking lots due to unsafe health conditions related to overcrowding, unsafe sanitation practices and lack of social distancing pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic,” National Park Service spokesman Bruce Rowe said in a release.
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Park rangers will be patrolling and anyone on the beach could later face criminal charges, he said. A picture on social media Saturday appeared to show long lines at the entrance to the Indiana Dunes State Park in Chesterton.
All other trails and most other beaches at the Indiana Dunes National Park are still open, Rowe said. While the Dunes is being heavily used right now, he asked visitors to use another area of the park if a parking lot is full.
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“For the safety of the public and park staff, buildings, restrooms and the Dunewood Campground remain closed and trash cans are not being emptied. Please use restrooms prior to visiting or leave the park if you need a restroom break. Please pack all of your trash out of the park,” he said.
“It is anticipated that the Porter Beach area, restrooms, and trash cans will be open later this month,” he said. “Park staff are consulting with federal, state and local authorities to determine when it is safe to reopen all park facilities.”


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Child abuse cases spike in Kane County during COVID-19 stay-at-home order

However , cases involving abuse or neglect of children are up .
The majority of the cases are referred to @ @ @ @ @ Family Services by teachers , counselors , social workers and daycare providers .
Despite educators @ @ @ @ @ seeing children in-person because of the COVID-19 stay-at-home order , the number of cases involving @ @ @ @ @ said .

Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon says abuse and neglect cases against children have spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kane County. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)
While misdemeanor and felony cases in Kane County have decreased during the coronavirus pandemic, abuse and neglect cases against children have went up, Kane County State’s Attorney Joe McMahon said.
“It is alarming on a number of different levels,” McMahon said. “Families are more isolated, so there are a lot of contributing factors that kind of go into the home environment.”
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The number of felony cases in Kane County dropped 15% in March and April of this year compared with the same two months in 2019, and misdemeanor cases were down 34% over the same time frame, McMahon said during his monthly media briefing this week.
However, cases involving abuse or neglect of children are up. The majority of the cases are referred to the Department of Child and Family Services by teachers, counselors, social workers and daycare providers. Despite educators and other service providers not seeing children in-person because of the COVID-19 stay-at-home order, the number of cases involving children has increased, McMahon said.
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In March and April of 2018, Kane County prosecutors had eight abuse and neglect cases involving children. In the same two months in 2019, there were 23 cases and this year in March and April there were 37 cases, McMahon said.
The cases are now often initiated by local police who are responding to calls concerning abuse or neglect of children.
McMahon said the pandemic has contributed to a level of economic uncertainty as many residents face layoffs or pay cuts, and this can take a toll on people’s mental health and anxiety levels.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and organizations like the Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area are trying to provide access to counseling through video conferencing. The association focuses on children under age 18 and young adults.
“Its been a super challenging time of loss for kids that is very hard for adults to empathize with,” said Bernadette May, the association’s executive director. “I think people can empathize missing your graduation is a big deal or prom, but even end of the school year parties matter to kids and the opportunity to say goodbye to classmates.”
Some students are struggling with losing their support system of teachers and staff who keep them secure if their home isn’t a safe place to be, May said.
The association uses a crisis response program that receives a majority of its referrals from school officials, May said. When comparing April 2020 to April 2019, May said they have seen about a 50% decrease in mental health assessments, with 187 assessments in April 2019 and 96 in April 2020.
Janeth Barba, director of clinical services for the association, said the group began using video-based programs Zoom and Doxy.me to reach out to clients, understanding the limits of the technology.
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“Not everyone is comfortable having a session video-based,” Barba said. “... Just turning on a camera and a mic is just not good enough."
The service is also bracing for an increase in referrals after the stay-at-home order ends, officials said.
Residents can call the Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area for assistance at 847-695-3680, or the statewide number for access to support services at 800-345-9049.
Barba said it is important for people to realize the impact of the pandemic and to reach out if they need help.
“We’re all in a state of crisis," Barba said.
mejones@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Costume shop, now selling a very different kind of mask, starts rehiring employees

Businesses receiving those loans won ’ t have to pay the full amount back if they use most of the @ @ @ @ @ the payroll .
That ’ s not as easy as it sounds when stores are @ @ @ @ @ and some workers aren ’ t ready to return , Hickey said .

Mary Hickey Panayotou, owner of Chicago Costume, sews one of the face masks the business has been producing, on May 4, 2020, in Chicago. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune)
Chicago Costume has long been a destination for masks. But in recent weeks, customers have been passing up the monsters and superheroes for hand-sewn fabric face masks, a now-mandatory accessory in Illinois meant to slow the spread of COVID-19.
“It was kind of a natural pivot,” said Courtland Hickey, general manager of Chicago Costume.
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The family-run business, with stores in the Wrightwood Neighbors and Old Irving Park neighborhoods, has made costumes for years and had a stockpile of supplies on hand. Hickey estimates they’ve sold more than 600 face masks on Etsy so far, in fabrics featuring the city’s flag, sports team logos, Star Wars and Transformers characters and other patterns.
For weeks, sewing masks and shipping online orders was about all Chicago Costume could do. Both stores closed shortly before St. Patrick’s Day as the coronavirus outbreak spread in Chicago.
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Mary Hickey Panayotou, owner of Chicago Costume. The costume store has started producing face masks as business has fallen off. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune)
Shoppers planning to attend pop culture conventions like Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle or Motor City Comic Con in Detroit typically account for about half of Chicago Costume’s business. Both of those events were called off and organizers say they hope to reschedule, but Hickey is skeptical large-scale events will take place this year.
Now the company is taking a step toward reopening with curbside pickup, allowed under a revised version of Illinois’ stay-at-home order that went into effect last week. Chicago Costume also got a bit of good news: Its application for a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program, part of the federal coronavirus relief act, was approved. Hickey declined to say how much it received.
Businesses receiving those loans won’t have to pay the full amount back if they use most of the money to keep employees on the payroll. That’s not as easy as it sounds when stores are still closed to the public and some workers aren’t ready to return, Hickey said.
[ Pandemic pivot: How Chicago-area businesses and workers are managing the coronavirus crisis ]
“Now it’s trying to figure out how to use it the right way, in the right amount of time, to get the most amount forgiven,” he said.
Of the 16 sales employees at Chicago Costume when stores closed in March, two were willing to come back to work in stores, handling curbside pickup orders. Two more are working remotely, managing online sales.
Fabric that Mary Hickey Panayotou, owner of Chicago Costume, had been saving for years and is now being made into face masks. (E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune)
Four said they did not want to return because they had health concerns or found another job. Others were college students who left the city when classes went virtual and aren’t interested in coming back while campuses remain closed, Hickey said.
Hickey is trying to hire new workers and figure out what comes next. He’s expecting more event cancellations and isn’t optimistic about the costume rental business.
“The idea of wearing something someone else wore is going to be tough for a while,” he said.
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The outlook for Halloween — a key holiday in the costume business — is also uncertain. It falls on Saturday this year, which would normally mean big sales. But it’s unclear what sort of celebrations will be permitted this fall, or whether people will splurge on entertainment like costumes and parties.
“We’re definitely being very conservative and hoping for the best,” Hickey said .
lzumbach@chicagotribune.com
The coronavirus pandemic is forcing Chicago-area companies and workers to face harsh realities about their paychecks and their place in the local economy. The Tribune is reaching out to hear, and share, their stories.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Are Lollapalooza, Pitchfork canceled? Everything we know about Chicago’s music festivals so far.

“ We ’ re used to putting on a show rather quickly .
You probably know that our first orchestra @ @ @ @ @ until June 9 , the day before we open .
So if we had to @ @ @ @ @ of May , which I doubt is going to happen — if it isn ’ @ @ @ @ @ like for the summer until the end of May , we could hold off 'til @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The biggest challenge for us is we have 31 players in the orchestra @ @ @ @ @ town .
... We ’ re looking at how we might manage that .
”

Update May 6: The Pitchfork Music Festival is canceled.
Update May 5: Gov. J.B. Pritzker revealed a five-phase plan to reopen Illinois. The final phase, which would occur when a novel coronavirus vaccine or highly effective treatment becomes widely available, would allow for festivals and conventions to resume. Spokespeople for Lollapalooza, the Pitchfork Music Festival and Riot Fest declined to comment. Park District representatives did not immediately respond to the Tribune about Taste of Chicago or the Air and Water Show. These festivals are still scheduled, as of Tuesday.
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Update May 4: The Grant Park Music Festival 2020 summer season is canceled.
Update May 1: Ravinia announced that it will cancel its entire 2020 summer season.
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Update April 24: Square Roots festival in Lincoln Square moves from July 10-12 to Aug. 28-30, 2020. Spring Awakening Music Festival, scheduled for June 12-14 in Union Park, is canceled for 2020.
Update April 21: The city announced it is canceling the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Chicago Blues Festival and the Chicago House Music Conference & Festival.
Things were just starting to look up for the Hecks. The Chicago band’s sophomore album, “My Star,” was named one of the best albums of 2019 by Vice. Weeks later, the quartet was booked for its debut set at the Pitchfork Music Festival, which is slated to celebrate its 15th anniversary in July.
“We were really, really looking forward to it. It felt like such a win for us. We’d weathered some really hard years,” singer-guitarist Andy Mosiman told the Tribune.
The band is scheduled to play Pitchfork in Union Park on July 19 — as of now. The Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Taste of Chicago, Grant Park Music Festival, Chicago Air & Water Show and Chicago Jazz Festival are also still on for this summer. Lollapalooza organizers say they “continue to remain optimistic” they will hold their music fest, which is set for July 30-Aug. 2 in Grant Park.
The teams behind those events say they are monitoring the coronavirus crisis and following guidelines set by local officials. What’s unclear is when decisions to postpone, cancel or hold as scheduled the major events of Chicago’s festival season will be made — and local leaders are giving mixed messages.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who issued the Illinois stay-at-home order through April 30, said last week that organizers should “think carefully about canceling large summer events.” He later said his comment was simply a suggestion. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Wednesday she’s not in a position to discuss the summer calendar. Festival performers, sponsors and ticket holders, meanwhile, are left hanging until there’s clarity.
“We’re trying to focus on where we are in the short-term but obviously we have an eye towards what’s going to be happening in the summer and the fall and thinking already about what things we need to do for example to make sure the November election is done in a way that’s consistent with public health guidance so that we avoid some of the challenges that we saw with the March 17 primary,” Lightfoot said April 15.
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For their part, Lollapalooza representatives said they plan to have a “definitive decision” about the fate of this year’s festival by the end of May. Lollapalooza is not the first major event of Chicago’s festival season — but it is the crown jewel.
The four-day fest typically draws about 100,000 music fans each day to Grant Park to see more than 170 acts perform across eight stages. The Chicago Park District is said to have received $5.7 million from Lollapalooza last year, and the local economic effect is even greater with restaurants, hotels and trains packed with visitors.
Last year, the Lollapalooza lineup was revealed on March 20. This year’s lineup has not been announced, and tickets are not on sale. Festival details are scarce. BMI, the music rights management company, typically sponsors a stage at Lollapalooza. Samantha Cox, BMI vice president of creative in New York, said the company is in close contact with Lollapalooza promoter C3 Presents about this year’s event. The festival plays a “vital role” in connecting BMI songwriters with their fans, Cox said.
Grace Weber performs on the BMI stage at Lollapalooza on Aug. 4, 2018. (Kristan Lieb / Chicago Tribune)
“BMI’s top priority is the safety and health of our performing songwriters, employees and fans. We understand the severity of what’s happening all over the world right now and realize that these decisions are not made without careful consideration,” Cox said in an emailed statement.
Lollapalooza is unique in that C3 has a multi-year contract with the Park District, whereas organizers of other private outdoor festivals seek permission from the Park District each year to hold their events. The Lollapalooza contract, inked in 2012, covers everything from revenue payments to the Park District to clean-up responsibilities and festival hours of operation.
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Lollapalooza is supposed to take place the first August weekend each year, but the festival can occur on a different weekend if the Park District and C3 agree in writing on a new date, according to the contract. That move would require coordination with dozens of acts and a free weekend on Grant Park’s calendar. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held annually in California, was moved from April to October because of the coronavirus.
The Lollapalooza contract has a “force majeure” clause that says neither C3 nor the Park District are obligated to hold the festival “if performance is prevented by” events including a flood, fire, “act of God” or terrorist attack; or if there is an order from a public or military authority because of war, hostilities or economic or emergency controls that could not be foreseen.
Chicago entertainment and media lawyer Jeffrey Becker, who does not represent either side, said the force majeure clause would most certainly come into play if Lollapalooza is canceled because of a local stay-at-home order.
“If, however, the stay-at-home orders are lifted before August, and Grant Park reopens to the public, it becomes a more complicated question as to whether C3 would actually be ‘prevented’ from holding Lollapalooza due to a government order,” Becker, chairman of the Entertainment and Media Law Practice Group of Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP, said in an email. “Thus, if C3 waits too long to make a decision as to whether it will cancel Lollapalooza, it could find itself seeking to do so in the absence of a force majeure event, which means it may remain on the hook financially under its contract with the Park District.”
The Lollapalooza contract, which is set to expire in 2021, outlines payment requirements if the event is canceled. C3 is on the hook to pay the Park District $1.5 million even if the festival doesn’t happen this year, unless it’s because of force majeure. In that case, C3 must pay $750,000. Becker said C3 may be able to argue force majeure if government officials restrict large events even after the stay-at-home order is lifted; or if the pandemic continues to loom into August as an “act of God,” Becker said, and it would be unreasonable for the Park District to compel the promoter to hold an event that would bring tens of thousands of people in close contact.
Pitchfork organizers, meanwhile, announced the festival’s lineup — which includes headliners the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Run the Jewels and the National — on Feb. 19. Tickets are on sale now. Union Park can hold about 19,000 attendees.
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Katie Callahan, 25, said she snagged her Pitchfork ticket at the end of January. She is looking forward to seeing Twin Peaks and Waxahatchee perform.
Pitchfork sent ticket holders an email on March 13 that read in part: “We will continue to monitor as the industry, city, and health officials update large-event procedures, and we will implement and communicate those procedures to ticket holders.” Pitchfork organizers promise if the festival is canceled, ticket holders will receive full refunds. When asked for an update, festival representatives pointed the Tribune to the same statement, which is posted on its website.
Callahan said she expects Pitchfork organizers to announce a decision about the festival no later than June, but the Pilsen resident said she has “kind of come to terms with the fact it’s probably not happening this summer.”
“It’s a great weekend,” Callahan said about Pitchfork. “It’s just kind of a different vibe altogether, and it draws a unique crowd.”
2020 was supposed to be the “Year of Chicago Music,” a city designation to celebrate and support the local music industry. Events on tap included the now-canceled annual Gospel Music Festival, scheduled for May 27–30; the June 5–7 Chicago Blues Festival; and the Aug. 28-Sept. 6 Chicago Jazz Festival. These events have been produced by the city Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and were slated for Millennium Park.
The cultural affairs department previously canceled programming through May 15 because of the coronavirus. “Plans for summer programming and events remain under discussion,” a department spokesman said in a statement.
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The Grant Park Music Festival, a series of free concerts featuring the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, is scheduled to kick off on June 10 with Carlos Kalmar — the festival’s principal conductor and artistic director — leading a concert of music by Richard Wagner, Beethoven and Florence Price. Paul Winberg, festival president and CEO, said there’s still time before a decision about the season has to be made.
“We’re used to putting on a show rather quickly. You probably know that our first orchestra rehearsal isn’t even until June 9, the day before we open. So if we had to hold off to the end of May, which I doubt is going to happen — if it isn’t clear what it looks like for the summer until the end of May, we could hold off 'til then,” Winberg said. “The biggest challenge for us is we have 31 players in the orchestra that are from out of town. ... We’re looking at how we might manage that.”
Up in Highland Park, Ravinia Festival organizers have canceled public and private events through May 31. Welz Kauffman, Ravinia president and CEO, said contingency plans are being considered for events beyond that date.
“I won’t share the plans, because they’ll change as soon as we get off the phone,” Kauffman told the Tribune. “We’re working on how to buy more time. How do we continue to talk to artists about what might change? How do we inform audiences and ticket buyers?”
Mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung solos as conductor Marin Alsop leads the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a tribute to Leonard Bernstein at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park on July 27, 2019. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s annual summer residency at Ravinia is scheduled for July 10-Aug. 16. “I’m in touch with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra,” Kauffman said. “I’ve talked to a bunch of conductors and orchestra leaders around the world. What they’re grappling with is: How do we set up on stage? Six feet between musicians? It’s (normally) six inches. And choruses?”
Festivals scheduled for the end of the season, like the annual World Music Festival (Sept. 11–27 at venues around the city) and Riot Fest (Sept. 11-13 in Douglas Park on the West Side), might be in the best position. Riot Fest organizers announced My Chemical Romance as headliner in January, and three-day passes are on sale now. Last year, the full Riot Fest lineup was revealed in late May.
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Dan Gibas, 37, said he purchased his Riot Fest ticket in December. He also has a Pitchfork pass. He said he’s been attending Pitchfork, Riot Fest and Lollapalooza for several years. He first realized his summer festival schedule may be in jeopardy when the Ultra Music Festival was canceled in March two weeks before it was supposed to take place in Miami. South by Southwest in Texas was canceled that same month.
“It’s a little disappointing, but at the same time, everybody’s health and safety is way more important,” said Gibas, of Hinsdale.
The Hecks’ breakout year has already stalled, even without a Pitchfork decision. The band had some of its shows with the Archers of Loaf canceled because of coronavirus. Mosiman said his bandmates are quarantining separately, while still paying rent for their practice space. If Pitchfork was postponed, the band would still play the festival in a heartbeat.
“We’re just really grateful to have been asked to do it at all. We’ve been a band for almost nine years now. You work really, really hard to just get things going for yourself. We had a record come out last year that Pitchfork reviewed for the first time, and we got a nice review from them. Just really had some good wind in our sails,” Mosiman said.
Chicago Tribune music editor Kevin Williams contributed to this report. This story has been updated.
tswartz@tribpub.com
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hreich@chicagotribune.com


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Barack Obama video chats with Chicago Public Schools educators to thank them during Teacher Apprecia

Barack Obama video chats with Chicago Public Schools educators to thank them during Teacher Appreciation Week surprise

Brewton , who teaches sixth , seventh and eighth graders , told Obama how she got interested in teaching : @ @ @ @ @ grow up in one of the best neighborhoods , and didn ’ t have the @ @ @ @ @ school was my outlet .
So I said to myself , how can I give @ @ @ @ @ helped me growing up ?
”

Former President Barack Obama made video calls to three Chicago Public Schools teachers to offer his support during national Teacher Appreciation Week.
Obama tweeted a video montage of the calls Wednesday morning that said he made the calls “to simply say thank you.”
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“There’s no limit to the devotion I’ve seen in teachers like these @ChiPubSchools educators,” Obama said in the tweet. “Their dedication shapes the best parts of who we become. I couldn’t be more thankful for their work, especially as they shift lessons online to keep students on track during this crisis.”
There’s no limit to the devotion I’ve seen in teachers like these @ChiPubSchools educators. Their dedication shapes the best parts of who we become. I couldn’t be more thankful for their work, especially as they shift lessons online to keep students on track during this crisis. pic.twitter.com/xYECcrAxdE — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 6, 2020
Obama spoke with Jalayne Brewton of Parkside Community Academy, Daniel Michmerhuizen of Benito Juarez Community Academy and Katie Owens of Kellman Elementary.
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Michmerhuizen, a civics and U.S. history teacher, said he was “overjoyed, overwhelmed" to talk with the former president. "I am almost speechless,” he said.
He talked about teaching hourlong online classes during the coronavirus school shutdown, “because I’m trying to replicate our class, because our class is so powerful in the interaction (among participants).”
That prompted Obama to respond: “You know, if I ever get too down and out, I’m gonna have to tune into you so that I can get geared back up.”
“You would be an honored guest in my class at any point,” Michmerhuizen said.
Brewton, who teaches sixth, seventh and eighth graders, told Obama how she got interested in teaching: “I didn’t grow up in one of the best neighborhoods, and didn’t have the two-parent household, so my school was my outlet. So I said to myself, how can I give back to those that actually helped me growing up?”
Owens, a second grade teacher, said her mother told her she was going to be a teacher.
“I think she recognized in me maybe something I didn’t see in myself,” Owens said.
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“Great teachers, in a lot of ways, but as big of an imprint on their kids as anybody,” Obama said.
Just Tuesday, it was announced that Obama will headline a national commencement event honoring graduating high school seniors.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--We’ve lowered the paywall on this essential coronavirus coverage

As the scope of this pandemic came into focus , I started thinking about people living in assisted-living facilities and @ @ @ @ @ bound to experience .
I ’ ve spoken several times at assisted-living facilities around Chicago @ @ @ @ @ aspects of life for residents is the social interaction and the activities and entertainment the @ @ @ @ @ s largely gone now .
Worse yet , many facilities have had to limit or @ @ @ @ @ seniors stuck alone in their rooms or apartments .
So maybe there ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ at least that aspect of this crisis .
I tossed an idea out on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ the hashtag # PandemicPals , asking for thoughts and advice on how to network with @ @ @ @ @ where there might be seniors facing isolation .
Read more .

As a public service to our readers and community, we have lowered the paywall on some of our most critical stories so everyone can access this important information. We rely on the support of our subscribers to fund our journalism. If you’re not already signed up, we hope you will consider subscribing.
We are updating a daily live blog with the latest developments on the reopening of Chicago and Illinois. This is where you’ll find updates on the number of COVID-19 cases in our area, as well as the most up-to-date recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Public Health, Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Lori Lightfoot.
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As summer nears, Chicagoans are desperate to get out and about — to have a summer picnic with family, to get back to work, to get a haircut. Here’s how and when you might be able to do those things.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Tuesday a five-phase plan to get Illinois reopened as the COVID-19 pandemic slows its toll on health care providers. The plan, from “Rapid Spread” to “Illinois Restored,” splits the state up into regions and allows each region to open a different phase should the impact of the pandemic be different throughout the state. The plan also emphasizes that a region can move backward if the health metrics indicate enough risk. Read more.
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Testing for COVID-19 has greatly expanded in Illinois, with the state announcing more than 10,000 test results a day since April 24. The expansion has allowed the state to open up its guidance for who should be able to get a coronavirus test. The Illinois Department of Public Health is saying that testing is available without a doctor’s order to anyone with coronavirus symptoms or an underlying risk factor. Tests are also provided to people on the front lines of the pandemic, such as medical workers, first responders and employees of prisons or nursing homes. Search the map for coronavirus testing site near you.
All Illinois residents over age 2 must wear a face mask when they can’t maintain a 6-foot social distance in public. Studies show that the coronavirus can spread between people interacting in close proximity, including people who are not showing symptoms. Here’s where you can find them, what kind to get and how to make your own.
Americans are brainstorming with neighbors, posting questions on social media, and googling for tips and advice. The question at the center of all the hand wringing and head scratching: How do you thank the essential workers who remain out in the world, exposing themselves to greater risk of contracting the novel coronavirus, so that we can buy our groceries, receive our mail, travel by public transportation, and get health care if we need it? Here are some creative ideas to inspire you.
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 68 (Chicago Tribune)
They were mothers and fathers, daughters and sons. Many were proud grandparents. Two were sisters from a tight-knit South Side family. All were loved, relatives say, and will be forever missed. As the number of deaths attributable to the coronavirus ticks upward, the Tribune is working to chronicle those who have lost their lives in the Chicago area or who have connections to our region. These are some of those victims.
Hundreds of Chicago restaurants have pivoted their operations to delivery, takeout or curbside pickup after Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced that all bars and restaurants in Illinois are closed for dining-in service through April 30. We’re collecting information on restaurants across the area that are still open for delivery or take out. Find a restaurant near you.
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A sign in the windows of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, seen on March 11, 2020, reminds people to wash their hands. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)
You wake up with a sore, scratchy throat, and begin coughing and sneezing. It’s probably a run-of-the-mill cold, or it could be the beginning of a bout of seasonal flu. But with dozens of cases of the novel coronavirus surfacing in Illinois, some people are bound to wonder: Could this be the coronavirus? Here’s what experts advise for Illinoisans who fear they are showing signs of coronavirus.
The spread of the coronavirus pandemic has placed an extra burden on Chicagoland nonprofit organizations. Here is an evolving list of where you can make donations to organizations helping those in need.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--How will Illinois reopen? Three charts breaking down Pritzker’s plan

Gov .
J.B. Pritzker announced Tuesday a five-phase plan to get Illinois reopened as the COVID-19 pandemic slows its toll @ @ @ @ @ The plan , from “ Rapid Spread ” to “ Illinois Restored , ” splits @ @ @ @ @ and allows each region to open a different phase should the impact of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ .
The plan also emphasizes that a region can move backward if the health metrics @ @ @ @

Nausheen Husain, Chad Yoder, Jonathon Berlin

In need of a haircut or a shopping trip?
There are glimmers of hope that much of the state could move from phase 2 to phase 3 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s plan to reopen Illinois on May 29 if current trends hold.
[ When can Illinois reopen? Check our daily charts on where each region stands. ]
[ COVID-19 cases in Illinois by ZIP code: Search for your neighborhood ]
The plan, as detailed below, is dependent on rates of infection, hospital capacity, capacity to test and systems for tracing infections.
The forward progress still could be derailed by a surge in positive tests for the coronavirus, or if hospitals or intensive care units become overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. To move forward the share of people testing positive for the coronavirus must be at or under 20% and increase no more than 10 percentage points over a 14-day period.
Right now, according to the plan, every region of Illinois has reached the second phase, “Flattening,” to some extent. In this phase, the rate of infections is still increasing but at a slower rate, and Illinoisians can resume outdoor activities, while maintaining social distancing guidelines and wearing face masks.
Here is how the plan works.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Meat shortage means Chicago shoppers face buying limits, higher prices, fewer choices as coronavirus

Meat shortage means Chicago shoppers face buying limits, higher prices, fewer choices as coronavirus stresses supply

Analysts have estimated beef production is down 25 % , which has affected the availability of burgers at some Wendy @ @ @ @ @ of the fast-food chain ’ s online menus found that 18 % of its restaurants @ @ @ @ @ of stock , though the shortage varies by state , according to an analyst from @ @ @ @ @

Chicagoans looking to fire up their grills should prepare for higher meat prices and restrictions on how many chops, steaks or burgers they can buy.
COVID-19 outbreaks at meat processing plants across the country continue to disrupt how much product is making its way to grocery stores and butcher shops, despite large facilities beginning to resume operations on a presidential order to stay open during the pandemic.
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Some stores said they are limiting the number of meat products customers can buy or raising prices as they struggle to get their usual selection.
Mariano’s is limiting customers to one fresh pork product. Costco has set a three-product limit on fresh beef, poultry and pork.
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[ 11 vegetarian recipes to try during the grocery store meat shortage, from crispy fried rice to mushroom pizza ]
Pete’s Fresh Market is putting limits on some cuts that are on sale. City customers are restricted to 5 pounds of skirt steak, for example, and suburban store customers to four T-bones or porterhouse steaks.
Otto Demke, owner of Gepperth’s Meat Market, shows his depleted pork supply May 5, 2020. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)
At Gepperth’s Meat Market on North Halsted Street in Chicago, the trays in the pork section are nearly bare on May 5, 2020. They are normally full with various cuts of meat. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)
At Gepperth’s Meat Market in Lincoln Park, owner Otto Demke hasn’t set buying limits yet but may have to in the coming days if it continues to be difficult to procure product. He hasn’t been able to find pork shoulder for three days.
The shortage comes as people plan for Mother’s Day without the usual trip to restaurants, so they will have to be open-minded when devising a celebratory meal at home, Demke said.
“What does Mom want? A nice steak? Some lamb racks?” Demke said. “Those things are going to be pretty scarce.”
Jewel-Osco, the Chicago area’s largest supermarket chain, has not placed buying limits on meat but said it is evaluating supply daily.
Others are raising prices as their costs go up amid strained supply. Paulina Market, a butcher in Lakeview, said the price for boneless chuck used to make ground beef has increased by $3 to $4 per pound.
“Our ground beef was $6.95 and now it’s $9.95, and we’re still not making a ton of money," said owner Bill Begale. “It’s going up and up and up.”
Outbreaks of COVID-19 have affected the meat supply as some plants closed to test workers, deep clean their facilities and impose additional safeguards. Others are operating at reduced capacity as they create distancing on production lines or as workers call in sick.
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Pork processing is down nearly 50%, Tyson Foods CEO Noel White told investors during the company’s second-quarter earnings call Monday. That has affected not only consumers but also farmers who have limited markets for their livestock.
Analysts have estimated beef production is down 25%, which has affected the availability of burgers at some Wendy’s. A study of the fast-food chain’s online menus found that 18% of its restaurants listed beef items as out of stock, though the shortage varies by state, according to an analyst from financial services firm Stephens.
McDonald’s, the world’slargest burger chain, said it has experienced no breaks in its supply chain, though it is monitoring the meat situation “literally hour by hour,” CEO Chris Kempczinski told CNBC late last week. “Right now, we feel like we are in a good position, but there is concern there.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week reported 4,913 COVID-19 cases, and 20 deaths, at 115 meat and poultry processing facilities in 19 states, which the agency said is likely an undercount due to testing limitations.
Meat plants are vulnerable to spreading the highly contagious coronavirus because workers are often elbow to elbow on production lines, making it difficult to impose 6-foot social distancing, and some plants reported challenges implementing disinfecting protocols, the CDC said. In addition, bonuses that incentivize attendance may be driving some workers to continue to work despite feeling sick, the agency’s report said.
President Donald Trump last week signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act to keep meat plants open, raising concerns among unions and labor groups that worker safety may be compromised. Some shuttered plants have started to resume operations.
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In Illinois, a Smithfield pork processing plant in Monmouth, which employs 1,700 people, reopened Saturday after a weeklong closure. Smithfield, the world’s largest pork producer, also partially reopened its huge plant in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Monday after a two-week closure. JBS is set to partially reopen its large plant in Worthington, Minnesota, on Wednesday, according to a news release from the union representing the plant workers. Tyson announced plans to reopen its Logansport, Indiana, pork processing facility with limited production this week.
Under Trump’s order, the U.S. Department of Agriculture “is directed to ensure America’s meat and poultry processors are able to continue to operate uninterrupted to the maximum extent possible,” an agency spokesperson said in an email.
That means plants are to operate in accordance with guidance put out by the CDC and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which includes installing partitions between workers on production lines and staggering break times to avoid large groups. Plants must provide written documentation of mitigation plans to the USDA, which will work with state and local authorities to resume or ensure continued plant operations, the spokesperson said.
Some plants have closed at the direction of local health authorities. A Smithfield plant in St. Charles ordered shut by the Kane County Health Department remains closed after the health department said a worker there died of COVID-19. In Rochelle, the Ogle County Health Department ordered a Hormel food production facility to close. That facility, which makes bacon and deli meat as well as microwaveable meals and cancer nutrition products, reopened Monday after implementing additional safety procedures.
Despite the disruption to meat cases at the store, retailers say there is no need for shoppers to stockpile. Demke, of Gepperths, said consumers just have to be flexible.
“So you don’t have steak today or tomorrow,” he said. “What’s the big deal? Maybe you’ll have it the day after. Or get something else.”
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Paulina Market’s Begale said his shop, which has been open only for pickup or delivery, isn’t having shortages because he taps multiple suppliers, but there are some product delays.
Customers have been buying voraciously for weeks as it is — the two weeks leading up to Easter were like Christmas, he said. “I’m thinking in a month or so things will calm down,” he said.


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--1 dead, three wounded in Hammond road rage incident: police

Hammond Police spokesman Lt. Steve Kellogg said in a release Tuesday night that at around 6:30 p.m. police were to @ @ @ @ @ and Columbia Avenue about a shooting .
Once there , witnesses told them a road @ @ @ @ @ Cline Avenue and Michigan culminated in the shooting , Kellogg said .

A Hammond man is dead and three others injured by gunfire as a result of road rage, police said Tuesday.
Hammond Police spokesman Lt. Steve Kellogg said in a release Tuesday night that at around 6:30 p.m. police were to the area of Michigan Street and Columbia Avenue about a shooting. Once there, witnesses told them a road rage incident that started around Cline Avenue and Michigan culminated in the shooting, Kellogg said.
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Uriel Arambula, 25, was killed in the shooting, according to the Lake County Coroner’s office. A second man was airlfited to a Chicago hospital for his injuries, and two other victims were sent to area hospitals for treatment, Kellogg said.
Kellogg said there is no information on who was responsible and the department will release information as it’s available. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Hammond Police Detective Lt. Mark Tharp at 219-852-2988.
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--Michelle L. Quinn


chicagotribune--2020-05-06--Coronavirus could cost Illinois $560 million in gas tax revenue this year, possibly delaying some ro

Coronavirus could cost Illinois $560 million in gas tax revenue this year, possibly delaying some road and rail plans

Illinois is in an unique situation in that it already had a backlog of infrastructure shortfalls , which the Rebuild @ @ @ @ @ address .
A fifth of IDOT roadways were considered to be in poor condition , @ @ @ @ @ of the state ’ s bridges are either structurally deficient or had exceeded their design @ @ @ @ @ Illinois Economic Policy Institute report .

Illinois could lose close to $560 million in gas tax revenue this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, which may delay some big state road and rail projects, according to a new report.
Last year, the Illinois legislature passed a six-year, $45 billion infrastructure package that provided $33 billion in funding for transportation, including road repairs around the state, train line extensions, new locomotives and other equipment. The legislation came after a 10-year drought in funding for transportation projects.
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The bill included money for Amtrak service to Rockford, Metra service to Kendall County, an expansion of a busy portion of Interstate 80 and repairs to the CTA Green Line’s Cottage Grove station. The transportation projects are being paid for primarily through a doubling of the state’s 19-cent-per gallon motor fuel tax, which started last July.
But the report from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, a nonprofit think tank, found that with road travel down by almost half, the state could lose $296 million to $559 million this year alone, depending on different scenarios.
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“The bottom line here is none of us really knows what’s going to happen,” said Mary Tyler, the institute’s transportation analyst and co-author of the report, which is being released Wednesday. “It’s safe to assume we’re going to see some reductions moving forward. A lot of people may be extending working from home, even after the stay-at-home order is lifted."
The scenario for state funding could be even worse than the report predicts, and could extend into next year and beyond, said Frank Manzo IV, report co-author and the institute’s policy director.
“If we do not have more testing, if we don’t have more treatments and a clinically proven vaccine ... there is a chance that our estimate is conservative," Manzo said.
The report recommends that the federal government provide emergency relief for state and local governments, or else some transportation projects face the risk of being delayed or cancelled altogether.
There is no indication that delays to any large projects could happen this year, according to transit officials and a representative for road builders.
The CTA Green Line station at 63rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue is seen June 6, 2019, in Chicago. Funding for work on the station was included as part of a six-year, $45 billion infrastructure package. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)
The construction industry does not expect this year’s work on Illinois Department of Transportation projects to be affected much by the loss in gas tax revenue, because the work has already begun and been assigned to contractors, said Michael Sturino, president and CEO of the Illinois Road and Transportation Builders Association, a trade group.
However, he said that the industry is concerned and has already seen local governments pulling back on some smaller projects, like resurfacing.
The state Department of Transportation has already issued bonds to generate funds for projects in the bill, including about $1.36 billion for transit, according to Regional Transportation Authority Executive Director Leanne Redden. The RTA, which oversees the budgets for the CTA, Metra and Pace, has applied for grants for about 31 projects, including new rail cars and locomotives for Metra, new rail cars for the CTA and a bus garage for Pace on Interstate 55, Redden said.
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Redden said she is “not too concerned” about delays at this point, since the money is available.
“We feel like we got a good jump start on that,” Redden said. "So I guess we’re hopeful. Longer term, beyond that, the world’s kind of taking a ‘let’s see what happens’ approach.”
Transportation departments around the country are seeing tax revenues decline. Last month, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, which represents state departments of transportation, asked Congress for $50 billion in direct emergency assistance to states over two years.
Preliminary projections from state transportation departments show at least a 30% decline in transportation revenues on average for the next 18 months, according to the association.
Illinois is in an unique situation in that it already had a backlog of infrastructure shortfalls, which the Rebuild Illinois law was supposed to address. A fifth of IDOT roadways were considered to be in poor condition, and more than a third of the state’s bridges are either structurally deficient or had exceeded their design life, according to the Illinois Economic Policy Institute report.
Road construction, which provides both good-paying jobs and good opportunities for social distancing at job sites, has been one of the state economy’s bright spots during the pandemic. But that could be hurt in the future by the tax shortfall, Manzo said.
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“Federal funding would allow Illinois to get back on the right track and put Illinois residents back to work, and that would help us get back to some semblance of normalcy and generate as much of that $45 billion as we can in the next few years," Manzo said.
Tyler said continuous funding is especially important for projects that are safety concerns, like bridge repairs and the widening of I-80.
Pace spokeswoman Maggie Daly Skogsbakken said in an email that the agency has not received any of the Rebuild Illinois funding yet, but noted that collection of gas taxes for the program began in July 2019.
“We are hopeful that the revenue already collected and the revenue that comes in after people get back to work will fulfill the budgetary needs of the bill,” Daly Skogsbakken said. “We anticipate the funding to start flowing soon and are ready to go on a few projects.”
Metra still plans to finalize procurement for new rail cars later this year, and is planning station projects and other work, said spokesman Michael Gillis.
Asked if lower gas tax funding could delay projects in the future, Gillis said the commuter railroad is keeping a “close eye” on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on all of its funding, operating and capital.
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“But there are so many unknowns at this point that there is no clear picture,” Gillis said.
CTA spokesman Brian Steele said the agency is continuing construction on several major projects, including Red and Purple Modernization and traction power upgrades for the Blue Line.
“Though it is too soon to know what the impacts of funding for the state capital bill might be, these investments are crucial to modernizing and improving public transit,” Steele said in an email.
mwisniewski@chicagotribune.com