Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 385
August 18, 2024
Pro-abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protesters rally ahead of the start of the DNC
A crowd of hundreds called for abortion and LGBTQ+ rights Sunday evening in downtown Chicago, getting a head start on a week of protests before the Democratic National Convention kickoff Monday.
Starting with a rally on Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive by the Chicago River, with Trump Tower as a backdrop as the blazing sun set behind the Marina City Towers, demonstrators headed south to the Grant Park monument of Union Army Gen. John Logan, which protesters climbed in an iconic moment during the DNC protests in August 1968.
After an acoustic sing-along by the crowd — “My body, my body/ My choice, my choice,” punctuated by a flute and ukulele — emcee and activist Scout Bratt took the mic to say, “Palestinian liberation is reproductive justice,” a nod to the common thread that ran through speeches and chants during the evening.
“And we reject any political compromises on bodily autonomy,” added Bratt, a spokesperson for Jewish Voice for Peace and a member of the social justice group Avodah. “Today, we are coming together on the eve of the Democratic National Convention to be sure that they don’t even begin … without knowing our demands.”
The rally and march took place a week after the coalition Bodies Outside of Unjust Laws — endorsed by more than 30 local and national organizations — won a permit for a route on Michigan Avenue following a long legal battle with the city. The lawsuit continues in federal court with representation from the American Civil Liberties Union over the city’s security perimeter ordinance.
Other groups have also had difficulties obtaining permits in what they have called a slow and contentious approval process; several have taken the city to court.
The Sunday gathering sought to demand that if Vice President Kamala Harris wins the presidency in November, she will commit to sweeping legislation for abortion access and transgender and LGBTQ+ health care, as well as an end to U.S. aid to Israel and a call for a cease-fire.
They hope national legislation will include no gestational bans or viability limits on abortion and a guaranteed minimum income so children can be raised “in a healthy, nurturing environment.” And as trans people continue being targeted by the far right — which the coalition sees as attacks on the bodily autonomy of all LGBTQ+ people — they also demand equal employment and housing rights enshrined in legislation.
The coalition includes pro-Palestinian groups that emphasize the interconnectedness of human rights struggles in Gaza and at home; for instance, anti-war, women-led grassroots organization CODEPINK has said that discussions of reproductive justice within the Democratic Party must consider Israel’s war in Gaza.
Related ArticlesNational Politics | The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know National Politics | Can the DNC help reverse Chicago’s national narrative? National Politics | Thousands of activists expected in Chicago for Democratic convention to call for Gaza cease-fire National Politics | The Democratic National Convention is here. Here’s how to watch it National Politics | Convention delegates will nominate Harris, again. This time, there’s less suspense and more pizzazz“Reproductive genocide, my comrades and friends, is the eradication and destruction of life-giving and life-sustaining resources such as food, such as water, such as medicine, such as medical care,” said Chicago organizer and community leader Leena Odeh of the Palestinian Feminist Collective.
According to reports from the United Nations, miscarriages in the region have increased by 300%, and a shortage of medical supplies means that women are giving birth without pain relief and children are dying without incubators. The largest fertility clinic in the region has been destroyed by Israeli forces, newborn babies face malnutrition and have no access to clean water, and 690,000 women and girls have no access to menstrual hygiene products.
On more than one occasion, speakers forcefully reminded Harris she has to earn their vote. They also repeatedly called out Democratic leaders for what they see as a disconnect between promises and policies enacted at home and abroad.
“We are at a pivotal moment of recognizing and raising cautiousness about all the ways in which the Democratic Party and its brutal policies violently suppress working-class organization and liberation movements. The main line of the Harris candidacy is to vote for them or face fascism, when in fact, the two parties are two sides of the same coin,” said Sultana Hossain, an Amazon labor union activist and co-facilitator for NYC Labor for Palestine.
Nadine Naber, professor of gender and women’s studies at the University of Illinois Chicago and co-founder of Mamas Activating Movements for Abolition and Solidarity, said, “We are here to fight for our bodies and our hearts. And I believe that any movement guided by radical, collective love is like fire.”
The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know
More than a year after Chicago was announced as the host city, the Democratic National Convention is about to start.
Running Monday through Thursday, the convention is a huge moment for national Democrats, who have had a whirlwind few weeks since President Joe Biden quit the race, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the first Black and Asian American woman to lead a major party ticket.
Eyes will also be on Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who are looking to pull off the massive made-for-TV event without a hitch, building on the success of the 1996 Democratic convention and continuing to push aside historic images of the contentious 1968 DNC.
Here’s what to know:
What’s expected at the convention?
Red, white and blue balloons are bundled and raised to the rafters on Aug. 15, 2024, before the Democratic National Convention at the United Center. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)Traditionally, party leaders come together every four years to nominate the person they want on the top of the presidential ticket in November. Republicans held their convention last month in Milwaukee.
There are a few nontraditional things about this year’s DNC, though.
Typically, the person nominated emerged victorious through primary elections across the country in spring and summer. This year is different for Democrats since Biden dropped out of the race in July.
Harris, Biden’s vice president, has already been nominated in an online roll-call of delegates to be the Democratic nominee, so there won’t be a formal, official vote to nominate her at the convention.
Instead there will be a ceremonial roll call, speeches from party leaders and up-and-comers, and an introduction of Harris’ recently announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. It’ll be a televised rally of support to build on Harris’ fundraising and polling momentum from the past month.
Who will be there, and what’s the schedule of events?
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker at the Secret Service field office talking about security measures for the 2024 Democratic National Convention on July 25, 2024. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)Nearly all of the Democratic Party’s well-known officeholders will be joined by thousands of delegates and other supporters and volunteers, along with thousands of members of the media, at the main venues: McCormick Place and the United Center. In addition, organizers are predicting thousands of protesters will take to the streets to bring attention to issues that include the war in Gaza.
There will likely also be some A-list celebrity sightings at the convention sites and around town. Billie Eilish and Julia Louis-Dreyfus took part in Democrats’ last national convention, which was primarily virtual due to the pandemic.
Overall, the DNC estimates some 50,000 visitors will be in Chicago for the convention.
Convention events at the United Center and McCormick Place are not open to the public.
Much of the schedule, including the speaker list, has yet to be announced, although Pritzker, expected to speak Tuesday, and former President Barack Obama are among those that figure to have prominent slots. Daytime party business and meetings will largely take place at McCormick Place, according to the DNC. Evening events, including the major speeches and hoopla that is likely to be televised, will be at the United Center.
Harris is expected to give the convention’s final speech on Thursday, with Walz expected to speak Wednesday.
What is the plan for protests?
Superintendent Larry Snelling attends a news conference to discuss final preparations for public safety before the Democratic National Convention at the Office of Emergency Management and Communications on Aug. 13, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Johnson’s administration proposed that many protesters march west from Union Park, past a small park north of the United Center and then east back to Union Park. Officials announced the route after a coalition of pro-Palestinian protest groups sued to block the city from confining protesters to a two-block strip of Grant Park, far from the United Center.
U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood ruled that she would not force City Hall to widen and lengthen the authorized route, as some protesters had sought.
Park No. 578 just north of the United Center will also serve as a “free speech zone,” Glen Brooks, director of community policing at the Chicago Police Department, said.
On Friday, following last-minute complaints from protesters and negotiations with the city that were ultimately settled after Mayor Johnson himself intervened, the city allowed for a stage and a sound system for two rallies in Union Park.
What are the plans for televised coverage?
Cameras are set up in preparation for the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on Aug. 15, 2024. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)Cable news channels will likely carry much of the top prime time programming live. Fox News, CNN and MSNBC will all have top anchors present at the convention, with Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum anchoring for Fox and Jake Tapper and Anderson Cooper broadcasting from the United Center for CNN.
The DNC will broadcast its own feed on social media and its website, DemConvention.com, as well as on Amazon Prime Video. The major networks are expected to offer some prime time coverage. Events will also be available through streaming services.
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” plans to broadcast from the Auditorium Theatre downtown throughout the week of the DNC — suggesting the Emmy-winning, formerly Chicago-based comedian and Northwestern University alum plans to host guests from the United Center on his late-night show.
Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show” will also broadcast from Chicago during the convention, including a live show Aug. 22.
How many political conventions has Chicago hosted?Chicago has hosted 25 major party national conventions, 14 for Republicans and 11 for Democrats, since 1860, when Abraham Lincoln was nominated by Republicans, according to the Chicago History Museum. That’s the most of any U.S. city, with the runner-up, Baltimore, having hosted 10.
The mayhem of the 1968 Democratic Convention in ChicagoAt the 1944 Democratic convention in Chicago, an ailing FDR faced a difficult choiceA ‘Boy Orator’ brought down the house at the 1896 Democratic Convention in ChicagoChicago’s history with hosting Democratic and Republican conventions dates back to 1860How Chicago became the go-to city for political conventionsChicago Tribune’s A.D. Quig contributed to this story. This is an abridged version; it was originally published by the Chicago Tribune.
Can the DNC help reverse Chicago’s national narrative?
The eyes of the political world turn to Chicago this week as tens of thousands of delegates, media, dignitaries and political influencers arrive for a historic Democratic National Convention featuring Vice President Kamala Harris’ celebratory and ceremonial acceptance of the party’s presidential nomination.
An event that only a month ago saw Democratic organizers trying to build enthusiasm over the anticipated renomination of President Joe Biden has now developed its own energy with the president’s decision to drop from the race and back Harris, the first Black and Asian woman to receive a major party nomination.
A convention that organizers had planned for more than a year to be a showcase of Biden accomplishments has been quickly rescripted to — starting Monday — define and boost Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and offer voters an aggressive alternative in the Nov. 5 general election to former President Donald Trump and his running mate, U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio.
Biden is scheduled to deliver the opening night keynote address. In doing so, he will in effect cede the presidential campaign stage to Harris while forcefully touting the new ticket and what’s at stake in the election. First Lady Jill Biden also is scheduled to speak on Monday and Harris, who is to fly into Chicago on Sunday night, is expected to be in attendance at the United Center.
As is traditionally the case at political conventions, the Democratic event will feature daily themes — “For the People” on Monday, “A Bold Vision For America’s Future” on Tuesday, “A Fight for Our Freedoms” on Wednesday and “For Our Future” on Thursday. The themes will be used to promote their speakers, including former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton as well as the Harris-Walz ticket. But there also is one overarching convention theme of parochial importance that also has national implications.
Does Chicago have something to prove with this convention?
There’s a chip on the City of Big Shoulders, like it or not, due to a national narrative that points to Chicago’s long-standing issues of crime and renewed questions of public safety.
A Google search on Chicago, while offering a litany of places to see, things to do and food to eat, also lists frequently asked questions such as, “Is Chicago worth visiting?” “What is the crime rate in Chicago” and “Is it safe to visit Chicago?”
They’re prompted by a narrative exploited and exaggerated amid the nation’s sharply divided politics — mainly through Republican attacks on a city run by Democratic progressives and led by a rookie mayor in Brandon Johnson.
And they’re driven by Trump who, throughout his political history, labeled the city “worse than Afghanistan,” “totally out of control” and a “total disaster,” despite having a lavish namesake hotel operation on the Chicago River.
Of course, no Democratic delegates are being housed there.
A tour boat prepares to pass under the Wells Street Bridge along the Chicago River on July 23, 2024. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)At a convention kickoff luncheon on Saturday to thank those who helped bring the event to the city, Gov. JB Pritzker said picking Chicago as the location for the DNC was a calculated decision by Biden.
“There’s one really, really, important reason that he chose Chicago, and that is that we’ve demonstrated to the country that Democrats deliver in Chicago and in the state of Illinois,” Pritzker said, citing the convention theme of Illinois Democrats.
“So when all these people come from around the country, they get to see what the Democratic agenda looks like in action,” Pritzker said. “It is going to be one of the greatest experiences and the best conventions ever in the history of the Democratic Party.”
By the numbers, the 50,000 anticipated attendees are no big deal for a city that has long been a convention destination.
The annual Lollapalooza music festival, which wrapped up earlier this month, routinely draws 100,000 people per day. The annual National Restaurant Association show — the other NRA — draws more people in May. And in only three weeks the International Manufacturing Technology Show at McCormick Place will draw an estimated 100,000 visitors.
But for those events, there’s no need for specially designated security areas, protests are not part of the daily rituals and there are no dignitaries designated for protection by the U.S. Secret Service.
So the question of whether Chicago has something to prove can draw some defensive reactions when posed to convention advocates who live in the city.
“Do we have something to prove? Absolutely not. We know who we are. I know who these officers are. I know what this department is and who this department is,” said Chicago police Superintendent Larry Snelling.
“What I will tell you is, whatever the national narrative is, if it’s negative, we’ll prove that wrong. We’re not setting out to prove it wrong,” Snelling said. “The only thing that we do is what we do every single day — we go out here. We work to keep this city safe, and the DNC is no different.”
Superintendent Larry Snelling, right, attends a news conference to discuss final preparations for public safety before the Democratic National Convention at the Office of Emergency Management and Communications on Aug. 13, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Chicago saw spikes in gun violence and other crime when the pandemic swept through the country in 2020, as well as in the aftermath of the killing that year of George Floyd by a police officer in Minnesota. Since then, the city has seen reductions by more than 20% each in killings and total shootings while the trend has gone in the opposite direction for other crimes such as robbery and sexual assault.
Chicago typically leads the nation each year in total slayings, but its homicide rate on a per-capita basis is far from being tops in the U.S.
Michael Jacobson, who heads the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, said that “tens of thousands of political thought leaders” will be in Chicago after having helped shape a narrative about a city “many of them haven’t been to … in a decade.”
“We do have something to prove in terms of redefining, reshaping that narrative about what Chicago is. If things go off without a hitch — and we’re confident that it will — we are going to successfully change a lot of people’s perceptions about Chicago. And then they’re going to go home and talk about it. They’re going to post on social media. You’re going to see stories written that Chicago is not what you thought it was. And so, yes, I do think we have something to prove,” Jacobson said.
“Do we have problems that need to be addressed? Absolutely. I’m not trying to sugarcoat the fact that we have some problems that we need to continue focusing on,” he added. “But at the end of the day, I think we do get a bad deal in terms of the fact that a lot of other major cities are going through very similar issues that Chicago is, and yet we get a lot worse narrative around this city than a lot of these other cities do.”
Red, white and blue balloons are bundled before being raised to the rafters on Aug. 15, 2024, inside the Democratic National Convention at the United Center. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)Jacobson said there is a “new excitement” about the convention with the dramatic change to the Democratic ticket and said the city has seen an uptick in hotel bookings “that definitely coincides” with it.
Related ArticlesNational Politics | Pro-abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protesters rally ahead of the start of the DNC National Politics | The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know National Politics | Thousands of activists expected in Chicago for Democratic convention to call for Gaza cease-fire National Politics | The Democratic National Convention is here. Here’s how to watch it National Politics | Convention delegates will nominate Harris, again. This time, there’s less suspense and more pizzazzStill, there’s been no shortage of attempts to try to deflate expectations for the convention, including some often wild attempts to compare this year to the most infamous Democratic political convention in history, the violent DNC in Chicago in 1968. Much less attention has been paid to the last DNC in Chicago, the 1996 renomination of Clinton for a second term, which largely went off without a hitch.
One Chicago-based dark-money, Republican-aligned group has even posted a video series warning “how likely the city is to see a repeat of 1968.”
While 1968 was the last time a Democratic incumbent president, Lyndon B. Johnson, opted not to seek reelection and was replaced on the ticket by his vice president, Hubert Humphrey, the atmospherics then were very different from now.
LBJ stepped down after leading a vastly unpopular war in Vietnam amid nationwide protests from many, including military draft-eligible youths. It also was a year of violent political upheaval with the assassinations of civil rights leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, who was pursuing the Democratic presidential nomination.
The 1968 convention was the ignition, if not a symbolic capstone, to a combustible decade of racial and antiwar strife. There was chaos inside the convention hall. There was chaos outside the convention hall.
“I know there are people who want to harken back to 1968. This is nothing like 1968,” Pritzker said recently. “We know how to manage through allowing protesters to exercise their First Amendment rights and have a great convention for the 50,000 people who are coming to Chicago.”
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Protests are expected, led by Palestinian supporters lashing out at the violence and deaths in Gaza and the U.S. relationship with Israel in its war on Hamas. Chicago also has been coping with an influx of border immigrants bused from Texas by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, though previous predictions from city leaders that tens of thousands of migrants would arrive here ahead of the DNC have so far not been proven out.
Protesters also plan to demonstrate during the convention in support of more affordable housing, better education opportunities, improvements on immigration, health care, policing, LGBTQ+ rights and development in long-neglected communities.
But there are protesters and there are disruptors.
It’s likely Chicago will see a combination of both throughout the city — not just in designated protest areas — and the response will say much about the image of the city and its leadership going forward.
It’s also the nature of political conventions to feature the contradiction of street protests and exclusive high-end parties.
Several groups, delegations and caucuses are planning to make use of places such as the House of Blues and Harry Caray’s to host parties.
With the Cubs out of town, Wrigley Field is expected to see two events, one co-hosted by Illinois Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, and another by Harris’ presidential campaign.
On Tuesday night, when Pritzker is set to take the stage at the DNC as host governor, he later will be throwing a post-convention concert at the Salt Shed featuring John Legend, who disappointed some Ravinia-goers last year by appearing solo and largely talking about his own greatness rather than performing.
Gov. JB Pritzker greets people while visiting the stage before the Democratic National Convention Aug. 16, 2024, at the United Center. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)Sam Toia, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association, said he also thinks Chicago has been unfairly singled out for criticism involving urban problems and issues.
“I just think it’s always good that we can show the country how good we are because sometimes the narrative is not good and it hasn’t ever been since the pandemic,” Toia said. “That’s not just the problem in Chicago. That’s in any big urban city.”
Toia said he expects Chicago restaurants to fare better than those in Milwaukee did for the Republican convention because the Wisconsin city’s footprint is so much smaller and falls within the security restricted areas. Food destinations in the West Loop, River North and much of the city aren’t encumbered by the restrictions.
Among Illinois’ top Democrats, there’s no shortage of boosterism for an event that Chicago business and political leaders think can provide a significant injection of cash and publicity into a city still struggling to regain its pre-COVID activity. Supporters say the convention could provide a $150 million boost to the city’s economy, though such estimates are often difficult to prove.
Still, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza said she thinks the convention’s messaging to promote the Harris-Walz ticket and contrast it with Trump and Vance can also help turn the city’s narrative.
“I certainly think that having a president who, you know, puts down our city every five minutes certainly doesn’t help,” Mendoza said of Trump.
“I’m very proud of the beautiful city that we’re going to be presenting to people from across America,” she said. “And I think they can make up their own minds.”
Tribune reporter Olivia Olander contributed.
Thousands of activists expected in Chicago for Democratic convention to call for Gaza cease-fire
By SOPHIA TAREEN
CHICAGO (AP) — Thousands of activists are expected to converge on Chicago this week for the Democratic National Convention, hoping to call attention to abortion rights, economic injustice and the war in Gaza.
While Vice President Kamala Harris has energized crowds of supporters as she prepares to accept the Democratic nomination, progressive activists maintain their mission remains the same.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: Police on bicycles stage on Upper Wacker drive for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: Police on bicycles stage on Upper Wacker drive for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling arrives to a protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
Show Caption1 of 8CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 18: People gather for a Pro-Palestinian protest ahead of the Democratic National Convention on August 18, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The convention runs from August 19-22. (Photo by Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
ExpandActivists say they learned lessons from last month’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and are predicting bigger crowds and more robust demonstrations in Chicago, a city with deep social activism roots.
Who is protesting?Demonstrations are expected every day of the convention and, while their agendas vary, many activists agree an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war is the priority.
Things kicked off Sunday on the convention’s eve with an abortion rights march along iconic Michigan Avenue.
Activist Liz Rathburn, right, talks with University of Illinois-Chicago student Arsalan Zahid on campus Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, about two marches in support of Palestine, during the Democratic National Convention next week in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)Organizer Linda Loew said even though Democrats have pushed to safeguard reproductive rights at home, the issue is international. They marched in solidarity with people everywhere who struggle for the right to control what happens to their bodies, as well as to protest the money the U.S. spends to back wars that could be used for healthcare, she said.
“We believe that the billions of dollars that continue to flow to the state of Israel and the flow of weapons are having an inordinate and horrific impact, but in particular on women, children and the unborn,” she said. “All of these things are tied together.”
Activist Liz Rathburn hands out a flyer on the University of Illinois-Chicago campus Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, about two marches in support of Palestine, during the Democratic National Convention next week in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)The largest group, the Coalition to March on the DNC, has planned demonstrations on the first and last days of the convention.
Organizers say they expect at least 20,000 activists, including students who protested the war on college campuses.
“The people with power are going to be there,” said Liz Rathburn, a University of Illinois Chicago student organizer. “People inside the United Center are the people who are going to be deciding our foreign policy in one way or another.”
Where are they protesting?Activists sued the city earlier this year, saying restrictions over where they can demonstrate violate their constitutional rights.
Chicago leaders rejected their requests for permits to protest near United Center on the city’s West Side, where the convention is taking place, offering instead a lakefront park more than 3 miles (5 kilometers) away.
Activist Liz Rathburn hands out a flyer on the University of Illinois-Chicago campus Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, about two marches in support of Palestine, during the Democratic National Convention next week in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)Later, the city agreed to allow demonstrations at a park and a march route closer to the United Center. A federal judge recently signed off on the group’s roughly 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) route.
Coalition to March on the DNC spokesman Hatem Abudayyeh said the group is pleased it won the right to protest closer to the convention, but he believes its preferred 2-mile (3-kilometer) march would be safer for larger crowds. The group is chartering buses for activists from about half a dozen states.
“We’re going forward, full speed ahead,” he said.
The city has designated a park about a block from United Center for a speakers’ stage. Those who sign up get 45 minutes.
Activist Liz Rathburn, second from right, and Angel Gonzalez, right, hand out a flyers on the University of Illinois-Chicago campus Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, about two marches in support of Palestine, during the Democratic National Convention next week in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)The Philadelphia-based Poor People’s Army, which advocates for economic justice, plans to set up at Humboldt Park on the city’s Northwest Side and will feature events with third-party candidates Jill Stein and Cornel West, plus a 3-mile (5 kilometer) march Monday to the United Center.
Some group members have spent the last few weeks marching the more than 80 miles (130 kilometers) from Milwaukee, where they protested during the Republican convention.
“Poor and homeless people are being brutalized, with tents and encampments destroyed and bulldozed away, from San Francisco to Philadelphia to Gaza and the West Bank,” spokesperson Cheri Honkala said in a statement as the group reached Illinois. “These preventable human rights violations are being committed by Democratic and Republican leaders alike.”
How does a new nominee change things?Many activists believe nothing much will change because Harris is part of the Biden administration.
Activist Liz Rathburn hands out a flyer on the University of Illinois-Chicago campus Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, about two marches in support of Palestine, during the Democratic National Convention next week in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)“The demands haven’t changed. I haven’t seen any policy changes,” said Erica Bentley, an activist with Mamas Activating Movements for Abolition and Solidarity. “If you’re going to be here, you’re going to have to listen to what’s important to us.”
Pro-Palestinian protesters in Chicago have been highly visible, shutting down roads to the airport and staging sit-ins at congressional offices. Some are planning their own one-day convention Sunday with third-party candidates.
“Regardless of who the nominee is, we’re marching against the Democrats and their vicious policies that have allowed Israel to kill over 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza,” said Fayaani Aboma Mijana, an organizer with the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression.
It’s unclear if the convention will draw far-right extremists who ardently support former President Donald Trump.
Secret Service Deputy Special Agent in Charge Derek Mayer said last week there are no known specific security threats against the convention.
Is Chicago ready?The convention will draw an estimated 50,000 people to the nation’s third-largest city, including delegates, activists and journalists.
The city says it has made necessary preparations with police and the Secret Service. Security will be tight, with street closures around the convention center.
Related ArticlesNational Politics | Pro-abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protesters rally ahead of the start of the DNC National Politics | The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know National Politics | Can the DNC help reverse Chicago’s national narrative? National Politics | The Democratic National Convention is here. Here’s how to watch it National Politics | Convention delegates will nominate Harris, again. This time, there’s less suspense and more pizzazzTo combat traffic concerns, city leaders are touting a new $80 million train station steps from the United Center. They also have tried to beautify the city with freshly planted flowers and new signs. City leaders also cleared a nearby homeless encampment.
Police have undergone training on constitutional policing, county courts say they are opening more space in anticipation of mass arrests and hospitals near the security zone are beefing up emergency preparedness.
Authorities and leaders in the state have said people who vandalize the city or are violent will be arrested.
“We’re going to make sure that people have their First Amendment rights protected, that they can do that in a safe way,” Mayor Brandon Johnson told The Associated Press in a recent interview.
But some have lingering safety concerns, worried that protests could become unpredictable or devolve into chaos.
Activist Hy Thurman protested and was arrested at the infamous 1968 convention. The 74-year-old now lives in Alabama but plans to come to Chicago to protest the war in Gaza.
“It’s extremely personal for me,” he said. “I see parallels.”
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has said that he expects peaceful protests.
“We intend to protect the protesters’ First Amendment rights, and also the residents of the city of Chicago and the visitors to Chicago at the same time,” Pritzker told the AP in a recent interview.
Associated Press video journalist Melissa Perez Winder contributed to this report.
The Democratic National Convention is here. Here’s how to watch it
By MEG KINNARD
CHICAGO (AP) — The Democratic National Convention kicks off Monday, with delegates and officials descending on Chicago after a wild few weeks that saw the party switch out its nominee, upending what had already been an unprecedented campaign year.
With the departure of President Joe Biden from the campaign, and Vice President Kamala Harris’ swift ascension to the top of the ticket, Democrats have essentially rejiggered the general election fight against the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump, just months before the Nov. 5 election.
Jaime Harrison, Democratic National Committee chair, watches as preparations are made before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)The campaign redesign has also required changes in the platform that party officials will adopt before proceedings in Chicago, as well as physical reconfigurations of the signage and other materials in and around the convention hall, to reflect Democrats’ new ticket.
Here’s how to watch the action at the DNC:
When is the DNC?The convention begins Monday and runs through Thursday, with televised speeches and floor activity happening each night in prime time. A complete schedule hasn’t been released, but Harris, running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Biden, former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as 2016 nominee Hillary Clinton and former first lady Michelle Obama, are all expected to speak during the week’s evening programming.
What channel is carrying the convention?The DNC will livestream on more than a dozen platforms, including the convention website, YouTube and X. For the first time in convention history, organizers say, they will also host vertical streams across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to make the proceedings more accessible on mobile devices.
Convention officials say there will be English and Spanish versions, as well as American Sign Language interpretation and an audio description service.
Balloons are staged to be raised to the ceiling as preparations are made before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)A number of network and cable news outlets have announced special programming for the prime-time portions of the convention, when Harris and others will give speeches from the hall where delegates are convening.
Other media outlets, both local and national, will stream whatever is happening on the floor. The actual space itself is closed to the public, behind several layers of security accessible only to delegates, officials, volunteers and credentialed media.
The DNC has also credentialed social media influencers for this year’s convention, meaning that there may be a number of ways to see first-hand happenings across those accounts on various platforms, too.
Where is the DNC taking place?Democrats are convening at the United Center, home to the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks. Other facilities such as the McCormick Place Convention Center are hosting event spaces, including areas where convention officials will hold media briefings and delegates will hold caucus meetings and other gatherings.
Work continues at the United Center before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)Illinois is a reliably Democratic state when it comes to presidential elections, voting for the Democratic candidate in every presidential election since 1992.
Chicago was the scene of Democrats’ raucous floor fight in 1968 — a year fraught with President Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision not to seek reelection and the assassination of candidate Robert F. Kennedy — that ended with delegates defeating a peace platform seeking an end to the Vietnam War. Thousands of anti-war protesters marched in the streets and were attacked by police.
There’s uncertainty afoot about the Democrats’ return to Chicago, where protesters plan to oppose the Biden administration’s support for Israel in its war with Hamas — leaving some to wonder whether a 1968 redux could be coming. Police say they’ve undergone extensive de-escalation training in preparation.
Who will be on stage?Harris is expected to give her nomination acceptance on Thursday night, as is tradition. Walz will accept his nomination as her running mate on Wednesday night. Biden will speak Monday, and the Obamas are scheduled to speak Tuesday.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY, stands at the podium at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)Given the unprecedented nature of how this campaign year has unfolded, much of what the top-of-the-ticket candidates will be doing is introducing themselves to a national audience. Harris began her own run for president only four weeks ago and made Walz her pick only two weeks after that.
Related ArticlesNational Politics | Pro-abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protesters rally ahead of the start of the DNC National Politics | The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know National Politics | Can the DNC help reverse Chicago’s national narrative? National Politics | Thousands of activists expected in Chicago for Democratic convention to call for Gaza cease-fire National Politics | Convention delegates will nominate Harris, again. This time, there’s less suspense and more pizzazzAmerica has still had more time to get to know Walz before his speech than they did Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, before Republicans’ convention last month. Trump waited until the convention’s opening day to announce Vance as his running mate in a post on his Truth Social platform.
The DNC on Sunday listed its themes for each of the four days: “For the People,” “A Bold Vision for America’s Future,” “A Fight for Our Freedoms” and “For Our Future.” Convention organizers are likely to release more specifics each morning for that night’s programming.
What’s up next?On Sept. 10, less than three weeks after the DNC wraps up, Harris and Trump are slated to meet on stage for a debate hosted by ABC News.
Walz and Vance also have a debate set for Oct. 1, and it’s possible that more presidential and vice presidential debates could be scheduled.
Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report. Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://x.com/MegKinnardAP
Classic Car Week ends with impressive display of automobiles (and fashion)
PEBBLE BEACH >> Car lovers were welcomed by sunny skies to the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, capping off this year’s Classic Car Week.
The weather was perfect for an afternoon of admiring (and judging) the impressive display of both new and classic cars. Thousands turned out to the event, dressed to the nines, to see which car owner would be granted the prestigious title of “Best of Show.”
Adults weren’t the only ones enjoying the day on the fairway at Concours D’Elegance. Families and children of all ages took part in the festivities taking pictures of, and with, their favorite cars. (Kyarra Harris — Monterey Herald)Fritz Burkard of Zug, Switzerland became the first Swiss man to win the Best of Show with his 1934 Bugattie Type 59. It also marked the first time an unrestored preservation car has won. The car is entirely original and heavily worn.
The car was one of many parked on Pebble Beach Golf Links’ 17th and 18th fairways with an interesting story. For example, Gordon Logan’s 1940 Packard convertible was supposed to debut at the Paris Auto Show in 1940 but was delayed by the war. Packard moved the car around the country to various dealerships in France until it was sold to MGM Studios. It starred in various movies including the 1953 Western film, “Blowing Wind.”
Before being purchased by Logan last year, the car had lived many lives, including being owned by a professional Ice Capades skater, being driven through a blizzard in Oklahoma and traveling across the country multiple times to different owners.
“It’s always wonderful to be here, anytime you can be at Pebble Beach and show a car is special,” said Logan.
First-time Classic Car Week attendee Stacy Sullivan was impressed by the prestige of not only the vehicles on display, but the people, too. Walking through the rows of cars, Sullivan saw “so many gorgeous cars and gorgeous people,” she said.
The beauty of the hundreds of vehicles parked on the resort was matched only by the elegant fashion Sunday’s guests arrived in. Hundreds of floral, floor-length sundresses and intricate tea hats covered the fairways and provided more to admire.
As the climax of Classic Car Week, the Concours “is the culmination of a really fun week,” said Sullivan.
A 1906 Mercedes 70 HP Rothschild and Fils Triple Phaeton from the Keller Collection at the Pyramids from Petaluma. (Kyarra Harris — Monterey Herald)While it’s easy to get distracted by the fashion, ultimately what everyone is there for is to know which vehicle is considered “Best of Show” in one of the world’s most prestigious car shows. Among other things, judges look for technical merit, style and history.
“We just judge purely on design and the emotional appeal of the vehicle,” said Michael Simcoe, honorary judge and vice president of global design at General Motors. According to Simcoe, the job of an honorary judge is different from that of a regular judge. Instead of looking for point scoring on originality or style, honorary judges look out for the appearance and elegance of the car and if it delivers on the promise of what the car represents.
Though it doesn’t look like a traditional race car, the 1936 Delahaye 135 S made by Figoni et Falaschi has proved itself as both reliable and stylish.
It was one of six bodies that was sent to Delahaye and used for race cars, according to Alan Beech, who worked on the restoration. The car has an aluminum body and French racing engine and is now used as a daily driver.
To prove its reliability, the car was driven to Big Sur and back during Thursday’s Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance. “It did terrific, it loves to run instead of just idling,” said Beach. “We had a fun time out there, we saw the coastline (and) really enjoyed it … we’re happy we’re here.”
The rows of cars lined up perfectly equidistant so each vehicle gets its own moment wouldn’t be possible without field hosts like Lloyd Watts. A volunteer for the last seven years, Watts said “I love it so much I keep coming back.”
Gordon Logan and his wife presented their 1940 Packard 1806 Custom Super Eight Darrin Convertible Victoria at Sunday morning's Concours d'Elegance. (Andrea Valadez - Monterey Herald)
A 1936 Delahaye 135 S owned by David F. D'Addario competed to be names "Best of Show" at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. (Andrea Valadez - Monterey Herald)
A group talks about a 1965 Maserati Sebring II Vignale Coupé, owned by John Clark and Gayle Pirie from Berkeley, California. (Kyarra Harris -- Monterey Herald)
A 1951 Maserati A6G 2000 Pinin Farina Coupé owned by the Magnon Foundation from Riverside, California. (Kyarra Harris -- Monterey Herald)
A 1953 Nardi 750 Frua Barchetta owned by Edward Gregory from Bernardsville, New Jersey. (Kyarra Harris -- Monterey Herald)
Show Caption1 of 5Gordon Logan and his wife presented their 1940 Packard 1806 Custom Super Eight Darrin Convertible Victoria at Sunday morning's Concours d'Elegance. (Andrea Valadez - Monterey Herald)
ExpandWatts is also a Car Week entrant, winning “First in Class” with his 1970 BMW 2800 CS at Thursday’s Legends of the Autobahn event. “It’s the life, it’s a great way to spend a week,” said Watts.
From classic to exotic cars, the cars in pristine condition and the ones collecting dust, Lloyd believes there is a Car Week event for everyone. “It doesn’t matter if you come here to the Concours d’Elegance or if you go to the Concours d’Lemons, it’s all fun,” said Watts.
Judges also look for “originality and authenticity on the technical side because it’s important cars are correct,” said Peter Larsen, judge and selection committee member. “When we look at cars, we’re celebrating them as historical objects that have come down to us and it’s not our job to paint them in strange colors or put in upholstering that didn’t exist when the car was made.”
With an occasion as grandiose as Car Week, preparation is no joke. “Concours Sunday is the single most important day of the year,” said Larsen, a long-time car aficionado. “It starts and it’s over and bang … the work for next year starts basically Monday.”
Convention delegates will nominate Harris, again. This time, there’s less suspense and more pizzazz
By ROBERT YOON
WASHINGTON (AP) — Once more, with feeling!
It’s been nearly two weeks since Vice President Kamala Harris officially won the Democratic presidential nomination in an online vote, the first time a nominee was named prior to a party’s convention. But the roughly 4,700 delegates charged with picking a nominee to lead the ticket did so from locations around the globe on their laptops and devices in relative isolation from one other. There was none of the pomp and fanfare that usually accompany the selection of the party’s standard-bearer. In other words, it wasn’t very fun.
Balloons are staged to be raised to the ceiling as preparations are made before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)Democratic party leaders hope to make up for that by holding a ceremonial vote at the Democratic National Convention, which begins Monday in Chicago. Among the major agenda items will be what’s essentially a re-staging of the official presidential nomination vote from early August, mirroring the sometimes-festive, sometimes-raucous roll call votes that have been a staple of in-person party conventions for almost 200 years.
The Democratic National Committee calls it a “celebratory Roll Call” and said in a statement the event would give delegates the opportunity to “celebrate the nomination” of Harris, who is the first woman of color to lead a major party presidential ticket.
Here’s how it will work:
When is the celebratory roll call?Delegates will gather on the convention floor on Tuesday to cast their symbolic votes. It’s the third consecutive Democratic convention when the roll call was held on a Tuesday and the first in-person roll call since 2016. For decades, Democrats held their roll call on a Wednesday, the second-to-last day of the convention.
Will there be any suspense in the roll vote?It’s been more than 40 years since there’s been any question about who the nominee would be heading into a convention roll call vote. Since then, a single candidate has always emerged in each party as the presumptive nominee well before the convention, making the vote itself a foregone conclusion.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY, stands at the podium at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)That is especially true in the 2024 Democratic convention, since the ceremonial vote is non-binding and cannot undo or modify the results of the earlier, official vote to nominate Harris held over five days in the first week of August. That’s not to say there can’t be some attempt to stage a protest vote from the convention floor, but it won’t have any impact on the outcome.
The result from the official nomination vote from early August was 4,563 votes for Harris and 52 for “present,” the only other option on the ballot. An additional 79 delegates did not cast votes.
What will the ceremonial roll call look like?Convention organizers have indicated the ceremonial vote will follow the general format of past in-person convention roll calls, with some stylistic flourishes. State delegations will still call out their votes from the convention floor in a session presided over by the convention secretary. These presentations are usually an opportunity for each delegation to express their support for the nominee and the party, while also demonstrating their state pride. This year, each presentation will be accompanied by a song to represent the delegation, similar to a star batter’s “walk-up” song at a baseball game. A DJ will play the song on the main stage, while iconic images from each state and territory will be displayed on large screens.
What’s the order of voting for the states?The convention secretary will call on state delegations to vote mostly in alphabetical order, with a few key exceptions. Voting in the celebratory roll call will begin with President Joe Biden’s home state of Delaware as a tribute to the president. The roll call vote will conclude with vice presidential nominee Tim Walz’s home state of Minnesota and Harris’ home state of California. Organizers say the modified order symbolizes the passing of the torch from Biden to Harris and the “next generation of Democratic leadership.”
Tony Popelka guides a bag of balloons as preparations are made before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)Modifying the order in which delegations cast their votes is a common tool that both parties have used to choreograph the roll call to allow certain states to play a heightened role in the process.
Do they vote straight through?In past roll call votes at both parties’ conventions, the voting temporarily stops once the nominee surpasses the votes needed to win the nomination so that delegates mark the occasion and hold a celebration on the floor. Eventually, the voting resumes until all delegations have voted. Convention organizers have not indicated how or whether delegates would mark the milestone of Harris symbolically clinching the nomination. The distinction is somewhat moot this year, since Harris is already the nominee, based on the official vote held earlier in August.
Is there a vote for the vice presidential nominee?Delegates will cast symbolic votes in the celebratory roll call for both Harris and Walz, according to a statement from convention officials, a departure from traditional roll calls.
Related ArticlesNational Politics | Pro-abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protesters rally ahead of the start of the DNC National Politics | The DNC starts Monday in Chicago. Here’s what to know National Politics | Can the DNC help reverse Chicago’s national narrative? National Politics | Thousands of activists expected in Chicago for Democratic convention to call for Gaza cease-fire National Politics | The Democratic National Convention is here. Here’s how to watch itNormally, the vice presidential nominee is officially chosen by delegates through a separate procedure, often on a different day of the convention. Vice presidential nominees of both parties are usually selected by acclamation, or a voice vote by the entire convention delegation, rather than through a separate roll call vote. This separate process is usually a formality, since the identity of the presumptive vice presidential nominee is often known well before the start of the convention.
This year, Walz won the vice presidential nomination in early August. After becoming the presidential nominee, Harris officially nominated Walz to be her running mate, and the convention chair declared Walz the nominee in accordance with party rules. The same procedure was used to nominate Harris as the vice presidential nominee at the 2020 convention.
When do Harris and Walz accept the nominations?Harris and Walz became the Democratic presidential and vice presidential nominees Aug. 6. But each will symbolically accept the nominations in speeches before the full convention. Harris will speak on Thursday, in keeping with both parties’ tradition of the nominee addressing the convention on the final night.
Walz will speak on Wednesday night. For decades, the Democratic vice presidential nominee addressed the convention on the final night, just before the presidential nominee. That practice ended in 1996, and the vice presidential nominee’s speech has been held on Wednesday night ever since, with the exception of 2012, when it was held on Thursday.
Were roll call votes always done in-person?At the 2020 convention, then-candidate Joe Biden won the nomination after delegates cast their votes virtually through a series of elaborate live remote video presentations from every state and U.S. territory, a process created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Work continues at the United Center before the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)The unique and sometimes quirky nature of the remote presentations quickly became a convention favorite. This year, convention planners said in a statement on Sunday that the celebratory roll call will once again incorporate some live video elements to “showcase the diversity and beauty of America.”
Why was the official nomination vote held before the convention this year?DNC officials first indicated in May that they would conduct a virtual roll call before the convention to clear a potential hurdle in getting the Democratic nominee on the ballot in Ohio. Ohio’s deadline to file for the general election ballot was Aug. 7. Although the deadline had been modified in previous presidential election years to accommodate late-summer conventions of both parties, this year state Republicans initially planned to enforce the existing deadline, with one GOP lawmaker calling the scheduling bind “ a Democratic problem.”
The Republican-controlled Legislature did eventually make an accommodation for the convention at the behest of Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, but the law does not go into effect until Aug. 31. Citing concerns that Ohio Republicans could still try to block their candidate from getting on the ballot despite the legislative fix, DNC officials moved forward with their virtual roll call as originally planned.
Horoscopes Aug. 18, 2024: Madelaine Petsch, do what’s best for you
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Madelaine Petsch, 30; Andy Samberg, 46; Edward Norton, 55; Robert Redford, 88.
Happy Birthday: Think twice before you agree to changes you don’t want to make. Be honest with yourself and others, and you’ll prevent a multitude of problems this year that can affect you financially and physically. Open communication is your window to better decisions. Your willingness to do what’s best for you while offering others the same privilege will be key. Balance, integrity and equality are your tickets to success. Your numbers are 4, 13, 19, 25, 33, 37, 42.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Participation will lead to interesting conversations and opportunities; however, not all suggestions will be worthwhile. Pick and choose carefully using common sense, facts and overall interest. Don’t jeopardize your health or financial well-being or succumb to temptation. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Compromise. Set up new guidelines or lifestyle changes that help keep the peace and allow you to do your business without being hassled. Pay more attention to how you look and feel, and be cognizant of money management. Keep tabs on loved ones, but don’t smother them. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): An open mind will lead to answers. Go on a learning adventure that encourages you to experience firsthand information by living, seeing and feeling the process. Be resourceful when dealing with professional or medical matters, look beyond the expected results and discover alternative methods. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Experience life by embracing the wonders that come your way wholeheartedly. Don’t fear change or trying something new; an open mind is your ticket to freedom and personal growth. Engage in conversations, notice body language and gain insight into the connections you make today. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leave nothing to chance. Manufacture what you want to happen. Set and stick to a budget you can live with, and change only what makes sense and is within your means. A passionate approach to life, love and happiness will attract positive feedback. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Learning something new will help you implement positive change into your everyday routine, enabling you to walk away from people and situations detrimental to your emotional well-being and physical health. It’s time to take hold of your life and rid yourself of toxic environments. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Spread your vision and reach for the stars. Embrace what you feel passionate about and release what you no longer need. Be true to yourself instead of trying to impress others. Focus on satisfying your needs, expressing your thoughts and goals, and enjoying and living in the moment. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t ignore the signs; the warnings are evident, and your attention is required. Look for alternative ways to use your skills. Diversify, set the stage for what you want to aspire to and reach for the stars. Trust and believe in yourself instead of relying on others. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Consider what’s unfolding and who’s on your side. Listen carefully, don’t believe everything you hear and use intelligence, facts and common sense to find your way. Partner with those who are on the same page and have as much to offer as you. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Look for the most direct path forward and take advantage of every step. Your actions will determine how much you gain. Change begins with you, and stability and sustainability require succinct action. Distance yourself from drama or anyone standing between you and doing what’s best. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Say what’s on your mind, and don’t apologize for looking out for yourself. Refuse to let changes around you overrule doing what’s in your best interest. Speak the truth and get on with your life without laboring over what others think or do. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Face issues head-on. The sooner you put the past behind you, the easier it will be to gain stability and peace of mind. Commit to moving forward and aspiring to reach goals that make you feel good about yourself. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are engaging, dramatic and intentional. You are questioning and outgoing.
1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.
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Horoscopes Aug. 18, 2024: Andy Samberg, open communication is your window to better decisions
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Madelaine Petsch, 30; Andy Samberg, 46; Edward Norton, 55; Robert Redford, 88.
Happy Birthday: Think twice before you agree to changes you don’t want to make. Be honest with yourself and others, and you’ll prevent a multitude of problems this year that can affect you financially and physically. Open communication is your window to better decisions. Your willingness to do what’s best for you while offering others the same privilege will be key. Balance, integrity and equality are your tickets to success. Your numbers are 4, 13, 19, 25, 33, 37, 42.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Participation will lead to interesting conversations and opportunities; however, not all suggestions will be worthwhile. Pick and choose carefully using common sense, facts and overall interest. Don’t jeopardize your health or financial well-being or succumb to temptation. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Compromise. Set up new guidelines or lifestyle changes that help keep the peace and allow you to do your business without being hassled. Pay more attention to how you look and feel, and be cognizant of money management. Keep tabs on loved ones, but don’t smother them. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): An open mind will lead to answers. Go on a learning adventure that encourages you to experience firsthand information by living, seeing and feeling the process. Be resourceful when dealing with professional or medical matters, look beyond the expected results and discover alternative methods. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Experience life by embracing the wonders that come your way wholeheartedly. Don’t fear change or trying something new; an open mind is your ticket to freedom and personal growth. Engage in conversations, notice body language and gain insight into the connections you make today. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Leave nothing to chance. Manufacture what you want to happen. Set and stick to a budget you can live with, and change only what makes sense and is within your means. A passionate approach to life, love and happiness will attract positive feedback. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Learning something new will help you implement positive change into your everyday routine, enabling you to walk away from people and situations detrimental to your emotional well-being and physical health. It’s time to take hold of your life and rid yourself of toxic environments. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Spread your vision and reach for the stars. Embrace what you feel passionate about and release what you no longer need. Be true to yourself instead of trying to impress others. Focus on satisfying your needs, expressing your thoughts and goals, and enjoying and living in the moment. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t ignore the signs; the warnings are evident, and your attention is required. Look for alternative ways to use your skills. Diversify, set the stage for what you want to aspire to and reach for the stars. Trust and believe in yourself instead of relying on others. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Consider what’s unfolding and who’s on your side. Listen carefully, don’t believe everything you hear and use intelligence, facts and common sense to find your way. Partner with those who are on the same page and have as much to offer as you. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Look for the most direct path forward and take advantage of every step. Your actions will determine how much you gain. Change begins with you, and stability and sustainability require succinct action. Distance yourself from drama or anyone standing between you and doing what’s best. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Say what’s on your mind, and don’t apologize for looking out for yourself. Refuse to let changes around you overrule doing what’s in your best interest. Speak the truth and get on with your life without laboring over what others think or do. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Face issues head-on. The sooner you put the past behind you, the easier it will be to gain stability and peace of mind. Commit to moving forward and aspiring to reach goals that make you feel good about yourself. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are engaging, dramatic and intentional. You are questioning and outgoing.
1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.
Want a link to your daily horoscope delivered directly to your inbox each weekday morning? Sign up for our free Coffee Break newsletter at mercurynews.com/newsletters or eastbaytimes.com/newsletters.
August 17, 2024
Pro Soccer: Road woes continue for Monterey Bay F.C.
ALBUQUERQUE — A sense of urgency is beginning to creep in like the fog that often covers Cardinale Stadium on Monterey Bay F.C.’s season.
A shakeup three weeks ago with a coaching change has yet to produce a win as the Union fell to Western Conference leader New Mexico United 3-2 in Albuquerque.
While new head coach Jordan Stewart has injected life into the Union, the former San Jose Earthquake defender is 0-2-0 as the team’s coach, as the franchise works to shake out what seems like a season long offensive slump.
Since Monterey Bay F.C. parted ways with Frank Yallop, the franchise is 0-2-1 and has slipped into a tie for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference with 10 matches left.
While the Union (7-11-6) are showing signs of rediscovering their offense, the road has not been kind to them, as the setback dropped them to 3-8-1 away from Cardinale Stadium, having fallen in seven of their last eight road matches.
The good news for the Union is their next two matches in the United Soccer League Championship are coming against the two worse teams in each division, as they will host El Paso next Saturday before traveling to Miami FC.
Despite Monterey Bay F.C.’s recent slide, it finds itself tied with Tulsa for the eighth spot with 27 points. The Union, who close the regular season against Tulsa, played them to a scoreless draw in their only meeting this season.
Injuries continue to be a thrown in the Union’s side, playing the match Saturday without three starters — two of which are likely out for the rest of the season.
New Mexico, whose 45 points gives them a seven-point lead over reigning Western Conference champion Sacramento and Memphis, are 2-0-1 since enduring a two-game skid, improving to 14-6-3.
The Union dug themselves a deep hole in the first 30 minutes of the match when New Mexico produced goals in the 12th and 28th minutes to build a 2-0 cushion.
Monterey, who is 0-6-3 when giving up two or more goals this season, answered in the 34th minute when Hugh Dixon scored his fourth goal of the season on an assist from Morey Doner to cut the deficit to one.
Monterey Bay F.C., who defeated the United 1-0 at Cardinale Stadium back in June, found themselves down 3-1 in the second half before Watsonville’s Adrian Rebollar scored on an assist from Xavi Gnaulati in the 88th minute.
The Union are now minus-10 in goal differential this season. They came into the meeting 2-2-1 lifetime against New Mexico, with each team having scored seven goals.
Tristan Trager’s run of either scoring or assisting on a goal ended at three matches, as he came out in the 62nd minute with an injury. In his first season, the Union’s leading scorer has already climbed to No. 5 all-time in goals with eight.
