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Welcome to our highlights of events and entertainment in Chicago at our city’s best museums and galleries. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on the latest activities.

‘The Art of Banksy’

The Art of Banksy

When: Aug. 14-Oct. 31

Where: 360 N. State

What: The identity of the artist known as Banksy has for years been the art world’s most intriguing mystery. But while we don’t know the man, we do know the art. The English-based street artist has created some of the most iconic images of the past few decades. A new exhibit brings more than 80 of these original works to Chicago. World-famous pieces from private collections including “Flower Thrower,” “Rude Copper” and “Girl with Balloon” will sit alongside other works rarely seen by the general public. As the artist-provocateur Banksy says: “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” Tickets: $40, $30 for 16 and younger.

More information: banksyexhibit.com

‘Helmut Jahn: Life + Architecture’

Chicago Architecture Center

‘Helmut Jahn: Life + Architecture’

When: To Oct. 31

Where: 111 E. Wacker

What: Chicago Architecture Center presents a new exhibit honoring the late Chicago architect, which highlights his designs ranging from signature early projects like the Michigan City Public Library (1977) and the James R. Thompson Center (1985) to the Sony Center in Berlin (2000) and the Pritzker Military Archives Center, currently under construction in Somers, Wisconsin. Photography, models and sketches illuminate each project and explore the collaborative design and engineering process, while personal imagery, video and recollections by those who knew and worked with Jahn underscore his flair for the dramatic and zest for life. Admission is $15.

More information: architecture.org

‘Van Gogh for All’

Lou Bank

When: Aug. 15-Sept. 26

Where: 333 N. Michigan Ave.

What: The immersive art experience that debuted in Chicago in 2019 returns for a limited run. The exhibit allows attendees to step into many of the artist’s works and learn about them in a whole new way. Fly through the Starry Night or step behind the shutters of his iconic Yellow House and walk through a re-creation of his studio. Open seven days a week 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Tickets: $20, $10 for 12 and under.

More information:vangoghforall.org

‘Mimi Cherono Ng’ok: Closer to the Earth, Closer to My Own Body’

(C) Mimi Cherono Ng’ok

When: To Feb. 7

Where: Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan

What: This new exhibit features the work of a photographer who travels extensively across the tropical climates on a mission to understand how natural environments, botanical cultures and human subjects coexist and evolve together. In this solo exhibit, she presents photographs and a film in which she tracked flowers and floral imagery across varied contexts and a range of hidden associations. Admission: $14-$22.

More information: artic.edu

Hyde Park Art Center

Provided/Courtesy of the artist

When: July 25-Oct. 24

Where: 5020 S. Cornell

What: Mel Chin’s Fundred Dollar Bill Project as well as works by LaToya Ruby Frazier and Fazal Sheikh are on display at the Hyde Park museum as part of “Toward Common Cause: Art, Social Change and the MacArthur Fellows Program at 40.” Chin’s 13-year-project, here titled “Chicago Fundred Initiative: A Bill for IL,” invites people to create their own “Fundred,” a form of currency that affirms the right of each maker to equal protection against lead contamination; Frazier’s film “Flint is Family” uses her photographs and voiceover by Flint, Michigan, resident Shea Cobb to understand the Flint water crisis; Sheikh’s landscape photography examines the connection between desertification, colonialism, and the displacement of Bedouin communities from ancestral lands in Israel’s Negev desert. Admission is free.

More information: hydeparkart.org

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

When: Ongoing

Where: 2430 N. Cannon Dr.

What: The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, where children of all ages can connect to nature and science, reopened July 8. Exhibits include “Without a Trace,” selections of photographs by Zbigniew Bzdak; “Patterns in Nature: A Bridge between Art and the Natural World,” mixed media work by artist Katherine Lampert; “Judy Istock Butterfly Haven” “Birds of Chicago” and many more. Admission: $6-$9, children under 3 free.

More information: naturemuseum.org

‘Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Exhibition’

SEE Attractions

When: To Aug. 15

Where: Oakbrook Center, 2120 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook

What: For a new perspective on some of the world’s greatest art check out this immersive exhibition showcasing the artist’s renowned ceiling frescos from the Vatican chapel. The reproductions were made using a photographic technique that captures the look and feel of the original paintings. Tickets: $14-$26.60.

More information: sistinechapelexhibit.com/chicago/

‘Toward Common Cause: Art, Social Change and the MacArthur Fellows Program at 40’

Courtesy the artist and David Zwirner and Regen Projects, Los Angeles (C) Toba Khedoori.

“Toward Common Cause — Art, Social Change and the MacArthur Fellows Program at 40” is a multi-museum venture organized by the Smart Museum of Art that explores the current sociopolitical moment, challenging questions of inclusion, exclusion, ownership and rights of access. In its gallery, the Smart Museum features works by Mark Bradford, Mel Chin, Nicole Eisenman, LaToya Ruby Frazier, Jeffrey Gibson, Toba Khedoori, Inigo Manglano-Ovalle, Julie Mehretu, Fazal Sheikh and Xu Bing. From July 15-Dec. 19 at Smart Museum, University of Chicago, 5550 S. Greenwood. Admission is free. Visit smartmuseum.uchciago.edu; for a list of participating museums visit towardcommoncause.org.

• Stony Island Arts Bank reopens with its contribution to “Towards Common Cause.” The group show features work by Carrie Mae Weems, Kerry James Marshall, Gary Hill, Whitfield Lovell, Trevor Paglen, Deborah Willis, Dawoud Bey, Fred Wilson and Nicole Eisenman. From July 18-Dec. 19 at Stony Island Arts Bank, 6760 S. Stony Island. Admission is free. Visit rebuild-foundation.org.
• The reopened DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., participates with an exhibit of “Presenting Negro Scenes Drawn Upon My Passage through the South and Reconfigured for the Benefit of Enlightened Audiences Wherever Such May Be Found, By Myself, Missus K.E.B Walker, Colored,” a signature black silhouette installation from the artist Kara Walker. Admission: $3-$10 (Sundays free), children under 5 free. Visit: dusablemuseum.org.

‘Chicago: Where Comics Come to Life (1880-1960)’

DCASE

When: To Oct. 3

Where: Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph

What: This exhibit looks at Chicago’s significant role in the development of the early comic strip. Curated by artist-author Chris Ware and the City of Chicago’s cultural historian emeritus, Tim Samuelson, it focuses on comics in popular publishing, African American cartoonists, the first women cartoonists, the first daily comic strip and more. Admission is free. (The exhibit is a historical companion to “Chicago Comics: 1960s to Now,” the survey of contemporary Chicago comics at the Museum of Contemporary Art.)

Visit: chicagoculturalcenter.org

National Museum of Mexican Art

National Museum of Mexican Art Permanent Collection, gift of Chaz and Christina Bojorquez

When: Ongoing

Where: National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th street

What: After being closed for 15 months, the museum has reopened with a handful of exhibits. “Spotlight on Chaz Bojorquez and Enrique Alferez” features the museum’s newest acquisition, “We the People,” a painting by Bojorquez, and Alferez’s iconic bronze sculpture “La Soldadera.” Plus “Adlateres and the Unexpected Journey: Works by Carmen Chami” features paintings inspired by Mexican Baroque painting and figurative style. Admission is free.

More information: nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

‘Toward Common Cause’

(C) Njideka Akunyili Crosby

When: To Nov. 21

Where: National Public Housing Museum, 625 N. Kingsbury, and at the Minnie Riperton Apartments, 4250 S. Princeton

What: The National Public Housing Museum partners with the Chicago Housing Authority to display artwork by MacArthur Fellow Njideka Akunyili Crosby as part of “Toward Common Cause,” a multi-site exhibition organized by the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the MacArthur Fellows Program. Crosby uses acrylic, colored pencil and photo collages to create her distinctive portraits of African American life. “I almost want people to feel like the door is open and they’re walking by a scene into someone else’s life,” she says, “because that really is what I’m doing… mining my life to tell a story that is global but really wanting people to feel like they’re getting a glimpse into my world.” Crosby’s artwork installation is displayed on 70-foot banners on the sides of two buildings.

More information: nphm.org

‘Drawn to Combat: Bill Mauldin & the Art of War’

Copyright the Pritzker Military Museum & Library

When: Through spring 2022

Where: 104 S. Michigan

What: Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Bill Mauldin, who studied at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts and was a cartoonist for the Chicago Sun-Times, is the subject of a retrospective at the Pritzker Military Museum & Library. “Drawn to Combat” covers Mauldin’s career as a wartime cartoonist focusing on soldiers’ experiences and as a political cartoonist. The exhibit draws from more than 5,000 cartoons and objects donated to the museum by the Mauldin family. Tickets: $8, $10, children under 12 free.

More information: pritzkermilitary.org

‘The Obama Portraits’

National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution

When: To Aug. 15

Where: Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan

What: The Art Institute is the first stop of a five-city tour for the official portraits of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. Artists Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald are the first African Americans to be commissioned by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Galley to create the official portraits of a president or first lady. After the nationwide tour, the portraits will reside in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. The exhibit is included with museum admission ($14-$25).

More information: artic.edu

‘Chicago Comics: 1960s to Now’

Provided

When: To Oct. 3

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago

What: A new exhibit celebrates Chicago’s pivotal role as a national and innovative center for comics and cartooning. With a focus on rediscovering the work of women and BIPOC comic artists, this major exhibition presents the last 60 years of the city’s artful cartooning history, showing how comic art is a democratic medium that allows artists to speak directly to people in relatable ways. Over 40 cartoonists are featured including Lynda Barry, Lilli Carre, Daniel Clowes, Nick Drnaso, Edie Fake, Emil Ferris, Nicole Hollander, Charles Johnson, Kerry James Marshall and Chris Ware. On display are comics, graphic novels, zines, original drawings, dioramas, commissioned films, installations, rare ephemera and books. Admission: $8, $15.

More information: mcachicago.org

‘Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Jane Goodall’

Hugo van Lawick/National Geographic

When: To Sept. 6

Where: Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: Generations have been inspired by the work of primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, who has not only shown the urgent need to protect chimpanzees but also redefined species conservation to include the needs of local people and the environments. A new exhibit follows her journey from a curious young child in England to a passionate scientist studying chimpanzees in Africa. Included in the exhibit are a re-creation of her field research tent, a hologramlike projection of Goodall sharing her fieldwork memories, augmented reality activities and a projection of Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park. Tickets: $18-$32.

More information: fieldmuseum.org

‘Vivian Maier: In Color’

Gift of Jeffrey Goldstein/(C) The Estate of Vivian Maier

When: To May 8, 2023

Where: Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark

What: Much has been heralded about street photographer Vivian Maier’s black-and-white photographs in exhibits, books and films. Now this multimedia exhibit features 65 color images made during her time as a suburban Chicago nanny from the 1950s to 1970s, many of which have never been seen before. Maier, who died in 2009, was a bit of a character and always had a Roloflex camera around her neck as she walked the streets snapping images of women, children, the old, the poor, the abstract. While her motives remain elusive, her photographs continue to speak volumes. Tickets: $17, $19.

More information: chicagohistory.org

‘Frida Kahlo: Timeless’

When: Through Sept. 6

Where: Cleve Carney Museum of Art in the McAninch Arts Center, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn

What: Here’s the not-too-miss art exhibit of the summer. Dolores Olmedo (1908-2002), a Mexican musician, businesswoman and friend of artists Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera, amassed an impressive list of works by both artists that reside in Mexico City’s Museo Dolores Olmedo. Her collection of paintings and works on paper by Kahlo have now traveled to the newly expanded Cleve Carney Museum of Art. The long-awaited exhibit, delayed a year because of the pandemic, features an array of oil paintings and works on paper, pivotal pieces created by the artist. Also featured are a multimedia timeline that offers a framework of Kahlo’s life, more than 100 photographs, a Kahlo-inspired garden and a family-friendly children’s area featuring a replica of Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Coyoacan, Mexico. Tickets: $23, $40.

More information: theccma.org/frida-kahlo/

Museum of Contemporary Photography

Courtesy of Marian Goodman Gallery

When: Through Aug. 29

Where: 600 S. Michigan at Columbia College Chicago

What: The museum is presenting two new exhibits. “Much Unseen Is Also Here: An-My Le and Shahzia Sikander” features the work of two Asian-American artists who explore their relationship to America. In the tradition of American road photography, Le’s photographs confront the political rhetoric of the moment and tackle current events; Sikander uses sculpture, drawings and animation to examine the intersection of power, gender, empire and self. “Martine Gutierrez” features work from Gutierrez’s independent art publication, “Indigenous Woman”, a magazine exploring how deeply sexism, colorism, racism, transphobia and other biases are embedded and ubiquitous in popular culture and fashion photography. Admission is free.

More information: mocp.org.

Polish Museum of America

Courtesy Polish Museum of America

When: Ongoing

Where: 984 N. Milwaukee

What: The museum, since 1935 a repository for a wide variety of materials pertaining to Poland and the Polish-American community, has reopened after being shuttered for more than a year. Among the many permanent exhibits are “Polish Chicago 1850-1939,” “Folk Art Collection” and “The Paderewski Collection,” which documents the life of Polish pianist and composer Ignacy Jan Paderewski. Tickets: $6-$10.

More information: polishmuseumofamerica.org

The Hartwell Memorial Window

The Art Institute of Chicago

When: Permanent

Where: Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan

What: A magnificent stained glass window made by Tiffany Studios in 1917 is now on permanent display at the Art Institute. The Hartwell Memorial Window, attributed to Agnes F. Northrop, Tiffany’s leading landscape window designer, was originally commissioned for a church as the gift of Mary L. Hartwell in memory of her husband Frederick W. Hartwell. It consists of 48 different panels, and is a scenic view of Mount Chocorua, a peak in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The window, located near the museum’s entrance, is one of the most ambitious landscape window projects produced by Tiffany. Museum admission: $14-$25.

More information: artic.edu

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Friends of the Chicago River

When: Ongoing

Where: 99 Chicago Riverwalk

What: This five-story museum celebrates the Chicago River and its world-famous movable bridges. Visitors explore a historic bridgehouse, watch the massive gears of a moving bridge and learn about the history of the Chicago River. Plus from the top floor, there’s a 360-degree view of the city and river. Find the museum at 99 Chicago Riverwalk. Admission: $5, $6; children 5 and under free.

More information: bridgehousemuseum.org

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A magistrate judge ordered an Indiana man charged in federal court with acting as the so-called straw-purchaser of the gun that killed Chicago Police officer Ella French to be released from jail pending trial — a decision Chicago Police Department’s top cop vehemently opposes.

Prosecutors had said they wanted Jamel Danzy held in custody, and a detention hearing had been set for Wednesday. But when the hearing began, U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Gilbert said lawyers had come to an agreement on conditions for Danzy’s release.

Gilbert then agreed to release Danzy, 29, on terms that included a $4,500 unsecured bond, supervision by court personnel and a warning to have no contact with Eric Morgan, who has been charged along with his brother in state court in connection with French’s death.

Chicago Police Supt. David Brown blasted the decision, which he views as another example of the lax judicial system releasing too many people charged with serious offenses.

“To say that I am extremely disappointed in U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffery Gilbert’s decision to release Jamel Danzy on an unsecured bond today is an understatement,” Brown said in a written statement. “It is an outrage.”

Brown said “the court has done a disservice to Officer French’s memory, to the entire Chicago Police Department, and to the thousands of men and women across the country who work around the clock, day in and day out to stem the violence that is plaguing our communities.”

Emonte Morgan, 21, and his brother Eric Morgan, 22, have been charged in the shooting and face several felony charges. Both were ordered held without bail Tuesday in separate court hearings.

The Saturday shooting at 63rd Street and Bell Avenue left French dead and her partner in critical condition.

Danzy, who was arrested Sunday, is charged with conspiracy to violate federal firearm laws. His release underscores the uphill battle authorities say they face when prosecuting so-called straw purchasers, who use their clean criminal records to put guns in the hands of people who aren’t supposed to have them.

“[Gilbert’s] decision sets a dangerous precedent that straw purchasers like Danzy are not a danger to society, despite the fact that his alleged actions directly led to the murder of a Chicago Police Officer and left another in critical condition,” Brown said. “The outrageous abundance of illegal firearms in our city and our nation is a major factor driving the violence that is continually cutting short the lives of our loved ones and fellow human beings.”

Straw purchasing has been characterized as a so-called paperwork crime that involves lying on a form. And straw purchasers have clean criminal records by nature, though prosecutors would point out that they use their clean records to commit their crime.

Attorney General Merrick Garland came to Chicago last month for the launch of a new initiative meant to curb gun violence, in part by targeting straw purchasers.

To have Danzy held, the feds would have had to show he is a danger to the community or a flight risk. They signaled during an earlier hearing that part of their argument could have involved at least one other straw purchase he allegedly made. Danzy admitted he also purchased a gun for his cousin, who he knew was a convicted felon, records show.

The criminal complaint filed against Danzy alleges the Honda CR-V stopped by the officers Saturday was registered to Danzy. He was not present at the shooting, it said. Authorities then traced the gun used in the shooting to Danzy.

He allegedly purchased the Glock semi-automatic pistol from a licensed dealer in Hammond on March 18.

Federal agents approached Danzy on Sunday at a Munster restaurant where he works, according to the complaint. He agreed to speak to the agents, and he initially told them his purchase of the gun was legitimate, the document said. Eventually, the feds say he admitted he was lying. He said he bought the gun for Eric Morgan knowing Eric Morgan could not legally purchase it because of a criminal conviction, court records show.

Eric Morgan was previously convicted of felony theft in 2019 in Dane County, Wisconsin, records show. He was sentenced to three years of probation.

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Welcome to our roundup of movie screenings and events in Chicago. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on shows and activities.

Gene Siskel Film Center

Amazon Studios

When: Ongoing

Where: 164 N. State

What: The Loop cinema has reopened with 50% capacity, a mask mandate and its usual great lineup of films beginning with Leos Carax’s highly anticipated English-language debut “Annette,” starring Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard. The lineup also includes a nine-film Federico Fellini retrospective and two documentaries: Matt Yoka’s “Whirlybird,” a portrait of a married couple who as helicopter journalists covered news events in Los Angeles, and Hogir Hirori’s “Sabaya,” the story of those risking their lives to save Yazidi women and girls being held by ISIS. Tickets: $12.

More information: siskelfilmcenter.org

International Queer Film Festival

Ariztical Entertainment

When: July 18-Aug. 14

Where: Online

What: Featured are 29 films from eight countries streaming online in four separate programs. The diverse selection explores the range of queer life topics ranging from comedy to drama to science fiction and Zoom dating. Three programs of short films each run for a week with the festival’s final week devoted to “Boy Meets Boy,” a new feature by German filmmaker Daniel Sanchez Lopez about two men who develop a deep connection over one long night in Berlin. Tickets: $12 per program.

More information: pridearts.org

‘Movies in the Parks’

When: To Sept. 14

Where: In parks throughout Chicago

What: The Chicago Park District’s series returns with films ranging from Hollywood classics to retro childhood favorites and family-friendly offerings from recent years. Admission is free.

More information: For a complete list of films and parks, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com/movies.

Garden Movies

Music Box Theatre

When: All summer long

Where: 3733 N. Southport

What: The Music Box Theatre is screening films in its expanded courtyard under the stars. Tickets: $9.

More information: musicboxtheatre.com

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The Illinois State Fair is back after a pandemic-induced hiatus last year, but the deadly virus — and a new, highly contagious variant — is already shaking up plans for politicos who use the event as an unofficial kick-off to the campaign season.

Though the fair begins Thursday, the political fireworks — or lack of them — will likely come next Wednesday on Governor’s Day and the following day, which is Republican Day.

Like lemon shakeups, corn dogs and the butter cow, the two politically themed days are traditions at the fair with events held on the fairgrounds and spilling over into downtown Springfield.

But a spokeswoman for Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s campaign said Wednesday that the Democratic governor won’t attend the Illinois Democratic County Chairs’ Association’s indoor brunch on Governor’s Day at the fair, citing concerns around the Delta variant.

The brunch, which is in its 34th year, is a traditional rallying place for Democrats from around the state.

Pritzker plans to host his own get-together for Democrats at noon on Governor’s Day on the Director’s Lawn on the fairgrounds, a campaign spokeswoman said.

Outdoor afternoon political pep rallies are other mainstays of both parties on their respective days at the fair, but it’s still unclear how much the governor’s event will resemble past versions — which typically feature a slew of speeches from office-holders, candidates and other party figures.

“It’s a little more scaled back … since the brunch is indoors and we’re trying to be very cautious,” Ronja Abel, Pritzker’s spokeswoman said of the governor’s event.

Abel said the governor’s team will have more details on the get-together and its guest list, “soon.” She did not respond to request for comment about whether or not Pritzker will attend the indoor brunch virtually.

In a statement, Kristina Zahorik, president of the Illinois Democratic County Chairs Association, said the hybrid gathering will still convene to “celebrate the party’s efforts to Build Back Better in a way that is safe and follows the science.

“While we respect the Governor and other Democrats’ decision not to join the event in person, we’d remind individuals that they can participate in our activities virtually,” Zahorik said. “We hope the Governor takes part in the Brunch virtually or sends a video to address the thousands of grassroots Democrats who will be watching, attending, and supporting his reelection.”

State Senate President Don Harmon plans to attend and speak at the brunch, but a spokesman for the Senate Democratic leader didn’t respond to a question about whether the Oak Park Democrat will attend Pritzker’s event.

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch will be out of town, a spokesman for the Hillside Democrat said.

Most candidates running to succeed outgoing Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White still plan to attend the county chairs’ brunch as well as host other events.

Ald. David Moore (17th) plans to attend the brunch, a VIP meeting beforehand as well as events Tuesday night, a spokeswoman said.

“We’re not going to pass up an opportunity of being downstate and meeting additional people,” Delmarie Cobb said.

Cobb said the campaign feels the measures the county chairs’ association has taken to try to mitigate the spread of the virus are “satisfactory at this point, and they’ve been very vigilant about making sure that they are flexible and responsive.”

Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia will attend the brunch and give a speech, and plans to host a fundraiser the night before headlined by U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth.

Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd) will also attend the brunch as well as other events Tuesday night, her spokesman said.

The remaining Democratic candidate for secretary of state — former Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias — plans to host a free, campaign event next Tuesday at a craft beer brewery in downtown Springfield, an event that will largely be outside and will follow protocols on masking, a spokeswoman said. She didn’t provide any details on his plans for Governor’s Day.

The following day, the state’s Republicans will rally outdoors at noon on the Director’s Lawn of the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Speakers for the roughly hour and a half program that day will include Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy, Republican National Committee Co-Chairman Tommy Hicks and Committeeman Richard Porter as well as the General Assembly’s Republican leaders, House GOP Leader Jim Durkin of Western Springs, and Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods.

Republican U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood, Rodney Davis, and Mary Miller are also planning to attend.

Davis, considered a potential candidate for governor, is also expecting to attend a breakfast that day with members of the Republican Party’s state central committee and the party’s county chairs’ association, where he’ll deliver a speech.

But his spokesman punted when asked if the Taylorville Republican is planning to attend as a candidate for governor.

“His intent and preference is to run for Congress again, but at end of the day it depends on the political landscape that the Democrats give him based on however they approach redistricting,” Aaron DeGroot said.

Regional Transportation Authority Chair Kirk Dillard, who said last week he was weighing a third run for governor, said if he goes to the Republican Party’s event he’ll just be an observer.

Republicans who’ve already announced their plans to try to unseat Pritzker will also be present.

State Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, plans to attend Republican events Wednesday night, the Republican Party chairman’s breakfast on Thursday and Republican Day at the fair.

Suburban businessman Gary Rabine will also attend Republican Day events, his spokesman said.

Former state Sen. Paul Schimpf, of Waterloo, said he’ll walk in the Illinois State Fair Twilight Parade on Thursday. He’ll also attend Republican Day and may host something informal for supporters of his gubernatorial bid, though details are still being worked out.

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MEXICO CITY — Mexican icon Vicente Fernandez is in critical but stable condition after being hospitalized for a fall last week, according to an Instagram post made by his medical team on Wednesday.

While the 81-year-old king of ranchera music is on a ventilator, his brain function is intact, according to his doctors. They expect his mobility to improve and say he’s only minimally sedated.

The singer of such hits including “Volver, volver” and “Por tu maldito amor,” suffered a fall at his ranch in Los Tres Potrillos, outside of Guadalajara. The fall caused spinal cord trauma, according to reports.

Fernandez has had numerous health issues in recent years. He was hospitalized for a renal infection recently and in 2012, he underwent a complex surgery that removed almost half of his liver because of a tumor. A year after that he faced pulmonary thrombosis, and in March 2015, the singer had three hernias removed.

This year, Fernandez was faced with the release of photos that appeared to show him touching women without their consent while he was posing with them. He was also accused of sexual abuse by singer Lupita Castro. Fernandez has denied any inappropriate behavior.

Fernandez has sold more than 65 million albums and filmed more than 35 movies. He has won three Grammys and eight Latin Grammys, in addition to being named Person of the Year by the Latin Recording Academy in 2002.

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The road back to Chicago has been a long and winding one for Cubs reliever Rowan Wick. After getting back on the mound in a big-league game for the first time in nearly a year on Tuesday, his recovery is one of the more unusual ones you’ll hear about.

“It’s really good to be back here and feeling like I can contribute,” Wick said before Wednesday’s game. “Watching from a distance kind of stinks. It’s good to be back and see some faces.”

Wick entered this season as a high-leverage option in the Cubs’ bullpen, but after the intercostal/left oblique injury that put him on the injured list in September 2020 returned in spring training, his return was anything but guaranteed.

The intercostal muscle is in the rib cage and while it appeared the team had the issue under control entering the offseason, once the pain returned in the spring, pinpointing what the cause of the pain was became more difficult. especially with it affecting his entire left side.

After months of treatment and spending time not throwing, the Cubs’ right-hander finally caught a break. After trying various treatments, including dry needling and cup therapy, Wick’s pain finally subsided.

“It’s a rotating muscle, so I was using a lot,” he said. “I was feeling that all the way until early May. I didn’t even pick up a baseball until late May. So it was just having to battle that every time I tried to throw, it would pull on me and it was just not strong enough. I was able to put in a lot of work.

“After last year [with] two months in the season, missing that and then missing over four months this year was not where I wanted to be.”

Once the pain subsided, the road began for Wick’s return to the Majors and on Tuesday, the road was completed. Wick pitched a scoreless inning in Tuesday’s loss to the Brewers, making an appearance for the first time since Sept. 16, 2020.

“I think his resume and the way he looked [Tuesday], I would definitely insert him into the back end of the bullpen, for sure,” Ross said. “When you’re up and need a guy to come in and stop games, there’s definitely comfort in him pitching the ninth. .

“But trying to use some of these back end guys in moments where maybe it benefits us for a pocket in the order that we feel like sets them up well, so yeah, we’re trying to balance that. … I thought he looked really good. The fastball seemed extremely deceptive.”

The bullpen was the Cubs’ biggest strength before the trade deadline with Andrew Chafin, Ryan Tepera and Craig Kimbrel. But with Wick back in the mix late in games along with young arms Manny Rodriguez and Codi Heuer it still appears to be an area of strength.

The trio have electric stuff and seeing all three together and healthy will give the team something to build off of when looking at next year’s bullpen.

“Oh man. Those young arms out. Have you seen Manny?,” Wick said with a chuckle. “He’s electric, dude. You just get him more reps. They’re some good quality arms, for sure.”

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Welcome to our highlights of events and entertainment in Chicago for kids and families to enjoy. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on the latest activities.

92nd Bud Billiken Parade

Pat Nabong/For The Sun-Times

When: 10 a.m. Aug. 14

Where: 45^th and King Drive, continuing south on King Drive, where it enters Washington Park on Ellsworth Drive and continues to 55^th Street

What: The annual back-to-school celebration returns with floats, dance teams and this year’s grand marshal: WNBA star and Chicago Sky team member Candace Parker. After the parade, a festival in Washington Park continues to 4 p.m.

More information: budbillikenparade.org

Chicago SummerDance in the Parks

DCASE

When: Aug. 18-Sept. 15

Where: Parks throughout the city

What: Dancers of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in introductory dance lessons by professional instructors followed by live music and dancing. Lessons begin at 4:30 p.m. followed by dancing from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

More information: chicagosummerdance.org.

Loop Mural Walk

Chicago Loop Alliance

When: Through Sept. 6

Where: Online

What: As part of an initiative to encourage people to return to downtown Chicago, the Chicago Loop Alliance has created a free self-guided tour of the colorful artwork tucked into alleys and side streets. A mural guide, which features three different routes of artwork by both well-known and emerging artists, can be accessed on smartphones.

More information: loopchicago.com

Neighborhood Festivals

Chicago Events Photo

The Wells Street Art Fair returns with creations by artists from across the country ranging from painting and sculpture to jewelry and digital art. From 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 14 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 15, on Wells from North to Division. Visit chicagoevents.com. … From 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 15, a portion of North Michigan Avenue will be closed at the Historic Water Tower and Jane Byrne Park between Pearson and Chicago for Meet Me on the Mile’s Music and Motors, a free event featuring classic cars, music, artists, children’s activities and games. Visit themagnificentmile.com. … There’s music, food, vendors and a classic car and motorcycle show at Retro on Roscoe. From 5-10 p.m. Aug. 13, noon-10 p.m. Aug. 14-15 at 2000 W. Roscoe. Admission: $10. Visit starevents.com. … Chalk Howard Street returns to Rogers Park in a virtual format at 11 a.m. Fridays from Aug. 13-Oct. 1 and culminates in an in-person live chalk art drawing event from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 16. Visit howardstreetchicago.com.

Chicago World’s Fair of Money

Lyle Engleson/Ira and Larry Goldberg Coins and Collectibles

When: Aug. 10-14

Where: Donald A. Stephens Convention Center, Hall A, 5555 N. River Rd., Rosemont

What: Early American coins and historic money from around the world are the highlight of the Chicago World’s Fair of Money. Sponsored by the American Numismatic Association, the show features hundreds of dealers specializing in rare coins, paper money and gold and silver. Plus there are educational programs, family activities and free evaluations of old money. Admission: $10, $25 for a three-day pass, ages 12 and under free and free admission for all Aug. 14.

More information: worldsfairofmoney.com

Chicago Fireboat Tours

Courtesy Chicago Fireboat Tours

When: Ongoing

Where: DuSable Harbors, 111 N. Lake Shore Dr.

What: Built in 1936, the Fred A. Busse was the largest, diesel-powered fireboat in the world at the time and served the Chicago Fire Department from 1937-1981. The current owners renovated the retired fireboat, which is now in its second season cruising Chicago waterways. Tickets: $35-$40, $19.50 ages 4-12.

More information: fireboattours.com

Merit School of Music

Courtesy of Merit School of Music

When: To Aug. 28

Where: Various locations

What: In July and August, the music school hosts a family-friendly series of interactive pop-up events throughout Chicago neighborhoods from Pilsen to Lincoln Park. “Pop-ups in the Parks” offers free instrument tunings, demos and performances by students and faculty, “Music at the Markets” features performances and giveaways at outdoor markets and “Musical Storytimes” is filled with stories and activities.

More information: meritmusic.org

Adler Planetarium

Adler Planetarium

When: Ongoing

Where: 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: The planetarium has partially reopened with a selection of its award-winning sky shows. On weekends in July and August two shows will play twice daily: “Imagine the Moon” (10:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m.) and “Skywatch Live” (11:30 am., 1:15 p.m.). The full museum won’t reopen until March 2022. Tickets: $15.

More information: adlerplanetarium.org

Tempel Lipizzans’ stallions

Courtesy Tempel Lipizzans

When: Ongoing

Where: Tempel Farms, 17000 Wadsworth, Old Mill Creek.

What: The stallions return for a new season of equestrian dressage along with interactive, educational events. Performances feature synchronized movements set to classical music that show off the strength, beauty and intelligence of the Lipizzan horse. Following each event, there are self-guided tours through the stables to meet and pet the equine stars and ask questions of riders and trainers about how the Lipizzans are raised, trained and taught to “dance.” Tickets: $35, $25 for ages 4-14.

More information: tempelfarms.com

‘Par Excellence Redux’

When: “The Front 9” (to Sept. 16) and “The Back Nine” (Oct. 13-Jan. 2)

Where: Tee off at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill, Elmhurst

What: A fun new exhibit features a fully playable 18-hole mini-golf course created by more than 20 artists, designers and architects from Chicago and beyond. The family-friendly course pays homage to the School of the Art Institute’s wildly popular 1988 exhibition “Par Excellence.” Course themes range from social justice to the occult and include a fortune-telling hole that has the power to dramatically change scores as well as a hole that challenges players with an optical illusion. Admission is $5-$10 (online timed reservations); children 4 and under free.

More information: elmhurstartmuseum.org

Chicago Children’s Museum

Where: Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand

When: Ongoing

What: Fun and learning are on the agenda at the popular family gathering spot, offering a wide variety of exhibits aimed at improving children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect. Babies and toddlers can enjoy “Treehouse Trails” and “Kids Town” while “Tinker Lab” and “Dinosaur Expedition” will enthrall older children. Admission: $19.

More information: chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

‘Becoming Jane’

Hugo van Lawick/National Geographic

When: To Sept. 6

Where: Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: Generations have been inspired by the work of primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall who has not only shown the urgent need to protect chimpanzees but also redefined species conservation to include the needs of local people and the environments. A new exhibit at the Field Museum, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Jane Goodall,” follows her journey from a curious young child in England to a passionate scientist studying chimpanzees in Africa. Included in the exhibit are a recreation of her field research tent, a hologram-like projection of Goodall who shares her fieldwork memories, augmented reality activities and a projection of Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park.

Tickets: Admission: $18-$32

More information: fieldmuseum.org

‘Hello Helios: The warming suns of Chicago’s Greektown’

Courtesy Greektown Chicago

When: Through spring 2022

Where: Halsted from Monroe to Van Buren

What: Welcome summer with a new outdoor exhibit celebrating the start of summer with 24 artworks inspired by the sun and related mythologies from Greek, Aztec, Yoruba, Japanese and Native American cultures.

More information: greektownchicago.org

Kayak for Conservation

Shedd Aquarium

When: Ongoing

Where: Kayak Chicago: 1220 W LeMoyne,

What: Get close to nature via the Shedd Aquarium’s popular Kayak for Conservation program, which features a variety of socially distant kayaking experiences on the Chicago River. Participants learn about the river’s environmental history and discover wildlife living in its ecosystem. Sessions are open to all levels of kayakers (including newbies) and are led by Shedd’s wildlife conservation experts. The cost is pay-what-you-can ranging from $20-$100 per participant, with a recommended $40, the base cost of the program.

More information: sheddaquarium.org/kayak

‘Take Flight’

Museum of Science and Industry

When: Permanent

Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: The MSI’s Boeing 747 reopens with a reimagined exhibit that explores modern aviation and the science of flight. The plane’s interior has been restored and new interactive elements have been added. Tickets: $12.95, $21.95.

More information: msichicago.org

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A Chicago Police officer, who was seriously wounded in a shooting during a traffic stop in West Englewood that killed his partner over the weekend, underwent surgery Tuesday at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

“He is better,” the officer’s father told the Chicago Sun-Times on Wednesday. “They still have not removed the bullets in his head ’cause they can’t, but we’re hopeful and praying.”

The encouraging news comes two days after Chicago Police Supt. David Brown said the wounded officer, who was shot twice in the head and once in the right shoulder and had been fighting for his life, was “incrementally improving.”

The Sun-Times is not identifying the officer or his father because the officer is the victim of a violent crime. The officer’s name also has not been released by the Chicago Police Department.

Earlier this week, the officer’s father described the tragedy as his family’s “darkest moment.” He said his son is a “great husband, father, son and brother.”

Around 9 p.m. Saturday in the 2200 block of West 63rd Street, a three-officer car assigned to CPD’s Community Safety Team pulled over a car with expired plates. During the traffic stop, Emonte Morgan, one of the car’s passengers, allegedly opened fire, fatally striking 29-year-old Chicago Police Officer Ella French and seriously wounding her partner, Cook County prosecutors said.

The third officer returned fire, wounding Morgan in the abdomen, according to prosecutors.

Emonte Morgan, 21, and his brother Eric Morgan, 22, have been charged in the shooting and face felony charges. Both were ordered held without bail Tuesday in separate court hearings.

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