It’s hard not to be a little bummed out right now. We’re heading into summer, but with the pandemic keeping us from doing a lot of our favorite things, we might need a reminder every now and then that things aren’t all bad. Luckily, our animal friends in the wild seem to be having a pretty good time— here are 10 examples of how Mother Nature is furry, feathery, and thriving in the time of COVID-19.

Deer visiting Nara Park

A group of Sika deer were spotted enjoying the cherry blossoms of Nara Park, near Osaka. In the absence of the crush of tourists that usually populate the area, the deer were able to have a leisurely, quiet visit.

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Large numbers of leatherback turtles hatching in Thailand

The greatest of number of leatherback turtles in several years has been able to hatch on beaches in Thailand — because the beaches are empty during the pandemic, the baby turtles have been met with none of the human interference they might normally face.

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Air pollution dropping in Northern India

In the wake of the coronavirus lockdown, NASA satellites have recently recorded lower aerosol level over northern India — the lowest in over two decades, in fact.

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Birds taking over a beach in Peru

While humans in Peru may be restricted from visiting Agua Dulce beach in Lima, Peru, seabirds are having a wonderful time and gathering in great numbers along the shore.

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Lions napping in the road in South Africa

These big cats have been expanding their territory to take advantage of the lack of crowds and noise, and taking to the open road during nap time.

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Global carbon emissions dropping

Aside from visible changes in high-pollution hotspots, the world overall has experienced a 17% drop in carbon emissions as a result of coronavirus lockdowns.

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Dolphins returning to the Ganges River

In the absence of usually-high levels of pollution in the water, the Ganges Dolphin appears to have returned to the Ganges River after a hiatus of 30 years or so.

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Noise pollution decreasing

Not only is the air getting cleaner to breathe, but our daily noise exposure is lessening. Less noise helps birds to communicate better, keeps stress hormones in marine life lower, and generally allows animals to survive with greater ease.

Orca whales venturing into Indian Arm

Seemingly encouraged by the decrease in industrial activity in the area, a pod of orcas was spotted swimming further than usual into an area known as the Indian Arm, near Vancouver.

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The Himalayas becoming visible

India’s air pollution has decreased to the point that residents of Punjab have recently been able to clearly see the Himalayas for the first time in about three decades.

At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.

Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!

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Chicago Bulls make impactful personnel decision by Patrick Sheldon

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(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The Chicago Blackhawks have had many great foes over the years that they were a dynasty. Who were the five best division rival stars from then to now?

The Chicago Blackhawks are the most successful team from the Central Division of the National Hockey League since the year 2010. The Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup in 2010, 2013, and 2015. It was a brilliant run by the modern-day dynasty. When the decade began the divisions looked a little bit different but they began to look the way they are now for the 2013-14 season.

These Blackhawks were the only team from the Divison to win the Stanley Cup in the decade until the St. Louis Blues won it in 2019. The fact of the matter, however, is that the Chicago Blackhawks have played in the league’s best regular-season division for a long time now. There have been some really good teams dealing with each other on a regular basis over the past decade or so. Even to this day, literally all seven teams in the division have a chance at making it to the playoffs.

With that level of team success from every team, there have to be some great players that play for these teams. Every team in the division has had its fair share of stars over the years. Some of them are getting older while some of them are just starting to reach their true potential. The Blackhawks have been wildly successful over the years and had to get through all these great players to reach their ultimate goal.

It is very difficult to narrow it down to who is the best player to play for a Central Division rival. With that said, this is the list we came up with for the five best division rivals since the year 2010. In order to make the list, you had to be a great player on a team that is a current Central Division rival.

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Chicago Bulls: Robbed of passing torch to Los Angeles Lakers by Vincent Parise

Chicago Blackhawks: Five best division rivals since 2009-10 by Vincent Parise

The Chicago Bulls made a low-key but impactful move with their latest personnel move announced on Wednesday.

The Chicago Bulls announced that a current member of the staff would not be returning. Before you get too giddy with excitement, let me disclose it was not head coach Jim Boylen. Sorry — I didn’t mean to get your hopes up. However, the move could end up paying significant dividends in the future.

Of course, I’m referring to the Bulls’ decision to not pick up the option on the contract of head trainer Jeff Tanaka.

The move, first reported by Joe Cowley, comes on the heels of the Bulls being among the leaders in most injuries in the NBA over the last few years. In fact, it has been a constant source of pain (no pun intended) for fans, who have not only been forced to watch its favorite team playing at less than full capacity but have had to endure management using these injuries as an excuse for the lack of progress and player development.

Look, there is no getting around the fact that players do not get better by sitting injured on the bench. Teams, especially ones as young as the Bulls, need to play together to get better. But while everyone can agree on that point, they can also agree that injuries cannot continue to be used as a crutch (ok, I promise, that’s the last pun).

The Bulls fired general manager Gar Forman last month, and now head trainer Jeff Tanaka has also been shown the exit door with his contract not being picked up, according to multiple sources. Director of performance health Chip Schaefer will remain in his position.

— Joe Cowley (@JCowleyHoops) May 20, 2020

You may recall the Chicago Bears also among the league leaders in games lost to injury until 2018, when, prior to the season they revamped their training staff. However, over the last two seasons, the team has remained relatively healthy.

Next: Flu game solidified Jordan’s GOAT status

The Bulls are hoping for similar improvement, which shouldn’t be difficult when looking at the numbers. Below are the Bulls’ total games lost to injury over the last three years, with the league leader in parentheses.

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• 2019: 209 (253)
• 2018: 318 (277)
• 2017: 277 (329)

As many in the media have pointed out since the news broke, Tanaka is well-liked by both the media and especially the players. But I don’t have to remind anyone that this is a results-driven business and the results have been unimpressive recently. The trainer’s singular mission is to keep his or her players healthy. When that person fails at that mission, it’s time to move on — and that’s just what the Bulls did.

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This week’s fantasy gig is one man’s not-so-secret dream. Local artist Jon Natzke created a poster for an imaginary concert to take place at a real venue (shuttered for now) on his birthday in July.

Natzke chose an international loud-rock lineup for this “it’s not planned but maybe it should be” concert. He imagines British rock band Idles headlining Metro, supported by veteran DIY punk Jeff Rosenstock and Melbourne indie punks the Smith Street Band. “Truth be told, this is a dream show for me,” Natzke says. “I’m a big fan of all the acts I have noted. They were all birthed from different punk and DIY scenes; all use different methods of telling the same kind of emotional, personal stories with some aggression and energy. All have been getting me through a lot of the quarantine–not just the music, but using social media to push for anyone to contribute to artists and save music venues.”

Milwaukee band Telethon, friends of Natzke’s, would play first to put a cherry on top of his birthday sundae: “The date is my birthday. Live music has always meant a lot to me, and this would be the perfect show to experience. I saw Jeff Rosenstock play the Metro a few years ago, and he was blown away to be playing such a big and historic venue in front of a sold-out crowd. If I could, I’d like to give that to the other bands and my friends in Telethon. They all deserve the recognition.”

Natzke’s work is the seventh fantasy gig poster the Reader has featured in this space during the pandemic–it’s actually the eighth post, but that 1937 WPA gig poster in March was for a real concert, not an imagined one. And we continue to accept submissions.

To participate, please e-mail [email protected] with your name, contact information, and your original design or drawing (you can attach a JPG or PNG file or provide a download link). We won’t be able to publish everything we receive, but we’ll feature as many as possible while the crisis continues. Your submission can also include a nonprofit, fundraiser, or action campaign that you’d like to bring to the attention of our readers.

Not everybody can make a fantasy gig poster, of course, but it’s simple and free to take action through the website of the National Independent Venue Association–click here to tell your representatives to save our homegrown music ecosystems. And anybody with a few bucks to spare can support the out-of-work staffers at Chicago’s venues–here’s our list of fundraisers. Lastly, don’t forget record stores! The Reader has published a list of local stores that will let you shop remotely.

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ARTIST: Jon Natzke
FANTASY GIG: Idles, Jeff Rosenstock, the Smith Street Band, and Telethon at Metro on Jon’s birthday (Monday, July 6, 2020)
ARTIST INFO: jonatzke.threadless.com
NPO TO KNOW: Jon would like to point you to the Chicago Artists Relief Fund.

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Tired of cooking dinner every night? If you have fallen into a rut with your delivery orders, it’s time to switch it up! Check out one of our favorite restaurants in the Chicago suburbs to spice up date night.

Mago Grill & Cantina

Arlington Heights, IL / Bolingbrook, IL / South Barrington, IL

This Mexican restaurant by chef Juan Luis Gonzalez knows how to turn classic Mexican dishes into innovative and mouth-watering entrees.

Dave’s New Kitchen

Evanston, IL

This popular Italian restaurant located in Evanston focuses classic Italian fare featuring a wide selection of pasta, pizza, and traditional chicken dishes.

Charcoal Oven

Skokie, IL

One of Skokie’s oldest restaurants, this eatery is complemented by its menu of classic steakhouse fare, seafood dishes, and their wide variety of Californian wines.

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Best Ramen in Chicago

Looking for more amazing places to eat? Here are the best places to find ramen in Chicago.

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Boston Fish Market

Des Plaines, IL

This establishment turns from an active fish market by day into a renowned restaurant by night, making the Boston Fish Market a true one-stop-shop for all seafood fans out there.

Bat 17

Evanston, IL

This Evanston classic, featuring massive portions, retains all the best qualities that a deli and pub have to offer.

Bombay Chopsticks

Hoffman Estates, IL

Bombay Chopsticks by India House is home to a cross-cultural menu, an ode to the type of cuisine travelers would experience along the India-China border.

Edzo’s Burger Shop

Evanston, IL

Edzo’s Burger Shop features classic diner fare such as delicious burgers, crispy hot french fries, and cold, thick milkshakes.

Kabul House

Skokie, IL

The Afghan-style restaurant comes with a contemporary twist, all while paying homage to Middle Eastern culture and cuisine.

Maciano’s

Elgin, IL | Aurora, IL | And More Locations

When people go to Maciano’s, they are there to discover the authentic taste of Italy.

Steamboat BBQ

Wheaton, IL

If you are in the mood for some burnt ends, slow-cooked brisket or a killer smoked turkey club sandwich, then stop by the Steamboat BBQ, one of Chicagoland’s best BBQ restaurants.

Capri

Downers Grove, IL

A popular pick for authentic Italian food, thanks in large to their handmade pasta and a wide variety of wines.

Mesón Sabkia

Naperville, IL

The restaurant is home to traditional Spanish style tapas and decor that will make you feel like you are dining in the middle of Spain.

Two Brothers Roundhouse

Aurora, IL

This brewpub, located in a mid-nineteenth century historic building, features “New American” cuisine paired with artisan beers and lagers.

Wild Rice Sushi and Grill

Naperville, IL

This hole-in-the-wall sushi restaurant is arguably Naperville’s best-kept secret, thanks to innovative and delicious dishes.

RBK American Grill

Downers Grove, IL

RBK American Grill in Downers Grove prepares their meals to the highest standards that any diner is looking for.

Basils Greek Dining

Aurora, IL

If you are looking for food that will remind you of that perfect trip you once took to the Greek islands, then this casual, yet elegant Greek-style restaurant is the perfect place for you.

Aisha’s Southern Cuisine

Joliet, IL

Aisha’s Southern Cuisine specializes in traditional soul food with homemade quality to classics such as fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, and pot roast.

Al’s Steakhouse

Joliet, IL

Once a famed nightclub, this high-end restaurant is now arguably Joliet’s most luxurious and delicious steakhouse.

Thipi Thai

La Grange, IL

Thipi Thai ensures their focus is all about the savory spices and aromas within their dishes in order to create that ideal dining sensation.

Empanadus

La Grange, IL

This Argentinian style restaurant is home to their famous flaky empanadas and charming family-friendly atmosphere.

Niko’s Breakfast Club

Oak Lawn, IL

Niko’s Breakfast Club is the place to go for stuffed omelets, fluffy pancakes, and crispy bacon.

Billy Boy’s

Oak Lawn, IL

The classical selections such as their BBQ ribs, hearty burgers, and freshly cooked fries are what keep diners coming back for more day in and day out.

Maple Tree Inn

Homewood, IL

Cajon-Creole classics are the only thing served at this high quality and iconic restaurant.

Freddy’s Pizza

Cicero, IL

If you are looking for an establishment that feels like it’s been frozen in time while still providing tasteful bites in every dish, then look no further than Freddy’s Pizza.

Fry The Coop

Oak Lawn, IL

Visit the Fry The Coop for that authentic style Nashville hot chicken that will make you beg for a glass of cold milk afterward.

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Brunch is such a staple for every Chicagoan and now that summer is around the corner we’ll be missing traditional brunch even more. Although our favorite spots might not be open for dine-in, we can still have the same Sunday brunch experience with our family or roommates when we can order delivery from these Chicago restaurants.

Cafe Con Leche

2714 N Milwaukee Ave

Café Con Leche is a Logan Square staple for breakfast. They serve Mexican and Latin breakfast favorites like breakfast tortas and chilaquiles verde.

Summer House Santa Monica

1954 N Halsted St

Normally this place will make you feel like you’re in California, but now they are only doing take out orders for brunch on the weekends. You can get drink kits to make Bloody Marys and also their silver dollar pancake party, which is basically a charcuterie board for pancakes.

The Smith

400 N Clark St

The Smith quickly became a popular destination for brunch-goers in the River North area. They are offering weekend brunch delivery, along with mimosa packages and their burger-and-a-beer deal.

LoKal

2500 N Ashland Ave

LoKal is offering all day brunch through delivery, as that was what they were really known for. You can get all your favorites, along with a Mimosa pack or even a 1-Liter whiskey bottle.

Hutch

Multiple Locations

You can’t go wrong with Hutch. They are a brunch classic and are doing delivery everyday. You can still basically get their bottomless deal by ordering champagne, wine, or one of their cocktail kits.

Cellars Bar and Grill

5900 N Broadway

Even though their brunch food menu is a little light, there’s nothing light about their drink packages. You can order a DIY Bloody Mary package that comes with a liter of vodka, bloody mary mix, tabasco and garnishes.

Bistronomic

840 N Wabash Ave

Bistronomic is offering Sunday brunch. They have three family style menus they’re offering and you can upgrade any order with a mimosa kit.

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