The Southeastern and Big East conferences have updated their policies for basketball game postponements, cancellations and rescheduling to provide more leniency for teams that are unable to play because of spiking COVID-19 cases.

The policies for both conferences establish that men’s and women’s teams will be required to play if seven scholarship athletes and one countable coaching staff member are available. The SEC gives teams the option to play with fewer players or coaches if they choose.

If a team can’t play, both leagues say the game will be rescheduled or declared a no contest. The policies announced Thursday are a revision of previous procedures, which called for a game to be forfeited and a loss given to any team unable to play.

The Mid-American Conference and Conference USA announced similar policies on Thursday.

On Monday, the Big East canceled Thursday’s scheduled game between No. 15 Seton Hall and host DePaul because of COVID-19 issues within the Blue Demons’ program. DePaul hasn’t played since beating UIC on Dec. 14.

“As we have done since the onset of the pandemic, we continue to evaluate our policies and procedures related to COVID-19 based on the most current information,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. “Circumstances have clearly changed since our interrupted game policy was implemented in August and this updated approach is intended to support healthy, fair and equitable competition.”

Four Big East men’s games were already designated as forfeits under the league’s previous policy, but the forfeiture classification will be removed from those games and the league will try to reschedule them. On Thursday, the Butler-St. John’s game was canceled because of COVID issues in St. John’s program with the hope that it can be rescheduled.

The SEC’s updated policy also says that at least two game officials must be available. If that’s not possible, the game will be postponed.

In other college news, No. 24 Wisconsin called off its scheduled Thursday game with George Mason due to positive COVID-19 tests within the Badgers’ program. The game won’t be rescheduled.

The matchup with George Mason had just been arranged Tuesday night. Wisconsin originally was supposed to play a Thursday home game with Morgan State, which had its own COVID-19 complications.

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CHICAGO — All Bulls players have cleared health and safety protocols and will be available to play in the team’s next game against the Indiana Pacers, coach Billy Donovan said Thursday.

The Bulls had as many as 10 players in the league’s protocols at the start of last week, which led to the first two NBA’s first two postponed games of the season. Chicago had a third game postponed Wednesday night against the Toronto Raptors because Toronto did have enough available players, which gave the Bulls an opportunity to get whole after their roster was depleted by COVID-19.

“Hopefully we have herd immunity coming back and we won’t have any more guys go down in the later months,” Bulls guard Zach LaVine said after practice Thursday. “I’m just thankful everybody is OK and everybody’s families are OK. Now we can get things rolling again as a full group.”

LaVine rejoined the team for practice Thursday after completing his mandatory 10-day quarantine. He remained asymptomatic during his stint in the league’s protocol, but checked into a hotel room to isolate away from his wife for a week full of video games and Netflix.

LaVine, who also missed 11 games last season in the league’s health and safety protocol, said he was able to maintain a workout routine this time around and gained six pounds during his quarantine before returning to the court for individual work earlier this week.

“It’s frustrating, but it’s the world we’re living in now,” LaVine said. “A lot of guys and teams are dealing with it. I’m just thankful I only missed two games.”

Devon Dotson, who entered health and safety protocols on Tuesday, tested out with two negative PCR tests in 24 hours and practiced with the team Thursday.

Ayo Dosunmu, Troy Brown Jr., Matt Thomas and Alize Johnson were also cleared to play.

The only players not available for Chicago’s next game are Alex Caruso, who the team plans to re-evaluate in 7-10 days after spraining his left foot during Monday’s game, and Derrick Jones Jr., who injured his left hamstring during Sunday’s game.

The Bulls signed two players — Ersan Iyasova and Mac McClung — to a 10-day contract via hardship exception before Wednesday’s game against the Raptors got postponed. Once players who exit the league’s health and safety protocols are cleared medically to play, the hardship exception is terminated for that replacement player, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. The player will still receive the full 10-day salary amount.

“We’re starting to get a little bit more whole,” Donovan said. “We went from trying to add players to our team to looking at what our roster is going to look like going forward. … You’re thinking you don’t have enough roster spots and 24 hours later, you have maybe too many roster spots. We’ll have to figure all that out.”

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The general consensus surrounding the Chicago Bears is that head coach Matt Nagy will be replaced at the end of this season. With Chicago having their first losing season since 2017, change is on the horizon for at least one job. But what about other positions within the organization?

Among those also on the hot seat is general manager Ryan Pace. Over the past few weeks, there has been speculation that Pace’s seat is warm and the Bears could move on. But there have been rumors of him being promoted or even staying in his current role.

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Thursday, December 23, 2021

METRO SUBURBAN – BLUE

Aurora Christian at Timothy Christian, 6:00

MID-SUBURBAN – WEST

Fremd at Hoffman Estates, 4:30

NON CONFERENCE

Douglass at Austin, 4:00

Kankakee at Providence, 6:00

Libertyville at Vernon Hills, 5:30

Manley at Wells, 3:00

Mundelein at Lake Park, 4:30

Niles West at North Chicago, 2:30

Oak Lawn at Stagg, 11:00

Prosser at Richards (Chgo), 6:00

HINSDALE CENTRAL

Willowbrook vs. Lincoln-Way Central, 11:00

Richards vs. Auburn, 12:30

St. Charles East vs. Glenbard East, 2:00

Stevenson vs. Maine South, 3:45

Homewood-Flossmoor vs. St. Rita, 5:15

Marian Catholic vs. Oswego East, 7:00

Hinsdale Central vs. DePaul, 8:30

JACOBS

Streamwood vs. Grant, 9:00a

Grayslake Central vs. Prairie Ridge, 10:30

South Elgin vs. Barrington, 12:00

Marian Central vs. Jacobs, 1:30

Cary-Grove vs. Loyola, 3:00

Larkin vs. Crystal Lake South, 4:30

Jefferson vs. Bartlett, 6:00

Johnsburg vs. Waubonsie Valley, 7:30

MARENGO

Richmond-Burton vs. Harvard, 9:00a

Woodstock vs. Stillman Valley, 10:30

Crystal Lake Central vs. Harvest Christian, 12:00

Fenton vs. Grayslake North, 1:30

Woodstock North vs. Rochelle, 3:00

Sycamore vs. Freeport, 4:30

Rockford Christian vs. Marengo, 6:00

Genoa-Kingston vs. Wauconda, 7:30

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Illinois Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford revealed Thursday that her husband fired shots at carjackers after a Mercedes SUV they were in was seized from them at gunpoint in the western suburbs.

Lightford and her husband Eric McKennie were in the Mercedes dropping off a friend Tuesday night in Broadview when three masked men in a Dodge Durango boxed in the SUV, police said.

“I begged them not to shoot my husband, not to shoot me,” Lightford told reporters Thursday morning at a Christmas present giveaway for children in Proviso Township. “They took everything off me that I had of value.”

Lightford said her husband gave the carjackers the keys to the car.

“They had separated me and my husband,” she said on WGN-TV. “After they got the guns off of us, my husband told me to run. I ran, reluctantly, because I didn’t want to leave him there. And it was a scary run because now shots are being fired. I thought for sure they were going to shoot me.”

Lightford said her husband is a concealed-carry permit holder. He fired at the carjackers, she said.

“I’m doing much better today,” Lightford said, adding she didn’t realize how traumatic a carjacking could be.

Police said they recovered the Mercedes, which Lightford said was a “loaner” she got from a dealer while her vehicle was in the shop.

No arrests have been made in the carjacking, officials said.

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Being a dog in the city can be ruff. Construction noises, sirens, and cursed sidewalk grates make it a challenge during walk time. Luckily, there’s solace —and unlimited tennis balls—in the sweet escape of Chicago’s many dog parks. We fetched six of the best dog parks in Chicago to bring your BFF—best friend furever.

Looking for more outdoor activities? Check out our guides for snow hikes and hiking trails in and around Chicago.

2645 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Established in 1997, Wiggly Field was Chicago’s “first official dog exercise and play area.” The 0.54-acre dog park is located in Noethling Park, which honors Grace Noethling, founder of the Wrightwood Neighbors Conservation Association. With a play on words for our historic Wrigley Field, Wiggly Field is possibly one of the cleverest names for a Chicago dog park. 

The park is entirely enclosed and has double-gated entryways for the safety of all dogs. There’s ample running space, trees for squirrel-watching, and benches to parkour off of and for the humans to sit. After all those zoomies, dogs can drink up at the canine-sized water fountain.

6000 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637

Jackson Bark is an obstacle course and playground all in one—a dog’s dream! The dog park is located in and named after Jackson Park, the stunning 550-plus-acre park in Chicago’s south side.  Not only does Jackson Bark have a clever name, but also a clever use of recycled materials all over the park. The is not only one of the best dog parks in Chicago, but has also ranked top in Illinois and considered one of the Top 10 in the U.S.

Jackson Bark spans four abandoned tennis courts and uses over 90% recycled materials. It’s the largest completely enclosed dog park in the city and is great for both dog training and playing. If your dog’s an influencer, there are plenty of photo ops too! Pups can enjoy everything from a staircase of tires, construction cones, and milk crates to an oversized seesaw, plastic tunnels, and more. The park even has a giant fire hydrant water fountain to cool them down after playtime. 

2526 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Logan Square Dog Park is a bright and colorful space with murals of good boys and girls surrounding it. The murals feature art from different artists across the Kennedy Expressway underpass. 

Located in Park No. 556, the park provides lots of space for romping around and playing fetch. There are kiddie pools and a hose to cool down in the summer and separate small and big breed areas.

4697 Lawrence, W Wilson Dr, Chicago, IL 60640

Dogs need a beach vacay too! Located on the northwest corner of Montrose Beach, Montrose Dog Beach is Chicago’s first legal off-leash beach. The 3.83-acre beachfront is fenced in and has a double gate, but as the beach is a natural area, not all entrances are completely secure. At the end of the day, you can rinse off your pup at the self-service dog washing station.

A volunteer group called MonDog cleans and maintains the area. The group preserves and improves the beach through owner education, volunteering, and community partnerships.

1358 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607

Skinner Bark Park is across from the West Loop’s Skinner Park, where it borrows its moniker. The 0.46-acre dog park gives your pups plenty of room to run circles around all day. A combination of green turf, pea gravel, and concrete provides them with different surfaces to play on.

The park is maintained by a community group that cleans and repairs the park as well as put on social events for dogs and their humans.

450 E Benton Pl, Chicago, IL 60601

In Chicago’s New Eastside, you’ll find the tucked-away community of Lakeshore East. An urban botanic garden with fountains and plenty of green space makes up the Lakeshore East Park, and the home of one of the best dog parks in Chicago.

The dog park is a small 0.10-acre fenced-in area along the southern edge of the park. It may be smaller than other dog parks in the city, but it’s not short on fun for your furry friends. There are double gates for security, water fountains, trees, benches, and a small stream for the pups to cool down in.

Featured Image Credit: Unsplash

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Self-care during the holidays is SUPER important. With all of the family chaos, stressful spending, and whirlwind of activities, you might be in need of some … alone time. The perfect activity? A manicure! Or a pedicure! Or both! You can be totally relaxed while your nail technician works their magic. And then, resume the holiday craziness, in zen mode. Check out the best nail salons in Lakeview that we’re loving!

3342 N Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657

Check out this chic shop for perfect nails! Sapphire’s manicure services include shaping, cuticle cutting, massaging, and polishing. Plus with 200+ shades of paint to choose from, you’re literally in good hands. 

935 W Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL 60613

Looking to relax, refresh, and rejuvenate after the holidays? Head to this establishment for some serious self-care. Services include pedicures, manicures, combo services, and foot massages. Go ahead, pamper yourself today!

3757 N Racine Ave. Chicago, IL 60613

For over 10 years, the folks at Nas (pronounced Nosh) have been providing top-quality nails, facials, massages, waxing, and microdermabrasion. Their nail polish bar consists of over 500 colors but Essie, Dazzle Dry, and OPI. Check ‘em out today!

2127 W Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL 60618

This cozy location is a local favorite. Not only do they offer amazing mani and pedis, they also keep customers entertained with TVs throughout the location. Bonus: you can book your service online and first time customers get 10% off!

1115 West Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL 60657

Visit Chicago’s premier destination for all of your nail and lash needs. This legendary location offers manicures and pedicures performed by top nail technicians using the highest sanitization standards. Take it to another level with luxury services which include mud masques, paraffin, and essential oils!

842 W Montrose Ave 

Chicago, IL 60613

This simple, modern, and affordable shop in Chicago offers a laid back atmosphere and personal experience. Visits to Cuticle are a refreshing change from the typical overcrowded, noisy salons. Owner Basia has been a licensed nail technician for over a 10 years, accommodating clientele at exclusive, upscale salons all over the Chicagoland area!

1310 N. Western Ave. Chicago IL 60622

Nestled between West Town and Humboldt Park, Miniluv offers the highest level of sophistication along with the gold standard in cleanliness and sanitation. Their goal is to help clients reach new heights in relaxation while providing dope nail services!

Featured Image Credit: Nas Salon & Spa

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The Joffrey Ballet on Thursday announced it is canceling all remaining performances of “The Nutcracker” due to COVID.

In a post on its website, the company revealed it had identified another breakthrough case of COVID-19 within the company ranks.

“Though the case was isolated, we feel it is in the best and safest interests of our company artists, children’s cast members, musicians, students, production crew, and audience members to cancel the remaining performances of “The Nutcracker,” which were scheduled through December 26,” the company’s statement read, in part.

The canceled performances include:

2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 23
2 p.m. Dec. 24
1 and 6 p.m. Dec. 26

Affected ticketholders to these performances can opt for a refund, a credit to their Joffrey account or a tax-deductible donation to The Joffrey Ballet Annual Fund. Check here for more information.

The move is the latest by Chicago-area theater productions forced to cancel performances to due COVID outbreaks among the casts and crews. Earlier this week the Goodman Theatre announced it was suspending performances of “A Christmas Carol” through Dec. 24 due to COVID.

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