| Happy (smoggy) Friday, Chicago. As Canadian wildfires continue to burn, Chicagoans are once again contending with smoke-filled skies and unhealthy air. The editorial board cautions against becoming desensitized to the haze, reminding readers that poor air quality poses real health risks — especially for vulnerable groups. Thankfully, the smoke is expected to clear soon. Our lead editorial highlights growing frustration within City Council over Mayor Brandon Johnson’s handling of the city’s worsening financial condition and reliance on new revenue instead of cost-cutting. As aldermen press city budget officials for real solutions to a $1.1 billion deficit, the editorial board urges the administration to make tough spending choices — not just keep passing the bill to taxpayers. Otherwise, the city risks further downgrades, higher borrowing costs and declining public trust. Peter H. Schwartz revisits the cultural symbolism of Leave It to Beaver, exploring how 1950s nostalgia fuels conservative visions of family, virtue, and moral order. Through personal anecdotes and sharp critique, he examines the show’s lingering influence — and its limitations — as a model for American life. Longtime journalist and watchdog Andy Shaw argues that Chicago and Illinois leaders are blaming Washington for post-COVID budget shortfalls instead of addressing decades of local mismanagement, inefficiency and bloat. Shaw calls out state lawmakers, CTA, CPS and City Hall for demanding more bailouts while failing to make necessary cuts or structural reforms. Columnist David Greising contrasts Chicago Fire owner Joe Mansueto’s self-funded stadium plan with the public subsidy demands of other sports team owners. Mansueto’s $650 million investment in The 78 offers a refreshing model of private-sector leadership, while the Bears and White Sox continue to angle for taxpayer dollars despite soaring franchise valuations. Don’t forget to check out reader letters. — Hilary Gowins, editorial board member Submit an op-ed | Submit a letter to the editor | Meet the Tribune Editorial Board | Subscribe to this newsletter | 
